bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Semantic syncretism in a figurative structure of Alexander Belyakov`s lyric poetry
Authors: Bokarev Aleksey S.
Published: October 2021

Figurative syncretism that goes back to the linguistic archaism is construed as a complex notion of several semantic symptoms in a single word when the speech context does not eliminate the vagueness but rather generates it instead. Principles of signifying syncretic figurativeness in lyric poetry of the modern poet Alexander Belyakov are the subject matter of the research. The paper considers a package of themes and motifs represented by such figurativeness. Analysis shows that the sense content of syncretism in the author’s works is exclusively situational, i.e., it depends on the context; thus the link between a linguistic phenomenon or a technique (polysemy, homonymy, paronymic attraction, transformation of parts of speech) and the semantics is unstable and is formed anew at each stage of the poet’s creative endeavors. In the earlier verses, it is associated with ideas of instability and unnaturalness of the world order. In later and mature texts, its significance is determined by the book’s main theme, be it the universal disappearance and dispersion of everything (as in “The Traceless Marches”), protracted nightmare of a dreamer (as in “The Carbon-dioxide Dreams”), or creative efforts of a poet likened to a secret agent`s mission (as in “Rotation of Secret Expeditions,” and “Sumerian Spy”). That being said, A. Belyakov’s poetry can hardly be perceived as a full-scale “reincarnation” of linguistic archaism, since actually we are confronted merely with its imitation by means supplied by an essentially new, latest epoch. However, if the ancient syncretism was a premise of the knowledge and differentiation of phenomena, its modern counterpart — neo-syncretism — casts doubt on their knowledge and testifies to the total revision of the world undertaken by poetic consciousness.
Architect and engineer Nikolai Alexandrovich Poturaev. Notes on creative work
Authors: Konenkova Alla K. , Mikhaylova Svetlana I. , Robinov Yury V.
Published: October 2021

Currently, one of the most important tasks of research activity is the task of collecting information, identifying and publishing the names of architects, sculptors and artists who are still unknown, the circumstances of their life and work, which will allow more objective presenting of Russian art of the second half of the 19th – early 20th centuries. In particular, this concerns a study of the field of construction of industrial facilities, where the names of most project authors still remain unknown. This paper is to study the work of one of such architects and engineers — Nikolai Alexandrovich Poturaev. To this end the authors explore some of the construction activities of the Brothers A. and N. Poturaev Trading House in Moscow, as well as identify a number of addresses related to the placement of workshop, technical office and other services of this Trading House. Addressing to archival documents made it possible to establish that the Trading House of brothers A. and N. Poturaev actively collaborated with the M. S. Kuznetsov Partnership and carried out construction work at the Riga Porcelain-Faience Factory, Dulevsky Porcelain Factory, Tver Porcelain Factory in the village of Kuznetsovo. The factory buildings under construction included carefully elaborate heating system as well as the first ventilation and air humidification system installed. The most modern technical solutions and materials were used for construction. It should be noted that the merits of buildings of purely utilitarian purpose are due in no small part to elements of decor, generally characteristic of Russian industrial architecture of the late 19th – early 20th centuries. The authors analyze Poturaev's architectural projects, considering stylistic features of neoclassical buildings with the introduction of Art Nouveau elements, as well as other historical styles. Poturaev's architecture is distinguished by rationality, the desire to develop interesting layouts, convenient and practical. In the composition of the building, he always highlights its structural basis, as a rule, emphasized by decorative elements. The surviving buildings of N. A. Poturaev provide additional connotations to the characteristic of development of a domestic architecture of the late 19th – early 20th centuries.
Boris Godunov as a diplomat: a letter of the tsar Boris Fedorovich to the Grand Duke of Tuscany Ferdinand I in the context of diplomatic correspondence of Russian tsars
Authors: Kardanova Nataliya B.
Published: October 2021

The complex figure of Boris Godunov, receiving mixed assessments of
contemporaries and descendants, is still attracting attention of researchers. The
author aims to answer the question of how Boris Godunov is portrayed in diplomatic
correspondence, in particular in his letter of 6 June 1601 in response to the Tuscan
Duke Ferdinando Medici. The Duke's petition for assistance to one of his subjects, a Tuscan merchant who wanted to trade in Russia, was rightly perceived in Moscow as a
proposal to establish not only trade, but also diplomatic relations between the two states.
That is why the communicative task of Godunov's response message is to convince the
addressee of readiness for such a relationship; it determined the structure of his letter
and selection of stylistic features. As the paper shows, Tsar Boris Fedorovich appears as
a ruler who inherited the throne of the Rurik dynasty, yet realizes the peculiarity of his
position, maintaining a high authority of Russian Czars and of the Moscow state, who
is kind and polite with a foreign addressee and speaks to him in the language implying
a system of ethical and ideological attitudes and social relationships of Russia of that
time.
Mind the gap: thoughts on intergenerational relations in medical leadership
Authors: Bandiera Glen
Published: October 2021

Numerous models categorize, characterize, and explain differences among generations in society. Currently, four distinct generations are engaged in the physician pipeline from early training to late career. The distinct differences in how they view the world, their self-perceptions, and how they conduct relationships create real and imagined tensions. However, the significance of these differences is debated, as variability among those within a generation is likely larger than that between generations. Nevertheless, medical leaders and educators will be wise to develop an appreciation for generational differences to ensure that everyone may live up to their full potential. Opportunities exist to gain greater appreciation for how generational differences manifest in day-to-day interactions, adopt new approaches to interacting with those of different generations, and identify points of leverage across generations to optimize relationships and outcomes.
AN UNREALIZED PROJECT IN 19th CENTURY SEATS OF SENSATION IN OPERA AND BALLET HOUSE
Authors: Berdeli Leman
Published: October 2021

Spectators go to the theater to exercise sight, hearing, and other senses. In the light of the polymath vision of the Age of Reason, it remains to us to examine what could be the best interior disposition regarding optics and acoustics, which the auditory-visual shows would be indebted in the most advantageous way that the spectators can see and hear in the best as possible. The eyes and ears are the direct organs responsible for hearing and vision. By considering what can best stimulate visual and auditory pleasures and in which figure should be best adapted is the argument that we propose to examine in this study. Consequently, we will begin by explaining the sound manner of acting, and particularly that of the voice; how it spreads, what are the causes that can alter it or give it greater prominence. After that, we will pass to examine how sight is satisfied, and what can favor or cheat it most and from the result of all these observations, we will deduce which figure in question should be.
The Physics of the Coronal-line Region for Galaxies in Mapping Galaxies at Apache Point Observatory
Authors: Negus James , Comerford Julia M. , Müller Sánchez Francisco , Barrera-Ballesteros Jorge K. , Drory Niv , Rembold Sandro B. , Riffel Rogemar A.
Published: October 2021

The fundamental nature and extent of the coronal-line region (CLR), which may serve as a vital tracer for active galactic nucleus (AGN) activity, remain unresolved. Previous studies suggest that the CLR is produced by AGN-driven outflows and occupies a distinct region between the broad-line region and the narrow-line region, which places it tens to hundreds of parsecs from the galactic center. Here, we investigate 10 coronal line (CL; ionization potential ≳100 eV) emitting galaxies from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey IV Mapping Galaxies at Apache Point Observatory (MaNGA) catalog with emission from one or more CLs detected at ≥5σ above the continuum in at least 10 spaxels—the largest such MaNGA catalog. We find that the CLR is far more extended, reaching out to 1.3–23 kpc from the galactic center. We crossmatch our sample of 10 CL galaxies with the largest existing MaNGA AGN catalog and identify seven in it; two of the remaining three are galaxy mergers and the final one is an AGN candidate. Further, we measure the average CLR electron temperatures as ranging between 12,331 and 22,530 K, slightly above the typical threshold for pure AGN photoionization (∼20,000 K) and indicative of shocks (e.g., merger induced or from supernova remnants) in the CLR. We reason that ionizing photons emitted by the central continuum source (i.e., AGN photoionization) primarily generate the CLs, and that energetic shocks are an additional ionization mechanism that likely produce the most extended CLRs we measure.
A Parametric Model to Reproduce the Background of the Insight-HXMT/HE Blind Detector
Authors: You Yuan , Liao Jin-Yuan , Zhang Shuang-Nan , Zhang Shu , Lu Xue-Feng , Zhang Juan , Li Gang , Chang Zhi , Chen Yu-Peng , Ge Ming-Yu , Guo Cheng-Cheng , Huang Rui , Huang Yue , Jin Jing , Li Xiao-Bo , Li Xu-Fang , Li Zheng-Wei , Liu Cong-Zhan , Lu Fang-Jun , Nie Jian-Yin , Song Li-Ming , Wang Si-Fan , Zhang Yi-Fei , Zhao Hai-Sheng
Published: October 2021

The estimation of instrumental background is the basis of essentially all data analysis on observations with Insight-HXMT. The current Insight-HXMT/HE background model made by Liao et al. depends on the data from the HE blind detector, i.e., using historical data to make a preliminary estimation of the background spectra and using the real-time data from the blind detector to make a further modification. In order to decouple the dependence of background method on the blind detector, a parametric physical model has been developed to rebuild the light curve and spectrum of the HE blind detector. In this parametric model, several physical processes between the space environment and the satellite are considered to rebuild the prompt and delayed background signals of the HE blind detector. With the genetic algorithm and Markov Chain Monte Carlo procedure, the model parameters are determined by fitting the data from the HE blind detector. For all 62 energy bands in the range 28–334 keV for an exposure of 10 ks, the average systematic error of the background energy spectrum is ∼2.2% and the average total error of spectrum estimation ∼3.4%. It is found that more accurate background can be attained using this model than using the data from the Insight-HXMT/HE blind detector for exposures of less than 2 ks. These results show that the background of the Insight-HXMT/HE blind detector can be reproduced reliably with this parametric model and this method can also be applied to the background estimation of other detectors in principle.
Quality of Life and Sexual Functioning of Women after Breast Cancer Surgery
Authors: Pačarić Stana , Orkić Želimir , Milostić-Srb Andrea , Turk Tajana , Farčić Nikolina , Mikšić Štefica , Adamčević Silvia , Erić Ivan , Gvozdanović Zvjezdana , Srb Nika
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND: Women with breast cancer can experience changes in sexual functioning and body images that can seriously affect their quality of life.

AIM: The aim of this research was to study the quality of life and sexual functioning of women after a mastectomy and after a breast-conserving surgery and to compare post-operative quality of life.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 204 participants, 101 patients after a mastectomy and 103 patients after a quadrantectomy. The research was conducted using the Croatian version of the questionnaire of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Breast Cancer, the questionnaire with the breast cancer module EORTC QLQ - BR 23.

RESULTS: On the EORTC QLQ –BR23 scale, participants with mastectomy rated their sexual functioning (p < 0.001), sexual pleasure (p < 0.001), and systemic side effects (p = 0.04) lower comparing to women after breast-conserving surgery. The overall functionality scale was significantly lower (p = 0.03) for women who underwent mastectomy compared to those who underwent breast-conserving surgery. Participants under 51 years of age had worse body image 1 month after mastectomy (p = 0.006), while sexual functioning was better (p = 0.03) than in older age groups. In breast-conserving surgery group, 1 month after surgery, participants in the age group of 61 years and older assessed body image better (p = 0.04) than in the younger age group. Sexual functioning was rated better by women aged 51–60 years (p = 0.03).

CONCLUSION: Results of this study show that women after breast conserving surgery have better quality of life, better sexual functioning and less side effects of systemic therapy compared to women after mastectomy. The type of surgery, patient’s age and time passed after completion of treatment are important factors which influence sexual functioning and quality of life in breast cancer survivors.
Anticoagulation ant antiplatеlet therapy in patients with COVID-19 infection
Authors: Cherneva Zheyna , Cherneva Radostina
Published: October 2021

COVID-19 infection is characterized with hyperstimulated inﬂ ammatory response that affects lungs, cytokine storm and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Thrombotic complications are the leading reason for death in COVID-19 patients. Those of them with previous cardio-vascular diseases or risk factors – obesity, arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, advanced age are with higher risk for worse clinical outcome. Coagulopathy as well as thrombocytopathy and endothelial dysfunction are signiﬁ cant pathophysiological factors for the severe clinical course of the infection. Beside anticoagulation therapy, targetеd strategies regarding thrombocytopathy and endothelial dysfunction are necessary for the treatment of patients with COVID-19 infection.
Cardiac implantable electronic devices in Bulgaria: results from the electronic registry BG-Pace for the period 2019-2021
Authors: Traykov Vassil , Iovev Svetoslav , Borisov Borislav , Kozhuharov Ivaylo , Marinov Momchil , Velchev Vasil
Published: October 2021

The current study analyses the activity in cardiac pacing in Bulgaria in 2019, 2020 and 2021 based on data derived from a national registry of patients with cardiac electronic implantable devices (CIEDs). Materials and methods. Data from the national registry BG-Pace in the period 08.2019-06.2021 was retrospectively studied. Demographic data, procedure and device type, pacing mode, etiology, symptoms, preimplantation ECG, number of implantations and centre and operator volumes were analysed. Results. Six thousand nine hundred forty-nine devices were implanted by 47 operators in 28 centres for the study period. Median age was 75 (IQR 68-81, 21-103) years in males and 77 (IQR 71-82, 17-98) years in females, P ‹ 0.05. The largest number of devices were implanted in the age group 70-79 years. The most commonly implanted CIEDs were antibradycardia devices with a total of 486.7/million implantations for the period 08.2019-08.2020 and 353.9/million for the period 08.2020-06.2021. Implanted cardioverter-deﬁbrillators demonstrated a growth from 14.1/million to 20.1/million in the period 08.2020 – 06.2021. The number of all implantations dropped signiﬁ cantly during the two epidemic waves of COVID-19. The mean number of implantations per centre and per operator for the whole period was 232.3±204 (2-705) and 148±139.1 (2-660), respectively. Dual chamber device implantations were more prevalent, representing 65.8% of implantations in AV block I and II degree, 63.5% in complete AV block, 59.8% in intraventricular conduction disturbances and 60.9% in sick sinus syndrome. Pacing modes with atrial sensing represented more than 55% of the implantations for all indications. Increasing age was associated with signiﬁ cantly more common use of VVI pacing mode (P ‹ 0.001). Conclusion. The national registry BG-Pace includes systematic clinical, demographical and procedural data for CIED implantations in Bulgaria. Results demonstrate lower number of implantations compared to the average European volume. There was a signiﬁ cant drop in the implantation rate during the two waves of COVID-19.
Transvenous lead extraction – summary of the experience of a single Bulgarian center – a retrospective study
Authors: Stoyanov Nikolay , Kamburov Dinko , Bonev Nikolay , Protich Mihail , Velchev Vasil
Published: October 2021

There has been increased rate of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIED) implanted worldwide. Respectively the numbers of patients with absolute indications for lead extraction (pacemaker and ICD) grow up exponentially. The aim of our study is to present the initial experience and long-term results of pacemaker and ICD lead extraction in patients treated in Cardiology department of University hospital “Sveta Anna” Soﬁ a. Material and Methods: Retrospective study was performed of patients with CIED implanted greater than 1 year and indications for lead extraction. Clinical and procedural characteristics, success rate, complications rate, and reinfection rate data were collected and analyzed. Results: In the period August 2016 to May 2021, a total of 54 patients were admitted to our department with an absolute indication for lead extraction. A total of 114 pacemakers and ICD electrodes were extracted during 54 procedures. In 47 patients (87%) was shown complete technical success with removal of all hardware and in 53 patients (98.1%) clinical success of the procedure was found. The incidence of major periprocedural complications requiring urgent cardiac surgery in our series was 2 (3.7%). Follow-up revealed a very low recurrence infection rate – only 1 patient (1.9%). Conclusion: Lead extraction is a safe and effective procedure. The establishment of a specialized center with an organized system for lead extraction is key in achieving excellent short- and long-term results.
Ophiostomatoid species associated with pine trees (Pinus spp.) infested by Cryphalus piceae from eastern China, including five new species
Authors: Chang Runlei , Zhang Xiuyu , Si Hongli , Zhao Guoyan , Yuan Xiaowen , Liu Tengteng , Bose Tanay , Dai Meixue
Published: October 2021

Cryphalus piceae attacks various economically important conifers. Similar to other bark beetles, Cr. piceae plays a role as a vector for an assortment of fungi and nematodes. Previously, several ophiostomatoid fungi were isolated from Cr. piceae in Poland and Japan. In the present study, we explored the diversity of ophiostomatoid fungi associated with Cr. piceae infesting pines in the Shandong Province of China. We isolated ophiostomatoid fungi from both galleries and beetles collected from our study sites. These fungal isolates were identified using both molecular and morphological data. In this study, we recovered 175 isolates of ophiostomatoid fungi representing seven species. Ophiostoma ips was the most frequently isolated species. Molecular and morphological data indicated that five ophiostomatoid fungal species recovered were previously undescribed. Thus, we proposed these five novel species as Ceratocystiopsis yantaiensis, C. weihaiensis, Graphilbum translucens, Gr. niveum, and Sporothrix villosa. These new ophiostomatoid fungi add to the increasing number of fungi known from China, and this evidence suggests that numerous novel taxa are awaiting discovery in other forests of China.
Perrottetia taronensis B.M.Barthol. & K.Armstr., sp. nov. (Dipentodontaceae), a new species from northwestern Yunnan Province, China and northern Kachin State, Myanmar and a re-examination of the Asian and Australasian taxa of Perrottetia
Authors: Bartholomew Bruce , Armstrong Kate E. , Li Rong , Fritsch Peter W.
Published: October 2021

Perrottetia taronensis from the Dulong Jiang valley in northwestern Yunnan Province, China and the Babulongtan mountain range in northern Kachin State, Myanmar is here described as a new species of the Dipentodontaceae. It is the third species of the genus to be recognized for China and the first to be reported for Myanmar. It is similar to P. alpestriss.s. but differs by characters of its leaf margins, inflorescences, and fruit. The three subspecies of P. alpestris recognized by Hou in “Flora Malesiana” are here recognized as three distinct species, i.e., P. alpestris, P. moluccana, and P. philippinensis on the basis of differences in diagnostic characters and distribution. The report in the “Flora of China” of the Taiwan species P. arisanensis from Yunnan is determined to be incorrect due to misidentification of two specimens at KUN.
Séparations, nouvelles unions : quelles influences sur la fécondité ?
Authors: Beaujouan Éva
Published: October 2021

Union, séparation, nouvelle union : les comportements conjugaux en France ont évolué, et avec eux la fécondité. Si les naissances surviennent presque toutes dans le cadre d’un couple, marié ou non, elles sont de plus en plus fréquentes au sein des deuxièmes unions : c’était le cas pour 1,4 % des hommes et 0,7 % des femmes né(e) s avant 1950, contre 14 % et 9 % de ceux et celles de la génération 1960-1969. La seconde union provoque, pour chacun, une probabilité 2,5 fois plus élevée d’une nouvelle naissance à 35 ans. Mais à âge égal au moment de la remise en couple, les hommes sont plus souvent pères car s’unissent en majorité à des femmes plus jeunes. Enfin, les individus sans enfant ainsi que ceux avec 4 ou 5 enfants sont plus fréquents parmi ceux ayant connu plusieurs unions.
Les accidents et agressions corporelles chez les personnes âgées : moins fréquents que chez les jeunes, mais plus graves
Authors: Thierry Xavier
Published: October 2021

Chaque année, environ 6 % des personnes de 65 ans ou plus se blessent lors d’un accident de la vie courante, contre 15 % des enfants. Les accidents de la vie courante résultent trois fois sur quatre de chutes survenant à domicile ou dans ses abords immédiats chez les personnes âgées, et dans 15 % des cas, de chutes sur la voie publique. En comparaison, chez les personnes plus jeunes, ils surviennent souvent lorsqu’elles font du sport ou lors d’un déplacement professionnel. Moins fréquents que chez les jeunes, ces accidents sont néanmoins plus graves chez les personnes âgées. Les risques d’être agressé physiquement ou d’auto-agression sont nettement moindres que ceux d’un accident de la vie courante chez les personnes âgées : seulement 1 % d’entre elles déclarent avoir subi une agression au cours des deux dernières années, et moins d’une pour mille est hospitalisée chaque année pour une tentative de suicide.
Counterexamples to inverse problems for the wave equation
Authors: Liimatainen Tony , Oksanen Lauri
Published: October 2021

We construct counterexamples to inverse problems for the wave operator on domains in \begin{document}$ \mathbb{R}^{n+1} $\end{document}, \begin{document}$ n \ge 2 $\end{document}, and on Lorentzian manifolds. We show that non-isometric Lorentzian metrics can lead to same partial data measurements, which are formulated in terms certain restrictions of the Dirichlet-to-Neumann map. The Lorentzian metrics giving counterexamples are time-dependent, but they are smooth and non-degenerate. On \begin{document}$ \mathbb{R}^{n+1} $\end{document} the metrics are conformal to the Minkowski metric.
Penalized NCP-functions for nonlinear complementarity problems and a scaling algorithm
Authors: Wang Jueyu , Gu Chao , Wang Guoqiang
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we systematically study the properties of penalized NCP-functions in derivative-free algorithms for nonlinear complementarity problems (NCPs), and give some regular conditions for stationary points of penalized NCP-functions to be solutions of NCPs. The main contribution is to unify and generalize previous results. Based on one of above penalized NCP-functions, we analyze a scaling algorithm for NCPs. The numerical results show that the scaling can greatly improve the effectiveness of the algorithm.
A Narrative Review Study on the Effects of Obesity and Bariatric Surgery on Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Abna Zohreh , Fazeli Seyed Amirhossein , Mirhashemi Seyedhadi , Mirzaei Khadijeh , Emami Farbod , Jamili Shahin , Dehghani Reza
Published: October 2021

Obesity is a major public health concern and should be considered in autoimmune inflammatory disorders, such as multiple sclerosis (MS). In these patients, obesity leads to increasing comorbidities as well as reduced quality of life. Obesity causes an inflammatory state in the body, especially in adolescents; obesity has a role in the pathogenesis of MS. Hence, it is identified as a lifestyle modifiable risk factor for MS disease. Among various treatments for obesity, bariatric surgery has been widely used. Although few studies have been performed on bariatric surgery in MS patients, in this review, we present the existing data regarding the effects of obesity on the MS course and evaluate the outcomes of bariatric surgery among this population.
Learning Local Anesthetic Techniques in Dental College of Purvanchal Region, India
Authors: Kumar Keshav , Kumar P. G.
Published: October 2021

Introduction:

Dentistry deals with teeth and related oral structures. Most of the procedure require anesthesia to make it painless.

Objective:

The objective of this study was (1) Recording the most frequently used local anesthetic techniques in our dental colleges and (2) satisfaction rate of dental students toward their curriculum of learning local anesthesia. Finally, we also wanted to formulate a research hypothesis, i.e., will artificial models be able to restitute conventional ways of learning local anesthesia in dental colleges.

Materials and Methods:

Prevalidated questions from published articles were picked and using Google Forms, an online survey platform was prepared, students who were the part of the study were asked to mark their response. Out of 90 students, 74 replied to the questionnaire. Response rate was 82.22%. This study was conducted between April and June 2019.

Results:

The survey results show that inferior alveolar nerve block and greater palatine were used very frequently (75.7% and 58.1%), respectively. Whereas, papillary (interdental) injection (PI) rarely (43.2%) or never (24.3%) and mental/incisive nerve block rarely (31.1%) or never (10.8%). Fifty-eight percent reported to learn local anesthesia on patient. Two-third (67.6%) of students was satisfied with their routine way of learning local anesthesia.

Conclusion:

Our study infers that, inferior alveolar nerve block is very frequently used nerve block. PI is rarely or never used block. Maxillary infiltration is marked as easy technique and can be performed without getting additional training. Two-third of students are satisfied with the present dental curriculum while one third wants a change.
Olfaction in COPD
Authors: Thorstensen W.M. , Øie M.R. , Dahlslett S.B. , Sue-Chu M. , Steinsvåg S.K. , Helvik A.S.
Published: October 2021

Background: Olfaction is poorly characterized in COPD. To test the hypothesis that olfaction is reduced in COPD, we assessed olfaction with the “Sniffin’ Sticks” test and a questionnaire addressing olfaction in COPD and a corresponding control group in respect to age and sex. We also explored whether there is an association between COPD, chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyps (CRSsNP), and other predefined covariates with olfactory function. Methodology: Olfactory function was assessed by the score for threshold (T), discrimination (D) and identification (I), and the composite TDI score in the “Sniffin’ Sticks” test and by self-reported evaluation of impaired olfaction and of “decreased sense of smell and taste” in the 22-item Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) in 90 COPD patients and 93 controls. A clinical interview and ENT-examination with nasal endoscopy, skin prick test and spirometry with reversibility were performed. Results: The TDI, D and I scores were significantly lower in the COPD group than in the control group. The T score was not significantly different between the two groups. Hyposmia and anosmia were present in up to 79% of patients with COPD. The prevalence of self-reported impaired olfactory function and for 'decreased sense of smell and taste'; - was more than two-fold greater in the COPD than in the control group. COPD, higher age, male sex and allergy were associated with a lower TDI score, while CRSsNP was not associated with the TDI score. Conclusions: COPD is associated with olfactory dysfunction and the underlying mechanisms for this dysfunction should be elucidated.
Fostering bottom-up entrepreneurship in embryonic ecosystems: Insights from smallholders
Authors: Akiode M.
Published: October 2021

In embryonic entrepreneurial ecosystems, support policy frameworks seek to revitalize rural communities, alleviate poverty, transform key sectors of the economy and develop local businesses by increasing access to finance among others. However, policy frameworks rarely foster vertical connections across ecosystems particularly from the bottom-up. In some cases, entrepreneurial ecosystem elements do not necessarily address the peculiar needs of entrepreneurial diversity within the ecosystem. Drawing insights from smallholders, this paper seeks to examine the outlook for entrepreneurial opportunities among them and the influence of entrepreneurial ecosystem support on entrepreneurship opportunities outlook. The paper identifies the key drivers of bottom-up entrepreneurship opportunities. The study concludes that fostering bottom-up entrepreneurship among smallholders with a discovery entrepreneurship outlook in embryonic entrepreneurial ecosystems can contribute in helping those in poverty go beyond subsistence entrepreneurship. The paper recommends that entrepreneurial ecosystem elements should be mobilised to offer financial resources and institutional support beyond the current information support available to smallholders.
Varietal response of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill) to time of fertilizer application
Authors: Falodun E.J. , Adewunmi S.A.
Published: October 2021

Field experiments were carried out during the 2015/16 and 2016/17 dry cropping seasons at the Experiment Farm of the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Benin, Benin City. The study was a 2 x 4 factorial fitted into a randomized complete block design (RCBD) in three replications. Two tomato varieties (Roma savannah and UC82) and four times of fertilizer application (T1: all fertilizer applied at 2 weeks after transplanting (2WAT), T2: 1/2 of the fertilizer applied at 2WAT and 1/2 at flowering, T3: one third 1/3 applied at 2WAT, 1/3 at flowering, 1/3 at fruiting and T4: all fertilizer applied at flowering) were used. In both years, stem diameter, number of flowers, fruits and fruit weight/plant (kg/ha) and yield were significantly improved by Roma savannah. Fruit diameter (5.70 cm and 4.75 cm) increased with UC82 compared with Roma savannah which produced the lowest fruit diameter (3.95 cm and 3.11 cm). Roma savannah had a higher fruit yield of 8.59 t ha-1 and 7.24 t ha-1 compared with 5.99 t ha-1 and 4.57 t ha-1 produced by UC82. In 2016/17 cropping season T3 and T4 significantly improved stem diameter above other treatments and T2 and T4 produced highest fruit yields which were similar. However, in both years highest fruit yields (10.39 t ha-1 and 7.09 t ha-1) were consistent with T2. The use of Roman savannah variety and T2 treatment should be encouraged for tomato production, in terms of higher fruit yield in this locality.
Spray Pyrolysed Nanostructured Gold-Doped Tin Oxide (Auto) Thin Films
Authors: Akinsola S.I. , Adedayo K.S. , Alabi A.B. , Olanrewaju D.B. , Ajayi A.A. , Babalola O.A.
Published: October 2021

Nanostructured SnO2 thin films were grown by the chemical spray pyrolysis (CSP) method. Homemade spray pyrolysis technique is employed to prepare thin films. SnO2 is wide band gap semiconductor material whose film is deposited on glass substrate. A gold nanoparticle-doped tin oxide thin film (AuTO) was also prepared. UV-VIS (ultraviolet visible) spectroscopy and four-point probe analysis are done for optical and electrical analysis. UV-Visible absorption spectra show that the band gap of SnO2 thin film is 3.78 eV and 3.82 eV for AuTO. Band gap of SnO2 thin film can be tuned that it can be used in optical devices. The films have transmittance increases (to about 60%) and the absorbance decreases in the visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum. The electrical conductivity of the Tin Oxide is enhanced by functionalizing with the Gold nanoparticles. It is higher than that of the Tin oxide only; 0.77 x 10-2 (Ohm cm)-1 and 3.55 x 10-2 (Ohm cm)-1 for SnO2 and AuTO respectively. These properties reveal that Tin Oxide doped with gold can actually be a good material for a transparent conducting oxide to be used in photovoltaic fabrication and in electronics.
Analytic Signal Depth from High Resolution Aeromagnetic Data over the Gongola Basin Upper Benue Trough Northeastern Nigeria
Authors: Musa H. , Bassey N.E. , Bello R.
Published: October 2021

The study of high-resolution aeromagnetic data was carried out over the Gongola basin, upper Benue trough, northeastern Nigeria, for analytic signal depth determination. Total intensity magnetic map obtained from the data using the Oasis Montaj TM programming software was used to get the residual map by polynomial fitting, from where the analytic signal was obtained with the use of anomaly width at half the amplitude (X1/2). This was used to carry out depth estimations over the study area. The results showed that it peaks over the magnetic structure with local maxima over its edges (boundaries or contact), and the amplitude is simply related to magnetization, likewise results also showed that the depth estimates were in the range of 1.2 to 5.9 km and were calculated for contact, dyke/sill and horizontal cylinder respectively. The lowest values are from DD profiles, while the highs are from AA profiles. This work is important in identifying dykes, contacts and intrusives over an area.
Modelling and Simulation of Frequency Response on Input shaft/carrier of a Planetary Gear Train under the Influence of Vibration
Authors: Etuk E.M. , Ebhojiaye R.S. , Ekanem K.R.
Published: October 2021

The transmission of motion from one gear to the other in a planetary gear train usually result in unwanted conditions such as vibration due to poor gear assembly, high contact forces, high rotation speeds etc. The vibrating effect of the gear can result in higher or lower frequency response which may damage the gear or offer safe working condition. Using SOLIDWORKS 2018 version for the modelling, SimulationXpress was used to conduct frequency analysis on input shaft/carrier of a planetary gear train to understand its behaviour at different mode shapes during vibration. Results obtain from the input shaft/carrier frequency analysis showed natural frequency values of 1922.4Hz, 1922.8Hz, 2101Hz, 2183.1Hz and 2185.3Hz for mode shape 1-5. Geometry of the input shaft/carrier appeared differently at each mode number, resulting in frequency responses characterised by different modal shapes. This also led to gradual increase in the natural frequency of the input shaft/carrier at increasing mode no, consequently causing deflection on the mode shapes of the input shaft/carrier model. Hence, vibration should be reduced to the lowest limit of tolerance for minimum deflections and longevity of the input shaft/carrier and planetary gear components.
Sensitivity of Earthworm (Eisenia fetida) in Mining Soil from Ijero-Ekiti, Nigeria
Authors: Agbo S.O. , Mustapha M.A. , Ogaugwu C.E. , Sodipe O.G. , Chukwu E.C. , Raji M.F. , Nebo U.C.
Published: October 2021

Excavation and processing of mineral deposits are valuable revenue sources yet they contribute serious environmental problems worldwide. Mining activities are widespread and contribute to heavy metal contamination in rural communities in Ekiti State, Nigeria. Available research failed to establish how mining soil may impact on resident terrestrial organisms. This study assessed the health of soil from active mining site by testing it on earthworms (Eisenia fetida) for 10 weeks. Survival, mobility, morphology and behaviour of worms were assessed while soil was analyzed for selected heavy metals by atomic absorption spectrometry. Worm survival was evident as the proportion of reference soil increased in exposure mixture and improved until 92% in the control. Worms curled up at the bottom of test vessels with varying proportions of mining site soil and appeared discolored and dehydrated when taken out of test soil, with characteristic sluggishness, particularly as the proportion of mining soil increased in exposure mixtures. Though metal levels were within permissible limits, morphology of exposed worms were visibly impacted, which corresponds in severity with increasing proportion of mining soil. On the contrary, worms tested in 100% reference soil appeared healthy and active in upper part of exposure vessels. These results suggest that the tested mining soil had adverse impacts on mobility, morphology, behavior and survival of exposed organisms when compared with the control population. Therefore, food products grown downstream of the mining site may be at risk of heavy metal contamination with consequences on food quality, water quality and food chain.
Heavy Metals Adsorption on Cellulosic Materials from Agricultural Waste
Authors: Onigbinde M.O. , Okeke S.R.
Published: October 2021

Adsorption technique has been known to be a very effective method for treatment of heavy metals polluted wastewater, with the advantages of specific affinity, simple design and being user-friendly. However, the high cost of activated carbon commonly used as the adsorbent makes it necessary to explore the use of cheap cellulosic adsorbents. In this study, the adsorptive property of sugarcane bagasse (SB) and orange mesocarp (OM) was investigated. The cellulosic adsorbents were used for the sorption of lead and zinc ions from aqueous solutions. The effects of varying adsorbent dose, varying contact time and initial metal ion concentration on adsorption process of the metals were studied. The results show that both adsorbents (though waste materials) are viable for removal of metals from wastewater. Moreover, SB had higher sorption capacity for zinc (12.95 for SB and 12.68 for OM) while OM had higher sorption capacity for lead (9.90 for OM and 9.48 for SB) at optimum dosage. The isothermal studies shows that for lead adsorption, experimental data best fitted the Langmuir isotherm for both adsorbents (R2 of 0.9574 for OM and 0.98 for SB) while the data for zinc adsorption best fitted into Freundlich isotherm with SB (R2 of 0.9565) and Langmuir isotherm for OM (R2 of 0.814).
Assessment of Gmelina, Danta Solid Wood and Plywood Hive Types for Beekeeping
Authors: Akinbi O.J. , Adeduntan S.A. , Toyinbo E.O. , Alamu O.T.
Published: October 2021

The study was carried out to compare the performance of wood hive types and plywood hive types in three different vegetation types between June 2018 and May 2020 in Akure South local Government of Ondo State, Nigeria. A total of eighteen (18) Kenyan Top Bar hives made from Danta, Gmelina and plywood were constructed at six (6) each per wood types. Two (2) each of Danta, Gmelina and Plywood hives were installed in three locations: Natural Forest, Plantation forest and cocoa farmland. The rate of colonization of each hive was evaluated at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months after installation in the field. The results revealed that plywood hive type was not colonized in the natural forest throughout the period of study while Danta and Gmelina each recorded 50% colonization at the end of the experiment. In plantation forest, each of the Plywood and Gmelina hives recorded 50% colonization at 24 months after installation while bees in Danta hives absconded before 24th months after installation. In cocoa farmland, Gmelina recorded 100% colonization at 24 months, Danta recorded 50% colonization at 24 months and plywood accounted for 100% colonization at 24 months after installation. An improvement was recorded in the colonization performance at 12,18, 24 month after installation of hives. Plywood hives installed in the cocoa farmland and plantation accounted for higher colonization percentage than natural forest.
Multivariate Analysis of Vehicular Emissions in Parts of Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria
Authors: Ilaboya I.R. , Iyeke S.D. , Abulu E.I.
Published: October 2021

The focus of this study is to monitor the incidence of vehicular emissions in some parts of Benin City in addition to studying the spatial variation of the pollutant using multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA). Seven (7) georeferenced sampling points were employed for data collection and gaseous pollutants such as; dinitrogen oxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO) including the total radiation were monitored in the morning and evening for 35 days with the aid of portable toxic gas monitors and radiation alert meters. Also measured were maximum temperature and wind speed using infra-red thermometers and portable anemometer respectively. From the result, it was observed that for temperature, the mean ± standard deviation during morning session was 30.549 ± 1.3716 and during evening season it was 28.879 ± 1.1788. For NO2, the mean ± standard deviation during morning session was 0.0181 ± 0.01119 and during evening season it was 0.0230 ± 0.01282. For CO, the mean ± standard deviation during morning session was 0.5428 ± 0.36396 and during evening season it was 0.6169 ± 0.32395. For total radiation, the mean ± standard deviation during morning session was 0.247 ± 0.1285 and during evening season it was 0.281 ± 0.1298. On the significance difference of the overall results, it was revealed that the difference in concentration of vehicular emissions during the early hours of the morning and peak hours of evening is significant. With a calculated partial Eta squared based on Pillai’s trace of 0.325, it was concluded that; there exist about 32.50% variability among the dependent variables.
Structure, Conduct and Performance Analysis of Sheabutter Marketing in Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Olugbire O.O. , Fakunle A.J. , Oguntoye T.O. , Obafunsho O.E.
Published: October 2021

The study investigated the marketing practices, channels of sheabutter distribution and performance using multi stage sampling techniques to select three local government area for the study in Oyo State. The results showed about 91% of the respondents were female, the average age of the respondents was 35.5 years. Most (92.5%) of the respondents were married with average household size of 8 members. Marketing efficiency was 135% which implies that the respondents covered the cost of marketing and made a margin above 100%. Unavailability of sheabutter due to deforestation and credit unavailability were the major constraints faced by sheabutter marketers. Furthermore, Household size (p=0.005), marketing experience and member of organization (p=0.001), source of shea butter (p=0.01) and credit availability (p=0.005) were factors influencing marketing efficiency of the respondents. The study concluded that sheabutter marketing was a profitable enterprise in the study area. The study recommended that there should be proper awareness on the prospect of sheabutter business (either for local use or exportation) among young people; this will be an avenue to alleviate the scourge of unemployment in the country.
Comparative Study of Conventional and Water Circulating-Heat Sink Cooling Base Thermoelectric Generator System for Optimum Solar Thermal Waste Heat Recovery
Authors: Yusuf A. , Ali M.H.
Published: October 2021

A novel technique for waste heat recovery in solar thermal power generation is investigated through experimentation and  systematically presented. Power generation using Thermoelectric Generator (TEG) is a promising technique in waste heat recovery application. In this topology, TEG array is directly attached to the back of the solar Photovoltaic panel (model AP-AM15) to receive the transmitted heat at the back of the PV panel as waste heat. More so, a circulating water-heat sink is attached to the TEG cold side to improve the temperature gradient. Base on Seebeck effect, the TEG directly converts the temperature difference into electricity. The experimental result shows that efficiency between the range of 2.1% and 4.7% for the conventional cooling system while the output power approximately ranges between 0.05W and 0.47W, the circulating water-heat sink technique has efficiency ranging between 2.9% and 10.3% with output power between the range of 0.10W and 2.2W. The daily average increase in efficiency was found to be 263.76%. This shows that the daily average power is improved by a factor of 2.6376 with the water circulating water-heat sink technique. This is an indication of waste heat recovery from the solar thermal power generation.
Physicochemical Property and Some Vitamin Contents of Telfaria occidentalis Seeds Oil
Authors: Aguebor-Ogie B.N. , Ukwuonwo-Ediale A.C. , Eriyamremu G.E.
Published: October 2021

Fluted pumpkin, a member of the Cucurbitaceae family, is a versatile fruit and is used for various food processing application in Nigeria. As a result of its versatility, this study was conducted to ascertain the physiochemical characteristics and some vitamins content of its seeds oil. The pumpkin pods were gotten from a local farm in Benin metropolis, Edo state, Nigeria. The extraction of oil was conducted by the use of Seed-2-oil ® hot press machine. Various other standard methods were employed in the study. The physicochemical characteristics showed that the light yellow oil had a refractive index of 1.4710C ± 0.001 and melting point of 19.670C ± 1.80 while the chemical properties revealed acid value (0.64 mg KOH/ g of oil ± 0.05), peroxide value (0.99 Meq of 𝑂2/Kq of  Oil ± 0.01), saponification value (189.73 mg KOH/g of oil ± 5.20) and p-anisidine (0.09 ± 0.01) respectively. The findings for the vitamins revealed vitamin A (781IU ± 1.35), D (1361IU ± 0.14) and K3 (8.145IU ± 0.36) respectively. The findings from this study  revealed that pumpkin seed oil can be a good nutritive enrichment of foods and food products and a possible utilization in pharmaceuticals.