bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trees Investment for Temperature Cooling in Higher Learning Institutions: A case of Ardhi University Campus, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Authors: Mwageni N. F.
Published: May 2024

The pressure for the increasing enrolment in higher learning institutions in Tanzania has accelerated the proliferation of the gray infrastructures in campuses. However, little is understood for the foregone economic value of ecosystem services from the lost trees due gray infrastructure development. The objective of this study was to assess trees investment for temperature cooling in higher learning institutions: a case study of Ardhi University Campus, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The remote sensing techniques, document review, and questionnaire were used for data collection. The study revealed that Ardhi University has trees canopies covering 227,638 square meters. Analysis of the temperature data demonstrated that temperature difference is influenced by abundancy of trees between Ardhi university campus and nearby areas. The average temperature in nearby areas in the afternoon is higher by 2 ˚C to 4˚C compared to Ardhi university campus. 72.4 percentage of students spend four (4) to eight (8) hours in an outdoor tree shaded environment within 12 hours in day time implying that trees shaded environment is important for daily life at the campus. Utilization of the outdoor trees shaded environment has implication of energy savings of 336,823.52 KWh which is equivalent to TZS 120,245,811 (USD 44,535). The study recommends that high learning institutions should invest in green space development with lighting and seating provisions to maximize their use while reducing building users at the campus. Short of that, more buildings are needed to cater for the increasing enrollment. This might be a challenge to majority universities considering that financial resources are scarce.
Isolation and Characterization of Arginase Producing Bacteria from Soil Compost Sites at Ogwa Community, Edo State, Nigeria
Authors: Okanlawon K. P. , Okanlawon T. S. , Adedire S. A. , Agbaje I. S. , Adebomi O. H. , Akinbami A. M.
Published: May 2024

Under typical physiological conditions, arginine plays a crucial function in the cell development and proliferation of healthy cells. Arginase has recently caught the attention of numerous researchers as a potential therapy option for auxotrophic cancer. Using standard morphological and biochemical methods, this paper isolates and characterize Arginase producing bacteria from soil compost sites collected from Ogwa community, Edo State, Nigeria. Enzymatic and physicochemical activities were assessed. The species identified to be present include Pseudomonas sp., Bacillus licheniformis, and Bacillus subtlis. The enzyme was active throughout a wide pH range, from 2 to 12. The optimal pH for the activity was found to be 9, and the ideal temperature was 70 °C. Km values for Arginine and Guanidine hydrochloride were 0.21 mM and 0.25 mM, respectively, in terms of substrates. Studies on the enzyme with different cations showed that the activity of the enzyme was affected by Sn2+, Hg2+, Pb2+, Na2+, and K+. This study shows the therapeutically significant arginase enzyme is present in the isolated bacteria from various compost sites.
Characterization of Palm Fatty Acid Distillate and Soybean Deodorized Distillate for Biodiesel Production
Authors: Esan A. O. , Babalola B. A. , Raji Y. A. , Oladigbolu M. A. , Ajao G. Q. , Olawoore I. T. , Adeyemi A. D.
Published: May 2024

Palm fatty acid distillate (PFAD) and soybean deodorized distillate (SDD) are two prominent byproducts in the vegetable oil industry; hence, the objective of this paper was to characterize the physicochemical properties of palm fatty acid distillate (PFAD) and soybean deodorized distillate (SDD) biodiesel production. Various physicochemical properties, including fatty acid composition, acid value, iodine value, saponification value, and viscosity, underwent analysis. Moreover, the study identified impurities like moisture, free fatty acids, and unsaponifiable matter. This thorough assessment offers essential insights into the materials' suitability for biodiesel production, thus informing potential industrial applications. It underscores the significance of selecting appropriate feedstocks in biodiesel manufacturing, ensuring optimal quality and efficiency. By considering these factors, stakeholders can make informed decisions regarding material sourcing and processing methods, ultimately enhancing overall production outcomes. Additionally, this evaluation facilitates the identification of potential challenges and opportunities in the biodiesel industry, contributing to informed decision-making and strategic planning. Furthermore, the potential environmental and economic benefits of utilizing these byproducts in biodiesel production are discussed.
Evaluating the Concentration of Pb, Hg, Co, V, As, Fe, Cu, Cd, Cr, Mn, Ni, and Zn and their Potential Sources in Soil from Two Abattoirs in Itu and Ikot Ekpene Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Authors: Anweting I. B. , Ebong G. A. , Okon I. E. , Udofia I. M. , Oladunni N.
Published: May 2024

Inorganic contaminants which consist of toxic metals and salts are notable for their wide environmental dispersion and their tendency to accumulate in the tissues of the human body. Heavy metals are the major inorganic contaminants in abattoir soils. These metals, even at relatively low concentrations, are toxic. Hence the objective of this paper was to determine the concentration of Pb, Hg, Co, V, As, Fe, Cu, Cd, Cr, Mn, Ni, and Zn and their potential sources of pollution in soil from two abattoirs in Itu and Ikot Ekpene Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria using appropriate standard methods after the dry oxidation. The concentrations of heavy metals were determined using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). The distribution of heavy metals contaminants in the Itu abattoir was of the order Hg < As < V < Cr < Co < Mn < Ni < Pb < Cd < Cu < Zn < Fe, while that of the Ikot Ekpene abattoir was Hg < As < Co < V < Cr < Mn < Pb < Ni < Cd < Cu < Zn < Fe. The mean order obtained for both abattoirs was Hg < As < V < Cr < Co < Mn < Ni < Pb < Cd < Cu < Zn < Fe. The results were subjected to some pollution indices to ascertain the level of ecological impacts on both plants and animals ecosystem around the abattoirs. The contamination factor, geo-accumulation index, degree of contamination, and pollution load index depict no pollution. Generally, all metals investigated were below the permissible limits of DUTCH, FEPA, WHO/FAO, and NESREA.
Influence of Laboratory Technicians Characteristics on Support to Science Teaching in Secondary Schools in Uyo Senatorial District of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Authors: Akpan E. S. , Uwak S. O. , Etukufot A. B.
Published: May 2024

The influence of academic qualification, age, gender and years of experience of laboratory technicians on the support they provide to science teaching in secondary schools in Uyo Senatorial district of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, was investigated using questionnaire to collect data from eighty (80) science laboratory technicians out of the 125 posted to public secondary schools within the study area. With a calculated F ratio of 6.297 at 2 and 77 degrees of freedom being greater than the table value of 3.07, educational qualification of technicians significantly influenced their support to teaching of science subjects. A calculated F ratio of 2.061 at 3 and 76 degrees of freedom being less than the table value of 2.68 at 0.05 degrees of freedom, age of laboratory technicians was found not to significantly influence support to science teaching. An F ratio of 3.393 obtained at 2 and 77 degrees of freedom and 0.05 level of significance, made the years of working experience of the technicians to significantly influence their support to science teaching. With a calculated t-value of 0.089 being less than the table value of 1.660 at 78 degrees of freedom, gender of laboratory technicians was found not to significantly influence their support to science teaching. Young and newly employed science laboratory technicians should be encouraged to obtain higher qualification and motivated to stay to increase their efficiency.
Patterns of Multidrug Bacterial Clinical Isolates and Cytokine Responses to Antibiotic Misuse in Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria
Authors: Ehiaghe F. A. , Onyenekwe C. C. , Osakue O. N. , Ehiaghe J. I. , Chukwuanukwu R. C. , Okafoanyali O. J. , Onyenekwe N. O. , Igiebor F. A. , Manafa F. A.
Published: May 2024

Multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial pathogens can pose significant health-care challenges by rendering most antimicrobials ineffective. Hence the objective of this paper was to evaluate the patterns of multidrug bacterial clinical isolates and cytokine responses to antibiotic misuse in Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria using appropriate standard methods. Also, the levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (pg/ml), interferon-gamma (pg/ml), and interleukin-10 (pg/ml) in post-surgical patients and control subjects were evaluated using enzyme link immunosorbent assay method.The prevalence of wound infection among study participants was (20%). Pseudomonas aeruginosa (40%) and Escherichia coli (19%) were most likely to be associated with wound infection. The MDR bacterial isolates shows highest resistance to Cefixime (80%) and Ciprofloxacin (80%) in the surgical wound infection patients. The levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha, interferon-gamma and interleukin-10were significantly higher in thepost-surgical wound infection patient as compared with the control group (p<0.002). MDR-bacterial infections are more virulent, and the observed excessive inflammatory response may impede infection resolution, which may help to explain in part, the poor treatment outcome in patients with MDR infections, even after prompt antibiotic treatment.
Assessment of Seasonal Variations of Heavy Metals and Microbial Parameters on Well Water Quality in Urban Centre, Effluent Locations and Non-Effluent Location of Kano Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Mshelia S. S. , Dadan-Garba A. , Mbaya Y. A. , Bulama L.
Published: May 2024

The groundwater consists of about 20% of the earth’s fresh water is the most widely used for drinking. Hence, the objective of this paper was to assess the seasonal variations of heavy metals and microbial parameters on well water quality in Urban Centre (UC), Effluent Locations (EL) and Non-Effluent Location (NEL) of Kano metropolis, Nigeria using appropriate standard techniques. The research collected 768 water samples from 48 wells at three different locations: Urban Centre (UC), Effluent Locations (EL) and Non-Effluent Location (NEL) in the city during dry and wet seasons in one year and subjected samples to laboratory analysis for determination of the concentrations of elements and bacteria in line with American Public Health Association (APHA, 2005). Higher mean values of Cadmium, Chromium, Mercury, Arsenic, Iron, Lead, Zinc, Manganese, Total Coliform and Escherichia Coli of 0.14mg/L, 5.11mg/L, 0.095mg/L, 0.15mg/L, 0.53mg/L, 3.1mg/L, 8.62mg/L and 4.1mg/L respectively at EL except Cadmium (UC). Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and T-test 0.05% confidential level showed that Chromium F(2, 3) = 17.225, p =0.019, Arsenic F(2, 3) = 16.11, p = 0.031 and Iron F(2, 3) = 17.135, p = 0.021 while microbial parameters showed that E. coli F(2,3) =11.88 p = 0.038 parameters wells located at the UC, EL NEL areas of Kano. The results showed that heavy metal concentrations and microbial contamination in the metropolis are significantly different from each other where the mean level is significant at P<.05 across different locations, with higher levels found in industrial and urban areas during the rainy season. These findings highlight the need for improved management and monitoring of well water quality in Kano metropolis to protect public health.
Seasonal Evaluation of Physicochemical Parameters, Heavy Metals Levels and Pollution Status in Leachate from Ikhueniro Open Solid Waste Dumpsite located in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria
Authors: Egbon I. I. , Okorie T. G. , Imade O. S.
Published: May 2024

In recent times, there is a rapid rate of growth in the cities of third-world countries. This rapid population growth has implications for municipal waste management. Hence, the objective of this work is seasonal evaluation of physicochemical parameters, heavy metals levels and pollution status in leachate from Ikhueniro open solid waste dumpsite located in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria using standard methods. Data obtained reveals that the pH of leachate samples collected during the rainy and dry season was alkaline. Iron was the main heavy metal contaminant in the Ikhueniro dumpsite, with calculated contamination factors of discharged leachate estimated at 154.48 ± 3.56 and 167.38 ± 3.33 during rainy and dry seasons, respectively; while copper was the least heavy metal contaminant, as indicated by contamination factors of discharged leachate reported as 3.22 ± 0.04 and 14.15 ± 2.00 during rainy and dry seasons, respectively. The increasing order of contamination of the dumpsite with the analyzed heavy metals was as follows: Cu<Cr<Zn<Hg<Pb=Ni<Cd<Fe for rainy season and Cu<Cr<Zn<Ni<Hg<Pb<Cd<Fe for dry season. Heavy metal and other chemical contaminations were widespread in the examined samples due to poor waste management system at the Ikhueniro dumpsite; resulting in high levels of heavy metals above the limits set by regulatory agencies. The Ikhueniro dumpsite posed very high potential ecological risk during the rainy and dry seasons, respectively. Thus, there is urgent need to provide remediation systems that can help to significantly reduce concentrations of heavy metals and other toxicants from the dumpsite.
Widowhood and Harmful Traditional Practices against Women in South East Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects
Authors: Eze Obiageli Blessing , Egwuagu Uloma Bridget , Namani Desmond Okechukwu
Published: May 2024

The paper ascertains widowhood and harmful traditional practices against women in SouthEast, Nigeria: challenges and prospects. Widowhood is a condition in which a woman lost her husband by death, it is a state in which a woman or widow has lost her husband by death and did not remarry. The death of a man automatically plunges his wife into widowhood, in a patriarchal society; widows are  subjected to inhuman treatment at the death of their husband. Widowhood practice is an unjust cultural practice directed against women  who lose their husbands, the effects of this obnoxious culture especially women in this 21st century has undermine the  personality of women folk. Empirically, the paper adopts relative deprivation theory as its framework using descriptive method to  investigate harmful traditional practices against women in Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo states respectively on their rights  through cultural seclusions. Most women in South-East are not comfortable with this exclusion, nor stand to oppose this through court  litigations. Most communities has not in any way abrogated these traditional harmful practices since it is an established culture, the  intervention of some non-governmental organizations has in a little measure reduce some harmful punishment meted on the bereaved  women. It has been observed that discriminatory widowhood practices were to humiliate women made by men to relegate women to the  background. The paper address some strategies to cut down these harmful practices to better the lives of women in Nigeria on the  aegis of women aids collective and other non-governmental organizations.
Role of higher education for economic transformation (HEET) projects on youth income generation and unemployment: A case of Mzumbe Ward.
Authors: Mwaitete Cairo
Published: May 2024

Despite global and local initiatives aimed at reducing youth unemployment and enhancing skill acquisition and employment opportunities, questions persist regarding the effectiveness of these initiatives in improving youth income and creating sustainable employment opportunities. Therefore, this study investigates the role of Higher Education for Economic Transformation (HEET) on youth income and unemployment, focusing on the implementation of HEET projects at Mzumbe ward, Mvomero district. Employing a cross-sectional research design, the study sampled 300 respondents randomly and utilized Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) and Likert scale analysis. Findings indicate that youths hired in HEET construction projects have higher income prospects, while training programs, savings and credit initiatives, project start-up capital, and HEET-organized outreaches significantly influence income levels. The study concludes with policy implications, highlighting the need to strengthen training and employment programs, support entrepreneurship, promote lifelong learning, enhance monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, and foster public-private partnerships to address youth unemployment comprehensively.
Effects of planting date and growth environment on production of seed tubers from true potato seed (TPS)
Authors: Deshi Kyenpiya Eunice , Daniel Blessing Machen
Published: May 2024

An experiment was carried out to evaluate the effects of planting date and growth environment on the production of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) seed tubers from true potato seed (TPS) in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria in the year 2019. A completely randomised design was used, consisting of three planting dates (May 10, May 25, June 9, 2019) and three growth environments (shaded field, open field and greenhouse), giving a total of nine treatment combinations in three replicates. Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance using the statistical software SAS, 9.0 version. The means were separated using the least significant difference. The results showed that planting date had significant (p<0.05) effect on mean establishment count, number of leaves at all sampling dates except at 104, 118 and 146 days after planting (DAP); plant height at all sampling dates except at 62, 118 and 132 DAP; mean number and weight of tubers at harvest. Growth environment had significant (p<0.05) effect on mean number of leaves produced at 132 to 174 DAP; plant height at all sampling dates except at 62 and 132 DAP, mean number and weight of tubers at harvest. Interaction of planting dates and growth environment was significant on mean plant height at 132 to 174 DAP. It is concluded that early planting, shading and open growth environment enhanced seed tuber production from true potato seed.
Morpho-anatomical studies on Phyllobotryon spathulatum Müll. arg., A pseudo-epiphyllous plant
Authors: Uwalaka B.N. , Osuagwu G.E.E. , Akanwa F.E. , Udogu O.F.
Published: May 2024

Due to the increasing level of complexity in plant structure, misidentification becomes inevitable in the use of such plant species. Morphological and anatomical studies were carried out on the underutilised and rarely known pseudo-epiphyllous Phyllobotryon spathulatum, obtained from Cross River National Park, Akamkpa, Nigeria, to provide additional information for its proper identification. Impression technique, involving colourless nail vanishes, was used to obtain leaf epidermal peels. Free-hand sectioning was used to obtain anatomical sections of the leaf, stem and root. Morphological characters revealed that the habit of the plant is perennial, rarely branched erect shrub or tree up to 16 feet and grows in loamy humid and tropical rainforest habitat. Cylindrical, hard, hairy and brown stem. Lanceolate leaf shape about 70-75 cm in length, serrate margin adorned with small palm-like leaflet second outgrowth. Pseudo-epiphyllous inflorescence on mature upper leaves; incomplete white to purple flower. Observation of photomicrographs of the slides of the epidermal peel and anatomical sections showed the hypostomatic distribution, paracytic stomata with index of 28 % and 20 % in old and juvenile leaves, respectively. Trichome has present in arch-shaped midrib but absent in lamina. Rounded epidermal circumference stem with non-glandular trichome. Piths were inconspicuous in the stem and root. Results obtained from this study could be used in the identification and further characterisation of the plant
Pharmacological and histopathological assessment of Phyllobotyron spathulatum Müll.Arg.) in rats
Authors: Uwalaka B.N. , Osuagwu G.E.E. , Nweke A. , Ewa-Ibe C. , Okoronkwo O.F. , Onwe V.C.
Published: May 2024

Presently, information on toxicity and anti-inflammatory studies of Phyllobotyron spathulatum appear scarce. This study adopted different methods to determine the anti-inflammatory potentials, toxicity, enzyme activity and histopathological examination of P. spathulatum using rats. The leaf samples of P. spathulatum were collected. Active ingredients were extracted by percolation using ethanol. The dried crude extracts were stored in the refrigerator at 4oC under aseptic conditions for subsequent use. Acute toxicity testing of the leaf of the plant showed that the extract was well tolerated at a dose of 2000 mg/kg as the animals showed no sign of toxicity or death after 72 hours. A sub-chronic study using the relative weight as well as liver and kidney enzyme profile showed that the extract of the leaf of P. spathulatum at various concentrations did not significantly alter the relative weights. In vivo anti-inflammatory studies using animal model tests showed that the plant extract at 200 mg/kg concentration inhibited carrageenan-induced paw oedema by up to 81% when compared to 0% in water and the 92% in standardised drug after 3 days. Activity in the analysed liver enzymes as well as the kidney function markers were not affected at the extract concentration used. The safety of the plant material was further confirmed by the histopathological examinations which did not show any changes in the kidney and liver tissues examined. Results obtained from this study showed that the leaf of this plant is safe and can be employed in the management of inflammatory-related diseases.
Optimal inflation targeting with anchoring
Authors: Michl Thomas R. , Rowthorn Robert
Published: May 2024

This paper presents an alternative foundation to the standard quadratic loss function characterizing central bank inflation policy. The alternative treats high employment as a social benefit. In recognition of the inherent asymmetry of the output gap, two self-imposed constraints provide guardrails that rule out excess unemployment and opportunistic reflation. The loss function includes a novel reverse discounting mechanism that penalizes the bank for more sustained inflation gaps that could undermine confidence in the central bank’s target. In the absence of anchoring, the central bank is obliged to use economic slack to accomplish a disinflation but the presence of anchoring creates greater policy flexibility, freeing it from the tyranny of the sacrifice ratio. The central bank’s optimal policy differs dramatically from the standard Taylor Rule recommendation in choosing policy plans with higher employment, in its willingness to overshoot inflation targets, and in avoiding excess unemployment, all while observing the discipline needed for successful inflation targeting.
The Argentine economy through the lens of an adapted Mundell–Fleming model for small open peripheral economies
Authors: Dvoskin Ariel , Feldman Germán David , Torchinsky Landau Matías
Published: May 2024

This paper investigates the limits fiscal and monetary policies face in small open economies, where economic growth can be constrained by the balance of payments. To do so, we proceed in three steps. First, we review some usually neglected stringent assumptions of the Post-Keynesian interpretation of the IS-LM-BP model, regarding the roles played by the exchange rate and the interest rate in re-establishing external equilibrium. Second, we adapt this model to consider the specificities of peripheral economies. Third, we illustrate the model’s functionality and implications, drawing upon the experience of the Argentine economy, a country where the external sector has recurrently constrained output growth.
Ethical Challenges with Personalized Avatars in Higher Education of the Metaverse Era
Authors: Gündüz Nurten , Sincar Mehmet
Published: May 2024

One of the first revolutions of Web 3.0 technology has been the metaverse, which is an alternative world formation where people can experience three-dimensional virtual realities through their avatars. The only way for higher education to survive in the metaverse era is to do an in-depth examination of the current situation and create strategies, regulations, and policies for all segments of this novice field considering also the ethical challenges it will bring to humanity. In a metaverse environment, there will be personalized avatars that represent real people, and in a university setting with virtual classes held in the metaverse, many ethical dilemmas and moral concerns can develop due to the utilization of avatars. The study narrowed its attention to examining these ethical issues raised by avatar customization and potential solutions to design a healthy metaverse in higher education. The study conducted an in-depth exploration with fourteen higher education lecturers, who are also key people specialized in the metaverse and web 3.0 technologies. The data obtained from the interviews were clustered under seven thematic nodes including anonymous identities; socially equal & diverse avatars; avatar policy; honesty & transparency; non-resemblance with the physical realities; avatar clothes codes; and avatars’ intellectual property.
Key Words: Avatar, Ethics, Metaverse, Higher Education, Metaverse Universities
The evaluation of the burden of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children on health economics
Authors: Balkarlı Ezgi , Kıymet Elif , Böncüoğlu Elif , Şahinkaya Şahika , Yılmaz Çelebi Miray , Apa Hurşit , Meşe Timur , Ağın Hasan , Nuri Bayram Süleyman , Devrim İlker
Published: May 2024

Objectives:This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic tests and treatments applied in patients with multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) and to determine the effect of the disease on health costs.

Patients and methods:This retrospective cohort study included 59 MIS-C patients (40 males, 19 females; mean age: 7.7±4.2 years; range, 4 months to 16.5 years) who were admitted and treated between April 1, 2020, and November 1, 2021. Demographic and clinical features with hospital costs and length of stay were retrospectively reviewed from the medical files and computerized system of the hospital. Direct medical care costs of items were calculated with the hospital perspective using a combination of microcosting technique (resource-based accounting method) and hospital list data. Cases were classified as mild, moderate, or severe, and the patients were divided into two groups: the mild group and the moderate-severe group. Classification was determined by the vasoactive inotropic score (VIS), degree of respiratory support, and evidence of organ damage.

Results:The mean age of the cases in the mild group was 6.5±3.7 years, and the mean age of the cases in the moderate-severe group was 9.2±4.3 years. Of 59 patients, 19 (32.2%) were followed up in the pediatric intensive care unit. The median duration of hospitalization in the hospital was 8 (interquartile range: 7-12) days. The total cost of the patients hospitalized with the diagnosis of MIS-C during the study period was 849,242.93$, and the mean cost per patient was 14,393.94±9,631.92$. In the distribution of the total cost of hospitalization according to expenses, the highest rate was pharmacy and blood products (51.99%) and IVIG costs (43.99%). While the mean total cost per person was 13,682.87±8,799.63$ in mild cases, it was 16,433.82±9,440.02$ in moderate-severe cases, and no statistically significant relationship was found between the two groups (p>0.05). There was no difference in the mean cost per patient between the cases with and without heart, lung, kidney, or neurologic involvement and advanced respiratory support (p>0.05). There was a strong positive correlation between the total costs and age (r=0.883, n=59, p<0.0001), with increased amount of costs with increased age.

Conclusion:In the study, no statistically significant correlation was found between the total cost of per person in the mild group and the moderate-severe group (p>0.05). This finding may be due to the wide use of IVIG in MIS-C treatment, in addition to low transfer rates to pediatric intensive care units due to high-flow nasal cannula usage.
Reliability and validity of the Turkish version of Scleroderma Skin Patient-Reported Outcome in patients with systemic sclerosis
Authors: Sari Fulden , Bazancir Apaydin Zilan , Apaydin Hakan , Kayaalp Mehmet , Erden Abdulsamet , Can Güven Serdar , Armağan Berkan , Omma Ahmet , Kucuksahin Orhan , Erten Şükran
Published: May 2024

Objectives: This study aimed to translate the Scleroderma Skin Patient-Reported Outcome (SSPRO) questionnaire to the Turkish (SSPRO-T) language and to assess its validity and reliability.

Patients and methods: Fifty-four systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients (51 females, 3 males; mean age: 49.8±10.4 years; range, 22 to 65 years) participated in the reliability and validity analysis between October 2022 and December 2022. The translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the SSPRO-T was applied in accordance with the procedure described by the Beaton guidelines. The SSPRO-T, the Scleroderma Health Assessment Questionnaire (SHAQ), the Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI), Skindex-29, and patient global skin severity were conducted in all participants for construct validity. The SSPRO-T was retested to assess its reliability after seven days.

Results: The SSPRO-T had a four-factor structure. The total SSPRO-T score and its subgroups correlated positively with SHAQ, HAQ-DI, Skindex-29, and patient global skin severity. The internal consistency and reliability were excellent in overall SSPRO-T and in the subgroups: physical effect, emotional effect, physical limitation, and social effect (Cronbach’s α=0.94, 0.80, 0.95, 0.93, and 0.84, respectively). The SSPRO-T had excellent test-retest reliability (r=0.91, p<0.001). In addition, no floor effect or ceiling effect was observed.

Conclusion: The SSPRO-T questionnaire is a reliable and valid tool and can be used in research and clinical practice in Turkish patients with SSc.
Progressive pulmonary fibrosis in patients with connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease: An explorative study
Authors: Höppner Jakob , Wollsching-Strobel Maximilian , Schumacher Falk , Windisch Wolfram , Berger Melanie
Published: May 2024

Objectives: The aim of this study was to identify differences and similarities between connective tissue disease (CTD) patients with and without progressive pulmonary fibrosis (PPF) by applying the new guidelines.

Patients and methods: Patient characteristics and disease courses from medical records of 50 CTD-associated Interstitial lung disease (ILD) patients (33 females, 17 males; mean age: 60.1±12.9 years) were longitudinally studied between January 2018 and May 2022. Respiratory involvement in CTD patients was described, and differences in CTD patients who developed PPF compared to those who did not were identified by the 2022 ATS (American Thoracic Society)/ERS (European Respiratory Society)/JRS (Japanese Respiratory Society)/ALAT (Asociación Latinoamericana de Thórax) Guidelines on Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis and Progressive Pulmonary Fibrosis in Adults.

Results: In the majority (74%) of patients, CTD was diagnosed before ILD onset. Nonspecific interstitial pneumonia was the most common high resolution computer tomography pattern, followed by the usual interstitial pneumonia pattern. On pulmonary function test, 38% had a restrictive pattern at baseline. Patients without PPF tended to have worse lung function at baseline and increased macrophage count in bronchoalveolar lavage than patients with PPF.

Conclusion: In patients without PPF, disease progression may be missed, resulting in inadequate management. Interdisciplinary management of patients with CTD with the participation of pulmonologists and precise lung function diagnostics is recommended.
The first involved joints and associated factors in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Pekdiker Mete , Oğuzman Hamdi
Published: May 2024

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the first involved joints and associated factors in Turkish patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Patients and methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study included 300 newly diagnosed and disease-modifying antirheumatic drug-naïve RA patients (240 females, 60 males; mean age: 54±1.2 years; range, 18 to 82 years). Baseline demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were evaluated between January 2022 and December 2022. The patients were divided into four groups according to autoantibody profile: antibody-negative patients (Group 1; both RF and anti-CCP were negative in this group of patients), RF-positive patients (Group 2), anti-CCP-positive patients (Group 3), and patients with dual seropositivity with RF and antiCCP (Group 4). The patients were also divided into two groups according to the size of the first affected joint: patients with SJI at diagnosis and patients without SJI involvement at diagnosis.

Results: Rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP) antibody positivity rates were 40.3% and 35.6%, respectively. The mean lag time to diagnosis was 25±36 months. At the disease onset, 20% of patients did not have small joint involvement (SJI). Seronegative patients tended to be female (p=0.001), had longer lag time (p=0.001), and had lower levels of C-reactive protein (p=0.025), white blood count (p=0.005), and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (p=0.001) compared to the dual seropositive group. Patients presenting with SJI had a younger age (p=0.002), tended to be female (p=0.001), and had lower RF (p=0.034) and anti-CCP (p=0.031) positivity. Only age (p=0.005) and dual seronegativity (RF and anti-CCP; p=0.035) were the independent predictors of SJI in multivariate analysis.

Conclusion: The decreasing age and seronegative status were defined as independent risk factors of SJI at the onset of RA. Population-based, prospective studies are needed for earlier diagnosis.
Predictive risk factors for one-year mortality in idiopathic inflammatory myopathy patients with interstitial lung disease: A retrospective, single-center cohort study
Authors: Jiang Minna , Wen Xiaohong , Xia Sisi , Guo Yiqun , Bai Yu
Published: May 2024

Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the risk factors for mortality of idiopathic inflammatory myopathy (IIM) patients admitted with interstitial lung disease (ILD) to guide rapid and accurate judgment of clinical prognosis.

Patients and methods: This retrospective, single-center cohort study was conducted with 135 participants (37 males, 98 females; mean age: 54.8±11.1 years; range, 24 to 85 years) between June 1, 2016, and June 30, 2021. The participants were categorized into the survival group (n=111) and nonsurvivors (n=24) according to whether they survived during the one-year follow-up. The independent risk factors for mortality in one year after discharge were analyzed. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to determine the accuracy of oxygenation index at baseline combined with pulmonary infection (PI) at follow-up to indicate death in IIM-ILD patients.

Results: Compared to the survival group, nonsurvivors were older (p=0.006) and had a higher proportion of anti-MDA5 (melanoma differentiation-associated protein 5) positivity (p<0.001). The ILD duration was shorter (p=0.006), the oxygenation index was lower (p<0.001), and the intensive care unit occupancy rate (p<0.001) and ventilator utilization rate (p<0.001) were elevated in nonsurvivors compared to the survival group. Oxygenation index at baseline (odds ratio [OR]=1.021, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.001-1.023, p=0.040) and PI (clinical judgment) at follow-up (OR=16.471, 95% CI: 1.565-173.365, p=0.020) were found as independent risk factors for death in the year after discharge in IIM inpatients with ILD. An oxygenation index ≤279 mmHg at baseline combined with PI at follow-up exhibited a promising predictive value for all-cause death in IIM-ILD patients within one year.

Conclusion: Oxygenation index at baseline and PI during follow-up were independent risk factors for death of IIM-ILD patients within one year after discharge. Patients with an oxygenation index ≤279 mmHg at baseline had an increased risk of death once they developed PI during the one-year follow-up.
Responsabilidad social como estrategia en la gestión de recursos humanos
Authors: Jiménez Hidalgo Gary Fernando , Chica Macay María Alexandra , Quiroz Romero Milexy Jamilex , Loor Villegas Fabricio Martin
Published: May 2024

La Responsabilidad Social Empresarial (RSE) es un enfoque empresarial que busca integrar consideraciones éticas, sociales y ambientales en la toma de decisiones y actividades de una organización. La RSE no solo se refiere a cómo una empresa interactúa con su entorno, sino que también tiene un impacto significativo en la gestión de recursos humanos (GRH). La RSC fomenta un compromiso más profundo de los empleados con la organización al alinear los valores y objetivos personales con los de la empresa. Una cultura organizacional basada en la responsabilidad social promueve la colaboración, la transparencia y el respeto mutuo. En este artículo, exploraremos cómo la RSE puede ser utilizada como estrategia en la GRH para promover un entorno laboral sostenible, ético y motivador. El objetivo es explicar que es la RSE donde cada autor, desde diferentes puntos de vista, describen a la responsabilidad social corporativa, y así mismo, explicar sobre qué se entiende por gestión de recursos humanos, con el fin de que el lector tenga una vista más aplica sobre el tema, y por último describir cual es la relación entre estos dos, y como la RSE se usa como estrategia para obtener un mayor beneficio en la GRH. La metodología usada es analítica debido a la indagación de información de diferentes fuentes. Los resultados y discusión obtenidos dieron como respuesta a que la RSE usada como estrategia, ayuda a que la GRH sea más eficiente y exista una mayor ética dentro de la organización.
Insider Research in Migration and Music Sociology: Contextualizing Indigenous and (G)local Method(ologie)s in Studying Migrant Musicians
Authors: Anacin Carljohnson
Published: May 2024

Researching migrants in various geographical and social environments necessitates the use of culturally sensitive and contextualized modes of understanding. Migrants’ perspectives, lifeways, and knowledge need to be recognized through proper historical and cultural perspectives. This article discusses the use and potential application of culturally contextualized method(ologie)s in conducting insider research in migration and music sociology, both of which have traditionally been dominated by Western methodologies and scholars. The use of the Filipino method(ologie)s – pakikipagkuwentuhan and pakikilahok – is examined as applied in understanding musical experiences and everydayness of Filipino musicians in Australia. Furthermore, I demonstrate that in such interdisciplinary study, cultural differences in practice, community, and conversations demand (g)localized techniques that benefit both the researcher and respondents. This paper responds to the call to contribute to the decolonization of research methodologies and the co-creation of migrant epistemologies and ontologies.
ANALISIS FAKTOR PENYEBAB KESULITAN BELAJAR MATEMATIKA PADA MATERI SATUAN WAKTU SDN KANIGARAN 3
Authors: Ayu Maqfiro Dinda , Fadilah Yulina
Published: May 2024

Mathematics is one of the subjects at school that plays an important role in everyday life. Mathematics learning can be connected to its application in technology and life so that students can view mathematics as a meaningful science. Learning difficulties occur because students consider mathematics to be a difficult and scary subject. This qualitative research aims to determine the difficulties in learning mathematics with time unit material experienced by students, the causes of difficulties in learning mathematics with time unit material. When teaching mathematics, a person's character and disposition can be fostered or developed. This happens because studying mathematics can improve concentration, develop abilities, express opinions briefly and think rationally in making perfect decisions. Low learning is evidence of difficulties in students' learning, in this case the teacher is a responsible person who should be able to understand the difficulties experienced by students.
PERAN BAITUL MAAL HIDAYATULLAH GERAI PROBOLINGGO DALAM PEMBERDAYAAN MASYARAKAT
Authors: Hasanah Uswatun , Pertiwi Fia Ayuning
Published: May 2024

According to the language zakat comes from the root word (masdar) from zakka which means blessing, growing, clean and good. Zakat means thaharah (clean), growth and barakah. This is in accordance with the word of Allah in Sura al-Tawbah verse 103. While the meaning of zakat shari'i is: "a certain part of a certain property, given to a certain person who is entitled to receive it as a form of worship and proof of obedience to Allah". Zakat management in Indonesia has been regulated in Law No. 23 of 2011, where the content is that zakat management is planning, implementing and coordinating activities in collecting, distributing and utilizing zakat. Indonesia has many zakat management institutions, one of which is Baitul Maal Hidayatullah (BMH). The Baitul Maal Hidayatullah National Amil Zakat Institute (BMH) is an amil zakat institution engaged in collecting zakat funds, infaq, alms, Waqf and Grants along with social humanitarian funds and corporate Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), whose distribution is through educational, da'wah, social humanitarian and economic programs nationally which have been confirmed in 2001 by the Minister of Religious Affairs by issuing a Legality Decree. This study aims to find out how the role of Laznas Baitul Maal Hidayatullah Gerai Probolinggo in empowering the community through its programs. This research is a field research that uses observation methods and also uses library research methods. In fundraising zakat BMH, Probolinggo outlets have offline strategies (muzakki visit BMH offices directly), and online (utilizing social media). The distribution of BMH Probolinggo zakat distribution still holds the priority scale. Community empowerment programs are run through the fields of Education (scholarship assistance and school equipment for children in need), the field of da'wah (sending da'is to various regions and building several mosques), the social sector (providing basic food assistance for the poor and building boreholes in several regions), and the economic sector (mushroom cultivation in several areas of East Java). In addition, BMH also has an annual program, namely zakat fitrah in Ramadan and sacrifice during Eid al-Adha.
Keywords: BMH, Community Empowerment, Zakat.
REPRESENTATION OF WAR IN WORDLESS PICTURE BOOKS: QUESTIONING, FEAR, DESPAIR, AND HOPE
Authors:   University of Primorska, Faculty of Humanities, Slovenia, PETROVIĆ Vanja D. , BALOH Barbara A. ,   University of Primorska, Faculty of Education, Slovenia
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we analyse ways of transposing emotionally delicate/traumatic content and their immersion within the (assumed) discourse of children’s literature, using the genre of wordless picture books as an example. The first part of the paper introduces theoretical perspectives on the challenges of incorporating war themes into children’s literature, as well as the genre-specific characteristics of wordless picture books. Given that the treatment of war themes in wordless picture books has not been extensively explored in academic discussions, the central focus of the paper revolves around two case studies: Why? (1995) (Warum?) by Nikolai Popov and The Yellow Butterfly (2022) (Жовтий метелик) by Oleksandr Shatokhin. The research aims to demonstrate the significance of wordless picture books as a medium that enables both young and adult readers to gain a deeper understanding of the traumatic experience of war. This is achieved through the narrativization of emotions within the wordless picture books and by fostering empathy towards (fictional) victims.
Fuzzy Almost Hyperideals and Fuzzy Almost Quasi-Hyperideals in Semihypergroups
Authors:   Division of Mathematics, Faculty of Engineering, Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, Thailand, LEKKOKSUNG NAREUPANAT , GAKETEM THITI ,   Department of Mathematics, Fuzzy Algebras and Decision-Making Problems Research Unit, Department of Mathematics, School of Science, Mae Ka, University of Phayao, Thailand
Published: May 2024

Studying fuzzy hyperideals is necessary for comprehending semihypergroups. The idea of fuzzy hyperideals is expanded upon by several concepts. The notion of almost fuzzy hyperideals is one of them. In this article, we ﬁrst deﬁne the notions of fuzzy almost hyperideals and fuzzy almost quasi-hyperideals in semihypergroups. We investigate the fundamental characteristics of fuzzy almost hyperideals and fuzzy quasi-hyperideals. Additionally, we establish the connection between fuzzy (resp., quasi-) hyperideals and almost (resp., quasi-) hyperideals.
The Statistical Behavior of Dust-related Radio Waves
Authors:   University of Belgrade, Faculty of Mathematics, Serbia, Racković Babić K.
Published: May 2024

Radio and plasma wave instruments in space can detect cosmic dust over a wide range of sizes through impact ionization. Our understanding of dust particle properties can be gained from analyzing such electric pulses. In order to explain how dust particles produce electrical signals, several physical mechanisms have been proposed. Recently, Rackovic Babic et al. (2022) developed a model which takes into account all the effects of charge collection by the spacecraft and electrostatic influence from charges in its vicinity. The authors tested the model’s accuracy using the database specially created for a given purpose. This paper aims to examine the mathematical significance of the obtained results from the fitting method.
The Process of Making, Organizing and Using Thematic Layers in GIS
Authors:   University of Belgrade, Faculty of Security Studies, Serbia, Radović D. I. , Fetahović I. S. ,   State University of Novi Pazar, Sebia, Dolićanin E. Ć. ,   State University of Novi Pazar, Sebia
Published: May 2024

s Geographic Information System (GIS), as part of the Geoinformation Sciences, deals with a complete system of creating, handling, storing, manipulating, using analysis and presenting information related to the Earth’s surface it is in the direct function of solving fundamental problems / issues arising from that process. The organization of data is according to the system of thematic data layers. The research conducted includes the formation of GIS for different types of research for the Tara Mountain area, Serbia. During these researches, various thematic data layers were created. The types of data used in the creation of these layers are: vector, attribute with organized database, raster data and digital models. The processed contents present abiotic, biotic and anthropogenic elements of the real environment. The paper presents specific indicators created in the process of GIS development. Qualitative, quantitative and visual representation of the real environment was achieved. The results of multicriteria thematic and topological analyzes are also presented. System decisioning support is achieved.