bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
El discurso xenófobo en el ámbito político y su impacto social
Authors: Arabi Hassan
Published: March 2020

En los últimos tiempos se están intensificando las migraciones internacionales en todas las direcciones, sus movimientos se han convertido en un auténtico reto para la comunidad internacional. La conversión de unas sociedades homogéneas en unas sociedades heterogéneas es un cambio que está costando aceptar, lo que provoca un sentimiento negativo hacia las nuevas personas y sus culturas. El aumento del racismo y de la xenofobia es algo que llama sumamente la atención a todos los que se interesan por la temática migratoria. Las sociedades, con poca tradición democrática y poco contenido cívico, fueron siempre los puntos que inquietan a los defensores de los derechos humanos y de las entidades que luchan contra el racismo y la xenofobia. En estos países las personas se sienten desamparadas y desprotegidas frente a la violencia y el odio con todos sus colores. En los países con tradición democrática, las instituciones ofrecen a las personas foráneas, culturalmente diferentes, unas ciertas garantías institucionales que les permiten alzar sus voces y defenderse frente a sus agresores. Curiosa paradoja es la que encontramos, actualmente, en países con alta tradición democrática donde se está generando un racismo institucional que usa la democracia como pretexto para extender su odio contra todo lo diferente. El aumento de los discursos racistas de muchos partidos políticos y de sus líderes es algo inaudito en las democracias tradicionales. La mala gestión de sus contenidos sería capaz de romper la convivencia social de los pueblos, sobre todo en aquellas sociedades heterogéneas con pluralidad de ingredientes culturales y raciales.
An unusual presentation of pancreatic serous cystadenoma
Authors: Stathis Alexandra O. , Kuo Samuel C.
Published: March 2020

Pancreatic cystic neoplasms (PCNs) are predominantly benign entities which represent almost 50 percent of all cystic lesions of the pancreas. PCNs are often an incidental finding on abdominal imaging and are not indicated for surgical resection unless they show evidence of malignant transformation or become symptomatic due to mass effect. This report examines an unusual presentation of a PCN, in a 70 years old female with sudden onset abdominal pain, who was found to have spontaneous intraabdominal haemorrhage secondary to a benign PCN. Emergency laparotomy was performed and a distal pancreatectomy or splenectomy were required to achieve haemostasis. Incidence of spontaneous haemorrhage in a benign PCN is a rare but serious complication.
An epidemiological study of pattern of dermatoses in paediatric age group at a tertiary care teaching hospital in South India
Authors: Mavoori Archana , Sriram Deepthi , Pamar Sneha , Bala Sudha
Published: March 2020

Background: Various dermatoses like infections and infestations and other non-infective dermatoses like atopic eczema, pigmentary disorders, papulo-squamous disorders, hair disorders, genetic disorders, hemangiomas etc. affect children causing significant morbidity. The pattern of dermatoses varies from place to place due to differences in geography, climate, culture and socio-economic background. Prevalence of pediatric dermatoses in India are around 9% to 35%. This study is undertaken to know the pattern, incidence, prevalence, contributing factors and prognosis of dermatoses affecting paediatric age group attending Dermatology outpatient department in tertiary health teaching hospital in South India.

Methods: This is a prospective study; various skin disorders were studied in 1360 paediatric patients up to 18 years of age were studied for a period of 12 months from September 2017 to October 2018. Demographic data, general, systemic and cutaneous examination findings were recorded in a proforma for analysis and interpretation of data.

Results: There were 762 boys and 598 girls in total 1360 study population. The most common dermatoses were eczematous eruptions and dermatitis (22.57%), infections and infestations (20.8%%), infestations (18.96%), hypersensitivity disorders (6.91%). The study showed no statistical differences between sex and age.

Conclusions: This study on epidemiological and clinical patterns emphasizes the need on training the management of common paediatric dermatoses to dermatologists, paediatricians for early treatment. Proper implementation of child health programmes and awareness programmes can be done based on such data or to treat them appropriately.

 
Clinical profile of Tinea pseudoimbricata: an observational study from a tertiary care institution in western Maharashtra, India
Authors: Kumar Ajay , Deshmukh Kalyani Milind , Deora M. S. , Kapoor Shrea , Deoghare Shreya R.
Published: March 2020

Background: Topical steroid-modified tinea corporis and tinea cruris is on the rise due to the ease of availability of over-the-counter potent topical corticosteroid preparations and their inappropriate use, alters the true morphology of lesion. As there is paucity of literature about increasing prevalence and varied presentation of this condition, we aimed to study the clinical profile and dermoscopic features of Tinea pseudoimbricata due to topical steroid abuse. We present a case-series of 77 cases of a distinct morphological pattern with central erythematous, scaly, pruritic concentrically spreading plaques with raised and scaly borders known as Tinea pseudoimbricata.

Methods: We evaluated 77 clinically diagnosed patients of Tinea pseudoimbricata with positive 10% potassium hydroxide examination and culture. Dermoscopy was performed in all patients. The demographic, clinical, and mycological features of each patient were recorded on a predesigned proforma.

Results: There were 52 male and 25 female patients with a mean age of 28.66 and a mean disease duration of 7.6 months. There was a history of application of potent or super-potent topical steroid for varying durations. Culture isolates were Trichophyton rubrum species. Dermoscopic analysis showed features of steroid abuse.

Conclusions: Injudicious and inappropriate use of topical steroid causes Tinea pseudoimbricata; a special subset of tinea incognito, which is very common now a days. This should alert the dermatologist about the steroid abuse and requires systemic anti-fungal treatment for prolong time.
Exploring the anatomical dimensions of hand and its correlation with height – An observational study in context of Indian population
Authors: Khemnar Ganesh , Joshi Aparna , Puranik Medha
Published: March 2020

An inclusive study of relationship between lengths of hand and its correlation to height of person provides valuable help in generating biometric database. Limited research exists on morphometric assessment of hand dimensions in Indian population. The objective of the current study was to frame the morphometric database of hand measurements in context of its clinical implications. The generated data can be used in various anthropological studies.

A Cross-sectional Indian population-based study was carried out among 500 male and female healthy students after excluding past history of trauma or illness after taking written, informed consent. Hand dimensions were measured by ‘Rod Compass’. The data was processed and analysed in SPSS Version 20 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Two tailed ‘p’ value of 0.05 was taken as statistically significant. Appropriate statistical tests of significance, correlation coefficients, and multiple regression correlations were computed to evaluate statistical differences.

The mean hand length in the females was lower as compared to males who had significantly higher mean hand length in all age groups. The difference was found to be statistically significant (p<0.001). The study revealed positive relationship between hand length and height.

Hand dimensions provide good reliability in estimation of stature. This biometric data can be successfully utilized in management of various health ailments.
Effect of meditation on cognitive performance of auditory and visual reaction time in medical students
Authors: R Desai Padmaja , N Kumbhar Amruta , Padmaja R
Published: March 2020

Stress and unhealthy lifestyle are the major and important risk factors for the development of comorbidities and impairment in the cognitive as well as sensory- motor performance.

To study the effect of meditation on Visual Reaction Time in undergraduate medical students.

Total 100 first MBBS students of Medical College in age group 18-25 years were included. Written informed consent was taken from all the participants before the study. Visual Reaction Time of all students for Green and Red colour stimuli was recorded before and after the mediation training program. The meditation training program was conducted by expert yoga trainer for consecutive 5 months, preferably on empty stomach, without disturbing their teaching schedule.

There was a significant difference between VRT recorded before and after the meditation training with P<0.0001**. It indicates that meditation has very positive effect on improving the individuals sensory motor co-ordination.

Yoga training with particular emphasis on meditation and deep breathing techniques, can be used as an important and cost-effective tool for improving and increasing the level of alertness.
Comparison of heart rate variability and classical autonomic function tests between type 2 diabetes mellitus and healthy volunteers
Authors: Jayabal Mohan , Ramanathan Rashmi , Subramaniam Manishankar , Selvaraj Vinothkumar
Published: March 2020

Heart rate variability is one of the diagnostic tests to assess the autonomic dysfunction in type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

To compare the heart rate variability (HRV) and classical autonomic function tests between type 2 DM and healthy volunteers.

This study was conducted in 30 type 2 Diabetes mellitus patients and 30 healthy volunteers. Average age of diabetic patients was 48.53±5.12 (mean ± SD) and that of volunteers was 47.10±3.59 (mean ± SD). ECG recording was done in supine position for 5 minutes in computerized physiography. HRV analysis was done using Finland software. Classical autonomic function parameters such as deep breathing difference test, heart rate and blood pressure response to hand grip dynamometer test and valsalva ratio test were recorded in them.

Statistical analysis was done using student’s t-test. HRV showed statistically significant impairment between cases and controls (p<0.05). Classical autonomic function test showed statistically very significant impairment between cases and controls (p<0.0001).

HRV and Classical autonomic function tests reveals autonomic impairment in Type 2 DM, but classical autonomic function test findings showed very significant (P<0.0001) impairment than HRV analysis (P<0.05). So this study showed autonomic function tests are superior to HRV analysis.
Effect of group dynamics on performance of first year medical students
Authors: Teli Chandrika , Kate Nilesh
Published: March 2020

Cadaveric dissection forms integral part of learning anatomy. Few students are actively involved in dissection and remaining are passive observers. Present study was conducted to compare students’ perception about cadaveric dissection practices following group dynamics [allotting a dissection-task related to each student] And effect of following group dynamics during cadaveric dissection on student's performance.

Perception and performance in theory and practical assessments were compared between control group [not following group dynamics] and study group [following group dynamics].

Study group perceived following group dynamics has positive effect on learning and skill acquisition. Difference in performance was not significant in first theory assessment between study and control group, study group performed significantly better in both practical and second theory assessment.

Group dynamics used during dissections help students perform better by understanding complex task by peer learning and feedback and also helps them to develop leadership, time management and communication skills.
Spirometry in subclinical hypothyroidism
Authors: Jadhav Vishalaxi , F Kammar K
Published: March 2020

Hypothyroidism has been steadily increasing all over the world among all the endocrine dysfunctions. Subclinical hypothyroidism being more common than overt hypothyroidism, affects 3–15% of the adult population. Its incidence increases with advanced age, female gender, and increased dietary iodine intake.

To study the Pulmonary Function Tests in a group of newly diagnosed subclinical hypothyroid females and to compare the Pulmonary Function Tests in subclinical hypothyroid females with controls.

The present study was undertaken in the Department of Physiology, KIMS, Hubballi. Thirty females with newly diagnosed subclinical hypothyroidism, without any pre-existing cardio pulmonary disorders in the age group of 20-40 years, residing in and around Hubballi city served as study subjects. Another group of 30 females, who were similar to study group but healthy persons, were taken from the staff and friends, served as control group. In the present study Lung function data were collected using the ndd EasyOn Spirometer (ndd Medical Technologies, Zurich, Switzerland). Clinical, biochemical & spirometry data were analysed using statistical software, ‘Graphpad – Quickcals’.

FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, FEF25-75%, and PEF of spirometry showed significant decrease in subjects as compared to controls.

In the present study Spirometry changes in subclinical hypothyroidism cases included significant decrease in the parameters like FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, FEF25-75%, and PEF compared to controls. This could be because of muscular dysfunction, fatigue and somnolence which have proved to exist in SCH subjects.
Quantitative analysis of morphometric variations of human spleen - A cadaveric study
Authors: C Sreekanth , D Srivani , K Prathiba , Kumari M K Lalitha
Published: March 2020

The spleen is a largest collection of lymphoid tissue with diverse hemopoietic and phagocytic function. Recent experimental data have clearly defined immunological functions of spleen in innate and adaptive immunity, as a frontline of host defense against various infections. A comprehensive knowledge of splenic anatomical variations and morphometric dimensions is crucial in deciphering the role of spleen in health & infirmity.

The aim of the study is to perform detailed morphometric analysis human splenic specimens with relation to age & gender differences and compare the findings with earlier studies.

The present study included 40 cadaveric spleen and morphometric features i.e., length, breadth, width and weight of spleen were measured.

The average splenic weight observed was 178.5 gm and range was 100 to 300 gm. The average length, breadth and width of spleen were 11.9 cm, 7.33 cm and 3.4 cm respectively. The average splenic volume in the present study was 167.27 cc. There was a significant increase in splenic volume till 40-49 years followed by steady decline.

The awareness of the morphology and dimensions of the spleen is of fundamental importance to the hematologists, clinicians, radiologists, prosectors and surgeons while performing surgical procedures on spleen.
Measurement of cervical spinal canal diameter by radiographs to study the degree of cervical spinal canal stenosis in an Indian population; Predictive value of Torgs ratio to assess cervical spinal canal stenosis
Authors: Krishna Chaitanya Reddy D , Ericson Lingamdenne Peter , L N Moorthy N , Madan Seema
Published: March 2020

Cervical myelopathy a debilitating degenerative condition occurs due to cervical spinal canal stenosis, the incidence of which increases significantly with age and is more common above the age of 50 years. Imaging of the spinal canal is an indispensable procedure for evaluation of cervical myelopathy and standard lateral radiographs remain the recommended initial imaging study of choice. The present study was undertaken to measure the cervical spinal canal diameter by lateral radiographs of the cervical spine and to study the degree of cervical spinal canal stenosis in symptomatic patients and asymptomatic cases. The canal body ratio and its reliability to assess cervical spinal canal stenosis and risk of cervical myelopathy was evaluated.

In this study 200 cases who presented to the radiology department for radiographs of cervical spine, were divided into symptomatic and asymptomatic cases and were grouped age wise. Measurements of the cervical vertebral body and cervical spinal canal were taken. Torg ratio was assessed. The measurements were analyzed statistically and results tabulated.

Cervical spinal canal diameter was lower in symptomatic cases as compared to asymptomatic cases across all age groups and the lowest value was measured at C3 level. All the symptomatic cases had Torg ratio of less than 0.82, and that of C3 was lowest. The data analysis showed the sensitivity of the Torg ratio as 100%. 40% of patients above 50 years were symptomatic and had cervical spinal canal stenosis on lateral radiographs.

Our results suggest that plain films can estimate the cervical spinal canal midsagittal diameter and be used as a first step examination for the evaluation of cervical spinal stenosis. The importance of canal body ratio in lateral cervical radiographs for determining the stenosis of cervical spinal canal is confirmed.
Effectiveness of vestibular stimulation on selected biochemical parameters in young adults
Authors: Sailesh Kumar G Sai , K Mukkadan J
Published: March 2020

Optimal stimulation of vestibular system has more soothing effects and is essential throughout the life. Though there are different methods like running, swinging, dancing, jumping to stimulate vestibular system, swinging on a swing is a simple method to stimulate vestibular system, which was an ancient practice incorporated in Indian tradition.

The aim of this research was to assess the effect of vestibular stimulation on selected biochemical parameters in young adults.

A total of 300 (130 males and 170 females) young adults were screened. 240 (120 males and 120 females) participants satisfying both inclusion and exclusion criteria were included in the study. This was a longitudinal follow-up study in which, participants were assessed three times. The first assessment was performed during regular classes (with no examination in preceding two weeks and forth coming two weeks), these are pre-intervention values. The second assessment was performed eight months after the intervention (during regular classes), and third assessment was performed sixteen months after the intervention in stressed state (A week before the University examinations).

The mean salivary IgA in the experimental female group was 61µg/mL. After 8 months, there was a slight increase in salivary IgA whereas after 16 months also there was a slight increase in salivary IgA. The mean salivary α amylase in experimental female group was 84 U/ mL. After 8 months, there was a slight decrease in salivary α amylase whereas after 16 months also, there was a slight decrease in salivary α-amylase.

The present study results support positive impact of stimulation of vestibular system using natural methods like swinging on a swing that exists as day to day activity in the tradition of India. The study recommends using the swing in routine life style for better wellbeing.
Correlation of Serum Urea and Serum Creatinine in Diabetics patients and normal individuals
Authors: Lalla Poonam , Banu Pathan Saira , Jawade Prashant
Published: March 2020

Diabetic Nephropathy in the long run leads to end Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). Serum Creatinine and Serum Urea are recognised as ideal markers to co-relate the progression of diabetic nephropathy. Diabetic Nephropathy is clinically diagnosed with decrease in Glomerular function rate (GFR), probability of hypertension, cardiovascular diseases and morbidity or mortality caused due to it. The early detection of an imbalance in the level of Urea and Creatinine levels can assist in the diagnosis and prevention of Diabetic Renal diseases and its progression. In this study, the period of the commencement of Diabetes and its severity is intensely correlated with an abnormal level of Urea but not so with that of Creatinine. While Creatinine is regarded as greater sensitive index of kidney function than Urea and hence this justifies as the requirement for a perfect filtration marker.
Comparative study of intraocular pressure measured by non-contact, rebound and goldmann applanation tonometer and their correlation with corneal thickness and true IOP in a general population
Authors: Das Santanu , Kumar L Kiran
Published: March 2020

: To compare the Intraocular Pressure (IOP) measured by Non-contact tonometer (NCT), Rebound tonometer (RBT) and Goldmann Applanation tonometer (GAT) and their correlation with central corneal thickness (CCT) and true IOP.

Reliability of each tonometer.

500 random patients aged 18 years and above were taken up for the study. Patients with anterior and posterior segment pathologies like corneal ulcer, leukoma, staphyloma, corneal lacerations, ectatic corneal conditions, corneal dystrophies, oedema, perforations, acute angle closure glaucoma, retinal detachments, vitreous haemorrhage and unwilling patients were excluded from the study. IOP was recorded using NCT, RBT and GAT after assessing the patient's visual acuity. Following IOP measurement, central corneal thickness (CCT) of each patient was measured using pachymetry. All the data were collected and tabulated for statistical analysis to obtain results.

The mean CCT in males was 0.5350 mm and in females 0.5340 mm respectively. The mean IOP measured by NCT is 16.43 mm hg whereas the mean IOP measured by GAT is 15.43 mm hg. IOP measured by NCT is significantly higher than the IOP measured by GAT (p<0.001). When NCT and RBT are compared NCT values are significantly higher than that of RBT(p<0.001). Although the mean RBT IOP 15.83 mm hg is higher than the mean GAT IOP of 15.42 mm hg the values are not statistically significant. When correlated with CCT all the tonometers showed significant correlation with GAT showing the strongest correlation. NCT overestimates IOP in normal, thin and thicker corneas when compared to GAT and are statistically significant. RBT also overestimates in the normal and thick corneas when compared to GAT but their values are much closer to GAT values in thinner corneas. The IOP measured by all the 3 tonometers correlated with corrected IOP with NCT showing the best correlation followed by GAT.

From the present study we can conclude that IOP measured by NCT and RBT is higher than GAT. NCT values are significantly higher than GAT values in thin and normal corneas whereas it overestimates more in thicker corneas. RBT values are significantly higher than that of GAT in normal and thick corneas. So, it is always advisable to measure the corrected IOP for each patient after considering the CCT.
Pseudoexfoliative cataract with associated systemic disorders
Authors: H V Pooja , T Venkate Gowda H , Subhashchandra
Published: March 2020

To find out the association of various systemic disorder with pseudoexfoliative syndrome.

67 patients aged between 50-80 years who presented to our OPD and diagnosed as pseudoexfoliative cataract  from July  2018 to April 2019 were included in our study. Written informed consent was taken from all the participants. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), slit lamp examination (SLE), fundoscopy was done in all. Along with these complete blood count, FBS, PPBS, echo, ECG and chest x-ray was done. The data was analysed using SPSS version 17.0. Results were expressed as mean, frequency and percentage.

Out of 67 patients, 17 patients (25.37)% had Diabetes mellitus, 10 patients had hypertension, 2 patients had IHD and one COPD.

Our study shows more association with the diabetes mellitus.
Demography, clinical profile and compliance of patients of vernal keratoconjunctivitis in a tertiary eye care centre in Southern Karnataka
Authors: Addagadde Venkataramana Pradeep , Siddegowda Srinivas , Amalagondhi Manjunath Shruthi
Published: March 2020

To describe demographic and clinical profile of patients with vernal Keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) and to assess the compliance of treatment of vernal keratoconjunctivitis over a period of 1 year from May 2017 to April 2018.

Among 100 patients, VKC was more common among male (67.00%) than female (33.00%) patients with maximum cases seen between 6-10 years of age. Majority of cases reported in summer in the month of March to May (Total: 49.00%). Mixed form was commonest among all 66(66.00%) cases followed by limbal 18(18.00%) and palpebral form 16 (16.00%). Commonest symptom was redness (100%) followed by itching (98%) cases. Palpebral papillae were commonest sign. Mild grade of VKC is commonest. Family history of allergy was noted in 7% of cases.

VKC is a bilateral recurrent disorder affects most commonly young males between ages of 6 to 10 years in which both IgE and cell mediated immunity play important roles. Association of family history of allergic disorders was less.VKC is more common in rural area.VKC is one of the leading causes of outpatient ophthalmic morbidity.VKC patients presents usually in a stage of mild to moderate grade. For persistent severe disease needs frequent follow-up.
Peningkatan Sense of Humor untuk Menurunkan Kecemasan pada Lansia
Authors: Arifiati Retna Febri , Wahyuni Endang Sri
Published: March 2020

AbstractThe Sense of humor is an activity that uses the stimulus to stimulate happy, happyexpressions in the elderly. This study aims to determine the increase in sense ofhumor to reduce anxiety. The study was conducted in the elderly at the Posonandu Bolon Colomadu Karanganyar. The design of this study uses cross-sectional analytics. The sampling technique uses total sampling. The data collection tool in the form of an anxiety questionnaire using the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS) consists of 14 items. The data analysis technique used is the Pearson Product Moment correlation technique. The results of the research are that sense of humor has a role to lower elderly anxiety levels. Therefore, for an easy-to-worry elderly can begin to develop a sense of humor as one way of overcoming anxiety in the face of a mood that tends to suppress.AbstrakSense of humor adalah kegiatan yang menggunakan rangsangan untuk ekspresisenang, gembira pada lansia. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahuipeningkatan rasa humor untuk mengurangi kecemasan. Penelitian inidilakukan pada Lansia di Posyandu Bolon Colomadu Karanganyar. Desainpenelitian ini menggunakan analitik cross sectional. Teknik sampelmenggunakan total sampling. Alat pengumpulan data dalam bentuk kuesionerkecemasan menggunakan Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS) terdiri dari 14item. Teknik analisis data yang digunakan adalah teknik korelasi momenproduk Pearson. Hasil penelitian adalah bahwa rasa humor memiliki peranuntuk menurunkan tingkat kecemasan Lansia. Oleh karena itu, untuk yangmudah-untuk-khawatir tua dapat mulai mengembangkan rasa humor sebagaisalah satu cara untuk mengatasi kecemasan dalam menghadapi suasana hatiyang cenderung menekan.
Effects of Rice Straw Silage with Combining Additives of Lactobacillus Plantarum, Trichoderma Viride and Wheat Bran on the Growth Performance, Digestibility and Rumen Fermentation in Growing Lambs
Authors: Ouyang J L , Qi R X , Chen Y F , Shahzad K , Li P F , Wang M Z
Published: March 2020

The effects of rice straw silage with combined additives (RSSA) of Lactobacillus plantarum, Trichoderma viride and wheat bran on growth performance, digestibility and rumen fermentation in growing lambs were investigated. Twelve growing lambs with initial body weight (BW ± SD) of 12.8 ± 0.4 kg were selected and randomly divided into 2 groups. These lambs were fed with rice straw silage (25%, on the dry matter intake (DMI) without additives (RSSW) and 25% RSSA supplementation respectively. The growth performance, nutrients digestibility and rumen fermentation parameters of growing lambs were determined. The results of this study showed that the average daily gain (ADG) and the feed conversion ratio (FCR) were significantly increased by the RSSA supplementation as compared to the RSSW supplementation (P gt 0.05). The apparent digestibility of dry matter (DM), as well as neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) was significantly increased by RSSA supplementation (Pandlt;05). Moreover, the microbial crude protein (MCP), total volatile fatty acids (TVFA), acetate, butyrate and valeric acid concentrations in rumen fluid were significantly enhanced by the RSSA supplementation (P0andlt;05). In conclusion, rice straw silage with L. plantarum, T. viride and wheat bran can enhance the overall growth performance, rumen fermentation and apparent digestibility of nutrients in the growing lambs.
Assessment of the Influence of Environmental Variables on Pig’s Body Temperature using ANN and MLR Models
Authors: Basak Jayanta Kumar , Arulmozhi Elanchezhian , Khan Fawad , Okyere Frank Gyan , Park Jihoon , Lee Deog Hyun , Kim Hyeon Tae
Published: March 2020

An experiment was conducted to find out the most influential factors affecting pig’s body temperature (PBT). For this purpose, eight environmental parameters and three growth related factors were considered as variables. Among these factors, seven environmental parameters, including temperature, CO2, temperature-humidity index inside and outside the pig’s barn and relative humidity inside the barn were taken as input variables for artificial neural networks (ANN) and multiple linear regression (MLR) models due to their good correlation (r ³ 0.5) with PBT. The results showed that ANN and MLR models had the lowest R2 values (0.81 and 0.69, respectively) and the highest RMSE (1.17 and 1.48, respectively) when they were run without temperature-humidity index; however, the maximum R2 (0.90 and 0.75, respectively) and minimum RMSE (0.92 and 1.40, respectively) were found without relative humidity. Based on the results, the temperature-humidity index could represent an important indicator in registering early warning signs of PBT status alternations.
Binding Mechanism of Remdesivir to SARS-CoV-2 RNA Dependent RNA Polymerase
Authors: Zhang Leili , Zhou Ruhong
Published: March 2020

Starting from December 2019, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has emerged as a once-in-a-century pandemic with deadly consequences, which urgently calls for new treatments, cures and supporting apparatuses. Remdesivir was reported by World Health Organization (WHO) as the most promising drug currently available for the treatment of COVID-19. Here, we use molecular dynamics simulations and free energy perturbation methods to study the inhibition mechanism of remdesivir to its target SARS-CoV-2 virus RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp). In the absence of a crystal structure of the SARS-CoV-2 RdRp, we first construct the homology model of this polymerase based on a previously available structure of SARS-CoV NSP12 RdRp (with a sequence identify of 95.8%). We then build the putative binding mode by aligning the remdesivir + RdRp complex to the ATP bound poliovirus RdRp. The putative binding structure is further optimized with molecular dynamics simulations and demonstrated to be stable, indicating a reasonable binding mode for remdesivir. The relative binding free energy of remdesivir is calculated to be -8.28 ± 0.65 kcal/mol, much stronger than the natural substrate ATP (-4.14 ± 0.89 kcal/mol) which is needed for the polymerization. The ~800-fold improvement in the Kd from remdesivir over ATP indicates an effective replacement of APT in blocking of the RdRp binding pocket. Key residues D618, S549 and R555 are found to be the contributors to the binding affinity of remdesivir. These findings demonstrate that remdesivir can potentially act as a SARS-CoV-2 RNA-chain terminator, effectively stopping its RNA reproduction, with key residues also identified for future lead optimization and/or drug resistance studies.
Developing an Institutional Research Records Management System (IRREMS) for the University of Mindanao Research and Publication Center (UM-RPC)
Authors: Gajo Dennis B. , Pajota Efrhain Louis P. , Arroyo Jan Carlo T.
Published: March 2020

This study focuses on developing a computer-based information system that helps the Research and Publication Center of the University of Mindanao in managing the institutional research records of the University’s teaching and non-teaching personnel. It explores the software requirements of the Center in order to efficiently store research-related data and to conveniently retrieve pertinent reports that the office needs to provide. It then describes the proposed software named Institutional Research Records Management System or IRREMS. The software provides a systematic way of managing records of institutional researches conducted by both the teaching and non-teaching personnel of the University. It keeps track of researchers’ information, as well as organizes the researches in a way that allows for easy access and retrieval through the use of search keywords. The study presents the requirements specification, software process model, software design, and the software development methodology used to create the technical output, which was successfully deployed in the Center.
The Relationship Of College Admission Test And Mock Board Examination To The Licensure Examination For Customs Brokers
Authors: Depamaylo Karenina P.
Published: March 2020

Admission tests in college assess students’ readiness for the college level education while mock board examination evaluates readiness for the licensure examination. The performance of BS Customs Administration students in these two tests and their relationship to their performance in the Licensure Examination for Customs Brokers (LECB) were considered in the investigation. Using inferential statistics, scores in the entrance examination and ratings in the mock board examination of BSCA students for the past four years were correlated with their ratings in the LECB. A total of 66 students who graduated from 2011 to 2014 who took the licensure examination and with complete entrance exams and mock board exam records served as respondents of this study. Results revealed a positive significant relationship between the composite score in the admission test and students’ scores in the four subjects of the LECB: Customs Laws and Implementing Rules and Regulations; Tariff Laws and International Trade Agreements; Warehousing, Transportation and Cargo Handling Operations; and Practical Computations of Customs Duties, Taxes, and other charges. Ratings in the four subject areas of the mock board examination were also significantly related to scores in the equivalent subject areas of the LECB. The study concludes the importance of entrance tests as part of the admission policy in the BSCA program and the mock board examination in improving the performance of graduates in the Licensure Examination for Customs Brokers.
Effects Of Job Rotation On The Employees Of Cantilan Bank Inc. (A Rural Bank): An Assessment
Authors: Yu Michelle P. , Rubi Riza L. , Pontillo Cristyjane L. , Ocumas Jacelyn Q. , Malmis Joan V. , Rosales Rose Ann M. , Mago Ronald
Published: March 2020

The study assessed the effects of job rotation in the employees of Cantilan Bank, Inc.( A Rural Bank) both in Cantilan and Madrid Branches. Three (3) research questions were posed to guide the study. There were two (2) parts of the questionnaire. Part one was about the personal information of the employee in Cantilan Bank, Inc. (A Rural Bank). Part two includes the different positions that have been rotated in the employees and the effects of job rotation in the employees in terms of Job performance, Working Condition, Knowledge, and Internal Control. Random Sampling technique was used to acquire the desired data and a total of 25 respondents were studied in that institution. The study observed a descriptive survey design in which the data for the study was collected through an instrument (questionnaire). The content and face validity of the instrument were adequately handled. Mean rating and percentage were employed to analyze research questions. Findings revealed that most likely, the respondents were matured enough either a male or female within the age of 22-54 years old. Thus, they can do the managing, adjust and have the capacity to perform multi-tasking. Based on the findings, discussions, and conclusions were drawn; recommendations made amongst others were that the employees should be rotated to the other job positions within the organization in order for them to be motivated to become effective and efficient workers. Thus, prepare them for their future career growth as well as to aid the organization’s human resource planning.
Prevailing Concerns of Grade School Pupils
Authors: Mambil William Jerick L. , De Vera Elisheba D. , Semorlan Ava Ann P. , Atendido Perlita L.
Published: March 2020

The Grade School Christian Living and Good Manners and Right Conduct (CL/GMRC) teachers of the School of Saint Anthony, Lagro, Philippines conducted a survey to determine the prevailing concerns of Grade School pupils. This research sought to understand the concerns of Elementary pupils in the Family, School, Friends, and Media perspectives that may possibly affect them. These serve as ways to determine how to approach the pupils and be able to identify methods on how to teach them to cope, solve, and deal with their concerns as Grade School pupils. The participants of the study were 115 Preschool, 461 Lower School and 532 Middle School pupils from the School of Saint Anthony. The survey aimed to discover the things that made the Elementary pupils happy and sad, and what their interests are and focus during their Elementary years. In general, this study investigated the prevailing concerns that were bothering the Grade School pupils at present. It can be derived from the findings that pupils were greatly affected by the following factors: first would be the atmosphere at home, followed by the school factors, then relationship with friends, and media influence which they found difficult to deal with. In the Family Perspective, some of the concerns of the pupils included parents who were too busy and had no time for them; they had siblings that tease them; sick family members, strict parents, parents who were away from them or abroad, and parents’ relationships. In the School Perspective, on the other hand, pupils’ concerns included being bullied by classmates, receiving low grades, experiencing difficult subjects, doing several home works and requirements, and allowance. Some of the views raised in the perspective of Friends included not having time with friends, friends ignoring them, being bullied by friends, being rejected by them and not having true friends. Lastly, in the Media and other perspectives, a small percentage was obtained from pupils’ concerns, such as pet-related, physical appearance, having and playing with gadgets, status in facebook, and money.
Four Pillars of Education: Extent of Realization as Manifestation of Learning
Authors: Calica Marian Feliz D. , Castro Juan Paolo , Montemayor Tristian Arjay Y , Obaña Charls Israel S. , Oineza Hari Armoje M. , Solivio Erica Hanna C. , Viloria Pamela Jane G. , Saculles Jerald
Published: March 2020

Education is absolutely beneficial for society on the whole. It is a life-long process for each person that needs to be reinforced throughout life. Today in the 21st century, we live and work in a changing world. New laws have introduced that lead to the introduction of new policies. New ideas and approaches emerge. New problems arise and new solutions are sought. The world of work is, therefore, a constantly moving and evolving one. What this means, then, is that, if we are not constantly learning as we go about our day-to-day business, then each day we are getting further and further out of touch with the demands of the modern working. Philippine education is strongly viewed as a pillar of national development and a primary avenue for social and economic mobility. It has undergone several stages of development from the pre-Spanish time to the present. The research aimed to determine the perception of graduating students of Lorma Special Science High School as regards to the extent of realization of the four pillars of education as manifestations of learning. The researchers made use of descriptive methods in the conduct of the study. The respondents of the study include all 98 graduating students of Lorma Special Science High School, Urbiztondo San Juan, La Union of the school year 2014 to 2015. A questionnaire based on the different criteria and competencies in achieving and realizing the Four Pillars of Education by Jacques Delors was used to gather the data. The data were gathered and tabulated after which analyzed and interpreted, using the weighted mean as well as one-factor ANOVA without replication. The researchers concluded that the four pillars of education are realized by the respondents. It was also shown that there are points of emphasis in each pillar that need to be considered and reviewed by the institution. The researchers also came up with further recommendations for each pillar where the school can bank on coming up with their educational programs and planning.
Social Networking, Etiquette and Social Relationships in Teens’ Interpretive Communities
Authors: Gongora Andrea Concepcion A. , Casem Rose Ann G. , Chua James Matthew M. , Dacanay John Paul B. , Park Tae Young , Pi Seung Yeon , Radaza Joy Ann S. , Valdriz Joshua B. , Saculles Jerald
Published: March 2020

Social network penetration is incredibly high in the Philippines, reaching 95%. Facebook is the country’s most popular website, more so than Google, and has a penetration rate of 93.9%. The Philippines is also the eighth most popular country for Twitter use on a global scale, with a penetration rate of 16.1%. The popularity of photo sharing has increased by 46% in the country in one year, largely due to Facebook. In this light, this study aimed to identify the behavior of social media users as to the use of social networking sites. The researchers made use of a descriptive method in the conduct of the study. The respondents of the study interviewed students of Lorma Colleges, Urbiztondo, San Juan, La Union. A questionnaire based on the perception of teens using different social networking sites was used to gather the data. The researchers concluded that teens could still manage to browse, read and like posts, upload photos, and videos, share links, and the like during weekdays despite the busy schedule since social networking sites already have an application ready to install on mobile phones, students can just easily open their Facebook accounts right after their class was dismissed. Social networking sites became a way of expressing a person’s feelings through words or pictures. Social networking sites serve as a blog site for users to share with their friends their experiences. Code-switching is prevalent in their status updates. Instead of sticking on one language, they will also use other languages for other people to understand more about what the person wants to express. As for privacy, most of the users have inhibitions or privacy issues when dealing with their parents or relatives who have SNS accounts.
Conditional Cash Transfer of DSWD: The Voice of Student Beneficiaries
Authors: Gano-An Jonathan Camana
Published: March 2020

The principal aim of the paper was to find out the feedbacks and experiences of student beneficiaries on the conditional cash transfer of the DSWD as a poverty alleviation strategy of the Philippine government, how do the students coped with the challenges they have experienced from the program and solicited their insights about the cash transfer. The participants of this study were the college and high school students of the Municipality of Maragusan. The research methodology used in this study was a qualitative phenomenological approach. Data triangulation is also used in this study where accounts are collected from different informants. The first research question was all about the feedbacks and experiences of student grantees, which generated four emerging themes, namely: the feeling of gratitude, sense of pride, extended monetary assistance and feeling of discontentment. Coping mechanisms of student grantees were the second research question that generated three themes, such as juggling of funds, availing some loans due to delay of release and wise spending. Further, increasing the budget for beneficiaries, a clear policy for selection of grantees and parent dependency were the three themes that emerged under the third research question.
Submergence Tolerant Rice Varieties, as Adaptation Measures to Flood-Prone Areas Due to Climate Change
Authors: Marzo Fernando L.
Published: March 2020

The food security of more than half the world population depends on the ability of the world to supply and distribute rice. Rice supply depends on global rice production while its distribution depends on the distance from production sites to consumers’ residences as well as on transportation systems and infrastructures. The different submergence tolerant rice varieties were planted to determine its characteristics, adaptability and yield performance in flood-prone conditions as adaptation measures for climate change. A study was carried out in a Randomized Complete Block Design with three treatments replicated three times. Submergence-tolerant rice varieties (Rc 194, Rc 18 (sub 1) and Rc 18 224) were adaptable in flood-prone conditions as manifested by its yield. The maintenance of high carbohydrate concentration, optimum rates of alcoholic fermentation and energy conservation by maintaining low elongation growth rates during submergence were identified as playing a key role in submergence tolerance in rice.
Effectiveness of Online Course in English Using Content-Based Instruction (CBI)
Authors: Quintos Sherrilyn B. , Reyes Yolanda D. , Ronquillo Cynthia M. , de Guia Rowell
Published: March 2020

As educators realized that in order to successfully complete an academic task, second language (L2) learners have to master both English as a language form (grammar, vocabulary, etc.).There have been different approaches used in the reacquisition of mastery of the English language. One of which is the computer-based instruction. CBI is student-centered. One of its goals is to keep the interest and motives of the students by generating stimulating content instruction and materials, which can be done with the help of computers. The use of computer-based instruction in language learning serves as a tool in facilitating learning. It helps learners to progress at their own pace. This computer-based instruction can be programmed to be interactive and individualized. It can also be in the form of a stand-alone course to enhance or reinforce classroom learning. This kind of interactive learning using online activities to enhance language proficiency helps the teachers to achieve their goals in language learning and at the same time provide comprehensible input from discourse context. Though there are also limitations to this kind of learning but those limitations are expected to be addressed inside the classroom where the teacher is around. With this, research studies about CBI emerged evaluating its effectiveness. This is the second phase of our study, which is an online course using content-based instruction. It is a computer-assisted, interactive platform for English language learning, which targets language skills, such as reading, writing, and grammar using a variety of content-based materials from different sources like science, history, and social sciences. Lessons hosted were planned and developed for 1st-year students of BPSU to pave the way in achieving BPSU’s mission of making its academic offerings and its students globally competitive. The selection of reading texts used as part of the lesson was carefully written as well as adapted to suit the needs of the students. There were 10 lessons available hosted on the site for the students to try and for the researchers to evaluate the course. This was trialed for a month with the control and experimental group. The researchers would like to make an in-depth analysis on the effectiveness of the online courses in English using content-based instruction.