bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of genetic background on the evolution of Vancomycin-Intermediate Staphylococcus aureus (VISA)
Authors: Su Michelle , Davis Michelle H. , Peterson Jessica , Solis-Lemus Claudia , Satola Sarah W. , Read Timothy D.
Published: July 2021

Vancomycin-intermediate Staphylococcus aureus (VISA) typically arises through accumulation of chromosomal mutations that alter cell-wall thickness and global regulatory pathways. Genome-based prediction of VISA requires understanding whether strain background influences patterns of mutation that lead to resistance. We used an iterative method to experimentally evolve three important methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strain backgrounds—(CC1, CC5 and CC8 (USA300)) to generate a library of 120 laboratory selected VISA isolates. At the endpoint, isolates had vancomycin MICs ranging from 4 to 10 μg/mL. We detected mutations in more than 150 genes, but only six genes (already known to be associated with VISA from prior studies) were mutated in all three background strains (walK, prs, rpoB, rpoC, vraS, yvqF). We found evidence of interactions between loci (e.g., vraS and yvqF mutants were significantly negatively correlated) and rpoB, rpoC, vraS and yvqF were more frequently mutated in one of the backgrounds. Increasing vancomycin resistance was correlated with lower maximal growth rates (a proxy for fitness) regardless of background. However, CC5 VISA isolates had higher MICs with fewer rounds of selection and had lower fitness costs than the CC8 VISA isolates. Using multivariable regression, we found that genes differed in their contribution to overall MIC depending on the background. Overall, these results demonstrated that VISA evolved through mutations in a similar set of loci in all backgrounds, but the effect of mutation in common genes differed with regard to fitness and contribution to resistance in different strains.
Investigation of Hearing Impaired Handball Players' Self-Esteem Symptom Levels: A Case Study
Authors: UCA Merve , ÇOBAN Ülkü
Published: July 2021

Benlik saygısı, eğitim psikolojisi, kişilik psikolojisi ve sosyal psikoloji çerçevesinde en çok araştırma yapılan alanlardan biridir. Ancak toplumsal bir olgu olarak engellilik, toplumsal ilişkiler açısından her zaman yaygın olarak
temel bir sorun olarak görülmüştür. Özellikle engelli çocukların benlik saygılarının gelişiminde önemli rol oynayan çeşitli spor etkinliklerine katılımları oldukça sınırlıdır. Dolayısı ile işitme engelli çocukların ergenlik döneminin
önemli temel kritik unsurlarından biri olan çeşitli spor aktivitelerine katılamamaları onların dışlanma hislerinin artmasına ve benlik saygılarının olumsuz yönde etkilenmesine neden olmaktadır. Bu çalışmanın amacı hentbol oynayan
işitme engelli sporcuların benlik saygı belirti düzeylerinin incelenmesidir. Bu amaçla yapılan araştırmanın verileri 2019 yılında elde edilmiş olup örneklem grubunda 39 işitme engelli ve 39 kontrol grubu olmak üzere toplam 78 kişiden
oluşturulmuştur. Araştırma da Demografik Yapı Bilgi Formu ve Rosenberg Benlik Saygısı Ölçeği kullanılmıştır. Elde edilen veriler SPSS programında analiz edilmiştir. Araştırma sonucunda, işitme engelli ve kontrol gurubundaki hentbolcuların
ANOVA anlamlılık değeri (p) = sig. > 0,05 büyük olduğu için işitme engelli ve kontrol grubunda yer alan sporcuların karşılaştırılan ortalama değerleri arasında istatiksel olarak anlamlı olmadığı belirlenmiştir. Bu çalışma, işitme
engellilerin spor aktivitelerine katılımlarının benlik saygısına olumlu yönde katkı sağladığını göstermiştir. Sonuç olarak engelli ve engelli olmayan hentbolcular arasında benlik saygısı açısından anlamlı bir fark bulunmamıştır.
Last Olympiad of Ancient Age: Antioch
Authors: KORKMAZ Sevda , BAĞIRGAN Tanju
Published: July 2021

Antikçağda ‘Doğunun kraliçesi’ olarak anılan Antakya, kuruluşundan itibaren kozmopolit bir yapıya sahip olmuş, bu sayede farklı birçok insan, sistem ve etkinlik bünyesinde yer bulabilmiştir. Dünya üzerinde iz bırakan birçok medeniyetin
hüküm sürebildiği ve bıraktıkları miraslarının korunabildiği bu şehrin önemli özelliklerinden birisi de gerçekleştiği bilinen son olimpiyatlara ev sahipliği yapmış olmasıdır. Antakya Olimpiyat Oyunları, gelişmişliği ile birlikte
belirli bir dönemin oyunlar merkezi olmuş, şehir atletik müsabakaların merkezi konumuna gelmiştir. Yüzyıllar boyunca farklı etnik, dinsel ve kültürel toplulukları bir araya getiren oyunlar, Antakya şehrinin sporla olan bağlantısı
ve geçmişini de ortaya koymaktadır. Her ne kadar oyunların Anadolu coğrafyasında çeşitli yerlerde yapıldığına dair bilgilere ‘söylence’ olarak yaklaşılsa ve oyunlara dair Türkçe literatürdeki araştırmaların yetersizliği bu bakışı
güçlendirse de doğunun kraliçesi olan Antakya ‘olimpik tacı’nı uzun yıllar boyunca takmaya devam etmiştir. Elean modelindeki gibi kayıt ve ön elemelerin yapıldığı bir aylık hazırlık dönemi hakemlerin gözetimi altında gerçekleşmiş,
oyunlar ise Daphne’deki stadyumda düzenlenmiştir. Yarışmaların yapılış günleri, türü ve sırasına dair bilgiler kısıtlı olsa da güreş, koşma, trompet çalma, pankrasyon, boks, araba yarışı, trajedilerden şarkı söyleme ve ilahileri
okuma gibi yarışmalar yapıldığından bahsedilmektedir. Oyunlar Hristiyanlık inancının benimsenmesinden dolayı değil, imparatora karşı çıkan bir isyanda Antakya şehrinin verdiği destek sebebiyle yasaklanarak sona ermiştir. Bu çalışma,
antik çağın son olimpiyatı olmasından dolayı olimpiyatların bitişini etkileyen etmenler için önemli bir simge olan Antakya olimpiyatları özelinde ayrıca Anadolu coğrafyasının antik dönemdeki sporla ilişkisindeki kökleri, literatür
tarama yöntemiyle ortaya koymayı hedeflemektedir.
Analysing the Relationship Between School Administrators’ Perceptions of Technological Leadership Competencies and Innovation Management Competencies
Authors: Barış YILDIZ Baran , TÜYSÜZ Harun , ÖZTÜRK Mustafa
Published: July 2021

Bu çalışma, 2023 Eğitim Vizyonu’nda yer alan okul yöneticilerinin mesleki becerilerinin geliştirilmesi hedefinden hareketle okul yöneticilerinin teknoloji liderliği yeterlik algıları ile yenilik yönetimi yeterlikleri arasındaki ilişkinin
incelenmesi amacıyla yapılan nicel bir çalışmadır. Bu araştırmada, genel tarama modellerinden ilişkisel tarama modeli kullanılmıştır. Bu araştırmanın evrenini, 2019-2020 eğitim öğretim yılı İstanbul ili Avcılar ilçesinde devlet
okullarında görev yapan 172 yönetici oluşturmaktadır. Araştırmada örneklem alınmayarak evrende yer alan tüm okul yöneticilerine ulaşılmaya çalışılmış olup, bu çalışma 132 yöneticiyle gerçekleştirilmiştir. Verilerin toplanması için
Hacıfazlıoğlu, Karadeniz ve Dalgıç’ın (2011a) geliştirmiş olduğu Teknoloji Liderliği Yeterlik Ölçeği ve Bülbül (2012a) tarafından geliştirilmiş olan Okullarda Yenilik Yönetimi Ölçeğinin yönetici formu kullanılmıştır. Teknoloji
Liderliği Yeterlik Algıları Ölçeği ve Okul Yöneticilerinin Eğitim Örgütlerinde Yenilik Yönetimi Ölçeği puanlarının; cinsiyet, öğrenim durumu, branş, görev ünvanı ve bilişim teknolojileri alanında hizmet içi eğitim alma durumu değişkenine
göre farklılaşıp farklılaşmadığını belirlemek üzere Mann Whitney-U Testi, görev yapılan okul türü değişkenine göre farklılaşıp farklılaşmadığını belirlemek üzere Kruskal Wallis-H Testi uygulanmıştır. Araştırmanın sonuçlarına göre,
okul yöneticilerinin teknoloji liderliği yeterlik algılarının yeterli; yenilik yönetimi yeterlik algılarının ise çok yeterli olduğu tespit edilmiştir. Cinsiyet, öğrenim durumu, branş ve görev yapılan okul türüne göre anlamlı bir
fark bulunmamış iken; görev unvanı ve bilişim teknolojileri alanında hizmet içi eğitim alma değişkenine göre anlamlı farklılık bulunmuştur. Okul müdürlerinin puan ortalamaları, müdür yardımcılarından ve bilişim teknolojileri alanında
hizmet içi eğitim alan okul yöneticilerinin puan ortalamaları, hizmet içi eğitim almayanlara göre daha yüksektir. Okul yöneticilerinin teknoloji liderliği yeterlik algıları ile yenilik yönetimi yeterlikleri arasında pozitif yönde
ve yüksek düzeyde korelasyon tespit edilmiştir.
The Relation Between Flight Mobility and Spread of Covid-19: A Study in the Balkan Countries
Authors: DAĞLI Demet , AYVAZ Ednan
Published: July 2021

Covid-19 virüsü ilk kez Çin’in Wuhan kentine ortaya çıkmış ve ardından dünya genelinde hızlı bir yayılım göstermiştir. Salgın dünya genelinde benzeri görülmemiş bir kriz etkisi yaratırken, krizden en çok etkilenen sektörlerin başında
havacılık sektörü gelmektedir. Havacılık endüstrisinin sağladığı insan hareketliliği Covid-19 virüsünün yayılması için bir tehdit olarak algılanmış ve söz konusu yayılımı engellemek için hükümetlerin aldığı ilk önlemler, karantina
uygulamalarının yanı sıra, ulusal ve uluslararası seyahat kısıtlamalarının getirilmesi yönünde olmuştur. Hükümetler tarafından uygulanan yasaklar ve kısıtlamaların etkisiyle havacılık endüstrisi ciddi bir talep düşüşüyle karşı
karşıya kalmıştır. Bu durum havacılık endüstrisinde faaliyet gösteren işletmeler için büyük oranda gelir kaybına yol açmış ve havacılık işletmeleri zor durumlar yaşamıştır. Bu çalışmanın amacı, uçuş hareketliliği ve Covid-19 virüsünün
yayılımı arasındaki ilişkinin incelenmesidir. Çalışma kapsamında, dokuz Balkan ülkesinin her birinde ilk vakanın görüldüğü tarihten itibaren 31 Aralık’a kadar gerçekleşen günlük uçuş trafiği ve Covid-19 vaka sayısı arasındaki ilişki,
korelasyon analizi yöntemi kullanılarak incelenmiştir. Çalışmada gerçekleştirilen korelasyon analizi için, Dünya Sağlık Örgütü (DSÖ) tarafından yayınlanan günlük vaka sayıları ve EUROCONTROL tarafından yayınlanan günlük uçuş sayıları
kullanılmıştır. Sırbistan, Karadağ ve Kosova uçuş ve vaka sayısı ile ilgili günlük verilere ulaşılamadığı için bu çalışmanın kapsamı dışında bırakılmıştır. Yapılan analiz sonucunda, uçuş hareketliliği ve Covid-19 yayılımı arasındaki
ilişkinin ülkeler arasında farklılık gösterildiği saptansa da genel olarak istatistiksel olarak anlamlı ancak çok zayıf bir ilişki bulunduğu görülmüştür.
University Symphony Orchestras and Concert Repertoire In Turkey
Authors: AYDIN Bahar , BELKIS Özlem , CANBEY Ebru GÜNER
Published: July 2021

Üniversiteler sadece teknolojik ve bilimsel değil, toplumsal ve kültürel değerlerin üretilmesine de destek olan, organize ettikleri sanatsal ve yaratıcı faaliyetlerle sosyal inovasyona katkı sunan kurumlardır. Bu bağlamda üniversiteler
sanatın çok çeşitli alanlarında yapımlar, üretimler organize eder, topluma sunarlar. Bazı üniversitelerin bünyelerinde bulunan senfoni orkestralarının bu bağlamda önemli bir rol üstlendiği de görülmektedir. Bu çalışma, Türkiye
üniversitelerinin senfoni orkestralarının konser repertuvarlarını incelemeyi, bu bağlamda bir durum analizi yapmayı amaçlamaktadır. Çalışmamız kapsamında Bilkent Üniversitesi Senfoni Orkestrası (BSO), Hacettepe Üniversitesi Senfoni
Orkestrası (HSO) ve Dokuz Eylül Üniversitesi Senfoni Orkestrası’nın (DESO) en çok konser verdikleri yıllar ele alınmış, konser repertuvarlarındaki eserler nitelik ve niceliksel veriler ile karşılaştırmalı bir yaklaşımla incelenerek
sunulmuştur. Orkestraların konser sayıları, bu konserlerde icra edilen eserlerin sayıları, bestecileri, eser türleri, solist olarak yer alan çalgılar, konuk solist ya da şefler, yapılan turneler incelenmiştir. Araştırmanın sonuçlarında,
üniversite orkestralarının tamamının konser programlarında yabancı bestecilerin eserlerinin ağırlıkta olmasına karşılık ilk seslendirmesi yapılan eserlerde ise Türk bestecilerin eserlerinin ağırlıklı olarak yer aldığı görülmüştür.
Solo çalgılarda çoğunlukla piyano ve kemanın öne çıktığı, bunun yanında vokal eserlerinin de yer aldığı görülmüştür. Üniversite senfoni orkestralarının ağırladıkları solist sanatçılarla konserin gerçekleşeceği hafta yaptıkları
masterclass ya da derslerin, eğitime büyük katkı sağladığı da özel olarak dikkati çekmektedir.
Development and Validation of Group Decision Making Index: A Measure of Collective Decision Making among Self Help Groups
Authors: Goswamy Pragya , Kashyap S. K. , Bhardwaj Neelam , Kameswari V. L. V. , Kushwaha G. S.
Published: July 2021

Group decision-making is a participatory process in which multiple individuals collectively perform situation analysis, think of alternative courses of action, and select the best alternative to solve the problem. Similarly, in the context of Self-help groups, group decision-making is a necessary process. However, decisions made collectively tend to be more effective than decisions made by a single individual. Still, group members face various constraints while group decision making like social pressure toward conformity, individual domination, conflicting secondary goals, undesirable compromises, ambiguous responsibility, and time. Most studies suggest that SHG members perceived problems faced during group decision-making as a significant constraint. Considering a shortage of empirical research indicating the exact reason for group failures, what makes a group successful, and the factors that lead to ineffective group decision-making, the study aimed at systematically and scientifically developing a group decision-making index to study the group decision-making of the Self-help groups, various factors affecting the group decision-making process, and quantitatively measuring how different groups vary in their group decision-making ability, Thus, an instrument was developed using a two-step method, i.e., instrument designing and judgmental evidence. After that, the validity of the instrument was computed through Item-Content Validity Index (I-CVI) method.  Finally, it was narrowed down to 48 statements distributed among ten indicators. The reliability coefficient of the tool was found to be 0.80. Thus, it was found that the group decision-making indexes had appropriate content validity and internal consistency to measure and quantify the group decision-making process of selected Self-help Groups. The study recommends the use of the developed index for studying the root cause of ineffectiveness in group decision-making in various Self-help groups, which will help in the formulation of strategy for overcoming the constraints related to group decision-making as reported by various SHGs.
Anti-graft Institutions and Corruption in Nigeria (1975-2016): A Historical Perspective
Authors: Ayuba Larab, Tangshak , Elijah Yusuf, Izang
Published: July 2021

Anti-graft institution by every examination is established to check and balance the problem of corruption in any country. The Nigerian state since independence has been bedeviled with issues of corruption at every regimes/governments despite the presence of anti-graft agencies. Hence, it is within the core of this perspective that this paper anchored to examine “anti-graft institutions and corruption” in Nigeria from 1975-2016. Analyzing this paper from a historical lens would give us a view, as to whether, if these anti-corruption institutions have been able to tackle the issue of corruption ravaging the country or not? Findings from this research revealed that anti-graft institutions in Nigeria since 1975 have not been able to tackled the question of corruption in the country effectively. It was also found that corruption has been on the increase despite the existence of anti-graft institutions structured to mitigate corruption. The paper adopts the Historical Research Methods (HRM) using qualitative technique approach. Secondary sources, as well as online (internet) materials were consulted. The paper concludes by way of submission, on the failure of anti-graft institution to tackle the questions of corruption in Nigeria.
Risk Factors Associated with Respiratory Infections in Poultry in Peri-Urban Areas of Dakar and Thies (Senegal)
Authors: Kadja M. C. , Anitcheou J. , Djossa G. J. , Sabi S. Sourokou , Laleye F. X. , Kane Y. , Kaboret Y.
Published: July 2021

The objective of this study is identifying the main risk factors for the emergence of respiratory diseases in poultry farms in the Senegalese region of Niayes. It took place in the period from August 2018 to February 2019 in 45 modern poultry farms in the regions of Dakar and Thiès. The analysis of the results of our study showed that the farms are very close to houses and accessible to foreign people in

44.4% and 53.1% of cases respectively. Litter was treated before use in only 24.4% of farms. Respiratory diseases are the most frequent diseases (75.6%) and are found in

80% of broiler farms. The diagnosis of respiratory diseases was made by poultry advisors (75.6%) and was based mainly on memoranda, clinical signs and autopsy. The training of poultry farmers in poultry farming (p < 0.1), the proximity of farms to homes (p < 0.05), and the accessibility of the farm to outsiders (p < 0.01) influence the occurrence of respiratory problems on poultry farms.  Similarly, factors such as type of poultry speculation (p < 0.01), number of birds (p < 0.1), type of buildings (p < 0.01), bedding treatment (p < 0.05), and watering system (p < 0.05) appeared to be strongly related to the history of respiratory problems on poultry farms. Recommendations were made to improve environmental conditions and biosecurity measures to reduce the pressure of respiratory infections in poultry farms.
Agricultural Residues as an Alternative Source of Fibre for the Production of Paper in Kenya-A Review
Authors: Otieno John Odhiambo , Okumu Treezer Nelly , Adalla Morelly , Ogutu Fredrick , Oure Boniface
Published: July 2021

The pulp and paper industry is primarily dependent on fibrous wood for pulp and paper production. However, this over-dependence on fibrous wood poses serious environmental challenges such as the diminishing of the fibrous wood stocks, deforestation, emission of greenhouse gases, and global warming. Therefore, to mitigate these environmental challenges associated with its utilization for paper and pulp production, other sustainable raw material sources can also be considered for the production of paper and pulp. There are enormous benefits associated with the utilization of non-wood fibres as an alternative and sustainable raw materials source for the production of paper and pulp. These benefits have in the recent past prompted millers in China, India, Brazil, and the USA to consider the utilization of non-wood fibres in paper and pulp production.

In Kenya, the pulp and paper industry is very much dependent on fibrous wood for production and the industry is yet to fully embrace the utilization of nonwood fibres for paper and pulp production. Further, the dependence on fibrous wood has contributed significantly to the decline of paper pulp and paper production, deforestation, and rise in paper importations due to insufficient raw material supplies. The importation of paper and pulp products has further led to the collapse of the paper industry in Kenya. The sector stands a chance of revival and vibrancy through the utilization of the abundant agricultural residues and feedstocks lying in the agricultural fields across the country. Similar experiences elsewhere have proved that the abundance of agricultural waste can be utilized for the production of paper and pulp due to their excellent fibre content for specialty papers, and easy pulpability. The agricultural residues are therefore considered a quintessential alternative and sustainable source of raw materials for the pulp and paper industry. Moreover, their utilization will mitigate environmental impacts such as deforestation, climate change, and pollution .
Legume-Maize Intercropping System: An Alternative Pathway for Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Rasool Faisul-Ur- , Bhat M. I. , Dar Z. A. , Lone B. A. , Ahmad Latief , Hakeem S. A. , Rashid Z. , Naseer S. , Bashir S. , Majid S. , Nissa S.
Published: July 2021

Intercropping provides ample scope to include two or more crops simultaneously in same piece of land thus targeting higher productivity from unit area on sustainable basis. Maize, a cereal crop of immense importance, planted in wide rows offers the possibility for adoption of intercropping. The intercropping system with maize and legume is beneficial in multiple aspects. The success of maize-legume intercropping system largely depends on choice of crops and their maturity, density, and time of planting. Advantage of maize-legume intercropping system is promoted in the form of higher yield and greater utilization of available resources, benefits in weeds control [1,2], pests and disease management [3], fixation of biological nitrogen by legumes and transfer of N to associated maize [4,5], insurance against crop failure to small holders, and control of erosion by covering a large extent of ground area [6]. Though maize-legume intercropping system exhibits limitations like less scope of farm mechanization, dependence on more human workforce, and chance of achieving less productivity from maize, the system implies more advantages for small holders in developing countries where human workforce is not a constraint.
Establishment of Alternative Season for Cultivation of Photoperiod-Sensitive Traditional Rice Cultivars
Authors: Roy Monish , Roy Bidhan
Published: July 2021

Aims: To find out the suitable time for cultivating the photoperiod-sensitive rice cultivars during off-season.

Study Design:  Randomized Block Design.

Place and Duration of Study: University Research Farm, Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, Cooch Behar 736165, West Bengal, India. Experiments were conducted during Boro 2017 and Kharif 2018.

Methodology: Forty nine cultivars were sown in seed beds on 28th November, 2017 for cultivation of the Boro crop and sowing was done on 30th June, 2018 for cultivation of Kharif crop. Seedlings were transplanted in randomized block design with two replications. Row to row spacing was 30 cm and plant to plant spacing was 20 cm. Standard agronomic practices compatible to the humid tropic of Terai Zone were practiced. Ten random plants from each plot were selected for recording data. Observations were recorded on yield and yield attributing parameters.

Results: High significant variation was observed for all the characters under study indicating the presence of high variability among the selected cultivars. Only the test weight between the two seasons had insignificant difference representing that there was no effect of seasons on this character. Time of sowing was standardized for sowing of the traditional cultivars in alternative season- Boro. The yield ranged from 0.35 t/ha to 2.68 t/ha during Boro and from 2.67 t/ha to 8.48 t/ha during Kharif. Ronga Komal (2.68 t/ha), Kauka (2.65 t/ha), Jaldhyapa (2.54 t/ha), Chakhao Angangbi (2.07 t/ha), Kaloboichi (1.87 t/ha), Kalturey (1.85 t/ha), Chakhao-Selection-2 (1.59 t/ha), Chakhao-Selection-1 (1.46 t/ha), Chakhao Sempak (1.43 t/ha) and Chakhao-Selection-3 (1.42 t/ha) performed well during Boro season.

Conclusion: Ronga Komal, Kauka, Jaldhyapa, Chakhao Angangbi, Kaloboichi, Kalturey, Chakhao-Selection-2, Chakhao-Selection-1, Chakhao Sempak and Chakhao-Selection-3 performed well during Boro season. Consequently, those above varieties may be recommended for cultivation during Boro season.
To assess the Character Association and Path Analysis in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Germplasm Lines Grown under Late Sown Condition
Authors: Pattanayak Subhadra , Lal Gabrial M. , Priyanka Velugoti , Tripathi Avneeshmani
Published: July 2021

A set of twenty one chickpea genotypes were grown and asses to know the amount of genetic variability, genetic association seed yield and thirteen quantitative traits, direct and indirect effect of yield contributing characters on seed yield. Correlation coefficient analysis revealed that seed yield per plant exhibited positive and significant association with 50% pod setting and plant height at genotypic and phenotypic levels. Correlation coefficient analysis revealed that seed yield per plant exhibited positive and significant association with 50% pod setting and plant height at genotypic and phenotypic levels. Path analysis revealed that characters such as plant height, number of primary branches, number of seeds per pod, hundred seed weight, biological yield and harvest index have positive direct effect on seed yield per plant at genotypic level.
The Influence KEMI’s Capacity Building Programmes Influence Head Teachers’ Competencies in Curriculum Supervision in Public Primary Schools in Uasin Gishu County
Authors: Ongori Josephine G. , Kitainge Kisilu
Published: July 2021

Aims: The objectives of the study were to look at the influence of KEMI’s capacity building programme on head teachers’ competencies in curriculum supervision

Study design: The research adopted a descriptive survey approach.

Place and duration of study: This study was conducted in Uasin Gishu County of the North Rift region. The county lies within latitude: 0° 31' 0.00" N and longitude: 35° 16' 59.88" E. The study was carried out between May 2019 to October 2019

Methodology: The study targeted 5 sub-county education officers and 141 head teachers in public primary schools in the county. Random sampling was employed in choosing selecting the 141 public primary schools proportionately from each of the six sub-counties in the county. Every head teacher of the selected public primary schools took part in this study. Data was also gathered from all the six sub-county directors of education of Moiben, Kesses, Turbo, Kapseret, Ainabkoi and Soy. Data was collected using interviews and questionnaires.

Results: Findings indicated that there was a strong positive correlation between KEMI capacity- building programmes and head teachers’ competencies in curriculum supervision.

Pearson's Product-Moment Correlation indicated that there was a weak positive correlation between KEMI capacity building programme and head teachers competency in curriculum supervision, r (132) = .272, p < .0005, with KEMI capacity building programme explaining 7% of the variation in head teacher competency.

Conclusion: Head teachers capcity in curriculum supervision had been enhanced through KEMI capacity building program.The curriculum activities that had been enhanced comprise monitoring of timetable, schemes of work, records of work and lessons plans. This has enabled syllabus coverage in time.
A Reforming Inclusive Quality Educational System for a Sustainable Glocal Learning-a Countering Paradigm to the Massive Backward Curriculum and Instruction Pedagogies
Authors: Hamdan M. Ziad
Published: July 2021

Humans are different individuals by nature and have diverse personality traits, cognitive powers, thinking speeds, timelines, and live spaces for thinking, searching, and learning. Despite this psycho-educational logical approved fact, massive curriculum pedagogies are observed throughout hundreds of years of the Common Era. The Author believes ‘putting "whole" students or massive groups together in one large 'container' hall for one-way instruction with no regard to their understanding powers is in itself non-educating, non-dignifying and a gross violation of human rights and values. To understand the status quo of this everlasting schooling problem and to offer effective solutions for learning generations in the Info Digital Age; the descriptive ‘Causal Comparative/ Ex Post Facto techniques and the 'Action developmental' method’ were used. While the Author searched the accumulated massive groups’ literature since the Greek Sophists 500 BCE up to the period of Guttenberg large paper printing and the educational setbacks of the Factory Educational Model, coupled with the implications and possibilities of ICTs' integrations for reforming the concepts and methodologies of schooling and higher education. The Author concluded the article by offering a reforming paradigm "Inclusive Quality Education System for a Sustainable Glocal Learning." This 'system', when applied according to proposed descriptions and criteria, will lead to profound progressive changes, such as paradigms of learners-centered-growth, interests and hobbies needs; ICTs' non-directive 'Blend-Digit' pedagogies; learner self and collaborative peer groups; learners' torturing one other(s); and blended school personnel, e.g., Teachers and support services who are indirect leaning guide counselors and standby collaborators.
Analysis of Electrophysiological Parameters as an Early Indicator for Nerve Root Involvement among the Patients with Acute Lumbar Radiculopathy
Authors: Palve Suchitra , Palve Sachin
Published: July 2021

Electrophysiological parameters especially the late responses which include H reflex analysis are of great significance and importance in diagnosing and predicting the level of nerve root involvement radiculopathy patients. The main objective of the present study was to analyse the electrophysiological parameters like amplitude and latency for prediction of nerve root involvement in lumbar radiculopathy patients. The present research project study was undertaken on 50 diagnosed patients of lumbar radiculopathy. The study participants were between the age group of 30-60 years and were having the low back pain ranging from 30-60 days. The bilateral nerve conduction studies were performed for posterior tibial nerve, sural nerve, and late responses like H waves were studied and analysed for amplitude and latency for all the patients. Patients with radiculopathy showed significant reduction in the amplitude of sural sensory nerve, the latencies were prolonged among the patients with L5-S1 root involvement based on the MRI findings. H wave’s amplitude asymmetry was significantly noted among the patients with L5-S1 root involvement suggesting the axonal compression at nerve root level earlier than the changes in the latencies for H waves. Prolonged latencies is reduction in the amplitude of sural nerve as well as, the amplitude asymmetry for late responses like H waves can be considered as one of the earlier signs of compression of the nerve roots in lumbosacral radiculopathy.
Self Support Group for Chronic Renal Failure Patients
Authors: Sharma Ranjana , Singh Seema
Published: July 2021

Self-support groups bring the patients together who is suffering from the same kind of disease conditions or problems or illnesses to share their experiences. Chronic renal failure patients and other illness support groups are a growing need in many communities.

When planning for the management for CKD (Chronic Kidney Disease) patient, if involve the patient or patient is participating actively, it will help in effective management of chronic kidney disease.

It may aid in the patient's prognosis and can be postponed in part by self-management. Self-management of Chronic Kidney Disease is complicated due to the progressive nature of the condition and its progression. The management of Chronic Kidney Disease by a self-help group is difficult to assess, particularly over time. SMS (Self-Management Support) is important for this progressive disease because of the special nature of Chronic Kidney Disease self-management. SMS stands for the programmes that health-care providers provide to their patients in order to help them better control of their health. Dissemination of health information, patient education, telephone support, and participation in a support group are all part of you.
The Effect of Financial Literacy, Financial Risk Tolerance, and Financial Socialization Agents on Stock Investment Decision in The Millennial Generation
Authors: Hendarto Kevin , Anastasia Njo , Basana Sautma Ronni
Published: July 2021

This study aim to determine financial literacy, financial risk tolerance, and financial socialization agents effect/influence on stock investment decisions in the millennial generation. The research was conducted by distributing questionnaires to 400 millennial generation stock investors in Indonesia. The data analysis method by Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) using the SmartPLS 3.2.7 program. The results show that financial literacy has a significant effect on investment decisions. Financial risk tolerance has significant effect on investment decisions, meanwhile financial socialization agents do not have a significant effect on investment decisions.
Women and the Digitalization Strategies of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises in the New Normal Era
Authors: Laksmanawati Junia , Yuniawan Ahyar
Published: July 2021

This paper is based upon research to study the development of women entrepreneurs in Indonesia with emphasis on motivation to begin small business (MSMEs) and digitalization strategies in doing their businesses. The research was based on a literature review and a small field survey of women holding small business (MSMEs) in Semarang. After analyzing the data from the interviews, many respondents stated that their early motivation in running their own businesses was as a means to get additional incomes in finance. Evidence shows that as entrepreneurs, dealing with digitalization is a thing that cannot be avoided in the new normal era. To optimize their business operations and revenue, some adjustments and strategies are conducted such as optimizing digital marketing, seeing business opportunities, creating innovations, creating new markets, and executing marketing plan.
The Effect of Transformational Leadership on Firm Performance through ERP Systems and Supply Chain Integration in the Food and Beverage Industry
Authors: Setiabudi Kezia Jade , Siagian Hotlan , Tarigan Zeplin Jiwa Husada
Published: July 2021

This study aims to examine the effect of transformational leadership on company performance using ERP technology and supply chain integration in food and beverage companies. The survey uses a questionnaire designed using a 5-point Likert scale. As many as 100 questionnaires were distributed to 100 food and beverage companies domiciled in the region of Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia. Respondents were from the supervisor and upper level as considered the most knowledgeable person in the company. The number of valid data is 55 respondents representing 55 companies from 100 respondents. Data analysis using Smart PLS. The results of the data analysis show that transformation Leadership does not directly affect firm performance; transformation Leadership does not affect supply chain integration. ERP Application influences firm Performance, supply chain integration influences firm performance, ERP Application affects supply chain integration. An additional finding is that transformational leadership indirectly affects firm performance. This result enriches the insight for the manager in enhancing firm performance. This paper also contributes to the current research in the field of supply chain management.
Benefits of increased cover crop diversity for predators and biological pest control depend on the landscape context
Authors: Beaumelle Léa , Auriol Arthur , Grasset Marie , Pavy Alice , Thiéry Denis , Rusch Adrien
Published: July 2021

Increasing plant diversity in agricultural systems is a promising way to balance food production and biodiversity conservation. Biological pest control, a crucial ecosystem service delivered by natural enemies, could particularly benefit from increased plant diversity at the local scale. Such positive effects however often depend on the landscape context that shapes the pool of natural enemy species available and their ability to colonize newly created habitats. However, how the landscape context modulates the local effect of plant diversity on natural enemies and pest control services remains unclear.

Here, we manipulated the diversity of cover crops (2 versus 20 plant species) in nine pairs of vineyards located along a landscape gradient ranging from 20 to 60% of semi‐natural habitats. We sampled natural enemy communities in the soil and foliage and measured the predation rate of an important moth pest in European vineyards (Lobesia botrana).

Diverse cover crops enhanced the abundance of natural enemies by 140% across the experiment, but without changing their taxonomic richness and composition. We further found a distance‐decay effect of cover crops on natural enemy abundance across cover crop types.

The landscape context remarkably modulated the effects of local plant diversity on natural enemy abundance and predation rates. While predation rates were on average similar in the low and high cover crop diversity treatments across the experiment, diverse cover crops had higher positive effects on predation and natural enemies in simple (<50% semi‐natural habitats) than complex landscapes. Predation rates increased from 11 to 42% in the high compared with low cover crop diversity treatments in simple landscapes.

Synthesis and applications: Our study demonstrates the benefits of increasing plant diversity at the local scale to enhance the abundance of natural enemies as well as the level of biological pest control services in vineyard agroecosystems. Diverse cover crops mostly benefit natural enemies and biological pest control in simplified landscapes, highlighting that the success of local agroecological practices in improving biodiversity and ecosystem services depends on the landscape context. Thus, we suggest that a strategic spatial arrangement of agricultural practices increasing local plant diversity is necessary to maximize beneficial effects on biodiversity and ecosystem services.
Evaluation of skin dose and skin toxicity in patients undergoing intraoperative radiotherapy for early breast cancer
Authors: Wong Jeannie Hsiu Ding , Zaili Zainor , Abdul Malik Rozita , Bustam Anita Zarina , Saad Marniza , Jamaris Suniza , Mosiun Joanne Aisha , Mohd Taib Nur Aishah , Ung Ngie Min , See Mee‐Hoong
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate in vivo skin dose delivered by intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) and determine the factors associated with an increased risk of radiation‐induced skin toxicity.

Methodology

A total of 21 breast cancer patients who underwent breast‐conserving surgery and IORT, either as IORT alone or IORT boost plus external beam radiotherapy (EBRT), were recruited in this prospective study. EBT3 film was calibrated in water and used to measure skin dose during IORT at concentric circles of 5 mm and 40 mm away from the applicator. For patients who also had EBRT, the maximum skin dose was estimated using the radiotherapy treatment planning system. Mid‐term skin toxicities were evaluated at 3 and 6 months post‐IORT.

Results

The average skin dose at 5 mm and 40 mm away from the applicator was 3.07 ± 0.82 Gy and 0.99 ± 0.28 Gy, respectively. Patients treated with IORT boost plus EBRT received an additional skin dose of 41.07 ± 1.57 Gy from the EBRT component. At 3 months post‐IORT, 86% of patients showed no evidence of skin toxicity. However, the number of patients suffering from skin toxicity increased from 15% to 38% at 6 months post‐IORT. We found no association between the IORT alone or with the IORT boost plus EBRT and skin toxicity. Older age was associated with increased risk of skin toxicities. A mathematical model was derived to predict skin dose.

Conclusion

EBT3 film is a suitable dosimeter for in vivo skin dosimetry in IORT, providing patient‐specific skin doses. Both IORT alone and IORT boost techniques resulted in similar skin toxicity rates.
An Efficient Bifunctional Air Electrode for Reversible Protonic Ceramic Electrochemical Cells
Authors: Zhou Yucun , Zhang Weilin , Kane Nicholas , Luo Zheyu , Pei Kai , Sasaki Kotaro , Choi YongMan , Chen Yu , Ding Dong , Liu Meilin
Published: July 2021

One of the main bottlenecks that limit the performance of reversible protonic ceramic electrochemical cells (R‐PCECs) is the sluggish kinetics of the oxygen reduction and evolution reactions (ORR and OER). Here, the significantly enhanced ORR and OER kinetics and stability of a conventional La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3–δ (LSCF) air electrode by an efficient catalyst coating of barium cobaltite (BCO) is reported. The polarization resistance of a BCO‐coated LSCF air electrode at 600 °C is 0.16 Ω cm2, about 30% of that of the bare LSCF air electrode under the same conditions. Further, an R‐PCEC with the BCO‐coated LSCF air electrode shows exceptional performance in both fuel cell (peak power density of 1.16 W cm−2 at 600 °C) and electrolysis (current density of 1.80 A cm−2 at 600 °C at 1.3 V) modes. The performance enhancement is attributed mainly to the facilitated rate of oxygen surface exchange.
Hierarchically Porous Monolith with High MOF Accessibility and Strengthened Mechanical Properties using Water‐in‐Oil High Internal Phase Emulsion Template
Authors: Wang Jierui , Qin Jianliang , Zhu He , Li Bo‐Geng , Zhu Shiping
Published: July 2021

High internal phase emulsion (HIPE) is a promising template for the construction of metal‐organic framework (MOF)‐based hierarchically porous monoliths. However, the current approaches still suffer from many issues, such as MOF embedment in polymer matrix and poor mechanical performance. In this work, a co‐stabilization strategy is employed to prepare water‐in‐oil HIPEs and the corresponding MOF‐based poly‐HIPEs. The effects of emulsifier concentration, type and volume of continuous oil phase, and type of initiator are thoroughly investigated. ZIF‐8 particles with size comparable to the thickness of the cellular wall are adopted to avoid the problem of MOF embedment. As a result, the obtained monolith shows enhanced mechanical properties and a hierarchically porous structure with ≈80% of ZIF‐8 accessible. Due to these unique features, the ZIF‐8‐based hierarchically porous monoliths exhibit greatly accelerated adsorption kinetics in iodine removal, showing great promise for future industrial applications.
Machine‐Assisted Preparation of a Chiral Diamine Ligand Library and In Silico Screening Using Ab Initio Structural Parameters for Heterogeneous Chiral Catalysts
Authors: Kuremoto Tatsuya , Sadatsune Ren , Yasukawa Tomohiro , Yamashita Yasuhiro , Kobayashi Shū
Published: July 2021

A ligand library containing 31 chiral diamines was synthesized using a flow‐based semiautomatic reductive amination system. These ligands were evaluated in a continuous‐flow asymmetric 1,4‐addition reaction with a heterogeneous Ni catalyst. Based on the experimental results of ab initio DFT calculations, a prediction model for enantioselectivities was successfully constructed. Furthermore, virtual screening of possible ligands was conducted to identify promising structures, which showed good enantioselectivities in experiments.

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The new prognostic score for unresectable or recurrent gastric cancer treated with nivolumab: A multi‐institutional cohort study
Authors: Sato Sho , Oshima Yoko , Matsumoto Yu , Seto Yasuyuki , Yamashita Hiroharu , Hayano Koichi , Kano Masayuki , Ono Hidetaka Andrew , Mitsumori Norio , Fujisaki Muneharu , Kunisaki Chikara , Akiyama Hirotoshi , Endo Itaru , Ichikawa Yasushi , Urakami Hidejiro , Kubo Hirokazu , Nagaoka Sakae , Shimada Hideaki
Published: July 2021

Background

Real‐world outcomes of nivolumab treatment for gastric cancer and associated prognostic factors remain unclear; the present study aimed to evaluate both items.

Methods

A total of 278 consecutive patients treated with nivolumab for gastric cancer during 2017‐2019 were enrolled in this multi‐institutional retrospective cohort study. The impact of laboratory findings, immune‐related adverse events (irAEs), and clinicopathological factors on long‐term survival was evaluated using the Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

The response rate was 11.7% in patients with measurable lesions. The overall and progression‐free survival estimates were 6.77 and 2.53 months, respectively. The incidence of irAEs was 30.6% (6.8% for grade ≥3). There were no treatment‐related deaths. Multivariate analysis revealed that C‐reactive protein level of ≤0.5 mg/dL (hazard ratio = 0.476, P < .001), irAE occurrence (hazard ratio = 0.544, P < .001), albumin level of >3.5 g/dL (hazard ratio = 0.688, P = .045), performance status 0 (hazard ratio = 0.711, P = .028), lymphocyte count >1000/μL (hazard ratio = 0.686, P = .027), and differentiated histological type (hazard ratio = 0.740, P = .046) were independently associated with improved survival. The median survival of patients with four or more good prognostic factors was 18.3 months.

Conclusion

Nivolumab showed safety and survival benefits in patients with previously treated unresectable or recurrent gastric cancer. Low C‐reactive protein level, irAE occurrence, high albumin level, high lymphocyte count, and differentiated histological type may affect outcomes. The presence of four or more good prognostic factors may help identify likely long‐term survivors.
Settling a family feud: a high‐level phylogenomic framework for the Gentianales based on 353 nuclear genes and partial plastomes
Authors: Antonelli Alexandre , Clarkson James J. , Kainulainen Kent , Maurin Olivier , Brewer Grace E. , Davis Aaron P. , Epitawalage Niroshini , Goyder David J. , Livshultz Tatyana , Persson Claes , Pokorny Lisa , Straub Shannon C. K. , Struwe Lena , Zuntini Alexandre R. , Forest Félix , Baker William J.
Published: July 2021

Premise

Comprising five families that vastly differ in species richness—ranging from Gelsemiaceae with 13 species to the Rubiaceae with 13,775 species—members of the Gentianales are often among the most species‐rich and abundant plants in tropical forests. Despite considerable phylogenetic work within particular families and genera, several alternative topologies for family‐level relationships within Gentianales have been presented in previous studies.

Methods

Here we present a phylogenomic analysis based on nuclear genes targeted by the Angiosperms353 probe set for approximately 150 species, representing all families and approximately 85% of the formally recognized tribes. We were able to retrieve partial plastomes from off‐target reads for most taxa and infer phylogenetic trees for comparison with the nuclear‐derived trees.

Results

We recovered high support for over 80% of all nodes. The plastid and nuclear data are largely in agreement, except for some weakly to moderately supported relationships. We discuss the implications of our results for the order’s classification, highlighting points of increased support for previously uncertain relationships. Rubiaceae is sister to a clade comprising (Gentianaceae + Gelsemiaceae) + (Apocynaceae + Loganiaceae).

Conclusions

The higher‐level phylogenetic relationships within Gentianales are confidently resolved. In contrast to recent studies, our results support the division of Rubiaceae into two subfamilies: Cinchonoideae and Rubioideae. We do not formally recognize Coptosapelteae and Luculieae within any particular subfamily but treat them as incertae sedis. Our framework paves the way for further work on the phylogenetics, biogeography, morphological evolution, and macroecology of this important group of flowering plants.