bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors associated with Vitamin D Deficiency in Women: Lesson from Biobank in Qatar
Authors: Al Thani Sharifa , Mohammed Munass , Ahmed Hanaa
Published: December 2020

Background: Vitamin D deficiency is affecting the health of humans around the world, and different factors associated with it were studied among different populations. Vitamin D deficiency was studied more often as a predictor to diseases. However, certain factors that could be associated with vitamin D deficiency were not explored among women, specifically in Qatar. Objective: To explore potential risk factors of vitamin D deficiency among women aged 20 to 65, using a sample of records from women volunteers to Qatar Biobank. Hypothesis: The study potential factors (age, BMI, education, income, milk consumption, occupation, pregnancy, physical activity and soft drinks) are associated with vitamin D deficiency. Methodology: We assessed some potential risk factors to vitamin D deficiency using data from Qatar Biobank (n=1000). Women aged 20-65 years old were included in the study. Univariate and multiple logistic regression models were used to model the association between our study potential factors (age, BMI, education, income, milk consumption, occupation, number of children, physical activity, and soft drinks) and being vitamin D deficient. Analysis was conducted using Stata (IC) version 15.0. Results: 654 women out of 1000 had vitamin D deficiency (serum level<20ng/mL), and 346 women that had normal level of vitamin D (serum level>20ng/mL). Vitamin D deficiency was significantly associated with women who drank soda 1-3 per month (p-value= 0.038) and 1-3 per week or more (p-value= 0.021). Also, women who were 41-50 years old (p-value= 0.006), 50 years and older (p-value= 0.000) and women who were students as their occupation (p-value= 0.003). Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency was common among women in Qatar, as found in the present study. Students, women who drank soda, and younger age (<50) had the highest vitamin D deficiency
Toxicity Evaluation of Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine Surfactant on Embryonic development of Zebrafish
Authors: Al-Jighefee Hadeel , Abdin Roba , Nasrallah Gheyath Khalid , Aljamal Ola
Published: December 2020

Background: Surfactants best known for their use in the industry of detergents, household products, and cosmetics. Usually, the amount of released surfactants into the environment is diluted during secondary water treatment. However, there is always a risk of releasing untreated and polluted wastewater containing high amounts of surfactants without knowing the harmful effect on biotic and abiotic elements of the environment. SAPDMA is a surfactant that is used mostly in cosmetics, conditioning agents, and recently in corrosion inhibition. The classification of SAPDMA as a “safe” or “green” surfactant by different environment or chemical agencies is ambiguous, and the literature is lacking. Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate the safety of SAPDMAusing the zebrafish embryo model. Methods: Zebrafish embryos were exposed to different concentrations of SAPDMA and the effect was assessed by different toxicity assays. This includes mortality/ survival assay to assess the median lethal dose (LC50) teratogenicity assay to assess the no observed effect concentration (NOEC); and organ specific toxicity assays including cardiotoxicity, neurotoxicity (using locomotion assay), and hemoglobin synthesis (using odianisidine staining). Results: Exposure of zebrafish embryos to SAPDMA caused mortality in a dose-dependent manner with a calculated LC50 of 2.3 mg/L. Thus, based on the LC50 value and according to the Fish and Wildlife Service Acute Toxicity Rating Scale, SAPDMA is classified as “moderately toxic”. The NOEC, the concentration that did not cause any significant teratogenicity, was 0.1mg/L. However, this concentration caused significant organ specific and cytotoxic effects, suggesting that harmless concentrations of SAPDMAare lower than 0.1 mg/L. Conclusion: Our data indicate that SAPDMA at very low concentrations causes adverse effects on zebrafish embryos. Thus, we recommend that the use of SAPDMA in industry should be re-evaluated and monitored by the environment and public health agencies.
West Nile Virus Seroprevalence among Qatari and Immigrant Populations within Qatar
Authors: Kunhipurayil Hasna , Ahmed Muna , Nasrallah Gheyath
Published: December 2020

Background: West Nile virus (WNV) is one of the most widely spread arboviruses worldwide and a highly significant pathogen in humans and animals. Despite frequent outbreaks and endemic transmission being reported in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), seroprevalence studies of WNV in Qatar are highly lacking. Aim: This study aims to investigate the actual prevalence of WNV among local and expatriate communities in the Qatar using a large sample size of seemingly healthy donors. Method: A total of 1992 serum samples were collected from donors of age 18 or older and were tested for the presence of WNV antibodies. Serion enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) commercial microplate kits were used to detect the presence of the WNV IgM and IgG. The seropositivity was statistically analyzed using SPSS software with a confidence interval of 95%. Results: The seroprevalence of anti-WNV IgG and IgM in Qatar was 10.3% and 3.4%, respectively. The country-specific seroprevalence according to nationality for WNV IgG and IgM, respectively, were Sudan (37.0%, 10.0%), Egypt (31.6%, 4.4%), India (13.4%, 3.2%), Yemen(10.2%, 7.0%), Pakistan (8.6%, 2.7%), Iran (10.6%, 0.0%), Philippines (5.4%, 0.0%), Jordan(6.8%, 1.1%), Syria (2.6%, 9.6%), Palestine (2.6%, 0.6%), Qatar (1.6%, 1.7%), and Lebanon (0.9%, 0.0%). The prevalence of both IgM and IgG was significantly correlated with the nationality (p≤0.001). Conclusion: Among these tested nationalities, Qatar national has a relatively low burden of WNV disease. The highest prevalence of WNV was found in the Sub Saharan African nationalities like Sudan and Egypt. The seroprevalence of WNV is different from the previously reported arboviruses such as CHIKV and DENV, which was highest among Asian countries (India and Philippines). Further confirmatory tests such as viral neutralization assays are needed to confirm the IgM seropositivity in these samples since these samples could be a source of viral transmission through blood donation.
In Vitro Comparison of Two Single Layer Hand Sewn end‐to‐end Anastomosis Techniques in Normal Equine Jejunum: A Pilot Study
Authors: Alkharraz Heba , Nader Rahaf , Al‐ Asmakh Maha , Johnson Jessica
Published: December 2020

Background: The equine small intestine can be affected by a variety of disorders, which may require some form of bypass or anastomosis procedure. Several small intestinal anastomosis techniques have been reported in scientific literature with the intention to minimize post-operative complications, however to our knowledge there are no published descriptions of the hand-sewn end-to-end single layer simple continuous Appositional technique for equine jejunojejunostomy. Objective: To compare and evaluate differences in the single layer continuous Appositional and the single layer continuous Lembert with respect to construction time, leakage pressure and bursting pressure; for the purpose of small intestinal anastomosis in the horse. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that the time spent in the execution, leakage pressure and bursting pressure will be similar between the single layer continuous Lembert and the single layer simple continuous Appositional techniques. Since this is a pilot study, it is the first step to prove the efficacy of the Appositional technique by showing its similarity with the Lembert technique, considering the latter to be the ‘gold standard’. Methodology: Thirty-Seven intestinal segments from two horses were used to compare the single layer continuous Appositional and single layer continuous Lembert techniques. The time taken to execute the anastomoses, and the number of bites taken for each pattern, were recorded. Biomechanical testing was performed to determine leakage pressure and bursting pressure. Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism 8. Results: The comparison in construction time between the Lembert group (mean, 24.23 mins, n=19) and the Appositional group (mean, 21.74 mins, n=18) were found to be statistically insignificant (P=0.3088). There was also no changes in Leakage pressure (P=0.3862) and bursting pressure (P=0.3135) between the two groups. Conclusion: This study has demonstrated that the Appositional technique is a viable alternative to the Lembert technique, with respect to construction time, leakage and bursting pressures, for the purpose of end-to-end jejunojejunal anastomosis in the horse.
In Vivo Investigation of Cardiac benefits of Sodium Glucose Cotransporter Inhibition using the Zebrafish Model
Authors: Essa Asma , Aldous Noura , Benslimane Fatiha , Yalcin Huseyin
Published: December 2020

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) affects >16% of adults in Qatar. Newly emerging class of antidiabetic drugs, focused on SGLT inhibition were observed to reduce CVDs risks in diabetic patients. Up to date, the mechanism contributing to the CV benefits remains unrevealed. Zebrafish embryos were injected with different morpholinos to knockdown SGLT genes and study their effects on cardiac parameters. SGLT1 inhibition caused the most severe effects on zebrafish embryos with survival rate ~10 %. It also caused tube-like structured heats with edema, affecting significantly the cardiac output and diameter, and increased cardiac markers expressions. Analysis acquired correlates with literature data of SGLT1 predominant expression in heart tissues.
Quantifying Gut Microbiome in Rats with Adenine-Induced Chronic Kidney Disease and the effect of Treatment with Gum Arabic
Authors: Al-Baniali Asmaa , Shoair Banan , Al‐ Asmakh Maha , Aljamal Ola , Sohail Mohammad
Published: December 2020

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects ~10% of Qatar’s population. Recently, dysbiosis in the gut microbiome has been associated with CKD. It is not understood whether CKD affects the gut microbiome or the dysbiotic gut microbiome leads to CKD. Gum Arabic (GA) is a fiber-rich dietary substance that has a potential to enhance the gut microbiome, therefore it could treat CKD. The aim of this study is to quantify the gut microbiome in CKD rats and to evaluate the GA as a potential treatment for CKD.
Hepatic Gene Expression Profile of Lipid Metabolism of Obese Mice after treatment with Anti-obesity Drug
Authors: Al-Qeraiwi Maha , Al-Rashid Manar , Rizk Nasser , El Gamal Abdelrahman , Fadl Amena
Published: December 2020

Obesity is a global disorder with multifactorial causes. The liver plays a vital role in fat metabolism. Disorder of hepatic fat metabolism is associated with obesity and causes fatty liver. High fat diet intake (HFD) to mice causes the development of dietinduced obesity (DIO). The study aimed to detect the effects of anti-obesity drugs (sulforaphane; SFN and leptin) on hepatic gene expression of fat metabolism in mice that were fed HFD during an early time of DIO. Twenty wild types (WT) CD1 male mice aged ten weeks were fed a high fat diet. The mice were treated with vehicle; Veh (control group), and SFN, then each group is treated with leptin or saline. Four groups of treatment were: control group (vehicle + saline), Group 2 (vehicle + leptin), group 3 (SFN + saline), and group 4 (SFN + leptin). Body weight and food intake were monitored during the treatment period. Following the treatments of leptin 24 hour, fasting blood samples and liver tissue was collected, and Total RNA was extracted then used to assess the gene expression of 84 genes involved in hepatic fat metabolism using RT-PCR profiler array technique. Leptin treatment upregulated fatty acid betaoxidation (Acsbg2, Acsm4) and fatty acyl-CoA biosynthesis (Acot6, Acsl6), and downregulated is fatty acid transport (Slc27a2). SFN upregulated acylCoA hydrolase (Acot3) and long chain fatty acid activation for lipids synthesis and beta oxidation (Acsl1). Leptin + SFN upregulated fatty acid beta oxidation (Acad11, Acam) and acyl-CoA hydrolase (Acot3, Acot7), and downregulated fatty acid elongation (Acot2). As a result, treatment of both SFN and leptin has more profound effects on ameliorating pathways involved in hepatic lipogenesis and TG accumulation and lipid profile of TG and TC than other types of intervention. We conclude that early intervention of obesity pa could ameliorate the metabolic changes of fat metabolism in liver as observed in WT mice on HFD in response to anti-obesity treatment.
Effect of Hyperglycemia on eNOS function in EPCs
Authors: Elshiekh Duaa Ibnomer , Hendawi Hadeel , Goul Aya , Awartan Dina , Marei Isra , Triggle Christopher , Abou Saleh Haissam
Published: December 2020

Type 2 diabetes mullites (T2DM) results in different cardiovascular complications. The main cause of these complications is endothelial dysfunction, which affects the endothelium physiologically and pathologically. The chronic hyperglycemia introduced by T2DM impacts the pivotal enzyme endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in terms of phosphorylation and dimerization, which initiates oxidative stress and reduces the bioavailability of the vasodilator nitric oxide. To overcome endothelial dysfunction, endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) contribute to vascular repair due to their regenerative characteristics. The effects of hyperglycemia on EPCs are understudied. Thus, this study aims to investigate the effects of hyperglycemia on the eNOS/Akt signaling pathway and reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation. Cells were treated with normal glucose (NG, 5.5mM) and high glucose (HG, 25mM) media for 3 & 6 days, and the effect on eNOS and Akt phosphorylation were assessed using western blot. ROS was assessed using CellROX stain following 1 and 3 days of treatment. Results showed that both acute and chronic hyperglycemia showed a trend towards decrease in phosphorylation of eNOS and Akt. In addition, ROS formation was increased following 24hr compared to NG. Further investigations are needed to enhance the capability of BOECs to serve as therapeutic tools in T2DM.
Effect of Hyperglycemia on Epcs Function and Regenerative Ability
Authors: Hendawi Hadeel Khalil , Awartani Dina Nehad , Ghoul Aya , Marei Isra
Published: December 2020

Diabetes induced hyperglycemia increases the risk of cardiovascular complications as it impacts vascular endothelial cells causing vascular dysfunction. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) have been suggested to participate in the repair of vascular endothelial cells once they are impacted by hyperglycemia in diabetic patients. This research aims to test the EPC subtype blood outgrowth endothelial cells (BOECs) and their ability to survive and function under chronic hyperglycemic conditions. For that, we studied BOECs viability, response to shear stress, angiogenesis ability, and barrier function under normoglycemic (5.5mM) and hyperglycemic (25mM) conditions. The results have shown significant effects of chronic hyperglycemic conditions on cell proliferation (n=3, p<0.05), and migration (n=3, p<0.05) which were decreased when compared to control. Cells responses to shear stress were not affected under these conditions. There was a trend towards an increase in permeability as indicated by barrier function assays. The decrease in those endothelial cell functions might impact the repair mechanisms needed in diabetic patients to protect from vascular complications. Further investigations are required to establish therapeutic targets to improve EPCs repair function.
Association between Sleep Duration, Food Consumption Patterns and Obesity among Adolescents in Qatar
Authors: Mohammed Sara , Meer Nosheen , Sheikh Saima , Kerkadi Abdelhamid
Published: December 2020

Background: Recent research suggests that sleep duration contributes towards developing unhealthy dietary habits, which can lead to obesity. Further study in this field can provide a new direction in addressing this epidemic. Objective: To examine the association between sleep duration, food consumption pattern, and obesity in adolescents in Qatar. Hypothesis: Sleep duration and unhealthy dietary pattern may be positively correlated to obesity. Methods: This is a cross-sectional, descriptive and analytical study including 1161 adolescents aged 14-19 years from a representative sample of independent secondary schools in the state of Qatar. Validated questionnaire was used to collect data on sleep duration and frequency of intake of foods. Sleep duration was classified as short (< 6 hrs), sufficient (7-8 hrs) and long (> 9 hrs). Anthropometric indicators included body weight, height and waist circumference (WC) that were measured using standardized procedures. General obesity was defined according to International Obesity Task Force (IOTF) ageand gender-specific body mass index (BMI) reference values. Agespecific cutoff values for WC were used to define abdominal obesity. Factor loading matrix was used to categorize healthy and unhealthy foods. The association between the study variables was assessed using multiple regression analysis. Results: The mean frequency of food consumption was lower for students of shorter sleep duration regardless of the day of the week. Students who reported long sleep duration had higher mean frequency of consumption of unhealthy food (fast food, French fries, cakes/donuts, candy/chocolates, sugar-sweetened beverages). Females showed an unhealthier eating pattern as compared to males. Multiple regression analysis revealed that as the WC and BMI increased, consumption of healthy eating pattern decreased by 25% and 10 % respectively (p<0.001) Conclusion: Lack of sufficient sleep and decreased consumption of healthy foods have an association with increased risk of being obese among adolescents.
The use of Drosophila Melanogaster as a Model Organism to study the effect of Innate Immunity on Metabolism
Authors: Mohbeddin Abeer , Ahmed Nawar Haj , Kamareddine Layla
Published: December 2020

Apart from its traditional role in disease control, recent body of evidence has implicated a role of the immune system in regulating metabolic homeostasis. Owing to the importance of this “immune-metabolic alignment” in dictating a state of health or disease, a proper mechanistic understanding of this alignment is crucial in opening up for promising therapeutic approaches against a broad range of chronic, metabolic, and inflammatory disorders like obesity, diabetes, and inflammatory bowel syndrome. In this project, we addressed the role of the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) innate immune pathway in regulating different metabolic parameters using the Drosophila melanogaster (DM) fruit fly model organism. Mutant JAK/STAT pathway flies with a systemic knockdown of either Domeless (Dome) [domeG0282], the receptor that activates JAK/STAT signaling, or the signal-transducer and activator of transcription protein at 92E (Stat92E) [stat92EEY10528], were used. The results of the study revealed that blocking JAK/STAT signaling alters the metabolic profile of mutant flies. Both domeG0282 and stat92EEY10528 mutants had an increase in body weight, lipid deprivation from their fat body (lipid storage organ in flies), irregular accumulation of lipid droplets in the gut, systemic elevation of glucose and triglyceride levels, and differential down-regulation in the relative gene expression of different peptide hormones (Tachykinin, Allatostatin C, and Diuretic hormone 31) known to regulate metabolic homeostasis in flies. Because the JAK/STAT pathway is evolutionary conserved between invertebrates and vertebrates, our potential findings in the fruit fly serves as a platform for further immune-metabolic translational studies in more complex mammalian systems including humans.
Induction of Glyoxalase 1 to prevent Methylglyoxal-Induced Insulin Resistance in Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Aldali Sara Haitham , Sankaralingam Sownd
Published: December 2020

Background: Type 2 Diabetes mellitus is characterized by hyperglycemia and insulin resistance. Methylglyoxal (MG) a highly reactive dicarbonyl compound is also increased in diabetes. MG is detoxified by glyoxalase 1 (Glo-1) enzyme using reduced glutathione (GSH) as a co-factor. MG has been shown to have deleterious effects on cardiovascular cells and impairs insulin signaling. Insulin resistance is associated with diabetic cardiomyopathy. Trans-resveratrol (tRES) and Hesperetin (HES) combination has been shown to increase Glo-1 and improve insulin signaling in obese patients. Aim(s): The aim of this study is to investigate whether tRES-HES combination prevents MG-induced cardiac insulin resistance and the underlying mechanisms in cardiomyocytes in culture. Methodology: (H9C2) rat cardiomyocytes were treated with MG (100 µM) for 24 hours in the presence or absence of tRES-HES (10 µM). Glo-1 activity was determined by the formation of S-D lactoylglutathione; protein expression of P-Akt and P-GSK3b was determined using Western blot. In some experiments, cells were stimulated with insulin (100 nM) for 10 minutes to test insulin sensitivity. Results: MG reduced Glo-1 activity by ~25%, blunted insulin-induced phosphorylation of Akt and Gsk3b and increased the expression of beta-myosin heavy chain by ~50% (a marker of cardiac dysfunction) significantly (P˂0.05) compared to untreated control group of cells. Co-administration of tRES-HES combination restored Glo1 activity, maintained insulin-induced phosphorylation of Akt and GSK3b and prevented the increase in beta myosin heavy chain significantly (P<0.05). Conclusion: Induction of Glo1 prevents MG-induced cardiac insulin resistance and the increase in marker of cardiac dysfunction. This strategy could be helpful in preventing cardiovascular complications associated with diabetes.
An Investigation into the Prevalence of Behavioral and Environmental Determinants of Cataract
Authors: Sulaiman Maryam , Yousaf Ramsha , Kashif Momina , Amir Najwa , Bibi Zahida
Published: December 2020

Accounting for 51% of legal blindness in the world and 27% in Qatar, cataract remains the most prevelant cause of visual imapairments. Cataract involves the clouding of the eye lens, which reduces the light that reaches the retina and ultimately reduces vision. There are existing medical procedures for cataract, however these are deemed invasive and unaffordable. Scientists and public specialists agree that preventing cataract formation is the key to allevating worl blindness levels. Our objectives are: -To determine factors that inrease risk of developing cataract. -To discover the link between day-to-day activities of individuals in earlier life and the development of catarct in later life. -To compile a list of ways to prevent formation of cataract.
Prayer-related Physical Activities for Cardiovascular Health
Authors: Alomari Mahmoud A. , Shqair Dana M. , Alawneh Khaldoon , Khabour Omar F. , Nazzal Mahmoud E. , Sadaqah Monsef A.
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Muslims are obligated to pray 5 times daily. Each prayer is a number of rakaa completed with a set of physical movements, preferably in the neighborhood masjid. The vascular effects of religious-related physical activities (RRPA) are not known, despite the well-known cardiovascular benefits of regular physical activity. Therefore, the current study examines the relationships of RRPA with vascular measures. Methodology: Arterial and venous indices at rest and after 5 of arterial occlusion were examined in 192 healthy participants (age: 19-85 years) using strain gauge plethysmography. The participants’ RRPA were collected in a 1-to-1 interview, including prayer (PN) and rakaa number (RN) performed, distance (DW) and time (TW) required to walk to the masjid, and the daily (DA) and weekly (WA) attendance to the masjid. Results: Resting blood flow correlated significantly with DW, TW, DA, and WA (r=0.2-0.4; p<0.01). Resting vascular resistance correlated with DW, TW, DA, and WA (r=-0.14-0.2; p<0.05). Resting venous capacitance correlated with DW, TW, DA, and WA (r=0.14-0.17; p<0.05). Resting outflow correlated with DW, TW, DA, and WA (r=0.15-0.2; p<0.05). Occlusion blood flow correlated with DW (r=0.17; p=0.02). Occlusion outflow correlated with DW and DA (r=0.16-0.17; p<0.05). Additionally, arterial and venous indices were greater (p<0.05) in the participants regularly prayed in the masjid. Discussion: The results confirm the importance of physical activities for the circulatory system. Uniquely, the data shows that RRPA might contribute to the maintenance of vascular function.
Celebrating Culture - Literary Communities of Practice in Doha
Authors: Abbas Naqaa , Taher Hend
Published: December 2020

Our paper focuses on the role of arts and culture in Doha. More specifically, we examine literary circles in Doha (both Arab and English speaking) and regard them as ‘communities of practice.’ According to Etienne Wenger, communities of practice are “groups of people who share a concern or a passion for something they do and learn how to do it better as they interact regularly.” Moreover, such communities are seen as promoting innovation, developing social capital, facilitating and spreading knowledge within a group, and spreading existing knowledge. Recently, there has been a surge of active literary communities presenting their creative work in both English and Arabic attracting a variety of audiences and fans. For instance, young authors such as Kumam Al Maadeed, Eissa Abdullah, Buthaina Al-Janahi and Abdullah Fakhro not only have a huge online following, but they also have a significant fan base attending their events throughout the city. Besides these communities, there are also numerous organizations with which these celebrity authors are associated such as Qalam Hebr, Qatari Forum for Authors, and Outspoken Doha – we argue that such organizations can also be regarded as communities of practice. Our contention is that these ever-growing communities provide a performative space in which poets, singers, authors and artists can experiment with the fluidity of their assigned identities, cultures and traditions.
The Problems Facing Students of College of Education at Qatar University: A Path to Academic Accreditation
Authors: Fakhrou Abdulnaser Abdulraheem
Published: December 2020

This study aimed to reveal the most important problems facing students of the College of Education from their point of view and its relationship to some variables. The study used two tools: the first is the open interview (focus group), and the second is a questionnaire designed by the researcher. It contained 65 items distributed on six axes: costs and assignments, tests, academic professor, academic registration and guidance, the content of study materials, and finally the classrooms have been verified as being truthful and consistent. The results showed that the problems related to the classroom were the most prominent facing students, while the problems related to the academic professor were the least important from their point of view. The order of importance of the problems varied according to the specialization taught by female students, and by the different program registered with it, as well as by the different status of the female student, whether she was a full-time student or on the job. Faculty of Education has to ensure that the students are progressing and achieving high performance during the program with the less problems they face. If students do not meet these criteria/expectations, measures need to be taken to support them and help them improve their skills, knowledge, dispositions and achievement. If students do not meet standards, the College might not get full accreditation, and will have an Area For Improvement. This means that the College has to take other measures to improve students’ achievement to receive full accreditation.
Path Analytic Investigation of the Intention to adopt E-Government Services through Mobile Applications in Qatar (TAM revisited)
Authors: El-Kassem Rima Charbaji , Al-Kuabaisi Ali , Al Naimi Maitha , Al-Hamadi Aisha , Al Rakeb Noof
Published: December 2020

The aim of this research is to examine the factors that affect user’s intention to use e-government services through mobile applications in Qatar. Based on valid responses from 1,340 adults out of a representative sample size of 7200 (response rate=18.6%) in Qatar aged 18 to 77 years old, this study uses factor analysis and structural equation model to identify the variables that influence users’ intention to adopt mobile applications in Qatar. Findings of this study indicate that factors affecting the intention to adopt e-government services through mobile applications are: awareness, perceived trust, perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness of mobile applications. The present study supports the hypothesis through the findings that perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use leads to mobile application of e-government adoption. The present study adds a relevant and a novel contribution to the field of technology acceptance by encompassing the TAM theory to smartphone applications. The paper concludes with recommendations for institutional policy and future research. This article has been published in June 2020 at the Scopus Indexed International Journal of Advanced Research in Engineering and Technology (IJARET).
درجة امتلاك معلمي التربية الإسلامية للكفايات التعليمية في المدارس الابتدائية في دولة قطر
Authors: اليربوعي شيخة جابر
Published: December 2020

هدفت هذه الدارسة للتعرف إلى درجة امتلاك معلمي التربية الإسلامية للكفايات التعليمية في المدارس الابتدائية بدولة قطر، كما هدفت التعرف إلى الفروق في درجة امتلاك معلمي التربية الإسلامية الكفايات التعليمية في المدارس الابتدائية بدولة قطر تبعا لمتغيرات (الجنس، الخبرة، المدرسة). تكون مجتمع الدارسة من معلمي 598) معلما ومعلمة، أما عينة الدارسة تكونت من (1776 ومعلمات التربية الإسلامية في دولة قطر . استخدم الباحث الحزمة الاحصائية Spss وتم استخدام المنهج الوصفي، وتم تطبيق الدارسة في الفصل الدراسي الثاني للعام الدراسي 2019-2020 ،لتحليل البيانات أظهرت نتائج الدارسة أن درجة امتلاك معلمي التربية الإسلامية للكفايات المعرفية المرتبطة في مناهج التربية الإسلامية الحديثة بدولة قطر جاءت متدنية على كافة مجالات الدارسة، وأظهرت النتائج بأنه لا توجد فروق ذات دلالة إحصائية لدرجة امتلاك معلمي التربية الإسلامية للكفايات المعرفية المرتبطة في مناهج التربية الإسلامية الحديثة بدولة قطر تبعا لمتغيرات (الجنس) وكانت هناك فروق ذات دلالة إحصائية في متغير المدرسة ولصالح المدارس الخاصة ولصالح كفاية المهارات الحياتية، وكذلك فما فوق في كفاية 10وجود فروق ذات دلالة إحصائية في متغير الخبرة ولصالح المدرسين والمدرسات ذوي الخبرة التكنولوجيا، وفي ضوء نتائج الدارسة أوصت الباحثة مراجعة مناهج التربية الإسلامية في مدارس دولة قطر بما يتضمن الكفايات التعليمية، ينصح بعقد ورشات عمل في الكفايات التعليمية وإجراء دارسات مشابهة على بعض جوانب منهاج التربية الإسلامية في دولة قطر، وتفعيل موجهي التربية الإسلامية المعلمين في الميدان بتطبيق الكفايات التعليمية دولة قطر. الكلمات الدالة: مناهج التربية الإسلامية، الكفايات المعرفية.
وجهة نظر معلمي العلوم في دولة قطر نحو توجه (STEM) كبرنامج تدريسي في المدارس الحكومية
Authors: عاشور أريج مسعود
Published: December 2020

يهدف هذا البحث للتعرف على وجهة نظر معلمي العلوم في دولة قطر نحو توجه (STEM)؛ ليكون برنامجًا تدريسيًّا في المدارس الحكومية، وقامت الباحثة باتباع المنهج الكمي الوصفي من أجل إجراء تأكد الباحثون من صدقها وثباتها. يتمثل مجتمع الدراسة وتفسير نتائجها. تمثلت أداة البحث باستبانة مكونة من (16) فقرة، صُممت الاستبانة من قبل العنزي والجبر (2017)، تكون مجتمع الدراسة من جميع معلمي ومعلمات العلوم لجميع المراحل الدراسية في دولة قطر، وبلغت عينة الدراسة 121 معلمًا ومعلمة. وبعد عرض النتائج وتفسيرها توصلت الباحثة إلى أن للمعلمين وجهة نظر إيجابية تجاه برنامج (STEM). وبناء على هذه النتيجة أوصت الباحثة ببعض الأمور منها تقديم ورش للمعلمين وتوعيتهم ببرنامج (STEM).
ST. GEORGE’S CATHEDRAL, CHENNAICHURCH OF THE CITY A STUDY IN RELIGION AND ART
Authors: Rasi H.
Published: December 2020

Built in the heart of Chennai in A.D. 1815, and consecrated to the service of God on 6 January 18161, St. George’s Cathedral is an imposing structure – an oasis of peace and tranquillity – reminding us the presence of God every moment of our life. Rt. Rev. T.F. Middleton, the first Anglican Bishop in India inaugurated the church, and thought the new church was “handsomer than anyone in England”2. The Cathedral is a symbol of the sufferings, the struggles, and ultimately the success of Christianity in South India, especially Tamil Nadu.
AWARENESS AND ATTITUDES OF CONSUMERS IN USING INTERNET FOR ONLINE PURCHASE
Authors: Laxmi R.Anantha , Kumar ArunSarath
Published: December 2020

Online shopping behavior (also called online buying behavior and Internet shopping or buying behavior) refers to the process of purchasing products or services via the Internet. E-commerce has been growing very fast because of many advantages associated with buying on internet because of lower transaction and search cost as compared to other types of shopping. Through online shopping consumers can buy faster, more alternatives and can order product and services with comparative lowest price. Therefore, in this paper, the researchers have carefully analyzed the consumers’ attitude and behavior towards online shopping. This paper gives a comprehensive picture of the awareness and attitudes of consumersin using internet for online purchase. A sample size of one hundred and five respondents is selected for the research from Thoothukudi district. The study quantitatively analyses the awareness of consumers in using internet, attitudes and behaviors of the consumers in buying various products from internet, hours of using the internet and the like using primary data. Appropriate findings and suggestions are given in the paper.
TUDO EM 45 MINUTOS: FOTOGRAFIA COMO MEMÓRIA E PRÁXIS AUTOAVALIATIVA DO ARTE/EDUCADOR
Authors: Pereira Isac dos Santos
Published: December 2020

A presente pesquisa se deu com investigações sobre a importância do registro do Arte/Educador em sala de aula como um dever de resgate de memórias ao analisar e avaliar as atividades dos educandos, be
Homomorphism of intuitionistic fuzzy multigroups
Authors:   Department of Mathematics, Federal University Dutse, P.M.B. 7156, Dutse, Jigawa State, Nigeria, Adamu I. M.
Published: December 2020

This paper introduces the concept of homomorphism in intuitionistic fuzzy multigroups context. It also investigates Some homomorphic properties of intuitionistic fuzzy multigroups. It is shown that the homomorphic image and homomorphic preimage of intuitionistic fuzzy multigroups are also intuitionistic fuzzy multigroups. Finally, it presents some homomorphic properties of normalizer of intuitionistic fuzzy multigroups.
Exponential decay of solutions with \(L^{p}\)-norm for a class to semilinear wave equation with damping and source terms
Authors:   Laboratory of Applied Mathematics and History and Didactics of Mathematics (LAMAHIS) University of 20 August 1955, Skikda, Algeria, Ouaoua Amar , Maouni Messaoud ,   Laboratory of Applied Mathematics and History and Didactics of Mathematics (LAMAHIS) University of 20 August 1955, Skikda, Algeria, Khaldi Aya ,   Laboratory of Applied Mathematics and History and Didactics of Mathematics (LAMAHIS) University of 20 August 1955, Skikda, Algeria
Published: December 2020

In this paper, we consider an initial value problem related to a class of hyperbolic equation in a bounded domain is studied. We prove local existence and uniqueness of the solution by using the Faedo-Galerkin method and that the local solution is global in time. We also prove that the solutions with some conditions exponentially decay. The key tool in the proof is an idea of Haraux and Zuazua with is based on the construction of a suitable Lyapunov function.
Petrographic and mineralisation Potentials of Precambrian Pegmatities and associated rock units of Olode area, Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Okonkwo S. I. , Idakwo S. O.
Published: December 2020

The geology of the Olode area, south-western Nigeria was investigated petrographically and geochemically in order to elucidate the mineralisation potential of the rock units in the area. The area under study is generally underlain by granite gneiss, mica schist and pegmatites. Petrographical studies indicated prevalence of anhedral quartz (30 – 50%), plagioclase (14 – 20%), orthoclase (12 – 15%),  muscovite (11 – 15%), tourmaline (6 – 10) and other minerals (8 – 11%) for the pegmatite. The high value of SiO2 and Al2O3 is consistent with the petrographical study. High values and wide range in Ba (34 – 737 ppm) and Zr (3.8 – 132.6 ppm) strongly support a mixture of igneous and sedimentaryThe bivariant plots of Rb vs K/Rb, Zn vs K/Rb and Th vs K/Rb indicated a partial series of fractionation, suggesting that the pegmatites are of rare element classes while granite gneiss and mica schist belong to the barren muscovite and rare element classes. This was supported by high  ratios of K/Cs and K/Ba but low Th/U  values indicating distinctively low rare metal mineralization. The plot of Na2O/Al2O3 vs K2O/Al2O3 revealed an igneous precursor for all the  rock units. The negative Eu anomalies especially in the pegmatitic rock unit indicates fractionation and point toward a late metasomatic effect and their relatively weak negative Ce anomalies, also suggest their rare metal mineralization. The pegmatites, granite gneiss and mica schist of Olode area considered as barren as all the samples plotted below the Gordiyenkos and Beus’ line of mineralization.
Cardioprotective effect of the aqueous extract of seeds of Datura metel (Solanaceae) on acute cardiotoxicity induced with doxorubicin in Wistar rats
Authors: Mbida Hacheked  , Tsala David Emery  , Aboubakar Sidiki  , Amang André Perfusion  , Ze Minkande Jacqueline
Published: December 2020

The current study evaluated the cardioprotective effect of the aqueous extract of seeds of Datura metel (AESDM) on the acute cardiotoxicity induced with doxorubicin in the Wistar rats. Indeed, 30 rats have been randomized then, divided into 6 groups of 5 animals each: 3 control groups (normal, negative and positive) and 3 test groups (AESDM 100, 200 and 300 mg/kg). These animals received orally, six consecutive days, 1 mL/200 g distilled water (normal and negative control), 100 mg/kg Vitamin-E (positive control), AESDM at 100, 200 and 300 mg/kg (test groups). On the seventh day of treatment, animals in the different groups excepted the normal control received a single intraperitoneal injection of 15 mg/kg doxorubicin followed respective treatments up to the tenth day of the trial period. Serum parameters (ASAT/ALAT), biochemical markers of oxidative stress (MDA, SOD, CAT, GSH) and lipid parameters (total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL and LDL) were evaluated. Histological sections of animal hearts were prepared. The results of this study showed that treatment with AESDM resulted in a significant decrease (P ˂ 0.001) in MDA, triglycerides and LDL-cholesterol levels, ASAT/ALAT activity and a significant increase (P ˂ 0.001) in HDL-cholesterol concentration and SOD, CAT and GSH activities, compared to the negative control. Histological observation revealed that AESDM protected the heart from doxorubicin-induced damage. In conclusion, AESDM would have a cardioprotective effect that could be attributed to its antioxidant potential.
Assessment of air quality within Maiganga coal mining area in Akko Local Government Area, Gombe State, Nigeria
Authors: Ademu Tanko Ogah  , Obaje Daniel Opaluwa  , Mohammed Alkali  , Kumo Lass
Published: December 2020

Anthropogenic activity especially coal mining contributes immensely to environmental pollution within coalmine and the host community especially if not well managed. This study is on the assessment of air quality in and around Maiganga coalmine, with the objectives of finding out the ambient concentration levels of criteria air pollutants within the coalmine, the Maiganga community and the four control sites 2km north, south, east and west of the coalmine, as well as compare the findings with the concentration levels of pollutants recommended as acceptable safety limits set by Federal Ministry of Environment, FMEnv. Six sampling locations were selected for detail assessment, with one point in each of the sites mentioned. Measurement of concentrations of criteria air pollutants; sulphur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon monoxide (CO), ammonia (NH3), and ozone (O3) were taken in-situ using Personal Toxic Gas Monitor (Tango TXI single gas monitor). Fine particulate matter (PM2.5), coarse particulate matter (PM10), were collected using a Portable Counter HT – 9601 (PM2.5 and PM10) personal dust meter high volume gravity sampler. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were also measured using a Portable Hand Held Gas Detector (Porcheck+). The study was done during the dry season and the results revealed that, coarse paticulate matter (PM10) was above the stipulated safety limit of 250µg/m3 set by the FMEnv for the coal mine area and Maiganga community but all other parameters were within the safety limits of the FMEnv. CO, NO2, SO2, and NH3 in coalmine area had concentrations lower than in that in control areas because of other anthropogenic activities like burning, heating, waste disposal, agricultural practices and a host of others taking place in the control area and which are not available in the coalmine area. However, the concentrations of the aforementioned parameters were higher in Maiganga community than in the control areas due to higher rate of anthropogenic activities in the community than in the control areas. The hypothesis were tested using student t – test, and the alternative hypothesis was accepted which showed there was no significant variations in the values of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), coarse particulate matter (PM10), sulphur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon monoxide (CO), ammonia (NH3), and ozone (O3) obtain from the coalmine, Maiganga community and the Control (N.S.E.W) with safety limits set by FMEnv. It is however, recommended that the Federal Ministry of Environment and National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) should ensure strict compliance with safety and environmental standards agreed upon during Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).
Rekonstruksi Penggunaan Dana Desa untuk Mewujudkan Kesejahteraan Masyarakat Desa
Authors: Muhaimin Muhaimin
Published: December 2020

Keberagaman karakteristik dan jenis desa, atau dengan sebutan lain (selain desa) tidak menjadi penghalang bagi para pendiri bangsa (founding fathers) ini untuk menjatuhkan pilihannya pada bentuk negara kesatuan. Pengaturan mengenai Desa tersebut belum dapat mewadahi segala kepentingan dan kebutuhan masyarakat Desa yang hingga saat ini sudah berjumlah sekitar 73.000 (tujuh puluh tiga ribu) Desa dan sekitar 8.000 (delapan ribu) kelurahan. Selain itu, pelaksanaan pengaturan Desa yang selama ini berlaku sudah tidak sesuai lagi dengan perkembangan zaman, terutama antara lain menyangkut kedudukan masyarakat hukum adat, demokratisasi, keberagaman, partisipasi masyarakat, serta kemajuan dan pemerataan pembangunan sehingga menimbulkan kesenjangan antar wilayah, kemiskinan, dan masalah sosial budaya yang dapat mengganggu keutuhan Negara Kesatuan Republik Indonesia. Rumusan masalah karya ilmiah ini adalah “Bagaimana rekonstruksi penggunaan dana desa untuk mewujudkan kesejahteraan masyarakat desa?” Menggunakan metode penelitian yuridis normatif, pendekatan perundang-undangan (statute approach). Beberapa hal yang dapat diidentifikasi berkaitan kejelasan kedudukan dan penguatan eksistensi desa, dalam UU Nomor 6 Tahun 2014 ialah soal pendefenisian desa. Ada satu perbedaan cukup mendasar dibanding undang-undang sebelumnya (UU Nomor 32 Tahun 2004), yakni dicantumkannya klausul “prakarsa masyarakat” yang berarti ada perluasan sekaligus penguatan terhadap otonomi dalam pengelolaan dasa desa. Penggunaan Dana Desa dikelola melalui mekanisme pembangunan partisipatif dengan menempatkan masyarakat Desa sebagai subyek pembangunan. Karenanya, rencana penggunaan Dana Desa wajib dibahas dan disepakati dalam musyawarah Desa.
Gli anni romani di Realidad. Revista de cultura y política (1963-67)
Authors: Perugini Carla
Published: December 2020

Realidad was a cultural and political magazine of the Spanish Communist Party (PCE) which, to escape Franco’s censorship, was published abroad, under the aegis of brother parties: from 1963 to 1967 in Rome, at the Gramsci Institute, and after that in Paris until 1973. The direction at first was entrusted to the Federico Sánchez [Jorge Semprún], a militant and writer, who was soon replaced by a more orthodox party member, Manuel Azcárate. Although the magazine leaned into prolixity and initiatory language, it also offered significant articles on art and literature, written by famous intellectuals in exile, and followed with the participation of students’ and workers’ linked to the opposition movements in Spain.
Le letterature ispaniche nelle riviste della Rai e nel superamento della ‘disseminazione del simbolo’ di Oreste Macrì
Authors: De Benedetto Nancy
Published: December 2020

In this article I will explore the presence of Spanish literature in the magazines published by ERI for Rai, both originating from national radio broadcasts: L’Approdo Letterario and Terzo Programma. My reflections take place in the perspective of outlining the profile of a wide but not popular reception of literature that emerges from the bibliographic informations contained in the reviews; the main attention will focus on the profound cultural changes between the 1950s and 1960s, when Oreste Macrì collaborated in L’Approdo.
Le lettere di Francesco Paolo Como a Ettore Ferrari.
Un contributo documentario alla vicenda del Monumento ai caduti di Taranto
Authors: Castellana Stefania
Published: December 2020

In 1923 the sculptor Francesco Paolo Como (Taranto, 1888-Rome, 1973) wins the contest for the Monumento ai caduti in Taranto. As known, the realization of this work suffers many delays because of tension between the author and the various committees. Only in 1953, the last group, the Aquilifero, can be set up. The article analyses the sequence of events related to the monument through a series of missives between Como and his mentor Ettore Ferrari (Rome, 1845-1929). Through this correspondence is possible to write a clearer history of the monument and his author, explaining the reasons of Como’s anxiety, his relationship with Ferrari and his social role into the ‘fascistissima’ Taranto.
Il mercato artistico nel carteggio fra Michelangelo Gualandi e Charles Lock Eastlake (1855-1865): un’introduzione
Authors: Mazzaferro Giovanni
Published: December 2020

Born in Bologna in the late XIX century, Michelangelo Gualandi was trained as a tradesman. Studying art as a self-taught, he was able to establish himself as an art amateur and as a learned man, without however really ever abandoning his involvement in art trade. From 1855 he was agent of Charles Lock Eastlake, the first director of the National Gallery, and collaborated with him in the acquisition of paintings until the death of the Englishman, in 1865. Based on the recently rediscovered correspondence between Eastlake, other English connoisseurs and Gualandi, this article presents brand new information we can gain from the correspondence on both successful and failed purchases. Particular attention is paid to the aspects related to the modalities through which the sales took place.