bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
L’Intelligence artificielle : une opportunité pour le développement de l’artisanat minier Camerounais
Authors: Ndewe André Armand , Ejuande Emmanuel Wonomu , Fogwe Zephania Nji
Published: July 2024

Le secteur minier artisanal camerounais se caractérise par une expansion anarchique des chantiers qui échappent au contrôle et à la surveillance des autorités gouvernementales, faute de moyens logistiques, technologiques autonomes appropriés pour assainir ce secteur d’activité. Ceci en dépit du fait que le Cameroun s’est engagé dans les stratégies nationales pour le développement de 2020 à 2030. L’objectif de ce travail est de montrer que l’Intelligence Artificielle à travers l’usage des drones constitue une nouvelle option pour la surveillance des territoires miniers, lesquels sont soumis, depuis les années 2000, à diverses formes de pollutions environnementales et de tensions sociales. L’approche systémique a permis de mieux analyser les rapports « espace-société » au sein des territoires de l’Est-Cameroun et les entretiens semi-directifs ont permis de constater que l’apport des drones dans la surveillance, le suivi et le contrôle des activités minières permettrait d’assainir le secteur de l’artisanat minier camerounais.
Approvisionnement en eau. Le cas du chef-lieu Avaricum - Bourges
Authors: Surgent Marianne
Published: July 2024

Le chef-lieu Avaricum/Bourges constitue une étude de cas exemplaire sur le thème de l’alimentation en eau d’une agglomération, depuis le captage jusqu’à la distribution. Les captages, points de départ des aqueducs, sont tous connus, mais inaccessibles ou détruits aujourd’hui. Il s’agissait de puits ou de bassins des eaux drainées, amenées dans certains cas par un réseau de canalisations en étoile. Les eaux captées étaient de bonne qualité, laissant peu de concrétions calcaires, et les débits ont été estimés : le plus fiable est celui de l’aqueduc de Traslay avec des mesures entre 39 et 68 l/s. Actuellement, dans la ville antique, peu d’équipements hydrauliques ont été attestés, ce qui révèle un défaut de découvertes archéologiques car ce constat ne saurait correspondre aux dimensions d’un chef-lieu tel que Bourges.
Un schéma de distribution d’eau à Perpignan (XVIIe siècle)
Authors: Catafau Aymat
Published: July 2024

Découverte d’un exceptionnel dessin du XVIIe siècle sur le réseau d’adduction d’eau de Perpignan dans les quartiers situés entre l’actuelle place Cassanyes et l’église Saint-Jean.
A 4-Dimensional Strategy for Managing Construction Waste Originating during the Design Process within Architectural Design Firms in Egypt
Authors: Othman Ayman Ahmed Ezzat , Saad Aya Said Muawad
Published: July 2024

This study aims to develop and validate a comprehensive strategy consisting of four dimensions for effectively managing construction waste (CW) arising during the Architectural Design Process (ADP) within Architectural Design Firms (ADFs) in Egypt. To accomplish this aim, a hybrid research approach, integrating qualitative and quantitative methods, was designed to address four specific objectives. Firstly, a thorough literature review was conducted to explore the topics of ADP, CW, Waste Management (WM), as well as national and international Waste Management Strategies (WMS). Secondly, three construction-based case studies from Saudi Arabia, China, and Thailand were gathered and analyzed to investigate the efficacy of identified WMS in managing CW originating during ADP. Thirdly, a survey questionnaire was administered to a representative sample of ADFs in Egypt to assess their understanding and utilization of WMS during ADP. Finally, the research formulated and validated a four-dimensional strategy for managing CW originating during ADP in ADFs. Data analysis revealed that ADFs possess a moderate level of knowledge regarding WMS, with limited awareness of Egyptian laws, regulations, and WMS during ADP. Among the identified WMS, "Prefabrication" emerged as the most favoured, followed by Building Information Modeling (BIM) and "on-site waste management". However, the implementation of these strategies faces several challenges. Furthermore, the research identified "preparation and briefing" as the design stage most susceptible to CW causes, with "waiting" and "defects" being the most prevalent forms of CW originating during ADP.
Implications of the Global Race to Net-Zero by 2050 for the Strategic Fleet of Coal-Fired Power Plants in SADC
Authors: Mashingaidze Melvin Mununuri
Published: July 2024

This paper discusses the coal-fired power plants (CFPPs) in the Southern African Development Community (SADC), in the context of the net-zero by 2050 initiative. It describes recent global climate change responses impacting the operation of CFPPs, and the medium-to-long term prospects for coal power. The paper then discusses the motivators and strategies for sustaining the operations of CFPPs in SADC, and why the international community has to let countries in the region and other small developing nations, transition to renewable energies at a more measured pace. It also offers actionable insights on sustainable financing options for upgrading the region’s CFPPs and just energy transitions. Following a balanced assessment of the facts and broad issues discussed herein including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 7, 10, 13, and 17; the paper concludes that most of the CFPPs in SADC are likely to remain operational way beyond the phase out deadlines despite lacking emissions abatement technologies. The pressing and burgeoning need for electricity and the huge coal reserves in the region are the determinants, rather than international norms or political correctness. However, no development institution or major country will finance any new CFPP projects in SADC, but renewable energy projects instead. Thus, national energy policymakers and power utilities in the region are recommended to revise the current energy policies to include renewable energy expansion and obliterate any mentions of proposed or planned CFPPs. SADC governments need to engage in public dissemination campaigns about the impending energy transition implications for all citizens and map out pragmatic cushioning strategies. Concurrently, they need to support innovations and entrepreneurship in renewable energies and work on improving national creditworthiness scores, to attract climate finance.
Quantity Surveyors’ Adaptability to Technology: The Last Frontier of Job Displacement Challenge
Authors: Siriwardhana S. D. , Samarakkody A. L. , Wimalaratne I. , Mahinkanda M. , Kulatunga U. , Rathnayake L.
Published: July 2024

In the 21st century, where modern technologies are developed at an expeditious rate, the construction industry has survived over centuries, despite its slow rate of innovative adaptations, the poor performance of professionals, excess number of qualification holders, and vastly reported skill shortage. Technological advancement is the catalyst to solve these issues attaching extreme significance to transform the role of professionals in line with industrialisation, digitalisation and globalisation. Herein, Quantity Surveying (QS) is a key profession in the construction industry that contributes to the cost management aspect of a construction project. With the technological advancements in the industry, identifying the adaptability of QSs to 21st-century technologies and recognizing the nature of their emerging job role that may reshape the traditional role has become a pressing issue that needs to be addressed immediately. Thus, this paper investigates the potential impact of such advancements on QS employment patterns, underscoring the need for professionals to align with the shifting paradigms of digitalization. Utilizing a qualitative research approach, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten expert QS practitioners from various international contexts. This method enabled the exploration of current states, expected competencies, and the professional evolution of QSs amidst technological disruptions. The findings suggest that while core QS functions remain irreplaceable, the profession is poised for significant transformation. This paper concludes with a range of recommendations that ensure the relevance and importance of the profession well into the future. The paper provides the international QS community with a unique data source that should prove valuable for comparative purposes and general discussion about the future of QSs globally and the direction of the profession. Therefore, this research contributes to knowledge by the diversifying QS roles in the construction industry with significant competencies encountered while addressing adaptability of QSs in the 21st century technology advancements.
Health impact of security agents’ COVID-19 lockdown control tactics on citizens of north-central Nigeria: evidence and policy options
Authors: Ugwu Chukwuka Eugene , Okafor Uchenna Paulinus , Onyekwelu Anthony Chukwuemeka , Orji-Okafor Chetachi Euphemia , Mamah Calistus Ifeanyi , Anyanwu Obinna Chidi , Ajaebili Nnamdi Charles , Attama Paulinus I. , Ugwuanyi Chigozie Freda , Okolo Modesta C.
Published: July 2024

The COVID-19 lockdown control tactics used by security agents on the citizens of north-central Nigeria were studied for their effects on health The convenience sampling method was employed to select six states of the study area. Due to the nature of the data collected, quantitative data analysis was limited to percentages, while state-by-state evaluation was used to summarize qualitative data sources. Additionally, hospital records from five privately owned and two government-owned hospitals in each of the study area’s states were generated, for a total of 42 hospitals sampled for the research. The obtained medical records demonstrate that the COVID-19 lockdown control actions by security agents have a detrimental effect on the health and well-being of the citizens in the study area. Amputation (0.27%), bacterial vaginosis (3.43%), coughing (11.16%), cataracts in the eyes (7.69%), etc., were reported. There was an association found between victims’ health issues and security agents’ use of force. Proposed were reforms and least invasive methods of managing public health, including social marketing, education, democratic policing tactics, and facilitation engagement.
Diabetes and susceptibility to COVID-19: Risk factors and preventive and therapeutic strategies
Authors: Liu Jing-Wen , Huang Xiao , Wang Ming-Ke , Yang Ji-Shun
Published: July 2024

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a highly infectious disease caused by a novel human coronavirus called severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Diabetes is a well-known risk factor for infectious diseases with high prevalence and increased severity. Here, we elucidated the possible factors for the increased vulnerability of diabetic patients to SARS-CoV-2 infection and the more severe COVID-19 illness. The worsened prognosis of patients with both COVID-19 and diabetes may be attributable to host receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2-assisted viral uptake. Moreover, insulin resistance is often associated with impaired mucosal and skin barrier integrity, resulting in mic-robiota dysbiosis, which increases susceptibility to viral infections. It may also be associated with higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines resulting from an impaired immune system in diabetics, inducing a cytokine storm and excessive inflammation. This review describes diabetes mellitus and its complications, explains the risk factors, such as disease characteristics and patient lifestyle, which may contribute to the high susceptibility of diabetic patients to COVID-19, and discusses preventive and therapeutic strategies for COVID-19-positive diabetic patients.
Diffuse Aggressive Angiomyxoma of the Vulva: A Case Report
Authors: Abdullahi Asli Mohamed , Awale Mohamed Abdullahi , Garba Bashiru , Adawe Mariam , Nor Fatima Ibrahim , Kahiye Mohamed Ali
Published: July 2024

Aggressive angiomyxoma is a mesenchymal tumor that is frequently found in women of reproductive age mostly appearing in the vulva,  perineal region, head, neck, trunk, and lower limbs. A 33-year-old multiparous Somali woman presented to the outpatient department of Dr Sumait Hospital, with a complaint of swelling around her vulva. The patient reported that the mass had progressively grown for the  past 8 years and that she experienced stigma from her previous spouses. Her past medical history and socioeconomic status were unremarkable. During the physical examination, a welldefined pedunculated mass measuring 14 cm × 8 cm, originating from the labia  majora, was noted. The mass was pinkish, non-tender, non-reducible, and had a soft consistency. Some areas of ulceration measuring 2 cm × 2 cm, covered with necrotic granulation tissues, were also noticed. With the patient’s written informed consent, a biopsy was  performed, and the histopathology results revealed aggressive angiomyxoma. Following confirmation of the diagnosis, the mass was  surgically excised under sterile conditions and spinal anesthesia. Aggressive angiomyxoma is an important consideration when  evaluating vulvovaginal growth in females. Given its tendency for local recurrences, it is vital to establish an accurate diagnosis.
Clinicians' Barriers to Screening and Diagnosing Diabetes Distress in Patients with Type 1 and 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A systematic review
Authors: Nhlabatsi Musa Lewis , Van Teijlingen Edwin R. , Hundley Vanora A.
Published: July 2024

Background: People with diabetes commonly experience diabetes distress which is associated with adverse health outcomes. Although diabetes distress assessment tools are available, the condition is underdiagnosed in primary and specialised clinical settings.
Objectives: The systematic review aimed to identify and analyse barriers that clinicians encounter when screening for diabetes distress in patients with type 1 and 2 Diabetes Mellitus.
Methods: Four databases, PubMed, ESCOB, PsycINFO and Scopus, were searched to identify relevant studies which were mapped narratively using thematic analysis. Quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods studies published in English were considered for inclusion in this systematic review without geographic limitations.
Results: Our search identified 1579 studies, and four primary studies from three countries met the inclusion criteria. These studies reported five barriers, which included (1) lack of knowledge; (2) lack of time; (3) lack of accessibility to mental health services; (4) lack of motivation; and (5) patients' denial of their diabetes distress. The two most reported barriers were lack of knowledge and time.
Conclusions: The review identified critical barriers to the underdiagnosis of diabetes distress by clinicians. Further, it highlights the need for policymakers and organisations to conduct pragmatic research to understand clinicians' experiences when assessing diabetes distress in various healthcare settings to improve diabetes management.
An Evaluation Of The Suitability Of Some Basement Rocks From Oban Massif, Southeastern Nigeria, For Engineering Construction Purposes
Authors: V E Nyong , I K Adebayo , M V Nyong , G E Orlando , J N Mogaba
Published: July 2024

The​ ​physical​ ​and​ ​engineering properties​ ​of​ ​some​ ​basement​ ​rocks​ ​from​ ​parts​ ​of​ ​Oban​ ​Massif,​ ​Southeastern​ ​Nigeria​ ​were investigated​ ​to​ ​ascertain​ ​their​ ​suitability​ ​for​ ​civil​ ​engineering construction​ ​purposes.​ A total of 19​ ​representative rock ​samples comprising of granites and granodiorite​s, were​ ​obtained​ ​from​ ​three​ ​quarries​ ​in​ ​Akamkpa​ ​Local​ ​Government​ ​Area​ ​of​ ​Cross River​ ​State, southeastern part of Nigeria.​ ​The​ ​rock​ ​samples​ ​were​ ​crushed​ ​into​ ​aggregates​ ​and​ ​their​ ​physical​ ​and​ ​mechanical properties​ ​were​ ​assessed.​ ​The​ ​results​ ​obtained​ ​showed​ ​that​ ​the​ ​specific​ ​gravity​ ​ranged​ ​from 2.60-2.72,​ ​water​ ​absorption​ ​0.30-0.96%,​ ​aggregate​ ​impact​ ​value​ ​​12-30%, aggregate​ ​crushing​ ​value,​ ​12-33%,​ ​flakiness​ ​and​ ​elongation​ ​Indices​ ​both ranged​ ​from​ ​14-29%,​ ​the uniaxial​ ​compressive​ ​strength​ ​fell​ ​between​ ​190​ ​and​ ​209NM/m​,2​ ​​and​ ​the​ ​Los​ ​Angeles​ ​abrasion gave​ ​14-41%.​ ​Petrographic​ ​studies​ ​suggested​ ​the​ ​rocks​ ​are​ ​granites​ ​and​ ​granodiorites.​ ​Results​ ​obtained from​ ​the​ ​research​ ​were​ ​compared​ ​with​ ​known​ ​engineering​ ​specifications.​ ​Such​ ​comparisons​ ​showed​ ​empirical​ ​relationships​ ​between​ ​the​ ​physical​ ​and​ ​the​ ​mechanical​ ​characteristics​ ​of​ ​the materials​ ​tested.​ ​These empirical relationships can, thus, be​ ​employed​ ​to​ ​save​ ​cost​ ​in​ ​future​ ​site​ ​investigations.​ ​Petrographic​ ​studies and​ ​engineering​ ​properties​ ​indicate​ ​that​ ​aggregates​ ​derived​ ​from​ ​the​ ​fresh​ ​basement​ ​rocks​ ​in​ ​the​ ​study areas​ ​are​ ​capable​ ​of​ ​withstanding​ ​heavy​ ​traffic,​ ​foundation​ ​loads​ ​and​ ​are​ ​generally​ ​suitable​ ​for​ ​most civil​ ​engineering construction​ ​purposes.​ ​It​ ​is​ ​also​ ​expected​ ​that​ ​the​ ​interpretation​ ​and​ ​ranking​ ​of​ ​the​ ​test​ ​results​ ​will provide​ ​a​ ​suitable​ ​guide​ ​to​ ​prospective​ ​clients​ ​of​ ​quarry​ ​operators​ ​as​ ​they​ ​can​ ​now​ ​have​ ​some​ ​scientific basis​ ​for​ ​selecting​ ​materials​ ​needed​ ​for​ ​different​ ​construction​ ​works.​ ​To​ ​achieve​ ​this, quarry​ ​operators must​ ​test​ ​and​ ​advertise/publicize​ ​the​ ​properties​ ​of​ ​their​ ​products​ ​for​ ​public​ ​consumption.
Journal of Social Development in Africa, Vol. 39, Issue 1
Authors: Muzvidziwa Victor, N.
Published: July 2024

No Abstract
Challenges for reintegrated youths recovering from substance use disorders in Harare, Zimbabwe: A phenomenological study
Authors: Matanga Anesu A. , Chiparausha Maybe , Kurevakwesu Wilberforce , Charamba Sunungurayi
Published: July 2024

With the rise in substance use disorders in Zimbabwe, several interventions have been instituted, but the problem continues on an upward trajectory. One aspect that has been neglected is the reintegration of young people recovering from substance use disorders. As such, this study investigates the challenges that youths recovering from substance use disorders face in Highfield, Harare. We adopted a qualitative interpretative phenomenological design and interviewed 12 participants and 4 key informants. Data were analysed through interpretative phenomenological analysis. From the findings, youths recovering from substance use disorders face several challenges in their reintegration and these include social stigma, lack of empowerment programs, stress, idleness, relapse and lack of social support. We then recommended the need to extend reintegration and aftercare services through the case management system, the prioritisation of income-generating projects for reintegrated youths, community sensitisation, and the development of a substance use policy that addresses issues of reintegration, among others.
Working difficultly hard: Complexities of medical social work within multi-professional settings in Zimbabwe
Authors: Mavuka Anotida , Dambiranwa Charlene , Matanga Anesu A.
Published: July 2024

The study investigates the complexities of practising as a medical social worker in the Zimbabwean health sector. The aim of the study, therefore, was to identify the challenges faced by medical social workers within multi-professional settings. A qualitative research approach was adopted for the study. The study further utilised a phenomenological research design. This is because it offered an in-depth understanding of the lived experiences of professional medical social workers. The study targeted qualified medical social workers and social work students on internships in the hospital. The study, therefore, had 6 primary participants and 3 key informants. The key informants included a doctor, a nurse and an administrator. Data was collected through in-depth interviews and key informant interviews. Thematic analysis was employed to analyse the data. From the findings, the study established that medical social workers face the challenges of power dynamics, high caseloads, lack of resources, misunderstanding of the role of medical social work and professional mistrust among many others. The study made various recommendations to deal with challenges faced by medical social workers. The study recommended the need to recruit more social workers, to have clear guidelines on medical social work, and to develop an inter-professional collaboration committee at public hospitals for instruction on the expectations.
New data and species of Ethmiidae (Lepidoptera: Gelechioidea) from the Afrotropical Region
Authors: Mey Wolfram
Published: July 2024

In Africa south of the Sahara 62 valid species of the family Ethmiidae are recognised to date. Four new species are described from localities in Ethiopia, Djibouti, Uganda, Namibia and South Africa: Ethmia angensteini spec. nov. (Ethiopia), Ethmia hermannstaudei spec. nov. (Namibia, RSA), Ethmia kibalensis spec. nov. (Uganda), and Ethmia stadieana spec. nov. (Djibouti). The moths of the new species and some of their close relatives are illustrated in colour. The male and female genitalia are depicted as line drawings and as photos. The systematic position of the new species is briefly discussed. New faunistic records of scarcely collected species are communicated from several African countries.
The genera of the tribe Charaxini (Papilionoidea, Nymphalidae, Charaxinae)
Authors: Bouyer Thierry
Published: July 2024

The systematics of Charaxini is revised. The three historical genera are confirmed: Charaxes Ochsenheimer, 1816; Polyura Billberg, 1820 and Euxanthe Hübner, 1819. The genera Eriboea Hübner, 1819 stat. rev.; Zingha Hemming, 1939 stat. rev.; Viridixes Bouyer & Vingerhoedt, 2008 stat. rev. and Euxanthe subgenus Hypomelaena Aurivillius, 1898 stat. rev. are reinstated. Three new genera are described: Laodice gen. nov. with the type species Papilio lycurgus Fabricius, 1793; Setechin gen. nov. with the type species Charaxes nichetes Grose-Smith, 1883 and Ydeali gen. nov. with the type species Charaxes lydiae Holland, 1917. A key to the nine genera is provided.
Colotis lais (Butler, 1876) and Colotis euippe omphale (Godart, [1819]) use Cadaba aphylla (Thunb.) Wild LC as a host-plant at Tswalu Kalahari, Northern Cape Province, South Africa)
Authors: Terblanche Reinier F.
Published: July 2024

This article reports the first host-plant species record for Colotis lais (Pieridae), the shrub Cadaba aphylla (Capparaceae). It includes a first description of the final instar larva and the pupa for this species. It furthermore indicates the frequent use of C. aphylla as a host plant by Colotis euippe omphale (Pieridae) in the southern Kalahari. The visible concentrations of C. aphylla at these terrain units influence the conspicuous presence of C. lais and C. euippe omphale at riparian zones in this region. The use of C. aphylla at riparian zones in semi-arid Kalahari bioregions (arid savanna), which encounter periodic droughts, is therefore important for the survival of these species. These findings prompt a change in the perspective on host-plant use of Pieridae butterflies in the southern Kalahari. Although C. aphylla is not the main source for the abundance of pierids in the region, it clearly supports their numbers to a greater degree than has been assumed. Boscia albitrunca and Senna italica are the main host sources, but C. aphylla decidedly influences the diversity and abundances of Pieridae butterfly species in the southern Kalahari. This emphasises the importance of a regional perspective on host-plant use by butterfly species. These findings about the host-plant use and landscape ecology of butterflies at Tswalu Kalahari show that C. aphylla is a keystone species that calls upon further research.
Design and Preliminary Characterization of Sweet Potato Starch – Urea-Borate Polymer
Authors: Agho O. , Okunlola A.
Published: July 2024

Background – Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) starch has been reported for its potential as a directly compressible and sustained- release polymer in its native and modified forms. Chemical modification by crosslinking with urea and borax to form starch urea-borate  will enhance its drug release-retarding properties.
Objective – To design starch-urea-borate (SUB) polymer using sweet potato starch to  produce a new, affordable biodegradable polymer, and carry out preliminary characterization of the polymer.
Method – Native starch  was extracted from sweet potato tubers and crosslinked with urea and borax to form starchurea borate (SUB) polymer. The native and  modified starches were characterized for morphology (SEM), FT-IR, DSC, pH, densities, swelling, flow properties and viscosity.
Results –  Modification yielded 96.66% w/w of SUB and disrupted the granular structure of the native starch, producing significantly larger (p<0.01)  granules with irregular shapes. FTIR spectrum revealed a peak at 3369.05 cm1 due to –NH2 confirming the presence of a secondary  amide resulting from the polymerization reaction between urea and starch in the presence of borate. A shift in the peak of DSC  endotherm was observed for SUB. Modification yielded lower particle density but higher bulk and tapped densities. The swelling index  increased significantly (p<0.01). Hausner’s ratio (1.06± 0.00), Carr’s index (6.33± 0.01%) and angle of repose (26.14±1.15º) showed good flow but reduction in compressibility of SUB. Viscosity revealed shear thickening or dilatant behaviour.
Conclusion- The material and  physicochemical properties of SUB polymer showed its potential for application in drug delivery systems, possibly as a release retarding  polymer.
Antibacterial, Antibiofilm Activities and Toxicity of Uvaria chamae P. Beauv (Annonaceae)
Authors: Oluremi B.B. , Oloche J.J. , Abiona P.D. , Ofudi C.B.
Published: July 2024

Background: Bacteria biofilms are a serious global health concern. The rapid increase of antimicrobial resistance in diarrheagenic  bacteria due to biofilm formation has limited the clinical usefulness of some antibiotics in circulation.
Objectives: Uvaria chamae has shown broad spectrum antibacterial activity, hence the need to study its antibiofilm activity against  enteroaggregative Escherichia coli (EAEC) strains implicated in paediatric diarrhoea.
Methods: Samples of authenticated U. chamae root, stem and leaf were collected, air-dried, ground and extracted by cold maceration in  dichloromethane and methanol separately. The EAEC strains tested were; O42, DH5α, MN5DE, D25D and D28I. The plant extracts were  subjected to quantitative and qualitative phytochemical screening and the 50% lethality (LC50) brine shrimp assay carried out. Extracts  were screened for antibacterial activity using agar diffusion method, while agar dilution and broth dilution methods were used to  determine minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations, respectively. Biofilm inhibition of the active extracts was investigated by  crystal violet method.
Results: All the EAEC strains were multi-drug resistant, but susceptible to gentamicin and azithromycin. Dichloromethane leaf extract (DLE) and methanol leaf extract (MLE) inhibited the growth of the tested EAEC strains with the MIC of MLE  D28I being MIC 3.75 mg/mL. The percentage biofilm inhibition by MLE against EAEC strains O42, MND5E and D25D were 72%, 74.5%, and  63%, respectively. Alkaloids were the most abundant in the methanol leaf extract of U. chamae (MLE). The extracts had LC50 >1000 μg/ mL.
Conclusion: Uvaria chamae is non-toxic and possesses antibiofilm potential that could be further developed as a natural remedy for  diarrhoea.
Effect of Garcinia kola on Atorvastatin Dissolution Profile: An Indication for Possible Drug-Drug Interactions After Oral Administration
Authors: Adegbola A. , Igbinoba S. , Adebisi E. , Omotoso B. , Soyinka J. , Soyinka J.
Published: July 2024

Background: Herb-drug interactions are of growing concern due to the widespread use of herbal supplements alongside medications.  These interactions can affect therapeutic outcomes. Understanding and identifying specific interactions is crucial for ensuring safe and  effective medication use. Objective: This study investigated the impact of Garcinia kola, a common food supplement, on the dissolution of atorvastatin tablets.Methods: The dissolution profiles of atorvastatin tablets were investigated alone and in the presence of varying concentrations of G. Kola  by mixing 1, 2, or 4g of G. Kola powder respectively with the dissolution medium. Samplings were performed at predetermined time  points (10, 20, 30, 45 and 60 minutes) and the amount of atorvastatin dissolved was measured using a validated HPLC method.  Statistical analyses were conducted to assess the significance of the observed differences.Results: The percentages of atorvastatin released in dissolution medium without G. kola were 31.38±11.81,46.02±8.73, 72.23±33.30,  63.55±27.10, 82.54±31.12% across the sampling time points. Whereas the percentage of drug released were 17.01±7.33, 27.02±8.42,  34.70±13.90, 39.74±13.53, 28.47±11.78% in the presence of 1g G. kola; 12.44±5.89, 11.87±1.51, 23.33±5.18, 27.33±8.50, 52.49±11.66% in the  presence of 2g G. kola and 2.28±3.53, 4.94±7.21, 7.26±9.01, 4.68±7.37, 6.86±8.70% in the presence of 4g G. kola. There was a statistically  significant difference in the amount of drug dissolved in conditions studied.Conclusion: There was a significant change in the dissolution profile of atorvastatin with increasing concentrations of G. kola. This  suggests a need to establish the impact of G. kola on the disposition of atorvastatin in vivo.
Antifungal Activity of Alchornea cordifolia and Ficus exasperata Leaves Against Trichophyton mentagrophyte and Trichophyton verrucosum
Authors: Akpo C.O. , Nwankwo L.U. , Emmanuel C.E
Published: July 2024

Background: The use of plant based natural products as alternative remedy for mycosis has gained global prominence, hence the need to explore the antifungal potentials of readily available herbs.
Aim: To compare the antifungal activity of the ethanol leaf extracts of Alchornea cordifolia and Ficus exasperata against Trichophyton mentagrophyte and Trichophyton verrucosum with that of conventional griseofulvin.
Method: Plant samples were extracted with ethanol via maceration. Phytochemical screening was carried out using standard techniques.  The ethanol extract of the fresh and dried leaves of Ficus exasperata and Alchornea cordifolia were compared with  griseofulvin (0.03mg/ml) for activity against Trichophyton mentagrophyte and Trichophyton verrucosum using agar well diffusion  method at varying concentrations.
Results: Both crude drugs contains flavonoids, saponins, tannins, and cardiac glycosides. Ficus  exasperata extracts also contains phlobatannin and terpene. The extracts exhibited a dose dependent fungal inhibition. The highest concentration (150mg/ml) of A.cordifolia and F.exasperata extracts exerted the highest zones of inhibition (16.7mm, 19.3mm, and  19.00mm, 19.7mm respectively) against T.mentagrophyte. The zones of inhibition of the test drugs against T.verrucosum were 20mm,  19.3mm, and 21.3mm, 24.7mm respectively. The least mean zone of inhibition was observed at 25mg/ml. Minimum inhibitory  concentration (MIC) of 50mg/ml was obtained for Alchornea cordifolia fresh and dried leaves and Ficus exasperata dried leaves while  minimum inhibitory concentration of 25mg/ml was obtained for the Ficus exasperata (fresh) leaves.
Conclusion: These results clearly  elucidates the potentials of fresh and dry extracts of A.cordifolia and F.exasperata as a good source of antifungal compounds.
Polymeric microneedle arrays for transdermal rapid diagnostic tests and drug delivery: a review
Authors: Diwe I. V. , Mgbemere H. E. , Adeleye O. A. , Ekpe I. C.
Published: July 2024

In recent times, the demand for innovative, insignificantly invasive diagnostic and therapeutic biomedical tools has reached enhanced attention. Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) for diagnosis, which are non-invasive, inexpensive, simple, and deliver results accurately in less than 20 minutes, have heightened the accessibility to parasite-based analysis globally. Microneedle (MN) arrays are a fast-developing and promising technology for drug delivery and extraction of Interstitial fluid (ISF) employed for numerous diagnostic and clinical therapies. This review gives a broad overview of the characteristics and history of Microneedles (MNs) patches together with their applications in drug delivery and transdermal rapid diagnostic purposes, classifications, and categories based on the design of fabrication from previous works of literature spanning the period 2018-2023. Utilizing PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Wiley online library search engines, an online search for scientific publications published between 2018 and 2023 was conducted using the keywords "microneedle patch" and "rapid diagnostic tests." 175 articles in all were found when the search terms were used. The acquired results were then narrowed to 64 citations in this review by applying the inclusion principle. Pictorial and tabular representations highlight the various features of Microneedle patches used in interstitial fluid testing and extraction that have been documented experimentally, including numerous applications of Microneedle patches, showing their dimensions, applications, fabrication methods, and findings made. Finally, research on bio-microneedles and bio-inspired MN are reviewed. The research findings indicate that dissolving microneedles has become increasingly popular since they have several benefits over other microneedles. It is among the most well-known microneedles, and since it degrades naturally, it is a superior option for diagnosis and long-term treatment.
Effect of cellulosic micro- and nano- sized fillers on strength and microstructure of rubber composites
Authors: Oboh J. O. , Ajekwene K. K. , Okele A. I. , Ichetaonye S. I. , Mohammed I. B.
Published: July 2024

The tensile strength of polymer composites is basically influenced by the geometry (size and shape) of the reinforcing material as well as interfacial interaction and bonding between the polymer matrix and reinforcing phase. This work compares the effect of microfillers to nanofillers of coconut husk, bamboo and cotton linter on the tensile strength and microstructure of vulcanized rubber matrix. The various composites were formulated and prepared using filler loading of 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 parts per hundred of rubber (pphr) in rubber matrix for both micro- and nano- fillers of the various biomass through friction shearing and compression moulding processes. Results revealed that the tensile strength of the nanocomposites predominantly increased from 1.85 MPa for neat sample to maximum values of 3.83, 3.16 and 3.85 MPa respectively for composites with 25pphr of coconut husk cellulosic nanoparticles (NR-CHNC25), 30pphr of bamboo cellulosic nanoparticles (NR-BNC30) and with 25pphr of cotton linter cellulosic nanoparticles (NR-CLNC25) conversely, the tensile strength of their counter microcomposites changes from 1.85MPa for neat sample to maximum values of 1.68, 1.67 and 2.46 MPa for composites with 10pphr of coconut cellulosic microparticles (NR-CHMC10) 15pphr of bamboo cellulosic microparticles (NR-BMC15) and 30pphr of cotton linter cellulosic microparticles (NR-CLMC30) respectively within the loading range employed in this experiment. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) images of microcomposites showed cases of microfiller debonding and pull-out from the rubber matrix. Hence the improved tensile strength of nanocomposites over their counterpart microcomposites was attributed to the larger surface area provided by nanofillers for interfacial bonding and effective stress transfer.
Stochastic analysis of outage probability of the cascaded Rayleigh-Rician fading channel using Padé approximation method
Authors: Ojedokun I. A. , Aweda F. O.
Published: July 2024

The dominance of wireless communication (WC) is evident in all areas of life such as Information and Communication Technology (ICT), research, business, academia, etc. However, modelling analysis of WC has been a serious challenge when it involves diversity combining. Previous work has attempted to solve this problem using approximation techniques. These approximation techniques seem to be complex and may be difficult to interpret. The existing practice of using the Probability Density Function (PDF) to analyse multipath fading in a diversity-rich environment is ineffective to handle cascaded fading channels. The current work proposed the Pade Approximation (PA) technique to mitigate the problem. The PA was developed from the generated Moment Generating Function (MGF) by truncating the Taylor series to obtain a rational expression. The approximated rational expressions obtained were transformed into PDF, Cumulative Density Function (CDF) and Outage Probability (Pout). The results show that the Pout reduces as the threshold value increases. The numerical results also shows that the diversity techniques is effective in combating fading because as the number of paths increases, the Pout reduces. The Pout reduces by 17.56% at L=4 from 90.83% at L=1 when there is no diversity. PA is a useful approximation to analyse the behavior of cascaded Rayleigh-Rician channel.
Assessing vertical accuracies of satellite-DEM for terrain modelling in Akure, Nigeria
Authors: Nzelibe I. U. , Mogaji I. N. , Tata H.
Published: July 2024

This research conducts a comparative analysis of the vertical accuracies of satellite-derived Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) in the Akure South Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria. The DEMs assessed were obtained from three open-source satellite missions: Sentinel-1A, ALOS PALSAR, and TanDEM-X. The reference Ground Control Points (GCPs) used in the evaluations comprised 133 GCPs of 2nd and 3rd-order accuracy acquired from the Office of the Surveyor General, Ondo State, and through field surveys using the South Galaxy-1 Differential GPS. These obtained GCPs provided extensive coverage of the study area. The evaluation was undertaken based on the land cover, which was established by dividing the study area into open (built-up and bare land) and vegetation-covered (agricultural and forested) areas. The vertical accuracies of the satellite-based DEM collected within the study area were then compared and analyzed. The results revealed that Sentinel-1A and TanDEM-X were the most suitable in both open and vegetation-covered parts of the study area, with Sentinel-1A exhibiting the best performance. The effect of vegetation cover was mostly felt by ALOS PALSAR. Sentinel-1A and TanDEM-X displayed commendable vertical accuracies, deemed highly suitable for applications in topographic mapping, as shown by an RMS of less than 2m. This research recommends the open-source satellite DEMs Sentinel-1A and TanDEM-X for planning and engineering applications because they offer the highest accuracy among their counterparts within Akure and its environs.
La ville de Kinshasa : légumes, pesticides-engrais chimiques, santé et environnement
Authors: Minengu Mayulu Jean de Dieu
Published: July 2024

No abstract
„Żywy dziennik” jako zabawa dziennikarska
Authors: Stępnik Krzysztof
Published: July 2024

Żywy dziennik (journal parlé, spoken newspaper) to sceniczne przedstawienie naśladujące redagowanie dziennika, wymyślone w 1883 r. przez Louisa Peyramonta. Ten eksperyment spotkał się z krótko trwającym zainteresowaniem prasy francuskiej, brytyjskiej, austriackiej i węgierskiej. Prasa polska też odnotowała tę nowość, która nieoczekiwanie stała się atrakcyjnym punktem zabaw towarzyskich, a potem odrębną formą rozrywki powiązaną z celem charytatywnym. Przedstawienia journal parlé wystawiane były na profesjonalnych i amatorskich scenach, zwłaszcza w Galicji, autonomicznym kraju monarchii habsburskiej. Przedmiotem analiz w tym artykule było kilkaset notatek prasowych dokumentujących aspekty kulturowe, społeczne i organizacyjne konkretnych przedstawień żywego dziennika w latach 1897–1914. Autor ukazał treści i specyfikę polskiej wersji journal parlé, definiując ją jako formę rozrywki elit dziennikarskich, literackich, artystycznych i naukowych Krakowa i Lwowa, na poziomie amatorskim uprawianej również na prowincji. Scharakteryzował też właściwą tej formie estetykę komizmu, zdominowaną przez tendencję satyryczną i parodystyczną.
NOTAS SOBRE A LITERATURA ALEMÃ DO SÉCULO XVIII
Authors: Costa Pâmela
Published: July 2024

O objetivo deste trabalho é apresentar algumas reflexões sobre o surgimento da literatura na Alemanha do século XVIII. Teremos como base Otto Maria Carpeaux e sua obra História concisa da literatura alemã. Destacando principalmente o movimento Sturm und Drang- “Tempestade Ímpeto”, alguns nomes se destacam, como Hamann, Herder, Lenz e, sobretudo, Goethe e Schiller. Conhecido também como pré-romantismo, os jovens poetas e filósofos tinham um profundo desejo e admiração pelo mundo helênico. Como veremos, serão caracterizados pelo forte desejo de expurgar os sentimentos, emoções, exaltar a arte, a literatura, o poema e o gênio.  Nesse período, o espírito alemão aspirava por algo inédito, único e de grande impacto. Nesse sentido, é um período de grande relevância para compreendermos a relação entre a filosofia e as artes em geral, pois foi nesse período que a relação foi intensificada. Em suma, é contra o racionalismo exacerbado que os alemães buscaram a “paixão é o ímpeto — Drang, que se espelha no íntimo da alma humana a tempestade, Sturm”.
“A TERRA DÁ, A TERRA QUER”
Authors: Almeida Lívia Oliveira , Almeida Pedro Lucas Formiga de , Vieira Anderson Henrique
Published: July 2024

A prevalência de uma razão cartesiana, que desconhece qualquer outro método de conhecimento que foge aos princípios instituídos pela razão instrumental, tem instaurado políticas públicas regidas por um privilégio epistêmico (homem branco, europeu e neoliberal). É nesta conjuntura que surge o Programa Minha Casa, Minha Vida (PMCMV), anteriormente regulamentado pela Lei 11.977/2009 e, atualmente, disciplinado pela Lei 14.620/2023, o qual apresenta como principal finalidade promover o direito social à moradia, constitucionalmente tutelado. Em que pese a relevância da política habitacional citada, percebe-se a ausência de abordagens dialógicas quando do seu planejamento, a qual poderia integrar saberes, vivências locais e como meio de fomentar a participação popular. Tais elementos são explorados por Antônio Bispo na obra “A terra dá, a terra quer”. Por essas razões, este artigo se propõe a refletir como (e se) a Lei 14.620/2023 incorpora elementos de participação popular, com foco nos objetivos e diretrizes gerais do Programa Minha Casa, Minha Vida. Assim, surge o seguinte questionamento: O conceito legal, objetivos e diretrizes legais estabelecidos pelo novo PMCMV incorporam elementos participativos em seus planejamentos? Para tanto, utilizou-se de uma releitura normativa inspirada na obra de Antônio Bispo, aliado a pesquisa bibliográfica com abordagem qualitativa. A principal conclusão indica que a obra de Antônio Bispo apresenta elementos aperfeiçoadores do modelo de ocupação colonial presente no PMCMV, haja vista a observância de instrumentos aptos a assegurar a captação da participação popular e dos saberes locais quando da reformulação dos conceitos, diretrizes e objetivos apresentados na Lei 14.620/2023.
Os componentes físico-naturais do espaço geográfico na Educação Básica: situando as investigações sobre as rochas
Authors: Oliveira Amanda Satil de , Morais Eliana Marta Barbosa de
Published: July 2024

Este artigo foi elaborado com o objetivo de explorar como os conhecimentos relacionados aos componentes físico-naturais do espaço geográfico, especificamente as rochas, têm sido abordados nas pesquisas no campo do ensino de Geografia. Para isso, analisamos os anais do Fórum Nacional NEPEG de Formação de Professores de Geografia e do Encontro Nacional de Prática de Ensino em Geografia (ENPEG), além dos periódicos Acta Geográfica e Revista Brasileira de Educação Geográfica, assim como teses e dissertações defendidas entre 2009 e 2023. Esses são considerados importantes veículos para a divulgação do conhecimento nessa área específica. Utilizando a revisão bibliográfica como procedimento metodológico, contabilizamos e analisamos as produções relacionadas ao ensino dos componentes físico-naturais e das rochas publicadas durante o período analisado. As leituras e análises indicaram que, embora o trabalho com os componentes físico-naturais tenha sido ampliado significativamente nos últimos anos, as produções acerca das rochas ainda se apresentam de forma tímida. Ademais, ressalta-se que muitos professores relatam dificuldades em trabalhar com essa temática por considerá-la distante de suas realidades. Destacamos que o ensino desse componente na Educação Básica, a partir do trabalho com situações-problema, pode auxiliar os estudantes a compreenderem melhor seu cotidiano.
LA ADMINISTRACIÓN INSTRUMENTAL. EL OBJETO SOCIAL EN LAS SOCIEDADES MERCANTILES PÚBLICAS DE LA JUNTA DE ANDALUCÍA
Authors: FERNÁNDEZ LUQUE JESÚS MANUEL
Published: July 2024

La presente edición, cerrada a 31 de enero de 2012, incluye las modificaciones introducidas por la Ley 1/2011, de 17 de febrero, de reordenación del sector público de Andalucía, y por la Ley 1/2011, de 23 de diciembre, del Presupuesto de la comunidad autónoma de Andalucía para 2012.
EL DERECHO DE LOS SERVICIOS SOCIALES EN ANDALUCÍA
Authors: Pérez Monguió Jose María
Published: July 2024

La obra trata el Régimen Jurídico de los Servicios Sociales en Andalucía. Aborda los elementos confluyentes en su regulación, encuadrando la materia en su contexto y analiza el modo en que se aborda esta cuestión en el Estatuto de Autonomía para Andalucía.
Effect of Nicotine Exposure on Mandibular Development of CD-1 Mouse Fetuses: A Histological Study
Authors: Saad Abdelhamied Y
Published: July 2024

No Previous investigation examined the histological effects of nicotine on mandible development in mouse. Therefore, fetuses of pregnant CD-1 mice, exposed to 0.1% nicotine sulfate at a dose of 1.67 mg/kg body weight from the 6th to the 15th gestational day, were compared with controls (Saline-injected and untreated) fetuses. This to assess the histologic effects of nicotine on mandibular osteogenesis. Mothers were sacrificed on the 18th day of gestation. The 180 decapitated nicotine-treated heads as well as the 348 control heads were measured (height, width and circumference), embedded in paraffin, sectioned in the frontal plane, 5 µm thick and stained with H&E for light microscopic examination. Data analysis revealed the head dimensions were significantly reduced in nicotine treated heads when compared to those of controls. Histologic examination demonstrated 9.6% of fetuses of experimental heads presented cleft palate, whereas none of the controls had that anomaly. Furthermore, development of the mandibles, with or without clefts, appear retarded, bony elements were smaller and less dense in experimental fetuses when compared to those of control groups. It was concluded that nicotine has a detrimental effect on head size and mandibular osteogenesis of CD-1 albino mice.
An Optimized Approach to Solve Assignment Problems Using the Fuzzy Hungarian Method
Authors: Nandan Amit Kumar ,   Research Scholar, Department of Mathematics, B. R. A. Bihar University, Muzaffarpur, Bihar, India, Tripathi J. P. , Tiwari V. K. ,   Department of Mathematics, R.N. College, Hajipur, B. R. A. Bihar University, Muzaffarpur, Bihar, India,   Department of Commerce, Government Degree College Sukrauli, Kushinagar, U.P., India
Published: July 2024

The assignment method assigns a particular (employee) to a particular (work) "Assuming an equal number of jobs and workers." In this paper, we are introducing a pentagonal ranking method by which we can convert the cost values (Fuzzy numbers) of the Fuzzy Assignment Problem (FAP) into crisp values. By the Hungarian method, we can optimize the cost of the FAP. A numerical value illustrates the method.