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This research aims to explore the impact of the communicative approach on teaching Arabic in teacher training institutes using an experimental method. An assessment was used as a research tool, including grammatical and social competence tests. The researcher ensured the tool's validity by presenting it to specialized judges and verifying its reliability by analyzing test results. The sample included 55 Arabic language students, who were selected purposefully, with 30 representing the experimental group and 25 representing the control group. After administering the test, the results were collected and analyzed using statistical methods, including percentage frequencies, arithmetic mean, standard deviation, and T-tests to measure differences between the two groups. The results showed statistically significant differences between students' average scores in the two groups in the grammatical and social competence tests. Based on these findings, the researcher recommended training Arabic language teachers to apply the communicative approach through practical training and follow-up and attending workshops and seminars to develop their performance in applied linguistics with a focus on the communicative approach. The researcher also recommended raising awareness among education students about the importance of the communicative approach and encouraging them to use it in the future as teachers.

Abstract Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) causes gastroparesis, delayed intestinal transit, and constipation, for unknown reasons. Complications are predominant in women than men (particularly pregnant and postmenopausal women), suggesting a female hormone-mediated mechanism. Low G-protein coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) expression from epigenetic modifications may explain it. We explored sexually differentiated GPER expression and gastrointestinal symptoms related to GPER alterations in wild-type (WT) and T2D mice (db/db). We also created smooth muscle-specific GPER knockout (GPER KO) mice to phenotypically explore the effect of GPER deficiency on gastrointestinal motility. GPER mRNA and protein expression, DNA methylation and histone modifications were measured from stomach and colon samples of db/db and WT mice. Changes in gut motility were also evaluated as daily fecal pellet production patterns. We found that WT female tissues have the highest GPER mRNA and protein expressions. The expression is lowest in all db/db. GPER downregulation is associated with promoter hypermethylation and reduced enrichment of H3K4me3 and H3K27ac marks around the GPER promoter. We also observed sex-specific disparities in fecal pellet production patterns of the GPER KO mice compared to WT. We thus, conclude that T2D impairs gut GPER expression, and epigenetic sex-specific mechanisms matter in the downregulation.

The Taloka formation Sokoto Basin, Nigeria, was studied in an effort to discover and map the structural features favourable for metalliferous mineral deposits. High-resolution aeromagnetic data was subjected to structural analysis in order to map and highlight structural lineaments and their trends, as well as the depth of magnetic source bodies. Several digital filtering approaches were used to analyze, process, and interpret the data, including total gradient, total horizontal derivative of tilt of angle derivative (THDR_TDR), source parameter imaging (SPI), and spectral depth analysis. The RTE method was employed to prevent the North-South signal from predominating the results because the area was within the low latitude zones. The eastern Gundumi formation (Marafaro, Rujin Tsamia, Kwanawa, Dande, and Rikaka), the northeastern Taloka formation (Dutsen Bature, Bange, and Kumazo), and the western Taloka formation (Bejiji, Bagu, Danjiru, Baranzaki, and Awakala) are all found to have low amplitude magnetic anomalies. The research area exhibits magnetic anomalies with strong amplitudes (0.078 nT/m), which are consistent with the total gradient (AS) approach and might be caused by ferromagnetic minerals like iron stone. The aforementioned filters were also used to outline the lineaments (such as faults, fractures, or shear zones) believed to be associated with alteration zones, which are essential in locating the mineralized zones. The lineaments typically trend in the E-W, NW-SE, and NE-SW directions. Utilizing the SPI techniques, the depth of occurrence of the causative bodies was found to be below 250.3 m. The crustal magnetic field values were utilized to generate the two-dimensional Fourier transforms, from which the radial spectrum was recovered. The depth values were calculated using the slopes of the sixteen sections' spectrum energy against frequency graph. According to the findings, the study area's deeper depth lies between 1.10 and 1.69 km, while its shallower depth lies between 0.39 and 0.90 km. The study finds that alteration zones may harbour minerals and that the thickness of the sedimentary layer may not be sufficiently buoyant to support the build-up of hydrocarbons but will enhance the possibility of other mineralization.

The utilization of synthetic insecticides for safeguarding cowpea seed against C. maculatus infestation, while effective, faces substantial opposition due to safety apprehensions. The detrimental impact of Callosobruchus maculatus infiltration on cowpea seed quality serves as an indicator that could be utilized to assess the effectiveness and reliability of newly developed eco-friendly botanical insecticides. This study aimed to analyse the nutritional composition of cowpea seed treated with specific botanical insecticides namely, azadirachtin, myristicin, and α-humulene-based insecticides against C. maculatus. Concentrations (0.0061 μg/mL, 0.0122 μg/mL, and 0.0244 μg/mL) of azadirachtin, myristicin, and α-humulene-based insecticides respectively exhibited sustained effectiveness against C. maculatus. Notably, the protein, ash, lipid, and fibre content of the infested untreated cowpea seed were significantly (P < 0.06) lower than those of the treated infested cowpea seed. Conversely, the carbohydrate and moisture content of the untreated infested cowpea seed were significantly (P < 0.05) higher than those found in the treated infested cowpea seed. When examining the mineral content, cowpea seed treated with botanical insecticides displayed significantly (P < 0.05) higher mineral levels compared to the untreated uninfested cowpea seed, yet significantly (P < 0.05) lower mineral levels in comparison to the untreated infested cowpea seed. The outcomes of this investigation suggest that the aforementioned botanical insecticides hold promise as viable alternatives to the synthetic options in post-harvest cowpea bruchid management.

Background: COVID-19 produces a great burden on obese individuals. Due to the age-long use of medicinal herbs in the management of obesity, their potential against the COVID-19 pandemic is increasingly investigated. This study aims to review phytochemicals or bioactive compounds with the potential of being useful for obese COVID-19 patients. Methods: Using search terms that include pairwise combinations of either COVID-19 or obesity with each of nine selected phytochemicals (epigallocatechin gallate, rutin, astaxanthin, resveratrol, genistein, curcumin, quercetin, ellagic acid, and hesperidin). Relevant articles published from January 2009 to August 2023 were retrieved from PubMed. Results: A total of 43 papers (17 clinical trials, 12 preclinical studies, 3 systemic reviews of randomized controlled trials, and 11 other review papers) met the inclusion criteria and were discussed in this review. These include research articles reporting the anti-COVID-19 properties of the selected phytochemicals, which have previous or recent “clinical evidence” against overweight or obesity Conclusion: Phenolic compounds make up to eight out of the nine selected bioactive compounds and are, therefore, concluded to be the best class of phytochemicals for managing obese COVID-19 patients.

Abstract Background Myelomeningocele is the most common neural tube defect in our environment. Initial surgical management involves untethering and water-tight dural closure. Single-continuous dural repair is more straightforward and faster than the double-breasted repair, even though the latter offers more strength to the reconstructed dura as the repair is in two layers. Preference was given to single-continuous repair even though the two techniques were not compared in terms of post-operative cerebrospinal fluid leak. The aim of this study was to compare the frequency of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak following single-continuous versus double-breasted dural repair of myelomeningocele. Patients and methods This was a randomized prospective study that reviewed all patients that presented to Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH) Sokoto, Nigeria, with myelomeningocele who met the inclusion criteria. Fifty-four patients were enrolled into the study randomized into two groups of 27 patients each. Group 1 had single-continuous repair, while group 2 had double-breasted technique. Post-operatively, patients were assessed for post-operative cerebrospinal fluid leak and pseudomeningocele. Data collected were analysed using the statistical package for social sciences version 22.0. The value for significance was set at 0.05. Results The median age at presentation for both groups was 5 months. Both groups showed female preponderance with a female-to-male ratio of 1.3:1 and 1.7:1. Post-operative CSF leak occurred in 2(7.4%) patients in the single-continuous group compared to 3(11.1%) patients in the double-breasted group. Only 1(3.7%) patient in the single-continuous group developed pseudomeningocele and none in the double-breasted. Conclusion Dural repair technique of myelomeningocele does not influence the occurrence of post-operative cerebrospinal fluid leak.

This article presents an overview of the research on the effects of internal curing (IC) on ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC). The process of adding a curing ingredient to the concrete mixture to serve as a water reservoir is known as internal curing. IC is a viable technique for supplying additional water for curing cement-based material with lower water-to-binder concrete. It is distinct from externally applied curing. The water meant for internal water curing is dispersed within the concrete after it hardened and facilitated the hydration process. It was used to minimize self-desiccation and shrinkage in UHPC. Based on the reviewed literature, an exchange between mechanical characteristics and autogenous shrinkage for concrete was observed for internally cured UHPC. Even though IC affects the mechanical characteristics, after 28 days, it was possible to achieve a compressive strength of over 150 MPa. Thermal curing was found to exhibit a remarkable effect on the development of UHPC strength. Experimental findings revealed that using pre-saturated aggregates for IC improves the tensile strength of UHPC. The scanning electron microscope images revealed that the bulk of the voids within the super-absorbent polymer cavities are filled with portlandite.

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) affects gastrointestinal (GI) motility, favoring gastroparesis, constipation, and fecal incontinence, which are more prevalent in women. The mechanisms are unknown. Given the G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor’s (GPER) role in GI motility, we investigated sex-related diabetes-induced epigenetic changes in GPER. We assessed GPER mRNA and protein expression levels using qPCR and Western blot analyses, and quantified the changes in nuclear DNA methyltransferases and histone modifications (H3K4me3, H3Ac, and H3K27Ac) by ELISA kits. Targeted bisulfite and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays were used to evaluate DNA methylation and histone modifications around the GPER promoter by chromatin immunoprecipitation assays in gastric and colonic smooth muscle tissues of male and female control (CTR) and non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice. GPER expression was downregulated in NOD, with sex-dependent variations. In the gastric smooth muscle, not in colonic smooth muscle, downregulation coincided with differences in methylation ratios between regions 1 and 2 of the GPER promoter of NOD. DNA methylation was higher in NOD male colonic smooth muscle than in NOD females. H3K4me3 and H3ac enrichment decreased in NOD gastric smooth muscle. H3K4me3 levels diminished in the colonic smooth muscle of NOD. H3K27ac levels were unaffected, but enrichment decreased in NOD male gastric smooth muscle; however, it increased in the NOD male colonic smooth muscle and decreased in the female NOD colonic smooth muscle. Male NOD colonic smooth muscle exhibited decreased H3K27ac levels, not female, whereas female NOD colonic smooth muscle demonstrated diminished enrichment of H3ac at the GPER promoter, contrary to male NOD. Sex-specific epigenetic mechanisms contribute to T1D-mediated suppression of GPER expression in the GI tract. These insights advance our understanding of T1D complications and suggest promising avenues for targeted therapeutic interventions.

Background: A balanced-diet containing edible-oil has been advocated to have more of unsaturated fatty acid. The saturated nature of palm-oil (PO) has led to the recommendation that its consumption should be limited to avoid the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The purpose of this study was to investigate the claims and counterclaims of PO consumption and the risk of CVD from biochemical perspective. Methods: Relevant published peer-review articles on PO consumption associated with risk of CVD were sorted from Google Scholar, Scopus, Medline, and PubMed databases. Keywords, such as “palm-oil, cardiovascular diseases, and cholesterol” were used for the search. Results: Apparent in animal studies, 52.17% support the claim that PO consumption is associated with CVD, and has been attributed to its saturated nature. According to the reports, PO consumption by virtue of its saturated nature-elicited hypercholesterolaemia, which may result to CVD. Furthermore, PO consumption may instigate fatty liver, cause narrowing blood vessels and thickening aorta of the heart, and consequently non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, a serious condition that may lead to severe cirrhosis, thereby increase CVD risk. On the other hand, 47.83% refute such claims that PO consumption is not associated with CVD risk. Based on human studies, 45.45% and 54.55% support and refute, respectively the claims that PO is associated with CVD. Conclusion: PO consumption has shown to be associated with hypercholesterolaemia, elevated low density lipoprotein cholesterol, hence, could instigate CVD, even though no study convincingly establishes any relationship between PO consumption and the risk of CVD. Furthermore, consumption of repeatedly heated PO (deep-frying) may instigate oxidative stress, and consequently CVD.

Abstract We previously found that QNBC tumors are more frequent in African Americans compared to TNBC tumors. To characterize this subtype further, we sought to determine the miRNA–mRNA profile in QNBC patients based on race. Both miRNA and mRNA expression data were analyzed from TCGA and validated using datasets from the METABRIC, TCGA proteomic, and survival analysis by KMPLOT. miRNA–mRNAs which include FOXA1 and MYC (mir-17/20a targets); GATA3 and CCNG2 (mir-135b targets); CDKN2A, CDK6, and B7-H3 (mir-29c targets); and RUNX3, KLF5, IL1-β, and CTNNB1 (mir-375 targets) were correlated with basal-like and immune subtypes in QNBC patients and associated with a worse survival. Thus, QNBC tumors have an altered gene signature implicated in racial disparity and poor survival.

Abstract Background Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that alter microbial flora to promote human and animal health by ameliorating the physiological and psychological hitches and distress. The aim of the study was to investigate the protective effect of probiotic (protexin) in sucrose induced hyperglycaemia in Harwich strain Drosophila melanogaster. Methods For lethal concentration, different concentrations of probiotic were fed on fresh breaded D. melanogaster for two weeks in two phases. The concentrations varied from 10 to 1000 mg. For increment in haemolymph glucose level, Insta-larva of 540 D melanogaster was divided into six groups of thirty larva (n = 30) each in triplicate. Baseline glucose level was determined by administering group normal diet, while group 2–6 were fed with a normal diet containing 30% sucrose. For body weight, Eppendorf microtubes were weighed and anaesthetised flies were transferred into the tubes which were, re-weigh to get the actual weight of the flies before and after sucrose intake. Treatment supplement was introduced after flies emerged to be three days old. Group I: (Normal Control) received a normal cornmeal diet 30 g. Group II: (positive control) received normal diet + 30% sucrose only. Group III; received 10 mg of metformin/30 g diet. Group IV received 250 mg of probiotic/30 g of normal diet. Group V received 500 mg of probiotic/30 g normal diet. Group VI received 1000 mg of probiotic/30 g normal diet. All treatments lasted for 7 days. At the end of the treatment period, flies were immobilized and anaesthetised in ice and homogenised vigorously in 0.1 M phosphate buffer, pH 7.4. Eppendorf microtubes were weighed and anesthetized flies were transferred into them, and re-weighed with appropriate micro-litre of phosphate buffered saline (PBS) added and the flies were squashed to get the supernatant. The resulting homogenates were centrifuged at 10,000×g, 4 °C for 10 min. The supernatant was separated from the pellets into labelled tubes and used for the various biochemical assays. Data were expressed as mean ± standard error of mean (SEM) and subjected one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by Tukey post-hoc test for multiple comparisons between groups. Statistical package Graph Pad Prism version 8.1 was used for statistical analysis and values of p ˂ 0.05 were considered significant. Lethal concentration, logic probit test software was used. Results The dosage of probiotic ranging from 10 to 1000 mg were not toxic to the fruit-fly. The LC50 of protexin after seven days was found to be greater than 1000 mg. Significantly (p

This research aims to create awareness among Muslim civil servants that they can pay zakāt from their savings with the cooperative society. Muslim civil servants who joined cooperative societies in their various places of work, their salary every month and from the source used to be deducted and kept under the custody of the cooperative society. Some save a huge amount of money and leave it alone until retirement, but unfortunately, when the money reaches the prescribed scale (niṣāb) for zakat, many are unaware of giving the right of Allāh to the beneficiaries. The methodology used in this work was library-based and interviews with the relevant stakeholders. This work is significant in the sense that it would educate those who are not aware of paying zakāt from their salary that accumulates under the care and trust of cooperative society, and also the researchers can use it as reference material. In conclusion, it encourages Muslim civil servants to always seek knowledge about their money and pay the zakāt. The findings revealed that the management of the Islamic cooperative society used to inform members when their funds were due for zakāt. No matter what, we recommend that zakāt should be paid.

Abstract Environmental contamination with Cr (VI) has recently attracted public attention because of its high concentration in soil and wastewater originating majorly from anthropogenic activities and natural processes. Reduction of Cr (VI) to Cr (III) is a feasible method for minimizing chromium pollution. This work aimed at characterizing the effects of Cr (VI) reduction conditions in a batch experiment such as temperature, hydrogen ion concentration, time, and reactant concentrations, as well as kinetics and thermodynamics of the reaction using Tamarindus indica methanol leaves extract as a reductant. Cr (VI) reduction was meaningfully affected by temperature, hydrogen ion concentration, reaction time, and reactant concentrations. The reaction followed the pseudo-second-order kinetic model (R 2 = 0.997) at pH of 2; at the neutral and alkaline pH (7 and 9), the reaction predominantly obeyed first order (R 2 = 0.988) and pseudo-first order (R 2 = 0.758), respectively. Under various hydrogen ion concentrations, the reaction retains negative free energies, enthalpy change, and a positive entropy. The findings from this study suggested the reaction to be spontaneous, exothermic, and orderly unstable. We concluded that phytocompounds present in tamarind methanol leaves extract demonstrated a strong potentials for converting Cr (VI) to Cr (III) and, thus, could be applicable in Cr (VI) contaminated wastewater treatment.

Background: The presence of diabetes mellitus (DM) among COVID-19 patients is associated with increased hospitalization, morbidity, and mortality. Evidence has shown that hyperglycemia potentiates SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) infection and plays a central role in severe COVID-19 and diabetes comorbidity. In this review, we explore the therapeutic potentials of herbal medications and natural products in the management of COVID-19 and DM comorbidity and the challenges associated with the preexisting or concurrent use of these substances. Methods: Research papers that were published from January 2016 to December 2021 were retrieved from PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases. Papers reporting clinical evidence of antidiabetic activities and any available evidence of the anti-COVID-19 potential of ten selected natural products were retrieved and analyzed for discussion in this review. Results: A total of 548 papers (73 clinical trials on the antidiabetic activities of the selected natural products and 475 research and review articles on their anti-COVID-19 potential) were retrieved from the literature search for further analysis. A total of 517 articles (reviews and less relevant research papers) were excluded. A cumulative sum of thirty-one (31) research papers (20 clinical trials and 10 others) met the criteria and have been discussed in this review. Conclusion: The findings of this review suggest that phenolic compounds are the most promising phytochemicals in the management of COVID-19 and DM comorbidity. Curcumin and propolis have shown substantial evidence against COVID-19 and DM in humans and are thus, considered the best potential therapeutic options.

Abstract Background The management of impalement brain injury is very challenging, because of its complexity, risk of intracranial infection, neurological damage and functional impairment of the affected persons; in addition to the paucity of standardised treatments guidelines. The objective of this paper was to describe the clinical presentation and management outcome of patients admitted with impalement brain injuries in our centre. Case presentation Data of all patients with traumatic brain injury from January 2015 to November 2018 was collated from hospital medical record department and theatre operation register. Records of patients with impalement brain injury managed within the aforementioned period were extracted. We managed 5 cases (0.26%) of impalement cranio-cerebral injuries out of the total 1913 cases of traumatic brain injury managed over the study period. All the patients were males with a mean age of 28 years. Alteration in the level of consciousness and bleeding scalp wound with impaled object were the main presenting symptoms. Three of the patients were presented in coma. The injury resulted from different causes and variable objects implicated. The impaled objects identified included iron-rod, metallic part of Dane gun, multi-faceted spear, piece of stone and a piece of charred wood. Both the right and left sides of the cranium was equally affected with a case involving midline frontal area. Craniectomy around the impaled object was used to remove the objects, two patients had good recovery whilst three succumbed to the injuries, one died from disseminated intravascular coagulopathy and the two were from aspiration pneumonitis complicated by respiratory failure. Conclusions Impalement cranio-cerebral injury accounted for about 0.3% of all cases of traumatic brain injury in our environment. Variable impaled objects were found affecting a different part of the cranium and postoperative outcome depends largely on the preoperative neurological status.

Abstract Background Ventriculoperitoneal shunt is one of the most popular cerebrospinal fluid diversion procedures worldwide. Complications are common, but uncommon complications are rarely reported in the literature making a standardized guideline on management of unusual complications unavailable. We report this series of uncommon complications managed in our centre to share our experience and contribute to the pool of literature on the management of these weird complications of ventriculoperitoneal shunting. Case presentation The first case was a 10-year-old girl who presented with headache, early morning vomiting and itching over the tract of the shunt in the neck. She has had ventriculoperitoneal shunt and excision and repair of encephalocele at the age of 3 months in our facility. On physical examination, she was conscious with a Glasgow coma score of 15, and shunt valve was hardened. She had removal of the shunt with intraoperative finding of calcified shunt tubing and the valve, and also cerebrospinal fluid was under high pressure that warranted re-insertion of another medium pressure shunt. She remained stable at last follow-up 3 months post-surgery. We managed two cases of shunt extrusion via the anus (a 1-year-old female infant and 9-year-old boy). None of the patients presented with evidence of peritonitis or shunt tract infection. The extruded shunts were removed under aseptic technique, and both patients had ventriculoperitoneal shunt re-inserted because of progression of hydrocephalus. They remained stable at last follow-up visits 6 months after surgery. The fourth case was a 9-month-old infant that presented with shunt extrusion via the abdominal wound site 3 weeks after ventriculoperitoneal shunt procedure. The child developed an abscess at the abdominal wound that ruptures spontaneously with extrusion of distal catheter, had no features of peritonitis and had shunt removed and re-inserted after 3 months. The child has remained stable. Conclusion Although ventriculoperitoneal shunt calcification and extrusion are rare, they do occur. None of our patients had peritonitis. Shunt removal and subsequent reinsertion in the presence of raised intracranial pressure from hydrocephalus confirms an excellent outcome.

For many patients, diabetes Mellitus and Malignancy are frequently encountered comorbidities. Diabetes affects approximately 10.5% of the global population, while malignancy accounts for 29.4 million cases each year. These troubling statistics indicate that current treatment approaches for these diseases are insufficient. Alternative therapeutic strategies that consider unique signaling pathways in diabetic and malignancy patients could provide improved therapeutic outcomes. The G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) is receiving attention for its role in disease pathogenesis and treatment outcomes. This review aims to critically examine GPER’ s comparative role in diabetes mellitus and malignancy, identify research gaps that need to be filled, and highlight GPER’s potential as a therapeutic target for diabetes and malignancy management. There is a scarcity of data on GPER expression patterns in diabetic models; however, for diabetes mellitus, altered expression of transport and signaling proteins has been linked to GPER signaling. In contrast, GPER expression in various malignancy types appears to be complex and debatable at the moment. Current data show inconclusive patterns of GPER expression in various malignancies, with some indicating upregulation and others demonstrating downregulation. Further research should be conducted to investigate GPER expression patterns and their relationship with signaling pathways in diabetes mellitus and various malignancies. We conclude that GPER has therapeutic potential for chronic diseases such as diabetes mellitus and malignancy.

The possible evolutionary trend of COVID-19 in South Africa was investigated by comparing the genome of SARS-CoV-2 isolated from a patient in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa with those isolated from China, Spain, Italy, and United States, as well as the genomes of Bat SARS CoV, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV), Mouse Hepatitis Virus (MHV), and Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV). Phylogenetic analysis revealed a strong homology (96%) between the genomes of SARS-CoV-2 isolated from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa and those isolated from the study countries as well as those isolated from bat SARS CoV, MERS-CoV, MHV and IBV. The ability of phytocannabinoids from Cannabis sativa infusion to interact with gene segments (mRNAs) coding for proteins implicated in viral replication, assembly and release were also investiagted using computational tools. Hot water infusion of C. sativa leaves was freeze-dried and subjected to Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy analysis which revealed the presence of tetrahydrocannabivarin, cannabispiran, cannabidiol tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabigerol, and cannabinol. Molecular docking analysis revealed strong binding affinities and interactions between the phytocannabinoids and codon mRNAs for ORF1ab, Surface glycoprotein, Envelope protein and Nucleocapsid phosphoprotein from SARS-CoV-2 whole genome which may be due to chemico-biological interactions as a result of nucleophilic/electrophilic attacks between viral nucleotides and cannabinoids. These results depict the spread of SARS-CoV-2 is intercontinental and might have evolved from other coronaviruses. The results also portray the phytocannabinoids of C. sativa infusion as potential therapies against COVID-19 as depicted by their ability to molecularly interact with codon mRNAs of proteins implicated in the replication, translation, assembly, and release of SARS-CoV-2. However, further studies are needed to verify these activities in pre-clinical and clinical studies.

The 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a potentially fatal multisystemic infection caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). Currently, viable therapeutic options that are cost effective, safe and readily available are desired, but lacking. Nevertheless, the pandemic is noticeably of lesser burden in African and Asian regions, where the use of traditional herbs predominates, with such relationship warranting a closer look at ethnomedicine. From a molecular viewpoint, the interaction of SARS-CoV-2 with angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is the crucial first phase of COVID-19 pathogenesis. Here, we review plants with medicinal properties which may be implicated in mitigation of viral invasion either via direct or indirect modulation of ACE2 activity to ameliorate COVID-19. Selected ethnomedicinal plants containing bioactive compounds which may prevent and mitigate the fusion and entry of the SARS-CoV-2 by modulating ACE2-associated up and downstream events are highlighted. Through further experimentation, these plants could be supported for ethnobotanical use and the phytomedicinal ligands could be potentially developed into single or combined preventive therapeutics for COVID-19. This will benefit researchers actively looking for solutions from plant bioresources and help lessen the burden of COVID-19 across the globe.

COVID-19 is a zoonotic disease with devastating economic and public health impacts globally. Being a novel disease, current research is focused on a clearer understanding of the mechanisms involved in its pathogenesis and viable therapeutic strategies. Oxidative stress and inflammation are intertwined processes that play roles in disease progression and response to therapy via interference with multiple signaling pathways. The redox status of a host cell is an important factor in viral entry due to the unique conditions required for the conformational changes that ensure the binding and entry of a virus into the host cell. Upon entry into the airways, viral replication occurs and the innate immune system responds by activating macrophage and dendritic cells which contribute to inflammation. This review examines available literature and proposes mechanisms by which oxidative stress and inflammation could contribute to COVID-19 pathogenesis. Further, certain antioxidants currently undergoing some form of trial in COVID-19 patients and the corresponding required research gaps are highlighted to show how targeting oxidative stress and inflammation could ameliorate COVID-19 severity.

Abstract This study was carried out to formulate rice and pigeon pea flour blend with the aim of providing nutrient‐enriched and inexpensive food for developing countries where the raw materials are found in abundance. Three factors (screw speed, feed moisture content and feed blend composition) affecting the extrusion cooking process were subjected to face‐centred central composite design (FCCCD), and physical properties were used as the response. Analysis of variance showed that the developed quadratic model was significant with coefficient of determinations (R2) of 0.96 for expansion index, 0.93 for bulk density and 0.88 for water absorption index. Validation experiments were carried out where four rice–pigeon pea flour blends were subjected to physical, mineral and amino acid analyses. Formulation 3 set at screw speed, feed moisture content and feed blend composition of 220 rpm, 30% and 25%, respectively, led to maximum expansion index of 9.98 ± 0.15, bulk density of 0.12 ± 0.01 g/mL and water absorption index of 6.41 ± 0.07. There was significant (p < 0.05) increase in essential amino acids in all the developed rice–pigeon pea flour blends, and Formulation 3 was found to be two‐ and fivefold higher in terms of methionine and lysine contents, respectively, than the control (extruded rice). Similarly, calcium (3.41 ± 0.07 mg/100 g), iron (12.64 ± 0.03 mg/100 g) and zinc (9.33 ± 0.02 g/100 g) contents in Formulation 3 were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the values of 1.19 ± 0.13, 5.89 ± 0.10 and 2.67 ± 0.05 mg/100 g recorded, respectively, for the extruded rice (control). In conclusion, the extruded rice–pigeon pea flour blend showed better physical properties and nutritional quality than the extruded rice.

This study was designed to explore and record various medicinal plants integrated into the traditional system of medicine for the treatment of cancer. The traditional system of medicine is a routine practiced among the indigenous ethnic groups of Sokoto state. A semi-structured questionnaire was designed and used for data collection around the selected Local Government Areas. A substantial number of plant species were identified, recorded, and collected for preservation. Data collected for each specie was analysed to assess its frequent use among the medicinal plants. A total of 67 species belonging to 31 families have been identified and recorded. Out of the 473 frequency of citation (FC), Acacia nilotica was the most frequently cited specie (32 FC, 64% FC, 0.6 RFC), followed by Guiera senegalensis (27 FC, 54% FC, 0.5 RFC), Erythrina sigmoidea (17 FC, 34% FC, 0.3 RFC), and subsequently Combretum camporum (15 FC, 30% FC, 0.3 RFC). The most common parts of the plants used include the barks (55.2%), the roots (53.2%), and the leaves (41.8%). Additionally, decoction (74.6%), powdered form (49.3%), and maceration (46.3%) are the most frequently used mode of preparation. The historical knowledge of a traditional system of medicine practiced by the native traditional healers of Sokoto for the treatment of cancer has been documented. The present study further provides a baseline for future pharmacological investigations into the beneficial effects of such medicinal plants for the treatment of cancer.

Background. Wuchereria bancrofti is the major cause of lymphatic filariasis transmitted by mosquito vectors. In the vector-parasite interaction and among other proteins, actin-1 has been implicated for successful transmission of the pathogen in laboratory-controlled experiments. However, validation of this finding from the pathogen’s natural environment is required. Objective. This study is aimed at evaluating actin-1 expression upon Wuchereria bancrofti infection in mosquito vectors collected during an epidemiology study in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State, Nigeria. Methods. Mosquitoes were collected and identified using morphological keys, which include length of maxillary palps, pale spots on the wings, and scale patterns on the abdomen. This was followed by detection of the 188 bp SspI marker of Wuchereria bancrofti infection using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The mRNA levels of the actin-1 gene were evaluated in the infected Anopheles gambiae sl and Culex quinquefasciatus and their controls, which were adult reared from the larvae in the study area. Results. The mosquitoes were identified to be Anopheles gambiae sl and Culex quinquefasciatus, while infection by Wuchereria bancrofti was confirmed by amplification of the 188 bp SspI marker. A 4.85 and 4.09 relative fold increase in actin-1 gene expression in Wuchereria bancrofti-infected Anopheles gambiae sl and Culex quinquefasciatus was observed. Thus, for the first time we reported that the actin-1 gene in wild caught mosquito vectors (Anopheles gambiae sl and Culex quinquefasciatus) infected with Wuchereria bancrofti is upregulated. Conclusion. The actin-1 gene is upregulated and similarly expressed during W. bancrofti infection in mosquito vectors in the study area and this may likely serve as a biomarker and viable strategy for the control of parasite transmission in endemic areas.

The anti-proliferative effect and down regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor C and toll like receptor-2 by kolaviron on Wuchereria bancrofti infected peripheral blood lymphocytes were investigated. Blood were collected from consenting volunteers in Talata Mafara, Nigeria, between the hours of 10 pm to 12 am, and microscopically identified for microfilariae. W. bancrofti positive samples were cultured for 72 h treated with Doxycycline (2 μg/ml) and kolaviron (5 μg/ml) in vitro. Mitotic index, expression of vascular endothelial growth factor-C (VEGF-c), toll like receptor-2 (TLR-2) were determined using standard procedures. Mitotic index was significantly (P

Sickle cell anaemia is a hereditary disease branded by an upsurge in generation of ROS, irregular iron release and little or no antioxidant activity which can lead to cellular injuries due to oxidative stress resulting in severe symptoms including anaemia and pain. The disease is caused by a mutated version of the gene that helps make haemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen in red blood cells. We used in silico and in vitro experiments to examine the antisickling effects of rutin for the first time by means of before and after induction approaches in sickle erythrocytes. Rutin was docked against deoxy-haemoglobin and 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate mutase, revealing binding energies (-27.329 and -25.614 kcal/mol) and Ki of 0.989μM and 0.990 μM at their catalytic sites through strong hydrophobic and hydrogen bond interactions. Sickling was thereafter, induced at 3 h with 2% metabisulphite. Rutin prevented sickling maximally at 12.3μM and reversed same at 16.4μM, by 78.5% and 69.9%, one-to-one. Treatment with rutin significantly (P < 0.05) reinvented the integrity of erythrocytes membrane as evident from the practical % haemolysis compared to induced erythrocytes. Rutin also significantly (P < 0.05) prevented and reversed lipid peroxidation relative to untreated. Likewise, GSH, CAT levels were observed to significantly (P < 0.05) increase with concomitant significant (P < 0.05) decrease in SOD activity based on administration of rutin after sickling induction approach. Furthermore, FTIR results showed that treatment with rutin favourably altered the functional chemistry, umpiring from shifts and functional groups observed. It can thus be deduced that, antisickling effects of rutin may be associated with modulation of deoxy-haemoglobin, 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate mutase, alteration of redox homeostasis and functional chemistry of sickle erythrocytes.

Many empirical studies have shown that educational games and recent technologies impact education and increase learning effectiveness, students' motivation and engagement. The overall aim of this study is to evaluate the usability of Imikode, a virtual reality (VR) game that was developed to introduce the concepts of object-oriented programming to novices. The improved version of the Imikode VR game consists of three features: An artificial intelligence component designed to provide real-time error feedback to users, an intelligent agent that guides and teaches users how to play the game and finally, the integration of multiple game play that gives learners more opportunities to explore the VR environment for greater immersive learning experience. This study adopted a survey approach and recruited first-year computer science students to measure learner satisfaction with educational virtual reality games and examined the correlations among the attributes of the Usefulness, Satisfaction and Ease of Use questionnaire of usage of Imikode. The results showed that the students were satisfied with Imikode and perceived the virtual reality educational game as very useful for learning object-oriented programming concepts. In addition, there was a correlation among the questionnaire variables, which means that researchers can use the instrument for future usability studies in the context. We further proffered some design recommendations for building software tools.

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a malignant primary type of brain cancer with high proliferation and metastasis rates due to involvement of the microglial cell. It is resistant against available chemotherapy. Many strategic protocols have been developed but prognosis and patient life has not improved substantially. In this study, the anti-metastatic and antioxidant effect of fatty acids from Clerodendrum volubile leaves were investigated in U87-MG (Human Glioblastoma Multiforme) cell lines. The extracted fatty acids were incubated with U87-MG cells for 48 h. The anti-proliferative effect was determined by MTT assay, while apoptosis and cell cycle were analyzed with BD FACSCalibur. The transwell assay protocol was utilized in the analysis of cell migration and invasion. The treated cell lines were also assessed for reduced glutathione (GSH) level, catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and lipid peroxidation. The fatty acid extract showed significant inhibitory activity on cell proliferation and cell cycle progression, mitigated oxidative stress, and suppressed migration and invasion in U-87 MG cell lines. These results give credence to the therapeutic potential of this plant against cancer, especially GBM.

Type 2 diabetes is the most prominent of all diabetes types, contributing to global morbidity and mortality. Availability and cost of treatment with little or no side effect especially in developing countries, remains a huge burden. This has led to the search of affordable alternative therapies especially from medicinal plants. In this study, the antidiabetic effect of the methanolic extract, dichloromethane (DCM), butanol (BuOH) and aqueous fractions of Clerodendrum volubile leaves were investigated in type 2 diabetic rats for their effect on glucose homeostasis, serum insulin level and hepatic biomarkers, lipid profile, pancreatic redox balance and Ca2+ levels, and β-cell distribution and function. The DCM was further fractionated to isolate the active compounds, biochanin and 5,7,4′-trimethoxykaempferol. They were investigated for their toxicity and ADMET properties, α-glucosidase and angiotensin I converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activities in silico. There were significant (p < 0.05) decrease in blood glucose, cholesterol, LDL-C, vLDL-C, triglyceride, AST and ALT levels in all treated groups, with DCM fraction showing the best activity. All treated rats showed significantly (p < 0.05) improved anti-oxidative activities. Treatment with the DCM fraction led to significant (p < 0.05) increased serum insulin and pancreatic Ca2+ levels, as well as improved β-cell distribution and function. DCM fraction also showed improved glucose tolerance. DCM fraction dose-dependently inhibited ACE activity. The toxicity class of the isolated compounds was predicted to be 5. They were also predicted to be potent inhibitors of cytochrome P (CYPs) 1A2, 2D6 and 3A4. They docked well with α-glucosidase and ACE. These results indicate the therapeutic potential of the plant against type 2 diabetes, with the DCM fraction being the most potent which may be attributed to the isolated flavones. It further suggests antihypertensive potentials of the DCM fraction. However, inhibition of CYPs by the flavones may suggest caution in usage with other prescribed drugs metabolized by these enzymes.

Purpose: Stroke still remains a challenge for the researchers and scientists for developing ideal drug. Several new drugs are being evaluated showing excellent results in preclinical studies but when tested in clinical trials, they failed. Many herbal drugs in different indigenous system of medicine claim to have beneficial effects but not extensively evaluated for stroke (cerebral ischemia). Aim: The present study was undertaken to evaluate chloroform and petroleum ether extract of Nigella sativa seeds administered at a dose of 400 mg/kg, per orally for seven days in middle cerebral artery occluded (MCAO) rats for its neuroprotective role in cerebral ischemia. Materials and Methods: Focal cerebral ischemia was induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion for two hours followed by reperfusion for 22 hours. After 24 hours, grip strength, locomotor activity tests were performed in different treatment groups of rats. After completing behavioral tests, animals were sacrificed; brains were removed for the measurement of infarct volume followed by the estimation of markers of oxidative stress. Results: Both chloroform and petroleum ether extracts-pretreated rats showed improvement in locomotor activity and grip strength, reduced infarct volume when compared with MCAO rats. MCA occlusion resulted in the elevation of levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS), while a reduction in the levels of glutathione (GSH) and antioxidant enzymes viz. superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase levels were observed. Pre-treatment of both extracts of Nigella sativa showed reduction in TBARS, elevation in glutathione, SOD, and catalase levels when compared with MCAO rats. Conclusion: The chloroform and petroleum ether extract of Nigella sativa showed the protective effects in cerebral ischemia. The present study confirms the antioxidant, free radical scavenging, and anti-inflammatory properties of Nigella sativa already reported.

Purpose: Aqueous and hydroalcoholic extracts of Nigella sativa (400 mg/kg, orally) for 7 days were administered and evaluated for their neuroprotective effects on middle cerebral artery occluded (MCAO) rats. Materials and Methods: Cerebral ischemia was induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion for 2 h followed by reperfusion for 22 h. After 24 h of ischemia, grip strength, locomotor activity tests were performed in the surgically operated animals. After behavioral tests, animals were immediately sacrificed. Infarct volumes followed by the estimation of markers of oxidative stress in the brains were measured. Results: Locomotor activity and grip strength of animals were improved in both aqueous and hydroalcoholic extracts pretreated rats. Infarct volume was also reduced in both extracts pretreated rats as compared with MCAO rats. An elevation of thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) and a reduction in glutathione and antioxidant enzymes, viz., superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase levels were observed following MCAO. Pretreatment of Nigella sativa extracts showed the reduction in TBARS, elevation in glutathione, SOD and catalase levels as compared with MCAO rats. Conclusion: The present study observed the neuroprotective effects of both the extracts of Nigella sativa in cerebral ischemia. The neuroprotective effects could be due to its antioxidant, free radical scavenging, and anti-inflammatory properties.

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of sodium arsenite and Acacia honey on acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and electrolytes in the brain and serum of Wistar rats. Male Wistar albino rats in four groups of five rats each were treated with distilled water, sodium arsenite (5 mg/kg body weight), Acacia honey (20% v/v), and sodium arsenite and Acacia honey, daily for one week. The sodium arsenite and Acacia honey significantly P

In this work, a novel electrochemical sensor was fabricated for determination of amoxicillin in bovine milk samples by decoration of carboxylated multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) using ethylenediamine (en) as a cross linker (AuNPs/en-MWCNTs). The constructed nanocomposite was homogenized in dimethylformamide and drop casted on screen printed electrode. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy dispersive X-Ray (EDX), X-Ray diffraction (XRD) and cyclic voltammetry were used to characterize the synthesized nanocomposites. The results show that the synthesized nanocomposites induced a remarkable synergetic effect for the oxidation of amoxicillin. Effect of some parameters, including pH, buffer, scan rate, accumulation potential, accumulation time and amount of casted nanocomposites, on the sensitivity of fabricated sensor were optimized. Under the optimum conditions, there was two linear calibration ranges from 0.2–10 µM and 10–30 µM with equations of Ipa (µA) = 2.88C (µM) + 1.2017; r = 0.9939 and Ipa (µA) = 0.88C (µM) + 22.97; r = 0.9973, respectively. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ) were calculated as 0.015 µM and 0.149 µM, respectively. The fabricated electrochemical sensor was successfully applied for determination of Amoxicillin in bovine milk samples and all results compared with high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) standard method.

Despite the importance of writing skills to academic success, many undergraduates face a lot of challenges with writing in English. Studies have shown that engaging and supporting students in a writing process help to improve the students' writing performance. Therefore, this study used a Problem-based learning approach (PBL) in order to give students opportunities to be engaged and support one another in a writing process through face-to-face interactions. The paper specifically reports what the students do to support their peer in the PBL writing process. An intact class of 18 second-year students in an English Composition course in Nigeria was selected to participate in the study. Data were obtained through audio- and video-recording of the students' face-to-face interactions. The findings showed that the participants supported theirs peer through various ways in the PBL process such as modelling their facilitators, sharing tasks and responsibilities, clarifying instructions and unclear terms, using dictionary, suggesting other sources to get more information, checking for consensus, creating humour, encouraging others to participate and raise their voices while speaking, restating time given to a session and giving overview of a previous session. The support provided by the peers helped the students to improve their writing. The study has some implications for writing teachers.

Persuasive writing is a very important prerequisite for undergraduates in their academic life endeavour. For the students to effectively compose good persuasive writing, they need to understand and employ metadiscourse appropriately in their writing. However, a large number of Nigerian undergraduates face lots of challenges in using metadiscourse in their writing. Therefore, this study investigated the use of metadiscourse in the persuasive writing of Nigerian undergraduates, by examining the relationship between the frequency of metadiscourse used and the persuasive writing quality. The participants of the study are second-year students of English in one of the Nigerian Universities. The data used in the study were collected through the participants' written persuasive essays. The essays were analyzed by highlighting all the metadiscourse used in the texts. The findings indicate that the participants' persuasive essays have a low deployment of metadiscourse which also correlates with their persuasive writing quality. It was observed that almost all the metadiscourse markers were underutilized by the participants such as endophoric markers, evidential, code glosses, hedges and self-mention. Some other metadiscourse were left out in some of the participants' persuasive essays. The study highlights some benefits of the use of metadiscourse and some implications that would improve the teaching and learning of metadiscourse, particularly in the Nigerian setting.

Proficiency in speaking English is an essential requirement for undergraduates particularly in English as a Second Language (ESL) learning context. However, many ESL undergraduates encounter challenges while learning speaking skills due to anxiety. Therefore, this study investigates the influence of class interactions and oral presentations on reducing undergraduates? speaking anxiety. The study was conducted for a period of 12 weeks using a pre-post quasi-experimental research design. An intact class of 16 undergraduates in a stylistic class in north-eastern Nigeria was selected for the study. A questionnaire and semi-structured interviews were used to collect data for the study. Findings reveal that the students? anxiety levels significantly reduced in all the five levels of speaking anxiety, psychological anxiety, fear of making grammatical mistakes, fear of negative evaluation, English classroom speaking anxiety, social-environmental factors, and perception factor. The findings also show that the students? speaking anxiety is mostly due to fear of negative evaluation and social-environmental factor. The study makes some recommendations for teachers to help students to overcome speaking anxiety through classroom interactions and oral presentation.