bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Self-esteem and Sense of Security to the Cognition of the Destructive Cult of College Students
Authors: Xin Junqing , Fan Baoxiang , Ji Han , Li Bin
Published: July 2019

In this study, self-esteem scale (SES), Security Questionnaire (SQ) and cult susceptibility test questionnaire were used to investigate 350 college students in Beijing, and the results were analyzed to explore the influence of self-esteem and sense of security on college students’ cognition on cults. The results indicate obvious differences in demographic variables and correlations among college students’ self-esteem, their sense of security and their cognition on cults. In addition, due to the predictive functions of self-esteem and sense of security, the cult confusion among college students can be prevented by improving their self-esteem and sense of security by means of introspection, feedback from others and participation in practice.
Strategies to Maximise Staff Retention Among Millennial Teachers in Bangkok International Schools
Authors: Meneghella Karl , Walsh John , Sawagvudcharee Ousanee
Published: July 2019

Changes to the education landscape in recent times include increased globalisation, evolving national curricula, the need for a more global education, attracting and retaining value-adding faculty members and the increased competition to attract students. Schools also need to deal with a shrinking pool of available teachers as enrolment by young people into teacher education degrees are falling and many mature teachers are retiring from teaching. These changes in the teaching landscape are all having an impact on the ways schools conduct business, and it is particularly true in the international school setting. A significant proportion of teachers in international schools are less than 40 years old (aka millennials). Millennials have been the focus of some research of late, and initial findings would indicate that there are a lot of unknowns and misconceptions surrounding their expectations, their world view, and how to best utilise them in the workforce. Following these lines of inquiry, it is believed that identifying some of these potential generational differences in needs and wants will assist schools in developing sustainable strategies for the attraction, development and retention of young teachers, in turn creating increased efficiency and competitive advantage for the school.
A Generalized Uncertain Fractional Forward Difference Equations of Riemann-Liouville Type
Authors: Mohammed Pshtiwan Othman
Published: July 2019

In this paper, we firstly recall the definition of an uncertain fractional forward difference equation with Riemann-Liouvillelike forward difference. After that analytic solutions to a generalized uncertain fractional difference equations are solved by using the Picard successive iteration method. Moreover, the existence and uniqueness theorem of the solutions are proved by applying Banach contraction mapping theorem. Finally, two examples are presented to illustrate the validity of the existence and uniqueness theorem.
Species Identification of Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli Isolates from Raw Poultry Products by MALDI–TOF MS and rRNA Sequence Analysis
Authors: Sulaiman Irshad M , Hsieh Ying-Hsin , Simpson Steven
Published: July 2019

Background: Campylobacter is a genus of Gram-negative bacteria. It is considered one of the leading cause of diarrheal illness worldwide. Incidence of human campylobacteriosis has increased significantly during recent decades; the increase has been directly linked with the advancement made in Campylobacter detection methods. C. jejuni and C. coli are the two major human-pathogenic species that can colonize poultry and cause foodborne illness and outbreak. Objective: This study was carried out to rapidly identify Campylobacter-like isolates recovered from raw poultry products by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI)–time-of-flight (TOF) MS and DNA sequencing of 16S and 23S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) regions. Methods: Twenty-seven isolates of Campylobacter-like organisms were isolated from raw poultry products and cultured on blood agars for MALDI–TOF MS analysis and DNA isolation. For each isolate, one to two colonies were directly spotted on the VITEK MS analysis. Genomic DNA was extracted from overnight bacterial culture. Afterward, two-directional Sanger sequencing of rRNA gene was performed to confirm species identification on an ABI 3500xL Genetic Analyzer. Results: The VITEK MS could provide species-level identification for all 27 Campylobacter-like bacterial isolates (including 13 isolates as C. jejuni and 14 isolates as C. coli). Species identification attained by the VITEK MS matched completely with the rRNA sequence characterization data. Conclusions: Based on the restricted number of target strains and agar plates, MALDI–TOF MS and rRNA sequence analysis can be used for rapid identification of C. jejuni and C. coli isolates. Highlights: MALDI–TOF MS and rRNA sequencing can provide species identification of C. jejuni and C. coli isolates.
Place, Community, and the Generation of Ecological Autonomy
Authors: Chackal Tony ,   Center for Environmental Philosophy, The University of North Texas
Published: July 2019

Autonomy is traditionally considered to be an epistemic capacity of individuals to think for themselves, and the community is held to be its central obstruction. Autonomy is the internal capacity to freely use reason to form beliefs and preferences that are one’s own. It is premised on the atomistic individual conceived as a decontextualized rational mind. Accordingly, natural, physical, and social externalities have not been included in discourse on autonomy. But if individuals are seen as embodied dwellers within social and natural environments and are reconceived as ecological, that is, partly constituted by their environments, then autonomy must likewise be reconceived. Ecological autonomy is an internal epistemic capacity to think and an external actional capacity to act for oneself in relation to other individuals and environments. Whereas traditional and even relational autonomy require that competency and authenticity conditions must be met for internal thinking, ecological autonomy requires two sets of competency and authenticity conditions, one for internal thought and one for external action. An ecological treatment holds that while community can obstruct autonomy, it also generates and sustains it to reveal how community and place are co-defined as mutually constitutive companion concepts with alternate emphases. Place emphasizes physical and social, and natural and artificial environments, but includes people and social practices. Community emphasizes people, social practices, knowledge, and values, but includes the environing world.
Frames, World-Pictures and Representations
Authors: Süner Ahmet ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: July 2019

This essay analyzes key aspects of Heidegger’s critique of the picture (Bild) based on an objection to world-pictures as well as a negative understanding of two other related concepts: Gestell and Vorstellen (representation). The restrictive frames of world-pictures, Heidegger claims, must be opposed by instances of thinking and language use associated with poiesis. For him, the revelation of the world in poiesis results in a subject-less experience of things and words, akin to the experience of art and literature, and presumably outside the representational hold of pictures. I argue against Heidegger’s repudiation of the picture by underscoring the inescapability of Vorstellen. Heidegger’s world may be seen as a world-picture as well as a particular system of representation that we associate with affective uses of language, i.e., a literary system similar to the one discussed by Wolgang Iser.
Love or Contemplation?
Authors: Vohánka Vlastimil ,   University of South Bohemia
Published: July 2019

This is an article in the philosophy of happiness — but one with an untypical focus. It clarifies the claim of the phenomenologist Dietrich von Hildebrand that (H) high happiness comes especially from loving others, and compares it with the apparently rival Aristotelian claim that (A) high happiness comes especially from contemplating God. The former claim is understood to be about felt love (love defined as an emotional rather than volitional state). Both claims are understood to be about felt happiness (happiness defined as an emotional state rather than a state of objective flourishing). The article argues that, in fact, the two claims are not rival but mutually consistent, since the beloved person can be God, and the contemplation can be a loving one. Both claims are also consistent with scientific evidence, although it is tangential and tentative. Moreover, both claims are plausible, since both are backed up by intuitive explanations of why they should be regarded as true. However, both are in need of a further philosophical or scientific research that could confirm them even more.
Experimental Investigation on Vibration Isolation Effectiveness of Two Sets of Underwater Vehicle Dynamic Systems
Authors: Yang Yang , Pan Guang , Yin Shaoping , Liang Yue , Yuan Ying
Published: July 2019

Power plant system is one of the major vibration sources in underwater vehicles. Isolation is by far the most effective approach to alleviate the vibration transmission from the power plant system to the shell. Underwater vehicle isolators are typically designed to be circular or distributed toroidal structures, and the shell is a thin-walled cylindrical structure. Such structures are extremely rare in other engineerings, and their isolation effectiveness has not been well explored. In this article, two sets of underwater vehicle dynamic isolation systems, i.e., heavy load rubber-metal composite isolators-shell (heavy load system) and light load metal-rubber isolators-shell (light load system), were tested. Our test results showed that the isolation effectiveness of the heavy load system was significant, whereas the light load system offered insignificant isolation because of the mismatch between the mechanical impedance of the shell and the isolators. To improve the vibration isolation effectiveness, some improvement measures were proposed based on the analysis results combined with the engineering practice in the last part.
Analysis of the Profitability of Catfish Production in Enugu East L.G.A. of Enugu State, Nigeria
Authors: Ochiaka C. D. , Obasi C. E.
Published: July 2019

Objectives of the Study: The study examined the profitability of catfish production in Enugu –East L.G.A of Enugu state.

Sample Size and Sampling Procedure: A purposive sampling technique was employed in the selection of 50 respondents used for the study.

Method of Data Collection: Data for the study were collected using structured questionnaires and interview schedules.

Method of Data Analysis: Descriptive statistics, gross-margin analysis and profitability ratios were used in analyzing the data.

Results and Discussion: The result of the analysis showed that majority of the fish farmers (70%) were males and within the age range of 31 - 50 years. The result equally revealed that majority of the farmers (86%) had at least a National Diploma with about 5 -14 years fish farming experience. The result further indicated that cost of feed and fingerlings were the major cost component involved in catfish production. The gross margin analysis and profitability ratios revealed that catfish production is very profitable in the study area with a net income of about N576, 667 and a BCR of 1.6. The study however revealed that the high cost of farm inputs and poor credit facilities were the major constraints to catfish production in the area.

Recommendations: It was recommended that more fish feed producers be encouraged into the business to reduce the high cost of feed.
Comparative Study of Mineral and Phytochemical Analysis of Soil and Lactuca sativa Grown in the Vicinity of Cement Company of Northern Nigeria (Sokoto Cement) and Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto (Kwalkwalawa)
Authors: H. Dalhat M. , R. Amale A. , Maimuna M. , Bashiru I. , Sirajo K.
Published: July 2019

Environmental pollution is a major issue which confronts industry and business in today’s world on daily basis. Industrial activities are the leading cause of metals emission, often associated with soil and plant metal concentration in adjacent regions. Cement industry is one of the 17 most polluting industries listed by the central pollution control board (CPCB). Impact of dust deposition from Cement Company of Northern Nigeria on the proximate and phytochemical concentrations of lettuce (Lactuca sativa) was studied. A comparative study of heavy metal concentration and phytochemicals of Lactuca sativa and soil samples from Kalambaina (Industrial area) and Kwalkwalawa (non-Industrial area) were estimated using atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) and standard analytical procedures respectively. Result of quantitative phytochemical analysis revealed significant difference (P<0.05) in all parameters. Heavy metal values of Pb(0.012±0.002 mg/g), Zn(0.043±0.003 mg/g), and Ca(706.860±14.980 mg/g) in Lactuca sativa collected from Kalambaina revealed significant difference (P<0.05) when compare to samples collected from Kwalkwalawa and WHO standard. In addition, the heavy metal concentration in soil collected from Kalambaina showed significant difference (P<0.05) when compare to samples collected from Kwalkwalawa; with the highest value recorded in Ca (974.25±48 mg/g) which might be as a result of activities in the cement industry. Conclusively, plants grown at cement industries might not be safe for consumption
Effects of Ethanol Leaf and Fruit Extracts of Kigelia africana on Some Oxidative and Biochemical Parameters of Alloxan -Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: N. Uhuo E. , U. S. Ezeanyika L. , N. Ogugua V.
Published: July 2019

Hyperglycaemia, a characteristic feature of diabetics mellitus leads to decreased antioxidant defense and hence the development of oxidative stress, which is involved in the aetiology of development of diabetic complications. This work was therefore aimed at evaluating the anti diabetic and antioxidative potential of the plant. These evidences suggest that good glycemic control and/or use of antioxidants may play an important role in the prevention of complications associated with diabetes. Diabetes was induced with single Intra peritoneal injection of alloxan (160 mg/kg b.w) dissolved in freshly prepared citrate buffer (pH 4.5). Oral administration of Kingelia africana (500 mg/kg b.wt) of methanol leaves and fruits extracts resulted in significant (p>0.05) decrease in the blood glucose level, MDA, glycosylated haemoglobin, lipid profiles and  liver maker enzymes with corresponding increase in SOD activity, catalase activity, glutathione activity, serum protein concentration, and Vit.C concentration. In conclusion, K. africana possessed antioxidative properties evidenced by decrease blood glucose level and its effect on some oxidative parameters of diabetic rats.
Fatty Acids and Physicochemical Compositions of Dried and Roasted Blighia sapida Arils Oils (Ackee Apple) from Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Moya Felarry Hoba Armelle , Dogoré Digbeu Yolande , Binaté Siaka , Ahipo Dué Edmond , Patrice Kouamé Lucien
Published: July 2019

In this work, comparative study of physicochemical properties and fatty acids of dried arils (DA) oil and those roasted (RA), of Blighia sapida from Côte d’Ivoire have been done using usual methods.

The results showed that the crude fat obtained were 59.08± 0.02 g/100 g for dried arils (DA) and 60.51 ± 0.12 g/100 g for roasted arils (RA) respectively. Physicochemical properties of these oils were equal approximately, except level of saponification (241.19 mg KOH/g (DA) against 216.8 mg KOH/g (RA)); acid value (7 mg KOH/g (DA) and 6.28 mg KOH/g (RA)) and ester acid 234.19 mg KOH/g (DA) against 210.65 mg KOH/g (RA) where variances analysis showed that there was significant difference (p<0.05). On the other hand, refractive index, pH, moisture value, relative density and Free fatty acid were respectively; 1.465 (DA) and 1.475 (RA); 5.625 (DA) and 5.8 (RA); 1.757 (DA) and 1.9 (RA); 0.093 (DA) and 0.103 (RA), 3.52 mg KOH/g (DA) and 3.03 mg KOH/g (RA). The color of both oils was yellow.

Fatty acid profile of these arils oils revealed that values of DA and RA were equal approximately (variances analysis showed that there was no significant difference (p<0.05)). These arils oils contained high levels of unsaturated fatty acids, 64.10 % (DA) and 65.17 % (RA), especially linolenic acid 20.02 mg/100 g (DA) and 22.18 mg/100 g (RA); linoleic acid 15.37 mg/100 g (DA) and 16.83 mg/100 g (RA) and Oleic acid 12.76 mg/100 g (DA) and 13.21 mg/100 g(RA). The saturated fatty Acids, accounted for 35.90% (DA) and 34.83% (RA) were constituted by palmitic acid with 18.02 mg/100 g (DA) and 18.11(RA) which were higher values. The values of stearic acid were 7.1 mg/100 g (DA) and 7.9 mg/100 g (RA) and 1.85 mg/100 g (AD) and 1.9 mg/100 g (RA) mg/100 g for myristic acid respectively.

These results showed that the arils oils of Blighia sapida fruit from Côte d’Ivoire have highly nutritive fat content because rich in essentials fatty acids. These oils may be suitable for soap making and edible (margarine). The oils extracts exhibited good physicochemical properties and could be useful as edible oils and for industrial applications.
Alterations of Tumor Suppressor Genes Expression in Colorectal Cancer: Their Impact on Progression and Prediction of Patients Outcome
Authors: Swellam Menha , E. Mosa Tamer , Afify Mie , D. E. Abdelmaksoud Mohamed , R. Ezz El Arab Lobna
Published: July 2019

Background: Deregulation of tumor suppressor genes as APC, DCC and SMAD2 are related to tumorgenesis thus we aimed to investigate their expression among colorectal cancer to validate their relation with clinicopathological factors and the clinical outcome for CRC patients.

Materials and Methods: Formalin-fixed paraffin samples from 115 colorectal cancer were investigated for APC, DCC and SMAD2 gene expression using quantitative PCR (QPCR) and their levels were analyzed versus clinicopathological factors and the overall survival (OS) of colorectal cancer patients.

Results: A significant relation was reported between DCC and SMAD2 gene expression with clinical stages as they reported decrease expression among those with stage III. The three investigated genes were decreased significantly with poor histological differentiation colorectal cancer patients. The correlations between the expressions of the investigated genes revealed a significant correlation between SMAD2 and APC as well as between SMAD2 and DCC. Moreover patients with mean levels below and equal their expression values showed a considerable difference with OS.

Conclusion: Gene expression of tumor suppressor genes APC, DCC and SMAD2 were significantly related to differential grading and patient's outcome thus pointing out their potential role as predictive markers for prognosis of colorectal cancer.
Therapeutic Potential of Quercetin on Biochemical Deteriorations Induced by Copper Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: R. Youness Eman , F. Arafa Azza , F. Aly Hanan , EL-Meligy Emad
Published: July 2019

Objective: The current research is designed to evaluate copper oxide nanoparitcles (CuO NPs) toxicity on HCT116 in vitro as well as in vivo on liver paraoxanse 1 (PON1 ) activity and serum B-cell lymphoma -2 (BCl2) in rats.

Materials and Methods: The toxicological role of CuO-NPs on the liver was indicated through intraperitoneal injection of 3 and 50 mg/kg of CuO-NPs (size >20 nm) in female rats for 7 days. The effects of NPs were examined by demonstrating serum levels of antiapoptotic marker (BCl2) and antioxidant enzyme PON1 .Flavonoids quercetin (que) was administered orally to intoxicated rats at the dose of 200 mg/kg for 30 consecutive days.

Results: In vitro study showed 100% death of HCT116 cells up to 12.5 ug/ml. The current results declared obvious PON1 inhibition and BCl2 in CuO-NPs intoxicated rats. Also, the results of this study indicated that the two concentrations of copper nanoparticles induced toxicity, while attenuation in antioxidant status and antiapoptotic marker was detected upon treated intoxicated rats with que.

Conclusion: It is evident that these nanoparticles cannot be used for human purposes because of their toxicity caused by oxidative stress implicated in liver toxicity by CuO-NPs. This study also declared that que is an effective free radical scavenger and could consider a potential nutraceutical for liver toxicity.
Anti-snake Venom Activity of Aqueous and Ethanolic Extracts of Crinum jagus Bulb
Authors: H. Zailani A. , K. Magaji P. , Sarkiyayi S. , U. Wurochekke A.
Published: July 2019

Aim: To determine the anti-snake venom effect of crude aqueous and ethanolic extracts and separated fractions of Crinum jagus bulb on rats injected with Echis ocellatus venom.

Study Design: Evaluation of LD50 of venom, anti-lethal effects of different extract preparations and their effect on neutralising haemorrhage; the hallmark of Echis ocellatus venom toxicity.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Biochemistry laboratory, Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Yola, Nigeria between March and October 2017.

Methodology: venom was collected by the milking method. Fractionation of crude extracts was done by column chromatography separately with benzene/methanol, acetic acid/methanol and ethyl acetate/methanol. Thirty rats were used determine LD50 of venom while twenty-four albino rats were used in the anti-venom study; divided into 6 groups of 4 rats each. Group one served as the normal control, group two served as venom untreated control while groups 3, 4, 5 and 6 were injected with 0.2 mg/mL Echis ocellatus venom and treated with 200 mg/kg body weight crude extracts, fractions I, II and III respectively then observed for 24 hours. Results: LD50 of venom was found to be 5 mg/mL; column chromatography of crude extracts gave three fractions each designated I, II and III respectively. Phytochemical analysis of both crude aqueous and ethanolic extract of Crinum jagus bulb revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, steroids, tannins and phenolics. Only fraction III of both aqueous and ethanolic extract maintained all phytochemicals from the crude. Both extracts and their fractions were all able to neutralise the venom. For the aqueous extract, the crude extract and fraction III gave the best result while for the ethanolic extract, fractions II and III caused the best neutralisation.

Conclusion: Crinum jagus bulb has demonstrated significant anti-venom activity, this can be exploited for the development of new anti-snake venom drugs.
Prostaglandins and Thromboxane Status in Patients with Cardiovascular Diseases in Ekiti State, Nigeria
Authors: F. Asaolu M. , A. Sonuga A. , O. Ajiboye S.
Published: July 2019

Aims: Prostaglandins and Thromboxane A2 are prostanoids, with platelet aggregator and vasoconstrictor properties. This study was carried out to assess the prostaglandins and thromboxane status of patients with cardiovascular diseases in Ekiti State, Nigeria. 

Study Design: This is a comparative study.

Methodology: Two hundred patients with various cardiovascular diseases (Stroke, Ischemic heart disease, Hypertension, Hypertension with diabetes and Hypertension with Obesity) were recruited from Federal Teaching Hospital, Iddo Ekiti and Ekiti State Teaching Hospital, Ado Ekiti. Thirty subjects without cardiovascular diseases were used as a control. Their age range was between 30 and 90 years. Plasma prostaglandin, PGD-2, PGE-1 and thromboxane TXA2 were evaluated in all groups by the use of Enzyme-Linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The data obtained was subjected to student t-test and ANOVA. 

Results: The results showed a significant increase (P>0.05) in the plasma levels of prostaglandin  (PGD-2, PGE-1) and thromboxane A2 (TXA2) in all the cardiovascular groups when compared with the control. Plasma levels of TXA2 were found to be significantly higher (P>0.05) in stroke patients when compared with the other type of diseased cardiovascular patients.

Conclusion: This study shows that the assessment of plasma prostaglandin and thromboxane levels in cardiovascular disease could be an essential tool in the diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases.
An Experimental Model of Hepatic Steatosis to Detect Lipid Accumulation
Authors: Ammani Lawal Maryam , Elayeche Oko Gregory , Paul Okoi Emmanuel , Thi Kim Vo Khuyen , Samirah Isah Shuaib
Published: July 2019

Obesity is associated with an increased risk of metabolic syndromes such as type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, dyslipidaemia and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Obesity occurs as a result of an imbalance between food intake and energy expenditure leading to excessive accumulation of adipose tissue. NAFLD is the most common liver condition and related to the resistance of insulin. Insulin resistance is associated with an increased influx of lipid into the liver promoting accumulation of hepatic triglyceride. This study aims to develop an experimental model of hepatic steatosis with lipid over-accumulation. HepG2 cells were cultured for 24 hours in free fatty acid media (1:2 palmitic acid and oleic acid respectively). Intracellular lipid content and lipotoxicity were determined by oil red O staining followed by colorimetric detection. This experiment was accomplished by defining the experimental conditions of lipid exposure that leads to significant intracellular fat accumulation in the absence of lipotoxicity with 1 mM of free fatty acid media. As a result, oleic and palmitic acids could be over-accumulated in HepG2 cells. 1 mM free fatty acid media did not affect the cell integrity and did not cause lipotoxicity of the cells.
In vitro and In vivo Studies on Mulberry Extracts: Evaluation of Chemical and Anticancer Activities and Attenuation of Lead Toxicity
Authors: Ramis Eman S. , Hammoud Gihan M. , ElSawy Khaled M.
Published: July 2019

Lead (Pb) is one of the environmental pollutants. There has been a serious concern in the recent past regarding natural source for protection or curing from lead. The aim of the present study is evaluation and comparing of mulberry leaves and fruits extracts in protection from lead toxicity on the brain and testes of rats, as well as determination of their chemical activity and anticancer effect on hepatocarcinoma (HEPG2) and colon cancer cell line (HTC). Leaves extract showed higher results than fruits extract in total phenols, total flavonoids and antioxidant activities in both radical scavenging activity (DPPH) and ferric reducing power tests (FRAP). Leaves and fruits extracts exerts almost have the same killing effect on (HEPG2). Leaves extract has slight better killing power on (HTC) than fruits extract. In the experiment on rats; leaves showed more efficiency in a time dependent manner in ameliorating the harmful effect of lead on blood parameter like white and red blood cells, hemoglobin, cholesterol, triglycerides and glucose. Both leaves and fruits extracts have protective effect from injury induced by lead on tissues of rat testes, however, they showed little protective effect on brain tissue. In conclusion, mulberry leaves and fruits have considerable active compounds and antioxidant properties which are useful as anticancer agents. Moreover they showed protective effect against lead toxicity which induced anemia, metabolic disorder and tissue injury.
In vitro Potential of Aqueous Extracts of Plant Leaves to inhibit Pathogenic Fungi
Authors: Kator Liamngee , Hosea Zakki Yula
Published: July 2019

The in vitro potential of aqueous extracts of plant leaves to inhibit pathogenic fungi was carried out. The effect of leaf extract and concentration on growth inhibition of organism I (Aspergillus flavus) in vitro revealed that a concentration of 100g/mL, Moringa oleifera leaf extract (MLE) gave the highest growth inhibition of  (59.14) followed by Neem (Azadirachta indica) leaf extract (NLE) (49.70) and Bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina)  extract (BLE) (45.84) respectively while the least growth inhibition on organism 1 (Aspergillus flavus) was by MLE at concentration of 40 g/mL (30.11) followed by NLE at 60 g/mL (32.11) and BLE at 40 g/mL (40.13). On organism 2 (Penicillium waksmanii), MLE at a concentration of 100 g/mL gave the highest growth inhibition of (50.49) followed by NLE (49.01) and BLE (36.72) respectively while the least inhibition on growth of organism 2 in vitro was by BLE at concentration of 60 g/mL (16.05) followed by MLE (40.70) and NLE (40.70) at concentration of 80 g/mL respectively. On organism 3 (Botryodiplodia theobromae), MLE at  concentration of 100 g/mL gave the highest inhibition of growth (57.00) followed by NLE (52.71) and BLE (50.15) respectively while  the least inhibition on growth of organism 3 in vitro was by BLE at 40 g/mL (21.50) followed by MLE at 60 g/mL (31.06) and NLE at 40 g/mL (41.89). On organism 4 (Fusarium oxysporum), the highest growth inhibition was by MLE at 100g/mL (54.02) followed by NLE at 100 g/mL (49.62) and BLE at 100 g/mL (44.41) while MLE showed the least growth inhibition at 60 g/mL (24.04) followed by BLE at 40 g/mL  (26.60) and NLE at 40 g/mL (30.12). NLE showed the highest grand inhibitory effect of extract concentration on growth inhibition of organism 5 (Colletotrichum asianum) in vitro at 100 g/mL (53.68) followed by MLE at 100 g/mL (51.51) and BLE at 100 g/mL (40.94). The least inhibitory effect on the growth of organism 5 in vitro was by BLE at 80 g/mL (21.26) followed by NLE at 40 g/mL (22.25) and MLE at 40 g/mL (32.69). The controls ranged from 2.23 to 4.31 across all extract concentrations and fungal isolates. There were significant differences in growth inhibition between extract concentrations and their controls on all fungal isolates. The use of plant extracts provides alternative means for controlling plant pathogenic fungi.
Evaluation of Heavy Metals in Fish, Water and Sediment of the New Calabar River
Authors: Chikordi Amechi, Prince Aruchi , Owhonda Wegwu, Matthew , Ike Omeodu, Steve , Iniebiyo Felagha,
Published: July 2019

Aim: This study is aimed at determining the levels of some heavy metals in the water, sediment and fishes (Oreochromis niloticus, Periopthalmus koelreuteri, Micropogonias undulatus, Carassius auratus and Liza felcipinis) from new Calabar River located at Rumuolumeni Community in Obio/Akpor, Rivers State, Nigeria.

Study Design: Fish, water and sediment samples were selected collected and analyzed for Pb, Cd, Fe, Cr, Mn, Cu and Zn.

Methodology: The heavy metals concentration was determined by AAS. Health risk assessment of the samples was evaluated by Estimated daily intake (EDI), Toxic Hazard Quotient (THQ) and Carcinogenic Risk (CR).

Results: P. koelreuteri had the highest mean concentration of Pb (3.82±0.11 mg/Kg); C. auratus samples had the highest mean concentration of Cd (3.82±0.06 mg/Kg); P. koelreuteri had the highest mean concentration of Fe and Cr (189.87±0.04 mg/Kg and 4.75±0.02 mg/Kg respectively); M. undulatus had the highest mean concentration of Cu (3.14±0.05 mg/Kg); O. niloticus had the highest mean concentration of Zn and Mn (38.48±0.02 mg/Kg and 17.25±0.02 mg/Kg respectively). Heavy metals concentration was significantly low (P=.05) when compared with the experimental groups. The sediment samples showed the following trends in concentration (mg/Kg): Fe>Mn>Zn>Cr>Cu>Pb>Cd. Water samples had very low levels of Pb, Cd, Cu and Cr (<0.001 mg/Kg)  except Fe (8.68±0.01 mg/Kg), Zn (0.10±0.02 mg/Kg) and Mn 0.11±0.00 mg/Kg. Health risk assessment of the metals in the samples analyzed indicates that the EDI of all the metals were within permissible limits, THQ for all the metals analyzed (especially Pb and Cd) indicates a potential deleterious effect on humans who depend of these aquatic organisms for their protein sources while only Cr has CR values above permissible limits.

Conclusion: Therefore the heavy metal levels of edible aquatic species within this area should be continuously monitored to ensure the safety of consumers of such organisms.
Effect of Ethanol Extract of Cucurbita pepo Leaves on the Lipid Profile of Wistar Albino Rats
Authors: Eneh F. U. , Ugochukwu G. C. , Okoye C. M.
Published: July 2019

Aim: The role of nutrition in lipid metabolism continues to generate a lot of research interest, especially as dyslipidaemia is implicated in a host of diseases. The work investigated the effect of ethanol extract of  Curcubita pepo leaves on the lipid profile of Wister rats.

Methodology: A total of 18 rats divided into three groups of 6 rats each were employed in the investigation. The first group (baseline) was sacrificed after purchase; second group (control) was fed rat chow, and the third group (test) was fed a composite feed containing rat chow and 10% extract of C. pepo leaves. 

Results: The lipid profile (total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, HDL and VLDL) of the rats was assayed after 18 days of feeding and the result showed no significant difference (P>0.05) between the test group and control for the lipids assayed. However, there was a marked increase in the HDL level of the test group (0.500±0.057 mmol/L) compared to the control (0.268±0.043 mmol/L), it was nonetheless statistically non-significant (P=0.068).  The HDL increasing effect observed may stem from the rich phytochemistry of the leaves, as preliminary phytochemical investigation showed the leaves to contain saponin, tannin, alkaloids, flavonoids and glycosides.

Conclusion: We conclude that the leaves of C. pepo may play a medicinal role in maintaining lipid homeostasis.
Antifungal Potentials of Acacia nilotica, Ziziphus jujube Linn and Lawsonia inermis
Authors: Abubakar A. L. , Dandare A. , Magaji U. F. , Abubakar I. H. , Yerima M. , Wasagu R. S. U.
Published: July 2019

Background: The increasing emergence of resistance to conventional antimicrobial drugs and the complicity of their usage is a serious challenge in Nigeria. In our previous report, it was demonstrated that methanol leaves extracts of Acacia nilotica, Ziziphus jujube Linn and Lawsonia inermis exhibited antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas flourecense, Streptococcus and Staphylococcus aureus.

Methodology: In this study, agar well diffusion method was employed to assess the antifungal potency of these plant extracts and were tested against Aspergillus flavus, Trichophyton rubrum and Candida albicans.

Results: Exclusive of L. inermis extract against T. rubrum at 100 mg/ml (zone of inhibition 34.33±1.89 mm). 100 mg/mL of all the extracts investigated have significantly lower (P<0.05) antifungal activity when compared to standard antifungal drug (Nystatin, 100 mg/ml). The activity of L. inermis against A. flavus was comparatively similar (P>0.05) to the control drug, but significantly higher (P<0.05) against both T. rubrum and C. albicans at 150 mg/ml. Conversely, the antifungal activity of A. nilotica extract against T. rubrum and C. albicans significantly surpass (P<0.05) that of the control drug, while Z. jujube Linn extract activity against C. albicans was comparatively similar (P>0.05) to it, but significantly higher (P<0.05) against T. rubrum. A dose dependent antifungal activity of the plants was observed, and L. inermis extract was the most potent antifungal agent with an MIC and MCF values of 5 mg/ml.

Conclusion: This study reveals that L. inermis leaves extract could be used as a sources of potential antifungal agents.
Electrolyte Concentrations in Apparently Healthy Individuals after Consumption of Aqueous Extract of Jatropha tanjorensis
Authors: Kalio Ibiene Sarah , Ezinne Okorie Akuegbo
Published: July 2019

Jatropha tanjorensis is a herbaceous plant used locally for the treatment of diabetes, inflammation, and stomach ache in Nigeria. Longtime effect of Jatropha tanjorensis on electrolyte concentrations in the body is yet to be determined. This study was conducted to determine electrolyte concentrations in healthy individuals after consumption of aqueous extract of Jatropha tanjorensis. Seven (7) healthy individuals aged between 23-26 years, weighing 44-75 kg were recruited for the study. Blood samples were collected before the commencement of the study as control samples while test samples were collected on the 7th and 14th day of consumption of 7.8 g/175 ml of Jatropha tanjorensis daily for 14 days. The electrolyte was estimated using an ion selective electrode. The result showed that sodium (p<0.05), potassium (p<0.05), chloride (p<0.05), bicarbonate (p<0.05) and Anion gap (p<0.05) were significantly lower after 7 days of consumption of aqueous extract of Jatropha tanjorensis when compared to results before consumption of the extract. However, after 14 days of consumption of Jatropha tanjorensis aqueous extract, sodium and bicarbonate were lower (p<0.05) when compared to the values before consumption. The results suggest that Jatropha tanjorensis aqueous extract predispose consumers to electrolyte imbalance and metabolic acidosis.
Biochemical Alterations in the Liver and Kidney of Rats Following Sub-acute Administration of Aqueous Extract of Stem-bark of Anacardium occidentale (Cashew Tree)
Authors: Famurewa Ademola C. , Showunmi Funmilayo , Folawiyo Abiola M. , Epete Michael , Okike Paul I. , C. Onuoha Maxwell
Published: July 2019

Background: The use of herbal medicines for treating ailments is rampant in recent years, and the toxicity implications of various plant preparations are sparingly reported. We investigated the potential effect of daily administration of aqueous extract of stem-bark of cashew tree on the liver and kidney status of rats.

Methods: Rats were divided into 4 groups as follows: control rats received 1 mL of distilled water, G1 received 100 mg/kg, G2 received 200 mg/kg, while G3 received 400 mg/kg body weight of the extract for 28 consecutive days. The tissue homogenate supernatants were analysed for liver enzymes-alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) and kidney function indices- urea and creatinine.

Results: In comparison to control, total protein increased significantly (P< 0.05) at 400 mg/kg extract, whereas albumin level significantly decreased (P<0.05) in rats treated with extract. .Activities of AST, ALP and GGT increased markedly (P< 0.05) at 400 mg/kg, whereas a significant decrease was observed in bilirubin level when compared with the control. Levels of urea and creatinine in kidney tissue were significantly higher in extract-treated rats compared to control.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that the extract dose at 400 mg/kg may cause alterations with toxic implications in the liver and kidney of rats.
Separation and Optimisation of a Sucrose Density Gradient Centrifugation Protocol for Isolation of Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMC)
Authors: Nagaraj Sudeep , Nivargi Shubha , Nanjappa Leelavathy , Venkataravanappa Jagadish Tavarekere
Published: July 2019

One step centrifugation procedure used commonly for separation of blood cells is the ficoll gradient centrifugation. In this method, after centrifugation, the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) are located on the top of the separation fluid, whereas other blood cells erythrocytes and granulocytes sediment to the bottom. In the present study 75% of lymphocyte suspension could be separated by using a one-step density gradient centrifugation of sodium heparin blood with Sucrose. Sucrose was diluted into different concentrations using miliQ water (10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%,70%, 80%, 90%, 100%,). 4 mL of diluted blood was layered on 4 mL of each sucrose solution and centrifuged for 45 minutes at 1000 rpm. Clear separation of PBMCs could be observed in solution with 40% sucrose. The separated PBMCs were analysed in haeme analyser which showed 75% lymphocytes, 23% monocytes and 2% of other cells.
Phytochemical Screening and in vitro Antioxidant Properties of Methanol and Aqueous Leaf Extracts of Geophila obvallata
Authors: Osafanme Iserhienrhien Lucky , Ngozi Okolie Paulinus
Published: July 2019

Aim: This study investigated the phytochemical constituents and in vitro antioxidant properties of methanol and aqueous leaf extracts of Geophila obvallata using standard methods.

Materials and Methods: The in vitro antioxidant assays carried out were 1, 1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging ability, Nitric oxide (NO•) radical scavenging activity assay, 2, 2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS•+) radical cation scavenging assay, ferric reducing properties and hydroxyl radical scavenging assays.

Results: Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, steroids, saponins, terpernoids and cardiac glycosides in both extracts. Relative to the aqueous extract, the methanol extract contained a higher amount of the secondary metabolites. However, both extracts exhibited appreciable and dose-dependent capacities for quenching DPPH, ABTS•+ and NO• free radicals, and potent ferric reducing ability to levels comparable to those of ascorbic acid. The crude methanol extract showed significantly increased (P<0.05) antioxidant activity than the aqueous extract.

Conclusion: It was concluded that the extract possesses strong antioxidant properties due to its content of phytochemicals, and provides scientific basis for its ethno medicinal applications.
Role of Azolla Pinnata Biofertilizer Extract in Producing Healthy Tomatoes
Authors: Hanafy Ashraf , El-Emary Gehan, A. E.
Published: July 2019

Well-known commercial Tomato seeds (Alisa) were obtained from a famous local store. All seeds were grouped into 7 groups (5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, and Control), which were equivalent to different Azolla biofertilizers extract. Seeds of each group were left immersed in the equivalent concentration 24 hours before sown in pots with growing media of 1 peat: 1Vermeculite at the beginning of summer season (First week of May). At the time of transplantation to the field, three pots of each group were used for seed germination test; Seeds were transplanted into the field after 6 weeks. After three days of transplantation, control solution (without Azolla biofertilizer) and different Azolla biofertilizers were foliar applied, the process was repeated every 15 days till 45 days after transplanting. Randomized Complete Block Design with three replicates was adapted. Each block consisted of two rows of 1.5m in wide and 5 m long (15 m2/plot), plant spacing was 50 cm, and each replicate has 20 plants. The suggested development approaches for the summer season were conducted all through the developing season. Vegetative growth of the tomatoes was expressed as plant height, plant length, branch flower clusters, and fruits were estimated in five plants/plot after 50 days from the date of transplanting. Tomatoes of control group and Tomatoes that showed a strong vegetative growth were used for feeding Winstar rats. All Biochemical parameters showed a highly significant difference compared to the control group.
Analysis of DNA Damage Biomarkers in Human Leukocytes by PAHs Exposure
Authors: Uribe-Hernández R. , Vega-Barrita M. L. , Uribe-Vega E. , Ramón-Gallegos E.
Published: July 2019

Aims: To study the potential genotoxicity of two polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), exposed cultured human leukocytes in vitro using two types of biomarkers genotoxicity: DNA strand breaks (DNA-SB) and adduct formation (DNA-PAHs).

Study Design: Human leukocytes were exposed to toxic cultures with different concentrations of anthracene (ANT), phenanthrene (PHE) and benzo(a)pyrene (B(a)P) for 24 hours. Four toxic test groups, PAHs, control group, analytic blank group and standard fluorescence group were considered.  

Place and Duration of Study: Laboratorio de Citopatología Ambiental, of Departamento de Morfología at Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, IPN; between february 2016 and july 2018.

Methodology: Human leukocytes cells were isolated and cell viability was previously verified by Trypan dye exclusion test. Firstly, the lethal concentrations with neutral red (NR50) assay for each one PAHs was obtained. Then sublethal concentrations range of these toxics for both biomarkers were used. In case of DNA fragmentation, a fluorochrome was used to mark DNA strandbreaks and isolation with alkaline solution finally determined with fluorescence spectroscopy. To test the formation of DNA-PAHs adducts, first of all they were isolated with a solvent system with polarity gradient and finally determined with fluorescence spectroscopy.

Results: PAHs with 3 aromatic rings showed lethal cytotoxicity, lower in case of the B(a)P with 5 aromatic rings. These results are in contrast with previously reported observations, in which non-adduct with DNA  and DNA strandbreaks formation were detected with Anthracene and Phenanthrene while DNA adduction formation and DNA strandbreaks were produced in case of B(a)P.

Conclusion: Biomarkers may be used as suitable discriminants of genotoxic agents as well as of environmental pollutants with genotoxic potential and for application in studies of environmental risk assessment and in hazardous waste evaluation. The application of both genotoxic biomarkers, DNA strand breaks and production of adducts DNA-PAHs, as genotoxicity assays are quickly and accurate techniques for determining the carcinogenic potential of environmental samples.
Effect of Tramadol on Sperm Profile of Male Albino Rats
Authors: Esua I. S. , Uno U. U. , Ekaluo U. B.
Published: July 2019

Background and Aim: Tramadol is a potent analgesic effective in the treatment of mild to severe pains. However, the use of the drug can pose a threat to other organs and systems. Therefore, this study evaluated the effect of graded doses of tramadol on sperm profile of male albino rats.

Materials and Methods: Eighteen male rats were divided into three groups (A, B and C) using completely randomized design (CRD) with six rats in each group. Rats in group A served as the control group and were given just food and water while groups B and C were given tramadol at 50 and 100 mg/kg body weight (BW) respectively, daily for the period of 65 days. The treatment was administered via oral gavage and at the end of the treatments, the rats were sacrificed. Immediately after sacrifice, a puncture was made in the epididymis with a sterile pin and examined for semen pH. The epididymes were processed for epididymal sperm motility, viability, count and sperm head abnormality.

Results: There was no significant difference in the weight of testes and semen pH. Sperm viability, sperm motility, sperm count and weight of epididymes significantly reduced (p<0.05) in tramadol treated animals when compared with the control. Results also indicated statistically significant (p<0.05) increase in sperm head abnormalities in rats treated with tramadol when compared with the control.

Conclusion: The results obtained from this study reveal that tramadol has negative effects on weight of epididymes, sperm count, sperm viability, sperm motility and sperm head abnormalities in male albino rat as mammalian models in a dose dependent manner.