bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
De la asistencia al ejercicio de nuevas ciudadanías: retos en la actuación profesional del trabajador social frente a las víctimas en el posconflicto en Colombia
Authors: Chávez Plazas Yuri Alicia , Camelo Mayorga Alba Stella
Published: November 2019

En Colombia un conflicto armado de más de 60 años ha ocasionado profundas consecuencias sociales, económicas y culturales; sin embargo, son las víctimas las más afectadas, pues han debido huir de comunidades destruidas por la guerra y llegar a nuevos asentamientos en donde prima la desconfianza, falta de solidaridad y la estigmatización. Luego de la firma de los acuerdos de paz, y refrendación de los mismos, se plantea para el país el reto de repararlas integralmente y en esto la actuación profesional de los trabajadores sociales es importante a fin de lograr el restablecimiento de los derechos que les fueron vulnerados; empero, ello depende de que las víctimas sean percibidas más como sujetos de derechos y no simples receptoras de servicios. En este contexto el artículo reflexiona en torno a la actuación del trabajador social frente a las víctimas y la necesidad de superar acciones asistenciales y favorecer los ejercicios de ciudadanía desde un paradigma de derechos, a fin de superar condiciones que reproducen distintas violencias y comprometen el desarrollo social en el posconflicto.A more than 60 years armed conflict in Colombian has caused deep social, economic and cultural consequences; however, the most affected are the victims, since they have had to flee from communities destroyed by war and to arrive to new settlements where distrust, lack of solidarity and stigmatization prevail. After the peace agreement signature, and its countersignature, arises the integral reparation challenge for the country and for Social Workers professional performance it is important with the purpose of reestablishing victims violated rights; however, this depends on perceiving the victims more as rights subjects and not as simple services receivers. In this context the article reflections on Social Workers role toward the victims and the need to overcome assistance actions and favor citizenship exercise from a rights paradigm, with the purpose of overcoming conditions that reproduce different kinds of violence and jeopardize social development in the post – conflict.
Gestión de la edad en las ENL en Extremadura: la “huella generacional”
Authors: Cambero Rivero Santiago
Published: November 2019

Esta investigación focaliza en los modelos de gestión de la edad de las personas que componen las entidades no lucrativas (ENL) como organizaciones sociales que garantizan la prestación de servicios básicos entre las personas más vulnerables. El progresivo envejecimiento en la sociedad española está cambiando el perfil de la ciudadanía en general, y en concreto en los miembros de las organizaciones que nconfiguran el sistema social. Así, se analiza el impacto de los procesos de intercambio intergeneracional de información y conocimiento en las ENL que actúan en la comunidad autónoma de Extremadura. Tales procesos pueden observarse desde los modelos de gestión de la edad de trabajadores y de voluntariado, para la ponderación del know how transmisible de generación en generación como parte de la cultura de estas organizaciones.This research focuses on the age management models of people who make up nonprofit organizations (NPOs) as social organizations that guarantee the provision of basic services among the most vulnerable people. The progressive aging in the Spanish society is changing the profile of the citizenship in general, specially within the members of the organizations that configure the social system. Thus, the impact of the processes of intergenerational exchange of information and knowledge inside the NPOs are performing in Extremadura. Such processes can be observed from the models of management of the age of workers and volunteers, for the weighting of the know how transmissible from generation to generation as part of the culture of these organizations.
El trabajo social comunitario ante la vulnerabilidad urbana: un estudio documental de regeneración de barrios
Authors: Gómez-Quintero Juan David , Eito Mateo Antonio , Domínguez Sanz Jesús , Martínez Molina María Carmen
Published: November 2019

Presentamos los resultados de una investigación documental sobre las experiencias de Trabajo Social Comunitario en la regeneración urbana de zonas vulnerables en las ciudades españolas de Alicante, Barcelona y Sant Adrià de Besòs. El método utilizado ha comprendido la revisión de experiencias que cumplieran los siguientes requisitos: hayan ocurrido durante las últimas dos décadas, que el Trabajo Social Comunitario haya tenido un papel significativo y estén suficientemente documentadas. La comparación de las experiencias se hizo a través de variables como vulnerabilidad urbana, tipología de actores participantes, estructura organizativa, mecanismos de participación y relaciones de poder según el Modelo de Conjuntos de Acción. Los resultados afirman, entre otras cosas, que los planes de regeneración urbanística liderados por las administraciones públicas suelen caracterizarse por estructuras rígidas y verticales, mientras que los planes liderados por las organizaciones sociales del territorio se caracterizan por estructuras más flexibles y horizontales.This article presents the results of documentary research about the experiences of Community Social Work in urban regeneration in vulnerable areas. Spanish cities as Alicante, Barcelona and Sant Adrià de Besòs. The method used has included the review of experiences that meet the following requirements: have occurred during the last two decades, that Community Social Work has played a significant role and that these cases were sufficiently documented. The analysis included variables such as urban vulnerability, types of actors involved, organizational structure, mechanisms of participation and power relations on the model of action sets. The results say that urban regeneration plans led by local government are characterized by rigid and vertical structures. The plans led by social organizations of the territory are characterized by more flexible and horizontal structures.
Resultados del tratamiento psicosocial a mujeres afectadas por la violencia íntima de pareja
Authors: Donoso-Vázquez Trinidad , Velasco Martínez Anna
Published: November 2019

El objetivo de este trabajo es presentar los resultados de una intervención psicosocial grupal en mujeres que habían sido víctimas de la violencia de pareja (IPV). La muestra estuvo compuesta por 141 mujeres de 19 centros en España. La evaluación de los resultados incluye: autoestima, creencias irracionales, asertividad, afrontamiento de problemas; ideología de género; evaluación de cambios de comportamiento; y bienestar subjetivo dentro de los tres meses posteriores a la finalización de la intervención. La validez de los instrumentos utilizados fue probada. Se observaron cambios significativos en todas las variables inmediatamente después de la intervención y tres meses después de la finalización de la intervención. La discusión se centra en el impacto de las variables afectadas por el maltrato, el potencial de cambio en estas variables y la modalidad de tratamiento.The objective of this paper is to present the outcomes of a group psychosocial intervention on women who had been victims of intimate partner violence (IPV). The sample was composed of 141 women from 19 centres in Spain. The evaluation of the outcomes includes: self-esteem, irrational beliefs, assertiveness, problem coping; gender ideology; evaluation of behavioural changes; and subjective well-being within three months of the completion of the intervention. The validity of the instruments used was tested. Significant changes were observed in all variables immediately after the intervention and three months after completion of the intervention. The discussion focuses on the impact of the variables affected by IPV, the potential for change in these variables, and treatment modality.
Metodología didáctica y modelos pedagógicos en la enseñanza preuniversitaria de la Comunidad de Madrid
Authors: López Bertome Eduardo , González Olivares Ángel Luis
Published: November 2019

El presente artículo refleja como el principio de libertad de enseñanza alcanzado siglos atrás, adquiere hoy o día un alto grado de desarrollo en el contexto educativo de la Comunidad de Madrid. Un contexto, que se caracteriza por una diversidad metodológica que se concreta en múltiples modelos pedagógicos a los que se adhieren algunas escuelas de las etapas preuniversitarias para, desde diferentes interpretaciones del proceso educativo, contribuir al proceso de formación integral del alumnado. Es cierto que el modelo dominante en nuestro ámbito educativo es el de la escuela tradicional, sin embargo como recuerdo de los modelos pedagógicos innovadores que surgieron a lo largo del siglo XX y adaptando las metodologías didácticas que los caracterizan a los nuevos tiempos que corren, también nos encontramos con experiencias educativas que tratan de dar una alternativa a la escuela tradicional, una alternativa que añade, sin duda, riqueza al panorama educativo actual.This article shows how today educational freedom achieved centuries ago reaches a high level of development within the educational context of Community of Madrid. The methodological diversity of this context becomes reality in different pedagogical models which are embraced by some schools at pre-university stages. Thus, from different approaches to educational process, they contribute to the comprehensive training of students. It is true that traditional school is a model prevailing in our educational area. However, having in mind the pedagogical innovative models emerged throughout the 20th century and by adapting the didactic methodologies to the new times we give an opportunity to educational experiences which try to provide traditional schools with an alternative that indisputably enhances our present educational scenery.
RESEÑA de: Amaya Ituarte Tellaeche (coord.). (2017). Prácticas del Trabajo Social Clínico
Authors: Hernández Echegaray Arantxa
Published: November 2019

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RESEÑA de: Watts, Beth y Fitzpatrick, Suzanne (2018). Welfare Conditionality
Authors: Carbonero Muñoz Domingo
Published: November 2019

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Rhetorical Elocution: Figurative Expression of Political Discourse
Authors: Gabrėnaitė Eglė
Published: November 2019

The modern definition of rhetoric is based on the conception of rhetoric as a universal system of persuasion, so persuasive discourses are the main object of rhetorical researches. Political discourse, the primary purpose of which is persuasion, is a textbook example of persuasive discourse. The paper presents a study into political rhetoric: the comments ant political programmes of the candidates in the presidential election in the Republic of Lithuania. This research aimed to determine the dominant figurative expression in political comments according to the methodological approach of the discipline of rhetoric and on previous studies. Figurative expression is a broad linguistic category involving the use of (non-)linguistic tools of expression which perform the aesthetic and (or) persuasive function. In rhetorical studies, a figurative expression is realised and analysed not as a standard embellishment of discourse, but primarily as an instrument of persuasion. It must be noted that for elocution-level rhetoric analysis of political discourse, essential expression tools are those that reflect the worldview and the values of discourse participants. Therefore, besides the rhetorical analysis, the methods of content and context analysis are also invoked. Discourse studies reveal a direct interaction between rhetorical tools and persuasion of the message. Rhetorical figures perform the function of information “framing” and adapting the expectations of the addressee.
Funkcjonowanie szaty roślinnej w warunkach miejskich = The functioning of plant cover in urban conditions
Authors: Wysocki Czesław
Published: November 2019

The problem of the proper functioning of plant cover in urbanised conditions is extremely important in the context of improving the quality of life of city-dwellers. In onnection with this, an urgent task is appropriate shaping of green areas to provide better living conditions in cities. In recent times, the idea of the vegetation in cities (including of spontaneous origin) being subject to naturalisation has gained strong promotion as urban greenspace is being planned. There are many examples of spontaneous vegetation forming an aspect of the planning of greenspace in Europe, the United States, and Poland also. However, differing views expressed by inhabitants act to limit the use – and level of acceptance – of urban areas’ spontaneous vegetation. Nevertheless, thanks to progressing ecological education, areas with synanthropic vegetation of a “more natural” character are proving increasingly acceptable to the public.
In persona Christi
Authors: Warr Cordelia
Published: November 2019

Within the Catholic Church from around the tenth century onwards, liturgical gloves could be worn on specific occasions by those of the rank of bishop and above. Using a pair of seventeenth-century gloves in the Whitworth as a basis for further exploration, this article explores the meanings ascribed to liturgical gloves and the techniques used to make them. It argues that, within the ceremony of the mass, gloves had a specific role to play in allowing bishops to function performatively in the role of Christ.
Compensatory sequence variation between trans-species small RNAs and their target sites
Authors: Johnson Nathan R , dePamphilis Claude W , Axtell Michael J
Published: November 2019

Trans-species small regulatory RNAs (sRNAs) are delivered to host plants from diverse pathogens and parasites and can target host mRNAs. How trans-species sRNAs can be effective on diverse hosts has been unclear. Multiple species of the parasitic plant Cuscuta produce trans-species sRNAs that collectively target many host mRNAs. Confirmed target sites are nearly always in highly conserved, protein-coding regions of host mRNAs. Cuscuta trans-species sRNAs can be grouped into superfamilies that have variation in a three-nucleotide period. These variants compensate for synonymous-site variation in host mRNAs. By targeting host mRNAs at highly conserved protein-coding sites, and simultaneously expressing multiple variants to cover synonymous-site variation, Cuscuta trans-species sRNAs may be able to successfully target multiple homologous mRNAs from diverse hosts.
Micronuclei-based model system reveals functional consequences of chromothripsis in human cells
Authors: Kneissig Maja , Keuper Kristina , de Pagter Mirjam S , van Roosmalen Markus J , Martin Jana , Otto Hannah , Passerini Verena , Campos Sparr Aline , Renkens Ivo , Kropveld Fenna , Vasudevan Anand , Sheltzer Jason M , Kloosterman Wigard P , Storchova Zuzana
Published: November 2019

Cancer cells often harbor chromosomes in abnormal numbers and with aberrant structure. The consequences of these chromosomal aberrations are difficult to study in cancer, and therefore several model systems have been developed in recent years. We show that human cells with extra chromosome engineered via microcell-mediated chromosome transfer often gain massive chromosomal rearrangements. The rearrangements arose by chromosome shattering and rejoining as well as by replication-dependent mechanisms. We show that the isolated micronuclei lack functional lamin B1 and become prone to envelope rupture, which leads to DNA damage and aberrant replication. The presence of functional lamin B1 partly correlates with micronuclei size, suggesting that the proper assembly of nuclear envelope might be sensitive to membrane curvature. The chromosomal rearrangements in trisomic cells provide growth advantage compared to cells without rearrangements. Our model system enables to study mechanisms of massive chromosomal rearrangements of any chromosome and their consequences in human cells.
Multiple ecosystem services from field margin vegetation for ecological sustainability in agriculture: scientific evidence and knowledge gaps
Authors: Mkenda Prisila A. , Ndakidemi Patrick A. , Mbega Ernest , Stevenson Philip C. , Arnold Sarah E.J. , Gurr Geoff M. , Belmain Steven R.
Published: November 2019

Background

Field margin and non-crop vegetation in agricultural systems are potential ecosystem services providers because they offer semi-natural habitats for both below and above ground animal groups such as soil organisms, small mammals, birds and arthropods that are service supplying units. They are considered as a target area for enhancing farm biodiversity.

Methodology

To explore the multiple potential benefits of these semi-natural habitats and to identify research trends and knowledge gaps globally, a review was carried out following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. A total of 235 publications from the year 2000 to 2016 in the Scopus and Web of Science databases were reviewed.

Results

The literature showed an increasing trend in the number of published articles over time with European studies leading in the proportion of studies conducted, followed by North America, Asia, South America, Africa and Australia. Several functional groups of organisms were studied from field margin and non-crop vegetation around agricultural lands including natural enemies (37%), insect pests (22%), birds (17%), pollinators (16%), soil macro fauna (4%) and small mammals (4%). Ecosystem services derived from the field margin included natural pest regulation, pollination, nutrient cycling and reduced offsite erosion. Some field margin plants were reported to host detrimental crop pests, a major ecosystem dis-service, potentially leading to increased pest infestation in the field.

Conclusion

The majority of studies revealed the importance of field margin and non-crop vegetation around arable fields in enhancing ecosystem biodiversity. Promotion of field margin plants that selectively enhance the population of beneficial organisms would support sustainable food security rather than simply boosting plant diversity. Our analyses also highlight that agro-ecological studies remain largely overlooked in some regions.
Analysis of miRNA expression profiles in the liver ofClockΔ19mutant mice
Authors: Wang Yanli , Lv Ke , Zhao Mei , Chen Hailong , Ji Guohua , Zhang Yongliang , Wang Tingmei , Cao Hongqing , Li Yinghui , Qu Lina
Published: November 2019

The circadian clock controls the physiological functions of many tissues including the liver via an autoregulatory transcriptional−translational feedback loop, of which CLOCK is a core positive component. In addition, many studies have indicated that microRNAs (miRNAs) regulate liver function. However, how CLOCK-regulated miRNAs are linked to liver function remains largely unknown. In this study, miRNAs expression profiles were performed in the liver ofClockΔ19mutant mice. Compared to wild type mice, totals of 61 and 57 putative CLOCK-regulated miRNAs were differentially expressed (fold change absolute value ≥2) at zeitgeber time 2 and zeitgeber time 14, respectively. According to the pathway analyses, the target genes of differentially expressed miRNAs were mainly involved in pathways in cancer, the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and the MAPK signaling pathway. Protein−protein interaction analyses revealed that the hub genes were primarily associated with pathway in cancer and circadian rhythms. Expression validation showed that while the expression levels of miR-195 and miR-340 were up-regulated, the rhythms of these two miRNAs were always maintained. The expression level of nr1d2 mRNA was down-regulated. We identified a number of prospective CLOCK-regulated miRNAs that play roles in the various physiological processes of the liver, providing a reference to better understanding the potential regulatory mechanisms in the liver.
Influence of Grass Mulch on Soil Physical Attributes of a Luvisol and Water Requirement of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) in the Transition Zone of Ghana
Authors: Kyere Kwabena , Agyarko Kofi , Osei Yaw Benette
Published: November 2019

The experiment was conducted to assess the influence of grass mulch on some soil physical attributes of a luvisol and water requirement of cowpea in the transition zone of Ghana at the University of Education, Winneba, Mampong campus. A Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) was used. The grass mulch rates were; 1 t ha-1, 3 t ha-1, 5 t ha-1 and control (no mulch) with four replications. The grass mulch was applied evenly on the soil surface under a cultivated cowpea. Parameters assessed were soil aggregate stability, bulk density, soil porosity, soil gravimetric and volumetric moisture contents, cumulative infiltration, sorptivity, organic matter content and cowpea seed yield. The study showed that mulching improved cowpea seed yield, soil gravimetric moisture content, soil volumetric moisture content, cumulative infiltration amount, infiltration rate, sorptivity and soil residual moisture. The soil physical parameters measured in both the minor and major seasons were higher on the 5 t ha-1 plots but lower on the control (no mulch) plots. There was a significant (P = .05, r = 0.61) positive correlation between the cowpea seed yield and soil gravimetric moisture content. Estimation of water requirement of cowpea using the Blaney-Criddle method produced higher values in 2010 (629.70 mm season-1), 2011 (619.60 mm season-1) than the field graphical estimated values in 2010 (399.00 mm season-1), 2011 (357.0 mm season-1) and improvised evaporation pan values in 2010 (347.90 mm season-1), 2011 (136.11 mm season-1) seasons Although cowpea is tolerant to water deficit to some extent, the use of 5 t ha-1 mulch for sustainable soil moisture management would be important in areas of erratic and inadequate rainfall.
Soil Physico-chemical Properties Changes under Different Crops in Ado Ekiti, Nigeria
Authors: O. Awe G. , O. Nurudeen O. , O. Omotoso S. , A. Amiola A. , Ojeniyi D. , Tutuola T.
Published: November 2019

The sustainable soil management necessary to maintain soil quality depends on the understanding of how the soil responds to agricultural practices over time. This paper reports the changes in physicochemical properties that resulted from different cropping systems on a soil in Ado Ekiti, Nigeria. Soil samples were collected from sole maize plot (1.0 ha), sole cowpea plot (1.0ha) and cassava/maize intercrop plot (0.6ha) on a land that was previously under fallow. The sand, silt and clay contents of the soil and some selected chemical parameters varied considerably within the study area (different cropping zones). The soil was generally sandy loam and was found to vary from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline and generally low in Soil Organic Matter (SOM) and Available P (Av. P) with no salinity problem. High magnitude of variability was observed for Electrical Conductivity (EC), Av. P and SOM while pH had the least magnitude. A geostatistical evaluation of the soil chemical properties showed moderate to strong spatial dependence. The geospatial maps clearly revealed the heterogeneity of the soil chemical properties across the field. Both classical statistics and geo-statistical analyses of the soil of the area provided a better understanding of the spatial variability of soil chemical properties and the influence that such could have on crop performance. The results indicated that the soil pH is slightly acidic and contained low amounts of both SOM and Av. P. It is suggested that planting of cover crops, minimum tillage and controlled application of phosphate fertilizer should be done so as to increase the SOM, improve Av. P and maintain the soil pH. Further studies should be conducted to include other soil chemical properties such that robust site specific management programme could be effected.
Infiltration Characteristics of Soils in Owerri, Imo State, Southeastern Nigeria under Four Selected Land Uses
Authors: O. Onyegbule U. , O. Azu, Donatus E. , N. Akagha U.
Published: November 2019

Knowledge of the infiltration characteristics of soils could play a significant role in the choice of appropriate soil management practices that is capable of alleviating the production constraints of soils. The infiltration characteristics of soils in Owerri under four different lands uses viz: secondary forest, plantain plantation, continuously cultivated land and the grazing land was investigated with the aid of a double ring infiltrometer. Results showed that the secondary forest, plantain plantation, continuously cultivated land, as well as the grazing land all, recorded low infiltration rates of 26.54 mm/hr, 26.0 mm/hr, 18.87/hr and 21.35 mm/hr respectively. There were also significant differences in the soil physical and chemical properties notably the hydraulic conductivity, bulk density, water content, organic matter, total nitrogen, as well as available phosphorus (P<0.05). The results obtained suggest that the inherent land uses in the area affected the infiltration of water as well as the soil quality indices. Land use practices that will improve the organic matter, as well as the water transmissivity of the soils such as conservation tillage, fallowing and controlled grazing, should be adopted and sustained.
Assessment of the Impact of Untreated Rubber Effluent on the Base Cationic and Mycological Properties of Rubber Plantation Soil in Calabar, Nigeria
Authors: P. Antai Sylvester , O. Ajinde Ayotunde
Published: November 2019

The study was carried out to determine the impact of rubber effluent on the cationic and mycological properties of soil in a rubber plantation through which it flows. Rubber effluent samples were collected for physicochemical and mycological analysis from the effluent discharge point of a rubber factory in Calabar, Nigeria. Three impact points (25 metres apart) were created along the flow channel of the effluent, and three sample points spaced 5m apart were created on both sides of each impact point. Top and subsoil samples were collected from the impact points and sample points for base cationic and mycological analysis. A control soil sample was also collected similarly. Correlation analysis, single-sample and two-sample were used to analyse the results. Results revealed that only temperature (26°C), sulphate (20.15 mg/l) and chloride (43.87 mg/l) conformed to Federal Environmental Protection Agency (FEPA) permissible limits of 40°C, 500 mg/l and 600mg/l, respectively. Bacteria isolated from the rubber effluent were identified as Pseudomonas spp, Micrococcus spp, Staphylococus spp, Proteus spp, Klebsiella spp, Bacillus spp, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter spp and Aeromonas spp. Fungi isolated were identified as Aspergillus spp, Penicillium spp, Rhizopus spp, Mucor spp and Sporothrix spp. Results also revealed that the rubber effluent impacted the soil, but parameters still recorded low values, as the effects of the effluent on the soil were altered by leaching, erosion and rubber root uptake. The study also revealed that microbiological investigation involving the use of a selective substrate can be used to augment or properly interpret results obtained from base cation studies similar to the current study, especially in a situation where pollution is not obvious or where factors like root uptake, leaching and erosion can potentially affect statistical results of base cation analysis.
Soil Fertility as Influenced by K Enriched Azolla
Authors: Muruganayaki S. , Jayachitra A. , Jothimani S.
Published: November 2019

Biological Nitrogen Fixation (BNF) is a major source of fixed N for plant life and to sustain production and productivity of agricultural crops. An incubation experiment was conducted by growing Azollae filiculoides with 2 agriculturally important potassic fertilizers (Potassium Chloride, Potassium shulphate) as main plot in seven concentrations (0, 5, 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 ppm of K) as sub-plots laid down in split plot design replicated  three times. The collected Azolla was incorporated with soil  at 10 t/ha and maintained at two moisture condition such as 60 and 100 percent and assessed soil fertility by estimating various available plant nutrients and organic carbon status..The mean organic carbon content of the soil was 0.657 and 0.525% at 60 and 100% moisture contents respectively. The available N content ranged from 216.2 to 327.3 and 191.1 to 285.3 kg/ha from 0 to 40 ppm of K concentration at 60 and 100% moisture respectively because the Azolla had a high N content which released into the soil after decomposition. Azolla also contributed to the supply of phosphorus, potassium, sulfur, zinc, iron and molybdenum in sufficient amounts in addition to other micronutrients besides addition of nitrogen. Among the various concentration, 40 and 50 ppm K were significantly maintained higher and equal soil available P status of 75.17 and 77.33 kg / ha respectively. The fertilizer, K2SO4 with 30, 40 and 50 ppm at 60% moisture content and 40 and 50 ppm of K2SO4 and 40 ppm of KCl produced statistically higher and equal available K at 100% moisture. The soil biological health, mineralization and consequent increase in nutrient status by the application of K enriched Azolla was more under 60% soil moisture content than fully saturated soil.
Role of Mineral and Bio-fertilizers on Some Soil Properties and Rice Productivity under Reclaimed Saline Soils
Authors: Mohaseb Mohamed I. , Kenawy Mona H. M. , Shaban Khaled A. H.
Published: November 2019

A field experiment (randomized complete blocks with three replicates) was conducted during two successive summer seasons of 2016 and 2017 at Sahl El-Houssinia Agriculture Research Station in El-Shakia Governorate, Egypt. Its lies between 32˚00/00 to 32˚15/00/ N latitude and 30˚50 / 00// to 31˚15 00// E longitude. The combined effect of bio-fertilizers inoculated with Rhizobium radiobacter sp strain (salt tolerant PGPR); Bacillus megatherium (dissolving phosphate) and Bacillus circulans (enhancing potassium availability) and yeast strains (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) combined with different rates of N, P and K fertilizers (50, 75 and 100%) was evaluated on some soil properties, nutrient content in rice plants, and rice productivity in a reclaimed saline soil. From the crop field of the Agricultural Research Institute (ARC), Egypt, 101 grain kernels from rice (Oryza sativa) var. Sakha were selected.  

The results indicated that soil pH and EC were decreased in soil treated with bio-fertilizers combined with different rates of mineral fertilizers in comparison with soil treated with yeast and control. Available N, P, K, Fe, Mn and Zn in the soil increased with the use of bio-fertilizers. Application of mineral fertilizers (N, P and K) alone or combined with bio-fertilizers (bacteria and yeast) resulted in increased yield grains and straw of rice plant. Macro- and micronutrients concentrations and uptake in grain and straw of rice plants increased in soil treated with bacteria + 75% N+P+K fertilizers compared with other treatments.
Effect of Earthworm on Lettuce Production through the Recycling of Organic and Bio-Compost Production
Authors: Mohammed Sara Jasim , Alkobaisy Jamal Salih , Saleh Jasim Mohammed
Published: November 2019

Lettuce is one of the most abundant leafy vegetables and is consumed in its raw form by humans, all over the world. This study is conducted in one of the fields in the district of Al-Garmah City, Iraq, to investigate the effects of several fertilizers (Animal, Chemical, and Compost fertilizer). The crop of lettuce harvested from Aug 2017 to Mar 2018, was used in this study. The experiment is carried out in two stages. The first stage includes the multiplication of the earthworm and the production of the worm (vermicompost). The second stage includes the cultivation of lettuce in three replicates with ten coefficients and additions of animal fertilizer, vermicompost and chemical fertilizer (N, P, and K). The results show that the highest productivity is shown in the lettuce plant in vermicompost second with level recommendation half of the fertilizing, and second-ranked vermicompost and chemical. Only the second level and the third place in the recommendation vermicompost 1/2 second with level waste sheep 1/2 second level. The result showed the percentages of the treatment (T5), (T8), (T3), (T9), (T7), (T2), (T1). It is concluded that the production of vermicomposts in a specialized farm which is environmentally-friendly and hygienic, results in more healthy crops for the consumer, which should be given into consideration. More research in this area is needed to fully understand the ecology of different earthworm species, their interactions and their potential roles in promoting the more sustainable farming system.
Morphological and Molecular Identification of the Fungus Associated with Pink Disease of Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L) in the Eastern Region of Ghana
Authors: G. Kwarteng F. , Cornelius E. , K. Acquah K. , K. Asare E.
Published: November 2019

The Pink Disease is caused by the fungus Erythricium salmonicolor (Berk & Broome) Burdsall. It attacks broad hosts such as cocoa, coffee, citrus Eucalyptus spp. and Acasia spp. An outbreak of similar disease symptoms on cocoa trees in the Eastern region of Ghana has been a threat to the cocoa industry. However, the organism causing the disease in the Eastern region of Ghana has not been properly identified. Therefore, objectives of this study were to identify the causal organism of the pink disease of cocoa in the Eastern Region of Ghana and to also determine the genetic variability among the isolates collected. All isolates produced salmon-pink fluffy mycelia with concentric zones and regular margins on (Potatoes Dextrose Agar) PDA and Malt Extract Agar (MEA). The hyphae were hyaline, thin-walled, joined to each other and with clamp-connections.  Amplification of the ITS region of isolates of E. salmonicolor using primers produced a 750 bp which is the expected fragment size. The isolates varied genetically with mean similarity of 55%.  Isolates from Saamang, Bunso and Osino communities related by 78% whiles Isolates from Osino and Bunso communities clustered together at 88% making them the most related among all the isolates.
Wastewater Collection and Transportation through Drainage Network- a Potential Threat to Biodiversity & Local Eco-system in Zanzibar Stone-town & Surroundings
Authors: M. Abubakar Z. , R. Rabia A. , M. Ussi A. , A. Bakar M. , A. Ali R.
Published: November 2019

Waste water effluents voided in the coastal areas of Zanzibar are highly polluted posing a public health crisis. This cross-sectional study, carried out in September 2017, investigated bacterial load and physicochemical characteristics of the effluents discharged into coastal marine waters of the Zanzibar stone town and peri-urban areas. Ten drains, seven of which were impervious and three pervious, were sampled twice per day in mornings and afternoons. Each drain was sampled at three sites; the out-pour site close to the sea and two sites upstream 100 meters apart. Physicochemical parameters including Dissolved Oxygen (DO), pH and turbidity were determined immediately after arrival in the laboratory. Colony forming units/ ml were also determined.

 Bacterial counts were higher in impervious drains, in out-pour sites and in the afternoons. Conversely counts were lower in the out-pour sites compared to upstream sites in the pervious drains. DO was significantly higher in the pervious compared to impervious drains (p = 0.004). Turbidity was high in the mornings, but one drain had significantly high turbidity (p=0.0009). In all drains pH was high in the afternoon than mornings. Thirteen bacterial species, mostly gram-negative Enterobacteriaceae were isolated. Vibrio cholerae was isolated from 5 drains. Ground water close to pervious drains had coliforms beyond WHO guidelines. Waste water drains in Zanzibar urban and peri-urban areas are vastly contaminated with organic matter and pathogenic bacteria leading to high turbidity and oxygen depletion. It is recommended to increase awareness to the public and introduce waste water treatment strategies both physically and chemically.
Plasmid Profile of Multi-drug Resistant Phenotypes of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolated among Patients with Indwelling Catheter in Northeastern Nigeria
Authors: M. Umoru Askira , A. Farouk Umar , M. Ibrahim Muhammad , M. Tom Isyaka , B. Ali Haruna , B. Ali Haruna , Abdullahi Aliyu
Published: November 2019

Aims: This study was carried out to analyze the plasmid profile of multidrug resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated among catheterized patients attending the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.

Place of Study: Department of Medical Microbiology (Laboratory Section), University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital and Department of Biological Sciences, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Nigeria.

Methodology: 244 samples (catheter tip, urethral swab, urine) were collected from catheterised patients and investigated via microscopy and culture on Blood agar and MacConkey agar. Suspect Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates were further confirmed using biochemical tests. Kirby bauer disc diffusion test was used to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility pattern. Isolates confirmed to be multidrug resistant (MDR) were subjected to plasmid profile analysis using agarose gel electrophoresis.

Results: 21 yielded Pseudomonas aeruginosa which gives a recovery rate of 8.6%. A significant proportion was isolated from catheter tip samples collected from male patients (33.33%). The association between sex of patient and sample type in the isolation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa was statistically significant (X2 = 10.76, df = 2, P <.01). Isolates were most-sensitive/least-resistant to Ofloxacin and Ampiclox, and least-sensitive/most-resistant to Penicillin. All isolates identified were multi-drug resistant (MDR) with an average resistance rate of 3.28 antimicrobials per isolate. Plasmid analysis revealed that 57.14% of isolates possessed similar plasmid with a DNA fragment size of 300bp and a molecular weight of 31 ng/10 µl.

Conclusion: We establish a very high rate of multidrug resistance among Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates. Plasmid profile analysis of MDR Pseudomonas aeruginosa observed revealed a high plasmid prevalence rate and since most isolates cannot express the resistance marker after plasmid curing, we suggest that this is indicative of the plasmidial origin of such a marker.
Antimalaria and Hematological Properties of Ethanol Leaf Extract of Pennisetum purpureum on Plasmodium berghei Infected Mice
Authors: Ekene E. N. , Odigie O. M.
Published: November 2019

Through bite from a female Anopheles mosquito, Malaria is transmitted by infection with single-celled parasites of the genus Plasmodium. Studies have shown it to be characterized by periodic bouts of severe chills, accompanied with high fever. It has been suggested that Pennisetum purpureum possess antiplasmodial effects, however, no scientific record(s) yet exist(s) to validate this claim. This study was therefore undertaken to determine the anti-malaria and haematological properties of ethanol leaf extract of P. purpureum in Plasmodium berghei -infected mice. Thirty-Five (35) albino mice (20g) were procured, acclimatized (for two weeks) and assigned to five groups of 7 mice each. With group I receiving standard rat feed ad-libitum (control), Groups II through V were respectively infected with Plasmodium berghei (malaria infected, untreated), Plasmodium berghei infected + treated with 5mg/kg body weight of Artesunate (malaria infected, Artesunate treated), infected with Plasmodium berghei + treated with 200mg/kg body weight of Pennisetum  purpureum (malaria infected, low dose extract treated), and infected with Plasmodium berghei + treated with 400mg/kg body weight of Pennisetum  purpureum (malaria infected, high dose extract treated). After 21 days of administration, mice were sacrificed, blood samples collected, centrifuged for 10 minutes at 300g, and resulting supernatant biochemically analysed for hematologic changes. Result showed a significant increase in initial parasite count across groups except control. Administration of Artesunate also caused a significant (p < .05) reduction in parasite counts upon comparison with control. More so, administration of low and high dose extract caused a significant (p < .05) reduction in parasite count following comparison with control. Administration of 200mg/kg caused the highest parasitemia suppression than high dose. We recommend for further evaluation of the plant in other to identify active ingredients responsible for the observed antimalarial activity.
First Report in Sudan: Detection of Antibacterial Activity of the Black Cumin (Nigella sativa) Seed Extract against Mycoplasma mycoides subsp mycoides (Mmm)
Authors: Onsa Raghad A. H. , Muna E. A. , Hassan Samia A. A.
Published: November 2019

Aims: This study was focused on the effect of Nigella sativa seed oil on the in vitro growth of Mycoplasma mycoides subsp mycoides (Mmm).

Study Design: Three strains of (Mmm) were subjected to different dilutions of extracted Nigella sativa seed oil and the inhibitory zones were recorded. Type of effect (bactericidal or bacteriostatic) was studied.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out at Mycoplasma and biochemistry departments Central Veterinary Research Laboratory (CVRL) - 2018.

Methodology: The tested strains were: Reference strain (T1/44), recent local strain (RH strain) and the last one was an old local strain (F strain). Different dilutions were used from N. sativa (25%, 50%, 75% and 100%) respectively.

Results: The N. sativa revealed different inhibition zones on the growth of the three mentioned cultures. In addition to that bactericidal effect on (Mmm) growth was observed.

Conclusion: The result of this study suggests the potential use of Cumin seed (N. sativa) against (Mmm) in vitro, and this result contributes in CBPP disease control using this type of natural seeds.
Attempted Detection of West Nile Virus from Wild and Peridomestic Birds within Ibadan Metropolis in Nigeria
Authors: Fasuan O. S. , Faneye D. O. , Adeyanju T. A.
Published: November 2019

Wild and peridomestic birds have been implicated in the transmission of West Nile virus (WNV), acting either as reservoirs or vectors. A team of researchers reported detection of West Nile virus (WNV) in the faeces of infected wild birds after being experimentally infected with the virus subcutaneously. This necessitated the need for this study, which is aimed at investigating the potential transmission of WNV through faeces in wild and peridomestic birds in Nigeria even though the virus is an arbovirus commonly transmitted by mosquito. To confirm the data, one hundred and ten (110) wild and peridomestic birds were screened for the presence of WNV using rtPCR method. The birds were drawn from six locations in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria within a period of 18 months. Detection of WNV was made with 5% agarose gel electrophoresis. However, we failed to detect WNV in these samples, concluding that birds in those locations were not habouring the virus. We recommend continuous and active surveillance for the virus since change in some particular factors can aid its widespread transmission.
Anatomy and Biochemical Study of Collar Rot Resistance in Eggplant
Authors: Hasan M. M. , Meah M. B.
Published: November 2019

Disease reaction of three eggplant varieties (BAUBegun-1, BAUBegun-2 and Dohazari G) to collar rot (Sclerotium rolfsii) at early flowering stage, as well as the anatomy and biochemical effects of the infection on the collar region of the plant was studied. The plants were inoculated following soil inoculation technique, using barley culture of the pathogen. All the varieties were infected, with percentage infection ranging from 62.50 to 100%. Varieties varied in percent mortality (0.00 - 100). Plants of the eggplant variety BAUBegun-2, although infected, all regenerated and were graded resistant. The varieties Dohazari G and BAUBegun-1 were graded as susceptible. Anatomy and biochemical constituents, namely total phenols, ascorbic acid, total sugar, reducing sugar and Ca-oxalate contents of the collar region were investigated. BAUBegun-2 was characterized with thick cuticle, thick epidermal cells, many trichomes and smaller intercellular spaces in the cortex which could have restricted the entry of S. rolfsii into the cell. A higher level of biochemical activities was observed in eggplant var. BAUBegun-2. There was a clear correlation between anatomical features and biochemical constituents, and collar rot incidence. Anatomical features and biochemical constituents, as detected to be responsible for the resistance, could be used for the development of superior variety with resistance to collar rot.
The Prevalence of Group A Streptococcus as a Re-Emerging Microorganism in Port Harcourt Metropolis
Authors: Azike C. A. , Agi V. N. , Akere B. B.
Published: November 2019

Streptococcus pyogenes is a Group A β-haemolytic Streptococcus, responsible for pyogenic infections especially among children. Its diagnostic detection has been a challenge especially in hospitals with limited resources. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of Streptococcus pyogenes among patients attending University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital. This study was hospital based with total of 100 (one hundred) throat swabs examined. The methods and analyses used include crystal violet blood agar culture, bacitracin sensitivity testing, Gram stain, catalase test and microscopic examination. This study found that 5% of throat swab examined detected Streptococcus pyogenes from children between the age of <1 – 25 years. The isolates classified as Streptococcus pyogenes were only those that grew on crystal violet blood agar, which is gram positive and catalase negative cocci. This present study has shown that with proper diagnostic tools and procedures, Streptococcus pyogenes exist in the study area and this should be treated as public health issue of great concern.
Antibiotics Resistance and Plasmid Profile of Clinical Bacterial Isolates Obtained from Brait-Whyte Memorial Specialist Hospital, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Wali Y. S. , Effiong E.
Published: November 2019

Antibiotics resistance pattern of bacterial isolates has caused both economic and societal loses to mankind. In this study, ethical approval and samples were sought and obtained from the Brait-Whyte Memorial specialist hospital in Rivers State. Two hundred and seven (207) samples were obtained from both female (71%) and male (21%) sourced samples covering endocervical, throat, ear, wound, urethral, skin and high vaginal swabs. Biochemical and Molecular approaches were employed in the identification of multidrug-resistant isolates from the isolates obtained from the study. Kirby-Bauer method was employed in the determination of antibiotics susceptibility profile. Female patients with the age 25-35 years and 35-44 years were observed to be most frequent for High vaginal and wound swab bacterial isolate colonization cases. Twenty-six isolates were observed to be resistant to Augmentin, Ceftazidime, Gentamicin, Ofloxacin, Cefuroxime. Over 90% of the bacterial isolates were resistant to Cloxacillin, 76% for Ceftriaxone. Enterobacter ludwigii was identified to be both multidrug resistant and plasmid-mediated form of resistance with multiple plasmids with Molecular weight of 13065, 9139, 2350 and 854bps whereas Klebsiella aerogenes was observed to have three distinct plasmid-bands with 10173, 2525 and 2118 bp. This study further supports the role of plasmids in the resistance profile and drug idiosyncrasies of nosocomial and pathogenic bacterial flora, reported in Port Harcourt metropolis. There is a necessary to intensify public campaigns and awareness against unsafe drug administration practices and self-medication trends.