bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Previsão da Mobilidade de Usuários em uma Rede Sem Fio Acadêmica
Authors: Kapps Ana Beatriz , Balboa João Victor , Silva Edelberto Franco , Semaan Gustavo
Published: February 2022

O aumento da popularidade de redes sem fio nos últimos anos aproximou ainda mais as áreas de Redes e de Ciência de Dados. Uma vez que muitas pessoas utilizam aplicações ligadas à Internet, o acesso a esta se tornou essencial. Por outro lado, disponibilizá-la não é uma tarefa fácil, e deve haver um planejamento em relação a infraestrutura da rede. A fim de melhorar o acesso à Internet, buscando permitir uma conexão ininterrupta durante a(s) troca(s) de pontos de acesso, o presente trabalho analisou cerca de dez milhões de requisições realizadas por mais de 36 mil clientes da rede Wi-Fi da UFJF. Foram utilizados algoritmos de Aprendizado de Máquina para prever o deslocamento desses clientes, obtendo-se uma acurácia de 76% para os grupos que possuem menores mobilidades.
Classificação da Avaliação de Imersão em Aplicações Multissensoriais
Authors: Campos Rodrigo , Benini Henrique , dos Santos Joel , Ogasawara Eduardo , Marques Flávio
Published: February 2022

Aplicações multimídia permitem a apresentação conjunta de diferentes tipos de mídia, porém focam em apresentar estímulos aos sentidos de visão e audição. Como forma de aumentar a imersão de usuários com uma aplicação, estudos na área têm buscado incluir mídias que estimulem outros sentidos, como tato, olfato e paladar. Entretanto, a inclusão por si só de tais mídias numa aplicação pode não significar um aumento da imersão do usuário, sendo necessário o uso de algum instrumento para avaliação do ganho de imersão obtido. Este trabalho, portanto, tem como objetivo fazer um estudo sobre os diferentes instrumentos disponíveis na literatura para avaliação de imersão em aplicações multimídia, classificando-os de acordo com o sentido avaliado e o formato do instrumento utilizado.
Vodní měkkýši přírodních rezervací Žabakor, Podtrosecká údolí a Údolí Plakánek v CHKO Český ráj [Aquatic molluscs of nature reserves Žabakor, Podtrosecká údolí and Údolí Plakánek in the Český ráj PLA]
Authors: Beran Luboš , Beranová Vendula
Published: February 2022

Aquatic molluscs of three extensive nature reserves (Žabakor, Podtrosecká údolí, Údolí Plakánek) in the Český ráj Protected Landscape Area (northern Bohemia) were studied in 2019. Altogether 33 mollusc species were found at 40 studied sites including streams, fishponds, pools, and wetlands. Results were compared with previous research. The occurrence of endangered bivalves Sphaerium nucleus and Pisidium amnicum was confirmed. Two non-native species Physa acuta and Ferrissia californica were recorded.
Challenges of Clerical Sexual Abuse
Authors: Madu Jonathan Chukwuemeka , Madu Chibuzor Ezinne ,   Center for Peace and Justice Education at Villanova University
Published: February 2022

Though the heroic strides, accomplishments and sacrifices of many clerics who have led exemplary lives in the Catholic priesthood remain indelible, we are faced today with a preponderance of allegations and claims of clerical sexual abuse suggesting that both the Catholic Church and priesthood are experiencing crises of different kinds. Clerical sexual abuse is a contradiction of the life of chastity, one of the evangelical virtues which are corollaries of responding to the call to the Roman Catholic priesthood. How those evangelical virtues concern us and the needed critical family roles for addressing the challenges of clergy sexual abuse are often overlooked; but our lives are inter-connected. This article has been prompted by the need to see the other side of the problem, which is general huge family failures, and to awaken our consciences to assume our own responsibilities that would, by collective action, help to bring about positive and peaceful change.
Religion as a Cohesive or Divisive Factor in the Process of Peacebuilding
Authors: Lazović Danica ,   Center for Peace and Justice Education at Villanova University
Published: February 2022

The intensification of ethnic and religious identity, accompanied by growing tendencies for creating new national states and escalations of regional conflicts, characterize the post-Cold War era. This article examines the growing impact of religion and the potential of religious activism as a tool for peacebuilding. A case study of Bosnia and Herzegovina will be accompanied by a historical-genealogical approach and analysis and deduction methods. By using those methods, I will answer the question of whether religion has a cohesive role (building of civil society) or divisive effect (accentuation of mutual differences and distancing of ‘other’) in the process of peacebuilding. The research results show that religious activism did positively contribute to peacebuilding but that the existent conciliatory potential is not adequately used for overcoming mutual differences and the creation of civil society, primarily due to the political and institutional framework in which it operates.
Violence Against the Queer Community in Turkey
Authors: Yavuz Mehmet , Byrne Sean ,   Center for Peace and Justice Education at Villanova University
Published: February 2022

There is little attempt by the Turkish government to end violence directed against queer people or to provide intervention and prevention services. This article explores the social and legal traditions that the Turkish state maintains to oppress the queer community and to prevent people from accessing their basic human needs. In order to understand violence orchestrated against Turkey’s queer people, it is important to explore some of the threats they face on an everyday basis. These threats include unemployment, harassment, discrimination, disowning/honor killings, denial of freedom of expression and freedom of association, and death. Finally, we explore the Gezi Park nonviolent protests as well as providing some important social change recommendations that Turkey must implement with international solidarity.
Peacebuilding through the Lens of an Emancipatory Peacebuilding Paradigm
Authors: Okyere Joshua ,   Center for Peace and Justice Education at Villanova University
Published: February 2022

Critical and Emancipatory Theory (CET) of peacebuilding emerged as the sixth school of thought in Peace and Conflict Studies to critique the liberal and neoliberal approaches to peacebuilding. CET contends that liberal and neoliberal approaches to peacebuilding are discriminatory and biased, perpetrates the interest of Western elites, hinders the achievement of social justice, and considers the local as insignificant for peacebuilding. A call for the reformation of the liberal and neoliberal approaches necessitated the CET school of thought to outline certain principles and guidelines that could guide the practice of peace-building. Different methodologies, intervention strategies, principles and approaches that could guide praxis have therefore been advanced by scholars, researchers, and practitioners. This paper therefore examines and reflects on the multiplex methodologies in peacebuilding, the adoption of a multidisciplinary approach to understanding peace and peacebuilding, and the question of intervention in post-war peacebuilding, the principles that guide the implementation of peacebuilding from the lens of Critical and Emancipatory school of thought. This piece contend that CET approach may not be self-sufficient but would be the most appropriate way to decentralize the peacebuilding process and, as such, local or indigenous peacebuilding processes must be encouraged while acknowledging the salient role of the international community as well.
Comparison of Symptoms and Antibody Response Following Administration of Moderna or Pfizer SARS-CoV-2 Vaccines
Authors: Kelliher Michael T. , Levy Joshua J. , Nerenz Robert D. , Poore Bradley , Johnston Abigail A. , Rogers Amanda R. , Stella Mary E. O. , Snow Sarah E. , Cervinski Mark A. , Hubbard Jacqueline A.
Published: February 2022

Context.—

Moderna (mRNA-1272) and Pfizer (BNT162b2) SARS-CoV-2 vaccines demonstrate favorable safety and efficacy profiles, but direct comparison data are lacking.

Objective.—

To determine the vaccines' side effect profiles and expected antibody responses. These data may help personalize vaccine selection and identify individuals with a suboptimal vaccine response.

Design.—

One hundred forty-nine healthy, largely seronegative adults were assigned Moderna (n = 79) or Pfizer (n = 70). Following the second dose, participants completed a survey documenting their side effects. Serum was collected 0 to 4 days prior to dose 2, and 14 ± 4 days, 30 ± 4 days, 90 ± 10 days, and 180 ± 20 days after dose 2. Convalescent serum specimens were collected 32 to 54 days from donors after a polymerase chain reaction–confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection (n = 20). Anti-spike antibodies were measured using the Roche Diagnostics Elecys Anti–SARS-CoV-2 S assay on a Roche cobas e801 instrument.

Results.—

Participants receiving the Moderna vaccine experienced side effects with greater frequency and severity. Both vaccines elicited a robust antibody response, but median signal was higher in Moderna recipients. Symptom severity decreased with age. Antibody response in Pfizer recipients negatively correlated with age. Antibody response decreased after 6 months (84% reduction in Moderna, 79% Pfizer), but values remained greater than for convalescent donors. Antibody response did not correlate with gender or symptom severity.

Conclusions.—

Moderna may be preferred in individuals in need of greater immune stimulation (eg, older individuals), whereas Pfizer may be preferred in those concerned about vaccine reactions. Anti-spike antibody signal varies by vaccine, so specific reference intervals will be needed to identify individuals with a suboptimal response.
Implementação da Matemática Moderna no ensino secundário português: relatos de uma experiência pedagógica
Authors: Monteiro Teresa Maria Pires
Published: February 2022

O início do movimento da Matemática Moderna português coincide com a reabertura dos estágios pedagógicos na Escola Secundária de Pedro Nunes (denominação atual) de Lisboa, em 1956. O metodólogo de Matemática desta Escola, Jaime Furtado Leote, faz parte de uma comissão nomeada ministerialmente, em 1963, para a revisão dos programas de Matemática dos dois últimos anos liceais, atuais 10º e 11º anos de escolaridade. Sabendo que a cultura escolar não muda por decreto, o objetivo deste artigo é dar a conhecer relatos dos estagiários desta Escola, sobre a implementação da experiência pedagógica da Matemática Moderna por eles vivida, que mostram uma realidade que não circulou nos canais oficiais e, portanto, menos difundida. Para o feito, procurámos e analisámos fontes primárias, nomeadamente, 30 trabalhos escritos produzidos pelos estagiários, 18 não publicados, e entrevistas a 4 ex-estagiários. Feita uma análise de conteúdo qualitativa das fontes concluímos que, mesmo ladeada de forte empenho pessoal e institucional, a implementação da reforma da Matemática Moderna está envolta em fortes dilemas e dificuldades. O aumento do formalismo na matemática aparece como uma necessidade quase vital e os estagiários alertam para o inconveniente do seu uso precoce no ensino. Ao pretender abarcar-se os novos desafios, quer ao nível dos conteúdos, quer das metodologias revela-se difícil definir um programa praticável. Além disso, concluímos que a Escola foi, na teoria e na prática, um centro de ensaios pedagógicos, frequentada por altas personalidades da sociedade portuguesa, que pretendia formar uma elite para comandar Portugal.
Programa de prácticas para la formación inicial de profesores de matemáticas en la Universidad Surcolombiana
Authors: Mosquera Urrutia Martha Cecilia
Published: February 2022

São apresentados os resultados do processo de pesquisa interinstitucional: "Desenho e gestão de um programa de estágio para a formação inicial de professores nas faculdades de educação de duas universidades latino-americanas" cujo objetivo geral era desenhar e administrar um programa de estágios que promovesse a flexibilidade a cooperação curricular, académica, a promoção da investigação e da formação integral dos alunos e os seus objetivos específicos na caracterização das práticas, conceção e gestão do programa. A primeira parte do artigo dá conta da gênese do projeto e da conformação da comunidade de aprendizagem e prática, a segunda, dos referenciais teóricos e metodológicos para caracterizar as práticas, a terceira, da utilização de um modelo teórico para caracterizá-los, o quarto da proposta de programa e o quinto, da gestão do programa de licenciatura em matemática de uma universidade participante. Entre os resultados estão: a formação de comunidades de aprendizagem e prática a nível disciplinar, interdisciplinar e interinstitucional, o posicionamento das práticas como eixo fundamental da formação inicial de professores e a consolidação do congresso internacional de experiências na formação de professores como cenário disseminar o conhecimento que emerge da prática e dos processos de pesquisa; promover processos de reflexão e sistematização a partir das práticas pedagógicas e investigativas; redimensionar o caráter investigativo nelas imerso e promover o interinstitucionalismo nos processos de formação inicial e continuada de professores.
Some Corrosion Problems in Agricultural Production and ways of their Solution
Authors: Knyazeva L.G. , Zavrazhnov A.I.
Published: February 2022

The analysis is given of some corrosion problems in the agro-industrial complex associated with various climatic conditions, specific operating environments for machinery and equipment, and some particular solutions are shown related to the use of anti-corrosive materials that are available and effective in agricultural production.
Electrocatalytic Properties of Fe-Cu Composites Prepared on the Basis of the Reduced Copper (II) Ferrite
Authors: Vissurkhanova Ya.A. , Ivanova N.M. , Soboleva Y.A. , Abulyaissova L.K. , Minaev B.F.
Published: February 2022

Copper ferrite (CuFe2O4) samples were prepared by the co-precipitation method without and in the presence of a polymer stabilizer (polyvinyl alcohol, PVA) followed by heat treatment at 500, 700, and 900°C and electrochemical reduction. The structure and morphological features of the samples were investigated by X-ray phase analysis and electron microscopy. It was established that copper (II) ferrite is reduced in an electrochemical system with the formation of Fe-Cu composites with different content of reduced metals, which is influenced by the heat treatment temperature. Copper ferrite prepared with the use of the polymer stabilizer is partially reduced during thermolysis, additionally in an electrochemical cell. The Fe-Cu composites were employed as electrocatalysts in the electrohydrogenation of p-nitrobenzoic acid and exhibited good activity in this process. To study the interaction in the CuFe2O4 + PVA complexes, the quantum-chemical calculations were performed using the density functional theory methods for the simplified metal-containing systems (atoms and ions of copper (II), iron (III), Cu2, Fe2 molecules) as well as dimers and trimers modeling the structure of polyvinyl alcohol.
Relationship of Physico-Chemical and Protective Properties of Vegetable Oils
Authors: Kornev A.Yu. , Knyazeva L.G.
Published: February 2022

The results of the study of the physicochemical and protective properties of vegetable oils are presented. It was determined that refining reduces the protective efficiency of vegetable oils. Unrefined sunflower and rapeseed oils can be used for corrosion protection in closed unheated rooms in the absence of direct atmospheric precipitation, and their sludge can be used in an open atmosphere.
Software Testing Strategy Utilizing Lean Canvas Model
Authors: Nidagundi Padmaraj
Published: February 2022

The Doctoral Thesis is devoted to the field of software development and its testing. In software testing process, the testing strategy is in a documentation format and it is possible to visualize the testing strategy utilizing the Lean Canvas model. Software testing strategy visualization mindset is the research object of the Doctoral Thesis. The Thesis studies how to reduce the documentation effort by adopting the strategy visualization. The present Doctoral Thesis covers research on the different software development life cycles, different testing types, and test strategy visualization.
La comunicación interna como herramienta estratégica constructora y transmisora de la cultura organizacional
Authors: Guerrero Alvarado Marta , Sotelo González Joaquín , Cabezuelo Lorenzo Francisco
Published: February 2022

Tema principal. Este artículo presenta la comunicación interna como una herramienta estratégica clave para la construcción y la transmisión de la cultura organizacional.

Desarrollo. Este artículo sitúa a la comunicación interna en el contexto actual de un nuevo paradigma social, laboral, tecnológico, sanitario (tras la pandemia provocada por el Covid-19) y comunicativo. En este sentido, contempla la consecuente aparición de una nueva cultura laboral en la que el talento, el compromiso y la motivación de los profesionales serán factores fundamentales para el desarrollo de las organizaciones. De este modo, expone la estrecha vinculación de la comunicación interna con estos factores y con la construcción y transmisión de la cultura organizacional, por lo que se deberá concebir como una herramienta estratégica presente en todos los procesos y niveles organizativos.

Punto de vista y aportaciones. El artículo contribuye a considerar la comunicación interna como una función estratégica, fundamental e irrenunciable para las organizaciones actuales, dada su estrecha e interdependiente relación con sus sistemas culturales.

Repercusiones y conclusiones. La comunicación interna es una función fundamental en el desarrollo de las organizaciones. Para lograr su efectividad, esta herramienta estratégica ha de estar presente en los diferentes procesos organizativos, a la vez que en la planificación que recoja los objetivos corporativos y las acciones pertinentes para alcanzarlos. Este carácter transversal de la comunicación interna la constituye, precisamente, como la base de la cultura organizacional. El presente artículo destaca también su valor vehicular para la conformación y el mantenimiento del sistema cultural de la organización, así como para la transmisión de los aspectos que lo integran. Comprendiendo la estrechísima e interdependiente relación que existe entre la comunicación interna y la cultura, concluirá que ambas están al servicio de la organización y sus profesionales, por lo que no se podrán separar la una de la otra.
Identifying Origin-Destination Trips from GPS Data – Application in Travel Time Reliability of Dedicated Trucks
Authors: ZHAO Li , LI Ying
Published: February 2022

The advancement of data collection technologies has brought an upsurge in GPS applications. For example, travel behaviour research has benefited from the integration of multiple sources of Global Positioning System (GPS) data. However, the effective use of such data is still impeded by the challenge in data processing. For instance, GPS data, despite providing detailed spatial movement information, do not label the starting and finishing points of a trip, especially for commercial trucks. Hence, there is a critical need to develop a trip identification method to effectively use the trajectory data provided by GPS without additional information. This paper focused on identifying trips from the raw GPS data. Specifically, a systematic method is proposed to extract trips on the basis of origin-destination (OD) pairs by using a 5-step procedure. An application was provided on estimating the performance of travel time reliability using three metrics based on the OD trips for each dedicated truck. The application showed that, in general, trucks on long-distance routes have less reliable travel times compared to trucks on short-distance routes. This paper provides an example of using GPS data, without further information, to study travel time for freight performance and similar needs of punctuality in logistics.
Modelling the Impact of Rain in Traffic Assignment Procedures
Authors: IVANOVIĆ Ivan , ČELAR Nikola , ĐORIĆ Vladimir , PETROVIĆ Dragana
Published: February 2022

The efficiency of urban transportation system is un-der the influence of weather conditions. It is necessary to incorporate these impacts into transport system analysis, in order to prepare adequate mitigation measures. Trans-port models are often used in different types of transport system analysis and forecasting of its future characteris-tics. This paper focuses on implementation of the impact of rain in transport modelling, particularly into a traffic assignment process as a part of a macroscopic transport model. This aspect of modelling is important because it can indicate parts of the network where this impact leads to a high volume/capacity ratio, which is a good input for defining mitigation measures. Commonly, transport models do not consider weather impacts in its standard procedures. The paper presents a methodology for cali-brating volume-delay function in order to improve traf-fic assignment modelling in case of rain. The impact of different rain categories on capacity and free-flow speed was quantified and implemented in the volume-delay function. Special attention is given to the calibration of the part of volume-delay function for over-saturated traf-fic conditions. Calibration methodology is applicable for different types of volume-delay functions and presents a solid approach to incorporate weather conditions into common engineering practice.
Analysis of the unfolded γ energy spectrum based on Boosted-Gold algorithm
Authors: Zhang Shuang , He San-Jun , Liao Feng , Luo Wan , Zhou Zhi-Qian , Gao Bo , Liu Li-Yan , Zhao Xiu-Liang ,   School of Nuclear Science and Technology, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China
Published: February 2022

To obtain the characteristic information of unknown radionuclides by analyzing the γ-energy spectrum of a low-resolution detector, and to improve the accuracy and validity of the analysis of overlapping and weak peaks in the γ-energy spectrum, in this paper we analyze the γ-energy spectrum of NaI(Tl) detectors based on the Boosted-Gold algorithm. A simulation model of NaI(TI) detector is established by using MCNPX, and a detector response matrix with dimension 201 × 200 is obtained. The γ-energy spectrum unfolding program is developed based on the Boosted-Gold algorithm. The detector response spectra of the γ radioactive sources 22Na, 133Ba, and 152Eu are measured. Three groups of low-resolution γ spectra are constructed with different γ-ray energy, different energy differences (\begin{document}$ \Delta E $\end{document}) and different relative intensities by simulation. Combining the response matrix and the unfolding procedures, the measured and simulated γ energy spectra are unfolded. The unfolding results are analyzed with the nuclide standard characteristics information from the IAEA database. The results show that the maximum unfolding error of the characteristic energy of the measured γ-energy spectrum is 2.17% (0.276 MeV for 133Ba source) by the Boosted-Gold algorithm, and the maximum deviation between the unfolded intensity and the standard intensity is 0.197 (1.408 MeV for 152Eu source). For the simulated γ energy spectrum, the characteristic energy of nuclide can be accurately analyzed, and the deviation between unfolded intensity and standard intensity maintains 0.01. When the enhancement factor p ≤ 14, the Boosted-Gold algorithm is beneficial to the quantitative analysis of γ-radionuclides. For the relative intensity of γ-rays greater than 10%, this algorithm has better analysis accuracy.
Current approaches for executing big data science projects—a systematic literature review
Authors: Saltz Jeffrey S. , Krasteva Iva
Published: February 2022

There is an increasing number of big data science projects aiming to create value for organizations by improving decision making, streamlining costs or enhancing business processes. However, many of these projects fail to deliver the expected value. It has been observed that a key reason many data science projects don’t succeed is not technical in nature, but rather, the process aspect of the project. The lack of established and mature methodologies for executing data science projects has been frequently noted as a reason for these project failures. To help move the field forward, this study presents a systematic review of research focused on the adoption of big data science process frameworks. The goal of the review was to identify (1) the key themes, with respect to current research on how teams execute data science projects, (2) the most common approaches regarding how data science projects are organized, managed and coordinated, (3) the activities involved in a data science projects life cycle, and (4) the implications for future research in this field. In short, the review identified 68 primary studies thematically classified in six categories. Two of the themes (workflow and agility) accounted for approximately 80% of the identified studies. The findings regarding workflow approaches consist mainly of adaptations to CRISP-DM (vs entirely new proposed methodologies). With respect to agile approaches, most of the studies only explored the conceptual benefits of using an agile approach in a data science project (vs actually evaluating an agile framework being used in a data science context). Hence, one finding from this research is that future research should explore how to best achieve the theorized benefits of agility. Another finding is the need to explore how to efficiently combine workflow and agile frameworks within a data science context to achieve a more comprehensive approach for project execution.
Assessment of Awareness among Physicians Regarding Gingival Overgrowth Induced by Anticonvulsant, Calcium Channel Blocker, and Immunosuppressant Therapy
Authors: Ugale Gauri Mahesh , Pathan Fatima Layakali , Bhandari Vishnudas Dwarakadas , Baghele Omkumar Nemichand , Ugale Mahesh Shamrao , Aradle Mukesh Rameshwar
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Drug Induced Gingival Overgrowth (DIGO) is caused due to prolonged use of anti-convulsants, immunosuppressant, and calcium channel blockers given for non dental purpose. It affects the maintenance of oral hygiene and may cause speech, mastication, tooth eruption and aesthetic problems. General physicians can play a key role as they can inform the patient about gingival overgrowth as an adverse effect of these drugs. Aim: To evaluate the awareness regarding drug induced gingival overgrowth and to know the impact of educational qualification on their awareness among physicians. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted from January 2019 to June 2019 in Latur district of Maharashtra, India. A total of 196 practicing physicians were approached with self-structured questionnaire and answers were collected in the presence of the investigator. Survey responses were divided into two groups based on educational qualification as group A: physicians educationally qualified to practice Allopathy, group B: physicians educationally qualified to practice alternative medicine (Ayurveda, Homeopathy etc.,). Comparison of responses for qualitative variables was carried among groups using Chi square test with p-value set as p<0.05 significant. Results: Total 167 (85.20%) general physicians responded willingly and completed the questionnaire. A total of 129 participants were male, and 38 were female, with age ranging from 27 to 61 years. Among total 88.62%, 34.73%, 43.11% of the physicians knew about adverse effect of antiepileptic, antihypertensive, immunosuppressant drug as gingival overgrowth respectively. Around 50.89% physicians’ check the gingival status of their patients and 21.56% refer their patients to dental practitioners for signs and treatment of gingival overgrowth. Overall, 77.25% of participants said that surgical excision with drug substitution should be the line of treatment for these cases. Statistically significant difference was seen on comparative analysis of responses between group A and group B (p<0.05). Conclusion: The findings of the present study showed that even though physicians know about drug induced gingival overgrowth they were unable to mention the accountable drug. Only few of them check gingival status of patients taking these drugs during follow up visits and refer such patients to dental practitioners. Although physicians qualified in allopathy have more knowledge about these drugs, their approach towards this condition was somewhat similar to the physicians qualified in alternative medicine.
Constraints Faced by the Tribal People in the Bio-Diversity Conservation of Eastern Ghats of Tamil Nadu
Authors: Kanimozhi R. , Balasubramaniam P.
Published: February 2022

The present study was conducted to find out the constraints faced by the tribal people in conservation of bio-diversity in Eastern Ghats of Tamil Nadu. The study was conducted in two blocks namely Pethanaickenpalayam block in Salem district and Jawadhu hill block in Thiruvannamalai districts respectively. A list of constraints related to the bio-diversity conservation has been prepared and survey was conducted among 182 tribal respondents in the study area. It was found that indiscriminate felling of trees, conversion of forest land in to agricultural land, higher usage of plant protection and production chemicals, increased human settlements in the eco sensitive area and land fragmentation were the major constraints concerning the bio-diversity conservation. Also suitable suggestions to overcome the identified constraints were discussed in this paper.
An Analysis on the Employment Intensity of Economic Growth in Assam over the Post Reform Period
Authors: Hira Bichitra
Published: February 2022

The economy of Assam is growing significantly over the post reform period without generating sufficient employment opportunities for its increased labour force. The share of agriculture in domestic product of the state is in a downward trend and employment tends to shift away from farm sector to non-farming sectors. However, owing to inadequate training and skills, many rural youths of the state are not able to cope themselves with the emerging employment opportunities generated in the growing service and industrial sectors of the state. So, the estimation of the employment intensity of the growth in the state at aggregate and sectoral level seems to be highly essential for understanding employment absorptive capacity of this thriving economy.
Analysis of Consumer Preferences in Selecting Processed Fish Products (Case Study in Bendungan Hilir Market, Central Jakarta, Indonesia)
Authors: Fadlan Muhamad , Nurhayati Atikah , Maulina Ine , Rizal Achmad
Published: February 2022

At the moment, there has been minimal research on consumer preferences for purchasing processed fish products, with this study aiming to discover how consumer behavior affects the purchasing decision towards processed fish products.  The purpose of this study is to examine processed fish products that are popular among Jakarta Indonesia consumers, as well as the factors that influence their purchasing decisions at Bendungan Hilir Market in Central Jakarta. the study used the method of descriptive analysis by observing Packaging color, type of packaging, product color, taste, and price. Validity and reliability tests were performed on the questionnaire. The characteristics of respondents and consumer behavior were analyzed descriptively, while the preferences of processed fish products, such as fish balls, jambal salted fish, shredded fish, fish nuggets, fish cake, and attributes in processed fish products that consumers will consider when purchasing processed fish products, were analyzed using Chi-Square. According to the findings, the processed fish product that became the consumer's favorite at the Bendungan Hilir Market was fish cake.  Many of the factors that influenced the purchasing decision included the color of the white packaging, the color of the natural product, and the type of plastic packaging, but the most important factor in selecting products for fish balls, jambal salted fish, shredded fish, fish nuggets, and fish cake was the original taste. Fish balls and fish cake are priced between Rp. 15,000 and Rp. 20,000, while jambal salted fish, shredded fish, and fish nuggets are priced above Rp. 20,000.
Length-Weight Relationship and Condition Factor of African Mud Catfish (Clarias gariepinus (Burchell 1822) and Tilapia (Oreochromis nilotica Linnaeus 1758) in Orashi River of Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Lga of Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Okwodu N. E. , Okorie P. U. , Nwoke B. E. B.
Published: February 2022

Length-weight relationship and condition factor are important in fishery assessment studies since it provide information about the growth of the fish, its general wellbeing and fitness in aquatic habitat. LWRs for 2 fish species –Clarias gariepinus (Burchell 1822) and Oreochromis nilotica (Linnaeus 1758) collected from Orashi River were established and their growth condition was evaluated. The study was carried out from September 2019 to August 2020. The biometric measurement (length/weight) shows that the weight of the fish increased in proportion to its length as indicated by the slope (b) of the relationship.  The mean value shows strong relationship because coefficient of determination (R2) is >0.5 and range from 0.795-0.985. Higher values of both length and weight were recorded for Catfish over Tilapia. The results indicated that almost all the fish sampled exhibited a positive allometric growth and trended to grow bigger. All relationship were statistically significant (p=0.05). The mean Fulton’s condition factor (K) of the fish range from Catfish (1.24-1.80) and Tilapia (1.5-3.7) in the 5 stations sampled. The result showed that Tilapia had a high mean range and therefore was in better conditions than the Catfish. This gives information on the food supply, timing and duration of breeding cycle. The indices may also be used in the general assessment of the “well being” of a fish [1]. Multiple comparison tests using Turkey Kramer showed that the condition factor of Catfish from Okwuzi (station 1) was significantly different from that of Ndoni and Omoku but Ebocha and Obrikom was not significantly different from each other. With regards to seasonal variation, dry season recorded higher values than rainy season.
Enhancing the Design of a Secured Campus Network using Demilitarized Zone and Honeypot at Uew- kumasi Campus
Authors: Nikoi Solomon Nii , Adu-Boahene Christian , Nsiah-Konandu Alberta
Published: February 2022

The increasing complexity of information systems, as well as the rapid development of new vulnerabilities and exploits, the security of campus networks needs to be hardened to minimize or eradicate security flaws.

Aim: To discover the vulnerabilities and enhance the creation and deployment of secured campus network. 

Place and Duration of study: University of Education, Winneba – Kumasi campus.

Methodology:  The integration of De-Militarized zone and Honeypot techniques was used to beef up the security of the campus network against vulnerabilities and exploits. Penetration testing was used in the assessment of the University of Education’s network infrastructure, and to demonstrate attacks and intrusion into the network infrastructure.

Results: Two firewall DMZ architecture techniques protect sensitive resources of the campus network by sanctioning the inflow and outflow of traffic, determining which segment allow and disallow traffic,   whiles the Honeypot techniques were configured to keep the attention of attackers diverted from the main network, the full strength of an attack, until the administrators are prepared to put the effective counter in place. The fusion of DMZ and, Honeypot provide the System Administrators to effectively management the security of the campus networks.

Conclusion: Honeypots are used to detect vulnerabilities based on the attacker’s behaviour and, data collected by honeypots can be used to enhance other security technologies.  The fusion of DMZ and Honeypot into the security models of the campus network made it more robust.
Production and Investigation of the Antiseptic Properties of Soaps Made from the Barks, Seeds and Leaves Extracts of Neem Tree
Authors: Mohammed U. F. , Danmallan A. , Ahmed M. H.
Published: February 2022

The main aim of this work is to investigate the antiseptic properties of Azadirachta indica (Neem) tree parts (leaves, barks and seeds). The extracts were used in the production of soap samples of various concentrations (20 mg/cm3, 15 mg/cm3, 10 mg/cm3 and 5 mg/cm3).  Inhibitory Activity sensitivity test using Agar-well Diffusion Method was employed to test the antibacterial activities of the soap samples on two bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus bacteria and Propionibacterium acnes. The results show that soap samples from the Neem parts exhibited antiseptic properties against the bacteria tested.  According to the results, the Neem bark soap produces the highest level of effectiveness across the entire concentration spectrum, followed by the Neem seed soap. The Neem leaves soap produced the lowest level of effectiveness against the two bacteria. The order of effectiveness of the soap samples is: NBRK (Neem barks) > NSED (Neem seeds) > NLVS (Neem leaves). The commercial soap (NRMS) used as a control sample did not exhibit antibacterial activity against the two microbes.
Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activities of the Essential Oils of Synedrella nodiflora, Mikania cordata and Melanthera scandensthree Plants of the Ivorian Flora
Authors: Séraphin Konan N’dri , Antoine Kouamé Bosson , Vénance Konan Kouakou , Akhanovna Mamyr Békova-Békro Janat , Yves-Alain Békro
Published: February 2022

Aims: The objective of this work is to contribute to the valorization of medicinal and aromatic plants of the Ivorian flora. We propose to evaluate the antioxidant and antibacterial activities of the essential oil (EO) of three species used in traditional medicine.

Study Design: Valorization of aromatic and medicinal plants and essential oil.

Methodology: The antioxidant potential of the extracts was evaluated using the Blois method. The antibacterial activity of the different oils at different concentrations was determined for each bacterial strain, by the technique of macro-dilution in solid medium (diffusion in wells).The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and The Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) were determined. MBC / MIC ratios were calculated. When this ratio is less than 4, the extract is considered to be bactericidal. When it is 4, the extract is considered bacteriostatic.

Results: The antioxidant activity has pointed out the poor antioxidant power of the essential oil(EO) extracted. The EC50 values vary from 15 µg/mL to 32 µg/mg. The antibacterial tests have shown that the samples exert an inhibitory effect on Gram (+) bacteria. The diameters of the inhibition zones vary between 14 and 25 mm for the extracts against 35 mm for the gentamycin. The MBC/MIC is 2 for the gentamycin and 4 for all the EO combined versus the resistant S. aureus methicillin. Therefore, the essential oil has shown a bacteriostatic effect on this strain. As far as S. aureus CIP 483 is concerned, the MBC/MIC has given 1 for the gentamycin, 2 for M. scandens. The EO extract of M. scandens has a bactericidal action against   this bacteria strain.

Conclusion: All the essential oils have less antioxidant activity than that of vitamin C.

The antibacterial activity of EO has given satisfactory results on all Gram (+) bacteria. Melanthera scandens Essential Oil shows antibacterial potential against Staphylococcus aureus CIP 483.
Public Perception on Genetically Modified Products: A Case Study of Four Local Government Areas in Cross River State, Nigeria
Authors: Edu N. E. , Ekerette E. E. , Adah P. O.
Published: February 2022

This survey was carried out to evaluate the perception of the people of Cross River State on genetically modified products (GMPs). The survey was carried out in four local government areas of Cross River State (Odukpani, Calabar Municipality, Calabar South and Akpabuyo) with 1000 respondents in each local government area giving a total of 4000 respondents. Data obtained from the questionnaire shared to the respondents were carefully collated and presented in simple percentages for ease of understanding. The demographic data showed that there were more males in the study (51.2%) than females (48.80%). Majority of the respondents were aged 25-35 years (46%). Most respondents had tertiary education (65.25%) and were majorly civil servants (27%) and businessmen (22.25%). A greater percentage of the respondents (63.75%) never heard of GMPs prior to this research. It was grossly observed that most of the respondents had various fears and concerns about GMPs.  However, 58.5% agreed that the adoption of biotechnological principles in agriculture will increase productivity. In clear terms, we are still far behind in consumer knowledge of GMPs and there is need for more robust efforts in bringing this great technology to the minds of the consumers.
Sonographic Evaluation of Renal Dimensions and Volume in Normal Pregnancy in Bayelsa State, South-South, Nigeria
Authors: Kiridi E. K. , Oriji P. C. , Abasi I. J.
Published: February 2022

Background: Physiological changes in the renal system lead to important modifications in electrolyte, acid-base balance and renal function. Some of these changes occur in the renal dimensions and volume, and to adequately interpret these changes, physiological changes in pregnancy should be well understood.

Objective: To evaluate the renal dimensions and volume, and correlate them with age, parity and trimesters in normal pregnancy in Bayelsa State, Nigeria.

Study Design: Prospective, descriptive, cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, and Radiology of the two tertiary hospitals in Bayelsa State, Nigeria, from July to December, 2021.

Materials and Methods: Sonographic assessments of the renal dimensions and volume in 400 randomly selected normal pregnant women in both tertiary health institutions were done, after obtaining written informed consent from them. Data were entered into a pre-designed proforma, and analysed using Statistical Product and Service Solutions for windows® version 25, SPSS Inc.; Chicago, USA). Results were presented in frequencies and percentages for categorical variables; mean and standard deviation for continuous variables. Student’s t-test was used to compare sample means; and Chi-square for associations.

Results: A total of 400 pregnant women were scanned. The mean renal bipolar length, mean antero-posterior diameter and mean renal width were 10.9 ± 1.0 cm, 4.7 ± 0.6 cm and 6.4 ± 0.7 cm respectively. Mean renal volume was 174.2 ± 44.8 cm. Renal volume was highest in the left kidney of women > 35 years (186.8 ± 47.3 cm3), and was lowest (162.8 ± 33.6 cm3) in the right kidney of women < 20 years. The mean values of the renal dimensions and volume increased with parity of the women and trimester of pregnancy.

Conclusion: This study produced a mean renal volume in pregnancy for our locality. It was revealed that the renal volume and dimensions were lowest in younger women and highest in older women. The renal volume increased as pregnancy advanced; and with increasing parity.
Economics of Linseed (Linum usitatissimum) under Various Combination of Sulphur and Zinc
Authors: Dhakar Rajesh , Kumar Rahul , Nagar Mahendra
Published: February 2022

A study was conducted to work out the economics of various treatment combinations calculates the economics of sulphur and zinc under linseed (Linum usitatissimum) Crop, to calculate economics of sulphur and zinc. For the present study factorial randomized block design was used keeping three replications. Among the S and Zn level treatments performed the best with the highest grain productivity up to 19.84 q ha-1, net return up to Rs. 77360 ha-1. Treatment interactions were found to be non-significant in grain yield – However, the combined application of sulphur @ 30 Kg/ha and Zinc 2.5 Kg/ha level treatments with dual further raised all these parameters synergistically according to their combined role. Economy in the uses of phosphatic fertilizers may be done with application S and Zn level treatments. The total availability of nutrients i.e. nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium per hectare were also increased in all these treatments with suggests that soil must be recouped every year with NPK nutrients with a minimum level on soil test values and the nature of the crop to be grown. This would maintain the nutrients balance in the soil to ensure sustainable crop production per unit area.
Climate Change Policies of the Four Largest Global Emitters of Greenhouse Gases: Their Similarities, Differences and Way Forward
Authors: Daniel Tang Kuok Ho
Published: February 2022

Aims: The impetus to combat intensifying climate change has prompted countries to make policies pertinent to climate change. With China, India, the United States and the European Union contributing to more than half of greenhouse gases emitted, their climate change policies are of concern particularly as signatories of the Paris Agreement.

Study Design: This article critically reviews the climate change policies of the four largest

emitters of greenhouse gases, particularly their similarities and differences.

Methodology: This review examined more than 85 literature including scholarly articles, oﬃcial reports and policy documents published between 2010 and 2020, pertaining to climate change and energy policies, plans and programs of the four regions.

Results: This review shows that the policies address similar domains comprising eﬃciency in energy and resources utilization, development of cleaner and renewable energy, optimization of transport system and promotion of electric mobility. Land use, land-use change and forestry is more commonly addressed in policies of developing countries than the developed ones. Major diﬀerences of the policies are the emphasis where the United States and European Union focus more on clean transportation particularly hydrogen fuel, besides carbon market. The extents of making policy targets legally binding also differ. There is a signiﬁcant deﬁciency of adaptation policies compared to mitigation policies.

Conclusion: This review, thus, contributes to identifying shortcomings of current climate

change policies and continuous improvement of the policies.