bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lethal Antimicrobials and the Generality of Cellular Toxicity [University of Findlay]
Authors: Wildman Zachary , Pasternak Megan , Charvat Robert , Rheubert Justin
Published: September 2020

The exceedingly prevalent antibiotic resistance and need for effective antibiotic exploration has led researchers to a diverse array of biologically occurring compounds. In particular, snake venoms have antimicrobial properties and may be beneficial in medicinal development. Numerous studies have been completed on the Viperidae and Elapidae species, but only a handful of studies have been completed on the Colubridae. Although many bioactive components are found in colubrid venom, this dearth of studies may be due to the fact that many Colubridae species lack mammalian specific toxicity and an underlying assumption that antimicrobial activity is linked to general cellular toxicity of venom. This study addresses this assumption and tests hypotheses concerning the correlation between toxicity and antimicrobial effectiveness, in hopes of exploring less toxic venoms that possess antimicrobial properties. Antibacterial activity of snakes and LD50 values were obtained through an exhaustive literature search. Overall antibacterial activity of each snake species was calculated as a percent of effective/ineffective studies. A regression analysis was completed to test for correlation between LD50 and antibacterial effectiveness. Additionally, t-tests were performed to determine if LD50 values differed between effective/ineffective venoms. Preliminary results suggest that antimicrobial activity is not correlated to LD50 values. Furthermore, there is no significant difference in LD50 values between effective and ineffective venoms against the major bacteria tested (E. coli, S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, B. subtilis). These data reject the hypothesis that antimicrobial effectiveness is correlated to venom toxicity. Venom components, that are similar between snake species but lack mammalian cell toxicity may be the primary cause for venoms antimicrobial properties. Therefore, venom of a nontoxic colubrid potentially possesses antimicrobial properties, while being less toxic to patients; increasing the therapeutic index and lending support for further investigation.
PROBIOTIC SUPPLEMENTS ARE SURPRISINGLY DEVOID OF ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE [University of Findlay]
Authors: Kelly Kathryn , McColl Hannah , Hess Leandra , Charvat Robert
Published: September 2020

The normal intestinal microflora plays pivotal roles in aiding with digestion, stimulating the immune system, and providing protection from enteric pathogens. Despite the importance of these organisms, they are often an innocent bystander, caught in the crossfire during antibiotic treatments intended to target and eliminate invading infectious agents. The collateral damage of antibiotic therapy is a reduction in the population of beneficial bacteria as well as an increased risk for more severe infections, including Clostridium difficile. Additionally, the unpleasant condition termed antibiotic-associated diarrhea is an unfortunate consequence of such treatments. In an attempt to alleviate the intestinal distress, individuals are turning to probiotic supplements, which consist of non-pathogenic bacteria purported to provide various health benefits, such as digestive regularity, prevention of disease, and replenishment of the natural microbiota of the human intestinal tract. However, if the bacterial strains present in the physician-recommended probiotic supplements are overly sensitive to antibiotics, then they would fail to reestablish the intestinal microflora during the course of treatment. The purpose of this project was to test the hypothesis that bacterial strains contained within probiotics are resistant to a variety of common antibiotics. Antibiotic susceptibility was assessed for several over-the-counter probiotic supplements via the Kirby-Bauer Disk Diffusion method on medium specific for lactobacilli propagation. After measuring the zones of inhibition, the probiotics were surprisingly sensitive to two-thirds of the antibiotics tested, with the observed growth inhibition greatly exceeding predetermined standards for susceptibility. These results suggest that concomitantly taking probiotic supplements during a course of antibiotics is likely futile for replenishing the intestinal microbiota. We intend to expand the study to include additional antibiotics and supplements of varying formulations in an attempt to gain insight into which strains may exhibit the least sensitivity and be the most effective for recolonization of the gastrointestinal tract.
THE RELATIONSHIP OF DELIVERY METHOD, BIRTH WEIGHT AND RACE ON INFANT MORTALITY [Kennesaw State University]
Authors: Adeyemo Anjie Ashley , Frankel Michael
Published: September 2020

Infant mortality is defined as the number of deaths per 1000 births. The U.S. infant mortality rate in 2014 was reported as 5.8 which is very high compared to other countries such as Japan where the rate 2.1. It is known that infant mortality is a huge problem, but the challenge right now is finding ways to solve this issue. My research aims to see what factors influence infant mortality to see how it can be reduced. I also wanted to learn about which groups are most vulnerable to experiencing high infant death rates. The purpose of this research is to find out how factors such as delivery method, birth weight, and race affect infant mortality to determine how these factors lead to the reduction of mortality rates. I wanted to see if there is a preferred delivery method for small infants compared to larger infants. To evaluate this, I analyzed 2007-2016 U.S. infant mortality data from the CDC and created bar charts relating race, birth weight, and delivery method to the death rate. I found out that the vaginal delivery method has the lower death rate compared to the C-section delivery method, that American Indians who were born through C-sections have the highest death rate out of all the other races and delivery methods, that the death rate is lower for small infants when they are delivered through the C-section method and that it is preferable to deliver larger infants through the vaginal method since the death rate would be lower. These results can serve as then beginning of a more comprehensive look into infant mortality.
Metagenomic Taxonomical Analysis of Soil Microbial Colonies Via qPCR [Dordt College]
Authors: Smith Lillian S , Harmelink Bennett , Ploegstra Jeff
Published: September 2020

A novel metagenomics method was produced for taxonomic analysis of a community of soil bacteria via quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Taxonomies were confirmed via phylum-specific primers targeting various regions of the 16S DNA gene. Through this method, the effects of common herbicides on soil bacterial communities were determined. This method was verified by direct comparison to shotgun sequencing of the same DNA library used for qPCR. Taxonomic analysis of a similar accuracy as metagenomic shotgun sequencing was achieved. The novel method improves the ability to taxonomically analyze soil bacterial communities without specialized equipment for DNA sequencing.
Onna-Bugeisha 'Warrior Women' [University of Central Oklahoma]
Authors: Anderson Beth J , Sheetz-Nguyen Jessica
Published: September 2020

For centuries, women in Japan have been cast as geishas, however, the history of onna-bugeisha or “warrior women” pose a contrasting shadow. These warrior women took up training focused on using the naginata, a sort of spear with a curved blade on the end and the kaiken, a sort of dagger. They trained to protect their homes and villages; in addition, some would even carry their training into battle. In the twelfth century, Hangaku Gozen and Tomoe Gozen, while Nakano Takeko in the nineteenth century were considered to be among the best of the onna-bugeisha. These women led their own armies into battle, some made up of only women and some of only men. Very little is written about these women as Japanese warriors. Tomoe is only briefly mentioned in the Heike Monogatari, a series of stories detailing the Genpei wars (1182-1185). The down play of their importance is evident in the lack of resources recording their lives. This is possibly because their warrior-like-actions threatened the natural masculinity of the samurai. Once the samurai become a rising class structure, the onna-bugeisha began to fall away in importance, second to their husbands. As they moved behind the scenes, their training emerged to represent a method of moral discipline rather than preparing for combat. Their natural warrior way of life faded from their daily lives and the Japanese history. Most of my sources are journal articles giving the base for this research concerning the Samurai and their lives. Other sources include Japanese Girls and Women, a book by Alice Mabel Bacon, published in 1891 and Samurai Women 1184-1877a book by Stephen Turnbull, published in 2010.
Enhancement of endothelial cell adhesion through treatment with CEACAM6 or TNF-? [Medical College of Wisconsin]
Authors: Kalsi Harsimran , Tefft Brandon
Published: September 2020

610,000 Americans die of heart disease every year and over 1 million Americans undergo coronary interventions each year. Risks of these coronary interventions include thrombosis, embolization, infection, and re-narrowing of the artery. However, it is currently believed that improving the adhesion capabilities of endothelial cells may significantly reduce the associated risks of coronary interventions, especially with regards to cardiovascular stent and graft placement procedures. In the present study, we investigated a method to biochemically facilitate endothelial cell adhesion. Using the Reactome database, we identified biochemical methods/targets which could be modified to promote endothelial cell adhesion. Here we describe a potential method of enhancing endothelial cell adhesion through controlled application of two treatment conditions: Carcinoembryonic Antigen-related Cell Adhesion Molecule 6 (CEACAM6) with Fibronectin-1 (CEACAM6+, FN1+) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-? (TNF-?) with Fibronectin-1 (TNF-?+, FN1+). DAPI stained porcine blood outgrowth endothelial cells (BOECs) were exposed to these treatments or a control treatment (FN1+) for one hour. Each treatment/control condition was then placed into a validated parallel plate flow chamber (PPFC) apparatus (flow rate accuracy and laminar flow were both validated) and exposed to a shear stress of 15 dyn/cm2 (to replicate in vivo shear stress conditions) for 30 minutes using saline solution. Fluorescent images were taken of all replicates before and after shear stress testing in order to determine the effects of treatments on cell adhesion. Statistical analysis of preliminary trials indicated that the treatment groups demonstrated a trend towards higher percentage cell retention (or lower percentage cell loss) with 82.3%, 70.2%, and 50.2% average cell retention for TNF-?, CEACAM6, and the control, respectively; however, statistical significance could not be reached using n=2 and p<0.05. Preliminary results of the TNF-? treatment are promising. In the future, an experiment with a larger sample size and a longer shear stress exposure time (e.g. 1 hour) is needed.
Fighting HIV/AIDS with Edutainment: "An Exploratory Study of the Use of Edutainment by the MTV Shuga Campaign" [Kennesaw State University]
Authors: Omole Damie Chidinma
Published: September 2020

Communication strategies have an integral role in society and have been used as tools by health, political and media campaigns. Since the development of these strategies the growing concept of edutainment has emerged and has obtained wide spread use (Tufte, 2002). Yet, since its new popularity most research have focused on traditional strategies for communications in regard to behavioral change. To fully understand the edutainment strategy, we must therefore understand the use and the effects. This is done by evaluating the MTV Shuga Campaign in South Africa through a comprehensive content analysis. The MTV Shuga campaign addresses the issue of HIV/AIDS and safe sex habits with the use of edutainment. With the significant number of people with HIV/AIDS in present society, the importance of prevention programs and campaigns such as MTV Shuga cannot be overemphasized. This study analyzes the effectiveness of edutainment in the MTV Shuga Campaign. It further sheds light on theories of behavioral change such as the social cognition learning theory.
Bacterial Growth in Milpa Polyculture and Monoculture Soils [Emory University]
Authors: Maravillas Kino Emmanuel , Diaz-Almeyda Erika , Gerardo Nicole
Published: September 2020

Polycultures, or multicrops, are groupings of plants that grow more prolifically when planted together as compared to when planted alone as monocultures. One of the best known and widely utilized polycultures is the milpa cropping system - the cultivation of maize, beans, and squash together as “the three sisters.” Milpa has been utilized by the indigenous population of Central America for millennia due to its consistent abundant harvests; today it remains a cornerstone of the region’s tradition, diet, and economic growth. Likely contributing to this legacy is the known association of polycultures and heightened resistance to disease, yet the mechanism underlying this relationship in milpa has largely been unexplored. To assess the health of farm soil exposed to milpa monocrops, bicrops, and multicrops, we measured the growth of two bacterial strains: a Burkholderia strain symbiotic of Anasa tristis (the squash bug, an agricultural pest) and a plant pathogenic Serratia strain that is the primary causal agent of cucurbit yellow vine disease (CYVD). We found that after one week in both the polyculture (corn, bean, and squash) soil and the corn monoculture soil, the growth of Burkholderia was significantly inhibited. However, in both corn & bean and bean & squash biculture soils, the growth of the strain was significantly enhanced. The growth of the Serratia strain did not yield any significant increase or decrease after one week in any milpa soil. We conclude that the cultivation of milpa in its polyculture configuration demonstrates antibiotic activity towards the Burkholderia strain SQ4A. Our investigation supports findings that certain multicrop systems are less susceptible to disease than monocultures possibly due to their greater microbial biomass; thus we can infer a higher amount of root exudates present in the soil, of which a substantial amount may be anti-microbials.
Correction of Spatialization Issues in Acousmatic Music: Remedying Incompatibility Between SpatGRIS and Logic Pro X [Stetson University]
Authors: Levee John Thomas , Wolek Nathan
Published: September 2020

In this project, a technical solution for incompatibility among software programs involved in the spatialization of sound in multichannel speaker arrays was designed and implemented. Acousmatic music is a genre of electronic music intended for playback by a group of loudspeakers with the central concept being calculated ideation by the composer on how sound moves in space. Dr. Robert Normandeau, a pioneer in both acousmatic composition and sound spatialization research, describes the genre as “Cinema for the Ear.” Through his efforts with Groupe de Recherche en Immersion Spatiale (GRIS), Dr. Normandeau created a software plugin, SpatGRIS, which allows composers to send sounds around the space to come seemingly from anywhere in relation to the listener. This allows acousmatic composers to send sounds around, over, or through the audience for a completely immersive experience. Through use of SpatGRIS in conjunction with Logic Pro X, one of the most globally popular Digital Audio Workstations, the plugin has proven useful to create complex sonic movements in acousmatic compositions produced throughout the completion of this research. However, when trying to export these projects in their entirety for playback and sharing, both programs labeled and exported channels differently in octophonic (eight channel) compositions. This difference resulted in sounds from the composition being spatialized incorrectly. Therefore, a method using a free third-party software, which can easily remedy this error and correct the final recordings to their originally intended state, was created to serve as solution.
The Science of History: Why the Egyptians Never Smiled for Pictures [NYU School of Medicine, New York Institute of Technology, Stony Brook School of Medicine]
Authors: Kannikal Jasmine J. , Oak, D.O. Kunal , Zaidi, D.O. Mohammad
Published: September 2020

The Ancient Nubians have historically been renowned for their significant contributions to medicine. In spite of this, extremely poor oral health plagued this population. Paleopathological studies depict pronounced dental deterioration patterns far exceeding normal physiological progression. The advanced wear is popularly attributed to sand particle contamination of their daily diets. However, considering that individual wear mechanisms rarely act in isolation, we propose that adverse biochemical factors arising from regular consumption of tetracycline- fortified beer induced calcium malabsorption, and thus provided a synergistic diathesis in potentiating these effects. We examine these implications within the context of prevalent therapeutic remedies, bone fluorescence labeling data, and sociocultural attitudes when making the link between tetracycline and the compromised integrity of teeth, while citing the emergence of antibiotics actually predating formally-accepted convention.
Bridging the gap between professional development and mentoring in nursing
Authors: Johnson, BSN, RN Asheley , Martin, BSN, RN Mona , Junious RN, PhD. DeMonica L.
Published: September 2020

Problem: Professional development and mentoring future nurse leaders are essential to succession planning in healthcare. Healthy work environments recognize the importance of nurses’ professional development, career satisfaction, and the need for nurses to continue to grow in practice while providing quality patient care (Price & Reichert, 2017). Mentoring plays a critical role in establishing the foundation for success and ongoing career development. In addition, patients also benefit from mentoring because nurses obtain the knowledge, skills and experience that will yield to effective nursing care providers. Aim: The purpose of this project is to provide a resource and educate undergraduate nursing students on how to advance and transition professionally in nursing, by utilizing The Dreyfus Model of Skill Acquisition (DMSA).  The DMSA model has frequently been applied to other disciplines such as administration, education, and research (Pena, 2010).  The theory focuses on assessing nursing needs at different professional growth levels through various stages of the DMSA model (Nursing Theory, 2018). Mentorship and professional development tools will empower undergraduate nursing students to increase confidence levels, and also facilitate the proper skills to function as a prudent nurse. Methodology: An educational session was planned for the Carbaret College of Nursing in Haiti. A self-assessment was to be administered at the beginning of the session to evaluate knowledge of professional development. The course facilitators were to provide a thorough overview of professional development, mentorship, and career development pathways. The facilitators were to elicit responses for audience participation to inquire about interest and professional development goals.  Evaluation: Concluding the presentation, the project participants were to be given an opportunity to ask questions and complete a post assessment survey. Students would be encouraged to seek mentoring opportunities as they progress in their professional careers and given tools for future resources.
Developing A Comprehensive Tool to Support Requirements Analyst During Elicitation Interviews [Kennesaw State University]
Authors: Jean-Charles Norah , Spoletini Paola
Published: September 2020

This research is being conducted to provide requirements analysts with a supportive tool to use during elicitation interviews. In these interviews that were conducted as part of the overall project, stakeholders were asked a series of questions while wearing the Empatica E4 wristband and being recorded through various voice recording platforms. As a part of an ongoing research project, stakeholders have been interviewed using voice recordings and the Empatica E4 wristband to gather biofeedback data. Requirements analyst need support during elicitation interviews because of the ambiguity that arises during communication making it harder to collect proper requirements. In order to provide features such as visualizing the biofeedback collected from the Empatica E4 wristband and the voice waves, questions such as how to create a user-friendly application and how to synchronize the biofeedback and voice data must be researched. In conclusion, creating this mobile application would to assist requirements analysts in carrying out assessments during elicitation interviews.
Managing Hypertension in African American Men
Authors: Eubanks Joy Elise , Montgomery Elisa Mone't
Published: September 2020

Hypertension is the "silent killer" especially in African Americans in the United States specifically, African American men. Two Prairie Viw A&M University's College of Nursing graduate students implemented a project to educate African American men on the management of hypertension in Houston's 3rd Ward neighborhood where they feel most comfortable...the barbershop.
Creating A Web Application to Analyze Biofeedback to Convey Emotion [Kennesaw State University]
Authors: Jean-Charles Norah , Hayes Leonard , Spoletini Paola
Published: September 2020

Gathering requirements is an extremely difficult ask to do during requirements elicitation interviews which are used to collect requirements. The emotion of the interviewee during the elicitation interview is important because it helps to determine the interviewees engagement in the interviewing process, which in turn, assists with collecting quality requirements. Emotions are not easily observed by the eye, but can be detected through biofeedback and voice parameters. With this web application, the biofeedback data that is collected from the Empatica E4 wristband can be displayed to show the likely emotions that the interviewee is experiencing in real-time. Knowing this information could allow the requirements analyst to save the interview by making any necessary adjustments. Using the provided server-to-console method written in C# that the wristband sends the biofeedback information to, the web application will integrate this in order to display the data and likely emotions. In conclusion, the web application will support the interviewer during the elicitation requirements interview by displaying the interviewee’s analyzed biofeedback data.
Assessment of elementary students’ understanding of differences in viral and bacterial infections, and education of proper antibiotic use
Authors: Hahn Lesley , Alkotob Umron , Biegler Melanie , Cooper Claire , Daher Yasmeen , Do Jason , Kang Sun-Woong , Oska Christina , Shanahan Catherine , Whelihan Kate , Lewis Joy H.
Published: September 2020

Intro This project aimed to teach third grade students the differences between viral and bacterial infections through active learning. Presentation effectiveness and students’ retention of information were assessed using a game and post-quiz. This project addresses the school’s concern about the misunderstanding of causes and treatments of illnesses. Methods Students took a pre-quiz in order to establish their base knowledge of bacterial and viral infections. A question and answer style presentation was utilized to teach differences between viral and bacterial illnesses, as well as the appropriate management of each. An interactive game of “doctor and patient” was then played, during which students were given a bacterial or viral infection scenario and choose associated symptoms and management utilizing pre-made answer cards. Finally, a post-quiz was administered to determine short-term change in knowledge. Students were given an informational magnet and flyer to share with parents or guardians to re-enforce the information. Results Of the 20 participants that took the pre-quiz, only a subset of 18 were available to take the post-quiz. The overall analysis of post-test questions portrayed an increased number of correct answers after the presentation and game. Individually, question two was trending towards significance, with a p value of .08.  Despite a lack of significance, students overall scored higher on the post-quiz and were better able to distinguish between types of infections and determine proper management. Conclusion Parents often seek the use of antibiotics for their children even when viral infections are present, which do not warrant antibiotic interventions. Understanding the signs, symptoms, and differences between viral and bacterial infections may help community members seek appropriate care and may reduce requests for antibiotics. It is more likely that community members will use antibiotics correctly if they have a better understanding of when they are warranted. In future studies, with larger parameters, a significant difference can be made in children and their families’ understanding of antibiotics, reducing misuse and misunderstanding within the community as a whole. Limitations Given the overall small sample size in our study, the data were limited statistically and may not be generalizable. Additionally, two students that took the pre-test quiz were not available to take the post- test, further limiting our sample size. We did not pair data between the pre-test and post-test due to a desire to preserve student anonymity. This pairing may have allowed for further analysis of specific results.
The Effect of Stepfathers on Self-Perception and Familial Support
Authors: Freeman Kamilah Adiva , Yelderman Logan A.
Published: September 2020

The National Survey on American Life – Adolescent Supplemental data was designed to lay the foundation for future research in early identification of mental disorders for adults. The inclusion of social conditions adds to this detailed measure of mental health and provides a wealth of information that can be observed about mental well-being in adolescents. In particular, we used this data set to explore the interplay between self-perception and family relationships based on the absence of a biological father among African-American and Caribbean adolescents. This study provides a quantitative analysis of the difference between the perceived self and familial factors for those with a stepfather and those without a stepfather. As evident in the findings, those with a stepfather reported to have higher self-esteem, a more positive perception of self, and a more uplifting family model compared to those without a stepfather. These findings were detected by noting the significance values for a one-way ANOVA and observing the mean differences among the selected variables. Some discrepancy did exist, however; self-esteem with regards to education was reported to be lower for adolescents with a stepfather than without. This could be attributed to an overachievement mentality by those from single parent homes, alluding to the idea that adolescents without stepfathers possess intrinsic motivation and have the drive to attain a higher education. The data showed the presence of a father figure enhances self-perception and familial support, but not academic motivation.
IoT Based Home Security
Authors: Bakhai Jinal , Eapen Annie , Rao Aishwarya , Mendon Nidhishree , Padmanabha Dr.Vijaya
Published: September 2020

Internet of Things (IoT) allows real-world objects to be connected and managed through the internet. IoT is used to make any device smart and is thus a booming concept worldwide. Being a part of the era of the internet, it has become easier to experiment and develop new ideas. Many such ideas have been implemented, changing people’s lifestyles in general. Smart home technology is known to bring about more comfort and convenience at our homes. We have decided to stretch this concept out further to implement the concept of IoT into the security of our homes. The proposed model focuses on the security and ease of allowing access to the house. The leverage obtained by choosing this over other forms of home security is the ease of allowing access and monitoring our homes at any time and from anywhere. Our overall system is also focused on being made at a budget so that all sections of the society can experience this convenience and safety. In a world where technology is advancing at such a rapid rate, it is to be seen that everyone plays a part and stays up to date.
The Effectiveness of Knowledge Management and Business Intelligence for Increasing Financial Performance. (A Case Study: Petroleum Development Oman)
Authors: ALSiyabi Nasra Hamed , Goel Nupur
Published: September 2020

The purpose of this study is to know about the effectiveness of integrating knowledge management and business intelligence for increasing the financial performance of Petroleum Development Oman Company. Based on the impact of this integration to increase the organization’s performance, the data has been collecting through primary and secondary sources. The main objective of this study is the integration between knowledge management and business intelligence and its effect on the financial performance of the company. In this research, two methods were discussed as direct influence and indirect influence. In the direct influence method, the company will use information that is generated by the process of knowledge management system and prepare the reports through business intelligence system for the company’s financial plans and activities. After that company can make appropriate financial decision to improve and develop the current financial plan and strategies. Another way is the indirect influence of the integration through focuses on intellectual capital and human resources development through education and training, enhancing innovation and using their capacities and skills in work. However, both influences contribute to increase efficiency, productivity, sales, profits, and reduced cost. Thus improving the company's performance and its financial performance, which contributes to sustainable the company in its business field market and maintains its competitive advantage.
Intelligent vehicular maintenance system using IoT, Mobile application, internet-enabled vehicles and vehicular could
Authors: Al-Jaafari Noor Ghusen , Ahmed Imran , Bhatt Anjum Zameer , Khan Mohammed Samiulla
Published: September 2020

With the rapid increase of autonomous vehicles, safe and secure use and vehicle maintenance have become a concern for some vehicle owners. Safe and secure use of vehicles and maintenance is always essential, the current systems lack safety and security in autonomous vehicles. This paper is aimed at suggesting an autonomous maintenance system via IoT and mobile technology to indorse the safer and secure use and maintenance of autonomous vehicles. The development of cloud computing, internet-of-things, wireless sensor networks and so forth, has opened a new horizon for solving problems associated with the safer and secure use of the autonomous vehicles and their maintenance. This paper presents intelligent IoT enabled mobile application for the safer and secure use of autonomous vehicles along with the maintenance, the paper also discusses how the data from this system can be used in the vehicular cloud and support in autonomous internet-connected vehicles
Anatomy Observational Outreach: A Multimodal Activity to Enhance Anatomical Education in Undergraduate Students
Authors: Mathis Monica , Gonzalez-Sola Maryvi , Rosario Martin
Published: September 2020

Undergraduate students often have difficulty relating the Anatomy and Physiology (A&P) course to their future careers, which may lead to difficulties in graduate school. Thus, the purpose of the Anatomy Observational Outreach (AOO) was to help students make the connection and application between the information presented in A&P labs and real human cadaver, which could encourage students to pursue graduate degrees. The outreach consisted of 99 undergraduate A&P students from Texas Woman’s University in the biology, nursing, kinesiology, health studies, physical therapy, and occupational therapy departments. The methodology consisted of a 30-minute orientation, a graduate student panel, a Q&A session, a 60-minute cadaver observation, and Anatomage table demonstration, amongst others. The impact of AOO was measured by 10-question pre-tests and identical post-tests (1 point each) along with a survey at the end. The tests result demonstrated a significant increase [t(62)=-9.3, p=0.001] in anatomical knowledge. The survey results showed that out of 99 participants, 84% of the students interested in applying to graduate school, 32% of students felt that all of the teaching tools were useful, while 68% concluded the cadaver prosections were the most potent sole educational aid. 65% of the students were ethnic minorities, and 97% were gender minorities. We conclude that AOO yielded distinguished results in retention, and application of A&P knowledge, along with increased interest and excitement for pursuing a STEM and Allied Health degrees.
Use of Machine Learning Algorithms in improving the efficiency of flight check-in in Muscat International Airport
Authors: Al Qassabi Abdullah Saif Mohammed , Jayakumari C.
Published: September 2020

Check-in area in airports is the first step before departure. Usually these areas are very crowded by the passengers who are very sensitive about the time before their flight check-in. Thus, delays while check-in process will have an impact on the passengers in which will have a consequences on the airline company. Delays in check-in process can happen due to various kind of reasons such as airline agent absence where the airline agent is not available at the check-in desk when the time of check-in is started. Artificial intelligence and machine learning are a computer science technologies that can help preventing such problems from occurring. In this paper the machine learning algorithms are studied to detect the staff availability in the check-in desk. The staff is detected by a camera using facial recognition algorithm of machine learning and then analysis are made upon the results found. Whenever there is no staff found the system will notify the airline company and send an expected delay time. The implementation of this solution can be built as a smart based system i.e. based on artificial intelligence and machine learning concepts. All solutions suggested can reduce cost and effect on airline companies and passengers rates respectively.
A Critical Investigation on the Impact of Employee’s Engagement on Employee’s Productivity at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry-Oman
Authors: Al-Maamari Haitham Mohammed , Matriano Maria
Published: September 2020

The theory of employee engagement is part of human resources management nowadays as it is a key to the success of companies around the world. Innovative institutions seek to understand the employees to increase their engagement, job satisfaction, and productivity that lead to more profitability for company. This study is about the critical investigation on the impact of employee’s engagement to employee’s productivity in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI)-Oman. This study has applied the descriptive research design using both qualitative and quantitative methods. Managers and employees in the Ministry were interviewed to understand in depth the impression of employees about their engagement in the Ministry. The results revealed that most of the employees are not engaged at MOCI. The recommendation aimed at providing an effective employee engagement framework for the ministry’s culture that suits the nature of the employees. This study can be used as well by other government sectors that follow the same approach as the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MOCI) to increase the overall level of employee engagement.
A Critical Study on the Contributions of Training Program Application in the Success of Organization Development and Training Processes in Oman A Case Study of TRC
Authors: Alabri Khalid Rashid Hamed , Matriano Maria Teresa
Published: September 2020

Most government sector in the region face the issue of lack of local training provided for the employees. Research shows the constant development in the workplace and the need to develop employee knowledge and experience through constant training. To provide an easy solution for sectors and institutions to communicate and present their needs when it comes to training programs and courses, this research aims to create a platform through mobile application to bring together government sectors and local teaching institutions to provide required training programs for employees. This is done by investigating on the issues of accessibility of the Training programs in Oman, evaluate the importance and impact of training programs on employee development, introduce a training program application and investigate on the usage benefits on the Training Program Application within government sectors. Since this research introduces a new concept, it asks: What are the issues facing organizations when it comes to training programs? To what extent does the application influence employee development? How complex is the development of a Training Program Application? And, how will government sectors benefit from the Application?

Aside from the literature review, interviews were also made with local experts from government sectors to shed light on the effect of lack of training on the current employee situation. Online surveys were distributed to a group of employees from different departments in some local government sectors. Analysis of the responses shows the need and interest of employees on the issue of training, as the majority of employees have an interest in local courses and would use the application to benefit their work experience. The results indicate the Training Program Application affects positively on the government sectors and can provide all the needed training courses with less cost and influence employees.
Health and Safety Risk Assessments in Contruction Sites in Oman
Authors: Mustafa Abdelrhman Magdy Mohammed , Joe Adams
Published: September 2020

It is well known to everyone that construction field is a very dangerous workplace especially if health and safety regulations are not applied in a professional way. In this project a field of survey was conducted through making interviews with experts in risk management and in health and safety risk assessment in the construction field.  In order to understand and evaluate the type of risks and hazards which are normally found at any construction project, the issue in sites were analyzed in five different categories. Analysis were done based on the responses from the professionals involved in the construction site through using software.  The aim of this project is study the awareness of  the participants of carrying out health and safety risk assessments in a professional way, to identify the most risks found in the construction field such as; working at heights, working without using the safety equipment, working on unstable roofs. From the studies, it was concluded the following points  Recognize and control hazards in your workplace , set risk management standards, based on acceptable safe practices and legal requirements, save costs by being proactive instead of reactive. All the respondents who were part of this project have said that it is very important to apply the occupational risk assessment matrix with considering the local regulations of the country.
Automation of Processes in Omantel Wholesale
Authors: Al Hinai Aisha , Deena Dr.
Published: September 2020

Telecommunications sector is often considered as one of the most rapidly changing dynamic industries in the world. Products and services of this sector are changed very quickly. Moreover, the business of the telecommunications company develops and progresses through many internal processes and technologies at its core. The success of any enterprise in this dynamically developing external environment is decided to a great extent on its ability to adapt to swiftly in accordance with the changing market needs. Adopting automation process is one of the key strategy that is adopted by many enterprises that is most effectively functioning in the modern telecommunications industrial sector. The growth of the telecommunications sector in any country is highly looked upon as it is a main priority for any national economy. Omantel is the flagship company and the pioneer in telecommunication sector in the Sultanate of Oman and is currently the market leader. However, it is facing stiff challenges from the time when telecommunication sector got opened for private players. Assessing this situation there is a strong trigger to adopt automation process for its operations, especially in the wholesale department. This project attempts to investigate how significant the various triggers effect the decision of adopting automation process in Omantel Wholesale department. Then, it attempts to statistically quantify the influence of various key factors that affects the adoption of process automation in the Omantel wholesale department. Lastly a decision would be recommended by testing of hypothesis either in favour of adopting automation process or accepting the alternative that adopting automation process is not required for the time being.
Importance of Smart Channel for National Statistics and Information in the Context of Sultanate of Oman
Authors: Al-Amri Miad Taqi Said , Al Rawahi Zahra , Naidu Vikas Rao
Published: September 2020

The National Center for Statistics and Information (NCSI) in Oman was established in accordance to the Royal Decree 31/2012 affiliated to the Supreme Council for Planning. It is one of the most important sources for the development and sustainability of Oman's economy and is one of the entities, which have an information bank that helps to create Oman’s strategic plan. Most of this information is being used by high-level planners, which include governments, semi governments, and private sectors through the portal and other media sources. However, the majority of the information in terms of statistics is made available to the public through newspapers and magazines. This research paper focuses on the need for developing an information system channel through which NCSI can communicate and pass its information to every individual in the Sultanate of Oman with ease. Some information is required for study at the school level as well and thus, by considering various HCI (human-computer interaction) principles, the authors will be proposing a framework for a new electronic platform, which will be based on interactive media platform, which could be made available on Smart devices as well. This will increase the scope of this research and the outcomes will benefit the majority of the people. The need for the proposed system is evaluated through a survey and the outcomes are analyzed. It was found that the majority of the participants do not have clear information about various services and data provided by NCSI. Further, it was noted that most of the participants agreed that such an e-channel would facilitate to receive various statistics on a timely basis. This research would also include the study of similar systems in other countries and provide recommendations to design an effective framework.
A strategy to overcome the effect of economic recession on construction industry in Oman
Authors: Al-Tobi Yahya Khalfan , Manchiryal Ram Kishore
Published: September 2020

Construction industry firms are affected by the financial fluctuations in the local and international markets. World countries have been exposed to many financial recessions such as the 2008 recession and the sharp decline in oil prices since 2014, which caused a major financial recession in countries that depend heavily on oil income in their economy like the Sultanate of Oman, where they constitute 70% of the national income. The research objective is to review previous literature review of some countries that have been exposed to economic recessions and how did these countries acclimatization to the recession. It will also focus on the strategies that followed by these countries to get out from the recession. Then, the research will identify the effects of the recession in the construction industry and the impact of it to the contractor in the Sultanate of Oman. Finally, a strategy will be suggested for the construction industry firm to use it through the economic recession to survive. The research methodology relies mainly on information provided by the Government of Oman through the National Center for Statistics and Information and through interviews with various construction specialists. The results show that most of the construction industry firms have been subjected to a great pressure due to the economic recession. The suggested strategy includes a procedure that assists construction firms to reduce expenses, how to bid and get new projects and create a new management style for the firm to cope with the developments and the volatility of the financial market.
Smart Parking System using IOT
Authors: Al Qaidhi Waleed Zahir , Sohail Muhammad
Published: September 2020

With the development of road infrastructure, there is a significant increase in number of private vehicles which results in traffic congestion, directly effecting the flow of traffic, and life of citizens. Parking becomes a significant problem in the urban areas (Cao & Menendez, 2015). The research paper proposes a smart parking system to solve the current parking problem at affordable cost. Previously automatic car parking system were proposed to reduce the space or size required for parking especially in crowded places with few spaces, such as a multi-story car park providing cars with parking on multiple levels stacked vertically to increase the number of parking spaces (Ibrahim, 2017). The proposed system utilizes the latest advancement in the Information and Communication Technologies and consists of  four layers: Application, Middleware, Networking, and sensor layer. It offers environmental friendly, reduces harmful emissions during parking, and is a computerized system pre-programmed without human intervention. The research paper highlights the comparison of traditional parking system with smart parking system using IoT. The paper also proposes a framework for smart parking system.
Detection of Skin Diseases Using Matlab
Authors: Al Shabibi Ismail Saif Sulaiman , Koottala Sreedevi
Published: September 2020

It is a great challenge for doctors even with the existence of emerging technology, to diagnose the symptoms of a skin disease. Many people are exposed to serious skin diseases that require them to go to hospitals and go through a number of different expensive medical examinations which takes up to days. The prosed work can solve the above problem to an extent , through the design of a program by MATLAB, a method based on vertical image segmentation, and is proposed to identify three various types of skin diseases, namely, Acne, Cancer and Psoriasis dermatitis. The work is a key to detect a range of symptoms in just a few seconds, making the diagnosis more intuitive and realistic. The aim of this project is the classification of different diseases based on images given as input. The project is based on MATLAB software platform. The images are collected from various publicly available databases Dermnet, DermWeb, etc. Firstly, the sample images of four skin diseases need to be preprocessed. Secondly, the vertical image is segmented and made corresponding geometric transformation. Based on this, three types of skin diseases’ features are extracted, and their correlated parameters of feature texture and pixels of lesion areas are collected through image segmentation. Finally, the symptoms of Acne, Cancer and Psoriasis dermatitis are identified by utilizing the support vector machine (SVM) method in order to improve identification accuracy and provide an interface to doctors.