bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The taxonomy and phylogeny of the Cyrtodactylus brevipalmatus group (Squamata: Gekkonidae) with emphasis on C. interdigitalis and C. ngati
Authors: Grismer L. Lee , Rujirawan Attapol , Yodthong Siriporn , Stuart Bryan L. , Le Minh Duc , Le Dzung Trung , Chuaynkern Yodchaiy , Wood, Jr. Perry L. , Aowphol Anchalee
Published: May 2022

Abstract

Convergent morphological specializations for an arboreal lifestyle in most species of the Cyrtodactylus brevipalmatus group have been a confounding factor for establishing a stable taxonomy among its species. Recent references to C. interdigitalis from throughout Thailand and Laos were made without comparisons to the type material from Tham Yai Nam Nao, Nam Nao National Park, Phetchabun Province, Thailand, but instead, were based on general morphological similarity and distribution. The taxonomy of C. interdigitalis is stabilized here by comparing the paratypes to other specimens from Thailand and Laos and recovering their phylogenetic relationships based on newly acquired genetic data, including those from the type locality. The phylogeny recovered all specimens outside the type locality to be either C. ngati from Vietnam or new species closely related to C. ngati. Cyrtodactylus interdigitalis is shown here to be a range-restricted upland endemic on the Phetchabun massif of northern Thailand. The phylogeny also indicates that C. ngati extends hundreds of kilometers farther south into northern Thailand and central Laos. We hypothesize that the significant morphological divergence in body shape of the types of C. ngati, compared to that of the Lao and Thai populations, may be due to local adaptions for utilizing karst (C. ngati) rather than vegetation (Lao and Thai populations). Additionally, phylogenetic and multivariate analyses identified a potentially new species from Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park, Phitsanulok Province, in northern Thailand and another from the Khlong Naka Wildlife Sanctuary, Ranong Province, in southern Thailand. A series of newly examined specimens from Kaeng Krachan National Park, Phetchaburi Province, Thailand represents a possible ~82 km range extension to the southeast of C. rukhadeva. This research continues to underscore the high diversity of range-restricted upland endemics in Thailand and the importance of examining type material (if possible) in the context of a phylogeny so as to construct proper taxonomies that reveal, rather than obscure, diversity.
Virtual Reality Technology: Analysis based on text and opinion mining
Authors: Sánchez Pedro R. Palos , Folgado-Fernández José A. , Sánchez Mario Alberto Rojas
Published: May 2022

The purpose of this research is to highlight the importance of periodically analyzing the data obtained from the technological sources used by customers, such as user comments on social networks and videos, using qualitative data analysis software. This research analyzes user sentiments, words, and opinions about virtual reality (VR) videos on YouTube in order to explore user reactions to such videos, as well as to establish whether this technology contributes to the sustainability of natural environments. User-generated data can provide important information for decision making about future policies of companies that produce video content. The results of our analysis of 12 videos revealed that users predominantly perceived these videos positively. This conclusion was supported by the findings of an opinion and text analysis, which identified positive reviews for videos and channels with many followers and large numbers of visits. The features such as the quality of the video and the accessibility of technology were appreciated by the viewers, whereas videos that are 100% VR and require special glasses to view them do not have as many visits. However, VR was seen to be a product which viewers were interested in and, according to Google, there are an increasing number of searches and sales of VR glasses in holiday seasons. Emotions of wonder and joy are more evident than emotions of anger or frustration, so positive feelings can be seen to be predominant.
When Virtues are Vices: 'Anti-Science' Epistemic Values in Environmental Politics
Authors: Hicks Daniel J.
Published: May 2022

Since at least the mid-2000s, political commentators, environmental advocates, and scientists have raised concerns about an “anti-science” approach to environmental policymaking in conservative governments in the US and Canada. This paper explores and resolves a paradox surrounding at least some uses of the “anti-science” epithet. I examine two cases of such “anti-science” environmental policy, both of which involve appeals to epistemic values that are widely endorsed by both scientists and philosophers of science. It seems paradoxical to call an appeal to epistemic values “anti-science.” I develop an analysis that, I argue, can resolve this paradox. This analysis is a version of the “aims approach” to science and values, drawing on ideas from axiology and virtue ethics. I characterize the paradox in terms of conflicts or tensions between epistemic and pragmatic aims, and argue that there is a key asymmetry between them: epistemic aims are valuable, in part, because they are useful for pursuing pragmatic aims. Thus, when epistemic and pragmatic aims conflict, epistemic aims need to be reconceptualized in order to reconcile them to pragmatic aims. When this is done, in the “anti-science” cases, the epistemic values are scientific vices rather than virtues. Thus the “anti-science” epithet is apt.
COMPETÊNCIAS DOCENTES NO PROCESSO DE ENSINO-APRENDIZAGEM: PERCEPÇÃO DE DISCENTES DE UMA UNIVERSIDADE PÚBLICA BRASILEIRA
Authors: Sobrinho Erleson Freire , Bruno-Faria Maria de Fátima
Published: May 2022

O objetivo principal deste estudo é identificar competências docentes, percebidas pelos alunos de um curso de graduação em Administração de uma universidade pública brasileira, como fundamentais para o processo de ensino-aprendizagem. Pretendeu-se, ainda, verificar o grau de domínio dessas competências pelos docentes na visão dos alunos e comparar as competências fundamentais e as detidas pelos docentes, a fim de identificar as necessidades de investimento em ações educacionais. Para a pesquisa empírica, adotou-se o método misto e de natureza descritiva. Na etapa qualitativa foram realizadas entrevistas semiestruturadas individuais com oito discentes do curso de Administração. Essas competências fizeram parte de um survey ano qual primeiramente, os discentes deveriam avaliar o grau de importância de cada competência e, em seguida, o grau de domínio. Decidiu-se avaliar as competências docentes em dois blocos: das áreas de Exatas e demais áreas do curso. Como resultado, a etapa qualitativa mostrou a existência de oito competências fundamentais para o exercício da docência. Os resultados do survey evidenciaram que todas as competências foram consideradas importantes e para todas havia necessidade de aprimoramento, com maior ênfase para os docentes da área de exatas.
PRESSÃO TEMPORAL, SOBRECARGA DE INFORMAÇÃO E SATISFAÇÃO NA TOMADA DE DECISÃO
Authors: Rodrigues Patrícia , Basso Kenny , Gallon Shalimar , Sanches Camila
Published: May 2022

O estudo verifica o efeito moderador da pressão temporal na relação entre a sobrecarga de informação e a satisfação com a escolha no recrutamento e seleção de um candidato a uma vaga de emprego. Foi realizado um experimento com 137 estudantes de pós-graduação lato sensu em Gestão de Pessoas. Os resultados encontrados evidenciam que os sujeitos expostos à condição de sobrecarga de informação e pressão temporal apresentam os menores índices de satisfação com a sua escolha após um processo de tomada de decisão. A contribuição dessa pesquisa é que os gestores de Gestão de Pessoas e de outras áreas poderão entender como essas variáveis influenciam a satisfação e reavaliar o processo decisório a fim de minimizar o risco da decisão e também maximizar a satisfação ao final do processo decisório.
Proposed Functional Activity of Bioactive Compounds from Spatholobus littoralis Hassk in LC-MS-MS and Silico Studies
Authors: Iskandar Dodi , Widodo Nashi , Warsito Warsito , Masruri Masruri , Rollando Rollando , Warsidah Warsidah , Antang Yesaya Poulorossi Pieter
Published: May 2022

Spatholobus littoralis Hassk has biological activities such as strong antioxidants, booster of leydig cell enhancer and testosterone level booster in male rattus norvegicus, wound healer on the white mouse incision and cytotoxic against cell culture MCF7, HepG2, T47D, WIDR, HTB, and HeLa. This present study aim is to predict predict bioactive compounds from S. littoralis hassk in silico. The methods comprises maceration, LCMS-MS, and some tools (massylnx V4.1, ChemBio Office 2010, mzCloud MS/MS library, SwissADME, and STITCH). The nine proposed compounds (compound 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 11, and 12) are predicted to bind and to react with HCAR3 protein and to have potential as a medicine for disease pellagra and distal hereditary motor neuronopathy type 2.
Preparation and Characterization of Poly(AMPS-co-Aa-co-DEAA)/MMT Nanocomposite Hydrogels
Authors: Hu Ming Lei , Xie Cheng Peng , Feng Bai Cheng , Amin Karen
Published: May 2022

Nanocomposite (NC) hydrogels poly (AMPS-co-AA-co-DEAA)/MMT were prepared by in situ free radical polymerization by using montmorillonite (MMT) as the inorganic cross-linking agent and 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid (AMPS), acrylic acid (AA) and N,N-diethylacrylamide (DEAA) as the monomers. Based on the confirmation of the composition and network structure of the nanocomposite hydrogels, the mechanical properties and the swelling behavior in buffers and salt solutions with different pH levels were systematically investigated. The hydrogel had good mechanical properties due to the homogeneous dispersion of MMT. Its tensile strength at break reached 0.1 MPa, and elongation at break reached 1807%. The nanocomposite hydrogel exhibited certain pH and salt-sensitive behavior. As for the structure of the synthetic hydrogel, its morphology was determined by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
Potential Application of Rhamnolipid-Silica Nanoparticle Complex for Enhanced Oil Recovery Studied with Molecular DynamicsSimulations
Authors: Fitri Ika Keumala , Ivansyah Atthar Luqman , Hertadi Rukman
Published: May 2022

Biosurfactants are used as a solution to the use of synthetic surfactants in Enhance Oil Recovery (EOR) process which are not safe for environment. One of the requirements for biosurfactants in EOR is having the ability to reduce the value of the interfacial tension (IFT) to a minimum of 10-3 mN/m. To meet the requirement, the performance of biosurfactants can be improved by having it interact strongly with nanosized support material. In this study, the stability of the free monorhamnolipids (without silica) and the monorhamnolipids-silica nanoparticle complexes at the decane-water interface at 300 K was studied by in silico method. Component density analysis shows that monorhamnolipids and monorhamnolipids-silica nanoparticle complexes diffuse to the decane-water interface. Trajectory analysis of the simulation boxes showed that the complexes were more stable at the decane-water interface. Based on the interaction analysis of the hydrophilic groups as well as hydrogen bonding, the complexes stability on the interface is caused by the strong hydrogen interaction between monorhamnolipids and silica that have more stable properties at the decane-water interface. This causes the complexes are more effective in reducing the IFT of decane and water with a decrease of up to 1.6 mN/m.
Study on the Change Behavior of Fluorosilicone Rubber in RP-3 Kerosene
Authors: Fan Jin Juan , Li Chun Guang , Liu Bin Tao , Sun Chen Yang , Jia Xing Hui
Published: May 2022

Fluorosilicone rubber has excellent high temperature oil resistance and has been widely used in high temperature oil media. The performance of fluorosilicone rubber will degrade with the length of oil immersion time. In this paper, through oil resistance test, hardness test, tensile test, infrared analysis, differential scanning calorimetry analysis and thermal weight loss analysis, the performance, structure and composition changes of fluorosilicone rubber FS6265 at 150°C and RP3 kerosene soaking process are studied. The results show that in 150°C, RP3 kerosene, the mass and volume of fluorosilicone rubber FS 6265 first increase and then decrease. The hardness and tensile strength gradually decrease with the increase of immersion time, the elongation at break tends to increase slightly and then decrease. The performance changes are mainly caused by swelling, filler migration, side chain rupture and cross-linking damage. The swelling in the early stage of immersion plays a major role, and the filler migration, side chain and cross-linking failure play a major role in the later stage.
A Dual-language Approach to Teaching a Russian Media Undergraduate Course
Authors: Robin Richard
Published: May 2022

Instruction in Languages for Specific Purposes (LSP), especially in the less commonly taught languages, creates a resource challenge. Higher education institutions are often hesitant to support courses that draw small numbers of students. Even when fiscally possible, staffing such courses can represent a compromise between best practices in language pedagogy and the instructor’s expertise in the specific purpose subject at hand. This article describes a unique dual-language approach for teaching a Russian media course, which students can elect to take as an English-only course or as a subject whose language of instruction is English, but nearly all the other work (assignments in reading, writing, and oral presentation) is completed in the target language at proficiency levels commensurate with other upper-division Russian-language courses.
COSA VUOL DIRE: OBBLIGO VACCINALE?
Authors: Gambaro Antonio
Published: May 2022

In reference to a topical issue, the Note examines the conceptual confusions that rage on the mass media and that are reflected in the lexicon of the Italian legislator when it has to issue measures to face the Covid-19 epidemic. With reference to the case-law of the ECtHR which ruled on vaccination obligations, it is specified to what extent one can speak of a legal duty to be vaccinated.
Maternal Vitamin D Supplementation for the Prevention of Respiratory Tract Infections in Offspring: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sulaiman Zaharah , Noor Norhayati Mohd , Ismail Shaiful Bahari , Mohd Lukman Anis Syahirah Far’ain , Irfan Muhammad , Hussain Nik Hazlina Nik
Published: May 2022

Background: Vitamin D may enhance immune system function and provide a protective effect against infections. Feto-maternal circulation plays an important role in supplying the developing fetus with nutrients and antibodies for its development and health during pregnancy and for its early years of life after birth. This meta-analysis aimed to determine the effectiveness of maternal vitamin D supplementation in preventing respiratory tract infections (RTIs) in children.Methods: We searched the Central and MEDLINE databases and went through all the reference lists in the related articles. We also searched for ongoing trials at http://www.who.int/ictrp/en/ and www.clinicaltrials.gov. Randomized controlled trials comparing vitamin D supplementation with a placebo or no treatment in pregnant women published in the English language up to March 2019 were included. Two reviewers extracted data independently using a predefined protocol and assessed the risk of bias using the Cochrane risk of bias tool, with differences agreed upon by consensus. The predefined primary outcome was the number of offspring who had RTIs. The secondary outcome was the presence of measurable serum immunoglobulin E levels.Results: Three trials involving 3,224 participants (mother–child pairs) met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. The present analysis reported that maternal supplementation with vitamin D had no effect on RTIs among children (n=1,486 offspring; risk ratio, 0.95; 95% confidence interval, 0.82–1.11; random effects; I2 statistics, 0%).Conclusion: Maternal vitamin D supplementation had no effect on RTIs in children. Therefore, consideration of other prevention methods in this regard is recommended.
Preventive Measures against the Development of Dementia in Old Age
Authors: Ayenigbara Israel Oluwasegun
Published: May 2022

Dementia is a neurological condition characterized by numerous types of central nervous system diseases, which gradually deteriorates an individual’s reasoning, rational thinking, and judgment abilities. As a serious public health concern that currently affects more than 50 million older adults, dementia is one of the most significant causes of incapacity, disability, and dependency among older adults. As new cases are expected to increase exponentially in the next three decades, dementia, which is not a normal feature of healthy aging despite the fact that it generally affects older adults disproportionately, requires enormous management and care efforts due to its associated socioeconomic, psychological, and physical burdens that involve the patient, their caregivers, guardians, family members, and society at large. Presently, there is no cure for dementia; however, this condition could be prevented. This narrative review aimed to provide a broad overview of studies detailing the alternative lifestyle modification-centered preventive measures against dementia. A comprehensive search of key databases to find articles related to this topic revealed that participating in regular physical activities, healthy eating and dieting, avoiding all forms of smoking, avoiding air pollutants, halting or reducing alcohol consumption, exercising the mind and being socially dynamic, getting enough rest and establishing good sleeping habits, infection prevention, stress prevention, avoidance of injuries, preventing the effects of social isolation and lockdowns, continuing education, and depression prevention are protective measures against the development of dementia.
A Positive Association between the Atherogenic Index of Plasma and White Matter Hyperintensity
Authors: Kwon Hyun-Suk , Ko Jun-Seong , Lee Jun-Hyuk , Kwon Kil-Young , Han Jee-Hye
Published: May 2022

Background: White matter hyperintensity (WMH) is a risk factor for dementia and ischemic stroke. The atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) is a simple and cost-effective marker for the prediction of various vascular diseases. In this study, we evaluated the relationship between AIP and WMH in adults without cerebrovascular accidents.Methods: We analyzed the data of 281 adults, aged ≥26 years, who underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at the health promotion center of an education hospital between January 2014 and December 2018. Participants were divided into three categories according to tertiles of the AIP scores (T1: <0.20; T2: 0.20–0.48; and T3: >0.48). WMH was defined as a modified Fazekas scale score of 1–3 on brain MRI. A cubic spline curve was used to determine the linearity of the relationship between AIP and WMH. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the relationship between the AIP and WMH.Results: The prevalence of WMH was 45.7% in T1, 57.0% in T2, and 66.0% in T3 (T3 vs. T1, P for post-hoc analysis=0.005). The increased odds of WMH were associated with increased AIP. The odds ratio (OR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) for WMH of T2 and T3 compared with T1 were 1.57 (0.88–2.80) and 2.30 (1.28–4.14), respectively. After adjusting for confounding variables, the OR with a 95% CI for WMH in the T2 and T3 groups vs. the referent T1 were 1.55 (0.76–3.13) and 2.27 (1.06–4.84), respectively.Conclusion: AIP is independently and positively associated with WMH in a healthy population.
Current Status of the National Health Screening Programs in South Korea
Authors: Kang Hee-Taik
Published: May 2022

A health check-up is one of the best ways to prevent diseases and maintain health by screening for risk factors and diagnosing diseases early. As the burden of illness shifts from infectious to chronic diseases, the importance of health check-ups is emphasized. Korean health authorities began the National Health Screening Programs (NHSPs) for public servants and private school staff in 1980. The NHSP is composed of the National Cancer Screening Programs (NCSPs) and general health checkups. NCSPs, started in 1999, included screenings for stomach, liver, colorectal, breast, and uterine cervical cancers, and they may have contributed to the improved cancer survival rate from 42.9% in 1993–1995 to 77.5% in 2013–2017 in Korea. General health check-ups included lifestyle questionnaires, anthropometric measurements; blood pressure measurement; visual acuity test; hearing test; laboratory tests including fasting glucose, lipid profile, liver function tests, creatinine, and urinalysis; and, chest radiography. Additionally, bone density, cognitive function, and depression were assessed. Testing for non-communicable diseases has improved the control rates of chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Favorable changes in the risk factors for cardio-cerebrovascular diseases may lead to a decline in age-standardized mortality and heart disease over several decades. However, many areas of the programs need to be improved. NHSPs should be designed on the basis of individual health conditions, medical needs, and scientific evidence. Greater opportunities to receive NHSPs should be provided to socioeconomically vulnerable individuals. In addition, stricter quality control of NHSPs is required. Follow-up management after the NHSPs should be systematized. In conclusion, NHSPs have contributed to the improvement of public health; however, several aspects of these programs must be addressed.
Reducing recidivism rate: A comparative study of Nigeria and China’s Prison Systems
Authors: Banwo Adetoro Olaniyi
Published: May 2022

This study examined the two prison systems of two different countries, Nigeria and China with the aim of identifying the rates of recidivism among them. One of the goals of any criminal justice system is to rehabilitate criminals and turn them into responsible citizens that can be reintegrated into the society. A sound criminal justice system aims to end crime not the lives of the citizens that committed the crimes. Data for this research work were obtained through critical case sampling and content analysis was used to study this work. Certain factors such as prisoners, criminal justice system, recidivism and crimes were selected for this study. It adopted the Person in Environment perspective and the Systems Theory as its theoretical framework. It depicted that the environment has an impact on the behaviour of people and that there were certain systems that interact to influence the conduct of humans. This study observed that the Chinese government has implemented effective correctional programmes and policies for prisoners to get accepted in the society while the Nigerian government has failed to design and implement policies and programmes aimed at reducing the rate of recidivism. It argued that China takes care of the rights of prisoners while in Nigeria prisoners‟ rights are alienated with inappropriate prisons conditions. This study recommended that prisons should facilitate prisoners‟ employment and skills development which can assist them to deviate from their offensive acts. It concluded that improved prisoners‟ conditions through education, training, skill development, and restoration of rights are of great necessity for prisoners while undergoing rehabilitation.
Local Government Administration and Grassroots Development in Imo State: A Case Study of Owerri Municipal Council
Authors: Ebere Onyinyechi Anastasia , Akujuobi Ngozi Edith , Kujuobi A.B.C.
Published: May 2022

This study is an assessment of local government administration as an instrument of grassroots development in Nigeria, using Owerri Municipal Council as a case study. With a well-structured questionnaire supported with oral interviews, data were generated from one hundred and seventy municipal council staff stratified into three categories of top management, middle and low cadres. Employing the Spearman‟s Rank Coefficient as the main statistical tool of analysis, the study revealed among others that a significant relationship exists between the state of infrastructure and grassroots development in Nigeria and between the level of ineffective local government administration and the extent of job creation among the local populace. Further findings showed that a significant relationship exists between insufficient skilled manpower and the level of grassroots rural-urban migration as well as between ineffective local government administration and the level of grassroots participation in democratic activities. Following these findings, the study therefore, concluded thus: that the state of infrastructure is poor, resulting in low grassroots development in Nigeria. Similarly, the study inferred that ineffective local government administration led to poor resource management, which in turn impeded grassroots job creation, and that lack of skilled manpower fuelled rural-urban migration in Nigeria, while ineffective local government administration was a significant determinant factor to poor grassroots participation in democratic processes in Nigeria. Therefore, prominent among others, the study advocated for an upward review of the revenue sharing formula in favour of the local governments being a grassroots government closest to the populace, while sanctioning erring personnel who may be tempted to engage in funds misappropriation.
Rethinking money demand function in Nigeria using Toda-Yamamoto Approach
Authors: Nwachukwu Udochuwu G. , Egbeoma Nwigboji E. , Nkwede Friday.
Published: May 2022

This study examined the demand for money in Nigeria from 1980 to 2019, employing various techniques of econometric analysis. The study was motivated to determine whether Keynes liquidity preference theory holds in Nigeria and to ascertain whether money demand function is stable in Nigeria. The Augmented Dickey Fuller (ADF) unit root test showed that the variables were stationary at different levels. The test of stability showed that the estimated parameters for the study are stable within the period under study. Thus, money demand function is stable in Nigeria. Considering a year period lag in the estimated money demand function, it was found that there was a positive relationship between money demand and real income during the period of study. It implies that increase in real income (gross domestic product) leads to increase in the demand for money, as predicted by economic theory. The real income (gross domestic product) coefficient is 0.09 which is less than unit and is consistent with the transactions and precautionary theories. However, the inflation rate both at a year and two years period lags had negative signs, and were consistent with a priori expectations. The coefficient of –0.002 and -0.001 respectively showed that the demand for money in Nigeria will decrease by about 0.2% or 0.1% when the inflation rate (at a year or two year lag) rises by 1%. The result indicated that the higher the rate of expected inflation (i.e. higher returns on the alternative assets), ceteris paribus, and the lower is the demand for money in Nigeria. Hence, people would tend to switch to other money alternatives when inflation is anticipated, because they promise higher rates of returns. In the light of the findings, it was recommended that Central Bank of Nigeria should pursue policy aimed at changing the level of income which will influence the demand for money in the same direction.
Agricultural extension services amidst COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria: Policy options
Authors: Issa Fadlullah Olayiwola
Published: May 2022

The paper explored the policy options targeted at preventing extreme hunger after surviving the COVID-19 pandemic. Multistage sampling procedure was used to select 15 key informants across five purposively selected Local Government Areas in Kaduna and Ogun States for this study. Checklist (administered through recorded telephone calls) was used to elicit responses (qualitative data) on the impacts of COVID-19 on the food system. This paper concludes that the COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted on the food system thus challenging the AES to employ more innovative and pragmatic approaches to reach the farmers. Major impacts of COVID-19 on food system were disruptions in agricultural production, limitation of field visit by extension personnel and distortion of technology delivery system. Major recommendations include: in response to the stay-at-home order in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Agricultural extension services (AES) should explore virtual means to reach the clientele. To this end, farm operations and new techniques should be packaged into short clips and shared via various platforms. Also, legislative means to consider AEAS as essential services should be sought; and extensionists should be trained and provided with personal protection equipment (PPE) to enable them reach farmers. Such field officers should be insured and provided with adequate tangible mobility.
Poultry farmers adaptation strategies to consequences of COVID-19 pandemic in Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Adeniyi R.T. , Adetunji T.A. , Olumoyegun B.A. , Fanifosi G.E. , Odozi J.C.
Published: May 2022

This study examined the adaptation strategies to the consequence of COVID-19 pandemic on Poultry Farmers in Oyo State. Multistage sampling procedure was employed to select five Key Informants and five Focus Group Discussion from the respondents respectively. Data on effects of lockdown, coping strategies and role of PAN were collected and analysed using constant comparison analysis.The effects of pandemic in severity order include, poor marketing due to collapse of the standard delivery system (85%); glut of the poultry products (80%), laying stock reduction (25%) and folding up of the enterprise (15%) burying of unsold bad eggs (5%).Coping strategies employed were sourcing financial support from cooperative societies (85%), sold produce on credit (75%) and sourcing ICT-based marketing information (70%). The role played by PAN include taking exemption letter from police (Police wireless message) to move poultry products for sale; mediating unfavourable government taxation and relevant information dissemination via WhatsApp group platform. There is the need to develop an emergency’s-smart resilience programme for the poultry industry. Measures adopted to manage emergencies such as COVID-19 should not impede the flow of agricultural products and inputs from the onset.
Farmers’ readiness to adopt social media as agro-information reception tool during Covid-19 pandemic in Ondo State, Nigeria
Authors: Fasina O.O. , Tehinloju O.A. , Ikuerowo J.O.
Published: May 2022

This study examined farmers’ readiness to assess social media as agro-information reception tool in the study area. An interview guide was used in collecting data from 120 farmers who were randomly selected. Data collected were analysed with the aid frequency counts percentages and logit regression. The results showed that half of the respondents (50%) had primary education. About 90% were aware of whatsapp and 12.6% were aware of blogs, respectively. Education, farming experience, membership of farmers’ group and extension access were the variables that positively influence farmers’ readiness to assess social media as agro-information reception tool while respondents’ age negatively influence readiness to assess social media. Enlightenment programmes for farmers on the use of social media and an improved extension services to keep the farmers acquainted with the benefits of social media.
Prevalence and outcome of bacterial meningitis among children of less than 10 years along the Kilombero valley in Morogoro, Tanzania
Authors: Madoshi P. B. , Sanga Z. E. , Ngarawa K. A. N. , Lubomba W.
Published: May 2022

INTRODUCTION: Bacterial meningitis is among the febrile, lethal and life-threatening diseases in neonates and children under 10 years, especially in low-income countries. The study determined the prevalence and outcome of the disease among neonates, infants and children less than 10 years admitted at St. Francis Referral Hospital.METHODS: A hospital-based study was carried out among 856 children less than ten years, with or without fever for 10 months; clinical and laboratory records were reviewed. Data analysis was done using Chi-square and independent t-test to establish the odds ratio of acquiring the disease.RESULTS: Out of 856 records of children with fever 656 had signs of meningitis, 71 children underwent lumbar puncture where 49.3% and 50.7% were female and male respectively; Aged 0 - 2 years (47.9%), 3 – 5 years (19.7%) and 6 – 10 years (32.4%). 62% of the patients had neurological signs, 56.3% had >45mmol/dl CSF (cerebrospinal fluid) glucose concentration and 85.9% had >50mg/dl of the CSF protein concentration. Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae and Neisseria meningitides were mostly isolated from the CSF samples at the hospital. Location (OR) = 3.1; p = 0.0017), parity of the mother (OR = 3.8; p = 0.008), Neurological signs (OR = 4.5; p = 0.001) and elevated CSF protein (OR = 4.5; p = 0.001) were the factors associated with bacterial meningitis infection among children.CONCLUSION: Meningitis is a life-threatening infection in children under 10 years. Thus, microbial isolation should be established in most hospitals to improve early case identification and reporting at health facilities and the national level.
The Positive Confession Movement and its influence and legacy on the Neo-Charismatic Movement
Authors: Resane Dr Kelebogile Thomas
Published: May 2022

This article focuses on one of the branches of Charismatic Movement known as Positive Confession or Word of Faith Movement. The movement is called with some other names due to its emphasis on faith confession or claiming by faith whatever one needs, especially in areas of wealth and health. The fundamental message of the movement is that a believer has the power or authority to unshackle himself from sickness, poverty, or any negative circumstances that may steal away happiness and peace. The intention is to trace its influence on the modern NeoCharismatic Movement. To understand the movement fully, research has been done on its history, identity, message, dogma, and why its dogma is attractive to Neo-Charismatic Movement. The basic reason for this African proclivity to Positive Confession Movement is that Africans look for the faith that can enhance their privileges and power. The tenets of faith for this movement are identified as its main distinctive, therefore making some impression that the movement is a credible alternative for people in poverty, seeking some way out this dire situation of lacking material goods. The conclusion captures some positives and weaknesses in the movement. An appeal is made for the movement to draw the balance between its prosperity gospel and the evangelical values of commitment, character, sacrifice, holiness, and contentment.
Cinsiyetin Öğretmen Motivasyonu Üzerindeki Etkisinin İncelenmesi: Bir Meta-Analiz Çalışması
Authors: Yarım Mehmet Ali , Ada Şükrü
Published: May 2022

Bu çalışmada cinsiyetin öğretmen motivasyonu üzerindeki rolünü meta-analiz yöntemiyle ile ortaya koymak amaçlanmıştır. Bu doğrultuda öncelikle 2009- 2020 yılları arasında eğitim bilimleri alanında yayınlanmış olan lisansüstü tezlere ilişkin literatür taraması sonucu ulaşılan 27 çalışmadan dâhil etme kriterleriyle çalışmalar ele alınmış ve kriterleri karşılayan 16 bağımsız çalışmayla analizler yapılmıştır. Meta-analiz sonucunda; öğretmen motivasyonunun cinsiyete göre anlamlı farklılaşmadığı tespit edilmiştir (k = 18, d = .11, p .000). Bu 16 çalışmanın cinsiyete göre standardize edilmemiş etki büyüklükleri 0,340 ile -0,561 arasında değiştiği görülmüştür. Araştırma sonuçlarına göre erkekler lehine bir farkın olduğu ancak bu farkın sıfır noktasına yakın ve çok zayıf olduğu söylenebilir. Çalışma sonuçları Türkiye örnekleminde cinsiyetin öğretmen motivasyonu üzerinde etkisi olmadığını göstermiştir. Çalışmanın bulguları ilgili alan yazın çerçevesinde tartışılmış ve öneriler sunulmuştur.
Küreselleşmenin Sanatın Kültürel Kimliği Üzerindeki Etkisi
Authors: Ozdemir Derya
Published: May 2022

Sanatta yerel ve küresel arasındaki dinamik, görünüşte çelişkili iki çizgide kendini gösterir. Bir yandan sanat her zaman sınırların ötesine geçme çabası içinde olmuştur. Küreselleşme, sanatın benimsediği içerme ve paylaşma olanağını artırmıştır. Öte yandan küreselleşme, sanatı küresel piyasa güçlerinin ve yeni hegemonyaların ve eşitsizliklerin tam merkezine yerleştirmiştir. Bugün, farklılıklara ve dünyanın çelişkili vizyonlarına duyarlı kalırken, küresel bir topluluk yaratma arzusu, sanatın içerisinde ciddi bir kriz durumu ve çelişkiyi ortaya çıkarmıştır. Sanat, küreselleşmenin kalbindeki gerilimlerle birlikte çalışır, bunlara karşı değil: bir yanda fikirlerin ve insanların özgür olma arzusu; diğer yandan, yerel gerçekleri temsil etme ve halkla yerel olarak ilişki kurma gerekliliğini barındırmaktadır. Bu kapsamda makalede küreselleşme ve kültürel kimliğin sanatla olan ilişkisi literatür desteğinde açıklanmaya çalışılmış ve öneriler sunulmuştur.
The Effect of Learning Manipulative Skills Using Ball Thrower Learning Media on the Ability to Throw and Catch the Ball in Elementary School Students
Authors: Supriadi Amir , Mesnan Mesnan , Akhmad Imran , Dewi Rahma , Suprayitno Suprayitno
Published: May 2022

This study aims to improve the ability to catch in children using the ball thrower learning media. The method used in this study was experimental using a one-group pretest-posttest design. The research was conducted using manipulative motion learning to catch the ball using the throwing media. To measure and find out the results of the data obtained by researchers using the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) software. The sample in this study was upper-grade elementary school students. Twenty students were chosen with a random sampling technique. This study's data collection technique using the instrument is a ball catch test. The data analysis technique used a t-test with a significance level of 0.05. This study concluded that there was a significant effect of learning outcomes using the ball throwing learning media on the ability to catch the ball of elementary school students.
Nutritional Practices and Body Mass Index among Secondary School Students
Authors: Kamaruzaman Bin Syed Ali Syed , Onn Bin Hassan Misbon , Siong Nguang Ung , Akhmad Imran , Abd Karim Zulakbal
Published: May 2022

This study investigated the nutritional practices and body mass index (BMI) among secondary school students in Kerian District, Perak. The respondents of this study consisted of 363 first, second, and fourth-grade students who were selected through a simple random sampling method in secondary schools in Kerian District, Perak. Questionnaires were distributed to selected schools in this study. The questionnaire in the study was obtained from the Meal Pattern Questionnaire (MPQ), which requires the socio-economic status of parents' monthly income, students' body mass index, and students' eating habits. The study's findings showed that the nutritional practices among secondary school students are in the presence of moderate, whereas the body mass index of students is also at the level of underweight. Meanwhile, students' socio-economic status is of the low-income group. In addition, there were significant differences in terms of nutritional practices among secondary school students based on the family's socio-economic status. The study's findings also showed no significant relationship between dietary practices and body mass index (BMI) of secondary school students. The findings of this study can be used as a reference and provide conclusive assistance in improving the nutritional practices through learning sessions and learning of Physical and Health Education in schools.
Mass Transfer Characteristics through Alumina Membranes with Different Pores Sizes and Porosity
Authors: Ogunlude Priscilla , Abunomah Ofasa , Hashim Idris , Aisueni Florence , Ogoun Evans , Antwi Samuel , Ramalan Muktar , Williamwest Tamunotonye , Sukki Firdaus Muhammad , Gobina Edward
Published: May 2022

Different membranes covering the macroporous to nano-pororous range and having different porosities have been used to study the mass transfer of methane and carbon dioxide single gases. The effect of flow parameters on the transport mechanisms through porous membranes were reviewed in detail. The characteristics of gas transport through the macroporous, microporous, and nano-porous membranes were investigated with several gas diffusion models in the range of 20–100 ◦C and at pressure differences ranging from 0.2 to 3 bar. The experimental gas permeation data of the membranes were analyzed using the Darcy flow model. The results clearly showed good agreement between the model analysis and the experimental data. The experimental data showed that the permeation followed a parallel flow model in which the behavior of gases was governed by viscous and Knudsen diffusion, although to varied degrees. Permeation of the gases through each membrane varies considering the viscosity of the gases at the same temperature. Furthermore, the membranes followed the configurational diffusion model in which the permeance increased with increasing pressure and decreasing temperature. For the gas flow measurements through macroporous and nano-porous membranes with diameters ranging from 6000nm to 15nm, the results indicate that the experimental flux agrees well with the calculated (model) flux through which gas flows from the bulk stream in the shell side to the membrane outer surface where viscous flow and Knudsen diffusion coexist. The study shows that experimental flux is larger than Knudsen diffusion, and the contribution of Knudsen diffusion to the experimental flux increases with the decrease in the diameter. On the other hand, the effects of gas slippage are considerable as gas velocity near the wall is higher than zero. The slip length effects are inversely proportional to pore size and with driving pressure.
A Blueprint for Teacher Design Teams to Create Professional Development Interventions
Authors: Post Lysanne , Van Leeuwen Anouschka , Lockhorst Ditte , Admiraal Wilfried , Kester Liesbeth
Published: May 2022

An effective way to stimulate teachers’ engagement and involvement in educational innovations is by employing teacher design teams (TDTs, Vangrieken et al, 2013). The design activities that TDTs engage in should be chosen carefully, and a facilitator should be available to support the TDTs (Becuwe et al, 2016). So far, little attention has been paid in the literature to the nature and role of such design activities (Vangrieken et al, 2013; Brouwer et al, 2012). Therefore, the goal of this paper is to provide guidelines for the design activities of TDTs aimed at teachers’ professional development. A series of design activities to support TDTs in five secondary schools in the Netherlands was constructed and evaluated through audio recordings of each session, logbooks, and interviews about teachers' perceptions of the design process and activities. In this article, we present and discuss the resulting blueprint for TDT activities aimed at teachers’ professional development.
Heightened Cognitive Empathy through Ethnic Identity and Intercultural Competence for Individuals with Historically Marginalized Identities
Authors: Peifer Janelle S. , Taasoobshirazi Gita
Published: May 2022

This study examines, using structural equation modeling, the mediating effects of ethnic identity and intercultural competence on historically marginalized identities (HMIs) and cognitive empathy. Participants received an Identity Scale score summing each identity marker for groups that have experienced systemic, historic marginalization (i.e., domestic/international student status, race/ethnicity, gender identity, income, and sexual orientation), with an individual being able to attain a score ranging from 0 (no HMI) to 5 (all HMIs present). Information about participants’ ethnic identity, cognitive empathy, and intercultural competence was also collected. The sample included a diverse, representative sample of 623 participants from three higher education institutions in the United States. Our tested model showed significant direct and indirect effects among all the variables with the exception of one relationship. The paper discusses the model results and the implications of our findings for inclusive education.
Academic E-Dishonesty and Research Anxiety Among the Preservice Teachers
Authors: Kocaman Karoğlu Aslıhan
Published: May 2022

The current study investigated the relationship between research anxiety and academic e-dishonesty among preservice teachers. The participants were 558 students, attending teacher education faculties of eight state universities located in different districts of Turkey. Data was collected through “Research Anxiety Scale” and “Internet-Triggered Academic Dishonesty Scale (ITADS)”. Findings revealed that research anxiety levels of preservice teachers are moderate and academic e-dishonesty levels are low. There is a significant relationship was found between the level of research anxiety and academic e-dishonesty. Research anxiety of the preservice teachers did not change according to taking a research oriented course or gender. Academic e-dishonesty levels varied with gender revealing that women were higher than men. Implications and suggestions for further research are provided.
Examination of the Estimation Skills and Strategies of Pre-Service Elementary Mathematics Teachers
Authors: Baran Kaya Tuğba , Çelik Demirci Sedef
Published: May 2022

The present study aimed to determine the estimation skills of elementary education pre-service mathematics teachers and the strategies they adopt in estimation. The case study methodology was employed in the study, and the participants included 37 volunteering students attending the fourth grade in the Primary Education Mathematics Instruction Department at a university located in the Central Anatolia Region in Turkey. The study data were collected with an 8-item Estimation Strategy Test developed by the authors. The test included numerosity, computational, and measurement estimation questions. In addition to making estimations, the students were asked to write the reasons behind their estimations. The descriptive analysis technique was employed to analyze the study data, and the data were coded based on the estimation strategies adopted by the pre-service teachers and similarity of their estimations with the actual values. The data are presented as MAXQDA maps, and excerpts from student responses are also presented. The study findings demonstrated that the responses of most pre-service teachers were similar to the actual value in computational estimations; however, numerosity or measurement estimations were not similar. Furthermore, certain pre-service teachers inclined to conduct the actual operation instead of estimating the results during computational estimation, and directly counted the results in numerosity estimation. Also, it was determined that a significant number of pre-service teachers made computational errors in numerosity and computational estimation.