bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A case report of bilateral uveitis with meningococcal septicaemia resulting to blindness and adjustment disorder
Authors: Habib Zaharaddeen Garba , Habib Saudat Garba , Gambo Safiya , Hassan Sadiq , Sani Jamila
Published: February 2021

To report the rare case of a patient with bilateral uveitis with meningococcal septicaemia from Neisseria meningitides, resulting to blindness and adjustment disorder. A 9-years-old boy presented to the Emergency paediatric unit of a hospital with complaints of fever, and neck stiffness of one week duration. There was associated sudden decreased vision, pain and photophobia of both eyes. Neck was stiff and retracted with positive Kernig’s and Brudzinski’s signs. Neisseria meningitidis was isolated from both the turbid CSF and the blood. Visual Acuity (VA) was Perception of Light (PL) and Counting Finger (CF) in right and left eyes (RE and LE) respectively, with 360 degrees posterior synechiae and pupillary membrane. Diagnosis of meningococcal septicaemia with bilateral uveitis was made. Patient was treated with IV ceftriaxone, sub-conjunctival dexamethasone, dexamethasone, atropine and moxifloxacin eye drops and other supporting medications. Although he showed improvement of VA to RE-6/36, LE- 6/24, he absconded from follow- up and later relapsed with subsequent blindness (VA of Perception of Light in Both eyes) and symptoms of adjustment disorder. Although ocular involvement is rare in meningococcal septicaemia, patients should always have detailed ophthalmological examination as prompt diagnosis and management could improve the visual outcome.
Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic: Improving the Readiness and Response Plan in Workplace
Authors: Shrivastava Saurabh RamBihariLal , Shrivastava Prateek Saurabh
Published: February 2021

ABSTRACT

The pandemic of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) has impacted all the dimensions of health and even raised a significant alarm for public health authorities and community due to its rapid spread and immense incidence. In these difficult times, each and every stakeholder has an important role to play, and among all of them, employers and employees have a definite role to reduce the magnitude of the disease. One of the interventions which has been taken by the business sector is that they are encouraging employees to work from home. To address all these concerns, it is a must that all the companies should come out with a policy or a protocol to not only improve the readiness of the workplace but also simultaneously have measures for maintaining a healthy workplace and measures to prevent transmission of the infection. In conclusion, in the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, preparedness at the workplace to respond to the outbreak is of paramount importance. This can be ensured with the help and support of all the employers and employees, and all steps should be taken to maintain the health and safety of employees.
Physicochemical and functional characterization of chitosan prepared from Schistocerca gregaria (desert grasshopper) and the investigation of its antimicrobial activity
Authors: Ali U. , Baffa M.U. , Shamsuddeen Y.
Published: February 2021

Chitosan a versatile bioploymer was prepared from Schistocerca gregaria (desert grasshopper). The physicochemical parameters associated with the prepared chitosan were analyzed. Percentage yields (25.23%), ash content (3.25%), moisture content (1.72%), fat binding capacity (399.91%), pH (6.7-7.0), solubility (2% acetic acid) and degree of deacetylation (97.68%) were all established. FTIR and surface morphology (via SEM) analyses were carried out on the prepared chitosan. The activity of the prepared chitosan was tested against two gram positive bacterial species (Escherichia coli, Salmonella Typhi), one gram negative bacterial species (Staphylococcus aureus) and three fungi (Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergilus fumigatus) by agar well diffusion methods. The results revealed that the chitosan inhibited the growth of microbes in vitro.
Investigating the environmental pollution caused by steel slag in Dana steel rolling mill plant, Katsina
Authors: Yola I.A. , Sanni A.A.
Published: February 2021

Presence of heavy metals in the soil may contaminate the surrounding environment which causes chronic diseases. The waste steel slag in Dana steel rolling mill Katsina, Nigeria is always dumped within the premises of the company. Therefore, this research examined the level of environmental pollution caused by the deposited steel slag. Minipal 4 version of PW4030 X –Ray Fluorescence Spectrometer (XRF Spectrometer) was used to analyse the chemical composition of sample A (slag), sample B (mill scale), sample C (humus soil) and sample D (humus soil and slag) at Centre for Energy Research and Training, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Chemical compounds were detected in all the samples with oxides, Fe2O3 (11.8% - 86.13%) and SiO2 (4.41% - 57.7%) dominating. Product moment correlation coefficient was used to compare the effect of Slag (sample A) on Humus soil (sample C). The result obtained has shown that, the calculated value r = + 0.763 is greater than the table value r = + 0.483 at 5% level of significance and 15 d.f. This indicates that, the correlation between the two samples is highly significant. Fe2O3, MnO and ZnO trace elements in the humus soil were enriched after cultured with slag sample and P2O5, K2O, CaO, and SO3 trace elements that are useful for plants growth and development were leached.
Multivariate geometric autoregressive and autoregressive moving average models
Authors: Umar S.M. , Bala S.
Published: February 2021

We present Autoregressive (AR) and autoregressive moving average (ARMA) processes with multivariate geometric (MG) distribution. The theory of positive dependence is used to show that in many cases, multivariate geometric autoregressive (MGAR) and multivariate autoregressive moving average (MGARMA) models consist of associated random variables. We also provide a special case of the multivariate geometric autoregressive model in which it is stationary and has multivariate geometric distribution.
Knowledge and practice of quality assurance programme of X ray equipment among radiographers in Kano Metropolis
Authors: Sidi M. , Bello A.A.
Published: February 2021

The main goal of quality assurance programme is to consistently provide diagnostic information at the lowest possible cost, and at the least possible exposure of the patient to ionizing radiation. The study aims at evaluating the knowledge and practice of ray equipment among radiographers in Kano metropolis. The study design was prospective and cross sectional conducted among radiographers in the Kano metropolis from April 2019 to October 2019. Non-probability sampling meth used in the selection of the respondents. An ethical clearance to conduct the study was obtained from the Human Research and Ethics Committee of the Kano State Ministry of Health, and informed consent was obtained from every selected respondent. A s questionnaire was designed and used an instrument for data collection. The questionnaire was validated by experienced colleagues, using a pilot study the reliability was rested and the chronbach’s alpha reliability coefficient was found to be 0.7 one questionnaires were administered to the consented radiographers in Kano metropolis. The obtained data was analyzed using SPSS version 22.0. Out of the 41 (100%) administered questionnaires 36 (87%) were returned, and all the returned naires were properly filled. Only 3 (8.3%) known the meaning of quality assurance programme, only 12 (33.3%) know the components of quality assurance programme and only 6 (16.7%) know the frequency of computed radiography system average score for knowledge among radiographers in Kano metropolis is 44.9% and that of practice is 47.9%. The study concludes that radiographers in Kano metropolis have poor knowledge and pactice of quality assurance programme.
Micropropagation of pineapple (Ananas comosus L. Var. Smooth cayenne) in temporary immersion bioreactor system (TIPS)
Authors: Sani L.A. , Usman I.S. , Nasir A.U. , Abdulmalik M.M.
Published: February 2021

Pineapple is an important edible fruit in the family Bromeliaceae popularly grown in the tropical and subtropical countries. Commercial prodution of pineapple requires large volume of planting materials which could not easily be obtained using conventional method of propagation. A protocol for mass propagation of pineapple (Ananas comosus L. var.smooth cayenne) using temporary immersion bioreactor system has been developed.The protocol involves four immersion cycles in Murashinge and Skoog (MS) media fortified with 1mg/L or 2mg/L 6-Benzylaminopurine (BAP) with or without 0.25g/L activated charcoal (AC). The highest multiplication rate (120 -130 plants/bottle) was obtained when media was fortified with 1mg/l or 2mg/L BAP alone. The presence of activated charcoal (AC) promoted root morphogenesis, resulting in significant increase in roots formation in BAP suplemented media. A combination of BAP with AC significantly increased the number of competent plants(20 – 30 plants/bottle) after four weeks of culture in temporary immersion system. The system is recommended for rapid and efficient micropropagation of pineapple.
An evaluation of the critical factors influencing productivity of masonry work in construction sites in Kano, Nigeria
Authors: Jibril J.D. , Mukarram M.A.
Published: February 2021

Construction labour productivity is of great interest to practitioners and researchers because it affects the performance and success of the project. This research assesses and ranks factors that critically influenced productivity of masonry work for some selected within Kano metropolis, Nigeria. A total of sixty three (63) respondents which include construction experts from lower to top management levels of various positions were selected. Structured questionnaire related to masonry labour and productivity was distributed to the selected respondents. The four most critical factors that negatively influence labour productivity of masonry as identified by the respondents work were found to be delayed in payment process. Payment process discourages some qualified contractors from bidding for the job, material quantity which result in stoppage of material delivery, security of life and property. Security as a constraint has negative and significant influence on the program of projects and worker experience. Lack of labourexperience has a very high effect on productivity; experience improves both intellectual and physical abilities that improve productivity.The inferences drawn from this study could be used by the project managers to take account of these factors at an early stage in order to improve labour productivity of workers on construction site in Nigerian.
Assessment of indoor air bacterial load and antibiotic susceptibility profile of bacteria from some hospitals in Dutse, Jigawa State
Authors: Mohammed B. , Haruna I.
Published: February 2021

Indoor air microbial communities play significant roles on the increase in hospitals acquired infections globally. In view of the importance of indoor air bacterial quality in the transmission of nosocomial infections, a study was conducted to assess the air bacterial load and antibiotic susceptibility profile of bacteria from some hospitals in Dutse, Jigawa State. A total of 114 air samples were collected and analyzed using standard procedures from wards and units of Rasheed Shekoni Teaching Hospital Dutse, General Hospital Dutse and Primary Health Care Centre Shuwarin. Settling platetechnique was employed and sampling was done twice daily (Morning and Afternoon). Aerobic mesophilic bacterial counts were conducted. Isolates were identified according to standard methods. The Medical Surgical Ward (MSW) revealed the highest airborne bacterial count (2.770x103 CFU/m3). General Hospital Dutse was found to have a higher indoor bacterial load than Rasheed Shekoni Teaching Hospital and Primary Healthcare Centre Shuwarin. Airborne Gram positive cocci were the most frequently detected (100%) in all the indoor environments. Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis and Escherichia coli were the bacterial species identified in the study. It was observed that the bacterial isolates were more susceptible to gentimicin. The findings revealed the presence of five (5) methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus isolates (MRSA) 60% in Male Medical Ward (MMW), 20% in Female Medical Ward (FMW), and 20% in Post-natal Ward (PNW). In conclusion, 84.2% of the hospitals’ units were having aerobic mesophilic bacterial counts within the acceptable limits. It is recommended that disinfection of male, female and post-natal wards should be intensified.
Yüksek Hızlı Demiryolu Araçlarında Düşey Titreşimlerin Doğrusal Olmayan Uyarlamalı Kontrol ile Yarı Aktif Kontrolü
Authors: METİN Muzaffer , YILMAZ Fırat Can
Published: February 2021

Demiryolu düzensizlikleri nedeniyle araçlarda oluşan titreşimler çeşitli olumsuz etkilere neden olmaktadır. Bu çalışmada, yüksek hızlı demiryolu araçlarının düşey titreşimleri ikincil süspansiyonlara paralel yerleştirilen manyetoreolojik damperler vasıtasıyla yarı aktif bir yöntemle kontrol edilerek bastırılması amaçlanmıştır. Kontrol yöntemi olarak, manyetoreolojik damperin ölçülemeyen parametrelerinin ve araca ait bazı diğer parametrelerin belirsiz kabul edildiği bir modelde sistem kararlılığını garanti edebilecek uyarlamalı kontrol tercih edilmiştir. Manyetoreolojik damperlerin ikincil süspansiyon sistemine paralel çalıştırılması ile düşük enerji tüketimine rağmen özellikle yolcu konforunun artırılması yönünde etkin sonuç alınabilmektedir. Önerilen kontrolörün başarısı, zaman ve frekans alanında pasif sistem cevapları ile karşılaştırılarak gösterilmiştir.
Vivências de professoras dos Anos Iniciais no trabalho com a resolução de problemas em uma formação continuada
Authors: Oliveira Sandra Alves de , Rezende Dayselane Pimenta Lopes , Reis Andreia Rezende Garcia , Carneiro Reginaldo Fernando
Published: February 2021

Este artigo tem como objetivo investigar as vivências de professoras dos Anos Iniciais do Ensino Fundamental no trabalho com a resolução de problemas a partir da unidade temática Números da Base Nacional Comum Curricular (BNCC) e na oficina Brincando, cantando, jogando e problematizando também se aprende a Matemática! Para a produção dos dados foram utilizados um questionário e os registros da oficina, que teve duração de 16 horas. Os participantes foram 15 professoras dos Anos Iniciais. As bases do Interacionismo Sociodiscursivo (ISD) permitiram compreender as representações textualizadas construídas pelo grupo de professoras no âmbito da formação continuada. No desenvolvimento das atividades propostas e criadas na oficina, as dimensões do agir docente individual e coletivo possibilitaram às professoras, em parceria com a formadora, estudar, vivenciar e analisar criticamente o texto prescritivo da área de Matemática na BNCC, fazendo as alterações necessárias nos textos do trabalho planificado e realizado, as quais proporcionaram às professoras conhecer e participar da dinamização da metodologia da resolução de problemas na formação continuada.
Olhar profissional para a docência com tecnologia: um estudo na formação continuada
Authors: Figueiredo Sonner Arfux de , Lobo da Costa Nielce Meneguelo , Llinares Salvador
Published: February 2021

No artigo discutimos a competência do Olhar Profissional numa pesquisa com três professores de Matemática num curso de formação continuada com o objetivo de identificar a mobilização de conhecimentos pelo professor que indicam o desenvolvimento dessa competência para o ensino com tecnologia. A fundamentação veio do processo reflexivo docente na perspectiva da reflexão coletiva envolvendo vivências para a reconstituição das práticas e, quanto aos conhecimentos docentes para ensinar com Tecnologia, o apoio esteve no modelo TPACK. A metodologia foi qualitativa, do tipo estudo de caso, com coleta de dados feita por observação, entrevistas e recolha dos materiais produzidos nos encontros de formação, com análise interpretativa. Concluímos que no processo formativo desenvolvido houve mobilização de conhecimentos tecnológicos, pedagógicos e matemáticos, a qual foi percebida em um contexto de observação das tarefas envolvidas e das manifestações do raciocínio dos alunos, apontando possibilidades de ampliação do Olhar Profissional dos participantes.
DIAGNÓSTICOS DE ENFERMAGEM PARA PACIENTES COM SÍNDROME INFLAMATÓRIA MULTISSISTÊMICA PEDIÁTRICA ASSOCIADA À COVID-19: REVISÃO INTEGRATIVA
Authors: Bastos Farias Dias Renise , Cavalcante Costa Ferraz Luana , De Cássia Batista de Oliveira Peixoto Rita , Melo dos Santos Ana Caroline , Freitas Marques Juliana , Martins de Souza Figueiredo Elaine Virgínia
Published: February 2021

Objetivo: identificar afirmativas diagnósticas de enfermagem para pacientes com Síndrome Inflamatória Multissistêmica Pediátrica associada à COVID-19, a partir dos indicadores evidenciados na literatura científica. Método: revisão integrativa com busca de dados realizada em julho/2020 nas bases: Science direct, Cinahl, SCOPUS, Pubmed Central e MEDLINE/PubMed via National Library of Medicine e o portal de periódicos Web of Science a partir de descritores controlados, sem restrições de tempo e idioma. Resultados: foram selecionados dez estudos primários internacionais, publicados em 2020, dos quais foram extraídos 39 indicadores diagnósticos presentes em 7 domínios de enfermagem para o cuidado voltado ao paciente com Síndrome Inflamatória Multissistêmica Pediátrica, tornando possível a elaboração de 18 diagnósticos de enfermagem, com focos no problema e no risco.  Conclusão: O reconhecimento e agrupamento de indicadores, somados aos dezoito diagnósticos de enfermagem ao paciente com a síndrome, podem contribuir para o preparo técnico do enfermeiro, o empoderando para o cuidado qualificado.
Ricardo Palma, José Dávila Condemarín y el Quijote
Authors: Holguín Callo Oswaldo
Published: February 2021

En 1905, acicateado por el cuarto centenario de la publicación de la primera parte de la insigne novela cervantina, Palma escribió «Sobre el Quijote en América», un artículo reminiscente y bibliográfico sobre el cual advierte que no se trata de una tradición. En dicho artículo, se descubre el origen del «muy curioso relato» contado en 1877 por José Dávila Condemarín, respetado funcionario, sobre la llegada a Lima del primer Quijote. A manera de colofón, se hace un enfoque en la cervantofilia de Palma.
Contribution towards Understanding of Corporate Governance: Thematic Analysis of Review Papers on Corporate Governance
Authors:   PAF Karachi Institute of Economics & Technology, Khan Zeba Shariff
Published: February 2021

The purpose of the study was to assemble knowledge, to understand the nuances of corporate governance as it is widely dispersed having multiple dimensions, to organize and categorize review papers on corporate governance under specific subjects, fields, areas of research. Thematic classification of review papers provided insight and spectra about corporate governance. The research study was confined to review of review papers on Corporate Governance downloaded through Google Scholar and focuses only on abstracts of these reviews and determines the intensity of respective research published/ undertaken on specific category and subcategories during the period 1988 to 2017. Document analysis was used to gather information on the (Valiente & González, n.d.) themes, providing break-up into individual sub-categories and identifying an array of research topics. The themes were formulated from six hundred and sixty-five (665) review papers, classified into nineteen (19) categories, 177 sub-categories comprising 476 review papers. On the basis of classifications significance of Corporate Governance has been observed for firm performance (5th category 71 papers); legislative & regulatory requirement (7th category 64 papers); executive governance (2nd category 59 papers) these three categories have contributed maximum number of review papers. The above three categories have mostly published review papers on the Impact of Corporate Governance Variables on Firm Performance: Country-wise comparison (19 papers), Corporate Governance Effects on/ Relationship with Firm/Corporate Performance (15 papers) and Review of Corporate Governance Reforms Country wise (16 papers). The research study (1) highlights existing research undertaken (2) identifies avenues for future research beneficial for the research scholars & academics to explore potential research areas in context to Pakistan. It will also enhance the acumen, awareness of practitioners and policymakers regarding the vitality of corporate governance for quality decision-making.
Effect of Academic & Personality Development Activities on Competitiveness of Business Schools: An Empirical Study through the Lens of Islamic Perspective
Authors:   Islamia College Peshawar, Khattak Irum
Published: February 2021

The study intended to investigate the effect of academic and personality development activities on competitiveness of business schools through the lens of Islamic perspective. The features of academic & personality development activities of competitive business schools from modern literature were studied in the light of Islamic perspective. Regression analysis was used to test the hypothesis. Data was collected from a sample of 354 students through structured questionnaire. The study found that Islam supports businesses education and provides a comprehensive framework that embodies moral and social values leading to a prosper society in long-term. The activities of academic and personality development in modern literature to increase the competitiveness of business schools are supported by Islamic perspective as far as it is within Islamic boundaries. Positive relation was found between academic and personality development activities and competitiveness of business schools from students’ perspective. Future studies are directed to cover other activities required for competitiveness of business schools and its relevance from Islamic perspective.
Indian education: Opening a space for digital storytelling
Authors: Locklear Tiffany , Hunt Frances
Published: February 2021

Using an interpretive analysis of digital storytelling, we advance the conversation on ways Indian communities can rethink educational design. From an ethnohistorical context, we interrupt traditional pedagogy to grant voice and perspective to the Indigenous community. In this paper, we blend constructivism and personal digital stories to bring forth critical consciousness concerning mainstream educational practices. As an alternate, yet, innovative approach, we employ Unlocking Silent Histories, an educational design that aims to couple culture and learning. It does so by opening a space for teaching and learning that illuminates the Indigenous way. Our analysis reveals emerging themes of the Lumber River, community, and resilience.
Improving the Lives of Indigenous Communities through Mapping: A Case Study from Indonesia
Authors: Ridhwan Dwiki , Astri Carolina , Yulindra Affandi Dean , Fajar Muis , Lawalata Julius , Azadi Taufik Alif
Published: February 2021

Overlapping land use and tenure uncertainties are prevalent in Indonesia. The One Map Initiative at the Village Level (Inisiatif Satu Peta di Tingkat Desa; ITUPEDE) supports Indonesia’s One Map Policy to address these problems, primarily through participatory mapping. It helped the Gajah Bertalut indigenous community to map its territories and improve land-use planning based on local wisdom. It helped make land boundaries clearer and mapped more inclusively. Agreements restricting deforestation in specified areas were enacted and adequately implemented.
KARABAĞ SORUNU: TARİHİ GERÇEKLER, JEOPOLİTİK ÇIKARLAR VE ÇÖZÜM SÜRECİ
Authors: PAŞA Elnur
Published: February 2021

Silahlı çatışmaların modern siyaset ve jeopolitik bilimleri için önemi göz önüne alındığında, Dağlık Karabağ sorununun da bir araştırma konusu olarak incelenmesi önem arz etmektedir. Bu bakımdan, Ermenistan ile Azerbaycan arasındaki Dağlık Karabağ sorunu ve bu konu kapsamındaki tarihi gerçekler, jeopolitik çıkarlar ve çözüm süreci makalenin araştırma konusudur. Bu doğrultuda çalışmada, Dağlık Karabağ sorununun tarihsel kökenleri, sorunun başlamasında Ermenilerin rolü ve gerçek niyetleri, Rusya’nın Dağlık Karabağ problemi karşısındaki tutumu, Ermenileri koruması ve Rus devletinin kendi jeopolitik çıkarlarını düşünerek çatışma durumunu desteklemesi incelenmektedir. Dağlık Karabağ sorununun Azerbaycan dış politikasında önemli bir öncelik olması durumu da makalenin temel konusunu oluşturmaktadır.

Sorunun tarihsel kökenlerine bakıldığında, çatışmanın temellerinin 1813 ve 1828 yıllarında imzalanan antlaşmalar çerçevesinde Çarlık Rusya’nın çabalarıyla Ermenilerin Azerbaycan topraklarına bilinçli olarak yerleştirilmesi ve ilerleyen süreçte bu bölgede Ermenistan devletinin yaratılmasıyla atıldığını görebiliriz. Bir sonraki aşamada ise Ermenilerin Azerbaycan toprakları üzerinde hak iddialarında bulunmaları, işgal politikaları uygulamaları ve Azerbaycanlıları yaşadığı topraklardan tehcir etmeleri bu problemin genişlemesine sebep olmuştur. 1988 tarihinden itibaren iki ülke arasında yaşanan silahlı çatışmalar ve savaşlar sonucunda Ermenistan, Dağlık Karabağ ve çevresini işgal ederek yerel halkı bölgeden çıkmaya zorlamış, böylelikle ayrılıkçılık ve etnik temizlik politikası yoluna girmiştir. Ermenilerin yürüttükleri bu saldırgan politika ve Azerbaycanlılara yönelik soykırım faaliyetleri çalışmada incelenmektedir. Makalede Dağlık Karabağ sorununun Azerbaycan Cumhuriyeti dış politikasındaki yeri ve rolü, bu konuda uluslararası örgütler nezdinde yapılan çalışmalar, bölgesel güç merkezlerinin pozisyonları ve uluslararası hukuka ikili yaklaşım, diğer dikkate değer bir konu olarak araştırılmıştır. Özellikle Rusya’nın Ermenistan’ı çeşitli şekillerde destekleyerek onu silahlandırması ve bu yolla statükoyu koruyarak çatışmanın devamı için koşullar yaratması yansıtılmaktadır. Sorunun 2020’deki çözümünü sağlayan jeopolitik koşullar, Ermenistan yönetiminin askeri-politik faaliyetleri, kazanılan fırsatlar analiz edilmektedir. Bilimsel çalışmanın metodolojisi, tarihsel tanımlama, sistem, karşılaştırma, analiz ve sentez yöntemlerini içerir. Çözüme ulaşmış konuların ayrıntılı şekilde değerlendirilmesini sağlayacak kapsamlı araştırmaların ve analizlerin yapılması, elde edilen olumlu bilimsel sonuçların siyaset bilimi, jeopolitik ve uluslararası ilişkiler alanındaki çeşitli seminerlerde kullanılabileceğini göstermektedir.
Effect of Dietary Methionine on Taurine Distribution and Non-specific Immune Responses in Juvenile Blunt Snout Bream, Megalobrama amblycephala at A Constant Dietary Cystine Level
Authors: Liao Y. , Liu B. , Ren M. , Ge X. , Xia S. , Zhang W.
Published: February 2021

A 9-week feeding trial was conducted to investigate taurine distribution by supplementation of methionine in juvenile Megalobrama amblycephala at a constant dietary cystine level. Six semi-purified diets were formulated to contain graded dietary methionine levels from 0.39-1.54% in about 0.25% increments. At the end of feeding trial, plasma methionine content significantly increased with increasing dietary methionine level from 0.39 to 1.0% (P < 0.05) and thereafter reached a plateau. The taurine content of muscle, intestine, liver, and eye in the fish fed dietary methionine level ranged from 1.24-1.54% and was significantly higher than that of the control group (P < 0.05). Taurine content of the brain in fish fed 1.54% methionine diet was higher than the fish fed 0.39% (P < 0.05). Cysteine sulfinic acid decarboxylase content significantly increased with increasing dietary methionine level from 0.39-0.85% (P < 0.05) and thereafter stayed at a similar level. Supplementation with methionine significantly increased (P < 0.05) plasma total protein (TP) content, complement 3 (C3) content and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity (0.85% methionine diet groups), aspartate transaminase (AST) activity (1.24% methionine diet groups) and albumin content (1.0% methionine diet groups). Supplemented groups had significantly decreased plasma urea content (0.85% methionine diet groups) (P < 0.05). In conclusion, these results indicate that crystalline methionine can be utilized efficiently, juvenile blunt snout bream were able to convert methionine to taurine directly, and appropriate dietary methionine supplementation improves non-specific immune responses in blunt snout bream.
Effects of salinity, pH and alkalinity on hatching rate of fertilized eggs of Penaeus monodon
Authors: Jiang Song , Liu Qing-Xia , Zhou Wen-Chuan , Zhao Qiu-Long , Zhou Fa-Lin , Yang Qi-Bin , Huang Jian-Hua , Yang Li-Shi , Li Yun-Dong , Jiang Shi-Gui
Published: February 2021

The fertilized eggs of “Nanhai 2” Penaeus monodon bred by our research group were incubated at the same temperature (30℃), different salinity (20, 25, 30, 35, 40), different pH (7.0, 7.5, 8.0, 8.5, 9.0) and different alkalinity (2.0 mmol/L, 2.5 mmol/L, 3.0 mmol/L, 3.5 mmol/L, 4.0 mmol/L) to explore the effects of salinity, pH and alkalinity on hatching rate of fertilized eggs of P. monodon. The results showed that the hatching rate of fertilization rate of P. monodon was closely related to salinity, and the best hatching rate was obtained when the seawater salinity was 30 with the average hatching rate was 82.60%. The hatching rate was very low when the salinity was as low as 20 or as high as 40, which was significantly lower than that of other treatments (P<0.05). The hatching effect of the fertilized eggs of P. monodon was closely related to the pH value of seawater, and the slightly alkaline seawater was conducive to the normal development of the fertilized eggs. Among them, the hatching effect of the seawater pH value of 8.0 was the best, and the average hatching rate of the fertilized eggs was 80.62%. Too low or too high pH value of the seawater was not conducive to the development of the embryo, and the hatching rate of the fertilized eggs decreased in varying degrees. There was no significant correlation between the hatching effect of fertilized eggs and the change of seawater alkalinity. The average hatching rate of fertilized eggs ranged from 78.65% to 83.12% in the alkalinity range of 2.0-4.0 mmol/L.
POTENSI BAKTERI Serratia sp. SEBAGAI AGENSIA HAYATI PENYAKIT JAMUR AKAR PUTIH (Rigidoporus microporus)
Authors: Daliminthe Cici Indriani , Dahlan Ahmad , Tistama Radite
Published: February 2021

Serratia sp is the family Enterobacteriaceae gram-negative bacteria that have flagella Peritrik, motile and reported to be anti-fungal. Chitinolytic chitinase activity of bacteria are potentially used as a biological control against pathogenic fungi.The purpose of this research is to know the potential of bacteriaSerratia sp in controlling white root rot disease caused by Rigidoporus microporus on the rubber plant in polibag. This research uses a randomizedblock design (RAK) nonfaktorial with 5 treatments and 5 replications. Parametersmeasured were extensive white root fungus colony growth (cm) in the laboratory,white root fungus attack intensity (%) in polybag, the percentage of inhibition (%)in polybag and visual symptom of the white root fungus attack in polybag. Thereault of this showed that Serratia sp bacteri application infection very obvious inobstructing extensive growth of the white root fungus colony in Laboratory, withthe lowest extensive of colony 3,06 cm on D4 standard (10ml/100 ml PDA) A verysignificant effect in reducing the intensity of white root fungus attacks the inhibition rate reached 54%, or healing reached 47,31% the age of 6 weeks after application.
Strategic Planning in the Construction Companies in Oman
Authors:   Middle East College, Al-Ghrairee Layth
Published: February 2021

Purpose of the study: The purpose of the study was to critically evaluate the components of the strategic planning process of construction companies in Oman; to investigate the factors that led to the success of strategic planning in construction companies in Oman; to identify the challenges in the implementation of strategic planning among different construction companies’ categories in Oman and to make recommendations in enhancing the strategic planning process for construction companies in Oman as well as in minimizing challenges. Design/Methodology/Approach: This research adopted a mixed approach, quantitative and qualitative approach where it used the quantitative technique to investigate the companies and identify the problem while the qualitative approach was used to explain the challenges and uncover the best practices followed by the companies. The research used the cross-section time horizon data. Out of 940 companies registered as local companies in the category of construction and maintenance, the study tested90 companies using the survey questionnaire and interviews with senior employees/the owners of the companies. Findings: The study has shown that most of the companies have a clear understanding of the strategic planning components. Companies have realistic strategic plans but improvements need to be done to ensure success during implementation. It was also revealed that the motivation is not at the best level and the lack of creating a sense of urgency to implement the strategic plans which need to be enhanced. Research Implications: Some recommendations are given also to enhance the work environment and the manager’s skills and motivation system in the companies to achieve efficient strategic planning. Some recommendations are regulatory. This is a proposal to the government to do special legislation to regulate and protect private companies from unfair competition. Social Implications: The success of the strategic plans of the construction companies will lead to the socio-economic growth of the country. The recommendation will enhance the work environment and the strict implementation of strategic planning processes in construction companies in Oman. It was suggested that the Government need to amend the legislation curbing the unfair competition created by illegal contractors and small companies. Originality/value: There were no earlier studies discussed more in detail about strategic planning in construction companies in Oman. This study will help the companies’ owners and the decision-makers to adopt more successful strategic plans which will lead to greater success of the construction companies to have huge economic growth. Keywords: Strategic Planning, Strategic Planning Process, Components of strategic planning, Challenges of strategic planning, Construction companies in Oman
The Legal Protection of Agricultural Land Sustainable Food in Mining Coal Area of East Kalimantan
Authors: Susmiyati Haris Retno , Al-Hidayah Rahmawati
Published: February 2021

The effort of fulfillment over people's food is a constitutional obligation of the State.  The development of an increasingly large population can threaten the existence of the tropical wet forest area when opening the land needs of food became imperative. As was the case in East Kalimantan, the area of food land is diminishing because over the function of the land are massive for coal mining and palm oil plantations. This will bring up the feared conditions insistence to open forest areas to agricultural land of food.  The Central Government has the authority to make the national policy while the local government is based on the provisions of Division of the authority of Government, have the authority to make policies related to land protection food crop sector ongoing in the area. This article would like to know (1) How is the legal content in the regulation regarding the protection of sustainable food crop lands at the national level; and (2) how is regional can make a regulation of the protection sustainable food crop lands. The method is used the legal research of normative, as well as by the method of analysis is  analytic descriptive. Based on the results of the study it was concluded that the regulation of sustainable food crops land protection at the national level has been set in full, but the content of legal protection, there is a weakness in political designation, which allows agricultural lands sustainable food converted as long as there is not determination as a sustainable agricultural lands. In other words, the provision in The Law No 41 Of 2009 On The Protection Of Land For Sustainable Food  Plantation, but in substance precisely open up opportunities for the occurrence over the function of the land. there is a regulation on the region level regarding legal protection one of them the Regional Regulation No 1 Of 2013 On The Protection Of Sustainable Agricultural Lands, but contain elements of weakness that requires a determination of the agricultural lands before protection While official functionary who is not determination agricultural location does not get strict sanctions. This is a weakness for the agricultural land which has not been established, although physically it is the agricultural land of food, but because there is no designation then will not be affordable by the regulation of the area.
Mandatory multidisciplinary management of hepatocellular carcinoma: Need of the hour in a country with high prevalence of hepatitis C virus infection.
Authors: Muhammad Rizwan Khan  , Saleema Begum  , Admin
Published: February 2021

Abstract:

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth common cancer diagnosed and fourth leading cause of cancer related deaths worldwide. The incidence of HCC is on rise due to increasing prevalence of chronic hepatitis C virus Infection. Pakistan is ranked second in HCV burdened countries in the world. Management of HCC is complex as it develops on the background of liver cirrhosis; the risk of mortality is contributed both by tumor related factors and liver decompensation. A multidisciplinary tumor board (MDT) is an ideal approach to improve the outcomes of HCC since this ensures assimilation of input from a diverse group of care providers including hepatobiliary and transplant surgeons, gastroenterologists, interventional radiologists, oncologists, and palliative care specialists. MDT provides tailored approach to individual cases in a timely fashion to avoid treatment delays and communication gaps to improve the overall outcomes.

Keywords:

Hepatocellular carcinoma, multidisciplinary approach, MDT
Stress-related growth of HIV/AIDS patients: role of religion and self-esteem in mitigating perceived discrimination
Authors: Fauzia Maqsood  , Ummel Baneen  , Sidra Maqsood
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Objectives: Objectives of present research were to i) examine association between levels of religiosity, self-esteem, perceived discrimination and stress related growth among HIV/AIDS Patients and ii) find out the mediating effect of self-esteem on perceived discrimination and stress related growth among HIV/AIDS Patients.
Methods: It was a cross sectional study. The respondents were registered in VCCT (Voluntary Confidential Counseling & testing) center at Civil Hospital of Jalal Pur Jattan, Gujrat. Total sample of 247 patients was selected on the basis of two stage stratified simple random sampling technique. After taking verbal consent from respondents, data was collected from HIV/AIDS patients by using a structured questionnaire. Analysis was performed by using SPSS version 21
Results: Results of descriptive analysis showed that majority of respondents belonged to age group 29-37 (39.5%). Educational attainment of majority of the respondents was 6-11 years (38.3%), whereas, 27.4% of the respondents had monthly household income between Rs.10001-20000.
Conclusion: Results of correlation and regression analysis showed that level of religiosity and self-esteem had significant effects in reducing perceived discrimination among HIV/AIDS patients. The reduced perceived discrimination further assisted in improving the stress related growth among respondents. Based on the findings it is suggested that special programs for accelerating stress related growth among HIV/AIDS patients by enhancing their self-esteem may be arranged and most importantly this issue may be raised in the religious sessions to discuss it and for removing the related stigma. It would be helpful for HIV/AIDS patients to cope with the disease.
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Globalização e neoliberalismo na crise estrutural do capital: rebatimentos na educação
Authors: Santos José Deribaldo Gomes dos , Santos Maria Escolástica de Moura
Published: February 2021

O artigo tem como objetivo analisar os rebatimentos da crise estrutural do capital na educação. Para debater essa questão, a exposição é dividida em quatro momentos distintos, mas intercalados: caracteriza a crise estrutural do capital e suas influências nas políticas de Estado; contextualiza o binômio global-neoliberal; discute os impactos das políticas de ajustes neoliberais na educação pública; e, por fim, apresenta considerações para o debate. Do ponto de vista teórico-metodológico, a comunicação se apoia no Materialismo Histórico e Dialético, principalmente nas categorias utilizadas por István Mészáros para explicar a crise do capitalismo contemporâneo e inferir, em linhas gerais, que o neoliberalismo seria responsável por propor uma nova leitura político-econômica da realidade. Já a globalização, por seu turno, ficaria com a missão de garantir a condição ideológico-cultural capaz de fazer com que todos os habitantes de uma suposta aldeia global se sintam incluídos no mar de usufrutos dos bens produzidos pelo capitalismo.
Lendo um aplicativo: perspectivas da construção de sentido na leitura literária digital na primeira infância
Authors: Frederico Aline
Published: February 2021

O formato dos aplicativos literários possibilitou o desenvolvimento de um novo tipo de literatura digital que ganhou especial prominência na produção voltada à infância. Esse artigo visa discutir a leitura digital na primeira infância a partir da análise empírica de eventos de letramentos envolvendo crianças lendo aplicativos com seus pais, na Inglaterra. Num estudo qualitativo, a leitura compartilhada foi observada e analisada segundo referenciais teóricos e metodológicos da semiótica social multimodal, em diálogo com discussões teóricas interdisciplinares ao redor dos conceitos de embodiment, afeto e agência. Tanto as respostas leitoras como as características textuais da literatura em formato aplicativo foram levadas em conta na análise das transações de sentido ocorridas entre criança, mãe/pai e texto literário. O estudo aponta três perspectivas centrais da leitura de aplicativos literários na infância: (1) a corporeidade (embodiment) – o corpo do leitor tem papel essencial na construção de sentido e na experiência fenomenológica da leitura digital; (2) afetividade – o leitor troca, dentro do mundo ficcional que habita temporariamente, intensidades e emoções com elementos ficcionais, como as personagens, e com seus pais; (3) agência – o leitor tem agência para negociar sua participação e construção de significado, a despeito das limitações de design e também por meio de sua performance leitora e da subversão.
O protagonismo de estudantes da Educação Básica a partir do desenvolvimento de aplicativos para smartphone
Authors: Medeiros Giselle Araújo e Silva de , Wangenheim Christiane Gresse von , Hauck Jean Carlo Rossa
Published: February 2021

A importância da aprendizagem do pensamento computacional já é discutida na Educação Básica. O pensamento computacional engloba a resolução de problemas, além de outras habilidades, conhecimento de algoritmos e programação o que pode ser ensinado por meio do desenvolvimento de aplicativos móveis. Utilizando uma linguagem de programação visual, como App Inventor, estudantes da Educação Básica podem desenvolver aplicativos funcionais para smartphones, possibilitando a eles aprenderem conceitos de computação, de design de interface entre outras habilidades. É adotada como estratégia metodológica a ação computacional, uma abordagem que visa ensinar computação por meio da resolução de problemas na comunidade local. O artigo apresenta um estudo de caso avaliando a experiência de aprendizagem de estudantes no projeto “Jovens Tutores de Programação” a partir da prática  pedagógica “Faça seu primeiro app”, criada pela Iniciativa Computação na Escola/INCoD/INE/UFSC em 2018, que visa ensinar pensamento computacional a jovens do Ensino Fundamental por meio do desenvolvimento de aplicativos. Além disso, os jovens colaboram ensinando o conhecimento de computação para outros alunos do Ensino Fundamental. Os resultados desse estudo de caso mostram que essa prática pedagógica pode contribuir no interesse e na motivação dos estudantes abrangendo temáticas com base na vida deles e da comunidade, e com isso oportunizando o protagonismo dos estudantes. Tais perspectivas tendem a fortalecer a construção do conhecimento e do desenvolvimento de habilidades dos estudantes, incentivando a construção ao invés de apenas consumo de tecnologia.
Pantallas digitales para infancias diversas
Authors: Grané Mariona
Published: February 2021

Famílias e professores de todo o mundo dedicam grandes esforços para encontrar recursos digitais (hoje especialmente jogos e aplicativos para smartphones e tablets) para ajudar meninos e meninas a brincar e a aprender. Para todos os educadores, é importante o acesso a recursos de qualidade, mas é ainda mais importante para quem trabalha com crianças com diversidade funcional, pois precisam de recursos muito específicos. O mercado oferece diferentes materiais para essas crianças, mas nem sempre com a qualidade adequada. Existem vários estudos sobre o potencial desses materiais digitais nos processos de aprendizagem durante a infância, mas esses estudos contrastam com os resultados de pesquisas sobre a qualidade real de aplicativos e jogos de vídeo para crianças. É necessário avançar na avaliação da qualidade do conteúdo e no design interativo dos jogos e aplicativos para todas as crianças. Este artigo mostra os resultados de diferentes análises sobre a qualidade do Apps para crianças menores de 8 anos, com ótimo desenvolvimento e com necessidades educacionais especiais, utilizando diferentes metodologias; e apresenta propostas para orientar a seleção e criação de aplicativos interativos que permitem que todas as crianças brinquem e aprendam. O objetivo desta linha de pesquisa é determinar a qualidade dos recursos interativos voltados para a primeira infância (0-8 anos), considerando o conteúdo, mas também a forma, o design deste conteúdo.
Flipgrid: um app de vídeo para o intercâmbio virtual, a proximidade e a aprendizagem de línguas
Authors: Concheiro Pilar , Espejel Olivia , Pujolà Joan-Tomàs
Published: February 2021

Nos intercâmbios virtuais, o primeiro contato entre os estudantes é um momento chave, já que determina a forma como os estudantes se relacionarão entre si durante todo o processo de aprendizagem. O aplicativo Flipgrid pode ser uma ferramenta útil para desenvolver um primeiro contato tanto em projetos de telecolaboração como em contextos educativos digitais. O objetivo desse artigo é explorar as estratégias técnicas, comunicativas e afetivas que os estudantes que participaram em o projeto de telecolaboração HI-UB durante o semestre de primavera de 2019 utilizaram em suas primeiras interações para alcançar a proximidade. Os dados foram obtidos tanto das gravações em vídeo realizadas em Flipgrid por 22 alunos do programa de Máster da Universidade de Barcelona e 11 estudantes de espanhol como língua estrangeira da Universidade de Islândia, como de suas reflexões. Os resultados mostram que este primeiro encontro assíncrono em vídeo lhes foi útil, já que os ajudou a reduzir a ansiedade, proporcionou uma boa atmosfera emocional e fomentou sua motivação às tarefas posteriores do projeto de telecolaboração.