bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DESIGN DE EXPERIÊNCIA PARA CRIANÇAS POR MEIO DE UM ESPAÇO INTERATIVO
Authors: Parenza Sabrina , Selau Luiza Grazziotin
Published: December 2023

O presente trabalho tem como tema o desenvolvimento de um espaço interativo em um museu, com a finalidade de proporcionar para as crianças um ambiente onde estas possam se sentir à vontade para dialogar e relacionar-se com informações de modo a instiga-las a perceberem uma forma diferente de se obter conhecimento. Buscando mostrar o quanto a curiosidade pode auxiliar no aprender. Objetivando, também, apresentar a união entre a imagem e som, ou seja, o audiovisual como forma de interação. Somando estes as influências que a cor pode transmitir dentro de um espaço, produto ou conteúdo visual. Conectando o design de interação e experiência de forma lúdica. Utilizando como forma de pesquisa cientifica a metodologia do estudo de caso que une teoria, pesquisa de campo e entrevista com especialistas no assunto, como forma de se obter informações do ponto de vista de quem não trabalha com design, mas possui entendimento quanto ao que se é necessário e funciona com o público alvo. Concluindo a importância de se obter um equilíbrio entre o que se deseja passar e a forma como se passa, não causando conflito de muitos sentidos ao mesmo tempo, procurando sempre reforçar o assunto com a interação dos sentidos, ocasionando uma experiência única.
Advancing Passenger Comfort: Creating a Prototype for Thermal Comfort Clothing in Flight Cabins
Authors: Nurhayati Baharudin  , Raja Mariatul Qibtiah  , Debie Devisser Gerijih  , Muhammad Mohammed Salleh  , Reyanhealme Rohanai  , Siti Soleha Razali  , Anis Nabihah Ibrahim
Published: December 2023

Research on thermal comfort has demonstrated that individuals possess unique comfort preferences in specific thermal environments. The concept of thermal comfort clothing for individuals was rarely found in previous studies. The objective of this research is to create a prototype that can sustain a thermally comfortable in winter condition for passengers in the airplane cabin. The thermal clothing was designed and put to the test in real-world scenarios to evaluate its efficacy. The outcomes of the tests were verified by assessing the levels of thermal comfort. The functionality of the clothing system revolved around heating water with a heater and then circulating it through tubes embedded within the clothing. The heat from the water was transmitted to the wearer, resulting in an increase in temperature from 22 degrees Celsius to 25 degrees Celsius within a span of 15 minutes. From the result obtained, the trend lines for surrounding temperature and water temperature exhibit a direct correlation. When the surrounding air temperature decreases, the water temperature also decreases over time. Both trend lines demonstrate a consistent increase in temperature at the same rate. Additionally, the break-even point for both trend lines occurs at 25°C in zero seconds, indicating that the prototype begins to influence the surrounding temperature in relation to the water temperature.
Mathematical Modeling and Validation of Solar-Induced Ventilation System for Vehicle Cabin Cooling in Hot Parking Conditions
Authors: Adel Abulgasm Lahimer  , Amir Abdul Razak  , Kamaruzzaman Sopian
Published: December 2023

Exposure to direct sunlight raises interior temperatures in vehicle cabins, risking heat-related illnesses. Solar passive techniques mitigate this issue, especially during hot parking conditions. However, a comprehensive mathematical model encompassing both solar chimney and vehicle cabin is lacking. This study develops a novel mathematical model to predict temperature distribution and airflow rate, enhancing system performance evaluation. The system comprises a solar air collector with an adjustable arm mounted on the vehicle's roof. The model was validated theoretically and experimentally. The experimental work is conducted with the physical model with an air gap of 0.1 m, 0.77 m width, and a 1.12 m collector length under outdoor conditions. Results indicated a gradual increase in temperatures of the glass cover, air in the collector channel, absorber, and mass airflow rate with solar radiation intensity, significantly influencing system performance. The high value of R2 and the consistency of the model's results with theoretical and experimental outcomes justified the validity and accuracy of the proposed model, exhibiting a deviation percentage of less than 10%. The developed model can be utilized to study influential parameters for optimizing the proposed strategy's performance and components, yielding comparable results to experimental data. Additionally, it provides researchers and car makers with a broader perspective and a range of options for further improvement in weight, size, cost, and aerodynamic of the vehicle.
Impact of Nanoparticles Shapes on Magnetohydrodynamic Flow and Heat Transfer of Casson Hybrid Nanofluids over a Moving Inclined Plate
Authors: Mohd Rijal Ilias  , Siti Shuhada Ishak  , Noorehan Awang  , Norsyasya Zahirah Mohd Zukri  , Roselah Osman  , Fazillah Bosli
Published: December 2023

This study investigated the impact of different nanoparticles shape on magnetohydrodynamic of Casson hybrid nanofluids flow and heat transfer over a moving inclined plate with convective boundary conditions. The study infused water with silver (Ag) and Titanium Oxide (TiO2) to analysed the velocity and temperature profiles as well as skin friction and Nusselt number. The numerically method solved by by applying the implicit finite difference, Keller Box method based on similarity transformation techniques that used to convert the partial differential equations of Casson hybrid nanofluids to an ordinary differential equation. The results showed that platelet shaped nanoparticles had the highest velocity and temperature profiles, while a parameter of aligned angle of magnetic field, , interaction of magnetic field, , mixed convection parameters, , inclined angle parameters, , Casson parameters, , and Biot numbers, is increased, the velocity is increased and temperature is decreased. Conversely, as the volume fraction of nanoparticles, is increased, the velocity is decreased and temperature is increased. For moving inclined plate, the highest skin friction is moving against the flow while moving along the flow plate has the highest Nusselt number. The findings of the study can be useful in designing and optimizing various industrial applications that involve the transport of Casson hybrid nanofluids.
Effects of Electrification and Transverse Force on Dusty Flow over a Linear Stretching Sheet
Authors: Jayaprakash Mishra  , Tumbanath Samantara  , Pradeep Kumar Tripathy
Published: December 2023

The numerical investigation of the flow and heat transfer of steady dusty flow over a linear stretching sheet has been carried out. The effects of Transverse force and electrification has been incorporated in this problem. Modelling of the problem comprises of highly nonlinear partial differential equations that have been transferred to systems of ordinary differential equations by implementing suitable transformations. Since the equations are of boundary value problems in nature, have been transferred to initial value problem by using shooting method and then solved by RungeKutta 4th order technique. All the above numerical methods incorporated in the BVP4C tool of MATLAB and has been solved the systems of differential equations by using MATLAB software. The effects of different parameter like Prandtl number, Eckert number, transverse force, and electrification parameter on flow and heat transfer profile has been presented through graphs and tables. The results have been validated with previous authors. From the graph it is observed that the transverse force reduces the velocity of the particle phase in the flow where as electrification of particles raises the temperature of particle phase in the flow. The computations carried out with tolerance of order less than O (10^(-6) ).
Application of CFD Simulation to Determine the Optimal Horizontal Position of the Nozzle Inlet of a Propeller Flow Cooling System (PFCS)
Authors: Faisal Mahmuddin  , Muhammad Iqshal Naitullah Jasman  , Syerly Klara  , Ahmad Fitriadhy
Published: December 2023

Research on the use of fluid flow caused by the propeller to be used for engine cooling is an interesting research topic. The system is known as the Propeller Flow Cooling System (PFCS). It is necessary to develop the most optimal position to produce maximum water discharge in this system. This research carried out simulation and analysis with an elliptical inlet nozzle as the utilization of the stern flow of the ship. This study aims to determine the difference in the volume of water generated from several horizontal positions of the nozzle inlet. In this study, the simulated horizontal distance of the inlet nozzle to the propeller at 0.7R propeller blade that is, 5 cm, 7.5 cm, 10 cm, 12.5 cm, 15 cm and using the computational dynamic fluid (CFD) method to analyze the optimal horizontal distance of the inlet nozzle which produces the highest water flow rate. Based on the research result, it was shown that the optimal horizontal distance of the inlet nozzle to the propeller is a distance of 7.5 cm. The water flow generated in the computational simulation in this case was 14.24 liters/minute. In that case, it can be concluded that the effect of the horizontal distance of the inlet nozzle on the propeller greatly affects the flow of water produced.
Herbal remedies used for the treatment of infertility in females by traditional healers in the northwest of Algeria.
Authors: NAZIM Bellifa , ADİL Selka , YASSİNE Merad , ISMAIL Benhaddou , MATMOUR Derouicha
Published: December 2023

Ethnopharmacological relevance: According to the world health organization, infertility is a global health issue affecting millions of people of reproductive age worldwide. Available data suggests that between 48 million couples and 186 million individuals have infertility globally.

Aim of the study: The aims of this work is to inventory plants used in the treatment of female primary infertility by the herbal healers in the northwest of Algeria.

Materials and methods: A number of 30 herbal healers and resource persons were interviewed. This ethnobotanical survey has permitted to identify 41 recipes in which involved 49 plant species belonging to 23 family used to treat primary infertility in women by traditional healers in the northwest of Algeria.The scientific name, family, common name, part used, mode of preparation as well as of administration, days of treatment and the indication are provided.

Results: Results show that The Lamiaceae family is the best represented with 9 species and 32.14% of the frequency of use, followed by the Apiaceae with 8 species and Asteraceae with 4 species and frequency of use 9.52% for each .The aerial parts are the most commonly parts used with a rate of 22% of total parts of the plant, followed by the leaves with 18%, seeds 16%,root and rhizome 12%,fruit and flower (10% each); bark bulb(4% each), kernel and pollen grains(2% each) Infusion is the main mode of preparation with rate of 40% of total preparations, mixture with 37%, decoction with 17%, and finally paste with 6%. Recipes were principally taken orally (83 %) or topically (17%) as poultice (10%) or as vaginal steaming (7%).

Conclusions: Herbal healers in northwest of Algeria have a wide range of herbal remedies used to treat primary infertility in females; their knowledge is a natural heritage from their ancestors transmitted through centuries.

Keywords: ethnobotany, infertility, recipes, herbal healers, northwest of Algeria.
Comparative phylogeography of two codistributed species of the genus Herichthys (Actinopterygii: Cichliformes: Cichlidae) in northeastern Mexico
Authors: Pérez-Miranda Fabian , Mejía Omar , López Benjamín , Soto-Galera Eduardo , Bernal-Portillo Amairany , Matamoros Wilfredo A.
Published: December 2023

Phylogeographic patterns of freshwater fishes in coastal regions are highly susceptible to eustatic sea level changes associated with Pleistocene glaciations. In this context, the Plain Coastal Gulf in northeastern Mexico represents an ideal study area due to its low elevation. Herein, we compare the phylogeographic structures of two cichlid species of the genus Herichthys Baird et Girard, 1854 widely distributed in the Pánuco–Tamesí system in northeastern Mexico using two mitochondrial markers. The species studied were: Herichthys carpintis (Jordan et Snyder, 1899) and Herichthys pantostictus (Taylor et Miller, 1983). We estimate their genetic diversity, gene flow, and demographic history and perform biogeographic reconstructions using a Bayesian computation approach and environmental niche modeling. The biogeographic reconstruction suggests a different history for each species. Environmental niche modeling indicates that both species experienced a demographic expansion during the Pleistocene but responded differently to Pleistocene climatic changes. In summary, their current sympatric distribution could be the outcome of contemporary and not historical processes reflecting a pseudo-incongruent pattern.
The phylogeny and taxonomy of Upretia (Caloplacoideae, Teloschistaceae), reveal three new species from Southwestern China
Authors: Li Lijuan , Zhang Yanyun , Printzen Christian , Wang Lisong , Wang Xinyu
Published: December 2023

Several specimens of Upretia from Southwest China are morphologically and phylogenetically distinct from currently recognized species in the genus. These specimens are here accommodated within a new species, Upretia zeorina Li J. Li & Printzen. It is characterized by an areolate to squamulose thallus with brown to blackish brown upper surface, pruinose, zeorine type apothecia, black discs, narrowly bacilliform conidia, and the production of gyrophoric acid. Two other specimens of Upretia from China are distinct from currently accepted species and tentatively referred to as Upretia sp. 1 and Upretia sp. 2. A key to all known species of Upretia is also provided.
A new species of shrew moles, genus Uropsilus Milne-Edwards, 1871 (Mammalia, Eulipotyphla, Talpidae), from the Wuyi Mountains, Jiangxi Province, eastern China
Authors: Ren Xueyang , Xu Yifan , Li Yixian , Yao Hongfeng , Fang Yi , Khanal Laxman , Cheng Lin , Zeng Wei , Jiang Xuelong , Chen Zhongzheng
Published: December 2023

Asian shrew moles, genus Uropsilus, are the most primitive members of family Talpidae. They are distributed mainly in southwestern China and adjacent Bhutan, Myanmar, and Vietnam. In June 2022, we collected five specimens of Uropsilus from Mount Huanggang, Jiangxi Province, eastern China, which is the highest peak of the Wuyi Mountains. We sequenced two mitochondrial (CYT B and 12S rRNA) and three nuclear (PLCB4, RAG1, and RAG2) genes to estimate the phylogenetic relationship of the five shrew moles. We also compared their morphology with recognized species within the genus. Our results show that these specimens collected from Mount Huanggang differ from all named species in Uropsilus. We formally describe the species here as Uropsilus huanggangensissp. nov. Morphologically, the new species is distinguishable from the other Uropsilus species by the combination of dark chocolate-brown pelage, long snout, enlarged first upper incisor, similarly sized lacrimal and infraorbital foramens, and the curved and sickle-like coronoid process. The genetic distances of the cytochrome b (CYT B) gene between U. huanggangensis and other recognized Uropsilus species ranged between 9.3% and 16.4%. The new species is geographically distant from other species in the genus and is the easternmost record of the Uropsilus. The divergence time of U. huanggangensis was estimated to be the late Pliocene (1.92 Ma, 95% CI = 0.88–2.99).
L’intensification de l’action directe non-violente et son processus de légitimation aux États-Unis dans les années 1970 : The Trial of the Catonsville Nine , par Daniel Berrigan (1970)
Authors: Thomas-Hébert Charlotte
Published: December 2023

The Trial of the Catonsville Nine est une adaptation théâtrale du procès des neuf activistes qui brûlèrent en mai 1968 plusieurs centaines de dossiers de conscription afin de protester contre la guerre du Vietnam. Cet article montre que la pièce répond à un enjeu particulier : tirer profit de l’importante médiatisation de l’affaire, du procès, puis du spectacle afin de légitimer l’intensification des tactiques radicales non-violentes auprès d’un grand public choqué de voir des membres du clergé transgresser l’ordre social et politique, et ainsi pérenniser un nouveau répertoire d’action.
Advances in computational methods for identifying cancer driver genes
Authors: Wang Ying , Zhou Bohao , Ru Jidong , Meng Xianglian , Wang Yundong , Liu Wenjie
Published: December 2023

Cancer driver genes (CDGs) are crucial in cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment. This study employed computational methods for identifying CDGs, categorizing them into four groups. The major frameworks for each of these four categories were summarized. Additionally, we systematically gathered data from public databases and biological networks, and we elaborated on computational methods for identifying CDGs using the aforementioned databases. Further, we summarized the algorithms, mainly involving statistics and machine learning, used for identifying CDGs. Notably, the performances of nine typical identification methods for eight types of cancer were compared to analyze the applicability areas of these methods. Finally, we discussed the challenges and prospects associated with methods for identifying CDGs. The present study revealed that the network-based algorithms and machine learning-based methods demonstrated superior performance.
Adjusting to Stressors and Mental Health Issues Among First-Year Students in Higher Learning Institutions
Authors: Ooko Pamela Atieno
Published: December 2023

Higher learning institutions are expected to churn out knowledge and cater to the mental well-being of their students. Overwhelming evidence suggests that while students attend studies, exposure to stressors interferes with their academic abilities, social adaptability, and mental health. The study analyzed published studies on mental health issues and student stressors together with adjusting strategies to address mental health in higher learning institutions. By adopting the conceptual analysis framework, the results revealed that students face various stressors: academics, relational, anxiety, depression, substance use, economic stressors, mobile phone usage, sexual orientation, and eating disorders in the institutions. The study recommends that higher learning institutions set up wellness and counseling centers equipped with mental health professionals to negate the effect of various stressors on the mental health of first-year university students. The study also recommends emphasis on positive psychology and psychoeducation to change students' perceptions of mental health.
Developing a Learning Organisation within the Field Archaeological Profession – The Case of England
Authors: Lau Y. P. A.
Published: December 2023

Learning organisation is a concept well-proven to be beneficial in many business models but has rarely been employed in the field archaeological profession. In the case of the English commercial field archaeological profession, limited diversity and multichannel communication system, short-term contracts, and unclear customer needs are the challenges of implementing the concept. The difficulties can be solved by expanding worldwide volunteer and placement programmes, initiating professional practitioners exchange programmes, and establishing professionalism with a more rigorous selection mechanism.
Room sterilization using ultra violet lamps in reducing the air germs number of tuberculosis patients’ house
Authors: Wanti Wanti , Singga Siprianus , Agustina Agustina , Irfan Irfan
Published: December 2023

Mycobacterium Tuberculosis can survive in the air, with its ability depending on environmental factors such as Ultraviolet (UV) light. UV light can be generated from sunlight or UV-C lamps, which are utilized for air germ sterilization. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of room sterilization using a UV lamp in reducing airborne germ counts. This experimental research took place from March to September 2023 and employed a one-group pretest-posttest design. The research was carried out in 21 houses of tuberculosis patients in Kupang City. The intervention involved the use of 16-watt and 20-watt UV lamps in two rooms of each house. The variable measured was the airborne germ count, assessed by examining the Most Probable Number (MPN) coliforms, both before and after sterilization (UV light irradiation), calculated through laboratory examination. The collected germ count data were then statistically analyzed using the paired t-test. Room sterilization using a 16W UV lamp effectively reduced the number of room germs (p-value 0.046 < 0.05). Similarly, room sterilization with a 20W lamp significantly reduced the number of room germs in the households of tuberculosis patients (p 0.004 < 0.005). Ultraviolet lamps can be employed for sterilizing rooms in the homes of tuberculosis patients, particularly in cases where sunlight cannot penetrate the house. These lamps can eliminate airborne germs, thereby reducing their count and the risk of disease transmission within the household.
Comments on “Tako-Tsubo syndrome in patients with COVID-19: a single centre retrospective case series”
Authors: Finsterer Josef , Stöllberger Claudia
Published: December 2023

Dear Editor,We read with interest the article by Alonzo et al. about a retrospective study of four patients with Takotsubo syndrome (TTS), which was attributed to SARS-CoV-2 infection (SC2I)...
Corneal epithelial thickness mapping by optical coherence tomography in normal and early keratoconic eyes
Authors: El Gazzar Hamdy Ahmed , Masoud Mohamed , Wagih Alyaa , Al-Tohamy Soha Moussa
Published: December 2023

Background

Keratoconus (KC) is a noninflammatory disease causing anatomical deformity of the cornea and is manifested by marked conical protrusion in addition to thinning of the corneal central part. There are currently no standardized screening criteria for KC, making early diagnosis difficult. Early diagnosis aids in stopping progression and better management. It has been proposed that spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) has a diagnostic advantage in the early detection of corneal thickness changes in early KC.

Aim

Detection of corneal epithelial thickness changes in early KC eyes versus normal eyes using SD-OCT.

Methods

The research involved 30 eyes with early KC and 30 eyes from healthy control patients. Both groups underwent detailed ophthalmological examination and measurement of regional corneal epithelial thickness with anterior segment SD-OCT.

Results

In the cases group, corneal epithelium thickness decreased significantly in all regions tested. Additionally, all parameters of the pentacam pachymetry indices showed a statistically significant increase in the cases group. All of the thinnest pachymetry at central 5 mm and 7 mm Area Under the Curve (AUC=0.822 and 0.804), the location Y at central 5 mm and 7 mm (AUC=0.796 and 0.738), the minimum-maximum at central 5 mm and 7 mm (AUC=0.878 and 0.934), and the standard of deviation at central 5 mm and 7 mm (AUC=0.935 and 0.941) showed a statistically significant predictive value for differentiation KC cases from control (P < 0.001), with the highest AUC reported with the standard of deviation. The tested corneal thickness in various regions correlated positively and statistically significantly with pentacam pachymetry indices.

Conclusions

Early KC is associated with corneal thinning and increased pentacam pachymetry index parameters. The changes detected by pentacam pachymetry and epithelial thickness as detected by SD-OCT showed a significant correlation.
Incidence of cataract and glaucoma in children with nephrotic syndrome undergoing steroid treatment
Authors: Deiaeldin Yasmine A. , Elsharkawy Mona Mohammad , Abdelrahman Hadeel M. , Omar Khadija Alforjani Abdulhadi , Al-Naimy Mohammed A.
Published: December 2023

Background

Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is by far, the most common glomerular disease in childhood period and is considered as one of the main aetiologies of child exposure to systemic steroids. High-dose corticosteroids for NS, are usually prescribed by pediatrians for a long period. Posterior subcapsular cataract (PSC) and increased intraocular pressure (IOP) are the two most common ocular complications associated with steroid treatment. The exact incidence, prevalence, severity, and time of cataract and glaucoma onset in those childrens have not yet been thoroughly investigated.

Aim

Evaluating the incidence of cataract and glaucoma in children with NS receiving steroid treatment during and after treatment cessation.

Patients and methods

This cohort prospective study was done at the Pediatric Nephrology Clinic at Zagazig University Children’s Hospital in co-operation with the Department of Ophthalmology, Zagazig University, for detailed eye examination. Totally 48 children with primary NS who received corticosteroids either as a single treatment or with other treatment modalities for more than 3 months were included in our study. Clinical features plus laboratory tests confirmed by renal biopsy were the main parameters used in the diagnosis of NS.

Results

Posterior subcapsular cataracts (PSC) were observed in 14 patients (29.2%). All studied patients had normal intraocular pressure ranging between 10 and 20 mmHg in both eyes during the follow-up period with no glaucomatous optic disc changes observed.

Conclusion

A significant number of children with NS treated with steroids are liable to develop cataracts and glaucoma that may progress and need surgery to preserve vision, so they have to be well diagnosed and followed-up.
An observational study to evaluate the awareness of drug treatment, prescription pattern, adverse drug reactions, and adherence in patients of major depressive disorder
Authors: Parmar Urwashi Indrakumar , Puradkar Pranali , Kadam Kranti , Tadavi Firoz , Gajbhiye Snehalata , Joshi Shirish , Sohal Amitoj
Published: December 2023

Aims:

Due to the paucity of studies in and out of India that dealt with treatment awareness of major depressive disorder (MDD), we decided to assess the awareness of MDD patients, and since adherence and awareness are linked to each other, we assessed adherence too. Prescription pattern studies identify changes in prescriptions due to poor initial response or adverse drug reactions (ADRs), which may result in dose reduction or switching medications and delay remission. Therefore, the study assessed the ADR pattern.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was carried out on 200 MDD patients with treatment records for at least 3 months after getting approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee and consent from the patients. The data obtained were entered in Microsoft Excel and analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results:

The mean age was 44.65 ± 12.02 years, and females were 70%. Maximum patients (98%) were aware of the consequence of stopping the drugs suddenly, and only 12.5% were aware of the onset of response to treatment. Escitalopram was the most common antidepressant prescribed (43.77%), and 67 ADRs out of 136 were attributable to it. Weakness and fatigue were the most common ADRs. The majority (97) of the ADRs were possibly related to antidepressants, and 65% of patients showed optimal adherence to medications.

Conclusions:

This study sheds light on the treatment awareness and adherence of MDD patients in India and highlights the need for educating patients about treatment response. It also emphasizes the importance of monitoring ADRs and adjusting prescription patterns accordingly to improve treatment outcomes.
Measurement of Entrance Surface Air Kerma of plain abdominal radiography in some Nigerian health facilities
Authors: Bamidele Lateef , Osahon David O. , Olowookere Christopher  J.
Published: December 2023

Background : Patient dose assessments in many Nigerian radiological departments have shown large inter- and intra-hospital variations for the same type of radiological examinations, hence, there is a need for regular monitoring of radiological equipment and measurement of patient dose in our health facilities. The main objective of this survey was to evaluate the Entrance Surface Dose Air Kerma (ESAK) of the patients who underwent abdominal (anteroposterior; AP) radiography in ten health facilities in Southern Nigeria.

Material and Methods: A total of ten health facilities comprising private and public health facilities were included in this investigation. A total of 223 adult patients who weighed within 70±5kg `were considered in this survey. The ESAK was calculated from the tube output of the x-ray machines and the exposure parameters utilized during examinations according to the International Atomic Energy Agency code of practice.

Results : The mean ESAK values obtained from the health centres ranged from 1.00 milligray (mGy) to 17.21mGy. The maximum/minimum ratio of individual ESAK which is the range factor (RF) varied from 1.3 to 6.1.

Conclusion and Recommendation : Variations were observed in patient dose values among radiological units. The entrance surface air kerma (ESAK) obtained in the study were comparable with the dose values in the UK- 2010 review in most cases. The intra-radiological unit patient dose variations, as revealed by the range factor show that the operation technique employed was not fully optimized and that dose reduction is possible without degrading image quality. Therefore, there is a need for regular monitoring of radiographic equipment and periodic surveys of the patient dose.
Factors influencing repeat HIV testing among mothers in perinatal clinics of rural and urban settings in Kisumu County, Kenya
Authors: Orinda Joseph Orinda , Ayodo George , Ondeng'e Ken , Ochung Antony , Onguru Daniel
Published: December 2023

Background : Over one million children are living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), predominantly acquired from their mothers during the perinatal period. Most infections are in the developing world with over 90% of children with HIV being in sub-Saharan Africa. This study aimed to determine factors associated with low repeat HIV testing among mothers going to perinatal clinics. We looked into individual, provider and facility factors associated with repeat HIV testing.

Methods : The study adopted a facility-based cross-sectional survey and a convergent mixed method. The study population were Women of Reproductive Age living in Kisumu County. Simple random sampling was used for quantitative analysis and an open-ended interview guide for qualitative analysis.

Results : Out of the 407 respondents, 82 (20.15%) had received the full course of repeat HIV tests up to the postnatal visit. Repeat testing was significantly associated with; Level of education (AOR=4.32,95%CI=1.57–11.87), marital status (AOR=10.51,95%CI=1.70–6.87), accompaniment by spouse (AOR=2.33, 95%CI=1.31 – 4.17), privacy of the counselling rooms AOR=5.10, 95%CI=0.32– 0.80) and waiting time before receiving clinic services AOR=0.31,95%CI=0.14– 0.68) and design of the book from IDI.

Conclusions and Recommendations : Low levels of repeat HIV testing were observed among mothers attending perinatal clinics within Kisumu County. low education level, long waiting times, privacy of the rooms and design of the mother and child booklet were associated with it. Mothers and health workers are to be educated on the benefits of repeat HIV testing during ANC and post-natal clinics.
The African Manatee (Trichechus Senegalensis, link 1795) in the Ramsar site of Setté Cama: Case at Lake Cachimba
Authors: Nkollo-Kema Kema Christy Achtone , Kema Kema Judicaël Régis , Mombo Jean Bernard , Koumba Christophe Roland Zinga
Published: December 2023

The West African manatee (Trichechus senegalensis) is classified as vulnerable on the IUCN red list and is highly protected in Gabon. Gabon could be home to one of the highest densities of manatees remaining in Africa. Many people agree on the presence of manatee populations in several lakes and lagoons in Gabon. The aim of this study is to investigate the distribution and abundance of manatees by monitoring. The study was carried out in the catchment area of Lake Cachimba at the Setté Cama Ramsar site. We used three data collection methods: secondary data collection, boat surveys and surveys of markets and landing sites. Data analysis was based on descriptive statistics, manatee encounter rates and carcass encounter rates (number of carcasses/km of river). The chi-square (χ2) goodness-of-fit test was used to determine whether there were significant differences in the abundance of manatee encounter rates between Lake Cachimba and the Mbissi River. The results showed that manatee hotspots in Lake Cachimba are located near the mouth of the DuebiRiver, along the shore of the village of Cachimba. In addition, fishing activities are a potential threat to the African manatee.
Investigating Indigenous Knowledge Developed by Agro- Pastoralists to Cope with Climate Change and Variability in the Agro-Pastoralism Region of Rwanda
Authors: Habakubaho Théogène , Mhache Emmanuel Patroba , Saria Josephat
Published: December 2023

The main objective of this research was to assess indigenous knowledge developed in the agro-pastoralism region of Rwanda to cope with climate change. The study was conducted in drought-prone area of Nyagatare and Gatsibo Districts. Four hundred and eighty (480) households of agro-pastoralists were sampled randomly in 40 villages and interviewed. Focus Group Discussion and interviews with key informants were also used for data collection. Data were analysed using SPSS Statistics 28.0.1. Results indicated that local communities are traditionally using cloud/sky colour (80.6%), change of temperature during the day (66.5%), direction and strength of winds (58.8%) and lightning and thunder (46.3%) in weather forecasting. Further, locally made pesticides (42.9%), burning of pastures and farm residues (41.3%), early handweeding (59.8%), early planting (61.5%), indigenous medicines (33.3%) and indigenous crops and livestock breeds (61.0%) are used for diseases and pest management. Further, farming and grazing along rivers and wetlands (61.3%) and tolerant or early maturing crops (51.9%) are used for drought. Based on these results, the researcher concludes that there is evidence of the role of indigenous knowledge in adaptation to climate change. I, therefore, recommend that indigenous knowledge should be incorporated into the adaptation process, especially at the community level. This would include formal recognition, empowerment of its custodians, and simplified training and awareness.
Rental and Tenement Housing Problems in Sapele Local Government Area, Delta State
Authors: Egharevba Jolly Osaretin , Edohen Prince Osarobo
Published: December 2023

Rental/tenement housing problem is a persistent sustainable development challenge that affects livability, particularly in developing countries. The research examined the availability of rental housing, accessibility of rental housing location and neighbourhood facilities, environmental condition and overcrowding as factors of rental/tenement housing problems in Sapele Local Government Area. A total of 384 questionnaires were systematically distributed to household heads and 339 were returned. Data were analysed using both inferential and descriptive statistics. The result revealed that there is inadequacy in the availability of rental housing, and that the location of rental housing is highly accessible and rentals have high accessibility to neighbourhood facilities. It was found that there is an association between road conditions and the level of impediment to rental housing unit. The findings further showed that there was low crime rate and the studyarea had low susceptibility to flooding. Rental housing was found not to be affordable since a higher percentage of residents spends more than 30% of their income on rent and the maximum occupancy ratio was 2 persons per room and of such, there is no problem of overcrowding and privacy. The findings also revealed that there is a link between the number of persons per room and the level of privacy. It is recommended that government should be more involved in the provision of low-income rental housing units and formulation of rental policy.
Seasonal Differences in Rainfall Distribution Within the Bawku Area in the Savanna Belt of Ghana
Authors: Ansah-Mensah Kow , Asamoah Yaw
Published: December 2023

Empirical evidence suggests that temperatures are continuously rising in the savannah areas of Ghana and impacting negatively on residents’ livelihood activities. However, there is paucity of information on the wet and dry seasons’ rate of wetness or dryness in the driest belt of Ghana. Meanwhile, residents of the area are mainly rained agriculturalists. We employed gauge station rainfall and temperature data from Ghana Meteorological Agency to assess the seasonal rainfall characteristics of the Bawku area using XLSTAT and DrinC software. Results from the rainfall anomalies show persistent dryness (-0.017) in the area during the dry season and continuous wetness in the wet season (0.021). Evapotranspiration was consistently higher in the dry season at a rate of 2.6% (0.26) yearly as well as a high rate of aridity [AI] (0.00≤AI≤0.09) in the dry season and low aridity (0.56 ≤AI ≤1.13) during the wet season. Following the reduction in the amount of rainfall, we can conclude that Bawku area is continuously drying amidst the changing climate. It is recommended that the ministry of agriculture should prioritise the construction of mechanised dams or wells and expand irrigation projects in the area to reduce the climate change effects on the livelihood of the residents especially in the dry season.
Environmental Effect of Quarry Site on the Adjoining Neighborhood in Oluyole Local Government, Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Umar Jimoh , Oriri Oluwabukola
Published: December 2023

This study assessed the environmental impact of the quarry site on the adjoining neighbourhood in Oluyole Local Government Area, Ibadan, and Oyo State. The healthy city concept provided an anchor for the research. The mixed-methods and cross-sectional survey research design were used. Primary and secondary data sources were used. Using systematic random technique, three hundred and eleven (311) copies of questionnaires were administered to households in the selected houses within 1km of a purposively selected quarry site. The variables that were investigated include the socio-economic characteristics, challenges associated with quarry sites, quarrying activities effect on human properties and psychological health, the coping mechanisms adopted by the people in the neighbourhood. The study revealed that residents of the neighbourhood close to the quarry site were faced with the following prevalent challenges; ground vibration as a result of blasting (FEI 4.81); noise from heavy machines, hauling and processing vehicles, as well as rock blasting (FEI 4.66); quarrying activities producing noise (FEI 4.23). Therefore, there should be more proactive measure in enforcing the environmental protection laws and regulations guiding the location of quarry sites.
Urban Insecurity and Economic Development in Enugu State
Authors: Onyinye Chime Jessie , Ezeodili Barr. Walter
Published: December 2023

The study examined urban insecurity and Economic Development in Enugu State. The study was guided by three objectives and three hypotheses. This research employed a descriptive research design. Chi-square non parametric statistics was applied in the test of hypotheses. The findings revealed that Incidence of kidnapping has a significant effect on economic development of Enugu. This means that the high level of kidnaping in Enugu urban scares away investors in the states. Armed robbery has a significant effect on economic development of Enugu State that the finding revealed that Insurgencies (violent agitations) has significant effect on economic development of Enugu State. The study concluded that urban insecurity which often manifest in the way of kidnapping, armed robbery and violent agitations etc influenced negatively the economic development in Enugu State. The study recommended that Governments at all levels should put in place mechanisms that encourage financial institutions to provide soft loans to aspiring young entrepreneurs who want to start small businesses, allowing them to sustain themselves and avoid engaging in criminal activities such as kidnapping for ransom, which has become the norm in many Nigerian states.
Globalization and Terrorism in Nigeria: A Retrospective Reflection
Authors: Madubuegwu Chibuike E , Abaneme Ambrose Oluchukwu , Chinwe Ohagwu Anthony
Published: December 2023

Nigerian sovereignty for more than a decade was challenged by the onslaught of Sunni Jihadism in the North-East. The Jihadist insurgency took a more frightening dimension with the emergence of Islamic State of West Africa Province, ISWAP in alliance with Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda Awati Wal-Jihad, otherwise known as Boko Haram in bid to Islamize a secular nation-state. This paper in retrospective sense examined the frightening reality and, argued that this absurdity is facilitated by global spread of Islamic extremism and terrorism. The discourse adopted qualitative research design to explore the relevance of secondary and non-participant observational sources of data collection and content-analyzed issues and enfolding events. The discourse revealed that well-coordinated suicide bombings of Louis Edet House, Nigeria Police Headquarters on June 16, 2011 and United Nations building on August 26, 2011 at Abuja, the Federal Capital, were visible manifestations of global terrorist links of Boko Haram with Al-Qaeda. And, subsequent pledge of allegiance to ISIL in March 2015 watershed the varicosity of global terrorism in Africa most populous country. In credence to these findings, the discourse suggested holistic review of national security strategy and operational
Ending GBV in South Sudan
Authors: Lomole Anne Pita
Published: December 2023

No Abstract
Gender-Based Violence: How South Sudan is fighting back
Authors: Adwok Nyakomi
Published: December 2023

No Abstract
One Stop Centre for the survivors of sexual and gender-based violence at Juba Teaching Hospital
Authors: Korsuk Busiri Julius
Published: December 2023

No Abstract
The reality of GBV: The story of a South Sudanese girl child in Kenya
Authors: Doluony Nyajuok Tongyik
Published: December 2023

No Abstract
A Trichotomy for Regular Trail Queries
Authors: Martens Wim , Niewerth Matthias , Popp Tina
Published: December 2023

Regular path queries (RPQs) are an essential component of graph query
languages. Such queries consider a regular expression r and a directed
edge-labeled graph G and search for paths in G for which the sequence of labels
is in the language of r. In order to avoid having to consider infinitely many
paths, some database engines restrict such paths to be trails, that is, they
only consider paths without repeated edges. In this paper we consider the
evaluation problem for RPQs under trail semantics, in the case where the
expression is fixed. We show that, in this setting, there exists a trichotomy.
More precisely, the complexity of RPQ evaluation divides the regular languages
into the finite languages, the class Ttract (for which the problem is
tractable), and the rest. Interestingly, the tractable class in the trichotomy
is larger than for the trichotomy for simple paths, discovered by Bagan,
Bonifati, and Groz [JCSS 2020]. In addition to this trichotomy result, we also
study characterizations of the tractable class, its expressivity, the
recognition problem, closure properties, and show how the decision problem can
be extended to the enumeration problem, which is relevant to practice.
Impacts of three different magnetic field applications on M. offininalis seed germination and seedling growth
Authors: ULGEN Canan , TURKER Arzu
Published: December 2023

The herb Melissa officinalis L., most commonly recognized as lemon balm, has been used as a treatment for problems with the brain and central nervous system, headaches, nervousness, digestive disorders, respiratory and circulatory conditions, various types of cancer and rheumatism. This investigation was designated to compare the impacts of 3 discrete magnetic field strengths (50 mT, 100 mT and 150 mT) with various time periods of exposure (5 min, 15 min, 30 min, 1 hr and 3 hr) on M. officinalis seed germination (rate and onset) and seedling growth (length of shoot-root, weight of fresh-dry and water content). The seeds, which were surface sterilized in petri plates, were subjected to different applications, including exposure to various magnetic fields and control (without exposure). Germination was assessed by observing the radicular protrusion. The number of germinated seeds was recorded over 20 days. In all 3 magnetic field applications, exposure to magnetic field for 1 hr caused the highest number of seed germination (36%, 52% and 50% for 50 mT, 100 mT and 150 mT, respectively) comparing to control (28%). The onset of seed germination was earlier with magnetic field application (day 7) compared to control (day 11). Growth elements and water contents of the seedling were assessed in order to understand the impact of different magnetic field applications. Implementation of 100 mT and 150 mT magnetic field for 1 hr increased shoot and root length in addition to fresh weight of the seedlings. The maximum dry weight increase was provided by 150 mT-5 min, 15 min and 30 min. The highest water content (%) was observed with exposure to 150 mT (68%) and 100 mT (66%) for 1 hr compared to control (44%). Magnetic field intensity of 100 mT and 150 mT for 1 hr was the most efficient in the seed germination and seedling growth.
Investigation of climate and vegetation change in Göbekli Tepe (Türkiye) region using polen data
Authors: GÜZEL Abdulkadir , PARMAKSIZ Arif , ÖZCANLI Mehmet
Published: December 2023

Investigation of climate and vegetation change in Göbekli Tepe (Türkiye) region using polen data

Abdulkadir GÜZEL1,Arif PARMAKSIZ2, Mehmet ÖZCANLI1

ORCİD: 0000-0003-0321-8198; 0000-0002-4168-4803; 0000-0003-2228-8298

1 Harran University, Faculty of Science-Literature, Department of Geography, Şanlıurfa, Turkey

2 Harran University, Faculty of Science-Literature, Department of Biology, Şanlıurfa, Turkey

Abstract

Today, it is known that there is a change in the world's climate system and that the living things that cause the deterioration of the natural balance are human beings. Human beings have always made changes in the environment they live in to meet their nutritional and shelter needs. These changes have affected the habitat in the region over time, causing both flora and fauna to change and have affected the level of biodiversity. In order to understand this change, pollen records from past periods are valuable archives of vegetation dynamics and provide important information about vegetation. In this study, pollen belonging to the ancient period was investigated from the wells drilled in Göbekli Tepe, which is described as the "zero point of history". The pollen analyzes obtained from the samples in the 1st well between 6 meters and 7-7.5 meters were approximately B.C. It covers the years 11126 and 13354. The pollen analyzes made at 6, 10, 12 meters in the samples in the 3rd well were B.C. It reflects the changes in vegetation and climate between 10634-12418. Although individuals belonging to Quercus, Salix, Juglans, Abies, Pinus and Juniperus species of forest vegetation were encountered in Ancient Göbekli Tepe, no individuals belonging to these tree species were encountered today. In this study, data were obtained supporting that the region was forest-steppe in the past, and the presence of forest-forming taxa Juglans, Abies, Pinus, and Juniperus was determined for the first time and the vegetation of the past period was made more evident.

Key words: Göbekli Tepe, human impact, oak steppe-forest, pollen