ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | Nov. 30, 2024
Evaluation of Heavy Metals in Water, Sediments and African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) Obtained from Earthen and Concrete Fish Ponds in Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Tarinimi Tamunosa Jim-Halliday, Charles I. Osu, Godson Ndubuisi Iwuoha
Page no 168-177 |
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36348/sijcms.2024.v07i11.004
This study investigates the concentrations of heavy metals and physicochemical properties of water, sediment, and African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) from earthen and concrete ponds used for aquaculture in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. Physicochemical analysis showed that water from earthen ponds had a pH of 5.60-7.52, salinity of 0.06-1.03 ppt, conductivity of 170-1671 μScm⁻¹, and turbidity of 38.71-163 NTU. In contrast, concrete ponds had a pH of 6.75-7.56, salinity of 0.18-0.71 ppt, and conductivity of 325-1442 μScm⁻¹, indicating differences in water quality. Water samples from earthen ponds exhibited cadmium (Cd) levels ranging from 0.013 to 0.187 mg/kg, lead (Pb) from 0.649 to 0.651 mg/kg, zinc (Zn) from 0.052 to 0.80 mg/kg, copper (Cu) from 0.009 to 0.158 mg/kg, and iron (Fe) from 1.198 to 4.112 mg/kg. In contrast, Concrete ponds showed Cd levels from -0.014 to 0.008 mg/kg, Pb from -0.0154 to 1.518 mg/kg, and Zn from 0.072 to 3.038 mg/kg. In earthen pond sediment, Cd ranged from 0.059 to 0.326 mg/kg and Pb from 0.505 to 1.160 mg/kg, exceeding permissible limits, especially at sites B and C, indicating contamination. Fish from earthen ponds had high heavy metal levels, with Cd from 0.175 to 22.433 mg/kg and Pb from 1.121 to 22.613 mg/kg, showing significant bioaccumulation. Conversely, concrete ponds had lower contamination, with Cd in sediment from 0.250 to 0.412 mg/kg and Pb in fish from 0.693 to 5.376 mg/kg, closer to safe thresholds. The results indicate significant contamination differences between pond types, with earthen ponds exhibiting higher heavy metal levels due to soil composition and exposure. In contrast, concrete ponds, which minimize soil-water interaction, showed lower metal presence in fish, highlighting a safer aquaculture environment. These findings stress the importance of continuous monitoring of earthen ponds and improved management practices to ensure consumer safety and sustainable aquaculture.
The cultivation of talents in higher education institutions is a process that combines education and talent cultivation, and the curriculum of ideological and political education is the concrete implementation of the fundamental mission of "cultivating virtue and nurturing talents" in education. This paper takes the non-ideological and political subject of Foreign Trade English Correspondence as the research object, specifically studying the ideological and political elements that can be integrated into this course, and exploring effective ways to achieve the value function of this course.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | Nov. 28, 2024
Trends in Antenatal Care Engagement among Women in A Tertiary Care Hospital in Bangladesh
Dr. Sonia Nasrin, Dr. Anuradha Karmaker, Dr. Rubayet Zereen, Dr. Sayma Afroze, Dr. Nusur Akhter
Page no 585-591 |
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36348/sijog.2024.v07i11.009
Background: Antenatal care (ANC) engagement is essential for ensuring healthy pregnancy outcomes by providing timely medical interventions and education to expectant mothers. In Bangladesh, various factors such as socioeconomic status, education level, and access to healthcare services significantly influence antenatal care (ANC) utilization. This study aimed to explore the trends in antenatal care engagement among women in Bangladesh. Methods: This observational cross-sectional study took place over six months at Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh. During this period, 100 women admitted to the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Ward for delivery were purposively selected as participants. Thorough clinical examinations and pertinent investigations were conducted. Data analysis was performed using MS Office tools. Results: In Bangladesh, educated women are more likely to have regular antenatal care (ANC) and make at least four visits. Women over 25 years old tend to attend ANC less frequently, whereas regular attendance is seen in 91.1% of women aged 20-25. Primiparous women had a higher ANC attendance rate at 95.7%, but women with higher parity (≥4) also showed an increased usage of ANC services at 71.4%. Cesarean sections were more prevalent in rural areas at 56.4% compared to 71.0% in urban areas. Regarding neonatal outcomes, 15% of babies were born with low birth weight, and prematurity was observed in 15% of cases. Conclusion: In Bangladesh, a rich tapestry of cultural, educational, and socioeconomic elements plays a pivotal role in shaping the way maternal healthcare is sought. There is a notable disparity in access across urban and rural areas, differences in education levels, preferred treatment facilities, economic standing, and pregnancy experiences.
The concept of a global language is a powerful idea that plays an important role in education, communication, and professional growth. The profession of ELT has evolved dramatically in the course of learning to meet the demands of the globalized and highly digitally connected world. This paper, under these contemporary trends, presents diversified approaches to teaching English, ranging from CLT, task-based learning, flipped classrooms, technology integration, and so forth, down to inclusive pedagogical practice. Based on theoretical underpinnings such as the sociocultural theory and constructivism, it highlights the manner by which such approaches enhance learner interest and flexibility and foster learner achievement. With respect to pedagogical implications, such a paper would provide insight into effective English language education in diverse settings.
Consanguineous marriage (CM) or cousin marriage is a type of inter-familial union, defined as the marriage between two blood-related individuals who are second cousins or closer (inbreeding coefficient ⩾ 0.0156). Marriage is one of the important vital event and entry in to reproductive life in India. Prevalence and pattern of marriage varies across the states, regions and according to their religion and caste. Consanguineous marriages have been practiced since the early existence of humans. Consanguinity is the marriage between close relatives. Though consanguineous matings have cultural and socioeconomic advantages, their offspring have an increased risk for recessive disorders. The risk is not uniform in all cases and it varies based on several factors. Consanguinity is a deeply rooted social trend among one-fifth of the world population mostly residing in the Middle East, West Asia and North Africa, as well as among emigrants from these communities now residing in North America, Europe and Australia. The mounting public awareness on prevention of congenital and genetic disorders in offspring is driving an increasing number of couples contemplating marriage and reproduction in highly consanguineous communities to seek counseling on consanguinity. The article discusses the different type of measures that can be taken by a consanguineous couple before and after marriage to avoid genetic disorders in their progeny.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | Nov. 28, 2024
The Influence of the Cooperative Learning Model Type TPS and TGT to Interest and Motivation Learn Volleyball Underhand Pass Participant Educate Class VIII of Public Middle School 2 Geneng Regency
Muhammad Habib Aliffudin, Ahmad Nasrullah, Delano Wisnu Pambudi, Vistor Maulana Shapri
Page no 273-278 |
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36348/jaspe.2024.v07i11.003
Study This aiming for (1) For analyze difference application of learning models cooperative TPS type against interest and motivation Study participant educate in volleyball underhand passing practice participant educated at SMP Negeri 2 Geneng. (2) For analyze difference application of learning models cooperative TGT type against interest and motivation Study participant educate in volleyball underhand passing practice participant educated at SMP Negeri 2 Geneng. (3) For compare and analyze effectiveness between learning models cooperative TPS and TGT types in increase interest and motivation Study participant educate in volleyball underhand passing practice participant educated at SMP Negeri 2 Geneng. Research This is study quantitative with design experiment quasi -experimental research This aiming for test differences between cooperative learning models TPS (Think Pair Share) and TGT (Teams-Games-Tournaments) interest and motivation Study participant educate in volleyball underhand passing practice. Research this use Simple Random Sampling technique. The selection process sample done with method random simple for ensure representativeness and bias reduction. Data analysis techniques are carried out through prerequisite tests namely 1) Analysis Descriptive, 2) normality test, 3) homogeneity test, 4) sample t test. Based on results research that has been done above, then conclusion in study This is: 1) There is difference application of learning models cooperative TPS type against interest and motivation Study participant educate in volleyball underhand passing practice at SMP Negeri 2 Geneng. 2) There is difference application of learning models cooperative TGT type against interest and motivation Study participant educate in volleyball underhand passing practice at SMP Negeri 2 Geneng. 3) There is difference effectiveness between learning models cooperative TPS and TGT types in increase interest and motivation Study participant educate in volleyball underhand passing practice at SMP Negeri 2 Geneng by 36.13%.
Objectives: To know the level of cotinine concentration in the saliva of children exposed to secondhand smoke and know the link between smoke exposure and gingivitis. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 100 children from Riyadh Colleges of Dentistry and Pharmacy between the ages of 6 - 12 years. A questionnaire was conducted on the parents of the children to find out their smoking behavior. The sample (children) was separated into two categories: category (A) children exposed to secondhand smoke as a test sample and numbered 50 children (23 boys and 27 girls), category (B) children not exposed to smoking as an ideal sample and numbering 50 children (24 boys and 26 girls). Index of dental plaque (calculus), gum index, presence of pigmentation and saliva sample collection were recorded from each child from the two groups. Furthermore, the level of cotinine in saliva samples was determined using the ELISA technique. Results: The concentration of cotinine in saliva is prominently present in samples of children category (A) compared to category (B). A positive correlation was observed between the number of cigarettes consumed and the concentration of cotinine in saliva. On the other hand, no relationship was found between gingivitis and the concentration ratio Cotinine. The likelihood of pigmentation in children exposed to secondhand smoking is 1.14 times higher than in other children. Conclusions: Secondhand smoke can raise the concentration of cotinine in saliva and stimulate the presence of pigmentation in children's gums.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | Nov. 27, 2024
Impact of Elevated Serum Ferritin on Maternal and Fetal Outcome in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Dr. Umme Salma Shilpi, Dr. Mst. Ismat Zerin, Dr. Mossa Nupur Aktar, Dr. Marfoonnahar Smriti, Dr. Tahurun-Nesa, Dr. Sanjana Rahman, Dr. Popy Rani Kundu, Dr. Najmatun Jikria
Page no 579-584 |
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36348/sijog.2024.v07i11.008
Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with significant maternal and fetal complications, including preterm delivery, macrosomia, and neonatal hypoglycemia. Elevated serum ferritin levels, a marker of inflammation and oxidative stress, may exacerbate these risks. This study was aims to determine if serum ferritin elevation is a marker of adverse maternal and fetal outcome in pregnancies complicated by GDM. Method: A case control study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka from September 2020 to August 2021. 42 pregnant women at 2nd 3rd trimester attended for antenatal care diagnosed as GDM was selected as cases and 42 non-diabetic pregnant women matching with cases by age and gestational age was selected as control are included this study. GDM was diagnosed by oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). The serum ferritin level of these patients was measured. Results: Elevated serum ferritin was significantly associated with GDM (p<0.05). GDM women had higher rates of obesity (p=0.005), preterm delivery (30.9% vs. 16.6%) and term delivery was less in case group (69.05%) than controls (83.33%) . In neonates of GDM mothers macrosomia rates were 26.19% in case group and 14.3% in control group. Hypoglycemia was 16.6%, respiratory distress 11.9% and NICU admissions 21.4% (p<0.05 vs controls). Conclusion: Elevated serum ferritin is a strong predictor of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes in GDM pregnancies. These findings suggest that ferritin could serve as a biomarker for identifying high-risk pregnancies. Incorporating ferritin screening into antenatal care may facilitate early risk stratification and targeted interventions.
REVIEW ARTICLE | Nov. 27, 2024
Green Synthesis of Prunus Dulcis (Almond Gum) Capped Silver Nanoparticles Enhancing In Vivo Wound Healing Potential: Comprehensive Review
Azhar Shabir, Ahmer Aliza, Fatima Anees, Hafiza Ayesha Tahir, Maryam Arshad, Shahid Mehmood Ashraf, Muhammad Ameer Qarib Naqvi, Arslan Rasool
Page no 492-497 |
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36348/sjls.2024.v09i11.010
The rising demand for sustainable and biocompatible materials in biomedical applications has led to significant interest in green-synthesized nanoparticles. This review explores the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Prunus dulcis (almond gum) as a natural capping and stabilizing agent, with a focus on their potential to enhance in vivo wound healing. Almond gum, a natural biopolymer, offers numerous benefits, including biodegradability, water solubility, and bioactivity, which improve the stability and biocompatibility of AgNPs while reducing environmental impact. The unique properties of almond gum-capped AgNPs, such as enhanced antimicrobial efficacy, anti-inflammatory effects, and antioxidant activity, make them particularly advantageous for wound healing applications. We analyze the mechanisms through which AgNPs promote wound repair, including bacterial inhibition, collagen synthesis, and angiogenesis, while mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation. Furthermore, in vivo studies demonstrate accelerated wound closure, reduced infection, and minimized inflammation, underscoring the clinical potential of these biogenic nanoparticles. This review also addresses current challenges, such as production scalability, nanoparticle consistency, and the need for comprehensive toxicity studies to optimize AgNPs for medical use. The findings indicate that almond gum-capped AgNPs represent a promising, eco-friendly alternative for wound care, contributing to advances in regenerative medicine through sustainable nanotechnology.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | Nov. 27, 2024
Antidiabetic Effectiveness Test of Bitter melon (Momordica charantia L) Extract Suspension in Male White Mice (Mus musculus)
Arief Rahman Afief, Subagja, Dosi Ahmad Yani, Ichan Harry Prayoga Sasongko
Page no 871-875 |
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36348/sjmps.2024.v10i11.013
Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder characterised by the inability of the pancreas to produce the hormone insulin in accordance with the body's requirements. Diabetes mellitus is a lifelong disease and, as yet, there is no cure. The costs associated with diabetes mellitus drugs are currently quite expensive. The utilisation of traditional medicinal practices involving the use of medicinal plants represents an alternative treatment option that employs natural ingredients with minimal side effects. One such example is the use of bitter melon (Momordica charantia L.), which has been demonstrated to possess antidiabetic properties. The objective of this study was to ascertain the antidiabetic efficacy of a bitter melon fruit extract suspension formula. This study employed an experimental methodology, whereby a suspension formulation of bitter melon fruit extract was prepared with three distinct doses. A total of 25 male white mice, induced with alloxan, were selected as test animals and divided into five treatment groups. Group X1 received a dose of 150 mg/kg b.w., Group X2 received a dose of 300 mg/kg b.w., Group X3 received a dose of 450 mg/kg b.w., while the negative control and positive control groups were also included. The data were subsequently analysed using the statistical software package SPSS (version 27), which included tests for normality, homogeneity, one-way ANOVA and the T-test. The findings of this study indicate that the treatment group, which received a suspension of bitter melon fruit extract at a dose of 450 mg/kg bw, exhibited a superior efficacy in reducing blood glucose levels, approaching the level observed in the positive control group.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | Nov. 27, 2024
Exploring The Impact of Assistive Technology on Academic Achievement for Visually Impaired Students in Zanzibar’s Primary Schools
Ali Issa Suleiman, Abdalla Abu Shaame, Said Khamis Juma
Page no 689-702 |
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36348/jaep.2024.v08i11.006
Assistive technology is utilized in Zanzibar primary schools and Tanzania at large. However, there is a shortage of information on its impacts on enhancing academic achievement due to the scarcity of studies conducted in this area. Therefore this study’s main purpose was to explore the assistive technology’s impacts on enhancing academic achievement for students with visual impairments in Zanzibar primary schools. In addition, the study sought to examine barriers that students with visual impairment face while utilizing assistive technology during the teaching and learning process. The study utilized a qualitative approach, with 28 participants using interviews, focus group discussions, and observations for data collection. The data was transcribed, coded, categorized and then analyzed using the thematic analysis method. The findings of this study indicated that assistive technology has a great impact on enhancing academic achievement for students with visual impairments hence it improves the learning capability of learners. The findings also revealed several barriers faced by students during the utilization of assistive technology including limited teaching and learning resources especially those written in Braille and overcrowded classes. Based on these findings, the study recommended that the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training collaborate with educational stakeholders such as NGOs, teachers and parents to enhance efforts in providing adequate and relevant assistive devices and teaching and learning materials for both teachers and students with visual impairments.
Medicinal plants have been integral to traditional medicine for millennia, serving as vital resources for treating a wide range of ailments. This review explores the importance of these plants, focusing on their antioxidant properties and the phytochemicals responsible for their therapeutic effects. Approximately 10% of vascular plants are recognized for their medicinal qualities, with natural antioxidants, particularly phenolic compounds and flavonoids, playing a crucial role in health maintenance by scavenging free radicals. The review delves into the molecular mechanisms underlying antioxidant activities, including both enzymatic and non-enzymatic defenses, emphasizing their significance in combating oxidative stress. Notably, members of the Lamiaceae family exhibit diverse species with potent antioxidant capabilities. Various in vitro models are evaluated to assess these antioxidant properties, highlighting the potential of medicinal plants as sustainable sources of natural antioxidants. The findings underscore the relevance of these plants in modern pharmacology and nutrition, advocating for further research to standardize extraction methods and identify specific active compounds. Ultimately, the continued exploration of medicinal plants can contribute significantly to public health and the development of innovative therapies rooted in nature, enhancing our understanding of their role in promoting health and preventing disease.
Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is a condition characterized by recurring ulcers in the mouth, causing significant discomfort and pain. Its cause remains unclear, and there is currently no known cure. When conventional treatments fall short, seeking help from Guan Yin Citta Dharma Door can be beneficial. This approach has demonstrated effectiveness in treating over 20 rare and intractable diseases, as documented in our previous reports. In this article, we explore the causes of RAS and investigate whether it can be effectively treated through practicing Dharma. Our findings suggest that RAS is related to karma, particularly verbal karma. By addressing and resolving this karma through Dharma practices, a complete cure can be achieved.
Hydrogen serves as an optimal fuel for engines. Pure hydrogen engines do not generate carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emissions; instead, they encounter significant nitrogen oxide emissions. Inner-engine control and outer-engine control are two methods to reduce NOx emissions. Outer-engine control primarily mitigates NOx emissions by selective catalytic reduction (SCR), a process that has been extensively researched. Nevertheless, there is a paucity of research about NOx emission regulation in pure hydrogen engines via internal engine management. This work utilised the closed homogeneous reactor (CHR) in Chemkin Pro to model the primary NOx emission control within pure hydrogen engines. The findings indicate that single exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) reduces NOx emissions by 45.3% at an EGR ratio of 20%, suggesting that the reduction in NOx emissions is not substantial. Nonetheless, EGR combined with lean burn reduces NOx emissions by 96.31% at a λ of 1.4 and an EGR ratio of 20%, resulting in ultra-low NOx emissions from pure hydrogen engines. In comparison to single EGR and EGR combined with lean-burn, SNCR is more effective for NOx emission control. An NH3 ratio of merely 10% can reduce NOx emissions by 96.32% in pure hydrogen engines, whilst a 15% NH3 ratio can attain zero NOx emissions in pure hydrogen engines without necessitating a high λ value or EGR ratio. It is essential to precisely regulate the NH3 ratio in the cylinder; otherwise, residual NH3 may be generated, leading to environmental pollution.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | Nov. 26, 2024
In-vivo and In-vitro Screening of Anti-Diabetic Activity of Pongamia pinnata Leaves on Experimentally Induced Diabetes
Chaitra, K. R, Abubaker Siddiq, Rudrayyaswamy, M. H
Page no 863-870 |
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36348/sjmps.2024.v10i11.012
Diabetes mellitus, a chronic metabolic disorder marked by hyperglycemia, affects millions worldwide. This study explores the antidiabetic potential of ethanolic extract of Pongamia pinnata leaves (EEPPL) using dexamethasone-induced diabetic rat models. EEPPL was prepared via Soxhlet extraction and tested in five groups (n=6 each): normal control (saline), positive control (dexamethasone 1 mg/kg), standard (metformin 40 mg/kg), low dose (EEPPL 250 mg/kg), and high dose (EEPPL 500 mg/kg). Treatments were administered for 10 days, with assessments on day 10 including body weight, fasting blood glucose (FBS), oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), lipid profile, lipid peroxidation, and catalase levels. In vitro α-amylase and α-glucosidase assays were also conducted with acarbose as a reference. Results showed significant antidiabetic and antioxidant effects in dexamethasone-induced diabetic rats. The standard group had highly significant improvements in FBS and OGTT. The high-dose EEPPL group exhibited moderate to highly significant effects on FBS, OGTT, and lipid profile, with weight improvements and reductions in cholesterol levels. Antioxidant assessments revealed reduced lipid peroxidation and increased catalase activity in the high-dose group. The in vitro assays demonstrated dose-dependent inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase, comparable to acarbose. In conclusion, the study suggests that EEPPL has notable antidiabetic and antioxidant properties, supporting its potential as a natural therapeutic for managing diabetes and oxidative stress.