bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unconditional Applicability of Lehmer’s Measure to the Two-Term Machin-like Formula for π
Authors: Abrarov Sanjar , Siddiqui Rehan , Jagpal Rajinder , Quine Brendan
Published: May 2021

Lehmer defined a measure depending on numbers beta_i used in a Machin-like formula for pi. When the beta_i are integers, Lehmer's measure can be used to determine the computational efficiency of the given Machin-like formula for pi. However, because the computations are complicated, it is unclear if Lehmer's measure applies when one or more of the beta_i are rational. In this article, we develop a new algorithm for a two-term Machin-like formula for pi as an example of the unconditional applicability of Lehmer's measure. This approach does not involve any irrational numbers and may allow calculating pi rapidly by the Newton-Raphson iteration method for the tangent function.
A striking new species of Dolichomitus Smith, 1877 (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae; Pimplinae) from South America
Authors: Di Giovanni Filippo , Pádua Diego , Araujo Rodrigo , Santos Alvaro , Sääksjärvi Ilari
Published: May 2021

Dolichomitus Smith, 1877 is a genus of Darwin wasps characterised by their large bodies and long ovipositors, that includes more than 75 species worldwide, 20 of which occur in the Neotropical Region. Due to recent efforts, the number of species of this genus continues to increase in South America.

A new iridescent species of Pimplinae, Dolichomitus meii sp. nov., is described and illustrated. It was discovered from the biological station of Yanayacu located in the north-eastern slopes of the tropical Andes. It may be separated from all other species of Dolichomitus Smith by the striking colour pattern and apically strongly decurved ovipositor.
Revisiting the non-native insect fauna of Greece: Current trends and an updated checklist
Authors: Demetriou Jakovos , Kalaentzis Konstantinos , Kazilas Christos , Koutsoukos Evangelos , Avtzis Dimitrios N. , Georgiadis Christos
Published: May 2021

Alien invasive species not only have adverse environmental impacts, they may also pose socioeconomic and human health threats. The increase in detected non-native (alien) and cryptogenic species, followed by the necessity for up-to-date scientific information on biological invasions, prompted a thorough literature investigation on the non-native entomofauna of Greece. Supplementing previous studies concerning Europe and Greece, a checklist for the non-native insect species of the country is provided, while their number is elevated from 266 to 469. Current trends regarding species richness and taxonomy, deliberate or accidental means of introduction, as well as their native range and trophic preferences are analysed and discussed. This publication illustrates the current state of non-native insects of Greece, highlighting the need for an effective early warning system integrated in national phytosanitary legislation, survey protocols and strategies towards the eradication and mitigation of their detrimental impacts.
Mafusol and its combination with REXOD as correctors of reduced blood circulation in the skin associated with normoglycemia or diabetes mellitus complicated by exogenous hypercholesterolemia
Authors: Gulevskaya Olga N. , Galenko-Yaroshevsky Pavel A. , Lebedeva Svetlana A. , Sukoyan Galina  V. , Pavlyuchenko Ivan I. , Zelenskaya Anait V. , Uvarov Alexandr V. , Tseluiko Kristina V. , Popkov Viktor L. , Zadorozhniy Andrey V. , Chuyan Elena N. , Ravaeva Marina Yu. , Galenko-Yaroshevsky Jr Pavel A.
Published: May 2021

Introduction: The search for and development of new highly active medications and their combinations of the appropriate direction of action remains an urgent problem due to the complications of diabetes mellitus, especially burdened with atherosclerosis, including skin and vascular lesions.

Materials and methods: The acute toxicity, histoprotective and dermatoprotective effects of mafusol, rexod, alprostadil and their combinations were studied in male rats with normoglycemia and alloxan diabetes complicated by exogenous hypercholesterolemia.

Results: The combination of mafusol with rexod is less toxic than mafusol. In arteriovenous insufficiency of the tail, ischemia of the skin fold and skin flap, mafusol (6.25, 12.5 and 25.0 mg/kg in terms of fumarate), rexod (0.01 and 0.02 mg/kg) and especially their combination (6.25 and 0.01 mg/kg) have significant histoprotective, dermatoprotective, hypoglycemic and lipid-lowering effects, both in normoglycemia and alloxan diabetes complicated by exogenous hypercholesterolemia. Alprostadil (10 mg/kg) and especially its combination with mafusol (6.25 mg/kg) have a dermatoprotective effect.

Discussion: Rexod reduces the acute toxicity of mafusol. The dermatoprotective effect of mafusol, rexod and, to a greater extent, their combination may be associated with increased microhemocirculation, antihypoxic properties and activation of energy processes in the skin, normalization of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in alloxan diabetes, complicated by exogenous hypercholesterolemia, increased reserve capacity of the antioxidant system, and possibly with the ability of mafusol and rexod to reduce blood viscosity and improve rheological properties of the blood. The combination of mafusol with alprostadil increases the dermatoprotective activity of the latter.

Conclusion: Combinations of mafusol with rexod and alprostadil can be recommended for clinical study as dermatoprotective agents for treating traumatic injuries and diabetes mellitus complicated by atherosclerosis.
A new Antipathozoanthus species (Cnidaria, Hexacorallia, Zoantharia) from the northwest Pacific Ocean
Authors: Kise Hiroki , Obuchi Masami , Reimer James Davis
Published: May 2021

A new species of zoantharian within the genus Antipathozoanthus is described based on specimens collected from the coast of mainland Japan, northwest Pacific Ocean. Antipathozoanthus tubussp. nov. is characterized by its substrate (epibiotic on polychaete tube) and habitat (exposed rock). As well, the results of molecular phylogenetic analyses using concatenated multiple genetic markers also support the distinction between A. tubussp. nov. and its congenerics. Antipathozoanthus tubussp. nov. is the first species of Antipathozoanthus species reported to be epibiotic on polychaete tubes, and is the second species in the genus that is not associated with antipatharians.
The Role of the ANCC Accredited Provider Program Director in Leadership and Facilitating Nurse Planner Learning
Authors: Kelly Marilu , Moulton Jillian
Published: May 2021

This article addresses how accredited provider program directors (AP-PDs), as nursing professional development practitioners, can meet structural capacity criterion 2 in the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Nursing Continuing Professional Development accreditation criteria. This article highlights the leadership responsibilities of the APPD and provides strategies to develop a successful accredited provider unit onboarding and professional development plan for its nurse planners.

[
J Contin Educ Nurs
. 2021; 52(6):257–259.]
Seeing Cities Through Big Data and Complex Systems
Authors: EOM Young-Ho
Published: May 2021

The data revolution of the 21st century provides us a huge amount of urban data. This featured article briefly surveys how physicists identify quantitative patterns from such data, make sense of those patterns by using simple models, and reveal the underlying mechanisms.
Universality in Urban Growth
Authors: HONG Inho , YOUN Hyejin
Published: May 2021

In the era of rapid urbanization, understanding the mechanism of urban growth is critical to a better future of humanity. Models for urban growth can prepare policy makers to address the economic and social changes in their growing cities. Over the last decades, the physics of cities has revealed the mechanisms of urban growth from the universal characteristics that are largely observed in the main pillars of cities: function, shape and size. This article introduces the theoretical frameworks - urban scaling, fractal geometry and Zipf’s law-for universality in the function, shape and size of cities. In addition, we review the recent findings for a unified model of urban growth, including recapitulation, hierarchy and migrations.
An Architect’s Perspective on the Future of the City, Smart City
Authors: WOO Junghyun , LEE Namju , YI JaeWon , LEE Dae Song
Published: May 2021

Architectural industries are facing much pressure on the endless national projects about ‘Smart City’ which are pushed by IT evolution nowadays. This is a difficult task, and all are stumped to suggest promising smart cities in a short period of time without any priori projects. However, based on their own ideas many architects have already commenced responding to the 4th industrial wave. In this paper, we invite three researchers from three distinctive fields and introduce their sketches of future cities according to the value creation, city networking and social hierarchy.
« L’ivresse patrimoniale », et après ?
Authors: Laurent Natacha
Published: May 2021

Alors que l’accès aux films anciens était autrefois réservé à certains lieux spécifiques, le patrimoine cinématographique n’a jamais été aussi visible, ni apparemment aussi accessible, qu’aujourd’hui. Comment interpréter cette « ivresse patrimoniale » ? Est-elle vraiment une victoire du patrimoine cinématographique ? L’analyse de cette visibilité inédite montre qu’elle est le symptôme d’un bouleversement majeur : l’entrée en scène du marché, qui s’accompagne d’un discours rassurant et consensuel. Mais appliquer systématiquement aux films d’hier une logique marchande a des conséquences tant sur l’évolution des cinémathèques et archives du film que sur notre conception et nos pratiques du patrimoine cinématographique.
Ce que nous apprennent des photographies de tournage
Authors: Berthomé Jean-Pierre
Published: May 2021

L’examen attentif des photographies de tournage d’Intolérance livre quantité d’informations non seulement sur les décors eux-mêmes, mais aussi sur l’environnement du tournage et sur les stratégies de construction mises en œuvre. L’article se concentre sur quelques photographies des décors de Babylone pour démontrer comment l’analyse de ces documents peut renseigner le chercheur sur des choix de production et de mise en scène décidés il y a plus d’un siècle.
The course-of-action research program : historical and conceptual landmarks
Authors: Poizat Germain , Martin Julia San
Published: May 2021

The “course of action” empirical and technological research program was developed in the field of ergonomics during the 1980s and 1990s. It was then extended to other fields of research and action beyond the boundaries of ergonomics. This contribution proposes an archeology of knowledge with the aim of gaining an understanding not only of the "course of action" research program (and its concreteness), but also of the notions/concepts/methods/models that it proposes for both analysis and design. By rapidly scanning both the history and the conceptual universe of the “course of action” research program, this article aims (1) to point out the main empirical and technological contributions of this program and the potential it still holds (for work/activity analysis and for design), and (2) to help to make sense of certain concepts and analytical notions by mentioning the context of their emergence and evolutions.
Déroutages : trajectoires des œuvres de Lasar Segall confisquées par « l’Action contre l’art dégénéré »
Authors: Caires Daniel Rincon
Published: May 2021

Cet article présente les résultats d’une enquête sur les trajectoires de 58 œuvres d’art de Lasar Segall confisquées dans le cadre de « l’Action contre l’art dégénéré » menée par les nazis. Le cas particulier de l’artiste russe permet d’observer ces types de politiques de dénonciations et de spoliations avant, pendant et après le régime hitlérien sous un autre angle. Le devenir des œuvres de Segall qui étaient présentes dans les collections publiques allemandes avant 1937 éclaire les dynamiques culturelles, politiques et sociales qui ont secoué l’Allemagne entre 1918 et 1945.
L’évaluation de la culture scientifique des élèves français de quinze ans dans PISA 2009
Authors: Coppens Nicolas
Published: May 2021

Cet article présente rapidement le programme international PISA, mené par l’OCDE, qui a testé en 2009 la culture scientifique, la culture mathématique et la compréhension de l’écrit par les jeunes scolarisés de quinze ans dans 65 pays différents. Il décrit ensuite la culture scientifique telle qu’elle est définie dans PISA et dans les programmes français avant d’analyser les résultats des élèves français dans ce domaine.
Quel(s) besoin(s) d’accomplissement pour quelles carrières ? Une exploration dans le contexte tunisien pour mieux comprendre l’attrait pour la carrière entrepreneuriale
Authors: Taktak Kallel Ilia
Published: May 2021

Le besoin d’accomplissement est reconnu pour être l’un des plus puissants moteurs de l’activité humaine. Il est largement admis, après les travaux de Mc Clelland (1961), que les entrepreneurs sont particulièrement habités par ce besoin. Ce dernier est-il l’apanage de certains individus ? S’exprime-t-il de la même manière d’une culture à une autre ? Si le travail est l’occasion de revisiter ces différentes questions, l’ambition est de comprendre quels besoins psychologiques et valeurs sont congruents avec quelles préférences de carrière dans le contexte tunisien et – in fine – de cerner certains des moteurs qui peuvent expliquer l’attrait pour la carrière entrepreneuriale. Pour ce faire, une enquête par questionnaire a été menée auprès de 213 étudiants d’une école de commerce à Tunis. Les résultats obtenus révèlent notamment que le besoin d’accomplissement est surtout relié aux situations d’indécision en matière de préférences de carrière, alors que l’attrait pour la carrière entrepreneuriale va significativement de pair avec la recherche d’une certaine qualité de vie, ce qui nous a amené à avancer l’idée d’une « féminisation » des valeurs de ceux qui expriment une préférence pour la création d’entreprise, même si cette dernière reste une carrière largement masculine.
Metabolic Defects of Peripheral T Cells in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Liu Xiaoju , Zhao Juanjuan , Wang Haiyan , Wang Wan , Su Xu , Liao Xuejiao , Zhang Shuye , Sun Jian , Zhang Zheng
Published: May 2021

The relatively low partial pressure of oxygen, reduced oxygen saturation, and aberrant plasma metabolites in COVID-19 may alter energy metabolism in peripheral immune cells. However, little is known regarding the immunometabolic defects of T cells in COVID-19 patients, which may contribute to the deregulated immune functions of these cells. In this study, we longitudinally characterized the metabolic profiles of resting and activated T cells from acutely infected and convalescent COVID-19 patients by flow cytometry and confirmed the metabolic profiles with a Seahorse analyzer. Non–COVID-19 and healthy subjects were enrolled as controls. We found that ex vivo T cells from acutely infected COVID-19 patients were highly activated and apoptotic and displayed more extensive mitochondrial metabolic dysfunction, especially cells in CD8+ T cell lineages, than those from convalescent COVID-19 patients or healthy controls, but slightly disturbed mitochondrial metabolic activity was observed in non–COVID-19 patients. Importantly, plasma IL-6 and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels positively correlated with mitochondrial mass and negatively correlated with fatty acid uptake in T cells from COVID-19 patients. Additionally, compared with those from healthy controls, in vitro–activated T cells from acutely infected COVID-19 patients showed signs of lower glycolysis, a reduced glycolytic capacity, and a decreased glycolytic reserve, accompanied by lower activation of mTOR signaling. Thus, newly identified defects in T cell mitochondrial metabolic functions and metabolic reprogramming upon activation might contribute to immune deficiency in COVID-19.
Antibiotic use practices of veterinarians and para-veterinarians and the implications for antibiotic stewardship in Nigeria
Authors: Ogwuche Adah , Ekiri Abel B. , Endacott Isabella , Maikai Beatty-Viv , Idoga Enokela S. , Alafiatayo Ruth , Cook Alasdair J.
Published: May 2021

The aim of this study was to describe the antibiotic use practices of veterinarians and para-veterinarians in Nigeria. An online survey was distributed during November through December 2018 via email and phone to veterinarians and para-veterinarians to collect information on antibiotic use practices. Data were downloaded into Excel and descriptive statistics were presented and analysed. The survey was completed by 390 respondents. Almost all respondents (98.5%, 384/390) recommended the use of antibiotics to treat animal patients, and of these, 93.2% (358/384) were veterinarians and 6.8% (26/384) were para-veterinarians. Most respondents reported commonly recommending the use of oxytetracycline (82.6%, 317/384), tylosin (44.5%, 171/384) and gentamycin (43.8%, 168/384). A third (32.0%, 122/384) of respondents did not undertake antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) prior to antibiotic treatment. At least 60% of the respondents recommended the use of antibiotics for the treatment of non-bacterial pathogens, including viral, helminth and fungal pathogens. Over 55% (217/390) were not aware of government-issued guidelines on antibiotic use in animals, although of those aware, 69% (74/107) utilised the guidelines. Across all respondents, the majority believed legislation or regulation by government can influence the use of antibiotics by animal health professionals. The study highlights areas that can be targeted as part of intervention strategies to promote antimicrobial stewardship by animal health professionals in Nigeria, including the need for increased use of AST as a tool for supporting disease management, increased awareness of appropriate antibiotic use and greater dissemination of antibiotic use guidelines and enforcement of relevant regulation by government authorities.
History of postgraduate psychiatry education and training in Nigeria
Authors: Bakare Muideen O.
Published: May 2021

No abstract available.
Surfing over Masked Distress
Authors: Oluwole Lateef Olutoyin , Obadeji Adetunji , Dada Mobolaji Usman
Published: May 2021

Introduction:

The Internet has become an integral part of our lives and tool for social interaction and communication and it is becoming worrisome; Internet use among students is assuming a dimension of profound preoccupation over other activities of daily living. Internet addiction (IA) may raise risk for sleep problem, and contribute to the development of some psychiatric disorders and worsening mental health. The aim of this study was to study the interrelationship between IA and psychological well-being of medical students.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study was carried out at the Ekiti State University College of Medicine among both preclinical and clinical medical students. The study population was the entire medical students. A total of 129 study participants (86 clinical and 43 preclinical students) were purposively enrolled, 83 males and 46 females. Data were collected from the students using a questionnaire that comprised four components: (i) Warwick–Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale, (ii) Young IA Test (YIAT), (iii) World Health Organization Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test, and (iv) Insomnia Severity Index.

Results:

About half (51.9%) of the students who engaged the Internet dwelled on social media. Moreover, the least reason for using the Internet was for their academic assignments. Twenty-two (17.1%) of the participants scored below the minimum score for addiction on YIAT. This study revealed a statistically insignificant negative correlation between the pairs of IA score and mental well-being (r = −121, P = 0.198) and alcohol use and mental well-being (r = −0.10, P = 0.279). There existed a statistically significant positive correlation between IA and insomnia (r = 0.320, P = 0.000) and IA and alcohol use (r = 0.428, P = 0.000). There was an insignificant positive relationship between alcohol use and insomnia (r = 0.072, P = 0.414).

Conclusion:

IA and its associated problems among students would require earnest intervention to curb problematic use in order to attain good mental well-being.
Dynamics of the COVID-19 epidemic in the post-vaccination period in Korea: a rapid assessment
Authors: Min Kyung-Duk , Tak Sangwoo
Published: May 2021

OBJECTIVES: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has had a tremendous impact on public health and socioeconomic conditions globally. Although non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) such as social distancing effectively reduced the incidence of COVID-19, especially in Korea, demand for vaccination has increased to minimize the social costs of NPIs. This study estimated the potential benefits of COVID-19 vaccination in Korea.METHODS: A mathematical model with vaccinated–susceptible–latent–infectious–recovered compartments was used to simulate the COVID-19 epidemic. The compartments were stratified into age groups of 0-19 years, 20-59 years, and 60 years or older. Based on the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency national vaccination plan for the second quarter of 2021, announced on March 15, we developed vaccination scenarios (with 150,000 dose/d and 100% compliance as the main scenario). Comparing scenarios without vaccination or with higher/lower vaccination rates and compliance, we estimated the numbers of COVID-19 cases that will be prevented by vaccination.RESULTS: The results projected 203,135 cases within a year after April 2021 without vaccination, which would be reduced to 71,248 (64.9% decrease) by vaccination. Supposing a vaccination rate of 150,000 dose/d and 100% compliance, social distancing interventions for those aged 20 or more can be retracted after January 1, 2022.CONCLUSIONS: We expect COVID-19 vaccination to be effective in Korea. Health authorities should minimize delays in vaccination and vaccine avoidance to maximize the effectiveness of vaccination and end social distancing early.
A double-blind randomised controlled trial of gloved versus ungloved merocel middle meatal spacers for endoscopic sinus surgery
Authors: Akbari E. , Philpott C.M. , Ostry A.J. , Clark A. , Javer A.R.
Published: May 2021

Background: Middle meatal spacers are commonly used following endoscopic sinus surgery to prevent post-operative bleeding and lateralization of the middle turbinates. The effects of nasal packing on post-operative sinonasal mucosal healing remain unknown in humans. Objective: This study aims to compare the histopathalogical effects of Merocel and Merocel covered with a finger glove on mucosal healing, and patients` discomfort immediately post-operatively after endoscopic sinus surgery and at removal of the nasal packing. Methods: Thirty-seven patients with chronic rhinosinusitis undergoing bilateral endoscopic sinus surgery were enrolled in a prospective study. Patients were randomized and blinded to receive Merocel middle meatal spacer (MMMS) in one nostril and finger glove Merocel middle meatal spacer (FGMMS) in the contra lateral side. Patients were seen on post-operative day 6, and completed a visual analogue score reporting the post-operative discomfort from nasal packing on each side. Following the removal of nasal packing, patients indicated which side caused more discomfort on removal. Biopsies were taken from the middle turbinates and sent to a blinded pathologist who scored the level of mucosal inflammation from 0 - 4. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between MMMS and FGMMS in regards to their effect on sinonasal mucosal inflammation and discomfort post-operatively. A statistically significant difference was noted with respect to discomfort at removal with the uncovered Merocel more likely to cause discomfort when compared to the Merocel covered in a glove finger. Conclusion: MMMS and FGMMS are equivalent in the amount of sinonasal mucosal inflammation and discomfort post endoscopic sinus surgery. However, the main advantage of the FGMMS was a significant reduction in pain on removal when compared with the MMMS.
Production, purification, and characterization of α-amylase from Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus and Penicillium expansum using cassava peels as substrate
Authors: Aisien E.T. , Igbinosa I.H.
Published: May 2021

Cassava peels are waste generated from cassava processing and are mostly disposed of in Nigeria by dumping indiscriminately in landfills/waste dumps where they remain as huge mounds and constitute nuisance to the environment. This study was carried out using cassava peels as substrate for the production of α – amylase from three fungi (Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger and Penicillium expansum) selected from twelve microbial isolates obtained from biodegrading cassava peels. The fungi were isolated using cassava peel agar medium and the α – amylase was produced by the solid state fermentation process. The α – amylase was assayed by measuring the decrease in staining power of starch with iodine reagent at 620nm and purified by using Sephadex G-100 and Sephadex C-50. The α – amylase was characterized by examining the effect of temperature, stability at 70oC, pH, substrate concentration, metal ions and EDTA. The results show that the purification fold and specific activity were 95.727, 1.053 Units/mg protein; 81.830, 0.982 Units/mg protein and 85.784, 0.686 Units/mg protein for A. flavus, A. niger and P. expansum respectively. The optimum temperature and pH were 45oC and 4.5 respectively. It was observed that the α – amylase still retained some activity after heating at 70oC for 35 min. The α – amylase activity increased with increase in substrate concentration and metal ion concentration (Na+, K+, Mg2+ and Ca2+) but decreased with increase in heavy metal ion concentration (Hg2+ and Pb2+) and EDTA.

Key words: Cassava peels, α – amylase, fungi, starch and Sephadex C – 50.
Evidence of purifying selection in exon 3 of interferon regulatory factor-5 (IRF-5) gene in Nigerian indigenous chickens
Authors: Durosaro S.O. , Ozoje M.O. , Adebambo A.O. , Onagbesan O.M.
Published: May 2021

Immune genes are under acute selective pressure in order to resist pathogenic attacks. It is not really clear the type of selective force that acts on immune genes because of diverse pathogen load and host population density, so this experiment studied the selective force acting on exon 3 of IRF-5 gene in Nigerian indigenous chickens. DNA was extracted from 90 Nigerian indigenous chickens and exon 3 of IRF-5 gene was sequenced. The region was tested for deviation from neutrality using DnaSP. The Mean non-synonymous substitutions per non-synonymous site (dN) and mean synonymous substitutions per synonymous site (dS) were calculated to predict likely selective force/event acting on the region using HyPhy software implemented inside MEGA6 software. All the test of neutrality indices obtained for exon 3 of IRF-5 gene in Nigerian indigenous chickens were greater than 1 except Tajima’s D value of normal feather chickens (0.93) and Fu’s Fs value of naked neck chickens (0.71). The dN of 0.00 and negative dS were estimated for exon 3 of IRF-5 gene in all the three genotypes. This study therefore concluded that purifying selective forces are acting on exon 3 of IRF-5 gene in Nigerian indigenous chickens.

Keywords: Chickens, co-evolution, immunity, pathogens, selection.
Mycoflora and Aflatoxin Levels in Stale Retailed Pepper Sold in Abeokuta Nigeria
Authors: Oni E.O. , Adebajo L.O. , Badmos A.O. , Adeleye T.M. , Oyeyipo F.M. , Adebiyi G.E.
Published: May 2021

Fungi constitute a major problem in the production, storage and processing of agricultural products, recent concern about the consumption of stale retail pepper in Abeokuta necessitated the need to determine the fungal population and also to quantify Aflatoxin produced by the fungi. Fungi species were isolated from 20 pepper samples (Capsicum annum) bought from different markets in Abeokuta using standard microbiological procedures and High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) was used to quantify the aflatoxin present. Isolated fungi were Aspergillus flavus (55%), Mucor sp (10%), Sacharomyces cerevisiae (20%), Aspergillus fumigatus , Rhizopus sp and Penicillium sp (5%) respectively. Results shows that fourteen of the pepper samples had no detectable aflatoxin and the aflatoxin content in the remaining six samples was 23ng/kg, 18 ng/kg, 15 ng/kg, 9 ng/kg, 6 ng/kg and 2 ng/kg,. five of these samples had aflatoxin content above the European Union maximum tolerance level of 5ng/kg. The presence of toxin producing Aspergillus flavus capable of causing food poisoning raises concern over public health risks that may be associated with the consumption of stale pepper.

Keywords: Aflatoxin, Fungal contamination, Capsicum annum, stale foods, High Performance Liquid chromatography, public health
Antibacterial activities of sawdust and stem bark of Sasswood tree (Erythrophleum suaveolens, Guill. & Perr. Brenan, 1917) extracts against selected wood bacteria
Authors: Ekhuemelo D.O. , Ekhuemelo C. , Tembe E.T.
Published: May 2021

This study assessed the antibacterial properties of sawdust and stem bark of Erythrophleum suaveolens extracts on selected wood bacteria. Erythrophleum suaveolens samples were collected, dried and macerated by dissolving 1 Kg and 0.60 Kg of stem bark and sawdust respectively into 1 L of n-hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol. Sporfloxacin ciprofloxacin and cefuroxine antibiotics were used as control. The mixture was left for 24 hours then filtered and the filtrates evaporated to dryness. Qualitative phytochemical screening, zone of inhibition, minimum inhibitory and Bactericidal Concentrations (MIC/MBC) were determined according to standard methods. Tannins, steroids, saponins, glycosides, flavonoids, carbohydrates anthraquinones and alkaloids phytochemicals were present in E. suaveolens extracts. Zone of inhibition (32 – 37 mm) of antibiotics on test bacteria compared favourably with 17 – 24 mm of E. suaveolens extracts. Erythrophleum suaveolens ethyl acetate and methanol E. suaveolens extracts inhibited Staphylolococus aureus, Ralstonia solanacearum, Proteus mirabilis, Enterococcus faecium and Acidobacterium capsulatum growth at MIC of 10 mg/mL and n-hexane extracts at 20 mg/mL. At MBC of 20 mg/mL methanol stem bark extract completely killed most test bacteria. Methanol extracts were the most active extracts. The study has shown that E. suaveolens extracts can be explored in the control of plant diseases caused by test bacteria in the study.

Key words: Antibacterial, E. suaveolens, extract, phytochemicals, zone of inhibition
Evaluation of the Knowledge of Herb Sellers in the Diagnosis of Sickle Cell Disease in Osun and Oyo States, Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Oyekunle A , Soriyan A , Agbedahunsi JM
Published: May 2021

Despite an increased interest in knowledge elicitation in various fields, there is still very little formal evidence in the area of herbal medicine documentation. This paper examined the manner in which sickle cell disease is diagnosed among herb sellers in Osun and Oyo states of Nigeria. Interview method was employed using questionnaires. A total of 90 herb sellers were interviewed at various markets. Sixty herb sellers were interviewed using closed ended questionnaire while the remaining 30 were interviewed using open ended questionnaire. A spreadsheet package was employed for the data analysis. Analysis of responses from these herb sellers revealed that the most important symptoms of sickle cell disease includes pain, reduced stamina, anemia, stunted growth, jaundice and increase in abdominal girth. Other symptoms include fainting, priapism, stroke, leg ulcer, weak hair, thin bones, loss of appetite, head bigger than body size, face looks older than age, swelling of hands/feet, black vein, hypertension, drum shaped fingers and fever. This survey showed clearly that the herbal sellers have a vast knowledge of the diagnosis of sickle cell disease which were acquired over time.Keywords: Diagnosis, Sickle Cell Disorder, Herb Sellers
Anti-Inflammatory Constituents of Alchornea cordifolia Leaves
Authors: Ahmadu AA , Agunu A , Abdurrahman EM
Published: May 2021

Alchornea cordifolia (Schum and Thonn) Muell. Arg. (Euphorbiaceae) is a traditional medicinal plant widely distributed in West Africa including Nigeria.The plant has been used for ethnomedicinal purposes against wounds, ulcers, and sores. The decoction of the leaves has been reported to provide remedies for bronchial problems, rheumatic pain and cough. From the dichloromethane and ethyl acetate soluble parts of the Methanol leaf extract, two compounds namely Lup-20(29)-en-3c-ol (lupenol) and Methyl 3, 4,5-trihydroxy benzoate (Methyl gallate) were isolated and their structures elucidated. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of the compounds on carrageenan-induced paw oedema and formalin-induced pain in rats showed that compound 2 significantly (P<0.05) inhibit rat paw oedema compared to the standard drugs (Piroxicam and Morphine) used, while on formalin-induced pain in rats, the same trend was observed and were both comparable to Piroxicam and morphine, the standard anti-inflammatory and analgesic agents used, respectively. Compound 1 did not show any significant anti-inflammatory activity compared to control, likewise compound 2. Thus, compound 2, Methyl trihydroxy benzoate, might be responsible for the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of this plant.Keywords: Alchornea cordifolia, Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic, Methyl Trihydroxy Benzoate
Antiplasmodial Properties of Alstonia boonei Stem-Bark and Picralima nitida Seed in Different Combinations
Authors: Ajayi CO , Elujoba AA , Adepiti AO
Published: May 2021

The use of mixtures of plants in form of decoctions is common practice in African ethnomedicine.The study evaluated the antiplasmodial activities of the freeze-dried decoctions of different combination ratios of the stem-bark of Alstonia boonei De Wild (Apocynaceae) and dry seed of Picralima nitida (Stapf) T.&H.Dur. (Apocynaceae) against chloroquine-sensitive Plasmodium bergheiberghei NK65 strain.Thus, the decoctions of the mixtures of A. boonei stem-bark (A) and P. nitida seed (P) were prepared in three different ratios 1:1 (AP1), 1:2 (AP2) and 2:1 (AP3), were separately filtered, concentrated in vacuo and freeze-dried to obtain the corresponding extractive for each ratio. The acute toxicity test was carried out on each of the ratios using Lorke’s method. The antiplasmodial activity of each ratio was assessed using 4-day test at 1.5-100 mg/kg. The ratio with the best chemosuppressive activity was subjected to prophylactic and established malaria infection tests at 6.25–50 mg/kg, with pyrimethamine (1.25 mg/kg) and chloroquine (5 mg/kg) as positive controls, respectively. The LD50 of each extractive was greater than 5000 mg/kg. The chemosuppressions of AP1, AP2 and AP3 at 12.5 mg/kg were 55.7%, 64.4% and 57.2%, respectively, with AP2 being comparable to chloroquine. The ED50 for AP1, AP2 and AP3 were 27.8, 26.0 and 29.7 mg/ kg, respectively.Furthermore, AP2 exhibited curative activity with parasite clearance between 82.6% and 84% at 12.5 - 50 mg/kg while it showed prophylactic activities between 46.5% and 55.3% at the same doses. The observed antiplasmodial activities of the freeze-dried extractive (AP2) from the decoction of A. boonei stem-bark and P. nitida seed in ratio 1:2 can therefore be exploited for herbal antimalarial drug development.Keywords: Antimalarial, Parasitaemia, Pyrimethamine, Chemosuppression
Antiulcer Activities of Securidaca longepedunculata Fres. (Polygalaceae) and Luffa cylindrica Linn. (Cucurbitaceae) in Wistar Rats
Authors: Kayode AAA , Sonibare MA , Moody JO
Published: May 2021

Securidaca longepedunculata (SL) and Luffa cylindrica (LC) are medicinal plants commonly used in combination with other recipes in the treatment of many ailments in traditional medicine among the Yoruba ethnic group in Nigeria. In our recent survey, the two plants were among the most frequently mentioned plants for the treatment of gastric ulcer in Ado Odo local government area of Ogun state, Nigeria. This study was designed to examine whether the leaf extracts (methanol, ethylacetate and hexane extracts) of SL and LC possess antiulcer effect in rats. The antiulcer effects of the extracts were assessed using ethanol-induced gastric ulcer model of ulceration in rats. The vehicle, test drug or plant extracts were administered 50 min prior to ulcerogenic procedure. Ulceration was induced in animals with 1 mL absolute ethanol one hour before being sacrificed. Ulcer index, protein content and lipid peroxidation activity of the gastric tissues were determined. The standard antiulcer drug, Cimetidine (50 mg/kg b.w), used as negative control, has percentage protection of 59.4% and the methanol (150 and 300 mg/kg b.w), ethylacetate (150 and 300 mg/kg b.w) and hexane (150 and 300 mg/kg b.w) extracts of SL showed (68.8% and 78.1%) , (93.8% and 87.5%) and (71.9% and 75.0%), protection, respectively. Similarly, the 150 mg/kg b.w ethyl acetate extract of LC gave 78.1% inhibition while the 300 mg/kg ethyl acetate extract revealed 87.5% protection. Further, investigation showed that the extracts increased the protein content in the gastric tissues which suggests an ability to stimulate tissue regeneration. Lipid peroxidation levels were significantly (p<0.05) lowered in the pretreated groups. Taken together, the present study demonstrates that the leaf extracts of SL and LCare possible potent gastro protective and antiulcer agents against ethanol-induced gastric ulcer thus providing evidences that may justify their ethno medicinal uses as antiulcer agentsKeywords: Securidaca longepedunculata, Luffa cylindrica, Ethanol-induced, Ulceration, Gastro Protective
Right to Work in Article 27 of the UNCRPD and “Sweatshops for Severly Handicapped Persons”
Authors: Eichenhofer Eberhard
Published: May 2021

In Germany since generations sweatshops for persons with severe handicaps do exist. As to § 56 of the Social Code IX these institutions have to develop, improve, unfold or restore the capabilities of persons with severe handicaps. They are addressed to persons, who are—depending on the manner and severity of their handicap—cannot be employed on the general labour market. They should contribute in sweatshops to a minimum standard of economic production and their transition into the general labour market should be supported.
Charakter własności siły roboczej w gospodarce realnego socjalizmu. Dylematy doktrynalno-polityczne i praktyczne
Authors: Patulski Andrzej
Published: May 2021

The character (feature) of labour force in real socialist economy. doctrinal, political and practical dilemmas

This article is an analysis of character of labour fource in real socialist economy. It attempts to answer the question, whether the system of labour fource in real socialist economy was based on the private property of labour force.
Aktywność zawodowa kobiet na obszarach migracyjnych województwa opolskiego
Authors: Rostropowicz-Miśko Marta
Published: May 2021

Women’s economic activity in the migration areas of the Opole Voivodeship
One of the factors that has impacted on people’s economic activity is the migration process. Opole province, as a region with a long migration tradition, is characterized by low economic activity of women. In areas which have a high rate of male emigration, the unemployment of women has been extremely high. One of the reasons is a small share of unemployed men in the generally high rate of unemployment in these places. On the other hand the high level of unemployed women is caused by the deliberate maintenance of this status which has guaranteed, amongst other things, unlimited access to medical services. An increase in the migration of women for commercial purposes at the beginning of the 21st century has been a response to the demand for women in the workforce in the care sector like taking care of elderly people. This has been the reason for the change in women’s economic activity. The purpose of the article is to show the economic activity of women living in migratory areas of the Opole province who take up temporary and permanent employment in European countries, especially in Germany and the Netherlands.

Streszczenie
Jednym z czynników wpływających na aktywność zawodową ludności są procesy migracyjne. Województwo opolskie jako region o długich tradycjach migracyjnych od lat charakteryzował się niską aktywnością zawodową kobiet. Na obszarach objętych intensywnymi migracjami zarobkowymi mężczyzn, bezrobocie kobiet było bardzo wysokie. Wynikało ono z jednej strony z niskiego udziału mężczyzn wśród ogółu bezrobotnych, a z drugiej – z celowego utrzymywania statusu osoby bezrobotnej przez kobiety, który gwarantował m.in. dostęp do świadczeń zdrowotnych. Wzmożone wyjazdy w celach zarobkowych kobiet na początku XXI w. były odpowiedzią na wzrost zapotrzebowania na kobiecą siłę roboczą w tzw. sektorze usług rodzinnych, a tym samym nastąpiła zmiana ich aktywności zawodowej. Celem artykułu jest przestawienie charakteru aktywności zawodowej kobiet, mieszkających na obszarach migracyjnych województwa opolskiego, które podejmują zatrudnienie stałe i okresowe w krajach europejskich − głównie w Niemczech i Holandii.
Multiplicatively dependent vectors with coordinates algebraic numbers
Authors: Stewart C
Published: May 2021

We shall prove that close to each point in \mathbb{C}^n with coordinates of comparable size there is a point (t_1 , ... , t_n) with the property that no multiplicatively dependent vector (u_1 , ... , u_n) with coordinates which are algebraic numbers of height at most H and degree at most d is very close to (t_1 , ... , t_n).
Virtualizacija žive umjetničke izvedbe u post – Covid-19 kulturi
Authors: Katunarić Leo
Published: May 2021

Digitalna kultura realizira samu sebe društvenim skokovima, a ne samo praćenjem ritma linearnog toka razvoja tehnologije. Promjena globalne kulturne paradigme prihvaća se trenutno i bez rezervi, kako u slučajevima prva dva skoka (y2k milenijski bug i web 2. 0), tako i trećem, post – Covid-19. Komunikacija uživo, kao i drugi uobičajeni aspekti ljudske izvedbe uživo, postaje virtualizirana. Proces se razvija i održava pomoću obrazaca tradicionalne umjetničke izvedbe uživo, a poznatih iz dramaturgije kazališta i performansa. Takvi obrasci ugrađeni su u tehnologiju digitalne komunikacije otprije. Pozicija ljudskog izvođačkog tijela u novim okolnostima postaje predmet zanimanja strojne civilizacije. Bitka ljudi za održavanjem identiteta vodi se izvedbom i u post – Covid-19 diskursu, slično bitkama koje se povijesno vode s nad-sustavima moći.
STUDENTS’ MALFEASANCE ACTS, CONSEQUENCES AND ADMINISTRATIVE APPROACHES IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS, DELTA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Nkedishu Victor Chukwubueze
Published: May 2021

This study examined students’ malfeasance acts, consequences and administrative approaches in public secondary schools, Delta State. It was guided by four research questions and four hypotheses. The study design was ex-post-facto of the descriptive survey technique. A sample of 238 was selected from a population of 476 principals in Delta State secondary schools applying stratified sampling method. Instrument entitled ‘Students’ Malfeasance Acts, Consequences and Administrative Approaches Questionnaire (SMACAAQ) was utilized in the study and its validity was established though face and content validity. Data gathered were analysed with the use of mean rating, standard deviation, ranking and t-test at significance level of 0.05. Findings revealed that perpetual lateness to school, inviting their friends to create conflict in school, oppressing fellow students, coming to school with dangerous weapon were some profiles of malfeasance acts in public secondary schools, Delta State. Letting students know the consequence of malfeasance acts on their academic achievement and society, use well-behaved students to give example, let students know the rewards for being well-behaved were some administrative approaches to curb students’ malfeasance acts in public secondary schools, Delta State. It is recommended that upon admission, students should be issued a handbook which contains rules and regulations of the school, this will help students understand what constitute malfeasance behaviour and avoid them. Orientation should be organised for students from time to time where they will be informed on consequence of malfeasance acts on their academic achievement and society at large.

 

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POLITICAL FOUNDATIONS OF SOCIAL STUDIES CURRICULA IN THE CONTEXT OF CITIZENSHIP EDUCATION IN TURKEY: GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS AND DEVELOPMENT PLANS
Authors: Şiraz Fadıl , Bay Erdal
Published: May 2021

The education process in school is organized by the curriculum. Curricula aim to raise citizens in accordance with the needs and political structure of the country. Among the curricula, social studies curriculum (SSC) be shown as a curriculum that can be most affected by political foundations. Because in social studies, issues such as democracy, human rights, government style, human rights, rights and responsibilities are directly related to politics. In this study, government programs (GP) and development plans (DP) in Turkey, which are one of the main political tools that affect social studies curriculum politically, have been analyzed. In this study, the 1998, 2005 and 2018 SSCs; the 55th, 59th and 65th GPs and 7th, 8th and 10th DPs in Turkey were analyzed using the document review method. This study was designed with a case study from qualitative research methods. Content analysis method was used in analyzing the data. As a result, it is concluded that GPs and DPs affect the social SSCs in some aspects.
 

Okulda eğitim süreci programla düzenlenir. Eğitim programları ülkenin ihtiyaçlarına ve politik yapısına uygun vatandaşlar yetiştirmeyi hedefler. Programlardan soysal bilgiler öğretim programları içerik olarak politik temellerden en fazla etkilenebilecek bir program olarak gösterilebilir. Çünkü sosyal bilgilerde içerikte demokrasi, insan hakları, yönetim biçimi, haklar ve sorumluluklar gibi konular doğrudan politika ile doğrudan ilişkilidir. Bu araştırmada sosyal bilgiler öğretim programlarını politik olarak etkileyen, temel politik araçlardan olan, hükümet programları ve kalkınma planları analiz edilmiştir. 1998, 2005 ve 2018 sosyal bilgiler öğretim programları; 55, 59 ve 65. Hükümet programları ve 7, 8 ve 10. kalkınma planları doküman incelemesi yöntemiyle analiz edilmiştir. Bu çalışma nitel araştırma yöntemlerinden durum çalışması ile desenlenmiştir. Verilerin çözümlenmesinde içerik analizi yöntemi kullanılmıştır. Sonuç olarak hükümet programları ve kalkınma planlarının sosyal bilgiler öğretim programını bazı hususlarda etkilediği sonucuna ulaşılmıştır.

 

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PENGARUH PEMBELAJARAN KURIKULUM 2013 TERHADAP MOTIVASI BELAJAR PAK SISWA KELAS VII SMP NEGERI 1 SIPOHOLON KECAMATAN SIPOHOLON KABUPATEN TAPANULI UTARA TAHUN PEMBELAJARAN 2017/2018
Authors: Sianipar Nopela
Published: May 2021

Abstract, The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of applying the 2013 curriculum learning to the motivation of learning PAK of the students of classes VII SMP Negeri 1 Sipoholon Academic Year 2017/2018. The method used in this research is the method of inferential statistics. The population is all student classes VII in SMP Negeri 1 Sipoholon 2017 year with the number of 160 students and sample 80 students by using random sampling technique . The instrument of this research is a closed questionnaire of 53 items. The results of data analysis showed that there is a positive impact of the application of the 2013 curriculum learning on the motivation of learning PAK in class VII SMP Negeri 1 Sipoholon Academic Year 2017/2018 of 9.3% with hypothesis test using F test obtained Fobt Ftab is 7,9891,39 thus H0 rejected and Ha accepted. Keywords: Learning, Curriculum 2013, Motivation of Learning Christian Subjek