SUBJECT CATEGORY: BOTANY | June 7, 2024
New Insights into Recent Adaptation in the Plant Hormones and Importance of Medicinal Plants in Agriculture Sectors
Sana Razzaq, Sanam Maqbool, Mohammad Ilyas, Humaira Anwar, Syed Shahrayz, Nimrah Tehreem, Zainab Asif, Komail Muhammad, Tehreen Tariq
Page no 160-166 |
DOI: 10.36348/sb.2024.v10i06.001
Apart from traditional phytohormones, a range of short peptides known as peptide hormones have gathered more information and focus due to their role in long-range signaling and systemic control of stress adaption and development. New networks exist the crosstalk between different phytohormones under a variety of conditions, such as plant growth, development, and responses to biotic and abiotic stress. Some of the important plant hormones are auxins, gibberellins, cytokinin’s, jasmonic acid (JA), salicylic acid (SA), florigen, and strigolactones (SLs). Salicylic acid (SA), a crucial plant hormone, is involved in several activities, including thermogenesis, stomatal closure, seed germination, floral induction, root initiation, and response to biotic and abiotic stresses. Organosulfur compounds are thought to cause phase II detoxifying enzymes, such as quinone reductase and glutathione S-transferase, as well as increase the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase, and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), which gathered ultimately lead to the detoxification and elimination of carcinogens. Ginseng and ginsenosides seem to help with immunity, cancer, diabetes, CNS function, and other conditions. These therapeutic herbs offer a sensible way to treat a variety of inside illnesses that are typically regarded to be incurable.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | June 6, 2024
Infant Feeding Pattern during the First Six Months of Age among Primipara Mothers
Afnan Abdullah Alsalamah, Juliana Linnette D’Sa
Page no 133-140 |
DOI: 10.36348/sjnhc.2024.v07i06.002
The exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) rates are low globally and in Saudi Arabia. This study aimed to identify the type of infant feeding practiced during the first six months of age and determine if there is an association between demographic characteristics and the type of breastfeeding. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted on 401 primipara mothers who attended 15 primary health care centers (PHCCs)by using a self-administered questionnaire. Only 17.2% of infants were exclusively breastfed, and 65.8% were given mixed feeding in the first six months of life. The breastfeeding rate declined from 99.8% in the first month to 76.3% by six months, with a corresponding increase in the use of formula milk, plain water and dates from 31.7%, 24.9%, and 24.7% in the first month to 53.1%. 49.1%, and 32.7% in the six months, respectively. Mothers also used herbs, lump sugar, glucose water and honey every month. A chi-square test reveals no association between the demographic characteristics and type of breastfeeding (EBF, predominant breastfeeding and mixed feeding). The primipara mothers had low EBF rates indicating the need to provide culture-specific education, support and counselling.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | June 6, 2024
Practices of School-Based Assessment: The Junior High School Teachers Perspective
Fataw Sule Akugri, Regina Mawusi Nugba, Gabriel Dodzi Klomegah
Page no 424-429 |
DOI: 10.36348/jaep.2024.v08i06.001
Practices of School-based assessment is one of the critical components of assessment in Ghanaian schools. It practices and challenges teachers faced were explored in the Bawku Municipality in the Upper East Region of Ghana. All the teachers at the Junior High Schools in Bawku Central were involved. Questionnaires were used in the collection of the data. Means and standard deviation were used for the analysis. The study revealed Junior High School teachers’ practices of Classroom-based assessment were very low. Also, the study revealed numerous challenges teachers at the Junior High School in Bawku Central faced. The study, therefore, recommended that the stakeholders of the schools in Bawku Central should take it as a matter of urgency to encourage teachers to develop positive attitudes towards the application of SBA. Also, Ghana Education Service in Bawku Municipality should ensure that there is a regular supply of assessment materials to all schools to avoid teachers asking students to provide their assessment materials for their projects. Moreover, Bawku Municipal Education Service should negotiate with stakeholders who have an interest in education to organize in-service training on how to prepare assessment items, especially SBA tasks. This would go a long way to help the teachers construct good SBA items.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | June 6, 2024
Pitfalls in Diagnosis of Endometrial Adenocarcinoma in Biopsy Specimens
Dr. Anil Mohan Rao, S
Page no 115-121 |
DOI: 10.36348/sjpm.2024.v09i06.001
Endometrial Adenocarcinoma is one of the common malignancies of the female genital tract. It is associated with specific risk factors, which can be acquired and genetic. There are various precursor lesions of this condition, which warrants detection by proper screening methods to aid in earlier diagnosis and thereby treat these conditions to prevent their progression to well established adenocarcinoma. There are Several Histo-pathological mimickers which simulate Adenocarcinoma, that need to be differentiated by proper clinicopathological evaluation, so the correct diagnosis is made, which helps in overall management of patient. This study is an attempt to describe various precursor lesions of Endometrial Adenocarcinoma and also the differentiation of Pathological conditions that are the look alike of Endometrial Adenocarcinoma. In addition various clinicopathological methods will be described which help to arrive at proper diagnosis. Risk categories for Endometrial carcinoma will be identified which helps in early diagnosis of Disease.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | June 5, 2024
Vices in Competitve Sports and Barriers That Hinder Inculcating Values among Learners in Primary and Secondary Schools Kenya
Martin Sisa Yauma
Page no 119-127 |
DOI: 10.36348/jaspe.2024.v07i06.002
Education systems worldwide aim to not only impart knowledge but also instill values among learners. In Kenya, this objective faces several vices and barriers that hinder the effective inculcation of values in primary and secondary schools. Despite efforts to promote values in educational settings, vices such as cheating, fighting, and drug use remain prevalent in competitive sports within Kenyan schools. The objective of the study was to explore the prevalence of vices and the barriers hindering the inculcation of values among learners in primary and secondary schools in Kenya, particularly within the context of competitive sports. The study employed a mixed-method approach, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative methods. A cross-sectional survey design was used to collect data from schools across 24 counties, targeting school administrators, teachers, learners, and key informants. The sample included head teachers, teachers, learners, and stakeholders from various community sectors. Data collection instruments included questionnaires, interview schedules, and focus group discussions, with pre-testing to ensure reliability and validity. The findings highlight significant challenges in promoting values within the educational system. Vices such as cheating (39.3%), fighting (24.0%), and drug use (18.0%) are prevalent in competitive sports, undermining the ethos of sportsmanship and creating adverse environments for value promotion. Despite efforts to implement value-based education, barriers such as peer pressure (36.2%), lack of role models (45.1%), heavy academic workloads, and the influence of social media persist, impeding the effective inculcation of values among learners. In conclusion, the study indicates that vices such as cheating, fighting, and drug use are prevalent in competitive sports within Kenyan schools, posing significant challenges to the promotion of values among learners. To address these challenges, the study suggests several interventions. Strengthening value-based education through curriculum integration and ethical teachings that can foster critical thinking and ethical behavior among learners. Additionally, implementing stricter oversight and penalties for examination malpractices are necessary to maintain academic integrity.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | June 5, 2024
Knowledge and Attitude Associated with Use of Performance Enhancing Substances and Methods among Mixed Martial Arts Athletes in Kenya
Martin Sisa Yauma
Page no 128-136 |
DOI: 10.36348/jaspe.2024.v07i06.003
The use of performance-enhancing substances (PES) among Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) athletes has been a growing concern in Kenya, driven by the desire to gain a competitive edge. This study explores the knowledge and attitudes associated with the use of PES, traditional herbs, and food supplements among Kenyan MMA athletes. The cross-sectional survey research design allowed for the collection of quantitative data to understand the athletes' perspectives. Participants in the study included MMA athletes from various regions across Kenya, with a target population of 4,000 athletes and a sample of 800 selected through Population Proportionate to Sample (PPS) technique. The research instruments used were questionnaires divided into two sections: Anti-Doping education and beliefs about PES, traditional herbs, and food supplements. Pre-testing ensured the reliability of the questionnaires. Data analysis utilized SPSS version 22, applying descriptive statistics and One and Two-Way Analysis of Variance to examine mean score differences at a 0.05 significance level. Results indicated that the majority of MMA athletes in Kenya are male (79.9%), with an age range of 18 to 54 years and a mean age of 26.8±4.1. Experience in years varied, with Wrestlers having the most years and Taekwondo athletes the least. Knowledge levels were generally low, with Bodybuilders scoring the lowest in a set of 16 Likert scale questions. Misconceptions about the safety of over-the-counter supplements were prevalent, with only 14.8% of athletes believing they were safe. Attitude scores showed that Bodybuilders and Weightlifters had a more favorable view of doping, while female athletes exhibited a significantly higher attitude score compared to males. The study concludes that there is a need for enhanced Anti-Doping education and awareness programs, particularly focusing on athletes with lower knowledge and attitude scores. Recommendations include implementing gender-specific education, promoting gender diversity in MMA, and strengthening collaboration with sports authorities and Anti-Doping agencies.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | June 5, 2024
Knowledge and Application of Values among Learners in Primary and Secondary Schools Kenya
Martin Sisa Yauma
Page no 111-118 |
DOI: 10.36348/jaspe.2024.v07i06.001
Basic Education Curriculum Framework (BECF), emphasizes core values such as integrity, respect, and social justice. Despite this focus, there is a concern about the limited awareness and application of these values among learners, leading to a broader issue of inadequate value-based education. The objective of the study was to examine the knowledge and application of values among learners in primary and secondary schools in Kenya, focusing on the curriculum's role in nurturing ethical behavior and responsible citizenship. The study employed a mixed-method approach, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative methods. A cross-sectional survey design was used to collect data from schools across 24 counties, targeting school administrators, teachers, learners, and key informants. The sample included head teachers, teachers, learners, and stakeholders from various community sectors. Data collection instruments included questionnaires, interview schedules, and focus group discussions, with pre-testing to ensure reliability and validity. The main findings revealed that the majority of learners had limited awareness of core values, with integrity (39.9%) and respect (33.3%) being the most recognized. Despite this, learners identified several practical scenarios where they applied values, such as cleaning school compounds and respecting school rules. Teachers emerged as the most significant influencers of learners' values, followed by parents, while head teachers and relatives had a lesser impact. The study also noted that, while teachers and key informants generally agreed on the importance of nurturing values, there was uncertainty about the community's role in promoting them. In conclusion, the study indicates a need for a more integrated approach to value-based education. Recommendations include strengthening the curriculum to emphasize value-based learning, enhancing teacher training, fostering school-community partnerships, promoting consistent reinforcement of values, and implementing ongoing assessment and evaluation mechanisms.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | June 5, 2024
Cerebral Vascular Accidents Occurring During Type 2 Diabetes in the CHU-PG Internal Medicine Department
Camara, B. D, Keïta Kaly, Coulibaly, O, Dao, K, Sylla Mala, Dramé Boubacar, M, Coulibaly, A, Sy Djibril, A. Koné, Drago, A. A, Dollo, I, Kamissoko, C. O, Maiga, A, Diakité, M, Guindo, H, D. S. Sow
Page no 178-181 |
DOI: 10.36348/sjm.2024.v09i06.003
Introduction: Diabetes is a major cause of death and disability worldwide. It also represents a significant risk factor for stroke. The excess stroke risk associated with diabetes is significantly higher in women than in men, independent of sex differences observed for other major cardiovascular risk factors. Materials and Method: This retrospective descriptive study was carried out in the Internal Medicine department of Point G University Hospital from January 2008 to December 2012. Included in this work were all type 2 diabetic patients hospitalized in the department during the duration of the study, presenting clinical signs of sentivo-motor deficit with performance of a brain CT scan. Results: At the end of this work, 358 patients were hospitalized, among whom 19 cases of established stroke were recorded, i.e. a frequency of 5.3%. Dilated cardiomyopathy represented 36.8% of cases. LVH and repolarization disorders accounted for 21.1% each. Composite ischemic stroke represented 79% of cases followed by mixed stroke or 16% of cases. The evolution was marked by after-effects such as left hemiparesis 36.8%, right hemiplegia 10.5% and death in 5.3% of cases. Dyslipidemia 82%, hypertension 84.21% were the risk factors most associated with diabetes. Conclusion: Strokes are common in type 2 diabetic patients. Their prevention requires better management of diabetes and its associated risk factors.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | June 5, 2024
Assessment of Parental Awareness on the Management of Avulsed Teeth: A Survey Study
Dr. Spandana Patil Bujuranpallikar, Dr. Pentrala Dinesh Babu, Dr. Devara Surya Prakash, Dr. Mittamiddi Rashmitha Reddy, Dr. Dutta Lalitha Devi
Page no 94-97 |
DOI: 10.36348/sjodr.2024.v09i06.001
This study assessed parental awareness of avulsed tooth management among 300 participants at Kamineni Institute of Dental Sciences, Nalgonda. Results revealed significant gaps in understanding, with only 0.66% indicating they would replant an avulsed tooth, and 87.3% disagreed that it could be replanted. Most participants were uncertain about key aspects, such as replantation and tooth storage. These findings emphasize the need for targeted educational interventions to improve parental preparedness for dental emergencies. Addressing these knowledge gaps can empower individuals to provide appropriate first aid and seek timely professional care, ultimately improving outcomes for dental trauma patients.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | June 5, 2024
Beliefs and Practices Levels Associated with Use of Performance Enhancing Substances and Methods among Mixed Martial Arts Athletes in Kenya
Martin Sisa Yauma
Page no 137-147 |
DOI: 10.36348/jaspe.2024.v07i06.004
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has seen a surge in popularity in Kenya, with athletes from various backgrounds participating in the sport. However, with this growth comes an increased risk of performance-enhancing substances (PES) use. The intense physical demands of MMA may drive athletes to seek an edge through these substances, leading to significant concerns about health risks and sports integrity. The aim of this study is to assess the practices and beliefs regarding PES, traditional herbs (TH), and food supplements (FS) among Kenyan MMA athletes. Additionally, the study explores the sources of PES, the factors motivating their use, and the efficacy of current Anti-Doping testing practices. To conduct the study, a cross-sectional survey design was employed, sampling 800 athletes from a target population of 4,000 across six MMA federations. Data were collected using structured questionnaires adapted from the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the Performance Enhancement Attitude Scale (PEAS), with pre-testing to ensure reliability. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and One- and Two-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) using SPSS version 22. The results indicate that the majority of MMA participants are male (79.9%), with a median age of 25 years and a mean age of 26.8±4.1 years. Over half of the athletes perceived PES as a problem, but less than one-third viewed traditional herbs as a concern. Food supplements were used by nearly a fifth of the athletes, with bodybuilders showing the highest usage rate (44.4%). Coaches, team doctors, and physiotherapists were primary sources of these substances, while some athletes reported chemists and medical practitioners as suppliers of PES. The study found that the primary reasons for using PES and FS were to boost economic status through prize money, with additional pressures from coaches, family, and colleagues. Anti-doping testing revealed that 20.6% of athletes had been tested out of competition, while 34.4% believed they could provide a sample that wasn't theirs. The study concludes that while many MMA athletes recognize the risks associated with PES, there is a lack of consistent understanding regarding traditional herbs and food supplements. This inconsistency, combined with external pressures, may lead to risky behavior, compromising the athletes' health and the sport's integrity. To address these issues, the study recommends implementing comprehensive education programs for MMA athletes, coaches, and support personnel to raise awareness of PES risks. Strengthening anti-doping regulations and monitoring sources of PES and FS is also crucial. Additionally, promoting ethical coaching practices and addressing external pressures can foster a safer environment and uphold the values of fair competition in Kenyan MMA.
REVIEW ARTICLE | June 5, 2024
A Case of Gougerot Sjögren Syndrome (SGS) Discovered by Chronic Pulmonary Impairment at the Nianankoro Fomba Hospital in Segou
Camara, B. D, Dramé Boubacar, M, Coulibaly, O, Dao, K, Coulibaly, A, Sylla Mala, Keïta Kaly, Sy Djibril, A. Koné, Drago, A. A, Dollo, I, Kamissoko, C. O, Maiga, A, Diakité, M, Guindo, H, D. S. Sow
Page no 174-177 |
DOI: 10.36348/sjm.2024.v09i06.002
Introduction: Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is a systemic autoimmune disease whose target is the epithelium of the exocrine glands and in particular the salivary glands. SS affects women more often with a sex ratio of 9 women to 1 man and the peak frequency is around age 50. It is mainly described in Western literature where it seems to come second after RA. In Africa, it is mainly reported in the Maghreb. We report a case, revealed by pulmonary damage at the Nianankoro Fomba hospital in Ségou. Observation: This was a patient, aged 50, without any particular ATCD, who had consulted for chronic cough with mucco-purulent sputum and dyspnea, which had been present for more than four (4) months. Faced with the failure of a trial anti-tuberculosis treatment despite the negativity of the sputum testing for BARR in the Pneumophthisiology department, she decided to consult internal medicine. Clinical examination revealed NYHA stage III dyspnea. A chest CT concluded with bilateral pulmonary parenchymal interstitial syndrome associated with inflammatory bronchopathy with bronchiectasis. The immunological assessment revealed positive anti–SSA and anti–SSB Abs. Clinical improvement was obtained after initiation of corticosteroids and immunosuppressants. Conclusion: This observation illustrates the interest of looking for latent SS in the etiological assessment of a persistent cough.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | June 5, 2024
Colorectal Cancer in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Risk Factors and Surveillance Modalities, Experience of A Gastroenterology Department
F. Mghyly, H. El Bacha, S. Mechhor, M Cherkaoui, N. Benzzoubeir, I. Errabih
Page no 335-339 |
DOI: 10.36348/sjmps.2024.v10i06.002
Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease have an approximately 2-3-fold increased risk of colorectal cancers. The risk factors most frequently associated with the risk of these cancers in inflammatory bowel disease are those indicative of chronic inflammation, primary sclerosing cholangitis, previous dysplasia, and a family history of colorectal cancers. The pace of CRC surveillance in this population will be determined by the presence of these risk factors, and the surveillance modality is based on colonoscopy with chromoendoscopy and targeted biopsies. In the absence of staining, systematic biopsies can be performed.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | June 4, 2024
Unraveling the Growth and Physiological Responses of Spinach to Cadmium Exposure
Muhammad Ahmad, Abdul Basit, Muhammad Sheeraz Javed, Shazia Zulfiqar, Shafiq ur Rehman, Marva, Muhammad Sharjeel, Kainat
Page no 207-213 |
DOI: 10.36348/sjls.2024.v09i06.001
Vegetables are a crucial part of the food chain. Vegetables are abundant sources of proteins, fats, minerals, carbohydrates, vitamins and antioxidants. The consumption of leafy vegetables is steadily rising in both urban and rural communities. The rising content of cadmium (Cd) in the food chain through the wastewater poses a significant threat to growth of plants and human health. Cadmium interferes with plant processes like transpiration, nitrogen assimilation, photosynthesis, and respiration. Main purpose of this experiment was to investigate the side effects of various exposure durations and various Cd concentrations on the physiology and growth of spinach. This research was conducted using a factorial design with five Cd doses and three exposure durations (25, 50, and 75 days), set up according to CRD and applying three replications. Results indicated that leaf area, root length and plant height were impacted by Cadmium concentrations up to 40 mg kg-1. Additionally, biochemical, and photosynthetic parameters were also affected. Spinach showed tolerance to various levels of cadmium. The highest tolerance index for spinach was observed at 10 mg Cd kg−1 soil after 50 DoE, while the lowest tolerance index was recorded at 40 mg Cd kg−1 soil after 75 DoE. Cd accumulation in the vegetables, daily intake via consumption poses significant health risks. The findings suggest that both the duration of exposure and Cd dosage are critical in determining Cd toxicity, as evidenced by significant reductions in spinach growth and physiological parameters. Consequently, the consumption of such Cd-contaminated vegetables could pose serious health risks to humans.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | June 3, 2024
Integrating Mind-Body Techniques in Physiotherapy Rehabilitation: A Review of Literature
Divya Kashyap, Abhishek Kumar Sandilya, R. Arunmozhi, Meghna Wadhwa, Vishal Verma
Page no 69-77 |
DOI: 10.36348/sijtcm.2024.v07i06.001
Aim- This study aimed to examine the usefulness of various mind-body interventions in physiotherapy rehabilitation. Methods- Through a comprehensive review of the literature on topics such as yoga, mind-body exercise, Tai Chi, pain neuroscience education, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, the researchers identified the potential benefits and drawbacks of incorporating these interventions into clinical practice. Result- These results indicate that combining mind-body therapies with physiotherapy rehabilitation may lead to positive outcomes for patients in terms of their recovery and overall well-being. Conclusion- The integration of mind-body techniques in physiotherapy rehabilitation holds significant promise for improving recovery and fostering general psychological well-being in individuals with musculoskeletal, neurological, and other conditions.
CASE REPORT | June 3, 2024
Accelerated Extensive Lung Fibrosis Post–COVID-19 Immunization in an Asthmatic Patient
Wafaa Alshahrani, Nadia M. Samad, Muhammad Rehan Malik, Abdullah Abdulwahed Eid
Page no 329-334 |
DOI: 10.36348/sjmps.2024.v10i06.001
We describe a unique case of a 60-year-old asthmatic Saudi patient who developed acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and accelerated lung fibrosis after the administration of the second dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine. This patient presented to the emergency room with a four-day history of fever, shortness of breath, and cough. His hospitalization was complicated by non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction, non-sustained ventricular tachycardia, and a lowered Glasgow Coma Scale. He was intubated at a P/F ratio of 73 mmHg and a peak inspiratory pressure of 46 cmH2O. His antibiotics had to be modified, as he had QT prolongation. Additional anti-pseudomonal, anti-anaerobe, and anti-fungal coverings were empirically given, which were later switched to colistin based on the results of a sputum culture. On ICU day 17, the patient went into cardiac arrest due to severe ARDS and septic shock. Despite attempts at resuscitation, he was unable to be revived.