bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Collaborative Effort-Benefit-Value Analysis Model to Support Requirements Reuse for Software Requirements Prioritization
Authors: Gupta Ankita , Gupta Chetna
Published: November 2020

This paper proposes a collaborative method to prioritize the set of requirements backing the concept of requirement re usability through crowd sourcing platform. Both stakeholder and developer perspectives are captured and effort-benefit-value analysis model is presented. Stakeholder priority is captured using Fuzzy TOPSIS model, and developer priority is captured by analyzing inter-relationships among requirements in the form of dependency. Further, a provision is provided to resolve conflicts between requirement pairs in an interactive manner to produce final ranking accepted to both with minimum conflict. An experimental proof of concept is provided by comparing results of proposed approach with state of art, fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP), interactive genetic algorithm (IGA) techniques, and on a dataset. Results of experimentation conclude that presented approach is capable of producing accurate and comparable results in addition to handling issue of dependency, multi- criteria preferences, reliability, and robustness to errors.
Tensile and Flexural Properties of Untreated Sisal Fibers Reinforced Unsaturated Polyester Resin Composites
Authors: de Souza Shyrlainne Crespo Carvalho , Vieira Isabella Cristina Boroto , Barbosa Izabela Flois , Leão Natalício Filipe Teixeira Garcia , Zancanella Antonio Carlos Barbosa , Maziero Rômulo , de Castro Bruno Dorneles , Rubio Juan Carlos Campos
Published: November 2020

Biobased products have been widely used to prevent damage to the environment. In this context, the use of composites reinforced with natural fibers, replacing synthetics ones, has motivated several researches in last years. The objective of the present work was to characterize composites prepared with unsaturated polyester resin and untreated sisal fibers by tensile and flexural tests. The untreated sisal fibers reinforcement was investigated using 25 g and 50 g masses. The fibers were randomly arranged into the resin to mold composite boards, using the compression molding technique without heating, in a curing process at 25°C for 48 hours. The results indicated that composite with 50 g presented better tensile strength (49%), flexural strength (71%) and flexural modulus (137%). The increase of fibers content improved the mechanical behavior of the composite. In addition, the use of natural fibers replacing a portion of petroleum-based resin can increase the sustainable concept of the products and reduce manufacturing costs, because it can be used less resin.
Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Pain and Environmental Health Hazards among Tea Pluckers of Maddekanda Tea Estate in Balangoda Pradeshiya Saba Division, Sri Lanka
Authors: Chandrasekara Uhulanage Harshani Shiromali , Warnakulasuriya Sudath Shirely Pathmasiri , Kisokanth Gnanaselvam
Published: November 2020

Background

Tea pluckers in Sri Lanka play a prominent role in supplying tea for the local and foreign demand. Long standing, bearing weight on back, repetitive hand movements, slip and falls due to walking on uneven grounds lead to various health problems among them. Thus, this study was aimed to assess the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain and environmental health hazards among tea pluckers of Maddekanda tea estate in Balangoda area, Sri Lanka.

Design and methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among 378 tea pluckers, recruited using simple random sampling method. Data were collected by validated, pretested interviewer administered questionnaire and descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed by using SPSS v20.

Results

The prevalence of musculoskeletal pain in any region of the body was 68.5% (95% CI 63.6-73.2) among all participants and prevalence of lower back pain 43.4% (95% CI 38.3-48.8) was high compared to other site of pain. Nearly 98.4% had experienced of leech biting during their work as a main health hazard. Participants who had experienced stress (OR=2.12, 95% CI: 1.119-3.764), and worked for more than 20 years (OR=2.28, 95% CI: 1.37-3.81) were nearly 2 times more likely to have musculoskeletal pain when compared to their counterparts.

Conclusions

Prevalence of musculoskeletal pain was high among tea pluckers and lower back region was the common site of pain. Leech bite was the other dominant health problem faced by them. Stress, duration of work and age were associated with musculoskeletal pain.
Rethinking Developed Nations’ Health Systems through A Social Sustainability Perspective in the Light of the Covid-19 Pandemic. A Viewpoint
Authors: Macassa Gloria , Tomaselli Gianpaolo
Published: November 2020

This viewpoint paper argues for the need for more socially sustainable care systems that can better contribute to equitable utilization of health care in a post-pandemic era. Health care systems in developed nations need to rethink their role, particularly with regard to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3) as well as becoming more sustainable societies. Socially sustainable care systems will recognize that systemic factors and processes (social, economic, environmental, cultural) need to be addressed simultaneously in order to achieve health equity. Moreover, these systems are likely to be of paramount importance for post-COVID-19, because of the potential increase in demand for health care due to forgone health care and the increased burden of chronic diseases as spillover effects related to COVID-19 mitigation interventions.
Auto-sorveglianza e governo: sguardi prospettici della mobile-health
Authors: Meola Lorella
Published: November 2020

La mobile-health propone una crescente gamma di tecnologie digitali, che offrono soluzioni nella cura della salute e nella promozione del benessere. Pur contribuendo in maniera vantaggiosa alla prevenzione delle malattie e alla gestione delle patologie croniche in particolare, tuttavia la varietà delle tecnologie disponibili e l’ampiezza dei fini perseguibili sollevano perplessità rispetto alla regolamentazione e alla valutazione morale della mobile-health. L’articolo analizza le implicazioni etiche e politiche della natura ibrida delle tecnologie digitali, al confine tra promozione della salute e gestione dello stile di vita, evidenziando come esse si appropriano della vita dell’utente. Attraverso un meccanismo di auto-sorveglianza, la mobile-health acquisisce dati ed elargisce raccomandazioni per una vita più salutare. Tale dispositivo, identificato nei processi di datificazione e modulazione delle condotte, è orientato all’ottimizzazione della vita, intesa come massimizzazione dei processi vitali, ovvero del loro funzionamento e del loro esito. L’ottimizzazione potrebbe comportare la riduzione della condotta umana a una moltiplicazione di prestazioni, attraverso le quali l’individuo cerca di migliorare se stesso ma, così facendo, egli stesso si rivela funzionale al profitto economico-produttivo, politico e organizzativo della società. L’ipotesi che si intende dimostrare è che l’auto-sorveglianza su cui si basa la mobile-health diviene una strategia di governo eteronomo delle condotte.
Raccomandazioni controverse per scelte difficili nella pandemia. Appunti etico-giuridici su responsabilità dei medici e linee guida
Authors: Da Re Antonio , Nicolussi Andrea
Published: November 2020

Il saggio sviluppa alcune riflessioni di carattere giuridico ed etico sul rapporto tra responsabilità medica e linee guida che nel tempo hanno assunto particolare rilievo in molti ordinamenti giuridici. Le situazioni straordinarie derivanti dalla pandemia hanno reso ancora più delicata la questione, da un lato per via della mancanza di linee guida vere e proprie e dall’altro lato per il proliferare di raccomandazioni di vario genere e provenienza che hanno generato anche confusioni. Tra queste raccomandazioni hanno avuto un particolare clamore le raccomandazioni etico-cliniche della Società Italiana di Anestesia Analgesia Rianimazione e Terapia Intensiva (SIAARTI). Esse hanno dato avvio alla pubblicazione di raccomandazioni sul medesimo tema in molti altri Paesi e il saggio dà conto delle più rilevanti. Si sofferma tuttavia sul documento italiano, perché può essere considerato il modello di linea guida, imitata anche in altri documenti segnalati, nella quale viene previsto un limite d’accesso alle terapie intensive basato sul criterio aprioristico dell’età. Ciò pone il problema non solo della eticità di un simile criterio ma anche della competenza di una società scientifica a prevedere regole che possano ledere gravemente diritti fondamentali. Il saggio critica il criterio aprioristico ed extraclinico e propone al suo posto un criterio clinico integrato in funzione delle situazioni di scarsità di risorse e di emergenza. Tale criterio integrato sarebbe più rispettoso della competenza dei medici e valorizzerebbe la loro professionalità, senza invadere l’ambito e la competenza delle scelte politiche che spettano alle istituzioni democratiche.
Development and Validation of a Self-control Competency Scale for Late-school-aged Children
Authors: Jin Bo Kyoung , Ahn Hye Young
Published: November 2020

Purpose: The aim of this study was to develop a self-control competency scale for school-aged children and to confirm its reliability and validity.Methods: This study involved methodological research to verify the reliability and validity of a self-control competency scale for school-aged children. Data were collected from 438 students in the fifth and sixth grades of elementary school.Results: The self-control competency scale was composed of 13 items and six subscales (control of relationship with one's teacher, problem-solving, peer empathy, control of relationships with one's peers, impulse control, and emotional control). The internal consistency reliability of the scale was evaluated using Cronbach's ⍺, which was .83 for the entire scale and ranged from .65 to .76 for the subscales. The model of six subscales was validated by CFA (CMIN/df=1.977; p<.001, GFI=.94, SRMR=.050, RMSEA=.065, IFI=.95, TLI=.93, CFI=.95). Concurrent validity was evaluated by comparing this scale to the scale developed by Nam and Ok (2000), and a significant correlation was found (r=.82, p<.001). On this scale, higher scores indicate higher levels of self-control among late-school-aged children.Conclusion: This scale can be used as a valid and reliable instrument for examining self-control competency among late-school-aged children.
Contraction property for large perturbations of shocks of the barotropic Navier–Stokes system
Authors: Kang Moon-Jin , Vasseur Alexis F.
Published: November 2020

This paper is dedicated to the construction of a pseudo-norm for which small shockprofiles of the barotropic Navier–Stokes equations have a contraction property. This contraction property holds in the class of any large solutions to the barotropic Navier–Stokes equations. It implies a stability condition which is independent of the strength of the viscosity. The proof is based on the relative entropy method, and is related to the notion of

a

-contraction first introduced by the authors in the hyperbolic case.
Some remarks about o–O pairs of Banach spaces
Authors: Manzo Gianluigi
Published: November 2020

In this paper we recall the definition and the properties of o–O structure given by K. M. Perfekt and show some properties that hold for this construction. The main result is that it can always be reduced to the case where the operators involved in the construction are linear functionals on the ‘‘big-O’’ space, simplifying the construction. Using this result, a series of results concerning these functionals is shown.
Homology of Lie algebras of orthogonal and symplectic generalized Jacobi matrices
Authors: Fialowski Alice , Iohara Kenji
Published: November 2020

In this note, we compute the homology with trivial coefficients of Lie algebras of generalized Jacobi matrices of type

B

,

C

and

D

over an associative unital

k

-algebra with

k

being a field of characteristic 0.
The equivalence of Fourier-based and Wasserstein metrics on imaging problems
Authors: Auricchio Gennaro , Codegoni Andrea , Gualandi Stefano , Toscani Giuseppe , Veneroni Marco
Published: November 2020

We investigate properties of some extensions of a class of Fourier-based probability metrics, originally introduced to study convergence to equilibrium for the solution to the spatially homogeneous Boltzmann equation. At di¤erence with the original one, the new Fourier-based metrics are well-defined also for probability distributions with di¤erent centers of mass, and for discrete probability measures supported over a regular grid. Among other properties, it is shown that, in the discrete setting, these new Fourier-based metrics are equivalent either to the Euclidean–Wasserstein distance

W_2

, or to the Kantorovich–Wasserstein distance

W_1

, with explicit constants of equivalence. Numerical results then show that in benchmark problems of image processing, Fourier metrics provide a better runtime with respect to Wasserstein ones.
О дизъюнктно однородных пространствах Орлича-Лоренца
Authors: Astashkin Sergei Vladimirovich , Strakhov Stepan Igorevich
Published: November 2020

Получена характеризация дизъюнктно однородных функциональных
пространств Орлича-Лоренца $\Lambda_{\varphi,w}$. С помощью
нее найдены необходимые и достаточные условия, при которых
в пространстве $\Lambda_{\varphi,w}$ выполняется аналог
классической теорема Данфорда-Петтиса о равностепенной
интегрируемости слабо компактных множеств в $L_1$. Показано
также, что существует функция Орлича $\Phi$ с верхним индексом
Матушевской-Орлича, равным $1$, для которой такой аналог
в пространстве $\Lambda_{\Phi,w}$ не имеет места. Это дает
ответ на недавний вопрос Лесника, Малигранды и Томашевского.
Библиография: 20 названий.
Коллектив автоматов в конечно-порожденных группах
Authors: Gusev Daniel Vladimirovich , Ivanov-Pogodaev Ilya Anatolevich , Kanel-Belov Aleksei Yakovlevich
Published: November 2020

Данная работа посвящена обхождению лабиринта
коллективом конечных автоматов. Эта часть теории автоматов породила
довольно широкий спектр различных задач [1], [2],
в том числе связанных с задачами теории сложности вычислений и
теорией вероятностей. Оказывается,
что рассмотрение сложных алгебраических объектов,
таких как бернсайдовы группы, может быть интересным
в данном контексте. В работе будет показано, что граф Кэли
конечно-порожденной группы нельзя обойти коллективом автоматов
тогда и только тогда, когда она бесконечна и
каждый ее элемент периодичен.
Библиография: 18 названий.
Short Communications: Stakeholders’ Perceptions on Traceability of Pharmaceuticals in the Supply Chain in Ethiopia
Authors: Gebregeorgise Dawit T. , Jaleta Matiwos E.
Published: November 2020

Globally, the pharmaceutical sector is one of the top performing high-technology sectors. This coupled with the involvement of multitude of  wholesalers and retailers in the supply chain makes the sector attractive for forgers to produce and distribute counterfeited drugs. In order to improve patient safety and supply chain efficiency, Ethiopia has prepared a strategic plan for the implementation of pharmaceutical traceability. However, little is known how different stakeholders perceive and could react to this initiative. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess stakeholders’ perceptions on the needs, challenges and concerns of implementing a traceable pharmaceutical supply chain system. Managers (n = 137), who are presumed to play critical roles in decision making in the pharmaceutical sector were surveyed by administering questionnaires. Data were collected from August to September, 2017 and analysed using descriptive statistics. Almost all stakeholders (96.4%) agreed on the importance of having a national level tracking and tracing system for pharmaceuticals. Their reasons were: to combat counterfeiting, theft and diversion of products (92.4%); to gain supply chain efficiencies (88.5%); to improve inventory management (86.9%) and patient care (74.4%). However, they were concerned about the high start-up and operational cost (61.1%), integration and interoperability (61.3) of the existing supply chain with a traceable system, data security, getting qualified contractors or service providers (66.5%). Overall, there is a positive perception and support for the implementation of pharmaceutical traceability system in the supply chain. However, concerns such as integrating traceability with the existing supply chain system, cost, and data security, need to be resolved through continued discussions, adequate preparation and phase-based  implementation.

Keywords: traceability, stakeholders, survey, pharmaceuticals, Ethiopia
Phytochemical Composition, Antioxidant, Antibacterial and Allelopathic Activities of Various Solvent Extracts of Cynara cardunculus Stalks
Authors: Dallel Wafa , Nakbi Hanen , Djelassi Ibrahim , Hammami Saoussen , Mastouri Maha , Mighri Zine
Published: November 2020

The aim of this study was to assess the phytochemical content, antioxidant, antibacterial and allelopathic properties of various solvent extracts of  Cynara cardunculus (L.) stalks. Dichloromethane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and ethanol were used for the preparation of extracts. The results revealed that the ethyl acetate extract has large amounts of polyphenols (180.35 ± 2.97 mg EAG/g DW), flavonoids (74.32 ± 4.46 mg QE/g DW), and flavonols (7.79 ± 0.00 mg QE/g DW). Furthermore, the ethanol extract of C. cardunculus was the richest in condensed tannin content (45.24 ± 0.36 mg CE/ g DW). The antioxidant effects of the extracts were determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay method, which showed that the ethyl acetate extract possesses the strongest activity (IC50 = 0.13 ± 0.02 mg/ml). The extracts were also tested against Gram-positive (Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa) microorganisms using the microdilution assay. Among the tested extracts, the ethyl acetate and ethanol extracts exhibited the strongest antibacterial activity against B. subtilis, with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 0.019 and 0.039 mg/ml, respectively. The allelopathic activity results demonstrated that the ethyl acetate extract at the highest concentration of 1 mg/ ml induces maximum reduction, showing 100% inhibition of Coriandrum sativum (L.) and Cuminum cyminum (L.) seeds. Thus, these findings suggest that C. cardunculus extracts may serve as potential sources for new antioxidant, antibacterial phytochemicals and natural herbicides.

Keywords: Cynara cardunculus, phytochemical profile, antioxidant effect, antibacterial activity, allelopathic potential
Evaluation of the Effect of Subchronic Administration of the 70% Ethanol Extract of Millettiea ferruginea (Hochst) Bak (Fabaceae) Seeds on Biochemical, Haematological and Histopathological Parameters in Albino Wistar Rats
Authors: Debebe Mekonnen , Getu Molla , Afework Mekbeb , Tsegaye Aster , Makonnen Eyasu , Debella Asfaw , Ergete Wondowessen , Tsegaye Bekure , Tamene Melaku
Published: November 2020

Millettiea ferruginea (Hochst) Bak (Fabaceae) is an indigenous plant, traditionally used for the treatment of various disease conditions in Ethiopia  without substantiating its safety. This study, therefore, evaluated its toxicity in albino Wistar rats. The hydroalcoholic extract of M. ferruginea was prepared by maceration of the powdered seeds in 70% ethanol. The effect of extract administration to albino Wistar albino rats for 90 days at doses of 125 mg/kg and 250 mg/kg b/w was investigated. Subchronic administration of the extract at a dose of 250 mg/kg decreased mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and monocytes in female rats. The blood levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine transaminase (ALT), creatine kinase (CK) and urea in the female, and CK in male rats treated with the extract at 250 mg/kg were significantly increased. Histopathological investigation of the liver revealed signs of blood congestions in portal vein and hepatic artery at 125 mg/kg, and minor inflammation, congestions and focal hepatocellular necrosis at 250 mg/kg in both sexes. The extract produced atrophy of the glomeruli, widened urinary space andinflammation of the kidney at both doses, and also caused minor tubular necrosis and peritubular blood congestions at 250 mg/kg in both male and female rats. In the heart of extract treated rats, there were congestions of blood vessels and necrosis of myocardium at both doses, and inflammation at 250 mg/kg. Desquamation and infiltration of the mucosa at both doses, and submucosal atrophy at 125 mg/kg and blood congestions at 250 mg/kg were observed in the small intestine of extract treated rats. The present findings suggest that the extract is relatively safe at therapeutic dose, although some signs of toxicity occurred mainly at the higher dose in female rats. Additional investigations on chronic administration of the extract is recommended to further substantiate the safety of the plant.

Keywords: Millettia ferruginea, ethanol seed extract, toxicity, histopathology, Wistar albino rats
In vitro Antioxidant Activity of a Nigerian Propolis and Its Investigation on Sickle Red Blood Cells
Authors: Alaribe Chinwe S. , Oladipupo Akolade R. , Kanu Naomi U. , Rastrelli Luca
Published: November 2020

Scientific evidence suggests that antioxidants could reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular diseases, and play an important role in general wellbeing. Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a debilitating monogenic disorder considered as a public health problem in many countries, but with a major burden in Sub-Saharan Africa. The use of antioxidants could prove relevant and beneficial in the treatment of SCD. In this study, the antioxidant and antisickling activities of methanol extract of a Nigerian propolis were investigated. Antioxidant activity was evaluated by scavenging effect against 1,1-diphenyl-2- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical, and chelating effect against ferrous ions; ascorbic acid and  thylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) were used, as standards, respectively. Antisickling activity was evaluated using a modified procedure of Emmel’s test, and phosphate buffered saline was used as a negative control. Compared to ascorbic acid (EC50 of 0.02 mg/ml), the propolis extract showed less scavenging effect (EC50 of 0.80 mg/ml) against DPPH radical. The propolis extract (EC50 of 1.84 mg/ml) also showed lower ferrous ion chelating activity compared to EDTA (EC50 of 0.29 mg/ml). In the antisickling assay, micrographic examination showed that, when treated with 1 mg/ml of the propolis extract, the morphology of the sickle red blood cells remained unaffected, thus indicating that the extract did not display antisickling effect at the concentration tested. These results indicate that the propolis extract possess moderate antioxidant activity and could be considered for possible application for its antioxidant benefits.

Keywords: Nigerian propolis, oxidative stress, antioxidant activity, sickle cell disease, antisickling activity
Antimicrobial Sensitivity Pattern of Isolates from Neonatal Sepsis in Yekatit 12 Teaching Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Muhammed Oumer Sada , Alemkere Getachew , Nasir Beshir Bedru
Published: November 2020

Sepsis is one of the commonest reasons of neonatal deaths. It is accountable for about 30 - 50% of the whole baby deaths in the developing  ountries. The current study aimed to assess drug susceptibility patterns of isolates from cases of neonatal sepsis. Institution based cross-sectional study was conducted among 132 neonates admitted to Yekatit 12 teaching hospital with the diagnosis of sepsis and who had a positive result for culture and sensitivity test. Data was collected through medical chart review using data abstraction tool. The data was analyzed using excel and reported using descriptive tables. Gram-negative bacteria were the commonest organisms identified 124 (93.9%), followed by gram-positive isolates (6.1%). Klebsiella (87.9%) was the predominant gram-negative bacteria. Of the gram-positive organisms, coagulase negative staphylococci (3.03%) were the commonest pathogen, followed by Staphylococcus aureus (2.27%). Among the gram-negative isolates, overall sensitivity was high to meropenem (96.0%), amikacin (94.3%) and amoxicillin + clavulanate (74.2%) but sensitivity was very low to ampicillin (2.7%), and amoxicillin (7.3%).Generally, the isolated pathogens were resistant to commonly used antibiotics in the study setting and resistance of gram-positive pathogens  Against penicillins and cephalosporins was also high. Hence, rational and tailored antibiotic use based on the susceptibility data is recommended and regular antibiotic susceptibility surveillance should be conducted.

Keywords: neonatal sepsis, cross-sectional study, antibiotics, culture, sensitivity, resistance
Compositional characteristics and Ta-Sn-Nb rare metal mineralization potential of Egbe Pegmatite, Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Aderogbin J.A. , Okunlola O.A.
Published: November 2020

Pan African (600 ± 150) pegmatite which intrudes gneisses, amphibolites, quartzite and schists around Egbe area were studied for their compositional features. This is with a view to characterizing and assessing their potential for rare metal Ta-Sn-Nb mineralization. Twenty seven samples comprising eleven (11) whole rock, sixteen (12) muscovite extracts and four (4) feldspar extracts samples were analyzed using the Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry (ICP-AES). Major oxide geochemical assessment of the whole rock pegmatite indicates that the pegmatite is siliceous (79.82% SiO2) and moderately high in Al2O3 (12.22%). The K2O, Na2O contents are averagely 2.25% and 2.87% respectively while Fe2O3, MnO, MgO are each less than 1.0%.

Average values of trace elements in the pegmatite are Ta (52.55ppm), Sn (92.3 ppm), Rb (1083.5ppm), Nb (109.35 ppm), Cs (32.12ppm), Sr (17.84 ppm), Y (9.86 ppm), and Zr (41.27 ppm), Ba (50.47ppm), Hf (12.38ppm), Zr (41.27ppm), Ga (32.12ppm) and W(2.91PPM) and ratios of diagnostic elements are K/Rb (30.27), Rb/Sr (298.93), Zr/Hf (7.23), Rb/Cs (65.80), K/Cs (1103.11), Ta/W (41.81), Nb/Ta (55.397) Na/Rb (41.77) and Na/K (92.25) A/CAN >1and Al2O3>CaO+ Na2O+ K2O with enrichment of SiO2, Al2O3, Na2O, K2O and depletion of Fe2O3, MnO2 and MgO suggests that Egbe pegmatite is of peraluminous bulk composition and plots of A/NK vs Al/CNK and Rb vs (Y+Nb) discriminates Egbe pegmatite in the peraluminous LCT (Li, Rb, Cs, Be, Ga, Nb <,> Ta, Sn, Hf, B, P, F) of syncollisional to within plate granitic family. The Ta/W vs Cs plot for the three sample media shows the relationship between increasing Ta/W ratio and elemental fractionation as indicated by Cs. The K/Rb vs Cs and K/Rb vs Rb plots for the three sample media further establishes the rare – metal nature and mineralization potential of Egbe pegmatite. Using the discriminant plots of TaVs Rb, Ta vs Cs .TaVs K/Cs, and Ta Vs (Cs+Rb) where most of the samples of the whole rock pegmatite and mineral extracts plots above the Beus line and about 30% plotting above the Gordinyenko line respectively. Overall geochemical assessment is that Egbe pegmatite is a rare metal, highly fractionated Beryl type with rare metal enrichment trend of Nb>>Sn>>Ta.

Keywords: Pegmatite, Peraluminous, Syncollisional, Within-plate, Discriminant, Fractionation, Sample media
An assessment of heavy metals concentration in water around quarries and barite mine sites in part of central Cross River State, Southeastern Nigeria
Authors: Ochelebe I , Kudamnya E.A. , Nkebem G.E.
Published: November 2020

The assessment of the level of heavy metal concentrations in water sources around quarries and barite mine sites in central Cross River State, Southeastern Nigeria, was carried out to evaluate the degree of contamination due to mining and quarrying activity in the area. The investigation involved the collection of twelve water samples from ponds, streams, river and boreholes around the area. The water samples were passed through 0.45 µm filter paper and preserved with a drop of 0.1M HNO3 acid. The preserved samples were analyzed for their heavy metal (Ba, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb and Zn) content, using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The results show that the average concentration of Ba, Cu, MN, Pb and Zn were above WHO guideline value for drinking water quality, hence not suitable for drinking. The average concentration of the metals is in the order Ba>Mn>Cu>Fe>Pb>Zn>Cr. Computed values of contamination index show that the samples from four locations were contaminated. Single factor pollution index computation indicates that the waters are not contaminated with Cr, but slightly polluted with Fe and Zn, moderately polluted with Ba and severely polluted with Cu, Mn and Pb. Further, Nemerow comprehensive pollution index indicates that samples from four locations were severely contaminated. The study revealed that the water sources around the barite mines had elevated level of heavy metal concentration compared to location around the quarries. It is recommended therefore, that the water be treated before use for drinking purpose.

Keywords: heavy metals, contamination index, pollution index, barite mine, quarry
Biochemical implication of administration ofmethanol extract of Ocimum gratissimum leaf on haematological profile of Wistar rats
Authors: Kayode Dasofunjo , Okwari Obem O. , Ujong Ujong P. , Ati Boniface U. , Igwe Christopher O.
Published: November 2020

In the search for medicinal plants that will provide ameliorative measure to patients with anaemic disorders. The methanol extract of O. gratissimum leaf was administered to Wistar rats for its effect on haematological profile. Twenty-eight (28) male Wistar rats ranging from 180-200g was randomly picked and placed into plastic cages labeled A-D. Group A served as the control group while groups B-D was the test groups. The  animals in group A was administered with distilled water orally by gavage. Group B were administered 50mg/ kg body weight of methanol extract of O. gratissimum, group C were administered with 100mg/kg bodyweight while group D were administered with 200mg/body of methanol extract of O. gratissimum for 14 days. Blood was collected from all the test rats and control by cardiac puncture using disposable syringe and needle then dispensed into tubes containing EDTA. The extract displayed a significant increase (p<0.05) in RBCs, Hb, PCV and platelet counts. More so, the  extract produced no significant (p>0.05)difference in MCV, MCH, MCHC and RDW WBC counts when compared with the normal control .Therefore, it will be logical to conclude that the extract of O. gratissimum might be a panacea in the management of anaemic conditions when properly harnessed due to its erythropoietic, haematopoietic and thrombopoietic effect.

Keywords: Anaemia, erythropoietic, haematopoietic, thrombopoietic and phytochemicals.
Geochemical and mineralogical characteristics of clay deposits at Ijesha–Ijebu and its environs, southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Adeola Adewole John , Odunayo Adeyemi Moyosoluwa , Ifeoluwa Omojola Damilola
Published: November 2020

Two residual clay deposits and one transported clay deposit in Ijesha-Ijebu area were investigated for their mineralogical, chemical and industrial  properties. The investigation was to evaluate their industrial applications and economic importance. The mineralogy of the clay samples was  determined using X-ray Diffraction (XRD). The chemical composition of the clay samples was determined using Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS). Physical tests which include; thermal properties, plasticity tests, density measurement, linear shrinkage and water absorption capacity were determined to determine their industrial potentials. The clay within the weathered profiles above banded gneiss and pegmatite at Ijesha-Ijebu is brownish with red spots, while the clays derived from sedimentary terrain is chocolate in colour. The X-ray diffraction results showed that kaolinite is the dominant mineral, while quartz, albite and muscovite are the major non clay minerals. Chemical data showed that the values of SiO2, Al2O3 and Fe2O3 are 66.11%, 20.53% and 3.07%, respectively in weathered banded gneiss, in sedimentary the values of SiO2, Al2O3 and Fe2O3 are 42.12%, 34.43% and 7.37%. In weathered pegmatite, the values of SiO2, Al2O3 and Fe2O3 are 53.17%, 32.7%, 1.44%,  respectively. The average percentage of clay in the banded gneiss, pegmatite and sedimentary samples are 50%, 56% and 47% respectively. The clay mouldability ranged between moderate to high. Evaluation of the clay properties and characteristics shows the industrial application of the clay like  production of ceramic, building bricks and other structural wares.

Keywords: Clay, Mineralogy, Chemistry, Ceramics, Building bricks.
Assessment of knowledge and practice of childhood routine immunization among mothers/caregivers attending primary health care centres in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria
Authors: Uwaibi N.E. , Akhimienho I.K.
Published: November 2020

he ultimate goal of immunization is to reduce the incidence of vaccine preventable diseases by attaining high levels of routine immunization coverage with potent vaccines administered at the appropriate ages and at the right intervals. This study assessed the knowledge and practice of childhood routine immunization among mothers/caregivers attending Primary Health Care Centers in Benin City, Edo State. A descriptive cross-sectional study involving 640 females whose wards were receiving immunization in 35 PHCs in Benin City was carried out. Mothers who met the inclusion criteria were recruited using a pre-tested interviewer administered structured questionnaires using a multistage sampling technique. Relationship between dependent and independent variables was determined using logistic regression analysis, at 95% confidence interval and p-values level less than 0.05 were considered significant. Results shows that all the caregivers were aware of immunization. 498(77.8%) with the media being as source of information. A higher proportion of respondent (44.8%) had good knowledge while (38.6% and 12.6%), fair and poor knowledge of immunization respectively. BCG and OPV were the most known vaccines (89.1%), followed by HBV (77.8%), DPT and PENTA were known by 70.6% and 66.1% of respondents respectively. This study revealed good knowledge of immunization amongst the caregivers and good practice with regards to the actual purpose of immunization.

Keywords: immunization, mothers, knowledge, under-five, practice
Farmers’ knowledge and attitude towards the adoption of agroforestry practices in Akinyele Local Government Area, Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Tokede A.M. , Banjo A.A. , Ahmad A.O. , Fatoki O.A. , Akanni O.F.
Published: November 2020

This study presents farmers’ knowledge and attitudes towards the adoption of agroforestry in Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State. A multistage random sampling technique was used to administer the questionnaires to a total of 50 respondents. Data collected were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The demographic factors analyzed showed that the majority of respondents were males (60.8%) and possess married (54.2%). Majority of the respondents (66%) do not practice agroforestry and possessed low knowledge of agroforestry practices. Respondents’ attitudes towards the practice were inadequate. Furthermore, knowledge of agroforestry was found to influence the willingness to adopt the practice, attitudes towards agroforestry practice also influence its adoption in the study area. Based on the findings, this study recommends that extension agents and other stakeholders should intensify effort to pass down adequate knowledge on the practice and advantages of agroforestry to farmers in the simplest form it can be well understood, to improve their attitudes and increase their rate of adoption of agroforestry practices.

Keywords: Farmers, Knowledge, Attitude, Adoption, Agroforestry and Akinyele LGA
A critique on sustainable cities waste management predicaments; case of Nairobi City, Kenya
Authors: Ogutu F.A. , Kimata D.M. , Kweyu R.A.
Published: November 2020

Waste management predicaments in attaining sustainable city status globally is challenged by increased solid waste generation as a result of rapid urban population and migration. Through a critique lens, solid waste management predicaments in developing countries characterized by inefficiencies; weak institutional capacities and lack of financial prudence. Nairobi City illustrates vividly predicaments through sporadic growth of open dumpsites, blocked drainers and sewers, indiscriminate behavior of littering. This is aided by weak enforcement of solid waste policies and regulations, duplicity of mandates by institutions and limited human resources. This paper undertakes to explicate predicaments in Nairobi City County and is supported by institutional, capacity and planned behavior theories. The study adopted mixed research design with data collection from a sample size of 385 household. Primary and secondary data was collected using questionnaires, key informant interview and focus group discussion; transect walk and desk top analysis. The results support the critique as documented by this paper. The study recommends institutional empowerment to reverse negative predicaments for sustainable global cities.

Keywords: critique, sustainable cities, waste management, predicaments, Nairobi City, Kenya
Composition of tree species in Onigambari Forest Reserve, Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Haastrup N.O. , Agboje I , Lawal M.O. , Fadimu B.O. , Sangotoyinbo O.A. , Mangodo C , Oripelaye O.S. , Ganiyu O.A. , Fadoyin A.S.
Published: November 2020

The tree composition of Onigambari Forest Reserve in Oyo State was evaluated by laying out a plot size of 50 x 50 m2 resulting to four plots per hectare. 104 and 93 stems per hectare were recorded. A total of 197 tree stands were encountered in the two compartments studied with family Sterculiaceae with species Cola gigantean, Cola millenii, Sterculia africana, Sterculia oblonga, Sterculia tragacantha, Triplochiton scleroxylon, Pterogota macrocarpa and Nesogordonia papaverifera.as the most abundant having 34 stands, followed by the family Papilionoideae with species Baphia nitida with 20 stands as the most abundance species. About thirty-nine percent of the tree species encountered were wildlings having a diameter at breast height of ≤ 10 cm. Less than one percent (0.50%) of the trees were of merchantable size. This could be a thing of concern and it calls for adequate resourceful and sustainable management techniques. Habits in Onigambari Forest Reserve are presented in Table 1. A total of forty-three (43) species of trees distributed into twenty (20) families were encountered. Family Sterculiaceae and Fabaceae was the richest with eight (8) species each followed by family Euphobiaceae with (5) tree species. Based on their habit, these species were classified into 100% trees. Furthermore, it is of the importance that the forest reserves be protected from illegal/indiscriminate logging among other anthropogenic activities in order to allow it regenerate.

Keywords: Abundance, merchantable, sustainable, resourceful
Effects of supplementing fish meal with Sesame indicum on functional properties, phytotoxins and hematological compositions of Clarias gariepinus
Authors: Ndatsu Y , Isah M.C. , Musa A.I.
Published: November 2020

This study analyzed the effects of supplementing fish meal with Sesame indicum on functional properties, phytotoxins and hematological compositions of Clarias gariepinus. A total of 150 of C. gariepinus fingerlings were grouped into 6 tanks with 20 C. gariepinus per tank. Each tank of fish was served with prepared fish meals supplemented with various levels of beniseed (S. indicum), namely, DT1 (commercial diet), stands as the control group, DT2 (0% beniseed with 100% soya bean meal, DT3 (25% beniseed with 75% soya bean meal, DT4 (50% beniseed with 50% soya bean, DT5 (75% beniseed with 25% soya bean and DT6 (100% beniseed with 0% soya bean, individually. The functional properties of each diet and hematological indices of the treated fish were determined. All prepared diets have improved the functional properties and their phytotoxins level remains within the permissible limit as compared to control diets (DT1). The formulated diets have potentially influenced the hematological indices analyzed compared to the control diet (DT1). At any level of S. indicum inclusion in the fish meal of C. gariepinus there was a potential improvement of the functional properties, hematological parameters and maintaining the levels of phytotoxins not to rise above the permissible limit. Thus, experimental diets (DT5 and DT6) with 75 and 100% S. indicum would be promising candidates which may be used for the development of the product in various food industries.

Keywords: Clarias gariepinus, fish meal, hematological indices, Sesame. indicum
Ground flora species richness and diversity in traditional forests of southwest, Nigeria
Authors: Oyelowo O.J. , Aduradola A.M. , Akinyemi O.D. , Olatidoye O.R.
Published: November 2020

Diversity indices of tree species in tropical rainforest have been studied, but less effort has been devoted to the ground flora studies especially in sacred groves of tropical rainforest, Nigeria, as it plays a critical role in nutrient cycling and energy flow within the forest ecosystem. This study was carried out to determine the ground flora species diversity, richness and density in five traditional forests (Igbo-Ile, Igbo-Oba, Igbo-Olua, Igbo-Olodumare Igbo-Gbopo) of southwestern Nigeria. The ground flora enumeration of 5 x 10m was laid at the centre of 50 x 50m laid in each of the sacred grove. All plants with dbh < 10cm were identified and the frequency of occurrence recorded. In all the Sacred Groves, a total of 14064 plants/ha individual were recorded with 80 species distributed among 36 families. Igbo-Oba had highest diversity index of 3.21, followed by Igbo-Olodumare (2.80), Igbo-Ile (2.42). The least diversity index was recorded in Igbo-Gbopo (1.97). Among the 36 families, maximum species was recorded in Sterculiaceae (10), followed by Euphorbiaceae (5), Apocynaceae (4), Combretaceae (4) and Sapindaceae (4). Among the families with lowest frequencies (1) recorded are: Acanthaceae, Araceae, Rutaceae, Sapotaceae, Solanaceae. The study concludes that anthropogenic disturbances observed, e.g. farming, spiritual engagements etc. around Igbo-Olua and Igbo-Gbopo might have contributed to low diversity index compared to Igbo-Ile, Igbo-Oba and Igbo-Olodumare where high diversity index was recorded. It is recommended that to maintain high diversity index in the scared groves, buffer zones should be created around the sacred groves.

Keywords: sacred grove, diversity, ground flora, herbaceous
Recenzii
Authors: Schipor Raluc , Drăgoi Marian
Published: November 2020

Codruț Șerban, Hroby (o poveste de sub Chiciura), Editura Universității „Ștefan cel Mare” Suceava, 2017, 96 p. ISBN 978-973-666-516-5;

Avăcăriței Daniel, Cercetări privind structura și creșterea arboretelor de fag aflate în perioada de regenerare, Editura Universității „Ștefan cel Mare” Suceava, 2019, 389 p. ISBN 978-973-666- 560-8
Detecting Thermal Anomalies of Earthquake Process Within Outgoing Longwave Radiation Using Time Series Forecasting Models
Authors: Zhai Dulin , Zhang Xueming , Xiong Pan
Published: November 2020

The catastrophic damages caused by the Jiuzhaigou earthquake in China of August 8, 2017 and the Mexico earthquake of September 20, 2017 have revealed some important weaknesses of currently operational earthquake-monitoring and forecasting systems. In this work, six time series forecasting models were applied to detect pre-earthquake anomalies within infrared outgoing longwave radiation. After comparing their prediction results using non-seismic time series data, the autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model was selected as the optimal model, and then a new prediction method based on this ARIMA model was proposed. The results show that the values observed on July 27 and August 5 before the Jiuzhaigou earthquake in China exceed the confidence interval for prediction and reaches the maximum on August 5, 2017. This indicates the infrared outgoing longwave radiation (IR-OLR) anomalies before the Jiuzhaigou earthquake in China. For the Mexico earthquake, pre-earthquake IR-OLR anomalies are detected on September 14, 18, and 19, and reaches the maximum on September 14, 2017. This demonstrates that the proposed time series forecasting model based on ARIMA could be an effective method for earthquake anomalies detection within infrared outgoing longwave radiation.
Atmosphere response to pre-earthquake processes revealed by satellite and ground observations. Case study for few strong earthquakes in Xinjiang, China (2008-2014)
Authors: Ouzounov Dimitar , Pulinets Sergey , Sun Ke , Shen Xuhui , Kafatos Menas
Published: November 2020

We are presenting the latest results of multi-sensor observations of short-term pre-earthquake phenomena preceding significant earthquakes. We study satellite thermal infrared radiation (OLR) anomalous signals in association with three major earthquakes, which occurred in Xinjiang province, China at different periods M7.3 of 02.12.2014; M6.2 of 08.12.2012; and M7.2 of 03.20.2008. We systematically apply multi-sensor satellite thermal data and ground temperature /humidity and estimates of the atmospheric chemical potential (ACP) parameter. Data analyses include NOAA NPOESS, the Chinese geostationary satellite FY-2D, and in-situ hourly NOAA data from the Hotan weather station. In all three cases, we detected atmospheric satellite OLR anomalies developed near the epicenter area and ACP increases (significant change for 2008 and 2014, weak for 2012) over the major Altyn Tagh fault lines within 10-20 days before the earthquake event. These findings demonstrate the occurrence and reoccurrence of transient variations of these parameters, implying their connection with the earthquake preparation process.
Foreword: Advances in Multi-Parametric, Time-Dependent Assessment of Seismic Hazard and Earthquakes Forecast
Authors: Tramutoli Valerio , Vallianatos Filippos
Published: November 2020

Until now proposed Operational Earthquakes Forecast (OEF) methods suffer of strong limitations in terms of their actual (too low absolute value of estimated probabilities) and general (forecast is substantially limited to earthquakes which are preceded by foreshocks) operational applicability [e.g. Wang and Rogers, 2014; Panza et al., 2014]. They become of some (unfortunately still marginal) usefulness just when such a low-probabilities are multiplied for very high exposure and/or vulnerability factors in order to obtain significant amounts of the estimated seismic risk. Mostly, due to these limitations they have been scarcely used in the past while the interest of the scientific community for the study of additional, not just seismological, geophysical/geochemical parameters that could provide useful indications about the evolution of seismic hazard in the medium/short term, is every day increasing.
A Note on the Asian Market Volatility During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Sharma Susan Sunila
Published: November 2020

This paper provides a note on commonality in volatility for five developed Asian economies, namely Hong Kong, Japan, Russia, Singapore and South Korea. Additionally, we examine whether the COVID-19 pandemic changed the commonality in volatility within the Asian region. Overall, we find that commonality in volatility during the COVID-19 period is more prominent in the case of Singapore compared to other four economies.
Economic Policy Uncertainty in Times of COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Njindan Iyke Bernard
Published: November 2020

We examine the impact of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic on economic policy uncertainty (EPU) in five leading Asian economies, namely China, India, Japan, Korea, and Singapore. We find that the pandemic has a positive and statistically significant impact on EPU in China and Korea. This finding survives robustness checks.