bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theory, evaluation, and practice in widening participation: A framework approach to assessing impact
Authors: Hayton Annette , Bengry-Howell Andrew
Published: November 2016

The English higher education (HE) system is deeply stratified, with younger students from more privileged backgrounds comprising the majority of the student population. Over the last 15 years considerable investment has been made to widen participation but attempts to evaluate these
initiatives and demonstrate impact have presented a major challenge for the HE sector. This paper explores the development and application of a framework for evaluating and researching university-led interventions. Drawing largely on the theoretical work of Bourdieu it provides a basis for
designing and evaluating programmes and activities to develop student cultural capital and habitus, and foster agency and a sense of belonging in HE settings.
The Toronto District School Board: A global city school system's structures, processes, and student outcomes
Authors: Parekh Gillian , Flessa Joseph , Smaller Harry
Published: November 2016

In this article we describe the ways that academic opportunity is distributed within the Toronto District School Board (TDSB), Canada’s largest and most demographically diverse public education system. By putting a range of recent outcome data into historical, organizational,
and policy contexts, we provide a snapshot of how one of North America's largest school systems works in ways that simultaneously reinforce, and challenge, patterns of academic stratification. Although schooling in some global cities is shaped by decentralization, competition, and a 'school
reform industry', public education in Toronto is very much characterized by centralization and increased public investment. Therefore, this paper queries whether these larger historical and structural factors lead to greater equity for racialized and minoritized communities. Through the infusion
of equity-focused policies and anti-discrimination-centred interventions, can the case be made that marginalized groups are navigating the school system with greater success? Reviewing historical and recent data from the Toronto Board of Education and TDSB, we reflect on and query the extent
of disparity that continues to exist, problematizing the disconnect between policy and addressing the root causes of inequality.
By addressing life trajectories and political violence, human rights education can overcome radicalizing narratives
Authors: Ubachs Frank
Published: November 2016

As the needs and interests of young people are shifting under the influence of demographics and other social developments, 'new stories' have started to attract many that undermine the human rights narrative and nurture radical attitudes. This has consequences for human rights education
(HRE). As competing narratives have gained a foothold in major target audiences of HRE, the latter has to realize it is facing an uphill battle. The evidence suggests that HRE can no longer rely on the mere transfer of knowledge and that the 'story of human rights' needs to be told in completely
new ways. If HRE aims to change attitudes to be more inclusive and respectful, and to promote a struggle for justice, it has to make its story heard and win people over. Here HRE faces a central dilemma: how to promote fundamental freedoms while including the freedom not to subscribe to these
same values? Instead of conceptual persuasion, emphasis should be put more on the affect, and relate to people's lived experiences. Crucially, HRE has to be prepared to make room for the discussion of the paradoxes of political violence. By making clear that it has vital relevance for its
audience and can better answer the question of what someone should meaningfully do in life, HRE can change the narrative.
General Management Principles in the Project Management Context
Authors: Bassi Antonio
Published: November 2016

In order that the projects can become the tools by which organizations can realize their strategic objectives it is necessary to define a culture of project management that involves the whole organization. This type of culture could be started through the definition of the main principles of General Management that govern the management of projects in an organizational context. This work is aimed to analyze the ISO norm 10006 “Quality Management Systems – Guidelines for quality management in projects” not by the quality point of view in a project management context but by the contribute to the growth of organizations through the definition implicit or explicit of principles on which it must base an organization that works for projects. The results of this study revealed that implicit and explicit principles of general management help to involve all parts of an organization and improve the management of organizational projects successfully. It will be also taken in comparison the most important project management standards such as ISO21500, PMBOK, IPMA, PRINCE2.
A pragmatic approach to addressing needs of dairy and crop productionsystem in the peri-urban area of Bengaluru, India
Authors: N Ravi K. , Ponnusamy K , Kale Rajiv  Baliram
Published: November 2016

Increase in the urban population leads to increase in demand for quality food and milk in India. Moreover, the future urbanizing India is greatly depending upon the farming in the fringes of towns and cities to meet its increasing food demand. This has many advantages to the peri-urban dairy and crop farmers. However number of constraints limits the production potential of dairy and crop farming in peri-urban areas. So, the present study was undertaken in peri-urban area of Bengaluru, Karnataka. The identified advantages and constraints pertaining to crop and dairy production system along with suitable strategies were described for further encouragement of peri-urban farming. Findings indicate that additional source of income, remunerative price for milk, high demand for fresh milk were found to be the major advantages of peri-urban dairy production system. In crop production system, easy market access to farm produce, less cost in transportation of farm produce and huge demand for fresh fruits, vegetables and flowers were the major advantages in peri-urban crop production. Major constraints in practicing peri-urban dairy farming were; increase in frequency of disease incidence in dairy animals, non-availability of fodder in time and insufficient land availability for fodder production. Non-availability of irrigation water, non-availability of labour for farm work and increase in labour cost in peri-urban region were reported as serious constraints in peri-urban area of Bengaluru region.
Classification of agricultural productivity index of Cauvery delta zone using artificial neural network
Authors: Manimannan*1 G. , Arulkumar2 C. , Priya3 R. Lakshmi
Published: November 2016

In this study a novel trial was made to classify the Agriculture Productivity Index (API) for the major crops of Cauvery Delta Zone (CDZ) using neural network and statistical methods. At present the CDZ includes, Tanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Tiruchirapalli, Pudukottai and Ariyalur districts. The crops grown in the Cauvery delta zone were categorized into four major groups such as, cereals, pulses, oilseeds and cash crops. The data for the period of 2003 to 2012 were collected from the Department of Economics and Statistics, Chennai, Tamilnadu. Enyedi’s method was adopted to calculate the API and based on the index the regions were classified by neural network method using Learning Vector Quantization (LVQ). The classification was cross validated statistically, using Multivariate Discriminant Analysis (MDA). The classification results achieved 83% in LVQ and 97% MDA respectively in the entire period of study. The results are obtained as Greater Productivity Regions (GPR), Moderate Productivity Regions (MPR) and Lesser Productivity Regions (LPR) and are plotted in Tamil Nadu spatial map with different colours.
Growth of lentil (Lens culinaris Medikus) as influenced by phosphorus, Rhizobium and plant growth promoting rhizobacteria
Authors: Singh Guriqbal , Singh Narinder , Khanna Veena
Published: November 2016

The experiment was conducted to study the effect of four levels of phosphorus (0, 20, 30 and 40 kg P2O5 ha-1) and four biofertilizer treatments [uninoculated control, Rhizobium, plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and Rhizobium + PGPR] on growth and grain yield of lentil. The experiment was conducted in factorial randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The periodic data recorded at 30, 60, 90, 120 days after sowing (DAS) and at harvest showed that the highest growth in various parameters i.e. plant height, branches plant-1 and shoot dry matter accumulation was recorded with application of 40 kg P2O5 ha-1, however, it was at par with 30 P2O5 ha-1. Among the biofertilizers, Rhizobium + PGPR treatment gave maximum values of growth parameters like plant height, branches plant-1 and shoot dry matter accumulation at all the stages. At 30-60 DAS, the maximum crop growth rate (CGR) was recorded with the application of 40 kg P2O5 ha-1 (71.3 kg ha-1 day-1) and co-inoculation of Rhizobium and PGPR (72.0 kg ha-1 day-1). Application of 40 P2O5 ha-1 and use of coinoculation (Rhizobium + PGPR) provided the highest grain yields. The study highlights the importance of phosphorus application and biofertilizers inoculation for improving the growth and grain yield of lentil.
Effect of growth regulators and micronutrients on fruit cracking and fruit yield in pomegranate
Authors: Yadav Rajpaul , Kumar Kuldip , Joon M. S. , Daulta B. S.
Published: November 2016

A field experiment was conducted at Fruit Research Farm of Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar to evaluate the effect of micronutrients and plant growth regulators on fruit cracking and fruit yield in pomegranate cv. Jodhpur Red. The treatments comprising of two micronutrients (H3BO3 and ZnSO4 at 0.20, 0.40, 0.60 %), two growth regulators (2,4-D and NAA at 10, 20, 40 ppm) and water were applied fifteen and thirty days after fruit set. Occurrence of premature fruit cracking was more as compared to mature fruits during both the stages of application. Longitudinal (radial) cracking was more as compared to diagonal (transverse) cracking. 2,4-D and NAA at 10 ppm recorded significantly lower incidence of cracking than all other treatments. Highest fruit yield per acre (50.8 q) was obtained with NAA at 20 ppm when applied fifteen days after fruit set; while 2,4-D at 10 ppm recorded maximum fruit yield when applied thirty days after fruit set.
Screening for host plant resistance to Helicoverpa armigera(Hubner) in chickpea using novel techniques
Authors: Jaba Jagdish , Agnihotri Meena , Chakravarty Snehel
Published: November 2016

Insights of antibiosis resistance in various chickpea cultivars against pod borer Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) under laboratory condtions. The present study was carried out in order to investigate the level of resistance against H. armigera on different cultivars by adopting detach leaf and pod assay. In leaf detach assay, pooled mean of 2012 and 2013, significantly lower and maximum weight gain and percent gain recorded was 101.9 mg (88.5%); 382.3mg (317.4%), respectively for ICCV 097105 and ICCV 07306. During podding stage, lowest pod damage (%) was recorded 55 % (ICCV 92944) and highest pod damage recorded by ICC 3137, LL 550 and ICCV07306 (95 %).Highest pupal weight of one day old pupae was recorded on LL 550 (405.2 mg) and lower pupal weight in ICCV 097105 (202.4 mg). The present result gave clue for future in depth studies on weeds for developing either specific pheromone compound or repellant compound for the eco- friendly management of H. armigera.
Bioregulators protected the leaf anatomy and photosynthetic machinery under water deficit stress in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)
Authors: Vineeth T.V. , Kumar* Pramod , Singh Jasvir
Published: November 2016

Water deficit is undoubtedly one of the most important environmental stresses limiting the productivity of chickpea around the world. Exogenous application of bioregulators has been found to be a novel technology for imparting stress tolerance in crop plants. This study evaluated the changes brought about by two bioregulators viz., thiourea (TU) and thidiazuron (TDZ) under water deficit stress in chickpea leaf anatomy, chloroplast ultrastructure and photosynthesis. The experiment was conducted using Pusa 362 (Desi type) chickpea variety. Imposed water deficit treatment decreased relative water content (RWC), membrane stability index (MSI) and photosynthetic rate (PN). However, bioregulators application maintained higher RWC, MSI and PN under water deficit stress. Under imposed water stress, compact palisade layers of the mesophyll tissue were disrupted and cell size of the mesophyll cells displayed drastic reduction. Chloroplast, under water stress, displayed a number of grana with lose type of thylakoid, large increase in osmiophillic granules, reduction in the amount of starch granules and overall disruption of the thylakoid membrane. Foliar application of bioregulators maintained the integrity of mesophyll tissue and chloroplast structure thereby protected the chickpea plants from the detrimental effects of water deficit stress.
Genetic analysis of various quantitative traits in inter-varietal crosses of Vigna mungo
Authors: Bindra Shayla , Mittal R.K. , Sood V.K. , Chaudhary H.K.
Published: November 2016

Gene effects for 13 characters in four crosses of Vigna mungo were studied by six parameter generation mean model to determine the potential for the improvement of yield components. Scaling tests revealed inadequacy of the additive-dominance model for all the traits indicating the presence of non-allelic interactions. Duplicate gene action was observed for six characters in KUG-216 x HPBU-111, five in KUG-216 x Palampur-93, two in IPU-05-13 x Palampur-93 and one in IPU-05-13 x HPBU-111 and complementary gene action for one character each in KUG-216 x Palampur-93 and IPU-05-13 x HPBU-111 cross. Selection in later generations for duplicate gene action and early generation selection involving intermatings in F2 f or complementary gene action should be adopted for harnessing desirable recombinants.
Organic seaweed nano powder effect on growth and yield attributes of pigeonpea
Authors: Ambika S. , Sujatha K.
Published: November 2016

In the field experiment Sargassum myricocystum extract at 1% concentration for 3 h soaking with foliar spray 5% at vegetative and flowering stages were effective by recording higher plant height, total chlorophyll content, leaf area index, crop growth rate, relative growth rate and yield attributes, such as pod yield plant-1 and seed yield ha-1 in both kharif, 2014 and rabi, 2015 seasons. The per cent increase of pod yield plant-1 and seed yield ha-1 was 13.4 and 18.3%, respectively. The other seaweeds viz., Gracilaria edulis, Caulerpa racemosa were less effective, but the effect was better than water.
Performance of pea under different irrigation systems
Authors: Rao* K.V. Ramana , Gangwar Suchi , Bajpai Arpna , Keshri Ravish , Chourasia Lavesh , Soni Kumar
Published: November 2016

The field experiment was conducted at Precision Farming Development Centre, Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Bhopal on influence of different irrigation methods in three continuous years (2010-2013) on the performance pea crop. Conventional flood irrigation, micro sprinkler and drip irrigation systems were adopted as three treatments and with seven replications in each treatment in the study. Pea (Arkel variety) crop was sown at a spacing of 45 X 10 cm. During the period of experiment flood irrigation were applied on weekly basis and micro irrigation and drip irrigation systems were operated every third day to meet the crop water requirement. The total quantity of water applied in flood, drip irrigation and micro sprinkler systems were 387.5, 244.7 and 273.5 mm respectively. Maximum crop yield was observed under micro sprinkler system (98.60 q/ha) followed by drip and conventional irrigation system. Saving of water was found better under drip irrigation over micro sprinkler irrigation system.
Population dynamics of major defoliators (semiloopers and tobacco caterpillar) in soybean crop
Authors: babu* S. Ramesh , Meena Prahlad Kumar , Dudwal Ramgopal
Published: November 2016

A study was carried out to find out the effect of various weather parameters on the occurrence of major defoliators in soybean crop. Semilooper larval population was recorded late July/early August and their peak activity observed during 33-34, 33-36 and 37-39 standard weeks, in 2012, 2013 and 2014, respectively. Among the weather factors, morning relative humidity showed significant (r=0.954) and positively, highly influence on the larval population per mrl whereas evening humidity (r=-0.644) and sunshine hrs (r=-0.367) negatively and significantly influence the larval population per mrl. The various weather parameters significantly caused 92 per cent variations in larval population per mrl. The moth catches of Spodoptera litura increased from late-August to late-September and this trend was almost similar in different kharif seasons observed. Larval population of S. litura positively correlated with pheromone trap catches during 2014.
Evidence-Based Guideline for When to Transfuse Neonates and How to Feed with the Transfusion
Authors: Jollett Erin , Huffman Penni Coates
Published: November 2016

Abstract

Blood transfusions are common in the NICU. Although blood transfusions can be lifesaving, they are not without risks such as necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). NEC is an inflammation in the bowel that can lead to perforation, bowel loss, and death. Research indicates that there is a correlation between NEC and blood transfusions. There is no agreed-upon cause of NEC, but most of the research supports the need for holding feedings while being transfused. This article provides an evidence-based protocol, based on retrospective chart reviews of 24 neonates, for how long to hold the feedings before, during, and after the transfusion. This protocol was implemented in an NICU where the NEC cases related to blood transfusions were as high as 25 percent and decreased to as low as 4 percent after the protocol was implemented.
Trauma-Informed Care in the NICU: Implications for Early Childhood Development
Authors: Marcellus Lenora , Cross Shannon
Published: November 2016

Abstract

Infants and families who have received care through NICUs experience multiple prolonged physiological, social, and emotional challenges. In addition to their NICU experiences, many families are presenting with increasingly diverse family structures and complex social conditions. In this article, the current state of knowledge on the concept of trauma-informed care will be reviewed from the perspective of infant and early childhood mental health development. This is the second part of a two-part series on trauma-informed care. The first part addressed this approach from a woman-centered care perspective. Recognizing the impact of trauma and implementing trauma-informed practices in the NICU holds potential for improving outcomes for infants.
New Technology in the NICU: Challenges to Parents and Clinicians
Authors: Joseph Rachel A.
Published: November 2016

Abstract

Technology has revolutionized all aspects of care in the NICU—design, monitoring, diagnosis, documentation, and home care. Efforts to improve outcome in high-risk infants foster the emergence and integration of new technology in NICUs. Some of them include amplitude-integrated electroencephalogram (aEEG), therapeutic hypothermia, and devices for communication and remote viewing, to name a few. As more technology is integrated into the clinical arena, parents and clinicians face technological, moral, and ethical challenges. Learning to use and interpreting technology and making it meaningful for families can increase the workload of clinicians. Enabling families to participate in care and facilitate bonding requires skill, motivation, and confidence from a compassionate care team. Judicious use of technology may offer hope and comfort to families, although it will not replace human caring.
“Spleen Baby”: A Case Presentation of Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency in an Amish Neonate
Authors: Hackman Pamela S.
Published: November 2016

Abstract

Pyruvate kinase deficiency (PKD) is an autosomal recessive trait in which there is a lack of the enzyme pyruvate kinase. Because of this lack of pyruvate kinase, red blood cells are broken down more freely, thereby causing hemolytic anemia. The degree to which the hemolysis occurs varies from mild-to-severe to life-threatening neonatal anemia and kernicterus necessitating an exchange transfusion. The purpose of this article is to introduce the reader to PKD through a case presentation of severe hyperbilirubinemia necessitating the need for an exchange transfusion. This article also includes the prevalence, clinical features and diagnosis, treatment, and nursing considerations in caring for this type of infant.
Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: Interprofessional Care of the Neonate and Family Grounded in Swanson’s Theory of Caring
Authors: Register Craig H. , Jnah Amy J. , Newberry Desi
Published: November 2016

Abstract

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), a major congenital defect, occurs in 3.3–5 per 10,000 live births. It is associated with significant morbidity and mortality risks, with lifelong implications imposed on survivors. The pathophysiology, diagnostic tools, and treatment modalities for CDH must be understood to provide timely, holistic care to the infant and family. Swanson’s theory of caring can effectively guide the interprofessional perinatal/neonatal team in the prenatal and postnatal care of the infant and family.
Evaluation of an Evidence-Based Teaching Program for Newborn Safe Sleep
Authors: Raines Deborah A. , Barlow Khloe , Manquen Donna , Povinelli Theresa , Wagner Ashley
Published: November 2016

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of evidence-based teaching guideline and patient outcomes.

Design: Descriptive evaluation study with two data collection points.

Sample: A convenience sample of 48 new mothers.

Main outcome variable: Mothers’ knowledge and practice of safe sleep behaviors for their newborn.

Results: The findings of this evaluation study demonstrate that this unit-based teaching program was effective in impacting mothers’ knowledge about and practice of safe sleep for the newborn following discharge from the postpartum unit.
Inspiration in the Form of Go Preemies!
Authors: Discenza Deborah
Published: November 2016

Abstract

As the parent of a premature infant, one of the biggest challenges I had in the NICU and at home into the school years was trying to reframe the preemie experience for my 30-week, 13-year-old daughter, Becky. Early on, a NICU nurse suggested we bring a book in to read to our daughter, and I seized upon that idea. It was such a normal thing for me to do, and I relished the opportunity. So began the ritual of reading to my daughter throughout each day in the NICU and then when she came home. When I heard about Andy Male’s new book, Go Preemies!, I was thrilled. I reached out to Andy Male and wanted to talk about the inspiration behind this special book. What I found out pleasantly surprised me.
Severe Cystic Acne While Breastfeeding
Authors: Albert-Jones Robbi
Published: November 2016

With her first baby, while breastfeeding at 2 weeks postpartum, the skin on Amanda’s (not her real name) face, trunk, and back became marred with subcutaneous cysts. She described the cysts as quarter-sized blisters that would weep yellow fluid and then scab over. She consulted her obstetrician, dermatologist, and acupuncturist, but none were able to find a treatment solution. I met her 2 days after the birth of her second baby. She was worried her skin eruptions would happen again. After discharge from the hospital, we communicated via email. Her skin did develop cysts, although not as severe as with her first baby. Although advised to see an endocrinologist, she declined. She weaned her baby well before her breastfeeding goal was reached.
Breastfeeding and Contraception
Authors: Mackay Gillian , Brasses Samantha
Published: November 2016

Research data acquired from six up-to-date references on the effects of contraception methods and breastfeeding. Areas of interest are advantages, disadvantages, and effects on breastfeeding. There are no clear findings from these articles; the research studies have small parameters. However, they do provide needed education for our mothers in acquiring which contraception method fits their lifestyle and breastfeeding goal.
Influence of age and sex on certain serum biochemical parameters of dromedary camels
Authors: Mohamed Elkhair Nawal
Published: November 2016

Background: The identification of the reference values of certain serum biochemical parameters in relation to the age was studied in dromedary camels.Methods: Fourteen healthy young camels (age: 3-5 months), 12 adult male and 10 female camels (age: 5-8 years) were used. Venous blood samples were collected for the determination of certain serum parameters.Results: The reference range ( ± s×1.96) of serum- [Na+] was 142-160 mmol/l and the percentile range (median (1. - 3.Quartile)) was 143-156 mmol/l for all age groups. The reference values of serum- [K+] showed a significant (P<0.05) variation between the age groups being higher the young camels (4.2-7.4 mmol/l) compared to the adult groups (3.7-5.5 mmol/l). Serum- [Protein] and serum- [Albumin] showed significant (P<0.05) differences between the age groups. Significantly higher (P<0.05) reference range of 51-74 g/l and a percentile range of 59-67.7 g/l was observed in the adult female camels compared to young and adult male groups.Conclusion: These reference values are useful in detecting the influence of strong electrolytes such as Na+, K+ and Cl- and weak acids (proteins) on the physiological and pathological status of the camels in relation to their age.Keywords: Camels, age, electrolyte concentrations, total protein, albumin, reference values.
Measurement of Obesity as Indicated by Body Mass Index Using Waist-Hip Ratio among Apparently Healthy Students in University of Maiduguri, Nigeria
Authors: Martha Orendu Attah , Musa Samaila Chiroma , Bedan Ishaya Helga , Paul Akpan , Jacob Attah
Published: November 2016

AbstractBackground: Body Mass Index (BMI) which is often calculated by dividing the weight (kg) by height squared (m2), was chosen as a simple measurement of body weight in relation to height. Waist circumference (WC) and Waist-hip-ratio (WHR) are important indices to assess abdominal obesity. Waist circumference (WC) is an expedient and easy measurement of intra-abdominal fat mass and total body bulk.Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 130 undergraduate students of University of Maiduguri (comprising of 65 male students and 65 female students), with their ages ranging from 18-30 years. A written or verbal consent was obtained from the subjects after explaining to them the objectives as well as the methodology of the study.  Information about age and socioeconomic status was collected from each student in a pre-designed questionnaire. The height, weight, waist circumference, hip circumference were also taken on each individual using standard anthropometric methodology.Results: The prevalence of abdominal obesity in the present study, according to waist circumference (WC), and waist-hip-ratio (WHR) was 24.6% and 67.7% in males respectively, while 66.2% and 92.3% in female students respectively. Conclusion: The females in the same age group as males showed a tendency towards higher BMI and were classified as overweight and this could be attributed to reduced physical exercise and diet compared to their male counterparts.Keywords: body mass index, hip circumference, obesity, waist circumference, waist-hip ratio
The value of tamarind (Tamarindus indica L.) pulp and its potential use in vinegar production
Authors: Altuhami Ballal Taha Safiya , Ahmed Mohamed Nour Abd Elazeem , Osman Elkhalifa Abd Elmoneim
Published: November 2016

Background: The objectives of this work are to study the physicochemical properties of tamarind fruit pulp for production of vinegar and to evaluate the quality characteristics of the produced vinegar.Methods: Two samples of tamarind were used in this study, sample A from Eastern Sudan and B from Western Sudan. They were analyzed for their physical, chemical composition and minerals content.Results: The acidity (%), total soluble solid, TSS Brix and pH values of tamarinds fruit pulp showed that sample A scored the higher value 28.87%, 42.2 Brix in acidity and TSS, respectively. All proximate analysis parameters determined were significantly different (P≤ 0.05) in the two samples except the ash content. Results showed that tamarind samples contain high amounts of Ca (149.13 – 174.19 mg/100g), in addition to Fe (68.94 – 80.67 mg/100g). The P content of the two samples was very low (3.63 – 9.06 mg/100g). For vinegar production, the fruit pulp was first digested and fermented with Saccharomyces cerevisae, and then acidified with Acetobacteraceti. No significant difference (P ≥0.05) was observed between samples A and B in refractive index, density (g/cm3) and pH between the two samples. After acidification step, the same properties were also estimated, the result were 1.35, 0.95(g/cm3) and 2.05, respectively for sample A, and 1.34, 0.94(g/cm3), 2.18 for, respectively for sample B. Sample B had the higher concentration vinegar (18.14%) compared to sample A (17.18%).Conclusion: tamarind fruit pulp could be recommended for vinegar production.Keywords: Tamarind, Physicochemical properties, Minerals, Vinegar quality.
The Effect of Aloe vera (Linn) On Cutaneous Wound Healing and Wound Contraction Rate in Adult Rabbits
Authors: Orendu Attah Martha , Watson Jacks Tonye , Jacob Attah , Eduitem Otong , John Barnabas
Published: November 2016

Background: In the present research study, the rate of cutaneous wound healing and contraction rate in healthy rabbits using Aloe vera pulp was studied.Methods: Ten healthy rabbits were used for the study. They were divided into two groups consisting of five rabbits each. Cutaneous wounds were made on the lumbar region of each rabbit using a template which ensured that the wounds were of the same size in all the rabbits. 5ml of Aloe vera gel was applied to the wounds of the animals in the test group, while nothing was applied to the wound area of the animals in the control group. The wound area in each group was measured for a period of 21 days, using a venire caliper and tracing paper which was used to trace the wound area. Tissue samples were removed from the wound area in both experimental and control groups and subjected to routine histological analysis, also, morphometric analysis was performed.Results: The rate of wound contraction and mean centripetal contraction was calculated in both groups and graphically represented using Microsoft Excel. The results showed that animals who were treated with Aloe vera gel had a greater wound contraction rate, as well as rapid wound closure. The micrographs showed a thicker epithelial layer, with thinner collagen fibers in the dermis of experimental animals compared to the control group. There was also an abundant capillary bed at the dermal-epidermal junction in the experimental group, compared to the control group.Conclusion:  Aloe vera may increase the rate of wound healing by accelerating epithelial migration, and may also play a role in neo-vascularization of the newly healed area.Keywords: Aloe vera, Cutaneous Wounds, Rabbits, Wound Contraction, Wound Healing
Transboundary Air Pollution in Malaysia: Impact and Perspective on Haze
Authors: Sue Wen Yan , Fauzan bin Mohd Nor Ahmad , Bt. Fazilan Nurul Nabila , Bt. Sulaiman Zulaikha
Published: November 2016

Modern technology is the invention of certain devices that improved people’s level of comfort as well as material goods to improve. Environmental pollution is often regarded as the product of modern technologies development and Haze is the brands of Air Pollution. Air Pollution means adding substances to the environment that do not belong to it and Haze is one of the signs that human has exceeded the limits. Air pollution is a gas released in a big enough quantity which contained poison gases to harm the health. One of the significant cases is the uncontrolled agriculture burning that happens in Indonesia annually which hindered activities of surrounding countries. The evidence shows that these activities give harm to land, environment and human’s life and also contribute to a global warming and cause for destruction of the only human Planet. A qualitative approach is employed to analyse the criticality level of pollutions that happened and to grab more understanding in Islamic perspective towards haze. The significant of this paper is to increase the public awareness about the effect of haze on world ecosystem and raise human sensitivity on environmental rights in Islamic perspective. This paper is focused on the negative impact of smoke pollution on the human life style and gives more ratifying on how Islamic laws views environmental calamity and how important the right of humans and environmental to not be violated and in addition to picture the importance of stabilizing the world so a prosperous life still be achieved by the next generation.Keywords: Air Pollution, Haze, Modern Technology, Negative Impact, Islamic Perspective
Encouraging People to Learn Islam in a New Interactive Way Using Augmented Reality (AR)
Authors: Danial bin Rapia'e Muhammad , Binti Khaliludin Nur Syazana , Bin Awang Junit Muhammad Izzudin , Binti Mohd Sobri Nur Amanina
Published: November 2016

The augmented reality (AR) has been recognized to be fit for use in education. Augmented Reality is globally used for education standard curriculum. Text, graphics, video and audio can be superimposed into a student’s real time environment. Textbooks, flashcards and other educational reading material can contain embedded “markers”, but only when it were scanned using an application, it produce supplementary information to the student rendered in a virtual multimedia format. For instance, Construct3D, a Studiers tube system, allows students to learn mechanical engineering concepts, math or geometry. This is an active learning process in which students can learn and interact with technology directly. The aim of this study is to show how by using can encourage people to learn Islam in a new interactive media using .The objective is to investigate the type of AR feature that can be use and to identify potential of learning using AR. A survey was done to know about people opinion about implementing AR in learning Islam by giving questionnaire to be fill in by 50 people in University Teknologi Malaysia. 90% of the responder agreed that AR can help in learning Islam in more interactive way.Keywords: Augmented reality; medium; Islamic study; interactive; educational
Hydrogenation of Carbon Monoxide and Carbon Dioxide over Nano γ-Alumina Supported Cobalt (III)/Molybdenum Catalyst
Authors: Takassi Mohammad Ali , Helalizadeh Abbas , Jaberi rad Mina
Published: November 2016

Ligated dicobalt (III) heptamolybdate (CoL6)2(Mo7O24) multitransition-metal complex was prepared. This complex was deposited evenly on nano γ-alumina catalyst support. The partial reduction of cobalt (III)/ molybdate pre-catalyst was performed in a batch reactor with hydrogen gas at a pressure of 20 bars and temperature of 873oK for 5 hours. The catalyst was characterized using FTIR, XRD, BET and TEM. The nano cobalt (III)/molybdenum catalyst was employed for hydrogenation reaction of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. The assessment of the catalyst was carried out at different temperature over a pressure range of 10-50 bars with various H2/CO ratios. This catalyst was found to be active, and stable for usage at high temperature and moderate pressure. The catalyst gave an excellent conversion of carbon monoxide to hydrocarbons (95%); it also converted 78% of carbon dioxide to carbon monoxide (73) and methane (5%). TEM image demonstrated catalyst has nearly spherical morphology with the average particle size of 46.86 nm.Keywords: complex, carbon monoxide, Carbon dioxide, multitransition-metal, surface modified nano catalyst
Lance Armstrong as Teacher
Authors: Janning Finn
Published: November 2016

The American cyclist Lance Armstrong, I propose, overcame a threatening death sentence through his strength of will, not necessarily his strength of character the latter idealized by Aristotle (2004) in his Ethics. It was Armstrong’s will to survive that made him one of the most celebrated and loved athletes in recent times. He won the Tour de France seven times. He became the achiever per se in today’s achievement society that was already emerging in 90’s.
Studying the Association between Thinking Styles and Creativity among Students
Authors: Abolghasem Purreza , Dehghankar Leila , Jafarisani Moslem , Elham Badiee Seyedeh , Tatari Maryam , Khalafi Ali
Published: November 2016

Background: Developing thinking skills has been receiving considerable attention in educational systems. Students are taught how to use the power of thinking to live a better life. Understanding and utilizing ways of thinking as a preferred approach of reasoning, assessment, and judgment in different aspects of life seem to be influential. This paper aims to study the relationship between viewpoints and creativity in students of Torbat Heidariyeh University of Medical Sciences in 2015.Methods: Sternberg Wagner Thinking Styles Inventory and Abedi Creativity Questionnaire were used to collect the data among students. 13 styles of thinking were studied. Data was analyzed by SPSS20. P<0.05 considered significant.Findings: The mean score of students’ creativity was 97.88±19.17. The highest (24.96±2.43) and lowest (14.11±1.16) mean score belonged to anarchic and legislative styles of thinking respectively. Our findings indicate that local (r=-0.176) and conservative (r=-0.701) forms of thinking are negatively related to creativity. In addition, legislative (r=0.512), global (r=0.634), liberal(r=0.653), hierarchical (r=0.181), anarchic (r=0.356), internal (r=0.198), and external (r=0.189) styles of thinking were positively related to creativity. With respect to legislative (r=0.045), judicial (r=0.23), conservative (r=0.009), and external (r=0.001) styles, no significant difference was observed between male and female students.Conclusion: It is imperative to pay considerable attention to thinking styles and their influence on students’ creativity. As thinking styles are teachable, the hope is that those styles of thinking that create active learning and facilitate creativity in students be taught to learners and teachers.Keywords: creativity, thinking styles, students
Naso-Sinusal Tuberculosis: 3 Cases Report
Authors: Mardassi Ali , Dimassi Hela , Nefzaoui Safa , Benzarti Sonia
Published: November 2016

Introduction: Tuberculosis remains a real public health problem in Tunisia. Extra-pulmonary localizations account for 20 to 30% of tuberculosis disease, dominated by the node, osseous and urogenital localization.Case Report: The authors present three cases of nasosinusal tuberculosis, an unusual and rare localization of the disease, in a man and 2 women aged respectively of 30, 65 and 36 years. Results: The main symptoms were dominated by nasal obstruction, posterior throwing and dental pain. CT-scan showed a filling of the nasosinusal cavities with various stages of bony lysis. In all the cases, tuberculosis was confirmed histologically after an endoscopic middle meatotomy. Investigations looking for tuberculosis elsewhere were negative in all cases. Treatment was based on anti-tuberculosis drugs during 9 to 12 months. The evolution was favourable in all the cases.Conclusions: Nasosinusal tuberculosis is a rare chronic infection associating often variable levels of bony lysis. Histological exam remains the best way to confirm it. Therapy is based on anti-tuberculosis drugs. Medical investigations must usually search other localizations of the disease.
Plasma Proteins in Enterica Serovar Typhi patients in Northern Sudan
Authors: A.A.Mohamed Nagah , Omer Mohieldin
Published: November 2016

Background: The study entailed a quantitative assessment of serum total protein, albumin, globulin, and albumin.Method: globulin ratio in individuals who diagnosed positively with typhoid fever and detection any alteration in plasma protein in receptiveness to typhoid titers. One hundred positively diagnosed with typhoid infection mean age (41.5 ± 2.1) years on zero day treatments. In addition to healthy one hundred individuals mean age (42.9 ± 1.9) years were recruited in this study.Results: There were significant difference  P. value = 0.000   in total protein, serum albumin, serum globulin and A/G ratio for typhoid positive and negative,  mean (8.4±0.01,6.8±0.06), (3.5±0.01, 4.1±0.03), (4.9±0.01, 2.8±0.06), (0.7 ± 0.003, 1.5 ± 0.02) respectively. No significant difference, P. value was 0.632, 0.832 and 0.760 serum total protein (7.5 ± 0.92, 7.6 ± 0.79) serum albumin (3.8 ± 0.38, 3.8 ± 0.37) and serum globulin (3.8 ± 0.16, 3.9 ± 0.16) for males and females respectively. Also no significant difference, P. value was 0.11, 0.60, and 0.06 serum total protein (8.4 ± 0.01, 8.4± 0.02) serum albumin (3.5 ± 0.01, 3.5 ± 0.01) and serum globulin (5.0 ± 0.01, 4.9 ± 0.01) for titer 1/160 and titer 1/320.Conclusion: Low albumin level and hypoglycemia should be surveillant when anti typhoid pharmaceutical commenced.Key words: Plasma Proteins, Enterica Serovar Typhi, Sudan
Stem Cell Therapy for Male Infertility: A Review
Authors: Isaac Dibal Nathan , Samaila Chiroma Musa , Orendu Attah Martha
Published: November 2016

Infertility affects 15% of couples in reproductive age world-wide and male factor is solely responsible in about 50% of the cases and contributory in 30-40% of cases. Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are small self-renewing cells found in the basal compartment of seminiferous tubules where they form the foundation of spermatogenesis and are required for the continuous production of sperm. Transplantation of spermatogonial stem cells results in a donor derived sperm production and fertility in rodent and non-rodent species like Goat. Transplantation of cryopreserved spermatogonial stem cells could help oncology patients undergoing radiotherapy or chemotherapy by prior isolation of the SSCs and transplantation after treatment. Induced pluripotent stem cells also have the ability to differentiate into late stage germ cells. The efficacy and safety of SSCs transplantation showed that offspring produced did not show any morphological differences or alteration of genetic material but is most effective through assisted reproduction and better on young/immature Animals. The transfer of germ cells through micro-injection of seminiferous tubules and cannulation of efferent ducts is most effective on rodent testis while injection into the rete testis guided by ultrasound was reported to be the best technique in higher Animals (Bulls and Apes). Researches are still ongoing to get a safe and successful method of SSCs transplantation with no or less side effects on humans.Keywords: Cryopreserved, Pluripotent, self-renewing, Spermatogonia, and Spermatogenesis
Body mass index and its relationship with socio-economic variables in Schoolgirls
Authors: Abolghasem Purreza , Dehghankar Leila , Jafarisani Moslem , Pouryosef Ali , Tadayyon Hamidreza , Khalafi Ali
Published: November 2016

Background: Evaluation of anthropometric and body mass index is not only widely used to assess children's development, but also is simplicity, affordability and reliability and most powerful tool to study the growth and development of children in different societies. BMI is one of the most important indicators of the growth, especially in childhood, which can be influenced by some socio - economic variables. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between body mass index with some of the socio - economic conditions in children with a primary and secondary education to physical development factors and social - economic conditions affecting the BMI.Methods: This was a cross-sectional study and 200 children between 7 to 17 years of primary and secondary schools were selected and divided into two groups. Tools used in this study were questionnaires, Balance and Tape measure. Data were analyzed by SPSS 20 software. P<0.05 considered statiscally significant.Results: Majority of the samples was in normal and thin range. High school student girls had a lower average body mass index, and percentage of weight loss was greater among them.Conclusion: Socio-economic variables affect the lifestyle of families and they can be associated with BMI. Keywords: Body mass index, female students, parents socio-economic variables.
Evaluating the Effective Factors in Motivating Nurses to Participate in On-the-job Training Courses
Authors: Abolghasem Purreza , Dehghankar Leila , Jafarisani Moslem , Pouryosef Ali , Tadayyon Hamidreza , Khalafi Ali
Published: November 2016

Background: On-the-job Training is one of the most useful and economical methods for nurses to keep up with the latest progress in technology, as well as medical and social sciences. Encouraging nurses to improve their knowledge and skills is one of the most important responsibilities of a nursing management. This study aims to evaluate the effective factors in Motivating Nurses to Attend On-the-job Training Courses.Methods: This is a descriptive-analytical study which is on the basis of existing facts and information about the subject of the study. Our population comprises of 147 qualified nurses working in the hospitals of Torbat Heidariye University of Medical Sciences. Data was collected using questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS 21.Results: 46.3% of nurses were in 30-40 age group, 54.2% were females, 81.2% were married, 86.4% had B.S. 58.6% of nurses have been working in the hospital for less than 5 years. 87.8% of nurses were working on shifts, and the rest (1.8%) were supervisors. 94% of nurses agreed on the necessity of on-the-job training (moderately or highly required).Conclusion: we found out that there is no significant relationship between motivating factors and demographic characteristics. Also, there is an important difference between genders and organizational motivating factors. It means that the rate of male nurses’ participation in on-the-job training courses is higher than that of female nurses.Keywords: motivation, nurse, on-the-job training, hospital
An overview of the effects of antibiotics and medicinal plant extracts on the human microflora
Authors: Abdallah Emad Mohamed
Published: November 2016

The biological interactions of the microflora in the human body are essential to maintain the somatic eco-physiological balance. Antibiotics, which are considered as a panacea against pathogens without knowing how it influences the microflora, could create a disease by disturbing the microbial ecosystem of the human body and develop new generations of antibiotics resistant pathogens. Medicinal plants could get rid the pathogens and also maintain the normal flora. There is a necessity to preserve the micoflora ecosystem, by means different approaches such as support the antibiotic treatment with some renovated compounds like natural medicinal compounds or probiotics, more comprehensive studies in this issue are badly needed.