bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Agricultural productivity and access to market among farmers in Ekiti State, Nigeria
Authors: Akintayo O.I. , Oyedokun M.O. , Akindele M.O.
Published: June 2022

Agricultural productivity and the performance of smallholder agriculture in developing countries have been noted to be affected by access to markets. This study examined the access of smallholder farmers to input and output markets and the factors that affect agricultural productivity. A total of 336 smallholder farmers were selected in Ekiti State through multi-stage sampling technique. Data were obtained through the administration of structured questionnaire while descriptive statistics and Ordinary Least Square regression were used to analyze the data. The smallholder farms in the study area were characterized by non-uniform fragmented plots.Average age of the farmers was 48.12 years with mean farming experience of 24.97 years. Using proxies which include distance to physical markets and good roads, results of analysis showed that poor market access had significant (p = 5%) negative influence on agricultural productivity (t = –2.0). Access to infrastructure particularly good rural roads also had significant effect on agricultural productivity. Other factors such as farmers’ formal education (t = 4.50), farming experience (t = 3.39) and commercialization level (t = 1.86) also significantly affect farmers’ agricultural productivity. For the enhancement of access to markets and agricultural productivity, it was recommended that rural infrastructure such as good roads be put in place by appropriate agencies.
Correlation of Activated Carbonized Avocado Pear Seeds (Persea Americana) and Activated Carbonized Orange Peels (Citrus Sinensis) Adsorptive Potency in Eliminating Cd2+ Ions in contaminated water
Authors: Moses O. , Archibong U.D.
Published: June 2022

Water contamination is a very serious problem due to the role and usefulness of water to life. The carbonized orange peels (COP) and carbonized Avocado Pear seeds (CAPS) were impregnated with Potassium hydroxide (KOH) at 1:1 ratio for 48 hours. The KOH impregnated CAPS and COP were washed, air-dried and separately oven dried at 105℃ for 6 hours in a muffle furnace (Carbolite AAF1100) at 250oC for 1 hour. The activated carbonized avocado pear seeds (ACAPS) and activated carbonized orange peels (ACOP) were physicochemically characterized using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectrophotometer. Cd2+ ions adsorption technique on ACAPS and ACOP was examined by means of the batch adsorption isotherm experimentations and their adsorption model was appraised by means of isotherm models of Langmuir, Freundlich, Dubinin–Radushkevich, Tempkin and Flory-Huggin. The SEM imageries, showed that ACAPS posessed a large number of varied size pores whereas the ACOP had fewer smaller size pores. The R2 values which varied from 0.86 to 1.00 point to the fact that all the isotherm models were capable to clarify the correlation in the obtained data. ACAPS had more adsorption site, however, ACOP took up more Cd2+ ion per adsorption site on comparing Flory-huggins isotherm model nFH values vis-a-vis Langmuir isotherm model qm values. Generally, ACAPS was a superior adsorbent likened to ACOP, it was more than twice as effective for deletion of Cd2+ ions in contaminated water owing to a blend of considerable amount of various size openings and surface functional groups with qm values of 12.35 and 5.67mg/g in that order.
Investigation of the inhibition efficiency of Irish potatoes leaves extract on aluminium sheet in acidic medium
Authors: Madaki Kabiru Suleiman , Mohammad Ibrahim Adamu , Daniel Obaje , Adamu Usman , Mohammed Jibrin
Published: June 2022

Aluminium is the most widely used non-ferrous metal, hence there is need to protect it from corrosion. This research work, investigated the inhibitive property of the ethanol extract obtained from Irish potato leaves (Solamun tuberosum) for aluminium corrosion using 2M H2SO4 as a medium. The inhibitive effect of the extract against the corrosion of aluminium was investigated using gravimetric technique at various concentrations of the extract (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, and 4.0 g/L). The results revealed that with increase in concentrations of the extract, the corrosion rate decreases and the highest inhibition efficiency was found to be 77.78% at 4.0 g/L of the extract. Additionally, the adsorption of the extract on the aluminium surface was found to obey Langmuir’s adsorption isotherm. However, the plant extract proved to be effective inhibitor on the corrosion of aluminium in the acid medium and can be used as green inhibitor.
Geochemical investigation of gold and chalcophile minerals of Rawayau Area Katsina State, Nigeria
Authors: Kankara Aliyu Ibrahim , Adagba Terlumun
Published: June 2022

This present study investigated the Gold and Chalcophile mineralisation potentials of the Rawayau area in Northwestern Nigeria. The aim of the investigation is to delineate the likely Gold and Chalcophile mineralisation occurrences in the study area so as to aid further exploration studies that will identify Gold rich targets worth investing resources for detail exploration project before mining. To achieve this, 17 samples (7 rock samples and 10 sediments) were collected and subjected to laboratory analysis at the National Geologic Survey Agency (NGSA) in Kaduna. The geochemical study showed that the Au concentration ranged from below detection level (bdl) to 0.09ppm in the rock samples, while ranging from 0.013ppm to 0.137ppm in the sediments. Ag concentration ranged from 0.37ppm to 0.97ppm with in the rock samples, while ranging from 0.088ppm to 0.229ppm in the sediments, thus showing a higher concentration in both rock and sediments than Au. Significant positive relationship was observed between Ni, Cr, Cu, Mn, Fe, Zn and Co from the correlation analysis. It also revealed a subsurface increment of Gold and Chalcophile concentration of Nickel, Copper and Zinc with higher concentration of Nickel, Copper, Zinc, Manganese, Chromium and Lead in comparison to Gold and Silver. The study concludes that the Rawayau area holds much prospects for Gold and other minerals. It is suggested that further exploratory studies be carried out so as to pave way for the commencement of mining activities in the study area”.
Comparative studies on the effects of biochar and cow dung amendments on the mobility, bioavailability and toxicity of heavy metals in lead-acid contaminated soil
Authors: Jacob Jacob N. , Okuo James M. , Archibong Ukeme D. , Imafidon Monday I. , Emeribe Oluchi F. , Anegbe Bala
Published: June 2022

This study compared the heavy metals remediation potency of biochar and cow dung in soils contaminated by lead-acid batteries. Soil samples were gathered from three different battery charging shops in Benin City at the depth of 0-15cm using systematic grid sampling method. Hardwood was pyrolyzed at 350°C for 80minutes and cow dung was air dried and pound into powder. The soil was characterized using standard methods, and was fractionated using modified European Community Bureau of Reference (BCR) three-step sequential extraction procedure while the concentration of heavy metals was determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). The total metal concentration in the lead-acid contaminated soil was 127.50mg/kg Pb, 0.32mg/kg Cr, 0.03mg/kg Cd, 0.18mg/kg Ni and 135.00mg/kg Fe. The contaminated soil was remediated with biochar and as well with cow dung at 5%, 10%, 15% and 20%. The soil was also amended using biochar-cow dung mixture (1:1, 2:1 and 1:2). The outcome revealed that the metal content in lead-acid contaminated soil remediated with biochar and cow dung were found to generally decrease as the percentage of amenders increases, with biochar being further efficient in lowering the levels of heavy metals in the contaminated soil. However, biochar when mixed with cow dung at 2:1 ratio at 20% amendment gives a better result than when used separately. Pot experiment was designed and the amounts of heavy metals bioavailable to plant were determined. The mobility factors and bioavailability indices of the metals reduced as the percentage of amenders’ increases. The result obtained from this study revealed that although biochar and cow dung were effective amenders, biochar was more potent in lowering the mobility, bioavailability and toxicity of heavy metals in lead-acid contaminated soil. Biochar when mixed with cow dung at 2:1 ratio gave the best result in remediation of lead-acid contaminated soil.
Object recognition memory and anti-anxiety potentials of stem-bark extract of Nauclea latifolia (African peach), taurine and vitamin E on Albino rats exposed to water immobilisation stress
Authors: Iliya Ezekiel , Agnes Igimi O , Ajayi Stephen O , Obioha Mary , Eze Ejike D.
Published: June 2022

Memory loss is a typical symptom of generalized anxiety disorder, a condition that affects millions of individuals. Memory loss with anxiety can be quite distressing, but if you can find strategies to address the anxiety, your memory may improve as well. In this study, the effects of Nauclea latifolia extract, taurine and vitamin E supplementation on object identification and stress-induced anxiety in Albino rats exposed to water immobilisation stress were investigated. 24 rats weighing between 100 and 120 grams were employed. The control group (A), received 1ml/kg pure water. Vitamin E was given to Group B at a dosage of 0.2 ml/kg. Group C received 200mg/kg taurine, while Group D received 200mg/kg Nauclea latifolia extract. For three weeks, the administration was completed. The rats were famished for 24 hours before the stress process began. The rats were sedated with chloroform vapour, and then restrained using a hardwood board (25 by 18 cm) with the four limbs fixed sideways, then dipped for two hours in water up to the xiphoid level. During the training phase, the taurine group examined the novel object the most (64.9 percent), followed by the Vitamin E group (63.90 percent), when compared to the Nauclea latifolia (52.75 percent) and the control groups (54.76 percent). The consolidation phase similarly, revealed that, taurine and Vitamin E groups explored the novel object the most (71.52 percent) and (70.05 percent) accordingly. In the anxiety model, Nauclea latifolia, taurine and vitamin E groups showed significant increase in time spent on closed arms. This study has shown that, when rats are treated to water immersion restraint stress, administration of Nauclea latifolia extract, taurine, and vitamin E, may decrease stress-induced anxiety-like behaviours. The significance of this study is that, administration of taurine, vitamin E and Nauclea latifolia extract may prevent stress-induced memory impairment.
Physicochemical analysis of non-rhizosphere and rhizosphere soil of Sorghum bicolor (Guinea corn) field
Authors: Abdullahi M. , Oyeyiola G.P. , Sule I.O. , Adamu M.S. , Olarongbe G.O.
Published: June 2022

Soil is one of nature's most dynamic sites of biological interaction, where crop nutrition are found. The rhizosphere is the area surrounding plant roots where microorganisms, particularly bacteria, are active, whereas non-rhizosphere soil, also known as bulk soil, is soil that lacks plant roots and does not belong to any rhizosphere soil. Physicochemical analysis of non-rhizosphere and rhizosphere soil of Sorghum bicolor field was determined. Before planting, physicochemical analysis of a soil was performed, and after planting, rhizosphere and bulk soil of Sorghum bicolor field were determined. Parameters considered in determining the soil's suitability for plant growth and development include, the pH, moisture content, water holding capacity, and organic matter content were all measured. For fourteen weeks, soil samples were collected every two weeks. Rhizosphere soil had pH range of 5.49 ± 0.02 – 8.15 ± 0.02, soil moisture content: 0.56 ± 0.01% – 1.22 ± 0.01, water holding capacity: 43.34 ± 0.47 ml/gm – 53.75 ± 0.55 ml/gm, organic matter: 30.12 ± 0.54 g kg-1 – 42.45 ± 0.02 g kg-1. Bulk soil had pH range of 6.72 ± 0.02 – 7.46 ± 0.03, soil moisture: 0.10 ± 0.00% – 2.13 ± 0.02%, water holding capacity: 42.82 ± 0.32 ml/gm – 44.42 ± 0.25 ml/gm and organic matter: 5.68 ± 0.65 g kg-1 – 30.13 ± 0.52 g kg-1. Prior to planting Sorghum bicolor, the soil texture revealed that it is sandy loam. After observing the soil, it can be concluded that it is versatile, productive, and capable of supporting the growth of Guinea corn (Sorghum bicolor).
A Systematic Review on Sonographic Evaluation of Renal Size in Apparently Healthy Adults
Authors: Uthman Firdausi Ukashah , Ya’u Anas , Mohammed Sidi , Abubakar Aminu Abubakar , Mansur Umar , Abdullahi Aliyu Hassan
Published: June 2022

The normal size of a kidney is variable and is affected by both physiologic and pathological conditions. Since renal size is affected by various factors, it is necessary to establish population specific normative values. Ultrasonography has shown its usefulness as an essential tool in the evaluation of renal size. The study aimed at reviewing published articles in the evaluation of renal size and identifying gaps in order to make recommendation for further studies. All articles included in this review are prospective in design with the smallest sample size used being 100 participants and the largest 4,035 participants. The age of the participants ranged from 13 to 80 years. The overall mean renal size reported in this review ranged from 63±18.1 cm3 to 164.3±38 cm3 for the right kidney and 69.1±25.1 cm3 to 183.3±48.9 cm3 for the left kidney. Six of the reviewed articles reported a statistical significant difference between male and female mean renal size (p<0.05), while two articles revealed no statistical significant difference between male and female mean renal sizes (p>0.05). However, the remaining seven articles did not compare the mean renal size between male and female participants. Seven out of the articles reported a significant positive correlation between kidney dimensions and BMI, while other eight articles did not check the association between kidney dimensions and anthropometric parameters. This review showed only one article out of fifteen used a probability sampling method and only two articles used larger sample size. Eight of the reviewed articles did not perform creatinine clearance test before recruitment of their participants.
Radiation detectors for nuclear well-logging application: A review
Authors: Bala A. , Jenkins D.G. , Namadi S.
Published: June 2022

The oil and gas industry uses nuclear logging method to survey for the presence of hydrocarbons in a given region of interest. Nuclear logging tools are used to achieve this aim. These tools consist of radiation sources and radiation detectors. 3He thermal neutron detector and NaI:Tl for gamma-ray measurements are the conventional detectors used for this application. However, the shortage of 3He gas used in 3He tube and the high demand for both detectors in many other societal applications has mandated the search for alternative radiation detectors. This paper reviewed other alternatives that are commercially available. Light output, temperature sensitivity, tolerance to vibration and shock are important parameters to consider when selecting a detector for this application. Among the reviewed alternatives, GS20 crystal for neutron and gamma ray measurements, LaBr:Ce and LuYAP:Ce for gamma ray measurement have been reported to have comparable performance to the conventional detectors.
Concentrations and health risk parameters of heavy metals in water samples from Epe Lagoon in Lagos State, Nigeria
Authors: Yahaya Tajudeen Olanrewaju , Illo Zafira Zakari , Abdulgafar Ibrahim Bala , Salihu Murjanatu Gulmah , Gomo Clement Boniface , Abdulrahim Abdulrakib , Abdulkadir Abdullahi
Published: June 2022

Lagoons are large bodies of water that provide essential economic and ecosystem services such as fishing, erosion protection, transportation, as well as water for domestic, industrial, and agricultural use, among others. Unfortunately, municipal, agricultural, and industrial waste are often dumped in lagoons, polluting the water and predisposing humans and aquatic organisms to environmental and health hazards. This calls for regular monitoring of lagoons worldwide. This study assessed the water quality of Epe lagoon in Lagos State, Nigeria, with regard to heavy metal contamination. Water samples obtained at three settlements (Epe, Ejinrin, and Agbowa) along the lagoon were treated and subjected to heavy metal analysis using standard protocols. The heavy metals analysed were lead (Pb), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), cadmium (Cd), and chromium (Cr). The chronic daily intake (CDI), chronic dermal contact (CDC), hazard quotients (HQ), heavy metal index (HMI), and probability of cancer risk (PCR) of the heavy metals were also calculated. The results revealed that the water samples from the three locations contained non-permissible levels of Pb, Cu, Ni, Cd, and Cr. The CDI, CDC, and HQ of the heavy metals via ingestion and dermal contact were within the recommended limits, except for Pb. Meanwhile, the HMI and PCR of all the heavy metals exceeded the permissible limits. The results obtained suggest that Epe lagoon’s water is contaminated with heavy metals and thus poses health hazards. Consequently, there is a need for heavy metal remediation and control in the lagoon.
Analysis of a modified Covid-19 model in Nigeria and approximations using differential transformation method
Authors: Francis Attah , Akyenyi Ayuba Solomon , Itopa Abdulrasheed Salihu
Published: June 2022

Mathematical models has been useful over the years to understand the behavior and impacts of several infectious diseases such as Malaria, Ebola, Cholera, in human and non-human population. In this paper, a modified mathematical model of covid-19 virus in Nigeria is presented. The disease free equilibrium, endemic equilibrium state, threshold behavior 𝑅0 and the bounded region where the model is mathematically and epidemiologically feasible is established. The global stability analysis for the disease-free and endemic equilibria are obtained using Carlos Chavez theorem and LaSalle’s criterion. The results show that the virus will cause devastating impacts (𝑅𝑜>1) in Nigeria if the control and mitigation mechanisms are not adhered to. The numerical approximations of the model via differential transform method illustrate the impacts of the virus dynamical transmission in time/per week. The approximation’s insight raises concern as more people will be susceptible and exposed to the virus, the number of infectious individuals will be on the increase for some time with more hospitalize-isolation individuals in Nigeria. The approximation also shows an increasing rate of recovery for infected individuals.
Anticonvulsant activity of Lophira alata (Ochnaceae) stem bark extract in mice
Authors: Iniaghe Loretta Oghenekome , Okpakpor Elohor Emma , Asokome Samson Chukwudi
Published: June 2022

Lophira alata, a tree found in many countries in the tropics has diverse ethnobotanical uses including the management of pain, inflammation and convulsion. This study evaluated the anticonvulsant activity of ethanol extract of L. alata stem bark. Phytochemical screening and the mean lethal dose (LD50) of the extract were determined. Anticonvulsant activity was evaluated in murine models of convulsion using the pentylenetetrazole and maximal electroshock induced tests at dose levels of 100 to 800 mg/kg. The results of phytochemical screening indicated the presence of tannins, saponins, steroids, glycosides, carbohydrates alkaloids and flavonoids, and the LD50 of L. alata was determined to be greater than 5000 mg/kg. L. alata afforded significant protection in both models at the higher doses used in this study. L. alata possesses anticonvulsant activity at high doses and this may account for its use in ethnomedicine
Influence of hydrocortisone, dexamethasone and methylprednisolone on wound healing parameters on Nigerian indigenous dogs
Authors: Kalang Japheth Joel , Zoaka Hassan Adamu , Fatihu M.Y. , Francis Markus Isa , Gideon Adaji Ocholi , Tanko Polycarp Nwunuji
Published: June 2022

Wound healing is a complex activity of several cells with their products leading to tissue regeneration and repair. Twelve indigenous breeds of dogs were randomly grouped into groups I, II, III and IV of 3 dogs each. Excisional and incisional wounds were surgically created on the left and right sides respectively. The dogs in Group I were administered normal saline while Groups II, III and IV were given hydrocortisone, dexamethasone and methylprednisolone respectively at 1.0, 0.5 and 1.0 mg/kg intramuscularly post-wounding. The wounds were cleaned and assessed for epthelialisation, contraction and pus formation. RESULT: The wound dimensions from insult of excisional wound, increased steadily to peak (10.34 cm2) at 10th day in the control, (12.21 cm2) 17th day; (11.97 cm2) 12th day and (13.87 cm2) 17th day post-wounding in the hydrocortisone, dexamethasone and methylprednisolone treated groups respectively. Maximum contraction was recorded at 33rd day (3.52 cm2) in the control, 40th days (3.55 cm2), 30th (3.86 cm2) and 42nd (3.98 cm2) in the hydrocortisone, dexamethasone and methylprednisolone groups respectively with insignificant statistical difference.  The wound dimensions from the insult in the incisional wounds increases steadily to peak (6.31 cm2) at 7th day in the control; (7.51 cm2) 10th day; (6.81 cm2) 12th day and (8.38 cm2) 10th day post-wounding in the hydrocortisone, dexamethasone, and methylprednisolone treated groups respectively. Maximum contraction was recorded after complete epithelialisation at 24th day (2.32 cm2) in the control, 21st days (3.58 cm2), and 26th (2.39 cm2) and 31st (3.32 cm2) in the hydrocortisone, dexamethasone, and methylprednisolone groups respectively with insignificant statistical difference (p<0.05). The administration of steroids (anti-inflamatory) does not prevent wound retraction especially with the use of methylprednisolone, however, the dexamethasone treated group had the least scar size post healing.
Incidence and laterality of breast carcinoma among patients who attended Aminu Kano Specialist Hospital, Kano State, Nigeria
Authors: Ibrahim H.K. , Abdu I.T. , Gudaji A. , Umar A.B.
Published: June 2022

Breast cancer is the commonest malignancy in females and a major cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Previously, histological subtypes of breast carcinoma were determined in Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, however, the commonest sides of breast carcinoma infection among the patients attending the facility received less attention. The study was retrospective and aimed to evaluate the mean age, incidence and laterality of breast carcinoma cases among patients who attended Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH) from 2016 to 2020. A total of five-hundred and seventy-seven (577) data records on breast carcinoma of the patients comprised of histology reports, age, sex, and side of carcinoma were all extracted. The Patients' ages were categorized and mean age was determined. Data were analyzed using Minitab (17) presented in tables, charts and figures using Microsoft word excel, 2019. The results showed the mean age of breast carcinoma as 45.02±12.26, 48.28±13.06, 45.80±13.70, 48.59±13.64 and 46.66±13.35 in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020 respectively. The incidence of breast carcinoma was also dominant in the age group 40-59 and least in the age group 0-19 years. The laterality in breast carcinoma was 54% (226) on the left, 45% (189) affected on the right, and 1.0% (6) on both sides of the breast respectively. In conclusion, although breast carcinoma incidence showed a similar pattern in the five years studied, menopause was the commonest age of risk of breast carcinoma infections and the infections were more on the left breasts than the right among the patients who attended the facility.
Pollution indices and microbiological assessment of soil samples from motor parks around New Benin Market, Benin City, Nigeria
Authors: Imarhiagbe Emmanuel Esosa , Onwudiwe Christopher
Published: June 2022

This study was designed to assess the physicochemical, pollution level and microbiological quality of soil samples collected from motor parks around the busy New Benin Market. Four different motor parks were selected for the study including a control location. Atomic Absorbance Spectrophotometry, pour plate method were adopted in analyzing the physico-chemical, heavy metals and microbial flora of the top soils Result obtained for physiochemical analysis revealed pH and electrical conductivity of the soils ranged from 6.68±0.09 - 7.39±0.12 and 314.5±34.50 – 1598.5±157.50μS/cm respectively. Soil particle analysis revealed percentage composition of sand and silt ranged from 92.92±0.91 – 95.585±0.12 %. And 2.32±0.17 – 4.33±0.05 % respectively. The levels of Lead, Cadmium and Chromium 0.01±0.01 – 0.06±0.04 mg/g, 0.02±0.02 – 0.14±0.11 mg/g and 0.02±0.01 – 0.14±0.11 mg/g respectively. The ecological risk index in soil samples revealed that lead, cadmium and chromium concentrations in soil samples had no ecological risk (ERI<40). Pollution Load Index of soils ranged from 0.00229-0.00607. Potential ecological risk index (PERI) of soils ranged from 0.007-2.41. The Total heterotrophic bacterial counts and Total fungal counts of the soil samples ranged from 60.50±2.50 – 114.00±3.00 (×104 cfu/g) and 50.50±5.50 – 70.50±4.50 (×104 cfu/g) respectively. Identified bacteria were Klebsiella sp., E. coli, Enterobacter aerogenes, Aerobacter sp., P. mirabilis, Serratia sp., Bacillus sp. And Micrococcus sp. Predominant fungal isolates were species of Aspergillus, Trichoderma, Mucor and Penicillium. The contamination levels from the studied soil samples indicate relative low pollution; however, there is a call for environmental attention to avoid any possible escalation of pollution levels.
Involvement of monoaminergic systems / pathways in the mechanism of action of the antidepressant effect of Leptadenia hastata (Pers.) decne methanol leaf extract
Authors: Sani Ibrahim Haruna , Abubakar Abdullahi Rabiu , Huguma Mustapha Abdullahi , Shehu Aishatu , Yaro Abdullahi Hamza , Malami Sani
Published: June 2022

Depression is a mental disorder that is highly prevalent in many parts of the globe and a source of burden to patients and their families. Existing treatments for depression are far from satisfactory because many patients with depression do not respond effectively and have significant adverse effects on standard antidepressant drugs. It is vital to develop novel antidepressant from medicinal plants, which are considered a good source of drugs with fewer adverse effects. An earlier study has established the in-vivo antidepressant effect of methanol leaf extract of Leptadenia hastata. However, no scientific data on its involvement in the monoaminergic mechanism of action. This study aimed to evaluate the involvement of monoaminergic systems in the antidepressant potential of methanol leaf extract of Leptadenia hastata. The acute toxicity studies of methanol leaf extract of Leptadenia hastata (MELH) was determined using Lorke's Method. The antidepressant effect of the MELH was evaluated using the Tail Suspension Test (TST) and Open Field Test (OFT) for psychostimulant effect. The possible mechanism of antidepressant actions of the MELH was also investigated by intraperitoneal pre-treatment with adrenergic, serotonergic, dopaminergic, opioidergic and muscarinic cholinergic receptor antagonists. The intraperitonial (i.p.) median lethal dose (LD50) values were estimated to be >5000 mg/kg. Administration of standard drug, Imipramine (10 mg/kg) and MELH (250, 500, and1000 mg/kg) significantly (p<0.01) and dose-dependently decreased the duration of immobility time. However, the anti-immobility effect of the MELH was significantly (p<0.05) reversed by prazosin, cyproheptadine and naloxone, suggesting the involvement of adrenergic, serotonergic and opioidergic pathways. However, no significant interactions with dopaminergic and muscarinic cholinergic receptor antagonists were observed. This study concluded that the observed antidepressant effect in MELH is likely mediated through their interactions with adrenergic, serotonergic and opioidergic systems.
Risk factors for vesicovaginal and rectovaginal fistulae in women treated at Juba Teaching Hospital in 2020-2021: A retrospective study
Authors: Yaay Justin Kon Akech , Athian Achirin Akech , Akoon Deng Dominic Tem , Fabiano Agdar Anthony , Ariath Them Buoi , Mona Arkangelo Ayiga
Published: June 2022

Introduction: Vesicovaginal fistulae (VVF) and rectovaginal fistulae (RVF) are major public health concerns especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Our hypothesis was that prolonged obstructed labour, teenage marriages, inadequate emergency obstetric care and poverty are responsible for a high prevalence of VVF and RVF in South Sudan.Objective: The objective of the study is to determine the risk factors for vesicovaginal and rectovaginal fistulae in women treated at Juba Teaching Hospital in South Sudan.Method: Data were obtained from the files of all the 40 women who were operated on for VVF and RVF in Juba Teaching Hospital (JTH) during the 2020 and 2021 fistula campaigns; three women were interviewed.Results: Thirty-six women had VVF, two had RVF and two had both. The main cause was obstructed labour. Spontaneous vaginal delivery accounted for 22 cases, Caesarean Section for 13 while five had a forceps delivery. Four women were aged under 18 years; the age of marriage was below 18 years for 22 women and between 18-25 years for 18 women. Of these 40 women 21 were para 1 & 2,14 were para 3 to 5 and five were para 6 and above; 17 had delivered at home and 23 in hospital; 18 had been attended by midwives / doctor and 22 by Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) in the villages; 22 were in labour for more than three days. Thirty-two deliveries had resulted in stillbirths. Most women had not been to school, and all were classified as ‘poor’. Almost all (38) had not attended an ante-natal clinic (ANC) duringthe pregnancy in which they developed fistula. Ten women were operated on more than three times, 10 twice and 20 once. Nine women were divorced after developing fistula and 13 were abandoned. The psychosocial consequences included childlessness, stigmatization, depression, divorce, and abandonment.Conclusion: The main risk factor for developing obstetric fistula was prolonged obstructed labour. Secondary risk factors were delivering at home, lack of obstetric care facilities, deliveries attended by unskilled health workers and TBAs, poor ANC attendance during pregnancy, cultural factors that encourage early marriage, low socioeconomic status, and lack of education.
Obstetric fistulae: a review
Authors: Browning Andrew
Published: June 2022

Obstetric fistula is one of the most feared complications of labour, leaving a woman with a life of ostracism and shame due to her complete incontinence. Many women see this as a curse for something they did and many end up trying to take their life. Obstetric fistula patients present with a complicated array of physical and psychological needs which should all be addressed by the medical team caring for her. In the majority of cases, obstetric fistula is curable as long as the doctor is trained in and skilled in the right surgical techniques. However, the most important message is that obstetric fistula is preventable. Ensuring that all women receive proper, affordable and timely medical care in labour will ensure that women will not need to fear such dreadful sequalae of trying to have a baby.
Diabetic Ketoacidosis in adults: Part 2. Management
Authors: Azkoul Ali , Sim Sing , Lawrence Victor
Published: June 2022

The priorities for the management of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) are to assess severity and establish intravenous (i.v.) 0.9% NaCl rehydration with the careful addition of potassium ([K+]). Ideally, a fixed rate insulin infusion should be used initially and addition of 10% glucose infusion when the blood glucose level has fallen to below 14 mmol/l. Regular clinical and laboratory monitoring, particularly of the rate of fall of blood ketones (beta-hydroxybutyrate) and of serum [K+] and glucose is essential to guide fluid and insulin infusion rates. When the criteria for resolution of DKA are met, the patient may be switched to subcutaneous (s.c.) insulin if eating or variable rate insulin infusion if not yet able to eat and drink. Basal insulin should be continued (or started) where possible alongside infused insulin during the treatment of DKA. If fixed rate insulin infusion is not possible, then intermittent s.c. insulin injections may be used instead.
TIME AND SPACE IN THE FILM YAHSI BATI
Authors: MERT Abdullah
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

People, objects or assets are positioned by using the concepts of time and space over the world. Time and space are constituent elements of life which help to understand to the world. People cannot live independently from the concepts of time and space and these concepts can be freely used in the cinema. Cinema as a mass communication tool that constantly evolves and changes itself provides the possibility of infinite freedom to director. In the movie, time and space can be shaped according to the director's requests and every director can be apply to different ways while using these two concepts in their films.

From beginning to present day, usage of time and space in a movie has showed differences at cinema which is one of the mass media. In this study, it is aimed that how the western movies that are the ancestors of cinema has experienced a change as a type and how time and space were used these kinds of movies. Especially the study is going to focus on how time and space were used in a western movie, Yahsi Bati (2009), filmed in Turkey. In the content of study, the film Yahsi Bati directed by Ömer Faruk Sorak will be analyzed that used in numerous different transition methods and semiotic elements. In the first part of the study, time and space concepts will be explained and the second part of study history of western movie and time and space usage in western movies will be explained. In the last part, the film Yahsi Bati is analyzed semiotically.
Pain Assessment in Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Venkata Durga Vinoothna Thelkar , Karanam Parineethi , Vyshnavy Jyoshna Pisini , Rao Galaba Sadasiva , Boga Srikanth
Published: June 2022

Introduction: Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women population. Pain during and after chemotherapy is of various types and has no background information on the mechanism and treatment. Aim: To analyse pain after chemotherapy in breast cancer patients. Materials and Methods: It was a Prospective Observational Cohort of 6 month time period at Omega Hospitals, Guntur with 76 patients. Data was collected by direct interaction either with the patient or the patient representative or by studying patient’s profile through questionnaire. Statistical Analysis: All the collected data was entered into Excel sheet (Microsoft Excel 2016 MSO (16.0.13328.20262) 32-bit: Windows 11 version). The collected data was transported to SPSS (version – 28) for analysis. Results: The intermittent pain was seen in most of the patients (40.8%) along with Continuous Pain (14.5%) & Predominantly Neuropathic Pain (3.9%). Conclusion: Inspite of robustic research on the characteristics of pain, patients complain of pain in other locations too. Also, researches should throw light on management, prevention and identification of pain by various techniques like radiation or surgery. We can certainly hope that by considering diagnosis, management, prevention we can improve clinical patient outcome with less adverse drug reactions.
Comparative study of size distribution and chemical composition of emissions from low steel and NAO friction materials
Authors:   Brembo S.p.A, Mancini Aleesandro , Tsyupa Bozhena ,   Brembo S.p.A, Bandiera Marco ,   Brembo S.p.A, Federici Matteo ,   Brembo S.p.A, Leonardi Mara ,   Brembo S.p.A, Bertasi Federico ,   Brembo S.p.A, Bonfanti Andrea ,   Brembo S.p.A
Published: June 2022

"Significant efforts are currently on going to decrease the non-exhaust emissions from transport sector. As far as the brake system is concerned, these efforts are mostly associated with the research of new friction couples and technological solutions capable to reduce the generation of fine particulate at the brake pad – disc interface. An additional strategy to reduce the environmental impact of brake emissions can arise from: a) increasing the emission particle dimensions; and b) tailoring their chemical composition. Consequently, prior to perform any environmental and toxicological assessment, it is fundamental to characterize the emissions in terms of composition, dimensions, and morphology. At this regard, the work proposes an effective analytical method for the ex-situ characterization of fine particulates (PM10) emitted in air and coarser emissions falling directly to the ground, as obtained by the coupling of Low Steel and NAO friction materials and a reference grey cast iron disc. The Particle Size Distribution (PSD) and chemical composition of the emissions are investigated by the means of a multi-technique protocol based on Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Laser Diffraction (LD), Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD). Results unveil the complex interplay existing between each typology of investigated friction material and the morphology/chemical composition of the corresponding emitted particulates. "
Robust disc and pad temperature estimation model – a machine learning / artificial intelligence approach
Authors:   Hitachi Astemo, Ohazulike Anthony , Ramdane Abdessamed ,   Hitachi Astemo
Published: June 2022

"Brake disc and pad temperatures are an important element in determining the clamping force needed to stop or hold a vehicle from moving or rolling off the hill. Accurate disc and pad temperature estimation is key to parking brake system. Further, real-time accurate estimation of the brake discs temperature is vital to finding the precise clamping force needed to stop an autonomous vehicle, which needs to decelerate or stop by itself. Installing physical sensors is expensive for mass production units and impacts the ecological footprint. To deal with these, Brake Thermal Models (BTMs) which estimate the discs/pads temperature using physical models have been in development and used for several years. Due to very high dimensionality of the brake disc/pad heating and cooling phenomenon, these thermal models fail to achieve a satisfactory accuracy level. BTMs tend to accumulate errors over time, leading to an enlarged error gap during driving. Brakes are unarguably one of the most important safety systems of a vehicle, and hence there is need for a more accurate model. Hitachi Astemo Brakes Systems in collaboration with Hitachi Europe Corporate R&D has developed a very robust and accurate virtual brake disc/pad temperature estimation model based on readily available vehicle data. We expanded the vehicle data using mathematical relations. Our solution is driven by data, and the model is driven by Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence (AI). The model is trained on real driving data in real conditions, and the trained model is also tested on real data in varying real driving conditions. The robustness of the model comes from training and combining several machine learning / AI models such that the models support one another in making the final temperature estimation (the hybrid approach). The model error does not accumulate over time and easily recovers from erroneous previous prediction(s). The developed model by Hitachi requires minimal effort and results show that it outperforms a given BTM. "
An investigation of changing properties of copper-free brake pads and disc during consecutive wear test cycles of SAE J2707B procedure
Authors:   Compact International, Sriwiboon Meechai , Kwan Rhee Seong ,   SKR Consulting LLC
Published: June 2022

For quality control purposes as well as for brake friction and noise modeling purposes, there is urgent need to establish good database if one is to establish correlations or trends between material properties and brake friction/noise. This investigation was undertaken to find out how pad properties change when the pads are subjected to repeated SAE J2707B wear cycles, wearing out roughly 40% of the available pad thickness. Pad natural frequencies continued to decrease while disc natural frequencies decreased initially and then slowly increased. The pad dynamic modulus continued to decrease from Wear Cycle #1 to Wear Cycle #5. Within a Wear Cycle, the pad dynamic modulus changed from one Wear Block to another Wear Block. A good relation was found between the friction coefficient and dynamic modulus, which was adjusted for pressure dependence and temperature dependence. Pad thickness loss measurement was always smaller than the thickness loss calculated from the pad weight loss due to expansion of the pad contact surface region (heat-affected layer) caused by exposure to high braking temperatures. The pad dynamic modulus increased with time while waiting for the next test and the increase was linear with waiting time.
New assessment and testing methodology for vehicle type approval
Authors:   Applus IDIADA, Lujan Carlos , Elpuente Cesar ,   Applus IDIADA, Flix Oriol ,   Applus IDIADA
Published: June 2022

"Technological innovations in the field of Connected and Automated Driving have a strong impact in different areas in the automotive industry. Among those areas, the effect on vehicle homologation procedures is game changing, in a way that requires a brand-new approach. Traditionally, the homologation process based on the UNECE Regulatory framework has been a single step at the end of the development phase, where regulations normally defined a series of repeatable scenarios to be evaluated, where the effect of the driver is typically suppressed by means of the measurement of the inputs on the vehicle commands or by means of the use of driving robots. This approach was initially challenged by the introduction of assisted systems, such as Advance Emergency Brake. Those systems are commanded by Electronic Control Systems which, in some circumstances, may control certain vehicle functions, such as braking or steering. The introduction of such functions required a different approach to the vehicle type approval, to evaluate possible failures associated to the Electronic Control Systems. In such context, concepts such as Functional Safety (FuSa) or Safety Of The Intended Functionality (SOTIF) were introduce as part of the type approval process. This new approach turned the technical evaluation of the compliance from a testing activity in selected scenarios into a combination of testing and assessment of the manufacturer safety concept. However, the introduction of the first SAE L3 functions into the market add a new layer of complexity into the type approval. Such technologies replace the human driver during certain dynamic driving tasks, within an unlimited number of scenarios. This circumstance does not allow the classic strategy of removing the human effect from the test scenarios and required a second loop in the modification of the type approval processes, so as to move from an evaluation of the performance to an evaluation of the behaviour of the vehicle. As a result, UNECE WP.29 published the “Framework Document on Automated/Autonomous Vehicles”, a document whose purpose was: a) To provide guidance to WP.29 subsidiary Working Parties (GRs) by identifying key principles for the safety and security of automated/autonomous vehicles of levels 3 and higher. b) To define the work priorities for WP.29 and indicate the deliverables, timelines and working arrangements for those certain work products related to those priorities. Consequently, several actions took place which have paved the road into a new type approval approach, currently under development, but with a series of principles widely accepted by the rulemaking community. Examples of such actions include: a) New working group structure within UNECE WP.29 b) Development of a series of New Assessment and Testing Methods (NATM) which combine the classic test on the proving ground with new tools, such as the assessment of the manufacturer safety concept, the use of simulation or the real-world testing. "
Brake redundancy concept analysis for high autonomous driving
Authors:   BrakeBetter, Ó Meachair Deaglán , Jose Sierra Carlos ,   Applus IDIADA, Dhurjati Prashanth ,   Applus IDIADA, Pezzano Alessandro ,   Applus IDIADA, Squadrani Fabio ,   Applus IDIADA
Published: June 2022

"The field of autonomous vehicle system engineering is one of keen research and development interest for many areas of automotive engineering. Along with electrification, the short to medium term future of automotive engineering across many disciplines is likely to include adaptations for increasing levels of automation. We can also see existing pilot programs increasing their operational design domain to encompass a greater number of tasks in more of our transport infrastructure, as well as evolving legislative requirements. For a brake system, the task of autonomous driving (with or without human presence) mandates redundancy in many subsystem elements. Indeed, defining a meaningful brake concept for an autonomous vehicle requires a systemic analysis of both the operational organisation of the control system, as well as the performance and redundancy requirements for such a system. In this paper, the authors will present a redundant brake system concept which addresses the necessary braking tasks from both an operational and redundancy viewpoint. The concept vehicle is envisaged for fully autonomous driving as well as human driving, utilising modular electric drivetrain and associated brake energy recovery. We will demonstrate a systematic construction of the major braking tasks, and how these tasks are distributed and replicated in a redundant brake system architecture. Having established and organised the major braking tasks, the paper will then consider the necessary system performance in a fully functional and (partially) failed state. For each state, braking performance targets will be set against a variety of longitudinal and lateral dynamic metrics. The paper will then consider each major task during a transition from a fully functional state to a failed state and offer a categorisation regime for the braking tasks during such a transition event. With this categorisation, it is then possible to define which tasks must be continual during a handover event, and those where an interruption of task may be safely allowed. Finally, for the most safety critical tasks, a safety analysis will be presented, which allows for a Fault Tolerant Time Interval (FTTI) of the task to be defined. By defining the brake system concept using this task-centric approach, it is possible to consider the architectural layout options for the concept vehicle and consider these layout options against a cohesive requirement set. "