bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sob o signo pós-colonial: a figuração do personagem em A paz dura pouco, de Chinua Achebe
Authors: Hermes Ernani Silverio , Silva Denise Almeida
Published: June 2020

O romance A paz dura pouco, do escritor nigeriano Chinua Achebe, focaliza, de forma bastante aguda, as questões relacionadas à pós-colonialidade, que, por sua vez, são o elemento balizador da figuração do personagem.  A figuração do personagem, que compreende, segundo Reis (2018), os dispositivos retóricos, ficcionais e acionais que delineiam a figura ficcional, configura-se, na obra em análise, por meio das dissidências culturais entre a antiga metrópole, Inglaterra, e a ex-colônia, Nigéria, bem como as tensões entre a tradição e a modernidade. Assim, propomos uma análise da constituição do personagem pelo viés da teoria pós-colonial considerando as diferenças culturais, fruto do colonialismo, na figuração do personagem. Como aporte teórico, buscamos em Bonnici (2012) base sobre a teoria pós-colonial; e em Forster (1962), Bordini (2006), Brait (2017) e Reis (2018) referencial sobre personagem. A partir das articulações teóricas e da análise desenvolvida, observamos o personagem central do romance como constituído pela dualidade estabelecida por seus conflitos existenciais, muito especialmente o contraste entre o quem é e quem pretendia ser, colocados no contexto pós-colonial.
In Situ ATR Infrared Study of Cobalt-Borate Water Oxidation Catalysts
Authors: Xi Li Fei , Schwanke Christoph , Lange Kathrin M. , Risch Marcel
Published: June 2020

Understanding the process of water oxidation, especially intermediate species, represents an important step toward gaining a mechanistic understanding of new emerging catalysts. The aim of this study is exploring the process of water oxidation and electrolyte orientation under external potential when using an emerging water oxidation catalyst, CoBi, in sodium borate (NaBi) buffer using in situ attenuated–total-reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy. CoBi is generated via electrodeposition from aqueous solutions containing borate and Co2+. IR spectra were obtained for CoBi films under applied potentials supporting water oxidation catalysis. The spectra of water and CoBi on ZnSe/Cr/Au electrode surfaces change in intensity and their slope depends on the potential, which is rarely reported. The appearance of new bands at certain potentials is interpreted in terms of the potential-dependent re-alignment of water and borate molecules both from the film and electrolyte. A superoxide surface intermediate at 1027 cm-1 was observed in both thin and thick films. It is proposed to be Co (III)OO*H bridging and relates to a fast water oxidation process. The chemical structure of the intermediate species is proposed finally.
Continuous Methyl Ester Production Process from Refined Palm Oil Using 3D-Printed Static Mixers
Authors: Pongraktham Kritsakon , Somnuk Krit
Published: June 2020

The objective of this research was to study the methyl ester purity and pressure drop when the reactants flowed through the 3D-printed continuous static mixer reactor. The various types of 3D-printed mixing elements: KSM, LSM, SMX-3, SMX-4, SMX-5, SMV-3, SMV-4, and SMV-5 were inserted into the tube to blend the refined palm oil (RPO) and potassium methoxide (CH3KO) during the transesterification process. Therefore, the comparison of various types and plug flow (PF) reactors in continuous methyl ester production was carried out to assessed the purity of methyl ester with the condition was 23.81 vol.% methanol and 11.8 wt.% KOH at 50°C temperature. The results showed that the pressure drop had increased when a flow rate of water was increased. The pressure drop in the continuous reactor increased to 29.9% of SMV-5, 19.9% of SMV-4, 12.0% of SMV-3, 7.0% of SMX-5, 7.0% of SMX-4, 7.0% of SMX-3, 3.6% of LSM and 0.9% of KSM when compared with the empty tube cases. According to biodiesel production, the purity of methyl ester decreased by 93.63% of SMV-5, 92.49% of SMV-4, 91.63% of SMV-3, 51.68% of SMX-5, 47.47% of LSM, 46.17% of SMX-4, 45.31% of SMX-3, 42.36% of KSM, and 12.28% of PF, respectively, when compared to the highest purities achieved with PF reactor. Thus, a 662% improvement in ester purity was obtained by using the SMV-5 reactor instead of the PF reactor within 360 mm.
Process Intensification of Liquid-Liquid Extraction in Rotating Packed Bed
Authors: Karmakar Sudhanya , Bhowal Avijit , Das Papita
Published: June 2020

The object of this study is to intensify the liquid-liquid extraction. Experiments were carried out inside a Rotating Packed Bed (RPB) operating at centrifugal force varying between 100g and 1000g. The system chosen for experimentation was removal of hexavalent chromium from aqueous solution using aliquat-336 as an extractant. The effect of centrifugal force on overall volumetric mass transfer coefficient () was investigated. Mass transfer characteristics of RPB were observed with the variation in rotational speed (300-1100rpm), aqueous phase (0.4-1.2 L/min) and organic phase (0.05-0.15 L/min) flow rate, feed (25-200 mg/L) and extractant (0.5-1.25 vol%) concentration. Significantly higher value of (~20-25 times) was achieved in RPB than that achieved in comparison with conventional packed bed extractor wherein flow is dictated by terrestrial gravity. In other words, same separation efficiency can be obtained within a much smaller rotating extractor.
Dispersion Stability of Nanocellulose in Nonpolar Solvent: Chloroform
Authors: Indarti Eti , Marwan Marwan , Wan Daud Wanrosli
Published: June 2020

Nanocellulose (NC) has been successfully isolated from Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch (OPEFB) by using catalyst 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl radical (TEMPO) through mediated oxidation process. For use as a reinforcing component in polymer bionanocomposites, NC has to be completely dried to avoid agglomeration in the non-polar solvent. In this research three types of approaches namely, oven drying (OD), freeze drying (FD) and solvent exchange (SE) were used to remove the water. Based on the dispersion stability results, the NC prepared from the OD technique gave longer stable suspension than that produced by FZ and SE. Besides, this method is also relatively simple and cost effective.
Carboxylate-Functionalized Imidazolium-Based Binary Ionic Liquids as Electrolytes for Symmetric Carbon-Based Supercapacitors
Authors: Patricio Jonathan , Perez Ser John Lynon P. , Arco Susan
Published: June 2020

Ionic liquids (ILs) containing 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium (EMIM) cations and carboxylate anions were prepared using solventless sonochemical synthesis followed by a facile halide-to-anion exchange method and were characterized for their structural and electrochemical properties. The structures of the synthesized ILs were found to significantly affect their electrochemical window (EW) and varied anions exhibited different reductive and oxidative limits. Ionic conductivity and cyclic voltammetry measurements revealed that [EMIM] hexanoate and [EMIM]2[oxalate] offered relatively high ionic conductivity values and wide EWs. A 1:1 binary IL mixture based on the synthesized ILs was prepared and its EW was found to significantly vary as compared with the EWs of the individual component ILs. Supercapacitor prototypes were then fabricated with edge-oxidized graphene sheets as conductive additives for the electrodes and electrospun nanofibers as separator membranes. An electric-double layer capacitive behaviour associated to the ion diffusion process of the electrolyte ions onto the porous electrode surface was shown and quasi-rectangular curves were observed having no redox peaks at any point in the generated repetitive voltammograms. These considerable results have shown valuable insights for further development of binary IL electrolytes for energy storage devices.
Pectin Based Edible Film for Cinnamaldehyde Delivery System: Effect of Calcium Chloride Content on the Physical Characteristics of the Films
Authors: Augustia Venitalitya A.S. , Kusumastuti Yuni , Wirawan Sang Kompiang
Published: June 2020

The cinnamon essential oil has antibacterial characteristic and sensitive to light and oxygen [1]. Due to its benefits from cinnamaldehyde, this compound has already used for antibacterial agent injected in polymer film [2]. Films are usually made from natural polymers as their main materials such as pectin. This research observed the influence of calcium chloride addition (0; 0.01; 0.02; and 0.03 g/mL solution) in the physical characteristics of pectin based edible films using the immersion method. The results indicated that calcium chloride content did not effect significantly. On the other hand, increasing calcium chloride content increased the water sorption of phosphate buffer saline solution and 0.03 g/mL of calcium chloride offered the lowest water sorption. Addition of cinnamaldehyde affected the surface morphology of the film and gave the crystal structure on the surface.
Study on the Modification Effect of Al-Sr Master Alloy on A356 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Chen Gui Qing , Fu Gao Sheng , Yang Kai Huai , Lin Chao Sheng
Published: June 2020

A356 aluminum alloy was modified by Al-Sr master alloy, and the eutectic silicon phase was changed from long needle to short fiber. Compared with the untreated, the secondary dendrite spacing decreased by 14.37 %, the tensile strength increased by 13.0 MPa, and the elongation increased by 29.51 %. After modification treatment, more developed secondary dendrites and block inclusions can be seen in the tensile fracture of A356 alloy, which is not conducive to the plasticity and fatigue resistance of the alloy.
Influence of Ni Content on Erosive Wear and Destabilization Heat Treatment Conditions Behavior of Multi Component White Cast Iron
Authors: Kusumoto Kenta , Shimizu Kazumichi
Published: June 2020

This study investigated the influence of nickel (Ni) addition on erosive wear property of multi-component white cast iron with good erosive wear resistance. Multi-component white cast irons (MWCIs) with 2 mass % of carbon (C), 5 mass % of chromium (Cr), molybdenum (Mo), tungsten (W), niobium (Nb) and 0, 3, 5 mass % of Ni were prepared as experimental materials. The heat treatment condition was quenching by forced air cooling after keeping the specimens at 1123K for 3.6ks. Specimens with size of 50mm×50mm×10mm were tested using a suction-type blasting machine. The test was conducted with impact angle of 30, 60 and 90 deg. at room temperature. Collision particles were irregular steel grids with average particle diameter of 770μm and hardness of 810HV1. The speed of air flow was about 100m/s while the speed of impact particles was around 20.0g/s and the total time of each experiment was 3600 sec.. According to the result, erosion rate was decreased with the increase of Ni content in all of the impact angles. Especially, MWCIs which contain 5 mass % Ni showed the most excellent erosive wear resistance. As reasons, it can be considered that with Ni addition, the volume fraction of eutectic carbides and secondary carbides was increased which enhanced the matrix structure and suppressed the surface deformation of the experimental surface. Therefore, the increasing of eutectic carbides and secondary carbides can be considered as the reason of erosive wear resistance increased.
Effect of Anatase/Rutile Phase Ratio on the Photodegradation of Methylene Blue under UV Irradiation
Authors: Zaw Yi Yi , Channei Du Ang Dao , Threrujirapapong Thotsaphon , Khanitchaidecha Wilawan , Nakaruk Auppatham
Published: June 2020

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is known as one of the widely used catalysts in photocatalysis process. Recently, the photocatalysis of TiO2 has been implied in water purification and treatment, particularly dyes and organic compounds degradations. Naturally, the TiO2 can be found in three phases including anatase, rutile and brookite; each phase has its own specific properties such as grain size, stability and band gap energy. In this work, the effect of calcination temperature on the structure, morphology and photocatalytic activity were investigated. The data suggested that the anatase/rutile ratio of TiO2 can be controlled through the calcination process. The phase transformation data strongly indicated the liner function between percentage of rutile phase and calcination temperature. The BET analysis provided the consistent data with XRD patterns by showing that the specific surface area was decreased by increasing calcination temperature. The photodegradation of methylene blue under UV irradiation proved that the mixed phase of anatase/rutile ratio at 78.5/21.5 provided the highest photocatalytic activity. The phase composition ratio can influence the nanoparticles properties including band gap, specific surface area and energy band structure. Therefore, the control of anatase/rutile ratio was an alternative to enhance the photocatalytic activity of TiO2 nanoparticles for dyes and organic compounds degradations.
The Effect of Thermo-Mechanical Processing Regime on High-Temperature Tensile Properties of V-Alloyed High-Nitrogen Steel
Authors: Astafurov Sergey V. , Maier Galina G. , Melnikov Eugene V. , Moskvina Valentina A. , Panchenko Marina Yu. , Reunova Ksenya A. , Galchenko Nina K. , Astafurova Elena G.
Published: June 2020

The paper is devoted to an experimental investigation of a high-temperature deformation in V-alloyed high-nitrogen austenitic Fe-19Cr-22Mn-1.5V-0.3C-0.6N steel processed via different thermo-mechanical treatments. Simple thermo-mechanical processing regimes (cold rolling or rolling with single post-deformation anneal) do not allow to realize a substantial elongation in high-nitrogen steel during high-temperature tensile tests. For fine-grained austenitic structure with an average grain size of 3 µm, the maximal value of elongation to failure of 150% was realized at temperature 950 °C. Using a multi-stage thermo-mechanical treatment included cold rolling and intermediate anneals, a heterophase grain/subgrain structure with high density of deformation-induced defects and precipitates was produced. When heated to a deformation temperature, this deformation-assisted microstructure recrystallizes into a stable fine-grained structure and demonstrates the attributes of superplastic flow (values of elongation to failure higher than 400%) in the temperature range of 850-1000 °C. The maximum elongation of 900% is achieved at temperature of 950 °C and an initial strain rate of 10-4 s-1.
The pathological and clinical features of anterior lesions of prostate cancer: Evaluation in a single cohort of patients
Authors: D'Agostino Daniele , Corsi Paolo , Colicchia Michele , Romagnoli Daniele , Busetto Gian Maria , Ferro Matteo , Tafuri Alessandro , Cevenini Matteo , Mineo Bianchi Federico , Giampaoli Marco , Porreca Angelo
Published: June 2020

Introduction. The aim of our work is to evaluate the principal differences of the pathological features in prostate cancer (PCa) lesions comparing those in the anterior region of the gland (APCa) to those in the posterior zone (PPCa) among patients who underwent to robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RP). Material and methods. A total of 85 consecutive patients (mean age 66; IQR 62-71) with clinically suspected PCa were studied with multiparametric magnetic resonance of prostate before prostate biopsies. The prostate biopsies were RM-guided (60 inbore biopsy (MR-GB) and 25 Fusion-biopsy (FB). A total of 72 cases were eligible for robotic RP. An experienced genitourinary pathologist reviewed the histopathology of the tissue specimens of the patients after RP. The exclusion criteria were as follows: previous hormonotherapy, radiotherapy and chemotherapy for others cancers. Results. Based on the histological diagnosis, after RP, 68 anterior prostate cancer, and 107 posterior lesions were found. We further subcategorized lesions into peripheral and central zones for each the anterior and posterior lesions. The specific distribution of lesions by pathologic stage was: T2 = 74 (42.3%), T3a = 87 (49.7%), T3b = 12 (6.9%), T4 = 2 (1.1%) cases. Tumor volume of posterior neoplasms ranged from 0.04 to 20.35 cm3, with a median of 3.39 cm3. Anterior tumor volume ranged from 0.17 to 15 cm3, with a median volume of 2.54 cm3: PPCa were larger than APCa but the difference in size was not significant. The prostate cancer grade group (GG) I was distributed as 16.6% and 36% in anterior and posterior lesions cases. GG II and III was 43.8% and 31.5% in anterior and posterior cases, respectively. Comparatively, GG IV-V showed 39.6% and 32.5% for anterior and posterior lesions respectively (p < 0.001). Extraprostatic extention of neoplasm (EPE) was found more frequently in anterior cases (31.4%) than in in posterior cases (25.1%), but without significant difference. Lymphovascular invasion was similar in both the groups: 24% and 28.6% in anterior and posterior group, respectively. Anterior lesions showed a significantly higher rate of lymph node metastasis (9.3%) than posterior lesions (3.4%) (p < 0.005). Conclusion. In our study, we have found EPE, often associated with worse prognosis, more frequently (but not significantly) present in anterior lesions among PCa patients. Although posterior lesions are often related to pT3b stage, in our findings, anterior lesions were more often associated with a more aggressive neoplasm with more frequent nodal involvements.
Bilateral subcutaneous pyelovesical bypass in a Hautmann neobladder followed by a mononeuropathy multiplex and an underlying polyarteritis nodosa diagnosis
Authors: Yiannopoulou Konstantina , Anastasiou Aikaterini I. , Katafigiotis Ioannis , Papadopoulos Dimitrios , Anastasiou Ioannis
Published: June 2020

Subcutaneous pyelovesical bypasses are the best choice for the long-term palliative treatment of ureteral obstructions. In rare cases this obstruction is due to polyarteritis nodosa. We present the only reported patient with a bilateral Detour bypass in a Hautmann’s neobladder. The patient also suffers from polyarteritis nodosa.
COVID-19 pandemic and uro-oncology follow-up: A “virtual” multidisciplinary team strategy and patients’ satisfaction assessment
Authors: Ambrosini Francesca , Di Stasio Andrea , Mantica Guglielmo , Cavallone Barbara , Serao Armando
Published: June 2020

COVID-19 pandemic strongly modified the organizations of our clinical practice. Strict containment measures have been adopted to limit the disease diffusion. In particular, hospital face-to-face post discharge and follow up visits have been reduced. Although cancelling or deferring appointments seems to be a pragmatic approach, this solution may have a devasting long-term impact on health medical care and on patients. In this context, telemedicine and remote consultations may have the potential to provide healthcare minimizing virus exposure. In this paper we describe how Multidisciplinary team (MDT) reorganized genitourinary cancer care delivery at our Institute (AO SS Antonio e Biagio e Cesare Arrigo, Alessandria), taking advantage of telematic means. Furthermore, we present our preliminary results regarding patients’ satisfaction.
IDEOLOGY, UTOPIA AND THE CRISIS OF POLITICS
Authors: Montani Guido
Published: June 2020

I partiti politici che si ispirano ai valori del liberalismo, della democrazia e del socialismo non riescono più a concepire un progetto di lungo periodo per i propri concittadini e per l’umanità. Dopo il crollo del Muro di Berlino, grandi e piccole potenze hanno avviato una sordida lotta per la supremazia mondiale, alimentando conflitti locali e globali, e il ritorno del nazionalismo come ideologia dominante. In questo saggio si intende mostrare che la tesi sulla “fine delle ideologie” è infondata: le ideologie tradizionali sono incapaci di progettare un futuro di progresso perché subiscono passivamente l’ideologia della sovranità assoluta degli stati e della guerra giusta per difendere gli interessi nazionali. Il futuro dell’umanità è minacciato da una nuova corsa agli armamenti nucleari e convenzionali, ai quali i governi dedicano immense risorse, che dovrebbero invece servire per salvare il Pianeta dal surriscaldamento climatico, dallo sterminio della vita animale e vegetale e dalle pandemie. La via intrapresa dai popoli europei, con la costruzione della prima Unione sovranazionale della storia, dovrebbe ispirare anche le politiche necessarie per la costruzione di un ordine mondiale fondato sulla cooperazione pacifica tra stati e l’avvio di politiche che si propongano di consentire ai cittadini del mondo di godere dei medesimi diritti di libertà e solidarietà che, seppure imperfettamente, si sono realizzati in Europa. Il progresso dell’umanità è un’utopia positiva che può diventare realtà.
DIFESA EUROPEA E NUOVO ORDINE MONDIALE
Authors: Moro Domenico
Published: June 2020

Non disponibile.
CENTRAL BANK COMMUNICATION IN THE PAST TWO DECADES. THE ECB’S EXPERIENCE
Authors: Bracke Thierry
Published: June 2020

Sin dagli anni Ottanta del secolo scorso, la comunicazione delle banche centrali ha vissuto un cambiamento radicale. La letteratura è passata da un’attenzione ai livelli ottimali di segretezza delle banche centrali ad un’analisi dei benefici della comunicazione e della trasparenza. Le banche centrali hanno gradualmente intensificato la loro attività di comunicazione. Ciò vale anche per la BCE, che ha adottato una politica di trasparenza avanzata già al momento del lancio dell’euro nel 1999, e da allora ha gradualmente ampliato le sue attività di comunicazione. L’articolo passa in rassegna le ragioni di questa evoluzione - o rivoluzione - della comunicazione delle banche centrali, concentrandosi su tre tendenze ed illustrandole con il caso concreto della BCE. La tendenza di più lunga data, più o meno sin dagli anni Settanta e Ottanta, è un legittimo aumento della domanda di trasparenza come parte di un cambiamento della società e come correlato naturale di una maggiore indipendenza delle banche centrali. Una seconda tendenza, più recente, è la crescente consapevolezza che la comunicazione non è solo una risposta alla domanda del pubblico, ma anche una componente chiave di un moderno kit di strumenti di politica monetaria. Una terza tendenza riguarda il crescente interesse dell’opinione pubblica - ma anche la crescente critica dell’opinione pubblica - nei confronti delle istituzioni in generale e delle banche centrali in particolare, che è diventata particolarmente intensa all’indomani della crisi iniziata nel 2008.
MATCHING ACCOUNTABILITY WITH INDEPENDENCE: THE ECB’S EXPERIENCE
Authors: Giovannini Alessandro , Jamet Jean-François
Published: June 2020

L’accountability della BCE comprende i vari canali attraverso i quali essa è chiamata a dimostrare di agire in conformità con il suo mandato. Il presente articolo si concentra principalmente su uno di questi canali - la responsabilità democratica. È tuttavia importante tenere presente che questi diversi canali si rafforzano a vicenda. Inoltre, nel discutere il quadro di responsabilità della BCE, l’attenzione principale è rivolta alle funzioni di banca centrale, piuttosto che di vigilanza. Coerentemente con il ruolo decisivo che ha svolto nella crisi, la BCE è stata sottoposta a un maggiore controllo. Il quadro di responsabilità preesistente ha consentito tale maggiore controllo e ha quindi dimostrato la sua solidità. Ciò che è cambiato, in effetti, non è il quadro di responsabilità previsto dal diritto primario, ma l’uso esteso delle sue possibilità. E l’evidenza dimostra che la BCE si confronta favorevolmente con le banche centrali. La responsabilità della BCE continuerà comunque ad essere oggetto di dibattito, visti i vari equilibri possibili sul ruolo dei vari stakeholder, l’intensità del controllo e l’interazione tra i vari canali di responsabilità. Tutti fattori fondamentali per garantire un’interazione di alta qualità nell’adempimento degli obblighi di responsabilità della BCE.
IL KEYNES DI GIORGIO LA MALFA: UNA NOTA
Authors: Targetti Lenti Renata
Published: June 2020

Non disponibile.
Numerical classification and digital mapping of coastal plain sands of Southeastern Nigeria
Authors: Obi J.C. , Udoh I.B. , Adefila F.R. , Brownson U.E.
Published: June 2020

The study classified the coastal plain sands of south-eastern Nigeria at the series level and modeled the classification using digital terrain attributes. The study utilized 72 secondary and 12 primary profile pits data generated from 24 and 4 locations (at 3 per location) for classification/modelling and validation respectively. The three profile pits per location represents the three topographic positions of upper, middle and lower slopes. Digital elevation model was also utilized for the generation of terrain attributes. Soil morphological characteristics were coded for suitability in statistical analysis. Hierarchical clustering was utilized in the grouping of the soil into 17 homogeneous groups referred to as soil series. Regression kriging was used to model the predicted soil series within the area covered by coastal plain sands in Akwa Ibom State. The variables that could be used in the modelling of the different classified soil series include Sand Content, aspect, flow accumulation, compound topographic index (CTI), elevation, hill shade, slope, curvature, flow direction, stream power index (SPI), profile curvature, tangential curvature (R2 = 0.21).Out of the 17 soil series classified, 14 was successfully mapped using digital technique. It was observed that 66.7% of the classified soil series were accurately predicted using digital mapping technique. The classifications carried out numerically made use of morphological discrete variables whereas digital used empirically determined continuous variables which could be more accurate. Therefore it could be inferred that the digitally produced soil  classification is more accurate and 14 soil series could be identified and mapped in the study area.

Key words: pedogenesis, digital soil mapping, soil series, hierarchical clusters, regression kriging
Adaptive strategies to deforestation among Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPS) collectors across gender line in Oluwa Forest Reserve Area of Ondo State, Nigeria
Authors: Aluko O.J. , Adejumo A.A. , Bobadoye A.O.
Published: June 2020

Forest and the goods and services they provide are essential for human livelihood and wellbeing. An assessment on the likely impact of  deforestation on NTFPs along gender line is therefore imperative for effective adaptations for NTFPs collectors. The study examined the adaptive strategies to deforestation stress employed among NTFPs collectors across gender line in Oluwa Forest Reserve area of Ondo State, Nigeria. Multistage sampling technique was used to select respondents for the study. Data were collected with the aid of well-structured interview schedule on 181 NTFPs collectors (94 males and 87 females) and analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. The data targeted socio-economic characteristics, level of availability of (NTFPs) in the mist of deforestation currently and 30 years ago as well as adaptive strategiesemployed by the respondents in the study area. Findings revealed that average age of male and female respondents were 48 and 43 years, respectively. Bitter Kola, Kola Nut, Mango and Walnut were NTFPs available in abundant 30 years ago. In recent years, the study discovered that only Mango and Walnut were available in excess despite persistent deforestation in the study area. Deforestation impacted more on female collectors compared to their men counterpart. The finding also shows that female collectors employed more of domesticated NTFPs and indigenous protection methods as adaptive strategies against deforestation. The study recommended training on scientific domesticated system of planting (NTFPs) for both male and female NTFPs collectors as well as community policing to cope against deforestation in the study area.

Key words: adaptive strategies, deforestation, non-timber forest products (NTFPs), gender
Preparation and evaluation of carboxymethyl dioscorea starch as suspending agent
Authors: Kumbi Shimelis , Belete Anteneh , Gebre-Mariam Tsige
Published: June 2020

No Abstract.
Continuing Professional Development Assessment of Healthcare Professionals in Public Secondary Hospitals in Lagos State, Nigeria
Authors: Nwogbe Olayemi A. , Haliso Yacob
Published: June 2020

This study investigates the engagement of healthcare professionals in continuing professional development in public secondary hospitals in Lagos State, Nigeria. A survey research design and a multistage sampling technique were adopted for the study. The sample consisted of 356 healthcare professionals (112 physicians, 32 pharmacists and 212 nurses). The data were collected using a self-developed structured questionnaire. The questions were built based on the literature review with modified questions adapted from widely used the questionnaires on hospital survey on patient safety, ambulatory and community pharmacy, nursing safety practices and CPD professional and skill competency and World Health Organization Regional Guidelines for Continuing Medical Education. Healthcare professionals in adult general outpatient departments were only included in the study. Findings revealed that physicians engagement in informal CPD (conferences, seminars, in-service training) is (M = 3.09), and formal CPD (conduct of research, publications or peer journal review) (M = 2.11). Pharmacists engagement in informal CPD is (M = 3.10) and formal CPD (M =1.89), Nurses’ engagement in informal CPD is (M =2.30) and CPD (M = 1.78). These evidence indicates that the respondents tend to lean more on less time-demanding and work-based capacity building approach, than they engaged mostly in informal CPD activities than they engaged in a methodical educational and professional advanced method of capacity building. The study recommends improved Government funding for training, policy improvement on organizational support and working conditions for study leave opportunities, and aligning the metrics of evaluating and scoring CPD engagement with the need assessment gaps in healthcare system in renewing practicing license of healthcare professionals.

Keywords: Capacity building, Healthcare professionals Public healthcare service, Health workers training
Knowledge Management Strategies and Profitability of Selected Deposit Money Banks in Nigeria
Authors: Opeke Rosaline O. , Adelowo Oluremi Titilope
Published: June 2020

This study examines the knowledge management strategies on profitability of selected deposit money banks in Nigeria. The study employed the survey research design. The population was 2,405 management staff of the selected deposit money banks in Nigeria. The sample size of 481 was determined using Krejcie and Morgan table. Multi-stage sampling was used to select the respondents. A validated questionnaire was used for data collection. The result revealed that knowledge management strategies had significant influence on the profitability (Adj.R2 = 0.520, F(2, 429) = 234.452, p < 0.05) in the selected deposit money banks in Nigeria. The study concludes that knowledge management strategies contributed to profitability of deposit money banks in Nigeria. The study recommends that person-to-person transfer of knowledge should be improved on. Finally, the Central Bank of Nigeria should formulate a policy to establish knowledge management in the deposit money banks.

Keywords:  Deposit money banks, Profitability, Knowledge management strategies, Knowledge management
Factors influencing adoption of sustainable soil and water conservation practices among smallholder farmers in Kwara State, Nigeria
Authors: Iyilade Abigail Oluwatunmise , Alalade Oluwasegun Ayodeji , Longe Morenike Peju , Alokan Agnes Olubunmi , Akinola-soji Blessing
Published: June 2020

The study examined the factors influencing the adoption of soil and water conservation practices (SWCPs) among smallholder farmers in Kwara State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 210 farmers. Farmers were surveyed for their adoption of eleven (11) SWCPs, and risk factors and costs of production. Poisson regression model was employed to estimate soil and water conservation practices adoption. Sex, access to credit, land acquisition, technical support, ownership of livestock, distance to input/market, marital status and formal trainings had a significant relationship with the number of soil and water conservation practices adopted by smallholder farmers (P ≤0.01). Some personal and demographic factors, institutional factors, as well as socio-economic factors have a significant relationship with soils and water conservation practices adopted by farmers. Agricultural policies should be geared towards helping smallholder farmers have access to extension service for frequent dissemination of agricultural technology as this will increase the rate of adoption of soil and water conservation practices.

Keywords: Adoption, Soil and water conservation techniques; smallholder farmers, Kwara State
Effects of small scale irrigation on women farmers’ well-being status in Sikasso region of Mali
Authors: Tijani Sarafat A. , Kone Daouda M.
Published: June 2020

This study examined effects of small scale irrigation on women farmers’ wellbeing status in Sikasso Region of Mali. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 160 respondents(user and non-users) while data were collected using interview schedules and analysed using percentages, mean, standard deviation and t-test. Major constraints facing users are crop damage ( x̄ =2.68), unavailability of input ( x̄ =2.41) and inadequate credit facility ( x̄ =2.15). Sixty percent, 98.8%, 85.0%, 85.0% of users have higher level of material, economic, mental and social well-being, respectively compared to 25%, 0.0%, 68.8% and 35.0% of non-users with similar status. The overall wellbeing of 73.8% of users were better-off compared to 11.3% of non-users. A significant difference (t= 11.110) existed in the wellbeing status of users and non-users. Utilisation of small-scale irrigation systems had positive effects on the mental, social, economic and material wellbeing of the users. There is need to extend small scale irrigation to non-users.

Keywords: Well-being, Small scale irrigation, farm size, non-users of irrigation, Mali
Determination of the pasting properties of horse-eye bean flour (Mucuna sloanei) varieties relevant to its processing
Authors: Ide P.E. , Oluka S.I. , Eze P.C.
Published: June 2020

Horse-Eye Bean seeds are edible rich source of several essential nutrients which can be processed into flour for several purposes. The aim of this  study was to evaluate the pasting properties of flour processed from species of Horse-Eye Bean seed using Rapid Visco-analytical machine. The results obtained showed that peak viscosity, trough viscosity, breakdown viscosity, final viscosity, setback viscosity were 294.84 RVU, 219.50RVU, 75.34 RVU, 838.96 RVU, and 619.46 RVU for the Big-Sized sample flour and 271.30 RVU, 207.92 RVU,67.37 RVU, 723.46 RVU, and 576.83 RVU for the Small-Sized sample flour respectively. It showed that Horse-Eye Bean flours can be used to improve food quality and their suitability for various foodformulations. Hence they can find useful application for making of pastries like cakes and other snacks.

Keywords: Horse-Eye Bean flour, Pasting properties, Rapi Visco Analyzer, viscosity.
Agricultural Development Programme's (ADP's) effectiveness in the use of mass media for agricultural information dissemination to farmers in Imo State, Nigeria
Authors: Akwiwu Uzoamaka N. , Patrick Ruby E.
Published: June 2020

This study sought to assess ADP’s effective use of mass media in agricultural information dissemination to farmers in Imo state, Nigeria. A total of  120 farmers were selected through multi-stage sampling technique. Interview schedule was used to elicit information on farmers’ accessibility of agricultural information through mass media, perceived level of use of mass media in receiving agricultural information among farmers and to determine the perceived effectiveness of ADP’s use of mass media in agricultural information dissemination. Data collected were analyzed using frequency distribution, percentages, mean, and PPMC to test the hypothesis at 0.05 level of significance. The result shows that the majority (88.3%) of the respondents accessed agricultural information through radio. Perceived level of use of mass media in receiving agricultural information (58.3%) was low. Use of mass media in agricultural information dissemination by ADP (59.2%) was ineffective. There was significant relationshipbetween the perceived level of use of mass media in receiving agricultural information (r=0.64) and the perceived effectiveness of ADP’s use of mass media in agricultural information dissemination. The use of mass media in agricultural information dissemination in Imo State by ADP was  ineffective. This work recommends that ADP in Imo State establish their own indigenous mass media tools to ensure its effective use by extension agents and control of content for agricultural information dissemination.

Keywords: ADP, Agricultural information dissemination, Mass media
Addenda to the article Three new species of Grosphus Simon, 1 880, (Scorpiones: Buthidae) from Madagascar; possible vicariant cases within the Grosphus bistriatus group of species. Madagascar Conservation & Development 1 1 , 2: 52–65.
Authors: Lourenço Wilson R. , Wilmé Lucienne
Published: June 2020

No Abstract.
Soil-to-maize Transfer Factor of Natural Radionuclides in a Tropical Ecosystem of Nigeria
Authors: Adesiji N.E. , Ademola J.A.
Published: June 2020

Soil-to-plant transfer factor (TF) is a parameter utilized in predicting the accumulation of radionuclides in the plant system. Virgin soil from an uncultivated area and tailings from an abandoned tin mining site were used to formulate three soil groups. Group A (virgin soil only), group B (tailings only) and group C (equal mixture by mass of the virgin soil and tailings). Pot experiments were performed using the soil groups to determine the transfer factors of 40K, 238U and 232Th in maize (Zea mays L.) plants for the tropical ecosystem of Nigeria. The activity concentrations of 40K, 238U and 232Th in the soil groups and the maize plant compartments (seed, stem, leaf and root) were determined using NaI(Tl) gamma-detector. The geometric mean (GM) of the TF values for 40K, 238U and 232Th respectively ranged from 0.02 to 0.27, below detectable limit (BDL) to 0.008 and 0.01 to 0.09 in the in the seeds; 0.04 to 1.74, BDL to BDL and 0.01 to 0.29 in the stems; 0.03 to 0.93, BDL to 0.33 and 0.02 to 0.08 in the leaves and 0.03 to 1.29, 0.05 to 0.38 and 0.08 to 0.41 in the roots.. Potassium-40 had the highest TF values and exhibited the plant accumulation strategy for all the plant compartments. The stem samples had the highest TF for 40K and BDL values for 238U for all the soil groups. Significance differences were observed only in the accumulation of 40K and 232Th across the soil group.

Keywords: Radioactivity, potassium, mining, Gamma-ray detectors, calibration
Development and Performance Evaluation of Solar Photovoltaic Module’s Surface-to-Rear Temperature Controlled Valve for Cooling Application
Authors: Mawoli M. , Yayha H.N. , Danshehu B.G. , Muhammad M.L. , Bature A.S.
Published: June 2020

This study investigated the effectiveness of the developed solar photovoltaic (PV) module's surface-to-rear temperature-controlled solenoid valves for PV module cooling application. The cooling fluid is regulated by energizing normally closed (NC) solenoid valve with control parameters as modules rear and surface temperatures. ATmega32 microcontroller was utilized as central processing unit with two (2) LM35 as input sensors and solenoid valve as an output device. Each of 2-LM35 temperature sensors were dedicated to measure module's rear and surface temperatures respectively. The measured temperature values were coded as controlled parameters for regulating cooling fluid discharge by energizing a NC solenoid valve. The system was observed to discharge cooling fluid by energizing the solenoid valve under module's surface and rear temperature difference of less than or equal to 1.50C (Ts-Tr≤1.50C). The module's mean surface temperatures of 49.310C and 54.920C were recorded for temperature-controlled PV cooling applications and a standard solar photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) system. The maximum recorded surface temperatures for temperature-controlled PV cooling and a standard PV/T systems were 54.00C and 57.60C respectively. The mean absorber temperatures of 45.510C and 40.870C were respectively recorded for temperature-controlled PV cooling and standard PV/T. The maximum absorber temperature recorded for temperature-controlled PV cooling and standard PV/T were 48.300C and 41.630C respectively. The solar cells temperature is reduced by 5.38% through solenoid valve temperature controlled solar module cooling application.

Keywords: Temperature-controlled, ATmega32, solenoid valve, solar module, cooling application.
Neural Network Prediction of P-wave Log for Reservoir Characterization in the Niger Delta Basin
Authors: Ogbamikhumi A. , Salami S.A. , Uwadiae W.N.
Published: June 2020

This study present a new technique that integrates several logs for P-wave prediction to minimize some errors and uncertainties associated with most estimation methods. The adopted method involves application of an artificial neural network technique that integrates density, resistivity and gamma ray logs for data training and the prediction of P-wave log. The results obtained gave correlation coefficient of 0.77, 0.24 and 0.42 between the acquired P-wave log and the acquired density, resistivity and gamma ray logs respectively, to demonstrate the relationship between P-wave log and the selected logs for the prediction process. The correlation coefficient of the estimated P-wave from Gardner and Faust methods with the acquired P-wave log are 0.64 and 0.59 respectively, while that of the neural network derived P-wave gave a better correlation coefficient of 0.81. Cross plot validation of P-wave derive Acoustic Impedance against density for both lithology and fluid discrimination revealed clusters for neural network derived P-wave parameter similar to the acquired P-wave derived parameters. Results of the presented neural network technique have been demonstrated to be more effective than results of the two conventional techniques.

Keywords: Sonic log, Gardner’s method, Faust method, Neural network, Cross plot.
Effects of Temperature and Steeping Time on the Proximate Compositions and Selected Physical Properties of Soybean Flour
Authors: Ikrang E.G. , Okoko J.U. , Akwa M.M.
Published: June 2020

A study to investigate the effect of temperature (80, 85, 90, 95, and 100oC) and steeping time (12, 15, 18, 21, and 24 hours) on the proximate composition (ash, crude fibre, fat , protein, and carbohydrate) values (%) and physical properties (bulk density, packed density (g/ml), angle of repose (degrees), and particle size (μm)) on soybean flour was conducted. Response surface Methodology (RSM) was used for the work. Central Composite Design in Design Expert (version 6.0, 2002, Minneapolis, United States) computer software package was used to design the experiment. Analysis was also done and all results were presented with a three dimensional plot. The results showed that the moisture content of the soybeans flour ranged from 3.26 – 7.35, 3.40 – 4.50 for ash, 3.15 – 4.82 for crude fibre, 31.32 – 35.21 for protein, 19.37 – 22.65 for fat, and 29.66 – 35.19% for carbohydrate. Angle of repose for soybeans flour samples ranged from 33.15 – 38.16o, bulk density varied between 0.30-0.36, packed density varied between 0.52 – 0.57g/ml and particle size distribution varied between 0.44 – .98μm for the different samples. It was observed that longer steeping time and drying temperature resulted to an increase in the protein content and decrease in crude fibre content. Conversely shorter steeping time and lower drying temperature resulted in an increase in the fat content. A nine-point hedonic scale on sensory and acceptability tests showed that sample soaked for 24 hours and dried at 90oC was most preferred in taste and overall acceptability.

Keywords: Soybean flour; packed density; angle of repose; steeping time, temperature.
Computational Schemes in the Design of Novel Materials for Energy Savings
Authors: Aliyu Ohunene Hafsa
Published: June 2020

The current demand for lightweight energy efficient materials in industries to help in addressing the current challenges faced in reducing green house gas emissions is one of the motivations behind innovative material design. This paper has tried to review in particular the importance of the hierarchical multiscale modelling strategy in the design of novel lightweight materials. It also highlights on one of the hierarchical multiscale modelling methodologies from ab-initio level to macro level in predicting macroscopic material behaviour and the impact this simulation strategy will have on the development of innovative materials. It highlights on the limitations of this modelling strategy such as: the unreasonable computational time associated with the relaxation of polymeric chains or entanglements as well as scale bridging approaches between low level and high level models which are areas of current research interest.

Keywords: Multiscale modelling, lightweight materials, energy-efficiency, scale bridging, length scale.
Sulfate attack and embedded steel corrosion resistances of volcanic-aggregate concrete with fly ash and silica fume
Authors: Gershome Abaho G. , Mutabaruka Jean de Dieu , Mbereyaho Leopold
Published: June 2020

Construction materials are increasingly on high demand in the developing world. The construction industry has a challenge of discovering, new  alternative construction materials to conventional materials which are locally available materials in environmentally friendly manner. The  experimental tests are conducted on volcanic concrete system to analyze its properties especially corrosion resistance potential for its applicability in construction. The major aim is to investigate its suitability and corrosion resistance potential especially when used in construction of structures with embedded steel. The test results of the material show that volcanic concrete system with 30% fly ash and 10% silica fume cementing materials is an alternative green construction material. Permeability properties are reduced by 8% and 24% with 30% fly ash and 10% silica fume respectively. Tests also indicate that Compressive strength, Corrosion potential and polarization resistance in volcanic concrete system with supplementing  cement materials has more potential to resist sulfate attack when compared with conventional volcanic concrete systems. The supplementary cementing materials (SCM) reduce the pore system and hence decrease the ingress of corrosive ions an  water in concrete. Corrosive ions, moisture and air would initiate corrosion to the embedded steel in concrete leading to reduced service life such structures.

Key word: Supplementary Cementing Materials, Sulfate attack, volcanic concrete system, Granite powder, river sand, Corrosion of embedded steel