bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A plea of those who are affected most by HIV: The utterances by women who inject Nyaope residing in City of Tshwane Municipality, Gauteng
Authors: Lefoka Moganki H. , Netangaheni Thinavhuyo R.
Published: November 2022

Background: Nyaope injecting practice has brought the field of HIV prevention and substance abuse together. It has called for an integrative approach. Women who use drugs face multiple individual, social, and structural factors that fuel their vulnerability to HIV and other blood-borne infections. The effects of drug use are more severe on women than on their male counterpart. In order to address HIV epidemic among women who inject nyaope it is imperative that they form part of solution finding.Aim: Study aimed at exploring the strategies to curb HIV incidence amongst women who inject nyaope residing in City of Tshwane Municipality, Gauteng.Setting: The research was conducted within COSUP. COSUP was considered more appropriate as it is a harm reduction based organisation.Methods: The study utilized qualitative research approach to explore the strategies to curb HIV incidence amongst women who inject nyaope residing in City of Tshwane Municipality, Gauteng. In-depth interview was conducted with 24 women with history of injecting nyaope aged between 19 to 35 years.  The data was analyzed using thematic data analyzing method.Results: Health intervention, Economic intervention and Educational intervention was stressed as key strategies to curb HIV among women who inject nyaope. Needle exchange programme, Condom distribution, PrEP, HIV Testing and Counselling, Employment opportunities, Support groups and awareness campaigns if implemented can yield positive outcome in curbing HIV among women who inject drugs.Conclusion: Mechanism to curb HIV among women who inject nyaope exist and when implemented, they have potential to address high HIV incidence among women who inject nyaope.
Prevalence and factors associated with malnutrition among under 5-year-old children hospitalized in three public hospitals in South Africa
Authors: Itaka Makanda B. , Omole Olufemi B.
Published: November 2022

Background: Malnutrition is a significant risk factor for ill health among children under five-years of age and the consequences are significant.Aim: To determine the prevalence and factors associated with malnutrition among under-5-year-old hospitalized children. Setting: Sebokeng regional and Kopanong and Heidelberg district hospitals, Sedibeng district, South Africa.Methods: A cross-sectional study of 306 hospitalized under-5-year-old children. Information on socio-demography, feeding practices, immunisation and clinical problems were obtained from caregivers and medical records. Anthropometric measurements were also performed. Results: Most participants were male (59.8%), 12 months old (52.9%), had normal birth weights (80.0%), comes from a household with a monthly income R2000 (about150 US dollars) (50.3%), up-to-date immunization (97.4%), breastfed for 6months (57.4%) and cared for by the mother (92.5%). Most participants were fed 3-4 meals/day (66.7%) and at most, one snack/day (63.4%). Acute malnutrition accounted for 9.5% (n=29) of admissions. Among these, 82.8% (n=24) had severe acute malnutrition. On test of association, monthly household income (p0.01), mother’s and father’s employment status (p0.01 p0.01), breastfeeding history (p0.01) and having diarrhoea in index admission (p0.01) were significantly associated with malnutrition admission. In multivariate regression analyses, not being breastfed (OR=3.9; 95%CI: 1.23–12.29; p=0.02) and diarrhoea at index admission were independently associated with malnutrition (OR=23.3; 95%CI: 6.85–79.43; p0.01).Conclusion: A significant proportion of participants had malnutrition and were subjected to suboptimal feeding practices. Healthcare providers in primary care need to entrench dietary education and anthropometric screening in all clinic-visits for children 5year old, particularly when they present with diarrhoea or are not being breastfed.
A Team-work Approach to Cleft Palate Rehabilitation in South Africa
Authors: Marks Margaret
Published: November 2022

No abstract available.
Receptors in muscle
Authors: Matthews B. C.
Published: November 2022

No abstract available.
National Council for the Care of Cripples in S.A.
Authors: Mathias Anna
Published: November 2022

No abstract available.
A profile of patients attending the physiotherapy department at the Alexandra Health Centre and University Clinic
Authors: Ferrinho Paulo , Cornielje Huib , Reinach S. G.
Published: November 2022

During 1989 the Alexandra Health Centre and University Clinic (AHC) experimented with a health information system to determine a profile of the patients presenting at the AHC physiotherapy department.Data were analysed for 1408 patients. The age distribution was 2% (n=33): 0-4 years of age, 5% (n-74): 5-14 years, 85% (n-1186): 15-59 years and 8% (n=108): over 60 years (no data on 1%, n=7).31% (n=439) had neck and back problems, 30% (n-419) had problems related to the arms, 22% (n-303) had lower limb problems, 13% (n=185) had hand problems, 4% (n=56) had problems associated with burns, 3% (n=48) had chest related problems, 1% (n=8) had osteoarthrosis, 0% (n=2) had rheumatoid arthritis and 2% (n=33) had other unspecified problems. 94% (n=1323) had 1 diagnosis and 6% (n=85) had multiple diagnosis. 12% (n=172) were patients with chronic problems and 86% (n=1213) had acute problems (no data in 2%, n=23). Of the 786 cases with data 1% (n=10) were referred to hospital, 96% (n=754) were not referred anywhere and 3% (n=22) were referred elsewhere. Referrals were more common for bums and osteoarthrosis (p-0,00).The low rate of referral is a credit to the ability to cope with the work at local level.
Awareness of Trachoma Prevention among People of Bolori Community Maiduguri Metropolitan Council Local Government Area of Borno State, Nigeria
Authors: Yafanna G.A. , Musa D. , Abubakar N.S. , Abubakar H. , Kode, S. , Alhassan M.B.
Published: November 2022

Background: Trachoma is the leading infectious cause of blindness in the world. It is commonly found among cultural groups with poor hygiene. Its  controls include; Surgery, Antibiotics, Facial cleanliness and Environmental Sanitation (SAFE). Potentially blinding and active trachoma are  monitored using trachomatous trichiasis (TT) in adults and trachoma inflammation-follicular (TF) in children aged 1–9 years respectively. A  community-based crosssectional study was conducted to assess the awareness of trachoma preventive measures among the people of Bolori, in the  metropolitan council of Maiduguri Borno State, Nigeria.

Methods: The study utilizes a descriptive research design and a multi-stage sampling technique, which involve both stratified random and  convenient sampling methods respectively. The instruments comprise a closed-ended questions and sections A and B. Section A: focus mainly on  sociodemographic data while section B; focuses on the research question. The researcher initially divided Bolori wards into 7 strata of which a  convenient sample technique was used to administer 53 questionnaires to 3 strata and 54 questionnaires to 4 strata, each daily which lasted 7 days. 

Results: The majority of the respondents are aware of trachoma preventive measures. The majority (34.8%) of the respondents are between the  ages of 26 – 35 years, 37 (32.2%) of the respondents are between the ages of 36 – 45 years, 20 (17.4%) of the respondents are within the age range  of 15 – 25 years, and 46 years and above are 18 (15.6%) of the respondents. The Grand Total Mean for Knowledge of respondents was 57.4%, causes  and prevention 76.7%, the attitude of the people towards personal and environmental sanitation 76.8%, and SAFE strategy prevention is 51.5%.  

Conclusion: Based on the data obtained from the research study, findings revealed that the majority of the respondents have a good awareness of  Trachoma prevention, especially on a good attitude toward environmental sanitation. Findings also revealed that there was low access to clean and  adequate water supply among the populace of the community.
Prevalence of Retinitis Pigmentosa in Kano State, Nigeria
Authors: Okpo E. , Nura Y.S. , Nwakuche P.I. , Muoneke H.C.
Published: November 2022

Background: Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a slow degenerative disease of the retina which affects the photoreceptor layer, predominantly rods.

Aim: A retrospective cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence of RP in Kano State. Method: One thousand, five hundred folders were  reviewed from 2010-2020 in the Retina and Low Vision Clinics of Makkah Eye Hospital (MSEH) and Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital Kano (AKTH).  Clinical presentation, features, history of consanguinity, and degree of visual impairment were studied. Data were analyzed using SPSS's latest  version 25.0.

Results: Sixty patients were diagnosed with RP, representing a prevalence of 4%. The ratio of male to female is 1:1. The age range was 3 to 70 years  (mean 31.17 years +/- 17.69 years). Twenty-nine patients had visual acuity of less than 3/60, indicating that half of the patients are blind. The  commonest mode of presentation was night blindness in 58.3% of the patients. Bone spicule pigmentation is the most common sign in this study  (61.7%), while those with macula edema (18.3%) and normal fundus present with the lowest frequency of 11.7%. The rate of RP correlated with  consanguineous history in this study shows a positive correlation(r=0.022).

Conclusion: The degree of visual loss in Kano state citizens with RP is severe and may be related to inadequate knowledge regarding the condition  and late presentation of the patient to the hospital. There is a need for health education of the public and patients about the need for early  presentation to the hospital.
Etude des apports nutritionnels et la dépense énergétique des athlètes Congolais internés pour le Semi-Marathon International de Brazzaville (SMIB)
Authors: Bouhika Eddie Janvier , Nsompi Florent , Alongo Yvon Rock Ghislain , Mabounda Kounga Paul Roger , Matondo Ntala Davervly , Mboutou Calvin Burton , Mboussi Nsoungani Kalhede Penitencia , Bouhika Mpandi Sedrick Bodrova , ElengaGA Michel , Mbemba François
Published: November 2022

L’objectif de cette étude était d’évaluer les apports nutritionnels et la dépense énergétique des athlètes congolais internés et engagés au Semi-Marathon International de Brazzaville (SMIB). 40 athlètes (femmes et hommes) âgés respectivement de 22,60 ± 3,45 ans et 28,48 ± 8,18 ans, ont participé à cette étude exploratoire. La méthode du « semainier de trois jours consécutifs » pour collecter les données alimentaires et la « formule de Harris et Benedict » pour calculer la dépense énergétique des athlètes étaient utilisées. Les tables de composition alimentaires ont servi pour convertir les macronutriments. Résultats: les pourcentages des glucides (68,27% et 61,4%) étaient normaux, tandis que ceux des lipides (14,39% et 16,49%) et protéines (17,34% et 22,11%) étaient loin des recommandations. L’apport énergétique des femmes était supérieur à la dépense (3423,4 Kcal vs 2256,01 Kcal). La quantité d’énergie apportée chez les hommes était inférieure à la dépense (2980,93 Kcal vs 3181,90 Kcal). Les performances (1h 11’33’’, 1h 13’58’’ et 1h 22’27’ et 1h 15’43’’) étaient faibles. Conclusion : la balance énergétique des athlètes était déséquilibrée, avec une alimentation hyperprotéique et hypo lipidique. Cette alimentation est source de fatigue nerveuse, de mauvaise récupération et constitue un facteur limitant de la performance sportive.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the nutritional intake and energy expenditure of Congolese athletes interned and engaged in the Brazzaville International Half-Marathon (BIHM). 40 athletes (women and men) aged 22.60 ± 3.45 years and 28.48 ± 8.18 years respectively participated in this exploratory study. The “three consecutive day week planner” method of three consecutive days” to collect dietary data and the “Harris and Benedict formula” to calculate the athletes' energy expenditure were used. Food composition tables were used to determine the weight of foods and the conversion of their macronutrients. Results: the percentages of carbohydrates (68.27% and 61.4%) were normal, while those of lipids (14.39% and 16.49%) and proteins (17.34% and 22.11%) were away from recommendations. The energy intake of women was higher than the expenditure (3423.4 Kcal vs 2256.01 Kcal). The amount of energy provided in men was lower than the expenditure (2980.93 Kcal vs 3181.90 Kcal). The performances (1 h 11'33'', 1 h 13'58'' and 1 h 22'27' and 1 h 15'43'') were low. Conclusion: the energy balance of the athletes was unbalanced, with a high protein and low lipid diet. This diet is a source of nervous fatigue, poor recovery and is a limiting factor in sports performance.
Economic and ethnobotanical importance of the genera Albizia, Parkia and Tetrapleura(Leguminosae-Mimosoideae) in Cameroon
Authors: Tchapda Charly , Onana Jean Michel , Njapa Mbiaha André Adriel , Onana Dieudonné , Mbolo Marie Marguerite
Published: November 2022

People use goods and services related to Leguminosae-Mimosoideae resources to satisfy multiple needs in Cameroon. Despite some work already done, information on these goods and services remains insufficient. To date, the contribution of these plants to the needs of the population is also unknown. The objective of this study was to provide an overview of the uses of Leguminosae-Mimosoideae by rural and urban populations in Cameroon. Focus was on the genera Albizia, Parkia and Tetrapleura. Socio-economic and ethnobotanical data were collected throughout the study area based on semi-structured individual interviews of 173 respondents. Analysis of the data consisted of statistical and descriptive analyses, to study the position and dispersion characteristics of the data and inferential/decisional analyses consisting of parametric and non-parametric tests. Species vulnerability risk index was also calculated. Six parameters were used to assess economic value of the most requested species. The results show that seven species out of nineteen divided into three genera, are used in Cameroon and have ethnobotanical values. For Albizia, we noted that the species A. adianthifolia, A. laurentii, A. lebbeck, A. zygia have been identified, while for Parkia we have the species P. bicolor and P. biglobosa and finally, the species Tetrapleura tetraptera, for the genus Tetrapleura. Results showed that the Leguminosae-Mimosoideae have an ethnobotanical potential to be valorized, even outside Cameroon. The promotion of these species would increase their exploitation potential basis and increase income of rural and urban populations.
Gouvernance des services d’eau potable et d’assainissement dans la commune de Koudougou, Burkina Faso
Authors: Nansi Juste Hermann , Dahani Dramane
Published: November 2022

La commune de Koudougou à l’instar des autres communes du pays exerce la maîtrise d’ouvrage dans le domaine de l’eau potable et de l’assainissement. Mais, la question des ressources pour l’exercice de ces compétences est loin d’être tranchée. Pour présenter l’état des lieux de la gouvernance de ces services dans la commune de Koudougou, la méthodologie adoptée a consisté à faire une revue documentaire, des entretiens auprès des personnes ressources intervenants dans l’AEPHA et une enquête sur 518 ménages. Les résultats de l’étude montrent un faible engagement de l’autorité communale qui se traduit par une faible structuration des services en charge de l’AEPHA et leur faible dotation en ressources humaines, financières et matérielles ; une gestion des ouvrages d’AEPHA non conforme aux principes du document cadre de gestion du service public de l’eau potable en milieu rural au Burkina; une absence de stratégie de mobilisation de financements pour l’AEPHA ; un financement de l’AEPHA à hauteur de 2,05% du montant total du budget alloué sur la période 2016 à 2019.

The commune of Koudougou, like the other communes in the country, is in charge of drinking water and sanitation. However, the question of resources for the exercise of these competencies is far from being settled. To present the state of play of the governance of these services in the commune of Koudougou, the methodology adopted consisted of a literature review, interviews with resource persons involved in WASH and a survey of 518 households. The results of the study show a weak commitment of the communal authority, which is reflected in the poor structuring of the services in charge of WASH and their low allocation of human, financial and material resources; management of WASH facilities that does not comply with the principles of the framework document for the management of the public drinking water service in rural areas in Burkina; an absence of a strategy for mobilizing funding for WASH; and funding for WASH of 2.05% of the total amount of the budget allocated over the period 2016 to 2019. Communal governance of the sub-sector and WASH services is not very operational and would benefit from being revitalized.
Analysis of the use of antibiotics in modern laying hen farms in the Dakar region and surrounding area
Authors: Thioune Arame , Ba Sadibou , Sylla Khalifa Serigne Babacar , Bada-Alambedji Rianatou
Published: November 2022

have shown sometimes worrying prevalences. This prompted us to carry out this study, which aims to assess antibiotic use practices in laying hen farms where the withdrawal period is often not respected. Surveys were carried out in 70 farms, 59 of which were in the Dakar region and 11 in the Thiès region. A cross-sectional survey made it possible to determine the typology of farms according to the level of hygiene and it appeared that 50% of the farms had a good level of hygiene (class 3), 24.29% an acceptable level of hygiene (class 2) and 25.71% a poor level of hygiene (class 1). The surveys also showed that supervised farms had a better level of hygiene than unsupervised farms. This level of hygiene was closely related to the occurrence of diseases and the use of antimicrobials. Among the antibiotics, Quinolones are the most used (51%), followed by the Tetracycline family (16%) in the treatment of laying hens where self-medication is practiced in 50% and the dosage was strictly respected in only 27% of the farms. A follow-up of 15 of the 70 farms surveyed was carried out to check whether the behaviour of the farmers observed during the survey persisted. This follow-up showed results similar to those obtained during the cross-sectional survey. None of the farms respected the withdrawal periods for antibiotics used during production. These results show: failures of antibiotic therapy, the risk of the appearance of antibiotic resistance, as well as the risk of antibiotic residues in eggs. We recommend the implementation of antibiotic residue monitoring in poultry farming and the sensitisation of poultry farmers to the risk of antibiotic residues in consumed eggs.
The Use of Seismic Attributes and Well Logs in Delineating Kick Horizon; A Case Study of Nova Well, Niger Delta Basin, Nigeria
Authors: Ejairu K. O.
Published: November 2022

Predrill pore pressure prediction of the NOVA well suggested that the drilling program was in agreement with available seismic surveys. However, a kick was encountered while during the well. The study was carried out to ascertain the cause of the kick horizon in the NOVA Well, using seismic attributes and well log. Eight stratigraphic horizons were characterized to describe the amplitude variations. The top and base of the kick horizon were picked and sculptured to create sub-volume maps.The results revealed that the kick horizon was a shaly unit. The kick horizon was far off bright amplitudes that could have delivered high pressure which could trigger a kick. Faulting, shallow water and gas flows have been suggested as possible causes of the kick. A kill weight mud should be factored into the drilling operations to produce hydrostatic pressure where the kick is entering the NOVA well in order to prevent a blow out.
Improving Crude Oil Contaminated Soil with Organic Amendments: Effect of Oil Palm Bunch Ash and Dried Poultry Litters on Soil Properties and Cassava Growth and Yields
Authors: Osu S. R. , Udofia G. E. , Ndaeyo N. U.
Published: November 2022

In this study, onsite field experiments were carried out to evaluate the effects of amending a crude oil polluted soil with oil palm fruit bunch ash (OPFBA), dried poultry litters (DPL), soil bacterial, physico-chemical properties, as well as the growth and tuber yield of cassava (Manihot esculenta CRANTZ) grown on the amended soils using standard techniques. Results of autotrophic bacteria counts revealed that nitrogen fixing bacteria (NFB) populations in soils treated with OPBA+DPL combined, OPBA and DPL singly, recorded high bioloads in the magnitude of 105 , 103 , 105 CFU/g of soil respectively, whereas the group mean population was lower in the control soil (103 CFU/g). Similar trends were observed for SRB, PSB, and THB. Results of aggregate growth showed that while the mean plant heights and number of nodes increased, stem girth and leaf area were observed to decrease in 2017 when compared with those of 2016. Apart from number of tubers and weights that showed increase under all amendment treatments, tuber girth and length decreased under DPL amendments in 2017. The average findings of several chemical and physical characteristics of crude oil polluted soil after amendments and subsequent cultivation demonstrated that the addition of DPL and OPBA fructifies the soil by increasing reduced or lost qualities. When the amendments were used, the concentrations of organic carbon, accessible phosphorus, Ca, Mg, Na, and K were greatly enhanced, while the Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon (TPH) content was significantly reduced. In this study, the application of combination DPL + OPBA yields the greatest results in terms of ameliorating the impacts of crude oil in cultivable soils, as it increases fertility parameters for better cassava production in Niger Delta soils. The technology has been shown to be cost effective, efficient, and environmentally friendly, as well as capable of resolving waste management issues.
Bending strength characteristics of sawdust- crete laminated composite slab
Authors: Okoroafor S. U. , Anyadiegwu P. C. , Okpo O. O.
Published: November 2022

This paper presents the bending characteristics of sawdust-crete laminated composite slab. The materials used in the laboratory experiments include: Ordinary Portland Cement, river sand, gravel, sawdust, plywood, nails, reinforcement bars, stirrups and water. Manual mixing method was adopted and all sawdust-crete ingredients were batched by weight. A total of 48 slabs of size 1200mm x 1000mm x 100mm, 1200mm x 1000mm x 125mm, 1200mm x 1000mm x 150mm and 1200mm x 100mm x 175mm were cast for flexural strength from the mix ratios 0.75:1:2:2 and 0.75:1:3:3. Out of the 48 slabs cast, 32 were produced from sawdust-crete laminated composite (with 12.5mm and 20mm as the thickness of plywood for the laminate), 8 were produced from normal concrete ingredients (coarse aggregates, fine aggregates, cement and water) with 10mm rebar and mix ratio of 0.45:1:2:4. The remaining 8 slabs were made from plain sawdust-crete with mix ratio of 0.75:1:3:3. During the experiment, the maximum deflection for the slab was observed to occur at the slab with size 1200mm x 1000mm x 100mm no matter the core content used to produce the slab while the minimum deflection occurs at the size 1200mm x 1000mm x 175mm. The deflection of slab decreases with increase in slab thickness while flexural strength increases with increase in slab thickness. The flexural strength results of slab were compared by percentage difference and the results shows that there is significant difference between the two sets of slabs. Also, by comparing the results of plain sawdust-crete slab to that of sawdust-crete laminated composite slab, the result show that laminates with plywood increases flexural strength up to 68.4%. Conclusively, laminated sawdust-crete can be used for slabs that is not carrying too much load like residential houses.
Investigating the impact of fourth-generation (4G) mobile technologies on student academic performance
Authors: Pilatso P. , Chukwuere J. E.
Published: November 2022

The fourth generation (4G) wireless communications and technologies has improved our way of life in many areas, such as health, communications, and education. This study sought to explore the impact of fourth-generation mobile technologies in education; more specifically, its impact on university students’ academic performance. The study used the quantitative research method using a closed-ended questionnaire to determine the impact of fourth-generation technologies on students' academic performance in a higher education institution (HEI). The study measured and understood the students’ performance through the research questions and specifically the question part 3 (question 4) which concentrated on the impact of 4G mobile technology on students’ academic performance. It was found that 4G mobile technologies improve students’ mobility, Internet quality, faster Internet connection, and online resources than going to the library. It also improves communication with other students and sharing of academic materials which directly impact students’ academic performance and many more.
Modelling of the temperature profile of heat sinks for a thermoelectric cooler module
Authors: Onoroh F. , Ogbonnaya M. , Agberegha L. O.
Published: November 2022

Thermoelectric refrigeration achieves cooling through Peltier and Seebeck effect. Heat sinks attached to the hot and cold sides of the thermoelectric module help to efficiently dissipates and absorb heat. This research modelled the temperature profile across a heat sink and its optimization for a thermoelectric refrigeration application. Simulation was carried out using MATLAB to visualize the performance of the heat sink. The optimization was done using FMINCON in MATLAB by setting upper and lower bounds to satisfy space and volume requirement. The optimum values for the hot and cold heat sink geometry obtained using FMINCON tool in OPTIMTOOL box in MATLAB, yields number of fins as 10, fin spacing as 0.003m, the fin thickness as 0.002m and fin length as 0.015m with an optimum temperature of -0.8639.
Comparative assessment of biosorption potential of non-treated and acid-treated activated carbon produced from maize cob for wastewater treatment
Authors: Sanyaolu V. T. , Fadayini O. , Oshin T. T.
Published: November 2022

Humans and the environment are both concerned about contaminated drinking water. One of the most dangerous constituents in wastewater is heavy metals. The removal of these contaminants from the ecosystem is still a challenge. Some of these heavy metals have been toxic concentrations in human and livestock drinking water. As a result, the goal of this study was to compare the adsorption potential of non-treated and acid-treated activated carbon generated from maize cob in the treatment of wastewater. Fresh maize cobs were air-dried and oven-dried at 255 °C for 9 hours after being cleaned in distilled water. These were crushed, sieved through a 300 μm mesh and carbonized in a muffle furnace to produce powdered activated carbon (PAC). One half of PAC was treated with 780 mL of hydrochloric acid (acid-treated activated carbon - AAC), while the other received no further treatment (non-treated activated carbon - NAC). For surface characteristics and functional groups, the conventional approach was applied to characterize AAC and NAC. Thirty grams of each sample were used in the treatment of metal recycling effluent. Untreated (T1), filtered (T2), NAC treated (T3), and AAC treated (T4) wastewater samples were analysed in three replicates using World Health Organization (WHO) and Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) standard methods for Physico-chemical parameters. Analysis of data was by ANOVA, while mean separation was by Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at (P ≤ .05). Results showed that T2 had no significant improvement (P ≤ .05) in all parameters tested. T3 significantly increased pH, conductivity, TS and TSS, gave the highest mean alkalinity, but showed no significant changes in heavy metal contents. T4 significantly improved mean colour, conductivity, nitrate content and DO, reduced mean pH (from 7.4±0 to 2.1±0.1), increased heavy metal concentrations (P ≤ .05) and increased mean total acidity, but not significantly (P ≥ .05). Treatments improved parameters in the following order: filtration < NAC < AAC. Thus, acid-activated carbon had a higher adsorbent capability than non-activated carbon due to its wide surface area and low moisture and ash contents.
Impacts of land use on the quality of Ala River in Akure Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Obiora-Okeke O. A. , Ojo O. M. , Olabanji T.O.
Published: November 2022

This research was carried out to ascertain the impacts of land use on water quality in Ala river within Akure metropolis, Nigeria. Physical, chemical and bacteriological tests were carried out on the water samples collected from eight different sample points along the river. The parameters analyzed were temperature, odour, taste, colour, turbidity, nitrite, nitrate, pH, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), phosphorus, chlorine, and heavy metals which include copper, cobalt, iron, nickel, zinc, arsenic, selenium, manganese and lead. All the samples indicated contamination alongside the presence of heavy metals. COD values of 160, 300, 580, 220, 400 and 120mg/L observed in points 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, and 8 respectively were above the WHO permissible limit. In point 1, the concentration of heavy metals like iron and lead were above the safe limit. The result showed that amongst the human activities identified to cause water pollution, improper waste disposal and uncontrolled agricultural activities had major effects.
Assessment of crystallite phase, morphology and mechanical properties of concrete reinforced with polyethylene terephthalate (PET)/carbon nanotubes (CNTs)
Authors: Hussaini A. S. , Tijani J. O. , Suleiman M. A. T. , Abdulkareem A. S. , Mustapha S. , Ndamitso M. M.
Published: November 2022

PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) is a semicrystalline thermoplastic polymer with good chemical resistance, thermal stability, melt mobility, and spinnability. In recent years, the development of nanocomposites with various types of nanomaterials has become a fascinating topic in material science. The polyethylene terephthalate (PET) blended with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) was mixed with concrete to prepare concrete/PET/CNTs nanocomposites. The PET/CNTs were employed as reinforcing material to study the synergistic effect between PET/CNTs and concrete. The impact of PET/CNTs at different ratios on the crystallite phase and morphology of the materials was examined using X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD) and high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HRSEM), respectively. The mechanical properties were tested using tensile, compression, and flexural measurement. The presence of PET/CNTs changes the orientation of minerals, thus reducing the crystallite sizes in the matrices at a higher amount of PET/CNT. The excellent mechanical strength of the composite materials gradually increased with the increase in concrete/PET/CNTs. The concrete/PET/CNT (1:4) performance was far from rutting due to the excellent compatibility and crosslinking between the reinforcing material and the concrete, thus increasing the mechanical strength and improving the resistance to cracking.
Experimental study on effect of magnetic field on flow dynamics of iron (III) oxide (Fe2O3) - water based nanofluid using Taylor Couette flow apparatus
Authors: Muritala A. O. , Adio S. A. , Luqman O. , Adebayo O. S. , Akinlolu I. J. , Obayopo S. O.
Published: November 2022

Experimental investigation of magnetic field effect on Fe3O4-Water based nanofluid undergoing Taylor Couette flow is of great importance since some lubricating systems are replicas of Taylor Couette flow. In this study several experiments were carried out to investigate the influence of nanoparticle concentration on the vortex dynamics of a water based Newtonian nanofluid formulated from Fe2O3 in the presence and absence of magnetic field. Flow dynamics was studied in relation to flow transition, stability, hysteresis and effect of magnetism on these properties. Flow regimes covered in this study include Circular Couette flow, Taylor vortex flow, wavy Vortex flow and Modulated Wavy vortex flow. Bifurcation parameters are nanoparticle volume fraction, inner cylinder rotating frequency and Reynolds number. Experiments were performed on distilled water and Fe3O4-Water based nanofluid to understand its behavior in Taylor Couette apparatus. Critical Reynolds number, Azimuthal wavenumber and travelling waves frequency was recorded for each nanoparticle volume fraction. Power Spectral Analysis of nanofluid flow was carried out using video data from the experiment. It was observed that critical frequency for various transitions decrease with nanoparticle volume fraction for nanofluid in the presence of magnetic field but an inconsistent pattern was observed for nanofluid in the absence of magnetic field. These results show that magnetic field and nanoparticle volume fraction greatly influence the behavior of the flow.
Modelling the effect of lateral inertia on the dynamic response of aluminium square tube extrusions
Authors: Shitta-Bey O. T. , Olorunnisola A. E. , Olatunbosun O.
Published: November 2022

Crashworthiness of automotives require the design of crush tubes installed as a frontal structure to absorb energy by deforming plastically during collision. The crushing behaviour of aluminium extrusions modelled as square tubes is investigated under quasi-static and dynamic loading conditions using the non-linear explicit finite element code LS DYNA. Previous works have attributed the dynamic increase of the peak and mean crushing load of aluminium thin-walled structures under axial compression, to inertia effects. Results of our investigation revealed that there is a considerable thickening of the shell side walls before and during progressive folding. This shell thickening is established as the cause of lateral inertia which consequently results in increased crush strength. In addition, a positive correlation was established between the shell thickening and crushing speeds.
Performance evaluation of a fabricated smoking kiln
Authors: Jimoh M. O. , Oni O. E.
Published: November 2022

Smoking is the technique of seasoning, or preservation of food either by exposing it to heat from a burning or smoldering substance, usually wood or cold air at reduced temperature. Smoking is a unit operation that has gained overwhelming acceptance across the globe. The conventional method for smoking is often stressful and unhygienic while posing health risks to processors. In view of this, a low cost smoking kiln was developed and was evaluated to be effective, user friendly, hygienic, free health risk to processors and improve product quality. The machine was fabricated using locally available materials with charcoal as the heat source. Machine heat capacity, thermal resistance and heat requirement for various fish and meat products were determined. Heat capacity, thermal resistance and heat requirement of the machine were found to be 2337.57 kW, 2.16 K/W and 1123.20 kJ (fish); 1000.35 kJ (beef); 1584.24 kJ (chicken) respectively. Consumer’s perception for smoked products at 5% level of significance showed that there was no significant difference (p ˃ 0.05) in the sensory attributes considered for the products.
Singular Value Decomposition and Quasi-Moment-Method as pathloss model calibration alternatives
Authors: Muhammed H. A. , Ayorinde A. A. , Okewole F. O. , Adelabu M. A. , Mowete A. I.
Published: November 2022

Using indoor-to-outdoor pathloss measurements for a femtocell network, this paper presents a comparative evaluation of the performances of Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) and Quasi-Moment-Method (QMM) as pathloss model calibration tools. First, the performances of two published SVD models are compared with those of corresponding QMM models, developed through the calibration of basic ECC33 and WINNER II models. Then, and after noting that the ‘base models’ from which the poorer performing, published SVD calibrations reportedly derive, are either incompletely described or characterized by misprints, alternative ‘base models’ are prescribed by this paper. It is then shown through analysis that QMM and SVD represent alternative implementations of the same basic model calibration algorithm. Computational results due to the alternative models suggest that better performance metrics (Mean Prediction Error (MPE) and Root Mean Square Prediction Error (RMSPE)) are recorded, when existing basic models are modified to mimic the SVD ‘base model’, prior to SVD/QMM calibration. Indeed, because the MPE due to the calibration of the alternative models are all close to zero (actually equal to zero in a few cases), the associated residual profiles closely follow the Gaussian distribution typically assumed in the literature, for shadow fading modelling.
A multivariate model to predicting vibration features for equipment prognosis
Authors: Kolawole A. , Ekoh C. O.
Published: November 2022

Vibration analysis, a vital tool in the scheduling of equipment for maintenance is used to assess the useful life of equipment for allocation of resources to mitigate downtime. Compared to previous approaches of univariate prediction, this study presents a more practical model by employing vibration analysis data as a multivariate problem in predicting the remaining useful life (RUL) of an equipment. Applying the model, Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) and Linear Programming (LP) were explored to determine the deterioration rate and the RUL of the equipment. The results showed that the MLR had a high predictive accuracy on the data sets. Furthermore, a p-value of 1.546e-06 and Multiple R-squared value of 0.8215 were obtained showing that the MLR appears to be a good prediction model. From the solution of the LP formulation, the RUL of the equipment was 181 days. These results closely matched the historical data of the equipment which implied this model could be used for planning of maintenance activity for this equipment and any similar equipment.
Analysis of the effects of rainfall on production performance of a surface mine in Ghana
Authors: Aygei G. , Tetteh A.R.
Published: November 2022

Monthly production rates of most surface mines fluctuate with season and the Nzema Gold Mine is no exception. Located in the western region of Ghana, which is considered the wettest part of the country, the monthly production rates of the mine fluctuate with rainfall. Data covering three years were obtained from the mine and subjected to some statistical analyses including regression analysis and t-test. Using regression analysis, the production data were regressed on the rainfall records to establish a coefficient of determination (R2) and also to observe the general trend between the two variables. The obtained coefficient of determination was further scrutinized with a t-test to prove the existence of a linear correlation between rainfall and production. The results obtained show that there is no linear correlation between rainfall and production in the Nzema Gold Mine. Nevertheless, the presence of rainfall in the mine has an impact on production values, preventing the mine from meeting its desired production targets. From the results, rainfall comes third place on the hierarchy of general delays with a percentage contribution of 13% and causes an average loss of about 4,145 Bank Cubic Metre (BCM) worth of material annually. The presence of rainfall also introduces some benefits as well as deprivations to the mine, causing an average of about $243,000 worth of fuel to be saved concerning the water dust suppression activities, and an average of about $273,000 worth of fuel to be lost on dewatering pumps.
Analysis of multi-distributed generation systems based on solar/biomass/natural gas/diesel energy resources for off-grid application
Authors: Akinyele D. O. , Amole A. O. , Oyadoyin O. E. , Olabode O. E. , Okakwu I. K. , Abimbola K. S.
Published: November 2022

This study presents the analysis of multi-distributed generation systems for 20 off-grid homes in Ogun State based on the techno-environmental analysis planning (TEAP) approach. The technical aspect includes the load, DG capacities, energy generation/year, and the unmet energy demand (UED. The paper considers and compares different energy configurations such as the PV-based DG, the hybrid DGs: PV/biogas, PV/biogas/natural gas, PV/biogas/diesel, PV/diesel, and the diesel-based DGs. The environmental aspect examines the emissions produced by the DGs compared to a diesel-based DG system. The paper also examines the effect of temperature on the performance of the PV system. The simulation is based on a total daily demand of 99.04 kWh/d, and the solar, ambient temperature and the biomass data in Hybrid Optimization of Multiple Energy Resources (HOMER) environment. The size of the PV-based DG obtained is 36.9 kW, which generates 54,565 kWh/yr without temperature effect. Result shows that this value reduced to 48,268 kWh/yr with temperature effect and the value of UED is 7.84 %. The biogas, natural gas and diesel generators have the same size of 13.2 kW. The hybrid DGs achieve a UED of 0% implying 100 % system availability. Results further demonstrate that the mentioned hybrid DGs have CO2 emissions that range between 2.21 and 15, 448 kg/yr, compared to a value of 40, 273 kg/yr obtained when the homes are entirely run on a diesel-based DG. The study can help to understand energy systems analysis.
Treatment of arsenic contaminated groundwater using Arachis hypogaea
Authors: Rawlings A. , Seghosime S.
Published: November 2022

Arsenic has a detrimental effect on both the environment and humans. In many parts of the world, arsenic has been detected in drinking water sources above acceptable levels. Considering the fact that millions of people are at high risk of arsenic poisoning via water intake, arsenic remediation from drinking water has become a global issue of serious concern. Chemical coagulants are already being used for treatment but their enormous cost, human and environmental issues associated with their use have led to searching for alternatives like natural coagulants (plant-based). In this study, laboratory scale studies using jar test experiments were performed on synthetic arsenite contaminated groundwater to analyse the efficiency of Arachis hypogaea (groundnut seed) on the treatment of arsenic contaminated water. Experiments were carried out using synthetic arsenite contaminated borehole water with pH kept constant at 7.30. Results indicated that groundnut seed extract was able to significantly reduced arsenite in water either as primary coagulant or as coagulant aid (using alum as primary coagulant). As primary coagulant, above 90% arsenite reduction was achieved and as a coagulant aid about 99.97% arsenite reduction was achieved. The pH of the treated water was within neutral (basic) due to the buffering capacity of the seed extract. Therefore, results from this study revealed that groundnut seed has potential for use as primary coagulant or as coagulant aid (with alum as primary coagulant) for the treatment of arsenic contaminated groundwater.
Quay-Yard operation analysis of port container terminals in Nigeria
Authors: Achebe C. N. , Nwoguh T. , Ononiwu N. H. , Nwanya S. C.
Published: November 2022

This paper presents significant measures to tackling berth occupancy and quay-yard operation problems. Case study was conducted on a port container terminal in Nigeria confidentially identified as ‘Port A’ in this paper. Hungarian assignment algorithm was used to reduce the total travel time of the yard trucks from an average of 6.4 minutes to 3.5minutes, while M/M/c/K queuing model was applied in scheduling the quay crane assignments. Results showed tremendous increase in quay crane rate, berth capacity and improved berth utilization. Also, for the reach stacker, the crane rate can be improved to 30 TEUs/hr at berth occupancy below 0.40 with TEUs factor of 1.4. These results imply that for Nigeria terminals operating with reach stacker crane, it is possible to improve the berth capacity without affecting the berth utilization of the terminal.
MiR-22 alleviates the proliferation and metastasis of melanoma by targeting FASN
Authors: Qiu Jun , Yi Yanhua , Miao Yong , Hu Zhiqi
Published: November 2022

Purpose: To determine the role of microRNA-22 (miR-22) in the development of malignant melanoma, and the underlying mechanism.

Methods: Potential miRNAs binding fatty acid synthase (FASN) were predicted by bioinformatics analysis, out of which miR-22 was selected. Their binding relationship was confirmed using dual-luciferase reporter assay. MicroRNA-22 and FASN levels in 40 clinical samples of melanoma were determined, and the correlation of the expression between miR-22 and FASN was assessed by Pearson correlation test. To uncover the role of miR-22 in regulating cell phenotypes of malignant melanoma, M21 and A375 cells were transfected with miRNA-NC, miR-22 mimics or miR-22 mimics + FASN-OE (FASN-over expression), respectively. Proliferative and metastatic abilities in each group were determined using cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), 5-Ethynyl-2’- deoxyuridine (EdU) and Transwell assay, respectively.

Results: MiR-22 was the target gene binding the oncogene, FASN. Downregulated miR-22 and upregulated FASN were observed in melanoma tissues, showing a negative correlation between them. An overexpression of miR-22 significantly inhibited proliferative, migratory and invasive capacities in M21 and A375 cells (p < 0.05). Notably, overexpression of FASN abolished the inhibitory effects of miR-22 on proliferative and metastatic abilities in melanoma.

Conclusion: The level of expression of miR-22 in the malignant melanoma samples is low. Overexpression of miR-22 inhibits the proliferative and metastatic abilities of melanoma by targeting FASN and negatively regulating its level. Thus, miR-22 may be a promising therapeutic target of melanoma.
Polypharmacy-related polypathology in the elderly: A case study at Ibn Sina Hospital, Morocco
Authors: Bouaoudate Mostafa , El harti Jaouad , Abouqal Redouane , Abidi Khalid , Zeggwagh Amine Ali
Published: November 2022

Purpose: To determine the polypathological and therapeutic profiles of a population of elderly subjects at the Ibn Sina Hospital, Rabat, Morocco.

Methods: This was a prospective cross-sectional observational study on a population made up of 356 patients aged ≥ 65 years. Data were collected from different departments during the study period, regarding age, sex, educational level, socio-cultural and economic status, self-care ability, polypathologies, polymedication, effectiveness of treatments, adverse effects, and knowledge of the concept of generic medication. The results, which are presented in percentages and simple averages, were processed with Excel 2016 software.

Results: Patients aged 66 - 75 years comprised 60.4 % of the studied population. The most common pathologies were diabetes, asthma, and cardiovascular disease. A total of 237 patients (66.6 %) took < 6 drugs, while 119 patients (33.4 %) were on polypharmacy, i.e., > 6 drugs. The elderly were more vulnerable to polypathology and polypharmacy due to age-related reduction in physiological functions and their impact on pharmacological parameters. Polypathology led to polypharmacy which increased the risk of side effects and problems with adherence to medications.

Conclusion: This study provides information on the pathological profiles of a population of elderly subjects in a Moroccan hospital, and details of the therapeutic strategies used in managing these patients.