Inalienability of Human Rights: A Mistake in the Choice of Words

Human rights have been variously defined by jurists, scholars and judges in the course of delivering judgment. The basic understanding being that human rights are fundamental and inalienable. Rights have been classified and segregated into several generations, natural rights, basic or fundamental rights, this work is not going to dwell on those but will stand on the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution to judge the word “inalienable” and ascertain its relevance in the definition of human rights. Keywords: Human rights, inalienable, fundamental, qualified, Nigerian constitution

Prostate Cancer Screening in African American Men: The Role of Culturally Sensitive Informed Decision Making with Values Clarification

Objectives: The purpose of this paper is to determine the culturally based values, attitudes and beliefs that influence African American men in their decisions to undergo prostate cancer screening. These beliefs, values and concerns will then be used to create a research design to assess effectiveness of a culturally tailored intervention (educational video and values clarification exercise) in helping men make decisions that are consistent with their values and beliefs, by increasing knowledge, identifying values, attitudes and beliefs, reducing decisional conflict and identifying preferred role in decision making. Methods: A systematic evidence review was conducted to determine the culturally specific values, attitudes and beliefs of African American, Latino and White men. The thematic results of the systematic evidence review were used to craft a research design including surveys, educational videos, and values clarification exercises (social matching and ranking and rating). Results: Important recurring themes were identified in the systematic evidence review. These themes included lack of knowledge, machismo, fear, patient doctor relationship, family and faith. All men reported poor patient doctor relationship, negative perceptions of prostate cancer, lack of knowledge and the importance of family. African American and Latino men were more likely to fear prostate cancer screening methods (DRE). All groups gave specific and unique suggestions for the content, design and themes they would prefer in educational materials. In the research design, the primary outcomes will be knowledge, decisional conflict and values, attitudes and beliefs and preferred role in decision making. We do not expect a statistically significant difference between groups in intent to screen and knowledge. However, a statistically significant difference in decisional conflict is hypothesized between the culturally tailored, neutral and no education groups. Values, attitudes and beliefs will be assessed through values clarification exercises and survey questions.Master of Public Healt

Fabrication and use of new solid state phosphate ion selective electrodes for monitoring phosphorylation and dephosphorylation reactions

Highly selective and sensitive phosphate sensors have been fabricated by constructing a solid membrane disk consisting of variable mixtures of aluminium powder (Al), aluminium phosphate (AlPO4) and powdered copper (Cu). Both binary and ternary electrode systems are produced depending on their composition. The ternary membranes exhibit greater selectivity over a wide range of concentrations. The ternary electrode with the composition 25% AlPO4, 25% Cu and 50% Al was selected as our preferred electrode. The newly fabricated ternary membrane phosphate selective electrodes exhibited linear potential response in the concentration range of 1.0 × 10−6 to 1.0 × 10−1 mol L−1. The electrodes also exhibit a fast response time of <60 s. Their detection limit is 1.0 × 10−6 mol L−1. The unique feature of the described electrodes is their ability to maintain a steady and reproducible response in the absence of an ionic strength control. The electrodes have a long lifetime and can be stored in air when not in use. The selectivity of the new phosphate selective electrodes with respect to other common ions is excellent. The results obtained provide further insight into the working principles of the newly fabricated phosphate selective electrodes. Dephosphorylation and phosphorylation reactions were monitored using the preferred phosphate selective electrode. The following reactions were studied and inferences drawn; (a) the reactions between *[{CoN4(OH)(OH2)}]2+ and *[OH(PO2O)]2- for 1:1, 2:1 and 3:1 *[{CoN4(OH)(OH2)}]2+ to *[OH(PO2O)]2- ratios.(b) the reactions between *[{CoN4(OH)(OH2)}]2+ and *[O2NC6H4PO2(O)(OH)]- for 1:1, 2:1 and 3:1 *[{CoN4(OH)(OH2)}]2+ to *[O2NC6H4PO2(O)(OH)]- ratios. (c) the reactions between *[{CoN4(OH)(OH2)}]2+ and *[(OH)2(PO2)2O]2- for 1:1, 2:1 and 3:1 [{CoN4(OH)(OH2)}]2+ to *[(OH)2(PO2)2O]2- ratios, and (d) the reactions between *[{CoN4(OH)(OH2)}]2+ and *[(OH)2(PO2)3O2]3- for the 1:1, 2:1 and 3:1 [{CoN4(OH)(OH2)}]2+ to *[(OH)2(PO2)3O2]3- ratios. Further insight into dephosphorylation and phosphorylation reactions is unravelled by the novel phosphate selective electrode monitoring. *For clarity of the complexes utilized, see chapter 4, table 4.1. KEY WORDS; Dephosphorylation, phosphorylation, ion selective electrodes, phosphate ion selective electrode, decontamination, electromotive force, potential difference, activity, concentration, selectivity coefficient, calibration, ionic strength, hydrolysis, inorganic phosphates, nitrophenylphosphate, pyrophosphate, tripolyphosphate, organophosphate esters.ChemistryD. Phil (Chemistry

Bioartificial matrices to modulate epithelial morphogenesis

Acute injury of major epithelial organ systems (kidney, liver, lung, etc.) is collectively a principal cause of death worldwide. Regenerative medicine promises to meet these human health challenges by harnessing intrinsic cellular processes to repair or replace damaged tissues. Epithelial morphogenesis is a hard-wired, multicellular differentiation program that dynamically integrates microenvironmental cues to coordinate cell fate processes including adhesion, migration, proliferation, and polarization. Thus, epithelial morphogenesis is an instructive mode of tissue assembly, maintenance, and repair. Three-dimensional epithelial cell cultures in natural basement membrane (BM) extracts produce hollow, spherical cyst structures and have indicated that the BM provides the critical cell adhesion ligands to facilitate cell survival, stimulate proliferation, and promote polarization and lumen formation. However, the utility of natural BMs for detailed studies is generally limited by lot-to-lot variations, uncontrolled cell adhesive interactions, or growth factor contamination. The goal of this thesis was to engineer bioartificial extracellular matrices (ECM) that would support and modulate epithelial cyst morphogenesis. We have engineered hydrogels, based on a multi-arm maleimide-terminated poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG-4MAL), that present cell adhesive molecules and enzymatic degradation substrates and promote polarized epithelial cyst differentiation in vitro. To investigate the influence of matrix physical and biochemical signals on cyst morphogenesis, we independently varied the polymer weight percentage (wt%), the density of a cell adhesion ligand (RGD), and crosslink degradation rates of the hydrogels. Then, we evaluated functional outcomes including Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK II) epithelial cell survival, proliferation, cyst polarization, and lumen formation. We found that cell proliferation, but not cell survival, was sensitive to the polymer wt%, which is related to elastic modulus and crosslink density. This result defined a working range of PEG-4MAL concentration (3.5% - 4.5%) that promotes robust proliferation. Analysis of mature cysts indicated that 4.0% and 4.5% gels produced cysts resembling those typically grown in type I collagen gels while 3.5% gels produced cysts with higher incidence of inverted polarity and multiple lumens. Perturbation of matrix degradability using a slow-degrading crosslink peptide or matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors showed that the rate of matrix degradation exerts major influence on cyst growth in PEG-4MAL gels. We employed 4.0% PEG-4MAL hydrogels with RGD ligand density ranging over 0 – 2000 uM to discover that (1) lumen formation was eliminated in the absence of RGD, (2) extent of lumen formation increased with increasing RGD concentration, and (3) cyst polarity was inverted below a threshold of integrin binding to RGD. Together, these results show that the biochemical and physical properties of the matrix, particularly integrin binding and matrix degradability, effectively modulate establishment of apico-basal polarity and lumen phenotypes in MDCK II epithelial cyst structures. Furthermore, these studies validate PEG-4MAL hydrogels as a powerful culture platform to enable detailed investigation of matrix-directed modulation of epithelial morphogenesis.Ph.D

Nitric oxide triggered dephosphorylation reactions

The synergistic effect of nitric oxide toward dephosphorylation reactions involving phosphate esters was the subject of investigation in this research. Sodium nitroprusside under UV irradiations at 254nm, 365nm and white light was utilized as nitric oxide donor in solutions. The effects of cobalt trimethylenediamine and nitroprusside towards dephosphorylation of nitrophenylphosphate and pyrophosphate which were modeled as organophosphate ester substrates were also investigated. The activated substrate models showed more rate enhancement than the unactivated models in all cases. The direct interaction of nitric oxide with the phosphorus centre is presumed to be the reason for enhanced hydrolysis. This study demonstrates the possible role of nitric oxide in decontamination reactions of poorly biodegradable phosphate esters in the biosphere.ChemistryM. Sc. (Chemistry

Comparative study of proximate composition, antioxidant vitamins and mineral profile of six local wild fruits consumed in South-eastern, Nigeria

Comparative study of proximate composition, antioxidant vitamin and mineral profile were carried out in six local wild fruits consumed in South East, Nigeria. The wild fruits samples were obtained from Eke Awka market in Awka, Anambra State and were processed for analysis. Proximate compositions, antioxidant vitamins and mineral profile of the samples were determined using standard methods. The result of the study indicated that moisture content of wild mango (31.88 ± 0.02%) was significantly higher (p˂0.05) compared to other fruits. The protein content of African elemi (14.52 ± 0.02%) was highest followed by African velvet tamarind (8.61 ± 0.12%).Crude fibre (3.50 ± 0.01%) and carbohydrate (51.56 ± 0.02%) were significantly higher in African velvet tamarind compared to other fruits but least in hog plum (0.50 ± 0.01%) and African elemi (25.44 ± 0.02%) respectively. Antioxidant vitamins were present at different concentrations. However, the fruits were generally rich in vitamin C. The mineral profile of the studied fruits showed the presence of macro minerals (Na, Ca, Mg and K) and antioxidant related minerals (Se, Fe, Cu, Zn and Mn). The results obtained from micro minerals indicated that there was a significant difference among the wild fruits while the macro minerals composition of the selected wild fruits did not differ significantly (p&gt;0.05) in Ca2+, Mg2+, K+ and Na+ concentrations among the wild fruits. This study generally showed that wild fruits have appreciable amount of vitamins and minerals therefore should be included in our daily diet

Performance validation of low-cost building insulation materials via the thermal characteristics and costs of insulation materials

Because the envelope accounts for 50–60% of total heat gain/loss in a building, building envelope insulation is critical for an energy-efficient and comfortable inside environment. The importance of building insulation materials in our daily construction of structures is critically examined in this study. This research compares various building insulation materials (thermal, reaction to fire, environmental, and cost). Energy saving is becoming a more pressing concern in the building sector. As a result, interest in thermal insulation solutions has risen in recent years. Thermal insulation decreases heat transfer (the transmission of thermal energy between objects of different temperatures) between items in thermal contact or within the range of radiative effect. The selection of optimum thermal insulation offers significant potential for energy savings. This study examines the properties of various insulation materials and low-cost insulation materials, and easily accessible waste materials that may be substituted as insulation materials to save cost while simultaneously addressing environmental issues

Increased risk of incident dementia following use of anticholinergic agents: A systematic literature review and meta-analysis

Background/rationale: Long-term treatment with anticholinergic agents may increase the risk of cognitive impairment or dementia. This systematic literature review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the impact of ≥3 months of exposure to anticholinergics as a class on the risk of dementia, mild cognitive impairment, and change in cognitive function. The impact of anticholinergic agents specifically used to treat overactive bladder was also evaluated. Materials and Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted to identify English language articles evaluating the impact of anticholinergic use for ≥3 months on dementia or cognitive function in adult patients. Databases searched included PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library. Meta-analyses were conducted using random-effects models; 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and 95% prediction intervals (PIs) were reported. Results: A total of 2122 records were identified. Out of those, 21 studies underwent qualitative synthesis and 6 reported endpoints relevant for inclusion in a meta-analysis assessing the risk of incident dementia. The overall rate ratio for incident dementia was 1.46 (95% CI: 1.17–1.81; 95% PI: 0.70–3.04; n = 6). The risk of incident dementia increased with increasing exposure (n = 3). In addition, two studies from the meta-analysis reported an increased risk of dementia with ≥3 months of use of bladder antimuscarinics (adjusted odds ratios ranged from 1.21 to 1.65, depending on exposure category). Conclusion: Anticholinergic use for ≥3 months increased the risk of dementia on average by an estimated 46% versus nonuse. This relationship was consistent in studies assessing overactive bladder medications. The risk of developing dementia should be carefully considered in the context of potential benefit before prescribing anticholinergics

Factors Associated with Hepatitis B Medication Adherence and Persistence among Underserved Chinese and Vietnamese Americans

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection disproportionately affects Asian Amer- icans in the United States, while this population faces low adherence to HBV treatment. Using the information–motivation–behavioral skills model (IMB), the study aims to examine medication adherence and persistence among Chinese and Vietnamese people with HBV. Methodology: Study participants were recruited between March 2019 and March 2020 and were enrolled through multiple recruitment approaches in the Greater Philadelphia Area and New York City. The study is an assess- ment of the baseline data on medication adherence, HBV-related knowledge, motivation of HBV med- ication treatment, self-efficacy about HBV medication treatment, and socioeconomic status. Results: Among 165 participants, 77.6% were Chinese and 22.4% were Vietnamese Americans. HBV-related knowledge/information, motivation, and self-efficacy were all positively associated with having medium/high medication adherence. Multilevel mixed-effects generalized linear regression revealed that living more than 10 years in the U.S. (OR = 4.24; p = 0.028) and greater information–knowledge about HBV (OR = 1.46; p = 0.004) were statistically associated with higher odds of medium/high medication adherence. Moreover, greater HBV-related knowledge/information ( OR = 1.49; p = 0.023) and greater motivation towards HBV treatment adherence (OR = 1.10; p = 0.036) were both associated with a higher likelihood of medication persistence. Conclusion: Our findings provided significant im- plications in designing behavioral interventions focused on self-efficacy, information, and motivation to promote better medication adherence among Asian Americans living with HBV