Background: Albuminuria and poor glycemic control drive kidney and cardiovascular risk in type 2 diabetes. Dapagliflozin lowers glucose and reduces albuminuria through renal mechanisms. Evidence from trials is strong, yet data from routine care in Dubai are limited. Objective: To evaluate changes in urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio and HbA1c over 24 months after dapagliflozin initiation in Dubai primary care. Methods: We performed a retrospective longitudinal study using the Salama electronic record across Dubai Health Authority clinics. Adults with type 2 diabetes who started dapagliflozin contributed measurements at baseline, 3, 6, 12 and 24 months. The primary outcome was change in UACR. Secondary outcome was change in HbA1c. Paired comparisons used baseline vs each follow-up. Longitudinal trends used repeated measures analyses. Prespecified subgroups assessed UACR by age group and HbA1c by sex, age and metformin use. Results: Two hundred adults were included. Mean age was 61 years, range 21 to 87 years. UACR fell from 123 mg/g at baseline to 52 mg/g at 24 months, a 57.7% reduction, p<0.001. The decline appeared by 3 months and progressed at each visit. The 24-month UACR was 52 mg/g with 95% CI 50 to 54. HbA1c decreased from 8.2% to 6.8% at 24 months, p<0.001, with 24-month HbA1c 95% CI 6.7 to 6.9. By age subgroup, UACR reduction at 12 months ranged from 25% in patients 40–50 years to 50% in those 70–80 years and at 24 months ranged from 35% to 70%. HbA1c improved across subgroups. Larger absolute HbA1c drops were seen in younger patients and in those treated with metformin at baseline. HbA1c patterns by sex were similar. Conclusion: In Dubai primary care, dapagliflozin was associated with large and sustained reductions in albuminuria and a meaningful fall in HbA1c over 24 months. Early change at 3 months and continued improvement through 2 years support routine monitoring at these intervals. These results suggest that expected renal and glycemic benefits can be achieved in day-to-day care across diverse patients.

Introduction: Tuberculosis remains a major public health problem in Senegal and, despite effective treatment, it frequently leaves respiratory sequelae that cause chronic morbidity. This study was conducted to determine the epidemiological, diagnostic, therapeutic and evolutionary aspects of post-tuberculosis respiratory sequelae. Methodology: Retrospective and descriptive study including patients with post-tuberculosis respiratory sequelae followed at the Saint-Jean de-Dieu Hospital in Thiès (Senegal). Results: Over a period of 63 months, we identified 133 cases of post-tuberculosis respiratory sequelae. There was a male predominance (67%) with a sex ratio of 2 and an average age of 51 years. In 83% of cases, a single episode of tuberculosis was sufficient to cause respiratory sequelae. Radiological abnormalities were mainly located in the lung parenchyma (61%) and were bilateral in 86% of cases. The main types of abnormalities were fibrous condensation blocks (15.03%), followed by emphysema (14.2%), pulmonary calcifications (13.53%) and fibrosis (9.02%). The complications found mainly included aspergillosis graft (32%) and chronic pulmonary heart disease (CPC) (32%). Conclusion: Post tuberculosis pulmonary sequelae remain common in vulnerable patients, with persistent symptoms and varied lesions. The lack of targeted functional assessment calls for more comprehensive prospective studies.

Cancer therapy continues to face major challenges due to nonspecific drug distribution, systemic toxicity, and the emergence of drug resistance. Repurposing established drugs in combination with bioactive natural compounds and delivering them through nanocarriers represents a promising strategy to overcome these limitations. The present study focuses on the formulation, characterization, and combined efficacy evaluation of metformin hydrochloride and quinic acid–loaded niosomes for enhanced anticancer activity. Metformin, a widely used antidiabetic agent, exhibits anticancer effects through AMPK activation, mTOR inhibition, and metabolic reprogramming, while quinic acid, a natural polyphenolic compound, possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and pro-apoptotic properties. Co-encapsulation of these agents in niosomal nanocarriers was undertaken to improve bioavailability, ensure synchronized delivery, and achieve synergistic therapeutic effects. The niosomes were prepared using suitable non-ionic surfactants and cholesterol and evaluated for physicochemical characteristics, including particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, drug content, and in-vitro drug release. Morphological analysis confirmed the formation of uniformly distributed nanosized vesicles. In-vitro cytotoxicity studies demonstrated that the co-loaded niosomes exhibited significantly enhanced anticancer activity compared to individual drugs and their free combination, indicating synergistic efficacy. Overall, the findings suggest that metformin and quinic acid co-loaded niosomes offer a promising, cost-effective, and multi-targeted nanotherapeutic approach for cancer management with potential for further translational development.

Auricular perichondritis is an uncommon but potentially serious complication of ear piercing, particularly when the cartilaginous part of the auricle is involved. It is most often caused by bacterial infection, with Pseudomonas aeruginosa being the predominant pathogen, and may lead to cartilage necrosis and permanent deformity if not promptly treated. We report the case of a patient who developed auricular perichondritis following ear piercing, presenting with painful swelling, erythema, and tenderness of the pinna while sparing the lobule. Clinical diagnosis was supported by physical examination, and management consisted of early systemic antibiotic therapy combined with local care, leading to a favorable outcome. This case highlights the importance of early recognition of auricular perichondritis, appropriate antimicrobial treatment, and awareness of piercing-related risks to prevent functional and cosmetic sequelae.

As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly embedded in the structures of work, education, and everyday life, questions of ethics and digital wellbeing have grown urgent. Algorithmic bias, surveillance practices, and digital addiction pose profound risks to equity, autonomy, and human flourishing in the AI age. While technical and regulatory frameworks have attempted to mitigate these challenges, they often overlook the embodied, affective, and participatory dimensions of public engagement with AI ethics. This paper proposes participatory theatre as a powerful methodological and pedagogical tool for critically interrogating and reimagining human–AI relations. Drawing on traditions of applied theatre and Theatre for Development, the study demonstrates how performance-based interventions can democratise dialogue, foreground marginalised voices, and cultivate ethical reflexivity among diverse stakeholders. By staging scenarios of algorithmic discrimination, surveillance in learning and workplace contexts, and compulsive digital behaviours, participatory theatre creates a safe yet critical space for collective inquiry and ethical imagination. The paper argues that integrating such performative practices into discussions of AI governance and digital wellbeing not only enhances public literacy but also strengthens inclusive policymaking and educational strategies. Ultimately, this approach situates participatory theatre as both an artistic practice and a socio-ethical instrument for shaping the future of work, education, and wellbeing in an AI-mediated world.

Background: Oligohydramnios is a clinically significant obstetric condition associated with increased intrapartum intervention and adverse perinatal outcomes. Reduced amniotic fluid volume compromises fetal well-being by increasing the risk of umbilical cord compression and uteroplacental insufficiency, thereby influencing delivery decisions and neonatal outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the mode of delivery and fetomaternal outcomes in pregnancies complicated by oligohydramnios. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional observational study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sir Salimullah Medical College and Mitford Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh, from December 2009 to June 2010. A total of 50 pregnant women with sonographically confirmed oligohydramnios were included in this study. Cardiotocography was performed upon admission to assess the fetal status. The mode of delivery, indications for caesarean section and neonatal outcomes were recorded. Associations between oligohydramnios severity and outcomes were analyzed. Results: Non-reassuring cardiotocography patterns were observed in 64% of the cases. Caesarean section was the predominant mode of delivery (72%), with fetal distress being the leading indication (61.1%). All women with severe oligohydramnios required caesarean delivery, demonstrating a significant association between severity and delivery mode (p < 0.001). Neonates born to mothers with severe oligohydramnios had a higher incidence of Apgar scores below 7 at five minutes (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Severe oligohydramnios is strongly associated with non-reassuring fetal surveillance, increased operative delivery rates and adverse neonatal outcomes. Severity-based risk stratification and vigilant intrapartum monitoring are essential for optimizing fetomaternal outcomes.

The current project is based on the experimental work of Dr, Ashwani Kumar. Drug tolerance and resistance are the major proponents of any bacterial disease like TB. These mechanisms are achieved through unique phenomenons like the formation of a biofilm. The current project focuses on the formation of biofilms in Mycobacterium smegmatis (Msm) cultures. These biofilms are in the form of pellicles. The principal work done in the current project is the induction of biofilm using DTT at a range of concentrations in a 96 well plate. The films were then visualised using the Crystal Violet assay. The entire project focuses more on the process of biofilm formation and the mechanisms. The performed work can be further used for screening drugs and exploring ways to combat AMR.

The Niger Delta region faces a complex security crisis rooted in decades of environmental degradation and the resultant resource-driven violence. Traditional state-centric approaches to peacebuilding have largely failed to address the core problem of ecological marginalization, which pushes large segments of the marginalized youth population into militancy and illicit economies as a response to profound grievance and environmental scarcity. This paper examines a critical, though underexplored, solution: the emergence and efficacy of youth-led eco-innovation and environmental entrepreneurship as proactive mechanisms for conflict de-escalation and peace advocacy. This study argues that youth-led initiatives, such as sustainable aquaculture, waste-to-wealth enterprises and bioremediation start-ups, disrupt the conflict cycle by achieving two strategic outcomes. First, they directly counteract the environmental scarcity stress multiplier by providing legitimate, high-value livelihoods, successfully neutralizing the economic desperation that fuels participation in oil bunkering and pipeline sabotage. Second, by creating tangible economic assets and demonstrating local capacity for ecological stewardship, these ventures transform young people from mere victims or perpetrators into legitimate stakeholders. This elevation provides a constructive platform for peace advocacy and formalized dialogue with international oil companies (IOCs) and environmental protection agencies (EPAs), strengthening non-violent conflict resolution pathways and rebuilding a critical measure of institutional trust. The paper concludes that sustained peace in the Niger Delta requires a fundamental shift in green security governance frameworks. Governments and development partners must transition from reactive amnesty programmes to proactive, large-scale investment in and integration of youth eco-innovation. Government can effectively address the root causes of grievance and establish a foundation for long-term human and environmental security when priority is given to ecological livelihoods.

This study examines the difficulty local governments experience in fulfilling their constitutional responsibilities as the third level of government, even in the face of government changes aimed at improving their performance and offering lessons learnt to address the issues. Local government administration, Nigeria's third tier of government, is in charge of bringing about socioeconomic development locally. Since the establishment of the nation's local governments, numerous reforms have been tried, but unsuccessfully, to achieve the goal of local government establishment. The study collected and analyzed data using a qualitative approach. According to the survey, local government is finding it more and more challenging to successfully serve the public. The study came to the conclusion that both the federal and state governments could address the institutional and attitudinal aspects of the problems. It suggested giving the local government the same level of autonomy as the other levels of government in order to enable it to function freely. A legislative framework should also be in place to prevent the state government from needlessly interfering in local governments' internal matters. Finally, human resources should be available to provide effective leadership and accountability in order to accomplish the goals outlined by the establishment of local governments in Nigeria.

Introduction: Clear aligners are an aesthetic alternative to fixed appliances, yet their predictability in arch expansion is still debated. This systematic review evaluates the efficiency of aligners in achieving planned expansion and identifies factors influencing outcomes. Materials and Methods: A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. Electronic searches were performed in PubMed, Cochrane Library, and ScienceDirect using a PICOS-based strategy. Methodological quality and risk of bias were assessed using standardized tools (AMSTAR 2, NHLBI/NIH). Results: Nine studies were included in the final analysis, consisting of two systematic reviews and seven cohort studies. The review found that arch expansion predictability is highest in the premolar region (reaching up to 93.53%) but decreases progressively toward the posterior segments, with the lowest accuracy observed at the first molar level (approximately 55-68%). Expansion is primarily achieved through coronal tipping rather than true bodily translation. Conclusion: Aligners effectively manage mild crowding but often result in uncontrolled tipping. To improve predictability, clinicians should utilize overcorrection strategies and pre-program negative torque. Higher-quality randomized clinical trials are necessary to establish standardized protocols.

Introduction: Clear aligners, introduced in the 1990s with the Invisalign® system, have transformed orthodontics by providing an esthetic and comfortable alternative to fixed appliances. However, questions remain regarding their effectiveness and predictability in achieving different tooth movements and specifically tooth rotation. This systematic review aimed to critically evaluate the efficiency of aligners in controlling rotational movements and to identify the factors influencing their predictability. Materials and Methods: A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. Electronic searches were performed in PubMed, Cochrane Library, and ScienceDirect using a PICOS-based strategy. Methodological quality and risk of bias were assessed using standardized tools (AMSTAR 2, NHLBI/NIH). Results: Studies published between 2014 and 2024 were included. After screening, 14 studies met the eligibility criteria, including prospective and retrospective cohort studies, and systematic reviews. The review revealed that accuracy of tooth rotation is moderate (≈37–60%), it can be improved with attachments and interproximal reduction, but decreases with large or rapidly staged movements. Despite some progress, rotational control remains a key clinical limitation requiring cautious planning and monitoring. Conclusion: Rotations with clear aligners are poorly predictable, particularly for canines and premolars due to limited aligner grip on rounded crowns which often requires the use of auxiliaries and overcorrection strategies. Future high-quality randomized clinical trials and standardized protocols are necessary to strengthen the evidence and improve clinical outcomes.

Many countries around the world have fully integrated Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into their educational systems. The expansion of ICT use in educational settings has sparked a rush of research work examining the link between ICT and academic performance. In Nigeria's education sector, ICT is integrated in secondary school’s syllabus. However, their use in teaching and learning has remained sporadic. This paper sought to determine teachers’ competence on ICT in teaching and learning and their influence on students’ performance. The hypothesis tested was there is no significant relationship between teachers’ competence on ICT in teaching and learning and students’ performance. The Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) by Venkatesh, Davis, and Morris (2003) was used to guide the study. The sample size consisted of 152 teachers and 297 students from 16 schools. Questionnaires for teachers and document analysis for students were used to collect data in this study. Descriptive statistics included frequency counts, percentages, means and standard deviation, whereas inferential statistics involved Pearson Product Moment correlation coefficient, factor and multiple regression analysis. The results of the study revealed a weak negative relationship (r=-.021, p>.05) between teachers’ competence on ICT and students’ performance. It can be concluded that teacher’s competences among the ICT users in the studied schools are generally limited especially to the staff members of older age, and the connection between teachers’ competences on ICT and students’ performance were negative. It is recommended that teacher training colleges should incorporate computer education and training on how to integrate ICT in education in the curriculum so that pre-service teachers leave the college being well prepared with ICT skills. This would enhance and maintain teachers’ ICT passion for effective ICT integration in teaching and learning for better student’s performance in secondary schools.

Digital health portals increasingly depend on highly “popular” physicians to anchor user traffic and drive revenue. Existing work, however, (i) conflates popularity with a single behavioural cue (consultation count) and (ii) relies on linear or shallow machine-learning models. We introduce PopNet, a hybrid TabTransformer + GRU that fuses demographic, behavioural, visual-cue and temporal-momentum signals to predict a composite Popularity Index (PopIdx) built from four pillars: demand, monetary appreciation, social proof and visibility. Across a five-fold group-wise cross-validation on 19 200 physician-quarter snapshots, PopNet attains MAE ≈ 0.091, beating ElasticNet by >40 %. Nevertheless, modern tree ensembles still edge it out (LightGBM MAE ≈ 0.046). Integrated-Gradient explanations and a feature-family ablation reveal platform visibility (inv_rank) as the single most important driver of popularity, followed by raw patient demand and monetary gifts. Fairness audits show a modest 0.006 PopIdx MAE gap between genders; a simple inverse-propensity re-weighting halves this gap with <0.002 performance loss. The study provides actionable levers for platform managers and a reusable, bias-audited modelling pipeline for future research.

Carbon Capture, Utilization and storage (CCUS) continue to emerge as the most viable technology to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases around the world, the bulk of which is in the hard to abate industries. This paper has presented a systematic review of the existing technological implementation, the key challenges that have been identified, the gaps in knowledge, and also the emerging innovations that have been continuing to shape the field. The review incorporates information in the world deployment databases, state reports, and peer reviewed libraries. CCUS technologies have reached maturity in the realms of capture and storage but the large scale deployment of capturing technology has been limited because of the high cost, the presence of adequate infrastructure and due to policy uncertainty. The review paper presents some recommendations on how to enhance efficiency, lower costs and achieve sustainable industrial integration with net zero emissions.

Introduction: McCune–Albright syndrome (MAS) is a rare, sporadic mosaic disorder caused by postzygotic activating mutations of the GNAS gene. It is classically characterized by a triad of polyostotic fibrous dysplasia, café-au-lait skin macules, and hyperfunctioning endocrinopathies. Growth hormone (GH) excess represents a particularly challenging manifestation and is most often associated with pituitary adenomas or somatolactotroph hyperplasia. However, atypical presentations with GH excess in the absence of radiologically detectable pituitary lesions have been reported. Case presentation: We report the case of a 43-year-old male referred for progressive craniofacial deformity and excessive height. Clinical evaluation revealed features consistent with GH excess, including gigantism, frontal bossing, prognathism, and progressive respiratory and neurological complications. Imaging demonstrated extensive polyostotic fibrous dysplasia involving the craniofacial bones, thoracic cage, and spine, resulting in severe skeletal deformities and multisystem complications. Biochemical assessment confirmed GH excess with elevated insulin-like growth factor 1 levels and failure of GH suppression during an oral glucose tolerance test. Notably, pituitary magnetic resonance imaging was completely normal, with no evidence of adenoma or hyperplasia. Additional endocrine evaluation revealed hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and structural thyroid abnormalities without functional hyperthyroidism. Based on the constellation of clinical, biochemical, and imaging findings, a diagnosis of atypical McCune–Albright syndrome was established. The patient was managed medically with a long-acting somatostatin analog and multidisciplinary follow-up. Conclusion: This case highlights the marked phenotypic heterogeneity of McCune–Albright syndrome and underscores that growth hormone–mediated gigantism may occur despite a normal pituitary MRI. Recognition of such atypical presentations is crucial to avoid diagnostic delay and to guide appropriate management. A multidisciplinary approach remains essential for optimizing outcomes in patients with complex skeletal and endocrine involvement