bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect and Mechanism of Trade Liberalization on Wage
Authors: Zhang Xiaofang , Yang Fei
Published: April 2020

This research discussed the relationship and mechanism between trade liberalization and the wage level of enterprises. Using the firm-level data from Annual Survey of Industrial Firms(ASIF) database and tariff data from World Bank, we find that, the final goods trade liberalization will reduce the wage, while the intermediate goods trade liberalization will improve the level of enterprises' wages. And that trade liberalization affects wages through firm performance. The reduction of input tariff reduces firm’s input cost, and increases firm’s sales and profit, then the firm has more ability to provide higher wages. While the decline of output tariff damages firm’s performance, which leads enterprises to transfer the loss by reducing wages.
Is Social Media Adoption a Powerful Means to Reach High Performance in Small- and Medium-Sized Firms? An Empirical Investigation
Authors: Floris Michela , Dettori Angela
Published: April 2020

Social media represent today an essential part of marketing strategies in business life. These communication tools are used as a source of information and dissemination of knowledge and belong to very important business marketing tactics as they help create new business opportunities, develop a stronger market position and, often contribute to changing consumer behaviour. In particular, this study investigates if and how the use of Facebook and Instagram positively affects business performance. Analyzing a sample of 30 successful European businesses that have registered relevant revenue growth in the last 3-year period, findings show that Facebook and Instagram adoption is neutral with reference to the achievement of positive financial and economic performance. An interpretive model is conceived to point out different kinds of social media adopters. Implications and limitations are discussed.
Effect of Integrated Marketing Communications on Customer Satisfaction of Selected Private Universities in South-West Nigeria
Authors: Abimbola Adegbola Eunice , Oluwole Binuyo Adekunle , Kolawole Afolabi Gabriel
Published: April 2020

Integrated Marketing Communications (IMCs) is critical to the performance of an organisation. However, many of the previous studies have focussed on manufacturing firms with very few targeted at private universities. Moreover, empirical evidence revealed that private universities have not been able to effectively deploy IMCs to enhance their performance and have been confronted with the challenge of poor customer satisfaction. The study investigated the effect of IMCs on customer satisfaction of selected private universities in South-West Nigeria. The study adopted cross-sectional survey research design. The population of the study comprised 554 employees of the Institutional Marketing Department and ad-hoc staff of the Registry Department of the universities selected for the study. Total enumeration method was used. The instrument used was a validated adapted questionnaire. The Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficients of the constructs ranged from 0.701 to 0.832. The response rate was 85%. Data were analysed using multiple linear regression. The results revealed that IMCs had positive and significant effect on customer satisfaction (Adj. R2 = 0.834, F (5, 467) = 475.554, p < 0.05). The relative effects of IMCs on customer satisfaction showed that advertising had a positive and significant effect (β = 0.132, t = 3.038, p < 0.05), service promotion had a positive and significant effect (β = 0.195, t = 4.502, p < 0.05), online marketing had a positive and significant effect (β = 0.269, t = 5.972, p < 0.05), public relations also had a positive and significant effect (β = 0.377, t = 7.415, p < 0.05). The effect of direct marketing was however insignificant though positive (β = 0.059, t = 1.130, p > 0.05). The study concluded that IMCs affect customer satisfaction. The study recommended that private universities should prioritise their promotional efforts on advertising, service promotion, online marketing and public relations rather than direct marketing in their bid to sustain and improve their customer satisfaction record.
Oscillate Criteria of Third Order Semi-linear Neutral Delay Differential Equations
Authors: Jingjie Lin , Liangtian Zheng , Quanwen Lin
Published: April 2020

The oscillation of a class of neutral third-order semi-linear differential equations is studied. The Riccati transform technique is used to construct different functions and classical inequalities. Some new oscillation theories of differential equations are established. Our results differ from the results in other literature, and use examples to illustrate the application of the conclusions.
On Rural Typologies with Neural Network Method: Case Study on Xining Region
Authors: Weifeng Zhang , Li Zhang
Published: April 2020

There are great differences between the rural areas of China, and rural areas themselves have complex development characteristics. With the implementation of the strategy of rural revitalization, â€˜one-fits-allâ€™ rural policy standards have had difficulty to meet the needs of different types of rural development. Rural policies adapted to local conditions cannot be separated from the identification of rural types. How to scientifically distinguish between rural areas and a widely ranged rural typology is of great significance. This paper attempts to introduce the artificial neural network method to identify rural types and to explore the impact of the neural network model trained with different sample data on the results of rural type recognition. Taking the Xining region as an example, rural types were identified and the applicability of the model was tested. Finally, the recognition results of the neural network model were examined and further improvement of the proposed method is discussed.Abstrak. Ada perbedaan besar di daerah perdesaan di negara China, dan daerah pedesaan itu sendiri memiliki karakteristik pembangunan yang kompleks. Dengan penerapan strategi revitalisasi pedesaan, standar kebijakan pedesaan "satu-untuk-semua" sulit memenuhi kebutuhan berbagai jenis pembangunan pedesaan. Kebijakan-kebijakan perdesaan yang disesuaikan dengan kondisi lokal tidak dapat dipisahkan dari identifikasi tipe perdesaan. Cara membedakan secara ilmiah daerah perdesaan dan berbagai tipologi perdesaan menjadi sangat penting. Makalah ini memperkenalkan metode jaringan saraf tiruan untuk mengidentifikasi tipe perdesaan, dan mengeksplorasi dampak model jaringan saraf yang telah dilatih untuk mengenaili tipe perdesaan dengan data sampel yang berbeda. Dengan mengambil wilayah Xining sebagai contoh, tipe perdesaan diidentifikasi, dan penerapan model diuji. Akhirnya, hasil pengenalan oleh model jaringan saraf dievaluasi , dan peningkatan lebih lanjut dari metode ini dibahas.Kata kunci. Daerah Pedesaan, tipologi, jaringan saraf.
Are Wealthy Regions Also Entrepreneurial? The Case of Indonesia
Authors: Widiastuti Wini
Published: April 2020

The relationship between economic development and entrepreneurship is complex and dynamic, especially at the regional level. Entrepreneurship can emerge in both wealthy and poorer regions, triggered either by necessity or opportunity. This article performed a spatial analysis of Indonesian data to identify the regional patterns of entrepreneurial activity and to test whether wealthy regions are more entrepreneurial than poorer regions, considering both supply and demand factors. Spatial regression analysis using GeoDa was performed to examine the extent to which regional conditions affect different types of enterprises (formal and informal). The results show that wealthy regions are more entrepreneurial with regard to informal businesses but not formal businesses. The supply side analysis confirmed that being unemployment stimulates individuals to become entrepreneurs (necessity-based entrepreneurship). Meanwhile, the demand side analysis confirmed that the size of market demand positively influences entrepreneurship (opportunity-based entrepreneurship).Abstrak. Hubungan antara pengembangan ekonomi dan kewirausahaan adalah kompleks dan dinamis terutama pada tingkat regional. Kewirausahaan dapat muncul baik di daerah kaya maupun miskin karena dipicu oleh faktor kebutuhan atau peluang. Artikel ini melakukan analisis spasial pada data Indonesia untuk mengidentifikasi pola regional kegiatan kewirausahaan dan untuk menguji apakah daerah kaya lebih berjiwa wirausaha daripada yang lebih miskin dengan mempertimbangkan faktor penawaran dan permintaan. Analisis regresi spasial menggunakan Geoda dilakukan untuk memeriksa sejauh mana kondisi regional mempengaruhi berbagai jenis bisnis, perusahaan formal dan informal. Hasilnya menunjukkan bahwa daerah kaya lebih berwirausaha dalam hal perusahaan informal tetapi tidak untuk perusahaan formal. Analisis sisi penawaran menegaskan bahwa menganggur merangsang individu untuk menjadi wirausaha yang merupakan kewirausahaan berbasis kebutuhan. Sementara itu, analisis sisi permintaan menegaskan bahwa ukuran permintaan pasar secara positif mempengaruhi kewirausahaan yaitu kewirausahaan berbasis peluang.Kata kunci. Kewirausahaan, tingkat permulaan, pembangunan ekonomi wilayah, negara-negara berkembang.Â
Combined Gravity or Self-Potential Anomaly Formula for Mineral Exploration
Authors: S. Essa Khalid , Elhussein Mahmoud
Published: April 2020

A combined gravity and/or self-potential anomaly formula is utilized to estimate the model parameters of the buried geologic structures represented by simple geometric. The simple geometric shapes (spheres, cylinders, and sheets) are not really found but often applied to reduce the nonuniqueness in interpreting the gravity and self-potential data. Numerous approaches through the combined formula such as least squares, Werner deconvolution, and the particle swarm optimization method are used. The application of these methods was demonstrated by applying a synthetic gravity and self-potential example without and with 10% random noise to compare their efficiency in estimating the model parameters of the buried structures. Besides, they were applied to two field data for mineral exploration. The appraised model parameter values from each method were compared together and with those published in literature.
Amélioration de la méthodologie de construction de la courbe des taux sans risque dans la zone UEMOA
Authors: Gbongué Florent
Published: April 2020

Dans la zone de l’Union économique et monétaire ouest-africaine (UEMOA), la construction d’une courbe des taux sans risque est un objectif pour les décideurs publics. En effet, elle permet d’accompagner les mutations réglementaires actuelles, ainsi que le processus de développement du marché financier régional (MFR). En s’appuyant sur les conclusions de Gbongué et Planchet (2015) et Gbongué (2019), nous proposons une nouvelle méthodologie de construction de la courbe des taux sans risque, adaptée aux particularités de cette zone, dans l’optique de réduire les erreurs d’estimation de la valeur théorique des obligations souveraines. Notons qu’elle s’appuie sur les fondamentaux du modèle de Nelson et Siegel, dans le but de faciliter la prévision de cette courbe dans le futur.
Repenser « l’esprit du capitalisme » : une rétrospective
Authors: Khoury Nabil
Published: April 2020

Max Weber introduit l’idée que le système capitaliste de production s’est développé dans les communautés calvinistes du XVIIe siècle les rendant plus prospères que les communautés catholiques contemporaines, et ce grâce à l’apport indispensable d’un « esprit de capitalisme » fondé sur une éthique calviniste austère étrangère au catholicisme. Cette théorie demeure un point de référence incontournable auprès des chercheurs depuis bientôt cent ans. L’objet de cet article est de présenter une synthèse des contributions théoriques et empiriques qui ont marqué, surtout au cours des cinq dernières décennies, l’évolution de la recherche sur ce thème. Nous situerons ces contributions dans le courant progressiste de l’évolution de la pensée économique sur ce sujet, afin de mieux apprécier les nouvelles orientations de la recherche dans ce domaine.
Why the young sleep longer
Authors: Chowdhury Budhaditya , Shafer Orie T
Published: April 2020

A transcription factor helps young flies to sleep longer by delaying the maturation of a neural network that controls sleep.
Psychogenic Adipsia Presenting as Recurrent Functional Vomiting and Hypernatremia
Authors: Desai Parth Milan , Mbachi Chimezie , Mathew Madhu , Attar Bashar , Mba Benjamin
Published: April 2020

Hypernatremia is caused by a disproportionate balance of inadequate free water relative to sodium level. Frequent causes of hypernatremia include renal or gastrointestinal fluid loss, hypothalamic injury, and endocrine abnormalities. The authors describe a rare case of hypernatremia that manifested secondary to psychogenic adipsia in a 46-year-old woman presenting with intractable vomiting. Her presenting symptoms and laboratory abnormalities resolved after treatment was initiated for major depression. This case highlights the need for a holistic approach when confronted with a case of unexplained hypernatremia.
Carbon dioxide fluxes in a farmland ecosystem of the southern Chinese Loess Plateau measured using a chamber-based method
Authors: Fang Fengru , Han Xiaoyang , Liu Wenzhao , Tang Ming
Published: April 2020

Background

Farmland accounts for a relatively large fraction of the world’s vegetation cover, and the quantification of carbon fluxes over farmland is critical for understanding regional carbon budgets. The carbon cycle of farmland ecosystems has become a focus of global research in the field of carbon dynamics and cycling. The objectives of this study are to monitor the temporal variation in the net ecosystem exchange (NEE) and soil respiration in a spring maize (Zea maysL.) farmland ecosystem of the southern Loess Plateau of China.

Methods

A fully automated temperature-controlled flux chamber system was adopted in this study. The system contained nine chambers for CO2flux measurements, and three treatments were conducted: with and without maize plants in the chamber, as well as a bare field. Observations were conducted from June to September 2011. This time period covers the seedling, jointing, heading, grain filling, and ripening stages of spring maize. Other factors, such as air temperature (Ta), soil temperature (Ts), soil water content (SWC), photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), and precipitation (P), were simultaneously monitored.

Results

There was observed diurnal variation in the NEE of the maize ecosystem (NEE-maize). A short “noon break” occurred when the PAR intensity was at its maximum, while soil respiration rates had curves with a single peak. During the overall maize growth season, the total NEE-maize was –68.61 g C m−2, and the soil respiration from the maize field (SR-maize) and bare field (SR-bare field) were 245.69 g C m−2and 114.08 g C m−2, respectively. The temperature sensitivity of soil respiration in the maize field exceeded that in the bare field. Significant negative correlations were found between the NEE, PAR, and temperature (allp-values < 0.01), with both Ta and PAR being the primary factors that affected the CO2fluxes, collectively contributing 61.7%, 37.2%, and 56.8% to the NEE-maize, SR-maize, and SR-bare field, respectively. It was therefore concluded that both meteorological factors and farming practices have an important impact on the carbon balance process in corn farmland ecosystems. However, it is necessary to conduct long-term observational studies, in order to get a better understanding of the driving mechanism.
Распределение лантаноидов в ультрамафит-мафитовых ассоциациях золотухинского комплекса на примере Смородинского плутона (Курский блок Воронежского кристаллического массива), "Наука Юга России"
Authors: Бойко П.С. , Альбеков А. Ю. , Резникова О.Г.
Published: April 2020

Проблема установления формационной принадлежности и геодинамической природы формирования дунит-перидотит-габброноритовой породной ассоциации золотухинского комплекса Курского блока Воронежского кристаллического массива до настоящего времени является актуальной задачей, так как долгое время породы этого комплекса ошибочно определялись как часть мамонского комплекса Воронежского кристаллического массива. Прикладное значение более подробных исследований золотухинского комплекса связано с возможностью обнаружения в его породах благороднометалльной минерализации и промышленных концентраций ванадийсодержащих титаномагнетитовых руд, а также рудопроявлений меди и никеля. С целью установления критериев выделения золотухинского комплекса, а также определения в сингенетическом ряду пород особенностей эволюции исходного расплава были исследованы содержания и особенности распределения лантаноидов методом плазменной спектроскопии ICP-MS. Полученные данные нормализовались к хондриту и сравнивались на графиках с эталонами. Анализ закономерностей распределения редкоземельных элементов показал сингенетичность ультрамафит-мафитового ряда пород комплекса, значительное их сходство с континентальными толеитовыми базальтами и вероятную частичную ассимиляцию корового материала магматическим расплавом.
Признаки магматического расслоения бонинитов как критерий колчеданоносности на примере палеоостроводужного комплекса зоны Передового хребта Северного Кавказа, "Наука Юга России"
Authors: Исаев В.С. , Кафтанатий А.Б. , Кафтанатий Е.Б.
Published: April 2020

Рассмотрены процессы дифференциации магматических расплавов, приводящие к появлению контрастных по составу ассоциаций магматических пород. С этими процессами связывается образование флюидно-силикатных систем с концентрацией в них рудного вещества. Данные о ликвационном генезисе пироксенит-плагиогранитной серии пород субвулканической и гипабиссальной фаций получены при изучении комплекса палеозойских магматитов зоны Передового хребта Северного Кавказа. Вулканиты бонинит-марианитовой серии, входящие в состав продуктивной колчеданоносной кизилкольской свиты палеозоя, характеризуются разномасштабными проявлениями ликвации. По результатам петрографических и петрохимических исследований обоснована высокая склонность бонинитов к ликвации, обусловленная особенностями их химического состава и высоким содержанием флюидов. Анализ состава вариолей и продуктов их слияния в зональных шаровых блоках бонинитов показывает, что расслоение бонинитового расплава на несмешивающиеся жидкости начинается с обособления в нем участков, обогащенных каркасными структурными компонентами. В кислых дериватах расплава концентрируются преимущественно плагиоклаз и кварц, а в основных - цепочечные силикаты (пироксен). Это обусловлено докристаллизационной полимеризацией расплава с образованием высокополимеризованных структурных единиц (полевошпатовые компоненты), которые и выступают в роли кислой фазы. Последняя в связи с особенностями состава концентрирует и подавляющую часть летучих компонентов. Примеры магматического расслоения бонинитов свидетельствуют о том, что при их ликвации могут возникать высокофлюидные силикатно-рудные системы, способные приводить к формированию рудоносных кислых дифференциатов. Последние несут признаки магматического расслоения бонинитов и являются критерием колчеданоносности вулканитов.
Влияние дизельного топлива на развитие проростков Ulva lactuca L. (Chlorophyta) Баренцева моря, "Наука Юга России"
Authors: Салахов Д.О. , Воскобойников ГМ. , Рыжик И.В.
Published: April 2020

Проведены эксперименты по влиянию летнего дизельного топлива (ДТ) на развитие проростков Ulva lactuca L. (Chlorophyta) Баренцева моря. Проростки U. lactuca устойчивы к воздействию низких концентраций ДТ в морской воде. При содержании ДТ в морской воде 1 мг/л (20 ПДК) развитие проростков и состояние фотосинтетического аппарата в их клетках аналогичны таковым контрольных экземпляров водорослей в воде без добавления ДТ. При увеличении содержания ДТ в воде скорость повреждения клеток водорослей находится в прямой зависимости от концентрации токсиканта. При содержании в воде ДТ в количестве 100 ПДК на 20 сутки эксперимента отмечается замедление развития проростков, обесцвечивание части клеток и разрушение хлоропластов. При 500 ПДК дизтоплива на 10 день эксперимента гибнет большинство клеток, а при содержании 1000 ПДК токсиканта в воде гибель проростков происходит на 5 день опыта. Предполагается, что устойчивость проростков ульвы к малым концентрациям ДТ определяется активизацией работы антиоксидантной системы в клетках водорослей.
Серая ворона в тростниковом биотопе и ее влияние на популяцию кряквы Западного Маныча, "Наука Юга России"
Authors: Лебедева Н.В. , Ломадзе НХ.
Published: April 2020

Исследование посвящено биологии серой вороны Corvus cornix в тростниковых стациях Западного Маныча и ее влиянию на успешность размножения кряквы Anas platyrhynchos на протяжении долговременного периода наблюдений. Материалы собраны авторами в 1980-2019 гг. в районе Веселовского водохранилища (47°06' с.ш., 40°54' в.д.), расположенного в степной зоне в долине р. Западный Маныч в западной части Кумо-Манычской депрессии. Серая ворона гнездится непосредственно в зарослях тростника, в лесонасаждениях и на отдельно стоящих деревьях. Плотность ее популяции (гнезд) составляет 0-25 пар/км (0-24 гнезд/км), в среднем 8,6 ± 1,1 пар/км (2,1 ± 0,7 гнезд/км). Приведены сведения об устройстве гнезд серой вороны в водных местообитаниях. Они прикреплены к стеблям тростника или расположены на кочках. При строительстве гнезд ворона использовала кроме обычных материалов листья тростника и водоросли. В весенне-летний период в состав ее пищевого рациона входили разные виды насекомых, мелких брюхоногих моллюсков, рыба, лягушки, ящерицы, грызуны, яйца и птенцы различных видов птиц, семена сельскохозяйственных и сорных растений. Выявлены достоверные различия в составе кормовых объектов серой вороны в разные периоды года. В апреле - июне в рационе серой вороны значительную долю составляли яйца и птенцы водоплавающих птиц (15-16 %). Локальная популяция кряквы на Веселовском водохранилище находится на минимуме численности в течение последних 30 лет, несмотря на размещение искусственных гнездовий, реинтродукцию искусственно выращенных уток этого вида на водохранилище с целью минимизировать охотничий пресс на дикую популяцию. Важнейший разоритель утиных кладок в искусственных гнездовых укрытиях на Западном Маныче - серая ворона. Более половины всех разоренных кладок кряквы в 1980-2019 гг. пришлось на этот вид: 56,3 ± 1,8 %; lim = 34-79 %. По многолетним данным, она уничтожала 4,7-30,7 % всех кладок кряквы в искусственных гнездовьях на Веселовском водохранилище, в среднем 8,1 ± 0,3 % кладок (n = 39). В некоторые годы от 1/5 до 1/3 отложенных кряквой кладок были разорены серой вороной: 1981, 2007, 2010-2017 и 2019. Худшим годом в XXI веке стал 2013 г., а периодом - 2007-2019 гг. Обнаружена взаимосвязь между отклонением от средних многолетних температур в феврале и марте и степенью разоряемости гнезд кряквы серой вороной. В годы, когда февраль и март были теплее нормы, распределения долей разоренных кадок варьировали достоверно больше, чем в годы, когда эти месяцы были холоднее по сравнению с многолетними данными. Вероятно, раннее гнездование способствует большему разорению кладок: это связано с недостаточной маскировкой гнезд, то есть с их повышенной доступностью для серой вороны. С учетом падения плотности гнездования кряквы на Веселовском водохранилище вклад серой вороны в снижение численности вида существенный.
О возможной связи мочекаменной болезни с деятельностью бактерий в организме человека, "Наука Юга России"
Authors: Кокин А.В. , Силаев В.И. , Павлович Н.В. , Киселева Д. В. , Слюсарь А.В. , Слюсарь А.А.
Published: April 2020

Обычно причину возникновения мочекаменной болезни объясняют влиянием внешних, а не утробных (симбиотических) факторов. Зонально-концентрическое строение типичных конкрементов у жителей юга России обусловлено периодическим нарастанием биоминералов на органическом веществе, предположительно являющимся результатом воспалений от инфицирования организма людей бактериями Escherichia coli либо Staphylococcus aureus. В составе выращенных бактерий E. coli, S. aureus и типичных конкрементов методом масс-спетрометрии индуктивно-связанной плазмы изучены распределения содержаний 45 химических элементов. Аномально высокие концентрации Ag в бактериях превышают содержания его в конкрементах в 6,5-14 раз. Для 18 элементов в образцах бактерий и конкрементов обнаруживается полное подобие закона распределения их содержаний. Это дает основание связать мочекаменную болезнь с периодической активизацией жизнедеятельности бактерий и с накоплением нанометрической размерности Ag в их клетках. Вначале Ag стимулирует синтез клеточных белковых структур, что приводит к интенсивному размножению бактерий до определенного уровня его содержаний в клетках, а при переходе Ag в ионное состояние (обладающее известными бактерицидными свойствами) приводит к их гибели. В результате в застойных участках (лакунах) мочеполовой системы на органическом субстрате нарастают биоминеральные формы уратов, фосфатов и других образований до тех пор, пока увличивающаяся поверхность сферолитового биоминерального агрегата снова не перекроется органическим веществом. Таким образом, система автокаталитических биогеохимических реакций в жизненном цикле бактерий с участием Ag периодически запускает внутриутробный механизм зонального камнеобразования, который в меньшей степени зависит от внешних экологических факторов. Поэтому профилактика и лечение мочекаменной болезни, помимо учета внешних экологических факторов, должны ориентироваться прежде всего на борьбу против инфекционных заболеваний, особенно при активизации постоянно находящейся в организме и участвующей в пищеварении кишечной палочки.
Does Learning Style Make a Difference on Student’s Academic Performance? Learning Style Preferences of Medical Students from University Tunku Abdul Rahman
Authors: Swe Kye Mon Min , Hann Kang Wayn
Published: April 2020

Background: Learning preference is the effective and efficient modality or manner in which a learner has a natural preference to perceive process, store and recall new information. Learning style is the composite of cognitive, affective and physiological characteristics that indicate how a learner perceives, interacts and responds to the learning environment.

Objectives: The objectives of the study were to assess the teaching and learning style preferences of medical students at UTAR by using VARK (Visual/Auditory/Reading/Kinesthetics) inventory questionnaires and to identify the different learning style preferences between gender and the academic year of medical education (pre-clinical year versus clinical year). 

Methodology: This was a university-based cross-sectional study involving 235 students from year 1 to year 5 in University Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia from December 2017 to December 2018. Students, selected via universal sampling, were given the VARK inventory questionnaires determine their preferences of learning style. Data were further analysed using SPSS (version 22.0, IBM). 

Results: Of the 203 students (86.4%) who responded to the questionnaire, 62.1% of them were females while 80.3% of them were between 21-25 years of age. 86 students (42.4%) were from the preclinical phase while 117 (57.6%) were from the clinical phase. 70.4% of the students preferred studying alone to studying with a partner or group of friends (29.6%). Among them,157 medical students (77.3%) preferred multimodal learning style, with the most preferred mode trimodal which means combination of three sensory preference for example VAR or ARK, 35.67%, followed by quadrimodal which means combination of all four sensory preference for example VARK, 33.76% and bimodal which means combination of two sensory preference for example VA or AR, 30.57%. The remaining 46 students (22.7%) were unimodal learners (visual or auditory or reading or kinaesthetic) and 37% of them preferred kinesthetics which was learners prefer hands-on, practical experience. There was no significant difference in VARK modalities in terms of gender (p=0.39) and academic year (p=0.16). 

Conclusion: In conclusion, majority of UTAR medical students preferred multiple modalities with trimodal being the most prevalent mode. Among unimodal learners, kinesthetics were the most preferred mode. There was no significant difference in VARK modalities in terms of gender and academic year.
Evaluation of Insecticide-treated Sugarcane Setts against Subterranean Termites at Sargodha
Authors: Ahmad Saeed , Ahmed Sohail
Published: April 2020

Termites contribute significantly to most of world's ecosystems. They are of great importance in recycling woody and other plant materials and their tunnelling efforts help to aerate the soil. The present study was done to evaluate the efficacy of insecticides against the termites in a sugarcane field. The dipping of setts in insecticides solution @ 1%, 0.50%, 0.25% was carried out and the planted setts was observed for damage/infestation. In order to select a site for an experiment in village Dhero Sial of Sargodha District. Five samples were taken from field at 4 different places. Area of sample was one sq. meter and population of termites was noted. Later on, poplar stakes were erected to confirm the population of termites after 10-15 days. As the chemical treatment is the only remedy for the crops attacked by subterranean termites available to the farmers in Pakistan the evaluation of these six insecticides showed that most effective is the Fipronil both in reducing the population density and damage on the cones.
Characterization Methodology for Analysis in Neighboring Productive and Nonproductive Zones of Los Humeros Geothermal Field
Authors: Aragon-Aguilar Alfonso , Hernandez-Ochoa Abel , Arriola-Medellin Alejandro
Published: April 2020

The study focused on the analysis of two neighboring zones in the Los Humeros geothermal field (LHGF), each one with different characteristic behaviors. A characterization methodology which can be used in geothermal reservoir engineering was designed and applied to study the zones. The static temperature profiles determined in wells located at the studied zone of the field ranged between 300°C and 360°C. From these temperatures, isotherms in the studied area were calculated and these trend to be deeper toward eastern zone of the field. Similarly the thicknesses tend to reduce in this direction. By analyzing the profiles of fluid circulation losses were determined during drilling of wells in this zone, the existence of low permeability in the rock formation was inferred. From the results of transient pressure tests, low permeability was confirmed. A marked difference in the productive characteristics between the wells, in the close neighborhood was also observed.  Behavior of wells also shows tendency to increase in their steam fractions, with the exploitation time. The characterization methodology applied to the studied zones, allows identify that there is a reservoir section with low permeability, but with high temperatures the depth increases.
An Update on Schistosomiasis: Prevalence, Intensity of Infection and Risk Factors among School-Aged Children in Njombe, Littoral Region, Cameroon
Authors: Nzenou Cedric Gide Dagang , Tientche Bonaventure , Asaah Smith , Merlin Takemegni Wandji Jonas , Kenne Martin
Published: April 2020

Aims: The study aimed to assess an update of the burden of schistosomiasis among primary school children.

Study Design:  The study was a school-based cross-sectional study carried out among children aged between 4 to 15 years old.

Place and Duration of Study: The study took place in Njombé, Littoral Region, Cameroon from March to April 2017.

Methodology: Urine and stool samples were collected were collected from 412 school-aged children and examined using the urine filtration method and the Kato-Katz technique respectively. A questionnaire was administered to assess their water related activities. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 2.0. Logistic regression and odds ratio was used to measure association and strength between variables respectively. P-value < .05 at 95% CI was considered as statistically significant.

Results: The overall prevalence of schistosomiasis was 9.7%, with 7,8% and 1,9% of school children infected with S. mansoni and S. haematobium, respectively and 0.7% co-infection with both species. The intensities of S. haematobium and S. mansoni infection were 2.1 eggs per 10 mL of urine, 94 eggs per gram of stool respectively. The multiple regression analysis revealed that itching after bathing in backwater (Odds ratio (OR)= 2.427, confidence interval (CI): 1.080 - 5454, P=.03). And school children attending EPB Alpha (OR= 2.024), CI: 1.203 – 4.804, P=.011).  were predictors of schistosomiasis infection. However, significant association was found between schistosomiasis and playing in the stream and the presence of the river and back water in the vicinity of schools.

Conclusion: There was a drastic decline in the prevalence of schistosomiasis infection in school children in Njombé compared to previous reports. The decrease is attributed to the bi-annual deworming campaign by the Public Health Authorities.
Perceived Risk of Contracting HIV and AIDS among Sexually Active Unmarried Young People in Zambia
Authors: Mwaba Sidney O. C. , Menon Anitha J. , Kusanthan Thankian
Published: April 2020

The paper explored gender differences in factors affecting perceived risk of contracting HIV and AIDS among sexually active unmarried young people in Zambia. The data used was from the Zambia Demographic Health Survey (2013-2014), logistic regression analysis was used to identify the gender differences in perceived risk of acquiring HIV and AIDS. The study revealed that 61% of females and 64.4% of males reported low perceived risk of contracting HIV and 16.5% of females and 16.6% of males reported having a high risk of getting HIV/AIDS. Logistic regression analysis also identified wealth index, exposure to media, having had STDs in the last 12 months, consistent use of condoms with all partners and drinking alcohol as strong predictors of respondent’s likelihood of low risk perception of contracting HIV and AIDS. The analysis further indicated that females who used condoms consistently with all partners were 1.2 times more likely to report being at low risk of contracting HIV and AIDS. This suggests that interventions that seek to reduce the rate of HIV infection may need to focus on increasing risk perception among young people as a protective factor.
Community Perspectives on Worm Infections in a Peri-Urban Area of Lusaka, Zambia
Authors: Halwiindi H. , Hatwiinda O. , Lisulo M.
Published: April 2020

Soil transmitted helminths (STH) known as worm infections are more than a technical or biomedical problem. They can be linked directly to specific human behaviour in relation to sanitation and hygiene practices. Although these infections are prevalent in Zambia, There is paucity of data on community perceptions and beliefs with respect to STH infections. Therefore, this study sought to understand this aspect from a peri-urban point of view. Qualitative interviews were conducted on fifty-seven participants from Ngombe compound; a peri-urban area within Lusaka, Zambia. The study was carried out between August and December 2015 using semi-structured interviews and analysed by means of question analysis. Wide spread knowledge about the various types of worms was found in the community, although most of it was generally folk knowledge. However, this did not mean that the study population recognized STH as serious health problem as some participants considered having worms as normal. While consumption of food was commonly cited as cause of STH, most participants failed to give empirical evidence linking soil or faecal contaminated food items as direct cause of STH. Although the findings cannot be generalized, the study provides informative reference in understanding beliefs and perceptions regarding STH in Zambian peri-urban communities. There is need for concentrated efforts that are bio-medically relevant as well as beneficial to the targeted population.
Lymphocyte Transformation of Hepatitis B Virus Infected Pregnant Women, Attending Specialist Hospital Sokoto
Authors: Onwuliri C. O. , Onyenekwe C. C. , Yeldu M. H. , Panti A. A. , Shuaibu A. B. , Kalgo M.
Published: April 2020

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major public health problem in sub-Saharan Africa with high morbidity and mortality. Vertical transmission is a significant contributor of new cases. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of HBV infection, to assess the immune competence of Hepatitis B (HB) viral infected pregnant women using lymphocyte transformation. It was a cross sectional comparative observational study. Simple random sampling technique was applied. One hundred HB infected pregnant women and one hundred controls were recruited. Data were analysed using SPSS (version 23) software. A P-value ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The results recorded showed a prevalence of 6.6%. The percentage lymphocyte transformation was significantly lower (p < 0.05) for HBV infected subjects compared with control. The rate of lymphocyte transformation with Phytohaemagglutinin was significantly lower (p < 0.05) when compared with Concanavalin A. Conclusively HB infection affects the adaptive immune response. Pregnant women should be screened for Hepatitis B surface Antigen (HBsAg) during routine Antenatal clinic and Concanavalin A based drugs should be recommended for HB infected pregnant women.
A Study on the Background and Process of Postgraduates’ Academic English Learning in China
Authors: Wei Yuehong , Miao Chungang
Published: April 2020

In order to provide reference for postgraduate academic English teaching in China, it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive survey in learning background and process before learners go to the graduate school. This study focuses on the academic English course for postgraduates in a key university of China, and the in-depth investigation was carried out from the aspects of students’ majors, graduation colleges, English learning foundation, learning attitudes, English learning and especially academic English learning experience, motivation and knowledge of academic English learning. The triangulation combining the quantitative method and qualitative method was used to analyze the research data. The results shows that the English learners have weak academic English foundation but strong English learning motivation and employ single English learning strategy. The learners reported the effective learning methods of academic English from two aspects: basic English learning skills and academic English learning ability. Accordingly, how to develop the teaching model, carry out the teaching process and define the teaching content are discussed in this research.
Assessing the Presence of Soil Lead Contamination on the Premises of Air Liquide Ghana Limited in Tema, Ghana
Authors: Gyekye Prince M. , Sadick Adams , Ababio Felix O. , Musah Mohammed , Edward Calys Tagoe
Published: April 2020

A study was conducted to determine the extent of site contamination by Lead (Pb) present in the soil on the premises of Air Liquide Ghana Limited, and give the appropriate recommendation for decontamination, where necessary. Eighteen (18) soil samples were collected from the study area using an augur. The geographical coordinates and elevations of the samples were recorded with the GPS. The samples were analyzed in the laboratory using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. In the absence of present standards from the Ghana Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), both the Dutch List and the International List standard were used to evaluate the concentration levels of Pb in the soil. Results from the analysis revealed that the concentration of lead (Pb) initially exceeded the international threshold of the Dutch intervention value of 530 mg/kg in some sample areas. Nine locations of the sample areas where diesel was being stored, S2-Diese Tank and Smoking Area S5-Smoking Area recorded values of 636.4 mg/kg and 602 respectively which is above the recommended threshold. The control recorded below the threshold value of 530 mg/kg. The study also showed that Lead compounds attached to soil particles took a shorter time to break down to reduce the levels of concentration over time.
Antimicrobial Susceptibility Pattern of Klebsiella pneumonia and Escherichia coli Isolated from Stool Samples of Patients in Two Tertiary Hospitals in Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Douglas S. I. , Akani N. P. , Kamani N. C.
Published: April 2020

Reduced susceptibility of antibiotics against Enterobacterial strains have emerged as an important public health problem worldwide. Infections caused by Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumonia can affect severely ill patients, and their colonization of human gut, endangers population at large in communities, and in hospitals. This research is aimed at determining the susceptibility pattern of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumonia from stool of patients in two tertiary hospitals in Rivers State, Nigeria. A total of 114 stool samples were collected from patients. Stool samples were collected in sterile biological specimen bottles and were sent to the laboratory immediately after collection. Stool samples were inoculated by streaking on Eosin methylene blue and MacConkey agar plates. Isolates were characterized using standard microbiological methods and were stored and used for further tests. The result showed that nineteen isolates of E. coli were 100% resistant to Cefuroxime and Augmentin, while 78.9%, 68.4% and 42.1% were resistant to cefixime, Ceftazidime and Nitrofurantoin, respectively. The result for the susceptibility pattern of the Klebsiella isolates showed 100% resistance to cefuroxime and Augmentin. Resistance to ceftazidime, cefixime and nitrofurantoin were observed to be 70%, 60% and 45%, respectively. Isolates of E. coli and Klebsiella were highly susceptible to Meropenem and ofloxacin. The isolates of E. coli and Klebsiella showed multi-drug resistance to the different antibiotics. Although the meropenem, ofloxacin and ciprofloxacin antibiotics showed high level of sensitivity to these isolates, there were still some level of resistance recorded.
Effect of added Bovine Casein and Whey Protein on the quality of Camel and Bovine Milk Yoghurts
Authors: Sobti Bhawna , Kamal-Eldin Afaf
Published: April 2020

The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of fortification of camel milk (CM) and bovine milk (BM) with 1-4% of bovine casein (CN) and/or whey protein (WP) on the quality of yoghurts after 12 hours of fermentation. Response surface methodology was used to design the experiment. Yoghurts were evaluated for pH, acidity, hardness and rheology.  The results revealed that addition of WP and CN significantly improved the hardness (p<0.000), and the rheological properties; storage modulus (G’, p<0.005), and loss modulus (G”, p<0.005), viscosity (p<0.005) and tan δ (G’’/G’, p<0.05) of CM yoghurts. Both types of yoghurts attained highest viscosity, G’ and G” values at highest level of WP (4%) and intermediate level of CN (2.5%) while increased CN ratio showed negative effects on yoghurts rheology. It can be concluded that the amount of total proteins as well as altering CN-to-WP ratio are important for the formation of strong gel network and the production of good  quality set yoghurts.
Gamma radiation to produce soybean mutants for better plant performance and chemical composition of seeds
Authors: Costa Nobre Danúbia Aparecida , Sigueyuki Sediyama Carlos , Macedo Willian Rodrigues , Piovesan Newton Deniz , Arthur Valter
Published: April 2020

The supply the constant demand for new soybean cultivar, it is necessary to select superior plants in populations of high genetic variability. To generate new plant variants which would perform satisfactorily in the field and produce seeds of better composition, gamma rays can be used. Therefore, soybean seeds from line VX04-6828 were irradiated in a 60Co source (gamma rays) in doses: 0 (control); 50; 150 and 250 Gy, and were seeded to produce the M1 generation. Potential plants of each row were identified and evaluated for their agronomic performance. The seeds of the selected plants were sown, producing the plants of M2 generation and again selected and evaluated, including the chemical composition of their seeds. It was concluded that the use of gamma radiation increases the variability in soybean, with consequent increase in the probabilities of identification of new mutants, useful to breeding programs that aim at better agronomic performance and gains in the composition of the seeds. Better results are observed when 50 to 150 Gy is applied on soybean dry seeds.
Brancos e pretos em Angola
Authors: Oliveira Waldir Freitas
Published: April 2020

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Importância da história da África negra
Authors: Athayde Johildo Lopes
Published: April 2020

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Plano de desenvolvimento de Gana
Authors: UFBA Centro de Estudos Afro-orientais -
Published: April 2020

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Influência arábica na arte baiana
Authors: Ott Carlos
Published: April 2020

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Donde provêm os negros da América do Sul?
Authors: Pollak-Eltz Angelina
Published: April 2020

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Festival de Artes em Ifé - Barbados - Curso de especialização em Estudos Africanos - Visitantes Granada - Cursos - Bolsistas africanos - Arte com temática afro-baiana - Sôbre publicação do CEAO
Authors: Centro De Estudos Afro-Orientais
Published: April 2020

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Roger Bastide, francês abrasileirado
Authors: Freyre Gilberto
Published: April 2020

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Presença africana na Amazônia
Authors: Figueiredo Napoleão
Published: April 2020

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L'université de demain et l'expérience du Brésil
Authors: Neto A.L. Machado
Published: April 2020

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Drama antigo
Authors: Scheinowitz Abraham Samuel
Published: April 2020

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Antropologia e lingüística nos estudos afro-brasileiros
Authors: De Castro Yeda Pessoa
Published: April 2020

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Iaba
Authors: Carybe Hector
Published: April 2020

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O Saara: a paisagem e os homens - Teatro africano em língua inglesa - A imprensa na Coréia
Authors: Gardi Renê
Published: April 2020

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Édison Carneiro
Authors: Oliveira Waldir Freitas
Published: April 2020

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A arte pela vida: a vida pela arte
Authors: Lawal Babatunde
Published: April 2020

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A sociedade Egbe Òrun dos Abikü, as crianças nascem para morrer várias vezes
Authors: Verger Pierre
Published: April 2020

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Dimensão dos aportes africanos no Brasil
Authors: De Castro Yeda Pessoa
Published: April 2020

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Cultura africana: do velho e do novo; os anos 90
Authors: Ojo-Ade Femi
Published: April 2020

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"O abrigo da farda": o Exército brasileiro e os escravos fugidos, 1800-1888
Authors: Kraay Hendrik
Published: April 2020

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Identidade racial, contexto urbano e mobilização política
Authors: Telles Edward E.
Published: April 2020

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Orfeu e Poder: uma perspectiva afro-americana sobre a política racial no Brasil
Authors: Bairros Luiza
Published: April 2020

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Mobilização racial no Brasil: uma revisão crítica
Authors: Barcelos Luiz Claudio
Published: April 2020

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Caio Prado Júnior. Formação do Brasil contemporâneo. Colônia. 23a edição. São Paulo, Brasiliense, 1994.390p
Authors: Nova Cristiane
Published: April 2020

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Keila Grinberg. Liberata, a lei da ambigüidade: as ações de liberdade da Corte de Apelação do Rio de Janeiro no século XIX. 160 de Janeiro, Relume Dumará, 1994. 122p
Authors: Pena Eduardo Spiller
Published: April 2020

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As mães pretas do Ilê Aiyê: nota sobre o espaço mediano da cultura
Authors: Agier Michel
Published: April 2020

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Políticas públicas para a ascensão dos negros no Brasil: argumentando pela ação afirmativa
Authors: Guimarães Antônio Sérgio Alfredo
Published: April 2020

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Os caminhos do rio: negros tanoeiros no Recife na primeira metade do século XIX
Authors: Carvalho Marcus
Published: April 2020

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Pluralismo étnico e multiculturalismo
Authors: D'Adesky Jacques
Published: April 2020

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Os Obás de Xangô
Authors: Lima Vivaldo Da Costa
Published: April 2020

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A religião dos Black Muslims
Authors: Monteil Vincent
Published: April 2020

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Guiné Espanhola: apresentação
Authors: Peeissier René
Published: April 2020

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Estabelecimento das primeiras relações entre o Ocidente e o Oriente
Authors: Gomes Luís Gonzaga
Published: April 2020

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Agualusa. José Eduardo. Nação crioula. A correspondência secreta de Fradique Mendes. Rio de Janeiro, Gryphus, 1998, I59 p.
Authors: Zamparoni Valdemir
Published: April 2020

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