Table of Contents: Volume 16; Issue 05; May 2024

Water in this climate change era is perceived as a treasured commodity that can be traded but to be managed for human survival. The ballooning population further exacerbates climatic shocks evidenced in drylands with land fragmentation and degradation increasing in an effort to settle the growing populations. Increasing demands for food and shelter continue to contribute to land use changes which hamper the biophysical tenets required to sustain water availability in these regions. Turkana County was chosen for this study because of its unique location and its contribution to water availability for the communities. Further, challenges of water availability from rainfall in the drylands were addressed in relation to livelihood sustenance. Drylands often experience disruptions of livelihoods brought about by extremes of water availability. It was established that rainfall in the county is highly variable in both space (36% ≤ CV ≤ 135%) and time (1.0 ≤ SAI ≤ 4). Increasing rainfall trends and intensities provide a potential for runoff rainwater harvesting while high variability makes rainfall unpredictable thus calling for the development of an early warning system to support community resilience to floods and droughts. Land use is also changing with time and this has tended to complicate the biophysical aspect of water availability which is always the starting point in defining water availability for livelihood activities.

The ecotoxicological impacts of microplastics (MPs) on aquatic organisms have garnered considerable attention; however, the toxic effects of MPs on aquatic organisms at environmentally relevant concentrations have been underreported. In this study, juvenile marine medaka were exposed to polyethylene and polylactic acid at concentrations of 20 μg/L for a duration of 60 days. The findings revealed that prolonged exposure to different types of MPs at low concentrations did not exhibit significant detrimental effects on the growth and intestinal tissues of juvenile fish. Nonetheless, long-term exposure led to alterations in gut microbial composition in juvenile fish, potentially influencing their functional roles. PICRUSt2 prediction analysis demonstrated a significant down-regulation in Isoleucine Biosynthesis function within the PE-exposed group at Level 3. Overall, further attention is warranted regarding the adverse consequences associated with prolonged exposure to environmental MPs on aquatic organisms.

Neuromyelitis Optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) area group of rare autoimmune diseases affecting mainly the central nervous system. The optic nerve and spinal cord are commonly involved in the disease process. Prevalence is higherin females ofreproductive age groupthan males at a ratio of 3–9:1. [1-5]Diagnosis and managementof NMOSD cases with pregnancy is challenging and needs a multidisciplinary approach for management. We are presenting the case of primigravida with sudden onset of weakness of both lower limbs at 20 weeks of gestation, diagnosed as a case of Neuromyelitis OpticaSpectrum Disorder; in her third trimester, pregnancy was complicated with oligohydramnios and fetal growth restriction.

Many degenerative diseases are caused by oxidative stress, which is linked to excessive generation of pro-oxidants (free radicals) over antioxidants. Plants have been reported as cheap and rich source of natural compounds with notable bioactivities. This study was therefore designed to assess the free radicals scavenging and antioxidant activities of ethanol leaf extracts of six ethnomedicinal plants from Nigeria using in-vitro methods. This was done by conducting preliminary phytochemical screening, estimating total phenols and flavonoids contents, and determining free radical scavenging/antioxidant activities of the six plants extracts in different models, viz: DPPH radical scavenging, Nitric Oxide (NO) scavenging and Ferric reducing-antioxidant power assays. The results show that PGE and PMEhave highest (51.36±7.44mgGAE/g Extract) and lowest (35.42±5.91mgGAE/g Extract) phenols content respectively, while OGE and SAE have highest (49.71±4.50mg QE/g Extract) and lowest (27.16±5.34mg QE/g Extract) flavonoids contents respectively. All the six plants exhibited significant (p<0.05) antioxidant activity, but interestingly, PGE, GLE and OGE respectively produced highest DPPH scavenging (62.68%), NO scavenging (67.95%) and Ferric reducing (69.33%) activities, and thereforecan be exploited as important sources of antioxidant compounds. We therefore recommend for further isolation, characterization of active principles and testing in animal models, with a view to develop natural antioxidants that can used in management of oxidative stress-related disorders.

Background: Functional endoscopic sinus surgery is a minimally invasive technique used to restore sinus ventilation and normal function. FESS like any other surgery is also associated with both intra and post-operative complications. Due to lack of local data on FESS the burden on indication and complications of this procedure is not known, so this study will help to identify them and develop a local guideline for proper management of FESS. Material and Method: Descriptive cross sectional study hospital based study was conducted at Muhimbili National Hospital for 8 months from February 2022 to September 2022and involved all patients who underwent FESS and consented. One hundred and twelve (112)patients were studied; were followed from admission, intra-operatively and four weeks post-operative for complications. Collected data was analyzed by SPSS version 23, to determine the complications, the proportion of all patients undergoing FESS and those with complications were calculated. Findings were presented using tables, graphs and text. Results: A total 112 patients who met inclusion criteria were enrolled in the study, comprising female 57(50.9%) and male 55(49.1%).The age ranged from 8 years to 77 years and majority belonged to age group 25-39 years. The indications for FESS were CRS without NP 49(43.8%), followed by CRS with NP 34(30.4%) and others 3(2.7%) which were, two (2) synechiae released with sinus opening and one(1) was sinus tumor excision. The complication rate was 8.1% whereby there was no intraoperative or major complications. The lead complication was crusts 3(2.7%)and the complication were decreased during the time of follow up where endoscopic toilets was done, though one(1) patient had synechiae till last week follow up scheduled for release later. Conclusions: The indications of functional endoscopic sinus surgery were similar to other studies where majority had chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyps. There were minor complications which were managed during the time of follow up with endoscopic toileting. So post-operative follow up is the main stay for reducing complications post operatively.

The ecotoxicological Background: Intra uterine foetal death is an emotional distress for mother, her family and for the obstetrician also. Timely intervention reduces this. The study determine the possible causes of stillbirths or IUFD. Material and methods: This was a Prospective observational study was conducted from September 2022 to August 2023. The study included all pregnant women who were delivered at the hospital with Intrauterine Fetal Demise or Still Birth at or after 24 weeks of pregnancy. Results: Intra uterine fetal death was found 42.98 per 1000. The most common maternal cause of IUFD was Pregnancy induced hypertension (30.0%) followed by Antepartum hemorrhage (22.43%) and congenital malformation (5.75%). Out of 140 IUD, 22 still births were due to involvement of multiple factors. Conclusion: Intrauterine foetal mortality may be prevented by modifying maternal risk factors such as hypertension, severe anaemia, and diabetes management. IUFD can be prevented by early registration of pregnancy, good nutrition, regular ANC visits and early referral to tertiary centre.

This philosophical reflection delves into the intricate relationship between democracy and gender in Africa, focusing on the complexities of power dynamics, rights, and opportunities. It explores the concept of gender, its social construction, and its relevance in African cultures, histories, and political contexts. The discourse emphasizes the importance of inclusivity, equality, and participation in shaping democratic processes and outcomes. It argues that gender equality is an essential component of a thriving democracy, ensuring fair representation and the realization of human rights for all citizens. The reflection also examines the struggles faced by women in Africa in their quest for gender equality and political participation. It examines the impact of patriarchal norms, socio-cultural practices, and institutional barriers that hinder women's advancement in democratic systems. The significance of feminist movements and collective action in challenging gender inequalities is also highlighted. The reflection critically analyses the role of African governments, civil society organizations, and international actors in promoting gender-responsive democratic practices. It examines the implementation of legal frameworks, policies, and affirmative action measures aimed at promoting gender equality, representation, and women’s empowerment. Drawing on the concepts of philosophers Locke, Wiredu, and Hountondji, the reflection suggests potential pathways for advancing democracy and gender equality in Africa. It emphasizes the importance of education, awareness-raising, and cultural transformation in dismantling gender stereotypes and promoting gender-sensitive democratic values.

Background: The skin is the largest organ of the body and serves a variety of important functions in maintaining health and protecting the individual from injury. Impaired skin integrity is not a frequent problem for most of the healthy people, but it is always a threat to older people, clients with restricted mobility, chronic illness or trauma and to those undergoing invasive health care procedure. Any patients experiencing prolonged pressure is at risk for Decubitus ulcer. Elderly patients have increased risk because of normal aging changes of the skin. Because thin patients have little padding when pressure is present. Obesity also is a contributing factor because adipose tissue is poorly vascularized and is therefore more likely to develop ischemic changes. Method: A non-experimental descriptive design was used with a sample size of 30 nursing personnels with a structured questionnaire to achieve the objectives of the study. Data collection was carried out for a period of 2 weeks from 21-07-2013 to 22-07-2013. This data were entered into the excel sheets and analyzed using SPSS for windows, Version 16.0, Chi-square test was used for the evaluation of the level of significance. The researcher adhered to several critical ethical considerations regarding obligations and responsibilities in the recruitment of participants and data collection. Approval has obtained from Institutional human ethics committee. Formal administrative permission was obtained from a nursing institute administration. Informed printed agreement was taken from the subjects.4] Maintain the confidentiality of data. Results: In the pretest 43% of the respondents had inadequate knowledge, 37%of the respondents had moderate knowledge and 20% of the respondents had adequate knowledge regarding Decubitus ulcers. Conclusion: the findings of the study concluded that majority of the nursing personnels had inadequate knowledge regarding Decubitus ulcers.

Dyke-Davidoff-Masson Syndrome (DDMS)also known as cerebral hemiatrophy is a rare neurological disease characterized by Seizures, hemiparesis, cerebral hemiatrophy, facial and body asymmetry with mild intellectual disability. DDMS can be diagnosed by characterized by classical radiographical findings, that is cerebral hemiatrophy, ipsilateral dilated ventricle, ipsilateral osseus hypertrophy and excessive pneumatization of ipsilateral frontal and other sinuses. DDMS presents withearlypartial onset seizure with hemiparesis. Later in adolescence facial and body asymmetry is evident with mild cognitive dysfunction. We are presenting a case in which a23 year oldmale presented with uncontrolled partial onset seizures with secondary generalization, right hemiparesis, right sided hemiatrophy of limbs and body with characteristic radiological findings suggestive of DDMS.

Aim: Veterinarian dentistry is one branch of the veterinary sciences that has grown substantially due to increasing dental issue and lack of ability of veterinarian doctors to handle every single dental issue that occurs in an animal. Veterinary dentistry includes intricate procedures in besides scaling and extractions. Managing animals presents a number of challenges, including possible risk factors and the need to complete all treatments in a single visit to avoid multiple Anesthesia and monitoring episodes. The aim of our study was to add literature addressing Veterinary dentistry in order to raise awareness and knowledge about the subject and to suggest that this intriguing issue be included. Methodology: A qualitative study including veterinarian practitioner, nurses, doctors was conducted all around Pune city was conducted. After Providing complete explanation of study objectives, the questionnaire was distributed to veterinarian Professionals in Pune. There were in total 30 questions on google form based on its response result is evaluated. Result: A total 178 responses were collected and analyse Out of which 81.7% were familiar with veterinary dental professionals while 18.3% were lack knowledge about dental professionals. With regard to knowledge about home care of pets 29.8% avoid feeding any treats 54.5% brush their pets teeth regularly and 15.5% limit water intake of Pets.

Hydatid disease (HD) is due to infection by tapeworm Echinocococcus granulosus in its larval or cyst stage. The tapeworm lives in canids which are infected by eating the viscera of sheep that contain hydatid cysts. Most of cysts are found in liver, lungs, spleen brain and bones. The localization of hydatid cyst in muscle is rare (0.7-0.9%), even in endemic countries. Muscle hydatidosis is rare, possibly because of muscle lactic acid content and muscle contraction, two factors that likely prevent cyst growth in striated muscle. Herein we report a case of muscular hydatidosis, with concomitant hydatid liver in a 43 year female who is a known case of systemic sclerosis

Background- Globally, pathologic myopia is a leading cause of visual impairment. Pathologic myopia is characterized by the presence of typical fundus changes (posterior staphyloma or myopic maculopathy). Many eye and vision professionals have been alerted to the global incidence of pathological myopia and are taking steps to stop its progression. Methods- This systematic review article is carried out after comprehensive analysis .Analysis is carried out following a thorough search of academic and guideline database for a period of one month.Once all searches were combined, observations were noted down in one month. Results - Evidence have shown that a proactive reshaping of the eyeball is the core point of myopia developing process, which particularly includes the weakening, thinning, and expanding of the sclera. As a result, it is thought that the sclera is a prime target for therapeutic modification to stop the progression of myopia. Hypoplasia and loss of RPE are characteristics seen during the progression of myopic maculopathy.The preliminary work has shown a promising way in stem cell-based therapy of patients with myopic maculopathy. Therefore, it is possible to achieve the ambitious goal by stem cell-based therapy. Conclusion- In this paper, we postulate that through shaping the eyeball and inhibiting abnormal scleral remodelling, scleral collagen cross-linking, or SXL, has enormous potential for stabilizing the myopic process.Also, replacing atrophic RPE cells with healthy ones through transplantation of RPE cells appears to be a better method of improving the visual outcomes of pathological myopia patients.

Takayasu’s arteritis is a chronic vasculitis of medium and large vessels. The most involved vessel is the aorta and its major branches. The disease is primarily seen in young women. The described incidence of the disease ranges from 0.3 to 3.3 million per year. The vessels are characterized by mononuclear infiltration and granulomatous inflammation of vascular media, which leads to arterial wall thickening with stenosis, occlusion, and aneurysmal dilation. Here we present a case of Takayasu’s arteritis in a 58 year-old woman who presented with fever and rashsince 1 month. . Early diagnosis and treatment are warranted. When the disease is dormant, the outcome seems favourable.

Cephalometric measurements on radiographic images are subject to errors that may be caused by: • Radiographic projection errors- magnification, distortion. • Errors within the measuring system – digitized,,, identification, scaling errors and linearity • Errors in landmark identification - The quality of the radiographic image sharpness, contrast, blur , noice. The precision of landmark definition and the reproducibility of landmark location.The operator and the registration procedure.

Facial proportion changes and volume loss are commonly experienced corporeal changes, whether due to the natural process of senescence or as a side effect of systemic illness. Because these physical transformations are inevitably experienced by most people, treatments that assist in the maintenance or restoration of a youthful, yet natural appearance have long been a subject of great interest in the medical field. Thanks to the relative ease and low cost with which they ameliorate certain aspects of the aging process, facial and lip filling treatments have developed into a point of focus in the world of aesthetic medicine. As it currently stands, facial and lip volume enhancement or restoration can be achieved with a multitude of injectable products, including temporary and permanent fillers. With an ever-increasing number of materials at their disposal, providers in the cosmetic industry have many important choices to make when advocating biomaterials to their patients based on desired aesthetic outcomes. This review aims to meticulously discuss different aspects of the most commonly employed biomaterials in the cosmetic facial and lip filler industry today, as well as the particular treatments for which each material is best suited. The specific biomaterials addressed in this review include: collagen (human bioengineered and bovine), hyaluronic acid (HA), poly(L)-lactic acid (PLLA), calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), and autologous fat grafting (AFG). For each biomaterial discussed, the review provides information on how they became commonly used in aesthetic medicine, specific injection techniques, desirable cosmetic medicinal properties, and optimal situational applications for each biomaterial in the setting of elective patient cosmetic augmentation.

The aim of this research is to examine if relationship satisfaction is impacted by Love styles, Sexual styles and Adult Attachment styles. An attempt is also made to find out if the independent variables have any relationship among them. The sample chosen for this study were individuals who are in a relationship currently for at least 3 months. The results indicated that the attachment style does not impact relationship satisfaction. The love styles and sexual styles did impact the relationship satisfaction for this population. There were also correlations found in attachment style and love styles, and sexual styles and love styles. Other factors like the type of relationship had an impact on love styles, however the duration of the relationship did not influence any of the variables.

In this paper, we have taken data on crimes in Kerala from 2008 to 2022 and analyzed them using time series modelling. The data used in the research paper is obtained from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) and State Crime Records Bureau. The findings of this research paper have implications for developing effective crime prevention strategies and enhancing public safety in India. This research paper aims to predict overall crime trends in India using ARIMA (Auto-regressive integrated moving average) model.

The state of the environment has direct impacts on human lives and development. In fact, environmental conditions has never remained static, it changes in time and space. Further, the unprecedented growth of human population, unsustainable economic development, the absence of an efficient environmental management model and the lack of political will has resulted in an alarming rate of environmental degradation. An efficient environmental management mechanism involving all stakeholders is, thus, the foremost and mandatory requirement in environmental conservation and management. One of the features of the environmental governance structure in the Khasi Hills of Meghalaya is the existence and the indispensable role of traditional institutions at the local level, besides the state machineries. This paper will attempt to examine traditionalthe environmental management practices and the efforts undertaken in the Marpna protected forest in Meghalaya.

Black matter is one of the greatest unknowns in the cosmos, despite being the most important gravitational component. Indeed, black matter is the most prevalent matter, and its bulk has an impact on the design of the universe. It has permitted the construction and preservation of cosmic structures. As a result, understanding the cosmos without knowing its qualities is extremely difficult. However, it only reacts to gravity and not to the other fundamental forces. It is not a weak reaction, but rather the complete lack of direct reactivity with full spin (even in our particle accelerators). Indeed, black matter is not only opaque to us because it lacks a measurable electromagnetic field, but it also exhibits no nuclear reaction at all. Finally, it appears to be able to influence only wide areas, implying that it lacks concentration. So the only thing we know about black matter is its non-properties, or what it does not do, which is react with our own fundamental forces (save gravity) and cover only enormous areas (big gravitational lenses). As a result, black matter remains a big mystery. There is, however, a solution if the problem is phrased differently.

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of mindfulness practices, relaxation techniques, and lifestyle modifications in managing menopausal symptoms and their underlying physiology. We conducted a comprehensive literature review of studies that demonstrate the impact of mindfulness, relaxation, and lifestyle changes on menopausal symptoms, as well as those that shed light on the physiological mechanisms behind these symptoms. We could assume that mindfulness practices, relaxation techniques, and lifestyle changes could be valuable tools for managing menopausal symptoms like stress reduction, relaxation, and hormone balance. Nevertheless, there is a need for more studies to prove their effectiveness among different population groups and account for individual variability in treatment. Some of the recommendations include putting these innovative strategies into practice and creating education and support networks for women in menopause.

The discipline of translating while recognizing and displaying cultural distinctions is known as cultural translation. This type of translation addresses cultural elements such as languages, gastronomy, and history. The key challenges that cultural translation must address involved transforming a text while demonstrating the cultural distinctions of that text while additionally honouring the originating culture. Translation's involvement in cultural interchange includes the preservation and revival of endangered or minority languages. Translators work to preserve the life of lesser-known languages and cultures by translating books, songs, or stories into more generally spoken languages. India is a culturally very rich country, and it has a very diverse history. The researcher explored the trend of cultural translation in India in a chronological manner .

Measuring organizational performance has become a major preoccupation of many organizations in the modern times. Traditional indicators of performance largely focus on profitability and return on investment. However, with the help of Balanced Scorecard model, organizations both profit and not-for-profit, are adopting performance measurement techniques that go beyond financial performance to cover non-financial indicators of performance. The objective of this study was to establish the influence of strategy implementation on the performance of Catholic parishes in Kenya. This study was anchored on Resource Based View theory and the Balanced Scorecard model. The research employed descriptive survey design. Target population was 90 members of parish pastoral councils of 9 parishes found to be applying strategic management practices at the time of this study. In analyzing and interpreting the quantitative data, descriptive and inferential statistics techniques were employed. Study findings revealed a positive correlation between strategy implementation and performance of parishes. The study recommends strengthening of parish organizational structure to enhance effective execution of parish strategy.

The article analyzes the complex interrelationships among the Birjia community between indigenous practices, cognitive frameworks, and sustainable habitat development. Over millennia, the indigenous Birjia people—who mostly inhabit the forested areas of Jharkhand's South Chotanagpur division and Palamu division—have created distinctive customs that are intricately entwined with their surroundings. This state is home to eight different kinds of PVTGs, or particularly vulnerable tribal groups. Birjia is from one of those groups. Based on thousands of years of observation and involvement with their environment, the Birjia people demonstrate a deep grasp of their natural surroundings. The indigenous ecological knowledge passed down orally, through ceremonies, and community behaviors are included in their cognitive frames. These knowledge systems emphasize reciprocity and harmony with nature, which helps with resource management and cultivates a spiritual bond with the land. Reciprocity, the idea that human acts have reciprocal effects on the environment, is fundamental to Birjia's sustainable habitat practices. The Birjia people's methods for using resources are shaped by their knowledge perspective, which encourages resilience and conservation in their ecosystem. This philosophy of sustainability is reflected in traditional land management practices, which guarantee resource regeneration while reducing ecological damage. Moreover, Birjia cognition encompasses social organization and cultural identity in addition to practical resource management. The interdependence of Birjia society and their environment is emphasized by communal decision-making procedures and community land ownership, which promote sustainable behaviors through shared stewardship and accountability. Understanding and appreciating Birjia knowledge systems is essential for advancing sustainable habitat development in light of current issues including deforestation, climate change, and encroachment on indigenous territory. This article highlights the importance of indigenous viewpoints in influencing environmental issues and conservation efforts, arguing that the acknowledgment and protection of Birjia's cultural legacy should be a fundamental component of initiatives for sustainable development.

This research employs a mixed-methods approach to examine the interplay of innovation, strategic alliances, and sustainability as fundamental drivers of Chinese entrepreneurial success. Through qualitative analysis of interviews and case studies and quantitative analysis of statistical data, this study sheds light on the nuanced dynamics of these strategies and their impact on business growth and sustainable practices. The findings highlight the pivotal role of continuous innovation in differentiating Chinese businesses in the market, the significance of strategic alliances in expanding their reach and accessing new technologies, and the integration of sustainability across their operational framework. The quantitative analysis further reveals measurable insights into the positive influence of investing in innovation, forming strategic alliances, and integrating sustainable practices on the growth and competitiveness of Chinese businesses.

Teachers can play a significant role in making our environment pollution free by changing the attitude of students and society towards the environment. The Student teachers are the prospective teachers of the nation. So it is the time for the great concern for protection and preservation of natural resources which can only be possible if we have a right type of attitude towards proper awareness in the related matters. Teachers can bring awareness and attitude which can be possible through environmental education. The goal of environmental education in schools and colleges is to acquaint and sensitize the students towards environmental problems and concerns, to inculcate in them healthy personal and social attitude and behaviour towards environment. Hence, it is necessary to know how far the Student Teachers are aware about environment and environmental problems. A pilot study was carried out selecting 120 pupil teachers studying in teacher education colleges located at Vijayapur district .“Environmental pollution Attitude Scale” developed by Dr. M. Rajamanickam and “Environmental awareness ability measures (EAAM)” developed by Praveen Jha were used for the collection of data. The findings show that the female Student teachers were found to be more positive in their attitude towards environmental awareness than the Male pupil teachers.

This paper takes the current situation of teaching leadership and educational resources allocation in Qingdao University (QU) and investigates the current situation of teaching leadership and educational resources allocation in the institution through survey questionnaires.In addition, it investigates the current situation of leadership and educational resources allocation in education in QU and analyzes the ability of leadership to effectively mobilize and allocate educational resources in QU. The study uncovered substantial and highly positive correlations between instructional leadership and efficient resource management among administrators. The interconnection between personal attributes, teaching philosophy, skills, and resources emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to leadership development in educational institutions. These insights stress the need for cultivating not only specific skills but also personal qualities and a coherent teaching philosophy to facilitate effective resource management and the attainment of educational objectives.