Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effect of low intensity plyometric training combined with different muscle relaxation techniques on leg explosive power of junior athletes. Methods: The experimental study enrolled 60 junior athletes from Shree Bharath Vidyaashram, Chennai. The age ranged between 11 to 13 years, who were selected to carry out the research. The subjects who met the inclusion criteria were selected using random sampling and divided into three intervention groups and a control group. The test items used to collect the leg explosive power tested by standing long jump test and performance recorded in meters. The 12 weeks of stipulated training was provided to the participants for the period of 60-minute sessions for the three alternative days in a week. Statistical Procedure: To process the results of the study, analysis of the data was done with the IBM SPSS Statistics 22 software. The statistics obtained were provided by paired sample t-test. The improvement percentage was assessed by using the formula of “%Δ = (x post-test – x pre-test) / pre-test * 100.” The level of confidence was fixed at 95% and values below p<0.05 were considered significant. Results: The paired sample t-test showed a significant (p<0.05) improvement in explosive power over the 12 weeks of stipulated training. Conclusion: The results indicate considerable significant improvement on leg explosive power was observed. The findings indicate that the selected training regimes led to significant improvement on leg explosive power namely, standing long jump test observation.

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effect of different neuromuscular training on muscular endurance of junior athletes. Methods: The experimental study enrolled 60 junior athletes’ who taking part in the school level zone athletic competitions from Sakthi Higher Secondary School, Erode Tamilnadu. The age ranged between twelve and thirteen years, which were selected to carry out the research. The subjects who met the inclusion criteria were selected using random sampling and divided into three intervention groups and a control group. The test items used to collect the muscular endurance tested by modified it ups test and performance recorded in counts. The 12 weeks of stipulated training was provided to the participants for the period of 60-minute sessions for the three alternative days in a week. Statistical Procedure: To process the results of the study, analysis of the data was done with the IBM SPSS Statistics 22 software. The statistics obtained were provided by way analysis of co variance. The level of confidence was fixed at 95% and values below p<0.05 were considered significant. Results: The one-way analysis of co variance showed a significant (p<0.05) improvement in muscular endurance over the 12 weeks of stipulated training. Conclusion: The results indicate considerable significant improvement on muscular endurance was observed. The findings indicate that the selected training regimes led to significant improvement on agility.

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic inflammatory liver disease characterized by heterogeneous clinical, biochemical, immunological, and histological features, which may make its diagnosis challenging in clinical practice. This study aimed to analyze the diagnostic difficulties encountered in patients with suspected AIH and to highlight the role of a comprehensive diagnostic approach. We conducted a retrospective descriptive study over a five-year period from January 2019 to July 2025 in the Department of Hepato-Gastroenterology and Proctology at Ibn Sina University Hospital in Rabat. Clinical records of patients evaluated for suspected AIH were reviewed, and demographic, clinical, biochemical, immunological, and histological data were analyzed. A total of 24 patients were included, with a mean age at diagnosis of 45.5 years and a marked female predominance (83.3%). Cholestatic jaundice was the most common presenting manifestation (45.8%), followed by portal hypertension syndrome (29.2%) and chronic cytolysis (16.7%). Elevated serum IgG levels were observed in 79.2% of patients. Antinuclear antibodies and anti–smooth muscle antibodies were positive in 75% and 70.8% of cases, respectively. According to the simplified International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group (IAIHG) criteria, definite AIH was diagnosed in 11 patients (45.8%) and probable AIH in 3 patients (12.5%). In the remaining cases, alternative diagnoses were established, including primary biliary cholangitis, chronic hepatitis C, metabolic dysfunction–associated steatohepatitis, hepatic sarcoidosis, drug-induced hepatitis, and cryptogenic cirrhosis. Histopathological examination played a crucial role in confirming the diagnosis and identifying overlap syndromes or alternative etiologies. Patients with confirmed or probable AIH were treated with corticosteroids in combination with azathioprine, with favorable clinical outcomes in most cases. These findings underline the diagnostic complexity of AIH and emphasize the importance of integrating clinical, biological, immunological, and histological data to establish an accurate diagnosis and guide appropriate management.

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effect of battle rope and jump rope training combined with ladder drills on cardio respiratory endurance of college men students. Methods: The experimental study enrolled 45 college men students from Kumaraguru Institute of Agriculture, Erode, Tamil Nadu, who were selected to carry out the research. The subjects who met the inclusion criteria were selected using convenience sampling and randomly divided into two intervention groups. The test items used to collect the cardio respiratory endurance tested by Cooper 1.5-mile run test and for completed by the participants before the training intervention. The stipulated training was provided to the participants for the period of 50-minute sessions for the three alternative days in a week. Statistical Procedure: To process the results of the study, analysis of the data was done with the IBM SPSS Statistics 22 software. The statistics obtained were provided by paired sample t-test. The improvement percentage was assessed by using the formula of “%Δ = (x post-test – x pre-test) / pre-test * 100.” The level of confidence was fixed at 95% and values below p<0.05 were considered significant. Results: The paired sample t-test showed a significant (p<0.05) improvement in selected dependent variables over the 12 weeks of stipulated training. Conclusion: The results indicate considerable significant improvement on selected variable was observed. The findings indicate that both the training regimes led to significant improvement on the selected cardio respiratory endurance namely, Cooper test observation. The jump rope training combined with ladder drills has produced a superior effect compared to the battle rope training combined with ladder drills.

Background: Pediatric abdominal masses are diagnostically challenging due to their diverse etiology and nonspecific presentation, necessitating accurate imaging for proper management. This study aimed to evaluate the imaging spectrum and diagnostic performance of radiological modalities in differentiating benign and malignant lesions. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at the Department of Radiology and Imaging, Bangladesh Shishu Hospital & Institute, Dhaka, Bangladesh, from January to December 2025. Ninety pediatric patients with suspected abdominal masses were included and evaluated using ultrasonography as the primary modality, with CT and MRI performed when indicated. Imaging findings were assessed for lesion characteristics and origin, and classified as benign or malignant. Diagnostic performance was analyzed using standard statistical measures. Results: A total of 90 pediatric patients with abdominal masses were evaluated, with most aged 1–5 years (40.0%) and a slight male predominance (57.8%), and abdominal swelling being the commonest presentation (82.2%). Renal origin was most frequent (35.6%), followed by hepatic (22.2%), with solid lesions predominating (66.7%) and all patients undergoing USG (100%), while CT (66.7%) and MRI (20.0%) were used selectively. Wilms tumor was the leading diagnosis (24.4%), and overall diagnostic accuracy was 86.7% with sensitivity 91.1%, specificity 79.4%, PPV 87.9%, and NPV 84.4%. Conclusion: Radiological evaluation, led by ultrasonography with complementary CT and MRI, is highly effective in characterizing pediatric abdominal masses and distinguishing benign from malignant lesions.

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effect of fartlek training combined with different running based high intensity interval training on cardio respiratory endurance of men soccer players. Methods: The experimental study enrolled 60 men soccer players who taking part in the inter collegiate level football tournament from University, Calicut Kerala. The age ranged between eighteen to twenty-one years, which were selected to carry out the research. The subjects who met the inclusion criteria were selected using random sampling and divided into three intervention groups and a control group. The test items used to collect the cardio respiratory endurance was tested by coppers 12 minutes run or walk test and performance recorded in meters. The 12 weeks of stipulated training was provided to the participants for the period of 60-minute sessions for the three alternative days in a week. Statistical Procedure: To process the results of the study, analysis of the data was done with the IBM SPSS Statistics 22 software. The statistics obtained were provided by way analysis of co variance. The level of confidence was fixed at 95% and values below p<0.05 were considered significant. Results: The one-way analysis of co variance showed a significant (p<0.05) improvement in cardio respiratory endurance over the 12 weeks of stipulated training. Conclusion: The results indicate considerable significant improvement on cardio respiratory endurance was observed. The findings indicate that the selected training regimes led to significant improvement on cardio respiratory endurance.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has emerged as a promising biologically active adjunct in regenerative endodontics due to its high concentration of autologous growth factors that promote angiogenesis, cell proliferation, and tissue healing. Used as a scaffold and bioactive reservoir, PRP supports pulp–dentin complex regeneration, particularly in immature necrotic teeth. This review highlights the biological basis, preparation methods, and diverse clinical applications of PRP in endodontics. Despite its advantages, limitations related to standardization and growth factor release persist, emphasizing the need for further long-term clinical studies to establish predictable protocols.

Background: Stress is highly prevalent among young adults aged 18–25 years due to academic, social, and emotional challenges. Recent research suggests that genetic factors, including ABO and Rh blood groups, may influence individual susceptibility to stress. Aim: To evaluate the association between ABO and Rh blood groups and stress levels among individuals aged 18–25 years. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted at KMCRI College, Hubli, over a period of 6 months. A total of 150 participants were included using convenience sampling. Data regarding demographic profile and blood group were collected, and stress levels were assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, and associations were tested using the Chi-square test. Results: The majority of participants were aged 20–21 years (30.7%), with a slight male predominance (54.7%). Blood group O (37.3%) was the most common, and most participants were Rh positive (88.0%). Moderate stress was observed in 52.0% of participants. A statistically significant association was found between ABO blood group and stress levels (p = 0.021), while gender and Rh factor showed no significant association. Conclusion: ABO blood group may play a role in stress susceptibility among young adults. Further studies are required to establish causal relationships.

Background: Root fractures represent a relatively rare form of dental trauma and are often challenging to identify using routine clinical examination and conventional radiographic techniques. Accurate and timely diagnosis is crucial for appropriate treatment planning and to achieve favourable clinical outcomes. In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has gained attention in dentistry due to its ability to analyze imaging data with high precision and assist clinicians in diagnostic decision-making. Purpose: The aim of this systematic review is to assess the role and diagnostic effectiveness of artificial intelligence in identifying root fractures. Study selection: A systematic literature search was performed using PUBMED, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and COCHRANE Library with language restriction to English. The search was carried out incorporating the published literature till 2025 using the MeSH (medical subject heading) terms. A literature search was done out of 205 publications, related to search strategy, 57 full articles, which were related to the study, were acquired for further inspection. Out of the 57 articles, 9 articles met the inclusion criteria. Information related to study characteristics, types of AI models used, imaging techniques, and reported diagnostic performance was collected and reviewed. Results: The findings from the 9 selected studies indicate that AI systems, especially deep learning models such as convolutional neural networks, demonstrate considerable potential in detecting root fractures in dental images. Many investigations reported strong diagnostic performance with notable levels of accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity. These findings highlight the significant potential of AI-assisted analysis helped improve diagnostic consistency and supported clinicians in recognizing fractures that may be difficult to detect through visual assessment alone. Conclusion and Relevance: Artificial intelligence shows significant promise as a supportive diagnostic tool for the detection of root fractures. Despite the encouraging results, further well-designed studies with larger datasets and clinical validation are required before AI technologies can be widely integrated into routine dental practice. Artificial intelligence enhances the accuracy and consistency of root fracture detection, aiding clinicians in early and reliable diagnosis. Its integration into dental imaging can reduce diagnostic errors and support timely treatment decisions.

The gender gap in labour force participation and educational attainment remains a persistent challenge in the ECOWAS region, undermining social progress and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5. Thus, we provide valuable insights into how the dynamics of female employment in the agriculture, industrial, and service sectors, as well as female school enrolment, contribute to reducing the gender inequality in ten selected countries (Benin, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo) within the ECOWAS region. The panel datasets were obtained from the World Development Indicators of the World Bank and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Human Development Report from 2005 to 2023. We employed pooled regression, fixed- and random-effects models, and the Hausman test, in conjunction with descriptive statistics, to analyse the datasets. Findings from the stylised facts for the aggregate sample indicated that the gender inequality index averaged 0.620, highlighting the pronounced discrimination faced by women and girls compared to men and boys across critical dimensions of human development, including employment, education, health, and political participation. The summary statistics for the disaggregated sample revealed that Nigeria is the least performing country in reducing the gender gap, showing an average gender inequality index of 0.676, which is greater than the regional average during 2005 - 2010. However, Senegal demonstrated an impressive performance in reducing gender inequality, with an average gender inequality index of 0.543 during the study period (2005-2023) and a decline from 0.546 in 2011 to 0.49 in 2023. More importantly, the random-effects findings indicated that female employment in agriculture significantly reduced gender inequality during the study period. This underscores the extensive involvement of women in agricultural activities and their contribution to the economic empowerment and financial independence of women in the ECOWAS region. Similarly, the random effects results indicated negative, significant impacts of female employment in industry and services on the gender parity index. The magnitude of this impact is greater than that of female employment in agriculture, suggesting that employment in industry and services offers women improved working conditions and status due to the associated higher and more stable income, alongside labour protections and social security benefits. However, the results further reveal that female primary school enrolment does not significantly reduce gender inequality during the student period. This underscores the inadequacy of primary education in mitigating structural inequalities, owing to limited economic empowerment and rising school dropout rates. Given the findings, we recommend that policymakers in the ECOWAS prioritise gender-sensitive employment and education by enhancing women's access to land and decent work, eliminating workplace discrimination, supporting female entrepreneurship, and promoting equal educational opportunities.

Background: Migraine and dementia are prevalent neurological disorders with overlapping pathophysiological mechanisms. The association between migraine and dementia risk remains debated, with conflicting findings from observational studies and emerging evidence from Mendelian randomization (MR) studies. Methods: This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science for publications from January 2021 to January 2026. Eligible studies included observational cohort studies and MR studies examining the association between migraine and dementia outcomes in adults. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for cohort studies and a modified ROBINS-I framework for MR studies. A narrative synthesis was performed due to substantial heterogeneity. Results: Seven studies met inclusion criteria: five population-based cohort studies and two two-sample MR studies. Among cohort studies, four reported significant positive associations between migraine and dementia risk, with hazard ratios ranging from 1.21 to 1.37 for all-cause dementia, 1.29 to 1.31 for Alzheimer's disease (AD), and 1.21 to 1.35 for vascular dementia (VaD). One Swedish cohort study reported no significant associations. MR studies provided evidence supporting a causal relationship between genetically predicted migraine and increased AD risk (odds ratios 1.09–1.10), with thalamic atrophy identified as a partial mediator (28.2% of the total effect). Bidirectional MR analysis revealed that migraine increases AD risk while VaD increases migraine risk. Migraine subtype, aura status, and case definition influenced observed associations. Conclusion: Current evidence suggests migraine is associated with increased risk of dementia, particularly AD and VaD, with MR studies supporting causal relationships. Heterogeneity across studies highlights the importance of diagnostic methods, population characteristics, and dementia subtype specification. Future research should employ standardized diagnostic criteria, detailed migraine phenotyping, and investigate the potential neuroprotective effects of migraine management on cognitive outcomes.

A study on the state of knowledge of handwashing with soap and water at Félix HOUPHOUET-BOIGNY University, followed by awareness-raising on good practices was undertaken between 14 and 26 October 2019 to help guide the development of a programme to promote good hygiene practices. A survey form that included columns of variables such as name, age, gender, and function was used in conjunction with handwashing practice. A total of 2024 individuals, 478 (23.62%) of whom were female and 1546 (76.38%) male, participated in the survey. The study found that 5.04% of people (female and male) have good handwashing practices. The good practice of handwashing at the Félix HOUPHOUET-BOIGNY University is less well known. However, the science faculties had good handwashing practice compared to students in other faculties. It would be advisable to increase awareness of good hygiene practices, particularly handwashing, in order to prevent infections.

Background: Cucumis sativus (cucumber) is a widely consumed fruit known for its high water content and antioxidant properties. Despite its numerous health benefits, limited research has been conducted on its potential effects on male reproductive health. This study investigated the impact of cucumber fruit juice on male reproductive hormones and semen quality parameters. Methods: Male Wistar rats were divided into three groups: a control group and two experimental groups receiving 10 ml/kg and 20 ml/kg of Cucumis sativus fruit juice daily for four weeks. Serum samples were analyzed for follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and testosterone levels using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Semen samples were evaluated for sperm motility, viability, morphology, and abnormal sperm cell count. Results: The administration of cucumber juice did not significantly affect FSH, LH, or testosterone levels (p > 0.05), indicating that the fruit juice does not interfere with endocrine regulation of male reproduction. However, sperm quality parameters showed significant improvements. Sperm motility increased notably in the experimental groups, with the highest motility observed in the 20 ml/kg group. Sperm viability and normal morphology were also significantly enhanced compared to the control (p < 0.05). The percentage of sperm abnormalities, including head defects, mid-piece distortions, and cytoplasmic droplets, was significantly reduced, particularly at the higher dose. These findings suggest that cucumber juice may improve sperm function without altering hormonal balance. Conclusion: The results indicate that Cucumis sativus fruit juice has a beneficial effect on sperm quality, enhancing motility, viability, and morphology while reducing sperm abnormalities. These improvements may be attributed to the antioxidant and hydrating properties of cucumber, which help to reduce oxidative stress and support testicular function. However, the absence of significant hormonal changes suggests that its effects on male fertility are primarily local rather than systemic.

This paper presents the results of the reliability-based design of pad foundation based on the results of the geotechnical investigation of the soil sample collected at 1m to 5m depth in Abuloma Community, Rivers State. Three boreholes, namely BH1, BH2 and BH3 were excavated utilizing a manual auger to depths of 1m, 2m, 3m, 4m, and 5m respectively. Laboratory investigations were conducted on the soil samples in the laboratory to determine the geotechnical properties of the soil such as soil cohesion, Poisson’s ratio, unit weight, angle of internal friction, and modulus of elasticity of the soil respectively. The bearing capacity of the soil at each selected location was obtained using Terzaghi’s bearing capacity formula. The results of the laboratory investigations on the soil properties such as cohesion, Poisson’s ratio, specific weight, internal friction angle, and elasticity modulus of the soil were used to conduct the reliability assessment and reliability-based design of the pad foundation at Abuloma using the method of response surface. The descriptive statistics of the geotechnical parameters were obtained utilizing a statistical tool called Minitab 17.0. The Full Factorial method of design of Experimental Design was used to obtain the design points. The types of probability distribution of the basic random variables were established using Anderson Darling Statistics. The performance functions were developed were developed considering bearing capacity and immediate settlement failure of the pad foundation at the four selected locations. The First Order Reliability technique implemented in MATLAB was used in the reliability estimates. The findings revealed that the Abuloma soil is safe only for a foundation pressure of 50KPa and for foundation pressures of 50KPa, 100KPa and 150KPa respectively when considering settlement criterion. The reliability indices generally decreased with increase in values of variation coefficient of soil cohesion, internal friction angle and soil density respectively. The MATLAB code developed is very easy for application geotechnical and coastal applications.

Fictionalisation of women’s oppression shows writers’ commitment at different times to keep readers abreast with trending issues which are seemingly despicable to the society. This paper draws attention away from representations on the overburdened issue of inter-gender oppression; of men and women, to intra-gender oppression among women. It aims to examine the latter, with particular focus on how it is enabled in a relationship between adults and children. It considers this topic as an important literary theme that is yet to be given significant scholarship attention. Its significance rests on the fresh perspectives it offers and helps to expand on the overall issue of oppression that has continued to plague the society. It uses Ted Elemeforo’s Child of Destiny to provide credible evidence. The qualitative analysis procedure is employed, with the support of the intersectionality theory relating to feminism, and Marxism, to explain how oppression thrives in the society despite consistent opposition. The findings affirm that women oppress and exploit members of their sex. This happens mostly in unequal social relations like, between adults and underprivileged children as demonstrated in the meeting between the text’s female characters: Madam Lizzy and Ebika. It shows that this practice is aided by salient social factors like class, age, sex among others, which inevitably stand in the way of eradicating oppression. The paper, thus, concludes that oppression has to be seen as a complex phenomenon requiring multifaced approach to be eliminated.