bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
OPTIMIZATION OF THE PROCESS OF INDUSTRIAL WASTEWATER TREATMENT BY DISAGGREGATION OF PHASE-DISPERSED CONTAMINANTS
Authors: Smolyanichenko Alla S. , Yakovleva Elena V.
Published: March 2023

Wastewater from various industrial productions is the most difficult task for a designer in the field of developing an effective treatment scheme, since their composition and properties are extremely diverse, and treatment methods are possible, both chemical and physico-chemical, and biological. To select the most effective method for treating a particular type of wastewater, it is necessary to establish in what phase-dispersed states the impurities are. The authors of this article supplemented the existing classification of phase-dispersed states of pollution in wastewater with transition states: ultra-weighted, post-colloidal and atomically dissolved. For the simultaneous separation of contaminants that are in several groups of states according to the above classification, a dispersion phase separator has been developed, which includes several sequentially located purification zones and replaces large-sized and expensive facilities. On the developed installation, computer simulation was carried out in the ANSYS program in order to obtain streamlines and pressure of the fluid flow, velocity vectors in 3D format with their values, and the efficiency of the installation was determined. For the most efficient assessment of the wastewater treatment process in the phase separator, an automated control system has been developed in the OVEN program. Shut-off and control valves were selected, instrumentation was installed, allowing the operator to carry out phased control of the main types of pollution. In order to test the effectiveness of the dispersion separator, experiments were carried out on wastewater of various compositions from several industrial productions. The obtained results make it possible to recommend the phase separator as a facility for preliminary wastewater treatment for a number of industrial enterprises.
STUDY OF THE EFFECT OF NEW 6-R-3,5-DINITRO-1,2,3,4-TETRAHYDROPYRIDINES ON THE ACCUMULATION OF PHOTOSYNTHETIC PIGMENTS AND ASCORBIC ACID IN PLANT TISSUES
Authors: Ivanova Evgeniya V. , Zhukov Nikolay N. , Surova Irina I. , Nikishina Maria B. , Mukhtorov Loik G. , Atroshchenko Yuri M.
Published: March 2023

Background. The problem of finding new effective plant protection products remains an urgent task of modern agrochemistry. It is known that tetrahydropyridine derivatives exhibit a broad spectrum of biological activity, including fungicidal activity. However, compounds with potential biological activity can also be highly toxic to humans, cultivated crops, and the environment as a whole, so it is necessary to study their environmental safety. The content of photosynthetic pigments and ascorbic acid are one of the most important biochemical indicators of plant response to environmental stress factors, therefore, determining their amount helps to assessthe physiological state of plants and analyze the toxicity of the synthesized compounds.

Purpose. To study the effect of new 6-R-3,5-dinitro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyridines on the content of photosynthetic pigments and ascorbic acid in plant tissues in order to assess the safety of their use as potential plant protection products.

Materials and methods. The test compounds were obtained by the previously developed method for the selective reduction of 2-R-3,5-dinitropyridines. Winter wheat seeds of the Moskovskaya 39 variety were germinated in Petri dishes using solutions of the synthesized substances. Seeds germinated in water were used as controls. On the ninth day, the content of various groups of photosynthetic pigments (chlorophylls a, b, carotenoids), as well as ascorbic acid in plant tissues was determined. All experiments were carried out in triplicate. In addition, the analytes were tested for toxicity using the GUSAR Environmental Toxicity software.

Results. The effect of new derivatives of tetrahydropyridine on the accumulation of photosynthetic pigments and ascorbic acid in plant tissues of winter wheat was studied. It was shown that the studied compounds do not have a significant toxic effect on plants.

Conclusion. As a result of studying the effect of new 6-R-3,5-dinitro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyridines on the content of photosynthetic pigments and ascorbic acid, as well as in silico computer prediction in GUSAR Environmental Toxicity, it was found that, in general, the studied compounds are relatively safe and, therefore, promising for further testing as biologically active plant protection products.
AGRICULTURAL FINANCING AS THE BASIS FOR FOOD SECURITY IN KAZAKHSTAN UNDER EAEU CONDITIONS
Authors: Alibayev Yerlan A. , Onuchko Marina Yu.
Published: March 2023

With Kazakhstan’s accession to the Eurasian Economic Union, the government needed to change the instruments to support agriculture and the agro-industrial complex as a whole. As it is on its success that the provision and condition of food security of the country directly depends. Food security is very urgent, especially during the current financial crisis.

To date, the instability of agriculture in Kazakhstan is the main reason for the low level of food security in the country. One of the strategic tasks for Kazakhstan is to ensure food security. There is a lack of scientific research aimed at financing and state support of agriculture as an important prerequisite for ensuring food security in Kazakhstan under the conditions of the Eurasian Economic Union, which determines the purpose of our study.

The following research methods were used in the work: economic and statistical; economic and mathematical methods, including methods of statistical analysis. We use correlation and regression analysis to study the relationship between public financing of the agro-industrial complex and food security. By this we not only analyze the current situation, but also make it possible to implement a medium-term forecast.

The result of the study is a structural analysis of the financing of the agro-industrial complex, which shows that the bulk of the financing is carried out by own funds, and the amount of public investment is less than own resources. Based on the study, the dependence of agriculture in Kazakhstan under the EAEU conditions on state funding and support has been revealed. The main ways and solutions to ensure food security of Kazakhstan in the conditions of the Eurasian Economic Union have been proposed.

Conclusions. Ensuring food security of the population is an integral part of economic, political and national security of the country. In this context, the agro-industrial complex is the main key factor and epicentre of food security of the country, and without state financial support for agriculture, food security of Kazakhstan is and will be under threat. Only by solving this urgent problem can Kazakhstan lead among the member countries of the Eurasian Economic Union. Therefore, in order to ensure food security, measures that need to be taken to develop a food security policy have been proposed. In addition, proposals have been made to regulate and control food security in Kazakhstan.
EVALUATION OF THE GEROPROTECTIVE EFFECT OF SQUALENE ON THE CAENORHABDITIS ELEGANS MODEL
Authors: Vesnina Anna D. , Dolganyuk Vyacheslav F. , Dmitrieva Anastasia I. , Loseva Anna I. , Milentyeva Irina S.
Published: March 2023

Background. Increasing healthy life expectancy is a priority in modern healthcare. Squalene, a triterpene exhibiting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and other properties, is a promising candidate for geroprotectors.

Purpose. Assess the activity of squalene, that is, the possibility of its further use as a geroprotector.

Materials and methods. Squalene was purchased from Sigma-Aldrich (USA) for research. Squalene solutions were prepared with concentrations of 10, 50, 100, 200, 400, 800, and 1600 µmol/L (solvent dimethyl sulfoxide—DMSO). The work was carried out on the basis of the Laboratory for Biotesting of Natural Nutraceuticals (KemGU, Russia). Antioxidant activity was assessed by capturing ABTS radical cations in comparison with the activity of ascorbic acid. The model organism Caenorhabditis elegans N2 Bristol was purchased from the Laboratory for the Development of Innovative Medicines and Agrobiotechnologies of the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology. To assess the stress resistance of nematodes during cultivation, conditions of thermal (33°C) and oxidative (adding 15 μl of 1 M paraquat, 20°C) stress were created for 24 and 48 h. conditions (20 °C) for 61 days. The statistical significance of the results was assessed using Student’s t-test (in Microsoft Office Excel 2007). Lifespan data were assessed using a Kaplan-Meier survival plot combined with a log-rank test (Mantel-Cox). Data processing was carried out using the OASIS online application (https://sbi.postech.ac.kr/oasis/).

Results. The results showed that squalene solutions did not exhibit antioxidant properties; did not trap radical cations with ABTS. A solution of squalene at a concentration of 10 μM contributed to an increase in the stress resistance of nematodes. Under conditions of oxidative stress, the survival of nematodes during cultivation for 24 hours is 3.1% higher than in the control. Under conditions of heat stress during cultivation for 48 hours, the survival rate is higher by 11.3%. Squalene solutions did not affect the lifespan of nematodes.

Conclusion. Presumably, the antioxidant activity of squalene is expressed not in the capture of free radicals, but in the ability to act on biomolecules that lead to oxidative stress. A squalene solution with a concentration of 10 μM can reduce the negative impact of one of the factors causing premature aging. In order to assess the possibility of using squalene as a geroprotector without relying on cation-radical capture, further studies are needed to study the impact of the substance on other targets, mechanisms of action related to the occurrence of age-associated diseases. For example, analysis of the effect of squalene solutions on the growth rate of C. elegans larvae, the ability to influence the expression of antioxidant defense genes, the presence of anti-inflammatory and other properties.
Scaphoid fractures in athletes – the importance of a diagnostic process
Authors: Matyszewska Aleksandra , Matyka Kamila , Sutkowski Jakub , Wilczewska Ewelina , Słowiaczek Anna , Wojnar Marcin , Baranowska Alicja
Published: March 2023

Introduction and purpose: Scaphoid fractures are the most common fractures in the wrist area, yet they are still a diagnostic problem. This injury is usual among athletes, especially soccer players, basketball players, and cyclists. Early diagnosis allows for making an appropriate therapeutic decision, and thus a more efficient recovery. Imaging methods for a scaphoid fracture include X-ray, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, bone scintigraphy and ultrasonography. This paper discusses and compares available diagnostic strategies and their impact on recovery in athletes.
Brief description of the state of knowledge: The article contains the current knowledge about the epidemiology, anatomy, mechanism of injury and complications of scaphoid fractures, as well as illustrates and compares the possibilities in the field of imaging diagnostics of the injury.
Conclusion: The commonness and availability of the X-ray image does not translate into a better diagnostic result. The use of computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging as the first choice gives certain confirmation or exclusion of a scaphoid fracture, and thus accelerates the therapeutic process and return to sport
Henosepilachna vigintioctomaculata Motschulsky (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae): morphotypes in an East Asian population
Authors: MATSISHINA NATALIYA V. , ERMAK MARINA V. , FISENKO PETR V. , SOBKO OLGA A.
Published: March 2023

The 28-spotted potato ladybird beetle Henosepilachna vigintioctomaculata is an endemic pest of field crops in the Russian Far East. The study on the morphotypic structure of a population of this phytophagous insect can facilitate the monitoring of processes occurring in ecosystems. It might contribute to the research on the endemic fauna of the Russian Far East and reveal how varieties form resistance to pesticides. To study the polymorphism and structure of a potato ladybird beetle population, an analysis of elytral color patterns was conducted. The following features were considered: the size and shape of spots, the intensity of color, the position of spots on the elytra relative to the elytral suture, the presence of merged spots. As the result, nine morphotypes were identified. The morphotype A2 was the most frequent (47.81 %) and followed by the morphotypes A1 and A6. The morphotype A9 had the lowest frequency of occurrence (1.82 %). It was also determined that morphotypes differed in the linear dimension of spots on the elytra. The form A2 was characterized by the largest spots. The size of the color patterns varied from 104.98 ± 0.071 to 297.01 ± 0.065 µ. The form A1 had the smallest spots.
A Survey Study on the Perception for Development of Integrated Medical Service Model and Its Application in Clinical Field - A Survey study with Doctors and Korean Medicine Doctors -
Authors: Seo Sangwoo , Kim Hyungsuk , Lee Seung Hyeun , Kong Moonkyoo , Lee Beom-Joon , Heo Sung Hyuk , Kwon Seung-won , Park Bong Jin , Yun Dong Hwan , Lee Euiju , Oh Hyunjoo , Kim Sung-Bum , Choi Hye-Sook , Kim Kwan-Il , Chung Won-Seok
Published: March 2023

Objectives: Objectives: In this study, we define a medical service type that combines Western medicine, Korean medicine, and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) as an integrated medical service. This study, as part of tertiary hospital-based integrated medical service model and clinical field application, aims to collect status and opinions on integrated medical service for medical staff in the field.Methods: This is a survey study, and was conducted on doctors from Kyung Hee University Hospital and Korean medicine doctors from Kyung Hee University Korean Medicine Hospital. Respondents were recruited on a first-come, first-served basis until the number of respondents reached 120. The investigation was conducted for a total of 16 days from October 4, 2021 to October 19, 2021 by e-mail.Results: Recognition of integrated medical services was confirmed to be 45.8%, and 49.2% responded positively to the necessity of it. As a group of diseases that require the establishment of integrated medical services in the future, 'disorders of musculoskeletal systems and connective tissues' was the highest. The most expected advantages of providing integrated medical services were 'increased satisfaction of patients and guardians' and 'increased treatment effects.’Conclusions: In this study, we investigated the perception of doctors and Korean medicine doctors on integrated medical services that combine Western medicine, Korean medicine, and CAM. It has been confirmed that medical staff generally have a positive perception of integrated medical services, and if the scientific basis for the effect of integrated medical services is supported, the rate of positive perception is expected to increase.
Study on Priorities of South-North Korea Traditional Medicine Cooperation Project
Authors: Kim Dongsu , Kim Jong-hyun , Im Sujeong , Yi Eunhee , Ahn Eunji , Kwon Ohmin
Published: March 2023

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to draw priorities for candidate projects so that future inter-Korean traditional medicine cooperation can be promoted efficiently and effectively.Methods: This study used the Delphi-AHP method to derive priorities for the inter-Korean traditional medicine cooperation project. First, 33 candidate projects were selected through a data survey. In addition, the priority importance score was calculated through a 2-round mini-Delphi survey of 20 experts. The importance of 33 candidate projects was calculated by three evaluation criteria, and the weights for these three evaluation criteria were derived through the AHP method.Results: As for the weight by item, 'feasibility' was the highest with 0.6749 points, followed by 'social ripple effect' (0.1811) and 'instrumentality' (0.1439). As a result of calculating the importance score by reflecting the weight of the evaluation criteria for each project, the South's sole project, "Understanding the Status of North Korea's Korean Medicine," was the top priority, followed by the "Establishment of Strategy for Inter-Korean Traditional Medicine and Cooperation.”Conclusions: As a result of this study, experts now believe that it is important to prioritize the highly feasible South Korean independent project in the field of traditional medicine between the two Koreas. This will serve as the basis for promoting cooperative projects in the event of future changes in the inter-Korean situation.
Three Cases of Pulsatile Tinnitus Improved by Acupotomy with Acupuncture
Authors: Park Soyoung , Jea Ha-Kyung , Min Ye-Eun , Hong Eun-Been , Lee Na-Hyun
Published: March 2023

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to report the three cases of pulsatile tinnitus without any cause improved by acupotomy and acupuncture.Methods: Three patients diagnosed with pulsatile tinnitus with no abnormalities detected on examination were treated with acupotomy and acupuncture. The improvement of symptoms was evaluated by visual analogue scale(VAS).Results: The visual analogue scale has decreased from 7 to 0, from 5 to 1, and from 6 to 0, respectively.Conclusions: Acupotomy had shown a positive clinical effect in the treatment of the pulsatile tinnitus without any cause in this case reports.
A Case Report of Ultrasound-guided Bee Venom Pharmacopuncture on Plantar Fasciitis
Authors: Oh Seung-Yun , Yeum Ji-Yoon , Park Soo-Jung
Published: March 2023

Objectives: This study is to report the usefulness of ultrasound in diagnosing plantar fasciitis and the effectiveness of ultrasound-guided bee venom pharmacopuncture as a treatment of it.Methods: A 61-year-old woman suffered from plantar fasciitis on her right foot for 1 month. The sonographic findings were fascial thickening, blurring of perifascial border and perifascial effusion. The ultrasound-guided bee venom pharmacopuncture for 6 times and conventional Korean medicine therapies like acupuncture and moxibustion for 12 times in 5 weeks. Numeric rating scale (NRS) and foot function index(FFI) was used to evaluate the pain and its progress. and thickness of plantar fascia was measured by sonography every week.Results: After treatments, NRS and FFI were reduced from 10 to 1 and from 190 to 72. The thickness of fascia was reduced from 0.43cm to 0.40. Blurring and effusion of perifascial border were also improved.Conclusion: This report suggests that the Ultrasound-guided Bee Venom Pharmacopuncture is effective for Plantar Fasciitis. Ultrasonography could be one of the most valuable items in the clinical practice of Korean medicine doctors who seek minimally invasive treatment.
Three Cases of Frozen Shoulder Treated with Hominis Placenta Pharmacopuncture and Chuna Manual Therapy
Authors: Kim Minhee , Jeon Soohyung
Published: March 2023

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to report the effect of hominis placenta pharmacopuncture and chuna manual therapy in patients with frozen shoulder.Methods: Frozen shoulder was treated with hominis placenta pharmacopuncture and chuna manual therapy, and the overall shoulder pain was measured by visual analog scale (VAS), and the range of motion (ROM) of shoulder movement was evaluated by measuring passive abduction and external rotation and active hand to shoulder blade test.Results: After the treatment, overall shoulder pain was reduced, and ROM of passive abduction and external rotation was increased.Conclusions: The above results show that hominis placenta pharmacopuncture and chuna manual therapy can be used as an effective treatment for frozen shoulder.
Assimilating the Queers Ten Plus Years Later: Advertising Confronts Gender Colloquium
Authors: Tsai Wan-Hsiu Sunny
Published: March 2023

Abstract: University of Miami strategic communications professor Wan-Hsiu Sunny Tsai gave a plenary address at the Advertising & Society Colloquium held at the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of American History on November 18, 2022. Tsai's talk provides updates to her 2010 Advertising & Society Review article "Assimilating the Queers: Representations of Lesbians, Gay Men, Bisexual, and Transgender People in Mainstream Advertising." She discusses the changes in the representation of queer people in advertising over the past 10 years and how the political climate and demographic shifts have affected how advertisers depict LGBTQ+ individuals. Tsai also highlights the issues with the "total market" approach, the use of the buzzword "authenticity," and the lack of representation of non-binary and androgynous individuals in advertisements. The media landscape has changed in the past decade, with more representation of queer people in advertising, but Tsai points out that many representations are still often stereotypical and not reflective of the diverse experiences of LGBTQ+ people.
Advertising, DEIB, and HBCUs: An Interview with Vita Harris
Authors: Bonaparte Yvette Lynne , Harris Vita
Published: March 2023

Abstract: This article captures a conversation with Vita Harris, the Global Chief Strategy Officer of Foote, Cone & Belding, and Yvette Lynne Bonaparte, a marketing faculty member at an HBCU. The conversation reveals not only trends in multicultural marketing, or diverse mass marketing as it is referred to at FCB, it highlights the framework used in this global advertising agency to address diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace, workforce, and their work. Highlights of Harris' journey to the C-suite of one of the world's largest global advertising agencies are reviewed. The role of advertising in society as a means of advancing culture, removing stereotypes of underrepresented populations, and increasing cultural competence is discussed.
Robust Guardrail Instantiation and Trajectory Optimization of Complex Highways Based on Mobile Laser Scanning Point Clouds
Authors: Jia Xin , Zhu Qing , Ge Xuming , Ma Ruifeng , Zhang Daiwei , Liu Tao
Published: March 2023

As a basic asset of highways, guardrails are essential objects in the digital modeling of highways. Therefore, generating the vectorial 3D trajectory of a guardrail from mobile laser scanning (MLS) point clouds is required for real digital modeling. However, most methods limit straight-line
guardrails without considering the continuity and accuracy of the guardrails in turnoff and bend areas; thus, a completed 3D trajectory of a guardrail is not available. We use RANDLA-Net for extracting guardrails as preprocessing of MLS point clouds. We perform a region growth strategy based
on linear constraints to obtain correct instantiations and a forward direction. The improved Douglas– Puke algorithm is used to simplify the center points of guardrail, and the 3D trajectory of every guardrail can be vectorized using cubic spline curve fitting. The proposed approach
is validated on two 3-km case data sets that can completely instantiate MLS point clouds with remarkable effects. Quantitative evaluations demonstrate that the proposed guardrail instantiation algorithm achieves an overall precision and recall of 98.80% and 97.5%, respectively. The generated
3D trajectory can provide a high-precision design standard for the 3D modeling of the guardrail and has been applied to a long highway scene.
MCAFNet: Multi-Channel Attention Fusion Network-Based CNN For Remote Sensing Scene Classification
Authors: Xia Jingming , Zhou Yao , Tan Ling , Ding Yue
Published: March 2023

Remote sensing scene images are characterized by intra-class diversity and inter-class similarity. When recognizing remote sensing images, traditional image classification algorithms based on deep learning only extract the global features of scene images, ignoring the important role
of local key features in classification, which limits the ability of feature expression and restricts the improvement of classification accuracy. Therefore, this paper presents a multi-channel attention fusion network (MCAFNet). First, three channels are used to extract the features of the
image. The channel "spatial attention module" is added after the maximum pooling layer of two channels to get the global and local key features of the image. The other channel uses the original model to extract the deep features of the image. Second, features extracted from different channels
are effectively fused by the fusion module. Finally, an adaptive weight loss function is designed to automatically adjust the losses in different types of loss functions. Three challenging data sets, UC Merced Land-Use Dataset (UCM), Aerial Image Dataset (AID), and Northwestern Polytechnic
University Dataset (NWPU), are selected for the experiment. Experimental results show that our algorithm can effectively recognize scenes and obtain competitive classification results.
Analysis of antibacterial and antioxidant potential of commercial essential oils from Tuzla markets
Authors: HoroziÄ‡ Emir , ImamoviÄ‡ Merima , BjeliÄ‡ Edita , SalkoviÄ‡ Vedad , KariÄ‡ Enida , HusejnagiÄ‡ Darja , AhmetoviÄ‡ Nihada
Published: March 2023

Essential oils are natural products that contain a wide range of biologically active organic compounds. Therefore, they are intensively researched as potential antioxidant, antimicrobial and antitumor preparations, which could to some extent replace the classic synthetic drugs used to treat various pathological conditions. In this paper, the antioxidant and antibacterial activity of selected essential oils available in local markets in the area of Tuzla was examined. The efficiency of neutralization of free radicals was determined by spectrophotometric method, while the antibacterial potential was determined by diffusion technique on reference bacterial strains. For essential oils that showed antibacterial activity, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined using a dilution technique. The results showed that commercial essential oils have a high ability to neutralize DPPH radicals in vitro. The diffusion technique confirmed the high antibacterial activity for the essential oils of tea tree, eucalyptus, immortelle and wormwood, while the essential oils of lemon and cedar showed extremely weak antibacterial activity.Â Â
Comparative study of some macro & micro elements in milk samples from Abuja, Nigeria using microwave plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (MP-AES) and flame atomic absorption spectroscopy (F-AAS) methods
Authors: S.J Salawu , M.D Faruruwa , Y Mohammed , S Abubakar
Published: March 2023

A comparative study was carried out for the determination of calcium, magnesium, iron and zinc contents in two brands of powdered milk samples, using the Microwave Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (MP-AES) and Flame Atomic Absorption spectroscopy (F-AAS) methods. The powdered milk samples were collected and placed in a muffle furnace at 550Â°C for 6 hours, and the ash contents obtained was used for the sample preparation. The percentage recoveries for the spikes were as follows: for MP-AES determination; the recoveries for the milk samples were within the range (116.9 â€“ 163.1%) for calcium; (51.8 â€“ 78.8%) for magnesium; (110.9 â€“ 125.4%) for iron; (90.7 â€“ 92.9%) for zinc. For FAAS determination; the recoveries for the milk samples were within the range (51.1 â€“ 83.6%) for calcium; (52.2 â€“ 61.9%) for magnesium; (77.7 â€“ 84.8%) for iron; (46.5 â€“ 71.7%) for zinc. The percentage recoveries showed a better recovery with MP-AES than the F-AAS method. The analysis of variance conducted using One way ANOVA method shows that there is no significant difference between the two methods used for the analysis, as the P-values (calculated probability) obtained were higher than 0.05. The values obtained for Ca, Mg, Fe and Zn content shows that only Ca was found to be within WHO/FAO standard, while Mg, Fe and Zn were found to be below the WHO/FAO standard. It is highly recommended that a 100g of any of the powdered milk used for the research work be consumed per day in order to meet up with the RDA per day, or other sources of these elements to be considered.Â
Determination of heavy metals and essential minerals in water, soil and edible plant samples from the vicinity of ankpa coal mine, kogi state
Authors: Zubairu Nimatu , Mohammed Yau , Babatunde O. Abiodun , Salawu John
Published: March 2023

This research work determined the physicochemical properties (pH, temperature, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids and total suspended solids) of water, heavy metals (Cr, Cd, Cu, Pb and Zn) and essential minerals ( P, Ca, K, Mg and Na) in water, plant and soil samples collected from the vicinity of Ankpa Coal mine, Kogi State. The heavy metals were analyzed using a Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer machine and the essential minerals analyzed using Microwave Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrophotometer machine. Results obtained for physical parameters of water are within the ranges; pH (4.51-6.91), temperature (19.8-26.5˚C), electrical conductivity (110-210 µs/cm), TDS (7.0-13 mg/l) and TSS (0-1.5 mg/l). The heavy metals concentration in water are as follows; Cd (ND), Pb (0.001-0.077 mg/l), Cr (0.028-3.459 mg/l), Cu (0.09-0.057 mg/l) and Zn (0.050-0.161 mg/l). In plants, Cd (ND), Pb (0.043-0.096 mg/kg), Cr (0.138-0.325 mg/kg), Cu (0.139-0.153 mg/kg) and Zn (0.150-0.510 mg/kg). In soils, Cd (ND), Pb (0.127-0.664 mg/kg), Cr (1.206-4.718 mg/kg), Cu (0.155-0.934 mg/kg) and Zn (0.00-0.400 mg/kg). Results obtained for essential minerals ranged as follows; In water, P (0.19-43.31 mg/l), Ca (5.75-158.63 mg/l), K (5.04-32.28 mg/l), Mg (1.98-11.34 mg/l) and Na (10.70-28.29 mg/l). In plants, P (15.12-23.90 mg/kg), Ca (30.13-144.44 mg/kg), K (64.10-119.06 mg/kg), Mg (10.38-25.69 mg/kg) and Na (0.94-3.55 mg/kg). In soil, P (180.01-1879.51 mg/kg), Ca (11.61-85.18 mg/kg), K (3.02-114.98 mg/kg), Mg (2.59-14.05 mg/kg) and Na (8.24-15.03 mg/kg). The results were compared with the maximum permissible limit (MPL) set by World Health Organization (WHO), Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) and recommended dietary intake set by Food and Nutrition Board (FNB). The physicochemical parameters were all within WHO maximum permissible limit for drinking water. Lead and Cr exceeded the MPL set for drinking water, all heavy metals were within set limit for plants. Lead, Cu and Chromium exceeded the MPL set for soil. The essential minerals in all samples were compared to recommended dietary intake (RDI). Correlation analysis was done using Pearson’s correlation coefficient. In plants Zn correlated positively with Ca (0.9298), K (0.7860) and Mg (0.9967) and in soil samples Cu correlated positively with P (0.8212), K (0.8191) and Na (0.8658), Cr correlated positively with P (0.9911), K (0.9915) and Na (0.8363) and Lead correlated positively with P (0.9734), K (0.9905) and Na (0.7948). It can be inferred from this result that Ankpa coal mine has negatively impacted its vicinity.
Bulk modulus of CaO under high pressure up to 65 GPa
Authors: DAOUD Salah , Rekab-Djabri Hamza
Published: March 2023

In the present study we used some equilibrium experimental data reported by Mammon et al. (Geophysical Research Letters, Vol. 8, No. 2, pp. 140-142) to investigate the effect of high pressure up to 65 GPa on the bulk modulus of calcium oxide (CaO) material. We used the Vinet’s equation of state (EOS) model. The fit of the bulk modulus as a function of pressure p obeys the 2nd order polynomial expression: B = 115.37 + 3.84 p - 7.25 x 10-3 p2 (where both B and p are expressed in GPa). Our results are analyzed and compared with other theoretical data of the literature. Similar behavior for the bulk modulus versus pressure was observed for some other materials with different crystallographic structures from the literature, which commonly increases with increasing pressure.
We estimate also the Debye temperature θD of our material of interest using the experiential lattice parameter and elastic constants measured at normal conditions by Speziale et al. (Journal of Geophysical Research, Vol. 111, (2006), pp. B02203 (12 pages)). Our obtained value (670.1 K) is in good agreement with other data of the literature.
Investigation of the inverse piezoelectric effect of synchrotron light source imaging of electrical stimulation on the fate of nano stem cells and its role and application in regenerative medicine and cancer treatment
Authors: Heidari Alireza , Torfeh Zahra , Iorgulescu Sophia , Robinson Olivia , Hu Lin , Vauclin Charlotte , Schiltz Ntalie , Sondermann Scarlett , MacLennan Lucy , Smith Julia , Williamson Lydia
Published: March 2023

The presence of electrical activity in body organs such as the nervous system, heart and bones has caused one of the most widely used treatment methods called electrotherapy to be widely used, especially in the relief of underlying pain. On the other hand, the progress of medical science in the field of nano stem cells and regenerative medicine has created many promises in treatment. Also, recently, treatments based on electric field have been widely used in cancer treatment. The main issues in regenerative medicine are the proliferation of nano stem cells to the required extent and directing them towards the differentiation of the target tissue. Electric field (EF) stimulation can play an important role in creating appropriate nano stem cell responses and directing nano stem cell differentiation towards osteogenesis/neuronogenesis/cardiomyogenesis. The electric field with nanosecond pulse as well as the electric field for tumor therapy have attracted a lot of attention for the treatment of cancer. Major signaling pathways and cellular responses elicited by electrical stimulation include reactive oxygen species and heat shock proteins, fluctuations in intracellular calcium ion concentration, ATP production, clustering or reaggregation of cell surface receptors., reconstruction of the cytoskeleton that affect the fate of the nano stem cell. Also, the lack of pain, ease and reasonable price have made cancer treatment with electric field more and more popular. In this research, an attempt has been made to briefly review the effects of electrical signals on the behavior of nano stem cells, as well as examples of their therapeutic effects in the treatment of tissue lesions and cancer.
Schematic of the inverse piezoelectric effect of synchrotron light source imaging of electrical stimulation on the fate of nano stem cells and its role and application in regenerative medicine and cancer treatment.
Analysis of cu and NI concentrations in some commonly consumed spices sold in Kaduna metropolis, Kaduna state, Nigeria
Authors: J Omenesa , Y Mohammed , A.O Babatunde , S.J Salawu
Published: March 2023

This research was conducted with a view to determine the risks associated with Cu, and Ni through the consumption of spices viz; curry leaves, ginger, turmeric, garlic and cloves) sold within Kaduna Metropolis. The samples were analyzed for Cu and Ni using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). The mean concentrations of the metals in the samples are curry leaves: - Cu (0.123 mg/kg); Ni (0.029 mg/kg). Ginger:- Cu (0.063 mg/kg); Ni (0.046 mg/kg). Garlic: - Cu (0.064 mg/kg); Ni (0.034 mg/kg). Cloves: - Cu (0.056 mg/kg); Ni (0.024 mg/kg). Turmeric: - Cu (0.052 mg/kg); Ni (0.022 mg/kg). The concentration of Cu and Ni analyzed in all the samples are within the safety limits set by FAO/WHO while the Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) evaluated for all the samples were less than one (1). Hence, the selected spices sold within Kaduna Metropolis are safe for human consumption.
Involvement of venture capital companies in innovative companies
Authors: Elloumi Faiza , Ben Ammar Rania , Boujelbene Younes
Published: March 2023

Previous work on venture capital proves an essential role for the investor, which goes beyond that of a simple proxy for funds. To better manage their investments, venture capital firms must specify the level of venture capital activism which fluctuates according to the composition of the completed investments, thus the investor is required to guarantee an appropriate contribution as a specific investor (EVCA, European Private Equity & Venture Capital Association, 2016). Studies on this subject show that the main characteristic of VCCs is their active involvement in the companies they finance. The aim is to target the intention and establish the satisfaction of business leaders with the in-kind contribution provided or imposed by venture capital firms. The organizational and decision-making structure of the company leads us to study the different perceptions taking into account the characteristics of SMEs and their great complexity. To achieve this goal, we conducted a questionnaire that we sent to several Tunisian companies financed by venture capital. This relationship between firms and venture capitalists can be visualized by the hypothesis results of our study. To ensure the reliability and accuracy of our work, we tried to take a sample that was very varied and included a fairly large number of companies.Â Â
A comparative study of parametric and semiparametric autoregressive models
Authors: Sapra Sunil
Published: March 2023

Dynamic linear regression models are used widely in applied econometric research. Most applications employ linear autoregressive (AR) models, distributed lag (DL) models or autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) models. These models, however, perform poorly for data sets with unknown, complex nonlinear patterns. This paper studies nonlinear and semiparametric extensions of the dynamic linear regression model and explores the autoregressive (AR) extensions of two semiparametric techniques to allow unknown forms of nonlinearities in the regression function. The autoregressive GAM (GAM-AR) and autoregressive multivariate adaptive regression splines (MARS-AR) studied in the paper automatically discover and incorporate nonlinearities in autoregressive (AR) models.Â  Performance comparisons among these semiparametric AR models and the linear AR model are carried out via their application to Australian data on growth in GDP and unemployment using RMSE and GCV measures.Â Â
Petrography and geochemical framework of guÃ©bakÃ© dolerites dyke swarms (north Cameroon, central Africa)
Authors: Togo Abondou , Oumarou Faarouk Nkouandou , Tefogoum Ghislain Zangmo , Mefire Aminatou Fagny , Dawai Daouda , Appoliaire Dinamou , Dagwai Justin Guihdama , Haman Adama
Published: March 2023

Dolerites dykes of 4.5 to 25 m wide extend from 200m to 1km, crosscut the GuÃ©bakÃ© granitoids basement in northern Cameroon along EW to N100E directions. Petrographic studies reveal the microlitic porphyritic texture to classical doleritic texture of ophitic to sub-ophitic types. GuÃ©bakÃ© dolerites are mainly composed in various proportions of skeletal plagioclase and feldspar, clinopyxene, amphibole and oxides crystals. ICP-MS and ICP-AES geochemical analyses have distiguished a lava series composed of trachybasalts, basaltic trachyandesites, trachyandesites, trachytes and rhyolites of continentale tholeiites affinity. Lavas have been differenciated trough fractional crystallization process coupled with crustal contamination and metasomatism. GuÃ©bakÃ© dolerites are products of relatively high partial melting rate of E-MORB mantle component. They stand as fingerprints of the post pan African crustal consolidation and precursor of the development of central African rift system at Cretaceous times.Â Â
Application of Chebyshev neural network to solve Van der Pol equations
Authors: Seddighi Chaharborj Sarkhosh , S. Chaharborj Shahriar , Pei See Phang
Published: March 2023

In dynamics, the Van der Pol oscillator is a non-conservative oscillator with non-linear damping. The problems of single-well, double-well and double-hump Van der Pol-Dufing equations are studied in this paper. The Chebyshev Neural Network (ChNN) model will be applied to obtain the numerical solutions of these types of equations for the first time. The hidden layer is eliminated by expanding the input pattern by Chebyshev polynomials which employs a single layer neural network. In order to modify the network parameters and to minimize the computed error function, a feed forward neural network model with error back propagation principle is used. The obtained numerical results form the ChNN model will be compared with the analytical solutions, namely Homotopy Perturbation Method (HPM), Homotopy Analysis Method (HAM), Differential Transform Method (DTM) and exact. Comparisons of the solutions obtained with existing numerical results show that this method is a capable tool for solving this kind of nonlinear problems.
Dynamics and active control of chemical oscillations modeled as a forced generalized Rayleigh oscillator with asymmetric potential
Authors: AdÃ©biyi Joseph ADECHINAN , Y. J. Fernando Kpomahou , H. ClÃ©ment Miwadinou , A. laurent Hinvi
Published: March 2023

This paper focuses on the dynamics and active control of chemical oscillations governed by a forced generalized Rayleigh oscillator. The Melnikov method is used to analytically determine the critical parameters for the onset of chaotic motions. The analytical results are confirmed by numerical simulations. The bifurcation structures obtained show that the model displays a rich variety of dynamical behaviors and remarkable routes to chaos. The effects of the control gain parameters on the behavior of the system are analyzed and the results obtained have shown the control efficiency.
Modeling of dielectric permittivity in the aggregation of erythrocyte molecules: application to deoxy-hemoglobin S
Authors: W. Akadry OlawolÃ© , L. Essoun AdÃ©bayo , Adomou A. , Massou S.
Published: March 2023

In this paper, study of the impact of a new treatment approach in the aggregation kinetics of deoxy-hemoglobin S molecules is developed. New approach exploring mathematical model of dielectric permittivity of Davidson-Cole and takes into account several relaxation times of the dielectrics substances like blood. Results are such that, (i) only a fine analysis of intrinsic energy dissipation curves allow sufficient precision to be obtained to describe chronic hemolytic anemia due to sickle cell anemia based on the frequency of relaxation, (ii) hematocrit calculation by the formula allowed to show the uniqueness of the relaxation time of deoxy-hemoglobin S, (iii) hematocrit levels are low and the dispersion coefficient is the parameter most influential in the aggregation of hemoglobin S. From the analysis of all these results, it appears that, the mathematical model of Davidson-Cole is a good model interpretation and knowledge of sickle cell disease. The interest of this work is the understanding of the molecular mechanism that can help develop new treatment approaches capable of preventing or limiting the risk of complications of red blood cell diseases.Â Â
Study and design of a coconut stripper
Authors: Claude Vodounnou Edmond , Clarence Semassou Guy , H. Ahouansou Roger
Published: March 2023

The predominance of the primary sector is noticeable in the economy of most African countries, particularly in Benin. Thus, to make this sector a vector of wealth and development, it is imperative to think about the development of technologies to improve the efficiency of processing and product quality. The mechanization of this sector is therefore necessary to make it more competitive. In Benin we have a lot of products which are made with the coconut. This sector has been relegated to a non-priority plan, whereas the coconut palm is a plant with a very considerable value like the oil palm, of which all the derived products are usable. It seems necessary to pass to the revival of this sector to help to stabilize the incomes of the small producers and traders in particular and to improve the commercial balance of the country in general. The maximization of the output of this sector directs towards the formula of Lavoisier: "nothing is lost, nothing is created, everything is transformed". The application of this formula allows us to transform the by-products of the said product. Currently, the de-shearing of the coconut is done manually with a cutter or with a pointed object. This way of making is too painful for producers who have large exploitations of coconut trees. In order to make this sector more profitable, our end-of-training work focuses on the study and design of a coconut de-sheathing machine intended to accompany coconut producers by reducing their pains and increasing their productivity in order to enhance the transformation of the said product.Â Â
Evaluation and suitability of a biomaterial as oil-based drilling fluids viscosifier using chemical structural properties approach
Authors: Uwaezuoke Nnaemeka , C. Igwilo Kevin , Oguamah Ifeanyi , C. Samuel George
Published: March 2023

Mucuna solannie is a locally sourced material in Nigeria and other parts of Africa that enhances the viscosity of a drilling fluid. Due to its effectiveness, studies have been carried out on the structural properties of its seed flour for suitability as additive in oil-base mud. The chemical structures, name and other physiochemical properties of Mucuna solannie were determined using X-Ray Diffraction method, and the Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer. The scanned sample of Mucuna solannie was used to confirm the molecular bonding form, chemical structures and certain functional groups as basis of spectrum type. The result showed that Mucuna solannie was close to chitosan with covalent bonded molecular structure having calcium salt alone. It is a crystalline polymer and would require high calorific value to break the bonding energy existing in the molecules. Then, the FTIR discovered some functional groups and the position of carbon-carbon, carbon-hydrogen indicating the double bond.Â Â
Geomechanical effects of co2 storage in geological structures: two case studies
Authors: Soltanzadeh M. , Hakim SJS , Ibrahim MHW. , Shahidan S. , Mokhatar SN. , Lim AJMS
Published: March 2023

Storage of CO2 in subsurface can assist to mitigate CO2 emission without extensively interfering with industrial activity and development. The main reason for geological storage to trap CO2 underground for a long time. However, the injection of CO2 may compromise the sealing characteristics of the caprock and, consequently, the containment of the underground CO2 storage unit as well. For instance, the injection of CO2 into a reservoir resulted in pore pressure and temperature changes leading to deformation and stress changes in the injection target and the rocks that surround it. These changes can influence the hydraulic integrity of the geological storage. The potential hazards could then impose different environmental, health, safety, and economic risks. Therefore, the geomechanical assessment of caprock integrity is critical for the storage of carbon dioxide. This research reviewed two different cases of underground CO2 storage in Canada and the workflows used for the assessment of geomechanical effects of CO2 injection on caprock integrity. It reviewed the processes of data collection, geomechanical characterization, and fluid flow modeling. These reviews highlighted the significance of geomechanical characterization and the fact that it is faced with significance challenges that could be addressed by data integration and geostatistical analysis. These reviewed studies implemented both analytical and numerical geomechanical models. While analytical models seem to be great choices for preliminary geomechanical analysis, numerical models are also necessary for a more detailed analysis.Â Â