bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of virulence factors and antifungal resistant patterns of Candida species isolated from women with urinary tract infections
Authors: David O.M. , Adeola P.O. , Faloye T.O. , Owabumoye B.J. , Famurewa O. , Esan C.O. , Ade-Ojo I.P.
Published: December 2022

The incidence of Candida species has increased among females of child bearing age over the years. There has also been an increase in the resistance of these Candida species to the antifungal drugs used to treat them. This study is aimed at detecting the prevalence of Candida species among patients with urinary tract infections (UTI) attending gynecological unit of Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria. The distribution of pathogenic factors and the antifungal resistance pattern of the isolates were also determined. A total of 61 subjects of different ages and socioeconomic status attending the health facility were enrolled in this study. Samples of high vaginal swab (HVS) were collected from each of the participant and screened. A total of 36 candidal isolates were recovered from the samples out of which 11 (30.5%) were predominantly Candida albican, 5 (13.9%) Candida krusei, 4 (11.1%) Candida glabrata, 2 (5.6%) Candida tropicalis and 14 (38.9%) were not identified beyond the genus level. Ten (27.8%) of the isolates were not able to produce biofilm. Out of those that produce biofilm 17 (47.2%) produced weak biofilm, 5 (8.2%) produced moderate biofilm, while 4 (11.1%) produced strong biofilm. Spectrophotometer was used to quantify those that produce biofilm 9 (25%) produced moderate biofilm while 16 (44.4%) produced strong biofilm. The isolates were subjected to various pathogenicity tests which include haemolysis, catalase, phospholipase and hydrolysis. This test shows that Candida species has the highest percentage to the entire test while none of C. glabrata produced haemolysin and phospholipase. Antifungal assay was then carried out on the entire organisms showed Candida albicans to have low resistance to the azoles drugs while the non-albican Candida shows higher resistance to it. Extremely high prevalence of Candida albicans and Candida species were documented in this study. These findings should be taken into account in further research concerning presence of Candida among patient with sexually transmitted disease in Nigeria.
Characterization of microorganisms associated with the degradation of sawdust and woodchips
Authors: Jumare F.I. , Ahmad M.I. , Abdulkadir N. , Bello A.Y. , Gani M. , Usman M.H.
Published: December 2022

Microorganisms play a vital role in the degradation of organic matters such as Sawdust and woodchips. In this study, the Serial dilution method and pour plate techniques were used according to microbiological standards. The media used were nutrient agar, sabouraud dextrose agar, and cellulolytic medium to identify microorganisms and inoculated them into the Sawdust and woodchips and kept for 30 days at 37oC and 25oC. The total viable bacterial count for Sawdust and woodchips ranged between 9.0×103 - 6.0×103and 1.96×103 - 1.48×103, respectively. A total of 12 organisms were identified according to the biochemical reactions, six bacteria, and six fungi. Bergy’s manual of determinative bacteriology confirmed the organism as Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella sp, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, and Cellulomona sp. The fungal species identified include Rhizopus sp, Mucor sp, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Candida sp, Aspergillus niger, and Aspergillus flavus. The bacteria with the highest potential to degrade Sawdust and Woodchips are Cellulomonas sp. (20.9%), Klebsiella sp (17.8%), Escherichia coli (8.3%), Bacillus cereus (7.15%), and Staphylococcus sp (6.2%). Furthermore, the fungi capable of degrading the Sawdust and woodchips are Mucor sp (19.90%), Aspergillus flavus (17.8%), Aspergillus niger (17.3%), Rhizopus (16.9%), and Saccharomyces cerevisiae (15.55%). From these results, it can be concluded that some microorganisms could be used for the biodegradation of lignocellulose materials.
COP27 Climate Change Conference: urgent action needed for Africa and the world
Authors: E. Erhabor Gregory , A. Gbakima Aiah , Haileamlak Abraham , Kayembe Ntumba Jean-Marie , Kigera James , Laybourn-Langton Laurie , Mash Bob , Muhia Joy , Mavis Mulaudzi Fhumulani , Ofori-Adjei David , Okonofua Friday , Rashidian Arash , El-Adawy Maha , Sidibé Siaka , Snouber Abdelmadjid , Tumwine James , Sahar Yassien Mohammad , Yonga Paul , Zakhama Lilia , Zielinski Chris
Published: December 2022

The 2022 report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) paints a dark picture of the future of life on earth, characterised by ecosystem collapse, species extinction, and climate hazards such as heatwaves and floods. These are all linked to physical and mental health problems, with direct and indirect consequences of increased morbidity and mortality. To avoid these catastrophic health effects across all regions of the globe, there is broad agreement as 231 health journals argued together in 2021 that the rise in global temperature must be limited to less than 1.5oC compared with pre-industrial levels.
Sociodemographic and medical characteristics of liver cirrhosis deaths in a Ghana-ian tertiary hospital
Authors: K. Agbozo William , Dzudzor Bartholomew , NY Nyarko Eric , Lartey-Abrahams Karen , N. A. Mensah Roberta , Tachi Kenneth
Published: December 2022

Objective: Cirrhosis is common in Ghana because of its high risk factors prevalence. However, information on cirrhosis in Ghana is lacking. This study aimed to study the clinical, and laboratory characteristics of cirrhotic patients in a tertiary hospital in Ghana.Design: This was a retrospective study of sociodemographic characteristics, symptoms and signs, biochemical and fibrotic indices, treatments, and complications data of 247 patients with cirrhosis who died on admission.Setting: This study was carried out at the Gastroenterology Unit of the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Ghana,Results: Two-thirds (68.0%) of the patients were within 30 to 60 years, with more than half (73.7%) being males. The most common aetiological factors among the patients were Hepatitis B virus infection (53.8%), alcohol use (31.6%) and Hepatitis C virus infection (4.9%). More than half (55.0%) of the patients reported late for admission, and 67.2% died within the first two weeks of admission. The most common clinical feature was abdominal distension (61.1% of patients), and the least was upper-abdominal mass (14.2%). The levels of most liver test parameters were elevated, fibrotic indices were high, and haemoglobin and albumin levels were reduced. More than half (53.8%) of the patients were in Child Pugh class B. The most common complication was hepatic encephalopathy; the least was hepato-renal syndrome. Definite treatment for complications of cirrhosis was lacking.Conclusion: Deaths from cirrhosis at the hospital were mostly of young males with chronic hepatitis B infection. Implementation of hepatitis B prevention and treatment guidelines can help reduce cirrhosis deaths.
Descriptive epidemiology of external structural birth defects in Enugu State, Nigeria
Authors: F. Obi Izuchukwu , U. Nwokoye Ugochukwu , P. Ossai Okechukwu , I. Nwafor Michael , Nguku Patrick
Published: December 2022

Objectives: To determine the birth prevalence, trend, and characteristics of external structural birth defects occurrence in Enugu Metropolis, Nigeria.Design: Cross-sectional study involving review of delivery records.Setting: The study was conducted at three tertiary hospitals, one public and two missionary, in Enugu Metropolis.Participants: Mothers and their babies delivered between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2016 in the study facilities.Main outcome measures: Birth prevalence of defects presented as frequency/10,000 births. Other descriptive variables are presented as frequencies and percentages.Results: There were 21530 births with 133 birth defects (birth prevalence: 61.8/10,000 births) and 1176 stillbirths (stillbirth rate: 54.6/1000 births). The frequencies and birth prevalence (/10,000 births) of recorded defects were: Limb deformities 60(27.9), Neural tube defects (NTDs): 36(16.7), Urogenital system defects: 12(5.6), Gastrointestinal system defects 10(4.6) and Orofacial clefts 4(1.9). Birth defects occurrence showed a rising trend from 2009 to 2016. The mean (SD) age of mothers whose babies had Birth defects was 29.1(4.7) years. Only 62(46.6%) of 133 antenatal clinic folders of these women were traceable for further review. Eighteen (29.0%) had febrile illness in early pregnancy, 9(14.5%) had Malaria, 17(27.4%) had <4 antenatal clinic attendance, 7(11.3%) did not take folic acid and 6(9.7%) took herbal medications during pregnancy.Conclusions: Birth defects occurrence showed a rising trend with limb deformities and NTDs having the highest prevalence. Record keeping was poor at the facilities. Birth defects preventive interventions like folic acid supplementation for women-of-childbearing age should be promoted in Enugu Metropolis.
Energy Integration of Crude Distillation Unit of a Refining and Petrochemical Company in Northern Nigeria
Authors: Hamidu U. , Ahmed S. I. , Hamza U. D.
Published: December 2022

Most Nigerian refineries were constructed before pinch technology was developed, hence, the design were not optimal, leading to high energy loss. The objective of this work is to evaluate energy integration of crude distillation unit (CDU) of a refining and petrochemical company in Northern Nigeria using pinch analysis by utilising HINT software. Minimum heating and cooling demand of 32251.1 kW and 29637.9 kW at the pinch point of 506.5 K was evaluated from the composite curve, grand composite curve and the cascade diagram. The region of overlap in the composite curve indicates a total of 108,945 kW as the possible energy that can be recovered in the process. Existing utility demand of the unit was 96,873.5 kW, after heat integration it reduces to 61,889 kW, this showed 36.11 % energy saving with a total operating cost of US$4,560,766.5 that could be saved (annually). Minimum approach temperature (DTmin) analysis results showed an optimum DTmin of 15 K which resulted in a total annual cost of US$6,715,700. Furthermore, the analysis showed the effect of DTmin on energy, area, minimum number of units and cost targets. The design objective of the retrofit heat exchanger network (HEN) was set toward maximum energy recovery. A total of twenty (20) heat exchangers made up the new network, which comprises of twelve (12) process to process heat exchangers, two (2) heaters and six (6) coolers.
Development and Implementation of a Prototype Automatic Rain-Sensor Car Wiper System
Authors: Akanni J. , Ojo A. O. , Abdulwahab A. , Isa A. A. , Ogunbiyi O.
Published: December 2022

Various studies have been conducted over the years on how to reduce driver distractions while driving, but with little effort on the distraction that could be caused by manually operated wipers while driving whenever it rains. Drivers frequently take their hands off the steering to turn ON/OFF and adjust the wiper speed when driving during rain, which causes a loss of concentration and increases the risk of a car accident. This paper presents an automatic car wiper prototype system that adjusts the speed of the wiper based on the intensity of the rain. The system also includes an audio alert that warns the driver to stop driving during heavy rain. The rain sensor/intensity and servo motor; which regulates the wiper's speed, were interfaced by an ATMega328 (Arduino Uno A000066). It performed satisfactorily, with average response times of 0.78 seconds, 1.95 seconds, and 6 seconds for rain water detection, increasing rain intensity, and no rain detection respectively. The wiper speed was 15 rpm at moderate rain intensity and 32 rpm at heavy rain intensity. The wiper average response time and speed shows that it is a system that eliminate delay as compare to manually operated car wiper system. The developed system will reduce driver distractions while driving thereby reduces the risk of a car accident. As a result, this system can be combined with new technologies seen in contemporary vehicles.
Characterization of Natural Ca-Bentonite Clays from Ebenebe in Anambra State, Nigeria, Impregnated with Ca(NO3)2, Zn(NO3)2 and KOH for use as Catalysts for Viscosity Reduction in Transesterification Reaction of Castor Oil
Authors: Ofoegbu-Chibuzo N. E. , Chukwu U. J. , Okoye I. P.
Published: December 2022

Natural Ca-Bentonite from Ebenebe in Anambra State, Nigeria, was successfully impregnated with Ca (NO3)2, Zn (NO3)2 and KOH and further calcined under different conditions of temperature and time using standard methods. Both the natural and impregnated bentonite clays were characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy (XRF) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and then applied as catalysts in transesterification reaction of refined castor oil. Viscosity reduction test was used to ascertain the best catalyst for the transesterification. FTIR spectra of the activated clay catalysts show the formation of new functional groups, as the intensity of the Al-O-H stretching group (3633cm-1) of the natural clay increased with slightly higher wavelengths of 3640cm-1, 3644cm-1, 3644cm-1, 3644cm-1, 3640cm-1and 3644cm-1 for CaB2, CaB3, ZnB2, ZnB3 KB400, and KB700 catalysts respectively. XRF result identified the natural bentonite clay as Ca-bentonite clay with Ca-oxide having the most dominant component of 76.71%. XRF chemical compositions of the six activated Ca-bentonite clay catalysts when compared to the natural Ca-bentonite clay confirmed successful impregnation. The SEM images of all the prepared catalysts showed that impregnation and calcination changed the surface morphology of the natural clay. Finally, transesterification reactions of refined castor oil samples were done with 3%w/w natural and impregnated Ca-bentonite catalysts, methanol to oil ratio of 6:1, 2 hours reaction time and 65oC reaction temperature. Results obtained showed a descending order of catalyst viscosity reduction ability to be KB700 > CaB3 > CaB2 > ZnB3 >NCB > ZnB2 > KB400.
Field and Sedimentological Studies of Nataco-Banda Sediments of Lokoja Formation, Southern Bida Basin, Nigeria: Implication for Depositional Environment
Authors: Alege T. S. , Omada J. I. , Uchendu K.
Published: December 2022

The study area falls within the Lokoja Formation of the Southern Bida Basin. The objective of this study was to evaluate the field characteristics and sedimentological parameters of depositional environment of the Nataco-Banda Sediments of Lokoja Formation, Southern Bida Basin, Nigeria using appropriate techniques such as granulometric and pebble morphometric analysis. Field studies revealed a repeated alternating sequence of conglomeratic and pebbly to coarse-grained sandstone and overbank fine sediment that is indicative of a braided fluvial source while the presence of crossbedding is suggestive of tidal influence. The morphometric analysis shows a fluvial setting where pebbles plot in the river area than the beach area. Environmental discrimination formulae for Y1, Y2 and Y3 indicated the dominance of Beach and Shallow agitated marine in both Y1 and Y2, respectively, while the almost equal percentage values of Y3 in both fluvial and shallow marine settings are highly suggestive of a shallow marine environment that is largely influenced by fluvial deposition.
Assessment of Phytochemical Constituents of Stem Bark Extract of Albizia adianthifolia and its in-vivo Antiplasmodial Activity on Mice infested with Plasmodium berghei
Authors: Okoro I. O.
Published: December 2022

Malaria, one of the most debilitating diseases, has a huge impact on large populations in tropical and subtropical areas. Albizia adianthifolia is a perennial evergreen that thrives in moist tropical forest areas. This study intended to assess the phytochemical constituents of stem bark extract of Albizia adianthifolia and its in-vivo antiplasmodial activity on mice infested with Plasmodium berghei. The plant's antimalarial effects at 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg b. wt. dosages against the chloroquine-sensitive strain, Plasmodium berghei were examined using the 4-day suppressive and rane's, tests. In this experiment, 25 mice were classed into five groups (3 treatment and 2 control groups, each with five mice). Parasitaemia, existence time, body mass, and packed cell volume were used to assess the antiplasmodial activity of the extracts. In the 4-day suppression investigation, all doses of the crude extract significantly (P < 0.05) reduced parasitemia, compared to the negative control, with the strongest suppressive effect of 59.93% obtained at dose 400 mg/kg b. wt. Similarly, the Rane's test revealed significant (P <0.05) curative effect (69.03%) at the highest dose, when compared to the untreated control. According to the findings of the phytochemical screening, the extract contains alkaloids, flavonoids, anthraquinones, tannins, triterpenes, sterols, and saponins. Also, treatment of P. berghei-infected mice with the crude extract in both suppressive and curative tests considerably extended the mean survival time relative to the negative control, notably at the highest dose (400 mg/ kg b. wt.). Thus, this study shows that Albizia adianthifolia stem bark extract possesses antiplasmodial efficacy against P. berghei-infected mice, which may be due to its phyto-constituents.
Breaking Seed Dormancy of Prosopis africana Seeds and its Effects on Seedlings Growth under Two Different Savanna Soils Conditions
Authors: Oyebamiji N. A. , Adelani D. O. , Ojekunle O. O.
Published: December 2022

Forest trees across the tropics can be effectively domesticated and conserved for afforestation programmes after successful overcoming by breaking the dormancy of their seed coats. The study was conducted at Forest Nursery Unit of Federal University Dutsin-Ma to assess the breaking dormancy of Prosopis africana seeds and its effects on seedlings growth under two different savanna soils conditions. A 2x5 factorial in Randomized Complete Block Design was used for this experiment in four replicates. The factors were savannah soils locations; (ZA: Zaria soil and DS: Dutsin-ma soil) and pre-sowing treatments; Seeds soaked in 60% diluted Tetraoxosulphate (VI) acid (H2SO4) (A); seeds soaked in hot water at 1000C (HW); seeds soaked in water for 24 hours (W); mechanical scarification (MS); control (C). The data were analyzed using analysis of variance at (P=.05). Zaria soil had significantly higher values (8.55cm, 12.65cm and 17.65cm, 0.15cm and 0.17cm, and 262.05, and 0.12) on seedling heights (SH) at 4-8 weeks after sowing (WAS), collar diameters (CD) at 4-6 WAS, and leaflet areas (LA) at 4 WAS respectively. Mechanically scarified seeds (MS) had consistent significantly higher values (6.54cm, 13.79cm, 19.90cm, 25.13cm and 29.15cm, 0.15cm, 0.19cm, 0.21cm, 0.25cm and 0.29cm, and 0.14, 0.16, 0.19, 0.20 and 0.23) on SH, CD, and LA at 2-10 WAS respectively. It is concluded that seeds sowed in Zaria soil performed better than Dutsin-ma soil, while, mechanical scarification was the best pre-sowing treatment for improved seedlings growth of P. africana seeds.
Effect of Solar Water Disinfection on Microbial Load and Concentration of Bisphenol-A in Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Akomah-Abadaike O. N. , Isaac P. A. , Esiri E.
Published: December 2022

This research was aimed at determining the efficacy of solar radiation as a good source of reducing microbial load in water and the determination of Bisphenol- A concentration in bottled water and sachet water. The parameters evaluated are: Total bacterial count, Total fungi count, Salmonella Shigella, Coliform, Bisphenol A, pH, Dissolve oxygen, Total dissolve solid, Turbidity, total hardness. The bacteria genera isolated are; Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas sp, Echerichia coli, Klebsiella sp, Salmonella sp, Bacillus sp. Micrococcus sp. Proteus sp. Corynebacterium sp.  The fungi genera isolated are Penicillium sp, Aspergillus niger, Mucor sp. Cadida sp. Fusarium sp. These organisms reduce as the number of hours of exposure increases. The Bisphenol A concentration increases as the exposure time increases. The study revealed that solar radiation (sunlight) is a good source of water disinfection.  The study however recommends the use of PET Polyethylene Terephthalate bottle in water purification using sunlight since PET bottles contains much less additives than bottles made from Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC)
Knowledge, Attitude and Screening Practices of Prostate Cancer among Men in an Urban Community in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Onyeodi IA , Akintelure S , Oladipo AT , Fashola TO
Published: December 2022

Background: Prostate cancer is a leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Prevalence rates of prostate cancer within Africa show Nigeria is ranked among countries with the highest prevalence. Improvement in the knowledge and attitude towards screening practices prevents millions of deaths yearly with a potential to prevent much more. This study assessed the knowledge, attitude and screening practices for prostate cancer among men in an urban community in Lagos, Nigeria.

Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study among 270 men selected by multistage sampling technique. Data was collected using pretested intervieweradministered questionnaire and analyzed using Epi info 7.2 statistical software. Chisquare and Fisher’s exact tests were used to determine statistical associations. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: The mean age of the respondents was 49.4±8.0 years. Sixty-seven (24.8%) had no knowledge of risk factors for prostate cancer. Overall, 33 (15.2%) of the respondents had good knowledge while 28 (58.4%) had positive attitude. Only 24 (11.0%) had ever been screened. The major reason for lack of prostate cancer screening was lack of knowledge about the disease. Good knowledge (p<0.001) and positive attitudes (p=0.003) were significantly associated with good screening practices.

Conclusion: Although knowledge of prostate cancer was poor, attitude to prostate cancer screening was majorly positive. Sadly, this did not translate into good screening practices. There should be increased public awareness on prostate cancer and screening modalities available by relevant stakeholders to enhance uptake of prostate cancer screening to ameliorate the burden of the disease in Nigeria.
Women’s Experiences of Respectful Maternity Care during Facilitybased Childbirth in Benin City, Southern Nigeria
Authors: Ogboghodo EO , Okojie OH , Oriabure EO
Published: December 2022

Background: Respectful maternity care (RMC) is an effective strategy for improving the quality of care experienced by women during facility-based childbirth. A lack of RMC is a key factor driving both the low proportions of facility-based deliveries and high maternal and neonatal mortality. This study was conducted to assess the experiences and predictors of RMC among women of reproductive age in Benin City, Edo State.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among mothers in Benin City, who had facility-based childbirth within three months of the study. Respondents were selected using a two-stage sampling technique. Data was collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. RMC was assessed using 15-item RMC scale in four domains and analysed using IBM SPSS version 22.0. Binary logistic regression was conducted to determine significant predictors of RMC. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: A total of 393 women with a mean age (SD) of 33.42 (7.4) years participated in the study. Overall, 141 (35.9%) of respondents experienced RMC. Friendly care, abuse free care, timely care and discrimination free care were experienced by 147 (37.4%), 211 (53.7%), 252 (64.1%), and 124 (31.6%) respectively. Formal education [AOR = 0.318 (0.106-0.956)], primiparity/multiparity [AOR = 0.527 (0.294-0.945)] and use of public facility for childbirth [AOR = 1.623 (1.047-2.516)] were significant predictors of RMC.

Conclusion: The proportion of respondents who experienced RMC was low in the studied population. Effective communication and engagement of health care providers is essential for the provision of RMC in all contexts and settings.
Action of vectorial Lie superalgebras on some split supermanifolds
Authors: Onishchik Arkady
Published: December 2022

The "curved" super Grassmannian is the supervariety of subsupervarieties of
purely odd dimension $k$ in a~supervariety of purely odd dimension $n$, unlike
the "usual" super Grassmannian which is the supervariety of linear
subsuperspacies of purely odd dimension $k$ in a~superspace of purely odd
dimension $n$. The Lie superalgebras of all and Hamiltonian vector fields on
the superpoint are realized as Lie superalgebras of derivations of the
structure sheaves of certain "curved" super Grassmannians,
Arkady Onishchik: on his life and work on supersymmetry
Authors: Leites Dimitry
Published: December 2022

Selected stories about the life of A. L. Onishchik, and a review of his
contribution to the classification of non-split supermanifolds, in particular,
supercurves a.k.a. superstrings; his editorial and educational work. A brief
overview of his and his students' results in supersymmetry, and their impact on
other researchers.
Several open problems growing out of Onishchik's research are presented, some
of them are related with odd parameters of deformations and non-holonomic
structures of supermanifolds important in physical models, such as Minkowski
superspaces and certain superstrings.
Permutations avoiding 4321 and 3241 have an algebraic generating function
Authors: Callan David
Published: December 2022

We show that permutations avoiding both of the (classical) patterns 4321 and
3241 have the algebraic generating function conjectured by Vladimir Kruchinin.
On fully-nonlinear symmetry-integrable equations with rational functions in their highest derivative: Recursion operators
Authors: Euler Marianna , Euler Norbert
Published: December 2022

We report a class of symmetry-intergable third-order evolution equations in
1+1 dimensions under the condition that the equations admit a second-order
recursion operator that contains an adjoint symmetry (integrating factor) of
order six. The recursion operators are given explicitly.
Succinate Induces Liver Damage and Hepatic Fibrosis in a Mouse Model
Authors: Le Cong Thuc , Nguyen Giang , Dong Hanh Nguyen , Park So Young , Cho Yun Kyung , Choi Dae-Hee , Park Won Sun , Lee Yoojin , Lee Ji-Young , Cho Eun-Hee
Published: December 2022

Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play a key role in liver fibrosis. Succinate and succinate receptor (GPR91) signaling pathway are involved in the activation, proliferation, and migration of HSCs. We investigated whether succinate may induce hepatic fibrosis. The mice were randomly divided into 2 groups —the control group (chow diet-fed mice, n = 26) and sodium succinate group (2% sodium succinate + chow diet, n = 38). Each diet was provided for 16 weeks. Mice administered an oral diet of 2% sodium succinate for sixteen weeks lost body weight and had increased serum alanine transaminase and hepatic triglyceride contents compared to those in the control mice. Moreover, mice fed with sodium succinate showed increased expression of the alpha smooth muscle actin protein and gene in the liver at 8 weeks of feeding and increased fibrosis in their histology at 16 weeks of feeding. However, the expression of the GPR91 protein and mRNA increased at 4 weeks of feeding, but decreased at 8 and 16 weeks of feeding. These results suggest that an oral succinate diet could induce liver damage and liver fibrosis in mice and that GPR91 signaling might be an early marker or sensor of hepatic fibrosis development.
On the Performance Analysis and Environmental Impact of Concrete with Coal Fly Ash and Bottom Ash
Authors: Rahmat Hadi Suwarno  , Arief Sabdo Yuwono  , Erizal
Published: December 2022

Coal is a commonly used fuel by coal power plants that produce coal fly ash and coal bottom ash (coal FABA) as byproducts. The latest regulation in Indonesia changes coal FABA classification to non-toxic waste, which opens up its utilization possibility. This paper analyses the coal FABA potential from Suralaya Coal Power Plant as concrete material and its environmental impact. To determine coal FABA potential, the methods used in this paper are slump test, compressive strength test, flexural strength test, and carbon footprint calculation. This paper shows that concrete mixture with coal FABA content has a lower slump value, lower compressive strength, and generally lower flexural strength. Furthermore, the carbon footprint calculation result shows that concrete mixture with coal FABA content has lower CO2 emissions than conventional concrete. Finally, the result shows that concrete with coal FABA could be used as non-structural concrete.
La nacionalidad como factor de conexión en la solución de conflictos entre las partes en el derecho internacional privado
Authors: Saca Balladares Melinton Fernando , Pérez Buenaño Estefanía Michelle
Published: December 2022

En el presente trabajo de investigación buscamos establecer con la mayor claridad posible, la diferencia existente entre los conceptos de nacionalidad y ciudadanía; dejando claro, que la nacionalidad es el vínculo jurídico-político, que une a un individuo con un Estado determinado; y la ciudadanía es la calidad que hace a la persona miembro activo del Estado y que le habilita para ejercer los derechos políticos, siendo el más importante de estos el derecho al sufragio. Para ello, se hará referencia de manera exclusiva a la nacionalidad, analizando su concepto, su evolución histórica, sus principios, dejando claro la importancia que tiene la nacionalidad como elemento de conexión, para facilitar la solución de conflictos que se puedan dar entre las partes en el Derecho Internacional Privado. Se concluyó que, el Derecho Internacional Privado nos permite poseer una idea más clara, de lo que es, y que persigue al permitirnos comprender la importancia que tiene la nacionalidad como parte de esta materia.
Wissenstransfer von international mobilen Forschenden – Befunde bibliometrischer Analysen
Authors:   Deutsches Zentrum für Hochschul- und Wissenschaftsforschung (DZHW), Aman Valeria
Published: December 2022

Unter den vielen positiven Aspekten, die mit internationaler Mobilität assoziiert werden, ist der Wissenstransfer besonders wichtig. Möglich ist dies u. a. über international mobile Forschende, die als Wissensvermittelnde fungieren können, indem sie relevantes Wissen im Ausland erwerben und es in ihr Heimatland transferieren. Es ist jedoch wenig darüber bekannt, wie und welches Wissen übertragen wird, da es an Methoden mangelt, dies zu belegen. In diesem Beitrag wird zum einen das Potenzial bibliometrischer Analysen aufgezeigt, die für die Erfassung des Wissenstransfers international mobiler Forschender entwickelt worden sind. Die bibliometrischen Methoden greifen hierfür auf Autorennetzwerke, Zitationsnetzwerke und lexikalische Verfahren zurück, u. a. zur Bestimmung selten gebrauchter Begriffskombinationen, die explizite Wissensinhalte repräsentieren. Zum anderen werden die mit diesen Methoden gewonnenen Ergebnisse vorgestellt, darunter exemplarisch das im Ausland erworbene Wissen von Forschenden.
POLÍTICAS PÚBLICAS PARA O SANEAMENTO BÁSICO NACIONAL: A PROBLEMÁTICA DA UNIVERSALIZAÇÃO
Authors: Silva José Ribeiro
Published: December 2022

A crescente conscientização da sociedade brasileira, aliada à convicção dos especialistas e economistas sobre a importância da universalização dos sistemas de esgotamento sanitário para que o país atinja patamares de desenvolvimento, e bem estar social, conduz à necessidade de uma análise das problemáticas, nas suas dimensões econômica, social e ambiental. Este artigo abordará dois aspectos importantes dessa problemática: A disponibilidade de recursos orçamentário-financeiros, e a evolução do marco legal do Setor. É realizada uma análise dos recursos previstos e investidos nos últimos 11 anos e da previsão de investimentos até o ano de 2030, pelo Plansab e os compromissos assumidos pelo País com os Objetivos do Milênio. O marco legal é analisado sob a ótica histórica das relações entre os entes federativos, suas responsabilidades legais, os conflitos institucionais, e a participação da sociedade, maior interessada no equacionamento da questão, indicando possíveis pontos ainda carentes de regulamentação.
Relationship between Grit and Teacher Leadership, and Their Effects on the Academic Achievement of Students in an International School in Malaysia
Authors:   University of Nottingham Malaysia, Kuan Kiat Lau Noel , Singh Bishen Singh Gurcharan
Published: December 2022

Teacher grit and teacher leadership are two qualities that are touted to improve teacher performance (Duckworth, Quinn & Seligman, 2009; Smylie, Lazarus & Brownlee-Conyers, 1996). However, few empirical studies have investigated the direct relationship between teacher grit and leadership and their direct effects on student achievement. In this case study, a survey was conducted on 22 teachers in a Malaysian international school using Duckworth & Quinn’s (2009) short grit (Grit-S) questionnaire to measure grit, and Katzenmeyer & Moller’s (2009) Teacher Leadership Self-Assessment (TLSA) questionnaire to measure leadership potential. The findings indicate that grit is positively correlated with five out of six of TLSA’s leadership dimensions, except the diversity dimension. Using student results in a standardized examination, this study further found that differences in teacher grit or leadership potential do not result in significant differences in student achievement. The findings are followed by a discussion on the implications of the results on the emphasis of grit and teacher leadership in education reforms, and the limitations of this study.
Growing Effective Leaders through an Original Curriculum Design that is Stewarded by Innovation, Persistence, and Self-Determination: The Old Main STREAM Academy Educational Model
Authors:   UNC Pembroke, Dial-Deese Brenda , Locklear Tiffany
Published: December 2022

Using a perspective analysis of curriculum design, we advance the conversation on ways underrepresented and undeserved communities can rethink educational design. From an original educational model, we interrupt traditional pedagogy to grow effective community leaders. In this paper, we blend Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STREAM), Place-Based Education (PBE), the North Carolina Standard Course of Study (NCSCOS), and Connectivity Movements to prepare students who are innovative, persistent, and self-determined. Moreover, the Old Main STREAM Academy educational model represents an approach that blends learning and community. Our perspective analysis reveals the need for grassroots folks to apply an original, comprehensive curriculum design to advance underrepresented and underserved communities.
On Generalized Lagrange-Based Apostol-type and Related Polynomials
Authors:   Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University, Saudi Arabia, KHAN WASEEM A.
Published: December 2022

In this article, we introduce a new class of generalized polynomials, ascribed to the new families of generating functions and identities concerning Lagrange, Hermite, Miller-Lee, and Laguerre polynomials and of their associated forms. It is shown that the proposed method allows the derivation of sum rules involving products of generalized polynomials and addition theorems. We develop a point of view based on generating relations, exploited in the past, to study some aspects of the theory of special functions. The possibility of extending the results to include generating functions involving products of Lagrange-based uniﬁed Apostol-type and other polynomials is ﬁnally analyzed.
On the Composition of Conditional Expectation and Multiplication Operators
Authors:   Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran, ESTAREMI YOUSEF
Published: December 2022

In this paper, ﬁrst we provide some necessary and suﬃcient conditions for quasi- normality and quasi- hyponormality of weighted conditional type operators. And then the spectrum, residual spectrum, point spectrum and spectral radius of weighted conditional type operators are computed. As an application, we give an equivalent conditions for weighted conditional type operators to be quasinilpotent. Also, some examples are provided to illustrate concrete applications of the main results.
Numerical Solution of Shrödinger Equations Based on the Meshless Methods
Authors:   Yazd University, Department of Mathematical Sciences, Yazd, Iran, RAHIMI MOJTABA , KARBASSI SEYED MEHDI ,   Yazd University, Department of Computer Science, Yazd, Iran, HOOSHMANDASL MOHAMMAD REZA ,   Yazd University, Yazd, Iran
Published: December 2022

In this work, two-dimensional time-dependent quantum equation problems are studied. We introduce a numerical algorithm for solving the two-dimensional nonlinear complex quantum system with MLS and FDM methods. An eﬃcient and accurate computational algorithm based on both, the moving least squares (MLS) and the ﬁnite diﬀerence (FDM) methods is proposed for solving it. The results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm is a robust algorithm with good accuracy. This is developed on MLS and FDM methods using numerical simulation for solving these kind of problems.
Multivalued FG-Contraction Mappings on Directed Graphs
Authors:   Vellore Institute of Technology, Department of Mathematics, School of Advanced Sciences, India, NASHINE HEMANT KUMAR , KADELBURG Zoran ,   University of Belgrade, Faculty of Mathematics, Serbia
Published: December 2022

In this paper, we study generalized FG-contraction conditions for a pair of mappings defined on a family of subsets of a metric space endowed with a directed graph, and discuss coincidence and common fixed point results relaxing the continuity of mappings. The given notions and results are exemplified by suitable models. We apply our results to the problem of existence of solutions of a Fredholm integral inclusion.
A General Approach To Chain Condition in BL-Algebras
Authors:   Payame Noor University, Bandar Imam Khomeini, Iran, KAZEMIASL JAMAL , HAGHANI FARHAD KHAKSAR ,   Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran, HEIDARIAN SHAHRAM ,   Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran
Published: December 2022

In this paper, we present a general deﬁnition of the notion of Noetherian and Artinian BL-algebra and present a more comprehensive insight at the chain conditions in BL-algebras. We derive some theorems which generalize the existence results. We give an axiomatic approach to the notion of being Noetherian and Artinian, which is also applicable to other algebraic structures. We use a theoretical approach to deﬁne arithmetic notion that is also possible for other algebraic devices. In this study, we only focus to BL-algebras.
Some Extensions of a Theorem of Paul Turán Concerning Polynomials
Authors:   University of Kashmir, Department of Mathematics, India, RATHER N. A. , DAR ISHFAQ ,   University of Kashmir, Department of Mathematics, India, IQBAL A. ,   University of Kashmir, Department of Mathematics, India
Published: December 2022

In this paper, certain new results concerning the maximum modulus of the polar derivative of a polynomial with restricted zeros are obtained. These estimates strengthen some well known inequalities for polynomial due to Turán, Dubinin and others.
Shifted Gegenbauer-Gauss Collocation Method for Solving Fractional Neutral Functional-Differential Equations with Proportional Delays
Authors:   Matrouh University, Faculty of Education, Matrouh, Egypt, HAFEZ R. M. , YOUSSRI Y. H. ,   Cairo University, Faculty of Science, Egypt
Published: December 2022

In this paper, the shifted Gegenbauer-Gauss collocation (SGGC) method is applied to fractional neutral functional-diﬀerential equations with proportional delays. The technique we have used is based on shifted Gegenbauer polynomials and Gauss quadrature integration. The shifted Gegenbauer-Gauss method reduces solving the generalized fractional pantograph equation fractional neutral functional-diﬀerential equations to a system of algebraic equations. Reasonable numerical results are obtained by selecting few shifted Gegenbauer-Gauss collocation points. Numerical results demonstrate its accuracy, and versatility of the proposed techniques.
Industria 4.0, automatización y robótica: aplicaciones un caso de estudio
Authors: González Edgar René Vázquez
Published: December 2022

El presente trabajo, aborda a través de un caso de estudio, la implementación de un proceso de automatización y robótica, en una empresa mexicana. El problema que plantea el caso de estudio versa sobre cómo el contexto económico, social y tecnológico demanda que las empresas vayan adoptando alta tecnología en sus procesos de fabricación de bienes o servicios a fn de responder a las necesidades de la sociedad. En el estudio se presentan las aportaciones teóricas a cargo de algunos autores y organismos especializados en torno al desarrollo de la industria 4.0. La estrategia metodológica con la que se realizó la investigación tiene un enfoque cualitativo, siendo el estudio de caso el instrumento metodológico, así como el análisis documental y la entrevista semiestructurada. Una vez obtenidos los resultados, se identificaron a la generación, almacenamiento y aplicación de conocimiento científico y tecnológico, como factores sustanciales que promueven el desarrollo de la industria en la actualidad. Encontrándose algunos resultados positivos que beneficiaron a la empresa estudiada. Se espera que este trabajo sea un referente para empresas con similares características en la región, y que decidan implementar en sus procesos productivos algunas de las manifestaciones de la industria 4.0.
KÜLT EŞYALARI İÇEREN YENİ BİR KÜLTEPE TABLETİ
Authors: EROL Hakan
Published: December 2022

Birkaç Kültepe metinde tanrılara ve tanrıların heykel veya temsillerinin bulunduğu kutsal odalara ait kült eşyaları konu edilmiştir. İlk kez bu makalede tanıtılan, 1949 yılı kazılarında bulunan Kt b/k 93+167 numaralı belgede de hangi tanrıya ait oldukları belirtilmemiş kült eşyaları listelenmiştir. Puzur-Aššur adlı bir şahsa teslim edilen bu eşyalar arasında, metinlerde ilk kez geçen, anlamı bilinmeyen bazı nesneler, kuş ve boğa başı biçimli kadeh ya da kaplar, muhtemelen tanrısal simgeler olan bir yay ve topuzu altın ve meteor demirinden yapılmış bir hançer bulunmaktadır. Belgede yeterli bilgi olmaması bu listenin bağlamı ile ilgili doyurucu bir yorum yapılmasına imkan vermese de, eşyaların bir tüccarın kişisel şapeline ait olduğu düşünülebilir.

1949 yılı Kültepe kazılarında 850 civarında çivi yazılı belge bulunmuştur. Belgeler üzerinde henüz detaylı bir çalışma yapılmamış olmakla birlikte, Amur-Aššur ve Karriya’nın oğlu Ennam-Aššur isimleri arşiv sahibi olarak ön plana çıkmaktadır. Bu şahısların aynı aileden mi olduğu yoksa birbirinden bağımsız iki farklı tüccara ait arşivlerin mi söz konusu olduğu belgeler üzerinde devam eden çalışmalar sonunda netleşecektir.
HİTİT METİNLERİNDE ADI GEÇEN “aviti-” HAKKINDA BİR DEĞERLENDİRME
Authors: SEVİNÇ ERBAŞI Fatma
Published: December 2022

Çoğunlukla Hitit İmparatorluk Dönemi kült envanterlerinde adı geçen bir eşya olan aviti-, karışık bir varlığı temsil eder. Metinlerdeki tanımlamalardan yola çıkarak kanatlı aslan/sfenks olduğu düşünülmektedir. Tanrıça İştar başta olmak üzere bazı tanrısal varlıklarla ilişkilendirilir ve ritonu da mevcuttur. Metinlerle eş zamanlı sanat eserleri üzerinde izlenen karışık varlıkların bazıları ile eşleştirilmesi, tartışmalı da olsa yapılabilmektedir. Asur Ticaret Kolonileri ve Eski Hitit Dönemi mühür örnekleri üzerindeki kompozisyonlarda da görülen kanatlı aslanlar/sfenksler aviti-’nin Hitit kültürüne girişi ve gelişimi hakkında fikir verebilmektedir. Bu çalışmada Eski Mezopotamya etkili inanç ve sanat geleneğinin Hitit dünyasında algılanışı ve ifade edilişi doğrultusunda aviti- yeniden değerlendirilmiştir. Aviti-’nin açıklamasının, gökyüzü döngüsü üzerinden yapılabileceği ile ilgili bir teori de ortaya atılmış ve takımyıldızlar ve gezegenler hakkındaki Eski Mezopotamya bilgi bakiyesinin Hititler tarafından zamanı ve hayatı düzenlemek için kullanılmış olabileceği öne sürülmüştür. Böylece aviti-’yi farklı bir gözle değerlendirip, önemini vurgulamak çabasına gidilmiştir. Taşınabilir eşya olması bakımından anıtsal sfenkslerden farklılığı da gösterilmiştir.
Investigation on University Physics Education in Bangladesh
Authors: Sikder Md. Kabir Uddin
Published: December 2022

The present work has revealed an inside story of university physics education in Bangladesh. The four large autonomous universities in the country were chosen to get the real reflection of physics education to perform this investigation. Sophomores, juniors, seniors, and master’s students were the participants randomly selected from these four universities at the same time of education years 2013-2014. The number of participants from each year of each university was twenty physics students, and the sample size was 320. The same questionnaire about academic resources and activities in the physics departments was used in the survey. The investigation has revealed that the theoretical results of the secondary and higher secondary students were very good but obtained without complete understanding. About 64% of students study physics against their intention as they were interested in engineering or medical courses, though the interests were not their own in every case. Many of the physics students were not attentive enough to the academic activities in the department. Many students were interested in physics research without proper awareness and induction about research. In addition, teachers were not fully engaged in the department to make the students capable of understanding and learning physics independently. As a result, only 14% of the students were consistent in their opinions and had good confidence about the promising future for physics education and research in Bangladesh. However, devoted quality teachers, students with a substantial interest in physics, and the necessary resources are required to improve physics education.
Observation, imaginary performance and actual performance of motor tasks in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy: An EEG study
Authors:   Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology of RAS, Karimova Ekaterina , Burkitbaev Sabir ,   Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology of RAS, Rider Flora ,   Moscow Research and Clinical Center for Neuropsychiatry, Lebedeva Nataliya ,   Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology of RAS
Published: December 2022

Numerous studies indicate that during the observation and imaginary performance of movements, a decrease in the sensorimotor mu-rhythm in the central regions of the scalp reflects the degree of the mirror neuron system (MNS) activity, which ensures the perception of non-verbal signals during social interactions. Proof of the existence of the MNS in humans and subsequent invasive studies of its properties were carried out with the participation of patients with epilepsy, while the possible disruptions of the MNS in these patients were not taken into account. In this work, we analyzed the responses of the sensorimotor rhythm to the observation, imaginary performance and actual performance of various movements in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy and control group participants. It was found that mu-desynchronization is more pronounced in patients with epilepsy than in control group participants in the upper frequency (10.5 – 13 Hz) sub-band. Characteristic differences between the groups also emerged during tasks associated with movements that require two hands