bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supernova Archaeology with X-Ray Binary Winds: The Case of GRO J1655−40
Authors: Keshet Noa , Behar Ehud , Kallman Timothy R.
Published: May 2024

Supernovae are responsible for the elemental enrichment of the galaxy, and some are postulated to leave behind a black hole. In a stellar binary system, the supernova pollutes its companion, and the black hole can accrete back its own debris and emit X-rays. In this sequence of events, which is only poorly understood, winds are ejected and observed through X-ray absorption lines. Measuring abundances of elements in the wind can lead to inferences about the historical explosion and possibly identify the long-gone progenitor of the compact object. Here, we reanalyze the uniquely rich X-ray spectrum of the 2005 outburst of GRO J1655−40. We reconstruct the absorption measure distribution (AMD) of the wind and find that it increases sharply with ionization from H-like O up to H-like Ca and then flattens out. The AMD is then used to measure the relative abundances of 18 different elements. The present abundances are in partial agreement with a previous work with discrepancies mostly for low-Z elements. The overabundance of odd-Z elements hints at a high-metallicity, high-mass (≃25 M
⊙) progenitor. Interestingly, the abundances are different from those measured in the companion atmosphere, indicating that the wind entrains lingering ambient supernova debris. This can be expected since the current total stellar mass of the binary (<10 M
⊙) is much less than the progenitor mass.
TriOS Schwarzschild Orbit Modeling: Robustness of Parameter Inference for Masses and Shapes of Triaxial Galaxies with Supermassive Black Holes
Authors: Pilawa Jacob , Liepold Emily R. , Ma Chung-Pei
Published: May 2024

Evidence for the majority of the supermassive black holes in the local Universe has been obtained dynamically from stellar motions with the Schwarzschild orbit superposition method. However, there have been only a handful of studies using simulated data to examine the ability of this method to reliably recover known input black hole masses M
BH and other galaxy parameters. Here, we conduct a comprehensive assessment of the reliability of the triaxial Schwarzschild method at simultaneously determining M
BH, stellar mass-to-light ratio M*/L, dark matter mass, and three intrinsic triaxial shape parameters of simulated galaxies. For each of 25 rounds of mock observations using simulated stellar kinematics and the TriOS code, we derive best-fitting parameters and confidence intervals after a full search in the 6D parameter space with our likelihood-based model inference scheme. The two key mass parameters, M
BH and M*/L, are recovered within the 68% confidence interval, and other parameters are recovered between the 68% and 95% confidence intervals. The spatially varying velocity anisotropy of the stellar orbits is also well recovered. We explore whether the goodness-of-fit measure used for galaxy model selection in our pipeline is biased by variable complexity across the 6D parameter space. In our tests, adding a penalty term to the likelihood measure either makes little difference, or worsens the recovery in some cases.
Infrared Properties of Carbon Stars in Our Galaxy
Authors: Suh Kyung-Won
Published: May 2024

We explore the characteristics of carbon stars within our Galaxy through a comprehensive analysis of observational data spanning visual and infrared (IR) bands. Leveraging data sets from IRAS, the Infrared Space Observatory, Akari, the Midcourse Space Experiment, the Two Micron All Sky Survey, the Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE), Gaia DR3, AAVSO, and the SIMBAD object database, we conduct a detailed comparison between the observational data and theoretical models. To facilitate this comparison, we introduce various IR two-color diagrams (2CDs), IR color–magnitude diagrams (CMDs), and spectral energy distributions (SEDs). We find that the CMDs, which utilize the latest distance and extinction data from Gaia DR3 for a substantial number of carbon stars, are very useful for distinguishing carbon-rich asymptotic giant branch (CAGB) stars from extrinsic carbon stars that are not in the AGB phase. To enhance the accuracy of our analysis, we employ theoretical radiative transfer models for dust shells around CAGB stars. These theoretical dust shell models demonstrate a commendable ability to approximate the observations of CAGB stars across various SEDs, 2CDs, and CMDs. We present the infrared properties of known pulsating variables and explore the infrared variability of the sample stars by analyzing WISE photometric data spanning the last 14 years. Additionally, we present a novel catalog of CAGB stars, offering enhanced reliability and a wealth of additional information.
Vaccinium dehongense (Ericaceae), a new species of Vaccinium sect. Epigynium from western Yunnan, China
Authors: Tong Yi-Hua , Ye Xing-Er , Ni Jing-Bo
Published: May 2024

Vaccinium dehongense (Ericaceae), a new species from Yingjiang County of Yunnan Province, China is described and illustrated. This new species belongs to Vaccinium sect. Epigynium and is most similar to V. vacciniaceum, but differs from the latter in the subsessile leaves, the inflorescence usually developing at leafless nodes, the shorter pedicels and the filaments being ca. 1/3 length of the stamens. Since the type locality of this new species is very near the border between China and Myanmar, it is probably also distributed in the adjacent area of Myanmar. As no population assessment of this species in its whole distribution area is made, it is best to assign a conservation status of ‘Data Deficient’ (DD) for this species.
Anatomical redescription of Cyrenoida floridana (Bivalvia, Cyrenoididae) from the Western Atlantic and its position in the Cyrenoidea
Authors: Valentas-Romera Bárbara L. , Simone Luiz R. L. , Mikkelsen Paula M. , Bieler Rüdiger
Published: May 2024

Members of the small bivalve family Cyrenoididae inhabit brackish waters of the eastern and western Atlantic Ocean. Cyrenoida floridana (Dall, 1896) from the western Atlantic is poorly known aside from shell descriptions. A detailed shell and anatomical study of C. floridana is here presented and compared with available data for Cyrenidae and Glauconomidae, two families of closest relationship according to recent phylogenetic studies. The species is characterized by valves externally covered by thin light brown periostracum; muscle scars and pallial line (without sinus) weakly impressed on the internal shell surface; a unique hinge pattern composed of cardinal and lateral teeth joining each other, right hinge with two laterals and two cardinals forming two inverted-V-shaped teeth and left hinge with two cardinals and one lateral forming a horizontal reversed F-shaped tooth; and microtubules inside the shell walls. Anatomically, the species presents unequal adductor muscles; demibranchs fused to each other along their posterior ends; a pair of totally fused, pigmented siphons; two pairs of siphonal retractor muscles; and a stomach with conjoined style sac and intestine, a single typhlosole, and three sorting areas. Evidence of shell parasitism is described.
How can carbon markets drive the development of renewable energy sector? Empirical evidence from China
Authors: Cheng Jiamin , Jiang Yuanying
Published: May 2024

The reduction of carbon emissions has attracted significant global attention. This paper empirically analyzes the dynamic nonlinear linkages among carbon markets, green bonds, clean energy, and electricity markets by constructing DCC-GARCH and TVP-VAR-SV models, and places the four markets under a unified framework to analyze the volatility risk from a time-varying perspective, thereby enriching the research on China's carbon market and renewable energy sector. We found that extreme events have a significant impact on the dynamic connectivity among the four markets. The analysis of the shock impact indicates that the carbon market has a positive effect on the power market in the short and medium terms, but has a mitigating impact in the long term. Especially, when the other markets are hit, the carbon market has evident fluctuation in 2020. The green bond market has a positive influence on the carbon market, whereas the power market demonstrates adverse effects in the short and medium terms. The New Energy Index negatively impacts the power market in the short and medium terms, but is expected to have a positive effect after 2020, highlighting the growing need for renewable energy in the power system transformation. According to the findings mentioned above, we put forward appropriate recommendations.
On the uniform stability of a thermoelastic Timoshenko system with infinite memory
Authors: Almutairi Hasan , Mukiawa Soh Edwin
Published: May 2024

The present research is aim at investigating a thermoelastic Timoshenko system with an infinite memory term on the shear force while the bending moment is under the influence of a thermoelastic dissipation governed by Fourier's law. We prove that the system's stability holds for a broader class of relaxation functions. Under this class of relaxation functions $ h $ at infinity, we establish a relation between the decay rate of the solution and the growth of $ h $ at infinity. Moreover, we drop the boundedness assumptions on the history data. We employ Neumann-Dirichlet-Neumann boundary conditions for our result. In comparison to the bulk of results in the literature, which frequently enforce the "equal-wave-speed" constraint, the present result shows that the infinite memory of the beam and the thermal damping are strong enough to guarantee stability without any conditions on the parameters.
Enteral nutrition for elderly patients in intensive care unit settings
Authors: Dini Simone , Cozza Mariagiovanna , Vitali Aurora , Rossi Francesca Flavia , Boccardi Virginia , Gianturco Vincenzo , Musatti Giulia
Published: May 2024

Nutrition plays a fundamental role in the management of frail elderly patients. Indeed, effective management can reduce common pathological situations, such as malnutrition, refeeding syndrome, and aspiration pneumonia, which can increase morbidity and mortality in intensive care unit settings. To optimize this management, it is essential to have knowledge of basic aspects such as timing, route, and composition of nutrition, as well as the prevention and management of the most common adverse events.
Actinomyces turicensis: a peculiar case of empyema after COVID-19 in a patient with ulcerative colitis
Authors: Marzi Federico , D'Errico Antonio , Alessandri Mario , De Crescenzo Veronica , Manini Maurizio
Published: May 2024

Actinomyces species are recognized as common mucosal bacteria in humans and as a newly discovered source of infection. Since its discovery in 1995, the subspecies Actinomyces turicensis has been reported as the causative pathogen of numerous infections. Only two instances of A. turicensis-related empyema, however, have been documented in the literature as of late. We report a unique case of polymicrobial empyema caused by A. turicensis shortly after a COVID-19 without any clear risk factors for anaerobic aspiration, along with a brief review of the literature. Tetracycline was successfully used for the first time to treat A. Turicensis empyema, following chest drainage.
The Saudi Community View of the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Health Care
Authors: Albinsaad Loai S. , Alkhawajah Amnah Ali , Abuageelah Bandar M. , Alkhalaf Rabab A. , Alfaifi Mona H. , Oberi Imtenan Ali , Alnajjad Ahmed I. , Albalawi Ibrahim A. , Alessa Mohammed Y. , Khan Arshadullah
Published: May 2024

Objectives:

Artificial intelligence (AI) holds the promise to revolutionize the field of medicine and enhance the well-being of countless patients. Its capabilities span various areas, including disease prevention, accurate diagnosis, and the development of innovative treatments. Moreover, AI has the potential to streamline health-care delivery and lower expenses. The community should be aware of the potential applications of AI in health care, so that they can advocate for its development and adoption. Hence, the objective of this study is to assess the community’s perspectives regarding the utilization of AI in health care.

Methods:

A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted in Saudi Arabia during the period of June to October 2023. The questionnaire was distributed to people on various social media platforms using a convenience sampling method. The collected data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences.

Results:

The study included 771 individuals, with 42.5% having a positive outlook on the use of AI in health care, 31.8% having a neutral view, and 7.5% having a negative view. The only factor associated with a positive opinion was regional differences (P = 0.006). Moreover, participants who used medical apps or programs (P = 0.026), wearables (P = 0.027), felt more confident in using technology (P < 0.001), enjoyed using technology (P < 0.001), found it easier to familiarize themselves with new devices or programs (P < 0.001), and had more knowledge about AI (P < 0.001) had more positive opinions regarding the use of AI in health care.

Conclusions:

The study found that most Saudis, especially those who were familiar with the use of technology, support the use of AI in health care, with a positive or neutral view. Yet, targeted campaigns in certain regions are needed to educate the entire community about AI’s potential benefits.
Evaluation of Molecular Residual Disease by a Fixed Panel in Resectable Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Yang Jian , Yu Chengqing , Li Haoran , Peng Di , Zhou Qiaoxia , Yao Jun , Lv Juan , Fang Shuai , Shi Jiaochun , Wei Yijun , Wang Guoqiang , Cai Shangli , Zhang Zhihong , Zhang Zixiang , Zhou Jian
Published: May 2024

Purpose Molecular residual disease (MRD) is a promising biomarker in colorectal cancer (CRC) for prognosis and guiding treatment, while the whole-exome sequencing (WES) based tumor-informed assay is standard for evaluating MRD based on circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA). In this study, we assessed the feasibility of a fixed-panel for evaluating MRD in CRC.Materials and Methods Seventy-five patients with resectable stage I-III CRC were enrolled. Tumor tissues obtained by surgery, and preoperative and postoperative day 7 blood samples were collected. The ctDNA was evaluated using the tumor-agnostic and tumor-informed fixed assays, as well as the WES-based and panel-based personalized assays in randomly selected patients.Results The tumor-informed fixed assay had a higher preoperative positive rate than the tumor-agnostic assay (73.3% vs. 57.3%). The preoperative ctDNA status failed to predict disease-free survival (DFS) in either of the fixed assays, while the tumor-informed fixed assay-determined postoperative ctDNA positivity was significantly associated with worse DFS (hazard ratio [HR], 20.74; 95% confidence interval [CI], 7.19 to 59.83; p < 0.001), which was an independent predictor by multivariable analysis (HR, 28.57; 95% CI, 7.10 to 114.9; p < 0.001). Sub-cohort analysis indicated the WES-based personalized assay had the highest preoperative positive rate (95.1%). The two personalized assays and the tumor-informed fixed assay demonstrated same results in postoperative landmark (HR, 26.34; 95% CI, 6.01 to 115.57; p < 0.001), outperforming the tumor-agnostic fixed panel (HR, 3.04; 95% CI, 0.94 to 9.89; p=0.052).Conclusion Our study confirmed the prognostic value of the ctDNA positivity at postoperative day 7 by the tumor-informed fixed panel. The tumor-informed fixed panel may be a cost-effective method to evaluate MRD, which warrants further studies in future.
Long-term Psychiatric and Endocrine Complications Following Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Hematologic Disease in Korea: A Nation-Wide Cohort Study
Authors: Jeon Min Ji , Noh Eunjin , Moon Seok Joo , Yu Eun Sang , Choi Chul Won , Kim Dae Sik , Kang Eun Joo
Published: May 2024

Purpose Numerous patients experience long-term complications after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). This study aimed to identify the frequency and risk factors for psychiatric and endocrine complications following HSCT through big data analyses.Materials and Methods We established a cohort of patients with hematologic disease who underwent HSCT in Korea between 2010 and 2012 using the Health Insurance Review & Assessment Service data. A total of 3,636 patients were identified, and insurance claims were tracked using psychiatric and endocrine diagnostic International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision codes for the ensuing decade. We identified the incidence rates of long-term complications based on the baseline disease and HSCT type. Prognostic factors for each complication were scrutinized using logistic regression analysis.Results A total of 1,879 patients underwent allogeneic HSCT and 1,757 patients received autologous HSCT. Post-HSCT, 506 patients were diagnosed with depression, 465 with anxiety disorders, and 659 with diabetes. The highest incidence of long-term complications occurred within the first year post-HSCT (12.2%), subsequently decreasing over time. Risk factors for depressive disorders after allogeneic HSCT included female sex, a total body irradiation–based conditioning regimen, and cyclosporine. Identified risk factors for diabetes mellitus comprised old age, total body irradiation–based conditioning regimen, and non-antithymocyte globulin protocol. Regarding autologous HSCT, only female sex was identified as a risk factor for depressive disorders, whereas elderly patients and those with multiple myeloma were identified as poor prognostic factors for diabetes mellitus.Conclusion The incidence of long-term psychiatric and endocrine complications post-HSCT remains high, and patients with risk factors for these complications require vigilant follow-up.
Stress and Coping Mechanism among Undergraduate Students of Bayero University Kano
Authors: Dalhatu Adamu , Haddad Mahfuz M. , Abdulmaleek M.A.
Published: May 2024

No Abstract
“You are going to commit suicide”: The coloniality of power/gender and [not] belonging in Bessie Head’s A Question of Power
Authors: Ncube Ndumiso
Published: May 2024

Bessie Head’s novel A Question of Power interrogates exploitative power structures and advocates the birthing of new humane societies. Rather than creating a singular norm of existence in her characters, Head advocates multiple ways of existence or a creation of many worlds. In the spirit of imagining a pluriverse, this article argues that the character Elizabeth, as a decolonial being, works towards creating an ordinary world where everyone belongs. Nonetheless, the world of “everyone” and “everything” is not one of inclusion into existing hierarchical power structures, but an attempt to challenge them. In creating this world of belonging Head shows the complexities of becoming a decolonial being because the process of “becoming” includes suffering and fragmentation. This process is not “normal”, “conventional” or “sane” because in writing her decolonial subject, all is blurred and broken. Yet mentally, the normal and the abnormal are completely blended. Essentially, I argue that in this novel Head suggests that to de-colonise power one must go through pain and intense personal suffering, in a continuous process of becoming.
Development of A Palm-Vein Recognition System for Identification and Verification Systems using Enhanced Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Olayiwola Samseedeen , Ayomide Olayiwola , Ponmile Oguntoye , Olayanju Awodoye , Adesina Ganiyu , Omidiora Olusayo
Published: May 2024

Biometric authentication systems have gained significant attention in access control applications due to their ability to provide enhanced security and convenience. Among various biometric modalities, palm-vein recognition has emerged as a promising approach, offering high accuracy, reliability, and resistance to forgery. However, existing palm-vein recognition systems often face challenges in implementation costs, computational efficiency, and performance limitations. This research aimed to develop an enhanced palm-vein recognition system for access control applications by optimizing a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) architecture. A palm-vein dataset comprising 1000 images from 200 LAUTECH students was acquired, with 5 images per individual. The dataset was split into 700 training images and 300 testing images. The acquired images were pre-processed for quality enhancement and region of interest extraction. A Gravitational Search Algorithm (GSA) optimized CNN (GSA-CNN) was then employed to extract deep features from the pre-processed images, which were classified using a SoftMax layer. Experimental results revealed that the CNN technique achieved a specificity, sensitivity, False Positive Rate (FPR), accuracy of 74.60%, 79.89%, 25.40%, 77.67% at 117.52 seconds, respectively. In contrast, the proposed GSA-CNN technique demonstrated superior performance, achieving a specificity, sensitivity, FPR, accuracy of 92.06%, 92.53%, 7.94%, 92.33% at 97.14 seconds, respectively. The GSA-CNN system outperformed the conventional CNN approach in terms of accuracy, specificity, sensitivity, FPR, and processing time, demonstrating its potential for reliable and efficient palm-vein recognition in access control applications. The findings have significant implications for developing robust and secure access control systems, contributing to enhanced privacy and security across various domains.
Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology in Evaluating Voters' Intention Towards the Adoption of Electronic Forensic Election Audit System
Authors: Sijuade Adeyemi , Ogunyote Jonathan , Okediran Oladotun , Omidiora Elijah , Olabiyisi Stephen
Published: May 2024

Electronic voting systems have been introduced to improve the efficiency, accuracy, and transparency of the election process in many countries around the world, including Nigeria. However, concerns have been raised about the security and integrity of these systems. One way to address these concerns is through the implementation of electronic forensic election audit systems. This study aims to evaluate voters' intention to the adoption of electronic forensic election audit systems using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model which is a robust and reasonable theory for technology acceptance. In the study, the UTAUT model which is a widely used model in the field of information systems to explain the factors that influence individuals' intention to use a technology by integrating performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, cost factor and privacy factor to voters’ behavioural intention was proposed. A total of 294 sample data were collected from a selected population of electorates who had at one time or the other participated in at least an electioneering process in Nigeria. The data was then analyzed statistically using Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The results obtained show that all variables have significant effect on the electorates’ behavioral intention to adopt the development and implementation of electronic forensic election audit system in Nigeria.
Quantitative Analysis of Silicon Influence and Deformation Impact on the Mechanical and Corrosion Characteristics of Nickel Aluminium Bronze (NAB) Alloy
Authors: Dongo Isaac , Omotoyinbo Joseph , Oyetunji Akinlabi , Daniel Oloruntoba
Published: May 2024

Nickel aluminum bronze (NAB) alloy has become increasingly popular due to its superior strength, corrosion resistance, and thermal properties. This study provides an in-depth analysis of the effect of silicon and deformation percentages on the mechanical and corrosion characteristics of NAB alloy, for marine and architectural applications. The research was carried out by systematically varying the silicon percentage (0-10%) while the percentage of deformation ranges from 0-10% at ambient temperature (32 oC), and subsequent changes in its mechanical properties and corrosion resistance were observed. Mechanical properties such as ultimate tensile strength, ductility, and hardness were evaluated using standard testing methods. The results indicated a significant correlation between the silicon percentage and the mechanical properties. Specifically, an increase in the silicon percentage was found to enhance the tensile strength from 190.7 MPa to 590.8 MPa, the ductility from 23.7% to 46.9% and the hardness from 130.5 HV to 262.4 HV values of the NAB alloy. The corrosion rate of 5.49 mm/a was obtained for the reference material containing 0% Si at 0% (X0-0) deformation, while the least corrosion rate of 9.8x10-5 mm/y was recorded for 2 wt. % Si at 10% deformation (X2-5). These findings have significant implications for the use of NAB alloy in marine and architectural applications. When the silicon percentage is optimized, the mechanical strength and corrosion resistance of the alloy are enhanced, thereby improving the durability and longevity of structures made from the developed NAB alloy
Effects of Fluid Viscous Damper on Reinforced Concrete Tall Building under Lateral Loading in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Giwa Kehinde , Oyelade Akintoye
Published: May 2024

The rapid construction of tall buildings in unconventional areas of Lagos, driven by high land cost necessitates meticulous analysis and design to withstand lateral loads such as wind and seismic forces. Typically, enhancing structural rigidity is the conventional approach to counteracting horizontal loads. This study examines the effectiveness of fluid viscous damping (FVD) in reducing gravity, wind and seismic loads in a 24 – story suspended floor frame structure. Using ETABS 2019 software, the building’s modeling and analysis demonstrate that integrating FVDs at each floor level significantly reduces displacement, drift and overturning moments by 20%, 24%, and 29%, respectively, thus enhancing structural stability. Analyzing structural response in Nigeria, despite low seismic intensity, is crucial for risk management and resilience. It informs building practices, improves building codes, and prepares for potential seismic events, ensuring safer infrastructure.  This research provides a computational framework for dampening vibrations in tall buildings through FVD technology.
The Influence of Granite Size and Workability on the Compressive Strength of Continuous Flight Auger Pile Concrete
Authors: Oyelade Akintoye , Olusanya Adenike , Inyangson Emmanuel , Adeoye Gafar , Obaji Ndubuisi
Published: May 2024

Concrete achieving 30N/mm² in Continuous Flight Auger (CFA) concreting is a challenge due to coarse aggregate size and the required workability of the concrete for easy pumping. This study investigated the impact of workability and coarse aggregates on the compressive strength of Continuous Flight Auger concreting. Aggregates sizes of ¾ and ⅜ inches were used for the experiments and the slump value for the mix ratios were set in range 145 to 190mm. Three mix ratios; 1:2:4, 1:1.5:3 and 1:1:2 was adopted and mix composition was done by volume method based on what is expected on construction site. Twelve (12) cubes (150x150mm) of each type of coarse aggregate with and without superplasticizers (strength enhancement, and retarder) for the various mixes were cast for 7, 21, 28 and 58 days to determine their compressive strengths. Granite sizes ¾ and ⅜ with mix ratio 1:1:2 was found to attain the targeted strength without admixtures, whereas the ¾ inches aggregates for all the mixes with the two admixtures exceeded the targeted strength with at least 13 percent. Hence, concrete of Grade C30 is achievable for CFA pile concrete without using admixture.
Fusion of Thresholding and Limbic Pupilliary Boundary Algorithms for Iris Segmentation Process
Authors: Afolabi-Yusuf Ganiyat , Saheed Ganiyat , Uthman Faruk , Olatunde Yusuf , Obiwusi Kolawole
Published: May 2024

Iris segmentation is crucial in the development of an effective iris recognition system, it involves localizing relatively the exact region of the iris before its features are being extracted for matching. Several researches have used different algorithms for the segmentation of iris, however, traditional systems encounter challenges in accurately identifying individuals under varying conditions, primarily due to inaccurate segmentation. To address this, the study proposes an AI-based fusion technique combining Thresholding and Limbic Pupillary Boundary algorithms, aiming to enhance segmentation accuracy and reliability. Leveraging the eye images datasets from reputable sources and MATLAB implementation, the study improves segmentation performance, particularly in uncertain environments. The results are presented using histogram representation to demonstrate the efficacy of the fusion approach, contributing to advancements in iris recognition technology.
Optimal Load Shedding Based On Hybrid Energy Generation
Authors: Alayande Akintunde , Badejo Ezekiel , Okakwu Ignatius , Olobaniyi Flourish , Osokoya Samuel
Published: May 2024

The demand for electricity is growing at an exponential rate with no corresponding increase in the electricity production, which has led to voltage collapse in many practical power systems all over the world. This has, therefore, been a serious concern to power system engineers, investors and utilities as its effect is highly detrimental to power system operation and its reliability. Consequently, in the quest for providing solutions to this problem, integration of various renewable energy sources are deployed in recent years. This paper, therefore, presents an effective approach to solving voltage collapse problems through load shedding optimization. HOMER software was deployed due to its great features of quality design and evaluation, coupled with its technicality and economical options for both standalone and grid-connected power system. The results show that the utilization of the hybrid Hydro/PV produces 91kWh annually, whereas 88.5% of the electricity is produced by hydroelectric system while the remaining 11.5% of the electricity comes from the integrated photovoltaic system with excess electricity of 84kwh per year. The results obtained, therefore, show that there is an assurance of stable electricity with the introduction of backup battery banks even with the intermittent nature of the renewable energy systems.
Development of Virtual Classes and Laboratories with Remote Access
Authors: Adedoyin Mary , Adenowo Adetokunbo , Egberongbe-Kukoyi Fatia
Published: May 2024

When comparing a few decades ago to now, the educational system has undergone various technological revolutions, particularly with the usage of Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs), which have changed the process of teaching and learning. VLEs with internet services play a major role in the storage of information and its dissemination. With the use of VLEs, there emerges the challenge of bringing practical classes online, engaging the students in practical sessions as it is in traditional laboratories. Though, there have been various simulators but they are not geared towards educational sessions but practically for industrial use and are not curriculum-based, this has been a major concern in engaging the students practically at a distance level according to the instructor’s plan. Hence, in this work, a robust VLE has been designed and implemented. The system has an evaluated model that was developed with MySQL and PHP, which served as the database and server-side programming, respectively. The proposed VLE offers an interactive web-enabled approach for online learning and practice, practical recordings are uploaded, and practical simulations are handled. Qualitative assessments were carried out on the gathered data from the 100 respondents through the use of the questionnaire. Performance metrics such as response time, latency, availability, reliability and scalability were used to conduct a comparative analysis between the existing VLEs and the developed VLE. The findings of the study showed that the utilisation of the proposed VLE has the potential to cause a positive transformation and a paradigm shift in educational institutions.
Can Art be Offensive? To Whom? A View of Artistic Obligations
Authors: Nyarko Nyamekye Nyamekye
Published: May 2024

All over the world, there are artists of varied fields. These artists express their skills, thoughts, philosophies, and beliefs through their  artistic works. Humans are not a homogenous group who share common and basic beliefs and philosophy of life. Consequently, any  work of art is mostly not going to be liked by all. To address the need the question; can art be offensive and to whom? requires us to first  examine the works of art and the persons who appreciate them as a means of examining how artworks could be considered offensive to  people. This article uses textual and content analysis as a means of examining some of the legal and cultural implications of art products  and how injurious they can be to societies and individuals. From examples drawn from the analysis, it is surmised that artists should  know they do not operate in an abstract world but a world of culture, religion, and preferences. It is thus recommendable that artists take  due cognizance of the communities in which they operate and act accordingly to avoid damaging criticism, threats of death, and   lawsuits.
Exploring the Practice of Victim-Offender Mediation, to Proceed or Retrieve: The Case of Ghana
Authors: Awuni Peter Apuko , Agyapong Nana Ama
Published: May 2024

In contrast to the State-centred perspective, which is based on criminal jurisprudence and holds that crime is committed against the State  rather than the victim, the primary party. Victim-Offender Mediation (VOM), also known as restorative justice or transformative  justice, aims to resolve some criminal offenses amicably. It appears the State is ignoring the victim's needs, restoration, interests, fears,  and desires in order to proceed with the prosecution as it sees fit to settle its disputes in the strict criminal justice system. Outcomes  sometimes appears unsatisfactory to victims, offenders, families, and the public. The paper conducts a theoretical and historical  examination of VOM from a global as well as a Ghanaian viewpoint. Despite a few minor difficulties, it notes that VOM has been embraced by many states all over the world because the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. Additionally, it has been noted that  Ghana's judicial system supports the use of VOM. In particular, the Courts Act, 1993, the Alternative Dispute Resolution Act, 2010, and the  Court- Connected ADR Practice Manual, 2010 call for the encouragement, promotion, and facilitation of amicable settlements of offenses  that do not amount to felonies and do not qualify as serious offenses. The practice of VOM in Ghana has not only helped victims receive  restorative justice and emotional healing, improving access to justice for the poor and vulnerable, but has also contributed to reducing  the load and pressure of cases placed on the courts, which causes the wheel of justice to turn grind slowly. As a result, rather than  eliminating VOM in Ghana, efforts must be made to strengthen and institutionalize it.
The dynamics of some climate variables on solid waste in Nigeria using Vector Error Correction Model
Authors: Shehu A. , Adenomon M.O. , Abubakar M.A.
Published: May 2024

This study investigated the long- run and short-run relationships between solid waste generation in Nigeria and two key climate variables: rainfall and temperature. Employing a Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) analysis on data from 1982 to 2022, then revealed counterintuitive findings. In the long run, lagged rainfall exhibits a negative association with solid waste (p < 0.05), potentially explained by increased waste decomposition in wetter conditions. Conversely, lagged temperature showed a positive association (p < 0.05), aligning with theories of increased consumption and economic activity in warmer periods. The short-run analysis unveils a self-correcting mechanism in solid waste generation and a statistically significant negative impact of lagged temperature (p < 0.05), requiring further investigation. Based on these findings, the study proposed policy implications for waste management strategies and data collection, emphasizing the need for sustainable solutions in the context of climate change.
Assessment of nutrient flows in maize-based farming system by smallholder farmers for sustainable production in Ikara, Kaduna State
Authors: Hiikyaa N.A.
Published: May 2024

Nutrient depletion is one of the major causes of decreased crop yield, and a threat to food security and sustainable crop production. NutMon- toolbox was used to determine nutrient flows and partial nutrient balances of maize-based smallholders’ farming system. Data was collected using structured questionnaire from 15 randomly selected farmers, with five farmers each in three villages. Composite soil samples were also taken from each of the three plots. At crop maturity, samples of crop products and residues were randomly taken from the selected fields. Nitrogen, P and K contents in soil and crop material was used to calculate nutrient flows and partial balances. Results obtained revealed that mineral fertilizer flow, averaged 349.20kg N yr-1 and 81.45kg K yr-1 and were lower than 376.65kg N yr-1 and 431.44kg K yr-1 organic input. However, phosphorus in mineral fertilizer (55.78kg P yr-1) was higher compared to phosphorus (51.06 kg P ha-1 yr-1) in organic input. Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium for maize seeds and crop residue were all negative. The partial nutrient balances were positive 53.45kg N ha-1 yr-1 and 79.40kg K ha-1 but negative 1.10kg P ha-1 yr-1. Harvesting of crops for food, without incorporation of crop residue into the soil, were the most important sources of nutrient mining in smallholder production system. Integrated soil fertility management practices that favour the buildup of soil organic matter and use of animal manure should be encouraged through effective extension services at Ikara, Kaduna State, Nigeria.
Facile synthesis and optimization of graphene oxide reduction by annealing in hydrazine vapour in ambient air for potential application in perovskite solar cells
Authors: Ochigbo Stephen Shaibu , Obar Alfred Obukohwo , Suleiman M.A.T. , Kovo A.S.
Published: May 2024

Graphene oxide (GO) was synthesized from graphite via a modified Hummer's method, followed by thermal and chemical reductions to produce reduced graphene oxide (RGO) samples at various temperatures. A suite of characterization techniques including Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS), UV-Visible Spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Hall effect measurements were employed to assess the structural, morphological, optical, and electrical properties of the samples. FTIR analysis confirmed the successful functionalization of graphite to GO and subsequent reduction to reduced graphene oxide, with peak intensities decreasing as the reduction temperature increased. UV-visible spectroscopy of GO showed a maximum absorption at 235 nm which confirmed the synthesis of GO while the reduction revealed a notable red shift in absorption peaks with increasing annealing temperature, and that signified a reduction in bandgap. XRD analyses demonstrated the removal of oxygen functional groups. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis of GO showed diffraction at 2θ = 10.74° which revealed a fully oxidized graphene oxide with oxygen-containing functional groups, and hence an increase in interlayer spacing (d002) from 3.341 Å (graphite) to 8.228 Å (GO). Upon reduction, there is a gradual decrease in d002 from 8.228 Å (GO) to 3.387 Å (HRGO300), suggesting the gradual removal of intercalated oxygen molecules, and hence the gradual restoration of sp2 hybridisation in graphene. The EDS analysis revealed an increase in the carbon-to-oxygen (C/O) ratio from 1.78 in GO to 2.75 in HRGO300 as the annealing temperature for the reduction process increased which further confirmed the removal of oxygen functional groups. The Hall effect data showed hole mobility of 4.634 x101 (GO), 4.831 x101 (HRGO200), and 5.462 x100 (HRGO300) with conductivities of 8.985 x10-5 (GO), 1.087 x100 (HRGO200) and 1.791 x101 1/Ω cm, suggesting an increase in conductivity as the annealing temperature increased as revealed in the EDS. Out of the three samples identified as hole transport materials, the sample HRGO300 with the highest C/O ratio of 2.75 has the highest conductivity, and hence most suitable for application as hole transport material in perovskite solar cell.
Production of cellulase enzymes by Bacillus sp and Pseudomonas sp isolated from anthill soil
Authors: Ibrahim R.S. , Maiangwa J. , Idris S. , Musa J.
Published: May 2024

Cellulase turns the most widespread biopolymer and biologically sustainable resource, 'cellulose,' into reducing sugar. The study aimed at producing cellulase enzymes by bacteria isolated from anthill soil. Cellulase-producing bacteria were isolated from anthill soil using Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) medium. The isolates were screened for cellulase production by cultural, morphological, biochemical and sugar fermentation tests. Optimization of the fermentation medium for maximum cellulase production was carried out by one factor at a time (OFAT). Data obtained were analysed with the analysis of variance (ANOVA) using SPSS 2007, version 16.0. The identified Pseudomonas sp, Staphylococcus sp, E. coli and Bacillus sp were isolated with highest potential of cellulase production. The culture conditions like pH, temperature, carbon sources and nitrogen sources were optimized. The optimum conditions found for cellulase production were 40oC at pH 8.5 with maltose as carbon source and yeast extract as nitrogen source. The highest activity and stability of cellulase enzymes between neutral to alkaline pH and high temperature.
Evaluation of in vitro anti-trypanosomal activities of leaves, stem bark and root bark extracts of Acacia nilotica (L) Willd ex Del., Guiera senegalensis j. F. Gmel and Ziziphus abyssinica Hochst ex A. rich
Authors: Adamu U.O. , Mann A. , Tijani J.O. , Kabir Y.A.
Published: May 2024

Currently, the control and treatment of African trypanosomiasis are limited by the number of chemotherapeutic drugs with associated side effects. Consequently, there is an urgent need for a non-toxic herbal treatment for African trypanosomiasis. Leaf, stem, and root bark extracts of Acacia nilotica L. and Guiera senegalensis J. F. Gmel and Ziziphus abyssinica Hochst ex A. Rich were sequentially extracted using hexane, ethyl acetate, methanol and water as solvents and evaluated for in vitro anti-trypanosomal activities against Trypanosoma brucei, and phytochemical contents. Results revealed that out of the 36 extracts, Methanol leaf extracts of G. senegalensis, aqueous leaf extract of G. senegalensis, methanol leaf extract of A. nilotica and methanol leaf extract of Z. abyssinica leaf extract (MIC 3.93±2.88, 10.98±3.21, 16.91±3.21 and 18.88±3.44 μg/ml respectively), gave the best in vitro anti-trypanosomal activity against T. b. brucei compare to the control. The quantitative phytochemical analysis of the 4 most trypanocidal plant extracts revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, terpene, quinines, saponins and tannins, with alkaloids and flavonoids having the highest concentrations (4.3.13±0.05 mg/100 g and 4.5±0.02 mg/100 g respectively) in the methanol leaf extract of G. senegalensis and quinone with the lowest concentration (0.1±0.07 mg/100 g).The methanol leaf extracts of G. senegalensis were found to have the most in vitro anti-trypanosomal activities (MIC of 3.93±2.88 ug/ml), possibly due to the high content of alkaloids and flavonoids. The results of this study revealed the potential of G. senegalensis for the treatment of African trypanosomiasis. Consequently, further studies are needed with this plant to evaluate its in vivo anti-trypanosomal potential, the structures of the bioactive compounds responsible for its activity, and its other medicinal properties.
Insights into folic acid mixtures compounded with commercially available vitamin syrups
Authors: Anslem F. , Oloyede R.B. , Kassim A.A. , Bashir A. , Yahaya Z.S.
Published: May 2024

Stability assessments are crucial in determining the shelf-life and quality of compounded pharmaceutical products. Folic acid, an essential B-vitamin, is widely used to prevent and treat folate deficiency-related conditions. However, because of patient-specific demands or customised dose requirements, compounded folic acid syrups are frequently used in pediatric patients. This study aims to examine the stability of compounded folic acid mixtures prepared with some commercially available vitamin syrups. Three commercially available vitamin syrups were utilized as compounding vehicles for folic acid tablets, ensuring a representative sample of products commonly used in compounding practices in hospitals when conventional compounding vehicles are not available. The compounded folic acid mixtures were stored under ambient (21- 25 ºC) and refrigerated conditions (2-8 ºC), to simulate real-life scenarios, and tested using parameters such as, organoleptic characteristics, sedimentation rate, pH, microbial growth and drug content determination at day 7, 14 and 30. The extemporaneous preparations of the compounded folic acid in vitamin syrups generally maintained their physical characteristics over the 30-day study period. However, there was either decrease in folic acid concentration or microbial contamination of the preparations at day 7. Therefore, folic acid compounded in vitamin syrups are generally stable for less than seven days. The data obtained will aid healthcare professionals and compounding pharmacies in decision making concerning the choice of vehicle, compounding practices and strategies to ensure the preparation of wholesome extemporaneous products.
La paz mundial mediante la guerra
Authors: Gamarra Huertas Raúl Felipe
Published: May 2024

La educación es una herramienta de superación que permite conocer y comprender la historia de la humanidad para aprender a convivir en sociedad utilizando las reglas de juego de la economía del libre mercado; aprender de las experiencias negativas de las guerras para no volver a repetirlas. Saber que en el planeta conviven el mundo occidental y oriental y tenemos costumbres, valores y tradiciones diferentes que responden a cada realidad y debemos respetar. Los Estados Unidos y La Unión Europea se fortalecieron como los países dominantes debido a la colonización de América del Sur y África; sin embargo, la ciencia y tecnología está dando paso a nuevos países emergentes como Irán, China, Rusia e India; generando un nuevo modelo económico multipolar y para evitar este cambio no se puede sacrificar a la población ucraniana en una guerra que solo beneficia a la industria bélica y a quienes ambicionan los recursos energéticos de Rusia.
E eles só tinham um pão
Authors: Loraschi Celso
Published: May 2024

E eles só tinham um pão
Superação da fome: caminho para a paz
Authors: Fachini Luiz
Published: May 2024

Superação da fome: caminho para a paz
Editorial
Authors: Diretor Editor
Published: May 2024

Editorial
Dimensão jurídica do planejamento
Authors: Cervi Henrique
Published: May 2024

Dimensão jurídica do planejamento
Sete mulheres catarinas e outras mais
Authors: Ribeiro Hélcion
Published: May 2024

Sete mulheres catarinas e outras mais
A mulher no Sirácida
Authors: Pereira Ney Brasil
Published: May 2024

A mulher no Sirácida