The study Investigates empirically the Impact of technological development on deposit money banks’ performance in Nigeria using annual lime series covering a period of 13 years, which is between 2009 Ql and 2021 Q4. To accomplish this objective, descriptive statistics, the unit root test, and Toda- Yamamoto modelling techniques were adopted for the analysis. The study shows that the number of points of sale does not affect deposit money banks' performance; and the number of mobile payments does not affect deposit money banks’ performance in Nigeria, but the number of automated teller machines enhances deposit money banks Performance. The study therefore concludes that technological development enhanced deposit money banks’ performance in Nigeria within the period of study. The study recommends that efforts be made to improve the efficiency of ATM service delivery in the country. There is a need to always fund the machines to ease transactions and prevent the risk of customers carrying cash over long distances to banks.

Glomus jugulare tumors are rare, highly vascular paragangliomas of the skull base that pose significant surgical challenges due to their proximity to critical neurovascular structures and their propensity for extensive local invasion. In low- and middle-income countries such as Nigeria, limitations in access to advanced imaging, preoperative embolization, intraoperative neuromonitoring, and blood products further complicate management. The objective is to describe the surgical technique, perioperative management, and outcomes of patients with glomus jugulare tumors managed in a Nigerian hospital. This was a prospective case series of patients with radiologically confirmed glomus jugulare tumors managed surgically from January 2024 to December 2025. Preoperative evaluation included cranial nerve assessment and cross-sectional imaging. Surgical approaches, extent of resection, estimated blood loss, perioperative complications, and functional outcomes were analyzed. Seven patients were included, with a mean age of 45.7 years. Hearing loss and lower cranial nerve dysfunction were the most frequent presenting symptoms. Gross total resection was achieved in 5 patients (71.4%). The mean estimated blood loss was 253 ml. One patient (14.3%) developed new or worsened postoperative lower cranial nerve deficits, which improved during follow-up. No perioperative mortality occurred. Adjuvant radiotherapy was recommended for subtotal resections but could not be administered due to limited availability. Despite significant resource constraints, surgical management of glomus jugulare tumors in Nigeria is feasible with acceptable oncological and functional outcomes. Early diagnosis, meticulous microsurgical technique, and a multidisciplinary collaboration remain critical for optimizing patient outcomes in resource-limited settings.

Lichens, a symbiotic partnership between fungi and algae, possess a remarkable array of biological properties. This study explored the antibacterial and antioxidant potential of extracts from two lichen species: Bulbothrix isidiza and Parmotrema reticulatum. The disc diffusion method revealed promising antibacterial activity in both lichen extracts against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Notably, the ethyl acetate extract of B. isidiza and the ethanol extract of P. reticulatum exhibited the strongest inhibitory effects. The DPPH free radical scavenging assay confirmed antioxidant activity in both lichen extracts, with scavenging activity increasing with extract concentration. These findings suggest the potential for these lichens as sources of natural antimicrobials and antioxidants. Further research is necessary to identify the bioactive compounds responsible for these activities and assess their potential therapeutic applications.

The purpose of this investigation was to examine the effects of Orangetheory fitness training, yogic practices, and their combined application on psychological stress among obese school students. Sixty obese students aged between 12 and 14 years from schools in and around Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, were selected as participants. The subjects were randomly assigned into four groups consisting of fifteen students each. Group I participated in Orangetheory fitness training, Group II performed yogic practices, Group III underwent a combined programme of Orangetheory training and yoga, while Group IV served as the control group without any specific intervention. Psychological stress was considered the dependent variable and was measured using the standardized Every and Grinodo Psychological Stress Scale. The experimental programmes were conducted for twelve weeks with five sessions per week. Data were collected before the commencement of the training and immediately after the completion of the intervention period. The collected data were analysed using the dependent t-test and Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA). Whenever the adjusted post-test F-ratio was found significant, Scheffe’s post-hoc test was applied to determine the paired mean differences. The level of significance was fixed at 0.05. The findings revealed significant differences among the experimental and control groups, and the combined training programme produced greater stress reduction compared with the individual training methods.

Unreinforced masonry (URM) structures in less developed areas are at great risk from the rapid flow of water resulting from flash floods. This study investigates how susceptible unreinforced masonry walls are to the loads produced by flash floods via testing, simulating, and gathering field measurements of existing URM structures. Rather than simulate everything on the computer, the study compiled and reviewed published documents that reported results pertaining to performance trends of different wall configurations, as well as slenderness ratio, strength of mortar, and other boundary conditions, and developed an understanding of performance trends among URM walls. The earliest damage begins with the combined action of hydrostatic and hydrodynamic pressure, which has the greatest effect on slender walls with weak mortar. Walls that contained more reinforced concrete or brick demonstrated better performance, with longer crack propagation before catastrophic failure and higher critical flow rates before cracking. The assessment of fragility determined that the likelihood of a catastrophic failure increases greatly when the water flow velocity exceeds a certain threshold, and that how the structure is designed (geometry) and what it is made of (material quality) are two of the key factors in determining the likelihood of failure during a flash flood event. The results of this study indicate the need to develop new methods for designing and selecting retrofitting systems that will improve the level of flood resistance for masonry structures in areas susceptible to flooding.

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus is a common metabolic complication of pregnancy and is associated with significant maternal and neonatal morbidity. The rising prevalence of gestational diabetes, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, poses increasing challenges for obstetric and neonatal care. Maternal hyperglycemia alters intrauterine metabolic conditions, potentially leading to adverse delivery outcomes and early neonatal complications. Objective: To evaluate the impact of gestational diabetes mellitus on mode of delivery, maternal complications and early neonatal outcomes in a tertiary care hospital setting. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rangpur Medical College and Hospital, Bangladesh, from January to December 2025. A total of 150 pregnant women were enrolled, including 75 with gestational diabetes mellitus and 75 without gestational diabetes. Maternal socio-demographic characteristics, obstetric outcomes and early neonatal outcomes were recorded. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Results: Women with gestational diabetes had higher rates of caesarean section (52.0% vs. 32.0%), pregnancy-induced hypertension (18.7% vs. 8.0%), preterm delivery (21.3% vs. 9.3%) and polyhydramnios (10.7% vs. 2.7%). Neonates born to mothers with gestational diabetes showed increased macrosomia (22.7% vs. 8.0%), neonatal hypoglycemia (18.7% vs. 4.0%) and neonatal intensive care unit admission (24.0% vs. 9.3%). Conclusion: Gestational diabetes mellitus significantly increases the risk of adverse maternal and early neonatal outcomes. Early detection and comprehensive management strategies are essential to reduce associated morbidity.

Congenital Hypothyroidism is a rare but serious malformative pathology, subject to congenital screening in several countries around the world. its impact once omitted is serious and irreversible. The form with agenesis of the thyroid gland called athyreosis can be associated with several malformations, cardiac, renal or skeletal. Patients living with athyreosis most often have symptoms of chronic hypothyroidism, which can be attributed either to a FT3/F4 ratio that is too low or a defect in the peripheral deiodation of T4 to T3. We report the case of a young girl with athyreosis who maintains a refractory hypothyroidism syndrome.

Background: single pill combinations is proved to achieve patient compliance and hence better blood sugar control and less occurrence of complications of type two diabetes. Objectives: to assess the outcome of fixed dose combination management of diabetic patients by monitor blood glucose and HbA1c, renal function test and body weight, and test its significancy in regard to the previous management. Methodology: Prospective follow up study carried out for a period of 28 weeks, combined pills of pioglitazone 30mg with glyburide 2mg as a single dose drug taken before breakfast-and dapagliflozin 10mg combined with 1000mg metformin as a single dose taken at dinner, measurement of fasting blood sugar, HbA1c, blood urea , creatine and weight and renal function test and weight were done at the start of the study and then repeated 28 weeks later, compliance was assessed using Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8) with 3 level Likert scale. Results: The eligible subjects who were involved in the study were 72, their mean blood sugar and HbA1c at start of the study was 302.09, 10.40respectively, mean blood urea and creatinine 41.34, 0.72respectively, mean weight was 80.03 kg, by the end of the study period all the reading was reduced to the following levels: , 198.33, 8.43, 40.67, .69 in the same previous order, apart from the mean weight which showed an increase to 81.82. While compliance was increased from score of 6 up to score of 8. Conclusion: Drug combination and single pills have assured compliance and hence blood sugar control and have a negative impact on the occurrence of complications.

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.

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.

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.

Digital transformation has become a defining feature of twenty-first century economic and social development. Access to digital infrastructure, digital skills, and technology-enabled learning environments increasingly determines participation in labour markets, innovation systems, and civic life. Despite global advances in connectivity, Sub-Saharan Africa continues to experience some of the widest digital inequalities worldwide. Within the region, disparities in educational infrastructure, teacher digital competence, and socio-economic conditions shape uneven patterns of digital inclusion. This study investigates the educational determinants of digital inclusion in Nigeria, situating the analysis within broader Sub-Saharan African digital trends. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected from a Cochran-determined sample of 384 respondents across three geopolitical regions through a multistage sampling procedure. Descriptive statistics, one-way ANOVA, multiple regression analysis, and mediation modelling were employed to examine regional disparities and the predictive role of educational variables. Findings reveal statistically significant regional differences in digital inclusion, with the South-West recording the highest digital inclusion scores and the Northern region the lowest. Teacher digital competence emerged as the strongest predictor of digital inclusion, followed by ICT resource availability and device ownership. Mediation analysis confirmed that teacher competence significantly mediates the relationship between regional location and digital inclusion. Socio-economic status was not a statistically significant predictor once educational variables were included in the model. The study concludes that bridging regional digital inequalities requires sustained investment in teacher professional development, school ICT infrastructure, reliable electricity, and digital curriculum integration. Policy interventions must prioritise human capital development and regionally targeted digital equity strategies to promote inclusive digital transformation across Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa.

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.

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.