bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mediation, Then and Now: Ang Tharkay’s Sherpa and Memoires d’un Sherpa
Authors: Rak Julie
Published: November 2022

The memoir of Ang Tharkay, a well-known Sherpa mountaineering guide and leader from the early years of Himalayan mountaineering, poses several problems for contemporary readers. The book, Memoires d’un Sherpa (A Sherpa’s Memoir), fell into obscurity after its publication in 1954, but was translated from French and reissued as Sherpa in 2016. Since the original text was heavily mediated by its editor, translator, and transcriber, can we read Sherpa as Ang Tharkay’s life story? I propose that we must, and that we can if we do this sensitively, with an eye for the types of mediation found in each edition and whose needs they serve. Therefore, we need to think about what mediation is, whose interests its serves, and how it works in the making and reading of Sherpa. Mediation in memoir discourse affects any account, past and present. Knowing how mediation works in Ang Tharkay’s memoir is essential to hearing what climbers from Nepal had to say in the 1950s, and how it is possible, and imperative, to hear their voices now, in all their complexity, in order to challenge romantic ideas about Sherpas which persist in mountaineering writing. In so doing, we can connect the stories of early Sherpa climbers about labor issues to the concerns Sherpa climbers write about today.
Literature as Testimony: The Poetics of Memory in Poetry
Authors: Rogova Gaxha Blerina
Published: November 2022

This article examines the representation, transmission, and circulation of war memory, and the role of personal and collective memory in shaping meanings, attitudes, and identities. The discussion will alternate between two aspects of the topic: the particular claim to truth that witness literature puts forward, and the process that leads from catastrophe to creativity, turning the victim into a writing witness who can undo forgetting and denial. War memory and its intersection with the concept of trauma is explored in the works of authors Xhevdet Bajraj and Ivana Bodrožić, renowned poets of contemporary literature in their respective countries. Their views provide a geopoetic and cultural background for a theoretical discussion of literary and cultural aspects of war memory. The main objective is to examine the concept of poetry as testimony and its relevance to contemporary literature in Croatia and Kosovo. The theorizing introduction is followed by poems by authors, but at the end there is a theoretical offshoot on the topic.
Análisis de la incidencia del cambio climático en especies de aves amenazadas en los Andes peruanos: modelos de distribución y propuestas de conectividad
Authors: Cuentas Romero María Alejandra
Published: November 2022

El cambio climático es una grave amenaza para ecosistemas de montaña y especies representativas como las aves. Se seleccionaron seis especies de aves amenazadas presentes en los Andes del Perú. El objetivo de la investigación es identificar potenciales cambios en la distribución espacial de aves amenazadas en el futuro (2050). Para ello se utilizaron tres Modelos Climático Globales (GCM) y un escenario de las Vías de Concentración Representativas (RCP) 8.5, y se trabajó con MAXENT. Los resultados de la modelización muestran cambios significativos en el tamaño del área de ocupación. Todas las especies presentan una alta o considerable contracción del área potencial de distribución. Los posibles cambios plantean la cuestión sobre la capacidad de las áreas protegidas (AP) frente al cambio climático, dando paso a propuestas de conservación como corredores de menor coste. Se concluye que los Modelos de Distribución de Especies (MDE) son una herramienta de gran utilidad para las respuestas espaciales de las especies. Los resultados son una posible aproximación del movimiento inminente de las especies ante la reducción del hábitat potencial disponible. Finalmente, se enfatiza en la importancia de concentrar esfuerzos de conservación en función de la movilidad de las aves debido al cambio climático.
A New Proposed Model to Estimate Compressive Strength of Brick Masonry Prisms
Authors: Alrudaini Thaer M. Saeed
Published: November 2022

This study presents a new model to estimate the compressive strength of masonry prisms considering both crashing and splitting failure mechanisms of the masonry prisms. The model is developed considering a probability of events by defining the resulted failure of the masonry prism as the main event. On the other hand, the different modes of failure including crushing of brick units, crushing of mortar under compression stresses and splitting of the brick units and mortar under bilateral stresses have defined as sub-events of the resulted failure. Eventuaaly, the developed model is verified against extensive results of experimental tests of masonry prisms that published by other researchers. A comparison is conducted between the estimated strength and the experimental results as well as those obtained from several available models in term of statistical measures. Comparison results reveal that the new proposed equation exhibits very good agreement with experimental results and shows the best accurate estimations with less deviations compared with the other available equations. The new proposed equation shows a mean value of the experimental to the estimated compressive strength of masonry equals to 1.01 ± 0.35 and a coefficient of variations equals to 35.12 %.
Physico-Mechanical Characteristics of Limestone Blocks from the Republic of Moldova
Authors: Albu Doina Cezara
Published: November 2022

The present experimental study aims to contribute to the knowledge of the physical-mechanical properties of limestone blocks quarried in the Republic of Moldova. Apparent density, water absorption and compressive strength are examined based on laboratory work. The masonry material - limestone blocks are characterized both in comparison with other types of masonry materials and by comparing the compressive strength with other types of limestones. The analysed limestone samples were taken from 3 limestone quarries located in different areas on the territory of the Republic of Moldova. The results showed that limestone blocks from Moldova have better properties than AAC and some bricks. The materials used in the experimental work were selected to be representative of the mechanical characteristics present in old and existing buildings in Chisinau. This research is significant for the variation of the physical-mechanical properties of Moldovan limestone blocks compared to the same properties of other types of masonry blocks.
Fabrication of Poly(Vinyl) Alcohol-Cellulose Nanocrystal Hybrid Aerogel
Authors: Samat Noorasikin , Nasrudin Raimi Faizi , Engliman Nurul Sakinah
Published: November 2022

In this paper, a series of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) aerogels hybrid with cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) was successfully prepared using freeze-drying process. The influence of different fractions of CNC and crosslinking agent; glutaraldehyde (GA) on the mechanical of PVA/CNC hybrid aerogels property was evaluated by means of compressive strength. Results show that the mechanical property of hybrid aerogels has been improved with the addition of CNC and GA. Variation in the CNC and GA content also led to differences in the porous structure morphologies. Nevertheless, higher content of GA caused adverse effect to the strength of hybrid aerogel which associated to the excessive crosslinking and smaller number of pores formation as evident from scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis.
Facebook for Sentiment Analysis: Baseline Models to Predict Facebook Reactions of Sinhala Posts
Authors: Jayawickrama Vihanga , Weeraprameshwara Gihan , De Silva Nisansa , Wijeratne Yudhanjaya
Published: November 2022

Research on natural language processing in most regional languages is hindered due to resource poverty. A possible solution for this is utilization of social media data in research. For example, the Facebook network allows its users to record their reactions to text via a typology of emotions. This network, taken at scale, is therefore a prime dataset of annotated sentiment data. This paper uses millions of such reactions, derived from a decade worth of Facebook post data centred around a Sri Lankan context, to model an eye of the beholder approach to sentiment detection for online Sinhala textual content. Three different sentiment analysis models are built, taking into account a limited subset of reactions, all reactions, and another that derives a positive/negative star rating value. The efficacy of these models in capturing the reactions of the observers are then computed and discussed. The analysis reveals that the Star Rating Model, for Sinhala content, is significantly more accurate (0.82) than the other approaches. The inclusion of the like reaction is discovered to hinder the capability of accurately predicting other reactions. Furthermore, this study provides evidence for the applicability of social media data to eradicate the resource poverty surrounding languages such as Sinhala.
Expectations of learner nurses in sampled clinical areas of the Limpopo province, South Africa
Authors: Mafumo Julia L. , Netshikweta Mutshinyalo L.
Published: November 2022

Background: Nurse training in South Africa requires placing learner nurses in real-life setting for them to gain practical experience. To complete their training and be competent practitioners, learner nurses must have expectations and aspirations when they go for practice.Aim: This study sought to understand learner nurses’ expectations at clinical learning areas during placement.Setting: Four clinical learning areas in the Limpopo province were purposely sampled. Tertiary, regional and district hospitals were sampled to obtain information from different levels of care.Methods: A qualitative, descriptive and contextual design was used to explore the expectations of learner nurses during clinical placements. Permission to conduct the study was obtained from various bodies and ethical considerations were ensured. Nonprobability purposive sampling was used, and six focus groups were formed. Each focus group discussion (FGD) had six to eight participants. The FGDs were according to level of study, with the third and fourth levels each having two FGDs because of the number of participants.Results: The following three themes emerged: milieu in the clinical learning areas, learning in the clinical areas and self-actualisation.Conclusion: The clinical learning areas are institutions of promoting learning through practice. They should promote learning and offer support to learners so that learners meet their expectations, which may prevent discouragement and attrition.Contribution: This study adds to the body of knowledge in nursing education and practice because when students’ expectations are met, their training outcome might be positive leading to competent professional nurses.
Experiences and coping strategies of parents living with adolescents misusing nyaope substance
Authors: Masombuka Jan , Mathibela Faith
Published: November 2022

Background: Nyaope is a South African substance whose usage continues to escalate among young people. Regrettably, the negative effects of this scourge impact not only the misusers but also their parents who unavoidably have to endure the problems associated with their adolescents’ dependence.Aim: The study sought to explore the experiences and coping strategies of parents living with adolescents who misuse nyaope.Setting: The study was undertaken in Soshanguve township, situated in the north of the city of Tshwane in the Gauteng province of South Africa.Methods: Using a qualitative approach, the study adopted dimensions of both explorative and descriptive designs to develop an in-depth understanding of experiences and coping strategies of parents living with adolescents who misuse nyaope in Soshanguve Township. Individual face-to-face semistructured interviews through purposive sampling were conducted by the researchers to collect data from eight parents of such adolescents.Results: Three themes emerged, namely parents’ experiences of how they detected the onset of the adolescents’ misuse of nyaope, effects of adolescents’ misuse of nyaope on parents and family as a whole and parents’ coping strategies in dealing with the adolescents.Conclusion: From the shared stories, it is evident that parents are overly concerned about the extent of damage cause by adolescents’ misuse of nyaope within the family system.Contribution: This study will enable scholars in the field of substance misuse to conduct further research on the phenomenon and generate new knowledge that will contribute towards formulating future policies and implementing new intervention strategies.
Disclosure of HIV status to children: Pattern followed by parents and caregivers
Authors: Dlamini Cebsile P. , Matlakala Mokgadi C.
Published: November 2022

Background: Disclosure of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) status may be perceived as simply the process of revealing a person’s HIV status, whether positive or negative. Despite the emerging evidence of the benefits of disclosure, who, when and what to disclose to a HIV infected child remains a challenge. Aim: This article reports on the patterns of HIV status disclosure to infected children by their parents and caregivers. Setting: The study was conducted in the outpatient clinic of one referral hospital offering comprehensive HIV care in the Lubombo region, eSwatini. Methods: A qualitative descriptive design was followed. Data were collected through semi-structured individual interviews; with a purposive sample of 13 parents and caregivers whose children were on antiretroviral treatment, and collecting treatment from the specific outpatient clinic. Audio recorded data were transcribed verbatim, thematic content analysis was done, and used to organise and present the findings. Results: Four themes that emerged in relation to the topic of patterns of disclosure were disclosure of HIV status as a process rather than an event, person to disclose the HIV status to the child, the appropriate age to disclose HIV status to a child and type and amount of information to give in relation to the HIV status. The proposed person to disclose the HIV status to the infected child was the parent or caregiver involved as the primary carer of the child. There was no agreeable appropriate age to disclose HIV status to an infected child; and the type and amount of information to disclose varied with the individuals depending on what prompted disclosure. Conclusion: HIV disclosure to children demands parents’ and caregivers’ participation and their knowledge of child development.
A framework for implementation of community orientated primary care in the Metro Health Services, Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Mash Robert , Goliath Charlyn , Mahomed Hassan , Reid Steve , Hellenberg Derek , Perez Gio
Published: November 2022

In South Africa national policy on re-engineering primary health care (PHC) supports the implementation of ward-based outreach teams with community health workers. In the Western Cape a community–orientated primary care (COPC) approach has been adopted in provincial goals for 2030 and key strategies for improvement of district health services. This approach is expected to improve health and also save costs.A task team was established in the Metropolitan Health Services to develop an implementation framework for COPC. The framework was developed in an iterative process with four learning sites in the metropole over a period of 18-months. The framework consists of 10 inter-related elements: geographic delineation of PHC teams, composition of PHC teams, facility-based and community-based teamwork, partnership of government and non-government organisations, scope of practice, information system, community engagement, stakeholder engagement, training and development of PHC teams, system preparation and change management.This framework was implemented at the four learning sites and is now being taken to scale and further assessed in the metropole.
Case study of dyslexia
Authors: Stohr Thelma
Published: November 2022

No abstract available.
Hearing aids and "deaf" education
Authors: Rycroft D. K.
Published: November 2022

No abstract available.
Table of Contents Vol 36, No 1 (2021)
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: November 2022

No abstract available.
Obituary: Miss G.M. Sutherland
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: November 2022

No abstract available.
The attitude of the medical profession to chiropractic
Authors: De Klerk J. N.
Published: November 2022

No abstract available.
Concepts in early sensory development
Authors: Blacha Sarah F.
Published: November 2022

Various factors which contribute to perceptual development and the close relationship of sensory and motor influences to normal development are discussed in the hope of encouraging therapists who work in the developmental field to incorporate appropriate, graded sensory stimuli into their treatment repertoire. The sensory-motor link and the importance of tactile and vestibular systems to the normal development of a perceptual schema are discussed.
Views of obstetricians and hysiotherapists on ante-natal preparation for childbirth
Authors: Fish B. , Chalmers B. , Meyer D.
Published: November 2022

Obstetricians’ and physiotherapists' views of ante-natal childbirth preparation classes were examined by means of a postal questionnaire. Responses of 108 obstetricians and 57 physiotherapists revealed some marked differences in perceptions of childbirth classes offered by physiotherapists. In general physiotherapists' views were most favourable while obstetricians views were less so. Differences between physiotherapists’ and obstetricians’ views regarding the relevance of, and emphasis placed on, topics in childbirth preparation courses were also revealed. Data must, however, be viewed with caution due to the low response rate obtained.
Report on the 19th National Council Meeting
Authors: Beenhakker J. C.
Published: November 2022

No abstract available.
Editorial
Authors: Beenhakker J. C.
Published: November 2022

No abstract available.
Guest Editorial: Challenges facing the new South Africa
Authors: Goodman Muriel
Published: November 2022

No abstract available
The Effect of Tamoxifen Citrate on Granulosa Cells of Ovarian Follicles in Adult Female Rats: Light Microscopic Study
Authors: Aljassim Fatimah Khalil , El-Sheikh Amal Ahmed , Motabagani Mohamed A.
Published: November 2022

Background:

Tamoxifen is a drug that has been used extensively as a chemotherapeutic agent for breast cancer. It should be taken for a long period, from few weeks up to many years, so it can induce gynecological and nongynecological complications.

Aim:

Present study was conducted to clarify the histopathological effects of tamoxifen intake on the ovarian follicles of rats and evaluate the promising recovery after drug withdrawal.

Materials and Methods:

Adult female albino rats (n = 24) were randomly divided into four groups. Group I: Control rats without treatment. Group II: Rats received olive oil vehicle. Group III: Rats received 5 mg/kg daily of tamoxifen dissolved in olive oil by oral administration for 4 weeks. Group IV: Rats received tamoxifen as in Group III then will be kept for another 4 weeks without treatment for recovery. Then, the rats were anaesthetized and the ovaries were removed and prepared for histological assessment by light microscope.

Results:

The ovarian histological findings in the ovary of Group III revealed an increase in atretic ovarian follicles, appearance of cystic ovarian follicles, and cystic corpus luteum. The granulosa cells of ovarian follicles were disorganized with vacuolation of their cytoplasm, increased number of pyknotic nuclei, fragmented nuclei, and apoptotic bodies. After the withdrawal of drug, the ovarian tissue showed slight improvement with the appearance of some atretic follicles with degenerated oocyte and stromal hyperplasia.

Conclusion:

Based on the results, tamoxifen induced marked histological changes in the ovary. If tamoxifen is mandatory for the prevention of breast cancer, frequent gynecological examination should be carried out to detect any side effects.
To Study the Impact of Different Optimization Methods on Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy and Volumetric-Modulated Arc Therapy Plans for Hip Prosthesis Patients
Authors: Singh Pawan Kumar , Tripathi Deepak , Singh Sukhvir , Bhushan Manindra , Kumar Lalit , Raman Kothanda , Barik Soumitra , Kumar Gourav , Shukla Sushil Kumar , Gairola Munish
Published: November 2022

Purpose:

To study the impact of different optimization methods in dealing with metallic hip implant using intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) techniques.

Materials and Methods:

A cohort of 16 patients having metallic implants was selected for the study. Three sets of IMRT and VMAT plans were generated. Set 1 IMRT (IM_Base), VMAT (VM_Base) without any restrictions on beam entry and exit, set 2 (IM_ENT and VM_ENT) optimizer restricts the beam entry and set 3 (IM_EXT+ENT), neither entry nor exit doses were allowed toward the metallic implant.

Results:

There was no significant difference in target (D95%) and organ-at-risk doses between IM_Base and IM_ENT. There were significant (P = 0.002) improvements in planning target volume (PTV) V95% and homogeneity from IM_EXT+ENT to IM_ENT. There was no significant difference in plan quality between VM_Base and VM_ENT. There were significant (P = 0.005) improvements in PTV, V95%, homogeneity from VM_EXT+ENT to VM_ENT. V40Gy, V30Gy for bladder, rectum, bowel, and bowel maximum dose decreases significantly (P < 0.005) in IM_ENT compared to IM_EXT+ENT, but not significant for VMAT plans. Similarly, there was a significant decrease in dose spill outside target (P < 0.05) comparing 40%, 50%, 60%, and 70% dose spills for IM_ENT compared to IM_EXT+ENT, but variations among VMAT plans are insignificant. VMAT plans were always superior to IMRT plans for the same optimization methods.

Conclusion:

The best approach is to plan hip prosthesis cases with blocked entry of radiation beam for IMRT and VMAT. The VMAT plans had more volumetric coverage, fewer hotspots, and lesser heterogeneity.
Two-Way Data Processing Technology for OPGW Line of Distribution Power Communication Networks
Authors: Liu Xinzhan , Zhang Zhengfeng , Du Bin
Published: November 2022

Promoted by information technology and scalable information systems, optical fiber composite overhead ground wire (OPGW) can not only improve the use efficiency of power towers, but also give full play to the dual role of communication optical cable and ground wire, due to the advantages of high reliability, excellent mechanical performance and low cost. The effective processing of the data from OPGW can effectively promote the wide application. In this paper, we study the two-way data processing technology for OPGW line of distribution power communication networks, where a single relay node assists the two-way data processing in time-division multiplexing mode. We evaluate the influence of the model parameters on the system data processing performance by investigating the outage probability, whereas the analytical and simulation results are demonstrated to show the effectiveness of two-way data processing for the OPGW communication. The results in this paper provides important reference for the development of OPGW communication and scalable information systems.
Knowledge of Puerperal Psychosis among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinic in Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex, Ile-Ife, Osun State
Authors: Ademiliyu Helen , Oyeyemi Olajumoke Oyelade , Adebiyi Munirat Olayinka , Adewole Grace Ololade , Emmauel Olufemi Ayandiran , Olufemi Oyediran
Published: November 2022

Objectives: Puerperal psychosis is the most severe and uncommon form of postnatal mental illness, with rates of 1-2 episodes per 1000 deliveries. The clinical onset is rapid, with the symptoms presenting as early as the first 2 to 3 days postpartum and the majority of episodes developing within the first 2 weeks after delivery. Therefore, this study seeks to assess the knowledge of causes/risk factors, signs & symptoms, effects, and treatments/prevention of puerperal psychosis among pregnant women.

Design: This descriptive study utilises a crosssectional design for data collection. The study was carried out at Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex, Ile-Ife among pregnant women attending the antenatal clinics to assess their knowledge about puerperal psychosis. A sample of two hundred and fifty-five pregnant women was included in this study using the purposive sampling technique. Data collection was done through a self-administered structured questionnaire and the data collected were analysed using a statistical package for the social sciences version.

Results: The result of this study showed that about one-fifth of the respondents had good knowledge of the causes/risk factors of puerperal psychosis, one-fourth had good knowledge of signs, symptoms, and effects of puerperal psychosis while the majority of the respondents had good knowledge on treatment/prevention of puerperal psychosis. Generally, this study concludes that about onefourth of the respondents attending the antenatal clinic in Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex, Ile-Ife, had good knowledge about puerperal psychosis.

Conclusion: This study concludes that although the majority of the respondents possess good knowledge of treatment and prevention of puerperal psychosis, only a few had good knowledge of the causes/risk factors as well as knowledge of signs, symptoms, and effects of puerperal psychosis.
Constellated in a flash: on the dialectics of seeing (beyond stasis) in Zoë Wicomb’s work
Authors: Van der Vlies Andrew
Published: November 2022

This essay considers the photograph as representation and metaphor in select work by Zoë Wicomb (b. 1948). It asks how the photograph functions in her prose fiction and criticism in service of a recuperation of late- and postapartheid stasis in potentially affirmative vein. Many of Wicomb’s most illuminating essays and many of her fictions – from her debut, You Can’t Get Lost in Cape Town (1987), to the most recent, Still Life (2020) – engage with photographs, drawing in highly suggestive ways on vivid descriptions of acts of seeing that are indebted to photographic theory. What, I ask, is constellated in the moment captured in the photograph represented in Wicomb’s fiction, as well as in the moment of engagement with the image – by her characters, or by Wicomb herself (including as critic)? How does the photograph function in Wicomb’s reimagination of the possibilities for ethical engagement with otherness beyond the stasis of South Africa’s long post-transition, post-postapartheid moment?
“There is Another Woman in the Story”: counterfactuality and re-mythification in Jennifer Makumbi’s Kintu
Authors: Kwanya Joseph
Published: November 2022

This paper discusses how Jennifer Makumbi’s Kintu (2014) undercuts the androcentric Buganda myth of creation by offering an alternative version of the narrative and unpacking the silent treatment of female figures. The discussion pays attention to how Makumbi recasts the myth as a historical event, destabilises its images and objects, and then again mythologises this event to present women in a different light where they are assigned new roles. I employ a counterfactual feminist approach to tease out how the narrative contests the linearity of both the myth and the Buganda nationalist histories that have always sought to return to the myth for purposes of a unified identity. The article argues that by counterfactually reworking a popular Buganda myth of origin, the narrative desacralises it and reveals that women in Buganda’s past have more complicated histories than what the masculinist narratives have always presented.
Perception de la fertilité des sols et stratégies d’adaptation des producteurs agricoles à Samandéni (Burkina Faso)
Authors: Ouedraogo Arnaud , Kabore Fidèle , Kabore Oumar
Published: November 2022

La dégradation des sols cultivés constitue l’une des contraintes majeures limitant la productivité de l’agriculture en Afrique sub-saharienne et au Burkina Faso. La présente recherche vise une meilleure compréhension des pratiques et perceptions des producteurs agricoles de Samandéni, afin d’aboutir à des solutions d’amélioration de la fertilité des sols. Le thème retenu à cet effet est : Perception de la fertilité des sols et stratégies d’adaptation agricole des producteurs à Samandéni (Burkina Faso). La démarche adoptée a consisté à effectuer des enquêtes socio-économiques par administration de questionnaire auprès de 105 ménages agricoles, et des entretiens auprès de personnes ressources, à des observations directes sur le terrain et à l’analyse des résultats des tests de laboratoire. La recherche a révélé que les paysans sont en majorité conscients de la baisse de fertilité des sols (62%). Leurs stratégies d’adaptation sont l’apport de la fumure organique (25%) et d’engrais minéraux (85%), l’utilisation des cordons pierreux (34%), le recours à la Régénération Naturelle Assistée (RNA) (12%) et à la jachère (10%). Des nouvelles stratégies agricoles doivent être renforcées, prenant en compte les connaissances endogènes des paysans afin d’optimiser les résultats escomptés.

The degradation of cultivated soils is one of the major constraints limiting agricultural productivity in sub-Saharan Africa and in Burkina Faso. The present research aims at a better understanding of the practices and perceptions of agricultural producers in Samandéni, in order to find solutions for improving soil fertility. The theme chosen for this research is: Perception of soil fertility and agricultural adaptation strategies of farmers in Samandéni (Burkina Faso). The approach adopted consisted of socio-economic surveys by administering questionnaires to 105 farm households, interviews with resource persons, direct observations in the field and analysis of laboratory test results. The research revealed that the majority of farmers are aware of the decline in soil fertility (62%). Their coping strategies are the use of organic manure (25%) and mineral fertilisers (85%), the use of stone barriers (34%), the use of Assisted Natural Regeneration (ANR) (12%) and fallow (10%). New agricultural strategies need to be strengthened, taking into account the endogenous knowledge of farmers in order to optimise the expected results.
Practices and damages encountered by wholesale traders during 'Kponan' yams (Dioscorea cayenensis-rotundata) storage in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Kouadio Yapo Hypolithe , Kouassi Kouakou Nestor , Kouassi Kouadio Benal , Ouattara Djénébou Marie Corine , N’dri Yao Denis , Amani N’Guessan Georges
Published: November 2022

Yam wholesalers who practice speculative storage sometimes suffer significant losses the level of which has been little studied. Thus, this work was carried out to study the practices and deterioration factors of 'Kponan' yam during storage. To achieve this, 51 yam wholesalers in 4 communes of Abidjan (Abobo, Adjamé, Yopougon and Treichville) were interviewed using a survey form. The data showed that according to storage practices, yams are preferentially grouped by variety (100%) and old yams separately (88.2%). Wholesalers (94.1%) regulate the storage temperature either by fans (23.5%), by air openings in the wall (25.5%), or by fans and air openings in the wall (45.1%). Decay was the most common damage among all wholesalers (100%), followed by weight loss (52.9%), mold (35.3%), injury (29.4%), cracking (23.5%), and sprouting (17.6%). Heat was the main cause of yam damage, followed by moisture (82.3%), animals (31.4%), field storage conditions (17.6%), chemical use during cultivation (17.6%) and sprouting (17.6%). This study shows that the storage and temperature control techniques employed by wholesalers are far from mitigating the heat that is the main cause of damage to 'Kponan' yam (Dioscorea Cayenenis-rotundata) during storage.
Evaluation de l’effet d’extrait de Thonningia sanguinea (THOS) a différents taux d’incorporation sur les performances zootechniques de poules locales (Gallus gallus domesticus) en Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Ahouchi Simon Valincourt , Sika Angèle Nygblé , N’dri Lydie Aya , N’Guessan Jean David
Published: November 2022

L’élevage de poules a connu ces dernières années un développement rapide dans de nombreux pays d’Afrique grâce à une assistance sanitaire des animaux et au progrès réalisé en nutrition animale. Les coûts élevés des intrants des aliments des volailles ont suscités la recherche d’intrants de substitution. L’objectif de ce travail était d’évaluer l’effet de l’incorporation de Thonningia sanguinea (THOS) dans l’aliment sur la croissance du poulet local. THOS a été incorporé dans l’aliment à 5% (THOS5), 10% (THOS10) et 15% (THOS15) et comparé à un aliment témoin (THOS0) pour déterminer le meilleur taux d’incorporation pour une croissance optimale des animaux. L’analyse bromatologique a revelé que la poudre de Thonningia sanguinea contient des protéines (22,62% de matière sèche (MS)), des matières grasses (4,77% MS), du calcium (1,36% MS), du phosphore (0,44% MS) des fibres (cellulose brute, 5,33% MS) et sa valeur énergétique est de 2251,73 kcals EM/kg MS. Par contre, la poudre de Thonningia sanguinea ne contient pas d’aflatoxine B1. L’apport énergétique des rations étaient de 3005,98 Kcal/kg, 3064,08 Kcal/kg et de 3009,63 Kcal/kg respectivement pour THOS5, THOS10, THOS15. Cette étude a montré que l’incorporation de THOS à 5% permet une meileure croissance que les autres taux.

The hen breeding experienced these last years a fast development in many countries of Africa thanks to a medical assistance of the animals and with the progress made in animal nutrition. The high costs of the intrants of food of the poultries caused the search for intrants of substitution. The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of the incorporation of Thonningia sanguinea (THOS) in food on the growth of local chicken. THOS was built-in in food with 5% (THOS5), 10% (THOS10) and 15% (THOS15) and compared with a pilot food (THOS0) to determine the best rate of incorporation for an optimal growth of the animals. The bromatologic analysis revelé that the powder of Thonningia sanguinea contains proteins (matter 22.62% dry (ms)), of the fat content (4.77% ms), of calcium (1.36% ms), the phosphorus (0.44% ms) of fibres (crude fibre, 5.33% ms) and its energy value is of 2251.73 kcals EM/kg ms On the other hand, the powder of Thonningia sanguinea does not contain aflatoxine B1. The energy contribution of the rations were 3005.98 Kcal/kg, 3064.08 Kcal/kg and of 3009.63 Kcal/kg respectively for THOS5, THOS10, THOS15.This study showed that the incorporation of THOS with 5% allows a good growth that the other rates.
Essai de la pratique de lombriculture dans les sols dégradés de la ville de Kikwit Province du Kwilu en RD Congo
Authors: Madikani K.E. , Milau E.F. , Koy K.R. , Musibono E.D.
Published: November 2022

Les services écosystémiques fournis par la faune du sol sont primordiaux à la mise en place d’une agriculture écologiquement intensive. L’hinterland de la ville de Kikwit en RD Congo est caractérisé par des sols pauvres, acides et peu fertiles. Ainsi, cette étude avait pour objectif, l’amélioration de la productivité des sols par la production et l’inoculation des vers de terre. Les résultats obtenus ont montré que la production des vers de terre peut être assurée par les déjections des herbivores, dont les crottes de lapins. Il a été observé dans les crottes de lapins au 84e jour de culture en moyenne 83 individus, 3,6 gr et 23,7 cm par individu, respectivement pour l’abondance, le poids et la longueur. Les résultats moyens des paramètres environnementaux observés dans les crottes de lapins au 84e jour de culture étaient de 25,01°C ; 79,63% et 7,2, respectivement pour la température, l’humidité et le pH. Les crottes de lapins ont donc présenté un substrat idéal pour l’élevage des vers de terre dans les conditions édaphoclimatiques de la région de Kikwit. Toutefois, une étude plus poussée sur l’évaluation économique de cette technologie serait incontournable avant toute promotion.

The ecosystem services provided by soil fauna are essential to the establishment of ecologically intensive agriculture. The hinterland of the city of Kikwit in the DR Congo is characterized by poor, acidic and infertile soils. Thus, this study aimed to improve soil productivity through the production and inoculation of earthworms. The results obtained showed that the production of earthworms can be ensured by the droppings of herbivores, including rabbit droppings. It was observed in rabbit droppings on the 84th day of culture on average 83 individuals, 3.6 g and 23.7 cm per individual, respectively for abundance, weight and length. The mean results of the environmental parameters observed in the droppings of rabbits on the 84th day of culture were 25.01°C; 79.63% and 7.2, respectively for temperature, humidity and pH. Rabbit droppings therefore presented an ideal substrate for the breeding of earthworms in the edaphoclimatic conditions of the Kikwit region. However, further study on the economic evaluation of this technology would be essential before any promotion.
Apports socioéconomiques des ligneux exploités au Sahel : cas du bassin d’approvisionnement en bois-énergie de N’Djaména au Tchad
Authors: Kebyei Noé , Ngaryo Fidèle Tonalta , Mbaï-Asbe Betoubam , Doudjindingao Antoine , Moussa Chahad Aouadalkarim
Published: November 2022

La majorité de la population tchadienne continue par s’approvisionner en bois-énergie. Le présent travail vise à identifier les ligneux appréciés par les populations et leurs modes d’utilisations dans les Départements de Baguirmi et de Chari. L’inventaire floristique a été effectué dans 80 placettes. Les enquêtes ont porté sur un échantillon de 300 personnes. Les résultats ont montré que sur le plan botanique 55 ligneuses sont reparties en 19 familles et 34 genres dominées par les Mimosaceae, les Combretaceae et les Fabaceae (16,36% chacune). En ethnobotanique, 16 ligneux sont utilisés dans l’alimentation dont 72,3% dans le Baguirmi et 27,7% dans le Chari. L’artisanat totalise 13 ligneux contre 16 pour le fourrage et 10 pour la construction. Le bois-énergie compte 22 ligneux contre 30 en pharmacopée traditionnelle. L’inventaire floristique totalise 1.285 individus dans le Département de Baguirmi contre 674 individus dans le Chari. Les galeries forestières sont les plus exploitées. Ces différents apports socioéconomiques ajoutés au changement climatique entravent la capacité de résilience des ligneux locaux. Pour faire face à l’action anthropique, l’implication du pouvoir public et ses partenaires, la sensibilisation des populations et la valorisation des résultats de la recherche scientifique sont indispensables pour une gestion rationnelle et durable de ces ressources naturelles.

The majority of the Chadian population continues to stock up on fuelwood. This work aims to identify the woody species appreciated by the populations and their modes of use in the Departments of Baguirmi and Chari. The floristic inventory was carried out in 80 plots. The surveys covered a sample of 300 people. The results showed that botanically 55 woody plants are divided into 19 families and 34 genera dominated by Mimosaceae, Combretaceae and Fabaceae (16.36% each). In ethnobotany, 16 woody are used in food, including 72.3% in Baguirmi and 27.7% in Chari. Handicraft totals 13 woody against 16 for fodder and 10 for construction. Fuelwood has 22 woody species against 30 in traditional pharmacopoeia. The floristic inventory totals 1,285 individuals in the Department of Baguirmi against 674 individuals in Chari. The gallery forests are the most exploited. These various socio-economic contributions added to climate change hinder the resilience capacity of local woody species. To deal with anthropogenic action, the involvement of public authorities and their partners, raising public awareness and promoting the results of scientific research are essential for rational and sustainable management of these natural resources.
Daily and seasonal variation of the nuisance caused by Simulium damnosum s.l. in three epidemiological facies of onchocerciasis (Soubré, Bouaflé and Touba) in Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Simaro Siriki , Ahouty Bernardin Ahouty , Kouadio Isidore Kpandji , Kassi Georges Bohoussou , Koné Minayegninrin , Dosso Amara , Touré Mahama , Sokouri Paulin Didier
Published: November 2022

The stings of the blackflies create a nuisance that hinders the agricultural and fishing activities of rural populations. In order to respond to the concern of the latter, this study was carried out in three epidemiological facies of onchocerciasis in Côte d’Ivoire. The aim of the study was to determine the daily and seasonal variation of blackfly nuisance. To do this, blackflies were captured on humans, identified and dissected. The entomological data revealed a total of 4244 blackflies captured. The comparison between the daily periods and the blackfly nuisance reveals averages of 42.4; 2.03; 22.3 bites/man/ hour and 5.04; 10.06; 27.1 bites/man/hour recorded in the morning, afternoon and evening respectively in Soubré and Bouaflé. In Touba the respective averages of 12.06 and 83.06 bites/man/hour were recorded in the morning and evening. A significant difference was observed between the bite density received during the rainy and dry seasons (χ2 = 4.81; p = 0.022). The bite density recorded in the rainy season was about twice as high as in the dry season (OR=1.87). A significant nuisance due to blackflies appeared in the divisions of Soubré, Bouaflé and Touba and varied seasonally between localities. In order to eradicate this blackflies nuisance, the onchocerciasis control system should eliminate blackflies by various means such as the destruction of breeding sites.
Modeling of the thermal behaviour of free β-galactosidase from palm weevil, Rhynchophorus palmarum Linn. (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) larvae using Equilibrium model
Authors: Kambiré Marius Sobamfou , Gnanwa Jacques Mankambou , Boa David , Kouadio Eugène Jean P. , Kouamé Lucien Patrice
Published: November 2022

β-galactosidases are a class of enzyme widely used as biocatalysts in the food, dairy, and fermentation industries. However, due to their biological origin, enhancement of these enzymes is generally necessary. The effect of temperature upon enzymes is a mandatory stage in rational enzyme engineering. The present work was devoted to Rhynchophorus palmarum Linn. β-galactosidase (Rpbgal) as part of the investigation of insect-derived enzymes for biotechnological applications. The thermal behaviour of Rpbgal has been studied in the temperature range 303-353 K by measuring enzymatic activities in presence of oNPG as substrate. Equilibrium model which gives complete and quantitative description of the effect of temperature on enzyme activity has been used to analyze experimental data. A satisfactorily agreement between the calculated results and the experimental data was obtained. The thermodynamic parameters provided by this model were given. Results showed that Rpbgal is relatively stable and active at 323 K. Temperatures over 330 K produce a significant decrease in the enzyme activity. In the temperature range 331 - 339 K, Rpbgal showed the best thermal stability compared to a commercial β-galactosidase from Aspergillus oryzae.
Evaluation of Physicochemical Properties of Soil under Gum Arabic Tree (Acacia senegal L.) Wild Plantation in Sahel Zone of Jigawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Ampitan T. A. , Adekanmbi D. I. , Ampitan A. A. , Adelakun K. M.
Published: November 2022

Acacia senegal (L), a nitrogen fixing tree and a drought resistant species with potentials to improve infertile soils was planted in Sahel zone of Jigawa State, Nigeria for the production of gum arabic. However, information on the soil physico-chemical properties under plantation in Nigeria is scanty, hence the objective of this paper was to evaluate the physicochemical properties of soil under gum arabic tree (Acacia senegal L) wild plantation in Sahel zone of Jigawa State, Nigeria. Soil samples were collected from four 30 x 30m plots in the plantation and another plot in open land (control). Three replicate soil samples were taken from 0-15 cm, 15-30 cm and 30-60 cm soil depths, analysed for micro and macronutrients using standard methods. Soil texture of the plantation is loamy sand but with slight textural differentiation under the open land. Mean soil bulk density ranged from 1.6 g/cm3 in the plantation to 1.8g/cm3 in the open woodland. The high values of soil bulk density might be ascribed to loss of organic matter as a result of soil erosion and animal grazing which are common occurrences. Results obtained indicated that the ECEC decreased as the soil depth increased and is low in values while the CEC of soils range from 5.57 to 5.97. The physicochemical properties of soils under the plantation were significantly different at P < 0.05 compared with the control an indication that Acacia senegal can gradually improves soil quality and productivity especially in Sahel zone of the northern part of Nigeria.
Effect of MethanolicExtract of Justicia flava Leaves on Biochemical Markers in Male Wistar Rats Fed Crude Oil Contaminated Feed
Authors: Onakorhefe P. , Onyeukwu O. B. , Ohwokevwo O. A. , Achuba F. I.
Published: November 2022

The medicinal potentials of plants have been documented. This study evaluated the capacity of the leaf of Justicia flava methanolic extract (JFME) to alter the biochemical distortions initiated by feeding on diet containing crude oil. Male Wistar albino rats, thirty six, were constituted into nine groups. Each group had six rats. Group 1 had untreated feed. Groups 2 to 4 had untreated feed but were given 100 mg, 200 mg and 300 mg/ kg b.wt of JFME, respectively. Group 5 had untreated feed and given 200 mg/kg b.wt of ascorbic acid as standard. Group 6 was fed with diet containing crude oil (4ml/100g v/w). Groups 7 to 9 were given contaminated feed and 100 mg, 200 mg and 300 mg/ kg b.wt of JFME, respectively. The rats were maintained on these treatments for thirty days and had water ad libitum. Thereafter exposure period, lipid profile, hematological and inflammatory markers in the blood were analyzed using standard methods. Petroleum in feed altered the lipid profile, hematological and inflammatory markers compared to values in positive control rats. However, treatment of the rats with JFME had a positive reversal of these markers close to values in control rats; which compared favorably with ascorbic acid, used as standard. This investigation discovered JFME as a candidate for managing crude oil- imposed health issues.