bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Double pigtail stent placement as an adjunct to lumen-apposing metal stents for drainage of pancreatic fluid collections may not affect outcomes
Authors: Shamah Steven P. , Sahakian Ara B. , Chapman Christopher G. , Buxbaum James L. , Muniraj Thiruvengadam , Aslanian Harry A. , Villa Edward , Cho Jaehoon , Haider Haider I. , Waxman Irving , Siddiqui Uzma D.
Published: January 2022

Background and Objectives:

EUS-guided drainage of pancreatic fluid collections (PFCs) has been increasingly performed using lumen-apposing metal stents (LAMS). However, recent data have suggested higher adverse event rates with LAMS compared to double pigtail plastic stents (DPS) alone. To decrease risks, there has been anecdotal use of placing DPS through the LAMS. We aimed to determine whether the placement of DPS through cautery-enhanced LAMS at time of initial placement decreases adverse events or need for reintervention.

Methods:

We performed a multicenter retrospective study between January 2015 and October 2017 examining patients who underwent EUS-guided drainage of pseudocysts (PP), walled-off necrosis (WON), and postsurgical fluid collection using a cautery enhanced LAMS with and without DPS.

Results:

There were 68 patients identified at 3 US tertiary referral centers: 44 PP (65%), 17 WON (25%), and 7 PFSC (10%). There were 35 patients with DPS placed through LAMS (Group 1) and 33 with LAMS alone (Group 2). Overall technical success was 100%, clinical success was 94%, and adverse events (bleeding, perforation, stent occlusion, and stent migration) occurred in 28% of patients. Subgroup analysis compared specific types of PFCs and occurrence of adverse events between each group with no significant difference detected in adverse event or reintervention rates.

Conclusion:

This multicenter study of various types of PFCs requiring EUS-guided drainage demonstrates that deployment of DPS across cautery-enhanced LAMS at the time of initial drainage does not have a significant effect on clinical outcomes, adverse events, or need for reinterventions.
Pharmacokinetic Comparison of Four Major Bio-Active Components of Naoxintong Capsule in Normal and Acute Blood Stasis Rats Using Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography Coupled with Triple-Quadrupole Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Li Wei-Xia , Zhang Shu-Qi , Li Man-Man , Zhang Hui , Wang Xiao-Yan , Niu Lu , Tang Jin-Fa , Li Xue-Lin
Published: January 2022

Objective:

To compare the pharmacokinetic differences of the main components of Naoxintong capsule (NXTC) in normal and acute blood stasis rats.

Materials and Methods:

Rats were subcutaneously injected with adrenaline hydrochloride twice; during the two subcutaneous injections, the rats were placed in ice water for 4 min to reproduce the model rat of acute blood stasis. The normal and acute blood stasis rats were administrated a 5.04 g/kg dose of NXTC suspension. Then, blood samples were collected from the posterior retinal venous plexus at different time points. Plasma concentrations of four major bio-active components including caffeic acid, ferulic acid, formononetin, and tanshinone IIA in NXTC were measured using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple-quadrupole mass spectrometry. Phoenix WinNonlin v6.2 software was used to calculate the pharmacokinetic parameters.

Results:

Compared with the normal rats, the acute blood stasis rats showed a significant decrease in C
max of ferulic acid and formononetin, AUC
all of caffeic acid and ferulic acid, and AUC
INF_obs of ferulic acid. Conversely, an increase in the Vz_F_obs and MRTlast of ferulic acid and caffeic acid was observed. These findings demonstrate that the absorption of the four NXTC components was weakened in the acute blood stasis rats and that the elimination time was prolonged.

Conclusions:

The significant difference in some parameters of the four NXTC components between the normal and acute blood stasis rats might be caused by an increase in blood viscosity and the subsequent slowing down of blood flow in the acute blood stasis rats. The pharmacokinetic study conducted in pathological state can provide important information and scientific basis for further rational clinical application of NXTC.
Mechanism Exploration of the Classical Traditional Chinese Medicine Formula Huoluo Xiaoling Pill in Clinical Treatment and the Traditional Chinese Medicine Theory “Treating Different Diseases with the Same Method”
Authors: Hu Yu-Xin , Zhang Zhi-Qing , Zhou Qin-Jie , Liao Jun-Ya , Chai Xin-Lou
Published: January 2022

Objective:

To analyze the possible mechanism of the Huoluo Xiaoling Pill in the treatment of three diseases, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and metabolic syndrome, and to provide ideas for learning the mechanism of “Treating different diseases with the same method” in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory.

Materials and Methods:

The Traditional Chinese Medicine System Pharmacology Database and UniProt databases were used to screen the main ingredients and targets of the Huoluo Xiaoling Pill. The GeneCards database was used to screen the targets of the diseases, and Cytoscape 3.7.2 was used to construct a “Drug-Components-Targets-Disease” network to determine the core components. The STRING database was used to construct the protein-protein-interaction network, and gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomics enrichment analyses were carried out on the Metascape database. AutoDock 1.5.6 was used for molecular docking.

Results:

A total of 118 active components and 208 targets were screened in the Huoluo Xiaoling Pill. Quercetin, tanshinone IIA, luteolin, and ellagic acid were potential core components of Huoluo Xiaoling Pill treating the three diseases, and interleukin 6, Tumor necrosis factor, and vascular endothelial growth factor were potential key targets. Co-occurring GO biological processes involved responses to the molecules of bacterial origin, and the AGE-RAGE signaling, fluid shear stress, and atherosclerosis pathways were the co-occurring pathways. Molecular docking revealed good docking conditions between screened targets and components.

Conclusion:

This study predicted the mechanism of the Huoluo Xiaoling Pill in treating the three diseases. At the same time, the co-occurring targets and pathways between the three diseases provided a material basis for the TCM theory, “Treating different diseases with the same method.”
Asymmetric Relationship between Ambient Air Temperature and Incidence of COVID-19 in the Human Population
Authors: Usmani Moiz , Jamal Yusuf , Gangwar Mayank , Magers Bailey , Chaves-Gonzalez Juan , Wu Chang-Yu , Colwell Rita , Jutla Antarpreet
Published: January 2022

The complexity of transmission of COVID-19 in the human population cannot be overstated. Although major transmission routes of COVID-19 remain as human-to-human interactions, understanding the possible role of climatic and weather processes in accelerating such interactions is still a challenge. The majority of studies on the transmission of this disease have suggested a positive association between a decrease in ambient air temperature and an increase in human cases. Using data from 19 early epicenters, we show that the relationship between the incidence of COVID-19 and temperature is a complex function of prevailing climatic conditions influencing human behavior that govern virus transmission dynamics. We note that under a dry (low-moisture) environment, notably at dew point temperatures below 0°C, the incidence of the disease was highest. Prevalence of the virus in the human population, when ambient air temperatures were higher than 24°C or lower than 17°C, was hypothesized to be a function of the interaction between humans and the built or ambient environment. An ambient air temperature range of 17 to 24°C was identified, within which virus transmission appears to decrease, leading to a reduction in COVID-19 human cases.
Multivariate Analysis of Seasonal Variation in Groundwater Quality within Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Adekunle Adebola A. , Isaac Isaac U.
Published: January 2022

This research work was aimed at analyzing the data of the seasonal variation of groundwater quality in the Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta (FUNAAB) environment using descriptive statistics and a covariance matrix analysis of the data set for both rainy and dry seasons to see the effect of the water quality parameters on each other. Cluster analysis was also carried out on the data set to check the level of the Euclidean distance between the water quality parameters. The data used for this analysis was secondary data obtained from groundwater sources (ten wells) within the University environment during the rainy and dry seasons respectively. It was observed that there is a slight variation in the quality of groundwater in the FUNAAB environment as regards the dry season and the rainy season. In the result of the cluster analysis, the water quality parameters are clustered into seven groups for the dry season and eight groups for the rainy season which indicate that the dissimilarities in the data set increase during the rainy season. It was observed that for the dry season covariance data, 36% of the values have a negative relationship within themselves and 64% has a positive relationship, as compared to the rainy season data which possesses a 31% negative relationship and a 69% positive relation. This implies that there is only a 5% variation in the entire data set of the dry season and the raining season as regards the interdependence of the water quality parameters on each other.

Keywords: Groundwater, Physico-Chemical, Water Quality, Wells
Assessment of Mosquito Diversity and Plasmodium falciparum in Female Anopheles Mosquito in Students’ Hostels, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Kaduna State Nigeria
Authors: Rice A.A. , Mbah C.E. , George B.D.J.
Published: January 2022

Mosquitoes are considered as the most important insect vectors of many infectious disease agents, whose presence pose a serious public health concern within localities where they are found especially in tertiary institution. The study was conducted to identify mosquito species and Plasmodium falciparum in female Anopheles mosquito in students’ hostels of Ahmadu Bello University. Mosquitoes were caught once in a week for five months June to October (2018), by the used of test tube, chloroform and cotton wool. A total of 1341 mosquito vectors was identified, comprising four (4) species: Anopheles gambiae complex, Anopheles funestus, Culex quinquefasciatus and Aedes aegypti. The mosquitoes were dissected transversely between the first and third pairs of legs under the dissecting microscope The entire samples were air dried, fixed in methanol and were stained using Giemsa and thin blood film examined under the light microscope for identification of Plasmodium falciparum. The result in this study showed that Culex quinquefasciatus constitutes the most abundant with 950 (59%) followed by Anopheles gambiae 370, (22%), and An. funestus 15(0.9%) while Aedes aegypti 3(0.1%) had the least. Of the two species of anophelene mosquitoes encountered in this study only Anopheles gambiae was positive for Plasmodim falciparum. The result simply showed that efforts to control malaria especially in Zaria area should be a combination of existing methods which is usually referred to as integrated control.

Keywords: Mosquito, Plasmodium falciparum, Anopheles, Hostels
The effects of intrauterine ethanol exposure on the levels of Iron and Copper in Cerebrum and Cerebellum of neonatal Wistar rats
Authors: El-ladan Ibrahim Shehu , Usman Affan
Published: January 2022

Neurodevelopmental disorders have been reported to be associated with infants exposed to ethanol in utero. The study was aimed at evaluating the effects of intrauterine ethanol exposure on neurobehaviour and the amount of iron and copper in the cerebrum and cerebellum of neonatal Wistar rats at different periods of development. Fourteen (14) female Wistar rats were mated with matured males in ratio 2:1 overnight following determination of oestrous phase. Pregnant dams were divided into 7 groups. Group A served as the control that received distilled water. Groups B, C and D were administered 0.5ml of 20% ethanol equivalent to 1st, 1st and 2nd trimesters and whole gestation period (i.e 1st, 2nd and 3rd trimesters) respectively. Groups E, F and G were given 0.5ml of 30% ethanol accordingly. Following parturition, neurobehavioural assessment on sensory and motor reflexes of the litters were tested on postnatal days 5, 6 and 7. Brain tissues were later excised, homogenised and analysed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry. SPSS V20 was used to compare the mean difference using analysis of variance (ANOVA). The ethanol treated neonates in Groups B, E, F and G showed a statistically significant (p˂0.05) increase in latency to respond to sensory and motor reflexes when compared with Control Group. Interrelated elevation of both iron and copper was observed in the cerebellum while both the amounts of iron and copper in the cerebrum were depleted. It is concluded that intrauterine ethanol exposure has effect on the development of vestibular, postural, sensory and motor coordination. The alterations in the amounts of iron and copper which are important cofactors for certain neurotransmitters and enzymes in the brain could play role in the neurobehavioural deficits observed. Intrauterine ethanol ingestion affects development of sensory and motor reflexes as well as the amounts of iron and copper in both cerebrum and cerebellum in a reciprocal manner.

Keywords: ethanol, intrauterine, neurobehaviour, neurochemistry
Effect of methanolic extract of Uvaria chamae and Cassytha filiformis on reproductive hormones of female albino rats
Authors: Udoji Ndidi Juliana , Okieimen Felix E. , Uwumarongie Osamuyi Henry
Published: January 2022

The high cost of treating infertility and its associated risk prompted the need to search for a plant with fertility potentials. The effect of sub -acute (28) administration of methanolic extracts of of Uvaria chamae and Cassytha filiformis on reproductive hormones of female albino rat was investigated. A total of fourty (40) rats were used for the experiment and divided into four groups: positive and negative control groups, with two other experimental groups. The control groups receive five animals each, whereas the other two experimental groups received 15 rats each. Fifteen female albino rats were used for each of the extract in this study. Each of these group of fifteen were further divided into three sub groups; A, B and C of five rats each. Each sub group were administered plant extracts orally by means of calibrated syringe at a daily dose of 125 mg/kg for group (A), 250 mg/kg for group (B) and 500 mg/kg for group (C) for 28 days. The negative control group were given water ad libitum and those in the positive control group were given clomiphene citrate at 10 mg/kg. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine the levels of the estrogen, follicule stimulating hormones (FSH) Luteinizing hormone (LH) and progesterone. Phytochemical screening of the extracts revealed the presence of flavonoid, reducing sugar, saponin, tannins, and terpenoid for Cassytha filiformis. The same are also present in Uvaria chamae in addition to steroid, with the exception of flavonoid. It was found that the extract of C. filiformis produced significant increase in estrogen and progesterone level (p< 0.05), but has no significant effect on the follicle stimulating hormone, and the luteinizing hormone whereas the U. chamae extract generally increased the progesterone, luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormone significantly (p< 0.05). The increase in the level of reproductive hormones occasioned by the administration of these plant extracts indicates their potential in the enhancement of fertility.
Comportement reproductif des porcs de race Duroc en République du Congo
Authors: Ognika Alexis Jonas , Akouango Parisse , Ebengo Gnanga Annick Raïssa , Dimi Ngatse Silvère
Published: January 2022

La présente étude a été menée dans le cadre de l’amélioration des performances de reproduction et de croissance des porcs locaux par l’introduction de nouvelles races. Il s’agit d’une préoccupation des politiques du Gouvernement congolais. L’objectif de l’étude a été d’apprécier certains paramètres de reproduction et de croissance des porcs Duroc dans le but de maîtriser leurs aptitudes en vue de les utiliser dans le programme d’amélioration génétique du porc local congolais. Les animaux avaient huit (8) mois d’âge. L’évaluation des caractéristiques de reproduction et de croissance a concerné 10 femelles, 5 mâles en stade de reproduction et 145 porcelets. Les caractéristiques reproductives et de croissance ont été évaluées selon une méthode de pointage de 1 à 5. Les productivités numérique et pondérale ainsi que le rendement carcasse ont également été estimés. La taille de la portée par truie est de 9 ±0,8 têtes, le poids de la portée par truie est de 25, 08 ± 8 kg et l’âge de mise en reproduction est de 8,3±0,7/ mois. Les animaux ont indiqué de bonnes aptitudes de reproduction. Le poids vif moyen des porcelets est de 1,32±0,4kg à la naissance, de 9,99 ± 0,1kg la 4ème semaine correspondant au sevrage et de 50,4± 6,5 kg la 16èmesemaine. Les GMQ ont été respectivement de 230± 0,5 g la 2èmesemaine, 370±0,3 g la 4ème semaine et de 650±0,8g la 16ème semaine. Ces indicateurs augurent de bonnes perspectives de croissance des animaux de la race en République du Congo.

This study was carried out in the context of improving the reproductive and growth performance of local pigs by introducing the new races. It concerns the Congolese government programs. The objective of this study was to appreciate some reproduction and growth parameters of Duroc pigs with the aim to master their aptitudes for to use them in the genetic improvement program of the local Congolese pig. The animals were eight (8) months old. The reproductive evaluation and growth characteristics concerned 10 females, 5 males in the reproductive stage and 145 piglets. Reproductive and growth characteristics were assessed using a 1 to 5 scoring method. The numerical and weight productivities and the carcass yield were also estimated. The litter size per sow is 9 ± 0.8 head, litter weight per sow is 25.08 ± 8 kg and breeding age is 8.3 ± 0.7 / month. The animals indicated good breeding skills. The average live weight of piglets is 1.32 ± 0.4kg at birth, 9.99 ± 0.1kg in the 4th week corresponding to weaning and 50.4 ± 6.5 kg in the 16th week. The ADGs were respectively 230 ± 0.5 g in the 2nd week, 370 ± 0.3 g in the 4th week and 650 ± 0.8g in the 16th week. These indicators bode well for growth prospects for animals of the breed in the Republic of Congo.
Périodes d’activités et structure sociale de Cephalophus zebra Gray, 1838 et de Cephalophus jentinki Thomas, 1892 dans le Parc National de Taï, Sud-Ouest de la Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Monket Ange Edgar Habib , Kouakou Célestin Yao , Kely Malé Roger , Koffi André Djaha , N’guessan Antoine Kouamé , Normand Emmanuelle , Kablan Yves Aka , Diarrassouba Abdoulaye , Tondossama Adama , Bene Jean-Claude Koffi
Published: January 2022

La connaissance du profil écologique de la faune d’un site est importante pour mieux apprécier la dynamique spatio-temporelle des espèces et les interactions entre elles. La présente étude a été réalisée au Parc National de Taï. Elle a pour objectif de déterminer les périodes d’activités nycthémérales et la structure sociale du céphalophe zébré et du céphalophe de Jentink. Au total, 291 pièges photographiques ont été installés suivant un dispositif systématique de mars 2019 à mars 2020. Le traitement des enregistrements vidéo obtenus a permis de montrer que le céphalophe zébré est préférentiellement diurne avec 84% des observations faites dans la journée. Les périodes d’activités maximales de cette espèce ont été marquées en début de journée de 6 à 8h et en fin d’après-midi de 15 à 17h. Par contre, le céphalophe de Jentink est principalement nocturne avec 83% des observations enregistrées la nuit. Cette espèce a été plus active autour de 2h, 4h et 19h. Cependant, ces deux espèces mènent une vie généralement solitaire avec parfois une formation de groupes de deux individus adultes. Pour le céphalophe zébré, 94,21% des individus vivent seul. Concernant le céphalophe de Jentink, 96,70% des individus solitaires ont été identifiés.

The knowledge of the ecological profile of the fauna of a site is important to better appreciate the spatio-temporal dynamics of species and the interactions between them. The present study was carried out in the Taï National Park. Its objective is to determine the periods of nycthemeral activities and the social structure of zebra duiker and Jentink’s duiker. A total, of 291 camera traps were set in a systemic design from March 2019 to March 2020. The processing of the obtained video recordings showed that the zebra duiker is preferentially diurnal with 84% of the observations made during the day. The periods of maximum activity of this species were marked at the beginning of the day from 6 to 8 am and in the late afternoon from 3 to 5 pm. In contrast, Jentink’s duiker is mainly nocturnal with 83% of observations recorded at night. This species was most active around 2h, 4h and 19h. However, these two species lead a generally solitary life with sometimes a groups formation of two adult individuals. For the zebra duiker, 94.21% of individuals live alone. Concerning the Jentink’s duiker, 96.70% of the solitary individuals have been identified.
Caractéristiques des peuplements ligneux du tracé de la grande muraille verte des provinces de Wadi-Fira Est et de l’Ennedi Est du Tchad
Authors: Mbaikoubou Mékila , Guihini Abakar , Diallo Aly , Faye Ndiabou , Mahamat Saleh Minda , Moussa Tahir Doudja , Guisse Aliou
Published: January 2022

Pour faire des propositions de stratégies de gestion durable de la grande muraille verte, la connaissance des caractéristiques du peuplement ligneux du tracé du Tchad est capitale. L’étude a pour objet de caractériser la flore et la végétation ligneuse sur le tracé de la GMV du Tchad, précisément au Wadi Fira Est et à l’Ennedi Est. La méthodologie utilisée a consisté à déterminer la composition floristique et la structure du peuplement ligneux dans les deux sites. Les inventaires floristiques ont permis de recenser 8 espèces reparties en 7 genres et 4 familles dans le site de Wadi Fira Est tandis que dans le site de l’Ennedi Est nous avons recensé 7 espèces reparties en 6 genres et 4 familles. La flore ligneuse est dominée par les Mimosaceae. La densité des ligneux (39,43 ind.ha-1) est plus importante dans l’Ennedi Est que dans le Wadi Fira Est (36,62 ind.ha-1) ; Cependant, le recouvrement au Wafi Fira Est (559,428 m².ha-1) est plus important que celui de l’Ennedi Est (499,844 m².ha-1). Les résultats obtenus montrent que les espèces les plus adaptées aux conditions écologiques pour la réussite de la GMV sont Acacia raddiana et Balanites aegyptiaca qui conviennent pour la restauration de ces écosystèmes.

To make proposals for sustainable management strategies for the Great Green Wall, knowledge of the characteristics of the woody population along the Chad route is essential. The purpose of the study is to characterize the flora and woody vegetation along the route of the GGW of Chad, specifically in Wadi Fira East and Ennedi East. The methodology used consisted in determining the floristic composition and the structure of the woody stand in the two sites. Floristic inventories made it possible to identify 8 species divided into 7 genera and 4 families in the Wadi Fira East site while in the Ennedi East site we have identified 7 species divided into 6 genera and 4 families. The woody flora is dominated by Mimosaceae. The density of woody plants (39.43 ind.ha-1) is higher in Ennedi East than in Wadi Fira East (36.62 ind.ha-1); However, the overlap at Wafi Fira East (559.428 m².ha-1) is greater than that at Ennedi East (499.844 m².ha-1). The results obtained show that the species most suited to ecological conditions for the success of GMV are Acacia raddiana and Balanites aegyptiaca which are suitable for the restoration of these ecosystems.
Effect of palm kernel meal (Elaeis guineensis, Jacq, 1763) in the diet on digestive transit and some serum parameters in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus, Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Adjanke Amakoé , Tona Kokou , Toko Ibrahim Imorou , Gbeassor Messanvi
Published: January 2022

As part of the continuation of the thesis work on the valuation of palm kernel cake in the diet of Nile tilapia, a study was carried out from March 7th to April 12th, 2018 at the Aquaculture Research and Development Unit of the University of Lome in Togo. It aims to  evaluate the digestive use efficiency of palm kernel cake (PK) in Oreochromis niloticus. So, two lots of 180 male Oreochromis niloticus; juvenile of 57.14 ± 4.43 g and adults of 144.04 ± 7.65 g were each randomly distributed in 9 recirculate system concrete tanks of 600 L, at 20 fish per tank, filled to 250 liters of water. They were fed two weeks with three isoprotein diets (32% crude protein) in triplicate, distributed manually three times a day at 2% of the fish biomass; standard fish feed Raanan (RA) and two diets containing 30% PK untreated (R3) or cooked in water for one hour (R3C). After a 2 days fasting, some fish were fed once again to satiety (8am). Then a sample of 6 fish per lot was euthanized in a clove solution. After blood sampling, the fish were dissected at 0h, 1h, 4h, 8h, 12h and 24h after feeding to measure blood and intestinal parameters. The results obtained show that raw PK is an unpalatable fibrous ingredient but well valued once cooked with a digestive improvement allowing good absorption of food micronutrients in both juveniles and adults. This absorption led to changing in the serum protein level for growth of fish and nitrogenous excretion in the form of urea. The cooking slowed the transit of the food into the digestive tract of tilapia, this can improve zootechnical performance of fish.
Evaluation of the toxic effects of the aqueous extract of Niprineem tea in mice and rats
Authors: Adigwe Obi Peter , John-Africa Lucy Binda , Adzu Bulus , Ajoku Gloria Ahunna , Danraka Abubakar Mustapha , Ibrahim Jemilat Aliyu
Published: January 2022

Azadirachta indica is an important plant in traditional complementary and alternative medicine with decoctions (tea) being a common mode of administration. Herbal teas are frequently self-administered thus the need to prepare a standardized dosage form for the administration of such decoctions. The leaf of Azadirachta indica was formulated for administration as tea; thus, this study was designed to determine the safety profile of Niprineem tea. Oral acute and sub-chronic toxicity studies of the aqueous extract of Niprineem tea (NTE) were evaluated. The OECD (No 423) limit test was followed to determine the LD50 in Swiss albino mice, while OECD 407 guideline was used for the sub-chronic toxicity studies in Wistar rats. Acute administration of NTE did not cause detectable signs of toxicity in treated animals and no mortality was recorded. In the 28-day toxicity tests, there were no significant (p<0.05) changes in food and water intake, or urine and faecal output. Haematological analysis did not show deleterious effects in treated rats. Biochemical evaluation of indicators for renal and hepatic functions did not show significant changes after treatment with NTE. Likewise, histological tests did not result in structural changes in cells of the tissues of major organs. The results obtained suggest that Niprineem tea is relatively non-toxic and safe at the tested dose.
Synthesis of enantiomerically pure (d) – doxylamine using a novel chiral auxiliary
Authors: Hikaambo Christabel Nang’andu , Hatwiko Hanzooma , Munkombwe Derick , Kalungia Aubrey Chichonyi , Mwila Chiluba , Mudenda Steward , Mutati Ronald Kampamba , Kampamba Martin , Kim Hee Doo
Published: January 2022

It is known that the main mode of synthesis of doxylamine is a racemic mixture. However, the active enantiomers of the compound show superior activity to that of the racemate, thus the need to synthesize doxylamine as an enantiopure compound. This study aimed to synthesise an enantiopure (d)-doxylamine and it was achieved through the use of optically active diols synthesised from a novel chiral auxiliary. While most available methods employ Sharpless asymmetric dihydroxylation, this study reports a method that achieves superior enantiomeric excess with consequent better yields of 67% of end products not easily accessible by use of Sharpless Asymmetric Dihydroxylation.
Effect of flow rate on the performance of Biosand Filter
Authors: Mangoua-Allali Amenan Lydie Clarisse , Coulibaly Lacina
Published: January 2022

Lack of access to safe drinking water is an issue in some areas where centralized water treatment is not possible, the biosand filter (BSF) one of several such point-of-use technologies is available. This study was conducted in Côte d’Ivoire to evaluate the effect of flow rate on the performance of the BSF. Three biosand filter (BSF) built in Poly vinyl chloride was used to investigate the effect of three flow rates (1.95 L/d in BSF1; 3.9 L/d in BSF2 and 7.8 L/d in BSF3) for 91 days. Each BSF was filled with 15 cm of gravel, 90 cm of sand and 40 cm of supernatant water. Physical and chemical parameters were analyzed in raw water and filtered water with standards methods. The results showed that the percentage removal of TSS approximately the same for all filters. Ammonium concentrations ranged from 37 to 170 μg.L-1, 110 to 190 μg.L-1 and 150 to 278 μg.L-1 for filtered waters of BSF1, BSF2 and BSF3, respectively. Nitrite concentrations in filtered waters of BSF1 (2 - 33 μg.L-1) were less than those of BSF2 (5 - 45 μg.L-1) and BSF3 (7 - 49.5 μg.L-1). Nitrate concentrations in filtered waters of BSF2 (1.9 to 4 mg.L-1) and BSF3 (1.6 to 4.2 mg.L-1) were higher than those of BSF1 (0.6 to 2.3 mg.L-1). Chemical Oxygen Demand removal efficiency for BSF3 (68.2 ± 9.5%) was lower compared to BSF2 (82.6 ± 3.8%) and BSF1 (93.7 ± 2.8%). The flow rate has an influence only on the removal of ammonium, nitrite, nitrate and Chemical Oxygen Demand. The best treatment results were obtained with the minimum flow rate (1.95 L/d).
Floristic diversity and structural characteristics of woody savanna vegetation: a case study from Patako Forest (Senegal)
Authors: Sambou Simon , Diop Fatimata Niang , Dieng Sara Danièle , Faye Laurice Codou , Sambou Bienvenu , Goudiaby Assane , Mbow Cheikh , Lykke Anne Mette
Published: January 2022

Due to the presence of tree species of high socio-economic importance, many protected areas in the sudanian zone are facing anthropogenic pressure that threatens their stability and resources integrity. This study aimed at providing a better understanding of woody plant composition and structure in Patako Forest in Senegal. Data collection was conducted by stratified random sampling in a total of 251 plots in different vegetation types. The results indicated that Combretum glutinosum, Terminalia macroptera, Cordyla pinnata, Elaeis guineensis, Acacia macrostachya and Khaya senegalensis were the most representative species. The Importance Value Indices (IVI) of these species varied significantly among vegetation types. Species diversity and structural characteristics were higher in gallery forest. The most important Shannon diversity indices was recorded in gallery forest (2.81) while it was medium in both woodland (2.12), tree savanna (1.55) and shrub savanna (1.24). Tree density was dominated by multi-stemmed species. Stem density was significantly higher in gallery forest (536 ± 13 per ha) and woodland (526 ± 12 per ha) than in tree savanna (364 ± 15 per ha) and shrub savanna (309 ± 14 per ha). Forest management should focus on gallery forest to enhance biodiversity conservation and increase the potential of carbon sequestration.
Degradation profile and dioxygenase activity of Carnobacterium gallinarum (mt350233) and Enterococcus faecalis (mt345788) isolated from landfill soil in Benin City
Authors: Okolafor F.I. , Osarumwense J.O. , Ekhaise F.O.
Published: January 2022

Landfill is a potential microbial hub of hydrocarbon (HC) degrading bacterial population owing to nutrient availability and continuous enrichment by organic materials. The degradation and dioxygenase activity of Carnobacterium gallinarum and Enterococcus faecalis isolated from landfill soil in Benin City was investigated. Soil samples were collected from a Government approved landfill in Benin City at a depth of 0 to 10 cm. Standard microbiological and molecular methods were followed for the isolation and characterization of bacterial population. Bacterial isolates were standardized for degradation using spectrophotometer optical density (OD) 0.08 at 600 nm (equivalent to 1×108cfu/ml). The gas chromatography with flame ionization detector (GC-FID) method was used to determine the total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) of waste engine oil (WEO) containing samples. The spectrophotometric methods were used for the assay of catechol 1,2-dioxygenase (C12O) and catechol 2,3-dioxygenase (C23O) activity. The result of the 16S rRNA analyses of the bacterial isolates confirmed the identity of Carnobacterium gallinarum as 98.71 % and Enterococcus faecalis as 100 %. The degradation profile of Carnobacterium gallinarum and Enterococcus faecalis at varied concentrations (20, 40, 60, 80 and 100 mg/L) of WEO showed significant decline in optical density (OD) values from day 1 to day 7. The decline in OD is an indication of utilization of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) present in the WEO. The result of the gas Chromatography with Flame Ionization Detector (GC-FID analyses) of degraded WEO containing samples revealed the absence of low molecular weight and high molecular weight PAHs after the 7-days degradation study. The presence of HC degrading enzyme in the bacterial isolates was confirmed by the production of C12O and C23O as a result of the formation of cis, cis muconic acid and 2-hydroxymuconic semi-aldehyde respectively. This study revealed that the landfill soil is a potential natural microcosm for WEO degrading bacteria and possesses biologically active HC degrading bacteria population such as Carnobacterium gallinarum and Enterococcus faecalis.
Evaluation of essential nutrients in edible locusts and grasshoppers in Kano Metropolis
Authors: Negbenebor H.E. , Tinuoye O.O. , Nura S.
Published: January 2022

The present study was conducted to evaluate the nutritional composition of edible locusts and grasshoppers sold and consumed in Kano  metropolis, Northwestern Nigeria. Two species of locusts: (Schistocerca gregaria and Locusta migratoria) and two species of grasshopper (Zonocerus variegatus and Ornithacris turbida) were procured from Rimi market Kano. Proximate, mineral and amino acids compositions of the samples were analyzed using standard methods. The results obtained revealed a significant difference (P≤0.05) in the amount of proteins, fats, ash, carbohydrates and moisture contents. Similar result is found in the mineral compositions in terms of Na, Mg, K, Ca, Cu, Zn and Fe. More so, the amino acid composition of the samples was found to be significantly different (P≤0.05). No significant difference was found in the fibre contents. However, high protein (53.23-67.88%), fats (7.55-18.77%) and carbohydrate contents (10.71-16.01%) were found among the insect samples. Similarly, the amount of essential amino acids such as: threonine, valine, methionine and leucine were higher among the insects. It is therefore concluded that, the edible grasshopper and locust contain significant amount of nutritional components that can be beneficial in combating malnutrition and be incorporated in diet therapy.
An evaluation of Maastrichtian-Paleocene source rock interval on the western flank of Niger Delta Basin, Nigeria: Implications for hydrocarbon prospectivity
Authors: Oladotun A.O.
Published: January 2022

Maastrichtian and Paleocene shales recovered from a vertical exploratory well on the western flank of Niger Delta Basin, close to the boundary of the Dahomey (Benin) Basin, were studied for their possible contribution to the hydrocarbon potential of the basin. The organic matter richness, kerogen types, and thermal maturity of the studied shale samples and implications of hydrocarbon generation potential were determined based on results of TOC/Rock-Eval analysis. The Maastrichtian and Paleocene shale samples are characterized by total organic carbon (TOC) values of up to 4.70 wt. % and S2 (hydrocarbon-generating potential) values range from 0.68 to 2.69 mgHC/g rock, indicating poor to fair source potential. The presence of type III and type IV kerogen is indicative of poor-quality organic matter that has the potential to generate gaseous hydrocarbon. This study suggests that the Maastrichtian and Paleocene source rocks on the western flank of the Niger Delta Basin are immature to early mature stage, and could not have generated a commercial amount of hydrocarbon.
Concentration of heavy metals and petroleum hydrocarbons in previously remediated sites in Niger Delta, Nigeria
Authors: George D.S. , Hart A.I. , Osuji L.C.
Published: January 2022

This study was aimed at assessing the soil conditions of previously remediated oil spill sites in the Niger Delta region. Ninety-six (96) soil samples were collected over two seasons from remediated sites from three states (Rivers, Abia, and Imo). Gas Chromatographic (GC) Analysis was used in analyzing for Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon (TPH) content while heavy metals analysis for Lead (Pb), Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu), Chromium (Cr) and Iron (Fe) was done using absorptive spectrophotometric analyses. The data generated was subjected to ANOVA and multiple comparisons, Post-Hoc Tukey HSD test using IBM SPSS version 26.0. Results showed TPH range of 0.85±0.72mg/kg to 1.76±0.42mg/kg in samples from Owaza site in Abia state. Concentration of heavy metals in soil samples was below the standard permissible levels of the World Health Organization and other regulatory bodies such as Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) intervention values, United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), and Environmental Guidelines and Standards for Petroleum Industry in Nigeria (EGASPIN 2002), accepted values for soil samples. There were no effects of season variation observed. Enrichment factor of (323.20- 508.64) and (298.37-567.26) indicates anthropogenic activities as sources of pollution. The result of the current studies signifies that, the soils of previously remediated sites have safe levels of the contaminants; however, werecommended a regular routine check on the levels of contaminants.
Thrombocytopenia in a cohort of primary and secondary antiphospholipid syndrome patients: Relation to clinical, laboratory manifestations and damage index
Authors: Gamal Sherif , Mohamed Samar , Moghazy Abdelkawy
Published: January 2022

Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of thrombocytopenia in a cohort of patients with primary and secondary antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and to examine the relation of thrombocytopenia to the clinical, laboratory findings, and damage index for antiphospholipid syndrome (DIAPS).

Patients and methods: Between August 2018 and February 2019, a total of 168 patients (16 males, 152 females; mean age: 32.5±8.4 years; range, 18 to 59 years) who were followed in our clinic for APS were retrospectively analyzed. Medical records of the patients were screened and clinical data, laboratory investigations, and treatments applied were recorded. The DIAPS was calculated for all patients. The patients were divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of thrombocytopenia and both groups were compared regarding clinical, laboratory findings and DIAPS. Further subgroup analysis was done for patients with primary APS.

Results: The most common clinical manifestations in our patients were obstetric manifestations (77.4% in pregnant women), musculoskeletal manifestations (69%) and peripheral vascular thrombosis (54.8%). The prevalence of thrombocytopenia in our study was 42.3%, and it was significantly associated with musculoskeletal manifestations (p=0.043), vascular thrombosis (p=0.043), neurological manifestations (p=0.030), cutaneous manifestations (p=0.006), and use of immunosuppressives (p=0.047). The DIAPS was significantly higher in the thrombocytopenia group (p=0.034). Further subgroup analysis of patients with primary APS revealed that neurological manifestations (p=0.010) were significantly higher in the thrombocytopenia group, while the DIAPS was higher in the thrombocytopenia group, but it did not reach statistical significance (p=0.082).

Conclusion: Thrombocytopenia may be associated with a higher incidence of vascular thrombosis, neurological manifestations, musculoskeletal manifestations, use of immunosuppressive treatment, and DIAPS. In primary APS patients, thrombocytopenia may be a risk for neurological manifestations.
“The Ballot Humbug”
Authors: Lundström Markus
Published: January 2022

This article explores how anarchist women viewed the feminist struggle for suffrage in the early 1900s. By focusing on this ostensible historical anomaly — women against patriarchy refuting the call for women’s suffrage — the article ventures into a plural history of feminism. The historiographic wave metaphor, typically employed to portray different stages of feminism, is here reimagined as radio waves. Through a variety of publications written by influential anarchist women, the article tunes into a broadcast that airs how anarchy expels patriarchy through a generic struggle against hierarchy. The case of anarchist women and women’s suffrage arguably signposts how to productively invoke plurality in social movement historiography.
The History of Historiography as a Form of Disciplinary Self-Reflection
Authors: Antolović Michael
Published: January 2022

This article addresses the theoretical and methodological conceptions of Georg G. Iggers (1926 –2017) in the context of his work on the history of historiography. In addition to the autobiography written by Wilma and George Iggers, the present study focuses on the main subjects of his research: the emergence and development of German historical scholarship (Geschichtswissenschaft ) from Leopold Ranke to the present, the role of the Enlightenment in the constitution of “scientific historiography,” different forms of New History in the twentieth century, the relationship between Marxism and historiography, and the challenge to historical writing posed by postmodernism and globalization. Moreover, special attention is given to Iggers’ ideas as one of the foremost engaged public intellectuals.
Dealing with Violent Protest in West Germany and the Netherlands
Authors: Pekelder Jacco
Published: January 2022

Political violence is a specific category of participation that is frowned upon in most societies. This article compares how two western-style post war democracies, West Germany and the Netherlands, dealt with violent politics from the left in the 1960s and 1970s. On the macro level, a lack of integrative mechanisms in the West German political system fostered a radicalization that the Netherlands was able to avoid. On the mesolevel of intra-movement dynamics, this also produced different outcomes. While West German radicals such as the founders of the left-wing terrorist Red Army Faction were able to enhance their reputations and find sympathy and support within the broad new left movement family through an embrace of the idea and practice of armed struggle, similar Dutch groups found no footing. Still, it would be a foregone conclusion to deem the Netherlands immune to the kinds of counter-productive policies towards unwelcome forms of political participation that befell West Germany. When the Netherlands was put to the ultimate stress test in 1977 –1978 during a direct confrontation with the RAF, its police, justice system and political apparatus proved nearly as vulnerable to the negative societal dynamics of political violence as their counterparts to the East.
Intervención de prácticas organizacionales para mejorar el clima y la eficiencia organizacional en un grupo de microempresas comerciales
Authors: Montaño Guzmán Malaquías , Sánchez Rodríguez Josué , Aguilar Sosa María
Published: January 2022

Las organizaciones en la actualidad deben preocuparse por la forma en que dirigen y gestionan a su personal ya que el factor humano por hoy es el capital más preciado. La presente investigación tiene como objetivo evaluar un programa de prácticas organizacionales (práctica de planeación estratégica, estructura organizacional, descripción de puestos, resolución de problemas, manual de políticas y procedimientos para el jefe de compras, marketing mix operativo, provisión de personal, evaluación del desempeño, remuneración y compensación, capacitación, registro contable) implementado en un grupo de microempresas comerciales de ferretería en los municipios de Tecuala y Acaponeta, Nayarit, para mejorar su clima organizacional. Se trató de un estudio con enfoque cuantitativo, con un diseño explicativo cuasiexperimental (pretest-postest), además se utilizó la investigación acción participante como metodología.

Los resultados obtenidos fueron que, la implementación de la serie de prácticas organizacionales permitieron un mejoramiento sustancial en la formalización de las prácticas gerenciales, ya que una vez aplicadas se obtuvo una evaluación de acuerdo al PyMe-Jica buena, lo que significa que las prácticas dejaron de llevarse de manera informal y se logró formalizarlas, existe mayor eficiencia organizacional, de igual forma, el clima organizacional paso de malo y regular a regular y bueno de acuerdo a la percepción de los trabajadores. En este sentido, los resultados reportaron una buena percepción en las escalas de estándares de desempeño, recompensa, calor, responsabilidad, riesgo, regular percepción en conflicto, identidad mientras que mala en estructura y apoyo.

Al respecto, las prácticas organizacionales tuvieron una influencia positiva en el clima organizacional, y se comprobó dicha hipótesis, según la prueba de Wilcoxon con un valor significancia de .00 además una potencia estadística de 99%.
Actividad fisica en la actividad laboral del emprendedor para la reducción del estrés
Authors: León Bazán María , Encinas Trujillo Manuel , Henry Mejía Gricelda
Published: January 2022

Este trabajo de investigación se realizó bajo un enfoque metodológico descriptivo-correlacional y se aplicó a una muestra aleatoria simple de 50 emprendedores ubicados en la ciudad de Hermosillo, Sonora, pertenecientes al sector comercio minorista, con una fuerza laboral entre 10 y 250 trabajadores con una antigüedad mínima de tres años en el mercado y que estuvieron en confinamiento causado por la pandemia generada por COVID-19 durante los tres meses comprendidos del 20 de marzo a 20 de junio del 2020, y posteriormente implementaron un programa de actividad física, durante un período de 6 meses posteriores al término del confinamiento. El objetivo es determinar, desde la perspectiva de los emprendedores, cómo la actividad física influye en la reducción del estrés laboral. Los principales resultados muestran que el diagnóstico realizado mostró el impacto que tiene el estrés laboral en los emprendedores de Hermosillo, Sonora, y la necesidad de realizar ejercicios físicos durante la actividad laboral, para reducir los niveles de estrés. Como conclusión final, la realización de ejercicios físicos durante la actividad laboral puede ayudar a mejorar la salud psicológica del emprendedor de tal forma que podría reducir el estrés y reflejarse en su desempeño laboral.