bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GPS tracking data of Western marsh harriers breeding in Belgium and the Netherlands
Authors: Milotic Tanja , Desmet Peter , Anselin Anny , De Bruyn Luc , De Regge Nico , Janssens Kjell , Klaassen Raymond , Koks Ben , Schaub Tonio , Schlaich Almut , Spanoghe Geert , T’jollyn Filiep , Vanoverbeke Joost , Bouten Willem
Published: July 2020

In this data paper three datasets are described containing GPS tracking and acceleration data of Western marsh harriers (Circus aeruginosus) breeding in Belgium and the Netherlands. The Western marsh harrier is included as a threatened bird species in Annex I of the European Bird Directive due to the steep decline in population densities. In order to collect data of habitat use and migration behaviour, Western marsh harriers were equipped with light-weight solar powered GPS trackers developed by the Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED) at the University of Amsterdam (University of Amsterdam Bird Tracking System, UvA-BiTS). These trackers automatically collect and store data on the bird’s activity and 3D position in time and transmit these data to ground stations.

The datasets were collected by the Research Institute for Nature and Forest (INBO) and the Dutch Montagu’s Harrier Foundation. Tracked Western marsh harriers were breeding in the northeast of the Dutch province of Groningen and on the opposite side of the river Ems in Germany (H_GRONINGEN), in the region of Waterland-Oudeman near the Belgian-Dutch border (MH_WATERLAND), and at the left bank of the Scheldt estuary, close to the Belgian-Dutch border and north of the city of Antwerp (MH_ANTWERPEN). Most individuals remained within 10 km from their nesting sites during the breeding season and wintered in West Africa. H_GRONINGEN contains 987,493 GPS fixes and 3,853,859 acceleration records of four individuals since 2012. MH_WATERLAND contains 377,910 GPS fixes of seven individuals. Sampling in this region began in 2013. Three more Western marsh harriers were tagged in the Scheldt estuary near Antwerp more recently in 2018 (one individual) and 2019 (two individuals) for the MH_ANTWERPEN study, which contains 47,917 GPS fixes and 227,746 acceleration records.

The three Western marsh harrier datasets were published as separate studies in Movebank (https://www.movebank.org) and archived as data packages in Zenodo (https://www.zenodo.org) to ensure long-term preservation and versioning of the data.
La difusión manuscrita temprana del Buscón de Quevedo, a la luz de una noticia de época desatendida
Authors: Alonso Veloso María José
Published: July 2020

El objetivo de este artículo es recuperar el contenido de una carta del siglo XVII, conservada en la biblioteca de la Real Academia de la Historia. Su interés reside en el hecho de contener datos que obligan a reconsiderar la idea de que el Buscón de Quevedo conoció una temprana y profusa difusión manuscrita, previa a la publicación de su primera edición zaragozana, en 1626. La carta es también un temprano testimonio de época sobre la recepción de la obra picaresca en Madrid: se trata del primer juicio crítico conservado sobre ella. Adicionalmente, permite aventurar que en tal lugar pudo haber circulado de forma simultánea, o incluso previa a la princeps, otra edición que difería de ella al menos en el detalle de la promesa de una segunda parte que solo figura en la tradición manuscrita.
Luis Antón del Olmet y López: un diputado en los estertores de la bohemia
Authors: Ramírez Martín Virginia
Published: July 2020

Luis Antón del Olmet y López (1886-1923) fue un prolífico escritor y periodista con una apasionante y turbulenta vida, gracias en parte a su carácter vivo y pendenciero. Es más desconocida, sin embargo, su faceta política. El presente artículo pretende repasar su actividad como cronista parlamentario y diputado, que lo fue en las legislaturas de 1914-1915 y 1915, para reconstruir esta parte de su biografía que influye significativamente en su ejercicio de la escritura y el periodismo.
Olga Bauer y Zenobia Camprubí. Historia de una amistad
Authors: Muñoz Solla Ricardo
Published: July 2020

Este artículo tiene por objeto presentar una semblanza biográfica de Olga Bauer de Gunzburg, judía de origen ruso y esposa del fundador y primer presidente de la Comunidad Judía de Madrid en 1917, Ignacio Bauer. La temprana integración de Olga Bauer en el ambiente cultural del Madrid de los años veinte le permitió compartir con otras mujeres similares inquietudes intelectuales. El artículo abordará, en concreto, el origen y desarrollo de la relación de amistad que estableció con Zenobia Camprubí, tal y como se desprende de la correspondencia entre ambas y otros materiales inéditos. Del mismo modo, se ofrecerán algunas otras noticias sobre sus círculos literarios.
Jon Juaristi y la concepción modernista de la nación, el nacionalismo y la tradición vascas (1985-1990). Un análisis etno-simbolista
Authors: Gandara Sorarrain Ana
Published: July 2020

El primer objetivo de este trabajo es profundizar en la investigación de la diversidad en la concepción de los términos «tradición», «nación» y «nacionalismo» vascos en la obra poética de Jon Juaristi a lo largo de la segunda mitad de los años 80. Para ello, partiendo de la perspectiva etno-simbolista, sustraeremos las principales características –en clave modernista– y recursos –los lugares de memoria– que encontramos en los tres primeros poemarios de este autor. De tal forma, en este trabajo se presenta un primer paso para el reflejo de la diversidad de concepciones y percepciones que surgieron y se reflejaron en la literatura vasca a partir de la Transición en cuanto a la tradición, la nación y el nacionalismo vascos.
Mobbing in Tourism Industry
Authors: Eren Ramazan , Nebioglu Oguz
Published: July 2020

Mobbing in workplace damages businesses in many ways and negatively affects organizational culture, business relationships, the quality of work tasks, and the quality of life of employees at the organization. In the tourism industry particularly and in the service industry in general, employees' nice behaviors to the customers play a significant role at the value-added part of the product. One of the important factors that will affect the quality of the service that visitors experience in a destination is the tourist guides. While the tourist guides are service providers, the satisfaction of the tourist guides with the working conditions is very important for the destinations and businesses in terms of image and profitability. This study examines the mobbing behaviors that tourist guides encounter in their work environments. Through the interviews with the tourist guides, it is aimed to determine the mobbing behaviors and resources that the tourist guides encounter in their complex and unusual working environments.
Tourist Guides as Representatives of Sustainable Tourism
Authors: Donbak Eda Rukiye
Published: July 2020

The main purpose of this research is to find out tourist guides' contributions to sustainable tourism. It is planned to apply qualitative research method by using interpretive content analysis in phenomenological design. “Using the positive effects of green and sea on people” and “using spices that will interest the group, for example anise” are some of the answers describing tourist guides' leadership (instrumental) roles. “Talking to the villagers and transfer a lot of information to group” and “explain the nature of the region and explaining how the people living there adapt to this nature” are some of the answers of tour guides describing tourist guides' leadership (social) roles. “Giving information about what is famous in the Dardanelles region and go to the tasting” and “if there has been a family who makes tomato paste in the region certainly to let them to get experience” are some of the answers of tour guides describing tourist guides' mediator roles.
Analysing the Tour Guides' Perceptions About Gastronomy Tourism in Himachal Pradesh
Authors: Sahoo Debasis
Published: July 2020

Gastronomic activities like tasting of local cuisines, visiting of apple orchards, tea gardens, fruit marts, and attending cookery classes have always been an integral part of tour itinerary in Himachal Pradesh. Tourists rejoice it as a means of entertainment as well as cultural learning. The growing trend of gastronomy tourism and development of specific tourism policy under the theme of ‘Agro/Organic Tourism' is certainly going to increase the demand for ‘gastronomic tour guides' in coming years. Hence the present research tries to analyse the tour guides' perception about Gastronomy Tourism in Himachal Pradesh, their background knowledge, and opinion about the branding of Himachali Cuisine. Responses from 120 tour guides were collected through a survey instrument via convenience sampling. The analysis depicts the requirement of specialized food guide training programs, attracting young and women tour guides into the profession and emphasis on branding of Himachali Cuisine through listing of ethnic restaurants, preparation of gastronomic map, and organisation of culinary tours and events.
Best Practices for Tour Guides at Christian and Islamic Religious Sites
Authors: Khreis Sawsan , Chapuis Jean Michel , Shunnaq Mohammed
Published: July 2020

Tourism is a major economic pillar for many countries; it enables them to increase gross domestic product, improves the population lifestyle, and preserves natural, cultural, and religious tourism assets. Tourism appears as a magic tool that could change the future of a developing country. However, tourism requires qualified human resources who can deliver high-quality service. Tour guides assume a great responsibility as they communicate with tourists during their sojourn. Their mission is even more critical if they have to accompany tourists to sacred tourist destinations where tourists are engaged in religious activities. The best practices of guides embedded with tourist behaviors are expected to enhance a peaceful world and provide a good touristic experience.
Tourist Guiding in Halal Tourism
Authors: Abdul Rahman Nor Aida
Published: July 2020

The growing interest in Halal tourism activity represents a prolific lens for scholars and practitioners in the tourism arena to study its concept, its role, and its potential to affect the sustainability of Halal tourism industry. The success of tourism industry is highly dependent on traveler experience with respect to customer service, experience, facilities, comfort, and delight. The notion of Halal tourism is connected and geared to the adoption of Islamic principles and practice in all aspect of tourism activities such as in Halal hotel, Halal restaurant, Halal spa, Halal package tour, Halal transportation, Halal warehouse, and Halal retail. Halal tourism market reached USD 181 billion in year 2018 and is expected to grow every year. The number of Muslim travelers to Southeast Asian countries has rapidly increased as Southeast Asia (SEA) is known as a dynamic environment with a total Muslim population around 240 million.
Ayvalik an as Art Route for Tourism Guides Within the Frame of Art Tourism
Authors: Çelik Uğuz Sabriye
Published: July 2020

Art is the most important element that directs people to a destination and gives them an original experience in a developing and changing understanding of tourism. Art tourism motivates people to travel, facilitate communication with different cultures, enhance social pride, and contribute significantly to the region's economy. Regions with artistic and touristic attractions are active with art tourism, and they have an art destination brand. In this study, Ayvalik's potential for art tourism is investigated. At the same time, art events, art venues, and artist atelier/studio in Ayvalik are presented with numerical and visual examples. Ayvalik is developed as a new art route within the framework of art tourism and offers various suggestions for its tourist guides.
Introduction to Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Balasubramanian K. R. , Senthilkumar V. , Senthilvel Divakar
Published: July 2020

Additive manufacturing (AM) is also referred to as 3D printing, rapid prototyping, solid freeform fabrication, rapid manufacturing, desktop manufacturing, direct digital manufacturing, layered manufacturing, generative manufacturing, layered manufacturing, solid free-form fabrication, rapid prototype, tool-less model making, etc. It is emerging as an important manufacturing technology. It is the process of building up of layer-by-layer by depositing a material to make a component using the digital 3D model data. The main advantages of AM are mass customization, minimisation of waste, freedom of designing complex structures, and ability to print large structures. AM is broadly applicable to all classes of materials including metals, ceramics, polymers, composites, and biological systems. The AM methods used for producing complex geometrical shapes are classified based either on energy source (laser, electron beam) used or the material feed stock (powder feed, wire feed).
Additive Manufacturing of Nickel-Based Super Alloys for Aero Engine Applications
Authors: A. Raja , O. V. Mythreyi , R. Jayaganthan
Published: July 2020

Ni based super alloys are widely used in engine turbines because of their proven performance at high temperatures. Manufacturing these parts by additive manufacturing (AM) methods provides researchers a lot of creative space for complex design to improve efficiency. Powder bed fusion (PBF) and direct energy deposition (DED) are the two most widely-used metal AM methods. Both methods are influenced by the source, parameters, design, and raw material. Selective laser melting is one of the laser-based PBF techniques to create small layer thickness and complex geometry with greater accuracy and properties. The layer-by-layer metal addition generates epitaxial growth and solidification in the built direction. There are different second phases in the Ni-based superalloys. This chapter details the micro-segregation of these particles and its influence on the microstructure, and mechanical properties are dependent on the process influencing parameters, the thermal kinetics during the process, and the post-processing treatments.
How Does National Culture Influence Microfinance Institutions?
Authors: Banász Zsuzsanna , Csepregi Anikó
Published: July 2020

Many studies deal with the determinants of countries' culture or efficiency of microfinance institutions (MFIs). This chapter aims to fill the gap in the literature by analyzing the connection between national cultural features and indicators of countries' MFIs. The summary of analyses made regarding MFIs is followed by the national cultural dimensions, and how knowledge strategy could serve poverty reduction. Forty-five countries represent the subject of the research. Their statistics are available for both MFIs and national culture. Rank correlation and investigation of TOP5 countries show that the MFIs are successful in countries characterized by high levels of power distance, collectivistic, long-term-oriented and restraint culture. Based on these results, the chapter lists countries where MFIs could be successfully introduced based on their national cultural features and recommends certain knowledge strategies for effective operation. Finally, research directions as a continuation of this study are also presented.
Creative Problem Solving in Online Innovation Contests
Authors: Baltzersen Rolf K.
Published: July 2020

Online innovation contests represent one of the most interesting new ways of utilizing creative skills in the new collaborative economy, but we still know very little about what motivates the problem solvers. Previous studies suggest that the economic reward is not the only motivational factor, but there are many other motives too. The aim of this research study is to identify the core motivational dimensions based on the experiences of top solvers in three different types of online innovation contests. The empirical findings are used to construct a motivational typology for creative problem solving that can guide future research.
Performance Measurement Systems for Healthcare Organisations
Authors: Rodríguez Raúl Rodríguez , Figueroa Sara Trespalacios , Alfaro-Saiz Juan-Jose , Verdecho María-José
Published: July 2020

This chapter deals with the performance measurement systems (PMS) for healthcare organisations topic. PMS have been proved to be a widely used management tool to control, monitor, and manage performance and, extensively, organisations. However, most of the developed works have focused on industrial organisations, being the application of this topic to health organisations not fully exploited. This chapter brings, based on scientific literature, some sound reviews that could be the starting point for researching activities in this topic. Then, it shows an overview of performance measurement elements applied to healthcare organisations from different optics such as efficacy, quality, adequateness, use of ICT and sustainability at both intra- and inter-organisational contexts.
A Novel Approach Towards Handwritten Digit Recognition Using Refraction Property of Light Rays
Authors: Samanta Roopkatha , Ghosh Soulib , Chatterjee Agneet , Sarkar Ram
Published: July 2020

Due to the enormous application, handwritten digit recognition (HDR) has become an extremely important domain in optical character recognition (OCR)-related research. The predominant challenges faced in this domain include different photometric inconsistencies together with computational complexity. In this paper, the authors proposed a language invariant shape-based feature descriptor using the refraction property of light rays. It is to be noted that the proposed approach is novel as an adaptation of refraction property is completely new in this domain. The proposed method is assessed using five datasets of five different languages. Among the five datasets, four are offline (written Devanagari, Bangla, Arabic, and Telugu) and one is online (written in Assamese) handwritten digit datasets. The approach provides admirable outcomes for online digits whereas; it yields satisfactory results for offline handwritten digits. The method gives good result for both online and offline handwritten digits, which proves its robustness. It is also computationally less expensive compared to other state-of-the-art methods including deep learning-based models.
Automatic Home Floor Cleaner Robot
Authors: Masomera Felix Gerald , Gweera Confidence Z. , Batani John
Published: July 2020

Due to the presence of semi-automated home floor cleaner systems that are unable to do both mopping and draining of water on floor surfaces, this research investigates the challenges being faced by the elderly and the differently-abled people in using these cleaner systems and develops a robot that can effectively clean floor edges and corners. In attaining an automatic home floor cleaner robot, this research utilizes the vector field histogram (VFH) and path planning algorithms to realize automatic obstacle detection, edge detection, and moderate floor coverage when mopping. The effectiveness of algorithms depends on floor edges, floor corners, and water presence on the floor. The results enjoy the satisfaction of the elderly, the differently abled, and other individuals who are too busy to do the work since they no longer have to intervene in the cleaning process except to just power on the cleaner robot. However, the robot requires continuous charging of the battery, and it does not work on carpeted floors.
Adult Literacy Programme for Poverty Reduction
Authors: Baporikar Neeta , Namufohamba Martha
Published: July 2020

Citizens who lack basic skills and knowledge end up with unemployment or low-paying jobs. This leads to existence in poverty and a lack of opportunity to even voice. Low literacy levels affect economic development, diminish citizen participation and contribution, and are burdensome on nations. To address the issue, many nations consider, adopt, and support adult literacy programmes (ALP). Namibia is no exception. Hence, in 2003, the Adult Literacy Programme was initiated and is still actively engaging the targeted community members for acquiring basic skills and knowledge, thereby reducing poverty. Thus, the objective of this study is to assess ALP's success in poverty reduction as a citizenry approach. Based on the transformational learning theory and the capability approach, the qualitative research method is adopted, and data collection is done with structured interviews using a purposive sampling technique. Findings reflect ALP has enhanced the lives of participants and, therefore forms part of the measures to inhibit several social-related evils that cause poverty.
Assessment of antimicrobial activity of Cola milleni seed and pulp extracts against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Penicillium notatum
Authors: Aliyu A.M. , Oluwafemi S.J. , Kasim S.
Published: July 2020

All over the world, hundreds of plants have been identified based on researchers and experimental evidence as good sources of medicinal agents. The bioactive components (phytochemicals) of both the seeds and pulp of Cola milleni were extracted using ethanol as solvent. The bioactive components detected were alkaloids, tanins, saponins, cardiac glycosides, carbohydrates, sterols, resins and terpenes while Flavonoids, anthraquinones, anthracyanides and phenol were not detected for both the seed and pulps. Antimicrobial activity of the ethanol extract (Seed and pulp) against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Penicillium notatum was carried out using standard techniques. Staphylococcus aureus had the highest zone of inhibition for pulp having a range of 9.7mm±0.58mm - 19.7mm±2.52mm while Penicllium notatum had the least with 0.00mm. S.aureus also had the highest zone of inhibition range of 14.3mm±2.08mm - 21.3mm±1.53mm for the seed extract while penicillium had the least inhibition range of 5.0mm±1.00mm - 5.7mm±0.58. E.coli showed the highest minimum inhibitory concentration with ethanol extract of the pulp (160mg/ml) while penicillium notatum was not reactive. The minimum inhibitory concentration of seed against penillium notatum was the highest (160mg/ml) while staphylococcus aureus showed the lowest of 40mg/ml. The antimicrobial activity is as a result of the presence of phytochemicals detected, which suggest the use of the plant for the treatment of diseases caused by these organisms.

Key words: Cola millenii, Phytochemical, Antimicrobial activity, Bacteria, Fungi
Bacterial load of the surface of some selected Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) in Kano Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Rufa’I S.M.
Published: July 2020

An Automated Teller Machine (ATM), also known as Automated Banking Machine (ABM) or cash machine and several other names, is a computerized telecommunication device that provides access to financial transactions in a public space without the need for a cashier or other intermediaries. The Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) has been widely used due to its convenience but also serves as a source of bacterial contamination. The aim of this work was to determine the bacterial load of surfaces of selected ATMs in Kano metropolis. Swab samples were collected from four (4) selected areas and ten (10) different study sites. The samples were collected using swabbing technique and standard plate count was employed for the enumeration of bacterial counts. The mean bacterial counts ranged between the lowest count of 1.20 x 102cfu/cm2 and the highest count of 1.78 x 102cfu/cm2 and the mean count of individual machine ranged from 1.70 x 101 cfu/cm2 upto 6.00 x 101cfu/cm2. All the ATMs were found to be contaminated. It could thus be concluded that the ATMs studied present a very great risk factor for cross contamination. The general public should therefore be enlightened on the possible health hazards associated with such items like ATMs and thus advised for strict personal hygiene and regular washing of hands before and after contact with ATMs so as to reduce the possible transfer of bacterial diseases and/or infections.

Keywords: Automated Teller Machines (ATMs), Bacteria, Contamination, Kano metropolis.
Acute toxicity analysis of effluent from tannery industry in Kano metropolis
Authors: Ibrahim S.S. , Imam T.S.
Published: July 2020

The acute toxicity of tannery effluents collected from Challawa industrial estate Kano, Nigeria was assessed using Artemia salina and Clarias gariepinus. The test was done after the evaluation of range finding test before a definitive test with 3 replication of each treatment. The varying concentrations were prepared by diluting crude effluent with borehole water on V/V% in a completely randomized design. The experiment showed C. gariepinus fingerling to exhibit abnormal behavior such as initial erratic movement, skin discolouration and loss of reflex. Recorded mortality and behavioral abnormalities in both species observed were dose-time-dependent. The 96 hours LC50 estimated for C. gariepinus was 9.95% while that of A. salina after 24 hours and 48 hours were 4.63%, 0.73% respectively. Thus, the information from the study demonstrates the toxic effect of tannery effluent which requires proper management before its discharge into environment.

Keywords: Acute toxicity, Artemia salina, Clarias gariepinus, Effluent, Tannery
Solid state synthesis and characterization of pyrazole and pyrazolates complexes of Cobalt (II) ions
Authors: Abubakar T. , Kurawa M. A. , Isyaku S. , Ozoro E.C.
Published: July 2020

There were two ways used to synthesized cobalt (II) complexes of pyrazole by solid state. The first route involved direct reaction of the appropriate cobalt (II) acetate with pyrazole and pyrazolium chloride to form bispyrazole cobalt(II) salts, [(HPz)2CoCl2]. This was further ground in the second route with a two equivalents of a base (KOH) to make polymeric cobalt (II) pyrazolate [Co(Pz)2]. In all the synthesis above the ratio of ligand to cobalt (II) acetate was 2:1. All the cobalt (II) complexes were found to be of different colour from the starting materials and were characterized using solubility test, which showed that the complexes have poor solubility in most of the solvents used except in dimethylsulfoxide where they were soluble and the molar conductivity measurements of the complexes have low values (ranging from 6.44-6.45Ω-1cm2mol-1) which showed that they are non-electrolytes. The decomposition temperature showed that all the complexes have relatively low decomposition temperatures (93°C- 95°C). Characterization of the complexes via infrared analysis confirmed the coordination of metal with the ligand through pyridine-nitrogen and deprotonated-nitrogen in the range of 435.93cm-1 Co-N bonds and 406.99cm-1Co –N (for the route A and B respectively). The magnetic susceptibility measurements were carried out at room temperature and the effective magnetic moment values for all the complexes further confirmed complexation of the metal (II) ions with the ligand and also indicates that the cobalt (II) complexes are paramagnetic. The plot of absorbance against mole fraction in each case gives a curve with maximum absorbance corresponding to the ligand mole fraction used in calculating the number of coordinated ligands and 1:2 metal-ligand ratios were obtained in all the complexes.

Keywords:  Mechanochemical, Pyrazole, Pyrazolate, Grinding, Mechanochemical Elimination.
Elemental composition of some building materials used in Zaria, Kaduna State
Authors: Haruna F. , Garba Z.N. , Agbaji E.B.
Published: July 2020

This study investigates the elemental composition of Cement, Granite, Ceramic tiles and Plaster of Paris (POP) which are extensively used as building material in Zaria, Kaduna State. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) technique was employed in this work to determine the elemental composition of the building materials. The samples were crushed to a fine powder, sieved through a 250 mm mesh and dried in an oven at 1100 C to ensure the complete removal of moisture. The results showed the presence of (Mg, Al, Si, Ca, Fe, Sn, Cl, Ti, S, P, Mn, Co, Zn, Mo, Pb, Cr,V, Cu, Br, Cd, Ba, Hg, and Ni)  in various concentrations. Mg, Al, Si, Ca, Fe, Sn, Cl, Ti and S were available in relatively high concentration in all the samples with P, Mn, Co, Zn, Mo and Pb, found in relatively lower concentrations in some of the samples while Cr and Ni were only present in Ceramic tile samples; which was attributed to coloring agents used in the tile making process. This shows that the elemental composition is in agreement with the composition of the earth crust which is the source of the building materials. The analysis is of importance and useful to the construction industry as well as dwellers of the Zaria built environment.

Keyword: Composition, Plaster of Paris, Cement, Granite, Ceramic Tile
Enumeration of total and Feacal coliform bacteria of some borehole water in Gombe, Gombe State, Nigeria
Authors: Garkuwa Nuru Adamu , Mustapha Sa’adatu Said , Ibrahim Sani Aliyu , Yusha’u Muhammad , Abdulrasheed Mansur , Garkuwa Usman Adamu
Published: July 2020

Inadequate provision of potable drinking water in relation to teaming population is forcing most of the urban communities to drink untreated water obtained from traditional boreholes. Hence, the need to assess the portability of drinking water. In this research, boreholes water samples collected within Gombe city were investigated bacteriologically using multiple tube fermentation and pour plate methods to examine feacal coliform and coliform bacterial counts respectively; bacterial isolation was conducted using standard culture methods.  Identification of the bacterial Isolates were carried out by macroscopic, microscopic and biochemical examinations. Total coliform bacteria ranges from <3 to 11 MPN/100 ml and 1 to 3 MPN/100ml for faecal coliform. The borehole water samples from studied areas had high counts of faecal coliforms (Escherichia coli), and other pathogens like Entrobacter and Salmonella. The findings showed that all the borehole water analysed were not suitable for human consumption and may pose a serious threat to the health of consumers and therefore, there is need for treatment of these borehole waters by the borehole proprietors and also by simple treatment methods such as boiling, filtration before drinking and agitation by the consumers.   

Keywords: Borehole water, Quality, Isolation, Identification, Coliform bacteria
Effect of solvents on the synthesis of hydroxyapatite sodium alginate nanocomposites for doxorubicin drug loading and delivery
Authors: Onoyima C.C. , Okibe F.G. , Sholadoye Q.O.
Published: July 2020

In situ preparation of hydroxyapatite-sodium alginate nanocomposite (HASA) was carried out by the wet chemical precipitation method using water, ethanol, ethyl acetate and acetone as the dissolution medium. Drug loading was carried out at neutral pH, while in vitro drug release study was carried out in synthetic body fluid (SBF) at pH 7.4 and 37 oC.  The FTIR results show similar functional groups for precursors and synthesized nanocomposites. The nanocomposite prepared in water medium has the highest drug encapsulation efficiency of 83.67 %. Doxorubicin release profile comparison using difference factor (f1), showed that there is no significant difference between release profile of doxorubicin from nanocomposite synthesized in acetone and ethyl acetate ((f1 = 3.92), while other release profiles differed significantly. All the formulations follow first order release rate, while the n exponent in the Korsmeyer-Peppas equation indicates that the release mechanism is dominated by Fickian diffusion. The release profiles also indicate that nanocomposites synthesized from water medium is a better delivering agent for doxorubicin than the nanocomposites from the others solvents.

Keywords: nanocomposites, solvents, drug loading, hydroxyapatite, release profile
Impact of construction practices on the environment a case study of Kano State, Nigeria
Authors: Aliyu B.S. , Moyi M.Z. , Fareed L.Z. , Sule H.J. , Nazifi A.M. , Bello D.Y. , Auwalu B.A.
Published: July 2020

The Physical environment is being disturbed by numerous problems, including those caused by the constructions activities, such problems impacts on the environment right from the initial stage, operational and to the end of the life span of the built structure. The aim of the study was to suggest the main environmental impacts of construction in Kano state. About twenty six construction impacts were reveals from the past researches. However, all the impact was classified into nine main classes. Data for the study were collected from questionnaires and interviews survey administered to stakeholders of construction industry in Kano State. Data collected were analyzed and ranked using Relative Importance Index (RII), suggesting that they significantly impact on the environment thereby causing environmental degradation. Based on the results resource consumption was ranked highest among the major environmental impacts of constructing in Kano. The highest class, consist raw materials, water, fuel and electricity consumption. The paper concludes with recommendation which includes enforcement of extant rules, regulation and ethical code by government legislative on construction stakeholders, government should formulate and ensuring adequate use of construction design that will suite the environment in Kano. Also, all forms of construction practices should be subjected to an environmental impact assessment to determine the potential impacts and also formulate the ways to overcome it before execution. The study suggest also that, the chair personnel in construction companies should formulate some rules, code of conducts that will ensure good and fair sustainable construction practices in Kano.

Keywords: Construction Company, Construction Practices, Environmental Impact, Kano.
Comparative study of sucrose plasticised bioplastic derivatives with selected petro-plastics
Authors: Agwamba E.C.
Published: July 2020

The major setback with most bioplastics is their inherent inability to compete with Petro-plastics in terms of high production cost, and there poor mechanical properties like low tensile strength and percentage extension. This study explore the availability and affordability of mango starch as raw material for bioplastic production and compared some of its mechanical properties with High density Polyethylene (HDPE), Low density polyethylene (LDPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and Polyurethane (PU). Mango starch was used to synthesize bioplastic derivatives, with variable levels of sucrose as plasticiser, aqueous HCl concentration and Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) as additive and the mechanical properties of the derived biofilms was measured and compared with the selected Petro-plastics films. It was observed that B1 thermoplastic derivatives have the higher young modulus of 5.658 GPa than that obtained for PVC (4.682 GPa), and PU (3.771 GPa) but show no significant difference and significantly higher than that of HDPE (0.049 GPa), and LDPE (0.063 GPa) (p < 0.05). B2 and B3 indicated a young modulus that is significantly lower than PU and PVC, but showed a young modulus that is higher than LDPE and HDPE with no significant difference (p < 0.05). The FTIR spectra indicate that hydrogen bond was formed in the bulk matrix of the bioplastic derivatives at a band region of 3600 -600 cm-1 wavenumber with broad discrete peaks.

Keywords: Petro-plastics; Bioplastics; Mechanical Properties; Plasticization; Mango Starch
Levels of induced free proline in chelated and unchelated hydroponically grown lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.)
Authors: Dagari M.S. , Musa M.S. , Maude F.M.
Published: July 2020

It is well described that under stress conditions many plant species accumulates proline as adaptive response to adverse conditions. In this study, eight weeks old Lactuca sativa L. seedlings were transplanted in nutrient solution containing various doses (0.000, 0.0025, 0.005, 0.0075, and 0.025mg/L) of Pb2+ and Cd2+ and constant concentration of EDDS (0.0025M).  The effects of these treatments of Pb2+, Cd2+, combination of Pb2+ + Cd2+and with or without EDDS (Ethylene  diamine disuccinate) were compared based on the level of stress induced to the seedlings. Free proline contents induced due to stress by uptake of Pb2+and Cd2+ were investigated in both unchelated and chelated treatment. The results obtained showed that the effect of increasing concentration of Pb2+ in hydroponic solution leads to decrease in the level of stress induced to the seedlings by EDDS while the lower the Cd2+ concentration in the hydroponic solution the more the level of stress induced by EDDS to the plant. The highest level of stress caused to the seedlings by unchelated and chelated Pb2+ solution are 68.294±5.642; 72.681±14.740 µmolg-1 respectively while that of Cd2+ are 28.962±8.703; 48.263±2.455 µmolg-1 respectively. From this, it is evident that Pb2+induced more stress to the plants than Cd2+ in the presence and absence of EDDS (p<0.05).

Keywords: Proline, Ethylenediaminedisuccinic Acid (EDDS), Lead, Cadmium, Lettuce.
Implication of aflatoxins as potent carcinogens
Authors: Mukhtar Fatima
Published: July 2020

Aspergillus species influence human and animal health directly and indirectly with a significant economic impact on the society. A. flavus and A. parasiticus are the two major species that produce aflatoxins. Several mycotoxins are reported from several other mycotoxigenic fungi of which the aflatoxins are the most toxic and damaging polyketides. Economically important crops such as maize, rice, cotton seed, peanuts, and spices are all susceptible to contamination of aflatoxin. The aim of this review is to make an extensive review and come up with ways to curtail this global challenge on how to manage aflatoxin contamination in crops and other food products since the toxins have been classified as potent carcinogens and about 25% of food is being lost due to aflatoxin contamination annually. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) conducted evaluation of several chemicals of their carcinogenic potential and classified aflatoxins as most potent natural, known human carcinogens. The methodology was by selecting the most recent researches conducted on new techniques to be employed in overcoming the issue of aflatoxin contamination both during the pre and post-harvest strategies. The Data gathered was subjected to appropriate statistical tool so as to come up with more improved techniques. It was found that both chemical and physical methods have certain drawbacks which may lead to drop in human and animal health, cause a significant decline in the quality of food products, losses of nutritional value, high cost and cause undesirable health effects, but biological methods using microorganisms seems more promising, they provide an attractive alternative tool for removing toxins and safeguarding the value of food and feed in an eco-friendly way.

Key words: Aflatoxin, Contamination, Crops, Pre and Post-harvest.
Perception, management and pharmacoeconomics of breast cancer in the North West region of Cameroon
Authors: Tah-Monunde Mercy Akwi Mbacham , Chenjo Joseph , Yongabi Kenneth Anchang , Fokunang Charles , Mbacham Wilfred Fon
Published: July 2020

Breast cancer (BC) is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide, with an annual incidence of about 1.7 million (11.9%). In Africa and Cameroon, BC accounts for 28% and 33.4% respectively of all cancers, hence it is a health and an economic burden. This study was conducted to investigate the perception and practice of breast self-examination among breast cancer patients, evaluate the pharmacoeconomics of chemotherapy against phyto-therapy and to relate these to the stage of presentation at hospital. A cross-sectional survey was carried out on 75 tradi-practitioners in the North West Region who treat BC and on 85 BC patients who attended the Regional Hospital Bamenda. Pharmacoeconomic analyses were done on the cost of treatment of BC using each of the health interventions. The structured questionnaires had four sections labelled A through D. Section A of both questionnaires demanded background information from the participants such as their location (village), type of community, the date of interview and the consent; Section B demanded demographic characteristics of the participants; Section C was concerned with the management of breast cancer; Section D contained questions whose responses enabled the researcher to calculate the cost of treatment. From the study, 15.3% of respondents knew and practised BSE. The mean delay before presentation for medical evaluation was 10.9 months for those who knew and practiced BSE, the average costs of treating BC by chemotherapy and by phyto-therapy were $3,042 and $1,500 respectively. We conclude that BSE greatly influences the stage of presentation of BCPs at the hospital for consultation, with those who know and practise it having a lower mean delay of presentation at the hospital for treatment. We also conclude that the treatment of breast cancer using plant preparations is apparently less costly than by conventional chemotherapy but with no evidence in the delay of time-to-metastasis.Keywords: Knowledge, pharmacoeconomics, breast cancer, breast self-examination, chemotherapy, phyto-therapy
New insights into the processes of biological evolution and human reproduction provided through a dialogue between science and Qur’an
Authors: Chaabani Hassen
Published: July 2020

In this paper I present new insights into the processes of biological evolution and human reproduction in the light of a dialogue between the current scientific knowledge and Qur‟an verses. I demonstrate how this dialogue could provide new complementary information and a more comprehensive state of each of these two processes. After clearing up some confusions and uncertainties related to the biological evolution process I propose a new vision for this process considering that the Creator (Allah) of the entire Universe had organized and supervised the emergence of living beings depending on a wonderful evolutionary plan. As this vision is hopefully in agreement with my interpretations of related Qur‟an verses, I concretize it from them. One of scientific paintings deduced from these verses shows how our humankind emerged at the top of a complex network of evolutionary stages evolved from the earth like the emergence of the upper part of the top of a tree. To the second biological process „Human Reproduction‟ Allah gives a more accurate designation „Human Picturing Creation‟ insisting on the fact that the major acts of this process do not happen randomly but under His supervision. Moreover Allah given to the major elements of this process, wonderful designations including some unnoticed details through superb rhetoric formats peculiar to Qur‟an. At the end of this paper I point out that my interpretations of Qur‟an verses, based on new rigorous methodology, are generally different from the existing ones showing how the latter include errors and distortions making them incompatible with science. More bad consequences, such as terrorism, have been the result of erroneous interpretations of some verses on socio-political issues. To solve this problem of erroneous interpretations and related false considerations that have accumulated through the ages and were merged into cultures of Muslim societies, I call for a “First International Real Renewal of Islam”

Key words: Qur‟an interpretation, Biological evolution, Supernatural Creator, Limits of science, Human reproduction, Picturing creation, Human gametes, Human zygote, Human embryogenesis, Real Renewal of Islam.
Biosynthesis of phenylpropanoids and their protective effect against heavy metals in nitrogen-fixing black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia)
Authors: Kim Nam Si , Sathasivam Ramaraj , Chun Se Won , Youn Woo Bin , Park Sang Un , Park Byung Bae
Published: July 2020

Purpose: To examine the effect of various heavy metals (HMs) on phenylpropanoid pathway compounds in Robinia pseudoacacia.Methods: A series of pot culture experiments were performed to understand how the metabolic profile of phenylpropanoid compounds were affected by various HMs, such as redox-active HMs (AgNO3 and CuCl2), and non-redox-active HMs (HgCl2). Phenylpropanoid compound level was evaluated by high performance liquid chromatography.Results: The total phenylpropanoid level in leaves increased significantly in all the treated groups when compared to that in the untreated group (p < 0.05). However, a significant effect on the total phenylpropanoid levels was only found for redox-active HMs (p < 0.05), whereas non-redox-active HMs showed less accumulation. Chlorogenic acid and rutin were the two major phenylpropanoid compounds found after the plants were subjected to redox and non-redox-active HMs stress. However, when compared to these two compounds, the levels of catechin hydrate, epicatechin, p-coumaric acid, kaempferol, and quercetin were lower. Caffeic acid level was significantly decreased in both redox and non-redox-active HMs when compared to that in the control (p < 0.05). In addition, trans-cinnamic acid accumulation was altered based on the types and concentration of HMs.Conclusion: Phenylpropanoid metabolic pathway participated in the HM tolerance process for the protection of R. pseudoacacia from oxidative damage caused by HMs, thus allowing the species to grow in highly HMs-contaminated areas.

Keywords: Heavy metals, Non-redox-active metals, Phenylpropanoid compounds, Redox-active metals, Robinia pseudoacacia
Fucoxanthin improves functional recovery of orbitopathy in Graves’ disease by downregulating IL-17 mRNA expression in a mouse model
Authors: Chai Lichao , Wang Jing , Wei Yan
Published: July 2020

Purpose: To explore the efficacy of fucoxanthin (FX), a carotenoid, against inflammation via inhibition of IL-17 mRNA expression, and its anti-oxidant activity in Graves’ orbitopathy (GO)-induced mice model.Methods: The effects of FX on IL-6, IL-8, IL-17, MCP-1, and TNF-α, in orbital fibroblast tissues extracted from GO-induced BALB/c mice was  investigated. Anti-oxidative stress markers, 8-hydroxy-2’- deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were quantified in tear samples collected from GO-induced FX treated mice.Results: FX administration in cultured human orbital fibroblast cells revealed almost complete cell viability and no cell apoptosis. FX resulted in IL-1β induced Beclin-1 and Atg-5 silencing, in cultured human orbital fibroblasts. BALB/c mice immunized with Ad-TSHR289 indicated elevated levels ofthyroid peroxidase and thyroglobulin antibodies in the serum sample. FX predominantly downregulated the mRNA expression of IL-17, and also reduced increased 8-OHdG and MDA in the tear secretion of GO-induced mice.Conclusion: FX may be an effective and useful molecule for the treatment of GO, through its antiinflammatory and anti-oxidative potential, but it requires further investigation to ascertain its therapeutic effectiveness.

Keywords: Anti-inflammatory, Anti-oxidant, Fucoxanthin, Graves’ disease, Graves’ orbitopathy, IL-17