bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does amount of cut vegetal residue on the canopy influence growth and the structural characteristics of marandu palisadegrass?
Authors: Gabriella Fernandes Silva  , Weisler Borges Fernandes  , Gabriel de Oliveira Rocha  , Flávia de Oliveira Scarpino van Cleef  , Bruno Humberto Rezende Carvalho  , Santos Manoel Eduardo Rozalino
Published: April 2022

The pasture mowing in late winter removes the old forage, improving the pasture structure in spring and summer. However, the residue after mowing can affect tillering, thus limiting forage production and the structural characteristics of pasture. We hypothesized that the high amount of cut vegetal residues on the plants in late winter causes a decrease in forage production and modifies the structural characteristics of the forage canopy during the spring and summer. The treatments were four cut vegetal residues (0; 2,000; 4,000 and 8,000 t ha-1 of natural material) deposited on Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu canopy in late winter. After that, the forage production and structure characteristics were evaluated during the spring and summer for two years. The complete randomized block design, with four replications, was used. The defoliation management was characterized by the adoption of pre- and post-cut heights of 25 and 15 cm, respectively. For both years, there was no effect of cut vegetal residue on all the characteristics evaluated. No variable was affected by the interaction cut vegetal residue amount × year of evaluation. The dead leaf blade percentage was greater in year 2 (6.9%) than in year 1 (3.5%). The average values of variables were live leaf blade percentage = 84.2%; live stem percentage = 8.7%; dead stem percentage = 1.9%; number of vegetative tiller = 653 tiller/m2; number of reproductive tiller = 5 tiller m-2. The forage production rate presented an average value of 46 kg/ha/day of dry matter. The cut vegetal residue amount of up to 8,000 t/ha of natural material on the plants in late winter does not affect the forage production or modifies the structural characteristics of marandu palisadegrass during the subsequent spring and summer.
Biophysical characteristics of soybean estimated by remote sensing associated with artificial intelligence
Authors: Morlin Carneiro Franciele , Freire de Oliveira Mailson , Luns Hatum de Almeida Samira , Lopes de Brito Filho Armando , Angeli Furlani Carlos Eduardo , De Souza Rolim Glauco , Ferraudo Antonio Sergio , Pereira da Silva Rouverson
Published: April 2022

The biophysical characteristics of vegetative canopies, such as biomass, height, and canopy diameter, are of paramount importance for the study of the development and productive behavior of crops. Faced with a scarcity of studies aimed at estimating these parameters, the objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of artificial neural networks (ANNs) applied to Proximal Remote Sensing (PRS) to estimate biophysical characteristics of soybean culture. The data used to train and validate the ANNs came from an experiment composed of 65 plots with 30 x 30 m mesh, its development was carried out in the 2016/2017 crop in the Brazilian agricultural area. The evaluations were carried out at 30, 45, 60, and 75 days after sowing (DAS), monitoring the spatial and temporal variability of the biophysical characteristics of the soybean crop. Vegetation indexes were collected using canopy sensors. The accuracy and precision were determined by the coefficient of determination (R2) and the error of the forecasts by MAPE (Mean Absolute Percentage Error). PRS and ANNs showed high potential for application in agriculture, since they obtained good performance in the estimation of height (R2 = 0.89) and canopy diameter (R2 = 0.96), being fresh biomass (R2 =0.98) and dry biomass (R2 = 0.97) were the best-estimated variables.
construção do conhecimento agroecológico na chapada do Araripe
Authors: Lermen Vilmar Luiz , Freitas Hélder Ribeiro , Silva Alineaurea Florentino
Published: April 2022

O presente relato descreve a experiência de uma família agricultora de base ecológica e sua organização, abordando três esferas (produtiva, tecnológica e social) de seu processo na transição agroecológica da área cultivada, que permitiram a construção e fortalecimento do sistema produtivo contextualizado e a conservação dos recursos naturais na Chapada do Araripe, Semiárido pernambucano. O relato inclui o início das intervenções e desafios encontrados, os avanços e os meios que trouxeram mudança, com inserção das tecnologias sociais e a setorização das áreas e atividades de base ecológica adotadas na propriedade, além da inserção social da família por meio do associativismo rural e participação em fóruns e coletivos que discutem políticas públicas para região nas esferas econômica, política, ambiental e social.
Calculation of an Indicator for Early Death Using Atomic Bomb Survivors’ Data
Authors: Sasaki Michiya , Fujimichi Yuki , Yoshida Kazuo , Iwasaki Toshiyasu
Published: April 2022

Background: A comprehensive, traceable, and easy-to-understand radiation risk indicator is desired for radiological protection. The early-onset hypothesis could be used for this purpose.Materials and Methods: An indicator for early death (IED) was developed and calculated using the epidemiological dataset from the 14th Report of the Life Span Study (LSS) of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. By clarifying the calculation process, IED for all-cause mortality was estimated. In addition, the characteristics of IED for solid cancer mortality and cardiovascular mortality as well as those of men and women, and their dependence on age at exposure were investigated for detailed analysis.Results and Discussion: The IED for all-cause mortality was estimated to be approximately 4 years for an acute radiation exposure of 1 Gy regardless of the fitting dose range. The cumulative death rate for all solid cancers also indicated the early-death tendency (approximately 7–10 years at 1 Gy). Although, there is a slight difference in the characteristics of the risk obtained from the LSS study and this study, it is considered that the IED in a unit of years can also be used to show the overall picture of risk due to radiation exposure.Conclusion: We developed and calculated the indicator for early death, IED, for the cumulative mortality rate of all causes of death, all solid cancers, and circulatory diseases. The quantitative values of IED were estimated to be 4 years for all causes of death, 7–10 years for all solid cancers. IED has an advantage for intuitively understanding the meaning of radiation risk since it can be obtained by a simple and traceable method.
Social Embeddedness of Human Smuggling in East Africa: Brokering Ethiopian Migration to Sudan
Authors: Ayalew Tekalign , Adugna Fekadu ,   Addis Ababa University, Deshingkar Priya ,   University of Sussex
Published: April 2022

This article discusses the migration processes and brokering practices that link Ethiopia and Sudan by taking into account the social, economic, political and cultural underpinnings of human smuggling in the region. The analysis is based on three months of fieldwork using a conventional qualitative research methodology. Respondents were selected from actors such as smugglers, migrants and government personnel involved in the migration process, facilitation and control activities. Since the 1990s, significant irregular overland labour migration has emerged from Ethiopian towns and villages to Khartoum, Sudan via the border towns of Metema on the Ethiopian side and Galabat on the Sudanese side. However, how various actors engage in shaping this migration process and how human smuggling sustains despite increasing control efforts by the state is less understood.
Evaluating System Efficiencies and Service Delivery of Immigrant Population in South Africa and United States
Authors:   University of the Western Cape, Dinbabo Mulugeta F , Ile Isioma ,   University of the Western Cape, Majee Wilson ,   University of Missouri, Belebema Michael ,   University of the Western Cape, Boadu Evans ,   University of the Western Cape
Published: April 2022

Recently, global issues on the migration and development discourse have reemerged and the literature has been expanding rapidly. However, most of the research has not taken into account the connection between the migration development nexus in the context of social service delivery. In general, discussions and systematic reflections on the international comparison between South Africa and United States is completely absent or rarely found in the academic debates. Both countries were selected as sites for this study given the high migrant populations. Using a quantitative research methodology this study assessed and evaluated the system efficiencies and service delivery of immigrant population in South Africa and United States of America. Structured questionnaires were administered to selected African immigrants in the two case study areas (Cape Town, South Africa and Columbia, Missouri). The surveys provided data for a range of indicators that helped in evaluating the system efficiencies and service delivery of immigrant population.
Understanding Relationships and Remittance Flow During the Migration Period: Strength of Social Ties as a Factor Determining Remittance Behaviour
Authors:   University of KwaZulu-Natal, Mukwembi Thebeth, R , Maharaj Pranitha ,   University of KwaZulu-Natal
Published: April 2022

Remittances transferred between migrants and non-migrants play a major role in alleviating poverty and improving social and economic well-being in many developing countries. Although remittances are regarded as an outcome of migration with far reaching effects as a livelihood strategy, not all non-migrants with migrant family members are recipients of remittances. Remittances are not transferred to all non-migrant family members in the country of origin. Migrants identify particular individuals as recipients of remittances, which they send to their home countries during the migration period. Therefore, it is important to understand the determinants of remittance flow and remittance behaviour during the migration period. This study explores relationships between migrants and non-migrants and how such relations influence the flow of remittances during the migration period. A qualitative approach was employed in which 60 interviews were conducted (30 with Zimbabwean migrants in Durban and 30 with their respective family members in Zimbabwe). The study found that the strength of social ties between migrants and non-migrants plays a major role in determining remittance flows.
Social Media and Xenophobic Solidarity in Post-colonial Africa
Authors:   University of South Africa, Odok Godwin Etta
Published: April 2022

In recent times, there is a resurgence of aggressive consciousness by citizens of most African countries, firmly fashioned and sustained through social media. Social media in this way effectively play roles of mobilizing and (re)constructing national identities and solidarities in ways that citizens regularly enter into violent confrontations with foreign nationals, often stereotyped as threats to the prosperity of citizens. In some African countries, executive orders have been given by heads of government that saw the vicious expulsion of millions of foreign nationals. With the advent of distance-and time-shrinking information and communication technologies, social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and WhatsApp are relied upon in rousing support for national interests and in-group solidarity. Through a systematic review of national immigration policies and content analysis of Facebook newsfeeds in selected countries of East/Central, West and Southern Africa (Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Nigeria, Somalia, Ghana, Uganda, and South Africa), this paper examines how social media strengthen in-group solidarities with the attendant consequences of loss of lives, properties, and inter-state diplomatic relations in postcolonial Africa. The paper concludes that while encouraging freedom of expression within the continent, social media also bolster freedom to hate as both citizens and foreign nationals become more distrustful of one another, thereby exacerbating competition, rivalry and xenophobia. As citizens exercise their right to voice their opinions, they also actively dehumanize foreign nationals. The paper recommends that kin and friendship networks should become the sphere within which interventions for antixenophobia campaigns occur in post-colonial Africa, as these hold the social capital to bridge the divide between citizens and foreign nationals in attempts to achieve peaceful co-existence.
In Pursuit of Being and Belonging: Migrant Associations and the Integration of Nigerian Migrant Entrepreneurs in Harare
Authors:   University of Zimbabwe, Hamish Mushonga Rufaro , Vupenyu Dzingirai ,   University of Zimbabwe
Published: April 2022

The main thrust of this article is to analyze how a migrant association, particularly the Nigerian Community in Zimbabwe (NCZ), facilitates being, belonging and integration of migrants in the host society. Grounded on ethnography as a method of inquiry and transactional theory as an analytical framework, the article attempts to answer two questions: i) how does the association help to bond and enrich the lives of migrants; and ii) how does the association facilitate the bridging of social connections with the other with the ultimate goal of burying differences, which in essence helps them to continue staying and accumulating in the diaspora. The article illustrates how the association facilitates newcomers integration, through a range of activities, purportedly, to enrich the lives of migrants in strange downtown environs. As increased contact with the indigenes ensues, the article also shows that the association shifts focus and starts to lessen the social differences between us and them through various activities. The article concludes that migrant associations act as a buffer for migrants as well as a bridging mediator vis-Ã -vis the host society. With these observations, the article recommends that there is a need for nation-states to leverage on migrant associations for effective migration management as their roles need to be incorporated into migration policies. Additionally, establishing a line of communication with migrant associations is vital. Migrant associations and the nation-state need to find more spaces of communication and interaction to bridge the divide that separates us and them.
Determinants of Healthy Aging in Internally Displaced Communities in Nigeria
Authors:   Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget, Makanju Adebayo O.M , Khan Hafiz T.A ,   University of West London
Published: April 2022

The main objective of this research article, is to assess the effect of socio-economic and environmental determinants on the healthy aging status amongst internally displaced migrants and non-migrants nestled within the environmentally stressed regions of Northeastern Nigeria. Methodologically the study utilized secondary data from the Nigerian IDP Survey 2018 (Location-Northeastern States; n-1293 adults aged 50; male n-63.1%, female n-36.9%) using a multi-stage stratified random sample. Varied statistical techniques such as cross-tabulation and binary logistic regression were used to analyze the dataset. The study results show a high mean prevalence of old-age disability within the study area, irrespective of migration status in Northeastern Nigeria. Secondly, socio-economic and environmental determinants were robust predictors of later-life health outcomes. In addition, the regression revealed that concomitant factors such as age, gender and sanitation have a negative effect on older adult wellness and well-being. Meanwhile, the migration status of internally displaced persons (IDPs), although in most cases forced, significantly improves the odds of aging healthily. Conclusively, the quality of life of the older adults, irrespective of migration status, is poorly impacted by diminishing familial supports, social exclusion, non-existent social security program and non-existence of healthcare infrastructure. Based on the study results, we recommend that the proposed Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Sahelian Green belt afforestation project targeted, especially to areas around the Chad basin be fully implemented, as this project will help mediate the perennial conflicts between the herdsmen and farming communities.
Anatomía de la madera y el carbón de Anadenanthera colubrina var. colubrina (Leguminosae, Caesalpinioideae)
Authors: Protti Cosenza Luciano , Moya Eliana , Franco M. Jimena , Brea Mariana , Prado Darién
Published: April 2022

The aim of this paper was to carry out an anatomical description of the secondary xylem and charcoal of Anadenanthera colubrina var. colubrina (Leguminosae: Caesalpinioideae). This taxon mainly inhabits seasonally dry forests and it is a tree that has been part of the economic, medicinal, and spiritual development in South America. The samples were collected in Parque Urquiza, Paraná, Entre Ríos, Argentina. The wood was sectioned using a manual rotary microtome and the charcoals were obtained using a muffle at 400 °C for 40 minutes. A detailed description of the wood and charcoal of Anadenanthera colubrina var. colubrina, based on light microscopic and scanning electron microscopic observation, is presented. The results indicate the following diagnostic features: growth rings slightly distinct, diffuse-porous wood; mostly solitary vessels, rare in radial multiples of 2-4 elements and in clusters, simple perforation plates, intervessel pits alternate and vestured; axial parenchyma paratracheal, vasicentric and confluent, prismatic crystals in chambered axial parenchyma cells, rays 1-4 seriate, homocellular composed exclusively of procumbent cells. These detailed descriptions will facilitate the identification of Anadenanthera colubrina in archaeological and paleontological contexts.
The Effect of Wood Tar and Molasses Composition on Calorific Value and Compressive Strength in Bio-coke Briquetting
Authors: Yustanti Erlina , Muharman Abrar , Mursito Anggoro Tri
Published: April 2022

Biomass-based materials have the potential to replace conventional cokes for blast furnaces in the steel manufacturing study. Biomass as a renewable energy source can reduce the consumption of coking coal. The current challenge is saving fossil energy and waste management. The steelmaking industry with environmentally friendly processes and high energy efficiency is expected today. Many researchers have partially developed biomass as an alternative renewable resource to replace fossil fuels. This study aimed to determine the effect of composition the blending ratio of wood tar and molasses as a binder on the calorific value and compressive strength of bio-coke. The carbonization of redwood waste to produce high-quality charcoal was carried out at 500 °C with a kiln rotation speed of 20 rpm and a slope of 5°. The resulting charcoal showed a promising result with a 23.87 MJ/kg calorific value. The carbonization process of the redwood increased the fixed carbon value by up to 130% and the calorific value by 40%. The second part of this study focuses on bio-coke production by blending coking coal with redwood charcoal at 90:10 wt%. The coking coal and the redwood charcoal particle sizes were 40 and 50 mesh, respectively. A 15 wt% binder was added to increase the compressive strength of the bio-coke. The binder composition ratios of molasses: wood tar were 15:0, (12.5:2.5), and 10:5 wt%. The briquette was pressed using a cylinder die with a height: diameter ratio of 2.7:5.0 cm, then compacted up to 20 MPa followed by heating at 1100 °C for four hours. The bio-coke with a binder composition of 2.5 wt% wood tar + 12.5 wt% molasses produced a compressive strength of up to 5.57 MPa with a sulfur content of 0.8 wt% and produced a calorific value of 31.25 MJ/kg with an ash content of 9.6%. The study showed that the bio-coke produced meets some requirements for steelmaking industry.
Planning and Risk Analysis in Projects of Procurement of Agricultural Raw Materials for the Production of Environmentally Friendly Fuel
Authors: Tryhuba Anatoliy , Komarnitskyi Serhii , Tryhuba Inna , Hutsol Taras , Yermakov Serhii , Muzychenko Andrii , Muzychenko Tetiana , Horetska Iryna
Published: April 2022

The purpose of the research is to substantiate the method of planning the need for technical equipment of corn waste collection projects for the production of environmentally friendly fuel, which is based on simulation of work taking into account the changing design environment.  During the research, the methods of simulation modeling of corn waste collection projects for the production of environmentally friendly fuel were used. The methods of probability theory and mathematical statistics were used, which provided the substantiation of models of natural-climatic and production conditions of corn waste collection projects for the production of environmentally friendly fuel.  As a result of the conducted research the method and statistical simulation model of planning  the need for  technical equipment of projects on collecting the waste of corn for production of environmentally friendly fuel has been  developed. They provided an assessment of the timely implementation of work in selected fields, taking into account the changing design environment, which leads to the risk of the specific cost of corn waste disposal.  A simulated model for the collection of maize waste available for disposal, provided that the balance of organic carbon in the fields is maintained, and tested for adequacy according to the Mann-Whitney test. Based on the use of the developed simulation model, the indicators of the use of technical equipment and the trend of changing the risk of the specific cost of disposal of corn waste are substantiated. Rational scenarios for the implementation of projects for which there are no risks for a given project environment are identified.
Impact of Photovoltaic Panel Orientation and Elevation Operating Temperature on Solar Photovoltaic System Performance
Authors: Ebhota Williams S. , Tabakov Pavel Y
Published: April 2022

This study conducts optimum tilt angle and orientation of a standalone c-Si monocrystalline solar photovoltaic (PV) system deploying PVsyst software. The site of the hypothesized solar PV system is at 9, Mountain Rise, Berea, Durban, South Africa. This work presents values of tilt and azimuth angles and battery operating temperature that support optimal solar PV system performance. The range of angles considered for tilt and azimuth for a fixed PV panel mounting is 0° to 90° and -100° to 100°, respectively. Based on the report obtained from PVsyst design and simulation software, this study finds that: the highest available energy, specific energy, used energy, solar fraction, and lowest loss were recorded at tilt 40° and Azimuth 0°. Further, the longest battery service life was attained at an operating temperature between -2 °C to 20 °C. Hence, 40° and 0° are the optimum tilt and Azimuth angles, respectively while running the storage system at a temperature, not more than 20 °C.
Authentication and quality control of Uapaca heudelotii Baill. - An investigation of pharmacognostic, phytochemical and physicochemical properties of its leaves and stem bark
Authors: Asante-Kwatia Evelyn , Gyimah Lord , Mensah Abraham Yeboah , Sarpong Kwame , Obeng Ama Kusiwah
Published: April 2022

Uapaca heudelotii Baill. is well known in various African cultures for its application in the treatment of infections and inflammatory conditions. This study was focused on providing standard identification parameters for authentication and quality assurance of U. heudelotii through morphological observations, screening of phytochemical constituents, fluorescence, spectroscopic and physicochemical analysis. U. heudelotii leaves are simple, elliptic and arranged in whorls. The bark is greyish-brown with longitudinal striations on the outer surface and pale red on the inner surface. Leaf lamina microscopy displayed anticlinal polygonal straight-walled epidermal cells, with anisocytic stomata found only on the abaxial surface. Leaf surface constants were determined. Microscopy of powdered leaves and barks revealed the presence of epidermal cells, starch grains, calcium oxalate, sclereids and pitted vessels. Alkaloids, flavonoids, coumarins, saponins, triterpenoids, phytosterols and tannins were identified in both stem bark and leaves. The total phenolic content for the leaf and bark were 219.2 ± 10.013 and 153.9 ± 1.602 mg/g gallic acid equivalent respectively. The total ?avonoid contents were recorded as 1036 ± 33.37 and 310.2 ± 79.00 mg/g quercetin equivalent for the leaf and bark respectively. The total ash for the leaf and bark was 6.41 ± 0.208 and 5.01 ±0.258 respectively. The pH values for the aqueous and alcoholic extracts were slightly acidic (3-5). In elemental analysis, lead (Pb) was detected within the acceptable limit (0.0019-0.0025 mg/kg). In conclusion, the current results have provided standard parameters for the correct identification and quality assessment of U. heudelotii.
The role of activation of two different sGC binding sites by NO‐dependent and NO‐independent mechanisms in the regulation of SACs in rat ventricular cardiomyocytes
Authors: Kamkin Andre G. , Kamkina Olga V. , Shim Andrey L. , Bilichenko Andrey , Mitrokhin Vadim M. , Kazansky Viktor E. , Filatova Tatiana S. , Abramochkin Denis V. , Mladenov Mitko I.
Published: April 2022

The mechanoelectrical feedback (MEF) mechanism in the heart that plays a significant role in the occurrence of arrhythmias, involves cation flux through cation nonselective stretch‐activated channels (SACs). It is well known that nitric oxide (NO) can act as a regulator of MEF. Here we addressed the possibility of SAC’s regulation along NO‐dependent and NO‐independent pathways, as well as the possibility of S‐nitrosylation of SACs. In freshly isolated rat ventricular cardiomyocytes, using the patch‐clamp method in whole‐cell configuration, inward nonselective stretch‐activated cation current ISAC was recorded through SACs, which occurs during dosed cell stretching. NO donor SNAP, α1‐subunit of sGC activator BAY41‐2272, sGC blocker ODQ, PKG blocker KT5823, PKG activator 8Br‐cGMP, and S‐nitrosylation blocker ascorbic acid, were employed. We concluded that the physiological concentration of NO in the cell is a necessary condition for the functioning of SACs. An increase in NO due to SNAP in an unstretched cell causes the appearance of a Gd3+‐sensitive nonselective cation current, an analog of ISAC, while in a stretched cell it eliminates ISAC. The NO‐independent pathway of sGC activation of α subunit, triggered by BAY41‐2272, is also important for the regulation of SACs. Since S‐nitrosylation inhibitor completely abolishes ISAC, this mechanism occurs. The application of BAY41‐2272 cannot induce ISAC in a nonstretched cell; however, the addition of SNAP on its background activates SACs, rather due to S‐nitrosylation.

ODQ eliminates ISAC, but SNAP added on the background of stretch increases ISAC in addition to ODQ. This may be a result of the lack of NO as a result of inhibition of NOS by metabolically modified ODQ. KT5823 reduces PKG activity and reduces SACs phosphorylation, leading to an increase in ISAC. 8Br‐cGMP reduces ISAC by activating PKG and its phosphorylation. These results demonstrate a significant contribution of S‐nitrosylation to the regulation of SACs.
Study of changes in concrete durability during the operation of buildings
Authors: Udodov Sergey , Gura Dmitry , Charikov Grigoriy
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this study is to select the best methodologies for determining the condition of concrete structures. Semi-destructive concrete exposure methods were used to determine resistance parameters: the impact echo test to determine internal structure, the Figg test for air permeability, the initial surface adsorption test for water adsorption, titrimetric for chloride amounts, and a chemical and physical method to determine carbonation levels. In addition, two situations were simulated: a fire and a pipe burst and their impact on the condition of reinforced concrete structures. It was shown that the exposure to temperatures decreases the level of acidity, resulting in increased corrosion of steel. During a pipe burst, the amount of chlo-rides increases, which affects the reinforcement, oxidizing it. A search for possible correlation between concrete structure and carbonation, air permeability and water adsorption was also carried out. It was found that there is an almost linear dependence of these parameters on the presence of cracks, the deterioration of the structure leads to an increase in the transport properties of concrete, which becomes a danger to steel.
Hella Bars: The Cultural Inclusion of Black Women’s Rap in Insecure
Authors: Johnson Adeerya
Published: April 2022

The musical supervision of HBO’s insecure sonically maps various representations of Black women’s connections to hip-hop music as a site of autonomy, agency, and authenticity. Importantly, the variety of Black female rappers who are featured in seasons 1–3 of insecure connects nuanced and contemporary representations of Black millennial women’s understanding of Black womanhood, sex, friendship, love, and relationships. I argue that the influence of Issa Rae’s perception and connections to hip-hop and the placement of songs in insecure supports a soundtrack that takes on a hip-hop feminist approach to Black popular culture. I explore contemporary female hip-hop artist as an emerging group of rappers who support nuanced narratives and identities of Black millennial women. Furthermore, this article highlights the connectedness of Black popular culture and hip-hop feminism as an important site of representation for Black women who use hip-hop as a signifier to culture, self-expression, and identity. I recognize the importance of insecure’s soundtrack and usage of Black women in hip-hop to underline the ways hip-hop sits at the intersections of race, sexuality, and gender for Black women’s everyday lives.
Trapped in the ‘Web’: Challenges of Grade 9 Pupils in Choosing a Course to Pursue in Senior High Schools in Ghana
Authors: Addadey Justine Abla , Quansah Frank , Nugba Regina Mawusi , Ankoma-Sey Vera Rosemary
Published: April 2022

Grade 9 pupils’ choice of a course to pursue in senior high school in Ghana is a decision made at a young age usually below 16 years. Therefore, these young pupils rely on other persons for help when making such a decision. Previous research found that instead of assisting, these social agents rather interfere with this decision-making process. This study explored the challenges grade 9 pupils face in choosing courses in their transition to senior high school by seeking the views of the pupils and their teachers/counsellors using a questionnaire and interview guide. The findings showed that fathers, mothers, siblings, finances and orientation at home were the major obstacles the pupils faced when selecting a course to pursue. Other challenges found in the school setting included teacher interferences and peer distractions. The study concluded that grade 9 pupils have a great challenge from their social milieu when choosing a course to pursue at the senior high school level. The study recommended that school counsellors/heads should educate parents, guardians and teachers on how to guide pupils in choosing a course to pursue at the SHS level.
Phonotactic conditions and morphotactic transparency in Mirandese word formation
Authors: Soares Rodrigues Alexandra
Published: April 2022

This paper first describes the prefixation and circumfixation processes of Mirandese word formation and determines the general conditions of phonotactic correspondence between Portuguese and Mirandese. It then analyses the permeability of Mirandese to Portuguese in word formation, specifically concerning these affixation processes, and goes on to identify the specific phonological conditions that concern the allomorphy of each affix while quantifying their morphotactic transparency. Using Natural Morphology as a framework, data from this analysis demonstrate a relationship between morphotactic transparency and the actualisation of either specific allomorphic conditions or the general conditions of phonotactic correspondence.
On the absolute convergence of orthogonal series
Authors: Gogoladze Larry
Published: April 2022

The paper deals with the convergence of the series

∑

k
=
1

∞

|

c
k

⁢

(
f
)

|

r

⁢

γ
k

,
r

∈

(
0
,
2
)

,

\sum_{k=1}^{\infty}|c_{k}(f)|^{r}\gamma_{k},\quad r\in(0,2),

where

c
k

⁢

(
f
)

{c_{k}(f)}

are the Fourier coefficients of the function

f
∈

L
2

⁢

(

[
0
,
1
]

)

{f\in L_{2}([0,1])}

with respect to the general orthonormal system, and

(

γ
k

)

{(\gamma_{k})}

is the non-negative sequence of numbers satisfying sufficiently general conditions.
From the obtained results there follow the theorems of S. B. Stečkin, A. A. Konyuškov, B. I. Golubov, R. A. DeVore and V. N. Temlyakov.
Emotional information transmission of color in image oil painting
Authors: Tian Weifei
Published: April 2022

To enhance the emotional communication of image oil painting art and better analyze the image oil painting art, this article puts forward the research on color emotional information communication in image oil painting art. First, starting from the artistic characteristics of color and its embodiment in various oil painting art forms, this article expounds the relationship and the significance between color language and emotional expression. Then, it summarizes the development of color in image oil painting from a macro perspective and analyzes the emotional expression of color in oil painting. Finally, it discusses the color law of the oil painting art and analyzes the emotional expression of the oil painting art from two aspects: image and artistic conception. The research shows that the design method can better convey emotion and make it easier for people to understand the connotation of image oil paintings.
Preferred Characteristics of Medical Library Directors: An Analytical Network Process Modeling for Selection of Recruitment Criteria in Academic Institutions
Authors: Esmaeili Samira , Nemati-Anaraki Leila , Asadi Saeid , Mohamadzadeh Shirin
Published: April 2022

The present study aimed to rank the factors affecting the appointment of health library at central libraries of Iranian universities of medical sciences through employing the analytic network process. The statistical population of this applied study comprised the research directors and deputies as well as managers and assistants of central libraries of three universities of medical sciences of whom 12 were selected through the census method. Data were collected via a researcher-made questionnaire and analyzed using the decision-making techniques of ANP in Super Decisions 2.0.8. Results revealed that among criteria related to occupational factors, honesty and integrity obtained a higher rank. Out of the criteria related to organizational factors, familiarity with organizational technology and perception of objectives and strategies were two high-ranked criteria. Finally, from the criteria related to environmental factors, familiarity with the customer was ranked top, while familiarity with economic factors was ranked as the least important determinant. This study was aimed at offering a framework for step-by-step ranking of major criteria in the selection and recruitment of library directors in libraries for health professions education/academic health sciences libraries.
Crystal structure of 6-bromo-2-(4-chlorophenyl)chroman-4-one (6-bromo-4′-chloroflavanone), C15H10BrClO2
Authors: Maluleka Marole M. , Mphahlele Malose J.
Published: April 2022

C15H10BrClO2 monoclinic P21/c (no. 14), a = 9.2173(6) Å, b = 20.7174(14) Å, c = 6.9035(4) Å, β = 99.332(3)°, V = 1300.83(14) Å3, Z = 4, Rgt
(F) = 0.0153, wRref
(F
2) = 0.121, T = 173(2) K.
Use of biochemical markers for diabetes prevention in the new decade
Authors: Chan Sun Marie , Landinaff Marie A. S. , Thoplan Ruben
Published: April 2022

Use of biochemical markers for diabetes prevention in the new decade. There is established evidence that type 2 diabetes mellitus is preceded by a phase, during which there is a cluster of conditions including raised triglycerides and lowered high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, raised fasting glucose, high blood pressure and central obesity. This cluster of risk factors for type 2 diabetes mellitus, constitutes the metabolic syndrome (MetS). Therefore, there is need to screen for this syndrome among the population for the primary prevention of type 2 diabetes mellitus which is a global public health problem. Despite the high prevalence of type 2 diabetes in Mauritius, research work on MetS is scarce. This study was thus undertaken with the primary objective to determine the prevalence of MetS among the employees of a public educational institution in Mauritius. A cross-sectional study which involved randomly identified employees was conducted. The participants were requested to fill in a survey questionnaire, undergo biometric measurements (waist circumference and blood pressure) and venous blood sample collection in a fasting condition. The blood tests included the determination of glucose, triglyceride and cholesterol levels. The 2009 International Diabetes Federation criteria were used for the diagnosis of MetS. The presence of any 3 of 5 risk factors, raised triglycerides, raised glucose, lowered high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high blood pressure and central obesity constitutes a diagnosis of metabolic syndrome. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Department of Medicine Research Ethics Committee of the University of Mauritius. The prevalence of MetS was found to be 20.1% (40 participants), in the overall population, 31.4% in men (22 out of 70) and 13.95% in women (18 out of 129). The determination of any association by means of the Chi square tests showed there was a significant association between gender and MetS (p < 0.01). Educational level was also associated with the MetS (p < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis confirmed t\he significant association between MetS with gender (p < 0.01) where male gender was more associated with MetS than female. This study with the determination of the prevalence of the MetS among employees constituted the first step in the implementation of a structured workplace health intervention programme in Mauritius. We highlight the importance of workplace interventions with the involvement of a multi-disciplinary team of health professionals for the primary prevention of diabetes, through the screening for the MetS among employees.
Development of an online assessment system to evaluate knowledge on chemical safety and security
Authors: Martinez Imee Su , Innasi Daniel Ashok Maria , Perera Rohan P.
Published: April 2022

Education and information dissemination are fundamental to safety and security risk management and mitigation. A web-based examination system calledOPCW eQChemSSwas developed to assess individuals on their knowledge in chemical safety and security. This can be used as an evaluation tool for chemical safety and security courses, workshops, and seminars. A database of questions was included in this web-based software, which was divided into three categories. Category A is general chemistry level safety, Category B is chemical safety related to organic and inorganic compounds, and Category C is on chemical safety and security and the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). The system was designed to automatically check the examination and instantly provide the result of the test in terms of percentage correct answers. A feedback mechanism from the examinees was also included to assess the effectiveness of this e-learning educational material. The importance of e-learning materials in this time of COVID-19 pandemic cannot be more emphasized. The need for readily accessible e-sources that will aid in virtual learning for various topics will be significant even in the coming new normal of hybrid or flexible learning where both online and face-to-face learning may be implemented.
Efficient Generalized Ridge Regression
Authors: Obenchain Robert L.
Published: April 2022

The original ridge estimator of the unknown p×1 vector of β-coefficients in a linear model used a single scalar, k, to determine a point on a shrinkage path of finite length that extends from the Ordinary Least Squares estimator, ^β
0, to the shrinkage terminus (usually ^β ≡ 0). Generalized ridge estimators use two or more parameters to determine not only the shape of their shrinkage path but also a specific point on that path. The efficient generalized ridge regression path proposed here is a continuous two-piece linear function that (1) starts at ^β
0, the Best Linear Unbiased Estimator, (2) has its interior knot at the ^ β-estimator with Maximum Likelihood of achieving overall minimum MSE risk under normal distribution-theory, and (3) ends at the shrinkage terminus. This new path is efficient in the senses that it is the shortest path and, at least when p > 2, essentially the only known shrinkage path that always contains the ^ β-vector that is most likely to be optimally biased. Functions in R-packages freely distributed via CRAN perform the calculations and produce the graphics used here to illustrate shrinkage concepts by interpreting ridge Trace diagnostic plots. These new concepts and visual tools provide invaluable data-analytic insights and improved self-confidence to applied researchers and data scientists fitting linear models when p, the number of non-constant X-predictor variables in the model, is strictly less than the number of observations available.
Effect of sodium lignosulfonate on the anti-redeposition ability of cotton cloth in a SDBS-Na2C2O4-CMC formulation
Authors: Gong Fengli , Xu Hong , Dong Jinxiang
Published: April 2022

Sodium oxalate (Na2C2O4) is an excellent phosphorus-free agent, but in sodium oxalate-containing detergents with sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate (SDBS) and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), significant ash deposition occurs on cotton fabrics. SDBS is the main anionic surfactant in modern detergents and cotton fiber is the most commonly used textile fiber. In this study, sodium lignosulfonate (LS) was investigated for its ability to prevent redeposition in SDBS-Na2C2O4-CMC-LS formulations. The effects of LS on ash content, whiteness, optimum washing temperature, calcium oxalate morphology, zeta potential and surface tension were carefully analyzed. The results showed that the addition of LS significantly improved the prevention of ash deposits on cotton fibers. The ash content was less than 0.46% and a small amount of particles were scattered on the cotton fibers. LS showed good dispersibility but had little effect on the washing power and zeta-potential.
Development of cream to enhance the antifungal activity and reduce the side effects of fluconazole for the treatment of Candida albicans
Authors: Bhaskaran Navya Ajitkumar , Salwa  , Fernandes Amanda Velinna , Volfová Gabriela , Pydi Chinna Raja , Kumar Lalit , Verma Ruchi , Marques Shirleen Miriam , Shirodkar Rupesh Kalidas
Published: April 2022

The aim of the present study was to formulate a fluconazole cream for the treatment of Candida albicans. The optimized cream formulation was prepared using stearic acid, oleic acid, beeswax and borax. The uniform distribution of the active ingredient fluconazole could be confirmed in all formulated creams. The FC-C-C formulation showed satisfactory spreadability and extrudability. FC-C-C delivered (95.07 ± 15.85)% in only 36 h, and the formulation released the drug by an anomalous diffusion mechanism. The viscosity of FC-C-C was found to be (63.20 ± 0.83) cP. The antifungal study and animal studies confirmed that the prepared formulation is non-irritant and has an enhanced antifungal activity that reduces the side effects of fluconazole. The studies confirm that the prepared formulation may be useful for the treatment of Candida albicans.
Design of Medical Graphic Aided Visual Elements Active Communication Algorithm in Print Advertising
Authors: Li Shuo , Li Jianjun
Published: April 2022

When traditional methods collect graphic aided visual elements in print advertising, there are some problems, such as low feature extraction rate and low efficiency of visual communication. Therefore, this paper designs an active communication algorithm of graphic aided visual elements in print advertising. This paper analyzes the types of graphic aided visual elements in print ads and analyzes the feature vectors of graphic aided visual elements in print ads by mapping subgraphs; the variance matrix and covariance matrix of graphic auxiliary visual elements in print advertising are constructed by normalizing the graphic auxiliary visual elements with a one-dimensional function. The active communication algorithm of graphic auxiliary visual elements in print advertising is designed by an orthogonal transformation matrix. Experimental results show that this method can effectively improve the visual recognition rate and visual communication efficiency of auxiliary elements.
Thermochemical Conversion of Sponge Gourd (Luffa cylindrica) for Biochar Production by Retort Carbonization
Authors: Adeniyi Adewale George , Ighalo Joshua O.
Published: April 2022

Luffa cylindrica is widely distributed in the tropics and subtropics as a cultivated and naturalized plant. Its noncompetitive use as just a local wash sponge in West Africa makes it readily available for biochar production. Biochar is an important product relevant to a variety of energy and environmental applications. This study evaluates the properties of L. cylindrica biomass and the biochar obtained from its retort carbonization. The biochar was produced using a top-lift updraft reactor at a peak temperature of 269°C and a yield of 66.67 %. The biomass and biochar samples were characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersion spectroscopy, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analyses. FTIR analyses revealed the presence of hydroxyl, methyl, carbonyl, and aromatic carbon groups in the biomass, which were broken down during the retort carbonization. The SEM analysis shows the biochar as a porous material, which was confirmed by the BET analysis.
How Does Heartbeat Counting Task Performance Relate to Theoretically-Relevant Mental Health Outcomes? A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Desmedt Olivier , Van Den Houte Maaike , Walentynowicz Marta , Dekeyser Sarah , Luminet Olivier , Corneille Olivier
Published: April 2022

The Heartbeat Counting Task (HCT) was designed and is intended to measure the objective ability to detect cardiac signals (also called cardiac interoceptive accuracy). Because interoceptive accuracy is thought to play a key role in biological (e.g., body mass index) and psychological (e.g., trait anxiety) risk factors and indicators of mental health, HCT scores should be associated with these outcomes. In order to examine this question, we performed a meta-analysis on these associations among adult participants. The final data set comprised 133 studies with 11,524 participants. We focused here on the seven most studied outcomes (i.e., outcomes that were studied in at least ten published studies). HCT performance was not significantly associated with trait anxiety, depression, and alexithymia. It was weakly and negatively associated with age after correction for publication bias, sex (male > female), heart rate, and body mass index. In addition, the quality assessment indicates that only a few studies reported sample size justification (6%), pre-registration (0.8%), and data in free access (6.8%). Theoretically expected associations between HCT performance and psychological indicators of mental health were not meta-analytically found. We discuss the implications of these findings for practice and theory.