Showing papers in "Open Access Library Journal in 2017"

The Challenges of Food Security in Nigeria

Abstract: Squealing to the discovery of petroleum, Nigeria has rapidly grown into a major food importing nation as the government has become neglectful of the agricultural sector since petroleum is considered a more viable resource for economic development. This situation quickly polarized the nation into high and low income groups. Unfortunately, while only small fraction of the population benefited from the oil wealth, the population suffered the misfortune of food insecurity as they can hardly afford the rising prices of imported foods. However, though at a subsistence level, a sizable ratio of the population in Nigerian is still employed in the Agricultural sector. This paper highlights the important role of agricultural revamping in overturning the food insecurity problems that befell Nigeria and the coping strategies.

Performance of Egg-Shell and Fish-Scale as Adsorbent Materials for Chromium (VI) Removal from Effluents of Tannery Industries in Eastern Uganda

Abstract: The performance of egg-shells and fish-scales biomaterials in separating chromium (VI) ions from tannery effluents obtained from tannery industries in Jinja town of Eastern Uganda was investigated. Using crushed egg-shell and fish-scales as adsorbents, sorption tests were carried out to determine the effects of bio-sorbent concentration and particle size on chromium (VI) removal. The adsorbate concentration in the tannery effluents before and after adsorption was analyzed using the UV-vis Spectrophotometer at wavelength of 540 nm. The adsorbent concentration was calculated from concentration change in aqueous solution before and after equilibrium sorption. Results showed that chromium (VI) ions adsorb on the surfaces of both biomaterials. The optimum conditions for chromium (VI) removal were found at pH of 6.8, particle size of 300 μm and bio-sorbent concentration of 0.5 g. The correlation coefficient (R2) showed that chromium (VI) adsorption fitted Langmuir adsorption isotherms. It was concluded that the adsorption process of chromium (VI) on the fish-scales and egg-shells was highly feasible.

Using Gamification to Teach Students Programming Concepts

Abstract: Gamification is the use of game concepts in a non-gaming environment. It is used in many fields such as business, health and education. The problem of learning programming language has existed for a long time and researchers seek to solve this problem. Most instructors agree that there is a problem when teaching programming and many students are unable to understand programming logic. So there must be a method to encourage them. Students need to be motivated to practise study and exchange ideas. Gamification is used as a tool to motivate students and increase their engagement. This paper surveys empirical studies which tackled gamification to encourage computer science students and help them in learning coding or improving their coding skills. The paper will show the results of using this approach with computer science students at university level.

Effectiveness of Facebook in English Language Learning: A Case Study

Abstract: The prime objective of this research was to investigate whether Facebook helped undergraduate students of Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) improve their English language proficiency, critical thinking, comprehension skills, and motivation. A triangulation method (quantitative, qualitative, and descriptive) was employed in the investigation. A total of 900 undergraduate students participated. The 900 participants were first year students from USIM. The instruments used in this research were questionnaires, interviews, and observations. Results from a pre-test and a post-test showed that students who used Facebook i.e. the control group outperformed (88.8% passed) the students who were not exposed to Facebook (60% passed) in all the three categories. The findings indicated that Facebook indeed helped students to improve their English proficiency, besides learning new words and terminologies. This research offers guidelines to future researchers on the methodology of learning English language and helps them design an effective interactive multimedia learning environment in their classroom. The findings of this research would also contribute to the expansion of the paradigm of Constructivism. The findings of this empirical research could be prototyped for learning other languages in the classroom.

Clinical Pattern and Outcome of Acute Heart Failure at the Yaounde Central Hospital

Abstract: Background: Acute heart failure (AHF) is a major public health issue. Our objective was to study its clinical pattern and outcome in a reference hospital in Cameroon. Methods: This was a retrospective observational study, including any patient hospitalized for AHF, diagnosed based on clinical and/or ultrasound evidence, in the Cardiology Department of the Yaounde Central Hospital during a period of 3 years from January 1st 2013 to March 30th 2016. Data were entered and analyzed using the statistical software Epi info version 7.1.1.14. Results: A total of 148 patients with AHF were included over a total of 445 admissions. It accounted for 33.3% of admissions. The average age was 61.46 years. The female-male sex ratio was 1.34. The main cardiovascular risk factors were hypertension (54.79%). Dyspnea on exertion was the most prevalent symptom (86%). Hypertensive AHF was the most represented etiopathogenic entity in the series. The main electrocardiographic abnormality found (27.61%) was atrial fibrillation. Cardiomegaly was found in 44.76% of the cases. Hyponatraemia and anemia were found in about a quarter of the cases. On echocardiography, 49.61% of patients had heart failure with a preserved ejection fraction. The main findings were hypertensive heart disease (30.16%) and dilated cardiomyopathy (28.57%). Concerning the management, the most commonly used drugs on admission were loop diuretics; and on discharge, were ACE inhibitors/angiotensin II receptor blockers. Intrahospital mortality was 18.45%. Conclusion: AHF at the Yaounde Central Hospital occurs with severe clinical presentation, complicated by high intra-hospital mortality. Hypertension plays a predominant role both in its onset and in the underlying chronic cardiac involvement.

Physicochemical Properties of Edible Seed Hemicelluloses

Abstract: In this work, galactomannans and xyloglucans were isolated from the seed endosperm and cotyledon of Brazilian non-conventional sources, respectively. Extraction yields, monosaccharide ratios, macromolecular parameters and molar mass distributions were determined and compared to commercial guar gum and Locust Bean Gum (LBG). The extraction yield in relation to seed mass ranged from 7.0% to 40.63%, with xyloglucan yields being higher than galactomannan yields. Schizolobium parahyba and Caesalpinia pulcherrima galactomannans exhibited the lowest protein contents, 0.05% and 0.08%, respectively. Flow curves of 1% hemicellulose solutions (w:v) were measured by varying the shear rate from 0.1 to 100 s﹣1. The resulting data were fitted to a Power Law model, and all the hemicelluloses presented shear-thinning behavior. Galactomannans and xyloglucans with different monosaccharide ratios showed similar consistency indices. Rheological properties were also compared, and the results suggest new hemicellulose sources, which can be studied for additional applications in areas such as materials science, medicine and biology.

Analysis of Hole Cleaning for a Vertical Well

Abstract: Vertical or straight hole drilling that usually has less than 30 degree still is utilized to drilling operations in conventional and even in unconventional resources in nowadays worldwide for increasing recovery i.e. higher rate of penetration where ther...

Adsorption of Anionic Dye Using Cationic Surfactant-Modified Kenaf Core Fibers

Abstract: Kenaf is a widely cultivated crop, particularly in the tropics. Kenaf core fiber (KCF) is a natural cellulose fiber derived from the plant and it is an important raw material for a variety of products. An attempt was made to chemically quaternized KCF (QKCF) as an adsorbent to increase adsorption affinity towards anionic reactive red-RB dye (RR). KCF was quaternized by treating with (3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyl) trimethylammonium chloride under basic condition. The efficiency of QKCF was investigated by adsorption studies for removing anionic RR dye from aqueous solutions. All experiments were conducted at a batch system and influential parameters cover pH, adsorbent dose, initial dye concentration, agitation speed, temperature, and contact time were investigated. Studies showed that removal efficiency of RR dye increases with increasing the adsorbent dose, agitation speed, temperature, and contact time. The equilibrium data were best represented by the Langmuir isotherm model with maximum adsorption capacity of 169.5 mg/g, and the kinetic data were found to follow the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. In general, QKCF could be suggested as an efficient and low-cost adsorbent for removal anionic dyes.

Enabling Conditions for Improved Use of Seasonal Climate Forecast in Arid and Semi-Arid Baringo County—Kenya

Abstract: The use of seasonal climate forecasts can inform implementation of planned adaptation strategies to stabilize pastoral livestock assets in drought prone agro ecological zones. The main objective of this study was to assess use of seasonal climate forecasts as strategies for securing pastoralists assets in arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs) of Baringo County. The study used five (5) study locations that were purposively picked to ensure that they fall within the ASAL agro-ecological zones, LM5 and IL6. The total sampled households from the five locations was 221. The study used data from household survey to establish barriers to use of seasonal climate forecasts, use of traditional climate information and enabling conditions. Mean comparisons and frequencies of ratings were generated to ascertain the use of traditional climate information among the respondents. Sensitivity analysis was useful in identifying the most significant barriers to uptake of seasonal climate forecasts and the best and most significant enabling conditions/institutions to the access and usage of climate forecasts. The study established that majority (72.4%) of the respondents relied on traditional climate forecast methods than scientific methods in decision-making. The factors with greater influence on uptake of seasonal climate forecast information were lack of information, access, diversified sources of income and insecurity/conflicts, illiteracy and culture. The institutions with large influence were knowledge dissemination linked to radio and extension services and local climate information. The study recommends increased investments in strengthening and equipping human resource capacities of the pastoral community, local weather stations and extension services to foster uptake of scientific climate information to help reduce vulnerability to drought events in the arid and semi-arid lands.

Analysis of Temporal Drought Characteristic Using SPI Drought Index Based on Rainfall Data in Laikipia West Sub-County, Kenya

Abstract: Severe drought has affected Kenya in the past decades reducing crop yields leaving millions of people in dire need of food. Drought cycle in Kenya has reduced increasing drought frequency in the recent decades. This study assessed drought characteristics in Laikipia West sub-County which lies in a region classified as arid and semi arid. The specific objective of the study was to analyze seasonal and annual drought characteristics in Laikipia West sub-County between 1984 and 2014. The study adopted documentary review design in the data collection. Standard Precipitation Index was used during the data analysis process. The drought years identified in Laikipia West sub-County were: 1984, 1985, 1987, 1991, 1995, 1999, 2000, 2005, 2008 and 2009. The seasonal drought events shows that for the period under study Laikipia West sub-County has never experience drought during the MAM and OND seasons in the same year. This explains the importance of seasonal climate forecast to crop farmers. The study also established that the average drought cycle in the study area is 3 years. The study recommends construction of mega water reservoirs which could collect water during the wet season to be utilized during the dry seasons. The study also recommends channeling of drought information through the government agencies at the beginning of every season.

Barriers to the Implementation of the Nursing Approach in Public Hospitals in Lubumbashi in the Democratic Republic of Congo: A Cross-Sectional Descriptive Study

Abstract: Introduction: The nursing approach (NA) is the essence of the nursing profession. However, its implementation is almost absent in the hospitals of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine nurses’ knowledge, attitudes and practices in relation to the nursing approach and to identify barriers to the implementation of this approach. Methods: To achieve these objectives, we carried out a cross-sectional descriptive study among the nurses of the 11 public hospitals of Lubumbashi, from June to September 2015. Thanks to a validated questionnaire, we collected the data by interview, supported by participatory observation. Results: The results showed that 67.6% of respondents were trained on NA; However, 99.3% did not know the exact number of NA steps and 62.6% did not cite any steps; The majority (93.5%) of trainees on NA find that this process provides quality patient care; 100% of the sample wish to put it into practice; 100% of the sample need continuous training on NA including 67.6% to improve knowledge and 32.4% to learn; 89.1% of those trained reported not practicing NA, but participating direct observation gave 100% of non-practice. The barriers to implementation of the NA were inadequate nursing staff (75.6%), inadequate equipment (71.5%), lack of time (62.6%), lack of theoretical and practical knowledge (47.2%), lack of nursing records (26%) and lack of institution for nursing care within the hospital (17%). Conclusion: Therefore, capacity building of nurses through continuing education, as well as initial training on NA, would increase their knowledge, reinforce positive attitude and promote its implementation, all supported by improved working conditions and the implementation of a professional nursing quality assurance organization.

Total Phenolic and Flavonoid Content and Antioxidant Activities of Ten Malaysian Wild Mushrooms

Abstract: Mushrooms have been studied and found to accumulate a variety of secondary metabolites with antioxidant activities such as phenolic compounds. Besides phenolics, other bioactive components such as flavanoids from mushrooms are also generally associated with antioxidant activities. Previous studies have reported the association of mushrooms with their antioxidant potentials. However, very few studies are related to unexplored Malaysian wild mushrooms as a new potential source of antioxidant for which to best of our knowledge, no records are available. In this study, ten Malaysian wild mushrooms were collected from the forests around Selangor and Sabah and their potential antioxidant activity were evaluated. The total phenolic content and total flavonoid content were quantified. Antioxidant activities of the mushroom extracts were analyzed by Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) and 2,2-diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays for their iron-reducing capacity and free-radical scavenging capacity. The total phenolic content of all ten mushrooms ranged from 0.015-0.075 mg GAE/g dried extract and the total flavonoid content ranged from 0.025-0.131 mg QE/g dried extract. The FRAP values lies between 0.859-2.929 μM TE/g dried extract and the percentage of inhibition observed from DPPH assay ranged from 2%-57% respectively. There is a positive correlation between total phenolic content and antioxidant activities of these mushroom extracts.

About the Mass

Abstract: In this paper it is proposed that the mass of the bodies has its origin and nature in the reciprocal gravitational interactions between them; and also by some kind of effect over the size of the celestial bodies due to the very big distances in space, as seemed each other at a distance. In a Dynamic Theory of Gravitation [1], it is proved that the fundamental velocity is the escape velocity due to the apparent size of the interacting heavenly bodies, which is the medium used by gravity to transmit its effects like propagating force of Nature [2]. Given that is the greatest speed of the Universe, the celestial bodies interact between them in a reciprocal way [3]. Because of that dynamical process all those bodies have an intrinsic property called mass. Then, the mass of any body is a kind of parameter by means of which a measure of the inertial effects can be obtained. That property is different from weight. It is a consequence of the gravitational interactions between any body and all the rest of the heavenly bodies of the Universe, and also by some deep characteristic of the space that separate them.

Classification and Characterization of Landscapes in the Territory of Adilabad District, Telangana, Deccan Region, India

Abstract: We are in the Anthropocene and recent studies have revealed that conventional land management strategies diminished natural landscapes and created anthropogenic ones. The classification and characterization of landscapes, therefore, provide a mechanism for quantifying anthropogenic changes to the landscape systems in the Anthropocene. This study was aimed at classifying and characterizing landscapes in the territory of Adilabad District, Telangana, Deccan region, India, which was selected as the area of case study. It was a multi-method approach, where ecogeographic and environmental data were gathered using user/visual-based approach, while socio-economic data were gathered through direct observations, interviews, focus group discussions, questionnaires and literature surveys. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The study was undertaken by National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, Regional Station, Rajendranagar in collaboration with Vegetable Research Station, Rajendranagar during 2010-2012. In the District, a very wide range of land use types was observed. In the last 60 years, the District’s landscape has undergone a remarkable transformation and fragmentation as a consequence of anthropogenic activities like deforestation, agriculture expansion, intensive agriculture, transport infrastructure, urbanization, trade, tourism and recreation. The results revealed that there is a growing body of evidence supporting the hypothesis that the geographical space, which is a mosaic of natural and anthropogenic landscapes (semi-natural and artificial landscapes), is limited in the District. Hills, valleys, forests, rivers, streams, waterfalls and lakes were certain natural landscapes with little or no human impact found in the District. Traditional land management strategies including burning and clearing practiced by indigenous tribal communities, the native inhabitants of the area, have diminished natural landscapes and created semi-natural and artificial landscapes. Complex interactions between humans and nature resulted in a rich amalgam of anthropogenic landscapes and new ecosystems and habitats were created in urban, rural and tribal areas. The artificial landscapes are classified into three main categories: urban, rural and tribal landscapes based on the dominant human societies inhabiting them in the District. Our study identifies the same importance to all types of landscapes: thus natural, semi-natural, tribal, rural, urban landscapes are the key factors in cultural identity of the District. Our work on landscape analysis as a tool for the strategic assessment of the case study area enabled us to use user/visual-based approach based on the assessment of the visual fields of the District.

The Characterization of Steel Slag by Alkali Activation

Abstract: This paper presents a characterization analysis of alkali-activated steel slag. The effect ratio of steel slag and ferronickel slag which are the precursor materials on the compressive strength of the alkali-activated materials was investigated. The combination of sodium hydroxide solution of 15 moles concentration and sodium silicate was used as an alkaline activator. The ratio between steel slag and alkaline liquid was fixed at 3.31 for all mixtures. Ambient curing (20℃ - 25℃) are used throughout the experiment. Compressive strength shows the alkali-activated steel slag presented high strength at 14 days curing which is 21.56 MPa. In comparison, the alkali activated steel slag had better strength than 50/50 Fe/SS alkali-activated slag which only achieved 16.75 MPa. Result obtained shows that alkali-activated steel slag had better water absorption than 50/50 Fe/SS alkali-activated slag at 7 days curing. Furthermore, the activation of steel slag was contributed to the presences of gehlenite, larnite, akermanite and magnetite. Lastly, the alkali-activated steel slag presents the vibration of the Si-O bonds at wave number 970.46 cm﹣1 contributed by the calcium silicate hydrate.

On the Conformal Unity between Quantum Particles and General Relativity

Abstract: I consider the standard model, together with a preon version of it, to search for unifying principles between quantum particles and general relativity. Argument is given for unified field theory being based on gravitational and electromagnetic interactions alone. Conformal symmetry is introduced in the action of gravity with the Weyl tensor. Electromagnetism is geometrized to conform with gravity. Conformal symmetry is seen to improve quantization in loop quantum gravity. The Einstein-Cartan theory with torsion is analyzed suggesting structure in spacetime below the Cartan scale. A toy model for black hole constituents is proposed. Higgs metastability hints at cyclic conformal cosmology.

JAK-STAT Lodges in Multiple Sclerosis: Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Approach Overview

Abstract: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex inflammatory and demyelinating disease of central nervous system (CNS). The disease pathogenesis is not fully understood and no actual cure for the disease yet. The disease has genetic and environmental cause as funda...

Primary Navigation Purpose of Petroglyphs: Reconstruction on the Basis of the Gnomon

Abstract: The rational functions of primitive art are considered in the article. The reconstruction of the algorithm for the creation and use of petroglyphs as a marking of solar calendars and sundials with the help of an ancient astronomical instrument-gnomon is proposed. Standard geographic methods and observations of the shadow of objects were used in the study. To calculate the shadow charts, the basic trigonometric function and the astrocalculator were used. According to the results of the study, the following conclusions have been formulated: 1. The basis for constructing images is made up of graphic signs that reflect the movements of light; 2. The tool for marking the drawings could be a shadow of vertical objects and a rope; 3. To create the calendar, the most stable natural material-stone-was used, as well as noticeable elements of its heterogeneity-cracks and forms of relief.

Protein Extraction from Grape Seeds by Reverse Micelles: Optimization of the Forward Extraction

Abstract: The optimization of the reverse micelles extraction of protein from grape seeds was carried out using response surface methodology (RSM). Based on the Plackett-Burman design and steepest ascent, CTAB concentration, pH, NaCl concentration and crude protein concentration were selected as the most extract conditions. Subsequently, the optimum combination of the selected factors was investigated by the Box-Behnken design. The final condition of extraction optimized with RSM was CTAB concentration 39 mmol/L, pH 5.6, NaCl concentration 0.01 mol/L, and crude protein concentration 2.1 mg/mL. The forward extraction yield of 82.3% in triplicate under optimal extraction condition was obtained.

The Application of Montessori Method in Learning Mathematics: An Experimental Research

Abstract: The prime objective of this research was to investigate whether the Montessori method of learning helped kindergarten pupils improve their mathematical proficiency, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, besides training them to be responsible learners. Quantitative, qualitative, and observational methods were employed in the investigation. The sample for the study comprised 180 kindergarten pupils from TadikaBestari Al-Hidayah, located in Bandar Seri Damansara, Malaysia. The instruments for collecting data were questionnaires, interviews, and field observations. Results from a pre-test and a post-test showed that pupils who used the Montessori method, i.e. the experimental group, outperformed (72.2% passed) their peers who were not exposed to the Montessori method (39% passed). The findings indicated that the Montessori method indeed helped learners to improve their mathematical proficiency. This research offers guidelines to future researchers on alternative learning methods, especially for very young children. The findings of this empirical research could be prototyped for learning other subjects.

Software for Voice Control Robot: Example of Implementation

Abstract: Considering software for voice control robot, the main application window is shown. The examples illustrate various robot controls. The structure of the management team is developed. The grammar of various commands is described. A library of words is proposed, which the operator can enter to achieve the set goals. The main elements of the library are listed. To provide voice control, a sequence of actions is provided, which must be followed by the operator. The commands that may be needed in the case of interactive correction of actions are considered.

Synthesis and Characterization of Carbon Nanospheres

Abstract: An experiment was conducted to synthesize carbon nanospheres of different sizes by controlling the temperature in polycondensation reactions of glucose under hydrothermal processes. Morphological, structural, thermal, and optical properties of as-synthesized particles were characterized using a transmission electron microscope (TEM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), diffraction thermal analysis (DTA), and Raman spectroscopy. Thermal study indicates that particles change their phase from amorphous to crystalline before achieving a thermal stability at 520℃. The presence of D-band and G-band in the Raman spectrum also verifies amorphous and crystalline natures of the sample. It has also been observed that the particle’s morphology, dispersity, and size were modified after calcination of samples at 500℃ in comparison to those not calcinated. Overall results indicate that the carbon nanospheres are hard solids and highly dispersed with size ranges from 50 nm to 260 nm.

Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Process for Sustainable Mining and Mineral Management Development

Abstract: Strategic environmental assessment (SEA) process can be broadly defined as a study of the impacts of a proposed project, plan, project, policy or legislative action on the environment and sustainability. SEA process has been aimed to incorporate environmental and sustainability factors into mining and mineral (MM) project planning and decision making (MMPPDM) process. Sustainable MM development is a kind of development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability and efficacy of future generations to meet their own MM needs. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process can be defined as the systematic study of the potential impacts (effects) of proposed MM projects, plans, programs, policies or legislative actions relative to the physical-chemical, biological, cultural, and socio-economic components of the total environmental product life cycle. The primary purpose of the EIA process is to encourage the consideration of the environment in MMPPDM process and to arrive at actions that are environmentally compatible. MMPP-DM process should include the integrated consideration of technical or engineering, economic, environmental, safety, and health, social and sustainability factors to achieve business excellence. The objective of the study is to conceptualize SEA process for the MM sector based on fifteen number of sustainable detailed project reports (DPRs) submitted by the extension learners of Diploma in Entrepreneurship and Business Management (DEBM)...

Flora Endemic Rare and Bioclimate of Palestine

Abstract: Palestine was subject to classification study through the period from February to May 2017. This area has a characteristic of flora and biodiversity and belongs to dry, arid, semi-arid, sub-humid and humid climates, and locates in Mediterranean region. We took 400 samples of different plant species from Hebron (Idna, Althahreiyeh, Yatta villages and Hebron city); Jenin (Jenin city, Al-Yamon, Maysalon and Yabod); Jericho (Wadi Al-Qalt, Ain or Tal Sultan and Al-Nwehmeh) and Ramallah (Safa, Turmus Aya and Qibia). The absence of classification studies on the areas led us to run a statistical treatment on the 400 sampled flora of Palestine. Moreover, the classification was made following Braun-Blanquet in 1979; we transformed the Braun-Blanquet species abundance-dominance values into those of Van der Maarel in 1979. In the statistical treatment we obtained more than 53 plant species (Endemic rare) as Paronychia palaestina Eig , Trifolium palaestinum Boiss., Trifolium philistaeum Zohary, Suaedaphilistaeum Zoharyand, and others, representing forests, copses, herbaceous and high shrublands influenced by climate (climatophilous), and edaphohygrophilic, and bioclimate factors as ombrotype and thermotype. However, according to study area we indicated that the flora endemic rare has 53 species, which of them 13% belong to Compositae family, 7.54% Poaceae, Liliaceae & Papilionaceae families, and 5.66% Iridaceae family.

Influence of harvest season and maturation of different sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) cultivars on the chemical composition of alembic Brazilian sugarcane spirit.

Abstract: Contrary to the ethanol industrial production, the quality and composition of sugar cane as raw material for the production of alembic cachaca have until now not been completely addressed. This work evaluated the influence of five different sugarcane cultivars and degree of maturation over the physicochemical composition of cachaca produced under strict controlled conditions. Three harvest seasons were used in order to obtain different stages of maturation. The sugarcane quality was assessed by the juice brix, sugarcane POL, reducing sugars, and purity. The cultivars quality did not differ within each harvest stage. However, significant quality differences were observed among sugarcane harvested in June and the other harvest months, particularly on reducing sugar content. This indicates different stages of sugarcane maturation. The 45 samples of cachaca produced from those sugarcanes were submitted to physicochemical and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) qualitative analysis. The GC/MS composition pattern showed that the type of cultivar did not alter the composition of the cachaca at the same harvest stage. Otherwise, the production of acetic acid, ethyl lactate and n- butyl alcohol was higher in the first harvest (June) when compared to the others. The results from sugar cane quality and GC/MS when submitted to principal component analysis (PCA) showed consistently the separation between the groups of cachaca produced in the three seasons, indicating the influence of sugarcane ripening over the cachaca composition.

Prevalence and Pattern of Workplace Violence and Ethnic Discrimination among Workers in a Tertiary Institution in Southern Nigeria

Abstract: Background: Work and work environment are important influences on both health and production. Psychosocial hazards, including Work place occupational violence and racial discrimination, may be assuming a major place in occupational health and safety, especially in developing countries like Nigeria. Work place occupational violence and racial discrimination, though appears latent, equally appears to receive little attention in workplaces. Aim: The study was to assess the prevalence and pattern of workplace violence and racial discrimination as work place psychosocial hazards in a tertiary University in Southern Nigeria. Methodology: Following approval from the Research Ethic Committee of the University of Port Harcourt, 600 consenting staffers of the University of Port Harcourt were recruited by systematic random sampling and pretested structured closed ended self administered questionnaire and adapted Matrix Risk checklist were used for data collection from respondents. Results were presented via descriptive and analytical methods. Results: Work place violence, i.e, physical assault had a prevalence of 9.9% (n = 55). Also Ethnic/tribal discrimination had a 7% (n = 39). Risk factors included work load (98.2%) home-work interface (82.0%), career 70.1%, interpersonal relationship (64.0%), work schedule 53%, lack of career development 58.7%, unfair target or goals 46.2%, job security 20.1% and working alone or night work 21.7%. Conclusion: Work place occupational violence and racial discrimination with its attendant preventable risk factors is present among workers at the University of Port Harcourt. There is need by the University to adopt and enforce appropriate occupational health and safety policies and measures to prevent and control this psychosocial hazard.

The Discrimination of Women in Buddhism: An Ethical Analysis

Abstract: Position of women in Buddhism has been debated for a long time. In my article, I will try to figure out the real situation of women in Buddhism. I will discuss something about sexism in Buddhist religion. There seem to be many difficulties that women following Buddhism are facing. I will highlight some of them in my article. I will also discuss the inferiority issues and how women are perceived as an inferior being in Buddhism. I will focus on the birth issues in Buddhist culture and religion in my article. I will be talking about how the birth of a woman is considered in Buddhism. I will also talk about the difficulties women are facing following Buddhism. In this way, I will try to explore the room for women in Buddhism in my article.

Functions of State for Spinor Gas in General Relativity

Abstract: The energy momentum tensor of perfect fluid is a simplified but successful model in astrophysics. In this paper, assuming the particles driven by gravity and moving along geodesics, we derived the functions of state in detail. The results show that, these functions have a little correction for the usual thermodynamics. The new functions naturally satisfy the causal condition and consist with relativity. For the self-potentials of the particles, we introduce an extra function W, which acts like negative pressure and can be used to describe dark matter. The results are helpful to understand the relation and interaction between space-time and matter.

Climate Variability: Attributes and Indicators of Adaptive Capacity in Semi-Arid Tharaka Sub-County, Kenya

Abstract: This study assessed the state of adaptive capacity in four agro-ecological zones of Tharaka sub-county, Kenya. The study utilized two data sets: household survey and key informants. At total of 326 household respondents across four agro-ecological zones; and 24 key informants from public and private sectors were sampled. A chi-square test was used to test the independence of attributes of adaptive capacity-flexibility and access to resources. It was established that the state of adaptive capacity is reflected in households’ cropping and livelihood diversification; and cultivation of drought tolerant crops. Institutions are also involved in support programs such as distribution of relief food and planting seeds, infrastructural support of irrigation and rainwater harvesting. There is need for climate science, practitioners and community interaction to scaled-up communication of best optimal adaptation practices that are risk averse to climate variability.

Kirschner Wire Fixation of Neglected Lateral Condylar Fracture of the Humerus in Children

Abstract: Background: Delayed presentation of lateral condylar fractures of the humerus is relatively common in the developing regions of the world. Fractures of lateral condyle of humerus in pediatric age group, the most common being distal humerus epiphyseal injury, are commonly associated with delayed presentation to terminal health care providers. Materials and Methods: Twenty-one children having fracture of lateral condyle of humerus with duration of trauma more than 3 weeks were included in the prospective study. Among the 21 patients, 13 were male and 8 were female. Average time of presentation was after 3 weeks of injury. All patients had Milch type II injury. The patients were treated by open reduction and internal fixation using Kirschner wire. The outcome assessment according to the scoring system proposed by Dhillon et al. was used. Result: Mean month at operation is 81.5 months (range, 64-112 months); 8 Right/13 Left. Reason for presentation: Pain, swelling in 12; Pain, decreased elbow motion in 7; Restriction of the elbow flexion in 2. Time from injury to Operation with mean 6.34 weeks, 3 weeks-≤ 6 weeks in 13 Patients, and > 6 weeks in 8 patients; Previous treatment: Plaster cast in 15 Patients, and No treatment in 6 Patients; Mean time of Follow-up: 66 Months; Mean Age at last Follow-up was 11.6 (range, 8.4-15.0). To tell result, 38.1% is in Excellent; 33.3% is in Good; 14.3% is in Fair; and 14.3% is in Poor. Comparison of accepted result from time of injury to operation was 3-6 weeks better than over 6 weeks with P Valuate 0.001387. There were AVN in 1 case, Nonunion in 2 cases. Conclusion: Osteosynthesis by Kirschner wire without bone grafting could provide solid bony union and improve elbow function. However, this technique could not prevent an angular deformity completely. Corrective osteotomy should be considered in patients with valgus or varus deformities.