bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Habitat complexity and mite population on Caryocar brasiliense trees
Authors: Leite Germano Leão Demolin , Veloso Ronnie Von Santos , Matioli André Luis , Feres Chrystian Iezid Maia e Almeida , Soares Marcus Alvarenga , Lemes Pedro Guilherme , Pereira Alexandre Igor de Azevedo , Zanuncio José Cola
Published: April 2021

. The objective was to study the habitat complexity of mite populations on Caryocar brasiliense trees under natural and cultivated field conditions. The study was performed in the municipality of Montes Claros, in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, over 3 years. Three types of areas were studied: 1) Cerrado, 2) pasture, and 3) a university Campus. Several chlorotic spots were detected on leaves with larger populations of Tetranychus sp. and Eutetranychus sp. (Tetranychidae). The greatest numbers of Agistemus sp. (Stigmaeidae) on leaves and Histiostoma sp. (Histiostomidae) and Proctolaelaps sp. (Ascidae) on fruits were observed in the pasture, and that of Histiostoma sp. on leaves in the pasture and on the university Campus. In general, the herbivorous mites (e.g., Tetranychus sp.) found on C. brasiliense plants were correlated with more clayey soils with a higher cationic exchange capacity; larger populations of mites (e.g., Agistemus sp. and Histiostoma sp.) were found on the C. brasiliense trees with the largest crown sizes; and associations between predator mites (e.g., Agistemus sp.) and phytophagous mites (e.g., Tetranychus sp.1) were observed. Greater habitat diversity and more complex plant architectures favored the mite populations. The positive effect of loamier soil on herbivorous mites indicates that these species are adapted to Cerrado conditions. Some recorded species of herbivorous mites can be pests in commercial plantations of C. brasiliense.
Long-term changes in the optimum planting date of gladiolus in southern Brazil
Authors: Tomiozzo Regina , Streck Nereu Augusto , Becker Camila Coelho , Uhlmann Lilian Osmari , Schwab Natalia Teixeira , Cera Jossana Ceolin , Paula Gizelli Moiano de
Published: April 2021

The objective of this work was to test long-term trends in the planting date of gladiolus to ensure marketing of these flowers on Mother’s Day and All Souls’ Day in Santa Maria (latitude: 29° 43’ S, longitude: 53° 43’ W, and altitude: 95 m), Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. Minimum and maximum air temperature data from 106 years were used (1912-2017) to simulate the optimum planting date indicated through the PhenoGlad model, aiming to harvest floral stems for both market dates for early, intermediate I, intermediate II and late cultivars. The homogeneity of the historical series was tested using the run test, and the historical trend was tested by the Mann-Kendal test. The magnitude of the trend was estimated with simple linear regression, and the descriptive statistics were calculated. For marketing on Mother’s Day, there was no historical trend that implied a change in the planting date of gladiolus for any of the development cycles. For marketing on All Souls’ Day, there was a positive historical trend only for the early and intermediate cycles I and II; thus, the increase in air temperature implied a delay of 9.2 days, 9.5 days and 6.9 days for the planting date, respectively, indicating that a shortening of the gladiolus development cycle occurred, mainly in late winter/early spring.
Selection of S3 progenies of forage maize based on topcrosses with different testers
Authors: Silva Carlos Augusto da , Faria Marcos Ventura , Paiva Elida Auxiliadora Peralta , Zaluski Welton Luiz , Gava Emanuel , Marck Diego Fernando De , Mendes Marcelo Cruz , Neumann Mikael
Published: April 2021

Maize forage is commonly used as silage in milk and beef cattle livestock production systems. Despite the wide variety of maize hybrids with high potential for grain production, few available hybrids have been developed exclusively for forage aptitude. The present study aimed to select S3 maize progenies derived from the single hybrid AS1572 based on the combining ability of forage traits in topcrosses with testers AG8025, 70.H26.1, and MLP102. The 135 resulting topcross hybrids were assessed in partial diallel in Guarapuava and Rio Bonito do Iguaçu, Paraná State, Brazil. Were evaluated the contents of neutral detergent fiber (NDF, %DM) and acid detergent fiber (ADF, %DM), forage dry matter yield (DMY, t ha-1), and in situ digestibility of forage dry matter (DIG, %DM). For all evaluated traits, the variability allowed us to select superior progenies. Progenies 3.1, 22.1, and 39.1stood out in terms of NDF, ADF, and DIG, whereas progenies 47.1, 73.1, 79.1, and 90.2 were efficient in increasing the forage dry matter yield. The testers AG8025 and 70.H26.1, of narrow genetic base, are the best to explore genetic variability among progenies.
Post-larval Colossoma macropomum (Characiformes, Serrasalmidae) show better performance in excavated than concrete tanks under different feeding strategies
Authors: Lima Julliana de Castro , Lansac-Tôha Fábio Amodêo , Mantovano Tatiane , Silva Natanael José da , Serafim Junior Moacyr
Published: April 2021

As the global human population increases, the demand for food grows and, consequently, practices such as aquaculture have become more common. Colossoma macropomum (Cuvier, 1818) is a native Amazonian species, considered to be the second most cultivated fish in the country. We compared the development of post-larval C. macropomum of different ages, submitted to combinations of food management on a commercial production scale. Two experiments tested the delivery of i) 55% crude protein feeding, ii) natural feeding by fertilizing the water and iii) a combination of both during hatchery in concrete tanks (10 m 2) or excavated soil-bottom tanks (4502) subjected to distinct fertilization protocols and storage densities. The weight and length of the post-larvae grown in ponds were greater (p < 2.0x10-16) for the mixed treatment, except during the first week of larvae, in which values were similar (p ≤ 1.76x10-14) to the fertilization treatment. Concrete tanks with fertilization management without feeding were similar to the mixed treatment (p ≤ 1.38x10-7); however, during the first week of external larvae production, the growth performance under fertilization treatment was superior to the others. Food management in excavated tanks, when compared to the same management performed in concrete tanks, registered higher averages for the productive variables of C. macropomum cultivated at the density of 200 post-larvae m-2 in all evaluated food strategies. It was verified that post-larvae of C. macropomum did not develop well in the first weeks of life when receiving only formulated diets. The increase in natural food availability through fertilization positively influenced the performance of the species, which can remain without feeding until the second week of life.
Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of cellular and extracellular extracts from microalga Chlamydomonas pumilioniformis on mice
Authors: Andrade Andressa de , Hort Mariana Appel , Schimith Lucia Emanueli , Peraza Gianni Goulart , Maria Lucas da Silva , Soares Maria Cristina Flores , Giroldo Danilo , Muccillo-Baisch Ana Luiza
Published: April 2021

Microalga species have attracted interest as a source of bioactive compounds with several pharmacological activities. Previous studies reported that microalgae from the genus Chlamydomonas have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In this study, antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of two extracts from microalga Chlamydomonas pumilioniformis were investigated. Cellular and extracellular extracts were prepared from a 14 day-batch culture in WC medium at the end of exponential growth and their carbohydrate contents were determined. Antinociceptive effects of extracts were evaluated by writhing and formalin-induced nociception tests, while the anti-inflammatory activity was analyzed by formalin-induced paw edema in mice. The analysis of dissolved carbohydrates detected amounts of 90 and 20 µg mL-1 of total carbohydrate in cellular and extracellular extracts, respectively. Cellular extract was mainly composed of glucose, but with significant proportions of arabinose, galactose and mannose and/or xylose and minor ones of fucose, rhamnose, amino sugars and uronic acids. Extracellular extract was composed of a similar proportion of glucose, galactose and mannose/xylose, besides significant ones of arabinose, fucose and galacturonic acid. Intraperitoneal administration of extracts significantly reduced writhing response in mice. In the formalin test, the extracellular extract inhibited both formalin phases, while the cellular extract was only effective in the late phase. Furthermore, extracts reduced the formalin-induced paw edema. In sum, we showed, for the first time, that C. pumilioniformis can be an important source of polysaccharides with anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects.
Using New Technology Material to Make Inclusion Sheet
Authors: Yang Liu , Shuang Liu
Published: April 2021

The research of fluid inclusion thin section is to understand the physical and chemical conditions (such as temperature, pressure, density, pH value, composition, etc.) of minerals, rocks and deposits, and to solve the genesis of rocks and deposits; in the process of production, gas inclusions or liquid inclusions should be produced at low temperature, otherwise the inclusions will be destroyed, especially quartz sandstone, weathered rock, mudstone and other minerals Therefore, when the film is made in a humid temperature environment, it is very easy to be deliquesced, especially for the rocks with developed cleavage and many cracks, after rough grinding after polishing, it is easy to produce warping edge, warping angle, bubbles, etc., thus causing the sample piece to deteriorate after polishing; therefore, a large number of pockmarks and cracks will be produced under the microscope. In this paper, starting from the applicable conditions of materials and technological methods, the practical problems of making materials and technological process in rock slice method are introduced in detail. Keywords Inclusion,Manufacturing, Grinding,Polishing,Filming
Optimization and Prediction of Machining Responses Using Response Surface Methodology and Adaptive Neural Network by Wire Electric Discharge Machining of Alloy-X
Authors: Manoj I. Vishal , Narendranath S. , Pramanik Alokesh
Published: April 2021

Wire electric discharge machining non-contact machining process based on spark erosion technique. It can machine difficult-to-cut materials with excellent precision. In this paper Alloy-X, a nickel-based superalloy was machined at different machining parameters. Input parameters like pulse on time, pulse off time, servo voltage and wire feed were employed for the machining. Response parameters like cutting speed and surface roughness were analyzed from the L25 orthogonal experiments. It was noted that the pulse on time and servo voltage were the most influential parameters. Both cutting speed and surface roughness increased on increase in pulse on time and decrease in servo voltage. Grey relation analysis was performed to get the optimal parametric setting. Response surface method and artificial neural network predictors were used in the prediction of cutting speed and surface roughness. It was found that among the two predictors artificial neural network was accurate than response surface method.
Modifying and Micro-Alloying Effect on Carbon Steels Microstructure
Authors: Toleuova Ainagul , Musina Gulnaz , Kaldybayeva Saule
Published: April 2021

Small additives of elements exhibiting high chemical activity with respect to iron and impurities, included in its composition, have a complex effect on the structure and properties of steel. Moreover, as a result of the modifying and refining effect of micro-additives, the amount, dispersion and morphology of nonmetallic inclusions change, and when alloying the matrix, hardenability, uniformity of structure and resistance to brittle fracture of steels change, too. The article presents a metallographic analysis of carbon steel deoxidized by a complex Са – Ва alloy. Deoxidation of steel using the complex Са – Ва alloy allows significant reducing the content of nonmetallic inclusions, modifying residual nonmetallic inclusions into favorable complexes with their uniform distribution in the volume of steel, and significant increasing the mechanical properties of steel. The high surface activity of barium makes it possible to consider barium as a rather effective modifier. The use of barium in alloys leads to grinding of non-metallic inclusions, homogenization of liquid metal, lowering the liquidus temperature, grinding of primary grains of cast steel, and increasing technological ductility.
A Comparative Study of Facial Emotion Recognition Pattern and its Determinants in Patients of Alcohol Dependence Syndrome Versus Matching Controls
Authors: Rajesh Ch Lakshmi , Endreddy Ananda Reddy , Shaik Subahani , Venu Gopala Raju S V.
Published: April 2021

Background:

Facial emotional recognition plays a pivotal role in human interactions and behavior. Long-term alcohol use leads to brain dysfunction that causes impairment in social cognitive abilities including facial emotional recognition.

Objectives:

Our study was aimed to assess the facial emotional recognition pattern in patients with alcohol dependence syndrome (ADS) and compared with that of matching controls and to study the sociodemographic and clinical correlates of facial emotional recognition in ADS.

Setting and Design:

This cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care teaching hospital for a period of 1½ years. Fifty participants having ADS and fifty controls were included in the study.

Materials and Methods:

Fifty participants having ADS and fifty controls were included in the study. In the group with ADS, a semi-structured pro forma was used to collect the sociodemographic and clinical profile. Rating scales such as Severity of Alcohol Dependence Questionnaire, the Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol scale-revised, and facial emotion recognition test (FERT) were administered. For the control group, FERT was administered after collecting the data regarding sociodemographic profile and clinical variables.

Results:

It was observed a significant impairment in FERT scores in individuals having ADS (mean score = 19.93 ± 7.67) when compared to the control population (mean score = 32.73 ± 4.96T-test = −10.86; P < 0.001). Lower scores on FERT were observed in persons with severe alcohol dependence (one-way ANOVA = 41.79, P < 0.001). Post hoc Tukey testing showed the difference between groups having moderate-to-severe dependence (P < 0.001) and mild-to-severe dependence (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Significant impairment in facial emotional recognition skills were observed in patients having ADS. The subjects in ADS group were able to identify happy and angry emotions better while facing difficulties in identifying sad and fear full stimulus.
Carbon Dioxide Pneumoperitoneum May Alter Ovarian Apoptosis
Authors: Guven Suleyman , Sal Hidayet , Guven Emine Seda Guvendag
Published: April 2021

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to evaluate ovarian immunohistochemical CD95 expression in a rabbit carbon dioxide pneumoperitoneum model.

Materials and Methods:

The study group including seven rabbits was subjected to intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) (12 mmHg); the control group was not subjected to IAP (the sham group, n = 7). At the end of the experiment, ovariectomy was performed. Immunohistochemical stained histologic specimen of the ovary with CD95 was evaluated. Based on the degree of cytoplasmic or membranous staining for CD95 from 0 (none) to 3 (severe), a microscopic apoptosis scoring system was used.

Results:

Statistically significantly higher apoptosis scores in ovarian surface epithelial cells (2.57 ± 0.53, vs. 1.14 ± 0.38, P = 0.002, Mann–Whitney U-test, respectively), follicular epithelial cells (2.85 ± 0.38, vs. 1.85 ± 0.38, P = 0.002, Mann–Whitney U-test, respectively), and stromal cells (2.71 ± 0.49, vs. 1.29 ± 0.49, P = 0.002, Mann–Whitney U-test, respectively) were observed in pneumoperitoneum group, compared with no-pneumoperitoneum group.

Conclusion:

Even at safe IAP (12 mmHg) for an acceptable operation time period, there was a significant increase in apoptosis of ovarian cells.
Effective management of Kshinashukradushti (Oligoasthenospermia) with Ayurveda
Authors: Binitha P. , Ratha Kshirod Kumar , Vahab R. A.
Published: April 2021

Male factors are responsible for nearly 30% of infertility cases. Oligoasthenospermia is one of the main causes of male infertility. It includes low sperm count along with impaired sperm motility. The present case report delineate history of a 35-year-old male who presented with oligoasthenospermia leading to infertility even after 3 years of unprotected married life. The patient was administered with internal medications like Shaddharanachurnam, Sahacharadikwatham, Sahacharadisevyathailam, Kapikachuchurnam, and Kalyanakagulam for 4 months. After 4 months, semen analysis reports showed marked improvement in sperm count and an increase in sperm motility. The female partner came with a positive pregnancy report on the next cycle after 4 months of medication. The present findings and the effective management of Oligoasthenospermia with Ayurveda formulations without any adverse effect highlight the promising scope of traditional medicine in male infertility disorders.
A Cadaveric Study of Anterior Communicating Artery
Authors: Narayanan Sunitha , Geetha G. N
Published: April 2021

Background:

Anterior communication artery is a collateral channel that connects the right and left anterior cerebral arteries in the circle of Willis. This helps in stabilizing the cerebral blood flow. Different types of variations of this artery were reported in the previous studies. The hemodynamic changes in the blood flow produced by variations induce strain at the sites of bifurcation, which may result in the formation of aneurysms. This commonly occurs at the meeting point of anterior communicating artery (ACoA) with the anterior cerebral artery. The anatomical variations in this portion may complicate the planning and performance of surgery which in turn will lead to postoperative complications.

Methodology:

The study was conducted in 60 specimens of the brain in the department of anatomy, Government Medical college, Calicut. The artery was carefully dissected and observed. Photographs were taken. The observations were tabulated.

Results:

Variations were noted in 15 specimens (25%). Duplication of the artery was noted in 6 specimens (10%), hypoplasia in 3 specimens (5%), V-type artery in 1 specimen, and X-type in 6 specimens (10%). There was no triplication or plexiform type noted. An accessory anterior cerebral artery was noted in 3 specimens (5%).

Conclusions:

As the ACoA acts a collateral channel that stabilizes the cerebral blood flow, when there is any vascular occlusion in any components of the circle, the knowledge of these anatomical variations becomes significant. As the radiological and neurosurgical interventions are increasingly performed, nowadays, the surgeons and radiologists should be aware of these variations in the cerebral arteries.
Correlational Anatomy of Biceps Brachii Muscle with its Footprint and Aponeurosis Parameters
Authors: Narayanan Suresh
Published: April 2021

Background:

The anatomy of the distal biceps tendon (DBT) and its insertional anatomy to radial tuberosity is important to understand the pathophysiology of tendon rupture and in surgical repair of the ruptured tendon. The present study aimed to evaluate the relationship between biceps brachii parameters with biceps footprint and lacertus fibrosus (LF) parameters.

Methodology:

This was a cross-sectional observational study done on 23 cadavers. The biceps brachii perimeters, the length of the DBT, distance between the radial head and radial tuberosity, footprint length, footprint breadth, and LF width were noted (with measuring tape and digital vernier caliper. LF angle was measured using Image J software.

Results:

There was a weak positive correlation between biceps brachii perimeter and footprint length (r = 0.392), biceps brachii perimeter and footprint breadth (r = 0.341), biceps brachii perimeter and LF width (r = 0.300), and moderate positive correlation between footprint length and breadth (r = 0.686).

Conclusion:

The biceps brachii perimeter has a minimal role in influencing the footprint dimensions and LF morphology. The study has explored the biomechanical aspect of the biceps brachii insertional anatomy. The data on footprint dimension and aponeurosis could help the surgeons in the effective repair of the ruptured tendon and achieving a better postoperative outcome.
Response to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Locally Advanced Breast Cancers in Association with Different Clinicopathological Parameters
Authors: Bharadwaj Barasha Sarma , Mahanta Neelakshi , Goswami Bibhash Chandra , Bhuyan Kanakeshwar
Published: April 2021

Introduction:

Breast cancer being a multifactorial disorder outcome depends on various clinicopathological and molecular factors. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) is increasingly used before surgery to obtain pathological complete response (pCR) as it is associated with increase event-free survival and overall survival.

Aim:

The aim of this study is to evaluate the response to NACT in locally advanced breast cancer (LABC) in association with various clinicopathological factors in a tertiary care setting.

Materials and Methods:

LABC patients (clinical Stage IIB and III) who underwent either modified radical mastectomy or breast conservative surgery after NACT treatment in a 1-year period were retrospectively reviewed for the clinical and pathological response. Effect of clinicopathological and molecular factors on treatment response were evaluated. pCR was evaluated on final histopathology.

Results:

Fifty LABC patients fulfilled the study criteria and were reviewed. pCR was present in 6 (12%) cases. All the pCR cases were invasive ductal carcinoma. A statistically significant association between the presence of tumor necrosis in initial biopsy and pCR to NACT was observed (P = 0.024) with a high negative predictive value of 94%. All the 11 patients (100%) with positive lymphovascular emboli (LVE) on initial biopsy did not show pCR. Four out of 6 pCR cases had preclinical tumor size ≤5 cm. Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) was present in 15 cases and only 1 pCR patient had the presence of DCIS.

Conclusion:

Preclinical tumor size, histopathological tumor type, DCIS, and presence of tumor necrosis and LVE on initial core biopsy are some of the notable factors for pCR among LABC patients who received NACT.
Quantification of Risk of Recurrence Associated with High Risk Factors in Stage II Colon Cancer
Authors: Moharana Lalatendu , Dasappa Lokanatha , Babu M. C. Suresh , Lokesh K. N. , Rudresha A. H. , Rajeev L. K. , Saldanha Smitha , Jacob Linu Abraham
Published: April 2021

Background:

Surgery is the primary modality of treatment for Stage II colon cancer, and the role of adjuvant chemotherapy is not well defined. Attempts have been made to find out various high-risk sub-groups within Stage II colon cancer, who might benefit from the adjuvant chemotherapy. Most of these studies do not quantify the risks associated with each of the high-risk factors and the survival benefits conferred by adjuvant chemotherapy based on them.

Aim:

This study aimed to analyze the prognostic and predictive significance of various high-risk factors among patients with Stage II colon cancer and to define the role of adjuvant chemotherapy among these if any with respect to various high-risk factors.

Materials and Methods:

An audit on postoperative Stage II colon carcinoma patients was performed retrospectively from the patient database of our hospital, registered over the period from January 2010 to August 2017.

Results:

A total of 41 pathological Stage II colon carcinoma patients were reviewed. Twelve (29.3%) patients without any high-risk features were spared of adjuvant chemotherapy. Twenty-nine (70.7%) patients had at least one high-risk feature and received adjuvant chemotherapy. Mean disease-free survival (DFS) after a minimum 20-month follow-up period was 26.8 months. On univariate analysis, there was a statistically significant difference in mean DFS according to the T stage (T3 vs. T4; P = 0.04), lympho-vascular invasion (LVI) status (absent vs. present; P < 0.01), perineural invasion status (absent vs. present; P = 0.03) and number of lymph nodes in the histopathology specimen (≥12 vs. <12; P < 0.01). On multivariate analysis, LVI positivity and inadequate lymph node dissection (<12 lymph nodes in the specimen) were independent high-risk factors for recurrence.

Conclusion:

The presence of LVI, inadequate lymph node dissection, or presence of multiple high-risk factors are associated with higher risks of recurrence even with adjuvant 5-flourouracil-based chemotherapy.
Equivalent legibility font size for traditional Chinese character compared to early treatment diabetic retinopathy study near visual acuity
Authors: Wang Chia-Yu , Shen Elizabeth P. , Wu Shu-Ya , Hsu Wei-Cherng
Published: April 2021

PURPOSES:

To investigate the legibility of a standardized logarithmic print size of traditional Chinese (TC) characters and compare it with Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) near chart.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A total of 1243 commonly used TC characters were chosen and divided into three groups according to its stroke complexity: Group A with 2–9 strokes, Group B with 10–17 strokes, and Group C with 18–25 strokes. For each group of characters, near charts were created using randomly chosen characters arranged in decreasing logarithmic size. In a well-illuminated room, healthy controls were fully corrected to test both ETDRS near chart and our set of TC near charts. The smallest legible font sizes (SLFS) in TC near charts were recorded and analyzed.

RESULTS:

Forty-two healthy eyes (21 participants) (age 29 ± 8.9 years old) were included. The mean near best-corrected visual acuity (nBCVA) in ETDRS chart was 0.06 ± 0.05 logMAR. We found that the mean SLFS in TC charts (0.33 ± 0.09 logMAR) was significantly larger than the nBCVA in ETDRS chart (P < 0.001). The SLFS of Group B and the SLFS of Group C was significantly larger than that of Group A (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION:

According to our results, to recognize TC characters, normal-sight readers need a 0.22–0.30 logMAR (1.7–2.0 fold) enlargement of the acuity size measured by ETDRS near chart. The low-stroke TC charts may provide a new method to assess the postsurgical outcomes for comparable functional visual acuity in reading TC characters.
Voltammetric determination of ascorbic acid using carbon paste electrode in ginger samples from selected areas of Ethiopia
Authors: Tesfaye Alemu , Asaye Mulunesh
Published: April 2021

Carbon paste electrode was prepared for the determination of ascorbic acid in ginger (Zingiber officinale) samples from three ginger growing areas (Chilga, Tepi and Dale Sadi) in Ethiopia.  The effect of pH on the oxidation response of ascorbic acid in 0.1 M phosphate buffer was investigated and pH 2 was chosen as an optimum value. The oxidation response of ascorbic acid was predominantly diffusion-controlled reaction with a better determination coefficient R2= 0.9945 on the plot of anodic peak current vs square root of scan rate. A square wave amplitude of 45 mV, step potential of 7.0 mV and frequency of 25 Hz were chosen as optimum values.  Linear calibration curve in the range of 0.1 – 8.0 mM of ascorbic acid standard in pH 2 phosphate buffer solution was obtained with a determination coefficient of 0.998. The amount of ascorbic acid detected in ginger samples collected from the three areas, Chilga was 6.85, Tepi was 6.59 and Dale Sadi was 6.54 mg/g of ginger powder. Percentage recovery in the range of 93% and 100% was validated for the applicability of the method for the quantitative determination of ascorbic acid in ginger samples. According to Health Canada dietary reference intakes, the maximum amount of ginger powder recommended intake for adult males in Chilga was 13.1, in Tepi 13.7 and in Dale Sadi 13.8 g/day.
Workplace Stressors and Coping Strategies of Intensive Care Unit Nurses at University Teaching Hospitals, in Rwanda
Authors: Munyanziza Thomas , Bhengu Busisiwe , Umutoni Cishahayo Emelyne , Uwase Aline
Published: April 2021

Background

Nursing is widely known as a stressful profession but intensive care unit is the most stressful; when nurses fail to cope with workplace, stresses’ complications such as burnout and depression ensue, and this can compromise the quality of nursing care. In Rwanda, there is a limited literature about workplace stress and coping strategies.

Research objectives

To assess the workplace stress and coping strategies of intensive care unit nurses at University Teaching Hospitals.

Methodology

This study used a cross-sectional study design, recruited 92 ICU nurses through the census sampling method; ENSS and Brief COPE Inventory, while SPSS was used for data analysis. 

Results

Eighty percent experienced moderate to high stress, while 19.6% had low stress. Married nurses tend to experience high stress than singles, while those with Bachelors or Master’s degree were less likely to be stressed. Main stressors are care for suffering/dying, or agitated patients; and heavy workload, while main coping strategies were alcohol use, emotion support from friends and religion comfort.

Conclusions

Nurses experience workplace stress, while workplace stressors are nursing care for suffering/dying or agitated patients and heavy workload. The coping strategies were alcohol use, emotional support and comfort from religion.

Rwanda J Med Health Sci 2021;4(1):53-71
Development and Validation of a Simple HPLC-UV Method for Determination of Amoxicillin trihydrate in Bulk Drug and Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms
Authors: Uwambajineza Tite , Bizimana Thomas
Published: April 2021

Background

Many analytical methods for testing amoxicillin trihydrate from different monographs such as United States and British pharmacopoeia, use acetonitrile HPLC grade as an organic solvent in the mobile phase; however, this solvent is expensive and not environmentally friendly

Objectives

Developing and validating a simple, affordable, accurate, precise and environmentally friendly HPLC-UV method, for determining amoxicillin in formulations by using methanol HPLC grade as an organic solvent in the mobile phase

Methods

An HPLC system was used for developing and validation of laboratory test method which is less expensive and uses environmentally-friendly mixture of mobile phase solutions. Specificity, linearity, precision, repeatability, and accuracy were studied.

Results

The retention time (RT) for amoxicillin was 3.53 ± 0.020 min, and no interfering peaks were recorded with the blank, standard and sample at RT, ensuring specificity. Calibration curve of 20 to 160μg/ml was used. The correlation coefficient (r2) =0.9998, which indicates that the method has   the linearity to this range of 20 to 160μg/ml. Intra- and between days' repeatability were assessed by injecting solutions three times a day and within three days. The %RSD of 0.3% and 0.7% within and between days respectively, were recorded. The %RSD was ≤ 2%, which indicates a precision of the method. An average percent recovery of 100.5±3.6% was recorded.

Conclusion

An environmentally-friendly, simple, affordable, selective, specific, rapid, sensitive, repeatable, with precision and accurate HPLC-UV method, has been developed and validated for the estimation of amoxicillin trihydrate in pharmaceutical dosage forms and can be adopted for the purpose of quality control.

Rwanda J Med Health Sci 2021;4(1):72-83
PENANGANAN OVERDISPERSI PADA REGRESI POISSON
Authors: Marta Sundari  , Pardomuan Robinson Sihombing
Published: April 2021

Penyakit demam berdarah dengue (DBD) telah menjadi penyakit endemik di kota-kota besar di Indonesia. Angka kejadian DBD merupakan data diskrit (count) yang mengikuti distribusi Poisson. Dalam penelitian ini dilakukan pemodelan pengaruh iklim terhadap angka kejadian DBD menggunakan metode regresi Poisson. Masalah overdispersi sering ditemukan dalam regresi poisson, dimana nilai ekspektasi tidak sama dengan nilai variannya seperti yang disyaratkan dalam regresi poisson. Selanjutnya untuk menangani masalah overdispersi yang terjadi pada regresi poisson dilakukan pendekatan dengan menggunakan beberapa model regresi lain yaitu model Regresi Negative Binomial, Zero-Truncated Poisson dan Zero-Truncated Negative Binomial. Model terpilih dengan kriteria terbaik adalah Negative Binomial. Pada Negative Binomial hanya peubah rataan kelembapan per tahun yang memiliki pengaruh yang nyata terhadap jumlah penderita penyakit DBD di Kota Bogor pada tahun 2013-2019 pada taraf nyata 5%. Peubah rataan suhu rata-rata dan peubah jumlah curah hujan memiliki pengaruh yang nyata terhadap jumlah penderita penyakit DBD di Kota Bogor pada taraf nyata 15%.
ANALISIS TINGKAT PENERIMAAN PROGRAM “BEBERES SENDIRI PADA RESTORAN KFC MENGGUNAKAN METODE STRUCTURAL EQUATION MODELLING – PARTIAL LEAST SQUARE (SEM-PLS)
Authors: Anisa Muthia  , Tabah Heri Setiawan  , Gerry Sastro
Published: April 2021

Beberapa restoran cepat saji mulai menerapkan budaya “Beberes Sendiri”, yaitu suatu kegiatan untuk merapikan meja dari pembungkus makanan untuk selanjutnya dibuang ke tempat sampah yang disediakan oleh restoran. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis tingkat penerimaan pada program “Beberes Sendiri” serta faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kuantitatif dengan tiga variabel independen yang diadaptasi dari berbagai sumber yaitu Kesadaran Lingkungan, Sarana dan Kampanye Program, serta satu variabel dependen yaitu Tingkat Penerimaan. Terdapat 168 responden yang digunakan sebagai sampel dengan pengambilan sampel menggunakan teknik purposive sampling. Pengolahan data menggunakan metode PLS-SEM dengan bantuan aplikasi SmartPLS versi 3.3.2. Hasil pada penelitian ini adalah terdapat pengaruh positif, kuat dan signifikan antara faktor kesadaran lingkungan dengan tingkat penerimaan. Terdapat pengaruh positif, lemah serta tidak signifikan antara faktor sarana dengan tingkat penerimaan, terdapat pengaruh positif, menengah serta signifikan antara faktor kampanye program dengan tingkat penerimaan. Dan ketiga variabel independen mempengaruhi variabel dependen secara signifikan sebesar 50,7%.
RSU como gestión universitaria: estrategia de gestión, pedagogía y didáctica. Interculturizar lo humano
Authors: Toro de J. Tógliatty
Published: April 2021

La Responsabilidad Social Universitaria (RSU) dio entrada a nuevos posicionamientos universitarios en el seno de la sociedad. Los problemas ontológicos latinoamericanos son un nudo crítico para la constitución de un sujeto social profesional responsable. La interculturización de lo humano como estrategia de gestión universitaria promueve una estrategia alineada, integrada y en co-desarrollo que movilice la Universidad como un todo desde la ruptura de la práctica epistémica heredada y la configuración de nuevos modos de convivencia social para la articulación real con los problemas de la sociedad y el aporte a su desarrollo. La estrategia organizacional vira las funciones universitarias y mueve las prácticas educativas dentro y fuera del aula ofreciendo más espacios de formación en el marco de una cultura institucional de desarrollo humano, donde este sujeto universitario es unidad y pluralidad, reconocimiento de sí y legitimación del otro.
Simulation and Steady State Analysis of a Non-isolated Diode Rectifier-fed DC-DC Boost Converter with High Static Voltage Gain
Authors: V. Girija and Dr. D. Mural
Published: April 2021

This paper presents the simulation and analysis of a non-isolated step-up DC-DC converter operating in
continuous inductor current mode with fixed switching frequency. The proposed converter proves better
steady state performance in terms of improved voltage gain compared to the conventional boost
configuration. The suggested two stage converter topology is fed by an uncontrolled diode bridge rectifier for
which the sinusoidal input AC voltage is (50/
2
) V (rms). The design of the converter is such that the input
AC voltage of (50/
2
) V (rms) is stepped up to around 256 V (DC) at the load end for the duty ratio value of
0.8. The performance of the proposed converter configuration is validated through simulation in
Matlab/Simulink platform. The open-loop configuration provides higher constant output voltage profile
compared to the conventional boost topology. The output voltage and current profiles show reduced settling
time with almost no overshoot. The output voltage ripple is reduced to lower value. The suggested
configuration ensures that the voltage-current stress across the switches is also reduced.
A Review Paper on Electric Assisted Steering System for Automobiles
Authors: Ravi Ghule and Simran Shaikh Prof. Nivedita, Pall Choudhury, Ashutosh Jagdale,
Published: April 2021

Electric Assisted Steering system is an Electric System, which reduces the amount of steering effort by
directly applying the output from the electric motor to the steering system.In this system the mechanical link
between the steering wheel and road wheels of an automobile are replaced by a control system consisting of
sensors, actuators and controllers seem to offer great advantages such as enhanced system performance,
simplified construction, design flexibility etc.It offers greater vehicle safety by adapting variable steering
ratios to human needs, filtering drive train influences and even adjusting active steering torque in critical
situations. In addition, it can make cars even lighter and more fuel efficient when compared to those using
hydraulic steering systems. The central electronic elements of today’s steering systems are modern
microcontrollers
Становление политического лидера в экстремально турбулентной среде- рецензия на книгу Шимона Переса «Робким Мечтам Здесь Не Место»
Authors: Batchaev Kurman R.
Published: April 2021

В данной рецензии исследуются качества успешного лидера и тягости бытия политика на примере бывшего лидера Израиля Шимона Переса и его автобиографической книги «Робким мечтам здесь не место». Особое внимание уделяется вопросам успешной политической деятельности при условиях плачевного положения государства и принятия тяжелых прагматичных решений. Также выделяется важность сохранения простых человеческих отношений без оглядки на социальной положение индивидуума. Тезисный, но не без эмоциональной окраски текст позволяет системно исследовать динамику исторических процессов на Ближнем Востоке. Книга очень подробно описывает вызовы, возникающие на пути молодого государства и будущего лидера нации и заставляется задуматься о неоднозначности политических решений власти.
Modelado y control de una grúa móvil con tres grados de libertad
Authors: Bonilla Mota Gerardo , Guevara Elizabeth
Published: April 2021

En la industria, el traslado de material pesado en espacios pequeños requiere de grúas en las que el control debe ser preciso, ya que de lo contrario se pueden producir balanceos de la carga que pueden dañar tanto a los materiales transportados como al equipo que lo rodea, de ahí la importancia del control. El objetivo de este trabajo es el modelado de un sistema mecánico tipo grúa de tres grados de libertad constituido por un carro sobre una plataforma horizontal y un péndulo doble. Así como la propuesta de una ley de control que garantice que las oscilaciones que se presentan en la carga cuando la grúa se desplaza de un punto a otro se cancelen o minimicen. El modelo dinámico del sistema se obtuvo mediante ecuaciones diferenciales ordinarias no lineales y la ley de control propuesta se basa en un regulador cuadrático lineal (LQR - Linear Quadratic Regulator) con un prefiltro el cual permite reducir las oscilaciones en el traslado de la carga con respecto a un control LQR sin prefiltro.
Using Expert Interviews within MODES in Online and Offline Spaces to Extend Comprehensive Literature Review Processes
Authors: Morris Alana , Onwuegbuzie Anthony , Gerber Hannah
Published: April 2021

In this article, we explore a 7-step process for conducting a comprehensive literature review (CLR). Specifically, after describing each of the steps, we explain the importance of expanding the search beyond traditional databases through 5 multimodal tasks that Onwuegbuzie and Frels (2016) refer to as MODES (Media, Observations, Documents, Experts, and Secondary Data), which can be undertaken separately, or which may interact with each other. Then, we highlight and provide an exemplar process for the Experts task, which motivates researchers to identify, to seek out, and to interview 1 or more experts associated with their research question(s). Furthermore, we illustrate the value of conducting the formal or informal expert interviews within online and offline spaces, not only because they provide rich and the most up-to-date information that can be used to inform, to guide, and to expand the CLR process, but also that they can generate relevant information that represent one or more of the other MODES.
Investigating EFL Classroom Management in Pesantren: A Case Study
Authors: Habibi Akhmad , Mukminin Amirul , Najwan Johni , Haswindy Septu , Marzulina Lenny , Sirozi Muhammad , Harto Kasinyo , Sofwan Muhammad
Published: April 2021

Classroom management (CM) is one of the most important issues in education and this research was aimed at understanding the classroom management problems and the coping strategies of Indonesian Islamic Boarding schools’ [hereinafter-termed pesantren] with the uniqueness of their system from the perspectives of the English teachers. Specifically, the purpose of this qualitative case study was to explore English as a foreign language (EFL) classroom management (CM) problems and the coping strategies of Indonesian Islamic boarding schools’ teachers. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions (FGD), and observation with eight English teachers working in the three pesantren. We organized our analysis and discussion around their perspectives and the contexts in which the classroom management problems and the coping strategies they encountered emerged. Seven major themes emerged, which were (1) challenged by students’ participation and motivation, (2) managing students’ behaviors: between punishment and encouragement, (3) dealing with three languages in the classroom, (4) teachers’ performance as a source of challenges in CM, (5) teachers’ discipline: rule breaking due to lower salary, (6) non major English teachers, but forced to teach English, (7) struggling with time management, and (8) struggling to manage large classes.
Black Virgin Islands Male High School Dropouts: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Browne Edward
Published: April 2021

The dropout phenomenon involving Black Virgin Islands male high school students residing in the United States Virgin Islands has become a major area of concern for parents, educators, policy makers, and other community stakeholders. However, little is known about the direct or indirect factors that lead many Black Virgin Islands male students to drop out of high school. For the actual study, the researcher used a qualitative phenomenological approach to examine the experiences of seven Black Virgin Islands males who dropped out of high school. The study results revealed seven important themes (a) grade retention, (b) disengagement with school officials, (c) adequate intake, (d) stress, (e) socioeconomics, (f) parental disengagement, and (g) low effort. These findings have important implications for parents and school officials, with respect to designing and implementing effective intervention strategies that will aid in Black Virgin Islands male students remaining in and graduating from high school.
The Challenging and Empowering Elements of Doctoral Data Collection
Authors: Nyika Lawrence
Published: April 2021

Data collection was the most challenging aspect of my doctoral journey as an African immigrant student due to a highly unpredictable research environment. This article reports on my doctoral fieldwork experiences in one Canadian province’s public secondary schools. The purpose of the article is to highlight data collection challenges and supports in qualitative research. Several barriers to doctoral fieldwork are evidenced in the article, whose successful navigation was enabled by an empowering spiritual experience and supportive and engaging supervision. Doctoral data collection narratives may not appeal to every reader, but their academic and therapeutic significance should not be underestimated.
Tasman Connections through Song: Engaging in Classrooms and in Community
Authors: Joseph Dawn , Trinick Robyn
Published: April 2021

Community is an overarching word that encompasses people in formal and informal settings covering a broad range of activities. Engaging through sound “in community” and “as community” provides the opportunity for participants to come together making and sharing music through song. This paper focuses on voice (singing) across the Tasman within formal and informal locations. Author One draws on interview data within an “informal” space with three community choirs in regional Victoria (Australia) from her wider study Spirituality and Wellbeing: Music in the Community. The data shows that choir members use voice to connect with their local community around issues about social justice and the environment. The choir findings are reported under two overarching themes: connections to singing and wellbeing, and connections to community. Author Two uses narrative reflection as she focusses on the value of song with her generalist pre-service teacher’s in a “formal” space within the Bachelor of Education (primary) programme at the University of Auckland in New Zealand. She explores the deeper meaning, and language features such as metaphor and personification that are evident in many songs and argues that songs provide a useful context for cultural and language learning. Her narrative is discussed under two overarching themes: benefits of singing, and social and linguistic connections. Though generalisations about singing across the Tasman cannot be made to other community or educational settings, we assert that singing is a powerful medium that can foster positive growth in education and community settings.
Qualitative Methods and Respectful Praxis: Researching With Youth
Authors: Tilley Susan , Taylor Leanne
Published: April 2021

In this article, we report on findings from a critical literature review of qualitative methods in youth-focused research. The articles reviewed cover an array of methods including those used traditionally in qualitative research and others more recently established. We identify methods that involve youth in general and youth marginalized and/or criminalized within institutional structures, more specifically. We explore the ethical implications of researching with youth, institutional and in situ, a theme that emerged in the literature reviewed. We highlight the tensions, challenges, and power issues arising in the context of research with youth. We close with arguments for methods that move youth from the sidelines of research to greater involvement in the research process, including youth contributing to the research design, data collection, and data analysis. We emphasize the need for researchers to engage an ethical research praxis that ultimately finds space in the research process for youth voices to emerge.