bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The α2δ1 subunit of the voltage-gated calcium channel acts as a potential candidate for breast cancer tumor initial cells biomarker
Authors: Li Meng , Zhang Wenmin , Yang Xiaodan , An Guo , Zhao Wei
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND: The voltage-gated calcium channel subunit alpha 2 delta 1 (α2δ1) is a functional tumor initial cells (TICs) marker for some solid cancer cells. This study aimed to investigate whether α2δ1 can be used as a potential TIC marker for breast cancer cells. METHODS: α2δ1+ and α2δ1- cells were identified and sorted from the breast cancer cell lines MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-435s and ZR-75-1 by Immunofluorescence (IF) and Fluorescent-activated cell sorting (FACS) analyses. Spheroid formation in vitro and tumorigenesis in NOD/SCID mice were assessed to determine the self-renewal and serial transplantation abilities of these cells. Using a lentivirus infection system for α2δ1 in breast cancer cell lines, we determined the mRNA levels of stemnessassociated genes by quality real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Boyden chamber and wounding assays were further performed to detect the migration of α2δ1 overexpression cells. Bioinformatics explored the relationship of molecular classification of breast cancer and drug resistance. RESULTS: α2δ1 presents on the cytomembrane of breast cancer cells, with a positive rate of 1.5–3%. The α2δ1+ cells in breast cancer cell lines have a stronger self-renewal ability and tumor initiating properties in vitro and in vivo. Overexpressing α2δ1 successfully enhanced the sphere-forming efficiency, and upregulated the expression of stemness-associated genes, and increased cell migration. However, seldom significant was available between estrogen receptor +/- (ER+/-), progesterone receptor (PR+/-), and Her2+/-. CONCLUSIONS: Breast cancer cells positive for the α2δ1 charactered tumor initiation, and α2δ1 is a potential TIC marker for breast cancer that further promotes the migration.
Multi-modal neuroimaging feature fusion via 3D Convolutional Neural Network architecture for schizophrenia diagnosis
Authors: Masoudi Babak , Daneshvar Sabalan , Razavi Seyed Naser
Published: April 2021

Early and precise diagnosis of schizophrenia disorder (SZ) has an essential role in the quality of a patient’s life and future treatments. Structural and functional neuroimaging provides robust biomarkers for understanding the anatomical and functional changes associated with SZ. Each of the neuroimaging techniques shows only a different perspective on the functional or structural of the brain, while multi-modal fusion can reveal latent connections in the brain. In this paper, we propose an approach for the fusion of structural and functional brain data with a deep learning-based model to take advantage of data fusion and increase the accuracy of schizophrenia disorder diagnosis. The proposed method consists of an architecture of 3D convolutional neural networks (CNNs) that applied to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) extracted features. We use 3D MRI patches, fMRI spatial independent component analysis (ICA) map, and DTI fractional anisotropy (FA) as model inputs. Our method is validated on the COBRE dataset, and an average accuracy of 99.35% is obtained. The proposed method demonstrates promising classification performance and can be applied to real data.
Bagging k-dependence Bayesian network classifiers
Authors: Wang Limin , Qi Sikai , Liu Yang , Lou Hua , Zuo Xin
Published: April 2021

Bagging has attracted much attention due to its simple implementation and the popularity of bootstrapping. By learning diverse classifiers from resampled datasets and averaging the outcomes, bagging investigates the possibility of achieving substantial classification performance of the base classifier. Diversity has been recognized as a very important characteristic in bagging. This paper presents an efficient and effective bagging approach, that learns a set of independent Bayesian network classifiers (BNCs) from disjoint data subspaces. The number of bits needed to describe the data is measured in terms of log likelihood, and redundant edges are identified to optimize the topologies of the learned BNCs. Our extensive experimental evaluation on 54 publicly available datasets from the UCI machine learning repository reveals that the proposed algorithm achieves a competitive classification performance compared with state-of-the-art BNCs that use or do not use bagging procedures, such as tree-augmented naive Bayes (TAN), k-dependence Bayesian classifier (KDB), bagging NB or bagging TAN.
W-MMP2Vec: Topic-driven network embedding model for link prediction in content-based heterogeneous information network
Authors: Pham Phu , Do Phuc
Published: April 2021

Link prediction on heterogeneous information network (HIN) is considered as a challenge problem due to the complexity and diversity in types of nodes and links. Currently, there are remained challenges of meta-path-based link prediction in HIN. Previous works of link prediction in HIN via network embedding approach are mainly focused on exploiting features of node rather than existing relations in forms of meta-paths between nodes. In fact, predicting the existence of new links between non-linked nodes is absolutely inconvincible. Moreover, recent HIN-based embedding models also lack of thorough evaluations on the topic similarity between text-based nodes along given meta-paths. To tackle these challenges, in this paper, we proposed a novel approach of topic-driven multiple meta-path-based HIN representation learning framework, namely W-MMP2Vec. Our model leverages the quality of node representations by combining multiple meta-paths as well as calculating the topic similarity weight for each meta-path during the processes of network embedding learning in content-based HINs. To validate our approach, we apply W-TMP2Vec model in solving several link prediction tasks in both content-based and non-content-based HINs (DBLP, IMDB and BlogCatalog). The experimental outputs demonstrate the effectiveness of proposed model which outperforms recent state-of-the-art HIN representation learning models.
An approach for supplier selection problem based on picture cubic fuzzy aggregation operators
Authors: Khoshaim Ahmad Bakr , Qiyas Muhammad , Abdullah Saleem , Naeem Muhammad , Muneeza
Published: April 2021

This article is an advanced approach to picture fuzzy set through the application of cubic set theory. For instance, we establish the idea of the picture cubic fuzzy sets (PCFSs) theory and define several operations for PCFS. Also, presented some weighted aggregation operators under picture cubic fuzzy information, so called picture cubic fuzzy weighted averaging (PCFWA) operator, picture cubic fuzzy order weighted averaging (PCFOWA) operator, picture cubic fuzzy weighted geometric (PCFWG) operator, and picture cubic fuzzy order weighted geometric (PCFOWG) operator. Further, we study their fundamental properties and showed the relationship among these aggregation operators. In order to determine the feasibility and practicality of the mentioned new technique, we developed multi-attribute group decision -making algorithm with picture cubic fuzzy environment. Further, the developed method applied to supply chain management and for implementation, consider numerical application of supply chain management. Compared the developed approach with other preexisting aggregation operators, and we concluded that the defined technique is better, reliable and effective.
A multi-objective sparse evolutionary framework for large-scale weapon target assignment based on a reward strategy
Authors: Shi Xiaoping , Zou Shiqi , Song Shenmin , Guo Rui
Published: April 2021

The asset-based weapon target assignment (ABWTA) problem is one of the important branches of the weapon target assignment (WTA) problem. Due to the current large-scale battlefield environment, the ABWTA problem is a multi-objective optimization problem (MOP) with strong constraints, large-scale and sparse properties. The novel model of the ABWTA problem with the operation error parameter is established. An evolutionary algorithm for large-scale sparse problems (SparseEA) is introduced as the main framework for solving large-scale sparse ABWTA problem. The proposed framework (SparseEA-ABWTA) mainly addresses the issue that problem-specific initialization method and genetic operators with a reward strategy can generate solutions efficiently considering the sparsity of variables and an improved non-dominated solution selection method is presented to handle the constraints. Under the premise of constructing large-scale cases by the specific case generator, two numerical experiments on four outstanding multi-objective evolutionary algorithms (MOEAs) show Runtime of SparseEA-ABWTA is faster nearly 50% than others under the same convergence and the gap between MOEAs improved by the mechanism of SparseEA-ABWTA and SparseEA-ABWTA is reduced to nearly 20% in the convergence and distribution.
Employment First and transition: Utah school-to-work initiative
Authors: Jones-Parkin Tricia , Thomas Faith , Hess Kelie , Snyder Aubrey
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND: Utah’s School-to-Work Initiative is funded by a Partnerships in Integrated Employment Systems Change grant. Our project focuses on building school-level collaborative teams to support transitioning students with the most significant disabilities. Participating students complete work experiences and paid internships leading to permanent competitive integrated employment prior to exit. OBJECTIVE: By integrating two predictors for post-secondary employment, our framework implements customized employment to demonstrate Employment First for students with the most significant disabilities. METHODS: An advisory board evaluated applications and selected Utah secondary schools representing urban, suburban, and rural areas. We provide professional development on transition during biannual community of practice meetings. Subject matter experts provide technical assistance to collaborative teams on implementing customized employment. RESULTS: Eight school districts have collaborative teams that serve nine secondary schools. We braid funding from VR, Medicaid Waiver, and WIOA to support students with significant disabilities obtain competitive integrated employment. Students’ outcomes have been challenged by the lack of employment providers for customized employment, the turnover of staff in agencies, and the limited resources for English language learners. CONCLUSIONS: We have successfully braided funding and collaboratively support 82 students with significant disabilities and families to navigate the adult agency process.
Multicultural ethics in rehabilitation services
Authors: Smith Tammy Jorgensen
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND: Rehabilitation professionals are required to be competent in serving multiculturally diverse individuals in a manner that promotes empowerment and full engagement. Multicultural competency is critical for accurate clinical assessment and diagnosis and for effectively serving a diverse population of clients. OBJECTIVE: The major objective of this paper is to promote multicultural competency and sensitivity by increasing knowledge and awareness of ethical considerations for multicultural populations in rehabilitation settings. CONCLUSION: Diagnostic tools and ethical decision-making models that integrate multicultural considerations are discussed, and recommendations for building multicultural competency are provided.
Using the Weibull distribution to model COVID-19 epidemic data
Authors: Moreau Vitor Hugo
Published: April 2021

COVID-19 is a severe acute respiratory syndrome caused by the new Coronavirus. COVID-19 outbreak is a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, declared by WHO, that killed more than 2 million people worldwide. Since there are no specific drugs available and vaccination campaigns are in the initial phase, or even have not begun in some countries, the main way to fight the outbreak worldwide is still based on non-pharmacological strategies, such as the use of protective equipment, social isolation and mass testing. Modeling of the disease epidemics have gained pivotal importance to guide health authorities on the decision making and applying of those strategies. Here, we present the use of the Weibull distribution to model predictions of the COVID-19 outbreak based on daily new cases and deaths data, by non-linear regression using Metropolis-Markov Chain Monte Carlo simulations. It was possible to predict the evolution of daily new cases and deaths of COVID-19 in many countries as well as the overall number of cases and deaths in the future. Modeling predictions of COVID-19 pandemic may be of importance on the evaluation of governments and health authorities mitigation procedures, since it allows one to extract parameters that may help to guide those decisions and measures, slowing down the spread of the disease.
A probabilistic epidemiological model
Authors: Switkay Hal M.
Published: April 2021

We construct a model for the progress of the 2020 coronavirus epidemic in the United States of America, using probabilistic methods rather than the traditional compartmental model. We employ the generalized beta family of distributions, including those supported on bounded intervals and those supported on semi-infinite intervals. We compare the best-fit distributions for daily new cases and daily new deaths in America to the corresponding distributions for United Kingdom, Spain, and Italy. We explore how such a model might be justified theoretically in comparison to the apparently more natural compartmental model. We compare forecasts based on these models to observations, and find the forecasts useful in predicting total pandemic deaths.
A hybrid of artificial neural network, exponential smoothing, and ARIMA models for COVID-19 time series forecasting
Authors: Safi Samir K. , Sanusi Olajide Idris
Published: April 2021

The Auto Regressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model seems not to easily capture the nonlinear patterns exhibited by the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in terms of daily confirmed cases. As a result, Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and Error, Trend, and Seasonality (ETS) modeling have been successfully applied to resolve problems with nonlinear estimation. Our research suggests that it would be ideal to use a single model of ETS or ARIMA for COVID-19 time series forecasting rather than a complicated Hybrid model that combines several models. We compare the forecasting performance of these models using real, worldwide, daily COVID-19 data for the period between January 22, 2020 till June 19, and June 20 till January 2, 2021 which marks two stages, each stage indicating the first and the second wave respectively. We discuss various forecasting approaches and the criteria for choosing the best forecasting technique. The best forecasting model selected was compared using the forecasting assessment criterion known as Mean Absolute Error (MAE). The empirical results show that the ETS and ARIMA models outperform the ANN and Hybrid models. The main finding from the ETS and ARIMA models analysis indicate that the magnitude of the increase in total confirmed cases over time is declining and the percentage change in the death rate is also on the decline. Our results shows that the chosen forecaste models are consistent during the first and second wave of of the pandemic. These forecasts are encouraging as the world struggles to contain the spread of COVID-19. This may be the result of the social distancing measures mandated by governments worldwide.
Social network analysis and community detection on spread of COVID-19
Authors: Wickramasinghe Ashani Nuwanthika , Muthukumarana Saman
Published: April 2021

This paper explains the epidemic spread using social network analysis, based on data from the first three months of the 2020 COVID-19 outbreak across the world and in Canada. A network is defined and visualization is used to understand the spread of coronavirus among countries and the impact of other countries on the spread of coronavirus in Canada. The degree centrality is used to identify the main influencing countries. Exponential Random Graph Models (ERGM) are used to identify the processes that influence link creation between countries. The community detection is done using Infomap, Label propagation, Spinglass, and Louvain algorithms. Finally, we assess the community detection performance of the algorithms using adjusted rand index and normalized mutual information score.
Modeling COVID-19 positivity rates and hospitalizations in Texas
Authors: Kafle Ram C. , Kim Doo Young , Malandro Martin E. , Holt Melinda Miller
Published: April 2021

The aim of this study was to jointly model COVID-19 test positivity rates and hospitalizations in Texas using Bayesian joinpoint regression. The data for both test positivity rates and hospitalizations were obtained from the Texas Department of State Health Services between April 5 and October 19, 2020. The stage 1 model identifies four significant shifts in test positivity rates, three of which occur roughly 9 days after documented policy or behavioral changes statewide. Estimated positivity rates from the first model were then used to predict hospitalization rates and to estimate lag time between changes in positivity and hospitalization. The resulting lag time is 9.056 days (± 3.808). Both models are valuable to policy makers and public health officials as they study the impact of behavioral patterns on disease prevalence and resulting hospitalizations.
Statistical methods for estimating cure fraction of COVID-19 patients in India
Authors: Sreedevi E.P. , Sankaran P.G.
Published: April 2021

Human race is under the COVID-19 pandemic menace since beginning of the year 2020. Even though the disease is easily transmissible, a massive fraction of the affected people is recovering. Most of the recovered patients will not experience death due to COVID-19, even if they observed for a long period. They can be treated as long term survivors in the context of lifetime data analysis. In this article, we present statistical methods to estimate the proportion of long term survivors (cure fraction) of the COVID-19 patient population in India. The proportional hazards mixture cure model is used to estimate the cure fraction and the effect of the covariates gender and age, on lifetime. We can see that the cure fraction of the COVID-19 patients in India is more than 90%, which is indeed an optimistic information.
A collaborative predictive multi-agent system for forecasting carbon emissions related to energy consumption
Authors: Bouziane Seif Eddine , Khadir Mohamed Tarek , Dugdale Julie
Published: April 2021

Energy production and consumption are one of the largest sources of greenhouse gases (GHG), along with industry, and is one of the highest causes of global warming. Forecasting the environmental cost of energy production is necessary for better decision making and easing the switch to cleaner energy systems in order to reduce air pollution. This paper describes a hybrid approach based on Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) and an agent-based architecture for forecasting carbon dioxide (CO2) issued from different energy sources in the city of Annaba using real data. The system consists of multiple autonomous agents, divided into two types: firstly, forecasting agents, which forecast the production of a particular type of energy using the ANN models; secondly, core agents that perform other essential functionalities such as calculating the equivalent CO2 emissions and controlling the simulation. The development is based on Algerian gas and electricity data provided by the national energy company. The simulation consists firstly of forecasting energy production using the forecasting agents and calculating the equivalent emitted CO2. Secondly, a dedicated agent calculates the total CO2 emitted from all the available sources. It then computes the benefits of using renewable energy sources as an alternative way to meet the electric load in terms of emission mitigation and economizing natural gas consumption. The forecasting models showed satisfying results, and the simulation scenario showed that using renewable energy can help reduce the emissions by 369 tons of CO2 (3%) per day.
The use and safety of intramuscular midazolam during in-office botulinum toxin injections in pediatric patients
Authors: Mian Mariam N. , Alwasiah Nadia , Savitz Ariel
Published: April 2021

PURPOSE: Pediatric outpatient procedures can be traumatic experiences for patients. This retrospective study, evaluates intramuscular midazolam as a safe option for anxiolysis during spasticity management injections. METHODS: We performed a retrospective chart review of 72 patients from a Tertiary Pediatric Hospital Outpatient Clinic. One hundred and twenty injections were administered over two years by a single practitioner. Comorbidities included asthma, sleep apnea, chronic obstructive disease, and epilepsy. Duration of sedation, safety of midazolam as determined through the use of the REACT (Respiration, Energy, Alertness, Circulation, Temperature) score, and frequency of side effects (prolonged sedation, breakthrough crying, medication reversal, and emergent evaluation) were recorded. A student’s t test evaluated the relationship between the above comorbidities and duration of sedation. RESULTS: The average duration of sedation was 29 minutes (95% CI 26.51–31.35) with an average dose of midazolam of 0.20 mg/kg (95% CI 0.9–0.21). None of the subjects required medication reversal or emergent evaluation. 39% of the patients had prolonged sedation (> 30 minutes after medication administration), 22% had breakthrough crying, and 0% had respiratory events requiring oxygen, intubation or an emergency evaluation. No statistical significance found between the comorbidities and duration of sedation. CONCLUSION: Intramuscular midazolam is a possible effective anxiolytic medication strategy for outpatient pediatric injections. Additional studies are needed to ensure its safety and efficacy.
Foot and ankle somatosensory deficits in children with cerebral palsy: A pilot study
Authors: Zarkou Anastasia , Lee Samuel C.K. , Prosser Laura , Hwang Sungjae , Franklin Corinna , Jeka John
Published: April 2021

PURPOSE: To investigate foot and ankle somatosensory function in children with cerebral palsy (CP). METHODS: Ten children with spastic diplegia (age 15 ± 5 y; GMFCS I–III) and 11 typically developing (TD) peers (age 15 ± 10 y) participated in the study. Light touch pressure and two-point discrimination were assessed on the plantar side of the foot by using a monofilament kit and an aesthesiometer, respectively. The duration of vibration sensation at the first metatarsal head and medial malleolus was tested by a 128 Hz tuning fork. Joint position sense and kinesthesia in the ankle joint were also assessed. RESULTS: Children with CP demonstrated significantly higher light touch pressure and two-point discrimination thresholds compared to their TD peers. Individuals with CP perceived the vibration stimulus for a longer period compared to the TD participants. Finally, the CP group demonstrated significant impairments in joint position sense but not in kinesthesia of the ankle joints. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that children with CP have foot and ankle tactile and proprioceptive deficits. Assessment of lower extremity somatosensory function should be included in clinical practice as it can guide clinicians in designing more effective treatment protocols to improve functional performance in CP.
Awareness, perceptions and dental services utilization by patients a tertiary care centre during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Bhadauria Upendra Singh , Purohit Bharathi , Priya Harsh , Duggal Ritu
Published: April 2021

ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND. COVID -19 pandemic has imposed multiple questions and consideration in the minds of the patients and dental professionals. The understanding of patient’s perceptions and dental services utilization can aid in modifying the pre-existing dental practices. The aim of the present study was to assess the awareness, perceptions and dental services utilization by patients visiting a tertiary care centre during COVID-19.
METHODOLOGY. A cross-sectional study on 437 patients was carried using a validated questionnaire consisting of 22 questions on three domains. Strict sterilization protocol and infection control measures were practiced to avoid any contact between the investigator and the patient.
RESULTS. Patients were aware of COVID -19 pandemic and were willing (76.7%) to inculcate preventive practices even post-pandemic. Concerns regarding the spread of infection (37.3%) and hygiene/cleanliness (28.6%) were most commonly reported. Patients visited the dental centre primarily for emergency management and preferred their queries being solved on the phone.
CONCLUSION. Patients had a positive outlook towards visiting the dental centre for treatment in the near future and did not report any anxiety before visiting a dental centre.
СУТНІСТЬ ПОНЯТТЯ «ІНВАЛІДНІСТЬ» В ПЕРСПЕКТИВІ СОЦІАЛЬНО-ТРУДОВОЇ ІНКЛЮЗІЇ
Authors: Дружиніна Вікторія Валеріївна , Луценко Галина Павлівна , Романюк Богдан Федорович
Published: April 2021

Problem statement. In the conditions of financial and economic crisis, military conflicts, state budget deficit, the problem of social protection of persons with disabilities is exacerbated. Modern social policy is focused on ensuring equal rights and opportunities in the realization of the potential capacity and individual resources of each society member. The relevance of this topic is due to the consistently high number of people with disabilities and the lack of a holistic approach to solving problems related to disability, which in turn necessitated the analysis of theoretical approaches to determining the essential characteristics number of concepts. The purpose of the study – to summarize the theoretical approaches and provisions on the essence of the "disability" concept in the perspective of social and labor inclusion. The subject of the research is the theoretical aspects and the current development state of the "disability" concept in the perspective of social and labor inclusion. Research methods: the methodological basis of the study was the scientific achievements of domestic and foreign scientists in revealing the content of concepts. Research hypothesis it is assumed that the basis of socio-labor inclusion should be a set of theoretical principles, historical background and current circumstances of the scientific "disability" concept under the influence of socio-cultural, historical and geographical factors, as well as knowledge about society and its dominant values. Presentation of the main material. As a result of the study of this issue the main approaches and alternative views of domestic and foreign authors on the definition of "disabled", "disability", "disability", "stigmatization" were considered, the concept of full integration of disabled people into society and the main bar era related to disability. Originality and practical significance of the research. The research presents scientific approaches to defining the concept of "disability" taking into account their promotion in society. Conclusions and prospects for further research. It is necessary to take decisive joint action of all self-government bodies, social protection institutions together with health care institutions, non-governmental organizations and employers, which will prevent disability and professionally inclusive people in our country. An effective system should include comprehensive rehabilitation initiated at the earliest stage of the disease to maximize its effectiveness.
População, Crise Ampliada Pela Pandemia Da Covid-19 E “Invisibilidade” Social: Delineamentos Socioespaciais
Authors: Baggio Ulysses da Cunha
Published: April 2021

O presente artigo enfoca, de forma articulada, a população, a mobilidade espacial das pessoas e a vida cotidiana na cidade contemporânea, considerando-se na análise os influxos da crise atual, recrudescida e ampliada pela pandemia da Covid-19. Entendemos tratar-se de uma totalidade socioespacial dialeticamente integrada, que se inscreve numa urbanização geograficamente expansiva e intensiva, haja vista os avanços da ciência e tecnologia, das redes geográficas e dos fluxos de pessoas, mercadorias e informação. A análise procurou recobrir, ainda que sucintamente, impactos sensíveis na relação entre sociedade e Estado; no avanço de práticas socioespaciais de caráter auto-organizacional e uma percepção mais autonomista em relação à política; na desvalorização do capital e retração da taxa de lucro; em alterações na percepção quanto ao tempo; na ampliação da jornada laboral e a extensividade de relações de trabalho ao âmbito privativo-familiar; na (re)valorização da escala local na vida em sociedade sob as interferências e condicionantes da pandemia; na idéia de uma condição de “invisibilidade” social ainda maior no contexto ainda um tanto errático do comportamento da doença e seus desdobramentos, “invisibilidade” essa especialmente atribuída aos segmentos sociais empobrecidos, assunto que merecerá certo destaque na análise empreendida.
Adubação nitrogenada em cobertura: fator determinante para elevadas produtividades de feijão comum
Authors: Henrique Ivanildo Guilherme , Nascimento Indianara Cazuza do , Souza Ítallo Diego de , Andrade Gabriel Rafael de , Morais Paulo Henrique Alves , Pereira Dayane Barbosa , Melo Filho Luiz Cobiniano de
Published: April 2021

Considerando a grande exigência do feijoeiro em nutrientes, destaca-se a alta demanda da cultura por nitrogênio (N). Dessa maneira, objetivou-se avaliar se a inoculação de sementes, com Azospirillum brasilense e adubação nitrogenada e molíbdica, em cobertura, influenciam os caracteres agronômicos e o rendimento produtivo do feijão comum. Para tanto, empregou-se o delineamento experimental de blocos casualizados, em esquema fatorial 2x2x2, com quatro repetições. Avaliou-se a inoculação de sementes (sem inoculação e com inoculação de A. brasilense), aplicação foliar de molibdênio (sem aplicação e com aplicação de 126 g ha-1) e fornecimento de nitrogênio em cobertura (sem aplicação e com aplicação de 30 kg ha-1). Os ensaios foram conduzidos no município de Colorado do Oeste, Rondônia, nos anos de 2017 e 2018, adotando sistema de semeadura direta. Utilizou-se a cultivar BRS Estilo e para inoculação das sementes as estirpes AbV5 e AbV6 com 2x108 Ufc g-1. O molibdênio foliar foi aplicado, em dose única, aos 19 dias após a emergência das plântulas e o nitrogênio, fornecido por ocasião da fase de desenvolvimento reprodutivo R5, utilizando como fonte a ureia, aplicada manualmente na linha de plantio. A inoculação das sementes de feijão, com A. brasilense, resulta em aumento da produtividade quando associada a adubação nitrogenada em cobertura. A adubação nitrogenada em cobertura é determinante no aumento de produtividade do feijão comum.
2,4-Diclorofenoxiacético no enraizamento de estacas lenhosas de figueira
Authors: Tofanelli Mauro Brasil Dias , Santos Rodrigo Teles dos
Published: April 2021

O principal método de propagação da figueira é a estaquia em ramos lenhosos cujo sucesso depende de vários fatores, dentre eles uma eventual necessidade de aplicação de reguladores de crescimento nas estacas que por sua vez estes podem ser onerosos e de difícil aquisição. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o uso do 2,4-diclorofenoxiacético (2,4-D) como forma alternativa ao ácido indolbutírico (AIB) no enraizamento de estacas de figueira. Para isso, foi realizada a estaquia da figueira ‘Roxo-de-Valinhos’ em agosto de 2013 tratando-se as estacas com as auxinas 2,4-D e AIB aplicadas nas concentrações de 0, 250, 500, 1000 e 2000 mg L-1 por 5 s e, posteriormente, plantadas em areia lavada. Após 60 dias do plantio, avaliaram-se as porcentagens de estacas enraizadas e com calo, número de raízes, comprimento de raiz e massas fresca e seca do sistema radicular. Os resultados demonstraram que o 2,4-D não promoveu maior enraizamento das estacas da figueira quando comparado ao AIB, como também não melhorou a qualidade radicular das estacas enraizadas. O AIB na concentração de 2000 mg L-1 promoveu melhores resultados de massas fresca e seca radicular. Estacas lenhosas de figueira apresentam capacidade de enraizamento sem aplicação de auxina.
Sensory Details for Descriptive Writing
Authors: ACEDO NOAH F.
Published: April 2021

This study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of sensory details in writing descriptive essay to grade twelve STEM students, University of Cebu-Main Campus. The result was used as basis for a proposed action plan. Specifically, the study sought answers to the pretest performances of the control and experimental groups, the posttest performances of the control and experimental groups, the significant difference between their pretest performances, the significant difference between their pretest-posttest performances, and the significant difference between their posttest performances. A quasi-experimental design was used with the control and experimental group. There were 60 grade twelve students as subject in the study. The experimental group was taught with the use of sensory details while the control was taught using the lecture method. Pretest and posttest evaluations were used to measure the academic performance of the students in both groups. Most of the students had good level performances. The posttest scores of both groups marked an increase and the posttest mean value of the experimental group was significantly higher compared to the control group. Writing for students is more fun and engaging when they are able to actually feel, see, smell, touch, or hear what they are writing about. Sensory detailed composition writing also explores the creative skills of learners. Learners would exercise realistic yet creative way of writing a descriptive essay.
English for IT purposes: Moroccan Ethical Hackers as a Case Study
Authors: Benchekroune Lamiae
Published: April 2021

This paper seeks to discuss the theme of English for IT purposes. In particular, this research article aims to highlight the role that English language might play for the cybersecurity experts.  Two research objectives were fixed. First, to explore Moroccan cybersecurity specialists' attitudes towards learning English; and second, to sift the learning strategies Moroccan ethical hackers use in order to learn English. In terms of the angle from which the topic was addressed, a mixed design approach was deployed. A questionnaire was designed and administered among 55 participants. The results of the study revealed that Moroccan ethical hackers reflected that they are alert towards the necessity of learning English via both their convictions as well as the learning strategies that they use. In light of the findings, some implications are given.
Exploring the Effectiveness of Audacity Readers’ Theatre in Increasing Reading Motivation and Fluency Among Lower Primary ESL Learners
Authors: Devarajoo Hemalatha , Yamat Hamidah
Published: April 2021

Being constantly motivated and capable to read fluently is one of the crucial aspects that should be acquired by an individual. This receptive skill is necessary in order to be able to decode written information and symbols of a language. The inability to read fluently imposes great threats to individuals as it may affect decoding skills and literacy. Low motivation and dysfluency in reading are regarded as the most blatant issues faced by learners in reading. This case study aimed to explore the effectiveness of Audacity Readers’ Theatre in increasing Year 2 pupils’ motivation and fluency in reading. The three Year 2 pupils were purposively selected due to their inability to read fluently and lack of motivation in reading. The main instrument used was the observation checklist where the lessons were observed and recorded by two observers. The pupils were interviewed to find out how Audacity Readers’ Theatre motivated and helped them to read more fluently. The researcher wrote journals after the lessons to keep a record on pupils’ behaviour and improvement throughout the lessons. Thus, the data from the semi structured interview and journal were used to triangulate the data from the observation checklist. The data which was analysed using thematic analysis illuminated on how Audacity Readers’ Theatre aided the pupils in heightening their motivation level and reading more fluently. The findings of the study revealed the necessity of incorporating Audacity Readers’ Theatre in the primary ESL classrooms to remedy problems of low motivation and dysfluency in reading.
Factors Influencing ESL Primary School Teacher’s Readiness in Implementing CEFR-aligned Curriculum
Authors: Yasin Nabilah , Yamat Hamidah
Published: April 2021

English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers in Malaysia, as in many other countries, are anxious to exploit the potential of Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) –aligned curriculum to enhance the teaching and learning process. Given the increasing pressure exerted by various stakeholders on language education, it is important to understand the underlying factors behind primary school teachers’ readiness regarding CEFR-aligned curriculum. Even though there are studies conducted in local contexts, it is still very limited. This study seeks to find out the level of ESL primary teachers’ readiness to implement CEFR-aligned curriculum. This study also investigates the factors that can influence teachers’ readiness towards the implementation of CEFR-aligned curriculum. Data was collected via questionnaire survey from ESL primary school teachers in Pasir Gudang, Johor. The questionnaire data was analysed using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that most of the teachers have high level of readiness in implementing CEFR-aligned curriculum. Several factors are also highlighted in this study. Teachers’ training, competency, materials as well as school-based assessment are some of the main challenges identified in this study. In conclusion, the implementation of CEFR-aligned curriculum is seen as inevitable but more preparation and support should be provided by the ministry to ensure that teachers are fully prepared and familiar with the implementation of CEFR-aligned curriculum.
Literature Circle: A Strategy in Improving Critical Thinking Skills
Authors: Mary Nerissa T. Castro, MST
Published: April 2021

Reading is the prime foundation of one’s academic and social status. However, this vital skill is what most students lack attention and interest. As a result, it deteriorates their critical thinking skills. To address the problem, Harvey Daniel introduced his literature circle strategy. It showcases different features that likely aid student’s struggles in the aspect of reading. This study, therefore, aims to determine the effectiveness of the literature circle strategy in improving critical thinking skills in reading among students at the University of Cebu-Banilad Campus. The study utilized a quasi-experimental method where the 48 ABM Grade 12 research subjects of the study were divided into two groups, namely: control and experimental. Strategies employed in these groups were different. The traditional method was practiced in the control group, while the literature circle strategy was implemented in the experimental group. For data gathering, a researcher-made test about the short story “Dead Stars” by Paz Marquez Benitez was used as the main instrument. Another short story entitled “The Small Key” by Paz Latorena was used as a springboard in the implementation of strategies for both groups. Statistical treatments used for data analysis were simple percent, t-test for Correlational Samples, and t-test for Two Independent Samples. Findings revealed that in measuring subjects’ critical thinking skills in reading, there is a significant difference between the posttest performances of the groups. The research subjects under experimental group performed higher than the control group. The study concludes that literature circle strategy is effective in enhancing student’s critical thinking skills in reading.
Lexemes and Semantic Relations in English and Arabic: A Contrastive Study
Authors: Al- Farra Amaal Kamal
Published: April 2021

Communicating via language is an important property of human beings. Usually one does not think of the relations between words. But from linguistic perspective, the words are not single units. They are linked to each other by semantic and formal relations. The focus of this paper is on different lexemes in English and Arabic. So, this research aims to investigate the major errors which EFL students encounter by the misuse of different lexemes. This is achieved through using the elicitation instrument by implementing two tests. A pretest and a posttest for the sixth-grade students. First the students face problems in dealing with homonyms, synonyms, antonyms and homophones as a result of negative interference between the two languages, Arabic and English. After extensive training the students get good results. They are able to overcome the ambiguity of these lexemes. This shows the importance of learning lexemes in both languages as this simplifies the communication and identifies the areas of ambiguity.
The Effectiveness of Guided Writing Combined with Virtual Reality Video as Teaching Media on Students’ Writing Achievement
Authors: Virgiawan Moris , Suryani Nunuk , Sutimin Leo Agung
Published: April 2021

This study was conducted to identify (1) whether guided writing combined with virtual reality video as a teaching media is effective on improving students’ writing achievement in writing recount text and (2) the teaching learning process in which guided writing combined with virtual reality video as teaching media is implemented in the writing class at the eleventh grade of a private Senior High School in Surakarta. The method used in this research was classroom action research. This research consisted of two cycles, each consists of planning, acting, observing, and reflecting. There are qualitative and quantitative data collected in this research. The qualitative data included interview, observation, transcription, and document analysis whereas the quantitative data included the students’ pre-test and post-test scores. The findings showed that the implementation of guided writing combined with virtual reality video as teaching media effective to improve the students’ writing achievement and the classroom situation. The mean score improved from 60.71 in pre-test, improved to 72.07 in post-test 1 and improved to 79.15 in post-test 2. The implementation of guided writing combined with virtual reality video as teaching media also changed the class situation to be more active and interacting the students to join the teaching learning process.
(Re)reading Acculturation Process in Multicultural Space of Zadie Smith’s NW
Authors: Shokouhi Maryam , Bahmani Kaihan , Jamili Leila Baradaran
Published: April 2021

The present study seeks to delineate the impact of the Other on the acculturative options of the diasporic minorities in the multicultural space of Zadie Smith’s NW (2012). The extent to which the selected characters can be successful in acculturation process to experience conviviality and escape from ethnic absolutism will be discussed by taking an ethico-socio-cultural approach. The interdisciplinary approach includes ethical philosophy of Emmanuel Levinas, Paul Gilroy’s socio-cultural critique of contemporary multiculturalism in Britain, and John Widdup Berry’s acculturation theories. This article attempts to demonstrate not recognizing the Other’s difference can be the main cause of the failure of multiculturalism. Time in its philosophical and temporal sense is associated with race to evoke the way past can lead to the present inter-subjectivity breakdown; moreover, the role of ethical responsibility in the subjects’ acculturation process will be addressed.
Challenges of Teaching Literature-in-English in Secondary Schools in Borno and Yobe, Nigeria
Authors: Dahiru Muhammad
Published: April 2021

This paper investigates challenges of teaching Literature-in-English in secondary schools within Yobe and Borno states in north-eastern Nigeria, and the impact this has on university admission requirements. A core requisite for admissions into B.A English and LL.B. in all Nigerian universities is an O’ level credit pass in SSCE or its equivalent in Literature-in-English. This poses a major challenge to many candidates from Yobe and Borno States due to either the non-teaching or the inability of the students to pass with the required credit in the end of secondary school examinations. Adopting a mixed-method approach, the paper investigates reasons that bring about these problems within the period 2009 – 2019. Quantitative and qualitative approaches, through questionnaires and interviews, and Consensus Workshop, through Focus Group Discussion (FGD), were adopted to gather the data. The paper finds and concludes that socio-cultural factors, unavailability of effective and specialist teachers and gender issues were the major reasons for the non-teaching of the subject and the failure of students in public secondary schools to pass with credit in the two states. The paper recommends amenable measures to be taken to address these problems and challenges.
The Role of Rural Educational Leadership in Influencing Societal Behaviour: A Case Study of Goromonzi District: Educational Leaders’ Perceptive
Authors: E. Mafigu  , B.C. Chisaka
Published: April 2021

This study establishes the role of rural educational leadership in influencing societal behaviour, focusing Goromonzi District. It was positioned alongside the behavioural theories and the African unhu/ubuntu philosophy, informed by a qualitative case study. It made use of interviews, focus group discussions and observations in the generation of data from a purposive sample of three rural secondary schools. The rural context has its own set of unique community identifiers, making rural schools remarkably different from those found in the urban centres. The rural community is experiencing an influx of urban migration and as a result, the disturbance of an ideal rural setting is posing a challenge to the educational leadership in impacting the societal behaviour in the way it ought to be. Moreover, the educational leadership in the rural community is often characterised by lack of understanding of the rural communities’ traditional beliefs and practices, giving rise to contradictions with what the educational leadership intends to promote and encourage at times. Consequently, a cultural shift and contextual adaptation of distinctive attitudes and behaviours that enhance positive behaviour transformation becomes imperative. Above it all, studying rural behavioural trends as a response to educational leadership was paradoxical journey. The study thus, concludes that while literature points out that leadership has a direct influence of the behaviour of its community, this cannot go far unless the educational leadership deliberately aligns its own behaviour with the dictates of unhu/ubuntu philosophy which has a place in the African rural context.