bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Phytochemical Constituents and In-Vitro Antioxidant Properties of Ficus asperifolia Leaf Extracts
Authors: Johnny D. I. , Kadiri H. E.
Published: November 2023

This study evaluated the phytochemical constituents and in-vitro antioxidant properties of Ficus asperifolia leaf extracts. The evaluation of the phytochemistry showed the presence of bioactive compounds of saponins, alkaloids, terpenes, tannins, steroids, phlobatannin, cardiac glycosides and carbohydrates were confirmed present in the extracts of F. asperifolia. Flavonoid concentration varied significantly (p<0.05) in the increasing order of aqueous > ethanol > methanol extract. The nitric oxide scavenging activities of the aqueous extracts of F. asperifolia were significantly (p<0.05) higher in comparison to the methanol and ethanol extracts respectively. The total antioxidant capacity of the methanol extract were significantly (p<0.05) higher when compared to both the aqueous and ethanol extracts respectively. The results of this study support the application of F. asperifolia in herbal medicine.
Diminutive Review on the Ethnomedicinal Uses of Drumstick (Moringa oleifera Lam.) Tree from 1998 – 2023
Authors: Oghama O. E.
Published: November 2023

Ethnomedicinal uses involve the comparative study of how different cultures view diseases, medical beliefs and practices of indigenous cultures on how they treat or prevent diseases. Hence, the objective of this paper is to provide a miniature review on the ethnomedical uses of drumstick (Moringa oleifera) tree by harvesting data and information from previous publications from 1998 - 2023 using online Google search. Data revealed that Moringa oleifera is also called “miracle tree” or the “tree of life,” horseradish tree or Ben oil tree. In almost all indigenous cultures, various parts of Moringa oleifera is associated as being used for treatment of a variety of health conditions ranging from wounds, skin infections, joint pain, hepatitis, ulcers, liver diseases, kidney stones, inflammation, ear and tooth pain, fever, diarrhea, hypertension, anxiety etc. It is recommended that a more elaborate literature review should be carried out dating back in times to keep an up-to-date record of ethnomedicinal uses of the plant and capture other ethnomedicinal uses of M. oleifera not included in this review.
Effect of Poultry Manure Rates on Growth and Yield of Three Species of Pepper (Capsicum spp.) in Awka, Southeastern Nigeria
Authors: Iheaturu D. E. , Agu L. I. , Okoli N. A. , Ibeawuchi I. I.
Published: November 2023

Pepper is one of the most important vegetable in the sub-sahara Africa, however, production is still limited by low soil fertility. Hence, the objective of this paper was to assess the effect of poultry manure rates on growth and yield of three Capsicum spp pepper (green pepper, nsukka yellow pepper, red bell pepper) species in Awka, Southeastern Nigeria using standard methods. The initial chemical composition of the soil and composition after the application of poultry manure was determined. Data collected include plant height (cm), number of leaf, leaf area (cm2), stem girth (mm), number of days to 50% flowering, fruit per plant and fresh fruit yield (kg ha-1), fruit length, fruit circumference, fruit diameter, number of locus, number of seeds and fruit thickness. All the data were subjected to analysis of variance using the ANOVA method and difference between treatments means were determined using least significant difference test (LSD). Result showed that the application of poultry manure significantly increased soil fertility with a corresponding increase in growth and yield. Application rate of 8,000kg/ha is also recommended for optimum growth.
Electrical Resistivity Tomography Survey of Some Failed Segments along Selected Major Highways in Cross River State, Southeastern Nigeria
Authors: Abong A. A. , George A. M.
Published: November 2023

This study investigated some failed segments along Okuku – Okpoma and Abuochichie – Obanliku highways. Six (6) measurements employing electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) were conducted at the side of selected failed portions of the road and at the stable portions which served as controls. It was found that along Okuku – Okpoma road, the resistivity values of weak zones ranged from 25Ωm – 71Ωm at Okpoma and competent zones ranged from 840Ωm – 1376Ωm at Ugaga and 600Ω.m – 800Ωm at Ogbudu.  Along Abuochichie – Obanliku road, the resistivity values of weak zones ranged from 25Ωm – 35 Ωm at Ukwutia and 78 Ωm – 90Ωm at Bukumanya and competent zones from 828Ωm – 1021Ωm at Amunga. The results further indicated that the remote causes of road failure are as result of geologic factors such as clay/shale materials/highly weathered materials at Okpoma, Ukwutia and Bukumanya where they occurred. It was recommended that geophysical surveys should be conducted prior to the construction of roads. Also clay materials as well as highly weathered geologic materials existing beneath the pavement should be excavated and replaced with competent materials such as sandy clay, clayey sand, sandstones, granite during construction of roads before laying the asphalt especially at Okpoma, Ukwutia and Bukumanya.  Also there should be proper drainage system to prevent floods and washing of roads.
Evaluation of Metal Contamination of Sediments around an Industrial Gold Mine in Côte d’Ivoire: The Example of Arsenic
Authors: Kagbagnan K. , Adjoumani R. K. , Ehouman A. D. , Yao B. , Adouby K.
Published: November 2023

The Tongon gold mine produces millions of tons of waste rock and tailings which are stored in dumps around the mine. This mine waste is contaminated with arsenic. Arsenic has acutely toxic effects on aquatic life within polluted areas. The potential for contamination of the area’s aquatic environment is apparent. Therefore the objective of this paper was to evaluate the arsenic contamination of the sediments around the industrial gold mine in Côte d'Ivoire using inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (NexION 2000 ICP-MS, USA) after aqua regia acid digestion. In addition, the metal contamination indices were used to evaluate the degree of arsenic contamination in the sediments. The obtained results indicated that the sediments in the industrial area of the Tongon gold mine have high arsenic concentrations in the proximity of pits and dumps. The geoaccumulation index (-0.09 < Igeo < 2.20) and the pollution load index (0.93) revealed that the sediment is moderately contaminated with arsenic. These findings suggest an ecological risk and therefore the need for environmental monitoring, supported by the elaboration of an effective remedial action strategy to minimize local pollution and contamination.
Statistical Optimization of Faujasite Zeolite Synthesis from Bauxite Alumina and Rice Husk Silica
Authors: Oshomogho F. O. , Ujile A. A. , Dagde K. K. , Ehirim E. O.
Published: November 2023

Faujasite, a molecular sieve zeolite Y aluminosilicate mineral, has excellent catalytic strength and is employed in various industries. The study therefore, seek to synthesize a faujasite zeolite with a hydrothermal treatment of local clay alumina and rice husk silica using central composite design (CCD) of experiment in response surface methodology (RSM) in a 1000ml 2-neck flat bottom flask on a constant temperature magnetic stirrer at 120oC for 6 hours. SiO2, Al2O3, and NaOH were coded at three levels at various masses and Si/Al mole ratios. A significant model with an F-value of 142.27 and a Predicted R2 of 0.9558 was developed using statistically optimized hydrothermal synthesis. 3.07g NaOH, 10.50g SiO2, and 2.61g Al2O3 were needed to synthesize FAU zeolite with Si/Al mole ratio > 2. At 1095.8cm-1 in IR spectrum, silicone (Si – O – Si) was the most abundant functional group in the zeolite. EDS and XRD revealed a faujasite zeolite-Y with 85.60wt% Si and 17.50wt% Al. Octahedral modified zeolite Y crystals were seen in SEM topography. At low relative pressures (P/P0 < 0.056), BET showed significant N2 absorption, indicating micropores. The zeolite's BET study indicated a specific surface area of 1750.0m2/g and a pore diameter of 1.847nm. Transesterification of high-free fatty acid triglycerides can be catalyzed by microporous faujasite zeolite.
Conversion of Cellulosic Biomass to Bioethanol through Fermentation Using Native Microorganisms: A Review
Authors: Atiku Y. M. , Abdulsalam S. , Mohammed J. , Ahmed S. I.
Published: November 2023

In order to produce bioethanol from cellulosic biomass, a pretreatment process is used to reduce the sample size, break down the hemicelluloses to sugars, and open up the structure of the cellulose component. The cellulose portion is hydrolyzed by acids or enzymes into glucose sugar that is fermented to bioethanol. However, this paper is a review on the conversion of cellulosic biomass to bioethanol through fermentation using native microorganisms. Information used were mainly from secondary sources; data obtained reveal that a lot of work needs to be carried out to identify sustainable native microorganism (s) and more bio-friendly processes to achieve more microbial productivity and improvement of bioethanol yield. These can go a long way in ensuring a safe, clean, economical and sustainable energy resource.
Evaluation of Pollution Indices of Heavy Metals in Ceiling Fan Dust in Lecture Halls of a Tertiary Institution, Calabar, Nigeria
Authors: Ushie C. A. , Abong A. A. , Obi E. O.
Published: November 2023

This study evaluated heavy metals in ceiling fan dust in five (5) lecture halls of a tertiary institution in Cross Rivers State, Calabar, Nigeria using appropriate standard techniques. Data obtained reveal that contamination factor for Zn, Cu, Fe, Mn, Cr, Ni and Pb were all < 0.10 indicating very slight contamination, while the geoaccumulation index for Zn, Cu. Fe, Mn, Cr, Ni and Pb were ≤ 0 indicating non – contamination. Nemerow integrated pollution index (NIPI) for Zn, Cu, Fe, Mn, Cr, Ni and Pb were all ≤ 0.7 which indicates non – pollution, while Cd showed high level of pollution with values NIPI > 3 in all sampled sites. Enrichment factor for Zn, Cu, Mn, Cr, Cd, Ni and Pb in all the sites were >1000 which indicates that all the heavy metals were from artificial source. Generally, the findings of the study revealed that the lecture halls are polluted with cadmium (Cd) mainly from artificial source while other heavy metals such as Zn, Cu, Fe, Mn, Cr, Ni and Pb were within the permissible limits of the indices. It was recommended that ceiling fans should be regularly and thoroughly cleaned to prevent pollution by heavy metals. Also, there should be awareness campaign for users of lecture halls on the health risk associated with ceiling fan dust.
Performance Evaluation of Rice Husk Ash as Partial Replacement of Cement in Concrete in a Marine Environment at Escravos River, Niger Delta Area, Nigeria
Authors: Vincent-Uzogbe S. I. , Ogirigbo R. O.
Published: November 2023

Cement has proven to cause environmental problems during its production and to be a relatively high-cost material in concrete production. Environmentally friendly, alternative binders like Rice Husk Ash (RHA) have recently been brought to bear. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to evaluate the performance of RHA (under controlled temperature and burning time) as a partial (10% and 20%) replacement of cement in concrete in a marine environment at Escravos River, Niger Delta Area, Nigeria. Concrete samples prepared with the 10% and 20% RHA in the laboratory were exposed to brackish water samples from the Escravos River, at 3 days, 7 days, 28 days and 90 days and the results compared with that of PLC concrete cast. Data obtained show that the workability of fresh concrete reduced with increase in RHA and further reduced, mixing with salt water. RHA contributed positively to the setting time of the concrete as it increased the initial setting time and reduced final setting time. 10%RHA concrete performed best under all conditions, with about 10% increase in strength. Further increase led to a slight decline in strength. As the amount of RHA increased, the ability of the concrete to resist chloride penetration, increased, with lesser average penetration depth. 10%RHA concrete showed the strongest rebar-concrete bond. 10% RHA is optimum for partial replacement of cement in concrete in marine environment, as it enhances the performance of the concrete.
Effect of Enhanced Natural Attenuation Remediation on Chronically Oil-impacted Soil in some Communities of Ogoniland, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Idam J. O. , Nkwocha E. E. , Amangabara G. T. , Ogbuagu D. H. , Edo F. A.
Published: November 2023

Frequent oilspills in the Niger Delta regions have created ecological problems needing solutions. This study therefore investigated the effect of enhanced Natural Attenuation Remediation (ENA) on chronically oil-impacted soil in some communities of Ogoniland, Rivers State, Nigeria. Total petroleum hydrocarbons (THCs) migration was measured at 0.5m soil depth intervals and relevant edaphic variables measured before and after an ENA remediation procedure at 6 sampling locations (OLs).THC contaminants were as high as 40,645.00mg/kg on the surface at OL 1, and undetectable at OL control. Mean concentrations of THC (Sig.value=0.018), C/N ratios (Sig.value=0.050), SO42- ions (Sig.value=0.000) and sand compositions (Sig.value=0.040) differed markedly (p<0.05) across the OLs before remediation, while concentrations of pH (Sig.tvalue=0.048), EC and K+ ions (Sig.tvalue=0.000 each), Na+ ions (Sig.tvalue=0.006), Mg2+ ions (Sig.tvalue=0.024), and clay composition (Sig.tvalue=0.020) differed (p<0.05) after remediation. Results indicate effectiveness of the cost-effective ENA technique in the restoration of soil of a Niger Delta area.
Assessment Of Natural Radioactivity Concentration and Associated Radiological Hazards of Commercial Wall Paints and Plaster of Paris Cements Commonly used in Nigeria
Authors: Echeweozo E. O. , Okeke I. S. , Duke A. E.
Published: November 2023

Plaster of paris (POP) is quick-setting gypsum plaster while certain commercial wall paints contains chemolumnicence materials. These building materials are most likely to emit radiation. Hence, the objectiveof this paper is to assess the natural radioactivity concentration and associated radioloical hazards of commercial wall paints and plaster of paris cements commonly used in Nigeria using standard measurement techniques.  Data obtained reveals high average levels of the activity concentration (AC) of 40K, 232Th and 226Ra were observed in emulsion paints (174.73, 56.98 and 58.18 Bq/kg)  and POP (149.59, 64.51 and 63.49 Bq/kg) respectively. For oil paint, the mean result of the test elements 40K, 226Ra and 232Th were 119.66, 37.86 and 44.66 Bq/kg respectively. From results, the study concluded that all investigated emulsion, oil paints and POP  available in Nigeria have low level radioactivity concentrations which pose no significant radiological risk to users. However, the result from average excess lifetime cancer risk of these surface coatings presented higher value greater than the recommended limit. Consequently, this paper proposes constant monitoring of  POP  and raw materials used for  paint production in Nigeria as well as quality assurance and control.
Importance of Parkia biglobosa (African Locust Beans) to the Women Livelihoods in Ibarapa North and Ibarapa Central Local Government Areas of Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Ayanrinde F. A. , Oyewole S. O. , Ayanrinde O. A. , Oyewole A. L.
Published: November 2023

Parkia biglobosa is a multi-purpose species of fruit tree which have contributed to the women livelihood in the study areas, it has served as raw materials for local soup and it is a good source of plant protein. This work assessed the importance of Parkia biglobosa among the women in Ibarapa North and Ibarapa Central Local Government areas of Oyo State, Nigeria using a well-structured questionnaire to obtain information from 120 locust bean sellers. Data obtained showed that the demographic distribution of the respondents were 100% females of which 43.3% were between the age of 41 and 50 years with No formal education of about 58.3%. 41.6% of the respondents had between 11 and 20 family (household) size while household size below 11 and above 20 are 50% and 8.4% respectively. Parkia biglobosa has been discovered to treat various ailments such as eye defects, diabetes, asthma, arterial blood pressure, ulcer and diarrhoea amongst others. Parkia biglobosa has provided job opportunities for women to enable them to take care of their children and other family domestic expenses. Parkia biglobosa trees plantation should be encouraged and established for large scale production.
Assessment of PM2.5 in Oluku Dumpsites and Selected Residential Areas, Ovia North East Local Government, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria
Authors: Ojeaga K. , Okoro A.
Published: November 2023

An Assessment of PM2.5 at Oluku dumpsite and selected residential buildings was investigated in Ovia North East local government in Benin City, Edo state Nigeria using a portable hand-held digital anemometer (BTMETER 100) and air quality monitor (L529K). Data obtained gives the mean values of PM2.5 range of 36.20-45.50 µg/m3and 58.17–393.82 µg/m3  for wet and dry season respectively, which shows significant difference in spatial and seasonal distribution of PM2.5  (p ) in the study area and control stations. Further findings revealed that concentration PM2.5   in both seasons and sampling locations exceeded the WHO and USEPA Limits of 25 µg/m3and 35 µg/m3 respectively with the exception of the control (GAQC) location during wet season.
Gap Analysis Assessment of Performance of Conventional Drilling Fluids in High Temperature and High Pressure Environments
Authors: Okonkwo S. I. , Joel O. F.
Published: November 2023

The critical functions performed by drilling fluids during drilling operations include providing hydrostatic pressure to prevent formation fluids from entering into the wellbore, keeping the drill bit cool and clean during drilling, carrying out drill cuttings, and suspending the drill cuttings while drilling is paused. Others include control of formation pressures, prevent well-control issues, maintaining wellbore stability, minimize formation damage, cuttings transport from the wellbore to surface and minimize risk to personnel, the environment and drilling equipment. In adverse drilling environments such as High Pressure High and Temperature (HPHT) wells, the elevated temperatures and pressures encountered by the drilling fluids downhole may limit their technical performance and result in drilling problems if these factors are not well considered during the drilling fluid design. Hence, the objective of this study is to carry out a gap analysis on the performance of conventional drilling fluids in high pressure and high temperature environments using appropriate engineering methods. The outcome of the study identified some of the limitations of drilling fluids in HPHT drilling environment such as loss of rheology property control, fluid gelation at high temperature, high fluid loss at HPHT conditions, thermal degradation of the drilling fluid constituents, sagging of weighting materials etc. Benchmarks such as thermal stability of drilling fluid products and system, resilience to high temperature gelation, resistance to high temperature fluid loss, stable rheological properties control, resistance to solids sagging in HPHT environment etc were identified as top criteria for optimal performance of drilling fluids systems in HPHT wells. Potential steps or actions that that may be taken to bridge the existing gaps or shortcomings of conventional drilling fluids in HPHT drilling environment were then recommended.
Common fixed points of generalized F -contraction of multivalued mappings in bi-b-metric spaces
Authors: Ababu Agonafir Kibru , Tsegaye Leyew Bahru
Published: November 2023

In this article, we introduce a new concept of generalized F -contraction of nonlinear multivalued mappings and establish conditions for the existence of common fixed points of such mappings in the framework of bi- b-metric spaces. These findings combine, generalize, and expand on current and classic analogous findings in the literature.
New Record for Scolopia Sp. Nov. (Salicaceaesensulato) from the Early Miocene of Ethiopia: Identification and Classification of Fossil Leaves into their Living Relatives
Authors: F. Tesfamichael Tekie
Published: November 2023

Early Miocene sedimentary layersfrom the Mush Valley in the Ethiopian Highlands located northeast of Addis Ababa preserve compressed fossil leaves and seeds with abundant organic matter in carbonaceous lacustrine shales. Fossil leaf morphotypes, preserved in those sediments, allow compilation of data and provide information on species richness and species relative abundance without the need for lengthy investigation to determine their taxonomic identity. Moreover, identification of fossil plants with respect to their nearest living relatives provides additional data critical for understanding their phylogenetic history, paleoclimate, and concentration of atmospheric CO2. Here a previously unnamed taxon from the Mush Valley site was described; the taxon has a distinctly acrodromous primary venation, a pulvinus base, brachyparacyticstomatal complexes, and a suite of other characters of higher order venation and epidermal cells. The comparison of venation patterns and cuticular features among the fossil leaves and herbarium leaves using categorical variables shows that the fossil shares several characters with trinerved species in the genus Scolopia, but does not share all characters with any living species. Therefore, an extinct species found in the genus Scolopia (Scolopieae, Salicaceae) is described; the genus Scolopia is found today in Madagascar, the Solomon Islands, the Comoros, Southeast Asia, and eastern Australia. Two species of Scolopia occur today in Ethiopia, but these appear distantly related to the fossil based upon their pinnate, rather than acrodromous, primary venation. The fossil leaves are 21.73 ± 0.03 million years old, based upon 206Pb/238U geochronology, which can provide a precise date pointfor phylogenetic analysis. The taxonomic identification of this fossil leaf has important implication for reconstructing concentration of atmospheric CO2 and paleo temperature of the time and hence, to understand the response of plants to the early Miocene global warming.
Food access vs food safety: The case of street food operation around Mexico Square, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Tamenu Abera Tamenu Abera , Mogessie Ashenafi Mogessie Ashenafi
Published: November 2023

: Street foods are common in in Addis Ababa. The city administration considers the business as informal and illegal. However, street food operation creates significant self-employment opportunities. Moreover, it markedly contributes to the food security of low-income consumers and vendors. The food security status, food safety knowledge and practice of 160 stationary street food vendors were assessed around Mexico Square, Addis Ababa. A detailed site observation was made around vending sites. Household food insecurity experience and food safety KAP of vending households was assessed using close-ended standard questionnaires. Job-specific interviews were made on street food operation with key informants from among woreda officials and consumers. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and opinions of key informants were described. About 72% of the street food vendors were female. Over 90% were adolescents or young adults and 30% had more than three children. About 71% of the vendors were either moderately or severely food insecure. Vendors had good knowledge (81%), moderate attitude (74%) but very poor practice (14%) in food safety. Street food vending was the only source of affordable meals to low-income groups in the study area. Meals were served and consumed immediately after cooking minimizing food safety risks. As street food vending creates economic and physical access to the low-paid urban poor and is a livelihood to poor families, it may be useful to recognize its positive role in mitigating food insecurity. Government control on food safety compliance, allocation of vending zones, and giving training to street food vendors could improve safety of street foods.
Rola Centralnego Ośrodka Szkolenia Służby Więziennej w Kaliszu-Szczypiornie w rozwoju penitencjarystyki i edukacji personelu więziennego
Authors: Poklek Robert
Published: November 2023

Centralny Ośrodek Szkolenia Służby Więziennej w Szczypiornie koło Kalisza w ciągu 69 lat istnienia wykształcił kilkadziesiąt tysięcy funkcjonariuszy Służby Więziennej różnego szczebla. Szkolili się tu funkcjonariusze więziennictwa od najniższych stopni podoficerskich i chorążackich do oficerskich szlifów, poprzez szkolenia specjalistyczne i doskonalące dla kadr kierowniczych. Od początku istnienia związany był ze społecznością Kalisza, ale jego działalność obejmowała cały kraj, a pod koniec istnienia również Europę, Azję i Amerykę Północną – słowem świat. Artykuł prezentuje historię ośrodka oraz jego rolę w rozwoju nowoczesnej myśli penitencjarnej oraz edukacji personelu więziennego.

The Role of the Central Training Center of the Prison Service in Szczypiorno-Kalisz in the Development of Penitentiarism and Education of the Prison Staff: The Central Training Center of the Prison Service in Szczypiorno near Kalisz has educated tens of thousands of officers of the Prison Service at various levels during its 69 years of existence. Prison officers from the lowest ranks of non-commissioned officers and standard-bearers to officers’ cuts were trained here, through specialist and improvement training for managerial staff. From the beginning of its existence, it was associated with the Kalisz community, but its activities covered the entire country, and at the end of its existence also Europe, Asia and North America - in a word, the world. The article presents the history of the center and its role in the development of modern penitentiary thought and the education of prison staff.
Kore Doğum Ritüellerinde Kısırlığı Giderme Pratikleri
Authors: KARAKUŞ HARMANCI Nihan , KÖROĞLU TÜRKÖZÜ Hatice
Published: November 2023

Bu çalışmada Kore kültüründe geçmişte var olan ve günümüz Kore’sinde de birçoğuna rastlanan doğum ritüelleri araştırılmış, kısırlığı giderme amacıyla yapılan uygulamalar incelenmiştir. Bu çalışmanın amacı, Kore’de kısırlığı giderme konusunda geçmişten gelen ve günümüzde de uygulanan ritüellerin tespit edilerek kayıt altına alınması, literatüre kazandırılması ve dolayısıyla Kore kültürü üzerine yapılacak araştırmalara katkı sağlanmasıdır. Makalenin giriş bölümünde çalışmanın kavramsal çerçevesi ile ilgili bilgilere yer verilmiştir. Çalışmanın diğer bölümlerinde Ataerkil ve Konfüçyüsçü anlayışta aile, kadın ve çocuk kavramlarına değinilmiştir. Çalışmada kısırlığı gidermek için yapılan uygulamalar dua etme, yiyeceklerle kısırlığı giderme ve diğer uygulamalar olmak üzere üç gurupta ele alınmıştır. Çalışmanın sonuç bölümünde Kore’de kısırlığı giderme konusuyla ilgili inanç ve uygulamaların değerlendirilmesi yapılmıştır. Kore kültüründe doğum öncesi dönemde kısırlığı giderme ile ilgili ritüellerin amacının ne olduğu, bu ritüellerin hangi temele, inanca ve kültürel eğilime dayandığı, ritüeller esnasında sembol olarak kullanılan nesnelerin neleri simgelediği gibi sorular temel alınarak literatür tarama yöntemiyle çalışma yürütülmüştür. Kore’de kısırlığı giderme konusunda geleneksel uygulamaların yaygın olduğu, nesilden nesile aktarılarak uygulanmakta olduğu sonucuna ulaşılmıştır.
Laz Halk Masallarında Yer Alan Mitolojik ve Olağanüstü Varlıklar
Authors: TERCUMAN Şanver
Published: November 2023

Mitoloji insanları çepeçevre saran yaşanılan bir geçmişin dilde, ritüelde ve tasvirlerde gerçekleşen diyalektiğidir. Yaşamla birebir bağlantılı dünyayı algılama sistemi olan mitoloji, aynı zamanda bu algılamayı modelleştiren bir dünya görüşüdür. Halkların milli tefekkürünün, milli psikolojisinin, kendine has özelliklerinin ilk ve temel kaynağı mitolojidir. Dolayısıyla mitoloji insan hayatının birçok noktasında kendine yer edinmiş dinamik bir olgudur. Bu noktada mitolojik olayların veya kahramanların sıkça karşılaşıldığı önemli bir alan da sözlü anlatım ürünlerinden biri olan masallardır. Masallarda pek çok mitolojik olaylar anlatılmakla birlikte masallarda yer alan bazı mitolojik ve olağanüstü varlıklar sayesinde de masalların konusu ve yapısı farklı nitelikler kazanmaktadır. Bu doğrultuda masallarda mitolojik ve olağanüstü varlıklar üzerinden masal kahramanları oluşturulmaktadır. Bu kahramanlar sayesinde bazı masallarda kimi zaman iyiliğin ve kötülüğün savaşı verilirken bazı masallarda da insanoğlunun korktuğu veya saygı duyduğu varlıkların izdüşümü izlenmektedir. Bu kapsamda çalışmada Lazların sözlü kültürüne ait yüz on üç masal metninde yer alan mitolojik ve olağanüstü varlıklar tespit edilerek yorumlanmaya çalışılmıştır.
Exploring the Nexus of Technology, Digital, and Visual Literacy: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Bulut Mesut , Bulut Ayhan , Kaban Abdullatif , Kirbas Abdulkadir
Published: November 2023

This study sought to identify the relationships between technology, digital and visual literacy, and education through bibliometric analysis. We were able to learn more about the topic's scope and interdisciplinary tendencies in the literature by perusing the Web of Science database. According to our analysis, key and often mentioned sources in this field include the Nordic Journal of Digital Literacy, Computers Education, and Education and Information Technologies. Our author analysis revealed notable researchers including Buckingham, D., McGrew, S., and Coiro, J. Our trend research showed that digital literacy, technology, and education are becoming increasingly important. With the aid of cluster analysis, we were able to determine the connections and subjects between the terms. As a result of our research, it is recommended that teachers be given collaborative and sharing training, technology usage be increased, and digital literacy education be given top priority. Future research can benefit from this study's findings, which offer useful advice for teachers and researchers. The promotion of successful technological and digital literacy teaching methods is what we hope to achieve. Improved student digital literacy, greater use of technology in the classroom, and better learning experiences should be the main areas of future research.
Improving Problem-Solving and Communication Skills in Automotive Vocational Education through the Development of Teaching Factory Model with Problem-Based Learning (TEFA-PBL) Concept
Authors: Maksum Hasan , Purwanto Wawan , Siman Siman , Ampera Dina , Yuvenda Dori , Hasan Hanapi
Published: November 2023

Preliminary research showed that the learning process could have been more optimal, and this led to the research to develop a TEFA Model with the PBL concept as a valid, practical, and effective method of improving the problem-solving and communication skills of Automotive Vocational Education students. The process involved using the Research and development approach through the application of 4D development procedures of Defining, Designing, Developing, and Disseminating. The study resulted in the TEFA-PBL model with seven learning syntaxes. The syntaxes were (1) troubleshooting the problem, (2) organizing the order, (3) collaborative problem solving, (4) executing an order, (5) quality control, (6) presentation and discussion, and (7) assessment.  Furthermore, scenarios were generated to guide the learning activities of lecturers and students directed towards achieving fundamental and global 21st-century automotive vocational skills such as good problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills. The syntax and scenarios of the learning model produced were feasible, valid, and practically applicable to produce graduates with ready-to-use and competitive skills. It, therefore, signifies that the TEFA-PBL model developed is an innovative solution to improve the quality of automotive vocational learning at different levels, especially universities, to produce graduates with ready-to-use and competitive skills.
Empowering Multilingual Arabic Learners: Enhancing Oral Expression Skills and Shaping Attitudes through Numbered Heads Strategy
Authors: Alslaiti Feras Mahmoud , Alzboun Mamon , Omoush Lamia Muhammad Salim , Harahsheh Alaa A. , Al-Essa Rima Mahmoud Awad , Al-Masaeid Amer Lahad Salem , Alzboon Malik Salim Odeh
Published: November 2023

The study aims to investigate the impact of implementing the Numbered Heads Strategy on developing oral expression skills among Arabic learners who speak languages, as well as their attitudes towards this teaching method. The research involved 50 participants, both male and female, at the fourth level of a language center within Al al-Bayt University. These participants were divided into two groups: a control group, which received traditional instruction, and an experimental group, which was taught using the Numbered Heads Strategy. The study designed an achievement test and an attitudinal scale to assess the participants. The results revealed a statistically significant difference in favor of the experimental group, with higher mean scores in both the oral expression skills test and the post-attitude scale. However, no significant differences were found between the mean scores of the experimental and control groups in the oral expression test and attitude scale when considering the interaction between teaching strategy and gender. Based on these results, the study recommends the utilization of the Numbered Heads Strategy in teaching oral expression skills to Arabic learners who speak languages other than Arabic.
The Impact of a Cognitive Neuroscience-Based Educational Program on Developing Reading Comprehension Skills among Intermediate Stage Students
Authors: Alamoush Ibrahem Mohammed Abdullah , Al Shdaifat Kholoud Abdulraheem Auwid , Sulieman Hala Alhag Alameen
Published: November 2023

The current study investigates the impact of an educational program based on cognitive neuroscience on developing reading comprehension skills among second-grade students in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. To achieve this objective, the researchers employed a quasi-experimental design, selecting a sample of 59 students from Princess Nora bint Abdulrahman Al Saud School for Girls and Al-Madinah Al-Jamia Educational School for Boys, both under the supervision of the Education Directorate in Najran region. The sample was divided into two groups: 30 students in the experimental group and 29 in the control group. The researchers developed two instruments: a cognitive neuroscience-based educational program and a written test. After ensuring their validity and reliability, these instruments were administered to the study participants. The results revealed statistically significant differences in favor of the experimental group, while no significant differences were found based on gender or the interaction between gender and group. In light of the results, the researchers provided a set of recommendations.
Testing budget photosystems to reach an optimal solution for the herbarium digitization purposes
Authors: Novikov Andriy , Sup-Novikova Mariia , Nachychko Viktor , Kuzyarin Oleksandr
Published: November 2023

The current paper stresses the application of different budget photosystems for digitization of herbarium specimens. Twelve photosystems were compared by color accuracy reproduction of the images. It was found that the photosystem built on the basis of photocamera Canon EOS 800D and fixed lens Tokina AT-X M35 PRO DX AF 35 mm f/2.8 Macro and currently used for the digitization of the LWS herbarium collection demonstrated the best results among other tested photosystems. It also produced the images with the same or even better color accuracy as in images downloaded from P, PI, B, and W virtual herbaria. Nevertheless, its color accuracy measured as ΔE2000, in general, does not meet recent criteria ascertained for the herbarium digitization purposes and new FADGI’s requirements. This photosystem has been found to have improving potential and, hence, should be optimized. On the other hand, it was also shown that smartphone Samsung Galaxy S10 could produce images with the same or even better color accuracy compared to some images deposited at P, PI, W, and B virtual herbaria. Therefore, in conditions of extreme situations and hostilities, such smartphones with additional external illumination can serve for urgent digitization of natural history collections. Finally, we doubt the application of commonly used color targets for the digitization of herbariaum preserved specimens since the original living color of such specimens is usually lost during conservation and preservation. Instead, it would be more beneficial to apply advanced targets to evaluate the spatial accuracy of images since they can incorrectly represent the important morphological characters of preserved specimens.
Commentary: Role of estrogen receptor β in kidney disease
Authors: Su Wen , Cao Rong , Wan Qijun , Lan Hui-yao
Published: November 2023

Recent studies have shed light on the pivotal roles of estrogen in various pathophysiological processes related to kidney diseases. However, the precise mechanisms governing the estrogen actions remain enigmatic. The downstream impacts of estrogen primarily hinge on estrogen receptors (ERs), namely ERα (NR3A1) and ERβ (NR3A2). Building upon our previous finding that ERβ participates in subcutaneous adipose tissue browning in female mice, our recent study found that ERβ functions to protect kidney from progressive renal fibrosis by inactivating transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/Smad3 signaling. In the normal kidney, ERβ is highly expressed by proximal tubular epithelial cells but it is lost when kidney becomes fibrotic. In contrast, activation of ERβ inhibits kidney fibrosis. Mechanistically, we uncovered that ERβ can bind to Smad3, thereby transcriptionally downregulating Smad3 and inhibiting TGF-β1/Smad3-mediated renal fibrosis. Thus, ERβ is protective in renal fibrosis and may have therapeutic potential for chronic kidney disease.
Delitos de extorsión. Prisión preventiva y las sentencias condenatorias
Authors: Chávez Quesquén Walther Fructuoso , Chávez Rivasplata Walther , Velazco Marmolejo Harold Gabriel , Castillo Palomo Yasmin Sara , Sebastián López Edith Corina , Salas Quispe Mariano Rodolfo
Published: November 2023

La investigación realizada para la publicación del presente libro científico tuvo como fin relacionar las medidas de prisión preventiva y las sentencias condenatorias en delitos de extorsión en el distrito judicial de Tarapoto; el mismo que no recurrió a la cuantificación numérica para corroborar las hipótesis de investigación, que aplicó teorías existentes siendo una investigación aplicada. Se trata de un diseño no experimental; eso como muestra a 31 expedientes, y como instrumento la guía de revisión documentaria. Dentro de los resultados se encontró que el 77% se daba la prisión preventiva, mientras que se daban a la fuga del 23% en un total de 7 presos; referente a las sentencias con penas efectivas fue de 87%, y los casos sin penas efectivas fueron de 13% siendo solo 4 casos. Concluyendo que existe una relación entre las medidas de prisión preventiva y las sentencias condenatorias en los delitos de extorsión en el distrito judicial de Tarapoto.
Consecuencias invisibles del blanqueo de capitales. Un estudio de caso en Perú
Authors: Castillo Palomo Yasmin Sara , Velazco Marmolejo Harold Gabriel , Sebastián López Edith Corina , Salas Quispe Mariano Rodolfo , Chávez Rivasplata Walther , Chávez Quesquén Walther Fructuoso
Published: November 2023

La investigación científica se enfocó en determinar los efectos de la incautación en el patrimonio de un investigado en un caso de lavado de activos y pérdida de dominio en 2019. Se realizó en Lima con la participación de fiscales, jueces y abogados especialistas en casos de lavado de activos. Se utilizó una metodología aplicada, con enfoque cualitativo y nivel descriptivo. Los resultados indicaron que la incautación no solo afecta el patrimonio del investigado, sino también sus derechos fundamentales y su entorno familiar. La investigación concluye que la incautación afecta el patrimonio del investigado, dado que a través de los delitos fuentes de Lavado de Activos como es la Usurpación y Estafa hacen que las personas caigan ante este tipo de delito y al interponer el estado a través de sus representantes, este tipo de medida sin tener una imputación concreta está violentando su derecho patrimonial el cual ha sido demostrado en los resultados de esta investigación.
A Human Rights Approach to First Call for Children: Mapping the Perils and Promises in South Asia
Authors: Sangroula Geeta Pathak
Published: November 2023

The Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) is regarded as one of the most successful human rights treaties for its substance and global acceptance. Being in a row among the highest number of State parties, all South Asian countries promised to respect, protect, and fulfill children's rights. However, the socio-legal constraints and deficits in practical implementation measures have caused setbacks in protecting child rights. This paper aims to explore the historical antecedents of international human rights standards developed step-by-step that contributed to adopting the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). This article navigates the implementation of the provisions enshrined in the CRC, following the essence of the ‘first call for children’ as echoed by the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action in 1993. The paper aims to reflect the international and regional legal standards incorporated in the domestic laws of South Asian countries. It further intends to focus on a comparative analysis of the legal mechanisms, socio-economic, and political situation regarding child rights with particular reference to the situation and condition of child rights in the South Asian region.
Law in Literature: Juveniles’ Minds and Perspectives
Authors: Bashar Zahirul , Ahmed Khan Shah Ahsan
Published: November 2023

Expressions of language verbalize the inner thinking of authors, leading to the connection of law and literature. In this paper, the authors try to visualize the relationship between the two. Along with the western relation between law and literature, the authors try to capture and articulate this intricate relationship from Bangla Literature as well. This article outlines the complex yet interdisciplinary nexus between the law and the literature which has been developed over hundreds of years and tries to envisage the nexus between the two. Accordingly, it also seeks to understand how the two influence each other.
A.I. and Law: Scope and Possible Challenges in Nepal
Authors: Silwal Puja
Published: November 2023

This paper attempts to explore the interlink between law and artificial intelligence, focusing on its scope and challenges. Artificial Intelligence has galloped since its establishment, aiming to replicate the human mind into the machine. The biggest neighboring country has moved a step forward by developing the first lawyer robot, but in Nepal, its scope has yet to be researched and talked about. Thus, this paper looks into the rising scope and challenges of Artificial Intelligence in the legal sector in Nepal. It analyzes the scope of A.I. in the legal field to find out its importance in areas of law like legal research, case law management, e-discovery, document preparation, contract review, evidence evaluation, and many more. Despite having ample scope in the legal field, it faces numerous challenges, including the problem of costly implementation. There is a need for more knowledge among policymakers about AI-based tools to develop the nation. This paper concludes that implementing A.I. and law-based tools in Nepal is difficult despite having ample scope. Proper research should be carried out to implement the AI-based tool to replace the old traditional mechanism in the Legal field.
Şehir Markalama Bağlamında Nüfuz Pazarlamasının Tutum ve Güvene Etkisi
Authors: ÖZDEMİR Osman , ÇETİNKAYA ÖZDEMİR Gülçin
Published: November 2023

Şehir markası ve nüfuz pazarlaması literatürde önemli bir yere sahiptir. Nüfuz pazarlaması, tüketici tutumlarını ve karar verme süreçlerini markalar lehine veya aleyhine etkileyebilen ve yüksek takipçi sayısına sahip kullanıcılardan yararlanılan bir pazarlama uygulamasıdır. Turizm sektörü bağlamında belirli bir şehre daha fazla ziyaretçi çekmek ve şehrin algısını şekillendirip marka yapmak için kullanılmaktadır. Bu çalışmada da şehirlerin marka olma sürecinde nüfuz pazarlamasından nasıl yararlandığı ve nüfuz pazarlamasının tutum ve güvene etkisinin ne olduğu üzerine durulmuştur. Çalışmanın anakütlesi sosyal medya kullanıcısı bireylerden oluşmaktadır. Çalışmanın örneklemi TRC3 Bölgesi’nde kolayda örnekleme ile seçilmiştir. Örneklemden çevrimiçi anket yoluyla 280 adet veri toplanmıştır. Toplanan verilerle faktör, güvenilirlik, korelasyon ve regresyon analizleri yapılmıştır. Yapılan analiz sonuçlarına göre nüfuz pazarlamasında bilgi, eğlence ve yetkinliğin önemi anlaşılmıştır. Ayrıca tutum değişkenindeki değişimin %49,5’inin nüfuz pazarlamasından; güven değişkenindeki değişimin %53,6’sının nüfuz pazarlamasından; güven değişkenindeki değişimin %67,8’inin nüfuz pazarlaması ve tutum değişkenlerinden kaynaklandığı sonucuna ulaşılmıştır.
Sistemas de salud y su implementación en la ciudad de Riobamba
Authors: Inca Ruiz Gerardo Patricio , León Insuasty Mayra Carola
Published: November 2023

Introducción: El Sistema Nacioanal de Salud (SNS) es un proceso que se está implementando en el Ecuador. Se ha dado varios pasos para su institucionalización y es necesario fortalecer y completar algunos componentes para que pueda hacer efectivo el derecho a la salud y la cobertura universal. Objetivo: Identificar logros y dificultades en el proceso de institucionalización del Sistema Nacional de Salud. Metodología: Se realizó un estudio cualitativo a través de aplicar una entrevista semiestruturada a actores clave de cada susbsistema de salud en la ciudad de Riobamba, cuyos resultados se triangularon con información bibliográfica. Resultados: Se identifica como logros la implementación de la Red Integral de Salud, el sistema de compras públicas, la rectoría para los permisos de funcionamiento y la cartera de servicios por nivel de atención. Se identifica como debilidades, la segmentación y fragmentación del sector, los diferentes modelos de financiamiento, la organización territorial, los sistemas de información, y el débil liderazgo del Ministerio de Salud. Conclusiones: Es necesario trabajar sobre los elementos básicos que obstaculizan la construcción del SNS y fortalecer aquellos logros que se ha alcanzado, de tal manera que se puedan eliminar las inequidades aún existentes.