The digital transformation of healthcare has underscored the critical role of managerial technological competency in enhancing organizational performance. This study examined the influence of technological competency on healthcare management outcomes in public and private healthcare institutions in Enugu State, Nigeria. Employing a quantitative cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from 198 healthcare managers, including administrators, departmental managers, unit heads, and health information officers, using the Technological Competency and Healthcare Management Questionnaire (TCHMQ). Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analyses were conducted using SPSS to explore relationships between competency dimensions digital literacy, data analytics, technological integration, cybersecurity awareness, and digital leadership and healthcare management outcomes, including operational efficiency, service quality, decision-making, staff productivity, and innovation. Findings revealed that managers exhibited high levels of digital literacy, technological integration skills, and digital leadership, while cybersecurity awareness and data analytics competence were moderately high. A strong positive relationship (r = .68, p < .001) was observed between technological competency and healthcare management outcomes. Multiple regression analysis indicated that competency dimensions collectively predicted 55% of the variance in healthcare management outcomes, with digital leadership, digital literacy, and technological integration emerging as the most influential predictors. The study concludes that managerial technological competency is a critical enabler of effective healthcare management, enhancing efficiency, service quality, decision-making, productivity, and innovation. It recommends targeted training, capacity building, and policy support to strengthen managerial digital skills, particularly in leadership, system integration, data analytics, and cybersecurity. These findings provide evidence-based guidance for improving healthcare management performance in low- and middle-income contexts.

Cadmium and lead are environmental toxicants with well-documented adverse effects on multiple organ systems, mediated primarily through oxidative stress, inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis. Exposure to these metals remains a significant public health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where industrial activities, mining and environmental pollution are prevalent. There is growing interest in plant-based and nutraceutical strategies that may mitigate heavy metal-induced toxicity through antioxidant and cytoprotective mechanisms. Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea), an underutilised African legume, is rich in phenolic compounds, flavonoids, peptides and sulphur-containing amino acids, suggesting potential biological relevance in the context of heavy metal toxicity. However, its effects have not been systematically evaluated. This systematic review aimed to synthesise existing evidence on the phytochemical composition and biological activities of Bambara groundnut and to integrate this with experimental studies examining plant-based protection against cadmium and lead toxicity. Electronic databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar and African Journals Online, were searched in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Experimental studies investigating botanical interventions, oxidative stress markers, inflammatory mediators, apoptotic pathways and tissue histopathology in cadmium or lead exposure models were included. A total of 23 studies met the inclusion criteria. Although no study directly evaluated Bambara groundnut in cadmium or lead toxicity models, phytochemical analyses demonstrated strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Bambara extracts. Experimental studies using other plant-derived compounds consistently showed attenuation of cadmium- and lead-induced toxicity through restoration of antioxidant enzymes, reduction of lipid peroxidation, suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, modulation of apoptotic signalling and preservation of organ architecture. These mechanisms closely overlap with the documented bioactivity of Bambara groundnut constituents. In conclusion, this review highlights a clear absence of direct experimental evidence on the effects of Bambara groundnut in cadmium and lead toxicity, while demonstrating strong mechanistic plausibility based on phytochemical composition and related plant-based toxicological studies. The findings establish a robust conceptual foundation and justify further experimental investigation of Bambara groundnut as a potential nutraceutical intervention for heavy metal toxicity.

Neurodegenerative disorders, are marked by progressive neuronal loss and cognitive decline. Aluminum chloride (AlCl₃) exposure has been shown to induce neurodegenerative changes through oxidative damage and inflammation. This study investigated the neuroprotective potential of Cocos nucifera (coconut water) on AlCl₃-induced neurodegeneration in Wistar rats. Thirty-two adult rats were randomly assigned into eight groups: Group I control (distilled water only), Group II, inducement of ND’s (AlCl₃-only), Group III (donepezil-only), Group IV: ND’s + donepezil (AlCl₃ and donepezil), Group V: ND's + (coconut water 500mg/kg), Group VI: ND's+ coconut water 1500mg/kg, Group VII: coconut water 500mg/kg only and Group VIII coconut water high dose (1500mg/kg only). Neurodegeneration was induced with AlCl₃ (10 mg/kg) for 14 days, followed by 14 days of treatment. Behavioral assessment using the Y-maze evaluated spatial working memory, while biochemical assays measured antioxidant markers—GSH, GPx, CAT, SOD, and MDA. Results revealed that coconut water treatment improved antioxidant status, with significant increases in CAT (group V - 3.60 ± 0.52, group VI - 3.75 ± 0.04) and GPx (group V - 0.04 ± 0.00, group VI - 0.04 ± 0.00) levels (p < 0.05) compared to the AlCl₃-induced group (CAT - 2.19 ± 0.02 and Gpx - 0.04 ± 0.00) indicating enhanced oxidative defense. Although no statistically significant differences were found in Y-maze performance across groups (p > 0.05). In conclusion, coconut water did not avert memory loss induced by AlCl3 toxicity at the dosage administered.

Background: Maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max) is widely recognized as the gold-standard indicator of cardiorespiratory fitness and an essential determinant of endurance performance, clinical prognosis, and physiological adaptation to training. VO₂max can be quantified directly through laboratory-based gas exchange analysis or indirectly estimated using field-based performance tests. Despite widespread application of both approaches, uncertainty persists regarding their comparative accuracy, validity, and reliability in athletic populations. Objective: To systematically compare laboratory-based (direct) and field-based (indirect) methods of VO₂max assessment with respect to measurement accuracy, criterion validity, and test–retest reliability in athletes. Methods: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Peer-reviewed studies comparing directly measured VO₂max obtained via graded exercise testing and open-circuit spirometry with estimates derived from field-based protocols (e.g., Bruce protocol adaptations, Cooper 12-minute run, Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test, and multistage shuttle run tests) were included. Methodological quality, validity coefficients, reliability indices, and estimation errors were extracted and synthesized. Results: Laboratory-based assessments consistently demonstrated superior accuracy and served as the criterion reference standard. Direct measurement showed minimal technical error and high reproducibility under standardized conditions. Field-based tests exhibited moderate-to-high criterion-related validity (typically r = 0.70 – 0.90) and good-to-excellent reliability when protocols were standardized. However, systematic over- or under-estimation and prediction error were frequently reported, particularly when regression equations were applied beyond their validated populations. Conclusion: Direct laboratory measurement remains the most accurate and valid method for assessing VO₂max in athletes. Nevertheless, field-based tests provide reliable, cost-effective, and ecologically valid alternatives for large-scale screening and sport-specific monitoring when laboratory testing is impractical. Selection of assessment method should therefore consider the required level of precision, available resources, and contextual application.

The best method for finding medicinally active ingredients in plant material is to screen for phytochemicals in the plants. The toxicity profile of a methanol extract of the stem bark of Andira inermis (Gwaska) and a phytochemical screening study were conducted in this study. Alkaloids, carbohydrates, cardiac glycosides, saponins, tannins, flavonoids, and steroids were all detected in the methanol extracts during the screening process, with the exception of tannins and flavonoids for lead acetate and Shinoda's test, which were not detected. The albino Wister rats' body weight did not significantly alter, and the LD50 was more than 5000 mg/kg, according to research using Lorke's method of toxicity profile in vivo. At 1500, 2500, and 5000 mg/kg doses of the extracts, respectively, the albino Wister rats also showed notable behavioural changes, including restlessness, erection of the hair coat, tiredness, and diarrhea. The findings showed that even at a high dosage of 5000 mg/kg, the Andira inermis methanol extract was not harmful to the experimental animals.

Background: Occupational hazards in dentistry biological, chemical, physical, ergonomic and psychosocial pose significant risks during undergraduate training. We assessed knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) regarding occupational hazards among undergraduate dental students to identify gaps that can be addressed through education and policy. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was carried out at the Institute of Dental Studies and Technologies between 15 December 2025 and 30 January 2026. A structured, self-administered questionnaire (six sections: demographics; knowledge; attitude; practice; domain-specific awareness; training/need assessment) was completed by 453 students. Descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages) summarized KAP; only fully completed questionnaires were included. Results: Of 453 respondents, 311 (68.6%) were female; 150 (33.1%) reported prior formal training on occupational hazards. Knowledge was moderate: most students recognised that dentistry involves biological/chemical/physical hazards (78.4%) and the cumulative risks of X-rays (84.5%); however, awareness was lower for chemical hazards (formaldehyde 59.0%; mercury 65.8%), with notable “don’t know” responses. Attitudes were strongly positive 87.9% agreed occupational hazards are a serious concern and 85.7% endorsed PPE use yet 81.9% considered undergraduate training insufficient. Self-reported safety practices were generally high for infection control (87.0% “always/often”) and biomedical-waste disposal (89.2%), but only 53% always used protective eyewear during curing. High prevalences of work-related ill-health were reported: musculoskeletal disorders 52.1% (shoulder pain most common), psychological stress/burnout 70.2%, and glove-related irritation/latex allergy 64.7%. Importantly, 88.5% expressed willingness to attend structured occupational-safety workshops. Conclusion: Undergraduate dental students showed positive attitudes and generally good safety practices, but notable gaps in formal training and knowledge especially regarding chemical hazards and ergonomics remain. High levels of musculoskeletal problems and stress highlight the need to integrate structured occupational-safety education, practical training, and wellness support into the curriculum.

Drought is a primary constraint influencing wheat production and quality. This study evaluated 30 wheat genotypes under irrigated and rainfed conditions at the University of Agriculture, Peshawar, Pakistan (2022-23), using a randomized complete block design with three replications. Combined analysis of variance revealed significant (P ≤ 0.01) differences between environments for all traits except grains spike⁻¹ and grain weight spike⁻¹. Significant genetic variation (P ≤ 0.01) was observed among genotypes for most traits, excluding spikes m⁻², grains spike⁻¹, grain weight spike⁻¹, and biological yield. Genotype × environment (G×E) interactions were highly significant (P ≤ 0.01) for all traits except grain weight spike⁻¹ and grain yield. Drought stress reduced mean performance across genotypes for: spikes m⁻² (481 to 378), spike length (12.0 to 10.7 cm), spikelets spike⁻¹ (24 to 20), grains spike⁻¹ (74 to 72), grain weight spike⁻¹ (2.4 to 1.9 g), 1000-grain weight (44 to 39 g), biological yield (8789 to 7320 kg ha⁻¹), grain yield (3705 to 2508 kg ha⁻¹), and harvest index (42 to 35%). Heritability and expected genetic advance for key traits, including grain yield and 1000-grain weight, were higher under irrigated conditions. Grain yield showed a significant positive genotypic (rg) and phenotypic (rp) correlation with plant height in both irrigated (rg=0.687; rp=0.472) and rainfed (rg=0.471; rp=0.347) environments. Superior grain yield was recorded for G-4 (4748 kg ha⁻¹), G-22 (4500 kg ha⁻¹), and G-12 (4389 kg ha⁻¹) under irrigation, and G-10 (3489 kg ha⁻¹), G-22 (3408 kg ha⁻¹), and G-6 (3056 kg ha⁻¹) under rainfed conditions. Based on stress selection indices, genotype G-13 (TOL=111.1, YSI=0.99, SSI=0.09) and G-17 (MP=9111, STI=1.07) were identified as superior for biological yield, while G-22 (MP=3954, STI=1.11) and G-30 (TOL=110.4, YSI=224.3, SSI=0.40) excelled for grain yield stability and tolerance. Selection indices such as TOL, MP, YSI, SSI, and STI proved to be effective indicators for identifying drought-tolerant wheat genotypes.

Retained primary tooth/teeth are common clinical findings encountered by orthodontists. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and patterns of retained primary teeth among orthodontic patients. A seven-year retrospective study, with data obtained from patients' records who attended the Child Dental Health Departmental clinic from 2019 to 2025. Information collected included age, sex, molar relationship, skeletal pattern, and retained teeth. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Version 26, with a significance level set at p-value < 0.05. The study involved 366 children and adolescents, 157 males (42.9%) and 209 females (57.1%). A total of 109 retained primary teeth were found in 58 subjects (15.9%), 38 females (65.5%) and 20 males (34.5%), with a mean age of 12.4 ± 3.6 years. Retained primary teeth were more common in the 10-19-year age group, 45 (77.6%). Most, 66.1%, were in the maxillary arch, maxillary canines most frequently affected, 30 (27.5%. A single retained tooth was more frequently observed in the 0–9-year age group (53.8%), whereas multiple ones were more common among adolescents, (55.6%). There were no statistically significant association between the number of retained teeth and age, sex, molar relationship, or skeletal pattern (p > 0.05). However, there was a significant association between the number of retained teeth and orthodontic treatment (p=0.01). Overall, retained primary teeth were common findings among the studied children and adolescents, more frequently occurring in females and adolescents, especially in the maxillary arch, with maxillary canines mostly involved. The significant association with orthodontic treatment highlights their clinical importance.

On the palm are seen several angles known as ‘ATD’ angle, ‘DAT’ angle and ‘ADT’ angle. These angles are very useful medically. The aim of this study was to determining the palmar angles of down’s syndrome subjects in Nigeria. The study recruited 201 subjects, 101 Down syndrome subjects and 100 control subjects. The subjects were selected using a convenience sampling method from special and inclusive schools in Nigeria. Autocad program was used to measure the angles with high reliability. Data were collected and analysed using Mann Whitney U test. The results showed that Down syndrome had significantly higher ATD angle and significantly lower DAT and ADT angles when compared to control subjects. In conclusion, the result implies that Down syndrome showed high correlation with ATD, DAT ADT angles. These angles should serve an adjunct diagnostic tool for early screening and intervention of Down syndrome patients in Nigeria.

Background: Lower back pain (LBP) is a leading cause of disability and reduced quality of life globally. While numerous factors have been implicated in its aetiology, the role of anthropometric variables such as stature remains understudied, particularly in sub-Saharan African populations. This study investigates the relationship between stature and lower back pain among adults in Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional survey involving 410 adult participants was conducted using structured questionnaires and anthropometric measurements. Data collected included sociodemographic information, height, weight, body mass index (BMI), physical activity levels, occupational characteristics, and the presence and severity of LBP. Statistical analyses including Pearson correlation, chi-square tests, and multivariate logistic regression were used to assess associations and predictive relationships between stature and LBP. Results: The prevalence of LBP among participants was 43.4%. A statistically significant negative correlation was observed between stature and LBP occurrence (r = -0.184, p = 0.001), indicating that shorter individuals reported LBP more frequently. Pain severity was significantly higher among those in the lower stature category (<160 cm) (χ² = 14.2, p = 0.007). Multivariate analysis identified sedentary occupation, frequent lifting, physical inactivity, high BMI, and short stature as significant risk factors for LBP. Logistic regression confirmed stature as an independent predictor of LBP, with the odds of experiencing LBP decreasing by approximately 4% for every 1 cm increase in height (OR = 0.96, p = 0.006). Conclusion: Stature is a significant anthropometric predictor of lower back pain among adults in Irrua. Individuals of shorter height are more vulnerable to both the occurrence and severity of LBP, particularly when compounded by modifiable lifestyle and occupational risk factors. These findings underscore the need for height-sensitive ergonomic designs, preventive health screening, and policy interventions that incorporate anthropometric diversity into public health planning.

ATD angle is important dermatoglyphic trait that is being used for medical purposes. The study aimed at determining the ATD angle of autistic and control subjects in Nigeria. A total of 200 subjects was used, 100 autistic (82 males and 18 females) and 100 (65 males and 35 females) control subjects. The subjects were selected from various special schools in Nigeria using convenient sampling. Scanning method was used to collect the data. After that an Autocad software was used to measure the three tri-radii on the palm to get Atd angle. The data obtained were analysed using SSPS and Mann-Whitney U test was used to test for the results. The result showed a lower atd angle for autism than control subjects for both sexes and both hands and for females’ subjects. However, the left hand of male autistic subjects showed higher Atd angle when compared to the control subjects. The results revealed no significant difference between the Atd angle of autistic and control subjects (P>0.05) in Nigeria. Conclusively, the study deduced that ATD angle alone may not be enough in screening autism as it may not differentiate autism from control.

Background: Middle age involves shifts in neuromuscular and functional aspects that impact women’s motor fitness and gait. Among women in this age range, balance, coordination, reaction time, and gait pattern declines can increase the risk of functional limitations later in life. Although multicomponent exercise programmes have proven benefits for older women, there is a lack of evidence for middle-aged women, particularly for short-duration interventions. Purpose: The purpose of this pilot study was to assess the impact of a six-week multicomponent exercise programme on some motor fitness components and gait patterns of middle-aged women. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted on 40 apparently healthy women aged 40-55 years old into two groups. Based on a non-repeated random number, all the volunteers were divided into two groups; control group (N=20) and experimental group (N=20). The experimental group completed a supervised six-week multicomponent exercise program, while the control group maintained their usual daily activities. The motor fitness variables and their assessing tools included reaction time (ruler drop test), hand-eye coordination (alternate-hand wall-toss test), and balance (unipedal balance test). The 10 m walk test was used to assess gait performance. The intervention program was conducted four days a week for about 50 minutes, with difficulty increased each week. Results: The experimental group offered improvements in all of the assessed components of motor fitness and in gait performance. However, between group differences did not reach significance, although in the experimental group there were positive changes in reaction time, coordination, balance, and speed of gait. Conclusion: Positive trends were observed in motor fitness and gait parameters in middle-aged women after participating in a six-week, multicomponent exercise program. Findings demonstrate that short-term, structured multicomponent exercise programs may be effective in preventing decline in functional mobility and midlife neuromuscular efficiency; however, longer term exercise interventions are required to achieve significant improvements.

This study investigates how Financial Technology (FinTech) contributes to the development of a sustainable finance ecosystem in Middle Eastern countries with a focus on Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar and Kuwait. The research uses a qualitative research design and secondary data, the study evaluates the current state of FinTech adoption, its role in advancing ESG-led financial practices and the barriers limiting effective implementation. The findings shows that strong growth in digital financial services but persistent challenges related to regulation, infrastructure and technological capability. The study concludes with policy recommendations to improve FinTech-driven sustainability and long-term financial resilience across the region.

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) presents a significant public health burden in Kerala, India, where oxidative stress plays a pivotal role in pathophysiology. This prospective interventional observational study aimed to evaluate the effect of fresh Amla (Phyllanthus Emblica) juice supplementation on Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels over a six-month period. The study was conducted at a Government Health Center in Kerala involving 156 patients with diagnosed T2DM (>5 years), baseline HbA1c between 7–9%, and strictly defined criteria excluding smokers and alcohol consumers to isolate the intervention's effect. Participants received daily supplementation of fresh Amla juice (equivalent to four fruits) for six months alongside stable standard pharmacological management. Anthropometric and biochemical parameters were assessed at baseline and six months. The study cohort demonstrated high compliance with the intervention. The mean baseline HbA1c was 8.12 ± 0.54%, decreasing to 7.47 ± 0.48% post-intervention, representing a statistically significant mean reduction of 8.0% from baseline (p < 0.05). No significant adverse events were reported. Adjunctive supplementation with fresh Amla juice resulted in significant glycemic improvement in non-smokers and non-alcoholics, supporting the integration of dietary antioxidants in diabetic care protocols.

Background: Dermatoglyphics, the study of unique, immutable epidermal ridge patterns, emerges from the same embryological ectoderm as the nervous system during early gestation. This shared origin posits it as a potential phenotypic marker for neurodevelopmental anomalies like autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Most studies are from Western populations, with a paucity of gender-stratified data from South Asia. Objectives: This study aimed to conduct a gender-wise comparative analysis of digital dermatoglyphic patterns between autistic and neurotypical children in Northern Bangladesh, to identify potential pattern deviations associated with ASD. Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study enrolled 100 Bangladeshi children aged 5–15 years: 50 diagnosed with ASD (38 male, 12 female) and 50 age-matched neurotypical controls (26 male, 24 female). Bilateral fingerprints were acquired using a ZKT ECO biometric scanner and classified into Arch (A), Ulnar Loop (UL), Radial Loop (RL), and Whorl (W) patterns using DigiDoctors software (v1.0.1). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v23.0, employing Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests where appropriate. A p-value <0.05 was considered significant. Results: Significant inter-group differences were observed (p<0.001). The autistic group exhibited a higher frequency of: Arch (12.6% vs. 4.4%; OR=3.15, 95% CI: 1.89-5.25), Whorl (36.4% vs. 32.4%), and Radial Loop (3.6% vs. 1.2%). Ulnar Loops were significantly lower in the autistic group (47.4% vs. 61.6%). Gender-stratified analysis revealed autistic males had significantly higher frequencies of Arch, Whorl, and Radial Loop compared to neurotypical males. Autistic females showed a pronounced increase in Arch pattern (16.67% vs. 2.92%; p<0.001) but lower frequencies of Whorl and Radial Loop. Radial Loops were absent in autistic females. Conclusion: This study provides the first gender-stratified dermatoglyphic profile of autistic children in Bangladesh, revealing distinct pattern deviations that differ between males and females. The findings support the hypothesis of altered ectodermal development in ASD and suggest dermatoglyphics could serve as a low-cost, non-invasive adjunctive tool in multidisciplinary ASD assessment, particularly in resource-limited settings. Further large-scale, familial, and genetic correlational studies are warranted.