bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Non-Darcy MHD Flow of a Casson Fluid over a Non-linearly Stretching Sheet with Partial Slip in a Porous Medium
Authors: Kala Bhim Sen
Published: November 2019

In this paper, we have analysed the non-Darcy MHD flow of a Casson fluid over a nonlinearly stretching sheet in a porous medium. In the mathematical model, using similarity variables, the momentum equation is transformed to non-dimensional ordinary differential equation. And then it is solved numerically using bvp4c method, a Matlab in- built bvp4c-programm. A discussion for the effects of the parameters involved on the boundary layer thickness and the magnitude of the velocity and skin friction has been done graphically and numerically using figures and tables.
Lung Cancer: A Chronic Disease Epidemiology; Prevalence Study
Authors: Maxwell Obubu , Kayode Adeleke Akinrinade , Olusola Yusuf Olufemi , Joshua Adeleke Ireoluwa , Chinedu Onwuegbuokwu Virtus
Published: November 2019

Chronic lung diseases (CLD) including asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide and their occurrence in multiple sclerosis (MS) remains of interest. Increasing awareness of the possible adverse effect of CLD on outcomes in MS, such as disability progression and mortality, has heightened the need to understand the relationship between these chronic conditions. Prevalence of lung Cancer was discussed in this paper, with intend to; investigate the number of patients and deaths affected with lung cancer, test the effect of sex on lung cancer incidence, test the effect of environment and educational level on lung cancer incidence, examine the trend in lung cancer, and measure the relative risk associated with lung cancer. Secondary data sourced from the records units of five different hospitals was used. Cross tabulation, Chi-square test for independence, regression analysis, correlation analysis and odds ratio were applied on the three year study. From the study, it was found that lung cancer cases are independent on environmental factor, educational level and sex. A strong linear relationship exists between lung cancer and death from such disease, implying that increase in the number of lung cancer cases has very high positive effect on the occurrence of death  (r = 0.783), 61.4% of the variation in death occurrence is explained  by lung cancer. The probability of dying from lung cancer is higher in patients 50 years and above than in younger patients (age < 50 yrs).
Hepatotherapeutic Tendency of Citrullus lanatus Rind Methanolic Extract on Liver Markers in Male Wistar Rats
Authors: Ogadinma Ilochi , Nwafor Chuemere Arthur , Samuel Bassy
Published: November 2019

It is a common practice to dispose the peel or rind of fruits. Interestingly, some parts of fruits humans find unacceptable to eat actually possess bioactive nutrients that can be used for medicinal purposes.  The effect of methanolic extract of Citrullus lanatus rind on liver function in normal male wistar rats was studied. 24 wistar rats with body weight between 150-250 g were used for this study. The animals were randomly divided into four groups, with 6 rats in each. Group 1 contained the control given normal saline and feed; group 2, low dose, 50mg/kg of methanolic extract of  Citrullus lanatus rind was administered, group 3 and 4 were administered medium and high dose of Citrullus lanatus rind extract 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg respectively. The Citrullus lanatus rind extract was administered via orogastric route and the experiment lasted for a period of 56 days. Blood samples were collected by left ventricular cardiac puncture for liver function test at the last day of the experiment.  The outcome of this research revealed that medium and high dose administration of citrullus lanatus rind significantly (p≤0.05) reduced the serum level of liver enzymes alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase and alkaline phosphatase and also total protein.There was a non-significant (P≤0.05) change in serum total bilirubin and albumin when all doses were compared to the control. Prolonged and moderate ingestion of Citrullus lanatus rind may be of benefit in regulating blood level of liver enzymes; hence, this part of the fruit has therapeutic value.
Assessment of Health Risk and Elemental Concentrations in Minjingu Vegetables and Soils by Wavelength Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence
Authors: Koleleni Yusuf I. , Tafisa Seriver
Published: November 2019

The samples of soil and selected species of vegetables (cowpea leaves, spinach, sweet potato leaves, Ethiopian mustard and Chinese cabbages) were randomly collected from four sites, Idara ya maji, Nkaiti, Mbulungu and Mkwajuni of Minjingu village of Manyara in Tanzania. The samples were analyzed by means of wavelength dispersive x-ray fluorescence (WDXRF) spectrometry to determine the heavy metal concentrations in soils and vegetables of the field study with emphasis on their health risk index (HRI) assessment. The results indicate that soils have concentration range of 142-1547 for Ca, 737-2515 for K, 2396-4748 for Si, 0-121 for P, 0-181 for Mg, 0-36 for S, 0-68 for Na, 561-942 for Al, 121-4748 for Fe, 0-80 for Mn, 0-53 for Sr, 0-37 for Cs and 0-11 for Ni in mg/kg which was above the maximum tolerable limits(MTL). Elements detected in vegetables were in the range of 2123-6122 for Ca, 747-8005 for K, 65-996 for Si, 40-348 for Mg, for Mn, 85-584 for P, 22-705 for S, 0-218 for Na, 70-835 for Fe, 23-286 for Al, 0-98 for Cs, 84-1076 for Cl and 0-13 for Ni in mg/kg. The highest heavy metal retention capability was exhibited in Cowpea leaves, Spinach and Chinese cabbages but sweet potato leaves and Ethiopian mustard has shown lower concentrations. Control site recorded the least concentration values. The HRI values for Sr, Ni and Fe in vegetables exceeded the maximum threshold limits (HRI>1) set by United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). The findings of this work indicates that soils and vegetables grown, particularly cowpea leaves, spinach and Chinese cabbages were extremely contaminated at levels able to pose detrimental health effects to the consumers. Therefore the consumption of cowpea leaves, spinach and Chinese cabbages should be reduced to the maximum if not abandoned. But limited quantities of Ethiopian mustard and sweet potato leaves can be taken while immediate steps are taken to reduce anthropogenic activities at the polluting site. This situation makes the regular monitoring of the grown vegetables a compulsory act.
Assessment of Better Prediction of Seasonal Rainfall by Climate Predictability Tool Using Global Sea Surface Temperature in Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain Md. Zakaria , Kalam Azad Md. Abul , Karmakar Samarendra , Islam Mondal Md. Nazrul , Das Mohan , Rahman Md. Mizanur , Haque Md. Abdul
Published: November 2019

This study was conducted to determine better prediction result of seasonal rainfall. To evaluate the better prediction of seasonal rainfall of rainy season (15 June-15 August) by Climate Predictability Tools (CPT) in the context of using sea surface temperature (SST) of starting month of rainy season compare to using SST of one month before the rainy season. The study was carried out at the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation Meteorological Research Centre, Dhaka; Bangladesh between January and December, 2010. A correlation between rainfall at Rangpur, Dhaka, Barisal and Sylhet and global SST of different areas of the world was studied by using the both data of 1975- 2008 years with the help of the CPT to find more positive correlated SST with observed rainfall and use as predictor for giving the prediction of the year 2009. The statistical method applied using CPT which is canonical correlation analysis. Using SST of one month before rainy season as predictor, the positive deviation of predicted rainfall from observed rainfall was 1.34 mm/day at Sylhet and 0.9 mm/day at Dhaka. The negative deviation of mean rainfall was 1.16 mm/day at Rangpur and 1.10 mm/day at Barisal. Again, using of starting one month SST of rainy season as predictor, positive deviation of predicted rainfall from observed rainfall was 4.03 mm/day at Sylhet. The positive deviation of daily mean rainfall was found 6.58 mm/day at Dhaka and 6.23 mm/day over southern Bangladesh. The study reveals that SST of one month before rainy season was better predictor than SST of starting month of rainy season.
Evaluation of Concentration of Copper, Lead, and Zinc in Different Brands of Cigarette Sold in Keffi Main Market of Nasarawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Yahaya Idris , Mundi Abdullahi A. , Mustapha Idris M. , Isah Jibrin , Mohammed Musa
Published: November 2019

Background: Tobacco smoking is one source of heavy metals exposure in the general population. Tobacco smoke has toxic, genotoxic, and carcinogenic properties and has been linked to fatal pregnancy outcomes.

Aim: This research was carried out to investigate the concentration of Copper (Cu), lead (Pb) and Zinc (Zn) in different cigarette brands sold in Keffi main market of Nasarawa state and compare with recommended standard.

Study Design: To determine the presence of heavy metals in different brands of cigarette sold in Keffi main Market, Nasarawa State, Nigeria and compare them with relevant authorities’ standard.

Place and Duration: The study was carried out in the department of physics, Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Nasarawa State, Nigeria between March 2018 and November, 2018.

Materials and Methods: Ten brands of cigarette were purchased from Keffi main central market using random sampling. The cigarettes were expose to sun light for 3 hours until they became dry. The filters and papers of the cigarettes were removed after drying and the tobacco content were pulverized using agate mortar and pestle. The processed samples were packaged in a well labelled polyethylene bag. A total of ten samples (one sample per brand) were analyzed using XRF spectrometry.

Results: The range of Cu, Pd, and Zn concentration in ten brands of cigarette were (14.30 to 64.30 mg/kg), (5.43 to 10.55mg/kg), and (12.05 to 160.45 mg/kg) respectively. The brand with the highest concentration of Cu, Pb, and Zn are St. moriz (160.45 mg/kg), London (10.55 mg/kg) and Benson (64.30 mg/kg) respectively, while the lowest concentration found in Bohem (12.05 mg/kg), Excel (5.43 mg/kg), and Yes (14.30 mg/kg) respectively.

Conclusion: The concentration of Cu, Pd, and Zn are high in most of the cigarette brands. Concentration of Pb are above the recommended limit reported in the United Kingdom (1.35mg/kg) and Korea (0.74 mg/kg). Concentration Cu and Zn are also high in the cigarette brands.
Implementation of International Financial Reporting Standard as a Tool for the Performance of Nigerian Insurance Companies
Authors: Unachukwu J. C.
Published: November 2019

Implementation of international financial reporting standard (IFRS) in terms of quality financial reporting, information disclosure pattern, transparency, auditing, reporting standards, regulatory control and flexibility, corporate governance, and financial scandals have an influence on organizational performance. This study sought to investigate the influence of implementation of IFRS on organizational performance with specific reference to the Nigerian insurance industry. Purposive sampling method was used to select the accountants and auditors of twenty- nine (29) insurance companies listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) market, totaling 58 respondents. The data collection instruments for the study were structured questionnaires designed for the study.  Data analysis was performed with the aid of descriptive statistical tools such as frequencies, percentages and mean, and inferential statistical tools such as Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient and Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) method of estimation. The finding revealed that there is a strong relationship between financial performance and implementation of IFRS. The finding also indicated that implementation of IFRS has a significant influence on investment decision making. This connotes that the implementation of IFRS is a veritable tool to financial performance of Nigerian insurance companies. Subsequently, the study recommended that the management of insurance companies should embrace International Financial Reporting Standard (IFRS) with immediate effect so that the sector can attract both local and foreign investors. Also, National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) should sanction any insurance company fails to implement IFRS on or before the year 2020.
Appraisal of Factors Influencing Small and Medium Enterprises (SMES) in Textile Sub-sector in Yoruba Land, Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Kareem T. S. , Oyeniyi K. O. , Ajiboye F. A.
Published: November 2019

SMEs in the textile sub-sector are the main players in domestic economic activities, especially as providers of job opportunities for unemployed youths. However, the sector has been devilled by the high influx of counterfeit and smuggled goods which have resulted in low patronage of Nigerian-made textiles materials. This study, therefore, seeks to appraise the factors influencing SMEs in the textile sub-sector in Yoruba Land, Southwest, Nigeria. Purposive sampling technique was employed to select 50 indigenous textile entrepreneurs from Iseyin, Oyo State, Nigeria. The study employed primary data, sourced through structured questionnaire Descriptive statistics such as frequency, simple percentage, and mean were used to analyze the data. Results reveal that the major motivating factors are; employment generation, to have control over life, opportunity to create a fortune, high job security, and impressive profit attraction. Results also reveal that the high influx of counterfeit and smuggled goods are most factors affecting the performance of SMEs in textiles in Nigeria. Subsequently, the study recommends that the federal government should earmark a substantial amount to bail out the SMEs in the textile sub-sector and also to ban the importation of textiles. This will ultimately drive many young graduates into the sector.
Persian Walnut in Vietnam: A Potential Fruit Tree for Poverty Reduction
Authors: Thang Nguyen Toan , Thuyet Dang Van , Hung Nguyen Quang , Lam Vu Tien , Khuong Ninh Viet , Trung Phung Dinh , Quy Tran Hoang , Thinh Nguyen Huu , Tuyen Pham Quang , Son Hoang Thanh , Bon Trinh Ngoc , Luong Ho Trung , Tuan Nguyen Van , Trung Duong Quang , Phuong Nguyen Thi Thu , Duc Dao Trung , Do Tran Van
Published: November 2019

Persian walnut, Juglans regia L., is a long-lived, wind-pollinated and deciduous tree, which produces large, woody, shelled and edible nuts. J. regia is one of the most economically important cultivated species for timber and nutritious nuts. Its nuts have medicinal importance for human health by high antioxidant capacity. J. regia has been planted in Northern Vietnam for decades. In this study, a survey was conducted in three provinces to understand current planting sites and production of planted trees. The results indicated that J. regia was planted personally in gardens of local people in Lai Chau, Lao Cai and Ha Giang provinces, sharing borderlines with China. The planted trees are 10-30 years old with some exceptions of up to 40-50 years old. Generally, each household owns 2-3 fruited trees with some exceptions of up to 10 trees. After planting 7 years, trees fruit annually. However, the production varies among trees. A best 20-25-year-old tree can yield 55 kg fruits/year with current market price of 1.5 US$/ 1 kg fruits. There exists high variation of fruit production among planted sites, as results of climate difference, and unknown source and sexual propagation seedlings. It is concluded that to establish an extensive plantation of J. regia for high fruit production, selecting superior genotypes from local populations should be conducted, then vegetative propagation such as grafting should be applied to produce good and uniform seedlings.
Effect of Socio Economic Status (SES) on Foot Length, Palm Length, and Mid-finger Length of School Going Children (8-10 Years Old) in Mumbai
Authors: Thakkar Hiral , Sengupta Rupali
Published: November 2019

Aims: To Study the effect of Socioeconomic status (SES) of foot length, palm length and mid finger length on School going Children (Age:-8-10 years) in Mumbai city.

Study Design: A survey research design was adopted for measurement and data collection. Foot length was analysed by Standardized measuring tape, Palm length and mid-finger length was analyzed by Calliper, Height (cm) was analysed by stadiometer. The unit of measurement used was centimetre (cm).

SES was coded according to Kuppuswamy scale [1].

Place and Duration of Study: The time span required to carry out study was from November to March 2018-2019 in Mumbai city.

Methodology: Total 319 subjects (male & female) participated ranging from public to private schools in Mumbai city, (Maharashtra, India). Kuppuswamy scale (2018) was used to analyse the SES of the subjects. SPSS software version 20 was used for data analysis.

Results: A positive striking correlation was observed between height and different socio economic status at p <0.05 (.001). Maximum height was found among upper class (129.58±6.88), further the lowest mean value of height (124.00 ± 6.34) was noted among the upper lower class. However, foot length and mid-finger length showed highly significant difference statistically at p <0.05 (.000). Although the maximum foot length was found among upper lower class (3.0287± 0.33), further the lowest mean value of foot length (1.0599 ± 0.40), was noted among the lower class and also, higher treatment value (6.195± 0.60) for mid-finger length was found amongst the upper middle class and lower treatment value amongst lower class (5.700 ± 0.34). Moreover, a significant correlation was observed between palm length and Socio-economic status at p <0.05 (.019). Also, the highest statistical association of the palm length to the Socio-economic status of the samples (9.412±3.72) was observed among Upper lower class subjects, Whereas lowest level of palm length was depicted in lower class (7.757 ± 0.82) category.
Simulation of an Enhanced Network Security Framework for Federal Polytechnic Mubi
Authors: Sarjiyus O. , Bala D.
Published: November 2019

The research, Simulation of an enhanced network security framework for Educational Enterprise system such as Federal Polytechnic Mubi was carried out of the desire to protect the enterprise network against accidental or deliberate attempt to modify or temper with valuable data. The aim is to develop a workable security framework for the enterprise network of Federal Polytechnic, Mubi while focusing on parameters such as authenticity, confidentiality, integrity and non-repudiation of data. These problems were solved in the research by securing unused ports with encrypted passwords and securing access lines of all network devices such as routers and switches. The methodology adopted for the system development was the survey method and this is because it provides reliable results used to identify network security problems and experimental methods for the construction of the framework. While data was elicited from extensive review of related journals articles, lecture notes, textbooks, face to face interview and interaction with relevant stakeholders. Design tools such as Diaw were used to produce structure diagrams effectively. Cisco Packet Tracer was then used to carry out the simulation process and the results was found to be in tune with the overall objective of the design.
Yield and Nutritional Value of Abelmoshus esculentus L. (Okra) and Telfairia occidentalis Hook, F. (Fluted pumpkin) as Influenced by Beauty Salon Wastewater
Authors: Olumakinde Akinbuwa, , Otitoloju Kekere, , Constance Ezemba,
Published: November 2019

The effect of beauty salon wastewater on yield and nutritional quality of Abelmoschus esculentus L. and Telfairia occidentalis F. was investigated. Plants were grown in perforated polythene bags filled with 3 kg of top soil and irrigated with 0 (control), 25, 50, 75 and 100% of the wastewater.  Plants were laid out in a completely randomized design (CRD) consisting of 5 treatments with 6 replicates per treatment. Results showed that the yield parameters of Abelmoschus esculentus including number of fruits/plant, fruit fresh weight and dry weight increased at 25-75% concentrations but decreased at highest concentration of 100%  wastewater in comparison with the control.  Similarly, the total biomass of Telfairia occidentalis and Abelmoschus esculentus increased at 25-75% concentrations of wastewater. The N, K, Ca and Na composition of the leaf of T. occidentalis and fruits of A. esculentus increased at all wastewater treatment levels. The percentage ash and protein increased in both plants treated with the wastewater. Lipid content increased while the fibre content decreased in T. occidentalis whereas in A. esculentus fibre content increased while the lipid content decreased in comparison to the control. Percentage carbohydrate increased in both plants treated with the wastewater. The use of beauty salon wastewater in irrigation of vegetables would not only reduce environmental pollution but also serve as an alternative source of fertilizer for vegetable production.
Effect of Different Drying Methods on the Mineral Content of Three Accessions of Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) Calyces
Authors: Amoasah B. , Appiah F. , Tandoh P. , Amoateng E.
Published: November 2019

Fresh Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa l.) calyces have shorter shelf life due to their high moisture content. In order to extend their shelf life, Roselle calyces are dried. However, the effect of different drying methods on mineral composition are not sufficiently reported. A study was therefore conducted to determine the influence of oven, solar and sun drying methods on the mineral content of three accessions (HS11, HS41 and HS89) of roselle calyces grown in Ghana. A 3×3 factorial experiment laid in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three replications was used. The roselle accessions were harvested 12 weeks after planting. Sodium, magnesium, calcium, zinc, potassium, phosphorus and iron were the mineral elements analyzed for using recommended procedures. The study showed that accession HS41 had the highest calcium, iron, potassium, phosphorus and zinc content being (0.98%), (8.36 mg/kg), (0.60%), (0.36%), and (2.34mg/kg) respectively. Accession HS89 had the highest magnesium (0.55%) and sodium content (0.030%). With respect to methods of drying, sun recorded significantly highest calcium (0.81%), iron (6.77mg/kg), magnesium (0. 42%), sodium (0.03%), and zinc content (1.93mg/kg). On the other hand, Oven drying resulted in the highest potassium (0.58%) and phosphorus content (0.34).
Features of Formation of Primary School Pupils` Social Activity
Authors: Bulavenko Svitlana
Published: November 2019

The article is devoted to one of the topical problems of the theory and practice of education -bases of formation of social activity of elementary school students.

In the process of research were used such theoretical methods (analysis, comparison, classification, systematization, generalization); empirical (conversations, surveys, questionnaires, solution of situational tasks, program of pedagogical observations, ranking, methods of unfinished sentences).

The essence of the phenomenon "social activity of students" as a scientific concept is specified; the peculiarities of the formation of social activity of elementary school students are determined; methodological approaches are presented for research of the problem of formation of social activity of students of junior classes: social-pedagogical, system-role, subject-activity and axiological; levels of formation of social activity of elementary school students are revealed; The pedagogical conditions for the formation of social activity of primary school pupils have been theoretically substantiated and experimentally verified, namely: The formation of conscious motivation of students for various types of socially useful activity and subject-subject interaction, which facilitate their gradual transition from passive to active position; use in the educational process of the developed program of the special course and teaching materials "Life Economics - First Steps", social program "Know Yourself" aimed at forming social activity of students; increase of teacher's skills of teachers.

The content and methodological provision of the process of formation of social activity of primary school pupils ZSSO was developed  (program of special course and educational-methodical complex "Life Economics - the first steps", social program for pupils of grades 1-4 "Know yourself", the program of increasing readiness of teachers to innovate activity on formation of social activity "Creative teacher").

The study does not exhaust the multidimensional theoretical and practical search for problem solving. Further scientific researches may be aimed at studying the information space of the formation of social activity of junior pupils.
Validation of Efficiency Method for Heavy Metals Determination in Kola Nuts (Cola nitida Schott & Endl.) from Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Rodrigue Kouadio Kan , Henri Biego , Yves Nyamien , Ysidor Konan , Constant Konan , Adama Coulibaly , Daouda Sidibe
Published: November 2019

Aims: The current study targets the achievement of a reliable process for the determination of heavy metal contents in kola nuts, namely cadmium, mercury, and lead, for better appreciation of the risks incurred from the consumption of such food products.

Study Design: kola nuts collected from different stakeholders (planters, collectors, stores and centers) were analyzed after the validation of the proposed analytical method.

Place and Duration of Study: Central Laboratory for Food Hygiene and Agro-Industry, LANADA in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, running 2018.

Methodology: Two references were used for the validation of the analytical method, namely the French standard NF V 03-110 and the European directive 2001/22/EC. The assays were achieved with an flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). The heavy metal contents of some samples collected from different sampling place were then determined

Results: From the data, a significant regression chart was recorded for the heavy metals detection graphs, with significant correlation coefficients (R²˃ 0.99). The linearity domain was validated between 0.5 μg/L and 1.5 μg/L for cadmium, 15 μg/L and 45 μg/L for lead and from 10 μg/L to 100 μg/L for mercury. In addition, the LOD were 0.03 μg/L, 1.85 μg/L and 2.92 μg/L, while the LOQ were 0.07 μg/L, 6.52 μg/L and 3.32 μg/L for cadmium, lead and mercury, respectively. The relative standard deviations of the repeatability and reproducibility assays are below 4%, whereas standard additions of heavy metals are fully recovered, with percentages close to 100%. Contents of cadmium, lead and mercury in kola nuts are respectively valued at 22.97±9.01 μg/kg, 1065.57±613.76 μg/kg and 33.88±31.58 μg/kg from the farmers and 24.99±7.79 μg/kg, 296.51±98.18 μg/kg and 39.74±34.66 μg/kg from the storage centres.

Conclusion: This analytical method could help in ensuring effective sanitary control at different critical points of kola nut distribution channel for promoting a good management of the toxicity concerns in such products.
Influencing Variables to the Competencies of Learners in the Accreditation and Equivalency Test of Alternative Learning System
Authors: B. Moleño Roleen
Published: November 2019

The objective of this research was to determine the variables that influence the learners’ competencies in Alternative Learning System (ALS).  Specifically, it aimed to determine: the Accreditation and Equivalency (A and E) test takers’ socio-demographic characteristics; the ALS Instructional Managers’ (IM) socio-demographic characteristics; the extent of use of the mode of A and E program delivery by the IMs; the competencies of the learners in the A and E test based on overall results; the learners’ initial literacy level; whether the learners’ competency in A and E is significantly influenced by their socio-demographic characteristics; whether the learners’ competencies in the ALS A and E test is significantly influenced by the Instructional Managers’ socio-demographic characteristics; whether the learners’ competencies in ALS A and E are significantly influenced by the Instructional Managers’ extent of use of the mode of A and E program delivery; and whether the learners’ competency is significantly influenced by their initial literacy level.  The study employed descriptive-correlational research design utilizing four (4) instruments. There were 1,824 ALS learners and 79 ALS Instructional Managers completely enumerated respondents of the study.  In statistical tools, descriptive statistics and multiple regression were used.  It was concluded in the study that: the face-to-face mode of delivery is the most preferred by the ALS Instructional Managers and ALS learners do not possess the needed competencies in the Sustainable Use of Resources and Productivity.  Further, ALS learners have not gained much competence in their formal school attendance and the learners’ competency in the areas of the A and E test were not outcomes of the influence of variables such as their socio-demographic characteristics, IMs’ socio-demographic characteristics and initial literacy level.
Qualitative Insights into Supply Chain Management of Herbal Medicine in Ghana
Authors: Adusei Charles , Agambire Ramatu
Published: November 2019

A qualitative exploratory study was conducted on supply chain and the related risk management at Adutwumwaa Herbal Industries Limited (AHL) in Ghana. The study employed a case study research strategy using semi-structured interview guide as data collection tool. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the qualitative interviews involving five senior officers from the company. They served as Key Informants for the study. Major Themes that were derived from supply chain management were supply chain approach, management of risk to avoid supply chain break down and supply chain management pitfalls facing organisations. The supply chain approach involved sourcing of raw materials, route to market and distribution of products. Management of safety stock for its flagship brands, using multiple sourcing and technological innovations were adopted in managing risk to avoid supply chain breakdown. Unreliable supply of packaging and labeling materials from suppliers and disruption from Food and Drug Authority were the key supply chain management pitfalls facing the company. The study suggests that if herbal medicine companies want to retain competitive edge then they must pursue supply chain operational excellence by reassessing and adjusting its distribution capabilities periodically to improve responsiveness.
Sensory Evaluation of Wheat Bran Biscuits Mixed with Flaxseed
Authors: Tiwari Arpana , Mishra Sunita
Published: November 2019

Biscuit consumption is considered one of the top ten daily consumed foods [1]. The objective of this study was acceptability of biscuit containing three different combinations of powders of wheat bran, flaxseed and wheat viz., 25:75:0, 0:50:50, 20:80:0 were used to prepare 100gms flour mix. Acceptance was assessed using a hedonic scale of nine points. It was noticed that incorporation of flaxseed flour at 80% was unacceptable in biscuit. At this level of incorporation of flaxseed flour, the sensory properties of the product were affected i.e., flavour and taste wise, body and texture, colour and appearance and overall quality whereas 75% addition of flaxseed flour produced good results [2]. The antioxidant activity, phenolic concentration was linearly increased as the fortification was increased [1]. Data revealed that the overall acceptability of biscuit ranged from 9 to 7. This indicated that the recipes were found to fall under the category of ‘like extremely to like moderately’. It can finally be discerned from the sensory scores for biscuit prepared with 75% incorporation of flaxseed flour with 25% of wheat bran flour, that the biscuit was equally acceptable as that of control [2]. The acceptability of sensory characteristics was improved by this fortification immediately after preparation and during storage [3].
Reversibility, Body Weight and Histo-architectural Alterations in the Anterior Pituitary Gland of Aqueous Azadirachta indica Extract Fed Wistar Rats
Authors: Esegbue P. R. C. , Uyovwiesevwa A. J. , Olowe G. T. , Udi O. A.
Published: November 2019

Several studies have reported the importance of neem plant (Azadirachta indica) with results showing it to be both medicinal and pharmacological in the property. However, little or no available record(s) relates its effect on body weights and the anterior pituitary gland. Consequently, the current study investigated the effect of aqueous extract Azadirachta indica on the anterior pituitary gland using Wistar rats as an experimental model. Twelve (12) healthy male Wistar rats of between 130 – 150 g were grouped as follows; Group I (normal control) received normal rat feed ad libitum, experimental groups II and III received normal feed + 200 mg/kg and normal feed + 300 mg/kg of aqueous leave extract of Azadirachta indica respectively. For each group, Body weights were checked weekly for a total of three (3) weeks. At the end of the experiments, the animals were sacrificed, and histology of the pituitary glands was assessed. Result in a statistically insignificant increase (p< 0.05) in body weights of control compared with experimental rats, with mild observational elevation in pituitary histo-architecture for experimental compared to the control group. Thus, reversal weights are very supportive factors of Wistar rats and the histological effect of Azadirachta indica on the anterior pituitary gland in Wistar rats. The study also observed axonic fibres (using H and E x 10) with neural tissues in 200 mg/kg extract-treated rats, implicating an increase in cellularity, mild vascular congestion and tissue separation on Wistar rats.
An Interesting Case of Sphingobacterium Multivorum Neck Abscess
Authors: Khalid Muhammad , Khan Imran , Hashmi Arsalan , Kanaa Majd , Lewis Paul , Patel Paras
Published: November 2019

Soft tissue infections due to gram negative microorganism are very rare. Sphingobacterium multivorum related respiratory tract infections, cellulitis, necrotizing fasciitis and septic shock have been reported in literature mostly in immunosuppressed population. We present an interesting and rare case of neck abscess due to sphingobacterium multivorum in an immunocompetent patient, diagnosed by abscess fluid culture and neck imaging and treated with course of oral antibiotics.
A Review of Dengue Fever with Special Reference to Malaysia
Authors: A. M. Meer Ahmad , Kumarasamy Verasingam , Ngau Yen Yew , Leong Chee Loon , Koay Chew Aik
Published: November 2019

Introduction: Dengue is the most prevalent viral mosquito-borne disease, with over 2.5 billion humans at risk given its endemicity in more than 100 countries.

Globally, 50-100 million cases of dengue occur annually, with approximately 0.7% resulting in dengue haemorrhagic fever (DHF), and 22,000 deaths.

In 2017, there were 83,849 reported cases of dengue fever in endemic under-reported Malaysia, with 177 deaths.

One of our authors (Verasingam K 2006) here, earlier published an article in the Med J Malaysia titled “Dengue Fever in Malaysia: Time for Review?” This Article is meant as a sequel.

Method: The Authors here narrate from their own personal-experiences, as well as from reviewing existing-literature.

Results and Conclusion: Clinical Management has brought about vast improvements in mortality and morbidity. Similarly, great advancements in Laboratory Diagnostics. Prevention and Control methods have been desiring of greater achievements, but also show greater promise with Newer Insecticides, Innovative Methods and Vaccines. Dengue Fever would very likely become near-eradicated just like all other vaccine-preventable diseases, once comprehensive mass-vaccination programmes are available globally, using safe and very-effective tetravalent-vaccines soon to be available.
Clinical Features of Dengue Infection in Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Thailand
Authors: Zaw Kaung
Published: November 2019

Background: Dengue infection is the common infectious disease in tropical countries caused by dengue virus, which has four serotypes (DEN 1, 2, 3 and 4). More data showed that dengue has caught worldwide attention due to its severe and fatal clinical outcome. This study aimed to describe the difference of clinical features of dengue infection between children and adults and among each dengue serotypes in Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand during 2011- 2013.

Study Design: This study was a hospital-based retrospective.  In- patient medical record of 50 children and 148 adults with clinical and laboratory confirmed dengue infection and admitted to Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand during July 2011- June 2013 were reviewed.

Results: We found that headache and myalgia/arthalgia were found in most of the cases (182/198, 91.9%; 178/198, 89.9%, respectively). Epistaxis and hypermenorrhea were more common in children. Retro-orbital pain was more common in adult. The spontaneous bleeding tended to be more common in children than adults. DEN2 (48.9%) was the most common serotype followed by DEN3 (23.7%), DEN1 (22.2%) and DEN4 (5.2%). Regarding dengue serotypes, subjects infected with DEN1 had more shock, hypermenorrhea and epistaxis than others. Lymphadenopathy and rash during febrile stage were found in subjects infected with DEN2 only. Subjects infected with DEN4 infection had more retro-orbital pain and petechiae than others.

Conclusion: The results show secondary dengue infection was most common and the most prevalent dengue serotype was serotype 2. Typical symptoms in adult involved retro orbital pain, nausea and arthralgia while children might suffer epistaxis and hypermenorrhea. We also found that DEN 1 tended to have more mucosa bleeding and shock. In DEN 4 infection, subjects had more retro-orbital pain and skin bleeding.
The Morbidities Experienced during and after the 2017 Flood in Port Harcourt
Authors: Amaechi A. S. , Ordinioha B.
Published: November 2019

Background: Floods are a type of natural phenomena, identified as the world most common natural disaster with a major ravaging impact claiming lives, causing property damage, destruction of environment and infrastructure, and increasing health impacts. Port Harcourt Metropolis, the capital of Rivers State was greatly affected by the 2017 flood. Hence this study aims to determine the morbidities experienced during and after the 2017 flood.

Materials and Methods: The study was a combination of quantitative and qualitative research for effective triangulation. A cross-sectional study was carried out. Data were collected through self-administered semi-structured questionnaires and key informant interviews. Data was analysed using Microsoft excel for editing, SPSS version 20 for quantitative analysis and Nvivo version 12.0 was used for qualitative analysis.

Results: A total of 210 respondents were administered questionnaires but had response rate of 96.67% and a total of 3 key informants were interviewed with a 100% response rate. Amongst these respondents were 44.8% male and 55.2% female, with respondents’ mean age of 35.96±11.15. The frequencies of occurrence of morbidities of the residents and the 2017 flood were analyzed using percentage and chi-square test and the result showed a statistical significance (p < 0.05) between both variables.

Conclusion: The findings showed that the morbidities experienced during the flood had higher prevalence than post flood morbidities, but an exception was dark urine. These flood risks and morbidity outcomes can however be controlled through adequate preventive measures and recommendable interventions.
Socio-cultural Determinants of Spread of Ebola Outbeak in West Africa 2014- 2016: Lessons Learnt
Authors: Okeke Anthonia
Published: November 2019

Ebola is one of the most deadly infectious diseases known to man. It is a viral disease which is transmitted from animal to man (zoonotic) . Ebola as a zoonotic disease for which no cure has been found, requires intensive efforts at prevention and control. Health inequalities due to socio-cultural factors coupled with geographical factors have perpetuated the disease among humans. This needs to be addressed to stem the re-emergence and spread of Ebola in West Africa and indeed in the world at large.
Urticaria Associated with Amoeboid Forms of Blastocystis spp
Authors: Kantardjiev V. , Galev A. , Broshtilova V.
Published: November 2019

Blastocystis spp pathogenic potential remains controversial. Recently, many researchers have suggested the possible etiological relationship between symptomatic skin rashes and Blastocystic morphological forms, genetic diversity and microbiota interaction. A small observation series of acute and chronic urticaria caused by Blastocystic hominis in elderly patients has been herein presented. These cases emphasize the importance of adequate parasite verification under appropriate clinical settings and upon elimination of other more common causative factors as well as the significance of proper etiological treatment in urticaria patients.
Transaminases and Alkaline Phosphatases Activities in HIV/AIDS Patients on Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy Attending Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto
Authors: Kakako Saheed Ladipo , Najim Zainab
Published: November 2019

Background: HIV/AIDS causes life threatening opportunistic infections with increased morbidity and mortality. HAART intervention in HIV/AIDS patients has not only reduce morbidity and mortality but also cause hepatic injury and elevation of the liver enzymes.

Aim: To measure the liver enzymes in HIV/AIDS patients on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) and HIV/AIDS negative subjects.

Methodology: Seventy patients aged 20-50 years with asymptomatic HIV seropositive infection on HAART, 39 of whom are on first line drug and 31 on second line drug were assessed and 30 apparently healthy subjects (control) that tested negative for HIV 1 and 2 were recruited into this study. Venous blood was collected to determine the plasma levels of ALT, AST and ALP using kinetic method. Data were statistically analyzed using paired t-tests, P<0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Result: The activities of serum ALT and AST observed in HIV infected asymptomatic patients on HAART (first line and second line drug) were significantly higher (P<0.001) than in the HIV negative (control) group. No significant difference was observed in ALP of HIV infected asymptomatic patient on HAART (those on second line drug) P>0.05 while there was a significant difference in those on first line drug (P=0.0058) when compared with the control.

Conclusion: Management of HIV/AIDS patients with HAART should be done with caution because hepatic injury may ensue due to the HAART.
Seasonal Influenza Incidence in India: A Retrospective Study Based on Multiple Indian Hospital and Diagnostic Laboratory Centre
Authors: Jain Dinesh , Singh Manmohan , Budhiraja Sandeep , Tarai Bansidhar , Ghildiyal Sukanya
Published: November 2019

The objective of the study is to understand the seasonal variation in influenza incidence across multiple Indian states by using diagnostic laboratories data of influenza.

Materials and Methods: Diagnostic laboratory-based data of subjects who were tested for influenza between 1st January April 2014 to December 2017 across seven Indian states were analysed. In diagnostic laboratories of Maharashtra, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Rajasthan RT-PCR was used for detection of H1N1 and laboratories of Tamil Nadu used GeneXpert along with RT-PCR. A total sample size of 10,755 was used in the descriptive observational retrospective study.

Results: In case of H1N1, sample population had almost equal male and female proportion (5172) with 36.5 years mean age. In majority of states, >3-5 years age group had the highest positivity rate. Paediatric age group (0-18 years) contributed 25% of total H1N1 burden, while older adults (>60 years) contributed 15% of the total sample. The yearly trends showed a higher incidence rate of H1N1 in 2015, followed by a decline during 2016 and a surge in 2017. Monthly trends showed consistent rise in H1N1 positivity rate during early months (January, February, and March) of 2015, 2016 and 2017. For influenza B, paediatric age group (0-18 years) showed the highest positivity rate and contributed almost 40% of total influenza ‘B’ burden.

Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of big data-based analytics and its use in understanding the epidemiological behaviour of diseases like influenza. Insight by leveraging laboratories data, like in the case of current research study, gives demographic patterns of influenza in terms of age, gender, seasons, and regions/states.
Gold Farming
Authors: Lehdonvirta Vili
Published: November 2019

“Gold farmers” are companies and workers who earn income by harvesting virtual currencies and items in online video games and selling them on to other players for real money. The industry emerged in the massively multiplayer online role‐playing games of the late 1990s and 2000s and persists in different forms today. Scholars have examined the sociology of the consumer demand that drives the industry, the structure and geography of its clandestine value chains, its implications for economic development, and its relationship with the video game business and the ethics of play.
Kon, Igor (1928–2011)
Authors: Titarenko Larissa
Published: November 2019

Igor Kon was a Soviet/Russian sociologist, philosopher, anthropologist, and psychologist, who was recognized as the first sexologist in the USSR, with his works translated into English, German, and French. Kon belonged to the first, most influential generation of Soviet sociologists. He contributed to several fields of study and published on then taboo topics such as sexual culture, homosexuality, and gender. He also promoted the translation of many western works into Russian and had a reputation of being a key person, indispensable to the international knowledge transfer in the social sciences.
Dedifferentiation
Authors: West Brad
Published: November 2019

The concept of dedifferentiation refers to a counter or reversal process by which specialized structures return to a more preliminary form. From a systems theory perspective dedifferentiation is viewed as inherently pathological, while neo‐Durkheimian cultural sociology has pointed to its role in rejuvenating social bonds and identities. Dedifferentiation as a term in contemporary sociology, though, is more commonly used to refer to recent societal shifts involving a collapsing or meshing of the boundaries between cultural, political, and economic spheres that had become highly differentiated in modernity. From this postmodern perspective dedifferentiation is commonly used to highlight the political significance of popular culture, with significant debate around the extent to which dedifferentiation has the effect of invigorating or suppressing civil society.
Odaka, Kunio (1908–1993)
Authors: Onaka Fumiya
Published: November 2019

Kunio Odaka was a pioneer in the field of sociology, and struggled to successfully establish this field of study as a discipline in Japan. Through his work on occupational and industrial sociology he laid the groundwork for present‐day sociological research into social stratification, occupational careers, and international comparison studies in Japan. He conducted studies on work ethics and morale relying on Marx, Weber, Maslow, Mills, and Alain, as well as on cross‐country studies and the status attainment process analysis. Through a series of large‐scale surveys, he examined social stratification and mobility, worker's consciousness about companies and unions, and Japanese‐style business management. On the basis of these studies, he insisted upon the “democratization of management” and proposed organizational reforms that would organize work around regular, autonomous, and small groups.