bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perception of the Community in Kerala on COVID-19 Infection and Its Preventive Measures
Authors: Nair Aarati Santhosh , Mylath Roshni , Jacob Neha Susan , Mehta Asmita Anilkumar , Ambily A. S. , M. Anusree
Published: June 2022

Background:

COVID-19 pandemic was started in December 2019. It has variable presentation from mild sore throat to severe respiratory distress. As we had seen there are no signs of it ending soon. Role of medical management in treatment is limited and so prevention of infection is the best mode to control the spread. It is important to identify people’s awareness about the infection.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to assess the awareness and their perception among people of kerala regarding outbreak, symptoms, preventive measures and treatment of covid-19.

Objective:

The primary objective was to evaluate the perception of the community in kerala on COVID-19 infection and its preventive measures. The secondary objective was to assess the factors affecting the awareness of COVID-19 among the community.

Materials and Methods:

An online survey was conducted from November 2020 to January 2021 among kerala community in relation to their perception towards Covid 19 infection and its preventive measures.

Results:

Total number of responses received were 610. Total 58.2% of the people agreed that the disease was contagious and spread by droplet, 84.1% of the people knew about asymptomatic carriers, 71.6% of the people believed that infection was curable while 18.5% were not sure about it. 6.1% thought that infection was incurable. Uni-variate analysis showed that neither gender, nor the socioeconomic or education status of the responder affected their level of knowledge about COVID-19.

Conclusion:

The study showed that the respondents had adequate awareness about COVID-19 outbreak and its preventive measures. People were aware of the virus, its common symptoms, prevention, lab tests and medical facilities. People understood the importance of preventive measures prescribed by the government like social distancing, hand washing, usage of face masks.
Alcohol consumption, aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 gene rs671 polymorphism, and psoriasis in Taiwan
Authors: Chang Ya-Ching , Hsu Lung-An , Huang Yu-Huei
Published: June 2022

Background:

Although alcohol use has been determined as a predisposing factor for psoriasis, research findings have been inconsistent.

Objectives:

This study investigated whether alcohol intake is causally linked to psoriasis.

Methods:

The presence of rs671 polymorphism in the aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) gene was investigated in 258 psoriasis patients and 605 healthy controls. The rs671 was employed as an instrumental variable for predicting alcohol use. Mendelian randomization (MR) was utilized to assess the causality between genetically determined alcohol consumption and psoriasis using the two-stage least-square (2SLS) approach. A replication study of MR analysis with inverse-variance weighting (IVW), MR-Egger regression, and weighted median methods was performed using openly accessible alcohol consumption and psoriasis summary statistics from the UK Biobank.

Results:

Between psoriasis and controls, there were no significant differences in genotype and allele frequencies for the ALDH2 rs671 polymorphism. The G allele of the rs671 was positively linked with alcohol intake. The ALDH2 rs671 genetically determined alcohol intake was not linked to the risk of psoriasis in the 2SLS analysis (β = −0.011, P = 0.960). The MR replication study also found no evidence of genetic propensity to greater alcohol consumption increasing the risk of psoriasis (β = −0.00065, P = 0.6002 in IVW; β = −0.00099, P = 0.6851 in MR-Egger; and β = −0.00181, P = 0.3558 in weighted median analysis).

Conclusion:

ALDH2 rs671 may not have a role in psoriasis susceptibility in Taiwanese. The MR analysis found no causality between alcohol consumption and psoriasis.
Conservative Esthetic Management with in-Office Bleaching of Dental Fluorosis
Authors: Shah Krishna
Published: June 2022

Tooth discoloration varies in etiology, appearance, localization, severity, and adherence to the tooth structure. It can be intrinsic, extrinsic, or a combination of both. Extrinsic stains are typically caused by tobacco use or by drinking coffee and tea, wine, and pigmented residue from food. This can be removed by regular dental cleaning and brushing the teeth with whitening toothpaste. Intrinsic teeth stains occur most commonly due to exposure of high levels of fluoride, tetracycline antibiotic administration and pulpitis, inherited developmental disorders, and trauma. This can be treated with professional bleaching or at-home chemical teeth-whitening products, porcelain, and composite veneering. Among these procedures, bleaching procedures are more conservative, simple to perform, and less expensive. This case report suggests that in-office bleaching is an effective and conservative method for esthetic correction of tooth discoloration in severe and mild dental fluorosis.
A Fatal Case Coronavirus Disease 2019 – Associated Acute Hemorrhagic Necrotizing Encephalopathy
Authors: Diallo Abdoulahy , Dembele Yacouba , Niang Mohamadou , Balloy Lucas , Pousset François , Yaya Issifou , Permal Sarah
Published: June 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been reported in association with a variety of brain imaging findings such as acute hemorrhagic necrotizing encephalopathy. To the best of our knowledge, we are reporting a second case of acute necrotizing hemorrhagic encephalopathy associated with COVID-19, which was fatal in a few hours in a 56-year-old male without a specific history. We claim that this case is important because this case shows that the unconscious patients are potentially infected by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and might cause the horizontal infection. In order to end the pandemic of SARS-CoV-2 diseases, the diagnosis of the disease must be prompt and not overlook any findings. We think that diffusion magnetic resonance imaging is a promising and useful sequence to evaluate the changes in brain tissue in the acute necrotizing encephalopathy.
Characteristics of Bacterial Colonization and Urinary Tract Infection after Indwelling of Double-J ureteral Stent and Percutaneous Nephrostomy Tube
Authors: Kar Mitra , Dubey Akanksha , Patel Sangram Singh , Siddiqui Tasneem , Ghoshal Ujjala , Sahu Chinmoy
Published: June 2022

Introduction:

Infections associated with catheter in the upper urinary tract (CUUT), which include the double-J stent and the percutaneous nephrostomy (PCN) tube, get particularly infected in patients with specific risk factors for developing an infection.

Methods:

A retrospective observational study was carried out by compiling data from the hospital information system of a tertiary care center from 2019 to 2021 to evaluate infections in patients with catheter in the upper urinary tract.

Result:

A total of 200 pus samples of double-J stent (96 pus samples) and PCN tube (104 pus samples) were included in our study. Among patients with nephrostomy tube, the most frequently isolated microorganisms were Escherichia coli, followed by Pseudomonas spp. In those with a double-J stent, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, followed by E. coli were the most commonly isolated microorganisms. We found 55.72% of cases of Enterobacteriaceae-producing carbapenemases in patients with a percutaneous catheter. 66.07% of Enterobacteriaceae in patients with double-J and nephrostomy stents are extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing bacteria. The percentage of cultures with multiple-drug resistance (MDR) microorganisms was 38.54% in patients with double-J stents and 37.75% in nephrostomy tubes. The presence of prior urinary tract infection (P = 0.010), presence of urinary catheter before admission (P = 0.005), increased time with single urinary catheter in-situ (P < 0.001), and increased length of hospital stay (P = 0.036) were risk factors for isolation of MDR microorganisms.

Conclusion:

Pseudomonas spp. and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are commonly infecting both the CUUT. E. coli infections are more commonly infecting the nephrostomy tubes. MDR microorganisms are frequent, mainly in patients with prior urinary tract infection, presence of urinary catheter before admission, and prolonged use of a single catheter.
Пучки некоммутативных гладких и голоморфных функций,
ассоциированные с неабелевой двумерной алгеброй Ли
Authors: Aristov Oleg Yurevich
Published: June 2022

В работах Доси и недавней статье автора было показано, что на пространстве
характеров нильпотентной алгебры Ли существует пучок алгебр Фреше-Аренса-Майкла -
"некоммутативных голоморфных функций" в комплексном случае и "некоммутативных
гладких" в действительном. Для алгебры Ли группы аффинных преобразований прямой
(простейшей разрешимой алгебры Ли, которая не является нильпотентной) в этой статье
построен аналогичный пучок на специально выбранном пространстве представлений
(в обоих вариантах - голоморфном и гладком).
Библиография: 6 названий.
Периодические основные состояния для модели Поттса
с внешним полем и счетным множеством значений спина на дереве Кэли
Authors: Rahmatullaev Muzaffar Muhammadjanovich , Rasulova Mukhayo Akbarzhon kizi
Published: June 2022

Для модели Поттса с внешним полем и счетным множеством
значений спина на дереве Кэли порядка $k\geqslant2$ описано
множество периодических основных состояний,
соответствующих нормальным делителям индекса 2 и 4
группового представления дерева Кэли, и изучены
множество непериодических основных состояний.
Библиография: 16 названий.
Об отношении эквивалентности борелевских множеств
Authors: Medvedev Sergey Vasiljevich
Published: June 2022

Доказана теорема о существовании эффективно определенного селектора
для отношения $E_{\aleph_0}$
на $\boldsymbol{\Delta}^0_2$-множествах
бэровского пространства $\omega^\omega$.
Библиография: 4 названия.
Замечание об ограниченности итерационных коммутаторов
мультилинейных операторов
Authors: Wang Dinghuai
Published: June 2022

Показано, что принадлежность символьной функции
пространству BMO функций не является необходимым условием
ограниченности итерационного коммутатора,
действующего на произведении пространств Лебега.
Библиография: 14 названий.
Introduction: Assembling Peacekeeping and Policing in Ghana
Authors: Albrecht Peter
Published: June 2022

By exploring the case of Ghana, this special issue provides two perspectives on UN peacekeeping that until now have been underdeveloped in the literature. First, rather than taking a mission and its host country as the analytical point of departure, the contributions in the special issue focus on how peacekeeping has shaped domestic security in Ghana – a consistent contributor of security personnel to peacekeeping since 1960. Second, instead of focusing on the military component, attention is paid to the link between peacekeeping and law enforcement, and thus how policing – as carried out by the state-sanctioned Ghana Police Service, Ghana Armed Forces and a range of non-state actors – intertwines with and is partially shaped by practices, ideas and discourse that can be traced back to mission deployments. Theoretically, the concept of assemblage is used to frame how peacekeeping stretches across state boundaries and intersects with the politics and practices of domestic security provision. Both at a state institutional level, and in day-to-day policing by individual police officers, order-making practices and discourses are constituted by the assembling of a multitude of logics and historicities that integrate and assimilate as well as contradict and oppose one another. It is how the experience of peacekeeping becomes part of and shapes these ever-evolving assemblages that the contributions to this special issue investigate. Changes may be institutional and macro-political but are as often deeply personal and individualised, with implications for how security personnel perceive and practice their roles.
Variations in Police Performance in United Nations Peacekeeping Operations and Domestic Policing in Ghana
Authors: Aubyn Festus
Published: June 2022

The Ghana Police Service is constantly criticised by the Ghanaian public for poor performance and an inability to deal effectively with rising crime rates. Media reports and scholarly research have corroborated these criticisms, citing instances of police brutality, corruption, negligence, ineffectiveness and complicity in crimes. However, with few exceptions, the same police are widely applauded in United Nations peacekeeping operations for their professionalism, outstanding performance, and contributions to restoring peace and the rule of law. This raises the question of why the police’s performance at home differs from its performance in peacekeeping contexts. This article analyses the factors that underpin the perceived variations in police performance at home and internationally. Based on in-depth interviews conducted with relevant stakeholders and the application of assemblage theory to the empirical evidence gathered, it argues that perceived variations in performance have nothing to do with the technical competencies and knowledge of police personnel. Rather, this discrepancy can be explained by factors including: the effects of the colonial legacy on the police; different mandates/tasks in mission and in Ghana; distinct socio-cultural and political dynamics that influence policing; different legal frameworks and principles that govern domestic and international policing; limited availability of human and logistical resources and funding for domestic policing; and different methods for dealing with indiscipline and corruption.
The contribution of nuclear and other low carbon electricity generation technologies towards Nigeria’s carbon neutrality journey
Authors: Joseph Soja Reuben , Ismaila Usman , Gusau Muhammad Bello , Soja Stephen Joseph
Published: June 2022

The latest estimate of the United State Energy Information Administration (US-EIA) shows that Nigeria is the largest producer of oil in Africa with largest natural gas reserves on the continent and the fifth–largest exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG) in the World. In 2017, Nigeria's generation capacity was 12,664 megawatts (MW), with 10,522 MW representing 83% from fossil fuels, 2,110 MW representing 17% from hydropower, and 32 MW accounting for 1% coming from solar, wind, biomass, and other sources. The fossil power plants constitutes the major driver in greenhouse gas emission, therefore reduction in its operation will reduce the rate of carbon emission. To achieve carbon neutrality in line with the Paris agreement of 2015, the need for nuclear and other low carbon emission renewable electricity generation technologies is vital. This study utilizes the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Model for Energy Supply Strategy Alternatives and their General Environmental Impact (MESSAGE) code in modelling energy supply needs for Nigeria using various electricity generation technologies. By placing the upper limit on carbon emission constraints, discount rate of 11.5% and other electricity generation data obtained from EIA. Using the modelling period of forty-five (45) years with a base year of 2015 the results shows that the contribution of fossil is bound below the upper limit while that of hydro continue to increase from 2016 to the end of the modelling year. Contribution from nuclear power plant starts from 2029, and continue to increase throughout the modeling period which suppressing contribution from fossil below the upper limit of CO2, The negligible contribution from solar and wind been suppressed by nuclear and hydro power plants. The results shows that nuclear and other low carbon energy technologies are the preeminent alternative for future electricity production in achieving carbon neutrality target.
Perceptions on Tsetse and Trypanosomosis Disease among Livestock Marketers at Wudil Cattle Market, Wudil, Kano
Authors: Idris H.Y. , Muhammad A.A. , Aminu A. , Rufai F.A. , Atikat U. , Zakari A.I. , Musayyiba S. , Sani A.A.
Published: June 2022

African Animal Trypanosomosis (AAT) is a debilitating disease that hinders livestock productivity in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa. Numerous strategies have been developed over time to fight this devastating disease, which are emphasized mostly on containing the spread of its causative agent and principal vector. However, very little has been done to include livestock marketers in decision making, planning and implementation of control programs. Therefore, this study was carried out to fill that void, by evaluating the knowledge of this group of people on Tsetsefly and Trypanosomosis in Wudil Cattle Market. Questionnaires were developed to collect relevant information, and were administered through ‘Standard Focus Group Discussions’. The results revealed that tsetse fly was known by all respondents (100%), who significantly reported that they were most commonly found in the forests (95%), during the wet season (85%). Respondents also reported that these flies prefer to bite animals (71.25%). Similarly, a majority of respondents (97.5%) reported to being cognizant of trypanosomosis disease, while also stating that it had infected their animals at some point in time. Respondents believed infection was most prevalent during the wet season (60%) than the dry season (40%). Respondents had mixed views when it came to perceived causes of the disease, as some associated it with bite from flies (53.75%), while others linked it to transhumance (38.75%). In terms of signs and symptoms, 80% of respondents were able to identify with at least four symptoms of the disease. In essence, this study further intensifies the need to engage livestock marketers in tsetse and trypanosomosis control programs, in addition to emphasizing the need to create awareness campaigns that can further limit the spread of the disease and ensure vector control.
Quality attributes of condiments made from some locally underutilized seeds
Authors: Okpo N.O. , Alalade O.M. , Dawi A.W. , Tahir Z.H.
Published: June 2022

The use of locally produced condiments is gaining popularity as a healthier replacement for monosodium glutamate seasoning in cooking local and even some international dishes. This study determined the comparative proximate composition, mineral content and sensory properties of fermented condiments produced from two underutilized seeds namely pumpkin seeds (Cucurbita moschata) and watermelon seeds (Citrullus vulgaris). using the commonly used locust bean seed (Parkia biglobosa) as a control The condiment samples were produced following traditional fermentation methods, while the proximate composition and mineral content were analyzed using standard methods. The sensory attributes were evaluated based on the consumer’s preference with the exception of the watermelon seed condiments which developed a very pungent odor during fermentation. The locust bean condiments had the highest mean value of fibre and protein (3.16 and 20.32 %), but the least moisture (18.00 %), ash (2.57%) and carbohydrate (33.16%) contents. The watermelon seed condiments had the highest moisture, ash and carbohydrate contents (18.00, 2.57 and 33.16% respectively) and the least fibre, protein and fat contents (3.16, 20.32 and 22.8 % respectively). For the pumpkin seed condiments, the values of fibre and protein content were similar to those of the locust bean condiments but it had the highest fat content of 23.97%. The ash contents of all three condiments were statistically not different from each other (P<0.05), while the fat content of the pumpkin seed condiment was statistically the same with that of the locust bean condiment (P<0.05). The locust bean condiment contained the highest Calcium and potassium contents of 9.36 and 35.3 mg/100 g respectively, while the watermelon seed condiments contained the highest sodium content of 62.00 mg/100 g and an appreciable amount of potassium (23.78 mg/100 g). The pumpkin seed condiments had the lowest mineral contents of all three as the calcium content was 2.94 mg/100 g, potassium content was 0.49 mg/100 g, magnesium content of 1.03 mg/100 g and sodium content of 1.43 mg/100 g. The magnesium contents of all three condiments were the same statistically (P<0.05).The result of sensory attributes of the condiments showed that there was no significant difference in terms of appearance, which ranged from 7.50 - 8.15, mouth feel (7.15 to 7.80) and the overall acceptability had a mean value that ranged from 7.15 - 7.80. There was no significant difference in the taste and aroma of the condiment samples with mean score values of 7.55 - 7.80 and 7.15 - 7.90. The underutilized seeds compared favorably with commonly utilized locust bean seeds showing a high nutritional value. However, the watermelon seed would need further research as it developed a very pungent odor during fermentation and could not be used for sensory analysis. The pumpkin seeds could be recommended as a substitute for condiment production.
Proximate, functional and sensory evaluation of cake produced from composite mixture of African locust bean fruit pulp (Parkia biglobosa) flour and wheat flour.
Authors: Dawi A.W. , Okpo N.O. , Alalade O.M. , Tahir Z.H.
Published: June 2022

Cake was produced using blends of wheat flour and African locust bean fruit (Parkia biglobosa) pulp flour to assess the suitability of the locust bean fruit pulp flour in baking cake of higher nutritional value. The proximate, functional and sensory qualities of the cake samples produced were investigated. The flour used was made from composite blends of wheat flour and African locust bean fruit pulp flour in varying proportions (100:0, 80:20, 60:40, 40:60 and 20:80). The cake produced from 100% wheat flour served as control, and the flour blends were also analyzed for their functional properties. The results showed that there was a significant increase in moisture, ash and crude fibre as the amount of African locust bean fruit pulp flour increased, while the protein, crude fats and carbohydrate content decreased. The moisture content ranged from 4.40 - 6.92 %, ash (1.51 - 2.18 %), and fibre (1.11 - 2.32 %). The functional properties of the flour varied as the substitution level increased. An increase was observed in the oil absorption capacity (1.19 to 2.42 g/mL), bulk density (0.25 – 0.65 g/mL), water absorption capacity (1.18 – 1.60 g/mL) and the loose density (0.08 – 0.37 g/mL). On the other hand, a decrease was observed in the gelation temperature (72.10 – 68.10 oC) and the swelling index (1.55 – 1.40 g/mL). The result of sensory attributes were evaluated using 9 point hedonic scale with a mean value of appearance ranging from 6.68 - 8.50, taste (6.82 - 8.28), texture (6.69 - 8.05), and the flavour (6.33 - 7.67). The overall acceptability value ranged from 7.38 to 8.52. The results showed that there was a significant difference at P<0.05 between the control and samples with increase in level of substitution in all the parameters investigated. Hence, acceptable cake can be produced from a composite substitute of 80:20 for wheat flour and African locust bean fruit pulp flour.
Road-side roasted plantain and maize in Zaria and environs: nutritional composition and heavy metal evaluation
Authors: Bello F. , Wada Y.A. , Halilu F.W. , Abolude D.S. , Abdullahi S.A.
Published: June 2022

This study aimed to assess the nutritional quality and heavy metal contamination of roasted and raw corn and plantain marketed in Zaria and its vicinity. Raw and roasted plantain and maize were obtained from three distinct areas of Zaria. The samples were air-dried and ground into powdered flour for analysis. Moisture content was lowest in roasted plantain (4.67±0.54%) and highest in raw maize (9.58±0.60%). Crude protein and crude fibre were most elevated in roasted maize samples (10.56±0.26, 3.22±0.13%, respectively) and lowest in raw plantain samples (8.62±0.37, 1.70±0.20%, respectively). Ash content was highest in raw plantain (3.28±0.16%) and lowest in roasted maize samples (2.00±0.26%). Nitrogen-free extract (NFE) was significantly higher (P <0.05) in both raw (78.42±0.64%) and roasted plantain (78.63±1.14%). The mineral composition of roasted road-side plantain (Ca, 0.22±0.04; Ph, 0.11±0.03) and maize (Ca, 0.23±0.02; Ph, 0.22±0.00) reveal that calcium and phosphorus were found within the moderate limit adequate for human consumption. Based on the current study, raw and roasted plantain and maize across all the study locations were highly contaminated with Pb, Cr, and Cd, which may pose a public health concern.
The use of Aloe barbadensis M. (Aloe vera) Extract as Potential Stains in Gram’s Staining Technique
Authors: Oigbochie A.E. , Moses-Otutu I.M. , Odigie E.B.
Published: June 2022

Aloe barbadensis miller (Aloe vera) aside being a potent antioxidant with effects attributed to the phytoconstituents (anthraquinone), can also serve as natural dyes. This study explored the staining potentials of A. barbadensis extract on microbial specimens in modified Gram’s staining technique. The plant was washed; shrubby edges of the leaves were scraped off and each leaf cut open to expel the gel content. The dried and grinded leaf material weighing 450g was treated with two different extraction methods (150g for heated alcoholic aloe extract (HAAE) and 150g each for the unheated alcoholic aloe extracts I & II (UAAE-1 & UAAE-II). Preliminary phytochemical screening of extracts using bontragers test was conducted. Solutions from the two extraction methods with and without a mordant were applied on bacterial smears. Anthraquinone-rich extract under optimal extraction conditions were 10.0, 4.84 and 18.8 respectively. Comparing the extraction methods, HAAE and UAAE1 & UAAEII are mutually convenient and easy to make; but the former was more cost-effective with regards to power and instrumentation while the latter was more cost-efficient with regards to solvent. The pH of various prepared solutions was acidic and the extracts contained a bioactive agent that imparts pigment on biological specimens. In comparing the mordanted and non-mordanted solutions, the former had no additional effects on the staining efficiency of the aloe dye extract. We concluded that A. barbadensis dye visibly stained bacterial Gram positive and Gram negative cells in modified Gram’s staining without structural differentiations. We recommend reductions in staining duration for microbial samples to ascertain the reasons for the variation in staining uptake.
Antibacterial activity of sesquiterpenoids and 8-O-methylated flavonoids from hexane fraction of clove(Syzgium aromaticun)
Authors: Bashir Musa , Usman Ruqayyah A. , Iruo-Oghene Aleze Prince
Published: June 2022

According to World Health Organization reports, there is a major health challenge now and in the future due to increase resistance of bacteria to well-known antibiotics. This study aimed at identifying some vital metabolites from Hexane fraction of clove ( Syzygium aromaticum) using Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometer (LCMS) and its antibacterial activity against some foodborne pathogens. Syzygium aromaticum buds were extracted with Hexane using maceration method. This was followed by LCMS analysis for s econdary metabolites and then antibacterial activity using Agar well diffusion against four foodborne pathogens (Enterobacter spp, Salmonella spp , Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus). The Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and Minimum Bactericidal (MBC) of the clove extracts were also determined by the micro dilution method. The LCMS profile revealed the presence of significant metabolites such as Nevadensin (8 O methylated flavonoids) and 9 Hydroxymegastigma 4, 6,7 trien 3 one (Sesquiterpe noids) among others belonging to the well-known class of bioactive compounds that shows antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potentials. Based on the results obtained, Enterobacter spp was found to be the most susceptible organism with an average zone of 12.5 0±1 .20 mm, followed by E. coli 10.50±1.20 mm. The MIC and MBC of the extract against the test organisms ranged from 62.5 to 2 50 µg/ml. Therefore, the antibacterial activities observed might be as a result of these metabolites, and could be recommended for used in drug management or as antibacterial agent.
Determination of dielectric properties of cultivated and uncultivated land at Kafin Hausa LGA, Jigawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Muhammad Ahmad , Zangina Tasiu , Suleiman Abdussalam B. , Mohammed J. , Hafeez H.Y.
Published: June 2022

Improving soil research will boost the Nigerian agricultural productivity. Therefore, the government and other agricultural organization must intervene in experimental soil research. Soil is the most fundamental basic factor that determines a higher or lower agricultural yield. Low or absence of permittivity is one of the major problems that contributes to the agricultural productivity in north eastern part of Jigawa state. Two areas were selected (cultivated and uncultivated land). The soil sample were prepared into pellets and then was characterized using an LCR meter bridge to determine the dielectric constant (Ꜫꞌ), dielectric loss (Ꜫꞌꞌ), and electric conductivity of the soil (б). The results show that the mean dielectric constant, dielectric loss, and electrical conductivity of the cultivated land area at 60 Hz are; 10.43±2.84, 3.7±1.26, 1.61±0.23×𝟏𝟎−𝟕 S/m while uncultivated land area at 60 Hz are; 17.54± 8.904 , 6.14±4.43, 2.79±1.78×𝟏𝟎−𝟕 S/m . However, the mean dielectric properties of cultivated land at 120 Hz are; 10.66±4.48, 9.90±1.758, 33.001±3.74×𝟏𝟎−𝟕S/m, while uncultivated at 120 Hz are; 17.22±9.06, 6.21±3.78, 7.76±0.033×𝟏𝟎−𝟕S/m respectively. It can be deduced from the results that the Kafin Hausa uncultivated land area have greater values of dielectric properties than cultivated land and thus is more fertile.
Effects of gully erosion in Damagum Town and environs, Fune Local Government Area, Yobe State of Nigeria
Authors: Maina M.B.
Published: June 2022

Gully erosion has become a global topic of discussion because it is one of the most severe environmental problems affecting people in their social environment; it has caused the loss of Farmland, properties and life in many regions of the world. Similarly, the study area is also experiencing the problem of gully erosion. Therefore, this study assessed the effects of gully erosion in Damagum town and environs, examined the control measures, and mapped out areas affected by the menace. The study involved two sources of data, primary and secondary. The research found that Farmland and people residents are the most affected part of the social environment in the study area. Moreover, the study also revealed that people are applying Biological Control Measures and sandbagging to limit the destruction of the gully erosion. The Government uses Stones wall engineering control measures to mitigate the problem. But both control measures failed because the Biological control measures attract harmful insects to the environment while sandbagging demands money. In contrast, engineering control failed due to unqualified engineers and substandard construction materials. However, the mapping outcome shows that the first phase of the area is more affected by erosion than the second and last phases because the first phase has a gentle slope with less vegetation. Therefore the study concludes and recommends the following. First, the Government needs to enlighten people about environmental education to know the dos and don'ts of the environment to encourage people to continue their previous adopted methods to tackle the problem. Secondly, the NGOs have to provide pesticides to the community members so that they will protected from harmful insects resulting from biological control. Finally, government need to hire more qualified engineers to redo more effective Stones wall engineering control measures.
Surveillance of gully erosion in Damagum Town and environs, Fune Local Government Area, Yobe State of Nigeria
Authors: Maina M.B.
Published: June 2022

This study assessed the causes of gully erosion in Damagum town and environs, mapped out the gully affected areas, and recommended possible solutions to the menace. Data used included both primary and secondary sources. The primary data were generated through measurement, soil laboratory analyses, use of camera and taking coordinates to generate GIS maps. The secondary data, including rainfall data and other relevant journals, was used to justify findings where necessary. The causes of the gully erosion in the study area were assessed based on the physical and anthropogenic factors. However, for the mapping purpose, areas most affected by the gully erosion were purposively selected, covering about 2000m distance. In addition, the natural elements were examined by determining the slope, elevation, stream pattern, flow direction, rainfall data and land used land cover of the study area. Hence, the study concludes that the major causes of the problem of gully erosion include both natural and anthropogenic factors via sand excavation. Lastly, the following recommendations were made, the government should encourage people to engage in community development practices. Furthermore, the government needs to construct drainage systems and repair the collapsed ones in the study area. Finally, there is a need for law enforcement against those violating the environment, such as dumping waste within the drainage system and sand excavation.
Determination of heat flow and temperature variations for geothermal energy assessment over Sokoto Basin, Nigeria, using aero-magnetic and aero-radiometric data
Authors: Yakubu M.B , Lawal K.M. , Dewu B.B.M , Ikpokonte A.E
Published: June 2022

The Nigerian sector of Iullemmeden Basin (Sokoto Basin and its adjacent region) contains sediments between the ages of Cretaceous and Tertiary covering the entire Basin. The area is bounded by latitude 12° 5ˈ – 14°00''N and longitude 4°00'' – 7°00''E. The study investigates geothermal energy resource potential over the Sokoto Basin using aeromagnetic and radiometric data. Seventeen (17) blocks of aeromagnetic and aero-radiometric data were gridded and processed using dimension of 55 km x 55 km. Spectral centroid method was employed to approximate depths to top and centroid of the magnetic sources of the study area. The results divulge that values of CPD range from 5.0 km to 12.5 km having a mean value of 8.8 km, whereby, the values of geothermal gradient range from 46.4 oCkm-1 to 116.9 oCkm-1 having a mean value of 81.6 oCkm-1, while the values of heat flow range from 115.9 mWm-2 to 292.1 mWm-2 having a mean value of 204.1 mWm-2. The study also reveals that, the values of radiogenic heat range between 0.81 and 2.87 μWm-3. The zones having high concentration of thorium and uranium trending N-S and S-W extend to Niger Republic across mid-northern border. The result from this study also reveals that, Curie temperature could be attained at the depth of 6 km deep. Conclusively, those spots having shallow CPD and high heat flow may be potential for geothermal energy source.
Study of head types of stroke patients: A Retrospective hospital-based imaging study using brain CT scans
Authors: Muhammad M. , Musa S.A. , Umana U.E. , Umdagas A.H. , Dambatta A.H.
Published: June 2022

Stroke has been linked with various anthropometric parameters. Many researchers studied anthropometric parameters such as height, weight and BMI in relation to stroke. Cephalometry is used to estimate the dimensions of skull with which different head types could be determined. This study was aimed at determining the different head types of stroke patients. This is a descriptive retrospective imaging study that used brain CT scans of stroke patients. Vitrea® 2.0 software was used for the image analysis. The software has an in-built caliper which was used for measurement of Fronto-Occipital Diameter (FOD) and Bi-Parietal Diameter (BPD). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0. The overall mean age and standard deviation of the study subjects was 58+15yrs. The mean age and standard deviation for males and females were 58 ± 14 years and 59 ± 15 years respectively. The mean and standard deviation of FOD, BPD and Cranial Index (CI) were found to be 170 ± 11 mm, 122 ± 8 mm and 72 ± 6 respectively. Majority of the patients were observed to have Dolichocephalic head type (302, 73%). This study established that the predominant head type found amongst the stroke patients is Dolichocephalic.
Obstetric fistulae in South Sudan: A paradigm shift in repairs is required
Authors: Akim Dr Koma
Published: June 2022

No abstract
What do teachers do? A framework for improving teaching in healthcare education
Authors: Bregazzi Rich
Published: June 2022

No abstract
Diabetic Ketoacidosis in adults: Part 1. Pathogenesis and diagnosis
Authors: Azkoul Ali , Sim Sing , Lawrence Victor
Published: June 2022

The metabolic derangements that lead to Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) are described. Understanding the pathogenesis is the key to rapid and accurate diagnosis and hence successful management. DKA may often be prevented by clear advice to patients about how to manage their type 1 or ketosis-prone type 2 diabetes during periods of intercurrent illness. DKA must be considered in the differential diagnosis of metabolic acidosis even where other diseases that may present similarly, such as malaria, are highly prevalent.
Analytical Study for Functions of Supply Chain Management on Retail Sector and its Effect on Retail Prices
Authors: Albelbaisi Hassan Mohammed Meer Ibrahim
Published: June 2022

A supply chain is incomplete if there is no proper distribution channel that delivers goods to
the end users. A good Supply chain model would be the best way to face any pandemic or crisis’s
effects. challenges and prospects aim to holistically review the retail supply chain, the challenges, and
emerging trends, with a particular focus on the supply chain for business owners. Retailing tasks, retail
classification, differences in grocery and fashion retailing, challenges and opportunities for prospective
retailers, supply chain management and small businesses are discussed amongst others. The feasibility
for supply chain for the retail business and results that help make the case company edge competitors
are also part of the discussion. Theories, opinions, and recommendations used in this research work
were based on extensive use of primary and secondary research methods which include interview,
textbook, dictionaries, case studies and internet media. At the end recommendations on inventory
management, formation of buying group and extensive use of niche merchandise is put forward. The
contents of this paper will come in handy for prospective retail entrepreneurs and researchers. There
is also a possibility for further research into the transformations in retail supply chain like the quick
response, factory gate pricing, efficient consumer response.
CONVERSION OF PLASTIC WASTE INTO FUEL
Authors: Bhargav K Bhujanganavar  , Santosh I Chanabasanavar  , Chetan M Jarali  , Raghavendra B Pattar  , V Prashant  , RajendraGalagali
Published: June 2022

Man strives for satisfaction, comfort, simplicity. Motto of our project is to
satisfy, our effort has resulted in developing a new design of “CONVERSION OF
PLASTIC WASTE INTO FUEL”Ourproject presents a very professional and also a basic
subject in a very elaborative way, and is completely based on learningeffort of today as per
then levels. Our project is very simple and effective. It includes basic calculations, drawing
and designingThe important features of our project can be listed as the mechanism used is very simple to operate ;skillful labor isn’t required.
Design a Fabrication of low cost Solar Powered Trash
Compactor for Smart cities
Authors: Jyoti Lamani  , Ashwini Kolkar  , Uday Bhajantri  , Abhishek Nagannavar  , Akshata Patted  , Supanna S Shirguppe
Published: June 2022

Population has been increasing day by day and so pollution also been increasing
day by day and in order to maintain the pollution in systematic manner we are developing
a smart dustbin for the purpose of serving/managing the waste. In this project we aim to
develop a solar powered trash compacting smart dustbin which takes the help of sensors
which are incorporated with the microcontroller. The battery is the power source for this
circuit, which uses solar energy to get charge and provides power to the circuit as per the
requirement. In this report we will study design procedure and implement a small scale
model of the garbage bin which will show the demo working of the model.
Target Setting and Test Metrics Definition for Redundant Braking Systems Development for CAVs
Authors:   BrakeBetter, Ó Meachair Deaglán , Squadrani Fabio ,   Applus IDIADA, Jose Sierra Carlos ,   Applus IDIADA, Perez Gerard ,   Applus IDIADA, Clement Jeremie ,   Applus IDIADA, Molina Narcis ,   Applus IDIADA
Published: June 2022

"Braking systems development is currently facing a shift in the engineering and testing activities. Traditionally pedal feel tuning and performance refinement have been major issues, but along with electrification, the increasing level of driving automation is shifting development efforts into different directions. For a brake system, the task of autonomous driving (with or without human presence) mandates redundancy in many subsystem elements. Therefore, a strong effort in understanding how to set targets is needed to correctly develop and validate reliable systems. In this paper, the authors are initially defining a set of performance key factors, which will be used to define the global characteristics of the system. It is not necessary to deeply investigate the performance of the system to validate the operation of a vehicle equipped with a redundant braking system, but in the concept phase it is certainly useful to investigate how different architectures could potentially influence the vehicle performance. Having investigated the structure of the system, the authors suggest how targets could be set for a vehicle equipped with a redundant braking system. This study is mainly focused on understanding and validating how failures affect the general performance of the vehicle. Primarily this paper shows how partial system failures (ESP, EPB, iBooster) affect the general braking performance, mainly in terms of deceleration, stopping distance, front/rear modulation, on slope braking performance and finally time-to-lock. The main output of this study is the definition of a validation matrix (a so called Design Validation Plan), which is certainly a necessary step in order to perform a robust Vehicle Target Setting (VTS). A list of metrics is also proposed by the authors. The target book generation needs to be as versatile as possible, in order to be adapted to the full range of available systems in the market, particularly when the systems allow automated driving levels higher than L3. "
On a risk-based approach to automatic brake testing in freight rail
Authors:   FH Aachen & RailCrowd GmbH, Pfaff Raphael , Enning Manfred ,   FH Aachen & RailCrowd GmbH
Published: June 2022

"Brake testing in freight trains is time consuming and, in most cases, executed manually. Current approaches aim to replicate the manual process, which leads to technical challenges that need to be solved on a wagon individual basis. By assessing past accidents, we find indications that the brake rigging is not frequently involved in malfunctions of brake systems and propose a different sensor set. This sensor set does not require individualisation on the wagon system and is thus suitable for reducing the system cost. A further challenge is the identification of the wagons in a rake as well as their order in the rake. Based on the wagon 4.0 approach, a communication architecture is presented that offers a cost-efficient yet safe solution to this problem. Similar to the above, it relies on proven open protocols and low power hardware in attempt to reduce hardware cost while improving overall safety. From this technological and operational basis, an algorithm for rake setup and brake test is developed that reduces risks currently not covered in brake test procedures. "
Standardization of drag mode friction test
Authors:   TMD Friction, Penta Nicolae
Published: June 2022

"The updated form of New Work Item Proposal (NWI) was completed and submitted to the ISO representatives in January 2021 and the approval is pending. The ISO draft for friction testing in drag mode is in the final stages of completion. It contains the actual practice used in industry, based on the standards and test methodologies currently in place. The test phase for validation has been carried out, the Round-Robin test has been completed and the evaluation of results to validate the ISO draft is on the final stage. "
Effect of humidity levels on the compressibility of automotive brake friction materials
Authors:   Greening Testing Labs, Greening Charles , Sendler Edward ,   Greening Testing Labs, Greening Brent ,   Greening Testing Labs
Published: June 2022

"The load-deflection relationship of automotive brake friction materials (also known as “compressibility”) is a characteristic which may both influence and advise as to brake performance, including driver experience, noise and vibration behaviour, and manufacturer quality control. It has been reported that changes in environmental humidity may significantly alter friction material compressibility in a formulation-dependent fashion – effects which are important considerations for testing protocols and real-world applicability. Greening’s presentation includes a rigorous investigation of humidity-dependent properties across differing friction materials and manufacturers, taking advantage of the high resolution and excellent repeatability of the Greening Model 1140 Compressibility Test Machine. Sets of brake pads from (at least) two different manufacturers and of varied material type (non-asbestos organic, semi-metallic, low-metallic, etc.) will be weighed to assess changes to moisture content after climate-controlled storage for at least 24 hours at Ambient, Low, and High relative humidity levels. Pad compressibility at ambient temperature and 130 bar simulated brake line pressure will be measured a total of 8 times (24-hoursoak before each test) at [2 x] Ambient, [2 x] Low, [2 x High], and [2 x Ambient] humidity levels. This testing protocol will allow for confirmation of repeatability at comparable moisture levels. Humidity-dependent differences relative to material types, manufacturers, and individual pad variation will be presented, as will the measurement of rebound/recovery after repeated rounds of testing. Results will provide a valuable resource in the awareness and understanding of how humidity effects may play a role in the design, testing, and manufacture of automotive brake friction materials "
Application of Blockchain Powered Mobile Robots In Healthcare: Use Cases, Research Challenges and Future Trends
Authors: ŞEN Mehmed Oğuz , OKUMUŞ Fatih , KOCAMAZ Fatih
Published: June 2022

Using service robots in healthcare is gaining importance in case of emergent situations like pandemics where human labour is considered risky. Multi robot systems of mobile robots have the potential to perform simple but vital tasks in healthcare. However, centralized control with a server computer of these systems carry the risks of single point of failure and ineffective operation of robots, thus decentralized control with blockchain integration offers a better solution. We mention research challenges regarding blockchain powered multi robot systems of mobile robots from use case, blockchain technology and its integration into current computing systems used in medical centers aspects. Then we propose a method for decentralized management and task distribution in a multi robot system by using Hyperledger Fabric as a permissioned blockchain platform and give common use case scenarios. In this system, tasks are assigned to robots depending on the selection of nearest available robots to the task target. Each robot runs the smart contract containing the task assignment method, so that data traffic for the task assignment process is distributed among the network, instead of stacking up on a single line as in a centralized system. Future research issues and directions for future works are also stated as a conclusion.