bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kenya Medical Training College laboratory student perception on adequacy of teaching and learning resources in the advent of COVID-19
Authors: Kondo Benson Mbati , Kang’ethe Simon , Ngeno Anne
Published: October 2023

The emergence of COVID-19 presented a big challenge in medical education, especially with regard to the adequacy of teaching and  learning resources. In addition, an increase in student intake and demand for Kenya Medical Training College courses could compromise  these resources. This study investigated the perceptions of students towards the adequacy of teaching and learning resources at Kenya  Medical Training College in the advent of COVID-19. The general objective was to determine the perceived adequacy of teaching and  learning resources in the advent of COVID-19 by students in the department of Medical Laboratory Sciences at Kenya Medical Training  College. A descriptive cross-sectional study design using mixed methods (triangulation) was used. Simple random sampling of the eight  regions in the country was used to select one region (the Eastern Region). Census sampling was used to select all the four campuses in  the region namely Machakos, Meru, Embu, and Kitui, which offer medical laboratory sciences. The study population was students in the  department of medical laboratory sciences on these campuses, with 220 students participating. The data collection instrument was a self- administered closed- and open-ended questionnaires. Quantitative data collected was analysed using SPSS software, while qualitative  data was analysed using themes. The response rate was 100% (220 students). The gender distribution among students showed a higher  percentage in male (58%). Majority of the students were 21-23 years (35%). One-way ANOVA presented a statistically significance between  and within groups (P<0.05). Majority of students (51.8%) were not satisfied with adequacy of human resources. Majority of  students perceived the state of physical facilities to be in poor state with a mean of 1.76, while the satisfaction level of majority of  students’ on teaching aids was below 3.40 representing very inadequate to neutral. Ordinal regression tests on satisfaction level on  teaching aids in relation to gender, year of study and campus was significant (chi-square test p<0.000) while the goodness of fit model  was (p=1.000) indicating it was a good model. R^2 value (Nagelkerke=99%) indicated that the study factors had great variations. The  spearman’s rank test showed that laboratory equipment and computer assisted aids, internet, learning systems have negative correlation but with very strong coefficient correlation of 1.0000. Satisfaction levels with teaching aids in relation to gender, year of study,  and campus were significant with a chi-square test of P < 0.000. The study concluded that there were inadequate teaching and learning  resources on the four KMTC campuses before COVID-19.
Environmental Pollution and Climate Change: An Ethical Evaluation of the Carbon Tax Policy in South Africa
Authors: Masondo Zama Nonkululeko , Nwosimiri Ovett
Published: October 2023

Environmental pollution and climate change have been considered the main environmental challenges affecting the world’s ecosystem,  including that of South Africa. They cause poverty, land degradation, and health hazards. One of the leading causes and contributing factors of environmental pollution and climate change is carbon emissions into the atmosphere. As a way to curb these emissions,  Carbon tax policy has been introduced in various countries, including South Africa. In 2019, a Carbon tax was introduced to assist South  Africa in delivering on the commitments made in the Paris Agreement in 2015. If the policy is effectively applied, it will raise revenues  while reducing carbon dioxide emissions. Before and after introducing the Carbon tax policy in South Africa, there has been debate and discussion on its impact on the environment, economy, and society. Based on the debate and discussion, it has been observed that more  attention is paid to the economic implications and benefits of the tax on South Africa than the ethical implications. Thus, this paper aims  to contribute to the ongoing debate and discussion by ethically evaluating the Carbon tax policy in South Africa.
Investigating the Occurrence of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in the Final Effluents of Two Wastewater Treatment Plant in the Eastern Cape of South Africa
Authors: Osuolale O.O.
Published: October 2023

The final effluents of two wastewater plants located in the Eastern Cape of South Africa were tested for the presence of enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli O157:H7 isolates, and characteristics of the isolates obtained were determined. A total of 23 wastewater samples were collected from the treatment plants at the final effluent point after the disinfectant stages of wastewater processing. Altogether, 540 presumptive E. coli isolates were obtained by colony counting on the E. coli O157:H7 chromogenic agar base supplemented with cefixime tellurite and were subcultured onto sorbitol-MacConkey agar and tested for agglutination using the Prolex E. coli O157 latex test reagent kit.The results showed that the 149 suspected colonies from SMAC agar were all negative for the antisera. None of the isolates agglutinated with antisera against E. coli O157 and thus no presence of the bacteria can be confirmed from the treated effluents.The likelihood of the receiving water body and the environment being contaminated with E. coli O157:H7 is therefore minimal. Future monitoring is however recommended
Proximate Composition and Physicochemical Properties of Hyptis spicigera Seed and Oil
Authors: Ishaka A. , Abdullahi A. , Ahmad B. , Musa S. , Muhammad H.Y.
Published: October 2023

The plant Hyptis spicigera is a medicinal plant used traditionally to treat ailments such as headaches, and colds, and has been used as insects’ repellent. The seeds contain significant amount of lipids. There appears to be few reports of the chemical composition ofthe seeds of H. spicigera. Therefore, proximate composition (moisture, ash, protein, fibre, lipid, and carbohydrate contents) of the seeds of local H. spicigera and physicochemical characteristics (colour, odour, pH, refractive index, acid value, iodine value, peroxide value, and saponification value) of Soxhlet extracted oil were determined in. The results showed the seeds to have moisture (3.50±0.5%), ash (5.33±0.76%), lipids (59.00±0.73 %), protein (20.56±0.22 %), carbohydrate (7.36±0.14%), fibre (4.25±0.78 %) and significant amounts (g/100 g protein) of 10 essential amino acids and vitamin E (1.32±0.05mg/g). The seed oil was liquid at 25 oC (room temparature), amber with unobjectionable odour, pH of 6.32±0.21, RI 1.73±0.80, acid value 10.53 ± 0.13 mg/g, iodine value of 11.07 ± 0.14 gI2/g, peroxide value of 50 ± 1.0 mEq/kg and saponification value of 176.4 ± 10.7 mgKOH/g. The results suggest H. spicigera seed contains an appreciable amount of essential amino acids and its oil could be consumed, used in industry for soap making and biodiesel production.
Comparison of Cox and Extended Cox Models on Age at First Marriage among Nigerian Women
Authors: Abiodun A.A. , Ayodele O.J. , Ishaq I.A.
Published: October 2023

Cox model is widely used for analysis of factor effects on censored survival time such as age at first marriage. In most practical situations, the fundamental assumption of the proportionality of hazard in Cox model, which implies that the covariates whose effects are to be investigated have a constant impact on the hazard ratio over the time is not always feasible. For example, the values of some of the covariates for individuals may be different over time and these may cause a break-down of proportionality assumption in the hazard model. Ignoring such violation may result in misleading effects of estimates. In this study therefore, Extended Cox models have been used to analyze data on age at first marriage among Nigerian women between 2013 and 2018 waves of Nigerian Demographic and Health Surveys (NDHS). The standard Cox model as well as Extended Cox models under four distinct time functions, namely, t, t2 , log(t) and Heaviside were considered in the analysis and compared using Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) and Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC). The standard Cox model was found to perform worst among all the models considered and Extended model with log(t) time function was best fit for the data.
Corrosion Inhibition Effects of Ficus exasperatae and Costus afer in Acidic Medium at Different Temperatures
Authors: Godwin- Nwakwasi E.U. , Elachi E.E. , Ezeokonkwo M.A. , Robert C.
Published: October 2023

One of the most effective ways of mitigating the corrosion of metals in various media is by using of corrosion inhibitors. Due to the harmful effects of chemical-based corrosion inhibitors, attention is now shifting to plant materials which are environmentally friendly. Therefore, this paper investigates the corrosion inhibition potentials of Ficus exasperata and Costus afer leaves extracts on the corrosion of mild steel in 0.5 M hydrochloric acid medium at different temperatures (303 – 343 K). Secondly, to determine the effect of temperature on the corrosion inhibition performance of Ficus exasperata and Costus afer. The weight loss method of corrosion measurement was used to evaluate the corrosion inhibition potentials of the plant extracts. The results showed that Ficus exasperata and Costus afer inhibited the corrosion of mild steel in hydrochloric acid medium at all temperatures. Corrosion rates decreased with increase in concentration of the extracts. Concentration of the extracts used (0.125 g/L, 0.25 g/L, 0.5 g/L, 1.25 g/L and 2.5 g/L) did not significantly (p > 0.05) affect the corrosion rate of mild steel in the acidic media. Corrosion rates increased with increase in temperature. Inhibition efficiencies of the extracts increased with increase in concentration of the extracts and decreased with increasing temperatures. The adsorption of the extracts on the metal surface occurred by physical adsorption. Ficus exasperata and Costus afer could serve as effective inhibitors for mild steel in acidic media and their efficiencies are affected by high temperatures.
Medicinal Plants for the Treatment of Snake Envenomation in Sub-Saharan Africa: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Abduljalil M.M. , Magaji U.F. , Daba A.I. , Dandare S.U.
Published: October 2023

Snakes are primarily venomous animals that bite when frightened, which can be lethal. This is because snake venom is one of the most active biological fluids containing a wide range of peptides and proteins that can induce several effects, including hemo-, neuro-, cyto- and myotoxic effects, consequently becoming deleterious to life if untreated. Although snakes are found on almost all continents, the rural communities in sub-Saharan Africa are the most affected by snakebites, mainly due to increased humansnake interactions forced by their socioeconomic status and agricultural or rural practices. Consequently, this recently prompted the World Health Organisation to enlist snakebites envenoming among the category-A neglected tropical diseases with an estimated annual death of 7,300 in sub-Saharan Africa. Aside from mortality, snakebite envenomation also causes permanent disabilities in humans and a heavy burden on livestock, creating economic hardship for the already impoverished communities. Several animal-derived antivenoms have been developed for treating snakebites and wounds; they effectively attenuate venomrelated toxicity, tissue necrosis, and deaths. However, despite the efficacy of these antivenoms, several issues, such as problems in production and distribution, exorbitant prices, and adverse effects of the antivenoms, have challenged their practical use in subSaharan Africa. This review highlights the challenges that make conventional antivenoms unavailable to prone populations. We also discuss the plants used in the treatment of snake bites laying emphasis on Mucuna pruriens (Velvet bean) and Allium sativum (Garlic) as the two most studied medicinal plants. The progress and bottlenecks of using herbal antivenoms as alternatives in treating snakebite envenomation in sub-Saharan Africa are also discussed.
C-Reactive Protein and Serum Amyloid-A Response to N-butyl Cyanoacrylate-based Sutures in Sahel Goats
Authors: Mutah A.A. , Mana H.P. , Haruna A.A. , Laku D. , Bokko P.B. , Bilbonga G.
Published: October 2023

The use of biomaterials as suture materials triggering less acute phase response to tissue damage for cutanuous wounds closure has been the goal of numerous researchers. The introduction of Cyanoacrylate into clinical practice is of keen interest which could be an alternative to conventional suture materials. This study focused on monitoring responses to tissue damage elicited by Cyanoacrylate and Nylon based suture materials for wound closure. Ten apparently healthy male goats (Bucks) with mean age of 9.7±1.33 months and mean weight 13.2±1.31 kg were randomly separated into two groups A & B of five (5) bucks each. Incisions made in Group A were closed using N-butyl Cyanoacrylate while nylon was used in group B. Blood samples were taken before the procedures and after at 0, 5, 8, 24, 48 and 72 h for estimation of serum C-Reactive Protein (CRP) and Serum Amyloid-A (SAA). Results indicated that Nylon based suture material triggered early and significant tissue damages based on serum CRP elevated levels while serum SAA levels were comparable when nylon and N-butyl cyanocarylate were used as suture materials for wound closures.
Diet Fortification with Curcuma longa and Allium cepa Ameliorates 2,3,7,8-Tetracholorodibenzop-dioxin-induced Dyslipideamia and Oxidative Stress in Wistar Rats
Authors: Idoko A.S. , Umar S. , Adejo G.O. , Imam N.U. , Zaharaddeen A.S. , Abubakar Z.S. , Abdullahi A.
Published: October 2023

Industrial and environmental activities continuously release chemicals such as 2,3,7,8-tetracholorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) that are hazardous to human health. This research seeks to assess the potentials of Allium cepa and Curcuma longa in suppressing 2,3,7,8- tetracholorodibenzo-p-dioxintoxicity. Forty (40) male Wistar rats weighing 121.77±16.23 g were divided into eight groups of five (5) rats per group. Positive control was fed standard diet, and given 2 µg/kg/week of TCDD in 0.5ml DMSO while normal control was fed standard diet and given 0.5ml dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)/kg body weight/week instead of TCDD. Other groups received 2µg/kg/week of TCDD in 0.5ml DMSO and were fed varied inclusion levels of powdered Allium cepa and Curcuma longa. On the 35th day of the experimental period, the rats were sacrificed and serum prepared from collected blood for antioxidant enzymes, malondialdehyde (MDA) and lipid profile determinations. All treated groups had significantly (p<0.05) higher activities of antioxidant enzymes when compared with the positive control. Malondialdehyde concentration was significantly (p<0.05) lower in the treated groups than the positive control (187.87±5.65 nmol/l). Lipid profiles were significantly improved upon by the inclusion of Allium cepa and Curcuma longa. Therefore, we conclude that dyslipidaemia and oxidative stress due to exposure to dioxin in rats could be suppressed by consumption of 2.5% to 5% inclusion levels of powdered onion and/or turmeric in the diet.
In silico Analysis of Dreb2a Gene among Diploid Oryza Species Reveal Gene Retrogression in Cultivated Species
Authors: Gumi A.M. , Kumar B. , Pareek A. , Singla-Pareek S.L.
Published: October 2023

The dehydration-responsive element-binding (DREB) genes are types of plant-specific transcription factors that bind to DRE/CRT elements in response to abiotic stresses. It belongs to the AP2 superfamily and contains highly conserved APETELA2 (AP2) domain. In this study, comparative analysis of DREB2A gene from diploid Oryza species was performed using BLASTN approach. The OglDREB2A sequence (KU159742.1) was used as query against 11 diploid Oryza species in the Gramene database for identification of DREB2A orthologs. Molecular characterization, subcellular localization, conserved motifs and promoter analysis were also performed using bioinformatics tools. Molecular characterization of DREB2A protein in the diploid Oryza showed an AP2 conserved domain and nuclear localized protein which is similar to putative transcription factor involved in stress responses. Motif analysis using MEME suites identified 7 significant motifs across all the diploid Oryza species with motif 2, 3, 4 and 5 as the common motifs with ~50 amino acids length. Analysis of 1kb upstream of TSS of DREB2A of the 11 diploid Oryza species revealed many CAREs associated with stress (DRE, LTRE, ERE, G-box, TCC-motif and Sp1) and hormonal regulations (ABREs, MeJA, GARE, and GC-motif) with ABRE as the common element in all the diploid species. Additionally, wild species has more number of cis elements than the cultivated species suggesting a possible role in genome evolution. Overall, the 11 DREB2A orthologs are conserved in terms of sequence homology and protein structure but cultivated species has less number of transcripts than their progenitors suggesting gene retrogression in cultivated Oryza species.
Modified Classes of Regression-Type Estimators of Population Mean in the Presence of Auxiliary Attribute under Double Sampling Scheme
Authors: Audu A. , Abdulazeez S. A. , Abubakar I. , Ahijjo Y. M. , Gidado A. , Yunusa M. A.
Published: October 2023

In sample survey, reliable and efficient estimates are often obtained using information from auxiliary variables during estimation and designing stages. However, there are times when the auxiliary information is attribute-based. Some authors have proposed estimators using auxiliary attribute information when the population mean of auxiliary attribute is unknown. However, the estimators are ratio- based estimators which are less efficient when the bi-serial correlation between the study variable and the auxiliary attribute is negative. In this study, regression approach was used to modify estimator d ZKi t to produce estimators that can be used for both negative and positive correlation. In addition, another existing estimator was also modified to produce an estimator that is independent of an unknown population parameter. The Biases and Mean Squared Errors (MSEs) of the modified estimators were determined using the Taylor series approach up to the first order of approximation. The proposed estimators’ efficiency conditions over some existing estimators were established. Empirical investigations were done using stimulation study and the results revealed that proposed estimators have the lowest MSEs and the highest PREs of all the competing estimators and therefore can give better estimates of the population mean. Therefore, it can be concluded that proposed estimators have better predictive power for estimating population mean under two-phase sampling scheme.
Bacteriological Analysis of Well Water Obtained from Onueke Metropolis, Ezza South Local Government Arae, Ebonyi State, Nigeria
Authors: Nicodemus M. , Agusi E. R. , Okongwu-Ejike C. , Bakare E.L. , Okonkwo A.R. , Bitiyong R.A. , Oyekan O.A. , Budaye J. , Ridnah R. , Oluyemi R.O. , Sule K.G.
Published: October 2023

Many households in Nigeria are dependent on alternative sources of water supply and are exposed to preventable water-borne diseases. This study was carried out to examine the bacterial quality of well water obtained from Onueke metropolis in Ebonyi State. The physicochemical parameters of water samples collected from 25 closed and 25 opened wells were analyzed following standard procedures while bacteriological quality of the water samples including coliform count and bacterial isolate identification were determined using serial dilution and multiple fermentation techniques. Results of the physiochemical parameters showed that pH, Electrical Conductivity, Total Hardness, Turbidity and nitrite were within the WHO standard limit for drinking water. The bacterial count ranged from 0.8 – 3.1 x 104 CFU /100ml involving E. coli (25%), Shigella spp (12.5%), Citrobacter spp (4.2%), Klebsiella spp (29.2%), Enterobacter spp (12.5%) and Salmonella spp (16.7%) as the dominant isolates and exceeded the WHO guidelines limit of 0 cfu/100ml for drinking water. Generally, the uncovered wells were more highly contaminated with bacteria pathogens than the covered wells. All samples were above the most probable number (MPN) per 100 ml permissible limit of WHO guidelines for untreated drinking water. In conclusion sampled well water from Onueke metropolis contained bacterial contaminants making the water not safe for drinking devoid of any further water treatment process.
Sufficient Conditions for Nonoscillation of Delay Differential Equations with Positive and Negative Coefficients using Schauder’s Fixed Point Theorem
Authors: Tahir A. , Habib H.
Published: October 2023

Schauder’s fixed point theorem and its applications to delay differential equations (DDEs) cannot be over emphasized. In this work, interesting results regarding the sufficient conditions for nonoscillation of more generalized forms of DDEs are established and provides improvements on the results obtained in the past. However, applying the theorem and the characteristic equation of DDE with constant coefficients helps to determine those conditions. Lastly, to ascertain a claim from an existing literature for a solution that is on oscillatory and has such larger solutions, comparison theorem is used and the results are found to be true.
Time series forecasting of electrical energy consumption using deep learning algorithm
Authors: Edoka E. O. , Abanihi V. K. , Amhenrior H. E. , Evbogbai E. M. J. , Bello L. O. , Oisamoje V.
Published: October 2023

Energy consumption forecasting is an operation of predicting the future energy consumption of electrical systems using previous or historical data. The Long Short-term Memory (LSTM) Model; a deep learning model was used in this project to analyze the Short-term consumption forecast performance. This was carried out by using an energy consumption dataset obtained from the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) Benin City regional 132/33KV transmission station. The dataset were daily load readings recorded in the half-hourly format from August to December 2021. The model was used to demonstrate the feasibility of generating an accurate short-term load forecast for the case study despite the peculiarity and insufficiency of the energy consumption readings. Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) and Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) are the statistical evaluation metrics used. The approach produces exceptional levels of accuracy, with MAPE of 0.010 and RMSE of 19.759 for a 100 time-step. The findings imply that the LSTM model can make accurate predictions with minimal error, and this Deep learning model may be a useful tool for short-term forecasting demand. This finding serves as a baseline for future research in this field of study and power system planning.
Automatic classification of breeds of dog using convolutional neural network
Authors: Adejumobi P.O. , Adejumobi I.O. , Adebisi O.A. , Ayanlade S.O. , Adeaga I.I.
Published: October 2023

Dog is a mammal that has been a friend of man for ages, it is naturally a domestic animal with a high level of phenotype differences in behaviour and morphology. Breeding and crossbreeding activities have increased the number of dog breeds globally, thereby resulting in dogs with inter breed similarities and intra breed differences thereby creating a difficulty in their classification. The American Kennel Club (AKC) classified breeds of dog into groups based on characteristic, purpose, behaviuor and uses in order to optimize the potentials in the breeds. However, most people find it difficult to identify and classify the dog breed groups. Existing works did not consider the automatic grouping of dog breeds. Hence, there is need for automatic techniques to classify dog breeds into groups with improved accuracy. This work used the concept of Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) to develop a model that will automatically classify dog breeds into group based on the American Kennel Club standard using the Stanford’s dog dataset. The developed model achieved 92.2% accuracy, 80.0% sensitivity, 95.3% specificity and 93.4% area under curve (AUC). The model’s performance is excellent compared to existing works that used the same dataset. The experimental result was validated with two classic CNN models (ResNet-50 and SqueezeNet) using the same parameters.
Wind resource of Ilorin City for vortex-induced wind turbine power generation and off-grid electrification
Authors: Yahaya T. , Ajimotokan H. A. , Adebisi J. A. , Ahmed I. I. , Ajiboye T. K. , Abdulkareem S. , Ajao K. R.
Published: October 2023

This study examined the appraisal of wind resources of Ilorin, Nigeria for vortex-induced wind turbine power generation and off-grid electrification. The technical potential of Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Application, version 2 (MERRA-2) was employed as a tool to generate an estimated wind resource of Ilorin city, using five different hub-heights (10, 30, 50, 70, and 90 m). A statistical analysis of wind characteristics for 21 years from 2001 to 2021 was carried out using Weibull distribution function. The daytime and night-time wind characteristics were studied to determine prospective and investment hub-height(s). It was observed that the study area is a low wind region with a minimum and maximum mean wind speed of 2.89 m/s at 10 m and 7.68 m/s at 90 m, respectively. Wind turbines with cut-in wind speed of 2, 2.5, and 3 m have operational chances of 98%, 95% and 88%, respectively. Wind power density at 10, 30, and 50 m elevations was classified as poor while at 70 and 90 m elevations, was regarded as marginal and fair, respectively.
A UV Spectrophotometric method for simultaneous determination of Ibuprofen and Paracetamol concentration in suspensions
Authors: Mugwiza E. , Hahirwa I. , Umumararungu T.
Published: October 2023

INTRODUCTION: Paracetamol is a standard antipyretic and analgesic which is widely used since the 19th century. Currently, paracetamol is the first-line treatment for pain management of different types. Ibuprofen, on the other hand, is an antipyretic and an analgesic. It is safe and has been used in the treatment of a number of conditions including mild to moderate pain, dysmenorrhea, inflammations and fever to name few.

METHODS: This study aimed at developing and validating a simultaneous UV spectrophotometric method for analysis of ibuprofen and paracetamol in fixed-dose combination suspensions. The proposed method is based on the simultaneous equation principle, which involves measurement of absorbance at wavelengths of maximum absorbance for ibuprofen and paracetamol. The method was validated for linearity, accuracy, repeatability, intermediate precision and robustness as per USP and ICH guidelines.

RESULTS: The two molecules showed wavelength of maximum absorbance at 222 nm and 243 nm for ibuprofen and paracetamol respectively, using phosphate buffer as a diluent. The method was also linear (R2≥0.995), precise (RSD ≤ 2), and robust with accuracy ranging between 98.1%-105% and 109.8 %- 134.9% for paracetamol and ibuprofen, in the range of 0.0032 – 0.0048 mg/ml for ibuprofen and 0.004-0.006 mg/ml for paracetamol, respectively.

CONCLUSION: We have developed an accurate and robust method which can be used to analyze quantitatively paracetamol in suspensions which contain both paracetamol and ibuprofen. The limits of quantification of this method cover the concentration range recommended by the USP (80%- 120%), which justifies the application of the method in routine analysis.
A medical survey among the Twi Dinka in 1930
Authors: Farmer Arthur Pring
Published: October 2023

No Abstract.
An analysis of the dynamics of land surface temperature on land use/ land cover in Kano Metropolis, Kano State, Nigeria
Authors: Bernard Sylvanus Helda , Bilal Hamza
Published: October 2023

The rapid urbanisation and associated land use changes have profound impacts on the local climate and environmental conditions in urban areas. This study aims to analyse the dynamics of land surface temperature (LST) and its relationship with land use/land cover (LULC) patterns in Kano Metropolis, Kano State, Nigeria. The research utilizes remote sensing data and geospatial techniques from multiple sensors, such as Landsat MSS, ETM + and OLI/TIRS, spanning a period of 38years (1984 – 2022), to processed, analysed and investigate the spatiotemporal variations in LST and their drivers. Statistical analyses, such as correlation and regression models, are employed to quantify the associations between LST and LULC variables. Findings show that urban area increased from 7% in 1984 to 32% in 2022, while bare land decreased from 82% in 1984 to 49% in 2022. Vegetation also increased slightly from 11% in 1984 to 19% in 2022. The LST increased with a mean value of 16°C in 1984, 25°C in 2003, and 30.5°C in 2022. Results still revealed a negative correlation between vegetation health and land surface temperature, indicating that as vegetation health declines, land surface temperature increases due to the lack of cooling effects from transpiration while a positive correlation exist between the built-up index and land surface temperature, signifying that as urban areas expand, land surface temperature rises due to the urban heat island effect. The research emphasises the significance of implementing land use planning and management strategies to address the adverse effects of urban heat and improve the urban microclimate. The findings offer valuable guidance for policymakers, urban planners, and environmental practitioners, assisting them in making informed decisions for sustainable urban development and enhancing the residents' quality of life in Kano Metropolis.
Assessment of the potentials of Azotobacter spp. as bioinoculants on the growth of potted maize plants
Authors: Sule I.O , Agbabiaka T.O. , Saliu B.K. , Ajijolakewu K.A. , Zakariyah R.F.
Published: October 2023

The use of chemical fertilizers in crop production has detrimental effects such as soil acidity and eutrophication. There is need for environmentally friendly approach in improving soil nutrients and agricultural productivity. This study aimed at the isolation of Azotobacter spp from the rhizosphere of crops and the use of these isolates as biofertilizer for the growth of potted maize plants under 5 treatments. These treatments were maize plant only (control), plant with once application of NPK fertilizer, plants with once, weekly and fortnights application of Azotobacter spp. as bio-inoculants. The counts of Azotobacter obtained from the rhizosphere of the crops ranged from 4.0 × 104 – 1.0 × 106 CFU/g. The three high ranking in-vitro biological nitrogen fixing and phosphate solubilization isolates were identified A. chroococcum, A. vinelandii and A. beijerinckii. At the 7th weeks of growth, 83.3 and 100% of the plants that received different levels of bio-inoculants had the perimeter of their girths greater than and significantly different from the controls when cultivated in 8.1 and 12.0 litre pots respectively. At least 91.7% of the plants that received bio-inoculants had higher heights than the controls. It is concluded that the application of Azotobacter bio-inoculants enhanced the growth of maize plants compared to the contro
Sub-acute toxicity effects of Garcinia kola on serum electrolytes, haematological, visceral organ weights and histopathological profiles in Wistar rats
Authors: Ojatula A.O. , Ezenwa K.C.
Published: October 2023

This study was undertaken to evaluate the toxicity effects of root extract of G. kola on serum electrolyte, haematological and histological parameters of rats. Rats of both sexes were randomized into groups and orally administered daily with determined doses of G. kola extract using distilled water as a control for 21 days. On the 22nd day, all the animals were sacrificed and dissected to collect blood and selected organs. The serum and whole blood were assayed for serum electrolytes and haematological parameters respectively while selected organs were examined for their weight and histopathological lesions. The extract of G. kola did not cause significant alteration in majority of the serum electrolytes and hematological indices. However, the extract significantly elevated the mean corpuscular heamoglobin concentration. On the other hand, the extract reduced mean corpuscular volume, haematocrit (150 and 600 mg/kg), mean platelet volume (150 and 600 mg/kg) and procalcitonin (150 mg/kg). In the vital organs, there were no significant lesions observed except at the highest dose. The root extract of G. kola is relatively safe in rats when repetitively administered orally in small doses for a prolonged period of time to ensure that its use is free of toxicity to humans.
Assessment of ginger production value chain information needs for sustainable livelihood in Kachia Local Government Area, Kaduna State, Nigeria
Authors: Onwunali M.R.O. , Oparandudu G.O. , Bamali S.I.
Published: October 2023

Ginger production is dominated by small holder low-income farmers, though experienced, yield remained consistently and relatively low. Hence the study investigated information needs of farmers using closed structured questionnaires, randomly but purposefully distributed to 120 farmers in Agunu, Gidan Tagwai, Gumel, Kurmin Musa, Kwaturu and Sabon Sarki wards in Kachia. Data were subjected to descriptive statistics, mathematical techniques(Confrontation indexes), correlation and regression analyses at p ≤ 0.05. Results showed that 80.83 % married male (66.67 %) within the ages of 31-40 years (46.67 %) dominated production with average farm size of 1-2 ha and farming experience of 6-7 years. Of the 14 identified information needs, six were needed with pest management (3.85), fertilizer (3.84), marketing information (3.59) and source of credit ranking high while seven were rarely needed but irrigation and water management were not needed. Evidently, ginger farming is basically on traditional technology as major source of information is from parents and friends (39.86 %) coupled with problems like irregular power (3.63), inadequate funds for digital information (3.44) and inadequate information dissemination (3.43). Positive and significant correlation and regression coefficient between demographic data and information needs (sex (R2 = 0.847), farm size (R2 = 0.728) and family size (R2 = 0.707)) indicated strong influence. Therefore, inter alia emphasis on the use of digital knowledge, women involvement, funding, functional extension services, training and retraining of farmers are imperative to improve production and livelihood of farmers.
Determination of physicochemical parameters and heavy metals content of water samples from domestic and Kaduna River in Kaduna Metropolis, Kaduna State
Authors: Ukwenya J.U. , Vantsawa P.A. , Dikwa K.B. , Effiong T.E. , Bitrus S. , Bello O. , Abdullahi R. , Abdulkadir J.
Published: October 2023

Water is very essential for the survival of all living things both plants and animals depend on the availability of water. The aim of this work is to determine the physicochemical parameters and heavy metals content of water samples from domestic and Kaduna River in Kaduna metropolis. Standard method were used for physicochemical parameters and atomic absorption spectrophotometer were used for heavy metals of the water samples. The range of temperature (25.1±0.78°C and 27.6±0.21°C), pH value (6.30±0.29 and 8.46±0.06), turbidity (5.05±0.07m and 9.94±0.08m), the respective water conductivity were 5.95±0.49μS/cm and 98.0±2.82μS/cm, the TDS (4.15±0.35mg/l and 0.71±0.01mg/l), DO content recorded (1.18±0.01mg/l and 8.55±0.12mg/l), COD value were 1.08±0.11mg/l and 6.81±0.11mg/l and BOD (1.08±0.11mg/l and 6.81±0.11 mg/l) domestic and Kaduna River. In heavy metals, copper and cobalt concentrations were higher in domestic and Kaduna River water. The concentration of Zinc in domestic water (0.090±0.044ppm) was higher than that observed in Kaduna River (0.027±0.004ppm). Lead were 0.264±0.011ppm and 0.129±0.07ppm, Cadmium were 0.331±0.013ppm and 0.329±0.019ppm, respectively. The results showed that the water analyzed from domestic and Kaduna River water were within limit except chemical oxygen demand which was below, lead, cadmium and cobalt were above.
An Efficient Derivative Free Iterative Method and Condition Number of Nonlinear Equations Arising from Real World Phenomena
Authors: Nguni Alatuhigha , Chacha Chacha S. , Mtunya Adeline P.
Published: October 2023

Recent researches have shown a great interest in developing novel numerical methods for solving nonlinear equations of the form  arising from real world phenomena.  However, very little attention has been given to the study of condition numbers which is an important aspect in measuring the sensitivity of the problem in response to slight perturbations in the input data. In this article, we present an efficient free derivative iterative scheme constructed by refining Newton-Raphson method standard form in which the derivative term is approximated by using finite difference scheme; hence making it derivative free. We also conducted an in-depth analysis of the condition numbers to explore sensitivity and efficiency comparisons between the proposed algorithm and existing methods for the given problems. Our investigation focused on iteration numbers, residuals, and convergence under mild error tolerances. Based on five numerical case studies, results revealed that the proposed Algorithm 2 outperforms the existing Algorithm 1 in terms of accuracy of the approximate solution. The results for the condition numbers indicated that all problems considered were ill-conditioned, highlighting the significance of studying condition numbers in the context of solving nonlinear equations.
An Overlapped Sub-array Hybrid Beamforming Architecture with Successive Interference Cancellation and Water-filling in Massive MIMO Systems
Authors: Gadiel Godwin Mruma
Published: October 2023

Over the years, wireless communication has significantly improved the data rate of mobile users. The key drive behind this success is the technological advancement in wireless communication. In the physical layer, hybrid beamforming has revolutionized the way signal reaches the user by constructively adding the signal at the destination thus improving the performance. Many researchers works have proposed different algorithms to solve for optimal hybrid beamforming. However, there is no single algorithm that can achieve both high spectral efficiency and energy efficiency at the same time. This work proposes a hybrid algorithm that combines successive interference cancellation and water filling and applies this algorithm in overlapped sub-array architecture (OSA). The former can successfully optimize for analog precoding in a subarray environment as it eliminates the interference between the successive sub-arrays. While the latter can allocate the power in each data stream proportionally, thus improving the spectral efficiency. The simulation results show that the proposed algorithm with OSA can achieve a near optimal performance in comparison to fully connected hybrid beamforming (FCH) and significantly larger performance in comparison to partially connected hybrid beamforming (PCH). Moreover, the proposed algorithm achieves 89.2% energy efficiency in comparison to PCH architecture. These results show that an OSA system with the proposed algorithm provides a better tradeoff between achieved spectral efficiency (SE) and energy efficiency (EE).
Formação de repórteres-amadores para promover a inovação social
Authors: Gouveia Moreira Diego , Miranda Barbosa Rodrigo , Borges de Oliveira Sheila
Published: October 2023

Este artigo tem o objetivo de apresentar uma metodologia para formação de repórteres-amadores. O método foi desenvolvido a partir dos resultados de um projeto de pesquisa e extensão que teve como objetivo mapear os repórteres-amadores que atuam em Caruaru e Bezerros, no Agreste de Pernambuco, em canais próprios e também em movimentos sociais para, a partir de uma formação, contribuírem para superação dos desertos de notícias nas regiões. Para isso, foi realizada uma pesquisa-ação com a oferta de oficinas e compartilhamento de conteúdos sobre a produção de conteúdos informativos. Por fim, considera-se que a inovação social é estabelecida com a atuação de agentes de comunicação.
Como adiar o fim de todos
Authors: Almeida Rocha Bernardo , Barbosa Pereira Silvana
Published: October 2023

Este trabalho toma como base o livro Ideias para adiar o fim do mundo, do líder indígena, ambientalista, filósofo, poeta e escritor brasileiro Ailton Krenak, publicado pela Companhia das Letras, em 2019. O texto se propõe a descrever a obra e expor as ideias nela contidas, fazendo uma apreciação do pensamento do escritor, acompanhada das reflexões estimuladas pela leitura. Por se tratar de um texto altamente questionador e reflexivo, os resenhistas recomendam a leitura da obra para pesquisadores e estudantes do meio ambiente, interessados em compreender a forma de vida de povos indígenas. Recomendam a leitura também para estudantes a partir do Ensino Médio por se tratar de um considerável exemplar da literatura indígena. Ressalta-se que a obra configura como um alerta para a sociedade em geral, sobretudo para aqueles que se empenham em conhecer, lutar e a ser resistência nos movimentos socioambientais e dos direitos dos povos originários.
Karbotiyoamidin Sübstitüye Benzimidazol Bileşiklerinin Sentezi ve Biyolojik Aktivitelerinin İncelenmesi
Authors: Gümrükçüoğlu Taner İlker , Akgün Hakan , Bilgin Sökmen Bahar , Bektaş Hakan
Published: October 2023

Yapılarında bir oksijen atomu ile birlikte nitrojen içeren heterosiklik bileşikler, çeşitli biyolojik uygulamaları nedeniyle önemli bir tıbbi kimya bileşikleri sınıfıdır. Benzimidazoller de bu grupta yer alıp, halka yapısında farklı yapıda iki azot (N) atomu taşıyan heterosiklik bir aromatik organik bileşiktir. Yapılan bu çalışmada, sentezlenen benzimidazol türevlerinin (1-5) antiüreaz ve antioksidan aktiviteleri spektrofotometrik metotlarla incelendi. Antioksidan aktivitesinin kanıtı bizlere vücutta oluşabilecek hastalıklara karşı savunma mekanizmasının var olduğunu açıkça göstermektedir. Sentezlenen tüm benzimidazol bileşikleri antiüreaz ve antioksidan aktivite gösterdi. Üreaz inhibisyon aktivitesi gösteren en güçlü bileşik 2 numaralı, en az aktif bileşik ise 4 numaralı bileşiktir. Tüm bileşikler tiyoüreden daha yüksek aktivite gösterdi. En yüksek antioksidan aktivitesine sahip bileşik 5 numaralı bileşik, en düşük antioksidan aktivitesine sahip bileşik ise 4 numaralı bileşikler olarak belirlendi.
Para Vakıflarının Mevkufun Aleyhleri (Amaçları) Üzerine Bir Araştırma
Authors: Özsaraç Yakup
Published: October 2023

Para vakıfları Osmanlı coğrafyasının hemen her köşesinde kurulmuş ve finansal yapı içerisinde
etkisini sürdürmüş olan bir vakıf türüdür. Para vakıfları Osmanlı Devleti’nin son yüzyılında nicel
olarak artış göstermiştir. Bu artış bir örneklem çerçevesinde 20. yüzyıl kapsamında vakıfların
kuruluş belgeleri olan vakfiyeleri üzerinden incelenmiştir. Vakfiyelerde vakıfların ne için, nerede
ve ne zaman kuruldukları gibi temel bilgilerin yanı sıra vakfın türünü ve özelliğini ifade eden
bilgiler bulunmaktadır.. Vakıftan yararlananlara genel anlamda “mevkufun aleyh” denir. Bunlar
vakfiyelerde hayrat kısmında belirtilen amaçlardır.Osmanlı İmparatorluğu, devletin idari sistemi
ile ilgili olarak 1864’ten itibaren vilayet sitemine geçmiştir. İşte bu vilayet sistemi kullanarak, 20.
yüzyılda kurulan para vakıfları, Anadolu ve Balkan coğrafyası kapsamında, dönemin vilayetleri ile
ifade edilerek, bugünkü il ve ülke olan idari kısımlara göre sınıflandırılmıştır. Buradan seçilen
örnekler, araştırılıp analiz edilmiş ve karşılaştırmalı bir gösterimde bulunulmuştur. Bu
karşılaştırma para vakıflarının elde ettikleri gelirleri nerelere harcadıkları yani amaçları
(mevkufun aleyhleri) tespit edilip karşılaştırılmıştır. Bu da bize bir finans kurumu olarak bilinen
para vakıflarının kimleri finanse ettiğini göstermiştir.
The Ochlocratic Trap in Bioethics
Authors: Heston Thomas F
Published: October 2023

The ochlocratic trap is the tendency to have moral decisions conform to popular majority opinion regardless of their ethical implications. This decision-making method in bioethics can significantly impede moral progress, weakening the foundation for sustainable healthcare systems. Instead of allowing popular opinion to form the basis of our morality, the scientific method can provide a framework for making strong ethical decisions. The consequences of weak morality are profound, resulting in poorly sustainable systems lacking human empathy and economic viability. Treating ethical issues like scientific problems can foster a more rigorous, evidence-based discussion, leading to better medical care globally.
The Kinsip of Mandaresee and Javanese in Wonomulyo District (Study Linguistic Historical Comparative)
Authors: Aprilia Lela , Nasir Aco , Irmayani Naim
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this article is to find out the language kinship between Mandarese and Javanese and also to calculate the length of time of separation between the two languages. This article uses a quantitative descriptive research procedure. The instrument used is a gloss list of 200 vocabularies developed by Morrish Swadesh. The data collection techniques used were interviews with informants, recording, and recording. The data collected from both languages were analyzed using Comparative Historical Linguistics with lexicostatistic and glotochronology analysis techniques. The research results were divided into two, namely: (1) The results of the lexicostatistic analysis showed that the level of kinship between Mandarese and Javanese was 21%, which means that Mandar and Javanese are descended from the Malayo-West Polynesian language family. (2) The results of the glotochronology analysis show that the separation between Mandarese and Javanese occurred for 1,082 years which occurred approximately between 4,240 and 3,158, which means that they are classified as descendants of a language family.
Commodification of Women with Disabilities in Pond's Ads Your Face Edition Your Strength
Authors: Anggraini Ria , Iswardani Denik
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this study is to interpret the commercialization practices of women with disabilities referred to in advertising, using John Fiske's semiotic approach, namely, the meaning of representation, the meaning of reality and the meaning of ideology in advertising. The commercialization of women in this advertisement can show that femvertising (feminist advertising) does not mean that women are not objectified. Instead of empowering women, the practice of femvertising further marginalizes women in media texts. The author argues that the femvertising strategy is a strategy that is not intended as a women's empowerment by building constructive messages, but only cloaks from capitalism by packaging advertisements using certain appeals to use the product. Thus, the perception of the product leads to purchasing decisions, which ultimately benefit the product.