bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Instructional Exposure of Senior High School Students to Approaches that Promote Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills
Authors: Iringan Emolyn M.
Published: January 2021

This descriptive study assessed students’ exposure to activities that promote the acquisition of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The study involved 150 randomly selected senior high school students. Results reveal that students have a “great extent” of exposure to instruction that promotes the acquisition of the desired mathematics skills, particularly on the content, strategies, assessment, and instructional materials. Students are exposed to a “great extent” to activities that allow them to predict, gather and organize information, derive conclusions, make judgment or decisions, discuss and justify solutions; however, have a “low extent” of exposure to problem posing. Students were exposed to a “very great extent” to the step by step process in dealing with problems. The students have a “great extent” of exposure to problem-solving strategies that promote verbal-logical, visual-spatial, and organizing skills, however, to a low extent in restructuring and rethinking skills. Students’ exposure to the use of manipulatives or mathematical models, calculators, creative pictures and diagrams, worksheets, online materials, creative PowerPoint presentations, varied textbooks, and scholarly materials in mathematics problem solving was to a “great extent” but “low” on the use of mathematics software and videos. Along assessment, students have a “great extent” of exposure to assessment on knowledge, comprehension, application, synthesis, and evaluation skills but to a “low extent” on assessment that requires metacognitive and reflective thinking.
Bounded Rationality in Compulsive Consumption
Authors: Fiedler Ingo
Published: January 2021

The standard microeconomic assumption is that consumers’ choices maximize consumers’ utility. This theoretical article challenges this assumption by presenting a framework of an extreme case: compulsive consumption. Backed by a wide range of existing empirical evidence it is shown by the example of pathological gamblers that some consumers (1) have inconsistent preferences, (2) underestimate the time horizon and the frequency of consumption, and (3) underestimate the costs and overestimate the benefits of consumption. The results do not necessarily violate rational choice theory if interpreted as intra-personal externalities. By applying the perspective of picoeconomics, it is possible to reconcile fully rational but competing agents within an individual with inconsistent aggregate decisions. Yet, from a welfare perspective, the results imply that bounded rationality can be interpreted as a source of inefficiency and can thus constitute a rationale for regulatory intervention.
Fiber dimension of Makurdi grown Musa balbisiana Colla parts and their suitability in paper production
Authors:   Department of Forest Production and Products, Federal University of Agriculture Makurdi, Nigeria, Ekhuemelo David Oriabure , Aidoko Vivian Ojoma ,   Department of Forest Production and Products, Federal University of Agriculture Makurdi, Nigeria, Abu Veronica Eyakamo ,   Department of Forest Production and Products, Federal University of Agriculture Makurdi, Nigeria
Published: January 2021

This study evaluated the fibre morphology of Musa balbisiana leaf, stalk and stem portions for pulp and paper production. Samples of Musa balbisiana portions were prepared and macerated in equal volume of glacial acetic acid and hydrogen peroxide in ratio 1:1. Twenty cellulose fibres from each portion were randomly selected using Reichert visopan microscope to determine the physical fibre morphology while the derived fibre indices were calculated. Data collected were subjected to one way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Follow up tests carried out using Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT). Results showed that means of fibre length, fibre diameter, cell wall thickness and lumen width ranged between 1.35 and 2.46 mm, 16.46 and 33.34 µm, 7.58 and 24.99 µm, and 3.54 and 3.56 µm, respectively. The mean values of fibre length of Musa balbisiana leaf and stalk were not significant but were significantly different from the mean values of the stem at p<0.05. The mean values of felting rate, elasticity coefficient, rigidity coefficient, Runkel ratio and F factor ranged from 84.47 to 142.43, 48.94 to 76.07%, 11.96 to 25.53%, 0.34 to 1.12 and 433.50 to 627.22, respectively. The leaf stalk of Musa balbisiana had the best Runkel ratio of 0.34 while Musa balbisiana stem had the best fibre length of 2.46 mm. Results further showed that while fibre length of stalk and stem portions of Musa balbisiana were long fibres, the leaf portion was short fibre. Runkel ratios of Musa balbisiana stalk, Leaf and stem were very good, good and poor, respectively while the Leaf, stalk and stem were elastic, high elastic and rigid fibre, respectively. In conclusion, Musa balbisiana has proved to be a very suitable non-wood, agricultural based material for pulp and paper production.
Growth parameters and plant biomass of tomato evaluated under different concentrations of boric acid
Authors:   Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, Olowolaju Ezekiel Dare , Afolabi Akinjide Moses ,   Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, Adejumo Abiodun Mutairu ,   Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, Momodu Kehinde Adesegun ,   Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
Published: January 2021

The objective of this study was to investigate the growth parameters and plant biomass of tomato (Solanum lycopesicum) evaluated under different levels of boric acid, major source of boron. The treatments were; Normal nutrient solution (control, boric acid conc. = 0.000308 g l-1); nutrient solution in which the concentration of boric acid increased by the factor of 5 (boric acid x5, boric acid conc. = 0.00154 g l-1); and nutrient solution in which the concentration of boric acid was increased by the factor of 10 (boric acidx10, boric acid conc. = 0.00308 g l-1). Morphological attributes determined were shoot height, number of leaves, leaf area, shoot, leaf and root fresh and dry weight, and growth indices. Shoot height, number of leaves, leaf area, shoot, leaf and root fresh and dry weight, and growth indices in the seedlings treated with boric acid increased by factor of 10 (boric acid x10)were greater than other treatments. It can be concluded that nutrient solution of boric acid increased by a factor of ten improve the growth parameters and plant biomass of tomato.
Population structure, harvesting rate and regeneration status of four woody species in Kimboza forest reserve, Morogoro region - Tanzania
Authors:   Department of Biological Sciences, Dar es Salaam University College of Education (DUCE), P. O. Box 2329 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Kacholi David Sylvester
Published: January 2021

Kimboza forest reserve is recognized as an IUCN category IV-habitat and species management area, but the information on population structure, harvesting rate and regeneration status of four commercial woody species, namely; Khaya anthotheca, Milicia excelsa, Pterocarpus angolensis and Dalbergia melanoxylon in the forest are lacking. This study, therefore, aims to fill this gap. A total of five transects were established in the forest whereby within each transect, five nested quadrats of 20 m × 20 m were placed at 200 m distance for sampling stems with diameter at breast height (DBH) ≥ 10 cm and stumps of the target species. Stems with DBH <10 cm were counted in a quadrat of 5 m × 5 m placed within the big quadrat. The findings show that density of stems & harvesting rate for Khaya anthotheca, Milicia excelsa, Pterocarpus angolensis and Dalbergia melanoxylon were 4.8 stems ha-1 & 6.6 stumps ha-1, 12.6 stems ha-1 & 3.4 stumps ha-1, 16.0 stems ha-1 & 2.8 stumps ha-1, and 5.6 stems ha-1 & 1.2 stumps ha-1, respectively. The DBH class distribution for Khaya anthotheca, Milicia excelsa and Pterocarpus angolensis displayed a good regeneration pattern, however, the last two were interrupted in high size classes. The Dalbergia melanoxylon revealed a poor regeneration pattern. The study recommends that illegal harvest of the species should be controlled, environmental education be provided to locals, and stringent measures be institutionalized against illegal loggers.
A Mathematical Assessment of the Isolation Random Forest Method for Anomaly Detection in Big Data.
Authors: Morales Fernando , Ramírez Jorge , Ramos Edgar
Published: January 2021

We present the mathematical analysis of the Isolation Random Forest
Method (IRF Method) for anomaly detection, introduced in
{\sc F.~T. Liu, K.~M.
Ting, Z.-H. Zhou:}, {\it Isolation-based anomaly
detection}, TKDD 6 (2012) 3:1–3:39. We prove that the IRF space can be
endowed with a probability induced by the Isolation Tree algorithm
(iTree). In this setting, the convergence of the IRF method is proved,
using the Law of Large Numbers. A couple of counterexamples are
presented to show that the method is inconclusive and no certificate of
quality can be given, when using it as a means to detect anomalies.
Hence, an alternative version of the method is proposed whose
mathematical foundation is fully justified. Furthermore, a criterion for
choosing the number of sampled trees needed to guarantee confidence
intervals of the numerical results is presented. Finally, numerical
experiments are presented to compare the performance of the classic
method with the proposed one.
Thermo-responsive super porous p(NIPAM) cryogels affords enhanced thermal stability and activity for ɑ-Glucosidase enzyme by entrapping in situ
Authors: Demirci Sahin , Sahiner Nurettin
Published: January 2021

The concept of using a thermo-responsive p(NIPAM) polymer matrix for
enzyme immobilization with lower critical solution temperature (LCST)
value is rationalized by availability of the compartmental milieu to
enzymes to operate within super porous 3-D matrix with special
environmental conditions. Therefore, the enzyme immobilization within a
support material will be carried out under the storage conditions of
enzymes, generally ~-20 oC to afford unnecessarily loss
of enzyme functionality in comparison to the other enzyme entrapment
methods. Thus, here ɑ-Glucosidase as a model enzyme was entrapped within
thermo-responsive super porous p(NIPAM) cryogels (ɑ-Glu@p(NIPAM) during
the synthesis that uses cryogenic condition, ~-20 oC.
The LSCT value for the prepared p(NIPAM) based cryogels were determined
as 34.6±1.2 oC. The immobilization yield, immobilization efficiency, and
activity recovery% values were calculated as 89.4±3.1, 66.2±3.3, and
74.0±3.3%, respectively at pH 6.8 and 37 oC for ɑ-Glu@p(NIPAM) cryogel
system. Interestingly, the optimum working conditions were achieved as
25 oC and pH 6.8 with higher activity, 98.4±0.2% for the prepared
ɑ-Glu@p(NIPAM) cryogel system. The operational and storage stability
studies revealed that the prepared ɑ-Glu@p(NIPAM) cryogel system
possessed much better operational and storage stability than free ɑ-Glu
enzyme e.g., more than 50% activity after 10th usage and 10-day room
temperature storage time. Moreover, the kinetic parameters such as Km
and Vmax of free-Glu enzyme and ɑ-Glu@p(NIPAM) cryogel system were
calculated by non-linear Michaelis-Menten equation.
Sutureless and rapid deployment bioprosthetic valves: new perspectives.
Authors: Piperata Antonio , Bottio Tomaso , Avesani Martina , Gerosa Gino
Published: January 2021

We carefully read the recent paper by Hammond et al. (1) on the use of
sutureless bioprosthetic valve for homograft failure in the setting of
infective endocarditis (IE). This article is the latest demonstration
that new sutureless and rapid deployment (RD) valve prostheses are safe
and easy-to-use devices for surgical aortic valve replacement, and
indicates their suitability for different scenarios and peculiar
surgical situations as infective endocarditis (IE).
Superior vena cava obstruction with thrombolytic therapy in primary antiphospholipid syndrome
Authors: Adel Manal , Mashaal Marwa , Mahmoud Kareem , Mashhour Shady , Soliman Haytham
Published: January 2021

We report a case of superior vena cava obstruction of a 39 years old
female patient with primary antiphospholipid syndrome presented with
upper limb pain and swelling ,which improved on thrombolytic therapy ,we
review patients with Antiphospholipid syndrome and management with
thrombolytic therapy .
Joint Determinants of Monetary, Macroeconomic, Social and Income Inequality
Authors: Taresh A. Abdulrahman , Sari Dyah Wulan , Purwono Rudi
Published: January 2021

This study discusses all the potential relationships between monetary, macroeconomic, social and income inequality in an integrated manner by making Indonesia a concrete case study. This empirical study discussed the relationship based on theoretical modelling and carried out through appropriate  estimators  applied  to  the  data  of  33  provinces  in  Indonesia.  To  achieve  this  objective, the simultaneous model of seemingly unrelated regressions (SUR) was used. The results concluded that there are variables that jointly determined the monetary, macroeconomic and social also income inequality. Like, consumption can increase inflation and macroeconomic while at the same time can reduce population growth and human development, and increases income inequality. Savings which determine credit also pushes macroeconomics while simultaneously increasing population growth, and it can reduce income inequality.  Minimum wages can reduce inflation and encourage production growth, while increases human development and reduces population growth also can reduce income inequality. Unemployment can also reduce inflation and increase economic growth, at the same time reduces population growth and human development while increases income inequality. Education and health encourages economic growth and the level of human development then can reduce income inequality.
Measuring Farmers Risk Aversion in Facing Climate Change in Bengawan Solo Watershed
Authors: Umayah Umayah , Suryanto Suryanto
Published: January 2021

This research aims to understand the effect of risk aversion on the farmers’ willingness to pay (WTP) to mitigate on climate change and identify the relationship between climate change and agriculture sectors’ growth at Bengawan Solo Sub-Watershed in Upper Area. We use primary data obtained through interviews with 104 respondents, who are farmers from Sribit Village in Sragen Regency. The sampling techniques are purposive non-probability sampling. The data analysis using contingent valuation methods (CVM) and Multiple Linear Log Regression. Meanwhile, the secondary data obtained from The Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS), World Bank, and Germanwatch is collected to identify the effect of climate change on the agricultural sector. This research result shows that risk aversion does not affect farmers’ WTP to do adaptation. The variable of land area, education, and input cost affect significantly (5%), while working experience also affect to WTP at 10% significance level. The implication of low-risk aversion implies farmers not aware of climate change. Risk reduction efforts will not be a priority for farmers because the advantages to adaptation is not worthy. The relationship between production levels and negative climate change scores confirms that climate change can reduce farmer production.
Characterization and Potential of Coelogyne rochussenii Orchids from Bukit Rimbang and Bukit Baling Wildlife Sanctuary as Explant Source
Authors: Heriansyah Pebra , Marlina Gusti
Published: January 2021

Conservation is an effort to return natural resources to their habitat to restore the ecosystem balance, which can be done in-situ and ex-situ. Coelogyne rochussenii orchid conservation efforts are essential to maintain its sustainability. The purpose of this study was to characterize C. rochussenii orchids from Bukit Rimbang and Bukit Baling Wildlife Sanctuary as a source of tissue culture explants to support ex-situ conservation efforts. Orchid plant samples were obtained through exploration in three locations with an altitude of 92 masl, and then the characterization of leaf morphology, pseudobulbs, roots, and fruit were carried out. The characterization results showed that the young pseudobulbs, young leaves, healthy roots, and physiologically ripe fruits of the C. rochussenii orchids obtained could be used as a source of explants to support ex-situ conservation efforts.Keywords: ex-situ conservation, physiologically mature, young pseudobulbs
Performance and Risk Comparison Analysis of Optimal Portfolio of Shares LQ-45 Using Single Index Model and Capital Asset Pricing Model August 2017 – January 2020 Period
Authors: Uno Dikri Cakrawala , Syarif Andam Dewi
Published: January 2021

The purpose of this research is to determine the differences between performance and risks optimal portfolio of Single Index Model (SIM) and Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM) in the period August 2017 - January 2020. This research is a descriptive study with a quantitative approach. The data collection technique used is documentation study. Based on the results of the calculation, it is found that there is a difference return of the SIM portfolio to CAPM, there is no difference risk of the SIM portfolio to CAPM, there is a difference performance of the SIM portfolio that evaluated using the Sharpe, Treynor and Jansen methods and there is no difference performance of the CAPM portfolio that evaluated using the Sharpe, Treynor and Jansen method.
The Impact of Oxidative Stress	on Dental Implants
Authors: Esquivel-Chirino César , Gómez-Landeros Juan Carlos , Carabantes-Campos Erika Patricia , Carmona-Ruiz Daniela , Valero-Princet Yolanda , Márquez-Correa Christian , Morales-González José Antonio
Published: January 2021

Periodontal disease is an inflammatory condition that alters the periodontium, resulting in destruction of the alveolar bone; without treatment the condition may lead to tooth loss. Dental implants are an alternative for substitution of naturally lost teeth as they have high success rates; however, some factors are related to its failure. Peri-implantitis (PI) is a pathological condition that affects the tissues surrounding dental implants and has been reported as the major cause of implant failure; PI and periodontal diseases are characterized by tissue inflammation and bone damage. In homeostasis conditions, reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been shown to be involved in cell maintenance, signal transduction, and repair of all tissues, but ROS overaccumulation leads to oxidative stress, which generates cell damage and tissue destruction; likewise, antioxidants protect against the destructive effects of ROS by turning free radicals into waste products. The main purpose of this review was to determine some aspects of inflammatory responses and oxidative stress and analyze their relationship with the lack of osseointegration and PI.
Improving Power Quality and Mitigation of Harmonic Distortion Impact at Photovoltaic Electric Vehicle Charging System
Authors: Elgammal Adel , Boodoo Curtis
Published: January 2021

This article offers a clear and realistic design for an active power filter to increase reliability and power quality of the photovoltaic charging system and a high-penetration electric vehicle distribution system. The MOPSO algorithm is used as the basis for problems with optimization and filter tuning. A typical regular load curve is used to model the warped power grid over a 24-hour cycle to estimate the total harmonic distortion (THD). For structures with high penetration of electric cars, the probability of minimizing THD (for example to five percent) is explored via optimum capacity active shunt filters and shunt capacitors. To maximize general performance of the charging system, the switching systems are re-scheduled. Moreover, to increase the current control accuracy of shunt active filter, the fuzzy logic controller is utilized. The major drawback to new system is that it would have unrestricted billing for entire day to cope with voltage interruption. In MATLAB / SIMULINK, detailed machine setup and control algorithm experiments are simulated. The simulation findings confirm the efficiency and viability of projected shunt active filter to enhance voltage profile and track power performance of photovoltaic charging system.
Students’ Perception of the Influence of Guidance and Counselling Services and Academic Performance in Baringo Country, Kenya.
Authors: Kiptala Wilson , Kipruto John
Published: January 2021

The purpose of the study was to determine the perceptions of students of the influence of guidance and counseling services on academic performance in Baringo County, Kenya. The objectives of the study were to: investigate the perception of students on the various guidance and counseling services and determine the perceptions of students on the influence of guidance and counseling on academic performance. The study was guided by the self-perception theory. The ontology was constructivist. The epistemology was interpretivist. The research method was qualitative. The research design was phenomenology. Samples of 12 secondary schools, 130 students, 12 teachers were selected. Focus Group Discussion (FDG) and interview guides were used to generate data. The data was thematically analyzed. The study major findings were; that students perceived guidance and counseling services positively and that they had contributed significantly to their academic performance. The study recommends that there is need to further develop and strengthen guidance and counseling in Baringo County Secondary Schools and develop a theory to guide this process, informed by increased cases of indiscipline and truancy among students.
Assessing EFL Students’ Language Proficiency in Secondary School Classes in Benin
Authors: Hindeme Ulrich Orlando Sèna , Iwikotan Katchédé Etienne , Hounhanou Arlette Joséline Arlette
Published: January 2021

This paper presents a study on assessing English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students’ language proficiency in Benin secondary schools. Assessment and evaluation are indispensable components of English language teaching. Assessing students is crucial to both learners and teachers themselves in the sense that its basic function is to improve learning. However, much awareness has not been raised on the key roles of assessment in Benin secondary schools. This study aims at investigating how effective teachers’ assessment of their learners’ language abilities is in EFL classroom and to explore EFL learners’ attitude towards assessment. Using qualitative and quantitative methods, 56 EFL teachers and 458 lower intermediate and upper EFL learners in the Atlantic region in Benin participated in this study. The field study revealed that many teachers wrongly mistake assessment for test and thus use both terms to mean the same thing. Teachers have not been able to see tests as a way of assessing their teaching methods and upgrading their students’ language skills. Besides, most teachers stated that testing is the only tool they use in assessing their learners’ language proficiency and it is mostly for the purpose of assigning grades at the end of the terms. Students declared that most tests consist of grammar questions. As this study draws attention to the close relationship between assessment and teaching, training workshops have been recommended to guide and train teachers on how to effectively assess their students so that teaching and learning in the EFL classroom meet expected objectives and goals.
Nonverbal Immediacy in Teaching Process: A Case Study in Secondary Education
Authors: Stamatis Panagiotis J. , Kostoula Vasiliki E.
Published: January 2021

Communication holds a leading position in education and more specifically in the learning process. Especially the communication which takes place between teacher and student is one of the most important skills in education. If teaching communication is well established, pedagogical relationships are promoted and a positive pedagogical environment is created. Within this framework this article aims at pointing out the positive impact of the teacher’s nonverbal immediacy in the teaching and learning processes. Teaching immediacy is a powerful learning incentive and renders the learning process more efficient. The results of a case study examining nonverbal immediacy of the secondary education teachers of an Upper Secondary General Education School (Lyceum) are presented.
Effects of Interaction Pattern on Students’ Interest in Keyboarding in Colleges of Education in South-West, Nigeria
Authors: Modupe Ogundola Cecilia
Published: January 2021

This study examined the effects of non-verbal interaction pattern on students’ interest in keyboarding in Colleges of Education in Southwest, Nigeria.  It adopted quasi-experimental research design of pre-test, post-test non-equivalent control group design. The population for the study was 109 year one students of Office Technology and Management in state owned Colleges of Education in Southwest, Nigeria. Multistage sampling procedure was used to select 35 NCE I students in two of the Colleges offering OTM in Southwest, Nigeria, this comprised of 26 females and 9 males.  One research questions and three null hypotheses tested at 0.05 level of significance guided the study. The instrument used for data collection was the Keyboarding Interest Inventory (KII). The KII was developed by the researcher and was subjected to face and content validity by three OTM experts.   Cronbach Alpha was used to determine the internal consistency of the KII items. The reliability coefficient computed for the KII was 0.89. Mean was used to answer the research questions, while t-test was employed to test the hypotheses.   It was observed that non-verbal interaction technique was more effective in stimulating students’ interest than the conventional method in keyboarding. There was also no significant difference between the interests of students in the experimental (non-verbal) groups based on gender. It was thereafter recommended that NCCE should incorporate non-verbal interaction pattern into the teaching of keyboarding. Lecturers of keyboarding should prepare their classes in such a way that students are allowed ample opportunity to critically think, interact freely with one another, discourage students’ passiveness and improve performance in pair and group activities among other recommendations.
Renewable Generation Electric System
Authors: Lucas Fábio , N. Torres João Paulo , F. Fernandes Carlos A. , Lameirinhas Ricardo A. Marques
Published: January 2021

A stable and sustainable energy industry contributes indubitably to the business development, as well as to guarantee the quality of life of a population. However, the economic and social development of insular regions is very vulnerable, due to the high external energetic dependency. Therefore, it is necessary to change the current paradigm of those regions, to take advantage of their endogenous resources to generate electrical energy. The developed work analyses the potential renewable energies (wind and solar) present on the island of Brava, Cape Verde, and assesses its capacity to combine them with an energy storage system that can meet the energetic requirements of the island. The first step consists in the analysis and profiling of the data (energy consumption, solar radiation, wind speed) observed in the island for one year. Simultaneously, several types of storing technologies are analyzed to find the best fitting solution, given the characteristics of the electrical system of the island. The next step consists in the development of a mathematical model, based on LCOE calculus and on the renewable penetration level that determines the optimal mix of power to install of each technology. The results allow to conclude that, despite the inferior solar power generation when compared to the wind power, the most economical solution to the implementation of a 100% renewable system consists of an electricity production park primarily composed by solar powers.
When Termites’ Waste Products Highlight a Fundamental Law of Fertilization under Rainfed Rice Cultivation in West Cote d'Ivoire
Authors: Soro Dogniméton , Yeo Lacina , Konate Zoumana , Guei Martinez Arnauth , Zro-Bi Gohi Ferdinand
Published: January 2021

Food security is a major development issue in Côte d’Ivoire that is experiencing population growth over 3% per year. Food crop production, however, is experiencing weak growth, most often linked to increase in area. In addition, low yields could be explained by the scarcity of rainfall in a context where farmers hardly use agronomic-based fertilizers without soil analysis although Cote d’Ivoire is agricultural based developing country. To be part of integrated production logic in rice production, a study is initiated in 2016 in Daloa in order to improve the yield of paddy rice by using a local amendment produced by termites kept in captivity on agricultural residues. Four (4) doses of this amendment made of termites’ waste products (TWP): 1.8%; 3.6% and 7.2% and 14.4% of one hectare soil weight were tested versus an unfertilized (control) and a NPK fertilized (100kg.ha)-. The experimental design consists of randomized complete blocks with three replicates. Plant growth parameters such as plant height at maturity, total number of tillers, number of leaves at the beginning of tillering, biomass at maturity and yield data were collected. The results showed that all agronomic parameters were improved with increasing dose up to an optimum dose that can be found between 7.2 % and 14.4 % of termites’ waste products. The highest yield (2484.3 kg.ha-1) was obtained with the 7.2 % dose. The results of the application of the TWP on rice showed important yield increases with efficacy varying from 30 to 72 % compared to common fertilizer application and 27.1 to 221.9 % if compared to non-fertilized plot.
Application of Geo-spatial Technology in Characterization of African Honeybee (Apis mellifera) Apiaries into Ecosystem Zones for Productivity and Pollination Service
Authors: Ajao Adeyemi Mufutau , Salako Gabriel , Oladipo Segun Olayinka , Adio Abdulrasheed Abidemi
Published: January 2021

Seven major ecological zones of Nigeria with modern functional apiaries were mapped and sampled in the rainy season between April 2016 and October 2018 for estimating the bee foraging flight range and floral species diversity; collating satellite imagery data for geospatial zone mapping using GPS (Garmin Etrex 20) to capture the coordinates of apiaries locations and their attributes, climatic and topographic data and generating ecological zones: the wetland vegetation, savanna grassland, savanna woodland (disturbed), shrubby forest, lowland dense forest, and Highland rain forest. Honeybee flight ranges between 1 and 5 kilometer radius from where bees at the apiaries can forage for pollen and nectar. Igbeti/Malete/Buari bees forages at similar ecosystems within this range while those at Saki and Abuja apiaries have potentials to forage at different ecological zones ranging from woodland savanna to lowland and high forests. Abuja (woodland savanna and shrubby forest zones) apiaries produces average of 32 liters of honey per hive and Kwara (savanna grassland and wood land Savanna) produces average of 24 liters of honey per hive. There is also structural variation in the floral species diversity and richness as richness marginally differed at the locations. Highest index was observed in Orozo (H=2.62; Margalef = 3.05) and Agbungburu (H=2.54; Margalef = 3.06). Low index was attained at Buari (H= 2.10; Margalef= 2.32) and Igbeti (H= 2.11; Margalef= 2.62). Apiary managers and farmers acquiring relevant knowledge on apiculture and prevailing A. mellifera apiaries would assist management activities; contribute to better production and pollination for food security.
Case Series of Opportunistic Deep Seated Fungal Infections in Surgical Practice in an Agrarian Society
Authors: Kumar Jeevan Ruban , Moorthy Nikitha , Arihanth R. , Arcot Rekha
Published: January 2021

This article is to highlight the atypical presentations of fungal infections which may be encountered in surgical practice and to help surgeons to recognise these cases early and provide appropriate management. Three cases of skin and soft tissue fungal infections with atypical presentations have been discussed. All the patients are aged above 45 years and farmers by occupation with type 2 diabetes mellitus as a common co-morbidity. These cases showed aggressive progression of the disease and were started on anti-fungal agents along with serial aggressive debridement. Two patients deteriorated rapidly, as they succumbed to their illness. Fungal agents being commonly present in the environment, are likely to cause infection in immunocompromised states like diabetic patients, especially in those with a preceding history of trauma.
Emotions, Quality of Life and Games in Oncology Outpatient Clinic
Authors: Corrêa Raphaela Espanha , Velho Paulo Eduardo Neves Ferreira , Montebello Maria Imaculada de Lima , Tolocka Rute Estanislava
Published: January 2021

A cancer diagnoses and treatment can trigger unpleasant emotions, which may affect the Quality of Life (QoL). Games are known to promote wellness. The aim of this study was to evaluate emotions and QoL of adult cancer patients in medical care waiting rooms and to identify changes in patient emotions after playing board games. A total of 150 patients were included. Emotions were assessed using emojis and QoL with WHOOL-BREF. The mean age was 64.8 ± 9.6 years. QoL was measured as ‘good’ just in the social domain (score 72.38 ± 13.24). The most frequently reported emotion before playing was joy (58.0%), followed by neutral (21.3%), sadness (8.7%) and fear (6.7%); 34.0% of the patients accepted to play a board game. Emotions of neutrality and sadness in these patients significantly changed to joy after playing the game (p<0.05). We conclude that participation in games might positively change emotions in waiting rooms.
Usefulness of Pirfenidone in Covid Lung: A Case Series
Authors: Momen Abdul Basit Ibne , Khan Farhana , Saber Sadia , Sultana Amrin , Alam Rafa Faaria , Raihan Sheikh Golam , Hossain Mohammad Monower , Alam Md Tarek
Published: January 2021

The year 2020 has been plagued by the COVID‑19 pandemic that has resulted in an additional 1,800,000 deaths worldwide. Many patients who recover from Covid-19 later present with shortness of breath and fibrosis of the lungs, while some take a long time to recover from the initial infection. A drug such as pirfenidone, which has been used for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, could offer additional benefits by reverting pulmonary fibrotic damage. Here we describe a case series of five patients where addition of this drug showed marked improvement in symptoms and radiological findings. Apart from the efforts regarding understanding the pathophysiology of this new disease, we must also evaluate the proportion of patients that develop chronic lung disease due to fibrosis following COVID-19 recovery. Certainly, more attention should be given to new studies to determine the actual benefit of pirfenidone in patients with pulmonary fibrosis as a result of Covid-19 infection.
Herd Immunity in India: A Review
Authors: Khan Sheema Fatima
Published: January 2021

Herd Immunity is a brilliant solution to tackle and control global pandemics, if taken proper route for immunization such as through vaccination. It is defined as the number of immune individuals against a transmissible virus in a completely susceptible population. The term herd protection or herd effect is the protection to the whole population due to herd immunity. Herd immunity threshold is the minimum proportion of immune population required for herd effect or herd protection. To calculate the threshold, we use basic reproduction number (R0) to measure the rate of transmission of pathogen, in this case SARS-CoV-2. However, a better measure is effective reproduction number (Re). India is major example of herd immunity. Despite strict lockdown and other Covid measure, due to already crowded area the virus could spread fast and to vast majority of people if one of them were to catch it. This explains the steady decline in the number of coronavirus cases in India. At the end, until an approved effective vaccination available, public will still need to follow all the CDC guidelines in order to avoid the large deaths along with natural infection.
Prevalence of Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Factors Affecting It among Old Age Population of Rural Area of Pakistan
Authors: Khan Tayyab Mumtaz , Jamil Manahil , Dhillon Ali Imran , Umer Muhammad Junaid , Ahmed Mian Muhammad Hassan , Arsh Laraib , Bibi Somia , Mumtaz Madeeha
Published: January 2021

Although Obstructive sleep apnea is now recognized as one of the major public health problems because of the improvement in standards of life, however, with increasing its prevalence, it adversely affects the quality of life. So, our study was set to assess the prevalence of OSA and the factors that affect it. This may make new opportunities available by which we could bring a decline in OSA incidence after measuring its prevalence and identification of factors that affect it. This cross-sectional study was conducted in a nearby rural area of (THQ) Tehsil Headquarter Hospital, Phalia, Punjab for around three months from August 2020 to October 2020. Data was collected with the help of two questionnaires including a self-structured proforma and STOP scale. People with age less than 51years and more than 60 years were excluded and only people with age above 50 years and below 61 years were included. Data analysis was accomplished with the help of SPSS version 25 and various tests including the Chi-square test, Independent Sample t-test, and One-Way ANOVA were applied to assess the study variables. Results of the study showed an overall high prevalence of OSA higher risk (41.7% participants had a higher risk of development of OSA) Association, between OSA risk and age groups (p=0.001) and between OSA risk and Educational status (0.000) was significant statistically, while it was not significant between OSA risk and gender (p=0.394). The difference in score on the STOP scale was significant, across gender (p=0.032), three age groups (p=0.002), and four levels of education (p=0.000). Our study indicates an increased prevalence of higher risk for OSA development particularly among men, higher age, and lower education. So, proper planning is required to deal with the increasing prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea.
Study on Urinary Tract Infection Among Females of Reproductive Age Group in Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Saber Sadia , Yasmin Naz , Alam Mohammed Tarek , Hossain Mohammad Monower , Alam Rafa Faaria
Published: January 2021

Introduction: Among all the bacterial infections encounter in primary care, urinary tract infection (UTI) has considered as one of the most frequent bacterial infection. UTI can be defined as the presence of an infection in any part of our urinary system-kidneys, ureters, urinary bladder and urethra. Majority of the infections involve the lower urinary tract – the urinary bladder and the urethra. Women of reproductive age group (15-44 years) are the most vulnerable of developing UTI than men. The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence rate of UTI among females of reproductive age group and to ascertain the association between socio demographic factors among study population. Material and Methods: This is a cross sectional observational study executed in a tertiary care teaching hospital, Dhanmondi, Dhaka. 250 women of reproductive age group were encountered as the study group here. Data collection was done by using a structured interview schedule followed by collection of urine sample for microscopic examination and culture. Analysis of data was done by using SPSS 15 software. Prevalence of UTI among study population was calculated by using percentage and the strength of association between socio demographic factors were evaluated in our study. Results: Prevalence of UTI among study population was found to be 41.20%. A strong association of statistical significance was observed among marital status (p values <0.05), the level of education of the study population (p value <0.05) and the urine culture reports among UTI patients (p value 0.001) Conclusion: Now a days UTI can be considered as one the most serious public health problem if it is remaining untreated. To prevent the possibilities of evolving further complexity of UTI early detection and prompt treatment is very much crucial. We should promote more educational programming about UTI prevention not only to reduce the sufferings of the patients and their hospital stay but also to compensate for the economical loss.
Hemoglobin D-Punjab Homozygotes and Double Heterozygotes in Premarital Screening: Case Presentations and Minireview
Authors: Denic Srdjan , Souid Abdul-Kader
Published: January 2021

Hemoglobin D-Punjab is the most common variant of hemoglobin D. In premarital screening, molecular testing is often unavailable, and diagnosis (and marriage guidance) often relies on the hemoglobin analysis, family studies and epidemiological facts. The use of latter methods sometimes results in hemoglobin D-Punjab/β-thalassemia double heterozygote being mistaken for its homozygote, which could be costly. We present the clinical and laboratory characteristics of hemoglobin D-Punjab phenotypes/genotypes in 15 individuals and review similar reports in the literature. We find that the quantity of hemoglobin D-Punjab in homozygotes is higher than in hemoglobin D-Punjab/β-thalassemia double heterozygotes, its fraction > 92% being consistent with homozygosis. The limitations of this diagnostic criterion are discussed, and clinical severity of this and other hemoglobin D-Punjab double heterozygotes reviewed.
A Geometrical Analysis of Diffraction Based on Fractal Inhomogeneous Space
Authors: Vedad Farhad
Published: January 2021

Although the diffraction of light is a simple experiment in optics, no complete interpretation that satisfactorily describes diffraction in any instance has been developed. Classical physics is unable to describe diffraction phenomena by considering photons solely as particles. In addition, modern mathematical solutions based on the wave-particle duality, including Rayleigh–Sommerfeld diffraction theory, are merely approximations, and fail to provide a model that can be applied to the diffraction caused by both transparent and opaque barriers. This study proposes a diffraction model that can account for both single photons and larger particles, such as electrons, in an inhomogeneous space near the surface of the objects, including the edges of the apertures. Furthermore, a three-dimensional model for calculating the light intensity at any arbitrary observation point is presented. This model provides accurate diffraction simulations and is independent of the near and the far-field zones as well as the aperture material.
Globalization and its Impact on Higher Education: The Case of Colleges of Technology in Oman
Authors: Albusaidi Saud
Published: January 2021

The main aim of this paper is to explore the impact of globalization processes on higher education institutions, with a particular focus on Colleges of Technology (CsoT) in Oman. To achieve this aim, this paper first defines and illustrates the concept of globalization and then draws upon the World Systems Theory and Dependency Theory to contextualize Oman in terms of its global position. Through the lens of these theories, the paper explores the consequences of implementing English as a medium of instruction (EMI) policy at CsoT. The findings reveal that English language is still considered a foreign language, yet EMI is implemented at higher education. Moreover, despite the challenges faced by students, some exhibited a positive attitude towards the implementation of the EMI policy. For instance, many students perceived learning and using English as a means of endowing them with high international status, referencing its utility in relation to global communication, development, and employment. Such an impact is arguably linked to semi-colonialization. A link is then made to the concept of memorization, which is historically associated with the Islamic culture of Oman. The paper explains how the memorization strategy could be misunderstood. The paper contends that memorization is the first step in learning and understanding, not a substitute. A link is also made to the EMI policy, in which the low levels of achievement among students at these colleges have driven them to memorize and does not reflect a lack of critical thinking skills.
A Small-Scale Exploratory Study on Omani College Students’ Perception of Pragmatic Meaning Embedded in Memes
Authors: Al Rashdi Maher
Published: January 2021

Memes are a viral phenomenon in the contemporary digital culture. The modern, digital definition of memes depicts them simply as pictures with texts circulated in social media platforms that tackle a particular issue in a humorous way (Chen, 2012; Rogers, 2014; Shifman, 2014). Due to its growing popularity, memes have been considered as a tool to negotiate cultural-social norms especially among teenagers (Gal, Shifman & Kampf, 2016). However, not much research has been done on memes in relation to other fields. Therefore, it is important to examine how the educational field could benefit from utilizing memes in discourse analysis and English teaching. To be more specific, the study aims at investigating the perceptions of Omani students at Middle East College of the utilizations of memes in the education. The present study seeks to answer the question: how do Omani undergraduate students perceive the use of memes inside the classroom? Primarily, data was collected through observing 29 semester three students in a higher education institute by giving them five different memes to infer their pragmatic meaning. After the observation, a short questionnaire was distributed to students to investigate their perception of memes. The findings revealed that most students were able to infer the pragmatic meanings embedded in memes. In addition, students held positive attitudes towards the use of memes in their study. The paper concluded with some practical implications on the best methods to utilize memes in education, and suggestions for future research. This exploratory study was significant since it contributed more to the body of literature that is done on the field of discourse analysis and memes.
An Insight into Female EFL Learners’ Difficulties and Needs in Writing: The Case of Secondary High Schools in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Yousef  Alzahrani Fatima , Mohammed Alghamdi Eatedal , Mohammad Sadiq Qutob Maysa
Published: January 2021

Curriculum development has been carried out to improve English as a Foreign Language (EFL) courses in Saudi public schools; however, EFL learners still have difficulties in writing. This study examines the difficulties that Saudi female EFL learners face in writing in secondary high schools. The study also aims to identify 12th grade female EFL learners’ needs in improving their writing skills. The research findings might help curriculum designers and EFL teachers to make improvements to a curriculum that meet EFL learners’ needs. The participants were 216 female EFL learners studying in public schools in Jeddah. A questionnaire including closed items on a Likert scale and one open-ended question were used to collect data, which were then analysed quantitatively and qualitatively. The results illustrate that female EFL learners’ main difficulties in EFL writing are mechanics, use of proper vocabulary, and organization of texts. Additionally, female learners expressed their needs and suggestions for improving their writing skills which are related to the specific difficulties they face. Accordingly, the researchers suggest establishing a well-designed writing program which provides learners with sufficient training in writing skills by increasing the number of hours given to writing.