bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sağlık Hizmetlerinde Bilgi Mahremiyeti Endişesi Ve Korunma Davranışlarını Etkileyen Faktörler
Authors: UNAL Cihan , SEZER Cemal
Published: November 2023

Bu çalışmanın temel amacı, bireylerin sağlık bilgi mahremiyeti endişesi düzeylerini, endişeye etki eden faktörleri ve bilgi mahremiyeti endişesi nedeniyle sergilenebilecek korunma davranışlarını ve bu davranışlara etki eden faktörleri belirlemektir. Diğer bir amaç bu çalışmada kullanılan ölçeği Türkçeye uyarlamaktır. Veriler Ankara ilinde toplam 692 katılımcıdan elde edilmiştir. Verilerin analizinde tanımlayıcı istatistiksel yöntemler ve lojistik regresyon analizi kullanılmıştır.

Araştırmanın bulgularında katılımcılar arasında, kişisel sağlık bilgilerinin gizliliği endişesi nedeniyle bilgi saklama eğilimi ve sağlık hizmetlerini ertelemek gibi korunma davranışları gözlemlenmiştir. Bilgi toplama endişesi, bireylerin kişisel sağlık bilgilerini daha az ifşa etmelerine ve bilgi saklama olasılığının artmasına yol açmaktadır. Ayrıca, bilgi toplama endişesi, bireylerin doktorlarına bilerek yanlış sağlık bilgisi verme davranışında bulunma, sağlık hizmetlerini erteleme veya almama olasılığını da artırmaktadır. Önceden sağlık bilgilerinin ihlal edildiğini düşünen bireyler, bilgi toplama endişesi, bilgi saklama, doktordan ve sağlık kurumundan bilgi saklama, doktordan hakkındaki bilgiyi kaydetmemesini isteme ve başka bir tanı yazılmasını isteme olasılıklarının arttığını göstermektedir. Çalışmada hasta-hekim iletişimi ve teknolojik mekanizmalara olan güvenin, sağlık bilgileriyle ilgili endişeler ve korunma davranışları üzerinde önemli bir rol oynadığı tespit edilmiştir. Hekimleri ile iyi iletişim kuran katılımcıların sağlık bilgilerinin ikincil kullanımı konusunda daha fazla endişe duydukları, ancak sağlık hizmetlerini ertelememe veya almama olasılıklarının daha düşük bulunmuştur. Ayrıca, bireylerin kendilerini internet ve bilgi teknolojilerini anlama ve kullanma konusunda yeterli hissetmeleri, sağlık bilgilerinin ikincil kullanımı endişesini arttırmaktadır. Bu durumun aksine sağlık hizmeti kalitesini yüksek değerlendiren katılımcıların bilgi toplama endişesi olasılıklarının daha düşük olduğu görülmüştür. Bu araştırmanın sonuçlarına göre, sağlık hizmetlerinde bilgi mahremiyeti politikalarının güçlendirilmesi ve iletişim stratejilerinin geliştirilmesi gerekmektedir.
UV-optical Emission of AB Aur b Is Consistent with Scattered Stellar Light
Authors: Zhou Yifan , Bowler Brendan P. , Yang Haifeng , Sanghi Aniket , Herczeg Gregory J. , Kraus Adam L. , Bae Jaehan , Long Feng , Follette Katherine B. , Ward-Duong Kimberly , Zhu Zhaohuan , Biddle Lauren , Close Laird M. , Jiang Lillian Yushu , Wu Ya-Lin
Published: November 2023

The proposed protoplanet AB Aur b is a spatially concentrated emission source imaged in the millimeter-wavelength disk gap of the Herbig Ae/Be star AB Aur. Its near-infrared spectrum and absence of strong polarized light have been interpreted as evidence supporting the protoplanet interpretation. However, the complex scattered-light structures in the AB Aur disk pose challenges in resolving the emission source and interpreting the true nature of AB Aur b. We present new images of the AB Aur system obtained using the Hubble Space Telescope Wide Field Camera 3 in the ultraviolet (UV) and optical bands. AB Aur b and the known disk spirals are recovered in the F336W, F410M, and F645N bands. The spectral energy distribution of AB Aur b shows absorption in the Balmer jump, mimicking that of early-type stars. By comparing the colors of AB Aur b to those of the host star, the disk spirals, and predictions from scattered light and self-luminous models, we find that the emission from AB Aur b is inconsistent with planetary photospheric or accretion shock models. Instead, it is consistent with those measured in the circumstellar disks that trace scattered light. We conclude that the UV and visible emission from AB Aur b does not necessitate the presence of a protoplanet. We synthesize observational constraints on AB Aur b and discuss inconsistent interpretations among different data sets. Considering the significance of the AB Aur b discovery, we advocate for further observational evidence to verify its planetary nature.
Understanding the Planetary Formation and Evolution in Star Clusters (UPiC). I. Evidence of Hot Giant Exoplanets Formation Timescales
Authors: Dai Yuan-Zhe , Liu Hui-Gen , Yang Jia-Yi , Zhou Ji-Lin
Published: November 2023

Planets in young star clusters could shed light on planet formation and evolution since star clusters can provide accurate age estimation. However, the number of transiting planets detected in clusters was only ∼30, too small for statistical analysis. Thanks to the unprecedented high-precision astrometric data provided by Gaia DR2 and Gaia DR3, many new open clusters (OCs) and comoving groups have been identified. The Understanding Planetary Formation and Evolution in Star Clusters project aims to find observational evidence and interpret how planets form and evolve in cluster environments. In this work, we cross match the stellar catalogs of new OCs and comoving groups with confirmed planets and candidates. We carefully remove false positives and obtain the biggest catalog of planets in star clusters up to now, which consists of 73 confirmed planets and 84 planet candidates. After age validation, we obtain the radius–age diagram of these planets/candidates. We find an increment in the fraction of hot Jupiters (HJs) around 100 Myr and attribute the increment to the flyby-induced high-e migration in star clusters. An additional small bump of the fraction of HJs after 1 Gyr is detected, which indicates the formation timescale of HJ around field stars is much larger than that in star clusters. Thus, stellar environments play important roles in the formation of HJs. The hot Neptune desert occurs around 100 Myr in our sample. A combination of photoevaporation and high-e migration may sculpt the hot Neptune desert in clusters.
SOLES. VII. The Spin–Orbit Alignment of WASP-106 b, a Warm Jupiter along the Kraft Break
Authors: Wright Josette , Rice Malena , Wang Xian-Yu , Hixenbaugh Kyle , Wang Songhu
Published: November 2023

Although close-orbiting, massive exoplanets—known as hot and warm Jupiters—are among the most observationally accessible known planets, their formation pathways are still not universally agreed upon. One method to constrain the possible dynamical histories of such planets is to measure the systems’ sky-projected spin–orbit angles using the Rossiter–McLaughlin effect. By demonstrating whether planets orbit around the stellar equator or on offset orbits, Rossiter–McLaughlin observations offer clues as to whether the planet had a quiescent or violent formation history. Such measurements are, however, only a reliable window into the history of the system if the planet in question orbits sufficiently far from its host star; otherwise, tidal interactions with the host star can erase evidence of past dynamical upheavals. We present a WIYN/NEID Rossiter–McLaughlin measurement of the tidally detached (

a

/

R

*

=

13.18

−
0.37

+
0.35

) warm Jupiter WASP-106 b, which orbits a star along the Kraft break (T
eff = 6002 ± 164 K). We find that WASP-106 b is consistent with a low spin–orbit angle (

λ
=

6

−
16

+
17

°

and

ψ
=

26

−
17

+
12

°

), suggesting a relatively quiescent formation history for the system. We conclude by comparing the stellar obliquities of hot and warm Jupiter systems, with the WASP-106 system included, to gain insight into the possible formation routes of these populations of exoplanets.
Nitrogen-enriched, Highly Pressurized Nebular Clouds Surrounding a Super Star Cluster at Cosmic Noon
Authors: Pascale Massimo , Dai Liang , McKee Christopher F. , Tsang Benny T.-H.
Published: November 2023

Strong lensing offers a precious opportunity for studying the formation and early evolution of super star clusters that are rare in our cosmic backyard. The Sunburst Arc, a lensed Cosmic Noon galaxy, hosts a young super star cluster with escaping Lyman continuum radiation. Analyzing archival Hubble Space Telescope images and emission line data from Very Large Telescope/MUSE and X-shooter, we construct a physical model for the cluster and its surrounding photoionized nebula. We confirm that the cluster is ≲4 Myr old, is extremely massive M
⋆ ∼ 107
M
⊙, and yet has a central component as compact as several parsecs, and we find a gas-phase metallicity Z = (0.22 ± 0.03)Z
⊙. The cluster is surrounded by ≳105
M
⊙ of dense clouds that have been pressurized to P ∼ 109 K cm−3 by perhaps stellar radiation at within 10 pc. These should have large neutral columns N
HI > 1022.8 cm−2 to survive rapid ejection by radiation pressure. The clouds are likely dusty as they show gas-phase depletion of silicon, and may be conducive to secondary star formation if N
HI > 1024 cm−2 or if they sink farther toward the cluster center. Detecting strong [N iii]λ
λ 1750,1752, we infer heavy nitrogen enrichment

log
(
N

/

O
)
=
−

0.21

−
0.11

+
0.10

. This requires efficiently retaining ≳500 M
⊙ of nitrogen in the high-pressure clouds from massive stars heavier than 60 M
⊙ up to 4 Myr. We suggest a physical origin of the high-pressure clouds from partial or complete condensation of slow massive star ejecta, which may have an important implication for the puzzle of multiple stellar populations in globular clusters.
LIMpy: A Semianalytic Approach to Simulating Multiline Intensity Maps at Millimeter Wavelengths
Authors: Roy Anirban , Valentín-Martínez Dariannette , Wang Kailai , Battaglia Nicholas , van Engelen Alexander
Published: November 2023

Mapping of multiple lines such as the fine-structure emission from [C ii] (157.7 μm), [O iii] (52 and 88.4 μm), and rotational emission lines from CO are of particular interest for upcoming line intensity mapping (LIM) experiments at millimeter wavelengths, due to their brightness features. Several upcoming experiments aim to cover a broad range of scientific goals, from detecting signatures of the epoch of reionization to the physics of star formation and its role in galaxy evolution. In this paper, we develop a semianalytic approach to modeling line strengths as functions of the star formation rate (SFR) or infrared luminosity based on observations of local and high-z galaxies. This package, LIMpy (Line Intensity Mapping in Python), estimates the intensity and power spectra of [C ii], [O iii], and CO rotational transition lines up to the J levels (1–0) to (13–12) based both on analytic formalism and on simulations. We develop a relation among halo mass, SFR, and multiline intensities that permits us to construct a generic formula for the evolution of several line strengths up to z ∼ 10. We implement a variety of star formation models and multiline luminosity relations to estimate the astrophysical uncertainties on the intensity power spectrum of these lines. As a demonstration, we predict the signal-to-noise ratio of [C ii] detection for an EoR-Spec-like instrument on the Fred Young Submillimeter Telescope. Furthermore, the ability to use any halo catalog allows the LIMpy code to be easily integrated into existing simulation pipelines, providing a flexible tool to study intensity mapping in the context of complex galaxy formation physics.
A Phase-resolved View of the Low-frequency Quasiperiodic Oscillations from the Black Hole Binary MAXI J1820+070
Authors: Shui Qing C. , Zhang S. , Zhang Shuang N. , Chen Yu P. , Kong Ling D. , Wang Peng J. , Peng Jing Q. , Ji L. , Santangelo A. , Yin Hong X. , Qu Jin L. , Tao L. , Ge Ming Y. , Huang Y. , Zhang L. , Liu Hong H. , Zhang P. , Yu W. , Chang Z. , Li J. , Ye Wen T. , Li Pan P. , Yu Zhuo L. , Yan Z.
Published: November 2023

Although low-frequency quasiperiodic oscillations (LFQPOs) are commonly detected in the X-ray light curves of accreting black hole X-ray binaries, their origin still remains elusive. In this study, we conduct phase-resolved spectroscopy in a broad energy band for LFQPOs in MAXI J1820+070 during its 2018 outburst, utilizing Insight-HXMT observations. By employing the Hilbert–Huang transform method, we extract the intrinsic quasiperiodic oscillation (QPO) variability, and obtain the corresponding instantaneous amplitude, phase, and frequency functions for each data point. With well-defined phases, we construct QPO waveforms and phase-resolved spectra. By comparing the phase-folded waveform with that obtained from the Fourier method, we find that phase folding on the phase of the QPO fundamental frequency leads to a slight reduction in the contribution of the harmonic component. This suggests that the phase difference between QPO harmonics exhibits time variability. Phase-resolved spectral analysis reveals strong concurrent modulations of the spectral index and flux across the bright hard state. The modulation of the spectral index could potentially be explained by both the corona and jet precession models, with the latter requiring efficient acceleration within the jet. Furthermore, significant modulations in the reflection fraction are detected exclusively during the later stages of the bright hard state. These findings provide support for the geometric origin of LFQPOs and offer valuable insights into the evolution of the accretion geometry during the outburst in MAXI J1820+070.
The Spatial and Emission Properties of the Large [O iii] Emission Nebula Near M31
Authors: Fesen Robert A. , Kimeswenger Stefan , Shull J. Michael , Drechsler Marcel , Strottner Xavier , Sainty Yann , Falls Bray , Vergnes Christophe , Martino Nicolas , Walker Sean , Rupert Justin
Published: November 2023

Drechsler et al. reported the unexpected discovery of a 1.°5 long [O iii] emission nebula 1.°2 southeast of the M31 nucleus. Here we present additional images of this large emission arc, called the Strottner–Drechsler–Sainty Object (SDSO), along with radial velocity and flux measurements from low-dispersion spectra. Independent sets of [O iii] images show SDSO to be composed of broad streaks of diffuse emission aligned northeast–southwest. Deep Hα images reveal no strong coincident emission suggesting a high [O iii]/Hα ratio. We also find no other [O iii] emission nebulosity as bright as SDSO within several degrees of M31 and no filamentary Hα emission connected to SDSO. Optical spectra taken along the nebula’s northern limb reveal [O iii] λ
λ4959, 5007 emissions matching the location and extent seen in our [O iii] images. The heliocentric velocity of this [O iii] nebulosity is −9.8 ± 6.8 km s−1 with a peak surface brightness of (4 ± 2) × 10−18 erg s−1 cm−2 arcsec−2 (∼0.55 Rayleigh). We discuss SDSO as a possible unrecognized supernova remnant, a large and unusually nearby planetary nebula, a stellar bow shock nebula, or an interaction of M31's outer halo with Local Group circumgalactic gas. We conclude that galactic origins for SDSO are unlikely and favor instead an extragalactic M31 halo–circumgalactic cloud interaction scenario, despite the nebula’s low radial velocity. We then describe new observations that may help resolve the nature and origin of this large nebulosity so close to M31 in the sky.
New insights into the phylogeny of Stephanidae (Hymenoptera: Apocrita), with a revision of the fossil species
Authors: Ge Si-Xun , Jiang Zhuo-Heng , Ren Li-Li , van Achterberg Cornelis , Tan Jiang-Li
Published: November 2023

The family Stephanidae (Hymenoptera) constitutes a unique group within the Apocrita, playing a pivotal role in the evolution of parasitoid wasps. Although the phylogeny of Stephanidae has been previously inferred, it remains at a low resolution when considering both extinct and extant genera, as well as the enigmatic extinct genus †Electrostephanus. Here, we undertake a revision of Stephanidae extinct, presenting descriptions of new specimens from late Cretaceous Burmese amber and early Eocene Baltic amber. Combining all extant and extinct genera, the phylogeny of Stephanidae was analyzed, incorporating 57 species within 21 genera based on 64 morphological characters. We apply both under maximum parsimony with equal weighting and implied weighting methods, with four species representing early Apocrita as outgroups. Divergence times are estimated by utilizing extinct taxa as calibration points. A new basal subfamily of stephanid wasp, †Lagenostephaninaesubf. nov. was established, encompassing †Lagenostephanus and the newly described genera †Tumidistephanusgen. nov and †Neurastephanusgen. nov. The genus †Electrostephanus is redefined, with two species assigned under distinct genera, †Neurastephanusgen. nov. and †Aphanostephanusgen. nov.. We discuss some of the putative morphological synapomorphies of evolutionary significance within the phylogenetic framework. Our results complement several characteristics of great taxonomic importance for Stephanidae and provide new insights into the early evolution of the family.
“Stop The War, I Want to Get Out”: DC Comics’ Sgt Rock and Complicating Images of America’s Second World War
Authors: Sandy James
Published: November 2023

Cet essai retrace l’évolution de la bande dessinée intitulée Our Army at War publiée par la maison d’édition DC Comics et en particulier la trajectoire de son personnage vedette, Sergeant Rock, depuis son apparition en 1952 jusqu’à sa disparition canonique en 2010. Anthologie phare, Our Army at War a contribué au développement d’un récit et d’une mythologie de la « guerre juste », appliquée à la Seconde Guerre mondiale aux États-Unis, tout en proposant une interprétation plus complexe des dynamiques de la guerre. En effet, un portrait simpliste à la gloire d’une nation toujours victorieuse y est brossé, tout en insérant au récit une réflexion sur des enjeux de société plus larges, ce qui place une telle bande dessinée dans la position particulière d’influencer, de façon non univoque, le mode de remémoration collective de la guerre et les contours de sa mythologie.
L’Uruguay et ses footballeurs dans l’espace atlantique de l’entre-deux-guerres : circulations, discours, représentations
Authors: Jalabert d’Amado Lorenzo
Published: November 2023

En 1924, la sélection uruguayenne fut la première équipe sud-américaine à prendre part au tournoi de football des Jeux olympiques. Inconnue du public local avant son arrivée à Paris, elle fit rapidement sensation en remportant la compétition haut la main. Cette « découverte » par l’Europe de ce football allogène marqua l’avènement d’une nouvelle ère dans les relations sportives entretenues entre les deux continents : les clubs et les joueurs sud-américains commencèrent à circuler dans l’espace footballistique européen, la presse locale forgea des discours essentialisants visant à expliquer ce phénomène de suprématie sportive, tandis que la presse domestique créa en retour une narration faisant du football et de ses athlètes, une émanation de la nation.
Higher-order uniform accurate numerical scheme for two-dimensional nonlinear fractional Hadamard integral equations
Authors: Wang Ziqiang , Shi Kaihao , Ye Xingyang , Cao Junying
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we consider a higher-order numerical scheme for two-dimensional nonlinear fractional Hadamard integral equations with uniform accuracy. First, the high-order numerical scheme is constructed by using piecewise biquadratic logarithmic interpolations to approximate an integral function based on the idea of the modified block-by-block method. Secondly, for $ 0 < \gamma, \lambda < 1 $, the convergence of the high order numerical scheme has the optimal convergence order of $ O(\Delta_{s}^{4-\gamma}+\Delta_{t}^{4-\lambda }) $. Finally, two numerical examples are used for experimental testing to support the theoretical findings.
Factors affecting on in vitro release of miconazole from in situ ocular gel
Authors: Al_Gawhari Fatima Jalal
Published: November 2023

The reason for conducting this study is to prolong release of miconazole in the ocular site of action by ocular-based gels (OBGs) formulations. The formulation factors affecting on the release from OBG should be studied using various gelling agents in various concentrations to achieve the improvement in retention and residence time in response to prolonged release. In this study, the formulations were prepared using carbopol 940, pectin, sodium alginate, poloxamer 407, and poly(methacrylic acid) at 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5% w/v, respectively. Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose E5 (HPMC E5) 1% was added as thickening agent/viscosity builder. The formulation containing carbopol 940, pectin and sodium alginate at 1.5% w/v, displayed a noticable improvement in viscosity, gelling capacity, and extended release for 7 h in comparison with the reference drug. Overall, the release showed that the sodium alginate with HPMC E5 formin situgel which had longer time of release reach to 12 h compared with other polymers. the release of miconazole from the OBGs affected significantly by two factors includes gelling capacity and viscosity builder. The novelty of this study is supporting the delivery of ocular drugs through a cornea as an important key of the eye instead of dependence on an internal blood supply using an oral or a parental administration.
Acute Appendicitis as a Rare Cause of Acute Surgical Abdomen in Neonates: A Case Series
Authors: Kumar Parveen , Manchanda Vivek , Sengar Mamta
Published: November 2023

Background:

Neonatal appendicitis is a rare diagnosis. There is increased morbidity with associated complications like perforation, mass formation etc.

Cases:

We present here 6 cases of acute surgical abdomen, with pre-operative diagnosis of right iliac fossa lump formation in 3 and perforation peritonitis, intussusception, liver abscess each in 1 patient. On exploration, they were found to have complicated appendicitis. 5 of them could be salvaged, with 1 mortality.

Conclusion:

It is imperative to have high index of suspicion to prevent delayed treatment. Early surgical intervention is recommended to avoid potential morbidity and mortality.
Disseminated Borrelial B Cell Lymphocytoma in an Adult – Report of a Rare Presentation
Authors: Patil Chetan , Bhatnagar Anuj , Valarmathi Therasal , Akal Gurpreet Kaur , Mitra Debdeep , Chand Satish , Kothari Rohit
Published: November 2023

Lymphocytoma cutis is a subtype of pseudolymphoma due to benign B cell lymphocyte infiltrate that occurs as a response to known or unknown antigenic stimuli. Borrelia burgdorferi infection rarely causes either T cell or B cell pseudolymphoma that occurs primarily in Ixodes ricinus tick endemic areas and most commonly in children. Hereby, we report a 46 years old female who presented with multiple red raised lesions over the face and the neck and was diagnosed as a case of Borrelial B cell lymphocytoma in an adult which is a rare entity.
Preservative Effect of Vernonia amygdalina Extract on Microbial Activity, Proximate Composition and Sensory Evaluation of Smoked-dried African Catfish Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822)
Authors: Abdullahi Abdurrazzaq Ibrahim , Bello Muinat Moninuola
Published: November 2023

The effect of Vernonia amygdalina extract on microbial activity, proximate composition and sensory evaluation of smoked-dried Clarias gariepinus stored at 32.0±2°C was determined over the period of 21 days. The experimental treatments were the control, 0.5%, 1%, 1.5% (w/v) Vernonia amygdalina extract solutions. 52 fish of average mean weight of 30.98±1.32g were degutted, washed and randomly assigned to the treatments and soaked in the extract solutions for 30 minutes and later smoked-dried for 12 hours. Six bacterial species namely, Bacillus subtilis, Corynebacteria sp, Proteus mirabilis, Streptococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus albus and Staphylococcus aureus were observed in the study. There was no increase in the microbial loads in all the treatments except in the control which increased from 27×103 to 40×103 cfu. Highest crude protein content (48.08±0.82%) was recorded in the control while the least value (39.67±0.04%) was obtained in the fish treated with 0.5% concentration of the extract. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) in the sensory evaluation among all the treatments and the control. This study reveals that V. amygdalina extract can be used as preservative in protecting smoked-dried C. gariepinus from bacterial spoilage, thus limiting economic loss and possible health risk to consumers.
Efficacy of Oxolinic Acid Against Aeromonas hydrophila Infection in Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus Juveniles
Authors: Patel Jaykumar Bhagubhai , Abraham Thangapalam Jawahar , Bardhan Avishek , Das Ratnapriya , Sen Arya , Boda Satyanarayana , Patil Prasanna Kumar
Published: November 2023

Oxolinic acid (OA), a broad-spectrum quinolone antibiotic that plays a crucial role in human medicine, is often used in aquaculture as a second-line treatment at 12 mg/kg biomass/day continuously for seven days. The objective of this study was to assess its effectiveness against Aeromonas hydrophila infection in Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus in terms of progression and healing of wounds, clinical biochemistry and histopathological changes upon challenge and treatment. To evaluate the efficacy, the juveniles were intramuscularly challenged with A. hydrophila at a sublethal dose of 1.93×106 cells/fish, followed by the administration of OA-supplemented feed at 2% body weight daily for seven days. OA treatment yielded better consequences in terms of increased feed intake and biomass and decreased plasma biochemical parameters, histopathological changes and improved recovery from A. hydrophila infection compared to the untreated group. Wounds of the OA-treated group healed at a faster rate, with complete healing within 12 days post-injection, while the wounds of the untreated group took longer to heal. Though the efficacy of OA against A. hydrophila infection in tilapia was established in this study, it is important to exercise caution regarding its application in aquaculture due to its classification as a critically important medicine for humans.
The First Evidence of Potential Antibacterial Activity of Laccase Enzyme from Indonesian White Rot Fungi against Pathogenic Bacteria
Authors: Heris Anita Sita , Deni Zulfiana  , Ananda Digita  , Nafisah Nuha  , Vilya Syafriana  , Amelia Febriani  , Dede Heri Yuli Yanto
Published: November 2023

The antibacterial agent can be extracted from plants, animals, and microorganisms such as fungi. The potential antibacterial activity of laccase derived from fungi remains limited in current reports. This study aimed to investigate the characteristics of laccase from Indonesian white rot fungi (WRF) and explore its potential as an antibacterial agent. The laccases were produced by Trametes hirsuta D7, Trametes hirsuta EDN 082, Leiotrametes menziesii BRB 73, and Lentinus sajor-caju BRB 12 using oil palm empty fruit bunch as a substrate. The results showed that the Indonesian WRF tested produced brownish-yellow laccase. FTIR analysis demonstrated similar peak patterns but distinct absorption intensities among the laccases. Trametes hirsuta D7 gained 0.044 U/ml of the greatest laccase activity. Laccase, with minimal activity of 0.001 U/ml–0.026 U/ml, suppressed the propagation of Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus aureus. Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa could be inhibited by the laccase with a minimum activity of 0.002 U/ml–0.044 U/ml. However, S. aureus and E. coli showed the Minimum Bactericidal Concentration in the laccase activity range of 0.018 U/ml–0.308 U/ml. Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria grow more slowly when the laccase is present, supposed the laccase as a potential antibacterial agent.
Expression of APP, CDK5, and AKT1 Gene Related to Alzheimer Disease in Brain of Long-tailed Macaques
Authors: Rosmanah Lis , Saepuloh Uus , Mariya Sela Septima , Suparto Irma Herawati , Manalu Wasmen , Winarto Adi , Darusman Huda Shalahudin
Published: November 2023

Amyloid plaques and Neurofibrillary Tangles (NFTs) are known to be key pathological features of Alzheimer disease. To gain a better understanding of this disease, studies were carried out on the Indonesian primates, the long-tailed macaques, using a spontaneous Alzheimer's disease model. Examining and identifying genetic markers involved in plaque formation and NFTs in long-tailed macaques is necessary to reveal their physiological processes. In this study, the expression of genes involved in the development of amyloid plaque (Amyloid Precursor Protein (APP)) and those that control the phosphorylation of tau protein (CDK5 and AKT1) was examined in the long-tailed macaque brain. This study showed that APP, CDK5, and AKT1 may potentially be developed as genetic markers of Alzheimer's disease. Long-tailed macaques exhibited the development of amyloid plaque in the aging brain based on the analysis of the gene expression profile of its biomarker. Furthermore, long-tailed macaques can be optimized for neurodegenerative models.
Study of Antihypertensive Activity from Red Quinoa Seed Protein Hydrolysate Digested by Various Protease Enzymes
Authors: Suleman Dininurilmi Putri , Harijono  , Hsu Jue-Liang
Published: November 2023

Proteolytic enzymes are widely used to produce protein hydrolysates that contain bioactive peptides. Some of bioactive peptides are known inhibit the angiotensin-I-converting enzyme (ACE, EC 3.4.15.1) and act as human antihypertensive. Therefore, this study aims to produce protein hydrolysates via 16 hours of digestion process using Chenopodium formosanum (red quinoa) seed and the proteases, namely pepsin, trypsin, α-chymotrypsin, and thermolysin. The hydrolysates profiles and ACE-I inhibitory activity were analyzed using reversed phase-high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC). The SDS-PAGE was also used to analyze the main storage protein in red quinoa seed, identified as being 11S seed storage globulin. Meanwhile, the ACE inhibitor activities of red quinoa seed protein (RQSP) produced by various proteases include the hydrolysate of pepsin 17.03% ± 3.88%, trypsin 42.67% ± 3.19%, α-chymotrypsin 72.71% ± 2.85% and thermolysin 77.67% ± 0.98%. These results show that red quinoa seed protein is a potential source of significant ACE inhibitor activity when hydrolyzed with α-chymotrypsin and thermolysin.
Antibiocompetent and bacteriocidal relevance of ascorbic acid on coliforms isolated from feces of apparently healthy students in Rivers Nigeria
Authors: Chukwuka Glory E , Igere Bright E , Ofesi Anna O , Adeola Morenike O , Onianwah Ifeanyi F
Published: November 2023

In recent times, Ascobic acid has been discovered to posses antibiocidal potential against various bacterial strains that has been resistant which is in sharp contrast as it was previously regarded as potential antioxidant especially as it is thought to reduce oxygen radicals both in vivo and in vitro biochemical processes. This study investigates the anti-biocompetent and bacteriocidal relevance of ascorbic acid on Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Proteus mirabilis recovered from the apparently healthy student feces at Madonna University. Standard microbiological methods were applied for the isolation of fecal coliforms using sterile blood agar, mannitol salt agar and eosin methylene blue (EMB) agar plates. The agar diffusion disc technique was used to determine an ascorbic acid fortified antimicrobial susceptibility testing of test bacteria at various concentrations varying from 0.167g/ml to 1.0g/ml, while their mean values were compared using one-way analysis of variance. The results revealed that Proteus mirabilis were resistant to the various ascorbic acid concentrations, whereas S. aureus and E. coli were susceptible to various ascorbic acid concentrations. An ascorbic acid content (g/ml) changes/shift (at p < 0.05) the zones of inhibition (mm) of the isolates (E. coli and S. aureus) Such observed antibacterial potential suggests that ascorbic acid may be applied in the treatment of enteric or coliforms infections associated with E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus.
Malaria and soil transmitted helminths among patients attending some hospitals in Kano Metropolis, Kano State, Nigeria
Authors: Suraj Abdulmalik , Nas Farouk Sani , Abubakar Zakari , Mustapha Muzammil Bashir , Ibrahim Dawud
Published: November 2023

Soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) and Plasmodium falciparum are known to the causative agents of neglected tropical diseases that continue to pose significant public health challenges in Nigeria and other endemic countries. This study was aimed at determining malaria and STHs coinfection in Kano metropolis, Kano state, Nigeria. The prevalence of malaria and STHs was determined using microscopy and formol ether concentration methods, respectively. Data on socio-demographic and risk factors were collected from three hundred (300) patients using structured questionnaires. The findings revealed a high prevalence of malaria (92.7%) and low STHs (19.0%). Malaria was more prevalent in males (52.3%) than females (40.3%), with the highest prevalence observed among individuals aged 6 – 12 years (25.7%). The difference in malaria prevalence based on age was not statistically significant (p>0.05), contrary to gender which showed a significant difference in their association (p<0.05). STHs infections were more common in participants aged between 6 - 12 years (11.3%), and the difference in prevalence among age groups was statistically significant (p<0.05). Among the study sites, patients exhibited a higher prevalence of Ascaris infection (14.3%) compared to Hookworm infection (4.6%). Co-infection was recorded in 19.0% of the patients, while 73.7% had malaria infection alone. During this study, malaria and STHs were prevalent in Kano metropolis and there was a co-infection of Malaria and STHs among patients attending the selected hospitals in Kano.
Assessment of levels of contamination and estimation of ecological risk by potentially toxic elements in Chanchaga River of Minna, Nigeria
Authors: Waziri Nuhu Musa
Published: November 2023

This research investigated the geochemical characteristics, contamination indices and ecological risk assessment of stream sediments from Chanchaga area of Minna Metropolis, North-Central Nigeria. Eight samples were collected from River Chanchaga and its tributaries and sieved to less than 2 mm grain size following air drying for 48 hours. The samples were subsequently analysed for the concentration of major and trace elements using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry. Contamination indices (enrichment ratio, enrichment factor and index of geoaccumulation) and potential ecological risk index (PERI) were used for assessing the level of risk that exists with respect to potentially toxic elements (PTEs). The research has found significant enrichment of Pb and Cu in stream sediments of Chanchaga area, indicating possible contamination by human activities. Based on the indices of geoaccumulation, the sediments are considered to be moderately to heavily contaminated with respect to these two PTEs. Potential ecological risks exist with respect to PTEs in these sediments, with PERI values in the range of 12.88 to 167.76, averaging 58.63. Pb presented higher monomial ecological risk index, falling within the considerable risk band and contributed significantly to the PERI values, compared to that of Cu. It is therefore concluded that human activities within Chanchaga area of Minna metropolis, Nigeria have had a negative impact on stream sediment quality and there is likelihood of mobilisation of PTEs into the water column from sediments under right environmental conditions. It is recommended that the partitioning of PTEs, especially Pb and Cu in these sediments be studied in order to ascertain their ease of dissolution and eventual biogeoaccessibility.
A cross-sectional study on assessment of birth control methods in family planning facilities among pregnant mothers in parts of Hong, Adamawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Kunihya Ibrahim Zira , Nassai Ishaku , Hassan Shuaibu , Iliyasu Lukman
Published: November 2023

The study assessed the knowledge, accessibility and utilized birth control methods among pregnant mothers. Surveys and choice-type questionnaires were the study methodology used. A total of 222 pregnant women were drawn at random from three different health facilities in Hong. Frequency and percentage were used in the data presentation. Age group 36–50 (47.1%) years, NCE/Diploma (38.1%), civil servant (25.1%), pregnant women with parity of 3 and 4 children (24.8%) and child spacing of ≥ 2 years (53.4%) had the highest number of subjects, according to the sociodemographic characteristics of those who participated. Participant's knowledge of and access to birth control methods revealed those who were already sensitized (83.3%), knowledge source of birth control method was hospital (46.3%), who knew the precise time of ovulation (65.2%), who had access to birth control through Primary Health Care centers and acknowledge the importance of birth control techniques (80.5%) recorded high numbers of participants. According to the utilization of birth control techniques, the highest rates were seen in both participants who frequently breastfed and utilized a calendar or rhythm with equal score (40.5%) as a natural method of birth control, those who employ coitus interruptus (54.3%), menstruated while breastfeeding (56.6%), and who frequently used condoms, pills etc. (37.4%). Additionally, 57.4% cited cost serve as a barrier for condom utilization, while 58.2% cited their culture and religious beliefs have not prevented them from utilizing birth control. Therefore, Birth control technique sensitization at home and health care center, level of education alongside availability and access point to modern contraceptive at health care influence utilization of both natural and modern methods of birth control.
Abdominal status and blood meal preference of Anopheles gambiae complexes in some communities of Dutse Local Government Area, Northwestern Nigeria.
Authors: Sadiq Abubakar Abubakar , Abdulazeez Adeniyi Kamoru , Balogun Joshua Babalola , Dogara Musa Mustapha , Zakari Abubakar , Muhammad Jibrin , Muhammad Ibrahim Hassan , Hamza Abdullahi Alhaji , Abdullahi Nuraddeen , Liman Humaira Akilu
Published: November 2023

Mosquitoes are the greatest enemy of human beings as it transmits pathogen of medical and veterinary importance that results to morbidity and mortality globally. This study was aimed at identifying the most preferred host for malaria vector and classifying the female Anopheles based on their abdominal status. The study was conducted in three communities; Gurungu, Baranda and Warwade from April to October, 2022. Ten (10) houses were randomly selected in each of the three communities for the collection mosquitoes. Indoor resting adult mosquitoes were sampled using pyrethrum spray collection (PSC). Female Anopheles complexes blood meals were identified using polymerase chain reaction and abdominal status was classified using World Health Organization identification manual. Freshly fed female Anopheles were significantly highest (75.25%), followed by gravid (9.21%) and least were unfed (6.49%). Majority of female Anopheles tested fed on human blood (30%), followed by dog (10%) and those that were fed with both human and goat blood (10%) and from unknown source (50%). The Findings of this study revealed diversity feeding habit of female Anopheles. It is therefore recommended that further investigation on the surveillance of the diseases transmitted by female Anopheles mosquitoes be carried out.
Comparative analysis of Fuzzy Regression and Fuzzy ARIMA models for forecasting real gross domestic product of Nigeria
Authors: Bakawu Maigana Alhaji , Buba Ahmed Tarajo , Malik Abdulrahman
Published: November 2023

Over the years, a number of studies have been conducted in terms of forecasting the real gross domestic product (GDP) of Nigeria. The GDP growth rate measures the annual growth rate in percentage of the monetary value of all finished goods and services made within a country. It is an important indicator of economic growth. This paper presents Fuzzy ARIMA and Regression to determine the interval of possibility for predicting the real GDP. The Fuzzy ARIMA (FARIMA) and Fuzzy Regression (FR) methods requires small size data as compared to the classical time series. Comparison between FARIMA and Fuzzy Regression with a threshold level of zero (ℎ=0) is performed by calibrating the models on existing data. The minimum values of the total spreads for FARIMA and FR are 0.791 and 4.077 respectively. In addition, the MAPE values for FARIMA is smaller than that of FR. Furthermore, the results indicate that the FARIMA gives a narrower interval of possibility for prediction than the FR.
Assessment of the effect of adrenaline toxicity, Senna occidentalis L and propranolol in the hearts of Wistar rats
Authors: Hassan Fatima , Sani Suleiman Ali , Kabir Abdullahi
Published: November 2023

The biological response that occurs when animals are exposed to stress affects their well-being. In this study, the methanolic extract of S. occidentalis was assessed for its ameliorative action against Adrenaline (Adr) toxicity in experimental myocardial stress induced by the administration of Adr in rats. Rats were treated with adrenaline, 2mg/kg of body weight intraperitoneally at an interval of 24 hours for 5days. Adr produced microscopic changes such as Cardiac Hypertrophy, Congestion, Fatty change, Focal Dystrophic Calcification in the stressed group. Other changes observed includes; Interstitial Fibrosis, Fatty infiltration, Focal vascular calcific stenosis, Focal interstitial lymphocytic infiltrate and Focal vascular calcific stenosis. Treatment with S. occidentalis and Propranolol reduced the complications in the heart. The result was thus concluded that the complications from the heart injury may have resulted in toxicity affecting normal histology of cardiac muscle.
Ultrasonographic evaluation of common findings in acute abdomen amongst paediatric age group in Kano Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Muhammad F.I , Ugwuanyi D.C. , Sidi M. , Ya’u A. , Aliyu A.T.
Published: November 2023

Acute abdomen is very common complaint for paediatric patients presenting to the paediatric emergency departments and outpatient clinics and its management is time consuming. Ultrasound is reliable for the diagnosis of acute abdomen. This study was aimed at evaluating the commonest ultrasonographic findings in paediatric age group presented with acute abdomen in Kano metropolis, Nigeria. This was rospective, cross sectional study conducted from September, 2020 to December, 2022. A convenience sampling method was employed and a sample size of 170 paediatric patients with ages ranging between 0 and 18 years. Paediatrics presenting with non-traumatic acute abdomen were included in the study, while those with traumatic acute abdomen were excluded. GE LOGIQ F6 US machine with transducer frequency of 3.5 MHz-8 MHz was used as an instrument for data collection. The selected patients were scanned in supine position. Data generated was analyzed using SPSS version 22.0. Results generated indicate that the commonest symptoms of acute abdomen among paediatric in Kano metropolis besides abdominal pain were vomiting (63.5%) and running fever (55.8%). The commonest ultrasonographic findings of acute abdomen were gastroenteritis (17.1%), acute appendicitis (12.9%), nonspecific abdominal pain (10.0%) mesenteric adenitis (7.6%) and acute cholecystitis (7.1%). Intussusception, intestinal obstruction and intestinal perforation accounted for 5.9% each. Pyelonephritis, and cystitis accounted for 4.1% and 4.7% respectively. There was 2.9% for each acute hepatitis, renal calculus and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Midgut malrotation and volvulus and acute peritonitis accounted for 1.8% each. The common findings in acute abdomen among paediatrics in Kano metropolis, Nigeria were gastroenteritis, acute appendicitis, nonspecific abdominal pain and mesenteric adenitis.
Toxicological study of the ethanolic extract of Cleome viscosa leaves in Wistar rats
Authors: Adanlemegbe Komi Michael Fulbert , Evenamede Kodjo Selom , Idoh Kokou , Kpegba Kafui , AAgbonon Amegnon
Published: November 2023

Cleome viscosa is traditionally used to cure various pathologies, especially malaria, hemorrhoids, fever and headaches. However, there are few experimental data on its possible toxicity. The present study investigated the toxicity of the extract of Cleome viscosa in Wistar rats. In acute toxicity, a single administration of the extract of Cleome viscosa at 5000 mg/kg was administered orally to rats. General behavior, adverse effects and mortality were recorded up to 14 days after treatment. For subchronic toxicity, the extract at 500 mg/kg/day and 1000 mg/kg/day were administered orally to rats for 28 days. The body weight of rats was recorded daily, while hematological and biochemical parameters and relative organ weights were assessed on day 29. Neither was mortality nor induction of intoxication recorded in the treated. Subchronic administration of Cleome viscosa did not result in any significant changes in weight gain or feeding in the rats. Macroscopic observation of the organs of treated rats showed no significant change in color and texture. Also, hematological and biochemical parameters showed no significant changes. Oral administration of extract of Cleome viscosa can be considered relatively free of toxicity.
Effets du compost deJatropha curcas L. et de la fumure minérale vulgarisée sur les propriétés chimiques du sol et des rendements du maïs (Zea mays) à l’ouest du Burkina Faso
Authors: Bazongo Pascal , Traore Karim , Kiemtore Benoit , Da Isdine Aziz Nambon , Coulibaly Alou , Traore Ouola
Published: November 2023

Le maïs occupe une place importante au niveau mondial. Cependant, des contraintes pédoclimatiques majeures pèsent sur l’intensification de sa culture. Afin d’apporter une contribution à l’amélioration de la productivité du maïs, une étude a été menée en station de recherche de l’INERA Farako-Ba à l’ouest du Burkina Faso. Le dispositif expérimental a été un bloc de Fisher complètement randomisé à 4 répétitions, comportant cinq traitements chacun. Le facteur étudié a été le type de fumures pris à cinq niveaux de fertilisation : T1 (200 kg/ha de NPK + 150 kg/ha Urée) = (Fumure Vulgarisée) ; T2 (5 t/ha compost); T3 (6 t/ha compost + FV); T4 (7 t/ha compost + FV) ; T5 (8 t/ha compost + FV). Les résultats montrent que dans le traitement T5, la teneur en P assimilable augmente significativement de 34% comparativement à celle issue du traitement T1. La teneur en K disponible augmente de 11% dans le traitement T5. Les rendements grains et biomasse de maïs issus du traitement T5 ont augmenté respectivement de 1399 kg.ha-1 et de 1840 kg.ha-1 par rapport au traitement T1. Le compost issu du Jatropha améliore donc la productivité du maïs. Il apparaît nécessaire de poursuivre cette étude dans d’autres zones agro-écologiques en vue de proposer des formules de fumures adaptées.

Maize occupies an important place at world level. However, major pedoclimatic constraints weigh on the intensification of its cultivation. In order to make a contribution to improving maize productivity, a study was conducted at the INERA Farako-Ba research station in western Burkina Faso. The experimental design was a completely randomized Fisher block with 4 repetitions, with five treatments each. The factor studied was the types of manure taken at five fertilization levels: T1 (200 kg/ha NPK + 150 kg/ha urea) = (Vulgarized manure); T2 (5 t/ha compost); T3 (6 t/ha compost + FV); T4 (7 t/ha compost + FV); T5 (8 t/ha compost + FV). The results show that in soils from T5 treatments, the assimilable P content increases significantly by 34% compared to that from T1 treatment. The available K content increases by 11% in T5 treatment soils (8 t/ha compost + FV). Grain yields and maize biomass from the T5 treatment increased by 1399 kg.ha-1 and 1840 kg.ha-1 respectively compared to the T1 treatment. Compost from Jatropha therefore improves the productivity of corn. It appears necessary to continue this study in other agro-ecological zones with a view to proposing manure formulas adapted.