bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does The Use Of Social Network Service LINE Affect First-Year College Students’ Social Adjustment?
Authors: Malay Elok Dianike , Nataningsih Aulia
Published: February 2020

This study examined the influence of social networking service (SNS) usage, especially LINE, on the first-year college students’ social adjustment in Indonesia. This correlational, non-experimental field study used an electronic questionnaire to measure 120 first-year college students’ social adjustment (using the Social Adjustment subscale of Student Adaptation to College Questionnaire/ SACQ) and data on LINE usage. Linear regression analysis showed that LINE usage affected students’ social adjustment. The number of actual friends in LINE and propensity to use LINE to collaborate with other students positively predicted social adjustment. On the other hand, the number of college friends in LINE did not contribute significantly to their social adjustment. These results give more evidence of the effect of SNS, especially LINE, on the first-year college students’ social adjustment in their campus. However, it is important to realize that SNS would give a beneficial effect if students could develop a real friendship and use it for collaborative activities.
Perception of Effective Multicultural Leadership: A Qualitative Study in Western Java
Authors: Hidayat Eri Radityawara , Sumertha I Gede , Istiani Istiani
Published: February 2020

With the rise of ethno-religious conflicts in Indonesia, this qualitative study aims to find the criteria for effective leadership in Indonesia’s multicultural setting. A total of 8 informants were interviewed and 14 others participated in a two Focus Group Discussions. Results showed that factors related to effective multicultural leadership in handling etno-religious conflicts were personal attributes, behavioral competencies, and experience related to the diversity. One significant finding of this research which is different from other researches in secular Western settings is the role of religiousity in enhancing leadership effectiveness for handling etno-religious conflicts. This result showed the need for further researches on leadership effectiveness in various contexts in non Western cultures.
Keterikatan Interpersonal pada Beberapa Etnis Besar di Indonesia
Authors: Nashori H Fuad , Nurdin Muh. Nurhidayat , Herawati Netty , Diana Raden Rachmy , Masturah Alifah Nabilah
Published: February 2020

Walau bangsa Indonesia dianggap memiliki kebudayaan kolektivistik, masih belum diketahui apakah tiap-tiap kelompok etnis menekankan nilai-nilai kebersamaan dan harmoni sosial dalam level yang sama. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui perbedaan tingkat keterikatan interpersonal pada lima kelompok etnis besar di Indonesia. Jumlah subjek yang terlibat adalah 1.420 orang yang berasal dari etnis Jawa subkultur Negarigung, etnis Jawa subkultur Mancanegari, etnis Madura, etnis Minangkabau, dan etnis Bugis-Makassar. Data dianalisis dengan menggunakan teknik analisis varians untuk menguji perbedaan nilai rerata dalam keterikatan interpersonal. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan ada perbedaan yang berarti dalam hal keterikatan interpersonal antar etnis. Etnis Jawa Nagarigung cenderung lebih menonjolkan rasa percaya terhadap sikap dan perilaku mitra relasi dibanding etnis-etnis lainnya kecuali etnis Jawa Mancanegari. Sementara itu etnis Jawa Mancanegari cenderung lebih tinggi dalam persepsi kualitas hubungan dengan mitra relasi dibanding seluruh etnis lainnya kecuali etnis Minangkabau. Untuk dimensi kuatnya pertimbangan pihak ketiga dalam relasi, etnis Minangkabau cenderung lebih tinggi dibanding seluruh etnis lain. Dengan demikian, terdapat perbedaan antar etnis dalam menonjolkan dimensi keterikatan dalam hubungan interpersonal.
Kompetensi Pekerja dan Efeknya Terhadap Work Engagement: Riset pada Pekerja dengan Horizontal Education Mismatch
Authors: Wardani Laila Meiliyandrie Indah , Fatimah Siti
Published: February 2020

Salah satu faktor penting yang mempengaruhi work engagement adalah kompetensi. Terdapat inkonsistensi dengan penelitian sebelumnya mengenai peran dari perceived competency terhadap work engagement di kalangan pekerja yang mangalami horizontal education mismatch. Oleh karena itu, penelitian dilakukan untuk menguji apakah ada pengaruh perceived competency terhadap work engagement terutamanya pada pekerja yang mengalami horizontal education mismatch. Responden penelitian ini terdiri dari 566 pekerja yang mengalami horizontal education mismatch, dengan rentang usia 19-55 tahun dan merupakan lulusan sekolah kejuruan ataupun sarjana strata 1. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa perceived competency memiliki efek positif terhadap work engagement pekerja yang mengalami horizontal education mismatch di Jakarta, Bogor, Tangerang, dan Bekasi. Penelitian ini juga menunjukkan bahwa kompetensi intelektual memberikan pengaruh terbesar kepada work engagement, terutamanya pada dimensi vigor dan dedication. Hal ini menunjukkan bahwa pekerja yang memiliki kompentensi intelektual yang tinggi juga akan menunjukkan vigor dan dedication yang tinggi di tempatnya bekerja.
Modeling the Antimicrobial Resistance of Enterobacteria Responsible for Urinary Tract Infections in Benin: Another Way to Control Antimicrobial Resistance
Authors: Dougnon Victorien , Assogba Phénix , Gnimatin Jean-Pierre , Agbankpé Jerrold , Koudokpon Hornel , Déguénon Esther , Fabiyi Kafayath , Control Consortium The Global Taskforce for AMR , Fagla Sèdami Romarique Médégan , Loko Yêyinou Laura Estelle , Koukoui Omédine , Djogbenou Luc , Dougnon Jacques , Bankolé Honoré , Moussa Lamine Baba-
Published: February 2020

Background: Infectious diseases are serious public health issue both in developing countries and industrialized nations. In developing countries, they are the main cause of high mortality rates. In the second group, existing resistance strains to antibiotics is developing and growing at an alarming rate. The purpose of this study was to produce data of national interest to implement sustainable control program against the spread of antimicrobial resistance strains in Benin.

Methods: One hundred and ninety (190) urine samples were collected in selected hospitals in Benin from patients with urinary tract infection. After getting the informed consent from the patients, samples collections were performed under aseptic conditions and cultured for further analysis in the laboratory. The resistance profile of the bacterial strains was established. The search for beta-lactamase production by the isolates was performed using the synergy test for amoxicillin/clavulanic acid and cephalosporins. Mathematical modeling for predicting the development of resistance of the strains by the year 2024 was carried out employing the compartmental deterministic models.

Results: Two hundred and thirty (230) strains were identified from the urine samples. Male individuals were the most affected by urinary tract infections. Individuals between the ages of 21-30 were predominantly infected. E. coli was the most isolated species (32.43%) in the urine samples, followed by K. pneumoniae (26.85%) and E. cloacae (25.92%). The susceptibility testing of isolates showed a high resistance to amoxicillin (91.82%). Whereas the lowest resistance was to imipenem (2%). The beta-lactamase was produced by 24.03% of the strains. Escherichia coli (32.43%) was the most productive of broad spectrum beta-lactamase, followed by K. pneumoniae (31.03%). The mathematical modeling revealed a rampant rise in resistance development of the strains to the tested antibiotics.

Conclusions: These results provide important data for developing new preventive strategies against the evolution of bacterial resistance to antibiotics. It therefore, further deserves a constructive advocacy so that more actions are taken against the rampant spread of antimicrobial resistance strains in our health facilities as well as in the communities.
Assessment of Agricultural Technology Adoption Behaviour among Crop Farmers in Ikwerre Local Government Rivers State
Authors: Nnodim A. U. , Raji W. I.
Published: February 2020

The study assessed agricultural technology adoption behavior among small scale crop farmers in Ikwerre local Government, Rivers state. The aim of the study was to assess small scale farmers’ adoption behavior on new farm input, farm techniques and farm machineries/tools. One hypothesis was tested to determine the influence of crop farmers’ socioeconomic characteristics on agricultural technology adoption behavior. The study adopted a correlation survey design. The population of the study was all registered crop farmers in Ikwerre local Government Rivers State.  Eighty (80) small scale crop farmers were selected using cluster random sampling technique. The instrument used for the study was a self-structured questionnaire which was face and content validated by research experts. The reliability of the instrument was established using Cronbach Alpha which gave to 0.88 reliability coefficient. Mean and standard deviation were used to analyze the data gathered from the respondents and the hypothesis was tested using multiple regression analysis at 0.05 level of significance. The study found that uncertainty, fear of taking risk to test the new inputs and waiting to see the consequences of the new technology on early adopters among others are the agricultural technology adoption behaviour among crop farmers in Ikwerre local Government Rivers State. The study also concluded that socio-economic characteristics of farmers significantly influence agricultural technology (Farm input, techniques, and machineries/tools) adoption behavior among crop farmers. It was recommended that Agricultural extension agents should publicize the positive result of the new farm technology among rural farmers so as to increase the adoption rate of agricultural technology.
Profiling Secondary Metabolites of Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) Endophytic Fungi Lasiodiplodia pseudotheobromae PAK-7 and Lasiodiplodia theobromae TN-R-3 and Their Antimicrobial Activities
Authors: Chaithra M. , Vanitha S. , Ramanathan A. , Jegadeeshwari V. , Rajesh V. , Hegde V. , Apshara E.
Published: February 2020

Aims: To determine the chemical composition of secondary metabolite of cocoa endophytic fungi L. pseudotheobromae PAK-7, L. theobromae TN-R-3 and their anti-oomycete activities.

Statistical Design: Multivariate analysis.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Plant Pathology, TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu from April 2018 to December 2019.

Methodology: Lipophilic extracellular secondary metabolites were extracted using ethyl acetate as a solvent and their chemical composition was detected by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and identified by NIST library and Pub Chem databases.

Results: Metabolic profiling of cocoa endophytic fungi  L. pseudotheobromae PAK-7  and  L. theobromae TN-R-3  showed the presence of eleven peaks representing nine compounds. The most abundant compound observed were Acetic acid, 3-methyl-6-oxo-9oxabicyclo[3.3.1]non-2-yl ester, 2H-Pyran-2-one, tetrahydro-4-hydroxy-6-pentyl-, Melezitose, Ethyl à-d-glucopyranoside  collectively representing 58.01% area. In comparison to L. pseudotheobromae PAK-7 GC-MS analysis of L. theobromae TN-R-3 exhibited the presence of 29 peaks. The most abundant compounds were dl-Mevalonic acid lactone, Methyl 6-O-[1-methylpropyl]-á-d-galactopyranoside, 2H-Pyran-2-one, tetrahydro-4-hydroxy-6-pentyl-, Melezitose, Ethyl à-d-glucopyranoside, 1,6-Anhydro-á-d-talopyranose collectively representing 60.47% of the total area.

Conclusion: Chemical compositions and anti-oomycete activities of crude secondary metabolites of L. pseudotheobromae PAK-7, L. theobromae TN-R-3 differed entirely depending on the property and abundance of bioactive metabolites.
Study of Genetic Diversity on Yield and Yield Attributing Components in Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) Under Normal and Late Sown Conditions
Authors: Adan Fariha , Kumar Anil , Kumar Anand , Kishore Chandan , Kumar Ravi Ranjan
Published: February 2020

The present investigation was carried out on thirty-six lentil genotypes at the farm of Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, Bhagalpur in 2018-19. The genetic divergences were examined using Mahalanobis D2 statistics for two dates of sowing i.e normal sown and late sown condition. The presence of variation among genotypes was revealed by ANOVA for considerable traits which come out as significant for all traits under study except several primary branches per plant, the number of pods per cluster under both normal and late sown condition and the number of seeds per pod in late sown condition. The study on genotypic variability, correlation and path analysis was done to know the direct and indirect relationship on seed yield and yield components for enhancement of economic yield. The total genotypes were grouped into 7 clusters under a timely sown condition such as. Cluster I being the largest comprising 10 genotypes, followed by cluster II with 8 genotypes, cluster III with 7 genotypes, cluster IV had 6 genotypes. Cluster V with 3 genotypes and cluster VI and cluster VII was monogenic. Coming to late sown condition, five clusters were formed displaying cluster II with a maximum number of genotypes (18 genotypes) followed by cluster I (11genotypes), cluster III (5 genotypes) and lastly, cluster IV and V were monogenic. 100 seed weight contributed maximum towards genetic divergence followed by grain yield per plant and number of pods per plant in timely sown and 100 seed weight chased by the number of pods per plant and number of secondary branches per plant under a late sown environment which can be integrated into the enhancement of productivity of lentil. Owing to the results of inter-cluster distance and mean performance of clusters for different traits, the genotypes such as FLIP 2010-86L and X2011S-172-1 under normal sown and likewise, Pusa Vaibhav and IPL-406 under late sown environment are expected to trigger the heterotic combination and obtain the desirable segregants for yield and its determinants.
Evidence of Chikungunya but not Dengue Virus Circulating among Febrile Patients during Low Transmission Period in Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania
Authors: Mboya Lightness B. , Nkya Elingarami S. , Matemba Lucas E. , Kinimi Edson
Published: February 2020

Background: There is currently sufficient evidence available indicating that dengue and chikungunya viruses could be among the causes of fever in Tanzania. Overlapping clinical manifestations of chikungunya and dengue with other vector-borne parasitic diseases pose a challenge for medical diagnosis in Tanzania. A virus surveillance study was conducted in Morogoro Municipality which had no reports of outbreaks during high risk of transmission with dengue epidemics in the neighbouring Dar es Salaam.

Methodology: The present study was carried out to screen for dengue (DENV) and chikungunya (CHIKV) in sera from patients with fever and malaria-like symptoms on selected health centres in Morogoro municipality (n = 5) during March-May 2018. Three hundred and twelve febrile individuals presenting to the outpatient department were screened for the presence of chikungunya and dengue viruses using Multiplex real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction.

Results: Acute CHIKV infection was confirmed in four (1.28%) cases whereas no acute DENV infection was detected. Acute chikungunya cases were exclusively prevailing amongst female patients aged between 20 and 49 years.

Conclusion: Our findings indicate an active circulation of chikungunya virus among febrile patients seeking medical attention in Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania. The improvement of CHIKV case detection and reporting is critical to its control and prevention. Surveillance programmes in monitoring arboviral activities in human populations as well as in mosquitos should be performed to avoid maintenance of CHIKV in mosquitoes that may lead to future outbreaks.
Comparative Analysis of Ocular Morbidity in Riverine and Upland Communities in Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Awoyesuku Elizabeth A. , Fiebai Bassey
Published: February 2020

Aims/Objective: A community- based cross-section all comparative study was carried out to compare the pattern of ocular morbidity between residents in upland and riverine communities in Rivers State.

Methods: The sample size was calculated using the formula for comparative studies, based on alpha of 0.05, beta of 0.20, the proportion of eye disorder of 40.4% from a community-based study in Rivers State.

A minimum sample size of 84 per group was attained.

Data on age, sex, visual acuity, cup-disc ratio, intra-ocular diagnosis were obtained using an interviewer-based pro forma. Collected data were entered into Microsoft Excel and exported to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Epi Info version 7 software for statistical analysis. The Pearson's Chi square/Fisher's exact tests were used as appropriate to determine significant differences in demographic and eye examination findings between the two groups (riverine versus upland) while Chi-square homogeneity was performed to determine significant differences in the individual ocular diagnosis across the groups. Statistical significance was set at P ≤ 0.05.

Results: A total of eighty-six (86) participants per group were involved in the study, making a total of one hundred and seventy-two participants. The mean age was 37.9 (±18.1) and age range of 1-90 years. Males comprised 30.2% of the sample population while females were 69.8%. The commonest causes of ocular morbidity in both communities were Refractive error. Allergic conjunctivitis and cataract were more common in the Riverine community compared to the upland one.

Conclusion: Our study shows that the pattern of ocular morbidity may differ based on land surfaces. Ocular morbidity appears to be more prevalent in Riverine areas than upland.

Government interventions and eye care service providers should take cognizance of this while planning intervention programs at the State and National levels.
Removal of Cadmium (II) Ions from Synthetic Wastewaters by Alginate – Immobilized Penicillium sp Biomass
Authors: Jalija Daniel O. , Uzairu Adamu
Published: February 2020

The objective of this investigation was to study the biosorption of Cd (II) from aqueous solution onto Penicillium sp immobilized in calcium alginate and to determine the isotherms and kinetics of the adsorption process. The capacity for Cd (II) biosorption was investigated as a function of pH, adsorbent dose, contact time and initial metal ion concentration. The results showed that the removal efficiency increased with increase in adsorbent dosage and solution pH. For adsorbent dosage, the highest removal efficiency was 93.45% (adsorbent dosage of 200 mg). In terms of pH, the highest removal percentage was 89.75% at pH of 9.0 and Cd (II) ion concentration of 2 mg/L. The experimental data fitted the Freundlich isotherm better than the Langmuir isotherm. Their R2 values were 0.9852 and 0.8053 respectively. The calculated maximum biosorption capacity Qo was 7.12 mg g-1. The values of R2 for the pseudo – first and pseudo – second order kinetics are 0.9007 and 0.9960 respectively. The experimental value of qe, the biosorption capacity at equilibrium, for the pseudo second order model was closer to the theoretical value than that of the pseudo – first order indicating that chemisorption is the probable mechanism of the process.  These results show that the investigated biosorbent is a good low cost adsorbent for the removal of Cd (II) from wastewaters.
To What Extent do Mango Agrosystems (Mangifera indica, Anacardiaceae) Contribute to the Restoration of Hypogenous Termites (Insecta: Isoptera) in Korhogo Region (Northern Côte d'Ivoire)?
Authors: Coulibaly Tenon , Tuo Yalamoussa , Yapo Laurince Michel , Akpesse Akpa Alexander Moïse , Yapi Ahoua , Kouassi Kouassi Philippe
Published: February 2020

The conversion of natural ecosystems to agriculture is recognized as the current major cause of biodiversity loss. Given large expanses of land that is under agriculture worldwide, this study, carried out in 2013, aimed to examine the contribution of mango orchards to the restoration of hypogenous termite in northern Côte d'Ivoire. Using the TSBF (Tropical Soil Biology and Fertility) monolith method of soil macrofauna estimation, termites were collected in seven age classes of mango tree orchards (class 1: <5 years; class 2: 5–9 years; class 3: 10–14 years; class 4: 15–19 years; class 5: 20–24 years; class 6: 25–29 years; class 7: 30 years and over) and compared with termites collected from the savannah. A total of 16 species of termite were collected in all the study plots. The species richness, low in young orchards of classes 1 and 2 (05 species), increases to reach its maximum in old orchards of more than 30 years (13 species). These old orchards would be even richer and more diversified in termite species than savannah (10 species). Termites were less abundant in young orchard of class 1 (151.33±87.35 Individuals/m2) and more abundant in the old orchards of class 7 (344.88±119.90 ind./ m2). In the young orchards of class 1, termites were more prevalent in the 20-30 cm depth (7.92%) and in the old orchards of class 7, termites were found more at the surface between 0-10 cm depth (67.26%). Soil-feeders were absent in the young orchards but were abundant in the old orchard of class 7 (519 individuals). This study showed that in this highly disturbed region, mango orchards are re-colonized by termite communities. These results encourage the establishment of mango orchards to allow natural regeneration after agricultural disturbances.
The Role of Supplier Base Rationalisation in Operational Performance in the Retail Sector in Zimbabwe
Authors: Munyimi Tinotenda Fredrick
Published: February 2020

This research aimed at adding to the existing inventory of literature in the arena of procurement management to find out the role of supplier base rationalisation in operational performance in the retail sector in Zimbabwe. A cross-industry survey of retail supermarkets in Zimbabwe was done. A supplier base rationalisation key variables model incorporating five variables that are, the twenty/eighty rule, improve or else approach triage approach, competency staircase approach and spend categorization was tested in operational performance in Zimbabwe’s retail sector. Research variables were discussed under the conceptual underpinning. The target population constitutes of retail supermarkets employees involved in procurement operation with a sample size of 59 procurement practitioners using Krejcie and Morgan [1] formula. Purposive sampling was carried out. The research instruments that were used are close-ended questionnaires to all procurement practitioners in the retail sector and open-ended interviews with procurement managers only. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tools and Statistical Package for Social Science software (SPSS) version 24 was used to process the collected data and presented in tables. Correlation analysis indicated that 76.2% of the change of operational performance was explained by the five supplier base rationalisation variables and revealed that they have a positive significant effect in operational performance. This research recommends that the procurement should move towards overall effective and efficient supplier base rationalisation practices that focus on boosting operational performance.
Households’ Willingness to Pay for Biofuel Gel in Lagos State, Nigeria: A Contingent Valuation Study
Authors: Olawamide Daniel A. , Thompson Olaniran A.
Published: February 2020

The study was carried out to determine the willingness to pay (WTP) for Biofuel gel among households in Lagos State, Nigeria. A total of one hundred and seventy-five households using multiple sampling procedure were interviewed using a well-structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Logit regression model. The study showed that the mean willingness to pay for Biofuel gel was ₦280 (US $0.78) per litre. The study further revealed that there was significant relationship between the socio-economic characteristics of the households and their willingness to pay for biofuel gel. Variables such as bid amount and household income had significant effect on the willingness to pay for biofuel at 1%. Bid amount had a negative coefficient of -0.0233655 on willingness to pay for biofuel gel. The study therefore recommends that price policies can be implemented in the form of price subsidies to foster the consumption of biofuel gel (clean fuels) in the study area, as respondents are more sensitive when it comes to their wallets and had identified high cost of the product as a major constraint for not consuming biofuel gel.
Phytochemical Variation of a Poly-herbal Formula According to Its Preparation Method: Qualitative & Quantitative Analysis
Authors: Ranasinghe R. L. D. S. , Silva R. H. S. K. De , Arawwawala L. D. A. M. , Wijesiriwardhana H. G. S. G.
Published: February 2020

Madhyama Rasnadi decoction, one of the poly-herbal decoctions used in Ayurveda medicine is especially indicated for inflammatory conditions. The literature provides three different preparation methods of this decoction viz; Sri Lankan Traditional method (Method 1) and methods described in the texts Sharangadhara Samhita (Method 2) and Bhaishajya Ratnavali (Method 3). The aim of this study was to analyse and compare the phytochemical profiles of these three preparation techniques. Phytochemical profile analysis was carried out by (i) investigation of the extractable matter in 1 ml of decoction, (ii) development of Thin Layer Chromatography profiles and (iii) qualitative/quantitative determination of major phytoconstituents. Results revealed that the extractable matter of methods 1, 2 and 3 was 310±0 mg/ml, 420±0 mg/ml and 180±0 mg/ml, respectively. Differences (in terms of the number of spots and intensity) were observed in TLC fingerprint profiles, and phytochemicals such as phenols, tannins, flavonoids, saponins, alkaloids and terpenoids were present in all three types of decoctions. Gallic acid and quercetin were taken as standards to express the results of polyphenolic and flavonoid contents, respectively. Total polyphenolic contents of decoctions prepared according to methods 1, 2 and 3 were 121.68±0.60, 178.40±0.56, 86.20±0.25 mg gallic acid equivalents/g extract respectively. Total flavonoid contents of decoctions prepared according to methods 1, 2 and 3 were 69.45± 0.80, 129.30±0.65, 52.64± 0.50 mg quercetin acid equivalents/g extract respectively. In conclusion, more phytochemicals are concentrated on the decoction that made of method 2. The study opens more vistas of clinical applicability of Madhyama Rasnadi decoction, where further randomised case-control studies are needed.
Phytochemical Analysis and Antileishmanial Activity of Clerodendrum myricoides and Salvadora persica Plant Extracts against Leishmania major
Authors: Maina Esther N. M. , Njau Virginia N. , Gavamukulya Yahaya
Published: February 2020

Introduction: Clerodendrum myricoides and Salvadora persica have been reported in management of leishmaniasis which is one of the neglected tropical diseases. The study aimed at undertaking phytochemical analysis as well as investigating the in vitro antileishmanial activity of Clerodendrum myricoides and Salvadora persica extracts on promastigote and amastigote forms of Leishmania major.

Materials and Methods: Solvent extraction of the stem parts of the two plants was performed using water, methanol, petroleum ether, dichloromethane and ethyl acetate. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), anti-amastigote and nitric oxide production assays were carried out to demonstrate antileishmanial activity of these plant extracts against the two forms of Leishmania major parasite species: promastigote and amastigote. Cytotoxicity assay was then conducted to assess their safe use as herbal medicinal products.

Results: Both plants showed presence of alkaloids, terpenoids, phenols, anthraquinones and saponins. The Clerodendrum myricoides water extract demonstrated the best potential antileishmanial activity against Leishmania major promastigotes (MIC=625 μg/ml). The dichloromethane and petroleum ether extract were nontoxic to vero cells but showed moderate to weak activity against Leishmania major promastigotes (MIC=1250 μg/ml; 2500 μg/ml) and amastigotes respectively. The Salvadora persica ethyl acetate, successive methanol and dichloromethane extracts recorded the most potential activity towards both Leishmania major promastigotes and amastigotes.

Conclusions: All Salvadora persica and Clerodendrum myricoides extracts have potential antileishmanial activity and may offer a cheaper alternative to the more expensive pentavalent antimonials.
Assessment of the Antioxidant Potential of Hypoestes rosea Leaf in Lead-acetate-induced Albino Rats
Authors: Uwikor F. K. , Nwachuku E. O. , Igwe F. , Bartimaeus E. S.
Published: February 2020

Hypoestes rosea has been used as a traditional medicine in the Niger delta for dysfunction of the endocrine system. However, there has been no known study on the effects of hypoestes rosea on oxidative stress. In this study we evaluated the effect of aqueous extract of Hypoestes rosea (AEHR) leaf on oxidative stress markers of lead acetate induced male and female albino rats at acute and sub-chronic stages in pre-treatment and post-treatment phases. Animals were divided into 17 groups of five each for both sexes in the treatment groups, while the positive control group had 10 animals in each sex. 8 groups were for the acute phase of the study for 21 days in each sex, while 8 were for 35 days for the sub chronic stage of the study. Negative Control (NC) group received rat feed only, Experimental (EC) group received 100 mg/kg bwt/day for 21 days at acute and 35 days for sub chronic.  Positive Control (PC) group received 60mg/kg b.wt per day of lead acetate for 35 days. The other 3 groups received 100 mgkg, 200 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg b. wt respectively for 14 and 28 days either as pre treatment or post treatment, for both sexes of the albino rats. Samples were taken at the end of the study period through the jugular vein under chloroform anaesthesia. Results showed lead acetate induced oxidative stress in the rats, evidenced by the significantly decreased (p < 0.05) Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) and Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) between the NC and PC groups. The plant in a dose dependent pattern was able to significantly (p < 0.05), reverse the effect of lead acetate in the Post and pre treatment phases. Our study also shows that dose dependent AEHR extract significantly reduced the impact of lead in oxidative stress markers. In conclusion, consumption of AEHR by albino rats could help protect against lead acetate induced oxidative stress.
An Audit of IO6 YAG Laser Capsulotomies Done between January 2017 - December 2017 in St. Joseph Eye Hospital, Mgbirichi, Owerri, Imo State and Viandra Eye Clinic, Port Harcourt, Rivers State of Nigeria
Authors: Victor K. Odogu , Elijah Chinawa Ndubuisi , Christiana Ubaka
Published: February 2020

Aim: To audit the YAG Laser Capsulotomy procedures done over a 12 month period from January to December 2017.

Objective: To review YAG LASER capsulotomies done over a 12 months period from January  2017 – December 2017.

Methods: The audit was retrospective in nature, involving collation of parameters such as age, sex, presenting visual acuity, post laser visual acuity, complications and post operative management from the patient records. The lasers were performed with SYL 9000 Ophthalmic yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG) Laser systems [Lightmed Corporation, Taiwan]. This is a class 3b Laser with a wavelength of 1064 nm and Q-switched operational mode and a spot size of 8 um.

Results: The audit involved 106 subjects. The mean age was 56.76 years. Fifty nine (55.7%) subjects were females while 44.3% were males. Eleven (10.4%) subjects had bilateral neodymium‐doped yttrium aluminum garnet ND YAG laser treatment while 89.6% had unilateral treatment. Seventy five (72.8%) of the subjects had visual improvement following treatment. Seventy four (69.8%) had less than 3 mJ quantum of energy and only 5.7% required repeat treatment. Fifty (47.2%) had between one to three days post op treatment with anti-inflammatory and/or pressure reducing drugs.

Conclusion: Use of low energy in ND YAG laser treatment of Posterior Capsule Opacification offers good visual outcome, precludes the complication associated with higher energy treatment and does not necessarily lead to repeat treatment.
Transcriptome profiling of Ewing sarcomas – treatment resistance pathways and IGF‐dependency
Authors: Chen Yi , Hesla Asle C. , Lin Yingbo , Ghaderi Mehran , Liu Mingzhi , Yang Chen , Zhang Yifan , Tsagkozis Panagiotis , Larsson Olle , Haglund Felix
Published: March 2020

Ewing sarcomas (ESs) are aggressive sarcomas driven by EWS fusion genes. We sought to investigate whether whole‐transcriptome sequencing (RNA‐seq) could be used to detect patterns associated with chemotherapy response or tumor progression after first‐line treatment. Transcriptome sequencing (RNA‐seq) of 13 ES cases was performed. Among the differentially expressed pathways, we identified IGF2 expression as a potential driver of chemotherapy response and progression. We investigated the effect of IGF2 on proliferation, radioresistance, apoptosis, and the transcriptome pattern in four ES cell lines and the effect of IGF2 expression in a validation series of 14 patients. Transcriptome analysis identified differentially expressed genes (adj. P < 0.005) and pathways associated with chemotherapy response (285 genes), short overall survival (662 genes), and progression after treatment (447 genes). Imprinting independent promoter P3‐mediated IGF2 expression was identified in a subset of cases with aggressive clinical course. In ES cell lines, IGF2 induced proliferation, but promoted radioresistance only in CADO cells. High IGF2 expression was also significantly associated with shorter overall survival in patients with ES. Transcriptome analysis of the clinical samples and the cell lines revealed an IGF‐dependent signature, potentially related to a stem cell‐like phenotype. Transcriptome analysis is a potentially powerful complementary tool to predict the clinical behavior of ES and may be utilized for clinical trial stratification strategies and personalized oncology. Certain gene signatures, for example, IGF‐related pathways, are coupled to biological functions that could be of clinical importance. Finally, our results indicate that IGF inhibition may be successful as a first‐line therapy in conjunction with conventional radiochemotherapy for a subset of patients.
The Evolution of a Specialised Practice: Consulting and Contracting in the Integrated Envelope Delivery Industry
Authors: Simmons Marc
Published: March 2020

In the last two decades the traditional relationship between architects and contractors has changed. Headquartered in Brooklyn, New York, Front, who specialise in building envelopes, have consistently blurred these supposed boundaries to achieve the high‐performance facades on some of the most iconic architecture of these years. Front co‐founder Marc Simmons explains these fluxing relationships and their holistic design benefits.
New Models of Building: The Business of Technology
Authors: Fano David , Davis Daniel
Published: March 2020

Architects’ interest in new technology is often focused on its ability to create new shapes for their buildings. But technology offers opportunities of differing funding models that both use architects’ skills and create new ways for them to be paid. David Fano and Daniel Davis illustrate these opportunities using their experiences with the New York–based consultancy CASE and the international workspace enterprise WeWork.
Synthetic mRNA‐Based Systems in Mammalian Cells
Authors: Ohno Hirohisa , Akamine Sae , Saito Hirohide
Published: March 2020

Living organisms are programmed to perform multiple functions by sensing intra‐ and extra‐cellular environments and by controlling gene expressions. Synthetic biologists aim to program cells by mimicking, designing, and constructing genetic circuits. Synthetic mRNA‐based genetic switches and circuits have attracted attention for future therapeutic applications because of their safety and functional diversity. Here, the mRNA‐based switches and circuits that detect specific microRNAs or proteins expressed in a target cell to control transgene expression and cell fate are reviewed. Future perspectives of artificial RNA systems for cell engineering will also be addressed.
Remarkable Improvement in Foldability of Poly‐Si Thin‐Film Transistor on Polyimide Substrate Using Blue Laser Crystallization of Amorphous Si and Comparison with Conventional Poly‐Si Thin‐Film Transistor Used for Foldable Displays
Authors: Do Youngbin , Jeong Duk Young , Lee Suhui , Kang Seongbok , Jang Seonhyang , Jang Jin
Published: March 2020

Highly robust poly‐Si thin‐film transistor (TFT) on polyimide (PI) substrate using blue laser annealing (BLA) of amorphous silicon (a‐Si) for lateral crystallization is demonstrated. Its foldability is compared with the conventional excimer laser annealing (ELA) poly‐Si TFT on PI used for foldable displays exhibiting field‐effect mobility of 85 cm2 (V s)−1. The BLA poly‐Si TFT on PI exhibits the field‐effect mobility, threshold voltage (VTH), and subthreshold swing of 153 cm2 (V s)−1, −2.7 V, and 0.2 V dec−1, respectively. Most important finding is the excellent foldability of BLA TFT compared with the ELA poly‐Si TFTs on PI substrates. The VTH shift of BLA poly‐Si TFT is ≈0.1 V, which is much smaller than that (≈2 V) of ELA TFT on PI upon 30 000 cycle folding. The defects are generated at the grain boundary region of ELA poly‐Si during folding. However, BLA poly‐Si has no protrusion in the poly‐Si channel and thus no defect generation during folding. This leads to excellent foldability of BLA poly‐Si on PI substrate.
Accelerating CO2 Electroreduction to CO Over Pd Single‐Atom Catalyst
Authors: He Qun , Lee Ji Hoon , Liu Daobin , Liu Yumeng , Lin Zhexi , Xie Zhenhua , Hwang Sooyeon , Kattel Shyam , Song Li , Chen Jingguang G.
Published: March 2020

The electrochemical conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) into value‐added chemicals is regarded as one of the promising routes to mitigate CO2 emission. A nitrogen‐doped carbon‐supported palladium (Pd) single‐atom catalyst that can catalyze CO2 into CO with far higher mass activity than its Pd nanoparticle counterpart, for example, 373.0 and 28.5 mA mg−1Pd, respectively, at −0.8 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode, is reported. A combination of in situ X‐ray characterization and density functional theory (DFT) calculation reveals that the PdN4 site is the most likely active center for CO production without the formation of palladium hydride (PdH), which is essential for typical Pd nanoparticle catalysts. Furthermore, the well‐dispersed PdN4 single‐atom site facilitates the stabilization of the adsorbed CO2 intermediate, thereby enhancing electrocatalytic CO2 reduction capability at low overpotentials. This work provides important insights into the structure‐activity relationship for single‐atom based electrocatalysts.
A Biomimetic 3D‐Self‐Forming Approach for Microvascular Scaffolds
Authors: Zhang Liucheng , Xiang Yi , Zhang Hongbo , Cheng Liying , Mao Xiyuan , An Ning , Zhang Lu , Zhou Jinxiong , Deng Lianfu , Zhang Yuguang , Sun Xiaoming , Santos Hélder A. , Cui Wenguo
Published: March 2020

The development of science and technology often drew lessons from natural phenomena. Herein, inspired by drying‐driven curling of apple peels, hydrogel‐based micro‐scaled hollow tubules (MHTs) are proposed for biomimicking microvessels, which promote microcirculation and improve the survival of random skin flaps. MHTs with various pipeline structures are fabricated using hydrogel in corresponding shapes, such as Y‐branches, anastomosis rings, and triangle loops. Adjustable diameters can be achieved by altering the concentration and cross‐linking time of the hydrogel. Based on this rationale, biomimetic microvessels with diameters of 50–500 µm are cultivated in vitro by coculture of MHTs and human umbilical vein endothelial cells. In vivo studies show their excellent performance to promote microcirculation and improve the survival of random skin flaps. In conclusion, the present work proposes and validifies a biomimetic 3D self‐forming method for the fabrication of biomimetic vessels and microvascular scaffolds with high biocompatibility and stability based on hydrogel materials, such as gelatin and hyaluronic acid.
Carbohydrate antigen 19‐9‐producing gastric carcinoma: A case report
Authors: Huang Pi‐Teh , Lin Lien‐Fu
Published: March 2020

Carbohydrate antigen 19‐9 (CA 19‐9) is a tumor marker often elevated in pancreatic and hepatobiliary malignancies. CA 19‐9 has also been rarely reported to be a marker of digestive tract malignancies. We report a case of CA 19‐9‐producing gastric cancer with a markedly high serum CA 19‐9 level (52 862 U/mL). Immunohistochemical staining of the biopsy specimen was positive for CA 19‐9. Patient received palliative chemotherapy but expired due to disease progression. Elevated CA 19‐9 in gastric cancer is relatively rare and is correlated with poor prognosis.
Genetic relationships and polyploid origins in the Lippia alba complex
Authors: Lopes Juliana M. L. , de Carvalho Humberto Henrique , Zorzatto Cristiane , Azevedo Ana Luisa S. , Machado Marco Antonio , Salimena Fátima Regina G. , Grazul Richard M. , Gitzendanner Matthew A. , Soltis Douglas E. , Soltis Pamela S. , Viccini Lyderson F.
Published: March 2020

Premise

Plant genomes vary in size and complexity due in part to polyploidization. Latitudinal analyses of polyploidy are biased toward floras of temperate regions, with much less research done in the tropics. Lippia alba has been described as a tropical polyploid complex with diploid, triploid, tetraploid, and hexaploid accessions. However, no data regarding relationships among the ploidal levels and their origins have been reported. Our goals are to clarify the relationships among accessions of Lippia alba and the origins of each ploidal level.

Methods

We investigated 98 samples representing all five geographical regions of Brazil and all ploidal levels using microsatellite (SSR) allelic variation and DNA sequences of ITS and trnL‐F. Nine morphological structures were analyzed from 33 herbarium samples, and the chemical compounds of 78 accessions were analyzed by GC–MS.

Results

Genetic distance analysis, the alignment block pattern, as well as RAxML and Bayesian trees showed that accessions grouped by ploidal level. The triploids form a well‐defined group that originated from a single group of diploids. The tetraploids and hexaploid grouped together in SSR and trnL‐F analyses. The recovered groups agree with chemical data and morphology.

Conclusions

The accessions grouped by ploidal level. Only one origin of triploids from a single group of diploids was observed. The tetraploid origin is uncertain; however, it appears to have contributed to the origin of the hexaploid. This framework reveals linkages among the ploidal levels, providing new insights into the evolution of a polyploid complex of tropical plants.
Using Concept Mapping to Operationalize Mental Well‐Being for Men and Boys
Authors: McNeish Roxann , Walker Connie , Massey Oliver , Tran Quynh
Published: February 2020

Highlights

Only known study focused on operationalizing mental well‐being for men and boys

Concept mapping was used to develop a definition of men and boys’ mental well‐being.

Eight areas emerged as important aspects when defining men and boy’s mental well‐being.

Socio‐environmental and emotional well‐beings were the overarching domains of mental well‐being.
Congenital limb reduction defects in 1.6 million births in Argentina
Authors: Alberto Guillermo , Barbero Pablo , Liascovich Rosa , Bidondo María Paz , Groisman Boris
Published: February 2020

The objectives of this study were to describe the birth prevalence of limb reduction defects (LRD) in Argentina, their clinical features, and to review the literature on this topic. The data source was the National Network of Congenital Anomalies of Argentina, a surveillance system that has been operative since 2009. Data were collected from November 1, 2009 to December 31, 2016. 1,663,610 births and 702 affected patients were registered during this period. The prevalence of LRD was 4.22/10,000 births (CI 95%: 3.93–4.54). In 15,094 stillbirths, prevalence was 30.80/10,000 (CI 95%: 22.31–40.65). Perinatal mortality (stillbirths plus early neonatal deaths) was 24.6%, mostly explained by postnatal deaths. LRD were classified according to different variables, including Gold's anatomic classification. Then, 41.0% of patients had transverse terminal defects and 50.2% had longitudinal defects. We found multiple and syndromic clinical presentation to be associated with both preaxial LRD and lethality. The prevalence of LRD was lower and perinatal mortality was higher in our study compared to that of previously published studies. Because there is heterogeneity in the inclusion and exclusion criteria among publications, a greater effort should be made in order to include similar populations and to use a unified anatomic classification and nomenclature.
Loss and grief: The experience of transition to residential aged care
Authors: Zizzo Gabriella , Mackenzie Catherine , Irizarry Carol , Goodwin‐Smith Ian
Published: March 2020

There is growing recognition of the experience of non‐death‐related loss and grief. One unexplored area of non‐death‐related loss and grief is associated with older people’s transition from home to residential aged care (RAC). This paper reports findings from a qualitative study that explored the experiences of people living in RAC, carer‐relatives of people living in RAC and RAC staff. Using theories of loss and grief, the paper identifies features of the transition to RAC that are associated with unresolved loss and maladaptation to changed circumstances, and the types of support that would mitigate these. Using a series of focus groups with both residents and carer‐relatives, as well as staff, the study found that residents and their families need more support to negotiate the multiple, often necessarily hasty decisions and bureaucratic requirements associated with transitioning to RAC, while simultaneously experiencing loss and grief. The types of support that families would welcome from service providers include facilitating shared decision making, valuing family and community carer expertise and providing practical information and assistance to fulfil administrative obligations.
Principles of coaxial illumination for photochemical reactions: Part 2. Model validation
Authors: Meir Glen , Leblebici Mumin Enis , Kuhn Simon , Van Gerven Tom
Published: February 2020

This study reports the principles and model equations for co‐ and counter‐current illumination, validated by experimental data. Current photochemical reactors which are homogeneously illuminated suffer from a light efficiency problem resulting in low light absorption and subsequent low productivity. Hence, the use of co‐ and counter‐current illuminated reactors, implementing larger path lengths, without altering the reactor's geometry, is of interest. In this article, we report a simple model to determine the conversion obtained by co‐ and counter‐current illumination techniques and compare against the current state‐of‐the‐art. Via experimental validation, we report the use of co‐ and counter‐current illumination to significantly boost the PSTY, a measure for photochemical reactor productivity, by a factor of 5 to 6 for same input concentration of reagent, solemnly by illuminating the reactor via co‐ and counter‐current (axially) instead of cross‐current (radially). Furthermore, we report that simply increasing the reagent concentration, thus absorbance, has a large influence on productivity, thus PSTY, of the reactor. By assessing the reactor's performance parameters, derived by modeling, which are the initial absorbance value (A) and the quantum photon balance (ρϕ), the reactor's operating point can be determined and adapted to operate in a more productive and efficient regime.