bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aplicação da Técnica Análise de Acessibilidade para Detecção de Métodos Mortos em Software Orientado a Objetos
Authors: Bastos Camila , Afonso Júnior Paulo , Costa Heitor
Published: May 2021

As modificações realizadas ao longo do ciclo de vida do software contribuem com o aumento da complexidade e da poluição do código. A presença de código morto favorece essa poluição, dificultando a rastreabilidade de requisitos, a execução de testes e a legibilidade e a compreensão do código fonte. A detecção e a eliminação de código morto são procedimentos árduos e dependem da análise e da compreensão do código fonte. Desse modo, a técnica análise de acessibilidade tem sido utilizada para verificar chamadas de métodos desencadeadas a partir de métodos que iniciam o software, de forma a identificar métodos inacessíveis (código morto). Uma limitação dessa verificação é a dependência de conhecimento prévio do software para determinar seus métodos de inicialização. Assim, neste trabalho, é proposta uma aplicação da técnica análise de acessibilidade que elimina a necessidade de conhecimento prévio e detecta métodos inacessíveis em sistemas de software orientados a objetos. Resultados experimentais indicaram que a abordagem proposta detectou maior quantidade de métodos inacessíveis do que uma ferramenta consolidada no mercado.
Aprimorando um Jogo para Ensino do Método de Avaliação de Comunicabilidade por Meio de Estudos Experimentais
Authors: Brito Ruddá Silva Beltrão , Fernandes Martha Silva , Queiroz Junior Wagner , Bonifácio Bruno A. , Fernandes Priscila S.
Published: May 2021

A popularidade dos tablets e smartphones, possibilitou o surgimento de aplicativos cada vez mais interativos. Por esse motivo, o processo de desenvolvimento de software também precisou evoluir para atender às expectativas dos usuários, novos conhecimentos, técnicas e ferramentas que vão além dos métodos da Engenharia de Software. Nesse contexto, a área de Interação Humano-Computador (IHC) traz uma visão inovadora do processo de criação de aplicações em centros de educação tecnológica. No entanto, ensinar IHC não é fácil. Por esse motivo, o uso de novas abordagens de ensino pode ajudar em atividades educacionais mais colaborativas. Este artigo apresenta uma abordagem de ensino de um dos conceitos importantes da IHC, como a Engenharia Semiótica. O MACteaching utiliza simulação para ensinar o Método de Avaliação da Comunicabilidade (CEM) como forma de incentivar os alunos, criando um ambiente mais dinâmico. Os resultados preliminares mostram uma aceitação significativa ao usar o MACteaching como uma abordagem complementar à educação.
Medidas de Qualidade para a Avaliação da Confiança no Funcionamento em Sistemas Ubíquos
Authors: Ferreira Andressa Bezerra , Braga Reinaldo Bezerra , Andrade Rossana Maria De Castro
Published: May 2021

Sistemas ubíquos são, por princípio, autônomos e capazes de perceber o ambiente, e as atividades e necessidades do usuário. Entretanto, esta percepção e tomada de decisão de forma autônoma faz com que a aceitação e utilização desse tipo de sistema demande confiança no funcionamento por parte do usuário. Garantir essa confiança é uma tarefa difícil e ainda mais desafiadora nesses sistemas devido às suas peculiaridades (e.g., mobilidade, sensibilidade ao contexto). Uma das possíveis técnicas para a avaliação da confiança no funcionamento em sistemas ubíquos é o uso de medições e este artigo apresenta um conjunto de treze medidas de qualidade para essa avaliação bem como estudos de caso.
On the Use of Software Visualization to Analyze Library Dependency Evolution: an Exploratory Study
Authors: Magnavita Rodrigo , Novais Renato , Mendes Thiago , Mendonça Manoel
Published: May 2021

Software evolution produces a large amount of data. Software engineers may benefit from these data while carrying out daily activities. The challenge is to understand all the data and recovery valuable information. One of these activities is to maintain library dependencies of a project. This is a complex task, since it is usual a system and its library dependencies evolving separately. It is necessary to be careful when updating the libraries of a project. The aintainers need to know the history about a system ́s past upgrade decisions and which dependencies were adopted at the same time. Software Evolution Visualization (SEV) can be a promising approach to this end. In this paper, we present an exploratory study that uses a SEV tool, called EVOWAVE, to analyze Library Dependency Evolution. EVOWAVE is able to visualize different types of data generated in software evolution using both overview-based and detail based approaches. In the study, we performed an analysis of FindBug’s library dependency history. The results highlighted the benefits of the SEV tool on analyzing a large amount of data that encompasses more than 10 years.
Biosynthesis of Diverse Class FlavonoidsviaShikimate and Phenylpropanoid Pathway
Authors: Rehan Mohd
Published: May 2021

Flavonoids are natural products, which are useful in the protection of various types of human diseases. Several bioactive flavonoids as chalcones, flavonols, flavanol, flavones, flavanone, flavan, isoflavonoids, and proanthocyanidin, are found in parts as leaves, root, bark, stem, flowers, weed, fruits of plant species. Flavonoids are synthesized in higher plant species via the shikimate pathway, phenylpropanoid and polyketide pathway. The chalcones and flavanones are central intermediates of the pathway, which give several diverse classes of flavonoids. Central intermediates pathway (chalcones and flavanones pathway) depends on plants species and group of enzymes such as hydroxylases, reductases and isomerases to give different classes of flavonoids skeleton. The anthocyanins, isoflavonoids and condensed tannin (proanthocyanidins) are an important class of flavonoids, which synthesized by flavanones. Mostly, biosynthesis of flavonoids start from phenylpropanoid pathway. The phenylpropanoid pathway starts from shikimate pathway. The shikimate pathway starts from phosphoenol pyruvate and erythrose 4-phosphate.
Etiology and Pathophysiology of the Spina Bifida
Authors: Opšenák René , Richterová Romana , Kolarovszki Branislav
Published: May 2021

The spina bifida is a congenital anomaly that results in an abnormal formation of the spine and the spinal cord. The two dominant types of spinal dysraphism are based on appearance - open spina bifida if the lesion is visible and closed spina bifida if the lesion is not visible on the body surface. These conditions lead to a different spectrum of neurological effects according to the degree of neurulation disruption. The prevalence of neural tube defects has different rates among different ethnicity, geography, gender, and countries. Genetic, nutritional and environmental factors play a role in the etiology and pathogenesis of the spina bifida. Congenital anomalies in the vast majority concern children living in the early neonatal period who have important medical, social or educational needs. The lifetime cost of a child born with the spina bifida is estimated at over €500,000.
The Future of Proton Therapy
Authors: J. FitzGerald Thomas , Ding Linda , Riberdy Christopher , Bailey Jack , Anderegg Michael , Elaimy Ameer , Shen James , O’Connor Kevin , Bradford Carla , Kuo I-Lin , Fan Yankhua , Liu Fenghong , Yu Suhong , Bushe Harry , Saleeby Jonathan , Rava Paul , Sioshansi Shirin , Giulia Cicchetti M. , Moni Janaki , Ko Eric , Sacher Allison , Han Daniel , Bishop-Jodoin Maryann
Published: May 2021

Proton therapy is increasing in utilization worldwide at a rapid rate. With process improvements in costs, footprints, and continued advances in the delivery of care, including intensity modulation and image guidance, proton therapy may evolve into standard treatment with photon radiation therapy. This chapter reviews process improvements in proton therapy and the application in modern care.
Association Between Low Serum Vitamin D Levels and Sepsis: A Single-Center Study in Tehran, Iran
Authors: Bayat Masume , Gachkar Latif , Zahirnia Mahya , Hadavand Fahimeh
Published: May 2021

Background: Vitamin D insufficiency is common in critically ill patients. It is hypothesized that vitamin D deficiency would be associated with sepsis in the critically ill. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the association between vitamin D and sepsis severity. Method: In this cross-sectional study, patients with sepsis referring to a university hospital in Tehran, Iran, from February 2018 to March 2019 were included. Plasma concentrations of vitamin D in critically ill subjects admitted were assessed. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0. P-values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: Among the investigated patients, the mean serum level of vitamin D3 was 19.03 ± 13.08 ng/mL. The prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency in critically ill subjects with sepsis was 100% (150/150). Only sex (P = 0.01) indicated a significant association with vitamin D. Patients suffering from severe sepsis had lower levels of vitamin D compared to the patients with non-severe sepsis (P = 0.07). Conclusions: The present study showed that all critically ill patients studied had vitamin D insufficiency. In line with the biological evidence, the present study suggests that vitamin D deficiency may predispose patients to sepsis. Further studies are needed to establish the causes and mechanisms underlying these interpretations.
Study the Mechanism of Antileishmanial Action of Xanthium strumarium Against Amastigotes Stages in Leishmania major: A Metabolomics Approach
Authors: Ahmadi Mohammad , Akbari Ziba , Zamani Zahra , Haji Hosseini Reza , Arjmand Mohammad
Published: May 2021

Background: Leishmaniasis is among the most important neglected tropical infections, affecting millions of people worldwide. Since 1945, chemotherapy has been the primary treatment for leishmaniasis; however, lengthy and costly treatments associated with various side effects and strains resistant to the conventional therapy have dramatically reduced chemotherapy compounds’ efficacy. Objectives: The antileishmanial activity of the leaf extract of Xanthium strumarium (Asteraceae) was studied. New insights into its mechanism of action toward Leishmania major were provided through a metabolomics-based study. Methods: J774 macrophages were cultured, infected with stationary promastigotes, and treated with different leaf extract concentrations for three days. Antileishmanial activity was assayed by the MTT colorimetric method, and cell metabolites were extracted. 1HNMR spectroscopy was applied, and outliers were analyzed using multivariate statistical analysis. Results: Xanthium strumarium extract (0.15 µg/mL) showed the best activity against L. major amastigotes with the infection rate (IR) and multiplication index (MI) values of 51% and 57%, respectively. The action of X. strumarium extract on amastigotes was comparable with amphotericin B as the positive control (0.015 µg/mL). According to the obtained P-values, pentanoate and coenzyme A biosynthesis, pentose and glucuronate metabolism, valine, leucine and isoleucine biosynthesis, galactose metabolism, amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism were the most important metabolic pathways affected by the plant extract in the amastigote stage of L. major. Conclusions: Our finding demonstrated that X. strumarium leaf extract could be used for discovering and producing novel leishmanicidal medicines. Moreover, the affected metabolic pathways observed in this study could be potential candidates for drug targeting against leishmaniasis.
The Compulsion of Bodies
Authors: Drake Ryan ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: May 2021

This essay seeks to understand Gorgias’ reflections upon language and perception in the Encomium of Helen through the threefold vocabularies of medicine, enchantment, and oratory that were often taken together in the fifth century. I demonstrate that the two modes of sorcery to which Gorgias refers have to do with language and its effect on opinion, on the one hand, and perception and its effect upon one’s affective bearing, on the other. Both effects, I claim, are grasped through their forceful means of physically impressing and deforming the soul such that its reliance upon memory and habitual forms of dwelling in the world are subject to oblivion. Further, such conceptual and practical unmooring can be understood as forms of disease that rob an individual of her agency, either temporarily or permanently, and therefore reflect the problematic status of language in early democratic Greece.
Influence of chemical composition and doping on optical properties of thallium selenide layers prepared by adsorption/diffusion method
Authors: Samardokas Linas , Ivanauskas Remigijus , Žalenkienė Skirma , Ivanauskas Algimantas
Published: May 2021

In this work, we investigated the formation of Tl-Se layers followed by doping with metal cations. A two-stage adsorption/diffusion process used to form Tl-Se layers involves (a) selenization in potassium selenotrithionate solution followed by (b) treatment with Tl+ precursor solutions. These layers have been successfully doped with Cu+/Cu2+, Ga3+ and Ag+ cations using a cation exchange reaction. The resulting chemical compositions of Tl-Se and Tl-M-Se (M = Cu, Ga, Ag) layers were investigated using the EDS and AAS methods. The bulk elemental composition and the Tl/Se molar ratio of the Tl-Se layers varied with the concentration of the Tl+ precursor solution, the exposure time in the Tl+ precursor solution, and the form of the Tl+ in the solution, whereas the EDS analysis showed that the surface was slightly enriched in thallium. The optical properties of the formed layers were studied. These layers were identified using room temperature reflection spectrum, the values of absorption edge, bandgap (Eg), band tail width (Urbach energy, EU) of the localised states, Steepness parameter (σ) and electron–phonon interaction (Ee-p).
Investigation of upconversion phenomenon in Y1-xLn3+x(BTC)(DMF)2(H2O) and Y0.8-xYb0.2Ln3+x(BTC)(DMF)2(H2O) metal organic frameworks
Authors: Laurikėnas Andrius , Kareiva Aivaras
Published: May 2021

In this study, Y1-xLn3+x(BTC)(DMF)2(H2O) and Y0.8-xYb0.2Ln3+x(BTC)(DMF)2(H2O) metal organic frameworks (MOFs), which structure included lanthanide ions, Ln3+ (Er3+, Ho3+, Tm3+, Yb3+, Nd3+), suitable for monitoring the upconversion phenomenon, have been synthesised. For this purpose the precursor of the organic moiety, benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxylic acid (BTC), as one of the simplest and very frequently cited carboxylic acid analogues in MOF syntheses, has been selected. By characterising upconversion properties of new MOFs it was determined that only Er3+ can be used as an activator for one centre luminescence upconversion by a ground state absorption/ excited-state absorption (GSA/ESA) mechanism, while with Yb3+, Ho3+, Tm3+ and Nd3+ ions the upconversion was not observed. It was also established that BTC cannot initiate triplet–triplet annihilation upconversion (TTA-UC) as this mechanism sensitizer. Yb3+–Er3+ and Yb3+–Ho3+ ion pairs as a sensitizeractivator were suitable for two-centre luminescence upconversion by a GSA/ excited-state upconversion (GSA/ESU) mechanism. A pair of Yb3+–Tm3+, contrary as shown in the literature review, does not exhibit upconversion properties in the synthesised MOFs.
Mezietnický a občanský aspekt oslav státních svátků v Kyrgyzstánu
Authors:   Katedra historických věd Filozofické fakulty ZČU v Plzni, 2732/8, 301 00 Plzeň, Czech Rep., Kaarbaeva Zhyldyz
Published: May 2021

This article presents research on interethnic relations conducted in southern Kyrgyzstan. This research was primarily concerned with the study of relations between ethnic Kyrgyz and Uzbeks in various spheres of relations between the two ethnic groups since the 1980s. The research examined the factors of improvement of the interethnic situation in the region and the conditions of ethnic and civic self-identification of various ethnic groups of southern Kyrgyzstan. The aim of the article is to show how some official state holidays can play a positive role in strengthening the unity of ethnic diversity among the citizens of Kyrgyzstan and in promoting their civic identity.
Group velocity in spatiotemporal representation of collisionless trapped electron mode in tokamak
Authors: Liu Zhao-Yang , Zhang Yang-Zhong , Xie Tao , Liu A-Di , Zhou Chu ,   School of Nuclear Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China,   Center for Magnetic Fusion Theory, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, China,   Sichuan University of Science and Engineering, Zigong 643000, China
Published: May 2021

The multiple scale derivative expansion method is used to manipulate the electron drift kinetic equation, following the theoretical framework of drift wave–zonal flow system developed by Zhang et al. [Zhang Y Z, Liu Z Y, Mahajan S M, Xie T, Liu J  2017 Phys. Plasmas 24 122304 ]. At the zeroth order it is the linear eigenmode equation describing the trapped electron mode on a mirco-scale. At the first order it is the envelop equation for trapped electron mode modulated by the zonal flow on a meso-scale. The eigenmode equation has been solved by Xie et al. [Xie T, Zhang Y Z, Mahajan S M, Wu F, He Hongda, Liu Z Y  2019 Phys. Plasmas 26 022503 ] to obtain the eigenvalue and two-dimensional mode structure of trapped electron mode. These are essential components in calculating group velocities contained in the envelop equation. The radial group velocity arises from the geodesic curvature of magnetic field in tokamak. The poloidal group velocity stems from the normal curvature and diamagnetic drift velocity, which yields the mapping between the poloidal angle and time. Since the radial group velocity is also a function of poloidal angle, it is mapped to a periodic function of time with a period of milliseconds. The numerical results indicate the rapid zero-crossing, which is significant in the drift wave – zonal flow system and provides a sound foundation for studying zonal flow driven by trapped electron mode.
Effect of Sowing Dates on Yield and Yield Components of Some Selected Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Varieties
Authors: Getachew Adinew , Abraham Thomas
Published: May 2021

Most suitable sowing date and high yielding varieties are the primary agricultural practices to enhance production and productivity of chickpea. Hence, a field experiment was carried out to evaluate the effect of sowing dates on yield and yield components of chickpea varieties in the main cropping season of 2019 at Toke Kutaye, Ethiopia. Treatments consisted of four sowing dates (September 4th, September 14th, September 24th, and October 5th) and four kabuli varieties of chickpea; namely Dube (standard check), Dalota, Teji and Ejere. The experiment was laid out in split plot design using factorial arrangement with three replications where sowing date treatments were assigned to the main plots and varieties to sub plots. Dalota variety produced the highest number of pods (79.7) per plant. the main effects of sowing date and varieties were significantly different on biological yield. Highest biological yield (3776.9 kg ha-1 and 3761 kg ha-1) were recorded from September 24th and September 14th sown plots, respectively. Among varieties tested, the highest biological yield (3723.8 kg ha-1) was obtained from local variety. Highest grain yield (2415.4 kg ha-1) was recorded from plots sown on September 14th whereas Dalota variety produced highest grain yield (2051.25 kg ha-1). In case of harvest index, highest (67.9% and 59.6%) was recorded from September 14th sown plots and Dalota variety, respectively. Therefore, Dalota variety and September 14th sowing date emerged as best among all tested treatments and could be recommended for chickpea production in the study area.
Instantaneous Ionospheric Scintillation Mapping over the East African Region by use of GPS Derived Amplitude Scintillation Proxy
Authors: Amabayo Emirant Bertillas , Andima Geoffrey , Ssenyunzi Richard Cliffe
Published: May 2021

Ionospheric scintillation activity over the East African region is often monitored using measurements from the SCIntillation Network Decision Aid (SCINDA) receivers. Many of the SCINDA receivers over East Africa are currently not archiving data and therefore a large part of the region remain un sampled. We investigated the possibility to use dual frequency receivers of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) network for scintillation mapping. A proxy for amplitude scintillation was first derived by scaling the rate of change of total electron content index (ROTI). The proxy was validated against S4 derived from nearly collocated SCINDA receivers over the region. A good correlation was observed between the proxy and S4. The proxy was then used to map the occurrence of amplitude scintillation over East Africa based on semivariogram modeling and Kriging interpolation technique. The results indicate that the S4 values had a good positive correlation with *Corresponding author: E-mail: emirant.amabayo@gmail.com; Amabayo et al.; AJR2P, 4(2): 6-20, 2021; Article no.AJR2P.66815 the simulated S4p from the Kriging interpolation. This observation suggests that data from the dual frequency receivers of GNSS may be used to map scintillation over East Africa. These maps can in turn be used to study the evolution of ionospheric scintillation patterns over the region.
A Quantum Optical Approach to the effect of a Laser Mode on the Motion of Atomic Vapor by Varying the Field Coherence Angles
Authors: Abourabia Aly M. , Elgarawany Amany Z.
Published: May 2021

We follow theoretically the motion of the sodium atoms in vapor state under the influence of a laser mode in (1 + 1) D, which is achieved by introducing different optical filters. In the Dirac interaction representation, the equations of motion are represented via the Bloch form together with the Pauli operators to find the elements of the density matrix of the system. The emergence of the principle of coherence in varying the angles of the laser mode permits the evaluation of the average force affecting the atoms' acceleration or deceleration, and hence the corresponding velocities and temperatures are investigated. The atomic vapor is introduced in a region occupied by a heat bath presented by the laser field, such that the state of the atomic vapor is unstable inside the system due to the loss or gain of its kinetic energy to or from the laser field. This instability is studied by finding the eigenvalues of the system's entropy. Resorting to the assumption of Botin, Kazantsev, and Pusep, who issued in the presence of the weak and strong spontaneous emission, a coupling between the mean numbers of photons in terms of time, which allows the evaluation of the rate of entropy production of the system under study. No singularities are found throughout the process of equations solving and other calculations. Resorting to symbolic software, a set of figures illustrating the nonlinear behavior in the dynamics of the problem is present. In this paper, we introduce a theoretical study of the effect of two-counter propagation traveling plane waves on the motion of the sodium atoms in the vapor state by varying the coherence angles to investigate the atomic behavior. Good agreements are found with previous studies.
Performance Evaluation of LSA, NMF and ILSA in Electronic Assessment of Free Text Document
Authors: Rufai M. M. , Afolabi A. O. , Fenwa O. D. , Ajala F. A.
Published: May 2021

Aims: To evaluate the performance of an Improved Latent Semantic Analysis (ILSA), Latent Semantic Analysis (LSA), Non-Negative Matrix Factorization (NMF) algorithms in an Electronic Assessment Application using metrics, Term Similarity, Precision, Recall and F-measure functions, Mean divergence, Assessment Accuracy and Adequacy in Semantic Representation.

Methodology: The three algorithms were separately applied in developing an Electronic Assessment application. One hundred students’ responses to a test question in an introductory artificial intelligence course were used. Their performance was measured based on the following metrics, Term Similarity, Precision, Recall and F-measure functions, Mean divergence and Assessment Accuracy.

Results: ILSA outperformed the LSA and NMF with an assessment accuracy of 96.64, mean divergence from manual score of 0.03, and recall, precision and f-measure value of 0.83, 0.85 and 0.87 respectively.

Conclusion: The research observed the performance of an improved algorithm ILSA for electronic Assessment of free text document using Adequacy in Semantic Representation, Retrieval Quality and Assessment Accuracy as performance metrics. The results obtained from the experimental designs shows the adequacy of the improved algorithm in semantic representation, better retrieval quality and improved assessment accuracy.
Performance of Chickpea Varieties Based on Growth and Yield Parameters Influenced by Different Sowing Dates at Toke Kutaye District, Ethiopia
Authors: Getachew Adinew , Abraham Thomas
Published: May 2021

One of the basic agronomic practices to improve the yield of chickpea are ideal sowing date and high yielding varieties. Thus, a field experiment was conducted to assess the effect of different sowing dates on yield and yield components of chickpea varieties in the main cropping season of 2019 at Toke Kutaye District. Four sowing dates (September 4th, September 14th, September 24th, and October 5th) and four kabuli varieties. Four Kabuli types of chickpea varieties were Dalota, Ejere, Teji and Dube (local check). Experiment was laid out in split plot design using factorial arrangement with three replications and sowing date treatments were assigned to the main plots and varieties to sub plots. The main effect of sowing date showed highly significant effect on days to emergence, days to 50% flowering and physiological maturity. Highest days to emergence                (12.4 days) were recorded from a plot sown on October 5th, while longest days to 50% flowering (54.92 days) and physiological maturity (122.5 days) were recorded from a plot sown on September 14th. Moreover, varieties had significant effect on days to physiological maturity of chickpea. Longest days to physiological maturity (133 days) were recorded from local variety and early days to physiological maturity (113.3 days) was recorded from Dalota variety. The main effects of sowing date and variety were significant on plant height, as the tallest plant height (42.75 cm) was recorded from September 24th sown plants. Similarly, the tallest (41.42 cm) plant was recorded from Dalota variety. In addition, the highest number of primary branches (6.83) and secondary branches (16.42) per plant were recorded from Dalota variety, while the lowest number of primary branch (5.5) and secondary branches (8) were scored from Ejere and Teji varieties, respectively. Highest grain yield (2415.4 kg ha-1) was obtained from plots sown on September 14th whereas Dalota variety produced highest grain yield (2051.25 kg ha-1). Hence, Dalota variety and September 14th sowing date emerged as best among all tested treatments and can be recommended for chickpea production in the study area and similar agro-ecologies. Conclusive recommendation could be obtained if the study is repeated at more locations and seasons in the future.
Urogenital Schistosomiasis Study in a Rural Community, North West Nigeria
Authors: Iduh M. U. , Bwari U. H.
Published: May 2021

Background: Bilharzia is a parasitic disease caused by the trematode worms (schistosomes). It is the most important and prevalent of water-borne parasitic disease.Schistosomiasis affects between 200 million and 300 million people in 77 countries throughout the world and is a significant cause of disease in areas of endemic infections especially among children.

Aims: The study was aimed to determine the prevalence and intensity of urinary schistosomiasis among people in Goronyo and taloka communities in Sokoto State, Nigeria.

Study Design: Investigative study.

Place and duration of study: The samples were collected from  Goronyo and Taloka communities of Goronyo local government Area of Sokoto State between October and  December, 2020.

Methodology: 300 water samples were obtained from domestic water sources. 175 of the samples were collected from river, 77 from borehole and 48 from well. Samples were investigated for the presence of parasites using standard parasitological techniques. Samples were subjected to macroscopy, filtration, centrifugation and microscopy.

 Results: Findings reveals total prevalence of 37%. The prevalence in Taloka was higher (47%) than Goronyo (27%)(P<0.05). Males were found to be more infected (52%) than their females counterparts (12%). The age group 16-20 had the highest prevalence rate of 45% compared to age group 5-10 (34%). Fishermen had the highest prevalence rate of 71% while civil servants is least (14%).

Conclusion: Findings revealed that the source of water in the study area constitute an epidemiological threat  to public health. However, inhabitants of the communities should boil or treat water before consumption while we solicit for government intervention so that the control of the infestation can be achieved through the integration of complementary strategies such as disease surveillance, chemotherapy, health education, alternative water supplies and public sanitation in the study area.
Evaluation of the Microbial Contamination of Some Snacks: A Case Study of Lagos Mainland, Lagos State, Nigeria
Authors: Okeke O. P. , Yusuf K. O. , Ononye B. U. , Udeh N. P. , Ndudim G. C.
Published: May 2021

This study was undertaken to evaluate the microbial contamination of some locally prepared snacks sold by street vendors in Lagos mainland, Lagos State, Nigeria. A total of (20) twenty snack samples- Meat-pie, Sausage roll, Egg roll, Puff puff and Doughnut were aseptically purchased in a sterilized polythene bags from four different locations in Lagos Mainland Local Government Area. The snacks were analyzed by standard microbiological methods using Bergey’s manual to determine the colony-forming units per gram, to isolate and determine the number of microbiological population contaminants. Unilag showed the bacteria count on snacks as follows: Meat-pie 1.50 × 106 cfu/ g), Sausage 2.20× 106 cfu/ g, Doughnut 3.20× 105 cfu/ g, Puffpuff 1.58x 106 cfµ/ g and Egg roll 9.80x105 cfµ/ g. At Yaba - Meat pie had bacteria count of 1.82x102cfµ / g, Sausage 7.00x101cfµ / g, Doughnut 1.09x 102 cfµ /g, Puff puff 3.64x104 cfµ/ g and Egg roll 5.00x101 cfµ/g.  Snacks from Oyingbo had no growth on Meat pie, Doughnut and Puff puff but had bacteria cou nts on Sausage (1.00x102) and on Egg roll (1.95× 105 cfµ/ g).At Abule-Oja- Meat pie had bacteria count of 9.75x104 cfµ/ g, Puff puff 1.65x105 cfµ/ g and Egg roll 1.95x105 cfu/ g.The location with lowest bacteria count was Oyingbo which had no growth on a Meat pie, Doughnut and Puff puff, but had on Sausage 1.00x102 cfµ/ g and Egg roll 9.60x102 cfµ/ g. There were no coliforms in all the locations. Bacteria percentage range was 10.52%   to 36.84%while Fungi percentage range was 0.71% - 37.59%. Four bacteria and seven fungi were identified: Bacillus cereus, Bacillus substillis, Staphylococcus aureus, Lactobacillus delbruckii with Aspergillus niger, Penicillium notatum, Trichoderma spp., Aspergillus fumigatus, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Fusarium spp. and Aspergillus flavus. Bacillus cereus had the highest prevalence of 36.84%, Bacillus substillis 31.58%, Staphylococcus aureus 21.05% and Lactobacillus delbruckii 10.52%. Bacillus species were present at all sampled sites. It is concluded that the quality of these snacks   can be improved by following quality control protocol and good manufacturing practices (GMP) in food.
Pollen Morphology of Six Indonesian Begonia (Begoniaceae) Species
Authors: Siregar Hartutiningsih M. , Sudarmono . , Witono Joko Ridho , Wawangningrum Hary
Published: May 2021

Aims: This study aims to determine pollen morphological differences in six Indonesian Begonia species.

Study Design: All fresh pollen grain of six Indonesian Begonia species were collected using a standard method and observed at SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope) Laboratory.

Place and Duration of Study: The pollen is collected from Bogor Botanic Gardens, then observed using an SEM in The Museum Zoologicum Laboratory, Research Center for Biology, Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI), on August 2018.

Methodology: The results of SEM pollen ultrastructure observations were analyzed descriptively by describing images of size, P/E index, aperture, endoaperture, and ornamentation of pollen. The size of pollen morphology is calculated based on the length of the polar axis and the equatorial axis on a micrometer scale. Determination of the shape of pollen can be determined by comparing the length of the polar axis with the equatorial axis.

Results: All species examined share common pollen grain characters, i.e. isopolar and three zonocolporate. The longest polar axis (P) and equatorial diameter (E) presented by B. puspitae, whereas the shortest of P is shown by B. kudoensis and the shortest of E by B. sudjanae. Only B. hooveriana has prolate – perprolate aperture, whereas other species perprolate. Endoaperture types of B. puspitae, B. sudjanae, and B. hooveriana is lalongate, while the other species is lolongate. The coarsely striate ornamentation forms are presented by B. holosericeoides and B. natunaensis, whereas other species has fine striate ornamentation.

Conclusion: The size, P/E index, aperture, endoaperture, and ornamentation of pollen are not useful for section classification of six Indonesian Begonia species. Pollen morphology should be incorporated to other characters, such as morphological, cytological, and molecular characters for making delimitation of Begonia species.
Occurrence of Soil-transmitted Helminths from Selected Dumpsites and Farmlands in Calabar, Nigeria
Authors: Imalele Edema Enogiomwan , Offiong Effanga Emmanuel , Ukam Usang Anok , Urimaneh Aramushu Willington , Utibe Henshaw Victoria
Published: May 2021

Aims: The present study investigated the prevalence and intensity of soil-transmitted helminth contamination in dumpsite and farmland soils in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria.

Methodology: Soil samples were randomly collected from selected dumpsites and farmlands from July to December 2019. 200 soil samples (100 samples each from dumpsites and farmland) were collected. Soil samples were analysed using Zinc sulphate flotation technique whereas soil nematode extraction for hookworm and Strongyloides larvae was carried out using the modified Baermann technique.

Results: Of the 200 soil samples examined, 131 (65.5%) were positive for ova/larvae of one or more parasites. Dumpsite soils were highly contaminated with ova/larvae of soil-transmitted helminths than farmland soils with a prevalence of 79% (n=79) and 52% (n=52) respectively (P=.02). Farmlands had the highest mean intensity (6.75±1.88) of contamination with ova/larvae of soil-transmitted helminths compared to dumpsite soils (1.68±0.14). Ascaris lumbricoides recorded the highest occurrence (35.5%) (P=.003) in soil samples examined. A. lumbricoides (40%) and Trichuris trichiura (6%) contamination was higher in dumpsite soils, while Strongyloides stercoralis larvae (34%) and hookworm (10%) contamination was higher in farmland soils. Dumpsite soils recorded the highest number of parasites (84%) in the wet season, while farmland soils recorded the highest number of parasites (92%) in the dry season (P=.11). Generally, parasitic ova/larvae were more prevalent in the dry season (91%) than in the wet season (73%) (P=.33). S. stercoralis (33%) was more prevalent in the wet season followed while A. lumbricoides (43%) recorded highest occurrence in the dry season.

Conclusion: This study revealed the potential health risk of contracting soil-transmitted helminth parasites in soils around farmlands and dumpsites in Calabar, Nigeria. It is therefore important that a combination of sanitation and health education be put in place for effective control of soil-transmitted helminths.
Clone x Tester Crosses on Compatibility Level of Sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas L.)
Authors: Indriani Febria C. , Restuono Joko , Rahajeng Wiwit , Iswanto Rudi , Sundari Titik , Soehendi Rudy , Harnowo Didik , Baliadi Yuliantoro , Mejaya Made J.
Published: May 2021

Evaluation of compatibility on sweetpotato is very important to determine the crossing parents to increase the compatibility of controlled cross-pollination.  This research was aimed to study the level of compatibility in controlled cross-pollination based on percentage of normal seedlings obtained from crosses. The research was conducted at Kendalpayak Experimental Station of ILETRI, Malang, Indonesia then followed by breaking seed dormancy and germination of seeds obtained. The genetic materials used were 17 accessions with high yielding potential and 3 accessions as tester for crossing.  The results showed that there were differences in the compatibility levels of crossing combination and their compatibilities as male or female parents.  Clone C-011 (Tester 2) was the most compatible as male parent, while clone C-141, C-007 and C-131 were the most compatible as female parents. Clone C-127 (Tester 3) was the most compatible as both male and female parents. Clone C-001 (Tester 1) could not be used as  female parent due to high incompatibility.This compatible clone information is very useful in determining of both controlled crosses and open crosses in sweet potato in order to increase the breeding efficiency.
Effect of Haematocrit on Left Ventricular Dimensions and Systolic Function in Children with Sickle Cell Anaemia: A Comparative Study
Authors: Duru Chika Onyinyechi , Peregba West Timipah , Chinawa Josephat M. , Ige Olukemi O. , Bode-Thomas Fidelia
Published: May 2021

This was a comparative cross-sectional study where the left ventricular dimensions and functional parameters of 41 children (aged 1 to 18 years) with sickle cell anaemia were compared with those of 52 age-and-sex matched HbAA controls using transthoracic echocardiography. Majority of the left ventricular dimensions were significantly larger in the study group than the controls (p<0.05). The mean indices for left ventricular systolic function were higher in the study group than the controls though not statistically significant (p>0.05). Left ventricular dimensions correlated positively with age and body surface area in both groups (p<0.05) but inversely with haematocrit in the study group especially the left ventricular internal diameters in diastole and systole and left ventricular mass (p=0.001). Although 14.6% - 59.5% of the changes in cardiac dimensions were attributable to age, haematocrit level and body surface area in the study group (p<0.05), most of this effect was due to haematocrit.
Performance of Double Hybrid of Silkworm (Bombyx mori L.) Fed on Leaf Raised under Different Fertilizer Schedules
Authors: Nazim Naveena , Mir M. R. , Baqual M. F. , Noor-ul-Din . , Akther Farida , Mir S. A. , Qayoom Sameera
Published: May 2021

Aim: The present study was aimed to see the performance of silk worm (Bombyx mori L.) double hybrid fed on leaf raised through splitting the recommended dose of chemical fertilizers.

Study Design:  Completely Randomized Design (CRD).

Place and Duration of Study: College of Temperate Sericulture (CoTS) Mirgund, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), during 2017 and 2018.

Methodology: The present investigation was carried out at the experimental farm of College of Temperate Sericulture-Mirgund. Goshoerami a popular variety of mulberry in the region was used for the study. Disease free layings (dfl’s) of the popular double hybrid were obtained from the Germplasm Bank maintained at College of Temperate Sericulture (CoTS) Mirgund. These dfl’s were incubated, brushed and reared up to 3rd instar en masse following the standard rearing procedure. After 3rd moult, 3 replications of 100 larvae in each treatment were maintained. Different larval and Cocoon parameters were recorded during the course of experimentation. Standard procedure was followed to record observations. The data was compiled and analyzed.

Results: T11 recorded the shortest values for total larval and fifth instar larval duration being statistically at par with treatments/ fertilizer schedules T12, T9, T10, T3, T4, T1, T2 and T7. Weight of ten mature larvae was recorded higher in treatment T14 being statistically at par with treatments T13, T16 and T15 respectively. Cocoon yield per 10,000 larvae by number was recorded highest In T14 treatment, which was recorded statistically at par with treatments T13 and T16 respectively. Cocoon yield by weight was more in treatment T14 being at par with treatments T13 and T16. Pupation rate was found higher in treatment T14 being at par treatment T13.

Conclusion: Double hybrid performed better under parameters like- total as well as fifth instar larval duration in case of fertilizer schedule - T11 (N3P2K1), while as in case of larval weight, cocoon yield by number and by weight and pupation rate, the hybrid performed better under T14 (N4P1K2) fertilizer Schedule.
Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) – Analysis of Profile of FPOs and Its Members in Medak District of Telangana
Authors: Amitha C. D. , Savitha B. , Rani V. Sudha , Laxminarayana P.
Published: May 2021

This paper focused to study the profile of selected FPOs and its members. With respect to the profile of FPO members, twelve profile characteristics selected were grouped under group composition, governance and management and membership commitment. An Ex-post-facto research design was adopted for the study. Three FPOs were selected randomly from 3 different promoting institutes working in the Medak district viz., Suraksha Farmers Producer Company Ltd (SFPCL) promoted by independent research organization Centre for Sustainable Agriculture (CSA), Marpalli Kisan Kranthi Producer Company Ltd (MKKPCL) promoted by Vrutti NGO and Siddipet Kisan Agro Farmers Producer Company Ltd (SKAFPCL) promoted by International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-arid Tropics (ICRISAT). The results of the study revealed that under group composition, majority were small farmers with middle age (55.55%), primary school education (35.55%), with medium farming experience (47.77%) and with medium annual income (60.00%). Majority of respondents perceived that with respect to management and governance characteristics of FPO had poor group leadership (41.11%), fair group communication (58.88%) and medium adherence to rules(41.11%). With respect to membership commitment majority of respondents had low group participation (43.33%), medium group cohesiveness (47.77%) and low team spirit (43.33%).
Functional Performance of Parallel Drain Subsurface System in Waterlogged Paddy Field
Authors: Kathirvel L. , Manikandan M. , Raviraj A. , Baskar M.
Published: May 2021

Waterlogging induced salinity is a common problem in many command areas of irrigation projects. Subsurface drainage improves the productivity of poorly drained soils by decreasing the water table, providing greater soil aeration, improving root zone soil salinity and enhancing the crop yield. A pilot study has been conducted to explore the functional performance of the parallel drain subsurface system in waterlogged paddy field by considering the lateral drain spacing and drain depth are the factors influences the soil properties. This experiment was carried out in farmers’ field at Sembari village, Lalgudi, Tamil Nadu, India in waterlogged paddy field during October 2020 to February 2021. Treatments of this study consisted the combination of three lateral drains spacing of 7.5 m, 10.0 m and 12.5 m and two drain depths of 60 cm and 80 cm and a control plot. This study investigated the changes in soil properties, depth to water table, drainage coefficient and crop behaviors after installation of the system. Reduction in Soil pH, removal of slats in drain water, lowering the depth to water table and higher drainage coefficient recorded for narrow lateral drain spacing and deeper drain depth treatment has improved the root zone environment for crop growth. Paddy has been established very well in terms of plant height and number of tillers per plant in S1D2 (7.5 m drain spacing and 80 cm drain depth) treatment which was also reflected in grain yield and straw yield over undrained paddy field yield. Based on the results, it is recommended to install parallel drain subsurface system at 7.5 m drain spacing and 80 cm drain depth in the study area.
Titrimetric Study of Solubility of Solute Benzoic Acid and Their Partition in Water and Benzene Solvents
Authors: Mishra Shiv Prakash
Published: May 2021

The solubility and distribution coefficient (K) of solute in solvent is depends on temperature and solute-solvent interaction, where the solute is partitioned between two immiscible solvents phase and dissociated into ionic form. Here, we have reported the titrimetric study for solubility and partition or distribution coefficient of benzoic acid (solute) in aqueous water and in organic benzene which are using as solvents. The benzoic acid solubility (in g/100g of solvent) in water and in benzene solutions have determined by titrimetrically. There is partitioning and concentration of such acid in these solvent phase by shake-flask and acid-base titration method as well. The benzoic acid solubility and their distribution between water and benzene as in different pH buffer solutions have been analyzed at room temperature (25°C) in acidic, neutral and basic (pH 4.0, 7.0 and 9.0) medium, respectively.
Optimization of the Production of Ethylene Di-Amine Tetra-Acetic Acid Modified Activated Carbon using Palm Kernel Shell for the Adsorption of Copper ion
Authors: Yerima Y. , Eiroboyi I. , Eiroboyi I.
Published: May 2021

Biomass-based activated carbon has received large attention due to its excellent characteristics such as inexpensiveness, good absorption behaviour, and potential to reduce strong dependence towards non-renewable precursors. The potential use of Palm Kernel Shell in modified activated carbon was evaluated by using the Response Surface Methodology. In this study, a 23 three-level Central Composite Design (CCD) was used to develop a statistical model for the optimization of process variables, contact time (10-130mins) X1, pH (5.0 – 8.0) X2, and adsorbent dose (0.4 -5.0g) X3. The investigation shows that Ethylene Di-Amine Tetra-Acetic Acid modified activated carbon prepared from Palm Kernel Shell is a promising adsorbent for the removal of copper ions from aqueous solutions over a wide range of concentrations with an optimized efficiency of 99% at the solution pH of 7.2, contact time of 70 minutes and adsorbent dose of 2.1g/L. The adsorption results are in line with the linear and quadratic model representation, which is evident from the models for optimization of copper ions.