bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Studies on some immunological profile of patients infected with tuberculosis attending infectious diseases hospital, Kano
Authors: Aminu A.I. , Habib N.L.
Published: July 2020

The magnitude of the immune response to tuberculosis (TB) infection also involves cell-mediated immunity comprising numerous types of T-cell subsets and this reflects the magnitude of the bacterial load and those with the highest load are at a greater risk of developing TB disease. The study assesses the immunological profile (CD4+, CD8+, CD3+, CD45+) of TB infected individuals with drug sensitive TB (DS-TB) and compares it with that of subjects with Latent Tuberculosis Infection (LTBI) and those with Rifampicin Resistant TB (RR-TB). The study was a cross-sectional study conducted at Infectious Diseases Hospital (IDH), Kano. Two hundred and five (205) subjects participated in the study. Collected sputum samples were subjected to Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN) staining and cultured on Lowenstein Jensen medium for the identification of Mycobacteria tuberculosis. Molecular detection of M. tuberculosis and RR-TB was performed using Xpert® MTB/RIF. Blood samples were also collected and the T-cell counts were determined using flow cytometry. The result of the study indicated that 131 of the studied subjects were males and 74 were females and that majority of them were in the group 14-24years (41.0%), 25-34 years (35.6%) and 35-44 years (13.7%) respectively. Among the DS-TB and RR-TB groups majority were males (70.8% and 66.7% respectively). It was shown that 86.2% and 88.9% of the samples from the DS-TB and RR-TB were AFB positive.  However, all the 65 samples of DS-TB and 54 samples of the RR-TB were identified as MTB by culture. All the DS-TB samples were detected as susceptible TB by Xpert® MTB/RIF, and all the samples of the RR-TB were confirmed as rifampicin resistant by the Xpert® MTB/RIF. The study also revealed that the T-cell (CD4+, CD8+, CD3+ and CD45+) counts of the studied subjects varied significantly among the different groups of the study (p<0.05) and that compared to the control and the LTBI groups the DS-TB and the RR-TB groups recorded the lowest counts in the order; Control>LTBI>DS-TB>RR-TB.

Key words: Tuberculosis, T-cells counts, Drug susceptible TB, Latent TB, RR-TB.
Spatio-temporal distribution of zooplankton and physico-chemical conditions of Wasai Reservior, Kano State, Nigeria
Authors: Isyaku I.H. , Ibrahim S.
Published: July 2020

A study of spatio-temporal distribution of zooplanktonic community in relation to physico-chemical water condition of Wasai Reservoir was carried out between March and October, 2018. Three sampling sites selected for the purpose of this study were based on different human activities taking place in the areas like fishing, sand collection, washing etc. Nine physico-chemical and biological parameters were determined on fortnight basis 8:00 to 10:00am using standard methods. The result revealed that temperature, pH, Electrical conductivity, Total dissolved solids, Dissolved oxygen, Biochemical oxygen demand, transparency, nitrate and phosphate ranged from 24.4 to 29.1°C, 6.4 to 8.4, 353.3 to 846.6µS/cm, 264.3 to 602.8mg/L, 6.7 to 10.9mg/L, 2.8 to6.8mg/L, 5.6 to 12.3cm, 0.12 to 0.55mg/L and 0.08 to 0.22mg/L respectively. A total of thirteen (13) species of zooplankton were identified from the reservoir out of which three (3) belong to the class copepoda with a highest mean value of 37.67 recorded in May and lowest, 8.88 in October. Five species belong to the class Rotifera with a highest mean of 2.93 recorded in March and lowest in June (0.80). Similarly five species belong to the class Cladocera, with highest mean of 3.40 in April and lowest (0.27) in June and October respectively. The result showed seasonal variation in zooplankton species, as thier distribution increased in the dry season than in wet season, primarily due to the increase in photic depth of the water. Pearson correlation coefficient was used to determine the relationship between zooplankton and physico-chemical parameters. The correlation coefficient of physico-chemical parameters and zooplankton of the reservoir revealed strong positive correlation between zooplankton, EC, TDS, pH, Temperature and transparency at (P<0.05)while negative correlation exist between zooplankton, BOD5, DO, Nitrate and Phosphate at (P<0.05).

Keywords: Distribution, Diversity, Reservoir, Wasai, Zooplankton.
A review on reversible logic gates
Authors: Galadima B.Y. , Galadanci G.S.M. , Tijjani A. , Ibrahim M.
Published: July 2020

In recent years, reversible logic circuits have applications in the emerging field of digital signal processing, optical information processing, quantum computing and nano technology. Reversibility plays an important role when computations with minimal energy dissipation are considered. The main purpose of designing reversible logic is to decrease the number of reversible gates, garbage outputs, constant inputs, quantum cost, area, power, delay and hardware complexity of the reversible circuits. This paper reveals a comparative review on various reversible logic gates. This paper provides some reversible logic gates, which can be used in designing more complex systems having reversible circuits and can execute more complicated operations using quantum computers. Future digital technology will use reversible logic gates in order to reduce the power consumption and propagation delay as it effectively provides negligible loss of information in the circuit.  

Keywords: Garbage output, Power dissipation, quantum cost, Reversible Gate, Reversible logic,
Local plants and diabetes management; folkloric practices in Metropolitan Kano, Nigeria
Authors: Sani S.B. , Aliyu B.S. , Haruna Musa , Yahya Sani Muhammad , Yakasai Mardiyya Auwal , Ajingi Ya’u Sabo , Hayatu Ladan Wada , Abba Hamisu
Published: July 2020

An ethno botanical survey was carried out in Kano metropolis to investigate medicinal plants used locally for the treatment of diabetes in the area.  The respondents for the study included herbalists and herb sellers. Oral interview was used to obtain information from the respondents using their local language and the information was recorded in a semi structured questionnaire. A total of 39 medicinal plant species belonging to 21 families were recorded in the study area. Family Fabaceae had the highest number of plant species and most of the plants were sourced from the wild. The plants were prepared mostly in their dried form and decoction was the most commonly used method of preparation. Moreover, combination of different plants or their parts in the preparation of the recipes for the treatment of diabetes was common among the respondents. Annisopus manii, Laptadenia hastata and Moringa oleifera were the most cited medicinal plants in the preparation of recipes for the treatment of diabetes mellitus in the study area

Keywords: Diabetes management, folkloric, medicinal, plants
Preservative activity of Xylopia aethiopica fruits bio-active fractions on fresh meat
Authors: Bagwai M.A. , Magashi A.M. , Bukar A.
Published: July 2020

The availability of food and its accessibility to people has been an important concern in most developing countries where food preservation techniques have been very inadequate. In comparison with synthetic additives, natural preservatives may be more acceptable to consumers and regulatory agencies and also potentially of benefit to human health. Fractionation of crude ethanolic extract, phytochemical screenings of fractions, evaluation of antimicrobial and preservative activity were carried out. GC-MS on the most active fraction was also carried out. Phytochemical screening uncovered the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, saponins, steroids, tannins and terpenoids. Antimicrobial activity results showed S. aureus with 18.33+0.33mm zone of inhibition and Aspergillus niger had least activity with 15.33+0.33mm at 4000µg/ml. The activity of the ethyl acetate fraction at highest concentration (4000µg/ml) against S. aureus was found to be not significant (p>0.05). Results of GC-MS analysis revealed the identity of the bio active compounds in the fraction such as phenols and terpinen-4-ol. The meat treated with 5% ethyl acetate fraction, recorded pH of 6.75 compared with negative control 7.74 while 5% vinegar (positive control) showed pH of 6.58 at 96 hours of storage. At 48 hours of storage, there were significant differences (P<0.05) in the pH of the treated meat with fractions, vinegar and untreated were observed. The sensory evaluation of the preserved meat by the judges showed meat treated with 5% vinegar had 50% likeness while meat treated with 5% ethyl acetate fraction recorded 30% likeness at 96 hours of storage.

Key words: Preservative, Phytochemical, bio active, fraction, Antimicrobial
Serological survey of immunoglobulin g antibody among different populations with assymtomatic shedding of genital herpes in Katsina State
Authors: Hayatudeen M.R. , Aminu M. , Inabo H.I , Bashir A. , Abdullahi S. , Ali Saleh , Tahir M.
Published: July 2020

Herpes Simplex Virus type 2 (HSV-2) is a significant public health problem being one of the most prevalent sexually transmitted infections worldwide and the leading cause of genital ulcerative disease that is common both in industrialized and developing countries. Therefore, a study on the serological survey of Immunoglobulins G antibody among different populations with asymptomatic shedding of genital herpes in Katsina State, north-western Nigeria was carried out. A total of 460 (86 HIV, 136 feverish patients, 125 pregnant women and 113 normal Individuals) blood samples were collected from six hospitals located across the three senatorial zones of the State. The serum was separated from the blood and used for the analysis. The participant’s socio-demographic information and clinical presentations were also noted with the aid of a questionnaire. Viral antibodies were detected by HSV-2 IgG ELISA Kits. The HSV-2 IgG was detected in 72.8% of the serum tested. The prevalence among patients presenting with fever was 70.6%, and it was 74.4% in the pregnant women. The prevalence in HIV positive patients was 75.6% while it was 73.5% in the apparently healthy individuals. There was a significant association between HIV positivity, feverish condition and HSV-2 prevalence. Higher prevalence was recorded at General Hospital Dutsinma 89.6% and there was a statistically significant association between prevalence and hospital studied. Generally, older participants were more vulnerable to HSV-2 infection than younger ones. There was no statistical significant association between sex of the participants and HSV-2 infection. None of the sociodemographic factors was significantly associated with HSV-2 infection except marital status. There was no significant association between socio-economic status, sexual activity, use of protection, number of sexual partners, clinical manifestation, level of education, and occupation of the participants with HSV-2 infection. The present study indicates that prevalence of HSV-2 appears to be relatively high and older participants were more vulnerable to HSV-2 infection in Katsina State. There is need for educating populace on HSV-2 infection and its mode of transmission to reduce the level of its spread between individuals in the population.

Keywords: HSV-2; IgG; Genital; Serum; Antibody
Molecular characterization of Methicillin resistant Staph. aureus from poultry farms in Kano State, Nigeria
Authors: Bala H.K. , Igwe J.C. , Onaolapo J.A.
Published: July 2020

The increasing rate of drug resistance associated with Methicillin resistant Staph. aureus is not only a problem in clinical sector but also in livestock disease treatment and management. This study was set out to evaluate the incidence of Methicillin resistant Staph. Aureus from poultry farm birds and the farm workers, and also to evaluate the likelyhood of cross-infection between the birds and the farm workers in Kano State, Nigeria, using standard microbiological and molecular methods. The results showed that out of the 1260 samples collected, 98(33.8%) isolates were confirmed to be Staph. aureus. Using disc diffusion method, the antibiotics susceptibility test results showed that 68 (69.4%) of the isolates were susceptible to cefoxitin while 30 (30.6%) were resistant. While 100% of the isolates were resistant to Ampicillin and Amoxicillin, 93.3% to Oxytetracycline, 90% to Chloramphenicol, 80% to Erythromycin, 76.7% to Oxacillin, 63.3% to Trimethroprim/Sulphamethozaxole, 30% to Ciprofloxacin and 26.7% to Gentamicin. The result also showed that 83.3% of the isolates had multiple antibiotic resistance index (MARI) of > 0.3 and were also multidrug resistant (MDR) while 16.7% had MARI ≤ 0.3. The molecular analysis showed that all the isolates were Staph. aureus of 800bp, 66.7% of the MDR isolates possess MecA gene (162bp), while 33.3% had MecA of500bp. Further analysis showed that 3 of the seven housekeeping genes (pta, gmk and yqil) were also present in the MDR isolates at 43.3%, 20% and 16.7% respectively while 10% express spa typing. The results also showed that there is a correlation between phenotypic cefoxitin resistance and carriage of MecA gene. The implication of these results in cross infection between the farm workers and the poultry birds as well as the danger of transfer of these resistant isolates to the community is discussed in this report.

Key words: Staph. aureus, cefoxitin resistance, poultry farms, housekeeping genes, spa typing,  MDR.
Benthic macroinvertebrates diversity as bioindicators of water quality of Nasarawa Reservoir Katsina State Nigeria
Authors: Yusuf Zahraddeen Hassan
Published: July 2020

This study was carried out to assess the water quality of Nasarawa using benthic macroinvertebrates as bioindicators. Biological monitoring working party (BMWP) scoring system was the index used to assess the ecosystem health of Nasarawa reservoir. A total of 4460 macrobenthic invertebrate comprising three phyla, three classes, six families and seventeen species were recorded. The overall macrobenthic population at the different stations revealed that the study area was dominated by Mollusca (41.18%), Oligochaetae (23.53%), Coleoptera and Diptera (11.77%), Mollusca (29.06%), Ephemerophtera and Odonata (5.89%). (BMWP) score of 65.7 was obtained for Nasarawa reservoir which classifies the reservoir as moderately polluted. Higher BMWP score of 65.7 was recorded in the wet season compared to the dry season value of 58.7. More macrobenthic invertebrate population was recorded in the dry season than in the wet season in Nasarawa reservoir. Simpson (1-D), Shannon (H) and evenness were higher during the dry season than in the wet season but dominance was higher in the wet season. Species richness as revealed by the Margaleff and Menhinick index was higher during the wet season than in the dry season. The variations in taxa and number of individuals during the months of sampling was not significantly different (P>0.05). It was found that agricultural activities, washing and bathing could alter physico-chemical parameters of the stream and hence changing the abundance of macroinvertebrates as well as the quality of water. This study, therefore, recommends that the source of pollutants should be controlled and the stream regularly monitored by the relevant authorities.

Keywords: Benthic macroinvertebrates, Bioindicator, Water quality, Reservoir
Monitoring and control skills of heads of science department and academic performance in sciences in public secondary schools in Nandi county Kenya
Authors: Cheruiyot Alfed , Kibett Joash K. , Ngeno Viviline
Published: July 2020

This paper looks at the monitoring and control skills of Heads of Department (HODs) of science and its influence on academic performance by students in Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education Subjects. The HODs have been mandated to provide instructional guidance through regular monitoring, assessment and evaluation of science teaching subjects in their secondary schools. However, recent performances in science subjects (Biology, Chemistry and Physics) in KCSE in public secondary schools in Nandi County have been below average. Therefore, the objective of this paper was to determine the influence of science HODs monitoring and control skills towards academic performance of students in science subject. The study used mixed method research methodology which combined qualitative and quantitative data. The area of study was all public secondary schools in Nandi County. Target population consisted of 231 HODs of science, 231 principals and 693 science subject teachers. The study adopted a mixed method research design. A sample size of 23 principals, 128 HODS of science and 247 science teachers were selected through stratified random sampling technique. Data was collected using questionnaires (for HODs and teachers) and interview guide (for principals). The reliability values for HODs was 0.795 and science teachers 0.775 which were above the threshold of R=0.7. Analysis of data was performed using quantitative and qualitative methods. Results of the analysis revealed that HODs organising regular departmental meetings to review performance and take corrective action where possible was the main monitoring and control used. On the average, the study discovered that HODs of science planed with science teachers evaluation and assessment activities in their schools (M=3.38 and SD=1.25). The paper concludes that there existed a significant positive influence (p<0.05) between HODs of Science monitoring and control skills and academic performance of students in science subjects in selected public secondary schools in Nandi County, Kenya. It was recommended that Teachers Service Commission needs to improve staffing levels in public secondary schools especially in science subjects to in order provide ample time for HODs to do their regular monitoring and control activities of science subjects’ curriculum implementation in classrooms and among their departmental teachers.

Keywords: Science, Monitoring, Control, Performance and Assessment
Evaluation et sélection d’une variété de cotonnier (FK64, Gossypium hirsutum L.) au Burkina Faso
Authors: Bourgou Larbouga , Tarpaga Windpouiré Vianney , Diane Sidiki K. , Sanfo Denys
Published: July 2020

Le coton du Burkina Faso est presqu’entièrement exporté ; les variétés cultivées doivent régulièrement répondre aux exigences du marché. Une fratrie de lignées de cotonnier a été comparée à deux variétés, FK37 et Stam 59A, respectivement dans les zones cotonnières humides et sèches de 2006 à 2009, pour mettre en exergue celle qui améliore les performances agronomiques et technologiques de fibre de ces témoins. A l’issue d’évaluations multilocales, FK64 et FK69 ont été identifiées comme de potentielles nouvelles variétés et testées en milieu paysan. Dans les zones humides, FK64 et FK69 n’ont pas apporté d’amélioration significative ; il est inopportun de les y vulgariser. Dans les zones sèches, FK64 a le mieux performé et a été retenue pour y être vulgarisée. Elle apporte un surplus en pourcentage fibre (+ 0,41%) et en seed index (+ 0,35 g). Aussi, elle apparait meilleure que Stam 59A pour la longueur (+ 1,44 mm) et la ténacité (+ 1,90 g/tex), deux caractéristiques déterminantes du marketing de la fibre. Avec la suspension du coton Bt et le retour à la culture conventionnelle, FK64 lancée en culture commerciale a convaincu. Elle pourrait être candidate à la transformation en cas de retour dans la technologie Bt.Mots clés: Evaluations multilocales, tests variétaux, caractéristiques agronomiques, caractéristiques technologiques, Burkina Faso.

 

English Title: Assessment and selection of a cultivar of cotton (FK64, Gossypium hirsutum L.) in Burkina Faso

Cotton produced in Burkina Faso is almost entirely exported; so cultivars must be developed following the market demand. A sibling of cotton lines was compared to two varieties, FK37 and Stam 59A, respectively in humid and dry cotton production areas between 2006 and 2009 to highlight which one enhances agronomic and fiber quality performances compared to the local control. After multilocation trials, FK64 and FK69 were highlighted as promising news varieties then evaluated under farmer’s conditions of production. In the humid areas, FK64 as well as FK69 did not bring any significant improvement; it was not recommended to release any of them there. In the dry production areas, FK64 performed better, then it was retained to be possibly popularized. It brings a surplus in terms of ginning out turn (+ 0,41%) and seed index (+ 0,35 g). Moreover, it outperformed Stam 59A in fiber length (+ 1,44 mm) and strength (+ 1,90 g/tex), two major cotton fiber marketing properties. At the morrow of the suspension of the Bt cotton and back to conventional production, FK64 was launched in commercial production and it convinced. It could be aspirant to Bt introgression in case country resumes back to the technology.Keywords: multilocation trials, varietal trials, agronomical characteristics, fiber properties, Burkina Faso.
Effets de la déficience en phosphore du sol sur la croissance et le développement du sésame (Sesamum indicum L.)
Authors: Boureima Seyni , Mahaman Laouali Ibrahim
Published: July 2020

Le sésame (Sesamum indicum L.) est un protéoléagineux à haute valeur ajoutée et cultivé dans les régions chaudes. Sa culture connait un réel intérêt pour les producteurs sahéliens ces dernières années. Malheureusement dans ces régions, les sols sont trop pauvres en éléments fertilisants, principalement le phosphore. Cette étude vise à évaluer les effets de la déficience en phosphore sur la croissance et le développement de plantes de sésame. Un essai a été conduit en pots dans un dispositif en bloc complet randomisé avec 2 facteurs. La variété à 10 modalités correspondant à 10 variétés de sésame vulgarisées au Niger et le phosphore à 2 modalités (condition optimale ou témoin et condition de déficience). Il ressort des résultats que la déficience en phosphore retarde la floraison de la seule variété 38-1-7 de 4 jours, réduit les biomasses aériennes de 71% et racinaire de 68%. La déficience réduit également, le nombre de feuilles et la taille des plantes. En utilisant le ratio de la biomasse aérienne en condition de déficience et celle en condition optimale de nutrition phosphatée comme proxy, les variétés DS01 et HB168 sont les plus tolérantes à la déficience en phosphore du sol. Le ratio peut donc être utilisé comme critère de criblage rapide pour la tolérance à la déficience en phosphore du sol et identifier des variétés potentielles.Mots clés : Nutrition, fertilisants, croissance, Sesamum indicum L., Sahel.

English Title: Effects of phosphorus deficiency on the growth and development of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is a high added value oil and protein crop grown in hot regions of the world. Sesame production has seen a real interest for Sahelian producers in recent years. Unfortunately, in these regions, soils are too poor in nutrients, mainly phosphorus. This study aims to assess the effects of this phosphorus deficiency on the growth and development of sesame plant. A trial was conducted in pots in a completely randomized block design with 2 factors: the “Variety” with 10 modalities corresponding to 10 varieties of sesame vulgarized in Niger and the “Phosphorus” with 2 modalities (optimal or control condition and deficiency condition). The results show that phosphorus deficiency delays flowering of variety 38-1-7 by 4 days, reduces aboveground biomass by 71% and root biomass by 68% as well as the number of leaves and the height of the plants. Using the ratio of aboveground biomass in deficient condition and that in optimal condition of phosphorus nutrition as proxy, varieties DS01 and HB168 are the most tolerant to phosphorus deficiency in the soil. The ratio can therefore be used as a criterion for rapid screening for tolerance to soil phosphorus deficiency and to identify potential varieties.Keywords: Nutrition, fertilizer, growth, Sesamum indicum L., Sahel
Epidemiology of tsetse flies in the transmission of trypanosomiasis: technical review of The Gambia experience
Authors: Kargbo Alpha , Kuye Rex A.
Published: July 2020

Climate change has posed serious health threats on both man and animals. This ranges from effects of progressive temperature rises from global warming to extreme weather events and anthropogenic activities and this has affected insect-vector distributions worldwide. Tsetse fly species transmit Trypanosomes but relative significance depends largely on the strength of their interactions with susceptible hosts. Tsetse flies are the main vectors of Trypanosomiasis and their existence pose a threat to the survival of cattle, small ruminates and equines in The Gambia. It is known to be one of the most vital parasitic diseases affecting livestock productivity in The Gambia and equines are very susceptible. Central River Region is mainly infested with the tsetse fly Glossina morsitan submorsitan a major vector of Trypanosomiasis among animals in the country and it is mainly found in dry, canopied, savannah woodland. Glossina palpalis is also present, but are more limited to riverine vegetation in the area. This work seeks to show the havoc caused by trypanosomiasis and the urgency for more studies to investigate the patterns of transmission of this disease especially in the context of climate change in other for a better control program for this zoonosis in The Gambia.Keywords: Climate Change, Glossina, Trypanosome, Cattle, Equine.
Synthèse, caractérisation et l’activité anti-tumorale d’un complexe organo-étain carboxylique
Authors: Sakho Adama Moussa , Diallo Aboubacar , Conde Kaba , Keita Damany , Kourouma Mamady , Zhu Dong Sheng , Dioumessy Bangaly
Published: July 2020

Le problème du cancer constitue à l’échelle planétaire une préoccupation de santé publique. Il a été longtemps sous-estimé par les structures sanitaires en Africaines à cause de la pression exercée par les maladies transmissibles et carentielles sur les services de santé. Son influence négative peut être pourtant réduite grâce au programme de lutte contre le cancer mis en place. Ce programme nécessite la mobilisation des ressources humaines, matérielles, intellectuelles, services de santé, l’associations des malades de cancer. Dans le souci de remédier à ce problème de santé publique, un complexe d’organo-étain carboxylique de formule [(Bu)2Sn]4(L1)2O3(Br)2] a été synthétisé. La molécule obtenue a été caractérisée par les méthodes d’analyses élémentaires, spectroscopiques (RMN 1H et FT-IR) et par la technique de diffraction aux rayons X. Il a été constaté que cette molécule présente un fragment Sn4O2Br2 unit dont l’interaction Sn…O, conduit à la formation d’une chaine supramoléculaire. Son activité anti-tumorale sur les différentes cellules a présentée des résultats significatifs.Mots clés : Synthèse, complexe d’organo-étain carboxylique, caractérisation, chaine supramoléculaire, anti-tumorale.

English Title: Synthesis, characterization and anti-tumor activity of complex organotin carboxylate

The cancer problem is a global public health concern. It has long been underestimated by health structures in Africa because of the pressure exerted by communicable and deficient diseases on health services. Its negative influence can however be reduced thanks to the cancer control program put in place. This program requires the mobilization of human, material, intellectual resources, health services, associations of cancer patient. In order to remedy this public health problem, an organotin carboxylic complex of formula [(Bu)2Sn]4L1)2O3(Br)2] has been synthesized. The molecule obtained was characterized by elementary, spectroscopic analysis methods (1 H NMR and FT-IR) and by the X-ray diffraction technique. It was found that this molecule has a Sn4O2Br2 unit fragment whose interaction Sn…O leads to the formation of a supramolecular chain. Its anti-tumor activity on the various cells has presented significant results.Keywords: Synthesis, organotin carboxylic complex, characterization, supramolecular chain, anti-tumor.
Evolution lithostratigraphique et diagénétique des dépôts argileux de l’albien du bassin sédimentaire de côte d’ivoire
Authors: Coulibaly Yoh Natogoma , Assale Fori Yao Paul , Ouattara Ismaël Ben , Monde Sylvain
Published: July 2020

Nombreuses études sur les déblais de forage à l’Albien du bassin sédimentaire (Côte d’Ivoire) ont montré la présence d’un fort taux de dépôts d’argiles. Toutefois, ces roches argileuses apparemment identiques peuvent être différentes chimiquement. Afin de caractériser ces roches, deux types d’analyses ont été réalisées : l’analyse de la poudre de roche et celle de la fraction fine. Le traitement des données de la poudre de roche s’est fait avec le logiciel EVA et celui de la fraction fine avec le logiciel Fytik 0.9.8. L’analyse lithologique des sédiments d’âge albien présente une alternance de bancs d’argile, de sables, de grès, de silts et de kaolin. Au toit, alternent avec les bancs d’argiles des bancs carbonatés. Le cortège détritique est essentiellement constitué de quartz, albite, traces de microcline, sidérite et calcite. En outre, les minéraux argileux sont constitués de : la kaolinite, des interstratifiés néoformés à deux feuillets : l’illite/smectite régulier (R1) par endroits et illite/chlorite irrégulier (R0) à la base de l’Albien moyen et des interstratifiés néoformés à trois feuillets : illite/chlorite/smectite, illite/vermiculite/smectite. Ces minéraux traduisent une évolution en fonction de la profondeur impliquant la disparition progressive des feuillets de smectite et l’apparition progressive des feuillets de chlorite. Cette évolution est favorisée par une diagénèse d’enfouissement (qui évolue en fonction de la profondeur).Mots clés : Diagénèse, minéralogie, lithologie, Albien.
Le semis direct sous couverture végétale : une opportunité de mise en place rapide du cotonnier en culture pluviale au Mali
Authors: Sissoko Fagaye , Diarra Sidiki , Traore Mamadou
Published: July 2020

En zone soudano-sahélienne, la productivité des cultures est limitée par la disponibilité de l’eau et la fertilité des sols. Le cotonnier en est particulièrement affecté lors de sa culture L’objet de cette étude est d’évaluer l’effet du semis direct sous couverture végétale sur le rendement du cotonnier. Deux variétés de cotonnier (NTA MS334 et BRS 293) ont été utilisées pour comparer 6 systèmes de culture. Le dispositif statistique utilisé a été un Split plot. Les données collectées ont concerné les échantillons de sol, les délais de levée des cotonniers, les densités, les hauteurs, les nombres de capsules et les rendements en graine. La levée a été plus rapide dans les systèmes de culture en semis sous couverture végétale. La densité à la récolte des cinq systèmes en SCV a été de 65 076 plants ha-1 contre 60 564 en SC. Les systèmes de culture n’ont pas eu d’effets statistiquement significatifs sur les rendements en coton graine, mais une différence significative a été observée entre les deux variétés. Le SCV est possible en zone soudano-sahélienne, la levée est plus rapide et permet d’améliorer la densité et le rendement (2 452 kg ha-1 contre 2 373 kg ha-1 en SC) des cultures.Mots clés : Systèmes de culture, cotonnier, densité, capsules, rendement.

English Title: Direct sowing under cover crop: an opportunity for rapid establishment of rainfed cotton in MaliIn Sudano-Sahelian zone, crop productivity is limited by water availability and soil fertility. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of direct sowing under cover crop on cotton yield. Two cotton varieties (NTA MS334 and BRS 293) were used to compare 6 cropping systems. The statistical design used was a split plot. The data collected concerned soil samples, cotton plant emergence times, densities, heights, number of bolls and cotton yields. Emergence was faster in seedling cropping systems under cover crop. Harvest density in the five SCV systems was 65 076 plants ha-1 versus 60 564 plants ha-1 in SC. The cropping systems had no statistically significant effect on seed cotton yields, but a significant difference was observed between the two varieties. SCV is possible in Sudano-Sahelian zone, emergence is faster and improves crop density and yield (2 452 kg ha-1 compared to 2 373 kg ha-1 in SC).Keywords: Cropping systems, cotton, density, bolls, yield
Historicity of personal names in Tanzania: the case of the names in the Rombo-Chagga community in Kilimanjaro
Authors: Lusekelo Amani , Mtenga Victor
Published: July 2020

The history of African societies, which are mostly oral, could be deciphered through onomastics. This is possible because naming practices, which are elaborate, and personal names, which are meaningful, are cherished in African communities. In most cases, the circumstances at birth, which split into several strands, dictate the choice of the name by the name-givers. Naming practice is an elaborate phenomenon amongst the Rombo-Chagga people of Kilimanjaro in Tanzania on two grounds. On the one hand, clan names are associated with Chagga calendar and socio-economic activities, e.g. Mkenda „born during unlucky days‟. On the other hand, home-names reveal circumstances at birth and historical events within the family and beyond, e.g. Ndekir‟yo„I am cured‟. In addition, amongst the Bantu speaking communities in Sub-Saharan Africa, naming practices have been influenced by Christianization, Islamicization and colonization. The personal names of the Rombo-Chagga people reveal the strands of religious (formal) names and foreign (English or Kiswahili) names, e.g. Barakaeli „God-bless‟.Keywords: Ethnohistory, Personal names, Language-in-contact, Rombo-Chagga, Tanzania
Review on the genetic history of Algerians within North African populations from the HLA point of view
Authors: Moussouni Abdellatif
Published: July 2020

This article aims to take stock of knowledge on the history of the human settlement of North Africa and the genetic history of Algerians within North African populations by gathering the most important published results related to HLA allele analysis. These results revealed a strong genetic relationship between studied North African populations (Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia). Such evident genetic affinity between North African populations, also proved by the use of other powerful autosomal markers, agrees with historic data considering North African populations as having similar origins. HLA allele analysis also indicated a genetic link between North African populations (Algeria, Tunisia and Morocco) and the populations of the South-Western Europe particularly the Basques and Spaniards. This would reflect a Neolithic relationship between Iberians and the natives of North Africa (the Berbers). However, other results showed a genetic distinction between samples from North African populations and Middle Eastern populations (Arab-Palestinians, Lebanese’s and Jordanians). Beside these results related to Mediterranean populations, the HLA allele variation was analyzed at the world scale showing low genetic differentiations among the three broad continental areas, with no special divergence of Africa.

Keywords: Genetic diversity; Molecular Anthropology; Genetic History; HLA genes; North Africa; Algeria
Vitexin alleviates neuropathic pain in a mouse chronic constriction injury model by inactivation of NF-κB
Authors: Xu Wentong , Zhu Xueli , Zhan Gonghao , Sheng Liangyu , Chen Yanwei
Published: July 2020

Purpose: To investigate the therapeutic effect of vitexin on neuropathic pain (NP) in a mouse model of chronic constriction injury (CCI).Methods: The CCI model was established by four chronic ligatures in the sciatic nerve. Vitexin was intraperitoneally administered (10 mg/kg, once daily) for 21 days. Mechanical withdrawal threshold (MWT) and paw withdrawal latency (PWL) were determined before and after the establishment of CCI model. The spinal cords were collected to measure mRNA levels by reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Western blot was used to examine protein expression levels.Results: Vitexin reversed the CCI-induced reduction in MWT and PWL values, indicating that it lowered mechanical hypersensitivity response and hyperalgesia caused thermal stimulation (p < 0.05). The elevated levels of IL-6, IL-1β, and TNFα observed in CCI-treated mice were also inhibited by vitexin, suggesting that it suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, vitexin attenuated CCI-induced activation of NF-κB signaling in CCI-treated mice (p < 0.05).Conclusion: Vitexin alleviates NP by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines and NF-κB signaling in CCItreated mice. Thus, it is a potential target for NP treatment.

Keywords: Vitexin, Neuropathic pain, Chronic constriction injury, Mechanical hypersensitivity, Hyperalgesia, NF-κB
Acute lung injury inhibition by juglone in LPS induced sepsis mouse model involves Sirt1 activation
Authors: Hu Qiong , Yang Chunai , Zheng Fenshuang , Duan Hongdan , Fu Yangshan , Cheng Zhongfeng
Published: July 2020

Purpose: To investigate the effect of juglone on LPS induced lung injury in a mouse model and in TC 1cell line.Methods: Edema formation in lungs were measured by determination of lung wet/dry weight. Expressions of various proteins were assessed by western blot assay, while Sirt1 level was assessed using immunohistochemistry. Mice were randomly assigned to nine groups of 10 mice each: normal control, untreated and seven juglone treatment groups. Acute lung injury was induced in mice by injecting LPS (10 mg/kg) via intraperitoneal route (ip). The treatment groups were given 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 and 100 μM of juglone, ip, respectively.Results: The levels of MMP-9, IL-6, IL-1β and iNOS were significantly higher in acute lung injury induced mice compared than the control group (p < 0.05). Treatment of the mice with juglone significantly decreased LPS-induced up-regulation of inflammatory cytokines in a dose-dependentmanner. The production of inflammatory cytokines was almost completely inhibited in the mice treated with 100 mg/kg dose of juglone, while treatment of the LPS-stimulated TC 1 cells with juglone upregulated the expression of Sirt1 mRNA. Down-regulation of Sirt1 expression by siRNA inhibited the effect of juglone on LPS-induced increase in inflammatory cytokine production.Conclusion: Juglone prevents lung injury in mice via up-regulation of Sirt1 expression. Therefore, juglone might be useful for the development of a treatment strategy for lung injury.

Keywords: Inflammatory, Sirtuin, Edema, Cytokines, Lung injury, TC 1 lung alveolar epithelial cells, Sirt1
MicroRNA miR-103a-3p targets NPAS3 to regulate progression of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Zhang Yani , Wang Jingjian , Liu Xiaojuan , Li Jiexing , Fan Shujie
Published: July 2020

Purpose: This study aimed at investigating miR-103a-3p expression, functional roles and underlying mechanism in regulating Alzheimer’s progression.Methods: RT-qPCR was used to assessed miR-103a-3p and NPAS3 expression in human neuroblastoma cells. Cell transfection of overexpressed or knocked down genes and CCK-8 assay measured cell viability while RT-qPCR was used to detect proliferation and apoptosis in biomarkers, Ki87 and PCNA, caspase-8 and caspase-3, respectively. Furthermore, luciferase assay was used to evaluate the luciferase activity while western blotting  analysis was applied to determine protein biomarkers regarding proliferation and apoptosis.Results: Expression of miR-103a-3p decreased but NPAS3 increased in AD cell lines. Overexpressed miR-103a-3p attenuated cell viability and NPAS3 bound miR-103a-3p to regulate AD progression. The inhibitory effect of miRNA on cell viability in AD was reversed by NPAS3.Conclusion: miR-103a-3p/NPAS3 might help to enrich knowledge on treatment of AD.

Keywords: Alzheimer’s development, cell growth, cell proliferation
Formulation and in vitro evaluation of orodispersible tablets of fexofenadine hydrochloride
Authors: Sivadasan Durgaramani , Sultan Muhammad Hadi , Madkhali Osama , Javed Shamama , Jabeen Aamena
Published: July 2020

Purpose: To develop orodispersible tablets (ODTs) of fexofenadine hydrochloride using three different superdisintegrants in various ratios and to compare their disintegration properties.Methods: Direct compression technique was used for the preparation of ODTs. Mannitol and Avicel CE-15 (microcrystalline cellulose and guar gum) were used as direct compression diluents. The disintegration time of tablets using each polymer (superdisintegrant) was evaluated as well as othertablet properties including weight fluctuation, hardness, friability, wetting time and water absorption ratio.Results: Satisfactory values were obtained for all the evaluated parameters. As the polymer concentration increased, there was a decrease in disintegration time. A comparison of the three different polymers used revealed that CCM3 formulated with 12 % croscarmellose sodium and 14.66 % lactose had the least disintegration time of 32.33 ± 3.23 s. In vitro release studies showed that the maximum drug release of 94.38 ± 0.12 % in 25 min was obtained for ODT tablets containing croscarmellose sodium (CCM3).Conclusion: The orodispersible tablets had quick disintegrating property which was achieved using superdisintegrants. Thus, superdisintegrants improve the disintegration efficiency of orodispersible fexofenadine tablets at low concentrations, when compared to traditional disintegrants.

Keywords: Croscarmellose sodium, Direct compression, Fexofenadine, Orodispersible tablets
Molecular interaction of 4-amino-N’-(benzoyloxy)-N-(2,4- dimethylphenyl)-1,2,5-oxadiazole-3-carboximidamide with the methotrexate binding site of human DHFR, and its implication in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Shakil Shazi , Abuzenadah Adel M. , Attar Suzan M. , Fathaldin Omar , Al-Raddadi Rajaa , Sulaiman Mansour I.
Published: July 2020

Purpose: To identify an improved lead molecule for the human dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) inhibition that ‘sits’ in the same binding cavity as methotrexate by high throughput computationalscreening.Methods: The 3-D structure of the DHFR binding site was examined using ‘CASTp3.0’. Structure based in silico screening of about 5 million drug candidates housed in the MCULE database was performed. The obtained molecule-hits were ranked in accordance with their VINA scores, made to pass through drug-likeness filters, ΔG cut-off criterion, toxicity-checker and finally ‘zero RO5 criterion’.Results: The ‘top molecule’, namely, 4-amino-N'-(benzoyloxy)-N-(2,4-dimethylphenyl)-1,2,5-oxadiazole- 3-carboximidamide, displayed robust binding with human DHFR through 21 amino acid residues (ΔG = - 9.6 kcal/mol) while 10 of these residues were the same as those displayed by ‘methotrexate binding interactions’. It passed through relevant drug screening filters including the ‘Toxicity Checker’.Conclusion: This research work describes the molecular interaction of human DHFR with an improved lead molecule named, 4-amino- N’-(benzoyloxy)-N-(2,4-dimethylphenyl)-1,2,5-oxadiazole-3- carboximidamide, with a ΔG of -9.6 kcal/mol, thus satisfying adequate ADME features for further in vitro and in vivo validation in the context of rheumatoid arthritis.

Keywords: Dihydrofolate reductase, In silico screening, Methotrexate, Rheumatoid arthritis, DHFR
Cytotoxic and antioxidant potentials of ellagic acid derivatives from Conocarpus lancifolius (Combretaceae)
Authors: Saadullah Malik , Asif Muhammad , Sattar Abdul , Rehman Kanwal , Shah Shahid , Saleem Mohammad , Shah Ajmal , Wajid Muhammad , Rasool Akhtar , Uzair Muhammad , Afzal Samina , Afzal Khurram
Published: July 2020

Purpose: Isolation, characterisation and structure elucidation of compounds obtained from Conocarpus lancifolius and screening of their pharmacological effects in vitro.Methods: After collection, authentication and extraction from whole C. lancifolius plants, screening for secondary metabolites, thin-layer  chromatography and subsequent open column chromatography were performed for phytochemical analysis and subsequent purification of the compounds. The chemical structures of the isolated compounds were elucidated using spectroscopic (UV-visible, infrared and mass) spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR, 13C-NMR including BB, DEPT-135, 90 and two-dimensional correlation techniques, including HMBC and HSQC). The cytotoxic and antioxidant potentials of extracts and compounds obtained from C. lancifolius were evaluated using in vitro models.Results: Two ellagic acid derivatives, 2,3,8-tri-o-methylellagic acid (A) and 3-O-methylellagic acid 4-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (B), were isolated. Both compounds (A and B) were cytotoxic in a variety of cancer cell lines, including murine lymphocytic leukaemia (P-388, half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) =3.60 and 2.40 μg/mL, respectively), human colon cancer (Col-2, IC50 = 0.76 and 0.92 μg/mL, respectively) and human breast cancer (MCF-7, IC50 = 0.65 and 0.54 μg/mL, respectively). Moreover, both compounds showed significant antioxidant potential in vitro.Conclusion: C. lancifolius extract and isolated ellagic acid derivatives (compounds A and B) possess cytotoxic and antioxidant properties. These findings suggest that C. lancifolius contains bioactive compounds that can be potentially developed as natural cytotoxic and antioxidant compounds.

Keywords: Conocarpus lancifolius, Ellagic acid, Combretaceae, Cytotoxic activity, Antioxidant
Aspectos teóricos de la subrepresentación de las mujeres en el liderazgo de la educación superior.
Authors: Bayanbayeva Aigerim , Altynbassov Bakhyt
Published: July 2020

Este artículo analiza los problemas teóricos del liderazgo femenino en la educación superior. La subrepresentación de las mujeres en el liderazgo de la educación superior se explica por la teoría de la congruencia de roles, la teoría de la competencia y la teoría de la organización de género, así como por las barreras individuales, culturales y estructurales. Los programas de tutoría y desarrollo de liderazgo se proponen como medidas alternativas que permiten promover a las mujeres en el liderazgo de la educación superior. Primero se centra en el concepto de liderazgo en la educación superior, luego analiza los problemas de género en el liderazgo, en particular, los estilos de liderazgo de mujeres y hombres y las barreras en el liderazgo de las mujeres, y las estrategias para superar estos obstáculos. Finalmente, se examinarán algunos aspectos del liderazgo de las mujeres en la educación superior en Kazajstán.
Sufi Women in Pakistan: Case Study of Mai Saihba and Her Shrine in Dhok Sahi Sharif, Punjab
Authors: Khan Saad Ali
Published: July 2020

Sufism is a mystical thread of Islam, which when practiced as a cultural system, creates Sufi culture, which is considered significantly different from orthodox, normative or official versions of Islam. Women's contribution to this Sufi culture, which often assimilates indigenous cultural values, has not been fully explored, thus causing ambivalence about Sufi women's lives and their roles. This paper attempts to fill this gap by exploring a variety of aspects of Sufi women's role and contribution to the enrichment of Sufi traditions and local culture in Pakistan through the case study of Mai Sahiba and her shrine, Sahi Sharif, in Punjab. This paper has two main sections. Section one, drawing upon secondary sources, highlights complex perspectives on gender and role of Sufi women in general within Sufism. Section two, drawing upon primary textual sources about Mai Sahiba's life and ethnographic fieldwork at her shrine, offers a glimpse of her life and shows how her devotees celebrate her as a Sufi who challenged hierarchical structures that exist within Sufism and in Pakistan.
What is the role of Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (AHSCT) in the scenario of new drugs for Multiple Myeloma (MM)
Authors: Hallack Neto Abrahão Elias , Maiolino Angelo
Published: July 2020

Patients with multiple myeloma (MM) in clinical con­ditions to be referred to autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) generally start therapy with an induction chemotherapy followed by high-dose alkylating and AHSCT. The ideal regimen and the number of pre-AHSCT induction is still a controversial subject, however, opting for at least three to four cycles of chemotherapy including a drug with immunomodulatory action, a protea­some inhibitor, with a corticosteroid, are advised as the first line before AHSCT.