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.

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: 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.

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.

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.

One Onion - Many Cuts. Just like an onion can be cut into rings, slices, cubes, or strips, learning can be designed in different ways to suit the needs of all learners. This is more scientific because one size cannot be suitable for all i.e., learning through individualized process and it gives recognition of individuality among the learners. Individualized instructional strategies have emerged as an emerging and necessary pedagogical response to learner in contemporary classrooms. However, its theoretical articulation often remains complex or abstract for practitioners. This paper introduces ‘The Onion Pedagogy’ as a metaphorically grounded yet epistemologically structured framework to conceptualize differentiated instruction based on the need and aspirations of the learner. Just as an onion can be cut into rings, slices, cubes, or strips while retaining its essential core, learning objectives remain constant while instructional strategies vary according to learner needs. The ‘core’ represents epistemic understanding; the ‘layers’ characterize gradations of conceptual depth; and the ‘cuts’ represent individualized pedagogical strategies. Drawing from modern psychological theories such as Constructivism, Social constructivism, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and Personalized learning theory, those framework and model offer a structured, holistic and inclusive approach to child-centric pedagogy. The teachers and educators are seen as a ‘seasoned chef’ who adopt pedagogical method based on need of the children. The paper highlights the theoretical framework, classroom practices and implications for teacher education, and understand the alignment with India’s National Education Policy (2020). The Onion Pedagogy provides an inclusive methodological framework that not only promotes equity and equality but also focus on the learner’s diversity.

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.

English for General Academic Purpose (EGAP) is crucial for cultivating high-quality innovative talents, focusing on developing their practical competence in academic English for communication, research and professional practice. With the in-depth integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into education, traditional EGAP teaching faces challenges like insufficient interaction and inefficient personalized guidance. Thus, human-computer collaborative teaching becomes an inevitable direction for EGAP reform. Based on previous research deficiencies and the latest AIGC development, this study optimizes the “one-core, three-orders and seven-synergies” model (grounded in PBL and supported by AIGC), integrating strengths of teachers, AI systems and students to expand EGAP teaching boundaries. Supplemented with new empirical data and cases, it verifies the upgraded model’s effectiveness, providing targeted theoretical and practical support for AI-EGAP integration and promoting EGAP teaching quality.

This study examines a comparative rhetorical analysis of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo’s 2015 and 2023 open letters. It explores how he strategically employs Aristotelian appeals of ethos, pathos, and logos to influence political discourse in Nigeria. Through a qualitative analysis of both texts, the research reveals a clear evolution in Obasanjo’s rhetorical approach, shaped by the country’s shifting political and socio-economic landscape. The 2015 letter adopts a confrontational tone anchored in authoritative ethos and fear-based pathos, reflecting national instability and leadership dissatisfaction, while, by contrast, the 2023 letter embodies a more inclusive and hopeful rhetoric, emphasizing collective responsibility and logical argumentation to engage an increasingly participatory electorate. The study demonstrates how political communication adapts to contextual realities and public expectations. It contributes to the growing body of African rhetorical scholarship by highlighting the dynamic interplay between credibility, emotion, and logic in shaping persuasive political messages. The findings suggest that rhetorical evolution is not merely stylistic but a strategic response to democratic maturation and audience awareness.

Background: Clear aligner therapy (CAT) offers aesthetic and hygienic advantages over traditional fixed orthodontic appliances. However, its uptake is influenced by patients' knowledge, attitudes, perceptions (KAP) and acceptance of the treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the KAP towards CAT among patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment and to identify demographic and socioeconomic factors influencing these attitudes. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted at a private hospital in Lagos, Nigeria, involving all consenting follow-up orthodontic patients undergoing fixed appliance orthodontic therapy. A validated self-administered questionnaire assessed demographic characteristics and KAP toward CAT. Data were analysed using SPSS v26 and R software, employing chi-square and logistic regression. Results: Among 232 participants, only 50% had heard of CAT, and just 27.6% demonstrated good knowledge. About 52.2% showed a positive attitude, and 50.9% had a favourable perception. Significant associations were found between attitude and age (p = 0.022), education (p = 0.030), ethnicity (p = 0.035), and income (p = 0.013). Income uncertainty was a negative predictor of a favourable attitude (OR = 0.42, p = 0.025). Conclusion: Knowledge of CAT among patients treated with fixed appliances is limited, despite moderate awareness and positive attitudes. Educational and economic factors significantly influence acceptance. Improved education and affordability could enhance uptake of aligner therapy.

Laser dentistry has emerged as a significant advancement in modern dental practice, offering a minimally invasive alternative to conventional instruments such as scalpels and rotary devices. Its growing popularity is driven by improved precision, enhanced patient comfort, reduced postoperative complications, and expanding clinical applications across multiple dental specialties. This narrative review aims to explore the expanding role of lasers in dentistry, focusing on their fundamental principles, clinical applications, advantages, limitations, and future directions. The literature consistently highlights benefits such as reduced bleeding, decreased pain, faster healing, and improved patient acceptance. However, challenges including high cost, operator dependency, learning curve, and variability in clinical evidence continue to limit universal adoption. Overall, laser dentistry represents a transformative tool in contemporary dental care, with strong potential for further integration into routine practice as technology advances and evidence continues to grow.

The present study examined the impact of treadmill and resistance training packages on selected motor fitness components and skill performance variables among hockey players. A pre-test and post-test randomized group design was employed. Forty-five male hockey players (aged group 19–25 years) were selected from affiliated colleges of Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamilnadu, India. They were randomly assigned into three groups: group I Treadmill Training Group (TTG), group II Resistance Training Group (RTG) and group III Control Group (CG), with fifteen participants in each group. The TTG and RTG underwent their respective training interventions on alternate days for twelve weeks, while the control group followed their regular academic routine without additional training. Motor fitness variables such as cardiovascular endurance and agility, along with performance variables including stick control and passing accuracy, were assessed. Statistical analysis was conducted by using paired sample t-tests and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) at a 0.05 level of significance. The results revealed significant improvements (p ≤ .05) in all selected motor fitness and performance variables for both experimental groups compared to the control group. The findings indicate that treadmill training and resistance training packages are effective methods for enhancing physical fitness and skill performance among university hockey players.

This study examines the evolution of the center–periphery structure in Japanese intellectual history through the thought of Motoori Norinaga and Yanagita Kunio. It explores how Japan sought self-identity and independence under external cultural and academic pressures. During the Edo period, under the influence of Chinese civilization, Motoori Norinaga reinterpreted the Huayi distinction, emphasizing indigenous tradition and Shinto thought while rejecting China’s absolute centrality and repositioning Japan as a cultural center. In the modern era, facing a Western-dominated academic system, Yanagita Kunio proposed “national folklore studies” to secure the autonomy of Japanese scholarship through a strategy of relative centralization. By comparing their approaches, this study reveals both continuity and transformation in Japan’s center–periphery structure. It argues that despite differences in historical context and disciplinary focus, both thinkers retained the hierarchical logic of the center–periphery framework while redefining Japan’s position within it.