bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
1997-2017 : An assessment of two decades of immigration in Belgium
Authors: Vause Sophie
Published: April 2021

Résumé

Aujourd’hui plus qu’hier, présenter des chiffres clairs sur l’immigration constitue une nécessité, mais également un défi. Cet article tente de démêler quelques chiffres-clés pour apporter un éclairage sur les flux récents d’immigration et d’asile en Belgique. Ces dernières années, le nombre d’entrées d’étrangers a atteint un niveau historiquement élevé. En 2017, près de 140 000 immigrations internationales ont été enregistrées. Les citoyens de l’UE représentent plus de la moitié de ces immigrations. Derrière une tendance migratoire globalement en hausse depuis la fin des années 1990, des logiques migratoires assez contrastées peuvent être dégagées. Depuis 2014 par exemple, les Français se font devancer par les Roumains dans les immigrations étrangères vers la Belgique, depuis lors en tête de classement. Depuis plus de cinquante ans l’immigration marocaine figure parmi les principaux flux d’immigration, mais cette migration ancienne est freinée récemment par un regroupement familial rendu plus difficile. Les immigrations de Syriens enregistrées en Belgique ont par contre fortement augmenté, plaçant la Syrie dans le top cinq des pays d’origine des immigrants en 2016 et 2017.

Abstract

Today more than yesterday, presenting clear immigration Figures is a necessity, but also a challenge. This article aims to unravel some key Figures to shed light on recent immigration and asylum flows in Belgium. In recent years, the number of entries of foreigners in Belgium has reached a historically high level. In 2017, nearly 140,000 international immigrants were registered. EU citizens accounted for more than half of these immigrants. Behind a migration trend that has been on the rise since the end of the 1990s, contrasting migratory patterns can be identified. Since 2014, for example, the French have been more numerous than Romanians among foreign immigrants to Belgium and have been at the top of the list ever since. For more than fifty years Moroccan immigration has been one of the main immigration flows, but this long‐standing migration has recently been slowed down by family reunification, which has become more difficult. Registered Syrian immigration to Belgium has risen sharply, placing Syria in the top five countries of origin of immigrants in 2016 and 2017.
A study of acute toxicity of dry extracts of the earth almond (chufa) tubers and herb
Authors: Marchyshyn S. M. , Slobodianiuk L. V. , Ivasiuk I. M.
Published: April 2021

The aim of the work – to study the acute toxicity of dry extracts obtained from herb and tubers of the earth almond.

Materials and methods. The objects of research were dry extracts obtained from herb and tubers of the Cyperus esculentus L. (chufa). Acute toxicity of dry extracts, obtained from the earth almond herb and tubers, was studied with V. B. Prozorovskyi’s method on 42 white nonlinear mice of both sexes weighing 21–25 g, divided into groups (each comprising 3 males and 3 females). The studied extracts were administered once intraperitoneally in doses of 1000 mg/kg, 3000 mg/kg and 5000 mg/kg. The animals were observed for 14 days.

Results. Single intraperitoneal administration of dry extracts obtained from herb and tubers of the earth almond at doses of 1000 mg/kg, 3000 mg/kg and 5000 mg/kg did not affect the dynamics of mice’s body weight in comparison with the control group. Experimental and control animals gained weight in accordance with physiological norms. External examination of the animals showed no signs of pathological changes in their condition: the hair and skin were clean, the subcutaneous layer of adipose tissue was moderate, signs of skin damage and inflammatory lesions were not observed on the mucous membranes. Besides, visual estimation of the internal organs condition showed no signs of pathological changes.

Conclusions. According to the results of acute toxicity determination based on the classification by K. K. Sydorov, dry extracts obtained from herb and tubers of the earth almond, can be attributed to class VI toxicity – almost harmless substances, LD50 >5000 mg/kg.
Determination of content of indole alkaloids in cell biomass of Rauwolfia serpentina Benth. ex Kurz tissue culture
Authors: Bieda O. A. , Konvaliuk I. I. , Mozhylevska L. P. , Lukashov S. S. , Kunakh V. A. , Yarmoluk S. M.
Published: April 2021

Cardiovascular diseases are the most common human diseases, hence, the production of cardiological (in particular, anti-arrhythmic) medications from the natural sources is an ever-actual task. Rauwolfia serpentina Benth. is a tropical fruticose plant that is able to produce and concentrate indole alkaloids, especially ajmaline and its derivatives, which are the most effective medications against ventricular arrhythmia with low side effects.

Aim of the study. Determination of the qualitative and quantitative content of indole alkaloids in cell biomass of Rauwolfia serpentina tissue culture, obtained by the prolonged in vitro growth.

Materials and methods. Object: cell biomass of Rauwolfia serpentina tissue culture (K-27 strain), obtained by methods of long-term cell selection in vitro. Alkaloids content determination: TSQ Vantage LC-MS (ThermoFischer Scientific).

Results. 20 indole alkaloids are found in cell biomass of Rauwolfia serpentina tissue culture (K-27 strain). The highest content is registered for ajmaline and its derivatives (0.690 % mass. for ajmaline). The contents of reserpine and yohimbine were found to be as low as 0.009 % and 0.020 %, respectively.

Conclusions. It is established that the content of indole alkaloids is higher in K-27 strain in comparison to natural plant and is stable over more than 30 years of its growth. Total alkaloids content was found to be 2.8 % of dry cell biomass, and total ajmaline-type alkaloids content (including ajmaline) was found to be 1.6 % of dry cell biomass. In contrast, the total alkaloid contents in the natural plant material is reported to be in the range of 0.8–1.3 %.
Assessment of the Impact of Experience Marketing Dimensions on City Loyalty
Authors: Zikienė Kristina , Gagiškytė Laura
Published: April 2021

The article aims to identify the importance of experience marketing dimensions for city residents’ and visitors’ loyalty. The theoretical part of this article analyses the concepts of experience and city marketing, city customers and their importance to the city, and distinguishes the main dimensions of experience marketing in the city. During the quantitative research, the impact of experience marketing dimensions on the loyalty of Kaunas city residents and visitors was determined. Also, using regression analysis the relation between the evaluation of experience marketing dimensions of Kaunas city residents and visitors and the behavioural and attitudinal loyalty was established.
Using water wall like air humidifier
Authors: Čákyová Katarína , Vranay František , Vranayová Zuzana
Published: April 2021

This paper presents experimental results of the study of falling water film evaporation from water wall. The contribution is divided into several parts. The introduction is devoted to the theoretical part of the use, then the prototype of the water wall is presented and its most important parts are described. In order to verify the humidification performance of the water wall, experimental verification under laboratory conditions (climate chamber) was chosen. One task for the definition of water wall evaporation potential is to determine and develop the measuring system, which is clearly defined in article. The present document describes the methodology and boundary conditions during experiments. Plate heat exchanger ensured a water temperature in the system approximately 23 °C hot during all measurements. A total of 4 measurements were performed at different air temperatures and relative humidity. The results showed that at different temperatures and relative humidity of air, the water wall has a different humidification performance.
Improving Tornado Warning Communication for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Audiences
Authors: Senkbeil Jason C. , Griffin Darrin J. , Sherman-Morris Kathleen , Saari Jennifer , Brothers Kimberly
Published: April 2021

Although specialized personal and residential Deaf warning technologies exist, receipt and comprehension of tornado warning information from local television is often delayed or misunderstood because of closed-captioning deficiencies. In order to suggest improvements for the communication of tornado warnings to Deaf and Hard of Hearing (D/HoH) audiences, interviews and a focus group were conducted within the active tornado counties of Alabama. D/HoH individuals generally use more information sources than the hearing population to better understand their risk. Protective action decision-making by our sample was characterized by more hesitation, uncertainty, and indecision than in the hearing population. The most common suggestion for improving tornado-warning communication was to have an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter shown on screen with a local television meteorologist during a tornado warning. A split-screen television product with an ASL interpreter in a remote studio was prototyped showing that this type of live broadcast is possible for local tornado-warning coverage. Several screen formats were evaluated by a focus group with the conclusion that the ASL interpreter should be on the left side of the screen without obscuring any part of the weather broadcast. The split-screen product with an ASL interpreter resulted in full access to all broadcast information, the ability to make immediate safety decisions, and was welcomed with excitement by the focus-group participants. This modification, along with the education and preparedness efforts of the National Weather Service, help remedy the information gaps and comprehension delays of this underserved population.
Precipitation interpolation using digital terrain model and multivariate regression in hilly and low mountainous areas of Hungary
Authors: Schneck Tamás , Telbisz Tamás , Zsuffa István
Published: April 2021

The relationship between precipitation and elevation is a well-known topic in the field of geography and meteorology. Radar-based precipitation data are often used in hydrologic models, however, they have several inaccuracies, and elevation can be one of the additional parameters that may help to improve them. Thus, our aim in this article is to find a quantitative relationship between precipitation and elevation in order to correct precipitation data input into hydrologic models. It is generally accepted that precipitation increases with elevation, however, the real situation is much more complicated, and besides elevation, the precipitation is dependent on several other topographic factors (e.g., slope, aspect) and many other climatic parameters, and it is not easy to establish statistically reliable correlations between precipitation and elevation. In this paper, we examine precipitation-elevation correlations by using multiple regression analysis based on monthly climatic data. Further on, we present a method, in which these regression equations are combined with kriging or inverse distance weighting (IDW) interpolation to calculate precipitation fields, which take into account topographic elevations based on digital terrain models. Thereafter, the results of the different interpolation methods are statistically compared. Our study areas are in the hilly or low mountainous regions of Hungary (Bakony, Mecsek, Börzsöny, Cserhát, Mátra and Bükk montains) with a total of 52 meteorological stations. Our analysis proved that there is a linear relationship between the monthly sum of precipitation and elevation. For the North Hungarian Mountains, the correlation coefficients were statistically significant for the whole study period with values between 0.3 and 0.5. Multivariate regression analysis pointed out that there are remarkable differences among seasons and even months. The best correlation coefficients are typical of late spring-early summer and October, while the weakest linear relationships are valid for the winter period and August. The vertical gradient of precipitation is between one and four millimetres per 100 metres for each month. The statistical comparison of the precipitation interpolation had the following results: for most months, co-kriging was the best method, and the combined method using topography-derived regression parameters lead to only slightly better results than the standard kriging or IDW.
Diversity and local business structure in European urban contexts
Authors: Fabula Szabolcs , Skovgaard Nielsen Rikke , Barberis Eduardo , Boros Lajos , Hedegaard Winther Anne , Kovács Zoltán
Published: April 2021

This article investigates the interconnectedness between neighbourhood diversity and local business structures. For this purpose, interviews with residents and entrepreneurs were conducted in three European cities: Budapest, Copenhagen, and Milan. The results show that diversity in the economic structure of urban neighbourhoods is equally important with regards to residents’ quality of life, the image of the neighbourhood, and local social cohesion. Therefore, the main recommendation is that policy makers should act to preserve the diversity of local business structures, and that the concept of diversity itself should be understood in a broader sense, taking local peculiarities into account.
Die Politische Ökonomie des Strukturwandels: Konzeptualisierung einer „Just transition“ im Rheinischen Braunkohlerevier
Authors: Kolde Lisa , Wagner Oliver
Published: April 2021

Our paper develops measures for a "Just transition" governance as the basis for a political economy in structural change. For a case study in the Rhenish lignite mining area, six expert interviews were conducted with citizens' initiatives, trade unions and representatives of the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. The results show the need for political measures in various areas: While a variety of subsidy policies are being developed for the employees of established companies in the lignite industry, employees of subcontractors receive hardly any support in structural change. The latter are therefore exposed to a high risk of losing their jobs due to the phasing out of coal production. The interviews also showed that land in the Rhenish lignite mining area could become a scarce resource due to the current mining law. The actor-centered institutionalism is used to derive policy measures that meet the needs of the various interest groups. Finally, references are made to both transition management and political economy.
Estimating the Roles of Racism and Homophobia in HIV Testing Among Black Sexual Minority Men and Transgender Women With a History of Incarceration in the HPTN 061 Cohort
Authors: Turpin Rodman , Khan Maria , Scheidell Joy , Feelemyer Jonathan , Hucks-Ortiz Christopher , Abrams Jasmyn , Cleland Charles , Mayer Kenneth , Dyer Typhanye
Published: April 2021

Black sexual minority men (BSMM) and Black transgender women (BTW) have disproportionately high HIV prevalence, making HIV testing critical for treatment and prevention. Racism and homophobia may be barriers to testing among BSMM/BTW, particularly in the context of previous incarceration. We analyzed a subsample (n = 655) of HIV-negative, previously incarcerated BSMM/BTW in the HIV Prevention Trials Network 061 study, generating prevalence ratios and interaction terms testing associations between experienced racism and homophobia with past-year HIV testing. Both racism (aPR = 0.83, 95% CI [0.70, 0.98]) and homophobia (aPR: 0.68, 95% CI [0.48, 0.98]) were associated with lower testing, although their interaction was associated with unexpectedly higher testing (Interaction aPR = 1.77, 95% CI [1.25, 2.49]). Among BSMM/BTW with a history of incarceration, racism and homophobia are barriers to HIV testing. Positive interactions between racism and homophobia could be explained by numerous factors (e.g., resilience, coping) and warrants further study.
Diseños epidemiológicos y dinámica de producción científica en los trabajos de grado de una facultad de odontología colombiana
Authors: Rodríguez Martha Juliana , Sánchez Juan José , Concha-Sánchez Sonia Constanza
Published: April 2021

Determinar el diseño de estudio epidemiológico y la dinámica de producción científica en los trabajos de grado presentados como requisito de grado de los programas de pregrado y posgrado de la Facultad de Odontología de la Universidad Santo Tomás Seccional Bucaramanga.Se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo de corte transversal con la totalidad de los trabajos de grado de la Facultad de Odontología publicados en el Repositorio Institucional. Se incluyó la información proveniente del “registro completo del ítem” de los 479 trabajos que no estuvieran repetidos y que su fecha de publicación fuera posterior a 2014.  Se analizaron las siguientes variables: disponibilidad en texto completo, número de estudiantes, nombre del director, nivel de escolaridad del mismo, número de codirectores, nivel de escolaridad del primer codirector, año de publicación, programa académico, tipo de estudio y divulgación en revistas científicas.  Se calcularon frecuencias y proporciones para las variables cualitativas, y medidas de tendencia central y dispersión para las cuantitativas.Se evidenció que 338 (71,0%) trabajos de grado fueron publicados por pregrado y 360 (75,6%) estaban disponibles en texto completo. Se encontró que 252 (52,9%) correspondían a estudios observacionales; de estos, 237 (94,1%) eran de corte transversal.  Más de la mitad de los trabajos de grado fueron dirigidos por docentes con maestría.  Trece (2,7%) trabajos de grado fueron publicados en nueve revistas científicas de las cuales seis eran colombianas.El diseño epidemiológico más utilizado en los trabajos de grado fue el observacional de corte transversal al verse reflejado en 237 (94,1%) documentos.
El imaginario artístico de “lo vasco”. Prácticas y políticas culturales a finales del siglo XX
Authors: Lekuona Mariscal Ane
Published: April 2021

El artículo analiza el cruce iniciado a partir de los años de la transición entre el discurso cultural del Gobierno Vasco y la difusión reiterada del lenguaje plástico de los escultores que habían participado en los años sesenta en el grupo guipuzcoano Gaur. Se estudian las razones que motivaron esta unión entre las directrices políticas y el imaginario artístico, así como los cambios que se han ido produciendo hasta la actualidad y sus efectos. Por otra parte, se analiza la relación entre dicho fenómeno y la configuración de la historia del arte del País Vasco de la segunda mitad del siglo xx.
Evaluation of hydraulic performance: a case study of etana small scale irrigation scheme: wolaita zone, Ethiopia
Authors: Tadele Demisachew , Taddesse Fitsum , Bekele Meseret
Published: April 2021

The conventional furrow irrigation system is inherently inefficient in wolaita zone, while the suboptimal management and operation (inflow discharge and cutoff time) are considered as one of the main reasons for satisfactory hydraulic performance. Addressing these issues, the furrow irrigation system which is only practiced in the study area was evaluated on three fields under routine farmer management in wolaita zone. The study consisted of field experiments and simulation modeling. Irrigation performance including application efficiency, Potential Application Efficiency, Adequacy and distribution uniformity, runoff ratio and deep percolation ratio of two irrigation events were evaluated using surface irrigation evaluation and simulation Model WinSRFR 4.1.3. The study revealed satisfactory irrigation efficiencies, with higher distribution uniformity and water losses. Therefore, hydraulic performance of the study area had a value of application efficiency (55% to 73%), low quarter adequacy (0.96 to 1.28) and low quarter distribution uniformity (0.89 to 0.96), runoff ratio (7% to 38%) and deep percolation ratio (1% to 25%) on farms. In addition, irrigation over irrigation status practiced was found in study area with the average low quarter adequacy of 1.14. The existing irrigation application efficiencies of irrigated fields at ETANA SSIS are poor having a mean value of AE and LQDU are 62% and 0.93.
Detection of emerging pollutants in ocean waters around king george Island, Antarctica
Authors: Amarante Junior Ozelito Possidonio de , Marcotti-Murua Maccarena , Stephens Felipe Sotomayor
Published: April 2021

Emerging contaminants are a wide group of compounds that include several classes of organic substances. Personal care products, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, industrial additives, monomers and plasticizers are examples of compounds included in emerging contaminants. In this work, four chemicals representing four classes of organic contaminants were investigated: salicylic acid, representing drugs; bisphenol A, a monomer widely used in the production of polymeric products; methylparaben, used as a preservative in cosmetics; and irgarol, a biocide used in agriculture and antifouling paints. A previously validated method based on liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry was employed to determine the trace-levels of those compounds in ocean waters around King George Island, Antarctica. Salicylic acid and bisphenol A were found in many of the 20 samples investigated, which were collected on the northwest and southeast coasts of the island. Methylparaben and irgarol were found at low levels, each with only one occurrence. Although salicylic acid may originate in the biosynthesis of phenylalanine, the distribution and absence of this substance at some points suggest an anthropic origin. Bisphenol A was found in several sampling points, demonstrating contamination by plastics even though no correlation was found between these two compounds.
Geographical and hydrological effects of nubian sandstone formations on ground water in Khartoum State – Sudan
Authors: Ali Alzubair Mohammed Ahmed Hag
Published: April 2021

The research deals with the geographical and hydrological location of Khartoum state within the scope of the Nubian sandstone extension, and the effects of this on groundwater. To achieve this, 9 samples were analyzed from the wells dug in Omdurman, Khartoum and Bahri to identify the structure and composition of layers and depths of water, in addition to 30 other samples for chemical analysis And the physical of some elements to know the specifications of water and its suitability for human use. The research concluded with a number of results, including that there is a difference in the components of the Nubian sandstone, as its percentage in Omdurman is 67%, the number of layers 10 and Khartoum 71% and the number of layers 16, and in Bahri 82% and the number of layers 21 and thus it is higher than Omdurman and Khartoum. Water levels vary even within the region from one well to another in Omdurman, which is located at depths of 490, 690, and 800 feet, and in Bahri, it is located at depths of 530, 690, and 725 feet, and the hose is located at depths of 340, 505, and 585 feet. Soluble, nitrite and mineral compounds are good according to Global standards for water except for a few of them, with the high level of ammonia in Omdurman and Khartoum higher than 0.1mg/l, which is an indicator of pollution.
Inventory Control of Drugs Listed in Private Health Insurance at Pharmacies in South Tangerang using ABC Analysis
Authors: Fahriati Andriyani R. , Suryatiningrum Dwi S. , Saragih Tanti J.
Published: April 2021

Inventory control in pharmacies must be appropriately and effectively maintained to promote continuous drug affordability and availability in the community within the healthcare delivery system. Initially, effective drug planning and procurement are essential to attain proper drug selection, quantification, and procurement based on the consumption pattern with good economic impact and clinical value. Therefore, the ABC analysis method is suggested to be implemented to optimize efficient budget and effective drug planning. This study aimed to investigate the planning and procurement process of drug listed in private health insurance using the ABC analysis method in the pharmacies X and Y. This study was non-experimental study with descriptive analysis utilizing qualitative and quantitative data. Drug enlisted in the private insurance data in 2019 were taken retrospectively. Based on the ABC analysis results, in pharmacy store X, drug listed in group A showed 83 items with the highest investment value of 86.38%, group B showed 102 items with 15.61%, and group C showed 129 items with the lowest investment value of 4.79%. Meanwhile, in pharmacy Y, drug listed in group A showed 87 items with the highest investment value of 89.62%, group B showed 100 items with 7.62%, and group C showed 134 items with the lowest investment value of 2.76%. Using the ABC analysis to manage the drug inventory system could assist pharmacy store X and Y in planning the procurement of drug listed in the private healthcare insurance effectively. Also, taking into account the values of consumption and investment are obtained efficiently.
Antibacterial Activities of Parijoto (Medinilla speciosa Blume) Fruit Extracts Against Clinical Isolates of Salmonella typhi and Shigella dysenteriae
Authors: Milanda Tiana , Barliana Melisa I. , Rosidah Rosidah , Kusuma Arif S.W
Published: April 2021

Medinilla speciosa (M. speciosa) Blume is a plant originating from Mount Muria, Kudus District, Central Java, Indonesia. Its fruit has been used by the local community to treat mouth sores, diarrhea, inflammatory, hyperlipidemia, cancer, bacterial infection and nutrients for pregnant women. However, the antibacterial activity against Salmonella typhi (S. typhi) and Shigella dysentriae (S. dysentriae) is yet unknown. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the antibacterial activities of M. speciosa fruit extracts against clinical strain of S. typhi and S. dysentriae. Plant determination and sample preparation were conducted. The fruits of M. speciosa were extracted by gradual maseration using n-hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol as solvents. Phytochemicals were screened by Fransworth method. Antibacterial activity was determined using agar well diffusion. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) values and comparison study of antibacterial activity were determined. The results showed that all of the extracts exhibited antibacterial activities, with the greatest activity  shown by the methanol extract. This extract was more effective against S. dysenteriae  than S. typhi, as evidenced by the largest inhibition diameter and lowest MIC (25 mg/mL) and MBC (50 mg/mL) values. With regard to the results of phytochemical screening, the antibacterial activity of methanol extract could be due to the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, polyphenols, quinones, saponins and tannins. From the comparative antibacterial activity value indicated that in order to give the same inhibition diameter with 1 ppm of chloramphenicol, 312.3 ppm methanol extract is needed. It can be conclude that M. speciosa fruit has a potential to be developed as natural antibacterial agent, especially to treat bacillary dysentery
Grain quality of mutant lines of six-rowed barley
Authors: Dyulgerova B. , Dyulgerov N.
Published: April 2021

Abstract. The aim of this study was to assess the variation in grain quality traits among mutant lines of winter feed barley. Nine mutant lines derived from the advanced breeding line Kt3029 and 10 mutant lines derived from variety GA-Luttrell along with their parent forms were evaluated. The study was conducted at the Institute of Agriculture – Karnobat during the period 2015-2017. Test weight, 1000-grain weight, the content of protein, starch, lysine, fat, ash, and fibre were determined. Significant differences between the mutant lines and the parent forms for the studied traits were observed. Significantly higher protein content compared to parent was found in the grain of mutant lines 22/1-5, 22/2-10 and 22/1-12 from line Kt3029 and 26/1-1, 26/1-3 and 26/2-11 from variety GA-Luttrell. The grain of mutant line 26/2-12 had the best combination of protein and starch. Mutant lines 22/1-11 and 22/1-12 from Kt3029 and 26/1-1, 26/2-1 and 26/2-12 from variety GA-Luttrell showed a good combination between protein content and 1000-grain weight. Those mutant lines can be included in the breeding program for the development of varieties with improved feed quality.
Utilization of Corchorus olitorius leaf as binder in the diet of Oreochromis niloticus fingerlings
Authors: Oke I.O. , Adeparusi E.O. , Dada A.A.
Published: April 2021

Abstract. This study was carried out to evaluate the physical properties and dietary value of feeds made using Corchorus olitorius as binders in fish feeds. Six isonitrogenous diets were prepared using maize wheat or maize and wheat as energy source. The diets were designated as MAI, WHC, MAW, MAC, WHC and MWC. With the first three being bounded with corn starch and the last three being bounded with C. olitorius leaves soaked for 24 hours and pelleted. Physical properties evaluated are sinking rate, water absorption index, water stability, bulk density, thickness strength, friability and hardness. There was significant differences (p<0.05) in the water stability, water absorption index and thickness swelling of the diet. The highest water stability value was recorded in diet MAW. For growth parameters and nutrient utilization by fish fed experimental diets, diet MWC had a significantly higher mean final weight (9.42±0.41g), mean weight gain (5.43±0.41g), feed efficiency ratio (0.93±0.13) and specific growth rate (1.22±0.06%d-1). There was no significant difference in the feed conversion ratio, mean feed intake, and survival rate. The result shows that diet bounded with C. olitorius leaf had better utilization compared to corn starch bounded feed.
Assessment of morphological variations in wild populations of Nile tilapia from South West Nigeria
Authors: Popoola O.M. , Ebiwonjumi A.
Published: April 2021

Abstract. The pattern of morphological variations among Oreochromis niloticus (Linnaeus, 1758) (Cichlidae; Teleostei) from three populations from South West Nigeria (Asejire reservoir, Ureje reservoir and Ogbese River were examined (n=10 speciments from each water body) with a view to investigate the genetic diversity using morphometrics and meristics indices. In general, 77.22% of the total variation in the sampled populations is from first principal component (PC1) and the characters that contributed to this variation are with pre-dorsal length, pre-pectoral length, pre-anal length, dorsal spine length and anal spine length. Canonical variate analysis (CVA) showed that O. niloticus populations from the three water bodies formed a separate cluster from each other and that there was an intersection between the Asejire and Ureje reservoirs samples and the Asejire reservoir with Ogbese River samples. However, the samples from Ureje reservoir and Ogbese River had no intersection. Cluster analysis revealed two major clusters with Ureje reservoir samples belong to one and Ogbese River and Asejire reservoir fall in the other cluster. Principal Components for meristic (PC1 and PC2) accounted for 46.49% and 24.17% revealed that transverse scales and scales surrounding the caudal peduncle, pre-dorsal scales accounted for the variation. The CVA revealed that of all the populations sampled, samples from Ureje reservoir are more diverse that the other two populations. The research disclosed that there is variation in O. niloticus populations from the three water bodies, which could be a result of genetic structure and environmental conditions, being major factors affecting morphological variability among different geographical populations. Further study on genetic differentiation of individuals from different species is necessary to confirm findings of the present study.
Nutritional and functional attributes of raw and grilled crabmeat
Authors: Moruf R.O. , Taiwo M.A. , Adebayo Q.
Published: April 2021

Abstract. Crab is a good source of animal protein, eaten either as snacks or as part of main meal in Southern Nigeria. The effect of grilling on energy-providing nutrients and functional attributes of Cardiosoma armatum (Herklots, 1851) were determined. The comparison of the raw and grilled crabmeat showed that grilling had considerable effect on the quality of this species. Significant changes (p<0.05) in crude fiber (%), calcium (mg/100g), magnesium (mg/100g), potassium (mg/100g), sodium (mg/100g), and oil absorbing capacity (%) were observed after grilling. Utilizable energy due to protein (60% of protein energy utilization assumed) was comparable in both raw (9.36 kJ/9.27 kcal) and grilled samples (10.92 kJ/10.83 kcal). The ratio, Ca/Mg was high with a little variation between the two samples, having coefficient of variation percent of 12.94%. Only calcium had its Mineral Safety Index (MSI) greater than the standard value for both the raw samples (23.68>10.00) and the grilled samples (13.86>10.00). All the significant energy-providing nutrients have a positive correlation with the investigated minerals except magnesium. Grilling was found to be a suitable cooking process for C. armatum, since it conserved the main energy-providing nutrients and functional characteristics.
Non-parametric decomposition of total factor productivity growth in yam production in North-Central Nigeria
Authors: Isonguyo R.G. , Ojo M.A , Jirgi A.J. , Yisa E.S.
Published: April 2021

Abstract. Non-parametric analysis of total factor productivity change in yam production in North-Central Nigeria from 1992 to 2016 was carried out with the use of secondary data. The secondary production data of yam for that period were collected from Food and Agriculture Statistical (FAOSTAT) data bank. Malmquist Total Factor Productivity Index (MTFPI) based on Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), was used to empirically analyse the total factor productivity of the yam, while Tobit regression was used to analyse the determinants of total factor productivity in the study area. The results of the MTFPI analysis reveal that yam contributed 1.4% of technical efficiency change to productivity growth over the period studied. The technological contributions to productivity growth regressed at 1.8%. The study revealed the productivity growth of yam to be 0.2%. Tobit regression result showed credit borrowed, government policy (Agricultural Transformation Agenda – ATA), capital, and labour to have significant and positive relationships with the productivity of the crop at either p≤0.05 or p≤0.001 level of probability, which implies that increase in them led to increase in the crop’s productivity. Capital-labour was statistically significant but negatively related to yam productivity at p≤0.01, which implied that utilization of labour in a greater proportion than capital led to reduction or regress in its productivity growth. The study recommends farmers’ training on farm practices and techniques to increase yam productivity. They should be encouraged to accept improved yam varieties from research institutes, properly allocate the production resources and adopt improved technology to achieve productivity growth in the study area.
SELF-TIMED LOOK UP TABLE FOR ULAs AND FPGAs
Authors: Tyurin S. F. , Skornyakova A. Yu. , Stepchenkov Y. A. , Diachenko Y. G.
Published: April 2021

Context. Self-Timed Circuits, proposed by D. Muller on the rise of the digital era, continues to excite researchers’ minds. These circuits started with the task of improving performance by taking into account real delays. Then Self-Timed Circuits have moved into the field of green computing. At last, they are currently positioned mainly in the field of fault tolerance. There is much redundancy in Self-Timed Circuits. It is believed that Self-Timed Circuits approaches will be in demand in the nano-circuitry when a synchronous approach becomes impossible. Strictly Self-Timed Circuits check transition process completion for each gate’s output. For this, they use so-called D. Muller elements (C-elements, hysteresis flip-flops, G-flip-flops). Usually, Self-Timed Circuits are designed on Uncommitted Logic Array. Now an extensive base of Uncommitted Logic Array Self-Timed gates exists. It is believed that SelfTimed Circuits are not compatible with FPGA technology. However, attempts to create self-timed FPGAs do not stop. The article proposes a Self-Timed Lookup Table for the Self-Timed Uncommitted Logic Array and the Self-Timed FPGA, carried out either by constants or utilizing additional memory cells. Authors proposed 1,2 – Self-Timed Lookup Table and described simulation results.

Objective. The work’s goal is the analysis and design of the Strictly Self-Timed universal logic element based on Uncommitted Logic Array cells and pass-transistors circuits.

Methods. Analysis and synthesis of the Strictly Self-Timed circuits with Boolean algebra. Simulation of the proposed element in the CAD “ARC”, TRANAL program, system NI Multisim by National Instruments Electronics Workbench Group, and layout design by Microwind. The reliability theory and reliability calculations in PTC Mathcad.

Results. Authors designed, analyzed, and proved the Self-Timed Lookup Table’s workability for the Uncommitted Logic Arrays and FPGAs. Layouts of the novel logic gates are ready for manufacturing.

Conclusions. The conducted studies allow us to use proposed circuits in perspective digital devices.
UNIVERSAL METHOD FOR COMPUTATIONAL MODELING OF THRESHOLD PHENOMENON IN THE NONSTEADY BIOLOGICAL PROCESSES
Authors: Perevaryukha A. Yu.
Published: April 2021

Context. In modern conditions occur abrupt changes in ecosystems. The species composition of Caspian Sea is changing rapidly. The dynamics of populations acquires an extreme character with the development of rapid invasions. The mathematical description of scale transformations requires new modeling methods. Complicated population regimes of changes have features of the threshold phenomenon in process of its development.

Objective. We set the goal of computational modeling of practically important scenarios – groups of situations that relate to extreme and transitional dynamics of ecosystems, like outbreaks at the onset of dangerous invasions. We are developing a method that, on the basis of the survival model of generations, will conduct a description of sudden transitions to rapid but limited outbreak of numbers or, on contrary, a collapse of stocks like Atlantic cod in 1992 or Peruan anchovy Engraulis ringens in 1985. The purpose of our modeling is to improve the accuracy of forecasts of the population size when experts are estimates a rational strategy for the exploitation of biological resources.

Method. Situations of abrupt but short-term changes in population processes cannot be calculated by traditional mathematical models and expressed in terms of asymptotic dynamics – closed limit trajectory sets. The basis of the idea of the method proposed by us is the formalization of nonlinear efficiency of reproduction, which changes in a threshold manner only in strictly defined environmental conditions. We use continuous-discrete time in the model for early ontognosis of the cod fish and insect pests. The method with triggers allows us to take into account in simulation experiments logic and motivation of making decisions by experts, people who manage the strategy of exploiting biological resources. Models assess variability for development of situations

Results. We have implemented new method of bounded trigger functionals into hybrid system of the equations, that acting in selected specific states of biosystems. Analysis of new model scenarios with modifications of functionals in the basic hybrid system for extreme situations in fish and insect pests is carried out.

Conclusions. We consider the method to be universal, since selection of the functional can be adapted to a wide class of models using differential equations on a fixed interval.
“Healing the World”: The Divine Role of Africa-Centered Metaphysics
Authors:   Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education, Tirivangana Augustine Maruva
Published: April 2021

This paper argues that Africa is the cradle of civilization. That civilization evolved out of an understanding of the cosmos as well as the valorization of the metaphysical author of cosmogony. The paper asserts that appreciation of metaphysics created a stable and balanced cosmos. Civilization then meant living in harmony with fellow mankind, with the environment and with the cosmos as a whole. The paper suggests this was based on a clear understanding of the interdependence between the departed as well as the organic relationship between man, animal and nature. Now there is a gap between civilization and technological advancement. The metaphysics of unhu/Ubuntu as enshrined in the living law of Ma’at sank under the weight of capitalism; that pursuit of profit regardless of any moral price. Universal politics is now dictated by the desires of a few who stop at nothing to create a world order where humanity is reduced to a commodity. Wars and more wars have become the order of the day, threatening the whole world with extinction. This paper traces how Africa in particular has lost its metaphysical locus as a result of several foreign –induced imperial interventions culminating in the present intellectual, moral and cultural cacophonies that tear Africans apart. The paper argues that Africa can restore its glory as the citadel of civilization by returning to the “the way”. It is hoped that the whole world would also take a leaf, as it has done before, from Africa’s return to “the way”. The paper contends that the metaphysics of unhu/Ubuntu has this divine role to heal the world of various types of sickness: social, cultural, spiritual, intellectual, psychological and material.
Articulation of Women’s Empowerment Through Poetry: Critical Perspective
Authors:   Department of African Languages and CultureMidlands State University, Zimbabwe, Dlodlo Sindile
Published: April 2021

This is a literary study which analyses poetic works produced by Zimbabwe Women Writers. It seeks to establish the position of women as far as articulation of their emancipation and empowerment is concerned. This is done in the light of the fact that Zimbabwe Women Writers is an organisation which represents both the achievements of women and an arena for women to speak out. The Ndebele anthology Inkondlo (1998) is analysed and in the course of the analysis, Spivak’s (1988) argument of the woman being a subaltern who cannot speak is interrogated. It is the author’s submission that contributions in the anthology Inkondlo actually deconstruct the feminist way of thinking which guides the publisher.
Locating the nihilistic culture within Zimdancehall in contemporary Zimbabwe
Authors:   Department of English & Communication StudiesMidlands State University, Zimbabwe, Mabuto Kudzai , Saidi Umali ,   Midlands State University, Zimbabwe
Published: April 2021

A fusion of the Caribbean, African American and Zimbabwean music genres into the infamous glocalized Zimdancehall music has dulled the significance of other traditionalist Zimbabwean music genres. Dancehall culture has caused much controversy in Zimbabwean society, being blamed for the country’s increase in crime, violence and believed to encourage misogynistic attitudes among Zimbabwean youths through its negative themes. Using appraisal and dramatism theories the article shows the existential crisis the youth in Zimbabwe face due to economic as well as other social forces and thus align themselves to rather destructive misogynistic behaviours which somehow characterises contemporary Zimbabwe. Established in the article is the extent to which language used in Zimdancehall music is socially charged as well as globalized thus influencing youth feelings, emotions and behaviors. The article analyses lyrics of selected songs as well as makes references to selected musical videos from Zimdancehall artistes such as Soul Jah Love, Winky D, Lady Bee and Killer T as prominent artists revealing what has come to be considered contemporary ‘ghetto culture’ within popular culture in Zimbabwe. It is further argued that Zimdancehall has come to shape, inform behaviors, perceptions and aspirations of the Zimbabwean youth largely due to its nature of production as well as dissemination.
Parental Influence on Pupils' Conflict Responses: A Case Study of Tangenhamo Secondary School in Mt. Darwin District, Zimbabwe
Authors: Katiza Andrew , Makwerere David ,   Bindura University of Science Education, Dube Donwell ,   Lupane State University
Published: April 2021

The study investigated the influence of parents on pupils’ conflict responses at Tangenhamo secondary school basing on the Social interdependence theory and Lederach’s Moral Imagination theory using the case study method. Parents directly intervene in pupils’ conflict and can indirectly influence gender considerations, religion and the extended family interrelationship matrix. The peer influence of adolescence is extensively divorced from parents’ factor. Although parents shape gender and religion considerations, individual pupils use them to shape future conflict responses independent to parents. Diversity in factors influencing conflict responses is becoming more pronounced due to media influence and the guidance and counselling offered in schools and the researchers recommend a more diverse conflict resolution partnership including parents in shaping conflict responses of pupils at school. The researchers believe that collaboration between parents and teachers can bring about peace oriented conflict responses in school.
The Similarities and Differences between Earnings Management and Fraud
Authors: Czakowska Sylwia
Published: April 2021

Objective: The main objective of this article is to indicate differences between earnings management and fraud.Research Design & Methods: The research methods applied are based on a critical analysis of the literature on the subject, both in Polish and English, a comparative analysis of legal acts and inductive reasoning.Findings: Earnings management involves intentional and lawful actions undertaken by an entity’s management, aimed at changing the figures it reports, particularly earnings, in order to present the desired picture of the entity’s financial standing and economic position, as well as its achievements in financial statements for the purpose of misleading financial statement users or obtaining benefits guaranteed in managerial contracts. This is achieved by applying accounting judgment and estimates, changing these estimates, choosing specific methods from among the acceptable accounting methods allowed by the applicable accounting regulations, structuring of economic transactions or undertaking actual activities.Implications / Recommendations: Earnings management should not be identified with fraud, as earnings are managed within the framework of legal regulations in the field of accounting and taking account of solutions adopted in the accounting policy of a given entity. However, any abuse in this field, whether it involves departing from or violating the accounting principles or standards, may lead to intentional misstatements in financial statements – that is, fraud in its broad sense.Contribution: Inspiring further development of research on earnings management from the viewpoint of determinants or tools applied.