bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pupils’ School Performance and Their Cognitive Abilities to Solve Problems
Authors: Hejnová Eva , Eisenmann Petr , Loukotová Lucie , Přibyl Jiří
Published: April 2024

The paper describes the results of a study whose main aim was to find the correlation between a pupil’s school grades in Czech language (native), mathematics and physics and pupils' cognitive predispositions to problem solving in science and mathematics diagnosed by the Lawson Classroom Test of Scientific Reasoning and the Culture of Problem Solving test. The total of 180 pupils from the Czech Republic aged 14–15 took part in this study. The results show that pupils with better grades in the monitored subjects achieve better results in both tests. It also turns out that there are generally statistically insignificant differences between the results of pupils assessed by grades 1 or 2, and between the results of pupils assessed by grades 3 or 4. Pupils’ performance in the two tests might help to strengthen the objectivization of grading at school. They might also help to identify the indicators important for the development of problem-solving skills. The research specifically points at the need of developing algebraic thinking, conception of infinity, spatial imagination, geometric imagination in the plane, proportional reasoning and the abilities of the control of variables.
Development of Computer-Based Chemical Five-Tier Diagnostic Test Instruments: A Generalized Partial Credit Model
Authors: Suparman Achmad Rante , Rohaeti Eli , Wening Sri
Published: April 2024

This study focuses on developing a five-tier chemical diagnostic test based on a computer-based test with 11 assessment categories with an assessment score from 0 to 10. A total of 20 items produced were validated by education experts, material experts, measurement experts, and media experts and obtained an average index of the Aiken test > 0.70. The validation results were tested on 580 respondents and analyzed using the Generalized Partial Credit Model (GPCM) Item Response Theory (IRT) type. The results of the analysis show that all of the items meet the requirements to be said to be valid for the model; the evidence of the value this: RMSEA < 0.08, CFI > 0.87, SRMR < 0.10, GFI > 0.90, NFI > 0.90, NNFI > 0.90, IFI > 0.90, TLI > 0.90, and RFI > 0.90, and all items were obtained has a p.S_X2 value greater than 0.05 which indicates that all items developed are fit and by the GPCM model. The construct reliability (CR) value is 0.99, which suggests the construct is reliable. The most challenging item is item 9, and the most accessible item is item 4
Pedagogical support of educational work with the modern family as a means of forming spiritual and moral values of the children
Authors: Glebova Lyubov' Nikolaevna
Published: April 2024

The article is devoted to the consideration of issues of educational work with parents and its importance in the formation of value orientations and morality in modern children. In the context of studying the scientific literature of Russian scientists, the author concludes that this problem is relevant and requires further research. The highlighted methodological approaches – systemic, axiological, and familistic – contribute to the disclosure of the scientific nature of the research. The purpose of the study is to identify the importance of pedagogical support for educational work with the family in the context of the formation of moral values of children at the present stage of development of Russian society and the state. The author's understanding of the essence of the definition of "pedagogical enlightenment" is revealed, its essence and significance in the upbringing of spiritual and moral values of modern children are determined. The article highlights the pedagogical features of pedagogical education, manifested at different stages of family development in matters of education: educational (propaedeutic) work with future parents to educate children the moral values, educational pedagogical work with parents raising children of preschool, junior, middle and senior school age. Traditional and innovative forms of educational work in different periods of child development in the family are proposed. The difficulties of educational work with the family are highlighted, consisting in the slow process of developing parental literacy and competence, in the absence of uniform rules for raising children in the family, in the absence of clear mechanisms for interaction between parents and social institutions, in the search for effective forms of cooperation, in the absence of a single model of educational work with the family, in insufficient pedagogical education of parents in the mass media. The material under study allows us to conclude that educational and educational work will be successful if all social institutions are engaged in this activity, which will increase the pedagogical activity of parents, raise the status of family and parenthood, as well as the competence of teachers in organizing educational activities with the family and the development of spiritual and moral values of children.
The algorithm of personnel turnover management of industrial enterprises
Authors: Kutaitseva Olga Nikolaevna , Laptev Dmitrii Nikolaevich , Bakhmetyev Vadim Aleksandrovich
Published: April 2024

The object of research is staff turnover as a socio-economic phenomenon, the subject is the construction of an effective algorithm for managing it in an industrial enterprise. The authors identify the nature of staff turnover at the level of analysis of the causes of this phenomenon. Staff turnover is presented in the article as a multifaceted social phenomenon that has not only purely economic and managerial, but also psychological and general social aspects. The understanding developed on this basis allows us to form a methodological basis for building an effective algorithm for minimizing staff turnover. Particular attention is paid to the computational and mathematical justification of the processes under study and the solutions proposed on this basis. The article combines the methods of theoretical analysis and practical empirical research. The first allow us to identify the essential, structural and substantive aspects of the problem, while the second – to offer specific calculations that substantiate theoretical postulates. The proposed algorithm is constructed on the basis of the abstraction method, which implies the allocation of individual stages, the justification of their significance, as well as the synthesis method, which implies the connection of stages into a single empirically based system. As a result of the conducted research, the authors come to the conclusion that an effective algorithm for managing staff turnover at an industrial enterprise should be divided into five interrelated stages. These stages include determining the level of staff turnover; determining the level of economic losses caused by staff turnover; determining the specific causes of staff turnover: determining a system of measures aimed at normalizing the process of releasing labor, improving the dismissal procedure, overcoming excessive turnover; determining the effect of implementing the developed measures, improving the dismissal procedure, overcoming excessive turnover. This algorithmization, combined with a comparative analysis of the costs of carrying out these activities and losses due to excessive turnover, allows you to bring the turnover rate to its natural rate (3-5%) will save about 2% of the annual wage fund. The theoretically grounded algorithm in combination with the presented calculation methodology determine the local scientific and methodological novelty of the presented article.
La balanza como material concreto mediador en las dificultades de aprendizaje de conceptos algebraicos
Authors:   , Cáceres Guzmán Andrea Natalia
Published: April 2024

En este trabajo de investigación se estableció la relación entre los conceptos que se adquieren en el proceso de enseñanza aprendizaje sobre el concepto de ecuación y la utilización de la balanza corno material concreto mediador de las dificultades de aprendizaje en el área. Para establecer dicha relación, se presentó una propuesta didáctica que contempla la implementación de sesiones de clases cuyo diseño se basa en la utilización de la balanza como recurso didáctico. Estas sesiones fueron diseñadas considerando previamente las dificultades que se pueden presentar en el proceso de aprendizaje del álgebra escolar. Se concluyó que la balanza, al ser considerada como material de apoyo, aporta a la reconstrucción de significados. a la superación de los obstáculos y corrección de los errores. Permite que todos los estudiantes accedan al aprendizaje, minimizando las dificultades comunes presentes en este proceso.
Revisión de literatura a nivel internacional sobre investigación en tecnología de apoyo como recurso de aprendizaje para estudiantes en situación de discapacidad visual en etapa escolar
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Facultad de Educación, García Mora Daniela
Published: April 2024

La investigación presenta una revisión de literatura, cuyo objetivo principal es identificar lo qué se sabe respecto a la contribución de la tecnología de apoyo (en adelante TA) al proceso de aprendizaje de los estudiantes en situación de discapacidad visual (en adelante ESDV), las áreas que abarcan estos estudios realizados a nivel mundial y la forma en que se determina la efectividad de esta tecnología. La búsqueda de los artículos se realizó en Web of Science y Scopus (años 2011 a 2017), y en la selección se incluyeron estudios con TA para el aprendizaje de ESDV en educación presencial de primaria o secundaria, y que adicionalmente integraron metodología e instrumentos de evaluación de efectividad, independientemente de con quien se haya realizado. Los resultados evidencian la importancia de la TA en el aprendizaje de áreas como: las matemáticas, ciencias, lenguaje, entre otras; y la gran contribución en la accesibilidad a la información, independencia y la navegación (física y digital) de los estudiantes. Sin embargo, es importante resaltar que, sí bien todos los artículos incorporaron un instrumento de validación, aun no existen conceptos y estándares claros que permitan generalizar los resultados obtenidos, debido a la heterogeneidad que presenta cada uno de los participantes. Esta revisión de literatura entrega una visión general sobre el campo de investigación, permitiendo avanzar en el conocimiento, la comprensión de la situación actual y apoyando el desafío y la labor de profesionales en el área que buscan basarse en evidencia científica para hacer uso adecuado de la TA.
Estudio de caso: Aportes para la gestión docente a partir de una experiencia de formación pedagógica en los docentes de educación superior técnica profesional
Authors:   , Morales Abelleira Carolina Elizabeth
Published: April 2024

El siguiente estudio de casos tuvo como objetivo comprender si una experiencia en formación pedagógica realizada por docentes especialistas de educación técnica profesional contribuyó en su aprendizaje y posterior desempeño en el aula. El foco de investigación fue identificar las necesidades de formación pedagógica y la valoración de la formación recibida. La metodología utilizada para el desarrollo de esta investigación fue de carácter cualitativa, utilizando la entrevista en profundidad y el análisis documental como fuente de obtención de información. La muestra fue intencionada y correspondió a docentes especialistas participantes del diplomado de formación pedagógica. Los resultados evidenciaron que los docentes valoran positivamente el haber participado en una experiencia formativa pedagógica, destacando que les ha dado la oportunidad de crecimiento a nivel personal y profesional.
Teología en salida y nuevos espacios públicos
Authors: Verdugo Fernando
Published: April 2024

Este trabajo retoma la discusión acerca de la pertinencia de la teología en el espacio público, lo cual habría sido puesto en cuestión por la modernidad debido al vínculo de la teología con la religión. La religión, de perdurar, debía restringirse al ámbito de lo privado o de la conciencia, en sociedades cada vez más secularizadas y pluralistas. Sin embargo, el artículo no solo se refiere a la persistencia creativa de las religiones y de la teología en el espacio público, sino incluso a la necesidad de un retorno de las espiritualidades y religiones, y de los discursos asociados a ellas, en aquellas sociedades desgastadas y carentes de sentido. Pero, sobre todo, se detiene en la emergencia y desarrollo creciente de nuevos espacios públicos: las plataformas y autopistas digitales, las redes sociales y todo ese conjunto de posibilidades que conlleva el “ciberespacio”. Es aquí donde se plantea un ineludible desafío para la teología: no se trata únicamente de servirse de estos nuevos espacios para difundir los propios saberes y hallazgos, o de reflexionar desde la fe acerca de estos nuevos ambientes; se trata, sobre todo, de ejercer la teología en esos espacios atendiendo a las coordenadas culturales que allí se están gestando. Del encuentro del Evangelio con la cultura digital han de surgir, entonces, nuevas formas de ser Iglesia, nuevas maneras de hacer teología y, sin duda, contenidos reformulados e, incluso, inéditos de la fe.
Recuerda que eres hijo de reyes. Reflexiones sobre el posible vínculo entre el Himno de la Perla y el Pseudo-Macario
Authors: Singh Carlos-Marcelo
Published: April 2024

La literatura nacida en ámbito monástico o asociada al mismo, ofrece aspectos ponderables sobre la antropología teológica. Señalaremos algunos conceptos al respecto, sobre todo a partir de la memoria y la construcción de la propia identidad. El Himno de la Perla se caracteriza por haber sido objeto de disímiles interpretaciones, siendo considerado desde un texto iranio a una composición gnóstica. Presentaremos una lectura narrativa, tomando como categorías de aproximación el recuerdo y el olvido, a partir de las cuales plantearemos un posible vínculo entre el Himno de la Perla y el Pseudo-Macario. Quispel, ya en 1967, estableció un parentesco de Teología (Verwandschaft der Teologie), destacando que también se encuentran paralelismos de forma. Tomando en cuenta este notable aporte, procuraremos indagar en la literatura pseudo-macariana acerca de tales parentescos con el Himno de la Perla y la literatura sobre el apóstol Tomás.
“Pregare è un prato d’erba”. La spiritualità del giardino di Adriana Zarri, teologa e eremita
Authors: Amalfa Giuseppe
Published: April 2024

Adriana Zarri, teóloga y eremita italiana, vivió profunda y activamente el contexto eclesial posterior al Concilio Vaticano II. Entre los aspectos distintivos de su pensamiento y su estilo de vida se destaca una profunda relación con la naturaleza. Es su “espiritualidad del jardín”, que nació de su experiencia en los eremitorios que habitó. Para Zarri, la hierba, las flores y los frutos del huerto son medios de comunicación con Dios y formas de conocerlo más profundamente. De esta conexión con los elementos naturales surgen diversas formas de oración, que se convierten en vehículos de su pensamiento teológico. La sistematización de estos contenidos se entrelaza con Laudato si', para resaltar el carácter profético de su pensamiento.
Vida y obra de Adrienne von Speyr bajo imagen médica
Authors: Draguet Florence
Published: April 2024

La mayoría de la gente o no conoce a Adrienne von Speyr o piensa en ella como en una extraña figura mística que trabajó con el teólogo Hans Urs von Balthasar. Sin embargo, pocos la conocen como médica de Basilea entre los años 30 y 50 del siglo XX. Ejerció su profesión con una pasión inspirada por su fe, integrando constantemente ciencia y espiritualidad. El objetivo de este artículo es presentar esta faceta poco estudiada de la vida de Adrienne von Speyr, y el modo en que su actividad médica modeló su lectura de las Escrituras, en particular del capítulo 11 del evangelio de Juan. También y sobre todo destaca la originalidad de su contribución a la ética médica de su época.
Study of Marketing of Milk in Hardoi District of Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Pandey Harshit , Barker Nitin , Kale Pranil Sunil
Published: April 2024

The primary objective of this study is to thoroughly examine milk marketing dynamics within Shahabad Block, Hardoi District, Uttar Pradesh, focusing on the different channels used for milk marketing. The research aims to categorize cattle owners, investigate demographic trends among them, and understand how these factors correlate with milk marketing strategies and efficiency. This research employs a descriptive and analytical design to explore various aspects of milk marketing and cattle ownership. The study was conducted in the Shahabad Block of the Hardoi District, Uttar Pradesh, focusing on the current state of milk marketing and cattle ownership demographics. The methodology includes a survey of cattle owners in the Shahabad Block, classifying them into small, medium, and large-scale operations based on the number of cattle owned. The study also assesses the age, gender, education level, and social categories of cattle owners, alongside a comprehensive analysis of milk marketing channels, including costs, pricing spreads, marketing margins, and market efficiency.

The survey found 250 cattle owners, with a predominance of small-scale operations (72%). A significant demographic of cattle owners is young, aged 18-35 (80%), with a notable distribution across male (140) and female (110) owners. Education level shows a correlation with the size of cattle operations, with lower education levels more common among smaller-scale operations. Socioeconomic analysis indicates that small-scale operations prevail across all social categories, including General, OBC, and SC/ST. Marketing analysis reveals a preference for the second channel involving producers, private dairy companies, retailers, and end users, providing insights into marketing efficiency and consumer preferences.
Factors Affecting Stock Price Volatility of Commercial Banks in Nepal
Authors: Pandey Dhruba Lal , Risal Nischal , Basnet Bhupindra Jung , Bohara Binita
Published: April 2024

This study explores the factors affecting the market price of Nepalese commercial banks over the period from 2017/18 to 2021/22 AD. Utilizing bivariate correlation and regression models, data sourced from the annual reports and official publications of eight NEPSE-listed banks underwent comprehensive analysis facilitated by MS- Excel and SPSS. The results unveil a significant positive correlation between earnings per share (EPS) and price-earnings ratio (P/E ratio), indicating that as EPS increases, so does the P/E ratio, and consequently, the market price. However, the impact of book value and dividend per share on market prices was found to be negligible, suggesting that these factors exert minimal influence on market valuations. The primary inference drawn from the findings underscores the dominance of price- earnings ratio and earnings per share as pivotal determinants of share prices within Nepalese commercial banks. This indicates that investors place substantial emphasis on these metrics when evaluating the investment potential of Nepalese commercial banks. These findings provide valuable insights for investors, financial analysts, and policymakers, offering a clearer understanding of the market dynamics and the key drivers of share prices within the Nepalese banking sector. Moreover, they underscore the importance of considering EPS and P/E ratio when making investment decisions in Nepalese commercial banks.
Link between Oil Pollution and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria
Authors: Kanu Chukwunenye T , Iwunze Ezinne C
Published: April 2024

Oil exploration in the Niger Delta has led to severe environmental pollution. This study investigates the association between exposure to crude oil and adverse pregnancy outcomes. 

Study Design:  This was a comparative cross-sectional study of the differences in adverse pregnancy outcomes of people living in heavily oil polluted and non-polluted communities

Place and Duration of Study: Kegbara Dere (K-Dere), a rural Community in Ogoniland, Gokana Local Government Area, Rivers State and Obohia community in Ndoki kingdom, Ukwa East LGA of Abia state between June 2022 and Jan 2023.

Methodology: We recruited 900 study participants (450 each from the crude oil impacted and the non-oil polluted communities) using multi-stage random sampling. Questionnaires were used to collect data on socio-demographics and adverse pregnancy history by case definitions using the adapted WHO indirect sisterhood method of maternal mortality estimate. Data was analyzed using IBM Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Differences in proportions were compared using Chi Square test. The association between living in an oil polluted community or exposure to crude oil pollutants and adverse pregnancy outcomes was determined using crude odds ratio. Confidence intervals were determined at 95% level and a p-value of less than 0.05 was considered significant.

Results: Pregnant women in the polluted community experienced a significantly higher prevalence of adverse outcomes, including stillbirth, abortion, and birth defects. The risk of experiencing an adverse pregnancy outcome was 30 times higher in the polluted area.

Conclusion: This study suggests a strong link between oil pollution and pregnancy complications. Further research with robust designs is needed to confirm causality. Environmental cleanup and protective measures for pregnant women are crucial in these areas.
The Role of Fibroblast Growth Factor-Receptor Pathway Aberrations in Pediatric Diseases
Authors: Bittmann Stefan , Luchter Elisabeth , Moschüring-Alieva Elena
Published: April 2024

The fibroblast growth factor receptors play a crucial role in binding to fibroblast growth factor and are involved in various pathological conditions. These receptors consist of an extracellular ligand domain, a transmembrane helix domain, and an intracellular domain with tyrosine kinase activity. There are over 48 different isoforms of FGFR. Each FGF receptor in ligand-binding properties and kinase domains. The FGF/FGFR signaling pathway is implicated in various pediatric cancers and therefore are both non-selective and selective FGFR inhibitors available. Additionally, there are five distinct membrane FGF receptors dentified in vertebrates. All belonging to the tyrosine kinase superfamily. In this manuscript, the focus is based on an analysis of the role of FGF receptor signaling pathways and aberrations especially in pediatric diseases. Erk 1 and Erk 2 seem to have an important role as a mediator of FGF signaling in different biological and developmental processes. FGF signaling plays an important role in conserved developmental functions in skeletal growth, palate closure, ear development, cranial suture ossification and neuronal development in the child. Aberrant FGF signaling causes different congenital disorders and different forms of cancer in childhood. Modulating FGF signaling is of great importance for the treatment of rare diseases in childhood.
Genetic Variability Analysis for Yield and Its Attributing Traits in Rice (Oryza Sativa L.) under Phosphorus-sufficient and Deficient Field Conditions
Authors: Vishnupriya S. , Roy Suvendu Kumar , Sen Shubhrajyoti , Kundu Avijit , Mitra Biplab , Mukhopadhyay Dibyendu , Umamaheswar Naderla
Published: April 2024

Aim: The present study aims to identify phosphorus deficiency tolerant rice genotypes under both phosphorus-sufficient and deficient conditions.
Materials and Methods: Two kinds of fields (high and low phosphorus content) were selected based on their soil phosphorus availability. Hundred diverse rice germplasm was collected and planted in an augmented design along with four local checks namely, Swarna sub-1, MTU 1153, MTU 7029 and Uttar Sona. The data was recorded for 14 traits and subjected to different types of variability analysis.
Place and Season of Study: The experiment took place at instructional Farm of Uttar Banga Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Cooch Behar, West Bengal, India during the Kharif season of 2021.
Results: The variability analysis revealed that phosphorus uptake showed a high genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) under phosphorus-deficient condition and high phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) under both conditions. Grain yield showed high GCV and PCV under both the phosphorus conditions. Heritability was moderate whereas high Genetic advance as percentage of mean was observed under both the conditions for both phosphorus uptake and grain yield. Strong positive correlations were observed between days to flowering and various yield-related traits under both the conditions. Positive correlation was observed between phosphorus uptake and grain yield under phosphorus-sufficient condition, but a weaker correlation under phosphorus-deficient condition.
Selection of Major Yield Contributing Traits by Multiple Linear Regression Model in Finger Millet (Eleusine coracanaL.)
Authors: Reddy Y. A. Nanja , Gowda M. V. Channabyre
Published: April 2024

Yield improvement of finger millet through yield-based selection has plateaued in the last two decades. Hence, breeding efforts are required to prioritize the trait-based improvement in addition to yield per se. Using the backward multiple linear regression, and path analysis, the independent parameters, mean ear-head weight (MEW), ear-head number/ plant (ENo.) and the threshing percentage, were found significant contributors to grain yield. Genetic resources for the higher mean ear-head weight of >10.22g (GE-4683, GE-4596) and ear-head number >104.7m-2 (RAU-8, PR-202) were selected over the popular variety, GPU-28 (7.59g and 72.7m-2, respectively). Theoretically, incorporating the higher MEW and ear-head number/plant from the identified lines into popular variety, GPU-28 (shy tillering) in multiple regression model has predicted the possibility of increasing yield of GPU-28 by 17.8% and 29.5%, respectively. Therefore, a shift towards trait-based improvement could be appropriate to break the yield plateau of finger millet.
Effect and Cytotoxic Influence of High Concentrations of Manganese on the Phenotypic Variation of different Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Seedlings
Authors: Mishra Lokesh Kumar , Singh Shriprakash , Panwar Hukum Singh , Singh Rajat , Singh Anish Kumar , Rai Shivam Kumar
Published: April 2024

This study explores the phenotypic responses of diverse chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) germplasms to heavy metal (Mn) stress, emphasizing seedling traits vital for plant establishment and growth. Chickpea seeds obtained from Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology underwent meticulous examination and were stressed with manganese (Mn) supplementation at 200 µM Mn. Germination assays were meticulously conducted under controlled conditions, with data recorded over a 14-day span. Statistical analysis uncovered significant variations among germplasms concerning traits such as seed volume, germination percentage, 100-seed weight, speed of germination, field emergence, shoot and root lengths, seedling length, and vigour index-I. Correlation analysis delineated intricate interrelationships between these traits under heavy metal (Mn) stress. Notably, ICCV 92944 emerged as a superior variety, showcasing rapid germination, vigorous seedling growth, and remarkable stress tolerance. Other promising genotypes include HC 3, BG 267, and SBD 377. These findings offer valuable insights for breeding programs aimed at cultivating stress-tolerant chickpea varieties, thereby contributing to sustainable crop production in contaminated environments.
Perception and Knowledge of Rice Value Chain Actors on the Effect of Improved Practices on Yield and Milling Characteristics of Rice in the Sagnarigu and Kumbungu Districts of Ghana
Authors: Yussif Ibrahim Salifu , Mustapha Mas-ud
Published: April 2024

This study presents findings from a comprehensive survey conducted between January and March 2021, aimed at elucidating the agricultural practices and perceptions of rice farmers, processors, and marketers in the Sagnarigu and Kumbungu districts of the Northern Region in Ghana. The research sought to gather essential data on improved techniques employed in rice cultivation, milling, and marketing, as well as understand the perceptions surrounding these practices within the local farming communities. Employing a multi-stage sampling methodology, primary data were collected through face-to-face interviews with 134 rice farmers, 82 processors, and 22 marketers.  Key findings revealed that a significant proportion (54.7%) of farmers preferred cultivating local rice varieties such as Moses, Bumbass, Mandii, Bazolgu, Salimasaa, and Assemblyman. Moreover, the survey indicated that 54.5% of farmers adopted the broadcasting method for planting seeds, while only 18% practiced line transplanting with well-defined spacing. Additionally, a majority of transplanting activities occurred when seedlings were at least 4 weeks old, highlighting potential inefficiencies in timing. The study identified several constraints hindering rice production in both lowland and irrigated rice ecosystems across the surveyed districts. These constraints include the prevalence of poor-quality seed varieties, inadequate spacing, suboptimal timing of transplanting, and low soil fertility. Addressing these challenges is imperative for enhancing rice productivity and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in the region.
Effect of Fungicides on Mycelium Growth of Rhizoctonia solani of Rice under In-vitro
Authors: Sharma Sonu , Tripathi S. K. , Prajapati Smita , Johare Juhi , Mahore Prince
Published: April 2024

Sheath blight of rice caused by Rhizoctonia solani Kuhn is emerging as very destructive disease causing heavy yield losses. This experiment was conducted at Department of plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, Rewa (M.P.) during 2018-19. This experiment was carried out in a complete randomized design (CRD) with eight treatments including untreated control. Seven fungicides viz., Flusilazole12.5%+carbendazim 25% SC, Azoxystrobin 18.2% w/w+difenoconazole 11.4 w/w SC, Azoxystrobin 11%+Tebuconazole 18.3% w/w SC, Tricyclazole 18%+ mancozeb 62%WP, Zineb 68% + hexaconazole 4% WP, Trifloxystrobin 25%+Tebuconazole 50%WG, Mancozeb 50%+carbendazim 25%WS, were evaluate against R. solani of rice at different concentrations under in-vitro by poisoned food technique. The present study, among the tested fungicides Azoxystrobin 11%+Tebuconazole 18.3% w/w SC at 200 ppm and 100 ppm was found significantly superior in inhibiting the mycelial growth of R. solani over untreated check at 96 hrs. after incubation.
Soil Application of Cyazypyr 20% SC for Jassid (Empoasca flavescens) Ishida Control in Brinjal
Authors: Chand Phool , Mandal S. K. , Tiwari Abhishek Pati , Mishra Aman , Yadav Sachin Kumar
Published: April 2024

The experiment was conducted in 2013 and 2014 in the University farm at Kalyani, West Bengal state of India. Brinjal ‘Muktakeshi’ was grown in plots measuring 5 m×5 m, at spacing of 1m x 0.75m with three replication during the period from mid- April to July, two year, following recommended package of practices. The plots were set out in a randomized block design with six treatments including an untreated check. Five rates of cyazypyr 20% SC (4.5 MAT ,6.0 MAT, 7.5MAT, 9.0 MAT and, 12 MAT in both year 2013 and 2014) were applied every year for their efficacy, cyazypyr 20% SC, 12 MAT was tested for their effect on crop health. cyazypyr 20% SC @ 9.0, 7.5 and 6.0 MAT (0.00 – 7.07 and 0.00 – 7.87 and .00 – 9.00) was found to be significantly lower as compared to untreated control.
Removal of Heavy Metals from Produced Water Using Activated Carbon from Coconut Husk Enhanced with Graphene Oxide
Authors: Ogidi Samuel , Yusuf Mistura , Sanni Khadijah , Andrea Dallacoasta , Abdulsalam Abdullahi
Published: April 2024

Produced water, which contains a high amount of hydrocarbons, heavy metals, and other pollutants, is one of the major waste streams in the Niger Delta's oilfields and refineries. The treatment of produced water can be done in a variety of ways, including physical (desalination, membrane separation and, adsorption), chemical (precipitation, absorption and, oxidation), and biological. The heavy metals and contaminants in the wastewater pose a threat to living creatures and the environment. This research evaluates the effectiveness of Activated carbon modified with Graphene oxide, a new thriving material for researchers derived from graphite, to improve the adsorption capacity of coconut husk using the “wet impregnation technique” for the removal of heavy metals from produced water. Batch adsorption of the pollutant was studied for the Activated Carbon, and the modified activated carbon (AC-GO) at a time intervals, for each of the adsorbents. The removal efficiency of the adsorbent was found to increase proportionately from 6.71% to 92.96%, 3.01% to 52.23% and 51.28% to 67.77% for Cd, Ni and Pb respectively with increasing contact time. Atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) analysed the treated produced water samples. The adsorption isotherms and kinetics studies of the adsorbed metals were evaluated and correlated with empirical models.
Enhanced Security and Efficiency in Attendance Management: A Novel RFID and Arduino Integrated System
Authors: Chakraborty Debashon , Rahman Md Maruf , Joy Zihad Hasan , Islam Md. Ashikul , Shufian Abu , Sheikh Protik Parvez , Alam Sadman Shahriar
Published: April 2024

The advent of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology has ushered in a new paradigm in the domain of automated attendance systems, offering a sophisticated yet user-friendly approach to personnel management. This paper presents a comprehensive study on the design and deployment of an RFID-based attendance system powered by the versatile Arduino platform, elucidating its operational tenets, system architecture, and practical implementations. At the heart of the system lies the MFRC522 RFID reader, which synergizes with an Arduino microcontroller to facilitate the identification and logging of attendance data. The system is enhanced by the inclusion of an SD Card Module for data storage and a Real-Time Clock (RTC) Module to ensure accurate timestamping of attendance events. The seamless integration of these components results in a robust mechanism that not only simplifies the attendance tracking process but also fortifies the security framework by leveraging unique identifiers for each user. The study spans the detailed process of assembling the hardware, crafting the software in the Arduino Integrated Development Environment (IDE), and meticulously testing the integrated system to affirm its efficacy. The resulting attendance system embodies a significant stride towards refining attendance management practices, eliminating the shortcomings of manual tracking while providing a scalable and reliable solution adaptable to various organizational settings.
Assessing Postpartum Reproductive Health via Endometrial Cytology and Body Temperature in Mehsana Buffaloes
Authors: Jadav Ravindra , Keshav . , Kalaswa Sachin , Nakhashi Haresh , Suthar Babulal
Published: April 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of body temperature and endometrial cytology on postpartum reproductive health in Mehsana buffaloes. A total of twenty-six Mehsana buffaloes were used in this study. Per-rectal and ultrasonography examinations were used to observe the postpartum reproductive function of these buffaloes and on day 60 post natural service, the pregnancy was confirmed. Based on fertile estrus, buffaloes were retrospectively divided into two groups: Group I (buffaloes conceiving before 90 days) and Group II (buffaloes conceiving after 90 days). One week before parturition and four weeks after it, the rectal temperature was taken. The cytobrush technique was used to obtain endometrial samples for cytological tests on the 21st and 30th day postpartum. During the final week of pregnancy and the first, second, third, and fourth weeks’ post-partum, the mean rectal temperature (⁰F) varied from 101.7 ± 0.07 to 102.0 ± 0.06 in Group-I and 101.6 ± 0.07 to 102.1 ± 0.05 in Group-II. During the final week pre-partum and the first week post-partum, the mean rectal temperature (⁰F) was shown to be significantly (p<0.05) lower than it was during the second, third, and fourth weeks post-partum among the groups. On the 21st and 30th day postpartum during endometrial cytology, the percentage of neutrophils was 14.31 ± 1.56 and 12.23 ± 0.93 in Group I and 17.92 ± 1.51 and 15.08 ± 0.73 in Group II, respectively. On the 30th day, there was a significant difference (p<0.05) between the groups in Group II that had a greater mean percentage of neutrophils. When endometrial cytology was performed on buffaloes at various postpartum days, the mean percentage of lymphocytes, endometrial epithelial cells and large vacuolated epithelial cells revealed non-significant changes. On the 30th day, it was discovered that the prevalence of subclinical endometritis in Group I and Group II buffaloes was 7.69 and 23.07 percent, respectively. The postpartum first behavioural estrus and first fertile estrus occurred at 62.00 ± 4.34 and 65.31±4.45 days in Group I and 77.46±11.12 and 130.08±9.26 days in Group II buffaloes, respectively. Although, the average days for first behavioural estrus did not differ significantly between the groups the fertile estrus occurred significantly (P<0.05) delayed in Group II buffaloes.
Synthesis and characterization of amphiphilic biodegradable poly(glutamic acid‐co‐lactic acid‐co‐glycolic acid) by direct polycondensation
Authors: Lu Dedai , Ren Zongli , Zhou Tianhong , Wang Shoufeng , Lei Ziqiang
Published: December 2007

Poly(glutamic acid‐co‐lactic acid‐co‐glycolic acid) (PGLG), an amphiphilic biodegradable copolymer, was synthesized by simply heating a mixture of L‐glutamic acid (Glu), DL‐lactic acid, and glycolic acid with the present of stannous chloride. The unique branched architecture comprising of glutarimide unit, polyester unit, and polyamide unit was confirmed by NMR spectrum. The PGLG was soluble in many organic solvents and aqueous solution of sodium hydroxide (pH ≥ 9.0). The thermal properties were evaluated using thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry. Molecular weights were determined by 1H NMR end‐group analysis and GPC, respectively, and the results indicated that the higher Glu content resulted in a decrease of the molecular weight. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Improving Wikipedia's accuracy: Is edit age a solution?
Authors: Luyt Brendan , Aaron Tay Chee Hsien , Thian Lim Hai , Hong Cheng Kian
Published: December 2007

Wikipedia is fast becoming a key information source for many despite criticism that it is unreliable and inaccurate. A number of recommendations have been made to sort the chaff from the wheat in Wikipedia, among which is the idea of color‐coding article segment edits according to age (Cross, 2006). Using data collected as part of a wider study published in Nature, this article examines the distribution of errors throughout the life of a select group of Wikipedia articles. The survival time of each “error edit” in terms of the edit counts and days was calculated and the hypothesis that surviving material added by older edits is more trustworthy was tested. Surprisingly, we find that roughly 20% of errors can be attributed to surviving text added by the first edit, which confirmed the existence of a “first‐mover” effect (Viegas, Wattenberg, & Kushal, 2004) whereby material added by early edits are less likely to be removed. We suggest that the sizable number of errors added by early edits is simply a result of more material being added near the beginning of the life of the article. Overall, the results do not provide support for the idea of trusting surviving segments attributed to older edits because such edits tend to add more material and hence contain more errors which do not seem to be offset by greater opportunities for error correction by later edits.
“Communities isn't just about trees and shops”: students from two South African universities engage in dialogue about ‘community’ and ‘community work’
Authors: Rohleder Poul , Swartz Leslie , Carolissen Ronelle , Bozalek Vivienne , Leibowitz Brenda
Published: December 2007

The question of what constitutes ‘a community’ or even ‘the community’ takes on an extra salience in a divided society such as South Africa where the entire environment remains imprinted with the legacy of enforced segregation along racial lines. Higher education institutions need to prepare emerging health and social service students for the world of practice in a context of diversity, continuing segregation and marked inequality. As one step to helping students deal with working in a divided society, academic departments from two different South African universities have been involved in a collaborative teaching and research project. Fourth year psychology and social work students from the two universities took part in a collaborative, practical course which formed part of their curricula. In this course, students were given the opportunity to engage with the notion of ‘community’ and ‘community work’ with each other. The students came from diverse racial, class and political backgrounds, and by engaging with one another as they did, had the opportunity to ‘visit’ worlds they have rarely had access to. While this course was able to achieve a broadening awareness among students from different backgrounds about the notion of community, it will take both more engagement with courses of this kind, and a continuing history of change in South Africa, for students to feel more comfortable in transcending both physical and psychological boundaries. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Group motivational enhancement therapy as an adjunct to inpatient treatment for eating disorders: a preliminary study
Authors: Dean Helen Y. , Touyz Stephen W. , Rieger Elizabeth , Thornton Christopher E.
Published: December 2007

Difficulties in fostering eating disorder (ED) patients' motivations to overcome their illness are widely considered to be a major hurdle in the course of successful treatment. However, no previous study has assessed the use of interventions specifically designed to target poor motivation amongst patients with illnesses that are severe enough to warrant hospitalisation.

Objective

A brief Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) group programme for inpatient ED sufferers was developed and evaluated.

Method

Forty two consecutive inpatients were sequentially allocated to treatment groups. Twenty three inpatients completed a four session MET group programme in addition to routine hospital care. A control group of 19 participants completed treatment as usual (TAU).

Results

Despite an absence of significant differences between the MET and the TAU groups on the overall formal outcome measures, there were nevertheless differences between the groups. Specifically, the MET groups appeared to foster longer term motivation and engagement, and to promote treatment continuation.

Conclusion

The results tentatively suggest that MET could be valuable for the treatment of inpatient eating disorder patients and further research is warranted. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Estimates of basal ileal endogenous losses of amino acids by regression analysis and determination of standardised ileal amino acid digestibilities from casein in newly weaned pigs
Authors: Eklund Meike , Mosenthin Rainer , Piepho Hans‐Peter , Rademacher Meike
Published: December 2007

BACKGROUND:This study was carried out to estimate basal ileal endogenous crude protein (CP) and amino acid (AA) losses (IAALB) in newly weaned pigs by regression analysis from apparent ileal digestible and the corresponding total dietary contents of CP and AA in order to obtain standardised ileal digestibilities (SID) of CP and AA originating from casein. A total of fourteen 3‐week‐old barrows were fitted with simple T cannulas at the distal ileum and were fed six diets with two pigs per diet in 4 weekly repeated measurements. Corn starch‐based diets containing six graded levels of CP from casein with 90, 155, 220, 285, 350 and 415 g kg−1CP (as‐fed basis) were formulated.

RESULTS:Linear relationships (P< 0.001) between apparent ileal digestible and total dietary contents of CP and AA (g kg−1dry matter intake (DMI)) exist for CP and all AA in the range of 90–220 g kg−1CP content in the diet. The IAALBextrapolated from the range of 90–220 g kg−1CP content are different from zero (P< 0.001 toP= 0.019) except for tryptophan (P= 0.220). Based on regression analysis in the range of 90–220 g kg−1CP, estimates of IAALB, expressed as g kg−1DMI, and SID of CP and AA in casein (in parentheses, %) were as follows: CP 9.3 (98.0); arginine 0.4 (98.9); histidine 0.2 (98.5); isoleucine 0.2 (98.1); leucine 0.5 (99.2); lysine 0.4 (99.0); methionine 0.1 (99.1); phenylalanine 0.4 (99.9); threonine 0.6 (97.8); tryptophan 0.1 (96.2); valine 0.4 (98.5).

CONCLUSION:The IAALBand SID of CP and AA originating from casein in newly weaned pigs are in close agreement with values obtained in grower finisher pigs. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Macromol. Rapid Commun. 24/2007
Authors: Taura Daisuke , Hashidzume Akihito , Harada Akira
Published: December 2007

Cover: The cover picture describes the phenomenologically novel interaction of cyclodextrins (CDs) with micelle‐like aggregates formed from an alternating copolymer of sodium maleate and dodecyl vinyl ether. It is demonstrated that the competition with self‐association of dodecyl groups enhances the selectivity towards α‐CD and causes the cooperativity. Further details can be found in the article by D. Taura, A. Hashidzume, and A. Harada* on page 2306.
Diastereofacial selectivity in some 4‐substituted (X) 2‐adamantyl derivatives: electronic versus steric effects
Authors: Adcock William , Trout Neil A.
Published: December 2007

π‐Facial selectivity data for the reduction and methylation of some 4ax‐substituted (X) 2‐adamantanones (3, Y = O) as well as the nucleophilic trapping of secondary and tertiary 4ax‐substituted (X)‐2‐adamantyl cations (4; R = H and CH3, respectively) and the 4‐methylene‐2‐adamantyl radical (8) are presented. The pronounced anti‐face selectivities observed for (3, Y = O and 4, R = CH3) emphasize the importance of the steric factor as expected for systems with a strong steric bias. However, the dominant syn‐face capture of 4 (R = H) was completely unexpected and highlights a subtle interplay between steric and electronic effects. Finally, the very high anti‐face stereoselectivity for the trapping of (8) with the trimethylstannyl anion (Me3Sn−) is rationalized in terms of an electrostatic effect overwhelming the steric factor. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conversion of a weak organic acid to a super acid in the gas phase
Authors: Fattahi Alireza , Tavasoli Elham
Published: December 2007

The effects of selected metal ions on the gas‐phase acidity of weak organic acids have been explored using the DFT and Moller–Plesset Perturbation Theory (MP2) calculations. The three organic acids selected for this study were acetic acid (aliphatic), benzoic acid (aromatic), and glycine (amino acid). The acidities of these compounds are compared with the acidity of their Li+‐, Na+‐, and K+‐complexed species. The results indicate that upon complexation with Li+, Na+, and K+ at 298 K, the gas‐phase acidity of acetic acid, for example, varies from 345.3 to 218.8, 230.2, and 240.1 kcal/mol, respectively (i.e., its dissociation becomes much less endothermic). These values indicate that a weak organic acid can be converted to a super acid when it is complexed with an ionic metal. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.