bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Communication, Conflict and Crisis Management
Authors: Touitou Tina C.
Published: October 2020

Communication is an indispensable tool in business and in all human organization. This is to say that no organization can exist or succeed without effective communication. Also, of great relevance when it has to do with managing conflicts and cries. In human relation there is bound to be conflicts due to differences in the way people perceive things, their divergent interest needs, goals and personalities. No society can survive without conflict but can thrive better under discordant voices. Conflict is inevitable in human society, whether formal and informal conflicts or crises, can be managed and resolved through effective communication. Based on these the paper adopted three conflict models: Structural /Six Hubs Wheel Model of Conflict Management, the Structural and Process Model, Skchammer and Conflict Management Model, it also employed empirical secondary data. The finding of the study opines that effective communication has been proven by research and experience to be at the heart or centre of effective crisis management. It further concluded that the best antidote in crisis management techniques is consistent and persistent communication, with consistent communication and thoughtful planning, one is better prepared to counter crisis successfully.
Demand-Supply Disparity: How to Design Smallholder Farmers-Friendly Microcredit?
Authors: Zahirul Haque A. K. M.
Published: October 2020

Criticisms are aplenty that formal credit system such as microcredit is not inclusive to cater for the need of smallholder farmers. This paper analyses the existing literature to find out the limitation of microcredit to fulfil the need of smallholder farmers. The paper found that microcredit for smallholder farmers encompasses either ex ante flexibility or ex post flexibility. However, smallholder farmers need both ex ante and ex post flexibility due to their small, irregular and uncertain income. The current paper suggests that there is a need to revise existing microcredit modality by including both ex ante and ex post flexibility in order to make microcredit more inclusive for smallholder farmers.
Business Strategy Improvement for PT. XYZ to Achieve Competitive Advantage in Construction Industry
Authors: Tantarto Takara , Wandebori Harimukti
Published: October 2020

XYZ has been engaged in the construction services business for 48 years in Indonesia and this company pioneered its work as executor of building construction. At present, PT. XYZ is experiencing challenges due to the decrease in project targets per year set by the company so that it has an impact on revenue decline. Since the business problems occurred, the company has not developed a new strategy to increase the company's target.

This study aims to determine and improve company strategy based on the problems that occur and is expected to have an impact on increasing project targets. The methodology used in this study uses qualitative data obtained from interviews with the company’s employees. Secondary data analysis was performed using the company's Annual Report and literature study.

The conceptual framework used begins with an analysis of the external environment using PESTEL analysis, Porter's 5 Forces, and competitor analysis. All analysis results are summarized in the SWOT analysis. The proposed strategy based on the results of the study with the TOWS Matrix, Authors provides an overview of the Strategy Map to achieve a competitive advantage.
Proposed Corporate Performance Management System for XYZ City Government
Authors: Soleman Ayu Regita Cahyani , Hikmat Muhammad Tresnadi
Published: October 2020

XYZ City Government has 3 Regionally-Owned Enterprises or Badan Usaha Milik Daerah (BUMD) that are managed independently to support the XYZ economic sector. In fact, one of the three BUMD management is bad, so that it makes the company go bankrupt because it produces losses. In addition, the Regional Original Revenue of XYZ City is very small when compared to other regions in West Java.

The purpose of this research is to propose a Performance Management System that can help to improve the performance of XYZ City Government. The improved performance can imply an indicator of success for the mayor's 5-year tenure and his deputy. The design of the Performance Management System was made by translating the vision and mission that was launched by the Mayor and his Deputy into a business strategy that was breakdown to each work unit (department).

This research uses the combined of Balance Scorecard and Integrated Performance Management System (IPMS) framework. This framework is used to assist organizations in achieving excellent performance seen from all aspects of the existing organization. Balance Scorecard Framework has 4 perspectives, such as Financial, Customer, Internal Process, and Learning & Growth. The IPMS framework has 5 stages, Foundation, Background Information, Design, Implementation, and Maintenance and Update. IPMS has 3 perspectives, Organizational Output, Internal Process, and Resource Availability. The results of this study propose a Performance Management System with 62 Key Performance Indicators (KPI) derived from the company's vision, mission and strategy.
A Participatory Management Model for Flood-Risk Communication (PMMFRC) in Davao City, Philippines
Authors: Cayamanda Karen Joyce Gonzales , Paunlagui Merlyne M.
Published: October 2020

Vulnerable communities of Davao City, Southern Philippines has experienced flooding that leads to catastrophic effects costing damage to properties and loss of lives. Communities need to build its resiliency to respond to flooding and mitigate its negative impacts. Policy makers and leaders need to regularly review and update its existing policies to address gaps and promote effective community engagement.

This paper highlights the development of the communication management framework based on the results from the qualitative approaches of document analysis, examination of relevant secondary data and the key informant interviews conducted among the heads and representatives of the identified agencies involved in the risk reduction and disaster management of the city. Results of the study revealed that Davao City implements a top-down communication system for risk reduction management which has little or no room for transactional interaction between the source of the message and the local communities. Messages have been found to be unfiltered and interoperability mechanism has been found only at the level of the implementing agencies. The study, therefore, proposed a participatory management model for flood-risk communication (PMMFRC) for flood-vulnerable communities towards risk reduction.
Determining the Optimal Concession Period in Cancer Hospital Project using Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with Availability Payment Scheme
Authors: Huda N. D. , Prasetyo A. D.
Published: October 2020

The construction of Cancer Hospital in city of X which require total Capital Expenditure of Rp 1,135,834,554,688 can answer the need of comprehensive cancer services in Indonesia. But due to limited local government budgets, forcing local government to find alternative funding through Public Private Partnership (PPP) scheme. One of the newest PPP scheme at the moment is the Availability Payment (AP) scheme.

Through this research, authors analyze the optimal concession period and the feasibility of this investment plan by calculating the required Capital Expenditures, Operating Cost, and other expense and Risk embedded to the project. The optimal concession period is analyzed by simulation of different concession period scheme ranging from 10-25 years and find the lowest required Availability Payment. The feasibility of the cancer hospital project is analyzed by using Discounted Cash Flow parameter which are Net Present Value, Internal Rate of Return and Payback Period. The risk embedded to the project is analyzed by using sensitivity, scenario and monte carlo analysis.

From the result of Availability Payment calculation, the optimal concession period for this project is 22 years, this period scenario generates AP payment of Rp 287,712,786,883. The result of this project is financially feasible with positive Net Present Value of Rp 95,490,595,725, the Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 12,66% which greater than Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC) of 11.92% , and Payback Period of 11,17 years. This Cancer hospital Project is financially safe to build by business entity (BUP). From 10,000 trials of Monte Carlo simulation, the project NPV will lies between Rp 59,335,915,203 to Rp 121,260,967,584 with 95% certainties with worst case scenario NPV still positive Rp 40,041,126,128.  Based on the sensitivity analysis the COGS expense is the variable that most affecting the overall NPV of this project, followed by the long-term debt interest rate.
Impact on The Supply Chain in a Hospital Environment Caused by the Coronavirus Inside the State of Amazonas
Authors: Da Silva Mayko Pinheiro , Veroneze Gabriela de Mattos , De Oliveira Marcelo Albuquerque , Pinto Pereira Ingrid Marina
Published: October 2020

With the emergence of a pandemic in the world caused by the new coronavirus (COVID-19), many companies closed doors because of the lack of capital to maintain operational performance. Still, others reinvented and adapted themselves during this problem. The impact was no different on the industries, mainly on their supply chain, on inventories, and production rates, whether they are small, medium, or large. The fact is that no one left unscathed as a result of this pandemic. The general objective of this study was to present the impact on the supply chain in the hospital environment in the interior of the Amazonas state, which has an entirely different logistics arrangement from anywhere in the world. The results indicate that the proper functioning of the hospital system is directly related to the capacity to supply adequate materials that guarantee the execution of procedures with quality and higher patient satisfaction.
Evaluation of Total Employment Rate Aged 15-64 in EU15
Authors: Nwaubani Joel Chiadikobi , Ohia Adanma Ngozi , Peace Opara , Adaugo Uzokwe Chinwe , Ezeji Uchechi Mgbafor , Ezechukwu Christiana Uzoma
Published: October 2020

Many papers have been written on the subject - total employment rate, and most of them stressed on excessive pressure emanating from economic recession, heavy competition, modern and skill biased technological changes as the main principal causes of demands for jobs. Unarguably, evaluating total employment rate remain issues of considerable importance for economists, statisticians, the media and policy makers. However, understanding how the economy works requires a shift from economic modelling to economic analysis. We will consider the use of association model as an alternative to reduced form methods. Against the background of total employment rate, this study considers and estimate the most accurate association model of the Categorical Data Analysis for the total employment rate - employed persons aged 15-64 as a share of the total population of the same age group in the EU15 from 2008-2017. The analysis of association (ANOAS) table is given in order to ascertain the percentage of the data which is covered by each model. We estimate the association model to find the model with the best fit and acceptable. In conclusion we find out that the Column Effects Association Model (C) has the best fit because it covers almost 90% of the data - giving the best fit among all.
Determination Cost of Sales and Utilization of Internet Media for SMEs Marketing in Kelanggaran Unyur
Authors: Aswar Khoirul , Ermawati .
Published: October 2020

The development of several food preparations in Kelanggaran Village, Unyur Serang, Banten, are craftsmen who diversify their processed products of various sizes, shapes, and types. The increase in the amount of production produced by craftsmen often neglects to be unable to determine the expected profit target related to material spending, production processes to marketing, so that prices are formed only based on estimates. In addition, this service aims to provide understanding to the craftsmen of special food processing. It is hoped that after this service, they can determine the cost of goods sold themselves and be able to market these special processed foods through the internet for their business. The implementation method in the program uses the participatory follow-up assessment method for IbM partners. This method is carried out because of the need for a partner situation analysis stage in the form of a field visit to the partners. To solve the solution to the problems faced by food processing craftsmen as partners, it is carried out in the form of a series of activities. Based on the results of direct observations, discussions and direct questions and answers during the activity, namely increased knowledge and understanding of determining the cost of goods sold and the use of internet media in the micro food / souvenir business typical of Serang City, this can be seen from the results of observations, discussions and questions and answers. during the training process.
Impact of Covid-19 Pandemic on Balance of Payments: Evidence from Developed and Developing Countries
Authors: Jumaeva Sohibjamol
Published: October 2020

The article is devoted to the consideration of the pandemic impact on the balance of payments of developed and developing countries. In addition, the article presents proposals and recommendations aimed at mitigating the impact of pandemic on the balance of payments in the Republic of Uzbekistan.
Exchange Rate Policy and Export Promotion: Evidence from Uzbekistan
Authors: Hoshimov Elmurod Abdusattorovich
Published: October 2020

This article is devoted to the analysis of the impact of exchange rate policy on export performance in terms of theory and practice. In addition, the article presents developed scientific proposals and practical recommendations aimed at enhancing the promoting role of exchange rate policy in improving export performance of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
Managing Price Risk of Pork through Gross Margin: A Depiction from China and US
Authors: Daninga Phillip Daniel , Qiao Zhang
Published: October 2020

China’s demand for pork has been increasing at a relatively constant rate and its pork imports are increasingly determined by the fluctuations of its domestic supply. This fluctuation in domestic supply has resulted in making farmers suffer from the shocks of price instability. Despite the absence or underdevelopment of livestock insurance in most developing countries, an experience from China and US serves as a lesson for these countries to pay attention to the subsector with potential contribution to the country’s economy but having little or no efforts accorded to the same. This study explored the importance of Livestock Gross Margin (LGM) insurance by analyzing the pork price fluctuation trend in China and linking the risk to the impacts on revenues of pork producers. The sources of data were national surveys reports, research papers and data obtained from China’s Ministry of Agriculture (MoA). Findings revealed that Pork producers in China had been faced with adverse price fluctuations that posed threats to producers’ revenues. The study shows LGM insurance as an important and alternative tool to smooth incomes of the producers in the pork industry when it is managed in its advanced stage. For pork industry to continue prospering, the study recommends establishment of reliable futures market to provide partial income risk insurance to producers whose output is risky.
Crude Oil Price Shocks, Exchange Rate Regimes and Monetary Policy in African Oil Producing Countries
Authors: Adedeji Adetona Sikiru , Saliu Mojeed Olanrewaju
Published: October 2020

This study investigated whether exchange rate regimes and interest rate policy have a significant explanatory power of oil price implications on African oil producing economies. Data for the study were sourced from World Development Indicators published by the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (World Economic Outlook). The study used a four variable Structural Vector Autoregressive (SVAR) model. Findings from the SVAR impulse response functions revealed that no exchange rate regime is the best, and no one is bad for African oil producing countries, judging from the costs and benefits that are associated with the three major exchange rate regimes. Findings from the study equally confirmed that expansionary monetary policy is more effective in insulating against and compensating for the negative effects of the shocks associated with the global oil price in the selected oil producing countries in Africa.
The Impact of Human Development on the Standard of Living in Alleviating Poverty: Evidence from Africa
Authors: Korankye Benjamin , Wen Xuezhou , Nketia Easmond Baah , Kweitsu Godson
Published: October 2020

The African Union 2030, 2063, and beyond strategic, focused on transformative economic growth and regional integration, empowering the populace and consolidating peace and society cannot be achieved without considering human development as synergies in elevating these policies. A large focus on empowering the populace through domestic credit can help this agenda be realized. For robustness sake, the researcher developed both subjective and objective measures to check the various relationships of the variable that helps to achieve the standard of living. Using data from the World Bank's development indicators and Human Development indicators from 1998 to 2017, the researcher examined human development reduces poverty. In this meta-analysis, the study empirically synthesizes a total of four African countries under study, fixed and random effects estimation, domestic credit and human development study find out these variables have a positive relationship of poverty which helps to improve the standard of living. The findings of this study have important implications for policy implementation and therefore, helps to improve the standard of living in the four countries under study.
The Mediating Role of Job Satisfaction in the Development of Officer's Performance
Authors: Ridha Muhammad , Mahfudnurnajamuddin . , Semmaila Baharuddin , Mursalim Mursalim
Published: October 2020

This study aims to examine the effect of the work environment, compensation on job satisfaction, and officer performance. This research was conducted in eight Public Health Centers in Pinrang Regency with a population of 322 people; researchers took 220 people as samples. This research method uses regressive research with a quantitative approach. The technique of collecting data by making observations with the media questionnaire. The method of analysis uses inferential statistics with a parametric data type and uses Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The results showed that the work environment variable on employee performance had a positive and significant effect because it had t-value = 2.97 > 1.96 (t-table). Likewise, the work environment on job satisfaction has at-value = 2.31> 1.96 (t-table) which means that the work environment has a positive and significant effect on job satisfaction. The work environment on employee performance mediated by job satisfaction also has a significant effect with t-value = -2.32> 1.96 (t-table). However, the compensation variable on employee performance shows no and significant effect because the t-value = 0.00 <1.96 (t-table). The compensation variable on job satisfaction has a positive and significant effect with t-value = 2.97> 1.96 (t-table). Likewise, the compensation variable on employee performance with job satisfaction as a mediating variable has at-value = 3.36> 1.96 (t-table) which means that positive job satisfaction mediates the relationship between compensation and employee performance. With t-value = -2.73> 1.96 (t-table), so it can be interpreted that the job satisfaction variable has a positive and significant effect on officer performance.
Financial Performance as Mediator on the Impact of Capital Structure, Wealth Structure, Financial Structure on Stock Price: The Case of The Indonesian Banking Sector
Authors: Mansyur Andi , Mus Abd. Rahman , Rahman Zainuddin , Suriyanti Suriyanti
Published: October 2020

This research examines the financial performance as a mediating variable in analyzing the capital structure, wealth structure, and financial structure of stock prices by using trade-off theory and signaling theory. This study uses 145 secondary data in the form of bank financial reports listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX). Model testing uses structural equation (SEM) through the SmartPLS version 3.0 programs. The results of model testing show that capital structure and financial structure can reduce financial performance, wealth structure can improve financial performance. High financial performance cannot increase stock prices. The capital structure does not lower the stock price, the wealth structure raises the stock price, and the financial structure lowers the stock price. Financial performance does not mediate the effect of capital structure, wealth structure, and financial structure on stock prices.
Investigating Warehousing Operations from an Integrated Supply-Chain and Transportation Approach
Authors: Wanjari Sushant Siddharth
Published: October 2020

Transportation a primary step in the supply chain of goods. The responsive time between the parts of this chain may critically affect the duration of the processes. By accounting on an integrated system, warehouses can increase the accuracy and reliability of the processes. This paper analyzes the feasibility of integrated transportation and warehousing platforms from two points of view: infrastructure (e.g. physical place, geographical location) and organizational perspective (e.g. software, data, models). This paper contributes to fill the gap between practitioners and researchers about the needs of both systems. This paper found that transportation and warehousing are two inherently linked systems. However, the current practice lacks substantial improvements in data collection and modeling of these systems. Future directions point towards the use of big data and the implementation of econometric concepts (i.e. choice models), together with a spatial understanding of the impact of warehousing locations (i.e. accessibility concept) in transport costs. E-commerce, big data, and autonomous driving are the future challenges to integrating these two systems of warehousing and transportation. Finally, with the current pandemic of COVID-19, improving freight services is becoming a basic need. This paper contributes to a better understanding of the needs of integrating transportation and warehousing in the current challenging times.
Forecasting GDP Per Capita In Bangladesh: Using Arima Model
Authors: Voumik Liton Chandra , Smrity Dilruba Yesmin
Published: October 2020

GDP per capita is one of the key indicators of the economic health of any country. It is often used by academicians and decision-makers to plan public and private policies. The work aims to forecast the real per capita GDP in Bangladesh. Using yearly data for Bangladesh from 1972 to 2019, the study analyzes future GDP per capita using the ARIMA technique. The ADF, PP, and KPSS tests showed that the appropriate model to forecast Bangladeshi GDP per capita is ARIMA (0, 2, 1). Finally, we applied in our paper the ARIMA model (0,2,1) to forecast the GDP per capita of Bangladesh for the next decade. The future GDP per capita shows that living standards in Bangladesh will continue. Indeed, Bangladesh's economy is growing, and other poor countries must learn from Bangladesh's experiences. The study offers policy prescriptions to help policymakers for Bangladesh on how to maintain, preserve, and promote sustainable growth in Bangladesh.
Developing a Marketing Strategy to Increase the Occupancy Rate: Case Study Hotel XYZ
Authors: Andini Farah Hani , Koesrindartoto Deddy Priatmodjo
Published: October 2020

Hotel XYZ is one of the oldest local hotels in Bandung. Located in a strategic location, this hotel uses the concept of a heritage hotel. In 2017-2019, Hotel XYZ experienced a decline in performance. This happen due to lowering the occupancy rate of the rooms which results in a decrease in overall income. The increasing number of local accommodations has also increased competition between hotels with the same target market. All data used in this study are qualitative and based on primary data and secondary data. Primary data was obtained through interviews with the XYZ hotel management and internal data needs such as room occupancy rate data and financial reports. Meanwhile, secondary data comes from study literature, related news and related journals. This study aims to help Hotel XYZ, to increase the occupancy rate of rooms so that they can survive in business in this industry. Several strategies will be used in this study to increase room occupancy rates. In this research, the author will identify problems through PEST analysis, competitor analysis, customer analysis and virtual hotel operator analysis and business model canvas. From the results of the analysis, the authors found that there are conditions that are not ideal, including not maximizing marketing activities, resulting in high walk-in consumers. After carrying out procedures for analysis related to company issues, the authors compile alternative solutions that can be proposed to be able to increase the occupancy rate and hotel revenue through a marketing strategy. The author develops strategies through new wave marketing and sustainability strategies. With this strategy, marketing activities can focus more on communities such as business travelers. XYZ hotel must also conducted some additional activities such as reactivating social media and websites, updating the interior and working with parties who can support hotel marketing activities.
A Review on the Removal of Dye, Pesticide and Pathogens from Waste Water Using Quantum Dots
Authors: Anand Kalaiselvi Velayutham , Sandy Subala Anand , Sumathi K. Sripathi , Antony Lucia Merin Stanish
Published: October 2020

The industrial pollutants in water bodies tend to unsuitable for living organisms and irrigation uses. Water contamination is exaggerating at regular pace and the universe is holding carcinogenic agents. Therefore, there is a necessity of immediate action to generate a potential and efficient technology for water management. By means of this, quantum dots (QDs) have emerged as an effective probe for the removal process. This review discusses the methods for removing and degrading the coloured components, pesticides, pathogens from waste water and contaminants removal ability of QDs.
Assessment on the Effective Green-Based Nepal Origin Plants Extract as Corrosion Inhibitor for Mild Steel in Bioethanol and its Blend
Authors: Katuwal Prakash , Regmi Ramesh , Joshi Susan , Bhattarai Jagadeesh
Published: October 2020

Effects of Nepal origin plant species of Vitex negundo, Catharanthus roseu, Aegle marmelos and Elaeocarpus ganitrus extracts on mild steel corrosion were explored in bioethanol (E100) and its blend (E15) in airtight condition at 25±2 °C using static immersion, inhibition efficiency and mechanism tests which were complemented with adsorption isotherms and potentiodynamic polarization studies. Corrosion resistance of the mild steel was increased with increasing 500-2000 ppm concentrations of each plant extract in E100 and E15 biofuels. Additions of V. negundo and C. roseus extract separately in both the biofuels seems to be more effective inhibition actions to prevent the mild steel corrosion than A. marmelos or E. ganitrus addition so as the corrosion rates of the mild steel in E100 and E15 are successfully lowered even than in commercial gasoline (E0). The results obtained from the corrosion rate revealed the order of the corrosion inhibition efficiency (IE) as V. negundo > C. roseus > A. marmelos > E. ganitrus. The maximum IE (IEmax) in V. negundo and C. roseus leaves was showed about 89-86% and 71-75%, respectively, at 2000 ppm concentration, in spite of the other two more plants leaf extract also used as the corrosion inhibitors for the mild steel in both E100 and E15 biofuels. The IE increased on increasing inhibitor concentration following the Langmuir and Temkin adsorption isotherms but decreased with immersion time which suggested that the corrosion inhibition mechanism is of physical type of adsorption of the leaves constituents on the mild steel surface. A. marmelos extract acted as an anodic type of inhibitor in E100 and E15, while E. ganitrus acted as mixed
Estimation of Cyclic Voltammetry Data for Srcl₂, Cacl₂ and Their Interaction with Ceftriaxone Sodium Salt in KNO₃ Using Palladium Working Electrode
Authors: Gomaa Esam A. , El-Defraway Mohamed M. , Hussien Safa Q.
Published: October 2020

The cyclic voltammetry data for the redox reaction for strontium chloride and calcium chloride in 0.1M KNO3 pollution were estimated. New palladium electrode was prepared and used as working electrode. Palladium electrode has already redox waves which used as analytical method for the estimation of calcium and strontium in solutions. Also, interaction of both strontium and calcium ions with drug ceftriaxone sodium salt was studied and the data obtained are used for the analytical evaluation for both calcium and strontium. The different kinetic and thermodynamic data was evaluated for the two kinds of ions alone and in the presence of ceftriaxone sodium salt and their data were discussed.
Demonstrating the Impact of 6to4 Tunneling on IPV4 and IPV6 Network Coexistence
Authors: Osa E. , Konyeha S. , Evbuomwan E.
Published: October 2020

In this work the impact of the 6to4 tunnels is considered. In order for traffic to flow from an Internet Protocol version 4(IPv4) website to a native Internet Protocol version 6(IPv6) website, an additional configuration must be added to the network, as this cannot be done by default. The Riverbed Modeler Academic Version 17.5 is used to build and evaluate network efficiency with optimized 6to4 tunnels. The performance of the network is assessed based on the traffic received and sent by Internet Protocol (Version 6), Voice Called Traffic and the Sent and Received Traffic of the configured applications. The flow of traffic from servers to workstations in native IPv6 sites shows the effect of the tunnel configured.
Assessment of L-Citrulline, L-Arginine and L-Glutamic Acid Content in Selected Fruits, Vegetables, Seeds, and Nuts Sold in Markets in Nairobi City County, Kenya
Authors: Mulwa Peninnah Mueni , Njue Wilson , Ng’ang’a Margaret
Published: October 2020

Background: L-citrulline, L-arginine, and L-glutamic acid are amino acids which are vital in the human body. L-citrulline boosts immunity, combats sarcopenia, detoxifies the liver, and enhances male fertility. L-arginine boosts internal production of nitric oxide, prevents abnormal blood clotting and accelerates healing of wounds. L-glutamic acid cleanses the central nervous system and improves overall brain health. Deficiency of these amino acids can lead to accumulation of ammonia and impact negatively to the nervous systems of the human body. This study aimed to identify and determine the levels of L-citrulline, L-arginine, and L-glutamic acid in selected fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds sold in markets in Nairobi City County, Kenya using Liquid Chromatography- Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS).

Materials and Methods: Data was collected from 28 selected samples and data analysis was done using Statistical Analysis Software (SAS) version 9.4.

Results: LC-MS showed the presence of both L-arginine and L-citrulline in most fruits, vegetables, and nuts while L-glutamic acid was present in the seeds. The levels of the amino acids in the fruits and vegetables were in the following range: L-citrulline (0.65- 19.41 mg/100g) in the button mushroom, cucumber, pumpkin, amaranthus, and kales, (3.16-3.79 mg/100g) in the watermelons and (1.57-10.21 mg/100g) in the nuts. L-arginine was in the range; 1.73 - 16.48 mg/100g in the amaranthus, kales, button mushroom, butternut squash, and cucumber, 5.44-6.56 mg/100g in the watermelons and 0.93-10.73 mg/100g in the nuts and L-glutamic acid (0.013-0.28 mg/100g) in the seeds of pumpkin, butternut, and watermelons.

Conclusion: The results showed that locally available vegetables, fruits and nuts are rich in L-citrulline and L-arginine.
Nutritional Composition, Functional and Organoleptic Properties of Breakfast Cereals Formulated from Acha, Wheat, Cashew Kernel and Prawn
Authors: Emelike N.  J. T. , Achinewhu S. C. , Ebere C. O.
Published: October 2020

Acha grains and cashew kernels were processed into flour while prawn was processed into powder. Acha flour was used to substitute wheat flour while a constant percentage of cashew kernel flour and prawn was used as an enrichment in the formulation of breakfast cereals at the ratios of 70:0:20:10, 60:10:20:10, 50:20:20:10, 40:30:20:10, 30:40:20:10, 20:50:20:10, 10:60:20:10 and 0:70:20:10 of acha/wheat/cashew kernel/prawn and labeled A-H samples, respectively. The nutritional, functional and organoleptic properties of the formulated breakfast cereal was studied. The result revealed that the proximate compositions of the breakfast cereals ranged between 3.94-9.46% for moisture content, ash 2.09-2.98%, fat 8.30-15.20%, protein 9.17-14.65%, crude fibre 1.28-1.60%, and carbohydrate 60.97-76.66% with significant different (SD) between some samples and no SD in some other samples. Functional properties' result showed that the bulk density of the breakfast cereals ranged between 0.49-0.55 g/g, water absorption capacity 1.74-2.20 g/ml, oil absorption 0.18 - 1.09g/ml and the least gelation capacity of 2% in all the samples. Based on the 9-point hedonic scale used in the assessment of the organoleptic properties of the breakfast cereals, all the samples were acceptable by the panelists but 40:30 of acha/wheat compared very well with the sample substituted with 0:70 of acha/wheat. This is an indication that acha grains can be a useful raw material in the substitution of wheat while cashew kernel and prawn can be used to enrich the product formulated from the flours of these raw materials. This will increase the utilisation of abundant Nigerian raw materials, reduce the importation of wheat flour and hence, improve the economy of the country.
Interactive Effect of Land Preparation Methods and Weeding Frequency on Seasonal Soil Properties and Maize Yield
Authors: Appah S. , Aikins S. H. M.
Published: October 2020

Dynamics of soil physical properties and maize yield were investigated in both major and minor cropping seasons under different land preparation methods and weeding frequency. A factorial design experiment was organized on a randomized complete block design with three replicates. The land preparation methods were plough + harrow (P + H) and no-tillage (NT) while weeding frequency treatments comprised 0, 1, 2 and 3-hoeing regimes. In both seasons, P + H yielded good penetration resistance and bulk density, high moisture content and total porosity, and maximum total grain yield than NT. Also, agitating the soil surface at different weeding frequency improved soil physical properties and maize yield parameters. Furthermore, lower penetration resistance and bulk density but higher moisture content and porosity were recorded on hoeing regime(s) than 0-hoeing. The interactive effect of land preparation methods versus weeding frequency on soil properties was significant except penetration resistance during minor season and total porosity during major season. Maximum total grain yield was obtained from P + H vs 2-hoeing treatment plots in both seasons. Generally, increasing weeding frequency on P + H plots enhanced soil physical properties and maize yield than NT treatment plots. Therefore, to obtain suitable seasonal soil conditions for crop production, cultivable soils should be ploughed, harrowed and hoed twice at 2nd and 5th weeks after ploughing (WAP).
Redefining the Water-Food-Energy Nexus for Biofuels: How to Mitigate the COVID-19 Pandemic Effects in Canada
Authors: Sekercioglu Fatih , Ma Jiuqi
Published: October 2020

Ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all, is a recognized Sustainable Development Goal. Yet the COVID-19 pandemic poses great challenges to the provision of bioenergy in Canada. Our study aims to examine these challenges by applying the Water-Food-Energy (WEF) Nexus Approach and suggest an alternative policy framework in the post-COVID-19 recovery process. The paper analyzes the socio-economic and environmental impacts of COVID-19 and draws upon the bioenergy management strategies and policies in Canada, as well as other countries. The revised policy framework is built by considering the interactions across the WEF Nexus and adopting the experience from international examples, which could effectively minimize the shortcomings of the existing Canadian policy framework. Decision-makers may use our framework to overcome challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic and ensure smooth bioenergy development and provision amid this global crisis.
Identification of Mutation in Exon2 of the NKX2.5 Gene in Bangladeshi Pediatric Patients with Congenital Hypothyroidism
Authors: Khatun Marjia , Chowdhury Sagana Shahreen , Khan Toufiq Hasan , Banu Laila Anjuman
Published: October 2020

Context and rationale: Congenital hypothyroidism is a prevalent endocrine disease that may occur due to the alteration in the sequence of nucleotides of the NKX2.5 gene. Though congenital hypothyroidism is quite common among the Bangladeshi pediatric population, there are few studies on the genetic basis of this disease.

Objective: This study aimed to identify any mutation in the exon2 of the NKX2.5 gene in Bangladeshi pediatric patients with congenital hypothyroidism.

Methods: Forty (40) Bangladeshi pediatric patients with congenital hypothyroidism were recruited, the sociodemographic data were collected and analyzed, DNA was isolated, quantity and quality of DNA were checked, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was done, the amplicons were visually validated by gel electrophoresis and cycle sequencing was done by Sanger sequencing. The raw chromatogram data were analyzed and compared with the NCBI database by BLAST (Basic Local Alignment Search Tool) search.

Results: Sanger sequencing revealed two types of alteration in the nucleotide sequence. Nine patients showed substitutions (c.1051G>T) and eight patients showed deletions (c.1143 delT-), and both substitution and deletion were present in four patients. This substitution and deletion occurred in the Sequence Tagged Site (STS) of the exon2 of the NKX2.5 gene and these are new variants and not reported in NCBI database.

Conclusion: In the present study, two types of variants were identified. So, further study to find out mutational status among Bangladeshi children might be helpful in enriching the database of mutational spectra of pediatric patients with congenital hypothyroidism.
A Critical Discourse Analysis of COVID-19 in Ethiopia: Rethinking the Past and Defining the Present
Authors: Tiruneh Daniel , Baye Getachew , Dubi Yosef Beco
Published: October 2020

The purpose of this study is to unearth the landscape of social media and analyse the contents. Contents of social media, in Ethiopia, are varying over the course of changes in politics, health, socio-economic conditions of the country. Some of the contents are reflected in the forms of narratives, comments, briefings, anecdotes, and verses to list a few. Contents changing the way people interact with each other and share information, personal messages, and opinions about situations, objects, and past experiences- rethinking the past, themes are linked to the present and define the present Ethiopia. In order to attain the stated objective, the researchers developed critical discourse analysis as a research methodology and adapted Norman Fairclough’s model of Analysis as a theoretical framework. Most social media texts are short online conversational posts or comments that do not contain enough information for a full textual analysis. Therefore, using purposive sampling six excerpts were collected from various discourses of the social media platforms, particularly Facebook, Facebook messenger, and YouTube.  Based on the contexts of the discourses, the analysis was categorized thematically. The study concluded that social media users used the platform as a means to reflect both the status quo of the past and linking to the current COVID-19 and its socio-economic impacts. COVID-19 is depicted as a disease, resulting from human wrongdoings, very dangerous which is deadly even to Satan. It is also depicted as a warrior, an extremely hungry predator looking for its prey, ready to eat up human being ravenous without a need for proper chewing.
Colonial Remains in Indonesian Fashion Blogipelago
Authors: Adhitya Galant Nanta , Wulandari Novi
Published: October 2020

This article aims to expose the colonial remains in Indonesian fashion blogipelago. It analyzes five Indonesian fashion bloggers: Anaz Siantar’s Brown Platform, Claradevi Handriatmaja’s Luce Dale, as well as Olivia Lazuardy’s, Ayla Dimitri’s and Sonia Eryka’s eponymous blogs. Since fashion blog exists in the interconnected cyberspace, this article is conducted under the scope of Transnational American Studies, approached with postcolonial theory. It then uses descriptive qualitative method in interpreting data gained from the aforementioned data, as well as the secondary ones. The finding comprises that the colonial remains are thus vividly apparent through the use of fashion blog formula by writing in English, wearing seasonal fashion, and shooting street photography abroad. This set of formulae helps Indonesian fashion bloggers to win the audience over. Therefore, the colonial remains in Indonesian fashion blogipelago are equally internalized both by the bloggers and the audience.
Scripting Subalternity and the Crisis of Contemporaneity: Reading B. R. Ambedkar’s Annihilation of Caste
Authors: R Arjun , Thomas Dr. Tom
Published: October 2020

The paper attempts a subaltern reading of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar’s Annihilation of Caste and tries to highlight the importance of the speech as a subaltern script in the contemporary world. It foregrounds how subaltern voices are supressed in India with the influence of religious and caste politics. The representation of the subaltern mass is problematized by this nexus which further leads to a total control over their lives. A resurrection of silenced voices is the need of the hour.
Studying Human Relationships in the Short Stories of Bhabani Bhattacharya
Authors: Kumari Dr. Kajal
Published: October 2020

Bhabani Bhattacharya is a kind of author who writes mostly on human relationships. In Steel Hawk and other Stories which were published in 1968 there are various such kind of stories. His themes are traditional but new because he has a different and innovative way of writing. His characters are also very interesting and they are influenced from real human societies. This realistic and idealistic approach is very uncommon. In A moment of Eternity we can see a fine blend of realism and idealism. This shows that how he uses the traditional human values as a raw material for his short stories. His experiments with traditional values of life are full of new possibilities and hopes. In some cases we can also find that his characters are alienated and repressed but still there is some sense of optimism in their lives. If they reflect pessimism then this can be a chance of learning for readers. Bhabani Bhattacharya believes that a writer must not impose his school of thoughts on his readers. So in his short stories readers are free to analyze the different situations of life. The story like public figure shows that how a man can change in life. This changing is not normal as it can lead him to identity crisis which can be painful. After reading his short stories we can easily locate that there is a kind of synthesis between modernism and traditionalism in most of his writings. Stories like the steel hawk, The Acrobats , Names are not table’s and the quack are noteworthy as they reflect real life situations. They are not simply stories but they present the way by which life can treat an individual. It also shows a better craftsmanship of the author.
PENGARUH KERAPATAN AGROBACTERIUM TERHADAP EFISIENSI TRANSFORMASI PADA PISANG CAVENDISH (Musa acuminata colla)
Authors: Apriyani Ria Khoirunnisa , Esyanti Rizkita Rachmi , Dwivany Fenny Martha
Published: October 2020

Transformasi genetik melalui perantara Agrobacterium tumefaciens merupakan salah satu carauntuk meningkatkan kualitas buah Pisang Cavendish (Musa acuminata colla (AAA Group))yang memiliki susunan gen triploid. Efisiensi transformasi melalui A. tumefaciens terhadapembrio Pisang Cavendish dilakukan dengan mengoptimasi berbagai kerapatan optik kulturbakteri. A. tumefaciens, yaitu strain AGL1 dan GV3101 (yang masing-masing membawaplasmid ganda pBI121), mengandung gen gusA (pengode enzim β-Glucuronidase) digunakandalam proses transformasi ini. Perbedaan kerapatan optik (0,6; 0,8; 1,0) suspensi bakteri digunakan untuk proses transformasi. Persentase efisiensi transformasi dihitung berdasarkanjumlah embrio pisang yang positif pada uji GUS dibagi dengan jumlah total embrio pisang yangdiuji, dikali 100%. Efisiensi transformasi tertinggi diperoleh dari embrio pisang yangdiinokulasi oleh A.tumefaciens strain AGL1/pBI121 pada OD600nm = 1 (96%) dan efisiensitransformasi terendah diperoleh dari embrio pisang yang diinokulasi oleh A.tumefaciens strainGV3101/pBI121 pada OD600nm = 0.6 (40%).
"Shocking" or a "Moving" Scene?
Authors: Liljegren Lars
Published: October 2020

I argue that there needs to be a greater critical awareness in parts of the academic world as regards the use of literary translations published at a time of state censorship. Using the first English translations of August Strindberg’s Giftas (1884; 1886) and I havsbandet(1890) as a case in point, this paper demonstrates the extent to which translations of books whose content clashed with the British Obscene Publications Act 1857 deviated from their source texts, often on the very points that made the books and their authors famous. Although there are more recent and uncensored translations available today, the old and censored translations of “provocative” authors such as Strindberg, Zola and Flaubert often outnumber more recent ones on the market, sometimes under the guise of being “Scholar’s Choice” editions. I will demonstrate that several literary scholars quote and refer to censored translations, even to the censored passages themselves, and that some use them in academic courses focussing on the very aspects that were censored. I therefore suggest that it should be made mandatory for all courses dealing with translated literature to include critical discussions on the use of translations.