bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Meat Yield and the Length–Weight Relationships of the Narrow‐Clawed Crayfish, Pontastacus leptodactylus (Eschscholtz, 1823)
Authors: Boyalık Fatih , Berber Selçuk , Kale Semih
Published: November 2023

The present study investigated the length-weight relationships and meat yield of narrow-clawed crayfish, Pontastacus leptodactylus (Eschscholtz, 1823), in Kocahıdır Irrigation Reservoir. Between July 2015 and June 2016, a total of 653 individuals (255 females and 398 males) were sampled, and their carapace lengths (CL), total lengths (TL), and total weights (TW) were measured. The female-to-male ratio for the entire population was found to be 0.64:1.00. The results showed that the CL of the narrow-clawed crayfish ranged between 37 and 90 mm (39-79 mm for females and 37-90 mm for males), while the TW ranged from 10.10 to 165.61 g (11.13-90.01 g for females and 10.16-165.61 g for males). The TL of female individuals was 114.09 mm, with a weight of 40.43 g, while the TL of male individuals was 116.32 mm, with a weight of 53.45 g. The ratio of individuals above the minimum legal-size limit of 100 mm was determined to be 80.70% for the crayfish population in Kocahıdır Irrigation Reservoir. Regression analysis indicated that the TL-TW and CL-TW relationships for female narrow-clawed crayfish exhibited negative allometric growth, while males showed positive allometric growth in terms of the TL-TW relationship and isometric growth in terms of the CL-TW relationship. Isometric growth was observed in the whole population for both male and female individuals in terms of TL-TW and CL-TW characteristics. Female individuals with carapace lengths ranging from 43-82 mm had a chelae meat yield of 2.48%, an abdomen meat yield of 11.38%, and a total meat yield of 13.85%. Male narrow-clawed crayfish with carapace lengths ranging from 35 to 90 mm had a chelae shear meat yield of 4.13%, an abdomen meat yield of 10.52%, and a total meat yield of 14.64%.
Effect of Polymerization Variables on the Electrical Conductivity of Polyaniline Functionalized Cotton Textiles
Authors: TEKLU Tesfamariam
Published: November 2023

Polyaniline functionalized cotton textiles were synthesized via in situ oxidative polymerization of aniline using hydrated ferric chloride solution in acidic media. Variation in conductivity was examined against polymerization variables such as amount of aniline, oxidant, reaction media, and time. Effects of polyaniline functionalization on the structural features of cotton textiles at optimum polymerization conditions were screened by FT-IR, TGA, and SEM instruments. FT-IR profiles at 1440 cm-1 and 1560 cm-1 proved the existence of benzoid and quinoid rings within the cotton structure, which confirmed the introduction of polyaniline in its conductive form, emeraldine salt. Thermal studies revealed the existence of polyaniline, which further enhanced the thermal stability of cotton textiles. SEM microstructure also proved the formation of nonuniform surfaces with a considerable amount of debris, buds, and channels due to the inclusion of polyaniline. Polyaniline functionalization has shown substantial enhancement of electrical conductivity by changing insulating cotton to semiconductor. At optimum polymerization variables ([aniline] = 1 M, [oxidant] = 1 M, [acid] = 0.5 M, and time = 24 hrs), maximum conductivity was registered at 7.63 X 10-3 S/cm, which is equivalent to the conductivity of semiconductor materials.
Awareness of cybercrime among online banking users in Nigeria
Authors: Garba J. , Kaur J. , Ibrahim E. Nuraihan Mior
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to investigate the awareness of cybercrime among online banking users in Nigeria and provide quantitative data on  various aspects related to cybersecurity awareness. A comprehensive survey was conducted among 283 online banking users in Nigeria  to gather data. The data were analyzed to identify trends and patterns in cybersecurity awareness among Nigerian online banking users.  The study revealed that 82.0% of the respondents were aware of cybercrime, indicating a high level of awareness among Nigerian online  banking users. Social media (37.5%) and friends (16.0%) were identified as the primary sources of knowledge about cybercrime. The  majority of respondents employed multi-factor authentication methods, such as login + password + biometric, to secure their online  banking accounts. However, there was room for improvement in password preferences, as some respondents still used simple  passwords. The most used features of online banking were transferring money between accounts (42.4%), checking account balances (26.5%), and paying bills (11.0%). This study contributes new insights to the existing body of knowledge by providing a comprehensive  analysis of cybersecurity awareness among Nigerian online banking users. It emphasizes the evolving landscape of cybercrime  awareness, the influence of digital platforms in disseminating information, and the importance of targeted awareness campaigns and  improved security measures.
Development of a multigeneration system with integrated hydrogen production: A typical analysis
Authors: Frank E. , Effiom S.O.
Published: November 2023

Rise in demand for energy and emission from fossil fuels has become a thing of concern to researchers and Engineers. It is one thing to  provide the energy needed by the society, and another to produce a clean and eco-friendly power supply. In this study, a thermodynamic  and economic modelling of a solar-driven multigeneration power plant (MGPP) integrated with a PEM Electrolyzer for hydrogen  production is examined. The performance indicators considered include energy and exergy efficiencies, net work, energetic and exergetic  COP, cooling rate. Results of the thermodynamic analysis show that the energy and exergy efficiencies excluding the fuel cell  was 28.57% and 34.79% respectively; when the fuel cell was incorporated, the energy and exergy efficiencies were respectively 24.45%  and 34.63%. The energetic and exegetic COP was 0.609 and 0.281 respectively. Additionally, net work, cooling rate, and hydrogen production were respectively 52.75kW, 86.83kW, and 0.0114kg/s. The economic analysis indicates a unit cost of electricity (UCOE) at  $0.025/kWh, a life cycle cost of $0.1097 and a payback period of 4years was achieved. The developed multigeneration system is  technically and economically viable with net zero CO2 emissions. It can also serve as an alternative option to fossil-powered plants and   sectors with less energy demand.
Effect of 20-hydroxyecdysone and its metabolites in the absence or presence of IGF-1 on regulation of skeletal muscle cell growth
Authors: Suhatcho Kanokwan , Yingyongnarongkul Boon-ek , Kumpun Saowanee , Srikuea Ratchakrit
Published: November 2023

Purpose: To investigate the effect of 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) and its metabolites and their synergistic effect with IGF-1 on regulation of skeletal muscle cell growth.

Methods: Mouse skeletal muscle cell line (C2C12) was solely treated with 20E and its metabolites (14- deoxy- 20-hydroxyecdysone, poststerone, and 14-deoxypoststerone) at doses of 0.1, 1, and 10 µM or co-treated with IGF-1 (10 ng/ml). Cell  viability and proliferative capacity were evaluated using MTT and BrdU incorporation assays, respectively. Myogenic differentiation  proteins [embryonic myosin heavy chain (EbMHC) and MHC], androgen receptor (AR), and IGF-1 receptor (IGF-1R) protein expression were investigated using immunocytochemistry.

Results: Treatments of 20E and its metabolites had no toxicity on skeletal muscle cells or  induced AR/IGF-1R expression. In addition, solely treatment of 20E and its metabolites or co-treatment with IGF-1 had no significant  effect on cell proliferation and myogenic differentiation capacity. In contrast, IGF-1 treatment alone significantly increased EbMHC  expression (p<0.0001), MHC expression (p<0.05), and myotube number (p<0.05).

Conclusion: These results indicate that 20E and its  metabolites have no direct or synergistic effect with IGF-1 on skeletal muscle cell growth. Nevertheless, the pharmacological effects of  20E on skeletal muscle mass and strength in vivo that raises its therapeutic potential may associate with its indirect action.
Ozone exposure induces cough hypersensitivity in mice
Authors: Li Tinglei , Zhang Shu , Liu Xuemei , Xin Tianyuan , Chen Yu , Chen Zhe
Published: November 2023

Purpose: To study the influence of O3 exposure on cough sensitivity, airway barrier function and airway inflammation in mice.

Methods: Cough sensitivity was determined in healthy male C57/BL6 mice (aged 8 - 10 weeks) which were exposed to different  concentrations of O3 (0.5 - 2 ppm) for 3 h daily for 9 days. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining of lung tissues, collection of BALF, and  cell count were carried out. Inflammatory factor levels in pulmonary tissues were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay  (ELISA), while Western blotting was used to assay TRPA1 and Claudin-1 protein expressions in lung tissues.

Results: After 9 days of mice  exposure to O3, cough sensitivity increased significantly, and TRPA1 protein was increased in pulmonary tissues, with exposure level of 1  ppm resulting in the highest level of TRPA1 protein expression. Claudin-1 expression in lung tissues of mice decreased after O3 exposure,  especially in the groups exposed to O3 levels of 0.5 ppm and 2 ppm. The total cell count in alveolar lavage fluid of mice exposed to O3  was significantly increased (p < 0.05). In addition, O3 exposure increased IL-1α, IL-6 and TNF-α levels, with the most significant increase in  the 0.5 ppm group (p < 0.05). Results from histology revealed that all mice had inflammatory reactions and destruction of lung tissues  after O3 exposure.

Conclusion: Exposure to O3 induces disruption of airway barrier function, infiltration of the airway by inflammatory  cells, and increased secretion of inflammatory factors, thereby resulting in enhanced cough sensitivity.
Safety and efficacy of salvianolate injection in preventing deep vein thrombosis after total hip replacement
Authors: Liu Xiaoning , Ju Yang , Yin Xiaoyong , Yang Hui , Han Shoujiang , Kong Deming , Zhao Hongbo
Published: November 2023

Purpose: To investigate the safety and efficacy of salvianolate injection in preventing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) following total hip replacement.

Methods: A total of 114 patients who underwent total hip replacement at Department of Trauma, Fengfeng General Hospital of North  China Medical and Health Group, Handan City, China from March 2019 to March 2022 were enrolled. Patients were randomly divided into  study group (n = 57) and control group (n = 57). The control group received conventional treatment (low molecular weight heparin) while the study group was administered salvianolate injection combined with conventional treatment. Incidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)  at 7 and 14 days after surgery, platelet function indices, including platelet count, glycoprotein Ⅱb/Ⅲa (GPⅡb/Ⅲa), and CD62P, coagulation  function indices (prothrombin time (PT), fibrinogen (FIB) and D-dimer), and hemodynamics indices, viz, peak blood flow velocity (Vp) and  average velocity (Va) were investigated and compared.

Results: Incidence of DVT was 1.75 % (1/57) at 7 days and 5.26 % (3/57) at 14 days  in the study group, and 5.26 % (3/57) at 7 days and 17.54 % (10/57) at 14 days in control group. Incidence of DVT in the study group was  significantly reduced compared to control group 14 days after surgery (p < 0.05). Also, the study group had significantly lower visual  analog scale (VAS) scores at 7 days and 1 month after surgery compared to control group (p < 0.05). Platelet count, GPⅡb/Ⅲa, and CD62P  in the study group were significantly lower than in control group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Salvianolate injection significantly prevents DVT  after total hip replacement, improves hemodynamics, and coagulation function, and thus contributes to recovery of hip function. Further clinical trials are, however, required to validate these findings.
Preliminary study on the relationship between recurrence and quasispecies characteristics in P region of hepatitis B virus genome of chronic hepatitis B patients treated with lamivudine
Authors: Wang Baojian , Hu Bobin , Jiang Jianning , Su Minghua , Wu Xiaoli , Zhong Shaohua , Liang Yanxiu , Li Shihua , Xie Rong
Published: November 2023

Purpose: To investigate the characteristics of quasispecies in the P region of hepatitis B viral (HBV) DNA of chronic hepatitis B (CHB)  patients treated with lamivudine (LAM), and its effect on HBV relapse after drug withdrawal in CHB patients who met drug cessation  criteria.

Methods: A total of 43 patients with chronic HBV infection, who had undergone LAM therapy, were enrolled in this study. Treatment was  discontinued for patients who met therapeutic criteria set by relevant Asian-Pacific regions. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to  amplify the genome in P region of serum rcDNA before treatment, cccDNA during drug cessation period, and serum rcDNA at relapse.  Quasispecies cloning and sequencing were performed to identify variable sites in HBV P region.

Results: Mutations in P region of  baseline serum rcDNA were detected in 30 CHB patients, with N/H238T (14/30), L/F/Q/R267H (12/30), V278T (12/30), D134E/I (11/30), and  T222A (9/30) having highest rates. In hepatocellular cccDNA P region during drug withdrawal, most detectable mutations were  L/F/Q/R267H (25/43), V278T (18/43), N/H238T (15/43), D134E/I (14/43), and T222A (11/43). During relapse, the highest detectable  mutation rates in serum rcDNA P region were N/H238T (12/19), L/F/Q/R267H (10/19), T222A (10/19), and V278T (8/19).

Conclusion: High  mutation rates of T222A and N/H238T in P region of HBV DNA increase the risk of relapse in patients. As a result, patients are susceptible  to relapse after drug withdrawal.
Effect of dexmedetomidine on convalescence quality after general anesthesia and postoperative delirium, and on cognitive function in elderly patients undergoing lower limb surgery
Authors: Wei Wenbo , Guo Lele
Published: November 2023

Purpose: To investigate the effect of different doses of dexmedetomidine on the quality of postoperative recovery, incidence of  postoperative delirium, and cognitive function in elderly patients undergoing lower limb surgery.

Methods: A total of 112 patients who received treatment in the Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia  Medical University, Hothot, China from January 2021 to January 2023 were divided into 3 groups, consisting of low-dose group (35  patients received 0.2 mg/kg), medium-dose group (39 patients received 0.4 mg/kg), and high-dose group (38 patients received 0.6  mg/kg). Parameters including, convalescence quality of general anesthesia, incidence of postoperative delirium, adverse reactions, Mini- mental State Examination (MMSE) scores, sedation effect (Ramsay), analgesia effect (visual analogue scale (VAS)), and stress indices, viz,  norepinephrine (NE), epinephrine (E), and cortisol (COR) levels), were evaluated and compared.

Results: There was no significant  difference in tracheal extubation time, recovery time of spontaneous breathing, calling eye-opening time, or full awakening time among  the three groups (p > 0.05). However, MMSE score was significantly higher in low-dose group on days 1 and 3 after surgery (p < 0.05) and VAS scores were significantly higher in low-dose group at 12 and 24 h after recovery compared to other groups (p < 0.05). Ramsay score  was significantly higher in high-dose group (p < 0.05). Levels of NE, E, and COR were significantly lower in medium-dose group compared  to other groups (p < 0.05). Incidence of adverse reactions were significantly lower in low and medium-dose groups compared to high- dose group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Medium-dose dexmedetomidine demonstrates favorable sedative and analgesic effects with minimal  impact on cognitive function and stress response in elderly patients undergoing lower limb surgery. Furthermore, it does not affect  quality of postoperative recovery nor incidence of postoperative delirium. More large-scale, randomized controlled studies are needed to  confirm these results.
Effect of sodium zirconium cyclosilicate in combination with insulin and glucose infusion on hyperkalemia treatment
Authors: Wu Xuansheng , Yue Li , Yin Na , Dai Feng , He Fang
Published: November 2023

Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy of sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (SZC) in combination with insulinand glucose infusion in managing hyperkalemia.

Methods: A total of 126 patients, who were admitted with hyperkalemia (≥ 5 mmol/L) to the Yongchuan District Hospital of Traditional  Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China from January 2021 to December 2022, were retrospectively studied. Participants were divided into  three groups based on different potassium-lowering regimens, viz, SZC group (40 patients), insulin with glucose (IG) group (38 patients) and SZC + IG group (48 patients). Changes in potassium levels, other serum electrolytes (magnesium, sodium, phosphate, calcium),  alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and albumin before and after treatment were recorded. Adverse reactions during treatment were also  recorded.

Results: Post-treatment, the potassium levels in all three groups exhibited a significant reduction when compared to pre- treatment values (p < 0.05). The SZC + IG group showed the highest efficacy, with a significant reduction in blood potassium levels  observed 4 h after administration, which was more pronounced compared to other groups. The SZC + IG group, maintained potassium  ion concentration at a normal level for a longer duration and no serious adverse reactions were observed during treatment.

Conclusion:  Intervention with SZC + IG lowers blood potassium levels, maintains it within normal range, and is more effective than the individual use  of SZC or IG. A combination of sodium zirconium cyclosilicate, insulin and glucose infusion for treating hyperkalemia will need to be  investigated further in a large-scale multicenter study.
Hederagenin inhibits proliferation, angiogenesis and inflammation of fibroblast-like synovial cells in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Wang Ping , Yang Junli , Zhang Xiaomeng
Published: November 2023

Purpose: To determine the effect of Hederagenin (Hed) on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in a cell model, and to elucidate the mechanism of action of Hed.

Methods: MTT, EDU, and Immunoblot assays were used to determine the effects of Hed on the viability of fibroblast-like synovial cells,  while the effects of Hed on inflammation were examined by enzymelinked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and immunoblot assay. The  influence of Hed on cell motility angiogenesis was evaluated by Transwell and tube formation assays, while immunoblot analysis was used to determine the mechanism of action of Hed.

Results: Hed inhibited the viability of RA-FLS cells and suppressed the inflammation  of RA-FLS cells (p < 0.05). Furthermore, Hed suppressed the migration and angiogenesis of RA-FLSl cells, as well as regulated MAPK  pathway (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Hed inhibits the proliferation, angiogenesis and inflammation of fibroblast-like synovial cells in RA by  regulating MAPK pathway. Therefore, Hed is a drug for the treatment of RA, However, in vivo studies to validate these findings are  recommended
Effect of miR-138 on migration and invasion of cervical cancer cells, and the underlying mechanism
Authors: Li Yanxi , Peng Jun , Huang Yong , Man Yichun , Li Yaqi , Chen Ping , Peng Erqing
Published: November 2023

Purpose: To study the influence of microRNA-138 (miR-138) on the migration and invasion of cervical cancer cells, and the underlying mechanism.

Methods: Fifteen cervical carcinoma subjects were enrolled in the study. Control group comprised cervical epithelial cell line (End1/E6E7)  while cervical cancer group was human cervical squamous cell carcinoma cell line c33a. Both were cultured routinely without any  treatment. In miR-138 overexpression group, cells were cultured in progeny of human cervical squamous carcinoma cell line c33a  infected with miR-138 gene overexpression lentivirus. Expression levels of miR-138 in excised cervical cancer tissues were determined  using qPCR. Cell proliferation was determined with CCK8 assay. Immunoblotting was utilized to assay protein expression levels.  Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to determine mRNA expression levels, while cell migration and  invasion were assessed by Transwell method.

Results: There was significant down-regulation of miR-138 expression in cervical cancer  tissue, relative to nearby tissues (p < 0.05). In miR-138 overexpression group, cell proliferation, number of migrated and invaded cells  were significantly reduced, relative to corresponding levels in cervical cancer cells. There were significantly higher expression levels of  apoptosis-related proteins FAS, Bax and FasL in miR-138 overexpression group than in cervical cancer cells, while Bcl-2 was significantly  downregulated, relative to cervical cancer group (p < 0.05). In cervical cancer cells, mRNA and protein levels of SIRT1 and HIF-1α were  significantly up-regulated, relative to corresponding control, but levels of HIF1α and miR-138 were significantly reduced in overexpression  group when compared to cervical cancer group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Up-regulating miR-138 in cervical cancer cells  reduces HIF-1α through inhibition of SIRT1 signaling, resulting in suppression of multiplication, migration and invasion of cervical cancer  cells, while enhancing apoptotic changes.
Tectorigenin functions as a potential drug for melanoma treatment via inhibition of cell growth, migration and aerobic glycolysis
Authors: Yan Qiao , Wang Fei
Published: November 2023

Purpose: To investigate the role of tectorigenin (TG) in melanoma cells.

Methods: Viability of A375 and A2058 melanoma cells was determined by cell counting kit (CCK-8) assay. Cell cycle progression was  analyzed by 5-ethynyl-2’-deoxyuridine (EdU) staining. Migration and invasion of melanoma cells were determined by Transwell assay. The  epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of melanoma cells was investigated by determining expression of E-Cadherin and Snail. Expression of glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) and lactose dehydrogenase A (LDHA) was assessed via western blotting. Glucose and lactate  production was evaluated by corresponding assay kit. The NOX4 and FOXM1 expressions were determined using western blotting.            

Results: Tectorigenin inhibited proliferation, migration and invasion of A375 and A2058 melanoma cells. Tectorigenin regulated cell cycle  progression by decreasing the number of cells in S-phase and significantly inhibited snail expression and increased expression of  E-Cadherin (p < 0.05), thus inhibiting the EMT of A375 and A2058 cells. Tectorigenin inhibited expression of GLUT1 and LDHA, thereby leading to reduction in glucose consumption and lactate production. It also significantly inhibited expressions of NOX4 and FOXM1 (p <  0.05), indicating an inhibitory effect on the activity of NOX4/FOXM1 pathway.

Conclusion: Tectorigenin inhibits aerobic glycolysis, growth  and migration in melanoma cells by suppressing the activity of NOX4/FOXM1 pathway, suggesting its potential in melanoma treatment.
Leptospira Serovars Circulating Among Human, Cattle and Goats with Associated Risk Factors in Ngara and Kibondo Districts, North-Western Tanzania
Authors: Katandukila Jestina V. , Sissa Ackrey G. , Mhaphi Ginethon G. , Chuhila Yeremia J. , Chibwana Fred D
Published: November 2023

Leptospirosis is a neglected zoonotic disease, prominent in north-western Tanzania where interactions among humans, livestock and wildlife is high. This study therefore, assessed Leptospira seroprevalence and associated risk factors by screening Leptospira serovars from blood sera of cattle, goats and humans in Ngara and Kibondo Districts using Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT). Blood sera were positive for seven Leptospira serovars in which Sokoine, Sejroe and Grippotyhposa had higher seropositivity of ≥ 20.9%, whereas Leptospira serovars Kenya, Pomona, Lora, and Bataviae had seropositivity of < 10%. Variation of seropositivity and seroprevalence between Ngara and Kibondo Districts was insignificant (p = 0.0718) but varied significantly between humans, goats and cattle (p = 0.0183). Leptospira serovars Sejroe and Grippotyphosa were present in humans, goats and cattle. Sokoine, Pomona and Bataviae were co-positive in humans and goats, while serovars Kenya and Lora were co-positive in humans and cattle, indicating the possibility of dualistic transmission of Leptospira serovars in the ecosystem. Suggested risk factors associated with acquiring Leptospira bacteria were drinking contaminated water, feeding contaminated food and farming in contaminated soils. Prevalence of Leptospira in the current study alerts for health and economic risks in north-western Tanzania, which requires intensive education programs on leptospirosis transmission and avoidance.
Molecular Epidemiology of Antibiotic Resistance among Escherichia coli Isolated from Broiler Chickens Sold at Selected Markets in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Authors: Kiula Abdilahi H. , Makene Victor A.
Published: November 2023

Unwarranted and improper uses of antibiotics in broiler farms contribute to the challenge of antibiotic resistance, making even previously treatable infections, difficult to treat. We conducted a cross sectional study from November 2021 to May 2022 from broiler chicken markets in four districts of Dar es Salaam to determine the extent of antibiotic resistance among E. coli isolates from broiler chickens. A total of 160 E. coli isolates recovered from cloacal swabs were identified by culture and biochemical tests and confirmed by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) assays. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing, targeting seven classes of antibiotics, was performed by disk diffusion method and eleven representative antimicrobial resistance markers corresponding to each antibiotic class were screened by PCR. The highest resistance was found against trimethoprim (75%) and erythromycin (74.37%), while the most common resistance gene was dfrA1 (74.37%) and blaTEM (73.75%). The study also found a high prevalence of multidrug-resistant isolates (84.4%) from at least three antibiotic classes. The results highlight the significant contribution of poultry farming to the spread of antibiotic resistance, with potential consequences for both farmers and human health. Prompt measures are necessary to protect human and animal health..
Identifying Factors Contributing to Under-Five Mortality in Nigeria
Authors: Bamigbala Olateju Alao , Ojetunde Ayodeji Oluwatobi
Published: November 2023

The under-5 mortality rate (U5MR) is the probability that a child born in a specified year will die before turning 5 years of age. U5MR is still high in Nigeria. Therefore, this study aimed to identify factors contributing to under-5 mortality in Nigeria. The data used in this study were from the 2018 NDHS, encompassing 2013–2018. The methods of analysis used for this study were frequency, percentage, and Zero Inflated Negative Binomial (ZINB) regression. Data were analyzed using R programming v.4.1.2 and p < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. The result showed 35.4% under-5 mortality out of the 33,924 infant mortality sample data that were collected. The findings revealed maternal age, regions (North East and North West), maternal education (no education), wealth index (poorest households), and size of child at birth (very small birth size) as significant factors associated with under-5 mortality in Nigeria. The results also showed that the odds of under-5 mortality increase as the age of the mother increases. Therefore, the Nigerian government should understand that poverty is not just an economic problem but also a significant factor in health; as a result, the battle against poverty needs to receive the necessary attention.
Lipophilic Wood Extractives’ Contamination of Water Bodies in the Vicinity of Pulp and Paper Mill, Southern Tanzania
Authors: Charles Shija , Kilulya Kessy F. , Mbuna Julius
Published: November 2023

This paper reports on the levels of fatty acids and selected sterols in effluents and nearby water bodies at Mufindi Paper Mill (MPM), southern Tanzania. Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) was used for sample extraction, and analysis was performed using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometer (GC-MS). Fatty acids ranging from C11:0 to C25:0 were detected, with saturated fatty acids (SFA) being more abundant than unsaturated fatty acids (USFA). As for selected sterols, β-sitosterol and stigmastanol were more abundant than campesterol. The mean levels of SFA, USFA, β-sitosterol, stigmastanol, and campesterol (µg/L) were 538.28, 125.94, 1065.44, 1178.01, and 66.76, respectively, for untreated effluents, and 338.10, 139.03, 933.40, 153.92 and 57.82, respectively, for treated effluents. It was further established that the mean levels of SFA, USFA, β-sitosterol, stigmastanol, and campesterol (µg/L) were 321.29, 57.35, 58.37, 50.76, and 49.08, respectively, for effluents at the discharge point and 20.58, 17.72, 8.25, 10.55, and 6.05, respectively, at receiving water. Water bodies are therefore contaminated with lipophilic wood extractives since the mean concentration levels of USFA and sterols were above the lowest concentrations suspected to adversely affect fish (toxic limits (µg/L): USFA (2-8) and sterols (³10)).
Prevalence and Burden of Gastrointestinal Parasites among University Students at Dar es Salaam University College of Education, Tanzania
Authors: Fulgence Magreth , Mustafa Ummul-Khair , Bakuza Jared S.
Published: November 2023

Gastrointestinal parasites cause major health problems in many tropical and sub-tropical countries including Tanzania. However, information on the status of these infections is often scanty, especially among young adults including students in higher learning institutions. During December 2020 to June 2021, a total of 272 faecal samples from university students at Dar es Salaam University College of Education (DUCE) were examined for parasites using the Kato Katz technique and analysed for infection levels based on standard guidelines. Detected parasites were identified as Schistosoma mansoni (8.1%), hookworms (1.5%), Trichuris trichiura (0.4%) and Hymenolepis diminuta (0.4%), with an overall prevalence of 10.4%. S. mansoni had the highest mean intensity of 792 eggs per gram (epg) of faeces, while H. diminuta was the least intense parasite (120 epg). While infection levels of most parasites were generally low, S. mansoni intensity was categorized as heavy based on standard criteria. The findings indicated the public importance of parasitic infections among young adults who are often excluded from most intervention programmes. Thus, further studies to elucidate the magnitude of the infections among young adults in higher learning institutions in Tanzania is warranted alongside regular prescriptions of anthelminthics and sanitation and hygiene education to reduce parasite transmissions.
Anticancer Potential of the Leaf Extracts from the Selected Croton Species
Authors: Fayyu Peter V. , Munissi Joan J.E. , Nyandoro Stephen S. , Stephano Flora
Published: November 2023

The reported investigations were aimed at establishing anticancer potential of the leaf extracts from Croton dictyophlebodes (CDE), C. kilwae (CKE) and C. longipedicellatus ssp austrotanzanicus (CLE). In vitro cytotoxicity assays of the extracts were performed against human laryngeal cancer cell line (HEp-2) and human breast cancer cell line (MCF-7), while in vivo toxicological studies were done using Swiss albino mice (Mus musculus) following the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development guideline number 423 of 2001. Results for in vitro assays revealed that CDE and CLE induced cytotoxicity to MCF-7 and HEp-2 cell lines at EC50 values of 86 and 63 µg/mL, respectively, while CKE was inactive to HEp-2 cells at 100 µg/mL. For in vivo studies, mice were given calculated doses based on globally harmonized standards and monitored for 14 days to observe signs of toxicity. Haematological analysis was also carried out to obtain information on changes in blood conditions. The findings showed that LD50 for CKE and CDE were > 2000 mg/kg, while for CLE was 175 mg/kg body weight (b.w.). The oral administration of CDE and CKE did not reveal significant changes in haematological parameters of treated mice, while CLE provoked some. Thus, the studied extracts may be considered potential cancer remedies with safety pre-cautions that warrant further investigations.
Impact of Zn and W Doping Levels on Properties of Thermochromic VO2-Based Thin Films
Authors: Haji Haji F. , Samiji Margaret E. , Mlyuka Nuru R.
Published: November 2023

DC magnetron sputtering at a substrate temperature of 425 °C was used to successfully deposit W/Zn-doped VO2 thin films on soda lime glass (SLG) substrates. The aim was to investigate the influence of Zn doping levels on the transition temperature ( ), luminous transmittance (Tlum) and solar transmittance modulation (ΔTsol) of VO2-based thin films. UV/VIS/NIR spectrometer, X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Atomic Force Microscope (AFM), and Rutherford Backscattering Spectroscopy (RBS) were used to characterise the thin films. It was revealed that W/Zn co-doped VO2 thin films with ~ 10.8 at.% Zn showed a luminous transmittance of ~ 40.4%, with excellent solar transmittance modulation of 10.2%. Furthermore, the transition temperature obtained for the Zn and W co-doped VO2 films with ~ 10.8 at.% Zn was lower at 23.1 °C compared to 25.6 °C and 26.8 °C for thin films with ~ 3.9 at.% Zn and ~ 2.8 at.% Zn, respectively. It was not possible to deposit the films with Zn doping level above 10.8 at.% due to some technical limitations. These findings indicate that thin films with a controlled proportion of Zn in the W/Zn co-doped VO2-based thin films have the potential to be employed for applications such as smart windows.
Scientific Landscape on Phthalates Biodegradation Research: A Bibliometric and Scientometric Study
Authors: Ngassa Sai , Mpinda Cyprian , Kilulya Kessy F. , Masalu Rose
Published: November 2023

This study investigated the scientific landscape of research on phthalate esters biodegradation using the Web of Science database up to 2022. The collected data were analysed using bibliometric and scientometric tools. A total of 863 scholarly documents published between 1975 and 2022 in 266 journals were selected for analysis. The analysis revealed a growth rate of 6.9% in the research field, with an average document age of 10.8 years. The trend in phthalate biodegradation research showed a steady increase in citations until 1997, followed by a slight decrease until 2005, but experienced renewed interest in 2006 and significant growth in 2016. Chemosphere was identified as the prominent journal, and China had the most publications (417) followed by India (78), while Africa had the least productivity, with South Africa contributing the highest number of publications (9). Thematic evolution in the field focused on understanding the mechanisms of phthalate breakdown through microbial enzymes like hydrolases, while revealing changing patterns with the current research focus being "microbial community" and "metabolism" as indicated by strongest burstiness strengths. The study sheds light on the scientific landscape of phthalate biodegradation research, highlighting research gaps and suggesting potential research policy improvements such as enhancing funding and capacity building in biodegradation research in Africa.
A categorical characterization of relative entropy on standard Borel spaces
Authors: Gagne Nicolas , Panangaden Prakash
Published: November 2023

We give a categorical treatment, in the spirit of Baez and Fritz, of relative
entropy for probability distributions defined on standard Borel spaces. We
define a category suitable for reasoning about statistical inference on
standard Borel spaces. We define relative entropy as a functor into Lawvere's
category and we show convexity, lower semicontinuity and uniqueness.
PENERAPAN METODE FIELD TRIP DALAM MENINGKATKAN KEMAMPUAN MENULIS PUISI SISWA KELAS V
Authors: Mukhlisin Mukhlisin , Mastiah Mastiah
Published: November 2023

Abstract: This study aims to improve the ability to write poetry for fifth grade students at SDN 04 Batu Ampar. This study used a class action research method, which was conducted in 2 cycles. Each cycle consists of planning, implementing, observing, and reflecting. Data was collected through tests and observations. Tests were used to determine students' ability to write poetry, while observation was used to determine the success of the learning process of writing poetry using the field trip method. The results of this study indicate that the application of the field trip method can improve the ability to write poetry for fifth grade students at SDN 04 Batu Ampar.Keywords: ability to write poetry, field trip method, classroom action research Abstrak: Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan kemampuan menulis puisi siswa kelas V SDN 04 Batu Ampar. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian tindakan kelas, yang dilakukan dalam 2 siklus. Tiap siklus terdiri atas perencanaan, pelaksanaan, observasi, dan refleksi. Data dikumpulkan melalui tes dan observasi. Tes digunakan untuk mengetahui kemampuan menulis puisi siswa, sedangkan observasi untuk mengetahui keberhasilan proses pembelajaran menulis puisi dengan metode field trip. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa penerapan metode field trip dapat meningkatkan kemampuan menulis puisi siswa kelas V SDN 04 Batu Ampar. Kata Kunci: kemampuan menulis puisi, metode field trip, penelitian tindakan kelas
INTERNALISASI NILAI PENDIDIKAN SOSIAL DALAM MENUMBUHKAN KEPEDULIAN SOSIAL MAHASISWA STKIP MELAWI
Authors: Wibowo Deki , Khoiri Ahmad , Waridah Waridah
Published: November 2023

Abstract: Education is a conscious effort in fostering and developing the human person both spiritually and physically. Some expert opinions define education as a kind of process for humans to change the attitudes and behaviour of an individual or group of people. The purpose of instilling value education to STKIP Melawi students is very important in shaping the personality of STKIP Melawi students, because humans have perfection and intelligence in thinking and acting (affective intelligence emotionally, socially, and spiritually). This research uses a qualitative method that is intended to describe and analyse phenomena, events, social activities, attitudes, beliefs, perceptions, thoughts of people individually or in groups in the environment of STKIP Melawi campus students. The results of the study concluded that there are three activities in the classroom that can improve the attitude of social care, namely through honesty, courtesy, and mutual respect for fellow students. In the attitude of caring students need to get used to the "5 S" namely smile, greeting, greeting, polite, and polite which has been applied in the campus environment.Keywords: Social Education Values, fostering social care. Abstrak: Pendidikan adalah usaha sadar dalam membina dan menumbuh kembangkan pribadi manusia baik itu rohani dan jasmaninya. Beberapa pendapat ahli mengartikan Pendidikan adalah semacam proses bagi manusia untuk mengubah sikap dan tingkah laku seorang individu maupun kelompok manusia. Tujuan Penanaman Pendidikan nilai kepada mahasiswa STKIP Melawi menjadi sangat penting sekali dalam membentuk sebuah kepribadian mahasiswa STKIP Melawi, karena manusia memiliki kesempurnaan dan kecerdasan dalam berpikir dan bertindak (kecerdasaan afektif secara emosional, sosial, maupun spiritual). Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif yang ditunjukan untuk mendiskripsikan dan menganalisis fenomena, peristiwa, aktivitas sosial, sikap, kepercayaan, persepsi, pemikiran orang secara individual maupun kelompok di lingkungan mahasiswa kampus STKIP Melawi. Hasil penelitian meyimpulkan ada tiga kegiatan dalam kelas yang dapat meningkatkan sikap peduli sosial yaitu melalui kejujuran, sopan santun, dan saling menghargai sesama mahasiswa. Dalam sikap kepedulian mahasiswa perlu membiasankan dengan “5 S” yaitu senyum, sapa, salam, sopan, dan santun yang telah diterapkan di lingkungan kampus.Kata Kunci: Nilai Pendidikan Sosial, menumbuhkan kepedulian sosial.
ANALISIS STRATEGI PEMBELAJARAN GURU DALAM MENINGKATKAN KEMAMPUAN MEMAHAMI ISI BACAAN MATERI BERCERITA DI KELAS III SD NEGERI 02 BEDUAI
Authors: Sukristin Sukristin , Mustajab Amin , Ayuwina Andreana
Published: November 2023

Abstract: The background of this research is that there are still many students who are less able to understand the learning material concerned with storytelling material. The purpose of this research is to find out the inquiry learning strategy used to improve the ability to understand the content of reading material in storytelling. The research method is a qualitative descriptive research with research design: interviews, dukumentation observation. The subjects in this study were class III teacher at Elementary Scholl Negeri 02 Beduai. The data analysis technique uses 3 stages, namely, data reduction, data presentation and conclusion drawing as well as testing the validity of the data. Based on the research results using indicators of understanding the contents of the reading or assessment criteria, namely. The ability to grasp the meaning of word and expressions used by the author, the ability to grasp the explicit and implied meanings and the ability to draw conclusions through inquiry learning strategies. At was found that 35% of the 7 students in the very good category increased to 50% of the 10 students in the very good category. So that it can be concluded that the inquiry learning strategy used in improving students understanding skills in Indonesian language subject storytelling was declared successful. Keywords: Strategy, Teacher Learning, ability to Understand Reading Content. Abstrak: Latar belakang penelitian ini adalah masih banyak peserta didik yang kurang mampu memahami materi pembelajaran yang bersangkutan dengan materi bercerita. Tujuan dalam penelitian ini adalah mengetahui strategi pembelajaran inkuiri yang digunakan untuk meningkatkan kemampuan memahami isi bacaan dalam materi bercerita. Metode penelitiaan adalah penelitian deskriptif kualitatif dengan desain penelitian: wawancara, observasi, dokumentasi. Subjek dalam penelitian ini adalah guru kelas III SD Negeri 02 Beduai. Teknik analisis data menggunakan 3 tahap yaitu, reduksi data, penyajian data dan penarikan kesimpulan serta uji keabsahan data. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian menggunakan indikator memahami isi bacaan atau kriteria penilaian yaitu, kemampuan menangkap arti kata dan ungkapan yang digunakan penulis, kemampuan menangkap makna tersurat dan makna tersirat dan kemampuan membuat kesimpulan melalui strategi pembelajaran inkuiri. Diperoleh 35% dari 7 peserta didik kategori sangat baik meningkat menjadi 50% dari 10 peserta didik dengan ketegori sangat baik. Sehingga dapat disimpulkan strategi pembelajaran inkuiri yang digunakan dalam meningkatkan kemampuan pemahaman peserta didik pada mata pelajaran bahasa indonesia materi bercerita dinyatakan berhasil. Kata Kunci: Strategi, Pembelajaran Guru, Kemampuan Memahami Isi Bacaan.
Penyuluhan dan Pelatihan Penggunaan Alat Pemadam Api Ringan (APAR) pada Warga Rusun Siwalankerto
Authors: Musadek Ahmad , Setiawan Ariyono , Budiarto Anton
Published: November 2023

Bencana kebakaran merupakan salah satu bencana yang banyak terjadi di masyarakat luas baik di lingkungan perkantoran, tempat tinggal, maupun tempat aktifitas lainnya. Bencana kebakaran ini pada umumnya terjadi disebabkan oleh factor manusia (human error), misalnya: kelalaian manusia, seperti: menggunakan beban listrik yang melebihi kapasitas daya, menempatkan barang mudah terbakar di dekat sumber api dan lain sebagainya. Bahaya kebakaran ini akanlebih mudah di atasi bila masyarakat mengetahui cara memadamkan api dengan baik dan mengetahui cara penggunaan alat pemadaman seperti APAR (Alat Pemadam Api Ringan).

Alat pemadam api APAR ini secara umum dikatagorikan menjadi 3, yakni: Bubuk kimia kering(Dry Chemical Extinguisher), Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Extinguisher, Busa (Foam). Dan yang palingumum digunakan adalah APAR yang berisikan bubuk kimia kering, karena bahan bubuk kimiakering ini bisa memadamkan beberapa kebakaran yang ditimbulkan oleh sumber api kebakaran.APAR jenis ini mampu mengatasi hampir semua jenis api penyebab kebakaran. Pada kasusmasyarakat yang tinggal di Rusun Siwalankerto penggunaan APAR ini paling memungkinkandigunakan karena sifat APAR yang mudah ditempatkan dimana saja (portable), mudahpemeliharaannya, dan mudah cara penggunaannya. Atas dasar inilah APAR sangat cocokdisediakan dalam mengantisipasi terjadinya bahaya kebakaran. Keberhasilan pemadaman api dengan APAR perlu didukung dengan teknik atau carapenggunaan APAR itu sendiri. Pada pengabdian masyarakat yang telah dilaksanakan di RusunSiwalankerto juga dilakukan demonstrasi bagaimana Proses Pemadaman Api dengan APAR,dan selanjutnya untuk membantu masyarakat Rusun Siwalanketo kami juga menghibahkanbeberapa APAR untuk ditempatkan dan dipergunakan masyarakat Rusun Siwalanketo
Pengabdian Masyarakat Bekerjasama dengan KODAM V/ Brawijaya dalam Kegiatan Tentara Manunggal Membangun Desa (TMMD)
Authors: Irfansyah Ade , Setiyo Prabowo Achmad , Rifai Mohamad , Suryono Wiwid
Published: November 2023

Program TNI Manunggal Membangun Desa (TMMD) dirancang untuk menjadi program yangpartisipatif dan berbasis pemberdayaan masyarakat dalam rangka menyiapkan pangkalperlawanan sebagai sebuah strategi pertahanan darat. Program TMMD ini dapat meningkatkanrasa persatuan dan kesatuan di antara masyarakat dengan TNI, menumbuhkan kembali gotongroyong

yang selama ini mulai menurun, dan program ini sekaligus memperkokoh sertameningkatkan kemanunggalan TNI dengan masyarakat yang pada akhirnya dapat mingkatkankesejahteraan dan mempererat persatiuan TNI dengan masyarakat dalam mendukungketahanan nasional. Dalam hal ini politeknik penerbangan surabaya ikut berpartisipasi dalamkegiatan pengabdian kepada masyarakat bersama dengan tentara manunggal membangun desa,terkait dengan sasaran pelaksanaannya adalah masyarakat desa kedungkembar, khususnyapada TK Dharmawanita Persatuan di desa Kedungkembar, kecamatan Prambon, KabupatenSidoarjo. Kegiatan TMMD ini dinilai baik dalam meningkatkan kesejahteraan masyarakat dankegiatan ini sangat bermanfaat bagi masyarakat dan hasil yang sudah terlaksanakan bisa dijagadengn baik oleh masyarakat dan juga dapat dikembangankan lagi oleh masyarakat setempat.