bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ixekizumab Improves Functioning and Health in the Treatment of Radiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis: Week 52 Results from 2 Pivotal Studies
Authors: Kiltz Uta , Wei James Cheng-Chung , van der Heijde Désirée , van den Bosch Filip , Walsh Jessica A. , Boonen Annelies , Gensler Lianne S. , Hunter Theresa , Carlier Hilde , Dong Yan , Li Xiaoqi , Bolce Rebecca , Strand Vibeke , Braun Juergen
Published: July 2020

Objective.

This study evaluated the effect of ixekizumab (IXE) on self-reported functioning and health in patients with radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (r-axSpA) who were either biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (bDMARD)–naïve or failed at least 1 tumor necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi).

Methods.

In 2 multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, and active-controlled (bDMARD-naïve only) trials, patients with r-axSpA were randomly assigned to receive 80 mg of IXE [every 2 weeks (Q2W) or every 4 weeks (Q4W)], placebo (PBO), or adalimumab (ADA; bDMARD-naïve only). After 16 weeks, patients who received PBO or ADA were rerandomized to receive IXE (Q2W or Q4W) up to Week 52. Functioning and health were measured by the generic 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) and the disease-specific Assessment of Spondyloarthritis international Society Health Index (ASAS HI). Societal health utility was assessed by the 5-level EuroQol-5 Dimension (EQ-5D-5L).

Results.

At Week 16, both doses of IXE in bDMARD-naïve and TNFi-experienced patients resulted in larger improvement in SF-36, ASAS HI, and EQ-5D-5L versus placebo. For SF-36, the largest improvements were seen for the domains of bodily pain, physical function, and role physical. A larger proportion of patients reaching improvement in ASAS HI ≥ 3 as well as an achievement of ASAS HI good health status was reported in patients treated with IXE. Improvements were maintained through Week 52.

Conclusion.

IXE significantly improved functioning and health as assessed by both generic and disease-specific measures, as well as societal health utility values in patients with r-axSpA, as measured by SF-36, ASAS HI, and EQ-5D-5L at Week 16, and improvements were sustained through 52 weeks.
Généalogie, héraldique et filiation en France au XVII e siècle
Authors: Nassiet Michel
Published: July 2020

Cet article passe en revue les types de généalogies pratiquées au xvii e  siècle ainsi que les fonctions sociales qui les motivaient. La généalogie patrilinéaire descendante, qui était pratiquée dès la fin du Moyen Âge, mais oralement, est restée en France pendant cinq siècles le moyen de prouver la noblesse. Par ailleurs, des recherches cognatiques étaient nécessaires dans diverses situations sociales, notamment, en cas de succession collatérale, pour identifier le plus proche consanguin. La généalogie cognatique ascendante, quant à elle, est venue à la mode en France au début du xvii e  siècle. À ces pratiques de la généalogie correspondent étroitement l’héraldique et ses évolutions. C’est seulement en tenant compte de cette diversité qu’il est possible de questionner ces productions pour discuter de la nature de la filiation dans la noblesse, ce qui exige de la penser avec souplesse.
Filiations familiales et spirituelles dans les « Vies » religieuses féminines (France, XVII e siècle)
Authors: Duyck Clément
Published: July 2020

Les personnages des « Vies » religieuses féminines du xvii e  siècle apparaissent tributaires de deux origines, familiale et spirituelle. Examinant la thèse de la continuité providentielle qui ferait de ces Vies, héritières des anciennes hagiographies, des parcours narratifs écrits d’avance (Certeau, Le Brun), cet article montre pour sa part combien la rupture avec le premier type de filiation est constitutive du second. Cette rupture assure en effet dans le récit la bascule d’une existence déduite du passé d’une généalogie familiale vers une existence capable de produire de nouvelles filiations, à travers un héritage spirituel appelé à se refonder pour se transmettre au sein d’une institution religieuse.
Gratuité des transports urbains : mise en perspectives d’une mesure politique
Authors: Transports Urbains
Published: July 2020

Le sujet de la gratuité suscite la controverse, y compris au sein de la rédaction de notre revue. Cette controverse n’est pas d’ordre dogmatique. Elle donne plutôt à penser que la gratuité est loin de convenir à toutes les situations, et que la lecture politique n’est pas celle des différentes parties prenantes du système des transports publics. Nous ouvrons ici une discussion sur cette pluralité d’enjeux, qui tente de refléter nos points de vue dans leur diversité, tout en proposant une lecture, si possible originale et assez synthétique, de cette question.
La gratuité des transports ou le retour du politique dans le pilotage de l’action publique. L’exemple de Dunkerque
Authors: Huré Maxime
Published: July 2020

Cet article tente d’expliquer la montée en puissance mais aussi en crédibilité de la gratuité totale des transports publics, en s’appuyant sur le cas de Dunkerque. Au-delà d’une décision d’autorité organisatrice portant sur la tarification et donc sur la répartition des sources de financement des réseaux, ce cas spécifique se singularise par un projet politique et urbanistique beaucoup plus vaste, intégrant à la fois une restructuration complète du réseau et de nombreux aménagements d’espace public et de voirie destinés à accélérer les autobus et redynamiser le centre-ville. Au-delà de ce cas emblématique, l’auteur s’interroge sur les enjeux en matière de gestion des mobilités et de diffusion d’un nouveau modèle urbain.
Integration of Syrian Refugees in Turkey
Authors: Ates Ozgur
Published: July 2020

The consequences of the Syrian Civil War that started in March 2011 have been tragic and devastating for the Syrian people. Many of them have fled their country and sought asylum in other parts of the world, especially in Turkey. The unofficial figures suggest that there are close to six million Syrian refugees living in Turkey, yet over two million of them are not registered to work under the temporary protection provided by the Turkish government. As a result of this, it is impossible for many refugees to get a legally paid job. Refugees usually work in informal sectors for extremely low wages. This makes refugees vulnerable to exploitation at work and get employed at jobs that locals are reluctant to do. This chapter highlights the case study of two non-profit companies that have been launched by two young Turkish social entrepreneurs in Turkey to create employment opportunities to provide regular and sustainable income to Syrian refugees that public and private sectors have failed to meet and address.
Advancing the Socioeconomic Development and Integration of Migrant Women Through Entrepreneurship Education
Authors: Akaehomen Toluwani
Published: July 2020

The discourse on female migrant entrepreneurship/female migrant entrepreneurs (FME/FMEs) and entrepreneurship education and training (EET) is one which is gradually gaining interest among scholars because of the relevance of these areas to increasing our understanding of entrepreneurship generally and migrant entrepreneurship in particular. Various studies have alluded to the potential positive impact and contributions of FMEs to the development of host countries, as well as the strong link between education, entrepreneurial performance, and economic growth and development. EET plays a significant role in equipping aspiring and nascent FMEs with the relevant skills, knowledge, and competencies, thereby enhancing the quality of entrepreneurs and facilitating entrepreneurial success among this migrant group. Situating within the Irish context, this chapter examines some of the issues associated with FME, the socioeconomic development of FMEs, and how EET can serve as a strategic tool and catalyst for advancing the socio-economic development and integration of migrant women.
Experience Economy Domains in Tourism
Authors: Matos Nelson de , Mendes Julio , Guerreiro Manuela
Published: July 2020

The experience economy captivated the attention of academia and industry managers regarding how to engage and create memorable experiences for customers. The extensive literature developments in recent decades reinforced the need for a timely review of how the main concepts of the experiential marketing construct apply to the tourism industry. This study presents a narrative literature review to provide an overview in an attempt to find common ground, identify potential gaps, and provide suggestions for academia and tourism managers. The chapter provides value by discussing the key topics within marketing and tourism.
A Content Analysis on Child-Friendly Hotels as an Emerging Concept in Tourism Marketing
Authors: Akkan Erdem , Bozyiğit Sezen
Published: July 2020

Children have been an interesting topic in the marketing literature both as consumers and influencers. Some studies claim that children might have an influence for buying decision of household products and services, even if for those which are not directly targeting them. This study is based on web information of 89 hotels, which were categorized as child-friendly on third-party hotel review websites. Through a measurement scale, adapted from similar several studies, the child-friendly characteristics of sample hotels were explored. Measurement scale consists of 35 items and five dimensions. According to the findings, the availability of these dimensions are ranked as (1) entertainment-related services, (2) food and beverage services, (3) room-related services or facilities, (4) other services, and (5) baby-related services in a descending order. It is believed that findings of this study will contribute to related literature and will give practical information to tourism decision-makers.
Requirements and Life Cycle Model-Based Assessment of NPP I&C Systems Cyber Security and Safety
Authors: Kovalenko Andriy , Siora Oleksandr , Andrashov Anton
Published: July 2020

The chapter discusses the importance of assessment of interference degree for various attributes of safety-critical instrumentation and control (I&C) systems and proposes applicable metrics. An approach to analysis of safety-critical I&C systems is presented. Such approach relies on performance of gap analysis and consideration of influence of human, technique, and tool. The approach is applicable to cyber security assessment for various safety-critical I&C systems, including complex instrumentation and control systems and field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA)-based systems.
Cyber Security Assessment of NPP I&C Systems
Authors: Klevtsov Oleksandr , Symonov Artem , Trubchaninov Serhii
Published: July 2020

The chapter is devoted to the issues of cyber security assessment of instrumentation and control systems (I&C systems) of nuclear power plants (NPP). The authors examined the main types of potential cyber threats at the stages of development and operation of NPP I&C systems. Examples of real incidents at various nuclear facilities caused by intentional cyber-attacks or unintentional computer errors during the maintenance of the software of NPP I&C systems are given. The approaches to vulnerabilities assessment of NPP I&C systems are described. The scope and content of the assessment and periodic reassessment of cyber security of NPP I&C systems are considered. An approach of assessment to cyber security risks is described.
Cyber Security Assurance in the Design, Implementation, and Operation of NPP I&C Systems
Authors: Klevtsov Oleksandr , Symonov Artem , Trubchaninov Serhii
Published: July 2020

The chapter is devoted to the consideration of the issues concerning the cyber security assurance of NPP instrumentation and control systems. A brief overview of the international regulatory framework in the field of cyber security for nuclear facilities is given. The different approaches to the categorization of NPP instrumentation and control systems by cyber security are expressed. The basic principles of cyber security assurance of NPP instrumentation and control systems are considered. The specific measures of cyber security assurance (i.e., graded according to the cyber security levels) on the stages of development, implementation, and operation of NPP instrumentation and control systems are presented.
Quality Videos and Integrated Performance Assessments Are Essential in the World Language edTPA
Authors: Swanson Pete , LeLoup Jean W.
Published: July 2020

For more than 60 years, educational reform in the United States of America has been driven by four major questions revolving around teacher attributes, effectiveness, knowledge, and outcomes. Today, outcomes for not only students but also for those who teach them have become a focal point. The purpose of this chapter is to discuss the World Language edTPA—a performance-based, subject-specific assessment for pre-service teachers in 27 content areas that is now in place in 41 states and the District of Columbia. The authors begin by highlighting educational policy and best practices in teaching languages before providing research-based suggestions regarding the development of a high-quality portfolio by focusing on video recording considerations and the use of the integrated performance assessment.
Implementation Imperilment and Imperatives of Integrated eIQA of HEI
Authors: Shawyun Teay
Published: July 2020

Teay expounded the eIQA as key backbone infrastructure for the HEI's quality and accreditation management for stakeholders at all levels in the institution. The eIQA links the PMS-IMS-QMS trilogy as integrated units of the HEIs' performance management. The eIQA implementation illustrates the case study university's QA management from 2016-2019. The poor 2009-2019 national accreditation performance shows the resistance/rejections mindsets/attitudes of the “complicated, costly ever-changing accreditation business case requirements” and not the eIQA platform per say. It demonstrates mainstream literature on eIQA implementation challenges to include the stakeholders' negative “resistance/rejection” mindsets as key obstacles. Better understanding of the “human” psychological-behavioral-beliefs-attitudinal, personified of self-power clique actions, skills/capacities/capabilities, and structural/managerial elements as key deterrents to eIQA implementation as essential research agenda.
Professional Development and Training Needs for Administrators in an Islamic University Malaysia
Authors: Mahyutan Riyadotul Jannah Binti , Yusop Siti Syakirah Binte Muhammad , Masrum Saidah Na'ilah Binti , Amzat Ismail Hussein
Published: July 2020

There have been several studies that have been conducted on employee training and development, both in educational institutions and companies, such as the study conducted by Oktavianus, namely training and development of employees at schools in Indonesia. This study found that in order to help the process of education services, each existing unit must be equipped with competent administrative staff to help teachers and students, even parents for the purpose of the educational service process. Therefore, training and development must be given to these administrative staff so that they can do their jobs properly and correctly. Hence, the purpose of this chapter is to highlight the professional development needs for administrative staff at the Islamic University in Malaysia. Researchers explore the trainings that were provided by the university not only for self-development but also for the benefit of the university to reach its goals.
Knowledge Management in University-Software Industry Collaboration
Authors: Chedid Marcello , Teixeira Leonor
Published: July 2020

The university-software industry collaboration relationship has been represented a key resource, to the extent that together they can more easily promote technological development that underpins innovation solutions. Through a literature review, this chapter aims to explore the concepts and the facilitator or inhibitor factors associated with the collaboration relationships between university and software industry, taking knowledge management into account. This chapter is organized as follows. In the first section, the authors briefly introduce university, software industry, and knowledge management. The following section, based on the literature reviewed, provides a critical discussion of the university-software industry collaboration relationship, knowledge management in knowledge intensive organizations or community, and knowledge management in collaboration relationship between these two types of industries. Finally, in the rest of the sections, the authors point to future research directions and conclude.
Making Sense of Data-Informed Decision Making in Educational Contexts
Authors: Fernandes Venesser
Published: July 2020

Educational change is a constant reality that is faced by school leaders today. These leaders are held more accountable than ever before for decisions being made. This chapter discusses the strengths in the continuous school improvement approach that develops both leadership and organisational capabilities such as collaboration, communication, and organisational trust within schools and school systems as they continue to deal with the ongoing onslaught of change and complexity present today. In these complex, ever-changing school contexts, leaders have to make multiple decisions on a daily basis. This chapter focuses on making sense of ‘how' and ‘why' data-informed decision-making continues its rising ascent and significance in educational leadership contexts within schools today. Through the accurate use of educational data within schools, a number of these decisions, can through collaborative decision-making processes assist school leaders and teachers in delivering better educational opportunities and outcomes for students.
Disruption and Innovation in Global Higher Education as Viewed Through the Lens of Complexity Theory
Authors: Waller Robert E. , Lemoine Pamela A. , Garretson Christopher J. , Richardson Michael D.
Published: July 2020

The focus in 21st century society is knowledge-based: learning is critical, and information will continually become obsolete. The success of global higher education institutions will demonstrate their ability to manage networks of knowledge and to collect, document, and analyze data involving complex systems, thereby exhibiting adaptability and agility with complexity. In addition, technical innovations will alter the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the workplace and society. Yet disruption and innovation are often the menu of the day, creating chaos and disorder. Complexity theory impacts all the critical aspects of global higher education.
Different Shades of Virtual Learning Environments
Authors: Ayoub Arshia , Wani Zahid Ashraf
Published: July 2020

The emergence of the internet has opened a wealth of new, network-based applications, from digital music stores to new venues for scholarly publishing. It has replaced the physical learning environments with virtual ones. The virtual learning environments are utilized for not only imparting informal but formal education as well. A collaborative virtual learning environment is a computer-based, distributed, virtual space or set of places. In such places, people can meet and interact with others, with agents, or with virtual objects. Collaborative virtual learning environment might vary in their representational richness from 3D graphical spaces, 2.5D, and 2D environments to text-based environments. In this milieu, the proposed study shall make an endeavor to time travel and identify various virtual learning systems, services, and tool that are being used and adopted by virtual learners. In addition, the study shall also anticipate the future virtual learning environments based on current trends and future requirements.
Development of Products and Processes Through Technology and Innovative Design Principles
Authors: Félix Maria João , Santos Gilberto
Published: July 2020

In this chapter an approach to the concept of value creation is done, placing some working companies in Portugal and comparing them from the received gains point of view. A goal of this work is to contribute to the new perspective of modernization of Portuguese manufacturing SMEs, evaluating innovation through technology and design and its contribution to the improvement of integrated development of products and manufacturing processes, as well as to demonstrate how design thinking is a useful tool in manufacturing engineering. Many examples of products that used technology and design “made in Portugal” are given, as well as of the way the Portuguese economy is growing in that way, resolving simultaneously the problem of the external deficit and the budget deficit. With these results, it was possible to understand where the Portuguese SMEs, which are mostly manufacturing SMEs, stand towards innovation through technology and design.
Contemporary Visual Identities
Authors: Kreutz Elizete de Azevedo
Published: July 2020

Visual identity is the result of a strategic decision that represents the ideology of an organization, through a set of ways of being and doing that represent a group of individuals in a differentiated way in comparison to other organizations. Seen as a process of representation, it is linked to the socio-historical context and follows the evolution of communication. Based on Thompson's Deep Hermeneutic and the Semantic Basin of Durand, this study presents the evolution of visual identity and the concept of Mutant Visual Identity, both Programmed as well as Poetic. It also presents the Mutant Brand as a contemporary communicational practice that is made up of an aura that must be felt, shared, make sense. It is the emotional nature of the brand.
Rhetorical Resources for Innovation in Communication Through the Design of Brand Marks of Corporate Identity
Authors: Iñurritegui Leire Fernández , Fernández Eduardo Herrera
Published: July 2020

Without a doubt, visual rhetoric constitutes a fundamental paradigm for recognizing resources that can guarantee an innovative and more effective communication in our essentially competitive corporate communicative environment. In this chapter, the authors reflect on graphic design from a linguistic basis to a particular approach to rhetorical principles. This is presented as a paradigm of an innovative creative model in the discursive construction of brands marks of corporate visual identity. In short, this chapter formulates a proposal of rhetorical variants in which graphic designers can find graphic resources and communication strategies that are essential for the creation of innovative messages.
Design as a Source of Innovation to Establish Circular Models
Authors: Espada Ana
Published: July 2020

The relationship between design and actual success of a business has been addressed. But the current move from linear to circular economy is establishing extraordinary parallelism, with design principles. The overall objective of this chapter is to explore when design principles, related to circular-economy concepts become a source of innovation. Design solutions can support the business transition to one which creates monetary and environmental benefits: increasing resource efficiency, maintaining the value of products, materials, and waste. Recycling has been the main strategy for plastics circular economy, but it is controversial since the industry demand is shorter than the recycled amount. Wisepack design was selected to analyse its loop slowing and closing, keeping product and material at their maximum value and functionality. Three scenarios are drafted—recycling, refilling, reuse—in order to urge designers to think about the reusable need several times before disposal, preventing the single-use of plastic.
Hydrogen Gas Production Using Aluminum Waste Cans Powder Produced by Disintegration Method
Authors: Lim Seng Tat , Sethupathi Sumathi , Alsultan Abdulkareem Ghassan , Leong Loong Kong , Taufiq-Yap Yun Hin
Published: July 2020

Fossil fuels dependencies need to be stopped to safeguard the earth from further damage. This study focuses on the production of hydrogen (H2) gas using waste aluminum (Al) cans. Al waste cans were fed into disintegrator to produce fine powder. The hydrolysis performance of disintegrated powdered Al cans were compared with the commercial Al powder. The effect of different reaction temperatures (25 - 100°C); type of alkalis (NaOH, KOH and Ba (OH)2); and type of water sources (tap, deionized, ultrapure and distilled) for the hydrolysis process were analyzed. The Al powders were also characterized using different techniques to understand its behavior. It was found that powdered Al waste cans produced more H2 compared to commercial Al reported in the literature. The higher the reaction temperature, the higher the rate of H2 production. Deionized water maximizes the production of H2 compared to other types of water. Ba (OH)2 was found to be an unproductive alkaline for H2 production using powdered Al waste cans. The successful hydrolysis of powdered Al waste can in alkaline condition in this research has demonstrated as a cost-effective, clean and green alternative hydrogen production method.
Zebrafish phd3 Negatively Regulates Antiviral Responses via Suppression of Irf7 Transactivity Independent of Its Prolyl Hydroxylase Activity
Authors: Yu Guangqing , Li Xiong , Zhou Ziwen , Tang Jinhua , Wang Jing , Liu Xing , Fan Sijia , Ouyang Gang , Xiao Wuhan
Published: July 2020

Prolyl hydroxylase domain (PHD)–containing enzyme 3 belongs to the Caenorhabditis elegans gene egl-9 family of prolyl hydroxylases, which has initially been revealed to hydroxylate hypoxia-inducible factor α (HIF-α) and mediate HIF-α degradation. In addition to modulating its target function by hydroxylation, PHD3 has been also shown to influence its binding partners’ function independent of its prolyl hydroxylase activity. In this study, we report that overexpression of zebrafish phd3 suppresses cellular antiviral response. Moreover, disruption of phd3 in zebrafish increases the survival rate upon spring viremia of carp virus exposure. Further assays indicate that phd3 interacts with irf7 through the C-terminal IRF association domain of irf7 and diminishes K63-linked ubiquitination of irf7. However, the enzymatic activity of phd3 is not required for phd3 to inhibit irf7 transactivity. This study provides novel insights into phd3 function and sheds new light on the regulation of irf7 in retinoic acid–inducible gene I–like receptor signaling.
MACHINE LEARNING PER CARATTERIZZARE GLI ATTACCHI TERRORISTICI
Authors: Figini Silvia
Published: July 2020

For security departments understanding the dynamics of terrorist events finding significant and recurrent patterns can have an important impact in the counter-terrorism strategy development. Machine learning techniques coupled with domain knowledge are useful to understand terrorist behaviours with high accuracy, thus helping policy makers for time-sensitive understanding of terrorist activity, which can enable precautions to avoid against future attacks. In this paper different computational techniques, able to derive relationships among terrorist attacks and detect terrorist behaviours, are used on the Global Terrorism Database. The analysis proposed in this paper could help security and government departments to prevent terrorist attacks and to reduce financial, human and political losses. Furthermore, this information can be useful for law enforcement agencies to propose reactive strategies.
L'ATTUALITÀ DELLE SCELTE ISTITUZIONALI, FINANZIARIE E DI POLITICHE DELLE COMUNITÀ EUROPEE PRIMA DEI TRATTATI DI ROMA
Authors: Ziller Jacques
Published: July 2020

Les traités de Paris instituant la CECA et la CED, ainsi que le projet de statut de la Communauté politique européenne, qui sont antérieurs aux traités de Rome et ne sont pas actuellement en vigueur, constituent la source la plus importante du dispositif institutionnel de l’Union européenne actuelle et méritent donc d’être étudiés à nouveau, y compris en vue de la poursuite de la réforme de l’UE. Il en va de même pour le droit dérivé et les politiques qui en sont issues, principalement la politique industrielle, et la protection des travailleurs et de l’environnement incluses dans le traité CECA. À cet égard, il convient d’accorder une attention particulière aux Mémoires de Jean Monnet.
Evaluation of some organic substrates for the growth and yield of oyster mushroom Pleurotus ostreatus (Jacq.Fr.) Kumm in southeast Nigeria
Authors: Josephat OC , Onyeke CC , Chiejina NV
Published: July 2020

Four organic substrates; Mahogany Sawdust (MSD), Corn Cobs (CC), Oil Palm Fruit Fibre (OPFF) and Rice Bran (RB) were evaluated for their effects on growth and yield of Pleurotus ostreatus (Jacq.Fr.) Kumm. The completely randomized experimental design was adopted for the study with 4 treatments replicated 10 times. Results on mean number of days for spawn run, primordial formation and formation of fruit body were 19.90±0.28(CC)-25.20±0.29(MSD), 45.10±0.28(CC)-47.90±0.23(MSD) and 56.50±0.22(CC)-59.40±0.27(MSD), respectively. Similarly, height of stipe, diameter of stipe and diameter of pileus ranges were 3.28±0.13 (MSD)-3.51±0.06 (RB),1.26±0.06 (OPFF)-1.39±0.05(RB) and 4.08±0.05(CC)-4.70±0.04(OPFF), respectively. Fresh weights (g), dry weights (g) and biological efficiency were 10.20±0.31(OPFF)-11.05±0.14(MSD), 3.18±0.15(CC)-3.38±0.13(RB) and 4.14±0.14 (OPPF)-4.42±0.06(MSD), respectively. Results on mushroom growth showed that CC took the least duration for full mycelial colonization and the longest duration occurred on MSD. There were significant differences (P ≤ 0.05) between the durations required for primordia formation among the four organic substrates. The results on mushroom yield showed that mean fresh weights of harvested mushrooms varied from 10.20±0.31 g on OPFF to 11.05±0.14 g on MSD. There were no significant differences (P ≥ 0.05) in the biological efficiency of mushrooms grown on MSD, CC and OPFF substrates. Considering the growth and yield attributes RB was observed to be the best substrate and could be used for commercial production of P. ostreatus among the various organic substrates used in this study.
A preliminary study on the antimicrobial activities and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis of the ethyl acetate extract of Dennettia tripetala G. Baker seeds
Authors: Babaiwa UF , Eraga SO , Ojugo EO , Erharuyi O , Akerele JO
Published: July 2020

The study investigated the antimicrobial properties and the chemical composition of ethyl acetate extract of Dennettia tripetala (pepper fruit) seeds. Crude extract obtained by maceration of pulverized seeds in ethyl acetate was evaluated for antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella aerogenes, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis, Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger using standard agar-well diffusion method. GC-MS method was used to determine the chemical constituents of the extract. The extract was oily, yellowish-brown with a yield of 1.66 % and had activity against most of the test microorganisms, with inhibition zone diameters ranging between 10 to 25 mm. About 41 chemical constituents were present in the extract with formic acid methyl esters and fatty acids accounting for 57.23 and 18.49 % respectively. Ethyl acetate extract of Dennettia tripetala seeds possessed antimicrobial activity against bacteria but not fungi. The observed activity may be due to the presence of formic and fatty acid esters in the seed. The study further established a scientific proof for the traditional use of Dennettia tripetala seed extracts in treating microbial infections.
Single and Joint Action Toxicity Studies of Trace Elements in Binary Mixtures against Clarias gariepinus and Sarotherodon melanotheron
Authors: Bawa-Allah K.A. , Saliu J.K. , Otitoloju A.A.
Published: July 2020

This study investigated the interactions of essential and non-essential trace elements when present in binary mixtures and resultant effects on acute toxicity in fish. The effects of four essential trace elements; Zn, Ni, Co and Cr respectively on the acute toxicities of three non-essential trace elements; Cd, Hg and Pb against Clarias gariepinus and Sarotherodon melanotheron were assessed using laboratory bioassays. The patterns of interaction of the elements affecting toxicity via antagonistic, synergistic or additive reactions were determined using the Synergistic Ratio (RA) and Concentration Addition (CA) joint action toxicity models. Single action toxicity indices showed that Hg was the most toxic element with a 96hr LC50 value of 0.0004 and 0.0003 mmol/l and Co the least toxic element with a 96hr LC50 value of 0.86 and 1.00 mmol/l, against the two fish species respectively. The SR and CA toxicity models showed that the essential trace elements (Zn, Ni, Cr and Co) reduced the toxicity of Pb against C.gariepinus as indicated by SR and RTU values < 1. Both models also showed that Zn reduced the toxicity of Pb and Hg respectively against S.melanotheron. However, the SR model showed that only Co reduced the toxicity of Cd against C.gariepinus. This study has established the possible beneficial interactions among essential trace elements and hazardous non-essential trace elements. Factors influencing such beneficial interactions including physiological processes in fish species, trace element concentrations and physicochemical parameters of exposure medium should be explored in future studies.Keywords: Essential Trace Elements; Non-essential Trace Elements; Antagonism; Toxicity
Sequence Stratigraphy of Well DX, Gongola Sub-Basin, Upper Benue Trough, Nigeria
Authors: Amiewalan F.O. , Bamigboye E.O.
Published: July 2020

: Biostratigraphic study of Well DX has yielded Cretaceous miospores and dinoflagellates cysts which heightened the recognition of sequence boundaries (SB), Maximum Flooding Surfaces (MFS) and associated Systems Tracts. Five maximum flooding surfaces between 95.6 Ma and 89.0 Ma, four sequence boundaries between 96.4 Ma and 93.0 Ma and threedepositional sequences were identified with varying average thicknesses of sediments interpreted from the gamma ray log and biostratigraphic data. The threedepositional sequences interpreted are -depositional sequence I (96.4 Ma - 95.4 Ma) (8240 ft. - 8120 ft.), depositional sequence II (95.4 Ma - 94.0 Ma) (8120 ft. - 7850 ft.) and depositionalsequence III (94.0 Ma - 93.0 Ma) (7850 ft. - 7550 ft.). All the depositional sequences fall within the third order cycle. The age of the well was attempted based on the presence of some selected marker fossils - Ephedripites spp., Classopollis spp., Spiniferites spp., Cyclonephelium distinctum, Cyclonephelium vannophorum, Subtilisphaera spp., Eucomiidites spp., Triorites africaensis, Odontochitina costata and Droseridites senonicus recovered from the studied intervals and was dated Albian - Santonian. The Sequence stratigraphic interpretations are useful in further deepening the knowledge of thesubsurface geology of the studiedwell in Gongola Sub Basin, Upper Benue Trough of Nigeria.Keywords: Sequence Boundary, Maximum Flooding Surface, System tracts, Depositional sequence
Assessment of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Agricultural Soils of Teskelewu Community and Environs Impacted By Gas Flaring in Delta State, Nigeria
Authors: Enuneku A.A. , Kubeyinje B.
Published: July 2020

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are emerging ubiquitous environmental pollutants with reported carcinogenic, mutagenic and teratogenic potentials on living organisms and humans. The objective of this study was to assess the concentrations of PAHs in agricultural soils of Tsekelewu Community and environs (Egbema Kingdom) in Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria impacted by gas flaring using gas chromatograph system Agilent 5890 Series 11 gas chromatograph equipped with Flame ionization detector (GC-FID). The results revealed that station 1 and 2 were fairly contaminated; with mean total PAH concentration of 236.40 μg/kg and 279.75 μg/kg respectively. Stations 3, 4, 6, 7 and 9 having mean total PAH concentration of 692.45μg/kg, 726.22 μg/kg, 739.82 μg/kg, 609.38 μg/kg, and 772.99 μg/kg were moderately contaminated. Heavy contamination was recorded in station 5 and station 8 with mean PAH concentrations of 1231.08μg/kg and 1224.33 μg/kg. The dominant PAHs in soil samples were benzo(a)anthracene, phananthrene and chrysene with benzo(a)anthracene having the highest concentration across all sample stations. The PAH concentration observed in this study is thus a serious cause for concern since soil contamination from gas flaring will likely continue. Measures that will attenuate PAHs concentrations in soil should be adopted as farmers are likely exposed by largely inhalation.Keywords: Hydrocarbons; Contamination; Agricultural soils; Gas flaring
‘Last seen now’: Explaining teenage identities and social capital on social network sites in Kenya
Authors: Sikolia Geoffrey Serede , Mberia Hellen K.
Published: July 2020

This article sought to address the gap in empirical research related to personal identity and social capital as gratification factors motivating teenage engagement on Social Network Sites (SNSs) in Kenya. We employed a mixed method research design in which Self-administered Questionnaires, Focus Group Discussions and In-depth Interviews were used in data collection. Participants were drawn from a sample of (n = 481) respondents from two sub-counties of Nairobi County. We focused on five popular SNSs namely, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google+, and Pinterest. Findings revealed that personal identity and social capital significantly influenced teenagers’ engagement on SNSs. Specifically, high school teenagers’ engagement on SNSs was motivated by the need to bridge and maintain social capital more than bonding. We conclude that social network sites engagements among teenagers need to be harnessed for positive outcomes. Equally, we recommend positive use of SNSs in behavior change campaigns targeting teenagers.Keywords: Social Network Sites, Personal identity, Social capital, Uses and Gratifications, Teenagers
Use of ICTS for socio-economic development of marginalised communities in rural areas: Proposals for establishment of sectoral Rural Entrepreneurial Networks
Authors: Nyika Geraldine Taponeswa
Published: July 2020

Information, Communication, Technology and Services (ICTS) is increasingly being used in various fields that include agriculture, education, medicine, tourism and business. However, due to challenges caused by the digital divide and other factors, the use of ICTS and its contribution to socio-economic development is generally more intense in developed countries than in developing countries, and also more in urban areas than in rural areas. This article gives an overview of ICTS, the extent of its adoption in different fields, factors that hinder ICTS driven socio-economic development in developing countries and rural areas, and various possible ways of maximizing potential benefits that marginalised communities can derive from the limited ICTS that is accessible to them.

Keywords: ICTS, development, marginalised, rural, networks
Prioritising employee-organisation relationships in non-profit organisations in Kenya: Antecedents, queries and contradictions
Authors: Gitau Julie Gathoni , Chebii Stella Jerop
Published: July 2020

Although employees are the most critical of organisation publics, it is unclear whether employee-organisation relationships (EORs) in non-profit organisations (NPOs) in Kenya are prioritised. To investigate this question further, the study explored relationship antecedents in two non-profit organisations. The study was informed by relationship management theory and the symmetrical communication framework. Semi-structured, indepth interviews were carried out among 24 purposively sampled management and nonmanagement employees. The data was manually analysed and requisite a priori and in vivo codes and themes identified. The study findings suggest a lack of understanding about the strategic role of public relations in the organisation. Further, technician oriented PRdepartments mediate the perceptions of and effort expended on internal relationships. Managing employee-organisation relationships was perceived more as a human resource rather than a PR function which precludes more robust forms of PR practice. The researchers recommend a clear demarcation between the public relations and human resource function and to build strategic PR departments that embrace internal relationship management.

Keywords: Relationship management, employee-organisation relationships, public relations, organisation-public relationships, relationship antecedents
Media Power and Nigeria's Consolidating Democracy
Authors: Jatula Victor
Published: July 2020

In emerging democracies with weak public institutions, low literacy level, deep-seated ethnic rivalry, and history of centralized, authoritarian rule; to what extent does media agenda-setting influence the political process? The press/politics nexus in consolidating democracies is critical to understanding intricate yet overlapping connexion between politics and development in the Third World. This study examined if media-power shape elections and regime outcomes in Nigeria? Using semi-structured interviews (and incorporating News-Game research tool), findings indicate that Nigeria's two-decade-old democracy remains volatile, fragile, and vulnerable. This vulnerability is complicated by long-standing religious, ethno-regional political suspicions; and overburdened with shifting media ecology, particularly social media disinformation and propaganda. These complexities allow a politics of privilege, class, and power that not only ensures its preservation but also insulates the political elite from public outcry and media pressure. In conclusion, evidence indicates that media power exerts limited influence on elections and regime outcomes. The study recommends renewed effort to investigate power.

Keywords: Nigerian politics, agenda-setting, mass media, democracy, underdevelopment
Evaluation of Salmonella isolates obtained from poultry farms in Abia and Imo States for the presence of plasmids
Authors: Nwiyi P , Chah K , Shoyinka S.V.O.
Published: July 2020

This study was conducted to determine whether there exists the presence of plasmid from Salmonella isolated from poultry farms in Abia and Imo states southeast Nigeria. Forty Salmonella isolates were used for the study. The alkaline phosphate method of Birnboin and Doly was employed. Three buffers A, B and C made up of different concentrations and volumes with adjusted pH were used. A (400 mM Tris, 200 mM Na Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid), B (3 M Na, acatic acid) and C (10 mM Tris, 2 M Na Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid). The test organisms sub-cultured on MacConkey agar (MCA) were processed at various centrifugation rates and time. The suspected pure plasmid deoxyribonucleic acid was mixed with ethidium bromide and loading dye using agarose gel. The set up was viewed under ultraviolet transillumination with gel documentation apparatus. Plasmid cure was conducted with ten multidrug resistant Salmonella isolates. Danifor Biotechnology method was used for the plasmid curing experiment. Three curing agents, sodium deodecyl sulphate curing agents (100), sodium deodecyl sulphate (10 g or 10%) and nutrient broth (100 ml) were used. Plasmid DNA was detected from the Salmonella isolates evidenced with bands at 100 bp. There was plasmid cure as supported by the zones of inhibition by some of the antibiotics when compared with the original isolates.Keywords: Cure, DNA, multidrug resistant isolates, plasmid, Salmonella
In vitro comparative activity of ciprofloxacin and enrofloxacin against clinical isolates from chickens in Benue State, Nigeria
Authors: Asambe A , Babashani M , Salisu U.S.
Published: July 2020

This study compares the in vitro activities of enrofloxacin and its main metabolite ciprofloxacin against clinical Escherichia coli and non-lactose fermenting enterobacteria isolates from chickens. Ten (10) Escherichia coli and 8 non lactose fermenting enterobacteriaceae species isolated from a pool of clinical cases at the Microbiology Laboratory of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Agriculture Makurdi were used in this study. Ten-fold serial dilution of 10 varying concentrations (0.1-50μg/mL) of enrofloxacin and ciprofloxacin were tested against the isolates in vitro by Bauer’s disc-diffusion method to determine and compare their antimicrobial activities against the isolates. The 18 isolates tested were susceptible to both enrofloxacin and ciprofloxacin, and their mean values in the susceptibility of Escherichia coli and non-lactose fermenters were significantly different (p < 0.01). The study concluded that the clinical isolates are susceptible to both enrofloxacin and ciprofloxacin though ciprofloxacin exhibit higher activity. Comparatively, ciprofloxacin was found to be more potent than enrofloxacin and the difference statistically significant. Ciprofloxacin was recommended as a better choice in the treatment of bacterial infections of chicken in this area compared to enrofloxacin. It was also recommended that proper steps should be taken in the administration of antimicrobials so as to reduce the incidences of bacterial resistance.Keywords:  Escherichia coli, Non-lactose fermenter, Antimicrobials, Ciprofloxacin. Enrofloxacin, Chicken
Risk factors and knowledge of Brucella infection in camels, attitudes and practices of camel handlers in Katsina State, Nigeria
Authors: Salisu U.S. , Kudi C.A. , Bale J.O.O. , Babashani M , Kaltungo B.Y. , Baba A.Y. , Yusuf M.S. , Jamilu Y.R.
Published: July 2020

The study was conducted to determine the risk factors to brucellosis in one-humped (Dromedary) camels and to determine the knowledge, attitudes and practices of camel handlers to Brucellosis in Katsina State, Nigeria. Camels in herds and those brought to the abattoir for slaughter in the north and central senatorial districts of Katsina State were sampled for the study. Structured questionnaires were administered to determine knowledge, attitude and practices of camel handlers to camel brucellosis in Katsina state, Nigeria Modified Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT) and Serum Agglutination Test (SAT) with EDTA were used as screening and standard tests respectively. Out of a total of 980 camel sera tested, 11.2% and 10.5% were positive with RBPT and SAT, respectively. Female had OD 1.758 (95% CI = 1.157 – 2.669, p = 0.008) more chances of getting infected than males camels. There was statistical significant association (ᵡ2= 7.189, p = 0.007) observed in the prevalence rates in favour of females. It was also observed that camels of age group 16-20 years showed highest prevalence to brucellosis. There was statistical significant association (ᵡ2 = 13.602, p = 0.009) observed in the prevalence rates according to age. It was determined that there is very poor knowledge of camel brucellosis amongst stakeholders as a result they had a "lassez faire" attitude towards the disease and no practices towards prevention of infection either to them or their animals. There is the need to carry out awareness campaigns to enlighten camel owners, herdsmen, abattoir staff about the dangers of poor hygiene during meat and milk processing, the importance of use of protective clothing when carrying out these operations and the dangers of zoonotic diseases and the dangers of consumption of unpasteurized camel milk and milk products, the public health significance of the brucellosis and that there is the need to develop a strategic plan to decrease spread of brucellosis in the study area.Keywords: Brucella, Seroprevalence, Camels, KAP, Risk Factors
Notes on the Rüppell`s Vulture Gyps rueppelli colony at Hell’s Gate NP, Kenya
Authors: Camiña Alvaro
Published: July 2020

No Abstract.