bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Natural Aromatase Blocker Towards the Level of Testosterone in Rooster Layer [Gallus gallus gallus (Linn., 1758)]
Authors: Yuneldi Rizki Fitrawan , Airin Claude Mona , Saragih Hendry T.S.S.G. , Astuti Pudji
Published: May 2021

Aromatase blockers are agents that can inhibit the action of the aromatase enzyme so that testosterone will not be converted to estradiol. Thus, the level of testosterone in the blood is maintained high. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of natural aromatase blocker (NAB) on the level of testosterone in serum and evaluate the effectiveness of chemical testosterone. This study used 100 days old chick (DOC) of Layer chicken that divided randomly into 4 treatment groups namely P0 (control), P1 (zinc sulfate 0.018 mg / 40 g BW), P2 (blood clamshell powder (Anadara granosa) 0.036 mg / 40 g BW as NAB), and P3 (testosterone 0.1 mL). Before doing the experiments, comb measurements were done, blood sampling was carried out through the brachial vein to analyze testosterone levels, and testicular weight was done after necropsy. The study design used the Completely Randomized Design (CRD) and the data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) with SPSS software version 15. The results showed significant differences (P < 0.05) on the variable testosterone level, testicular weight, and the length and height of comb. It can conclude that NAB's administration during the initial growth period can increase testosterone levels, and the provision of chemical testosterone continuously can increase testosterone levels but significantly reduce the testicular weight.
Enhancement of Electroflotation Using Papaya Seeds (Carica papaya) as Biocoagulant for Laboratory Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Putra Rudy Syah , Arirahman Irfan , Iqbal Andri , Sobari Mohammad
Published: May 2021

The enhancement process of electro-flotation was evaluated to treat chemical laboratory wastewater. Wastewater treatment was carried out using electro-flotation with adding a natural coagulant agent namely papaya seed (Carica papaya). In this work the electro-flotation batch system using stainless steel as cathode and graphite as an anode was evaluated in constant DC of 21 V for 60 minutes. Natural coagulant dosage was added as much as 0.05; 0.10 and 0.20 g/500 mL. The effectiveness of the system was evaluated by decreasing total dissolved solids (TDS), turbidity, and Tyndall effect (Lux). The wastewater sample has been diluted 10 times before measuring as an initial condition which has as much as 42 NTU, and 337 mg/L respectively for turbidity, and TDS. The result showed that the enhancement of the electro-flotation process using 0.05 g papaya seed (Carica papaya) had decreased as much as 4.65 NTU (88.93%) and 242 mg/L (28.49%) respectively for turbidity and TDS. Therefore, it can be concluded that the enhancement of electro-flotation using biocoagulant reduced the contaminant matrix in the wastewater.
Development of Soil Sample Preparation by Means Acid Digestion without Heating with Teflon Method for Nickel Analysis
Authors: Suherman Suherman , Hasso Shamil Muhamad , Aprilita Nurul Hidayat , Morita Kinichi , Mizuguchi Hitoshi
Published: May 2021

The development of acids digestion method without heating has been done. This research was conducted by comparing the result of wet acids digestion method without heating by using Teflon method compared with international standard methods, namely US-EPA 3050b and ISO 14869-1 methods. Variations of acid or acid mixtures are performed which are sulfuric acid, a mixture of nitric acid with hydrochloric acid (aqua regia), and a mixture of nitric acid with sulfuric acid (sulfonitrate acid). The results of the digestion were analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). Method of validation was conducted by determination of linearity, precision value, limit of detection and limit of quantification. Validation of Teflon method has been done by comparing the results of Teflon method with US-EPA 3050b and ISO 14869-1 with t-test and ANOVA for each variation of the same acid or mixtures of acids. Based on the precision test, all the acid digestion treatment for the soil samples (both single and mixed acids) produced low precision of Teflon method compared to US-EPA and ISO methods. In addition, t-test and ANOVA (F-test) showed that there is significant difference in the results of digestion data analysis of the Teflon method with international standard method. The shaking time variation for the Teflon method produced significant result in nickel concentration.
Effect of Thin Film Thickness on the Electronic Properties of Wurtzite Structure (ZnO and GaN): A Density Functional Theory Study
Authors: Darajat Tin Subekti Zaidah , Absor Moh. Adhib Ulil
Published: May 2021

By using first-principle density-functional theory (DFT) calculations supplemented with symmetry analysis, we investigated the effect of thin-film thickness on the electronic properties of non-polar ( ZnO-wz and GaN-wz. We find that the electronic band structures of thin-film non-polar ( surface with layer variations from two until ten bilayers show the Rashba spin splitting. Importantly, we revealed that this splitting is found to be strongly anisotropic observed in the valence band maximum (VBM) around the Γ point. We clarified the origin of the anisotropic spin splitting in the electronic band structures by considering the point-group symmetry (PGS) of the present system. We found that the changes of the PGS from C6v (for polar [0001] direction) to Cs (for non-polar ( direction) are responsible for inducing the anisotropic of the spin splitting. To further confirm the anisotropic splitting, we calculated the Rashba spin splitting parameters for different directions of the k-path. We found that these parameters are different in magnitude for a different direction of the k-path indicating the anisotropic spin splitting quantitatively, which is consistent well with symmetry analysis. Finally, we conclude that the observed Rashba spin splitting in the wurtzite surface structure is promising for spintronics applications.
Degradation of Titan Yellow Using ZnO/Ag Embedded with Fe3O4 Nanoparticles Under Visible Light-Induced
Authors: Fadillah Nauval Dwi , Kunarti Eko Sri , Kartini Indriana
Published: May 2021

The Fe3O4/ZnO/Ag nanocomposite has been successfully synthesized, and the material was applied as a photocatalyst to degrade titan yellow. The Fe3O4 was synthesized through sono-coprecipitation method using NH4OH as a precipitating agent. The synthesized ZnO/Ag was performed via coprecipitation method using ethylene glycol, zinc acetate, and silver nitrate as a reagent. This study investigated several parameters, such as the effect of time reaction, equilibrium state, and material responsiveness under visible light irradiation. The XRD measurement indicated the presence of ZnO, Ag, and Fe3O4, whereas the TEM image displayed the photocatalyst had a nanosized particle with approximately 17 nm. The photocatalyst activity has shown the equilibrium process at 60 minutes. The highest degradation (up to 90%) of titan yellow was achieved by Fe3O4/ZnO/Ag nanocomposite. The reusability test showed that Fe3O4/ZnO/Ag nanocomposite had high stability and could be used up to three times.
A Visible Light-Induced Fe3O4/ZnO-Cu Nanocomposite and its Photocatalytic Activities for Rhodamine B Photodegradation
Authors: Pujiarti Yuly , Suyanta Suyanta , Kunarti Eko Sri
Published: May 2021

Synthesis of Fe3O4/ZnO-Cu nanocomposite photocatalyst has been conducted. The synthesis was carried out using the co-precipitation method with the variation of Cu concentration and modification by Fe3O4 magnetic material. As synthesized photocatalysts were characterized using FTIR, XRD, TEM, and SR UV-Visible. Photocatalytic activities of samples were evaluated through Rhodamine B degradation under visible light irradiation. The results showed that a sample with Fe3O4/ZnO-Cu 1% has smaller band gap energy of 2.90 eV and the highest photocatalytic activity than pure ZnO or Fe3O4-modified ZnO (Fe3O4/ZnO-Cu 0%) under visible light. The percentage of Rhodamine B degradation was approximately 89.41% during 120 min of visible light illumination. Moreover, the photocatalyst materials could be easily separated after photocatalysis which is due to the magnetic property of Fe3O4 material. Therefore, Cu-doped ZnO with Fe3O4 modification has been an efficient and effective visible-light-induced photocatalyst in removing non-biodegradable Rhodamine B dyes.
The National Guard: Another Argument for DC Statehood?
Authors: Kaufman Catherine
Published: May 2021

In the wake of the January 6 insurrection and the inauguration of a new president of the United States (US), the National Guard and Washington, DC have both captured the national spotlight. The lack of police response to the attack on the Capitol has largely been considered a failure, and DC Mayor Muriel Bowser has blamed her inability as Mayor to call in the National Guard when needed as a large part of the reason why more was not done, reiterating her calls for DC statehood. With a new slight Senate majority, Democrats have reintroduced a bill that would make DC the 51st U.S. state, fueled at least in part by the arguments raised about the National Guard chain of command throughout 2020 and into 2021.
The Naya Pakistan Housing Policy:
An Economic Analysis
Authors: Farrukh Musirah
Published: May 2021

Affordable housing is a common concern in developed and developing countries alike. In Pakistan, where the housing demand backlog is an astonishing 10 million units, housing shortage is a function of both quantity and affordability. To tackle the situation, in 2018 the government of Pakistan introduced the Naya Pakistan Housing Project with the stated aim to increase housing for the poor. This paper uses microeconomic theory to gauge the impact of two specific provisions proposed to be implemented under the Naya Pakistan Housing Project: allocation of public land for low-cost housing and promotion of low-income housing finance. It is argued that although theoretically, both provisions will not produce any dead-weight loss in the housing market and will result in increased consumption of housing, it is unclear whether they provide housing to the particularly needy segments of the population for which they were intended. It is recommended that further provisions are made to ensure that low-income borrowers are prioritized and protected from rent-seeking speculative buyers who are better positioned to take advantage of the Naya Pakistan Housing Project. The paper also recommends that Benazir Income Support Programmer’s registry be used to disburse credit to needy segments.
Paid Parental Leave:
Comparisons from Canada, Germany, and Sweden
Authors: O'Shea Emma
Published: May 2021

A provision in nearly all modern nations, job-protected leave for parents is considered not only a right, but a necessary component of modern social policy. While 82 percent of Americans agree that mothers should receive paid parental leave and 69 percent agree that fathers should receive paid parental leave, the United States is one of only a handful of countries that does not have a federally mandated paid leave policy. As public opinion continues to shift in favor of such policies, international examples from different parts of the world can provide a model for a national policy for paid parental leave. As a tool to inform options for an American paid parental leave policy, this paper analyzes three nations – Canada, Sweden, and Germany. It examines their current policies, their path to paid parental leave, and the outcomes of those policies for mothers, fathers, and the workforce as a whole.
Evaluation of a rapid diagnostic test for detection of SARS-CoV-2 antigen in nasopharyngeal swabs
Authors: Carcione Davide , Intra Jari , Riggio Daniela , Sabella Simona , Rondelli Lorenza , Barbieri Simone , Leoni Valerio , Biondi Maria Luisa
Published: May 2021

Background and aims: Rapid and accurate diagnosis is essential to limit the spread of SARS-CoV-2 and for patient’s management. Currently, real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is the recommended laboratory test to detect SARS-CoV-2. However, the requirement of special instruments and skilled personnel have limited the use of this technique. Recently, several rapid antigen detection tests have been developed and used as frontline. The aim of this work was to assess the performances of STANDARD F COVID-19 Ag FIA Kit, a rapid fluorescence immunoassay for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 nucleoprotein antigens, in comparison to RT-PCR.Materials and methods: Twenty-three nasopharyngeal swabs were collected and tested. Results: Among the 20 positive RT-PCR samples, 9 were detected by the immunofluorescence assay, reporting an overall sensitivity of 45%. The sensitivity increased to 64% in the case of a high viral load, where all three target genes, RdRp, N, and E, were detected by RT-PCR. Conclusions: A better antigen detection rate is associated with low Cycle threshold values which are inversely related to the viral load. STANDARD F COVID-19 Ag test cannot be considered as the frontline assay for COVID-19 diagnosis, but it might be used in association with clinical signs of patients to reduce the number of RT-PCR testing.
Ganglioneuroma presenting as an adrenal incidentaloma
Authors: Ranjan Rohit , Mittal Ankur , Ranjan Satish Kumar , Panwar Vikas , Talwar Harkirat Singh
Published: May 2021

Adrenal ganglioneuromas (GNs) are very rare tumours that originate from neural crest cells. Most of the time, they are diagnosed incidentally as they are usually non-functional and remain asymptomatic. Nowadays, they are being detected more often due to better availability of imaging facilities such as computed tomography (CT)/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Minimally invasive adrenalectomy (laparoscopic or robotic) remains the standard of care for such lesions. Hereby, we report a case of a 15-year-old young girl with right adrenal incidentaloma which was diagnosed on CT with the features suggestive of GN. She underwent robot-assisted excision of the mass with adrenal-sparing surgery. Histopathology revealed benign GN and no adjuvant treatment was required. As GN is not known for recurrence or metastasis, minimal invasive adrenal-sparing surgery should be a preferred modality of choice.
Comparative analysis of open, laparoscopic and robotic distal pancreatic resection
Authors: Kamarajah Sivesh Kathir , Sutandi Nathania , Sen Gourab , Hammond John , Manas Derek M , French Jeremy J , White Steven A
Published: May 2021

Introduction:

Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy (LDP) has potential advantages over its open equivalent open distal pancreatectomy (ODP) for pancreatic disease in the neck, body and tail. Within the United Kingdom (UK), there has been no previous experience describing the role of robotic distal pancreatectomy (RDP). This study evaluated differences between ODP, LDP and RDP.

Methods:

Patients undergoing distal pancreatectomy performed in the Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery at the Freeman Hospital between September 2007 and December 2018 were included from a prospectively maintained database. The primary outcome measure was length of hospital stay, and the secondary outcome measures were complication rates graded according to the Clavien–Dindo classification.

Results:

Of the 125 patients, the median age was 61 years and 46% were male. Patients undergoing RDP (n = 40) had higher American Society of Anesthesiologists grading III compared to ODP (n = 38) and LDP (n = 47) (57% vs. 37% vs. 38%, P = 0.02). RDP had a slightly lower but not significant conversion rate (10% vs. 13%, P = 0.084), less blood loss (median: 0 vs. 250 ml, P < 0.001) and a higher rate of splenic preservation (30% vs. 2%, P < 0.001) and shorter operative time, once docking time excluded (284 vs. 300 min, P < 0.001) compared to LDP. RDP had a higher R0 resection rate than ODP and LDP (79% vs. 47% vs. 71%, P = 0.078) for neoplasms. RDP was associated with significantly shorter hospital stay than LDP and ODP (8 vs. 9 vs. 10 days, P = 0.001). While there was no significant different in overall complications across the groups, RDP was associated with lower rates of Grade C pancreatic fistula than ODP and LDP (2% vs. 5% vs. 6%, P = 0.194).

Conclusion:

Minimally invasive pancreatic resection offers potential advantages over ODP, with a trend showing RDP to be marginally superior when compared to conventional LDP, but it is accepted that that this is likely to be at greater expense compared to the other current techniques.
Thoracoscopic excision of double-pulmonary sequestration in left haemithorax, without anomalous blood supply (supply from pulmonary artery) in a neonate
Authors: Ojha Sunita , Srivastava Prabhar , Poonia Anil , Bansal Rajiv
Published: May 2021

Pulmonary sequestration (PS) is a rare anomaly. PS is a mass of abnormal pulmonary tissue that does not communicate with the tracheobronchial tree and is supplied by an anomalous systemic artery. Although aberrant systemic arterial supply is considered the key element to diagnose PS, rarely it can have arterial supply from the pulmonary artery as a spectrum of sequestration. Here, we present an unusual case of double (upper and lower) extralobar sequestration, present unilaterally (left haemithorax) in a neonate, without anomalous blood supply (supply from the left pulmonary artery and drainage into the superior and inferior pulmonary veins), not reported in literature earlier, to the best of our knowledge. In the present case, a child presented with respiratory discomfort at birth, requiring surgery due to inability to wean off respiratory support. It is important to be aware of this variant of sequestration spectrum. In a 18 days old child, both pulmonary sequestrations were resected thoracoscopically, making it a rare case, not described earlier in literature.
Long-term and short-term outcomes after laparoscopic versus open surgery for advanced gastric cancer
Authors: Zhang Wei , Huang Zhangkan , Zhang Jianwei , Che Xu
Published: May 2021

Background:

The efficacy of laparoscopy for advanced gastric cancer (AGC) remains controversial.

Materials and Methods:

We conducted a literature search on the EMBASE, PubMed and Cochrane Library databases to identify relevant available articles published between the time of the databases’ inception and July 2020.

Results:

A total of 14,689 patients were included in the 41 studies identified. A total of 6976 patients were in an laparoscopic approach group (LG) and 7713 patients were in an open approach group (OG). The meta-analysis showed that in randomized control trials (RCTs), LG were better than OG in terms of estimated blood loss, time to oral intake and time to first flatus while the operation time and proximal resection margin (PRM) were significantly worse in LG than in OG. In the non-RCTs, LG had shorter hospital stays, less blood loss, less intraoperative transfusion, less time to oral intake, time to first flatus, time to ambulation; less overall or serious complications; and better 3-year and 5-year overall or disease-free survival (DFS). Operation times and PRM were significantly worse for LGs.

Conclusion:

The safety and effectiveness of laparoscopic surgery for AGC is not inferior to that of traditional open surgery, and to a certain extent, can reduce trauma, facilitate recovery, and be validated in RCTs and non-RCTs. In the real-world cohort, laparoscopic surgery for gastric cancer achieved a better survival rate and DFS rate. However, to evaluate the efficacy of these two methods more comprehensively, high-quality randomized controlled trials and longer follow-up times are still needed.
Exploring Cypriot Pharmacists’ Perceptions about their Role in Cardiovascular Disease Prevention
Authors: Charalampous Periklis , Peletidi Aliki
Published: May 2021

Objective:

The age-standardized prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) among the Cypriot population in 2017 was estimated to be 5552 per 100,000. Therefore, the CVD prevention in Cyprus is of paramount importance. Pharmacists are one of the most accessible health-care professionals (HCPs) and the first port of call for the public. In Cyprus, there are 55.59 pharmacies per 100,000 inhabitants. Therefore, the role of Cypriot pharmacists (CPs) in primary CVD prevention is essential. This study aimed to explore both the existing and potential future roles of CPs in CVD prevention.

Methods:

A descriptive qualitative study employing structured interviews (SIs) was conducted. Initially, the CPs were identified through a list provided by the Cypriot Pharmaceutical Services. The researcher(s) then contacted CPs by telephone. Face-to-face interviews were scheduled based on the CP's availability. In total, 21 SIs were transcribed verbatim, coded, and analyzed thematically. SIs continued until data saturation was achieved.

Findings:

The findings are reported under the themes of pharmacists' knowledge and role, resources/tools available and training, communication and relations, and barriers. CPs expressed the need for training, and they are ready to have a more proactive role within the primary health care. The main barrier identified was the lack of responsiveness of the public and the lack of CP's time.

Conclusion:

CPs have the potential to actively participate in CVD prevention in Cyprus. CPs want to start offering primary CVD health services, with the smoking cessation being the first intervention.
Clinical Characteristics, Medication Prescription Pattern, and Treatment Outcomes at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of a Tertiary Health-Care Facility in Ghana
Authors: Opare-Asamoah Kwame , Koffuor George Asumeng , Abdul-Mumin Alhassan , Sulemana Baba Mohammed , Saeed Majeed , Quaye Lawrence
Published: May 2021

Objective:

Neonates are more susceptible to infections, as well as medication toxicities. This study, therefore, sought to describe the clinical characteristics, medication prescription pattern, and treatment outcomes for neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of a tertiary health-care facility in Ghana.

Methods:

A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted to ascertain clinical records, conditions for admission, spectrum of medications prescribed, and treatment outcomes from neonatal patient folders.

Findings:

Of 667 folders reviewed (51.4% males and 48.6% female), 61.8% were preterm (mean gestational age: 34.2 ± 3.6 weeks), 64.6% had low birth weight (LBW) (mean birth weight: 2.1 ± 0.9 kg), 90.6% were delivered through spontaneous vaginal delivery, and 57.4% delivered at the tertiary health-care facility. Of the 667 neonates, 70%, 27.1%, and 2.9% were queried with one, two, or three medical conditions, respectively. Respiratory distress, preterm, and pyrexia were common single queried conditions (88.5%). LBW, hypothermia, and single queried medical conditions were associated (P ≤ 0.0001) with preterm male neonates. The mean duration of stay of preterm neonates was 3.5 ± 3.2 days (term babies: 1–2 days [P = 0.0085]). Of 1,565 medications prescribed to the 667 neonates, 67.5% were antibacterial, with gentamicin (53.0%) being the most prescribed. 98.4% of neonates were prescribed at least one medication (i.e., 67.5% were prescribed antibacterial medications, 14.6% supplements, 11.0% bronchodilators, and 7.0% antiseizure); mean medication combination 2.6 ± 0.8 per neonate. Majority (75.4%) of the cases reviewed had treatment success.

Conclusion:

Respiratory distress and preterm deliveries are predominant presenting conditions, with antibacterial medication, mainly gentamicin and ampicillin, on prescription. Treatment success is significantly high at the NICU.
Statin Type and Cancer Outcomes in Patients with Diabetes Type 2 and Solid Tumors
Authors: Ceacareanu Alice C. , Jolly Shanria D. , Nimako George K. , Wintrob Zachary A. P.
Published: May 2021

Objective:

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) affects 10% of Americans and is associated with an increased incidence of cancer. Statins are first-line cholesterol-lowering medications in the treatment of hyperlipidemia. Several studies have demonstrated a relationship between statin use and reduced cancer incidence. We examined the cancer benefits of statin subtypes, with specific attention to disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS).

Methods:

This retrospective review included adults with T2DM diagnosed with solid tumors at Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo, NY, USA (2003–2010). Individuals with gestational diabetes, incomplete records, or diagnosed with rare solid tumors were excluded. Follow-up began at the date of diagnosis and ended with the first confirmed recurrence, death, or loss of contact. Demographics were assessed by Chi-square, Kaplan–Meier survival analyses, and Cox proportional hazards regression.

Findings:

Overall, 1102 patients met inclusion criteria, 52.1% of the study participants were female, and 578 participants (52.5%) died during the follow-up period which ranged from 0 to 156 months. Hydrophilic statin use was associated with improved DFS at 5-year follow-up (41.0% vs. 36.9%, P = 0.0077) compared to lipophilic statin use. Multivariate regression revealed that hydrophilic statins were associated with improved DFS (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.706, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.526–0.947) and OS (HR: 0.685, 95% CI: 0.503–0.934). Pravastatin was associated with improved OS (HR: 0.674, 95% CI: 0.471–0.964).

Conclusion:

In patients with T2DM and cancer, hydrophilic statins, and pravastatin in particular, are associated with improved DFS as well as OS. Further research examining the cancer-specific effects of hydrophilic and lipophilic statins is needed to better understand their beneficial effects.
Assessment of acute toxicity of water soluble fraction of diesel on two species of marine microalgae
Authors: Yakub A. S. , Ajijo MR
Published: May 2021

Acute toxicity of water soluble fraction (WSF) of diesel fuel was assessed by evaluating its effects on growth of two marine microalgae, Isochrysis and Chaetoceros. Pure cultures of each of the two microalgae were exposed to concentrations of 0% (controls), 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% of diesel WSF (in triplicates) and allowed to grow for 96 hours. Cell density was determined in each of the culture vessels every 24 hour. Cell density growth rate in every treatment, percentage growth inhibition by various concentrations and IC50 of diesel WSF on the two microalgae were determined following standard methods. While control cultures recorded exponential growth within 96 hour, the four WSF concentrations resulted in inhibition of cell growth of the two microalgae species every 24 hour. Cell growth inhibition effect increased significantly (p<0.05) from 5% to 20% WSF exposure in Isochrysis and Chaetoceros with 100% and 98% growth inhibition in the two species by 20% WSF after 96 hour. Diesel WSF had IC50 of 7.59% and 8.08% against Isochrysis and Chaetoceros respectively. Growth inhibition effects of WSF against the two species were not significantly different (p>0.05). Ecological implications of the growth inhibition effects of diesel WSF microalgae were discussed.Key Words: Cell density, water soluble fraction (WSF), concentration, growth inhibition, 96 hour IC50, Isochrysis, Chaetoceros
Some limnological characteristics of Asejire Lake, Asejire, Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Odulate D.O. , Adeosun F.I. , Abdul W.O. , Akegbejo-Samsons Y , Ojelade C.O. , Obinani G.C. , Akintunde G.I.
Published: May 2021

Asejire Lake is one of the man-made lakes in the southwestern Nigeria. Physico-chemical characteristics of the lake were investigated for eleven months from January to December, 2014. Four sampling stations were established within the lake. Water samples were collected monthly from the four stations. Some limnological parameters were analyzed in-situ with analytical instruments while others were determined in the laboratory using standard laboratory methods. Descriptive and inferential statistics and principal component analysis (PCA) were employed for data analysis. Significant difference (p<0.05) was observed in each month in all the measured parameters during the study period. Mean air temperature was 31.6±0.56˚C with no significant difference (p>0.05) among stations. Highest value of alkalinity, hardness, nitrate and phosphate were recorded in July (107.5 mgCaCO3/L), May (167.5 mgCaCO3/L), May (6.9 mg/L) and October (0.52 mg/L), respectively. Electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, pH, alkalinity, hardness and nitrate were significantly higher (p<0.05) in the wet season than dry season. All the measured water quality parameters were within the recommended WHO standards for drinking water and aquatic life. Two components were identified by PCA; TDS (0.820) and phosphate (0.795). It can be concluded that the lake water is unpolluted and should be protected.Keywords: water quality, ecosystem, productivity, season, monitoring
Influence of processing on consumer preference and pattern of consumption of periwinkle (Tympanotonus fuscatus) in some coastal communities of Rivers State
Authors: Abu O.M.G. , Achilike N.M.
Published: May 2021

This study investigated the influence of processing on consumer preference and consumption patterns of periwinkle (Tympanotonus fuscatus) in selected riverine communities of Rivers State, Nigeria. The results of the study indicated that all of the respondents (100.0%) often consumed processed periwinkle while raw ones are not consumed (0.00%). Among the processed periwinkle: roasted ones were more preferable (96.8%), based on taste quality (99.0%), texture (100.00%) and flavour (100.00%). While boiled periwinkles were preferred to others based on colour acceptance quality. From this study the consumer preferred roasted periwinkle to boiled and unshucked ones, an indication that processing has a positive influence on periwinkle consumption on the populace in these communities.Keywords: Fish, consumer, consumption, preferences, communities
Economic Evaluation of Three Hormonal Preparations in Artificial Propagation of Heterobranchus longifilis (Valenciennes, 1840)
Authors: Asangusung P.S , Uka A , Otoh A
Published: May 2021

The economic evaluation of three hormonal preparations: ovaprim, ovulin and carp pituitary extract (C.P.E) in artificial propagation of Heterobranchus longifilis was investigated. A total of twelve brood fishes (nine females and three males) of eighteen months old were used for the experiment. The females were divided into three groups. Each group was induced to spawn with each of the hormones. Pooled sperm from the three males were used to fertilize the eggs obtained from the females. Effects of the hormones on the fecundity was investigated to help address the economic values. The results showed that the cost of inducing 1.20kg female to yield 42.83g, 57.60g, and 35.10g of eggs were ₦480.39, ₦225.00 and ₦175.00, for C.P.E, ovaprim and ovulin respectively. Profitability index for ovaprim, ovulin, and C.P.E was 5.58, 3.44, and 3.92, respectively. Indicating that, cost of production accounted <20% for Ovaprim and <30% for both ovulin and C.P.E of the total variable cost. The production was more profitable with ovaprim than ovulin and C.P.E. The study has provided data, comparing the effectiveness of the hormones, revealing that the three hormones can be used for artificial propagation of H. longifilis with varied degree of economic implication. However, ovaprim is highly recommended to hatchery users for optimum performance.

Keywords: H. longifilis, ovaprim, ovulin, C.P.E and economic evaluation.
Performance of a modified alkaline lignin towards copper adsorption under different conditions
Authors: Zheng Chunli , Wang Qiaorui , Dai Yujie , Zu Bo , Zhang Yangyang , Zhang Tian C
Published: May 2021

Polyethyleneimine and carbon disulfide were employed to modify alkaline lignin (AL) in order to introduce -NH, -NH2 and -CSS- groups. Its adsorption performance towards Cu(II) was evaluated based on the residual concentration (Cr) against the discharge permissible concentration for Cu(II) (2.0 mg/L) established by the World Health Organization. The evaluation was operated under different conditions such as adjusting the solution pH, Cu(II) coexisting with K(I), Na(I), Ca(II) or Mg(II), changing the contact time (t) and initial concentration of Cu(II) (C0), as well as regeneration. When t and C0 equaled to 180 min and 50 mg/L, Cr was less than 2.0 mg/L at pH of 5.03 to 5.65. Under the situation of Cu (II) coexisting with 50 mg/L of K(I), Na(I), Ca(II) or Mg(II), Cr was as low as 1.96, 1.53, 1.97 or 1.55 mg/L (t = 180 min, C0 = 50 mg/L), respectively. Even the modified AL was regenerated and reused four times, Cr was closed to 2 mg/L for each time (t = 180 min, C0 = 51 mg/L). By comparing with other lignin-based materials according to the adsorption equilibrium time, the maximum adsorption capacity, and Cr, the modified AL exhibited higher application potential in copper-loaded water treatment.
Development time, body mass and length of immatures of Paralucilia fulvinota (Bigot, 1877) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) reared under natural conditions in a Central Amazon forest
Authors: Sales Tohnson , Ferreira-Keppler Ruth Leila , Martins Renato Tavares , Barros Luana Machado
Published: May 2021

Blow flies (Calliphoridae) are used in forensic entomology studies, because their life cycle help to determine the minimum post-mortem interval (PMImin). Paralucilia fulvinota (Bigot, 1877) is a forensic indicator and is reported from human corpses in the Amazonian region. Our objectives were to describe the development time of P. fulvinota under natural conditions at Ducke Reserve (Amazonas), provide the accumulated degree-days (ADD) and accumulated degree-hour (ADH), body length and mass of larvae, and the sex ratio of adults. Pregnant females were sampled on a swine carcass. From hatched eggs, we reared stock colonies and observed the immature development under uncontrolled conditions of temperature (24.5 ± 1.3 ºC), rainfall (188 ± 11.5 mm³) and humidity (84 ± 3.9%). Development time was 11 days. Adult sex ratio was 0.86. Larvae gained mass at constant rates through the instars but grew less in length from the second to the third instar. Accordingly, P. fulvinota grows more in mass than in length when in larval stage. The period from first stadium to adults lasted 159.5 degree-days and 3828 degree-hours. Our results may be helpful in providing a more accurate estimate of PMImin on corpses encountered in forested areas of the Amazon region.
Post Qualitative Research - Reality through the Antihierarchical Assemblage of non-Calculation
Authors: Kerasovitis Konstantinos
Published: May 2021

This paper presents an overview of the post qualitative research paradigm, tracing the main concepts that underpin it, and the way it opens up research to include the experiential. Research that tends to affect and the totality of existence. The cornerstone of post qualitative is its flat ontology—researcher, theory, and subject matter, form a non-hierarchical assemblage. The human and the non-human, material and immaterial, merge in a liminal entity. Nothing is considered as tainting, bar from the introduction of power relations. And this is the snare commanding caution. Academic approval is conducive to the misinterpretation of the theoretical pieces on post qualitative, of morphing them into authoritative theory, fixed points. Autonomy and the assemblage of theory from, and under lived experience, are the institutional elements of post qualitative. The introduction of any form of closure constitutes a lapse into the doppelgänger of what it set out to surmount.
Habilidades directivas y planificación estratégica en una universidad peruana
Authors: Paredes-Pérez Marco A.J. , Cárdenas-Tapia Víctor R. , Palomino-Crispin Antonio E.
Published: May 2021

Objetivo. Determinar la relación entre habilidades directivas y planificación estratégica en la Universidad Peruana los Andes, filial Ayacucho, 2016. Métodos. El enfoque fue cuantitativo, de tipo básico, nivel correlacional y diseño descriptivo-correlacional. Se aplicó la observación, así como los métodos inductivo-deductivo y analítico-sintético. Los instrumentos fueron el cuestionario sobre habilidades directivas de 16 ítems y el cuestionario de planificación estratégica de 20 ítems. La muestra-censal estuvo conformada por 101 trabajadores, entre directivos, docentes y administrativos. Resultados. Existe relación significativa entre las habilidades directivas y la planificación estratégica con un p-valor de 0 y un valor de Tau-b de Kendall de 0,294. Conclusiones. A mejor percepción sobre la gestión de habilidades directivas, mejores resultados de planificación estratégica.
Cultura organizacional y bienestar laboral de los trabajadores de la Red de Salud Huamalíes
Authors: Ortiz De Agui Maria L. , Villar-Carbajal Enit I. , Llanos De Tarazona Marina I.
Published: May 2021

Objetivo. Determinar la relación entre la cultura organizacional y el bienestar laboral de los trabajadores de la Red de Salud Huamalíes, 2019. Métodos. Fue una investigación de enfoque cuantitativo, de nivel relacional, prospectiva y observacional. La población estuvo conformada por 80 trabajadores de los que fueron seleccionados 60 por muestreo no probabilístico, por conveniencia. La técnica utilizada fue la entrevista, cuyos instrumentos fueron la cultura organizacional y el de bienestar laboral, los cuales fueron previamente validados y fiabilizados. Se realizó el análisis descriptivo de las variables y en la comprobación de las hipótesis se empleó el estadístico chi cuadrado para p ≤ 0,05. Se aplicaron las consideraciones éticas para la investigación. Resultados. El 81,7 % (49) de los trabajadores percibieron un nivel fuerte de la cultura organizacional y el 18,3 % (11) se ubicó en el nivel moderado; el nivel de bienestar laboral alcanzó en el 70 % (42) un nivel alto y en el 30 % (18) un nivel intermedio. Se observó relación significativa (p ≤ 0,05) entre la cultura organizacional fuerte y el bienestar laboral alto en las dimensiones: desarrollo en el trabajo, interrelación con el jefe, oportunidades e incentivos y ambiente de trabajo. Conclusiones. La cultura organizacional se relaciona de forma significativa con el desarrollo del bienestar laboral percibido por los trabajadores de la Red de Salud Huamalíes, 2019.
Medicinal value of hibiscus rosa sinensis : a review
Authors: Sivaraman Chinju M , Saju Fels
Published: May 2021

This aim of the review is to give an idea about various pharmacological and pharmaceutical applications of Hibiscus rosa sinensis. The article covers selected literatures that are based on the studies conducted on Hibiscus rosa sinensis. It is a very common shrub native to tropical areas. There are different varieties of Hibiscus rosa sinensis . The pharmaceutical field is more interested in the red variety as majority of the medicinal properties are shown by this. The source, distribution, chemical constituents, propagation, soil conditions, etc. are provided in the article. The various studies that have utilized Hibiscus rosa sinensis for pharmacological and pharmaceutical applications are also mentioned in this article. The pharmaceutical field mainly utilses the mucilage from Hibiscus rosa sinensis  as an excipient for many formulations. The pharmacological activity of each and every part of the plant is clearly provided in this work. Overall, this gives an idea about the medicinal properties of plant Hibiscus rosa sinensis Linn.
DEVELOPMENT OF TECHNOLOGY FOR WELD REPAIR OF ANTICORROSIVE COATING OF MAIN CONNECTOR OF REACTOR WWER-440
Authors: Moravetsky S. I. , Kasatkin O. G. , Tsaryuk A. K. , Kravets V. P. , Goncharov I. V. , Ivanko A. V.
Published: May 2021

The effect of welding method and technique on the HAZ microstructure in dissimilar welded joint of the type reactor vessel steel + deposited austenitic layer was investigated. The results of metallographic studies and bend tests of the welded joints are evidenced that the development of technology for weld repair of an anticorrosive coating with access to the base metal without subsequent high tempering is advisable on the basis of "buttered layer" technique by MMA welding with layer-by-layer controlled change in linear energy. This approach provides a uniform fine-grained microstructure at the overheat region of the HAZ. TIG welding with the filler wire and constant layer-by-layer linear energy also allows to refine overheat region microstructure. However, in this case, it is characterized by two types of structural heterogeneity caused by intense overheating of the base metal and diffusion of alloying elements and carbon.
MONITORING OF BERILLIUM CONTENT IN WASTE WATER OF NSC KIPT BEFORE AND AFTER PURIFICATION
Authors: Gordienko Yu.A. , Mazilov A.A. , Nikulina V.Ya. , Sosipatrov M.V. , Tkachenko V.N.
Published: May 2021

In this paper, the results of applied studies on beryllium content in waste water of NSC KIPT before and after purification are presented. The most optimal conditions of physicochemical processes used in the water treatment are defined. The results obtained allow one to make a conclusion that the content of beryllium in waste water under investigation before and after purification does not exceed the threshold limit value (TLV) and is under control. All chemical analyzes were carried out by the metrologically certified laboratory of “Radiation Research and Environmental Protection” NSC KIPT.
INFLUENCE OF THE MAGNITUDE OF THE BIAS POTENTIAL AND THICKNESS OF THE LAYERS ON THE STRUCTURE, SUBSTRUCTURE, STRESS-DEFORMED STATE AND MECHANICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF VACUUM-ARC MULTI-LAYERED (TiMo)N/(TiSi)N COATINGS
Authors: Sobol’ O.V. , Postelnyk H.O. , Meylekhov A.A. , Subbotina V.V. , Stolbovoy V.A. , Dolomanov A.V. , Kolesnikov D.A. , Kovaleva M.G. , Sukhorukova Yu.V.
Published: May 2021

Layers based on titanium nitride doped with molybdenum and silicon were used to create a multilayer composite. In this case, the mismatch between the lattice periods of (TiMo)N and (TiSi)N layers was about 1%. It was found that in the (TiMo)N/(TiSi)N multilayer composite, such a mismatch of the periods in the constituent layers does not change the single-phase state of the composite even at relatively large layer thicknesses (about 350 nm). The creation of a (TiMo)N/(TiSi)N composite with a nanometer layer thickness allows one to reduce the magnitude of macrostresses (a large value of which is characteristic of single-layer (TiMo)N coatings) and change the substructural characteristics in a wide range of values. It has been established that the use of multi-element (TiMo)N and (TiSi)N layers in a multilayer coating design allows one to achieve a high-hard state with high adhesive strength and good tribological characteristics. The highest properties (hardness – 34.8 GPa and adhesive strength - 166.09 N) were achieved in coatings obtained at Ub = -200 V and a layer thickness of 80 nm, which are characterized by compression macrostresses of 7.85 GPa and microstrains - 0.75%.
WELDING OF DEFECTS IN CAST CASES OF TURBINES WITH PERLITE ELECTRODES WITHOUT HEATING AND THERMAL PROCESSING
Authors: Efimenko N.G. , Artyomova S.V.
Published: May 2021

The regularities of structural formation of the weld metal and HAZ during multilayer welding, made by the transverse humping method, with short sections of defects on cast steel 15Kh1M1FL with perlite electrodes without heating and heat treatment are considered. It has been established that the structure of all the studied zones of the welded joint is represented by upper granular bainite of varying degrees of dispersion. The difference in the hardness of the structures in the upper and middle parts of the welded joint is insignificant (3I4 and 296 HV, respectively). In the upper part, the formation of a hypereutectoid ferrite is found, which is located along the grain boundaries, which is also related with edge effect. The plastic properties of the weld metal are increased by more than 1.5 times, KCV – by more than 3 times in comparison with the base metal.
SIMULATION STUDY OF THE DIGITAL TEMPERATURE SENSOR OPERATION IN CASE OF A NON-STANDARD MECHANICAL IMPACT OF THE NPP EQUIPMENT
Authors: Bikovsky Y.M. , Derevianko O.V. , Levchenko V.V. , Pogosov A.Y.
Published: May 2021

The article presents the results of an experimental study relevant to the effective organization of temperature control of thermomechanical equipment at nuclear power plants (turbines, pumps, steam generators, deaerators,
etc.). Bench studies of the reaction of the DS18B20 digital intelligent temperature sensor, which is supposed to be introduced at Ukrainian nuclear power plants, to the application of external compression force to its body, which may occur under conditions typical for the operation of equipment operating at nuclear power plants, have been carried out. An electrical circuit diagram has been developed for a reset signal simulation device (for bench modeling of a sensor application system). The issues of identifying a sign in the sensor output signal informing about the effect of an external compression force on its body are considered. The technique of bench experiments and processing of research results necessary to address the issue of introducing new digital measuring equipment for temperature control of thermomechanical equipment of nuclear power plants is given.
THE MEANING OF BORROWED VOCABULARY IN THE GERMAN LANGUAGE
Authors: Narmatova Aijan
Published: May 2021

Речь идёт о заимствованной лексики в немецком языке, которая помогает преподавателю проводить работу, как над языковым материалом так и вывести проработанный материал в речь. Лексика языка четко реагирует на изменения, происходящие в обществе.
Empowerment of Small-Scale Fishery Businesses in Coastal Communities in Tatapaan Minapolitan Area, South Minahasa Regency
Authors: Londa Very Y. , Pangemanan Fanley Noldi
Published: May 2021

The potential of marine fisheries in the Minapolitan area of Tatapaan, South Minahasa Regency has not been utilized properly through community business groups. This problem is indicated as a result of the lack of empowerment of the community marine fishery small business groups. In order to accelerate poverty alleviation and increase equity and increase community competitiveness in the study of social and humanities, this research was conducted. This research uses a qualitative approach. Data obtained from interviews followed by observation and use of documents. Data analysis is performed interactively through data reduction, display data and conclusion drawing / verification. The research findings show that the empowerment programs carried out by the central government, provincial governments and district governments from the aspects of enabling, empowering and maintaining are more general in nature and not all are in accordance with the needs of the community and business groups. Improvements in the empowerment of fishing communities' businesses can occur and develop when the government is able to provide promotional information facilities and media, and the community is able to manage finances and switch to the use of more modern equipment. The implication of this research is that community empowerment can run when there is good cooperation between the government and the community.
The ILO's contribution to improving the welfare of workers globally, especially in Asia and Africa
Authors: Kharchani Duengphan , Haripitak Rirkrit , Burirat Cinnakorn
Published: May 2021

The following essay addresses labour problems in a number of Asian and African nations. Additionally, the ILO's role in resolving this labor problem is critical due to the conditions in many countries worldwide. According to the 2014 Global Slavery Index, India is first in terms of modern global slavery, with a high rate of modern slavery, especially in the recruitment of jobs with promises of non-existent work that are then sold for profit. As a result, it is important for the ILO to resolve the problem of labor welfare. The ILO's primary goal is to improve labor welfare. The ILO has taken many measures, including: ratifying the United Nations Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families; and Collaborating with many Asian countries to secure migrant workers' interests, Conducting activities in support of migrant workers; developing services in support of migrant workers.