bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dance in Ethiopia: Traditionality and Contemporariness
Authors: Wilcox Hui , Belay Melaku
Published: March 2021

Dance practices in Ethiopia remained vibrant, albeit transformed, as thecountry transitioned from feudalism to socialism (1974), and then to neoliberalcapitalism (1991). For centuries, a vast array of movement traditions has beenessential to religious and communal rituals in Ethiopia. Today, traditionalEthiopian dance is most visible in tourist restaurants or YouTube videos. Thetrajectory of dance from ritualised practices to commercialised performancespresents a seeming paradox: traditional Ethiopian dance as we know it today is,in fact, a modernised performance genre serving multiple functions: memorytransmission, ideological dissemination, and profit generation, among others.In the 1980s, the socialist state harvested dances from around the country toproduce “modernised” performances on the stages of government theatres,propagating the ideology of national unity amidst border wars and internaloppression. In the 1990s, as Ethiopia opened to the West, these dances continuedto be performed on restaurant stages, not so much to propagandise for thestate as to generate profit for the industry. The modernisation of traditionaldance continues in Ethiopia, under the auspices of neoliberal privatisation,which has also led to the westernisation of youth culture. Since the late 1990s,a group of young Ethiopians have devoted themselves to contemporarydance by adopting Western aesthetics and distinguishing their practice fromtraditional dance. Recently, they have grappled with the imperative to infuseEthiopian dance traditions in their work in order to be recognised in the globaldance field. Through dance ethnography, oral histories, and video archives,this paper illuminates both traditionality and contemporariness as historicalconstructs – categories of differential powers used to organise the currentdance field in Ethiopia.

Keywords: Ethiopian dance, contemporary dance, traditional dance, multiple modernities, decolonizing dance
The Dynamics of Linkages and Innovativeness in Publicly and Privately Driven Agricultural Value Chains
Authors: Manteaw SA , Anaglo JN , Boateng SD
Published: March 2021

The study examined how linkages among actors in the cocoa and pineapple value chains relate to the innovativeness of actors in the chains. The study showed that a policy environment that promoted public sector leadership in value chain functions and service provision, tended to offer less incentives for smallholder producers in the value chain to forge linkages and interact horizontally or vertically. It concluded that actors in agricultural value chain could build their capacity to respond to challenges if they united their efforts. In terms of policy implication, the study makes a case for more private sector involvement in value chain functions and service provision as it is more likely to foster linkages towards systems innovation.Key words: Linkages, Innovativeness, Publicly and Privately Driven Agricultural Value Chains,
Emerging Role of Information Communication Technologies in Extension Service Delivery in Nigeria: A Review
Authors: Okeke MN , Nwalieji HU , Uzuegbunam CO
Published: March 2021

Effective communication of agricultural information to farmers is crucial in achieving optimum efficiency in agricultural extension administration and practice in Nigeria. Agricultural extension in this information age has been recognized as an essential medium of disseminating information and advice to farmers and this is achieved through the ICT. In Nigeria today, the concept of ICTs has become a global concern and the increasing application of the technology in every segment of our natural life, especially through the GSM, radio, television, projectors, internet, video, camera, computers, e-wallet, has been felt. The paper relies heavily on literature. It highlights the emerging role of ICTs in agricultural extension service delivery in Nigeria and suggests areas of improvement in fulfilling the roles. ICTs play numerous key roles in extension service delivery such as: helping in expanding outreach to a large number of farmers; offering a solution to resource and capacity issues within the agricultural sector; improving information flow and connecting people within the rural areas; answering questions relating to farm problems with the advantages of getting feedback using telephone; obtaining market price information, weather forecasts, etc. Problems identified include poor ICT infrastructural development, high charges for radio/television presentations, inadequate capital for farmers and insufficient knowledge of ICTs. It is recommended that farmers be encouraged to access and utilize ICTs by supporting them financially and materially. Also more awareness creation and training of both farmers and extension agents on the effective and efficient use of ICT facilities be intensified by the governments.KEYWORDS: ICT, role, extension service delivery, Nigeria
Environmentally Sustainable Farm Management Strategies Adopted by Compound Farmers in Mbaitoli Local Government Area, Imo State Nigeria
Authors: Ifeanyi-obi C.C. , Angba A.O. , Ajah O.O. , Nnawuihe P.
Published: March 2021

This study identified environmentally sustainable farm management strategies adopted by compound farmers in Mbaitoli Local Government Area Imo State. Specifically, it described the socio-economic characteristics of the compound farmers in the study area, identified the environmentally sustainable strategy adopted by compound farmers, identified compound farming ventures that are mostly adopted, assessed the contributions of compound farming to household food security in the study area and examined factors affecting compound farming in the study area. Of the nine communities in the study area, five were randomly selected for the study. Snowball sampling technique was used in selecting 100 households for the study. Data collection was done using questionnaire and interview schedule and analysed using descriptive statistics. Results shows that organic pesticides (70%), mixed farming (71%), cover-cropping (84%), crop rotation (79%) and mulching (74%) are the major environmentally sustainable farm management practices adopted by compound farmers in the study area. The major compound farming ventures adopted by households were crop production (88%) and poultry (50%). Income generation (Mean = 3.43), reduction of family expenditure on food (Mean = 3.45) and assured availability of food varieties in the family (Mean = 3.35) were the major contributions of compound farming to household food security. The major factors affecting compound farming in the study area were diseases and pests’ infestation on compound farm (Mean = 3.40), labour intensive nature of compound farming (mean = 3.40) and lack of irrigation facilities (mean = 3.38). It was recommended that extension agents should play leading role in conveying innovations and inventions that could enhance compound farming activities of farmers as regards pesticides and insecticides as well as irrigation facilitiesKeywords: Environmentally, sustainable, farm management
Framing of Agroforestry Education News in Selected Nigeria Newspapers
Authors: Thomas K.A , Fesogbade M.S , Arogunyo J.O.
Published: March 2021

The study examined framing of agroforestry education in three Nigerian newspapers. Specifically, agroforestry articles were categorized according to the space allotted, placement and news sources in the Punch, Guardian and Nigerian Tribune newspapers. The period covered news published from January 2013 to December 2013. Frames investigated include: agroforestry awareness, intervention, warning, opinion and government policies. The result reveals that government policy was the dominant (33.0%) frame reported. Taungya farming system was the most reported news among the newspapers. Most (58.3%) of the news published were in the positive direction. Although, news placements were more in other pages of the newspapers (98.3%), government officials and agencies were the most quoted sources. There was no significant relationship between frame categories and space allotted (χ2=3.006, p>0.05), placement and space allotted (χ2=12.546, p≥0.005). However, there was significant difference between the spaces allotted to the news among the newspapers reviewed (F=7.142, p≤0.005). There is need for Nigerian newspapers increase the frequency of reporting agroforestry news.Keywords: Agroforestry, Frame, Newspaper, Education, News
Elitist Status and Perceived Radio Message Utility among Fulani Herdsmen in Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Osikabor B. , Ibrahim F.M. , Aluko O.J. , Ijiyode A.C.
Published: March 2021

Fulani herdsmen are greatly reputed as unrepentant users of radio, yet, empirical data on their perception of radio message utility seems scarce. Further, elitist status bears significance for individual’s perception, knowledge, attitudes and behaviours in any social group. Hence, this study was designed to examine elitist status and perceived radio message utility among Fulani herdsmen in Akinyele local government area (LGA) of Oyo State. The Yorùbá version of 202 copies of a structured questionnaire was administered through structured interview among randomly selected respondents. An 11-item scale was used to measure perceived radio message utility. One wayANOVA and Spearman’s r were used to analyze data. Results show that perceived radio message utility wasvery low (mean =5.38±3.19; min. =1, max. =19). Elitist status and perceived radio message utilitywere positively and significantly related (Spearman’s r = .523;p= 0.000). Age was significantly and inversely related with perceived utility (p < 0.05) but marital status and education were not (p > 0.05). The radio is yet to be optimally tailored towards meeting the needs of Fulani herdsmen, a group that is probably the most ardent listener of radio in the Nigerian society.Key words: Radio, Fulani herdsmen, Elitist status, Utility.
Secondary School Students Perception of Fisheries as a Profession in Borno State, Nigeria
Authors: Bello Muinat M , Wakil Umar B. , Mohammed Fatsuma A. , Ayo-Dada Omolara B.
Published: March 2021

The study assessed the perception of secondary school student across Borno State towards fisheries as a profession. A total of 300 structured questionnaires was administered among secondary school students in five (5) Agricultural Development Programme (ADP) zone which were Maiduguri, Biu, Gwoza, Bama and Monguno zones. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics. The result revealed that, 65% of the respondents were male while 25% were female. The source of awareness about fisheries was through their teachers which had 50.70%, 16.27% through mass media, 15.06% through extension agent, 13.57% through friends, while others had 4.6%. The respondents’ interest/likeness about fisheries revealed that 52.14% had interest, 32.14% has no interest while 15.72% are yet to decided. A total of 76.43% had positive perception in practicing fish farming while 23.57% had no interest. Awareness about fisheries as profession revealed that 72.14% are aware while 27.86% are unaware. Conclusively, the perception of secondary school students to fisheries is encouraging, so there is prospect for fisheries as a profession in Borno state. It will be recommended that more awareness should be created to secondary school students about fisheries profession and as prospect for youth empowerment.Keywords: Fisheries, Perception, School, Student, Profession.
Potential for Sustainable Urban and Peri-Urban Agricultural Practices in Nairobi County
Authors: Mwaura Mary Njoki , Mukoya-Wangia Sabina , Origa Japheth Ododa , Mbatia Oliver Lee Ernest , Chimoita Evans Ligare
Published: March 2021

The study examined the sustainable potential of urban and peri-urban agricultural practices in Nairobi. The study employed purposive, stratified and random sampling methods to select 149 respondents. Frequencies, means and standard deviations were used to analyse data. Findings indicate that the most popular urban and peri-urban practices were composting (221), open field farming (212), vegetable nurseries (155) and various forms of irrigation (140). Animal based practices were not found to be very popular. Majority ofthe practices were concentrated in the peri-urban areas. Popular practices were not found to be the most profitable. The most profitable practices were cattle rearing raising approximately Ksh.650,000, mushroom farming (Ksh.500,000), chicken rearing (Ksh.500,000), and hydroponics production (Ksh.450,000). These unpopular practices required expensive inputs, specialised  technological and management skills and a controlled agricultural environment for production and efficient use of resources. Theserequirements qualified them to contribute towards the economic, social and environmental aspects of sustainability. There is need for a transformation from the current popular, less profitable and environmentally unfriendly practices categorized as uncontrolled environment agriculture practices to the controlled environment agriculture practices. This can be achieved through the provision of subsidised inputs and specialised technological and management skills to the farmers by the county government and other relevant stakeholders. This change with policy support will contribute to using sustainable agricultural practices that ensure food security and contribute to a sustainable food system in the city.

Key words: Urban and peri-urban agriculture, sustainable agricultural practices, Nairobi County.
Sasakawa Africa Fund for Extension Education: A Review of Demand-Driven Agricultural Extension Education in Nigeria
Authors: Idowu Oladele
Published: March 2021

The paper examined demand-driven agricultural extension education in Nigeria and emphasized the need for extension professionals to acquire soft skills in addition to their technical capabilities through the utilization of demand-driven extension education (DDEE) strategies. A review of demand-driven agricultural extension education in Nigeria as introduced by Sasakawa Africa Fund for Extension Education in universities was carried out to assess the concepts of demand-driven extension education, capacity development, skill, skill- mismatch. The reviews were analysed using themes and the findings were reported based on the themes identified from the review analysis. Job matching and human capital theories are the theoretical underpinning for this paper. The paper further highlighted the numerous benefits of DDEE prominent among which include its ability to adapt to the need of the learners and employers, utilize dynamic work-based pedagogy to improve competencies, and respond to the needs of the labour markets to ensure continuous alignment between desired qualification and available training. It is important to properly mainstream the use of demand-driven extension education strategies in training extension personnel for better and more sustainable extension and services delivery to farmers.

Keywords: Agricultural extension, agricultural education, demand-driven extension education, capacity development, skill, skill-  mismatch
Genetic variability and vegetative compatibility in Aspergillus niger isolated from various food substances in Benin City Nigeria
Authors: Eboigbe L. , Omoregbe M.O.
Published: March 2021

In this investigation, Aspergillus niger isolated from eight food substances, have been classified based on the absence of heterokaryon formation. The size of their sporangia were differentiated, the wild and mutant strains were subjected to vegetative compatibility tests in order to group them into different vegetative compatibility groups (VCGs) which include VCG-1, VCG-2, VCG-3 and VCG-4. The strains were further tested for the possible formation of a stable heterokaryon using nit mutants generated on potato dextrose agar (PDA) containing 2.5% chlorate (KClO3), represented as PDC. Based on the vegetative compatibility groups, nit mutants were paired on a minimal medium (MM) for complementation test. Interestingly, there was compatibility with mycelia showing anastomoses but without the formation of heterokaryon. The vegetative compatibility groups suggested four genotypes and polymorphism in the het loci. A population study for detailed genotyping is suggested in order to unravel the genetic recombination in A. niger.
A survey of fish fauna distribution and abundance in Gwaigwaye Reservoir Katsina State, Nigeria
Authors: Lawal N. , Nafiu M.I.
Published: March 2021

The study on a survey of fish fauna distributions and abundance in Gwaigwaye Reservoir, Katsina State was carried out from May 2013 to April 2014 to establish physical, chemical, and biological parameters (fish) of Gwaigwaye reservoir. Four sampling stations were selected. Some physico-chemical parameters were also determine to assess the level of pollution of the reservoir using standard methods and procedures which were correlated with the different fish species to determine fish abundance and distributions. Analysis of variance indicates no significant difference in fish fauna distribution and abundance among the four stations (P>0.05). The result indicated Fish fauna percentage composition were Tilapia zilli (17.32%), Clarias gariepinus (16.17%), Oreochromis niloticus (15.27%), Lates niloticus (13.80%), Bagrus. bayad (12.91%), Momyrus senegalensis (9.90%), Labeo senegalensis (7.41%) and Synodontis clarias (7.28%).
Introduction of improved okra (NHAe47-4) variety as a means of economic enhancement of farmers in Ido Village, Ido Local Government Area, Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Adebayo A.S. , Azeez F.A. , Abegunrin O.O. , Ogunwale O.G. , Oyewole O.O. , Ojo F.F.
Published: March 2021

The study was carried out to introduce improved okra (NHAe47-4) variety to farmers in Ido Village in Ido Local Government of Oyo State using SAFE approach to agricultural extension which includes; capacity building among farmers to enable them diagnoses their problems, identify solutions and develop plans and implement them with or without support from outside. Farmers in the studied area were selected and a group was formed comprising of twelve (12) members. Sensitization and awareness creation were conducted in the study area through series of activities such as facilitating, interactive group discussions and several meetings with the farmers were held to orientate them of the improved okra variety through teaching and management techniques. Descriptive statistical tool such as frequency distribution and percentages was used to analyze the objectives. At the end of the harvesting and whole exercise, the group (farmers) was interviewed verbally to know their levels of awareness for adoption and their general view about the improved variety in relation to the normal okra variety they were used to. The farmers embraced the technology and they were actively participated through demonstration method exercise. Having known all the techniques involved in the production cycle, the farmers also tried the technology on their individual plot which served as an encouragement factor for adoption. The study thus resulted into improving the standard of living and economic enhancement of the farmers inthe study area.
Econometric Analysis of the Effect of Changes in Price on Consumption Pattern of Petrol, Rice and Bean in Owerri City, Imo State, Nigeria
Authors: Nwosu U.I. , Vincent U.
Published: March 2021

It was hypothesized that changes in price could affect the consumption pattern of petrol, rice and bean, their status as basic needs notwithstanding.  To test this hypothesis, primary data were generated, subjected to econometric model and analyzed. Two-hundred residents of different income groups who live in Owerri city, Imo State, Nigeria and have used petrol, rice and bean for at least ten years and were not less thanthirty-one years old were sampled using standard method. The pretest result of questionnaire validity and reliability was r = 0.726 and this indicates high reliability. A total of 90% strongly agreed and agreed that prices of petrol, rice and bean are unstable in Owerri City, Imo State, Nigeria. The results indicate that 70% of the consumers strongly agreed and agreed that price affects consumption of the products irrespective of need. This wasa significant observation too. In the study, availability of petrol, rice and bean affected consumption in an urban environment.Grain quality was found a strong determinant of consumption of rice and bean in the city. There was a positive and non-significant relationship between price and consumption of petrol, rice and bean and this shows that price is not the most important determinant of consumption of all commodities. Necessity was more important than price in consumption of petrol, rice and bean in the city of Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria. These findings are useful to econometricians, policymakers, governments and households.

Keywords: Basic needs, Econometric model, Income groups, High reliability, Grain quality.
Editorial Comment
Authors: Ekhator Eghosa O.
Published: March 2021

No Abstract.
Redressing harmful environmental practices in the Nigerian petroleum industry through the criminal justice approach
Authors: Brown Cleverline T. , Okogbule Nlerum S.
Published: March 2021

The discovery and continued exploitation of crude oil in Nigeria with its many advantages, has exposed the Nigerian environment to several forms of pollution and degradation. Consequently, extensive harm has been done to the human and natural environment some of which may prove irreversible. This is largely attributable to wrongful environmental practices, sabotage, ineffective regulation and enforcement mechanisms. Sadly, environmental laws in Nigeria do not specifically criminalize such inimical activities, while some grave environmental crimes are downplayed and treated as civil wrongs. This article argues in favour of a compelling need for a reassessment of environmentally harmful acts with a view tocodifying and criminalizing certain acts to promote the observance of basic environmental laws, especially by multinational corporations, and support the realization of a sustainable environment in the country. This has become imperative as Nigeria is a subscriber to the United NationsSustainable Development Goals (SDGs). An effective and efficient regulatory regime is a vital for achieving these goals by the year 2030.

Keywords: Environment, Environmental Pollution, Environmental crime, Ecocide, SDGs.
Interrogating the multilateral trading system and paradigms of corporate social responsibility: Implications for Nigeria
Authors: Ani Laura
Published: March 2021

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) norms are a strategic business policy that now forms the cornerstone of how international trade is governed globally. Although initially a voluntary initiative, its relevance in promoting social, environmental, and ethical responsibilities among global investors has arguably been conceived as trade distorting and violating the tenets of the World Trade Organization (WTO). Nonetheless, CSR is now mainstream in all related global transactions. This article seeks to evaluate the impacts of global CSR on international trade and examine the extent of Nigeria’s participation in global CSR. The article argues that Nigeria should go beyond considerations of trade that focuses mainly on liberal market access and expand the practice to include environmental, social, and ethical practices. It concludes that adherence to international CSR will propel developing countries to meet the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Keywords: Corporate Social Responsibility, World Trade Organization, Sustainable Development.
Designing Regulatory Governance Models for Managing Hydrocarbon Resources: Lessons Learned from Norway and the UK
Authors: Eduardo G. Pereira  , Wifa Eddy , Moses Jonathon W.
Published: March 2021

While the ever-evolving nature of the global energy industry remains apparent particularly with a transition away from fossil fuel energy systems, the role of oil and gas particularly for emerging economies is undeniable. As new discoveries of oil and gas emerge in countries in Africa, South America, and Southeast Asia, the dominant question will be how to design robust regulatory governance regimes not just for the exploration of oil and gas but also for the management of these resources. As both the United Kingdom and Norway are described as mature oil and gas jurisdictions by virtue of their profound experience, there are valuable lessons to be drawn. Despite some remarkable differences in both the UK and Norwegian regimes, experience suggests that strategy, foresight, regulatory rigour, and political will are valuable to mitigating the consequences of the political economy of speed, which suggest the development of natural resources at the expense of everything else. This paper provides both a comprehensive and critical appraisal of both the UK and Norwegian regimes in a way that captures the complexity of divergent regulatory governance structures.
Making the Law Work for Men and Women: Advancing Gender Equality and Non-Discrimination in Nigeria’s Anti-Open Grazing Laws
Authors: Ezirigwe Jane
Published: March 2021

The realization of equality between men and women is a fundamental part of the international development agenda. This entails equal opportunities and elimination of all forms of discrimination. Discrimination can be embedded overtly or covertly in laws. Therefore, making the law work for both men and women demands an all-inclusive approach. In Nigeria, the crisis involving herders and farmers has led to the loss of lives and properties, internal displacement, and human right abuses including rape. In a bid to curb the crisis, ‘anti-open grazing’ laws have been made in some states. Most of the acts criminalized and offences prohibited were gender-neutral, despite a more embracing approach on gender sensitivity in lawmaking.This article adopts an evaluative approach to assess inclusivity in the recent anti-open grazing laws in Nigeria. It argues that the laws covertly promote patriarchal benefits and boost hegemonic male dominance. Its aim is to reveal that gender-specific circumstances which reinforce sexual and gender-based violence against women, including rape, were ignored. This is notwithstanding the fact that the bodies of women and girls have been turned into battlefields. The study suggests that because society is not homogeneous, there is a need to reflect this diversity by updating these laws, to make them inclusive, in offering protection to women. It recommends that since equal opportunities come with equal responsibilities, the need to identify and prohibit the roles of women in the crisis becomes pertinent. This makes the laws work for both men and women, in pursuit of their agricultural endeavours
Clinico-pathological effects of single oral dose of cypermethrin in guinea pigs
Authors: Omonona AO , Jarikre TA , Adetuga AT
Published: March 2021

The effect of environmental intoxication and one time accidental oral  ingestion of cypermethrin was studied in the guinea pig through exposure to sublethal concentrations of the pesticide. The clinical, haematologic, and biochemical changes were monitored within 72 hours of exposure.  Haemocytometric method was used to evaluate the erythrogram and leucogram changes, and microscopy for histopathology. There were significant increases in the eosinophil count, ALP, creatinine, cholesterol, globulin and albumin and decrease in urea levels and thrombocytopaenia (P>0.05). There were diffuse moderate vascular congestion and mononuclear cellular infiltrates in the interstitium of the lungs, and degeneration in the liver and kidney. Single oral ingestion of cypermethrin altered biochemical parameters commensurate with tissue changes. Cypermethrin exposure and intoxication of animals in the environment may contribute to morbidity and ecotoxicity.Keywords: Cavia, Cypermethrin, Environment, Toxicity, wildlife
Assessment of heavy metals in chicken feeds available in Sokoto, Nigeria
Authors: Suleiman N , Ibitoye EB , Jimoh AA , Sani ZA
Published: March 2021

In the present work six metals (Cu, Pb, Zn, Cd, Mn and Ni) were analyzed for, using atomic absorption spectrophotometry in three main feed brands commonly used in Sokoto (2 commercial feed and 1 locally compounded chicken feed). Initially, the samples were digested with concentrated nitric acid and perchloric acid at about 3700C to 4500C heat in a digestion block. The concentration in ìg/ml of the six metals analyzed for in the feed samples ranged between 0.04 and 1.21 for Cu, 0.01 and 0.55 for Pb, 1.43 and 11.65 for Zn, 0.10 and 0.12 Cd, 0.94 and 3.12 for Mn and 0.004 and 0.25 for Ni. In most of the analyzed samples, the concentration of Cu, Zn, Mn and Ni was found to be lower than the nutritional requirement of broiler chicken at a level which could be harmful for the poultry. Also the study showed the presence of heavy metals (Pb and Cd) in all the feed samples analyzed, but none exceeded permissible levels as set by European Union and National Research Council.Keywords: Atomic absorption spectrophotometry, Chicken feeds, Contamination, Heavy metals, Sokoto, Toxicity
Clinical and gross-pathological changes in Muscovy ducks and Nigerian local chickens infected with Newcastle disease virus (XIVb strain)
Authors: Usman S.G. , Oladele S.B. , Saidu L. , Muhammed M.S. , Umar F.S. , Abubakar A. , Saleh A. , Orakpoghenor O.
Published: March 2021

No Abstract.
TaqMan Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction and Pyrosequencing using Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Protocol for Rapid Determination of ALDH2 *2 in a Chinese Population
Authors: Li J , Wu J , Zhang Y , Wang X , Jin J , Wang Y
Published: March 2021

Purpose: To establish a rapid molecular method for the detection of aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2), and determine whether the polymorphic ALDH2 gene is associated with drinking behavior in a Chinese population.Methods: The gene polymorphism of ALDH2 *2 was detected using pyrosequencing and TaqMan realtime polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques. Genotyping of 176 volunteers were performed at The Third Hospital of Wuhan, Hubei, China. Genetic associations with alcohol use behavior was assessed.Results: Pyrosequencing and TaqMan real time PCR methods were successfully developed to identify ALDH2 *2 polymorphisms. The allele frequencies of ALDH2 *2 were 21.31 % in the Chinese population. While the genotype frequency of heterozygous ALDH2 *1/ *2 plus homozygous ALDH2 *2/ *2 was 46.67 % in non-drinkers, it was 30.17 % in the alcoholics group (p = 0.030). The allele frequency of ALDH2 *2 was 15.09 % in the alcoholics group and 28.33 % among non-drinkers (p = 0.011). There were  substantial differences in allele frequencies of ALDH2 genotypes between this study’s Chinese sample and other ethnic groups in Asia; the frequency of ALDH2 *2 allele was significantly higher than that in European and Americans.Conclusion: The developed pyrosequencing and TaqMan real time PCR methods are rapid, accurate, high-throughput, convenient, and reliable for detecting ALDH2 polymorphisms. ALDH2 *2 gene protects against the development of alcoholism. The frequencies of ALDH2 in this Chinese population differ from those of other  ethnic populations.Keywords: Aldehyde dehydrogenase 2, Polymorphism, TaqMan real time Polymerase Chain Reaction, Pyrosequencing, Allele, Alcoholics, Genotype frequency
Gas Chromaotography-Mass Spectrometry Analysis of Insecticidal Essential Oil Derived from Chinese Ainsliaea fragrans Champ ex Benth (Compositae)
Authors: Zhao MP , Liu XC , Liu QZ , Liu ZL
Published: March 2021

Purpose: To investigate the chemical composition and insecticidal activity of the essential oil of the aerial parts of Ainsliaea fragrans against maize weevils (Sitophilus zeamais).Methods: The essential oil of A. fragrans aerial parts was obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromaotography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Contact toxicity of the essential oil and its major constituents was determined by topical application against S. zeamais.Results: A total of 30 components of the essential oil were identified. The major constituents were myristicin (41.3 %), elemicine (11.9 %), cis-isosafrole (11.5 %), borneol (9.1 %) and caryophyllene (8.8 %). The essential oil of A. fragrans exhibited contact toxicity against S. zeamais with LC50 value of 50.7 μg/adult. Elemicine possessed the strongest contact toxicity (LC50 = 13.5 μg/adult) while cis-isosafrole, myristicin, caryophyllene and borneol had LC50 values of 31.2 μg/adult, 43.4 μg/adult, 57.9 μg/adult, and 98.4 μg/adult, respectively.Conclusion: The study indicates that the essential oil of A. fragrans aerial parts and its major constituents have a potential for development into natural insecticides for the control of grain storage insects.Keywords: Ainsliaea fragrans, Sitophilus zeamais, Contact toxicity, Elemicine, Essential oil, Grain storage
Protective effect of glucosamine cyclohexyl ester on osteoarthritis in rat via targeting expressions of matrix metalloproteinase and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1
Authors: Shui Wei , Luo Gang , Qiao Bo , Ni Weidong , Guo Shuquan
Published: March 2021

Purpose: To investigate the therapeutic effect of glucosamine cyclohexyl ester on osteoarthritis (OA) in a rat model.Methods: Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and western blot assays were used to analyze the effect of glucosamine cyclohexyl ester on changes in mRNA and protein expressions of matrix metalloproteinase and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 in isolated rat chondrocytes, and in a rat model of OA. The rat model of OA was prepared by injecting monoiodoacetate to Sprague-Dawley rats via intra-articular route.Results: Treatment of the chondrocytes with glucosamine cyclohexyl ester for 48 h prevented interleukin-1 β (IL-1β)-mediated increases in mRNA and protein  expressions in matrix metalloproteinases-1, -3 and -13, and also blocked IL-1β-induced decreases in mRNA and protein expressions of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1. Glucosamine cyclohexyl ester treatment also blocked the onset of morphological changes such as irregular surface, adhesion of tissues andpresence of osteophytes in the femoral condyle surface of the OA rats. Mankin score for control, OA and glucosamine cyclohexyl ester treatment groups were 0.98 ± 0.15, 8.35 ± 0.88 and 2.39 ± 0. 67 (p = 0.002), respectively. Treatment of OA rats with glucosamine cyclohexyl ester also inhibited increases in the activities of matrix metalloproteinases-1, -3 and -13, and decreases of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 mRNA and protein expressions. Treatment of chondrocytes and OA rats with IL-1β caused no significant changes in the levels of H3K27 and H4K8.Conclusion: These results show that glucosamine cyclohexyl ester prevents OA by targeting the expressions of matrix metalloproteinases-1, -3 and -13 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1.Keywords: Metalloproteinases, Interleukin, Mankin score, Osteoarthritis, Cartilage
Effect of moxifloxacin on oxidative stress, paraoxonase-1 (PON1) activity and efficacy of treatment in patients with multiple drug-resistant tuberculosis
Authors: Yang Hongguo , Zhao Yanyan , Ma Yunbo , Wen Qiang , Zhang Minghui
Published: March 2021

Purpose: To investigate the effect of moxifloxacin on paraoxonase-1 (PON1)  activity, and serum oxidative stress in patients with multiple drug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB).Methods: A total ofof 130 MDR-TB patients who were treated with moxifloxacin from October 2014 to October 2010 in Eastern Medical District of Linyi People's Hospital of Shandong Province, China were randomly divided into an observation group (65 cases, moxifloxacin group) and control group (65 cases, non-moxifloxacin group). Total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS), oxidative stress index (OSI), PON1 levels and treatment efficacy for groups were determined.Results: Compared with pre-treatment levels, TOS (23.3 ± 4.7 vs 13.9 ± 3.3 umol H2O2 Eq/L, t = 13.20, p = 0.00) and OSI (17.4 ± 4.8 vs 5.7 ± 1.4 U, t = 18.87, p = 0.00) of the observation group significantly decreased, while TAS (1.4 ± 0.5 vs 3.5 ± 0.7 umol Trolox Eq/L, t = 19.68, p = 0.00) and PON1 (15.5 ± 6.9 vs 31.1 ± 8.3 U/L, t = 11.65, p = 0.00) significantly increased. TOS (23.3 ± 4.7 vs 13.9 ± 3.3 umol H2O2 Eq/L, t = 7.73, p < 0.05) and OSI (16.9 ± 5.5 vs 7.4 ± 3.2U, t = 12.04, p = 0.05) reduced significantly in the control group. Moxifloxacin correlated positively with △TAS (r = 0.697, p = 0. 04) and △PON1 (r = 0.785, p = 0.01), but correlation with △TOS (r = -0.625, p = 0.01) was negative. Efficacy was significantly higher in the observation group than that in the control group (81.54 % vs 56.92 %, p =0.00).Conclusion: Oxidative stress injury in MDR-TB patients may be effectively managed by combination of moxifloxacin with anti-TB treatmentKeywords: Multiple drug-resistant TB, Moxifloxacin, Paraoxonase, Oxidative stress
Effect of Spatholobus suberectus (Fabaceae) extract on second-degree burns in rats
Authors: Dai Lingyun , Zhao Chunhu , Jian Yu , Mei Zujun , Pei Xufeng , Yuan Wensheng , Wu Fengxue
Published: March 2021

Purpose: To evaluate the wound-healing effect of Spatholobus suberectus (Fabaceae) on seconddegree burns in a rat model.Methods: The animals were divided into normal, negative control, as well as 10 % Spatholobus suberectus (SS) (SS10), 20 % SS (SS20) and standard (STD) groups. Second-degree burns were inflicted by exposing a 3 × 3 cm sterile area of skin to boiling water for 10 min. The animals were treated topically twice daily for 2 weeks. Wound contraction (%) was measured after 2 weeks, while wound tissue  histopathology was assessed by hematoxylin & eosin and Masson’s trichrome staining. In addition, lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde kit) and cytokine secretion (ELISA) were measured in liver and plasma, respectively.Results: The results of this study suggest that topical application of SS for 2 weeks significantly increases wound closure compared with the negative control. Moreover, treatment with SS significantly improved the pathological status of the wound throughout the protocol. There was also a significant decrease in malondialdehyde activity and increase in cytokine release in SS-treated rats compared with control rats.Conclusions: The results show that topical application of SS after inflicting second-degree burns in rats results in increased wound healing and decreased cytokine release and oxidative stress.Keyword: Spatholobus suberectus, Burns, Wound, Lipid peroxidation, Cytokines
MicroRNA-485-5p reduces keratinocyte proliferation and migration by regulating ITGA5 expression in skin wound healing
Authors: Yuan Keyu , Sun Yi , Ji Yu
Published: March 2021

Purpose: To determine the effect of miR-485-5p on keratinocyte proliferation and migration.Methods: Human primary keratinocytes (HaCaT cells) were treated with different concentrations of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF)-β1. miR-485-5p expression levels were determined using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). MTT (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2- yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) and wound healing assays were performed to investigate the regulatory effects of miR-485-5p on cell viability and migration of HaCaT cells. Downstream target gene expression of miR-485-5p was determined using a luciferase activity assay.Results: In HaCaT cells, miR-485-5p was time- and dose-dependently downregulated by TGF-β1 treatment (p < 0.05). Forced expression of miR-485-5p decreased cell viability and migration of HaCaT cells (p < 0.05). Knockdown of miR-485-5p enhanced HaCaT cell viability and migration. Integrin subunit alpha-5 (ITGA5) was predicted and verified to be a downstream target of miR-485-5p in HaCaT cells. Overexpression of ITGA5 attenuated the miR-485-5p-induced decrease of HaCaT cell viability and migration (p < 0.05).Conclusion: MiR-485-5p reduces cell proliferation and migration of keratinocytes through the regulation of ITGA5. This mechanism provides a potential therapeutic strategy for skin wound healing.

Keywords: ITGA5, Keratinocyte, Cell migration, MiR-485-5p, Cell proliferation, Wound healing
N-acetylcysteine effectively alleviates systemic lupus erythematosus in mice via regulation of oxidative stress
Authors: Lu Feng , Liu Bingxin , Zhao Hui
Published: March 2021

Purpose: To study the influence of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on systemic lupus  erythematosus (SLE) mice, and the mechanism(s) involved.

Methods: Fourteen MRL/lpr SLE mice aged 5 weeks (mean weight = 20.35 ± 2.12 g) were divided into two 7-mouse groups: SLE (control) and treatment groups. The control group comprised healthy female SPF-grade C57BL/6 mice (n = 7). The treatment group mice received intraperitoneal injection of NAC at a dose of 250 mg/kg daily for 8 weeks. The serum levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO), and activities of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), were assayed using standard methods. The level of urine protein and activity of anti-double stranded (ds) DNA antibody were determined using their respective enzyme-linked assay (ELISA) kits.

Results: The spleens of mice in SLE mice were significantly enlarged, relative to control mice, but they were reduced significantly by NAC (p < 0.05). N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) also significantly reduced the serum levels of MDA and NO in SLE mice, but significantly  increased the serum activities of superoxide dismutase and GPx. Moreover, urine protein concentration and activity of anti-dsDNA antibody in SLE mice significantly increased, but reduced significantly by NAC treatment (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: These results suggest that NAC effectively alleviates SLE in mice via regulation of oxidative stress. Thus, NAC has the potentials for development into a therapy for the management of SLE.

Keywords: Anti-dsDNA antibodies, Antioxidant enzymes, N-acetylcysteine, Oxidative stress, Systemic lupus erythematosus
Comparison of efficacy and safety profiles of epidural analgesia and opioid analgesia in Chinese patients with thoracic trauma: A preliminary report
Authors: Yang Xiaoping , Zhang Danjie , Kong Deling , Zhang Jin , Dang Bingwen
Published: March 2021

Purpose: To compare the efficacy and safety profiles of epidural analgesia (EA) and opioid analgesia (OA) in Chinese patients with thoracic trauma (TT).

Methods: Patients with confirmed diagnosis of thoracic trauma were given either EA (via a catheter) or slow-release OA. The following efficacy variables were assessed in the two treatment groups: pain score, and changes in cytokine and catecholamine levels from baseline after treatment. Moreover, respiratory parameters were determined before and after treatment. The safety associated with each anesthesia was also evaluated. Quantitative data were analyzed either with Student’s t-test or MannWhitney test, while  categorical data were analyzed using Fisher exact or Chi-square test, based on data size.

Results: A total of 200 patients completed the study (100 patients in each group). Pain, as assessed by verbal rating scale (VRS), was slightly lower in patients after treatment with EA, when compared to the patients treated with OA. However, the difference was not statistically significant (p < 0.05). Maximum inspiratory force (cmH2O) and tidal volume (liters) were slightly improved in patients  treated with EA, when compared to OA-treated patients, although the difference was not statistically significant (p < 0.05). Moreover,  the two treatments produced comparable levels of cytokines and catecholamines.

Conclusion: The efficacy and safety data for EA and OA in Chinese non-obese patients with TT indicate numerically favorable outcome for EA, when compared to OA.

Keywords: Epidural analgesia, Opioid analgesia, Chinese patients, Thoracic trauma
Obligacje jako źródło finansowania działalności banku gospodarstwa krajowego
Authors: Węgrzyn Paweł
Published: March 2021

Celem niniejszego artykułu jest charakterystyka specyfiki funkcjonowania Banku Gospodarstwa Krajowego (BGK) jako emitenta obligacji. Ponadto celem szczegółowym jest ustalenie czy Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego finansuje się obligacjami w większym stopniu niż ma to miejsce w przypadku banków komercyjnych. Aby zrealizować wyżej wyszczególnione cele, autor posłużył się badaniem literatury przedmiotu i aktów prawnych uzupełnionym o badanie dokumentów informacyjnych BGK i banków komercyjnych oraz desk research obejmujący analizę danych ze sprawozdań finansowych BGK oraz zagregowanych danych dot. sektora banków komercyjnych w Polsce.

ABSTRACT
Bonds as a source of financing Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego

The main purpose of this article is to characterize specifics form of Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego (BGK) functioning as a bond issuer. Moreover, the specific purpose is to determine whether Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego is financing by bonds in greater extent than the commercial banks. To achieve the above purposes, the author used the literature review and legal acts review supplemented by analyses of the BGK and commercial banks information documents, as well as desk research including the analysis of data from the financial statements of the BGK and aggregated data of the commercial banks sector in Poland.
God and Difference
Authors: Mech Krzysztof
Published: March 2021

This text begins a research project concerning those thinkers who associate the discussion about the possibility of thinking about God with the problem of difference. The main question of these considerations is this: How does God appear on the differentiated horizon, while torn by difference always conceived in a defined manner? If difference is inevitably inscribed in thought, then how is God inscribed in difference? These questions lead to another: How does difference rule in reflection on divinity? In other words: How far does the way that difference is conceived affect how we reflect upon the deity? When looking for answers to these questions, we take the first step towards Heidegger. Owing to the special status of ontological difference and the trace it leaves on thinking “on the horizon” of difference, it is with this that we begin movement toward differentiation as such. The question about God and the difference in Heidegger’s thought in this text takes the following form: How does God appear in a sphere divided by the difference between Being and beings? How does ontological difference mark the conception of God?
Mariaż ezoteryki z nauką na łamach Wiedzy Duchowej i Lotosu
Authors: Sarna Paweł
Published: March 2021

Celem artykułu jest analiza sposobów budowania wiarygodności nadawcy w artykułach ukazujących się na łamach miesięczników Wiedza Duchowa oraz Lotos. Czasopisma wpisywały się w ówczesne trendy dwudziestolecia międzywojennego, łącząc tematykę ezoteryczną z problematyką najnowszych odkryć naukowych. Autorzy artykułów opublikowanych w tych periodykach umiejętnie odwoływali się do różnych typów autorytetu – zarówno wiedzy naukowej, jak i innych źródeł, w tym osobowych. Ustalono, że oglądu materiału dokonano z perspektywy miejsc strategicznych w tekście prasowym, co pozwoliło ustalić, jakie były sposoby przedstawiania tematów. Dokonano podziału tytułów ze względu na ich funkcje. Wyróżniono także preferowane mechanizmy retoryczne służące przekonywaniu czytelników. The Marriage of Esotericism with Science in Spiritual Knowledge and Lotus The aim of the article is to analyze the ways of building credibility of the author in the articles published in two monthly magazines Spiritual Knowledge (Wiedza Duchowa) and Lotus (Lotos) in pre-war Poland. The magazines were in line with the trends of the time of the interwar period, combining esoteric themes with the latest scientific discoveries. Authors of the articles published in these periodicals skillfully referred to various types of authority - both scientific knowledge and other sources, including personal sources. The analysis of the research material was conducted from the perspective of strategic places in the press text, which made it possible to describe the ways of presenting various topics, the functions of the titles of the articles and the most common rhetorical means used for persuading readers.