bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation between the subjective perception of the lifestyle and eating habits and the objective result of the lipid profile and anthropometric values in amateurs runners of ACAB
Authors: Amiano Paula
Published: April 2023

Introduction: in Argentina, 55% of those over 18 years of age do insufficient physical activity. A diet with high energy density and low intake of fruits, vegetables and whole grains prevails. The increase in popular sport promotes a favorable change. Material and methods: Analytical, correlational study conducted in ACAB from 2016 to 2018 to correlate the subjective perception of lifestyle and eating habits with the objective results of the lipid profile and anthropometric values ​​in 46 amateur street runners. These instruments were used: GPAQ 2.0, Questionnaire on lifestyle practices and beliefs, DHQ I, ISAK and lipidogram. Results: the CC and the ICC were of low cardiometabolic risk. BMI was normal. 67% and 76% had desirable levels of TCol  and LDLc, 48% high HDLc and 96% normal TG. The eating habits were adequate, although in 54% it was inappropriate for sweets and fats. Inadequate consumption of snacks and beverages were significant in relation to BF% and BMI, HDLc and ∑6s with lifestyle. The value of METs was high. 85% presented a Healthy Lifestyle. Conclusion: men were more overweight than women but better HWI, WC, BF%  and Σ6s values, and women, better lipid profile. The majority presented adequate consumption, except for sweets and fats in all and refreshments in women. There was a significant correlation between refreshments and drinks and %BF and life style scores with cLDL, cHDL, BMI and ∑6s
SATB.2 is a sensityive for well differentiated neuroendocrine tumors
Authors: Arra Antonio , Coso Daniel , Chagas Guimaraes Layla Chagas Guimaraes Layla
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Neuroendocrine tumors (NET) constitute a heterogeneous group of rare neoplasms, with a sustained increase in incidence in recent years. They originate in neuroendocrine cells, the most common are those of the gastrointestinal system and most are sporadic, although they can be part of hereditary syndromes. Neuroendocrine neoplasms are divided into well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors (WDNET) and poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinomas (PDNEC). Material and methods: We retrospectively evaluated 78 WDNET of the anterior, middle and posterior intestine, in a period of 20 years (01/01/2000 to 07/31/2020), with the SATB2 antibody, in which it is considered a diagnostic marker for WDNET of the hindgut tract. Results: Of the 40 WDNET of the anterior intestine, 2 (5%) tumors showed reactivity with SATB 2. Positive staining with SATB2 was observed in 1/17 (5.88%) of WDNET of the midgut. Among the 21 WDNET of the hindgut, we observed SATB2 staining in 19 (90.57%) of the tumors. Conclusion: Our results indicate that SATB2 is a sensitive marker for hindgut WDNET, although it is not specific.
Keywords: STAB2 protein; Carcinoid tumors; Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors; Neuroendocrine tumor; Colorectal neuroendocrine tumors.
Disturbances of lung function in HIV positive patients
Authors: Agostini Marcela
Published: April 2023

The presence of disturbances in the respiratory function on HIV positive patients, derive from multiple causes. The principal mechanism of injury is the inflammation that triggers a flood of biomarkers, which leads to a respiratory function decline. Within the causes, we find modifiable factors such as tobacco and drugs use, and non-modifiable factors like gender, age, CD4 recount, viral burden, HIV itself, ART, co-infections such us HCV and the presence of breathing infections like Pneumocystis Jiroveci pneumonia and Tuberculosis. Facing a chronic pathology requires to control obstructive alterations so, it results convenient to request spirometry and diffusion tests
Continuing Medical Professional Development, a look beyond the individual
Authors: Ninno Jorge Nicolás
Published: April 2023

In a context where the medical community envisions the importance of maintaining the necessary skills for professional performance, I consider it truly valuable for the Interamerican Journal of Health Sciences to be part of this debate, broadening the possible perspectives on this problem. In a changing world, where knowledge is permanently challenged, where we constantly interact with technology and where the needs of the community require an increasingly complex approach, it is worth questioning whether what we have learned in our undergraduate and postgraduate instances is enough in order to continue performing our tasks in an ideal manner. The capabilities defined in training programs seem not to be sufficient indefinitely as to guarantee an adequate and responsible response to the population
Pregnancy Rates Associated with Oxidative Stress after Estrus Synchronization of Bulgarian Murrah Buffaloes in Breeding and Non-Breeding Season
Authors: Nenova Radena , Ilieva Yordanka , Penchev Pencho , Vasilev Nasko , Fasulkov Ivan , Nikolova Galina , Karamalakova Yanka , Gadjeva Veselina
Published: April 2023

Background: The current study aims to measure the effect of oxidative stress on the pregnancy rates of Bulgarian Murrah buffaloes during the breeding and non-breeding season.

Methods: The study group consisted of 24 mature buffaloes more than 40 days after parturition. The following parameters were measured: Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) products, Ascorbate radicals, Malondialdehyde (MDA), Nitric Oxide (NO), Super Oxide Dismutase (SOD), Glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), Protein Carbonyl Content (PPC), and total Nitric oxide. The Presynch/Ovsynch protocol was used for estrus synchronization.

Results: A statistically significant increase in ROS products were measured in blood serum during the breeding season compared with the non-breeding season. The highest levels measured were in non-pregnant buffaloes during the breeding season. High levels of oxidative stress were registered due to low SOD activity in buffaloes during the breeding season compared to SOD activity during the non-breeding season. The highest SOD activity was observed in non-pregnant buffaloes during the summer season. The lowest GSH-Px levels were observed in non-pregnant buffaloes during both study periods. During the breeding season, concentrations of total NO and PPC were elevated.

Conclusion: Comparing the obtained results for oxidative stress and antioxidant activity concerning pregnancy rate depending on the season showed that pregnancy in buffaloes during the breeding season was realized at higher values of NO and SOD. Increased oxidative stress was observed, resulting in a statistically significant increase in serum ROS products, as well as decreased SOD activity in buffaloes during the breeding season.
Fundamentos jurídicos de la Administración electrónica
Authors: Ferreira Brega José Fernando
Published: April 2023

Las últimas décadas se han caracterizado por un intenso desarrollo de la informática y de la telemática. El uso de estas tecnologías en el seno de la Administración pública ha producido una nueva forma de trabajo, conocida como Administración electrónica. Esta modalidad de Administración debe ser objeto de un análisis jurídico. De una parte, eso requiere un enfoque sistemático y comprensivo, sobre todo a través del reconocimiento de los principios que han de regir la actuación administrativa, tales como la equivalencia de soportes, la eficiencia administrativa, la equivalencia de garantías y la interoperabilidad entre sistemas informáticos. Por otra parte, el uso de las tecnologías de la información y la comunicación implica efectos importantes en las instituciones tradicionales de Derecho Administrativo, como el acto administrativo y el procedimiento administrativo, que deben examinarse de acuerdo con este nuevo contexto. El acto administrativo, que anteriormente se presentaba sólo en papel y resultaba de la intervención directa de una persona física, ahora puede emitirse en forma electrónica o a través de la actuación automatizada de un sistema informático. El procedimiento administrativo, visto como un mecanismo de intercambio y producción de información, puede servirse de un soporte digital, creando la oportunidad para la interacción telemática y para la automatización de tareas, con importantes consecuencias para la estructura del procedimiento y los actos procesales.
Iconographies of death
Authors: Plaitano Greta
Published: April 2023

Since the sixteenth century, artistic anatomy – a branch of medical
science subordinated to the Fine Arts – has understood itself as a
comparative investigation halfway between forensic dissection and the analysis
of classical art and live bodies. Its teaching was first instituted in Italy by
the 1802 curriculum of the national Fine Arts academies, but underwent a drastic
transformation at the turn of the century, as the rise of photography brought
about both a new aesthetics of vision and an increase in the precision of
iconographic documentation. In this article I will attempt to provide a history
of the teaching of this discipline at the close of the nineteenth century within
the Accademia di Belle Arti di Brera in Milan, with a focus on its ties to
contemporary French practices. Drawing on archival materials including lesson
plans, letters and notes from the classes of the three medical doctors who
subsequently held the chair (Gaetano Strambio, Alessandro Lanzillotti-Buonsanti
and Carlo Biaggi), I will argue that the deep connections between their teaching
of the discipline and their work at the city hospital reveal a hybrid approach,
with the modern drive towards live-body study unable to wholly supplant the
central role still granted to corpses in the grammar of the visual arts.
El desarrollo y la evaluación de la habilidad de argumentar en el sistema educativo chileno: tensiones y consecuencias percibidas por el profesorado
Authors:   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Goizueta Manuel , Ledermann Constanza ,   Universidad de Chile, Montenegro Helena ,   Universidad de Chile
Published: April 2023

Este estudio investiga las tensiones percibidas por profesores chilenos de matemáticas entre el desarrollo de la habilidad de argumentar propuesto por el currículum y las evaluaciones estandarizadas nacionales, así como sus consecuencias en el aula. Se realizaron 21 entrevistas semiestructuradas con profesores de primaria y secundaria de las regiones de Valparaíso y Metropolitana, y un análisis temático de los datos obtenidos para identificar patrones y temas recurrentes sobre esta problemática. Los resultados dan cuenta de la falta de alineación sistémica percibida por el profesorado entre el currículum y estas pruebas en relación con el desarrollo de la habilidad de argumentar, y muestran que los profesores enfocan su actuar pedagógico en aquello que perciben que es medido por las pruebas. Esto, sumado a una fuerte presión por obtener buenos resultados en las pruebas, genera la marginación de la argumentación en el aula de matemáticas y el empobrecimiento de la experiencia educativa de los estudiantes, orientada a la repetición de tareas similares a las pruebas. Concluimos que el diseño y validez técnica de las pruebas pueden no ser suficientes para fomentar la enseñanza prescrita por el currículum. Es necesario considerar las percepciones del profesorado y crear condiciones de aula que permitan al profesor el desarrollo de habilidades propuesto por el currículum.
Gestão da inovação social com base na Teoria U em face da polícia comunitária
Authors: Nogueira Éber Lopes , Arenhardt Valéria , Pedro Filho Flávio de São , Deliza Eduardo Egídio Vicensi , Dall’Agnol Rafael
Published: April 2023

Este estudo apresenta resultados que envolvem abordagens relacionadas à gestão da inovação social em face da polícia comunitária. A segurança pública em geral e a polícia comunitária em especial, são eixos complexos da sociedade em transformação. Essa proposta implica em trazer para à discussão a participação social para melhorar a segurança nas comunidades, o que enseja pesquisas direcionadas a oferta de idealizadores proficientes. O objetivo consiste em evidenciar como a implantação da polícia comunitária com a participação da sociedade, associada a inovação de processos e procedimentos podem prevenir e diminuir a violência nas comunidades. Os objetivos específicos são: apresentar estudos sobre os desafios e oportunidades para implantar a polícia comunitária em comunidades (1); aplicar a Teoria U para apontando as possibilidades, caminhos e vantagem da polícia comunitária (2); conectar os resultados visando a apontar inovação social, com ações eficientes e eficazes para prevenir e diminuir a violência nas comunidades (3). A proposta se justifica pelos altos índices de violência nas comunidades Brasileiras A metodologia aplicada é a pesquisa qualitativa exploratória e os procedimentos adotados são, estudos bibliográficos sobre a abordagem e aplicação da Teoria U, visando consolidar conhecimentos sobre o tema. Os resultados apontam que a implantação da polícia comunitária gera inovação social com base no aperfeiçoamento de processos e procedimentos visando melhora a segurança pública no Brasil.
Cidade e cidadão: o planejamento estratégico e suas inter-relações com a gestão pública e a qualidade de vida das pessoas
Authors: De Oliveira Tarcisio Dorn , Pires Diego Menegusso , Das Chagas Daniel Hedlund Soares , Hardt Jeferson Grosse , Castro Valéria Aguiar e Silva , Da Silva Áureo Rafael Ferreira , Zulato Flávia Vieira Guedes
Published: April 2023

Os processos de urbanização, na grande maioria, deram-se de forma acelerada, desordenada e desorganizada. Tal fenômeno impactou diretamente às cidades, com o aumento da população e a falta de planejamento, gerando espaços sem infraestruturas essenciais trazendo consigo desigualdades e diversos problemas urbanos. Por meio de uma revisão bibliográfica, o presente ensaio teórico tem como objetivo refletir e aprofundar o entendimento sobre a importância da gestão urbana aliada ao planejamento de ações públicas municipais, ao percebê-lo como ferramenta norteadora das otimizações dos recursos públicos municipais, visando, assim, o desenvolvimento humano, social e econômico das cidades. Uma gestão urbana eficiente, ao considerar a qualidade de vida das pessoas, deve estar vinculada a procedimentos eficazes para confrontar e estabelecer resoluções para os mais diversos problemas da cidade considerando os aspectos urbanos, sociais, ambientais, econômicos, etc. Os instrumentos de gestão devem contribuir com as ações de planejamento visando o ordenamento e o desenvolvimento local estabelecendo diagnósticos e prognósticos com planos, programas e políticas públicas assertivas possibilitando melhoria da qualidade de vida às pessoas e propiciando a efetivação do direito à cidade para todos.
Integrando a mineração de processos e simulação para apoiar a gestão de fluxo de pacientes em Pronto-Socorro
Authors: Pegoraro Fábio , Santos Eduardo Alves Portela , Loures Eduardo de Freitas Rocha , Laus Fernanda Wanka
Published: April 2023

Um Pronto Socorro (ps) enfrenta demandas aleatórias de pacientes com diferentes necessidades o que pode contribuir com a sua superlotação. Assim, este estudo concebeu um framework de suporte à tomada de decisão na gestão de ps. O framework integra técnicas de simulação suportada pela mineração de processos. A simulação foi utilizada neste trabalho pois a mesma contribui para capturar a aleatoriedade e complexidade do fluxo de pacientes no ps e suportar o processo decisório. No entanto, os dados para alimentar um modelo de simulação geralmente são coletados de forma manual a partir da cronometragem de tempos entre as chegadas de pacientes no ps, tempo para realização de triagem, entrevistas com especialistas, etc. Entretanto, utilizar somente estas técnicas de coleta pode-se induzir ao erro, pois se baseiam em percepções humanas, além de serem demoradas. Neste sentido, a mineração de processos contribuiu com a construção do modelo de simulação do ps estudado por meio da descoberta do processo real e dos dados históricos dos pacientes registrados no log de eventos. Por meio da mineração de processos, empregou-se pouco esforço de modelagem conceitual para o modelo de simulação, o que pode contribuir para encorajar o uso da simulação em ambientes hospitalares.
Effect of mining activities on neighbouring environment and eco-restoration/ management plan for abandoned mining sites
Authors: Chaurasia R S , Mohapatra S.N.
Published: April 2023

Mineral resource mining and exploitation have a significant influence on water, biological resources, air and land, as well as the socio-economic situation of the surrounding livings. Its main focus on the environmental difficulties that surface mining industries of Jhansi are facing. Quarrying activity produces massive dumps on the ground far from mining sites.However, quarries damages not only the land surface but also the natural vegetation as well as biodiversity. In other words, the severity of mining activities are not only deteriorating the land surface but also restricted the living entities. The abounded mining area in north-eastern part of the district Jhansi were verified and validated by field survey conducted in the year2021. The geographical location of the selected quarry sites ranges from from 25° 26' 27.2616'' N to 25° 28' 17.508 N and 78° 39'5.184' E to 78° 41°49.3008''E and the total geographical area covered as 1532.18 ha. The study was accomplished in four parts i.e., existing state of neighbouring villagers in terms of land resources (demographic outline of villages;landholding and housing condition; agriculture state), environmental imbalance and eco-friendly changes of neighbouring villagers (dust and gaseous contamination; noise pollution; livestock situation; health issues of neighbouring villagers; occupational arrangement), management plan for suitable mitigation measures (stabilizing slopes and creating artificialslopes; backfilling of the quarry pits; adding organic matter on slopes for plantation; protection of quarrying sites) and plan for restoration (afforestation; vetiver grass plantation; development of nature trails; grazing land; aqua-cultural practices; rain water harvesting). The results concluded that, the health of local quarry employees is directly harmed by stone dust, which makes them vulnerable to life-threatening respiratory disorders. About 50% participants facing multiple diseases, about 15% participants face single disease. The mining/quarry area may be developed as above mitigation measures. It is also suggested that remote sensing and GIS/ GPS technique integrated with drone technology may be very helpful for live/ post monitoring of developed mining areas.
Foetal Cardiac Dimensions in 18-40 Weeks of Gestation from Tamil Nadu, India: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Perumal Sundara Raja , Rosario Laura , Kumar Senthil
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Foetal echocardiography helps in the identification of congenital anomalies of the heart and arrhythmias. It is usually done from 18 to 22 weeks of gestation but it can also be done as early as 12-13 weeks of gestation through transvaginal ultrasound. Measurement of cardiac dimensions in the foetus plays a major role in the early detection of cardiac defects including hypoplastic right and left heart. In addition, the measurement of foetal cardiac dimensions is useful in the evaluation of foetuses with heart failure due to foetal anaemia, which is secondary to Rh alloimmunisation or Bart’s disease. Aim: To construct a reference centile curve for foetal cardiac dimensions from 18 to 40 weeks of gestation for the Indian population residing in Tamil Nadu state. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study performed between January 2020 and July 2021. A total of 345 antenatal mothers, who came to the Department of Radiology, SRM Medical College and Research Centre, Chennai, India, for for routine anomaly and growth scans were included in the study. Cardiac longitudinal and transverse diameters were measured on 2D images, when the heart was maximally distended in a fourchamber view at the end of the diastole. Left atrial longitudinal and transverse diameters, right atrial longitudinal and transverse diameters, left ventricular longitudinal and transverse diameters, right ventricular longitudinal and transverse diameters interatrial septum thickness interventricular septum thickness cardiac longitudinal and transverse diameters were measured. Results: The mean values at 18 and 40 weeks of gestation for left atrial longitudinal and transverse diameters, right atrial longitudinal and transverse diameters, left ventricular longitudinal and transverse diameters, right ventricular longitudinal and transverse diameters, interatrial septum thickness, interventricular septum thickness, cardiac longitudinal, and transverse diameters were 0.73,0.65,0.72,0.66,0.83,0.62,0.75, 0.62,0.1,0.1,1.71,1.72 cm and 2.22,1.71,2.31,1.9,3.21,1.71,3.3, 1.84,0.3,0.3,5.02,3.84 cm, respectively. Conclusion: The normal reference ranges for foetal cardiac dimensions can be a useful tool in the early identification of cardiac remodeling in congenital heart disease.
Effectiveness of Oral Health Education Using Child Model Video vs Conventional Education by Dentist among Orphanage Children of Puducherry, India: A Prospective Interventional Study
Authors: Kavitha M , Devi T Seema , Prathima GS , Shankar Shiva , Anusha Divvi , Babu Eldo
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Orphan children are usually abandoned by their parents and these children are more vulnerable to oral health problems due to lack of knowledge and psychological support. These children do not receive adequate preventive health care and often suffer from oral health diseases. Oral Health Education (OHE) is the paramount of health promotion and prevention of oral health disease and also it throws some light on unattended oral health problems. Aim: To assess the knowledge, attitude and oral hygiene practices among 10 to 15 year-old orphanage children and to compare the effectiveness of OHE using video (child model) vs conventional method (Dentist) on knowledge, attitude and oral hygiene practices. Materials and Methods: This prospective interventional study was conducted among 120 orphanage children of 10-15 years in Puducherry, India. OHE using dentist and child model OHE video intervention was given to group I and group II, respectively. Knowledge, attitude and practice scores of both the groups was assessed at pre-test, post-test and 15 days follow-up using a prevalidated questionnaire. The data thus collected were statistically evaluated using repeated measures of Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), independent t-test, percentage. Results: When compared with baseline, a significant increase in knowledge, attitude and practice scores were seen in posttest and follow-up of child model video group when compared to conventional dentist led OHE group (p≤0.001). The results of this study indicate that knowledge, attitude and practice regarding oral health were improved in OHE using child model video group. Conclusion: From the results of this study it was found that incorporation of video in imparting OHE using child model can be an effective tool in improving oral health knowledge and it is evident that these children will be more confident, comfortable receiving instructions from children of their age group.
Evaluation of Diagnostic Accuracy of Contrastenhanced Computed Tomography in Acute Abdomen: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Madhesia Ajeet Kumar , Panda Sangram , Mohanty Sudhansu Sekhar , Suma Matadha Kumaraswamy , Sen Kamal Kumar , Kolluru Radha Krishna , Swaraj Sunny , Rajesh Yalamanchi
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Acute abdomen is one of the most frequent causes of presentation to the Emergency Department (ED). The clinicians favour radiological examinations to reach the proper final diagnosis after thorough physical examinations, lab investigations, and clinical interpretation. Contrast-enhanced Computed Tomography (CECT) imaging aids in preventing delayed necessary treatment or unnecessary surgery. Aim: To investigate the specificity and sensitivity of CECT in cases of the acute abdomen using histopathological, clinical, and intraoperative surgical findings as gold standards. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Radiology, Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India, from September 2020- 2022. Evaluation of 115 patients was done based on inclusion (Patients presenting with clinical symptoms of acute abdomen and undergoing CECT Abdomen, followed by a clinical, biochemical, surgical, or histopathological examination) and exclusion criteria. Sensitivity, specificity, Positive Predictive Value (PPV), Negative Predictive Value (NPV), and accuracy of CECT was calculated. The data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22. Results: The study included 115 patients with ages ranging from 9-88 years. An increased incidence in males was observed, M:F ratio of 1.4:1. The most common age group was 31-40 years (n-25; 21.7%), followed by 41-50 years (n-20; 17.4%). Cholecystitis was the most common cause of acute abdomen, accounting for 22.6% (n-26) of total cases followed by appendicitis. The overall accuracy rate of CECT was 93% with an accuracy of 98-99% in cases of cholecystitis appendicitis, pancreatitis, ovarian cyst, and bowel obstruction. Conclusion: CECT shows higher sensitivity and specificity in identifying different aetiology of acute abdomen. It also helps in optimal decision-making for management and improved outcomes.
Internationalization of SMEs: Relevance of the Theories and Antecedents
Authors: Lakshman Duleepa , Kumarasinghe Janak , Weerasinghe Rukmal
Published: April 2023

Scholars have paid close attention to developing several theories and models for the internationalization of small and medium-sized enterprises. These theories and models explain the firm strategic directions and gradual process of international expansion. This theoretical literature review aims to comprehensively examine the wide array of literature relating to theories and models of SME internationalization and the antecedents of internationalization. This study looks at the connections and contrasts between various internationalization theories and models, discusses their shortcomings, and provides theory-based insights to SMEs in understanding the internationalization process. Further, this paper examines the different antecedents of SME internationalization and prior empirical validations of those antecedents. According to the literature analysis, it has been identified that most SME internationalization studies are done in developed countries. Moreover, most of the internationalization theories and models are built in developed countries by observing the behavior of large firms. Hence, most of these theories and models may be insufficient to explain SME success in developing and emerging markets. Further, companies currently use more strategic approaches (such as joint ventures, and strategic alliances) to internationalize their operations. As a result, it is argued that the existing internationalization literature and theories are insufficient to explain the internationalization of SMEs in developing countries in the modern world.
Benefits of Communicative Method of Teaching Grammar in a Bhutanese Higher Secondary School: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Lhadon Pema , Daker Sonam , Wangmo Kesang , Kelzang
Published: April 2023

The effective method to teach grammar to students has been a point of disputation between advocates for language acquisition and linguistics. The study investigated the benefits of the Communicative Method of Teaching Grammar (CMTG) in a Higher Secondary School under Thimphu Thromde. The study was based on the constructivist paradigm and adopted a qualitative case study research design. The study involved twelve students and three English teachers selected purposefully from a Higher Secondary School in Thimphu. The data was collected through one-on-one interviews, Focus group discussions (FGDs), and lesson observations. The data collected was analysed employing the thematic analysis procedure of Creswell & Creswell [1].
The findings revealed the benefits of CMTG. The results showed that the benefits of CMTG included enhancing speaking abilities, fostering creativity, comprehensible input, and the ability for effective communication.
This study recommends that English teachers pursue professional development in the Communicative Method of Teaching Grammar (CMTG) and maintain an average class size of 20 to 25 students. This study also suggests providing classrooms with a sufficient variety of technologically advanced instruments. The CMTG should be used to teach grammar to students, and relevant stakeholders in education should provide policy recommendations on how to train in-service and pre-service teachers on its use. The benefits of CMTG could be thoroughly investigated in future studies utilizing a quasi-experimental design.
Assessment of Plant Diversity: A Medicinal, Conservational and Environmental Study
Authors: Mishra Binodini
Published: April 2023

An assessment study of the plant diversity in the campus of Prananath College (Autonomous), Khordha was carried out during 2019-20 and a checklist was prepared. A total of 241 vascular plant species belonging to 72 different families were recorded including four species of Gymnosperms. Among the families, Fabaceae, Apocynaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Malvaceae, Lamiaceae and Poaceae were the dominating families of the vascular plants in the study area. Aquatic plants, medicinal plants and ornamental plants are included in the study area. The floristic composition also include occurrence of invasive alien species such as Parthenium, Ageratum, Cassia, Croton sparsiflorus. The study also gives attention towards the conservation of bio-resources of the campus, toxic effects of the plants along with their medicinal values, proper utilization of bio-wealth in research and academic activities. Documentation of flora check list will be helpful in the environmental study too.
Anti-inflammatory Assessment of Methanol Extract of Acalypha ciliata Leaves and It’s Leucocyte Mobilization in Adult Wistar Rats
Authors: Celestine Ugwu Obiora , Jude Ali Ibeabuchi , Keneolisa Asogwa Felix , Chigozie Ukpabi-ugo Jacinta , Chijioke Omeh Romanus , Maduabuchi Okonkwo Raymond , Ifeanyi Ugwoke, Faith , Ogbonna Offiah Raymond , Assumpta Anosike Chioma
Published: April 2023

Aim: The study's objective was to examine the anti-inflammatory activity and leucocyte mobilization of a methanol extract of leaves from Acalypha ciliata in adult Wistar rats.

Study Design: Egg albumin-induced edema was used for anti-inflammatory test and leucocyte mobilization test was carried out to check for total leucocyte cout and differentials. 

Place and Duration of the Study: This original study was conducted between January and June 2013 at the Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Nigeria Nsukka.

Methology: The pulverized leaf of Acalypha ciliata was extracted using cold maceration, and the Treas and Evans technique of phytochemical screening was used. The anti-inflammatory study was conducted using the method of Winter et al., and the acute toxicity study was assessed using Lorke's method. ANOVA was used to statistically examine the collected data.

Results: Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, soluble carbohydrates, phenols, glycosides, saponins, terpenoids and steroids. Flavonoids, Alkaloids, and Soluble carbohydrates appeared in abundant concentration (2199.76±10.81, 2141.6±7.583, 913±21.06). Acute toxicity tests showed no toxicity and mortality at doses up to 5000 mgkg-1. Anti-inflammatory study revealed that group treated with 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg b.w of extract significantly (P =0.05) and in a dose dependant manner decreased in TLC when compared with normal control.  Moreover, the group treated with 100,200,400 mg/kg b.w of extract and reference drug(Indometacin) mobilized the leucocyte at the rate of 36, 22, 12 and 62 % respectively. A significant (P = 0.05) reduction in the mean paw oedema was observed for all the treatment groups from 1 hour to 5 hours when compared to the toxic group.

Conclusion: As a result of this study's findings, it can be concluded that methanol extract of the Acalypha ciliata leaf has anti-inflammatory characteristics. High dosages of the extract resulted in a better decrease of oedema and an increase in leukocyte mobilization in response to agar suspension than low doses. Many anti-inflammatory herbs and substances alter inflammatory reactions by hastening the breakdown of or reversing the effect of the inflammatory mediators. The plant's anti-inflammatory properties could potentially result from the interaction of different photochemical substances present. The findings suggest that, if used, the plant may serve as a source of anti-inflammatory compounds.
Antibiotic Susceptibility Screening of Pathogenic Bacteria Isolated from Locally Produced Soybean (Glycine max) Mlk Sold in Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: A. Okwelle Austin , O. Osakuade Felicia
Published: April 2023

Antibiotic susceptibility of pathogenic bacteria isolated from locally produced soymilk hawked in Rumuolumeni, Port Harcourt was carried out. Three samples of soymilk were obtained from Rumuokoro Market, Rumuolumeni Market and Choba Markets. Standard microbiological techniques including the pour plate method and relevant biochemical tests were used to isolate, characterize and identify the bacteria cultures. The result of the bacteria count was high in Rumuokoro market 4.2x103 cfu/ml and lowest in Rumuolumeni market 3.4x103cfu/ml. The probable bacteria isolates identified are Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebseilla pneumonia, Salmonella spp and Streptococcus faecalis. E. coll had the highest percentage occurrence (38.18%) and klebsiella pneumonia the lowest (7.27%). The antibiotic screening showed that the gram-positive isolates S. aureus and Stretococcus faecalisare sensitive to Ampiclox (80%), (100%). Among the gram-negative isolates E. coli was most sensitive to Augumentin (71%), Klebsiella pneumonia was sensitive to Ampicilin (15%) Salmonella spp most sensitive to Streptomycin (70%). The result of this research work shows that all soymilk samples are contaminated with different bacterial species. The implication is that the quality of locally produced soymilk must be closely regulated to avoid transmission of infections to customers. It is also critical that local producers are educated on good manufacturing practices.
Predisposing Factors to Mental and Suicidal Behaviors among Students of Kenya Medical Training College Zone
Authors: Onchiri Abel , Kombich Mary , Kandie Evans , Mogeni Vincent
Published: April 2023

Aims: The objectives of the study were: to determine suicide and substance abuse rate among college students within KMTC colleges in zone six; to establish psychosocial factors that influence mental and suicide distress among KMTC students in the mentioned zone; and to analyze the relationship between the psychosocial factors and suicide & substance rates among KMTC students in zone six.

Methods: The study employed descriptive and inferential research design and collected both quantitative and qualitative data. The data collection instruments were interviews among students, focus group discussion and questionnaires.

Study Sample: The study target population was at zone six colleges with population sample size of 289.

Data Analysis: The collected data was analyzed by use of the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 26.0. Data was presented in form of tables and figures.

Institutional based cross-sectional study was conducted among students of Kenya Medical Training college, a structured self-administered questionnaire (SRQ 20) and suicidal ideation was assessed using semi structured yes/no question face to face interview. Stratified multistage sampling technique was used to select the study participants from respective campuses from a randomly selected zone. Ethical clearance was considered due to the sensitivity of the matter; clearance from respective authorities were obtained before actual data collection were done.

Results: All of the respondents agreed to more than 50% on the factors that lead to suicide ideation. From the findings, 51.8% respondents agreed that the use Tobacco and its products (cigarette, chewing tobacco, cigars etc) affects their health, legal, social and cost financial problems weekly, 20.5 % once or twice 9.1% monthly 9.5% daily. Also 90.9% of the students agreed that Alcohol beverages (beer, wines, spirits etc) has caused health, legal, social and financial problems on a daily basis, 2.7% once or twice, 1.4% weekly and 15% never affected by alcohol.

Conclusions and Recommendations: The study recommends that the government should develop an authority to handle suicide and mental health related issues. The authority should be seriously funded like case of HIV-AIDS. The authority should be able to establish adequate policy for the involvement of the society. Its policies should result in re-establishment of positive social norms, as currently norms seem to be dwindling slowly by slowly. This change in norms is likely to change society to prevent causes and effects of suicide, making the society view the phenomena differently and positively. The proposal was approved by the college research committee. Confidentiality of the participants was highly observed. In addition, the researcher-maintained anonymity of the respondents upon obtaining a written consent based on an elaborate explanation of the study.
Health-Related Quality of Life Assessment in Children with Cancer Using Pediatric Quality of Life InventoryTM in Ulin Hospital Banjarmasin
Authors: Marhaeni Wulandewi , Hidayah Astarini , Sari Rina Purnama , Margareth Yulia
Published: April 2023

Aims: Cancer in children can adversely affect their quality of life. Evaluation of health related quality of life (HRQoL) during the process of treatments is important for recognition of acute dysfunction related to therapy and disease. The aims of this study was to assess the HRQoL of cancer children with using the Pediatric Quality of Life InventoryTM (PedsQLTM) and to assess the influence of cancer type dan duration of treatment to their quality of life.

Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the age of 2-18 years of pediatric cancer patient in the Children Haematology Oncology’s Ward at the Ulin Hospital Banjarmasin from November to Desember 2022. Subject and their parents were assessed using the PedsQLTM Generic Core Scales and Cancer Module, which consist of parent-report and/ or child-report.

Results: A total number of 59 children participated in this study, mean age 8.4 years old, 38 (64.41%) were male. Non solid tumor represented 62.5% of the sample, with the highest percentage for leukemia (62.71%). Parent had reports about having lower quality of life on the assessment than their children (p< 0.05). Children with solid tumor had more problem in procedural anxiety than non-solid tumor, and HRQoL children with duration of therapy more than 1 year was significantly better than the children who had duration of therapy less than 1 year on pain and hurt domain (p< 0.05).

Conclusion: Children cancer in Ulin Hospital Banjarmasin have low quality of life based on parent reports, especially in school function. Children cancer with solid tumor had more problem in procedural anxiety, and also shorter duration of therapy had more problem in pain and hurt. Special care and psychosocial support to children and their parent is needed to improve their HRQoL during treatment.
Access to Quality Education, a Basic Right of Every Child
Authors: Sebu Soyhunlo
Published: April 2023

Quality education is a matter of great concern and what quality means in education is a subject of intense debate.  UNESCO conceptualized quality education as, learning to know, learning to do, learning to live together, and learning to be. Making quality school education accessible to every child in India is a big challenge as the school system faces a huge shortage of trained teachers, a lack of basic infrastructure, school dropouts, and the socio-economic condition of the student’s parents.  Such is the reason for the undesirable literacy level.  The non-availability of quality Early Childhood Care and Education is a matter of great concern in the country as it has a long-term impact on children. Teachers and headteachers are the most important pillar of the school and need to be strengthened through quality capacity-building training.  National Education Policy 2020, emphasis on quality education. Hence making quality education accessible to every child will depend on how the policy [1] is implemented in reality. This article is based on a secondary source and tries to analyze the issues and challenges of providing quality education to every child in India.
Perawatan Mesin Alat Berat Wheel Loader PT. XYZ
Authors: Aldyansyah Dimas , Bagaskara Firman Sri , Aditya Muhammad Rama , Aldyansyah Dimas , Aji Dimas Maulana , Sitanggang Felderico Andreas , Khairi M. Muhibbul , Paundra Fajar
Published: April 2023

Wheel Loader adalah peralatan yang digunakan untuk memindahkan material dan memuatnya ke dalam dump truck. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mempelajari perawatan mesin pada Wheel Loader di PT. XYZ. Metode yang digunakan dalam pengumpulan data meliputi observasi, wawancara, dan studi pustaka. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian, perawatan mesin Wheel Loader dilakukan secara berkala melalui daily autonomous maintenance dan preventive maintenance untuk memastikan alat dapat bekerja dengan baik. Hal ini dibuktikan dengan adanya sampling oil dan filter cut tidak adanya partikel yang berbahaya.
Pemanfaatan Mesin Vacuum Casting Semi Otomatis untuk Kebutuhan Pembuatan Produk Perhiasan
Authors: Jonoadji Ninuk , Kurniawan Aldo , Siahaan Ian Hardianto
Published: April 2023

Perhiasan merupakan barang dekoratif yang banyak digunakan oleh manusia meskipun diklasifikasikan dalam kelompok kebutuhan tersier. Pada umumnya perhiasan banyak terbuat dari logam emas dengan bahan campuran logam lainnya. Proses casting merupakan salah satu teknik pembuatan produk perhiasan secara massal yang banyak dimanfaatkan oleh pengrajin perhiasan. Proses ini dilakukan dengan cara menuangkan material cair kedalam rongga cetakan yang telah dibentuk lalu didinginkan. Permasalahan yang ditemukan adalah bahwa proses casting perhiasan tidak dapat dilakukan dengan penuangan secara gravitasi sederhana,  sehingga prosesnya selalu dibantu dengan mesin untuk menghindari terjadinya shrinkage porosity dengan cara mengatur temperaturnya pada kondisi suhu lelehan logam yang tepat agar dapat mengurangi kontak dengan udara pada saat logam dilelehkan dan dituangkan pada ruangan cetakan. Mesin vakum casting dalam hal ini digunakan untuk membantu membuat produk perhiasan sehingga permukaan menjadi halus sekalipun dengan detail yang rumit  dan memastikan logam mengisi cetakan dengan baik. Selain itu, mesin vacuum casting yang dirancang lebih mudah dioperasikan oleh operator karena terdiri dari elemen pemanas menggunakan mekanisme stopper pneumatik dengan kapasitas pengecoran 400 gr. Performa mesin vacuum casting ini dapat memanaskan elemen pemanas selang waktu 1 jam 34 menit, dan waktu pengeluaran udara dari vacuum chamber dalam waktu 27 detik serta kualitas produk yang dihasilkan juga tanpa adanya cacat produk.
Host‐Guest Complexation Strategy for Passivating Pb‐Dimer Related Defects in Perovskite Photovoltaics
Authors: Zhang Ni , Li Tinghao , Wang Can , Xiong Qiu , Li Feng , Zhang Zilong , Deng Chunyan , Hu Chongzhu , Shibayama Naoyuki , Wu Jihuai , Gao Peng
Published: April 2023

Although there is extensive attention to the eminent perovskite solar cells, the deep‐level defects such as Pb‐Pb dimers in the solution‐processed polycrystalline perovskites inevitably result in photovoltaic output losses and subsequent degradation. Recently, it is reported that an electron‐donating group can passivate Pb dimer defects efficiently. However, the mechanism for the causation of metallic lead (Pb0) from the iodide vacancy (VI) is unclear. Herein, a chain reaction mechanism is proposed for the possible transformation process from VI to Pb0 with the Pb dimer intermediates. In this regard, a host‐guest strategy is adopted by using 4‐tert‐Butyl‐1‐(ethoxycarbonyl‐ methoxy) thiacalix[4]arene (tBuTCA) to complex with the cations and out‐of‐cage (Lead(II) iodide) PbI2. Moreover, a host‐guest complexation can be formed due to the Pb2+‐π interactions. Continuously, the negative charge compensation for iodine vacancy can hinder the formation of Pb‐Pb dimer, thus significantly suppressing non‐radiative recombination. Consequently, the resulting solar cells show more than 24% power conversion efficiencies and maintain over 96% of their initial performance without encapsulation for 486 h under an ambient environment. This work highlights the significance of supramolecular engineering in constructing a high‐quality perovskite for efficient and stable perovskite solar cells.
Angstrom‐Confined Electrochemical Synthesis of Sub‐Unit‐Cell Non‐Van Der Waals 2D Metal Oxides
Authors: Ji Dali , Lee Yuna , Nishina Yuta , Kamiya Kazuhide , Daiyan Rahman , Chu Dewei , Wen Xinyue , Yoshimura Masamichi , Kumar Priyank , Andreeva Daria V. , Novoselov Kostya S. , Lee Gwan‐Hyoung , Joshi Rakesh , Foller Tobias
Published: April 2023

Bottom‐up electrochemical synthesis of atomically thin materials is desirable yet challenging, especially for non‐van der Waals (non‐vdW) materials. Thicknesses below a few nanometers have not been reported yet, posing the question how thin can non‐vdW materials be electrochemically synthesized. This is important as materials with (sub‐)unit‐cell thickness often show remarkably different properties compared to their bulk form or thin films of several nanometers thickness. Here, a straightforward electrochemical method utilizing the angstrom‐confinement of laminar reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanochannels is introduced to obtain a centimeter‐scale network of atomically thin (<4.3 Å) 2D‐transition metal oxides (2D‐TMO). The angstrom‐confinement provides a thickness limitation, forcing sub‐unit‐cell growth of 2D‐TMO with oxygen and metal vacancies. It is showcased that Cr2O3, a material without significant catalytic activity for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in bulk form, can be activated as a high‐performing catalyst if synthesized in the 2D sub‐unit‐cell form. This method displays the high activity of sub‐unit‐cell form while retaining the stability of bulk form, promising to yield unexplored fundamental science and applications. It is shown that while retaining the advantages of bottom‐up electrochemical synthesis, like simplicity, high yield, and mild conditions, the thickness of TMO can be limited to sub‐unit‐cell dimensions.
Bioinspired Solid‐State Ion Nanochannels: Insight from Channel Fabrication and Ion Transport
Authors: Zhang Yun , Chen Duo , He Wang , Tan Jie , Yang Yanbing , Yuan Quan
Published: April 2023

With specific structures and unique features, biological ion channel proteins play crucial roles in many life processes of living organisms. Inspired by the biological ion channel proteins, researchers have developed a variety of artificial nanochannels to explore the mechanisms of selective ion transport and achieve applications in molecular filters, biosensors, and energy conversion devices. The ion transport behavior in nanochannels is mainly governed by the interaction between ions and the nanochannels interface. Herein, the structures, fabrication methods, and ion transport properties of biomimetic solid‐state ion nanochannels are reviewed, with emphasis on the transport performance and mechanism of nanochannels. In addition, the current challenges faced and the future outlooks of these solid‐sate ion nanochannels for practical applications are discussed.