SUBJECT CATEGORY: PUBLIC HEALTH | April 14, 2025
Effect of Community-Led Total Sanitation Intervention on Sanitation Facilities and the Bacteriological Quality of Natural Water Sources in Cross River State, Nigeria
Inah, Simon Alain, Amadi, Agwu Nkwa, Iwuala, Chimezie Christian, Ebirim, Chikere Ifeanyi Casmir, Ajoku, Bright Chibunna
Page no 55-65 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sb.2025.v11i04.003
Open defaecation (OD) has been strongly linked to high prevalence of cholera and other sanitation-related diseases. This study was conducted to assess the effect of community-led total sanitation (CLTS) on sanitation facilities and the bacteriological quality of natural water sources in Cross River State. The study design was a community-based randomized controlled trial. A multi-stage sampling technique was used in selecting respondents. Data were collected from 744 respondents at pre- and post-intervention. A purposive sampling method was used in sampling natural water sources. Observational checklist and sterilized sample bottles were used in data collection. Data were analyzed using Statistical Product and Service Solution (SPSS version 24). Results were presented as frequencies, percentages and tables. The findings showed that respondents indicated that the major challenges of owning toilets (pre-intervention) were cost of constructing one 244 (32.8%), and distance of the toilet location 259 (34.8%) as major causes of OD practice. The same challenges were reported at post-intervention; as cost of construction 270 (36.3%) and distance of the toilet location 283 (38.0%). At pre-intervention, practice of OD was 253 (34.0%) among respondents who had no access to toilets but later reduced to 102 (13.7%) at post-intervention due to improved access to toilets. This infers that there was a statistically significant association between access to toilet and the reduction of OD practices due to the CLTS intervention. The test of hypothesis at both pre- (ϰ2 = 287.749; df = 1; P-value = 0.001) and post-intervention (ϰ2 = 8.334; df = 1; P-value = 0.001) was significant (P < 0.05). At pre-intervention, respondents with access to improved water sources were 119 (16.0%) which was improved to 569 (76.5%) at post-intervention, indicating that there was a statistically significant association between access to improved water sources and the reduction of sanitation-related diseases among respondents due to the CLTS intervention. Bacterial analysis showed that the total coliform and faecal coliform counts for all water samples exceeded the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ) limits. Based on the findings, the CLTS intervention was effective in increasing knowledge of OD practice, changing wrong perceptions about OD and improving toilet ownership and maintenance. To scale-up the gains of this study, continued commitments to the eradication of OD practices from community members, community leaders, governments at all levels and NGOs is crucial.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | April 12, 2025
The Existence of Common Factors of Illiquidity on the Regional Securities Exchange
Zacharie Deutou Nkengwou, Jean François Ngok Evina, Akanga Reuben Johnson
Page no 80-87 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjef.2025.v09i04.003
The purpose of this article is to test the existence of the systematic illiquidity component on the Regional Securities Exchange (Bourse Régionale des Valeurs Mobilières). To achieve this goal, we used a time-series analysis of shares listed on the BRVM (2000-2020). The Method of Ordinary Least Square and Generalized Least Square are used to verify the existence of this component. The findings support the conclusion that there exists a systematic component of illiquidity, specifically indicating that market illiquidity concurrently affects the illiquidity of equities.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | April 12, 2025
Clinico-Epidemiology and Molecular Detection of Zika Virus in Kassala, Eastern Sudan
Yasir B. Ahmed, Alzubair M. Ahmed, Abdualmoniem O. Musa, Hasan A. Ibrahim, Doaa Mohammedelhassan Burei Musa, Abubaker A. Ramli, Mona M. S. Salama, Nadir Abuzeid
Page no 176-183 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjm.2025.v10i04.006
Zika is a disease transmitted to humans by mosquitoes in Africa, Asia, and America, it’s caused by Zika virus (ZIKV) which is a RNA virus, ZIKV is classified within the family Flaviviridae, genus Flavivirus. The monitoring and diagnosis of the viruses early with specific molecular techniques will reduce the severity of viruses. This study aimed to detect the prevalence and molecular detection of ZIKV, and relation of age, sex, locality and other biomarkers to ZIKAV in Kassala State, Eastern Sudan. This was a cross-sectional study conducted in Kassala Teaching Hospital, Kassala State in Eastern Sudan, 286 samples for ZIKV analyzed using Real Time Polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), patients data were collected from questionnaire, from the Health Research Ethics Committee of the Ministry of Health and Social Development Kassala State ethical approval was achieved, and informed consent was obtained from participants or their guardians, statistical significance was determined using chi-square with significant set at P < 0.05. Out of 286 participants, 9 patients were positive for ZIKV, ZIKV positive was determined using RT-PCR, 2(22.2%) were males and 7(77.8%) were females, there was no a statistically significant association between gender and infection (χ² = 3.1, P = 0.1). The symptoms of positive patients were fever 9(100%) headache 9(100%), joint pain 9 (100%), back pain 9(100%), loss of appetite 9(100%), sweating 9(100%), chill 9(100%), vomiting 6(2.1%), skin rash 3(33.3%) and bleeding 0 (0%) and Poly arthralgia 8(88.9%). There were no a statistically significant differences between these symptoms and ZIKV positive patients. The haematological parameters in this study showed normal and abnormal, the most abnormal was low (thrombocytopenia, leucopenia, low RBCs), there was no a statistically significant differences with ZIKV infection ((χ² = 0.66, P = 0.717), (χ² = 0.43, P = 0.803), (χ² = 0.191, P = 0.909)) respectively. The study concluded no statistically significant differences were found among the symptoms of ZIKV-positive patients. Patients not used mosquito net, from family with same signs and past infection were a statistically significant differences with ZIKV infection ((X2 = 4.1, P = .008), (X2 = 8.1, P = .011), (X2 = 9.4, P = .014)) respectively There were no a statistically significant differences between thrombocytopenia, leucopenia and low RBCs concerning ZIKV infection ((χ² = 0.66, P = 0.717), (χ² = 0.43, P = 0.803), (χ² = 0.191, P = 0.909)) respectively.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | April 12, 2025
Does ebanking Services Enhance Customers Satisfaction of Commercial Banks in Douala, Cameroon?
Achamoh Victalice Ngimanang
Page no 88-98 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjef.2025.v09i04.004
Purpose: The paper has as objective to examine the effect of e-banking services (ATM, internet, mobile phone and POS banking) on customer satisfaction with reference to commercial banks in Douala, Cameroon. Methodology: After exploring related theoretical and empirical literature, the study adopted a descriptive survey research design with a quantitative research approach. The structured Likert scale-based questionnaires were distributed and collected from 150 e-banking service users. Multivariate regression modelling techniques was employed. The study was a descriptive survey research design with a quantitative research approach. The structured Likert scale-based questionnaires were distributed and collected from 150 e-banking service users. Multivariate regression modelling techniques was employed. Findings: The results of the study revealed that the model is globally significant with over 83 percent of customers satisfactions been accounted by ebanking services. Among the four constructs of ebanking, ATM service have the highest response effect followed by mobile banking and lastly internet banking which has a positive effect on customer satisfaction respectively. The effect of point of sales was positive as hypothesised but not insignificants a result, the researcher concludes that e-banking services has a positive and significant effect on customer satisfaction. Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: Based on the findings, it is recommended that commercial banks should increase the number of ATM dispensers at their bank branches, effectively implement mobile devices, internet and point of sales banking to enhance greater reliability, assurance, tangibles, empathy and responsiveness of ebanking services so as to maximize customer satisfaction.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | April 12, 2025
HIV/AIDS Awareness and Prevention Practices among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care in Bangladesh
Eva Parvine, Shah Noor Sharmin, Farah Noor, Jarin Tasnim Stella,Taslima Sharmin, Mahmuda Akter, Mst. Sharmin Sultana
Page no 139-145 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sijog.2025.v08i04.003
Background: HIV/AIDS remains a major global health concern, with marginalized groups in Bangladesh, such as injecting drug users, experiencing higher infection rates. This study aims to assess the awareness and prevention practices related to HIV/AIDS among pregnant women attending antenatal care in Bangladesh. Aim of the study: The aim of the study was to evaluate the awareness and prevention practices related to HIV/AIDS among pregnant women attending antenatal care in Bangladesh. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Public Health and Informatics, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, from January to May 2016, among 60 pregnant women attending antenatal care to assess HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention practices. Data were collected via face-to-face interviews using a pre-tested structured questionnaire. Verbal consent was obtained, and confidentiality maintained. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 16. Results: Among 60 pregnant women, most were aged 26-30 years, illiterate (57%), housewives (65%), and from joint families (71.7%). Awareness of HIV transmission was highest for sexual intercourse with infected partners (90%). Knowledge of mother-to-child transmission (6.7%) and prevention practices like condom use (20%) was low. Misconceptions existed about transmission via utensils (36.7%) and mosquito bites (28.3%). Media exposure was high for television (90%) and outdoor media (80%), with limited participation in HIV/AIDS programs (5%). Conclusion: Targeted antenatal education is needed to address HIV/AIDS awareness gaps, especially on mother-to-child transmission and condom use, among pregnant women in Bangladesh.
Paediatrics is a vital branch of medicine, focusing on the health and well-being of children from infancy to adolescence. Drawing from ancient Greek and Arab texts, paediatrics includes comprehensive care for new-borns, swaddling techniques, neonatal massage, safe sleeping habits, hygiene maintenance, breastfeeding, and weaning. It is deeply rooted in the historical context of these ancient societies. Abū Bakr Moḥammad Ibn Zakriyā Al-Rāzī and 'Alī Ibn Sahl Raban Al-Ṭabarī were influential scholars in paediatrics, with Al-Rāzī renowned for his pioneering work in distinguishing diseases and congenital conditions. 'Alī Ibn Sahl Raban Al-Ṭabarī raised awareness about neglect of paediatric care and emphasized the importance of individualized medical needs for children, while Ibn Sina emphasized the importance of paediatric care. Ibn Rūshd's Kitābul Kulliyāt, a seminal work, emphasized the growth stages of children and the importance of hygiene in health care. Abū Al-Qāsim Khalaf Ibn 'Abbās Al-Zahrāwī, another notable figure, focused on surgical interventions targeting urinary diseases in children, emphasizing the need for specialized paediatric care to address these unique health challenges. This research paper seeks to emphasize the significant contributions made by distinguished Greek and Arab scholars who established paediatrics as an independent field and were instrumental in the advancement of treatments for infantile ailments.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | April 12, 2025
Using Machine Learning for Early Detection of Ransomware Threat Attacks in Enterprise Networks
Badhon Mondal, Sri Sai Nithin Chowdary Dukkipati , Md Tanvir Rahman, Md Toukir Yeasir Taimun
Page no 159-168 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjet.2025.v10i04.006
Ransomware attacks have become a significant cybersecurity threat, causing severe financial and operational damage to enterprises worldwide. Traditional security measures often fail to detect and mitigate these threats before they inflict harm. This paper explores the application of machine learning (ML) techniques for the early detection of ransomware attacks in enterprise networks. By analyzing network traffic patterns, system behaviors, and anomaly detection methods, ML models can identify suspicious activities indicative of ransomware execution. The study evaluates various supervised and unsupervised learning algorithms, including decision trees, support vector machines (SVM), deep learning, and clustering techniques. Experimental results demonstrate that ML-based approaches can enhance the accuracy and efficiency of ransomware detection, minimizing response times and reducing potential losses. The findings suggest that integrating machine learning into cybersecurity frameworks can significantly improve an organization’s resilience against ransomware threats.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | April 12, 2025
Framework for Smart SCADA Systems: Integrating Cloud Computing, IIoT, and Cybersecurity for Enhanced Industrial Automation
Md Mahfuzur Rahman Enam , Md Mofakhkharul Islam Joarder , MD Toukir Yeasir Taimun , S M Mobasshir Islam Sharan
Page no 152-158 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjet.2025.v10i04.005
The integration of Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems with Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) technologies, cloud computing, and advanced cybersecurity measures is reshaping industrial automation. This paper presents a conceptual framework for smart SCADA systems, emphasizing the role of cloud connectivity for real-time monitoring, IIoT for enhanced data acquisition, and cybersecurity to safeguard critical infrastructure. The integration of these technologies enables improved operational efficiency, predictive maintenance, and remote accessibility, fostering more scalable and flexible industrial operations. However, challenges such as data security risks, interoperability, and system complexity remain prominent. The paper discusses theoretical models to address these challenges, proposing strategies for seamless integration and robust security mechanisms. Future trends such as edge computing, AI-driven analytics, and blockchain-based security are also explored as potential avenues for advancing SCADA systems. This paper contributes to the understanding of how these technologies converge to drive the future of industrial automation while addressing the complexities of data integrity and system resilience.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | April 12, 2025
Knowledge, Practice and Barriers to the Use of Nursing Process and Standardised Nursing Languages in Selected Hospitals in Nigeria
Ojo Iyanuoluwa Oreofe , Akesire Roqeebah Aderinsola, Olufemi O. Oyediran , Prisca O. Adejumo
Page no 91-100 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjnhc.2025.v08i04.002
Background: The Nursing Process and the Standardised Nursing Languages (SNLs) were incorporated into nursing practice to improve documentation of care. Aims: This necessitates the need to assess the knowledge, practice and barriers to the use of Nursing Process and Standardised Nursing Languages. Methods: This study adopted a descriptive cross sectional research design. Questionnaires were used to obtain data from clinical nurses in the University College Hospital and Adeoyo Maternity Hospital, Ibadan. A simple random technique was used to select 337 nurses who participated in the study. Data was analysed using IBM SSPS version 25.0. Results were presented using frequency distribution and association between variables were tested using chi square at p value ≤ 0.05. Results: The respondents were within the age group 21-30 years and majority (89.6%) were female. Half (50%) of the clinical nurses have a good knowledge of both the nursing process and the standardised nursing languages. Also, 59% of the nurses have a good practice of nursing process and 41% have a good practice of the standardised nursing languages. The major barriers identified to the use of the nursing process and standardised nursing language were (lack of funding for nursing process 63.5% and inadequate knowledge for SNLs 67.4%). There is a statistically significant association in the knowledge of nurses on the nursing process and standardised nursing languages and age with p value ≤ 0.00. Conclusion: it was revealed in the study that more nurses practice the nursing process than the SNLs. Therefore, there is a need for further training on SNLs. Also, the reference books on SNLs should be made available to nurses on the wards.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | April 12, 2025
Socioeconomic Disparity and Dietary Pattern of School Children in Pabna
Mahbubur Rahman, Dilruba Ibrahim Dipti, Meherdad Yousuf Ahmed
Page no 294-298 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjmps.2025.v11i04.009
Introduction: A limited number of dietary assessments based on socioeconomic conditions specifically designed for children are available Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate differences in dietary patterns of youth by socioeconomic status. Methodology: This descriptive study involved 100 students from primary and high schools in Pabna, Bangladesh, conducted from January to June 2021. Only students with tiffin facilities were included. Data was collected through a questionnaire, with the average completion time being around 15 minutes. Results: In a study of 100 participants, 49% were male and 51% were female, with 31% from primary school and 69% from high school. The participants were categorised by socioeconomic status: 59% low, 36% middle, and 5% high. Most students (58%) did not pay for their meals. Among high socioeconomic students, cereals (mean serving size 6.92) and meat met standard serving sizes, while fruits fell short (mean serving size 1.53). For middle-class students, cereals also had the highest mean serving size at 5.08, while fruits again had a low mean at 0.54. Overall, fruits, vegetables, and milk were below standard serving sizes for all students, and fats exceeded the recommended amount for both groups. Conclusions: The findings of this study show dietary patterns depend on socioeconomic conditions among school-going students. As socio-economic status tends to get better, diet quality improves and promotes a healthy lifestyle as compared to those living in improvised conditions.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | April 12, 2025
Influence of Learners’ Participation in Education and Sport Based Co-Curricular Activities on Academic Performance in Public Secondary Schools in Kenya
Loshangole Clement Rotich, Silyvier Tsindoli, Alice Mulee Yungungu
Page no 167-185 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/jaep.2025.v09i04.003
The study investigated the influence of learner participation in education-based and sport-based co-curricular activities on academic performance in public secondary schools in West Pokot County, Kenya. Grounded in Austin’s theory of involvement, it employed a mixed-method approach and a convergent mixed research design. The target population included 50 principals, 200 co-curricular teachers, and 826 form three students from 50 schools. A sample of 277 respondents (232 students, 36 teachers, and 9 principals) was selected using simple random and purposive sampling techniques. Data was collected through questionnaires and interviews and analyzed descriptively and thematically. Findings revealed that academic clubs (36.2%), debate clubs (20.7%), and field trips were the most popular education-based co-curricular activities, while article writing (1.7%) and symposiums (3.4%) had the least participation. Athletics and football were the most widely offered sports, while handball, volleyball, basketball, netball, and table tennis were limited due to inadequate resources and expertise. Students participated more in athletics and football, which, along with other sports, positively influenced academic performance. Music, drama, scouting, and guiding were also widely available and had high participation rates. The study concluded that both education-based and sports-based co-curricular activities positively impacted academic performance. However, resource constraints limited access to certain activities. It recommended proactive planning and management by school principals and teachers to enhance intellectual growth. Schools should improve sports facilities, train teachers, and diversify clubs to include public speaking, poetry, and photography. These recommendations aim to integrate co-curricular activities more effectively into education, benefiting all stakeholders.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | April 10, 2025
Effectiveness of Video Assisted Teaching on Prevention of Breast Cancer among Housewives: Pre Experimental Study
Siddusing S. Hajeri, Roopa Kumbar, Pooja Muragod, Kaveri Nandaganvi, Vinayak Shiragaonkar, Vinod Talawar, Babu Billur
Page no 88-90 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjnhc.2025.v08i04.001
Breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent malignancies affecting women globally and is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Early detection and preventive measures are critical to reducing morbidity and mortality rates. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of video-assisted teaching (VAT) in enhancing knowledge and awareness about breast cancer prevention among housewives in Ghataprabha. A pre-experimental one-group pre-test and post-test design was employed, involving 30 housewives. Data were collected using a structured knowledge questionnaire before and after the VAT intervention. Results showed a significant increase in knowledge post-intervention. The pre-test mean score was 13.7 (45.7%), which increased to 16.6 (54.3%) after the intervention. Paired t-test analysis revealed a statistically significant improvement (t = 3.76, p < 0.05). Chi-square analysis found no significant association between pre-test knowledge and demographic variables. The findings suggest that VAT is an effective educational tool for promoting awareness and early prevention of breast cancer among housewives.
Massive localized lymphedema (MLL) is a rare condition typically observed in morbidly obese individuals, characterized by the formation of large, pedunculated masses, often located at the root of the thigh. We present the case of a 39-year-old obese female (BMI = 60.5 kg/m²) with a one-year history of a progressively enlarging, painless mass at the root of the left thigh. Clinical examination revealed a pedunculated mass with overlying skin changes consistent with an "orange-peel" appearance. Imaging studies, including ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), demonstrated a large, fatty mass with internal fibrillary structures and no involvement of adjacent fasciae or muscles. The MRI findings, including hypointense T1 and hyperintense T2 signals with mild gadolinium enhancement, were consistent with massive localized lymphedema. This case highlights the diagnostic challenges of MLL, which can mimic other soft tissue tumors such as liposarcoma or angiosarcoma. The importance of thorough imaging and clinical correlation is emphasized, particularly in distinguishing MLL from malignant conditions. Early recognition and accurate diagnosis are crucial to guide appropriate management and avoid unnecessary interventions.
REVIEW ARTICLE | April 10, 2025
Efficacy and Safety of Semaglutide in Glycemic Control, Body Weight Management, and Lipid Profile among Obese Type 2 Diabetes Patients: A Systematic Review
Wurud Muteb Alshammari, Khalid Saad Al-Qahtani
Page no 287-293 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjmps.2025.v11i04.008
Background: Semaglutide showed an attractive weight loss effect in obese patients with T2D. Additionally, semaglutide significantly helped the to achieve glycemic control and improved lipid profiles. No adverse effects were documented in these studies secondary to semaglutide use. Objectives: To study the effects of semaglutide on body weight in obese individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D), as well as effects and correlations between weight loss, glycemic control and lipid profile. Methods: We conducted a thorough search of PubMed, SCOPUS, Web of Science, and Science Direct to find pertinent literature. Rayyan QRCI was utilized during the entire process. Results: We included seven studies with a total of 480 T2D patients with obesity and 267 (55.6%) were males. Six of the seven included studies reported a significant decrease in HbA1C, body weight, and LDL among obese T2D patients. Regarding dosages, concurrent drugs, and the length of the intervention, there was a great deal of variation among studies. Several semaglutide dosage schedules were used in the trials that were found. Randomized and cohort studies substantiate semaglutide's better effectiveness over other GLP-1 RAs in helping T2D patients lose weight, achieve glycemic control, and improve lipid profiles. No adverse effects were documented in these studies secondary to semaglutide use. Conclusion: The current data of research was synthesized in this systematic review to investigate how semaglutide affects body weight, glycemic control, and lipid profiles in T2D patients. There is proof that semaglutide, a dual mechanism GLP-1/GIP RA, is superior to comparator GLP-1 RAs in terms of weight loss, glycemic control, and improving lipid profiles.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | April 10, 2025
Population Dynamics of Gill Monogenean Parasites in Blackchin Tilapia Sarotherodon Melanotheron (Cichlidae) Captured from Taabo Man-Made Lake (Côte d’Ivoire)
Koffi Joseph Amani, Kassi Georges Blahoua, Yedehi Euphrasie Adou, Seydou Tiho, Essetchi Paul Kouamélan
Page no 131-141 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjls.2025.v10i04.004
The tilapia Sarotherodon melanotheron is a fish species widely used in African fish farming due to its high market demand. It represented a significant proportion of the fish fauna in Taabo manmade lake in particular. However, the stock of this fish is facing parasitic infestation which deteriorates it considerably. In addition, there is no data on the parasitic epidemiology of this fish in this environment. These data are essential to finding strategies to avoid huge fish losses in the natural and the breeding environment. From March 2023 to April 2024, 1107 specimens of S. melanotheron were captured in this lake in order to study some aspects of their gill monogenean parasites. After host sampling and parasites mounting standard methods of parasitological examination were used for identification of monogenean species. Gill helminthofauna of this fish consisted of Cichlidogyrus acerbus, C. halli, C. halinus, C. lagoonaris and Scutogyrus minus. The fish captured in Ahondo station were the most infested. The infestation exhibited seasonal fluctuation with the maximum parasite species were recorded in the rainy seasons and the minimum one in the dry seasons. It was observed that the sex of this fish have an influence on parasitism infestation. These results could help to improve the productivity of this fish.