bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thoracoscopic management of posterior mediastinal neurogenic tumours
Authors: Bishnoi Sukhram , Asaf Belal Bin , Puri Harsh Vardhan , Pulle Mohan Venkatesh , Parikh Manan Bharatkumar , Kumar Reena , Kumar Arvind
Published: June 2022

Background:

This study describes the surgical technique of thoracoscopic resection of posterior mediastinal neurogenic tumours and reporting the surgical outcomes.

Methods:

This is a retrospective analysis of 21 patients operated over 7 years in a dedicated thoracic surgery centre. The demographic and post-operative parameters along with complications were recorded and analysed.

Results:

Twelve patients had right-sided tumours, while 9 had left-sided lesions, and 9 were on the left side. The most common diagnosis was schwannoma (n = 15, 71.42%), followed by neurofibroma (n = 4, 19.04%). The average surgery duration was 104 min (85–135 min), and the mean blood loss was 120 ml (25 ml–250 ml). The average lesion size was 4.8 cm (2 cm–7 cm). Conversion to open procedure was required in one patient. Two patients (14.2%) developed complications. One patient developed Horner's Syndrome and the other developed post-operative lung atelectasis. The median follow-up was 36 months (6–90 months). No recurrence was observed during the follow-up period.

Conclusions:

Thoracoscopic approach to posterior mediastinal neurogenic tumours is feasible and allows for low morbidity, short hospital stay and superior cosmesis.
Multidisciplinary, minimally invasive approach for oesophageal perforations with delayed presentation
Authors: Kumar Arvind , Singla Vikas , Pulle Mohan Venkatesh , Asaf Belal Bin , Puri Harsh Vardhan , Bishnoi Sukhram
Published: June 2022

Background:

The present study aims to report the outcomes of a multidisciplinary, minimally invasive approach to treating patients with delayed presentation of oesophageal perforation.

Patients and Methods:

The present study is a retrospective analysis of prospectively maintained data at a tertiary care centre. All patients with oesophageal perforation presenting over 48 h after the onset of symptoms and without oesophageal obstruction were included in the study. Self-expanding Metallic Stent (SEMS) or endoscopic clip placement was performed in all the patients, followed by video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) debridement and decortication of pleural cavity collection. 'Success’ was defined as, discharge without the need of oesophageal diversion and complete healing of leak site at 8 weeks with successful removal of the stent.

Results:

Between March 2012 and December 2019, 12 patients (10 males, median age of 55 years– range of 39–71 years) with oesophageal perforation and delayed presentation underwent treatment with this approach. Ten patients had spontaneous perforation (83.3%) and one patient each had upper gastrointestinal endoscopy-induced and post-traumatic perforation. The median duration of symptoms was 8 days (range 3–31 days). SEMS was placed in ten patients and, in two patients, an over-the-scope clip was used. VATS decortication was done in ten patients (83.3%) and the remaining two (16.7%) underwent VATS debridement. One patient required oesophageal diversion and another patient expired due to sepsis. The overall success with this approach was 83.3%.

Conclusion:

This multidisciplinary, minimally invasive approach is feasible in patients with thoracic oesophageal perforation and delayed presentation, with a high success rate.
Totally laparoscopic gastrectomy with natural orifice (vagina) specimen extraction in gastric cancer
Authors: Dong Changzheng , Zhou Wei , Zang Yifeng , Ding Yinlu
Published: June 2022

Radical excision by surgery is the main treatment method for gastric cancer and as the surgery develops, the laparoscopic treatment effect on gastric cancer is gradually being verified. The totally laparoscopic gastrectomy (TLG) with natural orifice specimen extraction surgery (NOSES) for gastric cancer has attracted people's attention by avoiding abdominal incision and further reducing surgical injury and provides ideas for the further development of minimally invasive surgical treatment on the basis of laparoscopy. Surgical technique of TLG with natural orifice (vagina) specimen extraction is detailed in the text. We have employed NOSES in 4 cases of TLG in the past year. The visual analogue scale score was low, and all patients had no complications during and after the operation. No recurrence or metastasis was found in the short-term follow-up. TLG with NOSES is feasible and has many advantages such as aesthetics, light post-operative pain.
The outcome of bioabsorbable staple line reinforcement versus standard stapler for distal pancreatectomy
Authors: Elkomos Beshoy Effat , Elkomos Philopateer Effat , Salem Amir Ali , Adly Philobater Bhgat
Published: June 2022

Background and Aim:

In the era of minimally invasive procedures and as a way to decrease the incidence of post-operative pancreatic fistula (POPF), the use of staplers for distal pancreatectomy (DP) has increased dramatically. Our aim was to investigate whether reinforced staplers decrease the incidence of clinically relevant PF after DP compared with staplers without reinforcement.

Methods:

PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane Library were searched for eligible studies from inception to 1 November 2021, and a systematic review and a meta-analysis were done to detect the outcomes after using reinforced staplers versus standard stapler for DP.

Results:

Seven studies with a total of 681 patients were included. The overall incidence of POPF and the incidence of Grade A POPF after DP are similar for the two groups (overall POPF, risk ratio [RR] = 0.85, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.71–1.01, P = 0.06; I
2 = 38% and Grade A POPF, RR = 1.15, 95% CI = 0.78–1.69, P = 0.47; I
2 = 49%). However, the incidence of clinically significant POPF (Grades B and C) is significantly lower in DP with reinforced staplers than DP with bare staplers (Grades B and C, RR = 0.45, 95% CI = 0.29–0.71, P = 0.0005; I
2 = 17%). Nevertheless, the time of the operation, the blood loss during surgical procedure, the hospital stay after the surgery and the thickness of the pancreas are similar for both techniques.

Conclusion:

Although staple line reinforcement after DP failed to prevent biochemical PF, it significantly reduced the rate of clinically relevant POPF in comparison to standard stapling.
Comparative study on gasless laparoscopy using a new device versus conventional laparoscopy for surgical management of postmenopausal patients
Authors: Hwang Jong Ha , Kim Bo Wook
Published: June 2022

Objective:

To compare gasless laparoscopy with conventional laparoscopy for the surgical management of postmenopausal patients.

Methods:

The medical records of 80 postmenopausal patients who underwent laparoscopic surgeries between February 2016 and February 2020 were reviewed. Forty patients underwent gasless laparoscopy and 40 patients underwent conventional single-port access (SPA) laparoscopy. The two groups were compared in terms of surgical outcomes.

Results:

Of 80 patients, 42 underwent adnexal surgeries and 38 underwent uterine surgeries such as total hysterectomy or myomectomy. Between the gasless SPA and conventional SPA laparoscopic groups, no significant differences were observed in terms of age, body mass index, parity or history of previous abdominal surgery. The mean retraction setup time from skin incision was 6.8 ± 1.2 min with gasless laparoscopic surgery. There was no significant difference in mean total operation times for the gasless (71.3 ± 31.4 min) and conventional (82.5 ± 36.4 min) groups. There was also no significant difference between the groups in terms of operation type, laparotomy conversion rate or duration of hospitalisation. There were no major complications in either group.

Conclusions:

Gasless laparoscopy is a safe and feasible alternative to conventional laparoscopy for postmenopausal women.
E-test antifungal susceptibility profile of Candida spp. associated with vulvovaginal candidiasis in patients of Manipur
Authors: Naorem Sudipta , Singh Yanglem Ajit Kumar , Singh Yendrembam Randhir Babu , Laiphrakpam Ranjit Singh , Khuraijam Ranjana Devi
Published: June 2022

Background

and
Objectives: Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is one of the most common vaginal infections during fertile period of women. An increase in the prevalence of non-albicans Candida which are resistant to commonly used antifungals has been documented. Therefore, studying the antifungal susceptibility pattern of the causative agents is of great significance in successfully treating the ailment and understanding the local data.

Materials and Methods:

Forty-six Candida spp. isolated from VVC patients were subjected to antifungal minimum inhibitory concentration testing for itraconazole, fluconazole, and voriconazole using E-test method.

Results:

Candida albicans and Candida glabrata showed 87.8% and 60% sensitivity, respectively, to itraconazole. Twenty percent of Candida parapsilosis and 40% of C. glabrata were resistant to fluconazole. Voriconazole showed higher sensitivity with 0.013 μg/ml as the minimum concentration to inhibit all Candida spp. C. glabrata noted higher minimum inhibitory concentrations against itraconazole, fluconazole, and voriconazole.

Interpretation and Conclusion:

Voriconazole is the drug of choice in case of fluconazole treatment failure among VVC.
Molecular subtypes of breast carcinoma and its relation with clinicopathological features
Authors: Joute Zothangsung , Debnath Maharshi , Pukhrambam Gayatri Devi , Khuraijam Sushma , Sarangthem Babina
Published: June 2022

Molecular subtypes of breast carcinoma and its relation with clinicopathological features: A single centre initial experience.

Background:

Breast carcinoma is the most common malignancy in female in the world. They are a group of heterogenous diseases with diverse clinical, morphological and gene expression profile. Molecular subtyping of histological types of breast carcinomas based on the expression receptors estrogen receptors (ER), progesterone receptors (PR), HER2 neu and Ki67 act as a surrogate marker for gene expression profiling. This helps in specific prognostic and predictive targeted therapy.

Objective:

Identification of various molecular subtypes and correlate with the clinicopathological parameters.

Methods:

This cross sectional study comprising of thirty four cases is conducted at Department of Pathology, Regional Institute of Medical Sciences, Imphal during a period of three years from August 2016 to July 2019. The histomorphological diagnosis and clinical parameters are correlated with immunohistochemical findings for ER, PR, Her2 Neu and Ki 67. Statistical analysis done by chi square test.

Results:

The commonest histological type is invasive carcinoma of no special type (88.2%). After molecular sub typing, Luminal B type (LUMB) is the most common type (38.2%). LUMA type found to be associated with smaller tumor size, grade 1-2 and seen mainly in 6rd and 7th decade of life. LUMB and Her-2 Neu enriched, triple negative type commonly associated with larger tumor size, grade 2-3 and seen in 4th to 6th decade of life.

Conclusion:

Some differences in clinicopathological profile of the molecular subtypes from other studies seen. A larger multicentric study with genetic analysis will help in understanding the disease pattern in our area helping in targeted and personalized treatment.
An unusual presentation of angiomatoid fibrous histiocytoma as a perineo-scrotal swelling
Authors: Safwan Mohamad A , Babu Sandeep Bhaskaran , Abraham Rachel , Thivya Annes
Published: June 2022

Angiomatoid fibrous histiocytoma (AFH) is one of the spindle cell neoplasms having fibroblast and myofibroblast origin. The perineoscrotal region is an uncommon site for such tumors and never reported in the literature. We present a 31-year-old gentleman presented with a painless, rapidly growing scrotal swelling for 2 months duration. Guided core needle biopsy demonstrated spindle cell neoplasm; regional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a large mass extending from the perineum to inter-testicular space within the scrotal sac. After staging evaluation, he underwent en bloc resection of the tumor. Histopathology showed features of AFH which is supported by immunohistostains positivity to smooth muscle actin, clusters differentiation (CD) 68, CD99, and desmin. Despite any adjuvant treatment, he remained disease-free on follow-up MRI for 4 years. AFH can also have an unusual origin from perineoscrotum, and it grows rapidly and has a good prognosis.
Tailored Framework to Analyze and Interpret LCA’s Results in Automotive Lightweighting
Authors: Del Pero Francesco , Antonacci Andrea , Delogu Massimo
Published: June 2022

Car makers are subject to a strong regulatory pressure to make the industry more environmentally sustainable. In this context, many research and industrial activities have been concentrated in the field of sustainability through the development of innovative materials, manufacturing technologies and production processes.

This paper presents a tailored framework for estimating the potential of lightweighting to mitigate the Global Warming Potential (GWP) impact within the automotive sector. The framework is based on the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) modelling of the use stage, and it is able to evaluate the effects of lightweight solutions in the application to a wide range of cars, both in terms of propulsion technologies (Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles, ICEVs, and Battery Electric Vehicles, BEVs) and vehicle segments. In addition, the assessment framework can estimate the effect of different electricity grid mixes when modelling the production of energy consumed by BEVs. The added value of the method is the ability to estimate the use stage GWP through indicators which are ready-to-use in any practical case study: starting from the knowledge of component mass only, the operation phase is easily and immediately assessed, thus limiting the inventory modelling to the sole production and End-of-Life (EoL) steps. This way, the work of the LCA analyst is greatly facilitated, with notable savings in terms of time and personnel effort.

The framework is validated through the application to a practical case study from literature, which deals with different lightweight measures in the application to a series of automotive components. Results highlight the potentiality of the method to perform a detailed Life-Cycle (LC) analysis, as well as the ability to identify the most profitable application fields of innovative solutions.
Effects of some botanical extracts on the control of major insect pests of okra in the Sudan Savannah Agro-Ecological Zone of Nigeria
Authors: Yohanna B. , Muhammad L. , Mailafiya Duna M.
Published: June 2022

Two location trials were conducted in 2018 dry season at the Teaching and Research Farm, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Maiduguri (Unimaid) and demonstration site of the Mohamet Lawan College of Agriculture (MOLCA) Maiduguri to assess the insecticidal potentials of three botanicals and a control in the management of Attractomorpha acutipennis, Amarasca biguttula biguttula, Aphis gossypii and Bemisia tabaci infestation on okra. These treatments were laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) replicated three times. Data collected include the number of damaged and undamaged leaves and the number of insect pests. Using Analysis of variance (ANOVA), results showed that the extracts significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the population of the insects and the number of damaged leaves when compared with control in both locations. Plots treated with Balanite aegytiaca extract recorded the lowers population of Attractomorpha acutipennis, A. biguttula biguttula, A. gossypii and B. tabaci. Similarly, Balanite aegytiaca extract recorded the lower leaves damaged than plots treated with Eucalyptus camaldulensis extract in both locations. Among all the treatments evaluated, Plots treated with Balanite aegytiaca extract significantly recorded the least number of A. gossypii and A. biguttula biguttula in both locations. However, plots treated with Balanite aegytiaca extract significantly gave the least number of B. tabaci at MOLCA while plots treated with Eucalyptus camaldulensis extract gave the least number of the insect at UNIMAID. There was no significant difference in the performance of Balanite aegytiaca and Eucalyptus camaldulensis extract. Balanite aegytiaca extract also recorded the least number of damaged leaves in both locations.
Effet de la variété et du type de terreau sur la croissance et le développement des plants de Mangifera indica L, Casamance
Authors: Ndiaye Ousmane , Coly Ismaïla , Ndiaye Soda Mariane , Sarr Fana , Ndiaye Saliou , Tidiane Ba Cheikh
Published: June 2022

Pour contribuer à l’amélioration de la production de mangue en Casamance cette étude s’est fixé comme objectif d’évaluer l’effet de la variété et du type de terreau sur la croissance et le développement des plants de Mangifera indica L. Un dispositif en split plot à deux facteurs dont le facteur substrat décliné en 3 modalités (terreau de Cailcédrat, terreau manguier et terreau d’anacardier) et puis le facteur variété constitué de cinq modalités (Pince, Kouloubadasèky, Siéra Léone, Diourou et Papaye). La variété Siéra Léone a donné les meilleurs résultats en termes de production foliaire (19,99 feuilles/plant), hauteur (29,76±6,58 cm) et diamètre au collet des plants (6,97 mm). Concernant l’effet du type de terreaux, le diamètre au collet des plants le plus gros (6,49±1,17 mm) a été enregistré avec le terreau de manguier, et la production foliaire des plants la plus élevée (10,54 feuilles/plant) a été notée avec les terreaux de manguier et de caïlcédrat. La hauteur des plants n’a pas varié significativement (P=0,6) en fonction du type de terreau. La biomasse racinaire moyenne a varié significativement (P= 0,0001) selon le traitement. Elle est plus importante avec le traitement variété Siéra Léone sur terreau de caïlcédrat avec 6,85±2,28g/plant. Aucune différence significative n’a été observée pour la biomasse foliaire (P= 0,086) et caulinaire (P=0,33) entre les traitements. Ces résultats permettront de constituer une base de données utile pour la reconstitution des vergers de manguiers en Casamance.
Entrepreneurial orientation and the performance of auto spare parts and machineries dealers’ association in Lagos State Nigeria
Authors: Ulo Fabian Udum , Sunday-Nwosu Chukwudi Emmanuel
Published: June 2022

The spate of business poor performance and subsequent failures in recent time has been worrisome to practitioners and stakeholders in Nigeria. This is evident from the increasing difficulties in generating returns on investment, increase in profit, creating new venture, increase in market shares, dwindling sales growth, and the inability to sustain the businesses overtime. Premised on this, the study explored the extent of the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation indices (innovativeness, risk-taking propensity, proactiveness, autonomy, competitive aggressiveness and resilience) and the performance of Auto Spare Parts and Machineries Dealers’ Association in Lagos State, Nigeria. Underpinned by resource-based theory, descriptive survey research design was adopted whereby sampled 260 owners/managers participated in the research. Data collected were analyzed using correlation analysis implemented in SPSS version 22 statistical programme. The result indicated that there is significant positive relationship between entrepreneurial orientation components of innovativeness (r = 0.241, p<0.001); risk-taking (r = 0.214, p<0.001); autonomy (r = 0.666 p<0.001); proactiveness (r = 0.135, p<0.001); competitive aggressiveness (r = 0.533, p<0.001) and resilience (r = 0.649, p<0.001) and the performance of Auto Spare Parts and Machineries Dealers’ Association in Lagos State. The study recommended that business practitioners in Nigeria should utilize entrepreneurial orientation components in order to achieve optimal performance. The implication of the finding is that entrepreneurial orientation provides additional insights that enable the owners/managers to respond proactively to ecological hurlyburly within the business environment to achieve results.
Future food systems
Authors: Gicheha Mathew Gitau , Kinyuru John Ndungu
Published: June 2022

No Abstract.
Effect of various solvent fractions on antioxidant potential of glycyrrhiza glabraL. (Mulhatti) Roots
Authors: Devi Parvesh , Singh Sushila , Sangwan Seema , Moond Sheetal Monika
Published: June 2022

The effect of widely used methods and solvents on the antioxidant activity of Mulhatti root has been studied. The dry powder of Mulhatti root is extracted in methanol and by liquid-liquid separation of different solvent fractions, namely dichloromethane (DCM), ethyl acetate (EA), n-butanol (nB), residual aqueous solution (RA) and non-aqueous (NAR) residues were prepared. The antioxidant activity of all the different solvent fractions of Mulhatti root was evaluated using antioxidant assays such as the 2,2 diphenyl-1-picryl hydrazyl free radical scavenger assay and the total antioxidant activity. Total phenol and flavonoid content was also measured. For methanol extraction, the aqueous fraction was considered to be the best method for phenol and flavonoid extraction, but the ethyl acetate fraction showed the lowest IC50 (41.08), followed by DCM (41.77), non-aqueous residues (64.50), n-butanol (351.78) and 461.50 μg/mL in residual water. The outcomes confirmed that the extracting solvent considerably altered the antioxidant of Mulhatti roots.
Occupational safety and health hazards in artisanal gold mines in western and Nyanza region, Kenya
Authors: Buyela Charles , Njogu Paul , Kikuvi Gideon , Kamau Joseph , Mburu Charles , Westervelt Dan
Published: June 2022

Artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASSGM) has experienced rapid growth due to mineral value and increasing poverty level in western and Nyanza regions in Kenya. The sub-sector has hazardous tasks occasioned by chemical exposures to such substances as mercury, physical strain and repetitive movements associated with extractive tasks challenge which vary from region to region and site to site. This paper reports findings of a study conducted on ASSGM in Kakamega (Roster mine and Ikolomani) and Migori (Masara-Suna West and Francis - Suna East) counties to assess workplace safety, health risk and good health practice among a population of one thousand four hundred (1400) miners and non-miners to identify and determine levels of health hazard in the sector. Descriptive cross-sectional design that involved stratified sampling technique with three broad stages was used: dividing mining and non-mining population in sub-groups (miners, foremen/supervisors, and head of households) at sites in administering to them research instrument using a simple random technique. Levels of airborne particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) were determined both at mining sites and away from mining sites using low cost monitor sensor (PA-11-SD Purple air sensor). The low-cost monitor sensor data was corrected using collocational data obtained using a continuous particulate monitor (BAM 1020) reference monitor in a similar location. SPSS version 25.0 was used to analyse qualitative data. The study found that common sources of hazards included handling elemental mercury with bare hands during amalgamation and exposure to fumes during refining raw sponge-like gold. Aaverage 24-hour variation cycle for (PM2.5 and PM10) was 117.11±14.47 and 195.18±15.35 μg/m3 in ambient air respectively at all mining sites. Histograms were used to present frequency distribution of variations for (PM2.5 and PM10) from mining activity. The average humidity and temperature variations of artisanal gold mining were in the range of (45-35) percentage (% RH) and (26-28)0C respectively. The study concluded that there were high risk cycle exposures to airborne particulate matter contaminants at artisanal gold mining sites as compared to non- mining sites. The study recommends that the county government should give priority to developing safe guidelines to ASSGM. The central government should also come up with guidelines on Occupational Safety and Health in artisanal gold mining to facilitate compliance with OSH requirements in the sector and offer effective participative training.
Recovery rate, haematological parameters and growth responses of Heterobranchus longifilis exposed to zinc oxide nanoparticles
Authors: Abdulkareem S.I. , Owolabi O.D
Published: June 2022

The present study investigated the toxicity effects of zinc oxide nano-particles (ZnO-NPs) on haematological parameters and growth responses of Heterobranchus longifilis. Catfish juveniles were exposed to sub-lethal concentrations (0.00, 6.00, 8.00, 10.00 and 12.00 mg/l) of zinc oxide nano-particles in static renewal bioassays for 60 days. The ZnO-NPs-exposed fish were then subjected to depuration phase for 30 days to monitor the recovery ability of the fish. After each experimental stage, fish were sacrificed and blood was collected for haematological variables such as: erythrocytes {Red blood cells (RBC), packed cell volume (PCV) and haemoglobin (HB)} and leucocytes {White blood cells (WBC), platelets (PLT), lymphocyte (LYMPH) and neutrophil (NEUT)} using standard procedure. Results revealed reduction (p < 0.05) in the values of RBC counts (0.70 x 106 /µl) in 10.00 and 12.00mg/l ZnO-NPs treated fish when compared to control group (3.70 x 106 /µl). A reverse trend was observed with significantly (p < 0.05) high WBC counts (220.70 x 103 /µl) in group treated with the highest concentration (12.00mg/l) of ZnO-NPs after 60 days of exposure. The recovery experiment followed a different trend with a gradual decrease in RBC values from 2.2 x 106 /µl in 6.00mg/l to 2.00 x 106 /µl in 12.00mg/l while WBC counts increased from 182.00 x 103 /µl in 6.00 mg/l to 194.30 x 103 /µl in 12.00mg/l. The highest percentage weight gain (58%) was recorded in the control group with the lowest (26%) in the ZnO-NPs-exposed group. However, fish growth increased as the depuration period increased. The results of this findings indicated that ZnO-NPs may have some adverse effects on the physiology of H. longifilis, however, the fish showed some ability to recover from the effects over time.

Keywords: Depuration, Haematology, Heterobranchus longifilis, ZnO-NPs
Potability assessment of some springs, boreholes and sachet water products in four-corners, Ikom Local Government Area, Cross River State, Nigeria
Authors: Ofori V. A. , Ama J.
Published: June 2022

This study was conducted to investigate the quality of some drinking water supply sources in Four-Corners, Ikom Local Government Area, Cross River State, Nigeria using World Health Organization (WHO) recommended standards for drinking water. The supply sources (three springs, three boreholes and three different products of sachet water) were randomly selected for the study. The water samples were subjected to physico-chemical and bacteriological analyses. Temperature, pH and conductivity were determined using handheld meters at sampling sites while other parameters were determined in the laboratory. The bacteriological analysis was carried out through membrane filtration techniques. Results from the physico-chemical test showed that pH, conductivity, chromium, copper, nickel and zinc for all the water supply sources were compliant with WHO standard while temperature, total hardness, calcium, iron and magnesium were higher than WHO standard limits. Total dissolved solids and turbidity were not detected in all the water samples from the three different water supply sources. Faecal coliforms were found in all the water sources, which points to the fact that the three water sources were unsafe for human consumption. The findings of this study deduced that none of the water supply sources met the WHO standards for drinking. Considering the potential impacts of unsafe drinking water, recommendations to save the situation have been made.
Seasonal and spatial occurrence of plankton and environmental variables in Ogun coastal water on the Bight of Benin
Authors: Ojelade O.C. , Omoniyi I.T. , Abdul W.O. , Arowosegbe. A.
Published: June 2022

The influence of environmental variables on the seasonal and spatial distribution of plankton was studied for 24 months between February 2015 and January 2017 in the marine coastal water of Ogun State, Nigeria. The coastline was stratified into three sampling stations, and surface water samples were collected monthly per station for physico-chemical and plankton analyses. Mean values of physico-chemical parameters were: temperature (28.60±0.27°C), salinity (29.25±0.45‰), pH (7.38±0.07), electrical conductivity (42.13±0.33μS/l), total dissolved solids (29.59±0.30mg/l), dissolved oxygen (6.48±0.07mg/l), phosphate (1.36×10-2±0.39mg/l) and nitrate (2.25×10-2±0.65mg/l). The dominant phytoplankton and zooplankton groups were Diatomaceae (42.06%) and Calanoids (25.42%), respectively. Spatial diversity analysis of plankton in the study area showed that the highest (19, 35) species richness and abundance (5703, 12,452) for phytoplankton and zooplankton, respectively occurred in Site 3. Seasonal species richness of phytoplankton and zooplankton was higher in the wet (27, 40) than the dry (23, 38) season. Canonical correspondence analysis explained 77.8% of the influence of environmental variables on plankton distribution. Water temperature, dissolved oxygen, salinity, phosphate, pH, TDS and nitrate were the most marked factors that affected the distribution and abundance of plankton.
Comparative study of fasting blood glucose and haematological parameters of Wistar rat, Rattus norvegicus and the common African toad, Bufo regularis
Authors: Isehunwa G.O. , Adenuga A.M. , Alada A.R.A.
Published: June 2022

Haematological parameters are good indicators of the physiological status of animals and useful in understanding the relationship of blood to the environment. This study was carried out to compare the fasting levels of blood glucose and haematological parameters (Red blood cell count, Packed cell volume, Haemoglobin concentration, White blood cell count, Platelet count, and differential White blood cell counts) in Wistar rats, Rattus norvegicus and the common African toad, Bufo regularis. Ten rats and ten toads were used in the study. The animals were divided into two groups. Group I consists of 10 rats while Group II consists of 10 toads. The animals were fasted overnight before blood samples were collected for the determination of blood glucose and blood parameters. The blood glucose was determined using modified glucose oxidase method while the blood parameters were determined using standard laboratory techniques. The results of the study showed that the fasting blood glucose level in rats was significantly higher than that of toad. The fasting levels of blood parameters, packed cell volume, red blood cell counts, haemoglobin concentration in the toad were significantly lower than those of rats while the white blood cell counts of the toads were significantly higher compared with the rats. There were no significant differences in neutrophil, monocyte, eosinophil and lymphocyte counts of rats when compared with those of the toad.
Heavy metals concentrations in water, sediment, water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) and Frillfin Goby (Bathygobius soporator, Cuvier and Valenciennes, 1837) from Ologe Lagoon, Southwest, Nigeria
Authors: Ndimele P.E. , Owodeinde F.G.
Published: June 2022

The level of heavy metals in water, sediment, water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) and frillfin goby (Bathygobius soporator) from Ologe Lagoon and its tributaries were monitored because of the importance of the water bodies to the socio-economic well-being of the rural population. Physico-chemical parameters and selected heavy metals (Fe, Zn, Cu, Pb and Cd) contents of water, sediment, E. crassipes and B. soporator from six sampling stations in Ologe Lagoon were measured monthly from February to November, 2015. The range of concentration of heavy metals in sediment are: Fe (454±112-2756±1213mg/kg), Zn (3.89±3.08-18.7±6.83mg/kg), Cu (7.68±5.65-36.8±16.9mg/kg), Pb (6.24±2.56-11.2±4.45mg/kg) and Cd (0.42±0.17-0.92±0.42mg/kg). Heavy metal concentration in E. crassipes were 68.5±16.5-987±86.8mg/kg, 13.2±6.40-162±46.2mg/kg, 0.56±0.25-6.54±1.45mg/kg, 5.06±2.41-12.2±4.71mg/kg and 0.28±0.22-1.21±0.49mg/kg for Fe, Zn, Cu, Pb and Cd respectively. The concentrations of heavy metals in the muscle of B. soporator in wet season were: Fe, 8.30±2.29 mg/kg; Zn, 0.78±0.28 mg/kg; Cu, 16.20±6.20 mg/kg; Pb, 2.21±0.33mg/kg; Cd, 0.16±0.05mg/kg while in dry season, they were: Fe, 27.19±7.28 mg/kg; Zn, 24.47±6.27 mg/kg; Cu, 0.18±0.16 mg/kg; Pb, 1.72±0.07mg/kg; Cd, 0.19±0.03mg/kg. Hardness and turbidity showed significant (p<0.05) spatial variation. Concentrations of Fe, Zn and Cu in sediment varied significantly (p<0.05) among the sampling sites but Pb and Cd did not. The heavy metal content of water hyacinth from the six sampling stations exhibited significant (p<0.05) spatial variation except Cd. The concentrations of Fe, Zn and Cu in B. soporator were significantly (p<0.05) affected by season but Pb and Cd were not. Although only Pb exceeded the FAO/WHO maximum permissible limits in the tissue of B. soporator, regular monitoring of Ologe Lagoon is advocated in order stern further deterioration of the ecosystem and to protect the rural population that depend on it for sustenance.
SnO2 Elektron Transfer Tabakasının Slot-Die Tekniği ile Üretimi ve Optimizasyonu
Authors: EBİÇ Murat , AKAR Şerife , AKMAN Erdi , ÖZEL Faruk , AKİN Seckin
Published: June 2022

Mikro ve nano yapılı optoelektronik malzeme endüstrisinin temelini oluşturan, teknolojik ve bilimsel araştırmalarda önemli bir yer tutan ince filmler, son zamanlarda en çok çalışılan güncel araştırma konulardan biridir. Yarıiletken özelliğe sahip metal oksitlerin üretiminde son yıllarda hızlı bir gelişim sergilenmesi rağmen günümüzde ince filmler büyük ölçekli üretim için pek de uygun olmayan döndürerek kaplama (spin-coater) tekniği ile hazırlanmaktadır. Bu çalışmada birçok optoelektronik aygıt teknolojisinin ihtiyaç duyduğu SnO2 metal oksit malzemesi ticari boyutlarda, uygun kalınlıkta ve iyi morfolojik/optik özelliklere sahip olarak slot-die kaplama tekniği ile üretilerek büyütme optimizasyonu gerçekleştirilmiştir. Mevcut slot-die sistemi üzerinde çözelti konsantrasyonu, başlık-alttaş mesafesi, çözelti beslem oranı, kaplama hızı, tabla sıcaklığı gibi çeşitli parametreler değiştirilerek ortam koşullarında en uygun kaplama koşulları belirlenmiştir. SnO2 ince filmler büyük alanlı (25 x 75 mm) alttaşlara başarılı bir şekilde hızlı ve ekonomik slot-die tekniği ile kaplanmış ve literatürde yaygın olarak kullanılan döndürerek kaplama tekniği ile üretilen filmler ile kıyaslanmıştır. Üretilen ince filmlerin optik karakterizasyonları UV-Vis ve fotolüminesans (PL) spektrofotometreleri kullanılarak yapılmıştır. Yüzey ve kesit alan morfolojisi alan emisyon taramalı elektron mikroskobu (FE-SEM) ile karakterize edilmiştir. Bu çalışma slot-die tekniğinin kullanıcılar tarafından daha iyi anlaşılabilmesi ve çeşitli optoelektronik uygulamalarda farklı malzemelerin de bu teknik ile büyük ölçekli olarak üretilmesi konusunda önemli bir yol haritası sunmaktadır.
Acompañamiento psicopedagógico y familiar a estudiantes con problemas en el desarrollo de la lectoescritura
Authors: Vera Pazmiño Jipson Lenin , Alcívar Chávez Adela Connie , Elizalde Cordero Cecilia Isabel
Published: June 2022

El presente artículo es una reflexión teórica sustentada en una metodología descriptiva, búsqueda de información y análisis documental de varias investigaciones que demuestran el rol transcendental de los padres en la educación de sus hijos y en su éxito académico, y el de los educadores; en la formación, transmisión de conocimientos, el desarrollo y fortalecimiento de habilidades, destrezas y competencias necesarias para el vivir cotidiano de los educandos. A través de esta recopilación minuciosa y rigurosa de varios resultados de estudios publicados referente a la problemática, se pretende que la comunidad educativa: administrativos de instituciones educativas, educadores y padres de familia, sumen esfuerzos y establezcan compromisos para superar los rezagos y dificultades de aprendizajes relacionadas con la lectoescritura a través de un adecuado acompañamiento psicopedagógico y familiar. Como una estrategia que permita a los docentes y padres de familia establecer lazos de colaboración en la superación de dificultades en el desarrollo de la lectoescritura, ya que el dominio adecuado de esta habilidad es un pilar fundamental para el desarrollo holístico del aprendiz.
La motivación en el aprendizaje de la lectura en los estudiantes
Authors: Fabiana Estefania Fabiana , Jisson Oswaldo Vega Intriago Jisson Oswaldo Vega Intriago
Published: June 2022

La lectura contribuye a la formación integral de los individuos y para su aprendizaje depende en gran medida de la motivación del docente y del estudiante. Este planteamiento motivó la realización del presente trabajo cuyo objetivo es describir el proceso motivacional que aplican los docentes para fortalecer el aprendizaje de la lectura en estudiantes de la Básica Elemental, de la Unidad Educativa Luis A. Martínez del Cantón Montecristi, Sitio Bajo de la Palma, Provincia de Manabí, Ecuador. La Metodología es de tipo inductivo-deductivo, bibliográfico, descriptivo, con un enfoque mixto. Se aplicó una encuesta y un cuestionario a 27 estudiantes 7 docentes. Se constató que hay niveles aceptables de motivación en los docentes para desarrollar el aprendizaje de la lectura y la mayoría de los estudiantes manifestaron estar motivados pese a que el aula no cuenta con los suficientes recursos didácticos. 

Descriptores: Motivación, aprendizaje de la lectura.
Competencias docentes. Realidad y desafíos en el contexto latinoamericano
Authors: Mendoza Mirabá Lisbeth Fabiana , Salazar Cobeña Glagys Varinia , Ponce Alencastro Jhon Alexander , Ormaza Cevallos Cloris Pamela
Published: June 2022

En pleno siglo XXI están sucediendo grandes acontecimientos sociales, políticos, económicos, científicos, sanitarios y muy en especial educativos que demandan de una actuación del docente que propenda a la pertinencia, calidad y trascendencia del proceso enseñanza-aprendizaje. Lo expuesto constituye la motivación del presente trabajo cuyo objetivo es reflexionar sobre la realidad y desafíos que tienen los docentes para cumplir su labor, además, plantear una serie de recomendaciones que contribuyan al desarrollo de sus competencias y de esta manera optimizar su actividad pedagógica. Se desarrolló con un abordaje teórico sobre el concepto de competencias, competencias docentes y las realidades y desafíos actuales que presentan estos profesionales en Latinoamérica se plantearon una serie de recomendación y se concluyó con las reflexiones finales acerca de la importancia de la optimización del desempeño docente y de la transformación de su rol para su bienestar personal y de la comunidad educativa.
Neurociencias y la Atención de las Necesidades Educativas Especiales
Authors: Bergmann Zambrano Ruth Leonor , Loor Pinargote Gina Magdalena , Macías Zambrano Ángela María , Mora Macías María Valeria
Published: June 2022

Este estudio es producto de un proceso de análisis documental, cuyo propósito fue disertar comprensivamente la importancia de la atención educativa de calidad en los estudiantes con necesidades educativas especiales, que praxiológicamente va a ser equitativa e inclusiva  cuando el docente se adentre en la neurociencia. Fue necesario discurrir en las concepciones teóricas referidas a la atención educativa de las necesidades educativas especiales, a partir de la  neurociencia: estilos de aprendizaje, el cómo aprender, la gimnasia cerebral y la neurodidáctica para aprender a aprender. Finalmente, las reflexiones apuntan a considerar que todos los educandos tienen capacidades, intereses, ritmos, motivaciones y experiencias diversas para aprender a aprender, porque cada ser humano es único, pero en su totalidad se interconecta con otros mediante los procesos neuronales, que son espejos recíprocos, lo que favorece la curiosidad y motivación por el saber, entretejiendo lo aprendido con el sentido de lo que se va enseñando.
Estrategia metodológica para fomentar la comprensión lectora en los estudiantes de Educación General Básica en la Institución “Teresa Intriago Delgado
Authors: Lucas Bazurto Maria Candelaria , Chancay Cedeño Carlos Humberto
Published: June 2022

Este articulo tiene como propósito dar a conocer las estrategias metodológicas para fomentar la comprensión lectora en los estudiantes de Educación General Básica en la Institución “Teresa Intriago Delgado”. con soporte metodológico desde una perspectiva investigativa cualitativa a través de la investigación acción participativa, la cual se llevó a cabo a través de 4 epatas. En la primera etapa fue diagnóstica en ella se determinó los niveles reales de comprensión lectoras de 27 estudiantes entre 5 y 12 años de la mencionada institución, además se determinó las estrategias que utiliza el docente para mediar tan importante proceso, los resultados dieron entrada para segunda etapa la cual consistió en diseñar el plan de acción, cuyas estrategias estuvieron enmarcadas en la tipología que presenta Mendoza et, al. 2007) ajustado a los niveles de comprensión lectora Literal, Inferencial, Crítico. La tercera etapa es de ejecución de las estrategias y la cuarta hacer referencia a un proceso de reflexión. Finalmente se tiene como conclusión que los estudiantes se encuentran en su mayoría en un nivel literal, inferencial y critico bajo, así como también se determinó que el docente emplea pocas estrategias para mediar tan importante proceso lo que permite justificar el plan de acción.
Metodología lúdica en la construcciòn de la identidad y autonomía de los niños de Educación Inicial
Authors: Tuárez Párraga Jasely Maribel , Tarazona Meza Anicia Katherine
Published: June 2022

El objetivo de este artículo es describir la aplicación de la metodología lúdica y su aporte en la construcción de la identidad y autonomía. Se aplicó una metodología de enfoque mixto, descriptivo, de campo y documental. Las técnicas utilizadas fueron la observación y encuesta, como instrumentos la ficha de observación y cuestionario de preguntas. La población 150 niños de inicial, la muestra de tipo no probabilístico intencionada conformada por 35 niños y 6 docentes. Los resultados evidenciaron que la aplicación de la metodología lúdica es limitada por parte de los docentes para fomentar la identidad y autonomía, por lo cual los niños demuestran bajo nivel de identidad y autonomía dentro del aula. Se concluye que existe la necesidad de proponer la aplicación de la metodología juego trabajo como aporte en la construcción de la identidad y autonomía de los niños de educación inicial de la Unidad Educativa Fiscal “Olmedo” 2021-2022.
Espacios recreativos y el rendimiento en el proceso de la enseñanza – aprendizaje de los estudiantes de Educación Inicial de la escuela Francisco Pacheco del Cantón Portoviejo periodo 2021 – 2022
Authors: Figueroa Buenaventura Adriana Maria , Ávila Zambrano José Leonardo
Published: June 2022

El presente artículo corresponde a una investigación realizada, la cual tuvo como propósito determinar la influencia de los espacios recreativos para el proceso de enseñanza – aprendizaje en los estudiantes de educación inicial de la escuela “Francisco Pacheco”, Provincia de Manabí; en el periodo 2021 – 2022, Ecuador. La investigación se desarrolló bajo el enfoque cualitativo, se acudió al lugar de los hechos y se constataron los problemas presentes dentro de la institución. Las técnicas que se utilizaron fueron observación, entrevista y la técnica bibliográfica, éstas permitieron obtener la información pertinente para el desarrollo de esta investigación. Los sujetos de estudio fueron tres docentes de la escuela “Francisco Pacheco” del Cantón Portoviejo quienes fueron los versionantes de las entrevistas realizadas. Finalmente se concluye, que en educación inicial es imprescindible la recreación, ella logra que los estudiantes adquieran un aprendizaje significativo, por ello es importante propiciar espacios recreativos y pedagógicos para el fortalecimiento de esta área en la escuela “Francisco Pacheco” del Cantón Portoviejo Provincia de Manabí
Using IoT for Smart Home Automation & Applications
Authors: Jatolia Sneha , Patil Harshali
Published: June 2022

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a recent development that is making the world a more intelligent place. The vision of a linked world would indeed be impossible to imagine without the Internet of Things. An IoT-based Automated Smart Home is however one such example. Various objects such as household appliances, security cameras, lighting, laptops, etc., are all connected to the Internet in an IoT enabled Smart Home environment, enabling users to keep an eye on and control items regardless of time or location. This article looks at the various characteristics of smart homes, including their uses and accessibility. The information offered in this paper will be utilized to monitor and regulate the Smart Home environment
Security management of intermodal transportation in conditions of sustainable development of global supply chains
Authors: Kulik Volodimir , Marchuk Volodimir , Harmash Oleh , Karpun Olga , Perederii Nadiia
Published: June 2022

The article considers the complex problem of ensuring the security of supply chains of various kinds, including dangerous, when they are transported by different modes of transport with the necessary transshipment in a single logistics flow. At the same time, the authors tried to take into account both the general concept of sustainable development of the system of global supply chains (consumer goods) and the dynamics of change of supply objects depending on specific needs and situations in the world. Therefore, given the current tense military situation in the world, the main focus was on intermodal transport of dangerous goods and systemic security risks and threats of man-made nature and their consequences for the generalized characteristics of economic and social security. The research was based on the United Nations World Development Program to 2030, scientific and theoretical foundations of supply chain management and security, SCM, the concept of advanced risk management, as well as standards and practical recommendations of leading international organizations (ISO, BTO, ICAO and others) issues of economic security and protection of components of the world transport system from threats and exacerbation of risks. The practical result of scientific research is the development of recommendations for ensuring man-made safety of intermodal transport in the supply chain of dangerous goods under the programs of preventive, compensatory and remedial measures.
INCREASING THE RADIATION SAFETY OF NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS USING THE METHOD OF CONTROLLING THE TIGHTNESS OF FUEL ELEMENTS
Authors: Mamontov О. , Nevliudov I. , Stytsenko T. , Belikov A. , Tokarieva О.
Published: June 2022

The problem of monitoring the tightness of fuel elements at the stage of their manufacture to improve the radiation safety of nuclear power plants is considered. A vibration method is proposed for non-destructive testing of the tightness of cylindrical fuel rods. The method makes it possible to perform accelerated testing of a batch of fuel rods and remove samples with gross leakage under conditions of mass production. A description of the method is given, a mathematical model of free vibrations of a fuel element is developed. The time dependences of the pressure and the period of free oscillations of the fuel element were obtained by calculation. The assessment of the influence of the inhomogeneity of the fuel element structure on the test result is carried out. Inhomogeneity causes an error in measuring the oscillation period up to 1%, which can lead to a false result. Three-dimensional plots were constructed, reflecting the main form of free vibrations of a homogeneous and inhomogeneous section of a fuel element. On the basis of the performed assessment, recommendations were given for conducting fuel rod tightness control, excluding a false result.