bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Challenges in the Provision of Affordable and Decent Housing for Low Income Earners
Authors: Kurebwa Jeffrey
Published: July 2020

This study sought to understand the challenges in the provision of affordable and decent housing for low income earners in the capital city of Zimbabwe, Harare. Various challenges relating to housing provision were identified by the research participants. These related to regulatory barriers, lack of political will and commitment, financial challenges, lack of inter-agency coordination. The study concludes that provision of low-income housing remains a big challenge in Harare, which calls for a multi-sectoral approach to address. The study relied on qualitative methodology. Research participants were drawn from Harare City Council, the private sector non-governmental organisations (NGOs), government officials, and residents.
Necessary Prerequisites for Successful Green Economic Transition and Subsequent Green Development
Authors: Vargas-Hernández José G. , Warner Ian
Published: July 2020

Given the increasingly urgent need to permanently forestall global climate catastrophe, there is a vital requirement for an adequately successful one-off transition to an authentic green economy. While concepts like ‘green economic transition' and ‘green economy' are clear in themselves, the policies they denote are frequently insufficiently delineated. What will successful green economic transition to a bonafide green economy, conducted under the auspices of a well-enough designed and administered ‘Green New Deal' actually necessitate, and how can this revolutionary transformation be achieved under presumably sub-optimal economic and political conditions? This exploratory analysis provides clear answers. Emphasizing the ambitious, multifaceted nature and huge scope, scale, and complexity of national economy-greening and green economy management initiatives, it stresses the longer-term economic, social, and political commitments that such paradigm-shifting undertakings appear to require if they really are to avert climate cataclysm and deliver sufficient sustainable green growth.
Human NK Cell Cytoskeletal Dynamics and Cytotoxicity Are Regulated by LIM Kinase
Authors: Duvall Melody G. , Fuhlbrigge Mary E. , Reilly Roisin B. , Walker Katherine H. , Kılıç Ayşe , Levy Bruce D.
Published: July 2020

NK cells provide immune surveillance and host protection against viruses and tumors through their cytotoxic effector function. Cytoskeletal rearrangement is necessary for NK cell lytic granule trafficking and immune synapse formation to trigger apoptosis of targeted cells. LIM kinase (LIMK) regulates F-actin remodeling by phosphorylating cofilin to inhibit actin severing and depolymerization. In this study, in human NK cells, the glucocorticoid dexamethasone downregulated LIMK expression, F-actin accumulation at the immune synapse, lytic granule trafficking, and cytotoxicity. In contrast, the specialized proresolving mediator lipoxin A4 promoted NK cell LIMK expression, lytic granule polarization to the immune synapse and cytotoxicity. Using a LIMK inhibitor, we show that LIMK activity is necessary for NK cell cytotoxicity, including lipoxin A4’s proresolving actions. Together, our findings identify LIMK as an important control mechanism for NK cell cytoskeletal rearrangement that is differentially regulated by glucocorticoids and specialized proresolving mediators to influence NK cell cytotoxicity.
Zebrafish IL-4–like Cytokines and IL-10 Suppress Inflammation but Only IL-10 Is Essential for Gill Homeostasis
Authors: Bottiglione Federica , Dee Christopher T. , Lea Robert , Zeef Leo A. H. , Badrock Andrew P. , Wane Madina , Bugeon Laurence , Dallman Margaret J. , Allen Judith E. , Hurlstone Adam F. L.
Published: July 2020

Mucosal surfaces such as fish gills interface between the organism and the external environment and as such are major sites of foreign Ag encounter. In the gills, the balance between inflammatory responses to waterborne pathogens and regulatory responses toward commensal microbes is critical for effective barrier function and overall fish health. In mammals, IL-4 and IL-13 in concert with IL-10 are essential for balancing immune responses to pathogens and suppressing inflammation. Although considerable progress has been made in the field of fish immunology in recent years, whether the fish counterparts of these key mammalian cytokines perform similar roles is still an open question. In this study, we have generated IL-4/13A and IL-4/13B mutant zebrafish (Danio rerio) and, together with an existing IL-10 mutant line, characterized the consequences of loss of function of these cytokines. We demonstrate that IL-4/13A and IL-4/13B are required for the maintenance of a Th2-like phenotype in the gills and the suppression of type 1 immune responses. As in mammals, IL-10 appears to have a more striking anti-inflammatory function than IL-4–like cytokines and is essential for gill homeostasis. Thus, both IL-4/13 and IL-10 paralogs in zebrafish exhibit aspects of conserved function with their mammalian counterparts.
Sorption of the Direct Black 22 dye in alluvial soil
Authors: Alexandre Jeisiane Isabella da Silva , Santos Neto Severino Martins dos , Coutinho Artur Paiva , Melo Tássia Dos Anjos Tenório de , Gonçalves Elizabeth Amaral Pastich , Gondim Manuella Virginia Salgueiro , Antonino Antonio Celso Dantas , Rabelo Ana Emília Carvalho de Gusmão da Cunha , Oliveira Aline Lima de
Published: July 2020

The semiarid region of Pernambuco has a large water deficit, leading the population to explore groundwater resources such as alluvial aquifers. The state of Pernambuco also stands out for having the second-largest textile manufacturing center in Brazil. However, the direct discharge of textile effluents from the region's industries has intensified the negative impacts on water conservation and alluvial soils. This work characterized the sorption of Direct Black 22 dye (DB22) in two layers of alluvial soil in the Capibaribe-PE basin. Batch experiments (kinetics and sorption isotherms) allowed the evaluation of the retention potential and mobility of this compound in this environment. Sorption kinetics were verified for stirring times of 0.25; 0.5; 1; 2; 4; 6; 8; 10; 12; 24; 48 and 72 hours and the experimental data was adjusted to the first- and second-order kinetic models. The isotherm occurred with concentrations of 1; 5; 10; 15; 20; 32.5 and 40 mg.L-1 and experimental data was adjusted to the linear, Freundlich and Langmuir models. The sorption kinetics of DB22 was best described by the second-order model, while the Freundlich and Linear models properly fitted sorption isotherms for Layers 1 and 2. The organic matter contents and the cation-exchange capacity of the soil layers influenced the sorption of the dye. The superficial layer privileges dye retention phenomena, while in the subsurface layer dye mobility phenomena prevail.
Studies on Streptococcus pneumoniae associated with pulmonary infection among HIV clients attending Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH)
Authors: Mahmud A.H. , Dutsinma U.A. , Idris A.M.
Published: July 2020

Respiratory infection is highly prevalent in HIV-infected patients and S. pneumoniae was a leading cause. The aim   of this study was to isolate and identify Streptococcus pneumoniae associated with pulmonary infection among HIV Clients Attending Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH). A total of 300 samples comprising   sample from 180 HIV seropositive patients and 120 HIV seronegative patients as a (control) were enrolled in this study.) For the 180 HIV seropositive patients, 105(58.3%) were females, and 75(41.7%) were males. Among the HIV negative subjects 64(53.3%) were males and 56(46.7%) were females. The incident of Streptococcus pneumoniae isolates associated with pneumonia in HIV/AIDS seropositive patients  in relation to age group in this  study showed the higher  prevalence of 15(51.72%),  among the age groups of 30-39, had the highest  of prevalence of 15(51.72%), which occur more  common in HIV infected patients while for HIV seronegative patients age group 10-19  had the highest  incidence of  7(29.17%).Result showed no significant difference in the prevalence of  S .pneumoniae among the HIV seropositive and seronegative patients (P > 0.05) .Antimicrobial susceptibility showed that Ciprofloxacin 25(86.2%), was found to be most active invitro against the isolates followed by Oxacillin 21(72.4%), Augmentin19       (65.5), Chloramphenicol 15(51.7%). Tetracycline, 14(48.3%), Clindamycin 14(48.3) and Erythromycin 10(34.5%). Result showed no significant difference in the levels of antibiotic susceptibilities and resistance observed (p > 0.05). The CD4 cells counts for the HIV seropositve patients were 161(89.4%) 350 cells/ml and 19(10.6%) <350 cells/m recorded as normal and low respectively. There was significant difference (p <0.05) for  the CD4 cells counts of the study population with the prevalence of Streptococcus pneumoniae isolates among the HIV seropositive patients  (P 0.000 <0.05).  PCR amplification  for Streptococcus pneumoniae penicillin resistance genes showed that Only 2(33.3%)  out of 6  resistant  isolates  possed the pneumococcal pbp2b resistance gene. According to the findings, the pbp2b gene can play a role of fundamentalimportance in the resistance of S. pneumoniae.  Modify heterogeneity in antibiotic use, which several antibiotics are taken in a rotation against taking just 1 antibiotic such that isolates resistant to 1 antibiotic are killed when the subsequent antibiotic is taken.

Keywords: HIV/AIDS,  Streptococcus Pneumoniae, Antibiotic Resistance, Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC), Pbp2b  CD4 cells count.
Measurement of radiation dose level within Queen Amina Hall, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
Authors: Garba Nuraddeen Nasiru , Nasiru Rabiu , Sufiyan Muniba , Vatsa Abdullahi Muhammad
Published: July 2020

Measurement of background radiation is of great interest for it provides useful information in monitoring environmental radioactivity. The aim of the present study is to provide information and generate database on the natural background radiation dose levels of densely populated Queen Amina Hall, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. The radiation dose (outdoor and indoor dose rate) were measured at 29 rooms (Block 1- 4) and their compounds using RADOS survey meter held at 1m above the ground. The measured radiation dose ranged 0.13 nGyh-1 to 0.43 nGyh-1 and 0.54 nGyh-1 to 1.72 nGyh1 for indoor and outdoor respectively. Some of the high values recorded could be attributed due to the contribution of cosmic radiation emanating from the atmosphere as well as the geological settings of the location as there is no any artificial contributing factor within the area. The annual effective doses within the study area was found to be 0.01 mSvy-1 throughout which is quit below the world average value of 0.87 mSvy-1 for natural sources.

Keywords: Radiation dose, Annual effective dose, RADOS meter, Queen Amina
Distribution and sexual dimorphism of palm print variable (Palm creases) among Hausa of Kano and Zaria, Nigeria
Authors: Affan Usman , El-Ladan I.S.
Published: July 2020

Dermatoglyphic features due to its permanency, genetic influence as well as number of easily observable and measurable characters may be considered one of the most suitable parameters for population variability and have been used extensively to characterize and differentiate human populations, hence, are highly suitable for studying population variation. The aim of the study is to analyze palm prints (palm creases) among Hausas of Kano and Zaria. A total of 600 subjects comprising of 300 participants from two original Hausa metropolis (Kano and Zaria) with 1:1 male to female ratio participated. Ink method was used to capture palm prints. Chi-square was used to determine the association between the variables. The frequency distribution of palmer creases showed that in the right hand only normal creases tend to occur higher in female (203 vs 172) the two metropolis combined. Similar pattern occurs, when the two metropolis were considered separately (Kano = 97 vs 75, Zaria = 106 vs 97). The same pattern of frequency distribution of palmer creases was observed in the left hand. A statistically significant gender differences (χ2 = -2.91, P = 0.004 for right hand, and χ2 = -3.89, P < 0.001 for left hand) in the frequency distribution of type of palmer creases were noticed among the Hausa ethnic groups (both Kano and Zaria combined). However, when the two Hausa metropolis were separated, differences (χ2 = -2.71, P = 0.007 for right hand, and χ2 = -4.66, P < 0.001 for left hand) were only noticed among the Hausas of Kano metropolis.

Key words: Palm prints, palm creases, Hausa, Kano, Zaria, Nigeria
Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used in the treatment of opportunistic skin infection among the people of Itas/Gadau Local Government Area of Bauchi State, Nigeria
Authors: Zigau Z.A. , Muhammad U.A. , Bello A.A.
Published: July 2020

The use of plants for the treatment of opportunistic skin infections has been on the increase and the current renewed interest in natural products to sustain health globally cannot be over emphasized. A survey of the major ethno medicinal plants was carried out in Itas/Gadau LGA, where some ethno medicinal plants used in treating skin infections and various ailments were documented. The investigation included names and parts of plants used, ailments cured, preparation and administration of local herbs. Data was obtained through the use of administered questionnaire’s distributed at random to traditional healers as target respondents. It was shown that various plant species from 10 families were reported to be used in treating ailments, majority of these plants (72%) are wild, Detarium microcarpum, Carissa edulis and Anogeissus leiocarpus 35.5% were mainly harvested for their stem/bark. About 65.2% constitutes the most frequent route of administration by topical application. The most frequent method of preparation is by grinding and direct application of the powder to the affected area, whereas the most common skin infection treated with the medicinal plants is eczema (39.1) The most reported threat to the availability of medicinal plants is deforestation (43.6%), in some cases additives like edible oil and honey are used in 58% of remedy preparations. It is therefore recommended that the plants used should be investigated to ascertain their safety and efficacy in order to improve the quality of life of man.

Key words; Ethno botany, opportunistic skin infection and ailments.
Antibacterial potency of aqueous and methanolic extracts of Diospyros mesiliformis leaf and stem bark
Authors: Jamilu H. , Gambo J.B. , Ocheme J.J.
Published: July 2020

Diospyros mespiliformis“Jackal berry” (also known as African ebony and by its Afrikaan name Jackal bessie). In hausa its called kanya, igi dudu (black wood) in Yoruba and Onye-oji (Black fellow) in igbo. It is widely used  locally in treating various ailments such as fever, whooping cough, wounds, malaria, pheumonia, syphilis, leprosy and host of other ailment without proper scientific validation. This investigation is aimed at validating the scientific use of Diospyros mespiliformis leaf and stem bark using  two solvents, methanol and aqueous. Phytochemical screening of the crude extracts revealed the presence of bioactive compounds such as saponins, tannins, alkaloids flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids and glycoside. The extracts were tested against Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi and Staphylococcus aureus respectively. The antibacterial activity of the stem bark extracts revealed higher activity against E. coli, S.typhi and S. aureus than the leaf extracts. The mean range of zones of inhibition of stem bark at 100mg/ml and 12.5mg/ml varies between 19.29± 3.82 and 5.71± 2.05 while that of leaf extract ranges from 17.71± 2.06 and 5.43±1.13 at 100mg/ml and 12.5 respectively.

Key words: Antibacterial, Phytochemicals, Diospyros mespiliformis, Minimum Inhibitory Concentration.
Central nervous system depressant activity of ethanol leaf extract of Globimetula braunii (Engler) (Loranthaceae) growing on Terminalia catappa L. (Combretaceae)
Authors: Danladi Suleiman , Muhammad Musa Aliyu , Yaro Abdullahi Hamza
Published: July 2020

This study was carried out to determine phytochemical constituents, median lethal dose (LD50) and central nervous system depressant activity of ethanol leaf extract of Globimetula braunii using laboratory animal models. The intraperitoneal median lethal dose (LD50) of ethanol leaf extract of Globimetula braunii was determined in mice according to the method described by Lorke, 1983. The CNS depressant activity of Globimetula braunii leaf extract was determined using diazepam induced sleep, hole board test and beam walk assay. The ethanol leaf extract of Globimetula braunii revealed the presence of tannins, saponins, steroids, triterpenes, flavonoids and glycoside. The intraperitoneal median lethal dose of the leaf extract of Globimetula braunii was estimated to be 2852 mg/kg bodyweight in mice. The ethanol leaf extract of Globimetula braunii significantly (p <0.05) prolonged the duration of sleep in mice at the dose of 800 mg/kg. The extract prolonged the time to complete the beam walk, and exhibited significant decrease in number of head dips there by indicating a decrease in the exploratory behaviour of the animal. This study suggests that Globimetula braunii possesed sedative property.

Keywords: Beam walk assay, diazepam induced sleep, hole board test, central nervous system, Globimetula braunii
Assessment of cytotoxicity and antiplasmodial activities of Prosopis africana leaf extracts
Authors: Idris M.M. , Idris U.
Published: July 2020

Malaria is a major health concern in Sub Saharan Africa and there are few effective treatment options. Nigeria has diverse flora with potent antimalarial phytochemicals and high ethnomedicinal plants uses. This study investigated the phytochemicals, Cytotoxicity and in-vitro antiplasmodial activity of ethnomedicinal plant which is Prosopis africana. Crude ethanol extract and macerated fractions from the ethnomedicinal plant were screened for major classes of antiplasmodial phytochemical compounds i.e., terpenoids, alkaloids, flavonoids, anthraquinones and Steroids. The antiplasmodial assay was conducted at 5% parasitaemia for 24 and 48 hours, against P. falciparum. Artemether-Lumefantrine was used as a positive control while 0.5% DMSO in RPMI 1640 medium was used as negative control. Moreover, all plant extract and fractions of P. africana were found to be effective in vitro for antiplasmodial activity, they demonstrated remarkable bioactivities at all concentrations; Methanol fraction (Pa-05) shows the highest activity with percentage elimination of 83.9% at 625µg/ml, 87.5% at 1250µg/ml, 92.9% at 2500µg/ml and 96.4% at 5000µg/ml. However, all the extract fractions have shown a good activity against the Brine Shrimp nauplii larvae. Crude Ethanol extract (PA-01) and n-Hexane fraction displayed the highest activity (LC50 58.482µg/ml and 75.462 µg/ml) respectively. However, the results suggested that extracts of P. africana showed the most curative anti-plasmodia effect in infected blood which may be attributed to the presence of phytochemical constituents such as a alkaloids, flavonoids, and terpenoids.

Keywords: Ethanol extract, Fractions, Phytochemicals, Cytotoxicity and Antiplasmodial
Adherence to antihypertensive medications in patients attending public hospitals in Kano State, Nigeria
Authors: Ibrahim Umar Idris , Mohammed Shafiu , Zezi Abdulkadir Umar , Lawal Basira Kankia
Published: July 2020

Hypertension is a chronic medical condition characterized by an elevated arterial blood pressure with increasing prevalence in developing countries including Nigeria. One of the integral elements in management of hypertension is adherence to medication and life-style modification. This study aimed to assess adherence level for anti-hypertensive medications among adult hypertensive patients attending public hospitals in Kano State, Nigeria. The study was a cross sectional prospective survey involving 600 patients from six public healthcare facilities selected by multistage sampling technique. Adherence status was assessed using Morisky medication adherence scale. Sociodemographic data and other factors that may influence adherence to hypertension medications were evaluated. Out of the 598 patients that participated in the study, only 178 (29.8%) have their BP controlled based on JNC8. Three hundred and thirty two (55.5%) out of 598 patients have good adherence, while 266 (45.5%) have poor adherence. Of the 178 patients who had good BP control, 120 (67.5%) have good adherence while 58 (32.5%) have poor adherence. BP control was significantly higher in those that adhered to antihypertensive medication compared with non-adhering patients (χ2 = 14.526; df = 1; p-value = < 0.001). Additionally, Chi-square test showed significant association between number of antihypertensives and blood pressure control. (χ2=37.556, df=3, p<0.001). The study established that 55.5% of the respondents have good adherence to their antihypertensive medication while 29.8% had their BP controlled. Adherence and number of antihypertensive medication a patient is taking were found to have significant relationship with BP control.

Keywords: Medication, adherence, hypertension, antihypertensive
Influence of Diethylene Triamine Penta Acetic Acid (DTPA) amendment on the uptake of some essential trace elements by Amaranthus hybridus L.
Authors: Dagari M.S. , Musa M.S. , Musa I.A.
Published: July 2020

The present study was aimed at determining the potential in the uptake and translocation of essential trace elements by Amaranthus hybridus L. seedlings and the effects of added 0.0025M DTPA as a bioremediation technology to increase the contents of trace elements in edible parts. Four week old Amaranthus hybridus L. seedlings were transplanted in hydroponic solution treated with copper and zinc and then monitored in a greenhouse for 72 hr where significant changes in fresh weights were observed. The study was divided into two experiments first batch contains chelate and second batch contain unchelated treatments in three different combination of copper, zinc and Cu/Zn treatments. Cu2+ was restricted in the roots and no significant changes (p>0.05) in the accumulation of Cu2+ was observed with respect to addition of DTPA to different concentration compared to unchelated treatments. However, accumulation and transportation of Zn2+ from roots to shoots was increased significantly (p<0.05) to 2-3 fold after DTPA application compared to unchelated treatments as it helped to increase the metal bioavailability. Furthermore, in Cu/Zn combination, unchelated Cu2+ was found to accumulate more when compared to the chelated with the same Cu2+ concentration. Likewise, unchelated Zn2+ was significantly translocated as compared with chelate-assisted treatments of same zinc concentration. This indicates that in the presence of copper, zinc uptake was favorably translocated. Translocation factor was calculated to find relation with metal uptake in Amaranth hybridus L. seedlings.

Keywords: Essential elements, DTPA amendment, hydroponic, Amaranthus hybridus L.
Synthesis and characterization of ternary Pt-alloy nano particles for hydrogen fuel cell application
Authors: Usman Alhassan Kabiru , Danazumi Kamal
Published: July 2020

A novel ternary PtM2 nano structures was prepared using simple salvothermal process. The alloy formation has been ascertained using different characterizations techniques such as X-ray diffraction, Tunneling electron microscope TEM, Scanning electron microscope SEM, EDX. The XRD pattern reveals that, the peak position was shifted to higher 2𝜃 angle specifying the presence of Co and Ni into the lattice to form an ordered L10 phase with a reduced Pt-Pt distance. The thickness of the alloy was found to be ~4.3nm and interplaner distance of ~0.23nm which correlate with TEM analysis with an average particle size ~20nm and distribution of the catalyst on carbon support was also investigated by TEM images. SEM was used to obtain the surface morphology of the synthesized catalyst as well the amount of metallic loaded from EDX.

Key words; Platinum, Cobalt, Nickel on Carbon Support (PCN/C), Platinum, Cobalt and Nickel for 8 hour (PCN-8h), Commercial Platinum on Carbon Support (Pt/C), Oxidation Reduction Reaction (ORR), PEMFC, SEM, EDX, TEM, XRD.
Combined effects of sodium azide (NaN3) and colchicine on survival rate and growth on three varieties of tomato (solanum Lycopersicum mill.) in dry season
Authors: Aminu Y. , Badaru I.K. , Fa`iza A.M. , Maryam M.G.
Published: July 2020

The Effect of Sodium Azide and Colchicine Induced Mutation  on Survival and Growth on Three Varieties of Tomato in Dry Season, was investigated with the aim of inducing variability that could be exploited in the improvement of some quality traits in Tomato plants. Three different treatments (chemical mutagenesis via sodium azide, and colchicines. and a combination of sodium azide with Colchicine) were applied on to the three varieties of tomato seeds. The seed of the tomato: (Roma, UC82B and Local varieties) were treated at four different concentrations of colchicine (0.1mM, 1.0 mM, 2.0 mM and 0.0 mM as control). The result obtained revealed highly significant difference (P≤0.01) in the effects of sodium azide on survival rates, leaf area, number of fruits, and pH. Significant improvement (P≤0.05) was also recorded on fruit diameter. Similarly, highly significant differences (P≤0.01) were found between the treatments in all the selected traits except on number of fruits, where no significant differences exist. The result showed that sodium azide and colchicine improve important quality traits of tomato. It was deduced that variety UC82B responds significantly to colchicine. It was concluded that, the sodiuim azide and colchicines improve some quality traits on tomato that could be grown in dry seasons. It was concluded that 0.1 mM concentration of colchicine and sodium azide improve some important quality traits of tomato that could be utilized for further improvement of tomato crop.

Key Words: Sodium azide, Roma, Local variety, UC8, Mutation, Colchicine, Dry season
TLC analysis and antioxidant activity of garden egg leaves
Authors: Umar U.A. , Hassan L.G. , Maradun K.L.
Published: July 2020

The Solanum melongena is used traditionally to treat different diseases such as cancer, atherosclerosis, and inflammation. This study is aimed at investigating the thin-layer chromatography analysis and antioxidant activity of n-hexane, acetone and methanol leaves extract of Solanum melongena. Sequential extraction with solvents of increasing polarity was carried out using the n-hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol. The thin-layer chromatography of the extracts carried out with different solvent system. Antioxidant activity was evaluated quantitatively using DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) for its free radical scavenging ability. The results of thin-layer chromatography revealed some spots with Rf values in the respective extracts, n-hexane (0.31, 0.42, 0.59, 0.65, 0.72, 0.85, 0.92), acetone (0.97, 0.92, 0.88 and 0.59) and methanol (0.72, 0.83, 0.86, 0.94 and 0.96). The extracts exhibit strong antioxidant activities as radical scavengers, indicating that they have strong proton donating abilities. The results from this research show credence to the traditional application of the plant. Further research is recommended on the isolation and characterization of the antioxidant compounds from the plant.

Key words: DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl), Thin layer chromatography, Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)
Planning skills by heads of science departmentand academic performance in science subjects in public secondary schools in Nandi county, Kenya
Authors: Cheruiyot Alfed , Ngeno Viviline , Kibett Joash K.
Published: July 2020

Curriculum and instructional planning is important to ensure that academic activities run without interruption in an academic year or term. Heads of departments (HODs of Science) play a pivotal role in implementation of curriculum in secondary schools. Planning is one of the functions vested on HODs to ensure proper implementation of curriculum in their departments. This paper therefore looks at HODs planning skills towards academic performance improvement in three science subjects in public secondary schools in Nandi County, Kenya. The decision to choose HODs of science was due to the importance that is placed on science subject but which has recorded below average performance compared to other subjects in Kenya Certificate of Secondary School. The three science subjects under investigation are; Physics, Biology and Chemistry for secondary schools. The study used mixed method research design. The study had three target populations that comprised of 231 heads of departments, 231 principals and 693 teachers. The sample size of the study was determined using Krejcie and Morgan formulae of determining sample size and comprised of 23 principals, 128 HODS of science and 247 teachers who were selected through stratified random sampling. Data collection was through questionnaires and interview schedule. Analysis of data was performed through quantitative and qualitative methods. The correlation analysis was computed from HODs and science teachers’ data. The study discovered that most of them only planned for science practicals to be conducted on occasional basis by teachers in the department. Moreover, the HODs of Science ensured that the planned activities were conducted as planned. However, the HODs of Science were found not to have proper planning skills on ICT usage, acquisition of instructional material and conducting training needs assessment for teachers. The computed correlation statistics showed that there existed significant influence (p<0.05) between planning skills by HODs of Science and academic performance of students in sciences in public secondary schools in Nandi County. The study recommends that HODs of Science need to be informed by Quality Assurance and Standards Officers (QASOs) that they need to be proactive and not reactive to the responsibilities under their docket. Participatory planning practices needs also to be embraced by HODs of Science for improved implementation and execution of set objectives and targets.

Keywords: Planning, Skills, Quality, Performance, Sciences HODs
Relationship between headteachers’ supervision of teaching and learning materials utilization and learners’ performance in activity areas in public pre-primary schools in Narok county
Authors: Kipkoech Kosilei John , Ngeno Viviline , Makero Dr. Syallow Cajertane
Published: July 2020

The role of headteachers in the supervision of teaching and learning materials utilization even though widely studied has not been explored in regard to its influence on learners’ performance in public preprimary Schools. The study’s aim was to examine the relationship between headteachers’ supervision of teaching and learning materials utilization on learners’ performance in activity areas in public preprimary schools in Narok County. The study was informed by the Education Production Theory by Hanushek (1995) and Cognitive Load Theory by John Sweller (1988). Convergent Mixed Method design was used as it enables the researcher to handle both qualitative and quantitative data that were collected. The target population was 735 pre-primary schools, 735 Headteachers, 1470 pre-school teachers, 30 ECD Coordinators, and 6 Quality Assurance Standards Officers. The sample size comprised of 85 pre-primary schools, 85 head teachers, 85 pre-primary teachers from public preprimary schools, 6 Quality Assurance and Standards Officers and 9 ECD Coordinators. Purposive sampling was used in the selection of headteachers, while the sample for teachers, ECD Coordinators, and Quality Assurance Standards Officers was selected using simple random sampling technique. The researcher used questionnaires, Interview schedule, Center Performance Assessment Tool, and Center Observation Checklist as the main tools for collecting data. The researcher used qualitative and quantitative approaches to analyzing data. This assisted the researcher to summarize data for easy analysis. Regression Analysis was used to test the hypotheses. The results show that headteachers’ supervision of teaching and learning materials utilization had a statistically significant influence on learners’ performance in activity areas.

Keywords: Headteachers’ Supervision of Teaching and Learning Materials Utilization, Learners’ Performance, Activity Areas, Pre-schools, Pre-Primary Schools
Relationship between head teachers’ leadership competencies and effective school management in public primary schools in Narok county, Kenya
Authors: Koskie Joseph Kipkemoi , Sang Cecilia , Ngeno Viviline
Published: July 2020

In Kenya, the challenge of school management effectiveness has been reported in many public primary schools, despite huge investment in the education sector. The aim of the study was an investigation of the influence of head teachers’ leadership competencies on school management effectiveness in public primary schools in Narok County, Kenya. The study employed the convergent mixed method research design. Data collection was done by using questionnaires, interviews, and checklists for findings. 665 headteachers, 25 Curriculum Support Officers and County Auditor formed the target population. Using purposeful sampling technique, headteachers and Curriculum support officers were selected. SPSS aided in calculating descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. The findings of the study indicate that competencies of head teachers affect the discipline of staff and pupils in most public primary schools in the county. The study found that in many schools the headteachers had registered infectiveness in encouraging strict adherence to the school administrative structure; ensuring that the learning environment is child friendly, safe and conducive; in organizing and updating records of learner discipline cases, challenging behavior and interventions; and in displaying of school rules. The study recommended that the Ministry of Education should consider strengthening the monitoring and evaluation for headteachers’ roles; and organizing update trainings for headteachers to enhance their leadership competencies.

Keywords: Headteachers’ Leadership Competencies, Financial Performance, Narok County, Public Primary Schools
Influence of headteachers’ monitoring allocations of teaching and learning materials on learners’ performance in activity areas in public pre-primary schools in Narok County, Kenya
Authors: Kipkoech Kosilei John , Kipgosgei Dr. Andrew Kibet , Ngeno Dr. Viviline
Published: July 2020

The role of headteachers in the management of teaching and learning materials although widely studied has not been explored in regard to its influence on learners’ performance in public pre-primary Schools. The purpose of this study is to determine the influence of monitoring allocation of teaching and learning materials by Headteachers on learners performance in activity areas. Convergent Mixed Method design was used as it enabled the researcher to handle both qualitative and quantitative data that was collected. The target population comprised of 735 pre-primary schools, 735 Headteachers, 1470 preschool teachers, 30 ECD Coordinators, and 6 Quality Assurance Standards Officers. The sample size included 85 pre-primary schools, 85 head teachers, 85 pre-primary teachers from public pre-primary schools, 6 Quality Assurance and Standards Officers and 9 ECD Coordinators. Purposive sampling was used in the selection of headteachers, while the sample for teachers, ECD Coordinators, and Quality Assurance Standards Officers was selected using simple random sampling technique. The researcher used questionnaires, Interview schedule, Center Performance Assessment Tool, and Center Observation Checklist as the main tools for collecting data. The researcher used qualitative and quantitative approaches in analyzing data. Regression Analysis was used to test the hypotheses. The results show that monitoring allocation of teaching and learning materials by Headteachers did not have a statistically significant influence on learners’ performance in activity areas.

Keywords: Monitoring Allocations of Teaching and Learning Materials, Learners’ Performance, Activity Areas, Pre-schools
Antioxidant and antiproliferative activities on prostate and cervical cultured cancer cells of five medicinal plant extracts from Burkina Faso
Authors: Bayala Bagora , Zohoncon Théodora Mahoukèdè , Djigma Florencia Wendkuuni , Nadembega Christelle , Baron Silvère , Lobaccaro Jean-Marc , Simpore Jacques
Published: July 2020

Medicinal plants are a potential source of drug discovery and development of cancer chemoprevention drugs. Thus, the aim of this work was to study the antioxidant and antiproliferative activities of hydromethanolic extracts of Musa sapientum L., Cassia italica (Mill.) Spreng., Crateva adansonii DC., Euphorbia hirta L. and Ceratotheca sesamoides Endl. from Burkina Faso. The antioxidative activity of hydromethanolic extracts of plant was assessed using DPPH radical scavenging assay and ABTS+ radical cation decolorisation assay. Antiproliferative activity was evaluated by MTT assay. Of these five plant extracts, hydromethanolic extract of Euphorbia hirta leaf twigs showed the best antioxidant activity both by DPPH (IC50 = 0.53 ± 0.04 μg extract / μg DPPH) and ABTS (C = 0.302 ± 0.003 μMET / g extract) methods. In addition, hydromethanolic extract of Euphorbia hirta leaf twigs showed the best antiproliferative activity on LNCaP cell lines of prostate cancer while the hydromethanolic extract of the Ceratotheca sesamoides leaf stems showed the best antiproliferative activity on the HeLa cell lines of cervical cancer. This work has shown not only the antioxidant and anticancer activities of these five local plants, but also the potential valorization of these species used in traditional medicine in Burkina Faso.Keywords: Cancer, antioxydant, antiproliferative, Medicinal plants, Burkina Faso.
Intensification de la production agropastorale et genre dans le domaine soudano-sahelien au Burkina Faso
Authors: Napon Katian , Ayantunde Augustine , Da Et Dapola Evariste Constant
Published: July 2020

La faible pluviométrie et la pauvreté des sols du Séno et du Yatenga au Burkina Faso influencent négativement les rendements agricoles et la production animale. Pour améliorer la productivité et favoriser une meilleure sécurité alimentaire, il est nécessaire d’intensifier le système de culture à travers l’adoption de techniques culturales adéquates. L’objectif de cette étude est d’analyser la pratique des techniques d’intensification durable de la production agropastorale selon le genre. A cet effet, une enquête a été conduite auprès de 632 individus. Un modèle logistique binaire a été utilisé avec SPSS 20 pour vérifier si les caractéristiques sociodémographiques des enquêtés prédisaient de façon significative la pratique d’une technique d’intensification. Une valeur de P < 0,05 a été jugée statistiquement significative. Les résultats révèlent une différence en fonction du genre dans la pratique des techniques d’intensification de la production et montrent que ces différences sont liées au niveau d’éducation, à l’activité primaire, à la taille du ménage, au groupe ethnique, au groupe de genre et à l’âge des enquêtés. Les déterminants de l’adoption des technologies d’intensification de la production agropastorale devraient être pris en compte dans la politique agricole du pays pour une meilleure diffusion de ces technologies auprès des paysans.Mots clés : Technologies améliorées, systèmes mixtes, groupe de genre, Séno, Yatenga.

English Title: Intensification of agro-pastoral production and gender in the Sudano-Sahelian domain in Burkina FasoLow rainfall and poor soils in the Seno and Yatenga regions of Burkina Faso have a negative impact on agricultural yields and livestock production. To improve productivity and promote better food security, it is necessary to intensify the farming systems through the adoption of appropriate of intensification practices. The objective of this study is to analyze the effect of gender on intensification practices in agro-pastoral systems. A survey was conducted involving 632 individuals from different gender groups. A binary logistic model was used with SPSS 20 to assess whether the socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents had significant effect on intensification practices. A value of P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The results revealed gender differences in intensification practices and showed that these differences are related to education level, primary activity, household size, ethnic group, gender group and age of the respondents. The determinants of the agro-pastoral production intensification technologies should be taken into account in the country's agricultural policy for a better dissemination of these technologies to farmers.Keywords: Improved technologies, mixed systems, gender group, Seno, Yatenga.
Evaluation agro-morphologique de sept écotypes de lentille de terre (Macrotyloma geocarpum) cultivés au Burkina Faso
Authors: Nana Rasmata , Bonkoungou Saïdou , Coulibaly N’golo Diakalia , Miningou Amos , Bama Bepio Hervé , Sohoro Hawa
Published: July 2020

Macrotyloma geocarpum est une légumineuse dont sa culture est largement abandonnée au profit de celle d’autres légumineuses. Cette étude avait pour objectif d’identifier les écotypes performants à partir d’une caractérisation agromorphologique dans les conditions pluviales. Les résultats ont montré une diversité phénotypique entre les écotypes pour les caractères couleur du tégument, couleur des fleurs et du pétiole. L’analyse de variance a révélé une faible variabilité entre les caractères quantitatifs. La classification ascendante hiérarchique a mis en évidence 3 ensembles de diversité agro-morphologique. Le premier groupe constitué de 3 écotypes à graines noires, est caractérisé par un nombre important de feuilles trifoliolées à la floraison, un cycle du semis à la floraison intermédiaire et un poids de 100 bonnes graines élevé. Le second groupe compte un seul écotype à graines blanches, caractérisé par un cycle de floraison précoce, un nombre de feuilles trifoliolées faible et un poids de 100 bonnes graines faible. Le troisième groupe constitué de 3 écotypes à graines noires, est caractérisé par un cycle de floraison tardif, un nombre de feuilles trifoliolées moyen et un poids de 100 bonnes graines moyen. Ces résultats pourront contribuer à la création de variétés performantes répondant aux attentes des producteurs et consommateurs.Mots clés: Culture négligée, génotypes, caractères, variabilité, climat.

English Title: Agro-morphological evaluation of seven earth lens (Macrotyloma geocarpum) ecotypes cultivated in Burkina FasoMacrotyloma geocarpum is a legume whose cultivation is largely abandoned in favor of that of other legumes. The objective of this study was to identify successful ecotypes based on agromorphological characterization in rainfed conditions. The results showed phenotypic diversity between the ecotypes for seed coat color, flower color and petiole color. Analysis of Variance revealed little variability between quantitative traits. The hierarchical ascending classification has highlighted 3 sets of agro-morphological diversity. The first group consisting of 3 black-seeded ecotypes is characterized by a large number of trifoliate leaves at flowering, a cycle of sowing at intermediate flowering and a high weight of 100 good seeds. The second group has only one white-seeded ecotype characterized by an early flowering cycle, a low trifoliate leaf count and a low good seed weight of 100. The third group of 3 black-seeded ecotypes is characterized by a late flowering cycle, a medium number of trifoliate leaves and a medium weight of 100 good seeds. These results can contribute to the creation of high-performance varieties that meet the expectations of producers and consumers.Keywords: Neglected crop, Genotypes, characters, variability, climate.
Floristic diversity of Loranthaceae Family and their potential host species in Sudano-sahelian zone of Cameroon: case of Diamare plain in Far-North Region
Authors: Konsala Souare , Todou Gilbert , Moksia Froumsia , Munting Divine Tii , Nnanga Jeanne Flore , Tchobsala Tchobsala , Adamou Ibrahima
Published: July 2020

There is an increasing interest in parasitic plants and infectious disease community ecology in intertropical regions. The study examined the floristic diversity of Loranthaceae family and their potential host species in the ecoregion of Diamare plain in Cameroon. Reasoned sampling method was performed and experimental device consisted of 02 main treatments (Diamare and Mayo-Kani divisions), 08 secondary treatments (councils) and 32 replications (villages), with four (04) villages per council. We used itinerary botanical survey method of 1000 m x 20 m in each village, totalizing 64 ha and all parasitic plants and their potential hosts were inventoried. A total of 11 645 ligneous individuals was inventoried in the Diamare division, distributed within 65 species, 44 genera, and 22 Families. In Mayo-Kani division, a total of 16 645 ligneous individuals were inventoried, distributed in 58 species, 41 genera and 19 families. There was a significant difference between the two divisions in terms of individuals (p < 0.001). In total, nine parasitic plants of the Loranthaceae family were inventoried, with five species identified at the level of species (55.55%) and four species at the level of genera (44.44%): Agelanthus dodoneifolius (DC.) Polh. and Wiens, Tapinanthus globiferus (A. Rich.) Van Tiegh., Tapinanthus oleifolus (JC. Wendl.) Danser; Tapinanthus voltensis Van Tiegh. ex Balle; Tapinanthus ophiodes (Sprague) Danser, Tapinanthus sp1., Tapinanthus sp2., Tapinanthus sp3. and Phragmanthera sp. Agelanthus dodoneifolius, Tapinanthus globiferus and T. ophiodes recorded a weak parasitic specificity (PSp = 81.39%; 72.09% and 30.23% respectively). Combretaceae and Mimosaceae families showed the greatest number of sensitive host species to Loranthaceae infestation (20.89% and 16.27% respectively). There was no significant difference between parasitic specificity of Loranthaceae and parasitic sensitivity of host species (p > 0.05), and both were positively correlated (r = 0.96). Efforts are required to control the development of Loranthaceae in sudano-sahelian zone especially in ecosystem plantations.Keywords: Floristic diversity, Loranthaceae, host species, Diamare plain, Cameroon