bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the relationship of respiratory muscle strength and cytokine status in patients with community-acquired pneumonia
Authors: Dei A. A. , Geltser B. I. , Antonyuk M. V. , Gvozdenko T. A. , Kalinina E. P. , Titorenco I. N.
Published: June 2021

Aim. Assessment of the role of cytokine-mediated changes in the development of respiratory muscle (RM) dysfunction in patients with community-acquired pneumonia (СAP). Methods. 84 men aged 18 – 26 years with a median of age 19.5 [18.4; 22.8]. Mild to moderate CAP (MCAP) was diagnosed in 62 (73.8%) patients and severe (SCAP) in 22 (26.2%). The expiratory (MEP, MRPDout) and inspiratory (MIP, MRPDin. SNIP) strength indices of RM were recorded on a MicrоRPM apparatus (CareFusion, UK). The severity of endogenous intoxication was verified using the following indices: hematologic (HII), leukocyte (LII), and nuclear. Serum concentrations of interleukins-2, -8, -10, basic fibroblast growth factor, transforming growth factor-beta, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and a soluble receptor for TNF-α. Data processing was performed by cluster and correlation analysis methods. Results. Three clusters of patients with CAP were identified by the characteristic combinations of indicators of RM strength, endogenous intoxication, and cytokine status. The first cluster had MCAP, the second – both MCAP and SCAP, the third – SCAP. In the first cluster, dysfunction of expiratory RM prevailed, and in the second and third – dysfunction of inspiratory RM. In the midst of CAP, significant negative correlations of RM strength indicators with LII, HII, TNF-α, IL-10, IL-8, and IL-2 levels were recorded. The endogenous intoxication indices reached control values in all patients during recovery. The first cluster showed a decrease in the level of analyzed cytokines against isolated dysfunction of expiratory RM. The second cluster showed a tendency toward restoration of TNF-α and IL-8 levels, and only their SNIP index was normal. The third cluster showed minimal medians of RM strength against the continuing imbalance in the profile of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines during recovery. Conclusion. RM dysfunction in CAP is associated with cytokine-mediated dysfunction. The degree of cytokine involvement in this process depends on the severity of endogenous intoxication and the volume of alveolar inflammation.
Diagnosis of osteoporosis in COPD patients: Estimation of the 10-year probability of a major osteoporotic fracture (FRAX), and Dual-energy X-Ray Absorptiometry
Authors: Baranova I. A. , Suleymanova A. K. , Zakharova V. V.
Published: June 2021

The aim of the study was to evaluate various methods of osteoporosis diagnostics (FRAX® and Dual-energy Х-Ray absorptiometry – DXA) and the sequence of their application in the diagnostic algorithm in COPD patients without a history of large bone fractures. Methods. Cross-sectional study of 115 COPD patients without exacerbation (93 men and 22 women, mean age 67.2 ± 7.1 years). The study included clinical examination, FRAX®  estimation and comparison of the 10-year probability of a major osteoporotic fracture (MOF) with the Russian intervention threshold, spirometry, DXA of lumbar spine and proximal femur, semi-quantitative radiographic morphometry by Genant. All patients were examined using several methods that are possible in clinical practice: 1) FRAX® without DXA; 2) FRAX® + DXA in patients with intermediate 10-year probability of MOF and recalculation of FRAX® probability including femoral neck bone mineral density (BMD); 3) FRAX® + DXA in patients with intermediate 10-year probability of MOF. Take into account DXA results; 4) DXA without FRAX® ; 5) DXA + recalculation of FRAX ® for individuals with normal BMD or osteopenia. Results. In the whole sample of patients 1 – 5 diagnostic methods revealed 5.1, 7.0, 15.7, 44.3, 45.2% of individuals with osteoporosis, respectively. In men, the methods using FRAX ® (1 – 3) gave unsatisfactory results – the number of patients requiring treatment did not exceed 4.3%, while DXA revealed osteoporosis in 43%. FRAX® + DXA analysis in patients with intermediate 10-year probability of MOF (3 th method) was the best for women. The main independent predictors of low bone mineral density were post-bronchodilator FEV 1 ≤ 30% predicted and/or long-term oral glucocorticoid use. Asymptomatic vertebral fractures were detected in 11 patients. Before the radiographic morphometry, treatment would have been prescribed only 1 patient for the 1th or 2th methods; 5 patients – 3th method and 9 patients using 4th or 5th methods. Conclusion. The use of the Russian FRAX® model in men with COPD revealed a very low percentage of people who need osteoporosis treatment; DXA was the optimal diagnostic method. If it`s not possible to perform DXA in the most COPD patients, it should be prescribed to people with very severe bronchial obstruction and/or taking long-term oral glucocorticoid therapy. Regardless of the BMD parameters, semi-quantitative X-ray morphometry should be performed to diagnose asymptomatic vertebral fractures.
Aprendamos todos a leer: Componedor de palabras
Authors: Duarte Salcedo Catalina , Cotto Girón Eira Idalmy
Published: June 2021

“Aprendamos todos a leer” es un programa para la enseñanza del lenguaje en la básica primaria. En preescolar y primer grado, la enseñanza explícita de la lectura y la escritura se enfoca en el desarrollo y consolidación de las habilidades precursoras en la etapa inicial, como son: la conciencia fonológica, el principio alfabético, la adquisición de vocabulario nuevo, la comprensión oral y de lectura y la escritura de letras, palabras y oraciones. Empleando una metodología activa el programa busca desarrollar y consolidar las habilidades precursoras de la alfabetización inicial; y para hacerlo, ademásde su propuesta de materiales para estudiantes y docentes, se apoya en diversas herramientas que permiten al niño o la niña practicar y aplicar las habilidades en su contexto, buscando así que se interiorice el aprendizaje. Una de estas herramientas es el componedor de palabras, la cual se usa para afianzar la conexión entre el sonido de las letras (conciencia fonológica) y su forma (grafema). A esa asociación le llamamos principio alfabético. Cuando el estudiante logra identificar cada uno de los sonidos que componen una palabra, se habla de decodificación. El componedor de palabras es una herramienta poderosa para trabajar la decodificación.
Emergência e vigor de Tabebuia aurea (Silva Manso) Benth. & Hook.f. ex S.Moore em função de diferentes tempos de imersão em água
Authors: Almeida Romário De Sousa , Araújo Jayane Karine Pereira de , Gomes Azenate Campos , Barbosa Francisca Maria , Lacerda Alecksandra Vieira de
Published: June 2021

Considerando as estratégias de recuperação de áreas degradadas e a necessidade de estudos relacionados à tecnologia de produção vegetal, objetivou-se com a pesquisa avaliar a influência dos diferentes tempos de imersão em água na emergência e vigor das plântulas de Tabebuia aurea (Silva Manso) Benth. & Hook.f. ex S.Moore. As sementes foram submetidas a 11 tratamentos: Testemunha (T1), períodos de imersão em água por 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 42, 48, 54 e 60 h (T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8, T9, T10 e T11, respectivamente). Utilizaram-se quatro repetições de 25 sementes em cada tratamento. Trinta dias após a semeadura, foram analisados: comprimento de plântula, diâmetro, massa fresca e massa seca. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância e a comparação entre as médias foi realizada pelo teste de Tukey. Nas Embebições 60 h (T11)e 42 h (T8) a emergência das plântulas iniciou-se no quarto e quinto dias após o plantio, respectivamente. Entretanto, não houve efeito significativo dos tratamentos utilizados para Emergência (%) e Índice de Velocidade de Emergência (IVE) 30 dias após a semeadura. A maior média de comprimento de plântula ocorreu na Embebição 48 h (T9) com 18,5 cm. Para o diâmetro, a Embebição 6 h (T2) proporcionou o maior quantitativo (2,34 mm), seguido pela Testemunha (T1) com 2,28 mm. A maior média de massa fresca ocorreu na Embebição 36 h (T7) com 1,2786 g, enquanto que a Embebição 48 h (T9) e Embebição 42 h (T8) expressaram maiores valores de massa seca com 0,3678 e 0,3675 g, respectivamente. Portanto, observou-se que os diferentes tempos de imersão das sementes de T. aurea em água produziram plântulas mais vigorosas no que se refere aos parâmetros de comprimento de plântula, diâmetro, massa fresca e massa seca. Entretanto, não houve efeito significativo dos tratamentos utilizados para porcentagem de Emergência e IVE ao final do experimento.
Efeito de doses de glyphosate em deriva simulada em plantas jovens de cacau
Authors: Solano Neto Arnaldo , Yamashita Oscar Mitsuo , Carvalho Marco Antonio Camillo de , Felito Ricardo Adriano , Rocha Adriano Maltezo da , Rabelo Hudson De Oliveira
Published: June 2021

O cacaueiro (Theobroma cacao L.) é uma planta perene, da qual são extraídas amêndoas que vão ser usadas para produção de chocolate. O cultivo desta planta, especialmente no período de implantação da lavoura sofre a competição por plantas daninhas. Em geral estas são controladas com herbicidas. Entretanto estes produtos podem prejudicar ou até matar a cultura. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar o efeito de doses reduzidas, simulando deriva de glyphosate no desenvolvimento inicial de plantas de cacau. Foram testadas cinco subdoses do herbicida glyphosate: 0, 144, 288, 432 e 864 g e.a ha-1 do ingrediente ativo. Foram feitas avaliações aos 7, 14, 21 e 28 dias para verificação da fitointoxicação das plantas. Ao final de 14 e 28 DAA, foram avaliados: altura da planta, diâmetro do caule, número de folhas, comprimento radicular, matéria seca. Feita as análises foram observados que os sintomas de fitointoxicação foram severos já na primeira dose do herbicida afetando drasticamente o número de folhas das mudas de cacau. Sendo assim, nota-se que o cacaueiro é uma espécie que apresenta grande sensibilidade à deriva do herbicida glyphosate, e sua fitointoxicação ocorre já nas dosagens mínimas aplicadas.
Geometric Characterization of Three-Dimensional (3D) Woven Jute Fiber Preforms for Composites
Authors: ŞAHBAZ KARADUMAN Nesrin
Published: June 2021

Fiber-reinforced composite materials have many advantages in various engineering applications when compared to traditional materials such as glass, metals, ceramics and unreinforced plastics. Recently, textile-reinforced composites are increasingly used in various industries including aerospace, construction and automotive. This study aims to investigate the geometric characteristics of three-dimensional (3D) woven preforms which are used as reinforcement materials in composites. To this end, 3D woven preforms with three different weave types were produced namely 3D orthogonal, 3D plain z-orthogonal and 3D satin z-orthogonal. The effect of weave pattern and the number of layers on the geometric characteristics of the produced fabrics was investigated. For this purpose, yarn-yarn distances and density, yarn lengths and yarn angles were measured. The effect of the number of layers on the geometric parameters was limited. Yarn-to-yarn distances in plain-weave fabrics were found to be greater when compared to other types of fabrics whereas the yarn density decreased in plain woven fabrics due to a large number of interlacements. This shows that in composite form, the fiber volume fraction in the filling and z-directions will be lower in the semi-interlaced fabrics when compared to the non-interlaced orthogonal structures. It was also shown that filling and warp angles are a function of weave type while z yarn angle is associated with the weaving operations such as beat-up, multi-layer filling insertion and warp yarn let off.
PREVALENCE OF DEPRESSION AND ITS ASSOCIATED FACTORS DURING 2ND WAVE OF COVID-19 AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL, LAHORE
Authors: Ahsan Quratulain , Saleem Javeria , Akhtar Tazeem , Khan Aasia , Malik Abid
Published: June 2021

Purpose of the study: Antenatal depression is a significant predictor for postnatal depression, and pregnant women with depressive symptoms have an increased risk of frequent non-scheduled medical and emergency visits. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the antenatal depression and its related factors and effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the frequency of antenatal visits.

Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from July to September 2020 with 220 pregnant women from the Gynae Outpatient Department at the Tertiary Care Hospital of Lahore. Women aged 18–45 years with no pregnancy-related complications were included. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 tool was used to screen for antenatal depression, and a self-structured questionnaire was developed to explore depression-related factors.

Main Findings: Antenatal depression prevalence was found very high among pregnant women during the second wave of Covid-19 and pandemic did not affect regular antenatal visits of women.

Applications of this study: Mental disorders are associated with several individuals and societal factors, including feelings of insecurity and hopelessness, exposure to violence, physical ill health, and rapid social change. The existing pandemic situation, working from home, temporary unemployment, home-schooling of children, lack of contact and social support, it is important to look after mental and physical health especially women in pregnancy who can suffer from more severe mental health problems and can affect ANC visits that directly related to maternal and child health.

Novelty/Originality of this study: Depression in pregnancy is associated with severe complications and prevents patients from taking an active role in their healthcare. Women with depressive symptoms have an increased risk of frequent non-scheduled antenatal care (ANC) visits and emergency healthcare visits for pregnancy-related emergencies especially in the 2nd wave of COVID-19. It was very important to study the factors related to antenatal depression during this pandemic. Counselling and awareness may improve the physical and mental health of pregnant women.
EFFECTS OF AUDIT AND NON-AUDIT SERVICES FEES ON CORPORATE PERFORMANCE OF FIRMS LISTED IN PAKISTAN
Authors: Khan Muhammad Naeem , Ahmad Adnan , Khan Muhammad Asad , Javed Aziz , Rehman Zia ur
Published: June 2021

Purpose of the Study: The main purpose of this study is to examine the effects of the provision of audit and non-audit services jointly by the same audit firm on the corporate performance of firms in the capital market of Pakistan.

Methodology: This study uses hand-collected secondary data taken from firms' financial statements, the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) for 2012-2016. Panel data analysis techniques are employed using E-views statistical software.

Main Findings: we find a negative relation between audit and non-audit services fees with the firm performance. It is also documented that the appropriate amount of the NAS fee exceeds the amount of the audit fee received by the same auditor in the same assignment.

Application of the Study: This study has vital implications from both theoretical as well as practical perspectives. It adds a significant aspect of audit and non-audit services provided in the context of Pakistan to the existing body of knowledge/literature. This study also implies the bifurcation of audit services provision and its serious implications on the corporate sector of Pakistan. These results thus, signify its implications for regulators as well as standard setters in Pakistan.

Novelty/Originality of this Study: Various studies covering the audit aspect have been conducted in Pakistan. However, this is a unique study covering the multi-facet dimensions of audit, i.e., audit and non-audit services provision by the same audit firm and its effects/implications on corporate performance in Pakistan.
Impact of Active Learning on Performance and Motivation in Female Emirati Students
Authors: Burt John
Published: June 2021

Students entering Zayed University are expected to become active participants in their learning. However, the majority of these students have come from a public education system that is recognized to focus on teacher-centered passive learning. Students may be unprepared for this transition. This paper reports on a case study of changes in performance and motivation for students transitioning from passive learning to active learning.

Three students from the public education system were followed through two consecutive courses employing increasing active learning. Methods included observations, surveys, and interviews. Results indicate that the initial transition from passive learning to active learning has a negative impact, mainly due to inadequate preparation. However, subsequent development of skills through exposure results in improvement to the extent that motivation and performance exceed high school levels. It is concluded that the transition from active learning has the capacity to greatly improve student achievement if properly managed.
Dhofar University: a case study in the practicalities of collaboration and accreditation
Authors: Damaj Issam W. , Chaaban Farid B.
Published: June 2021

Since the turn of the 21st century, various institutions of higher education have been established in the Gulf Cooperation Council region, several of which are branches of universities from North America, Europe, Australia, and other regions. Quality education is currently a required component in the models of collaboration between Universities; yet the literature suggests that challenges remain in how the quality education will be practiced in a region that lacked for long time private universities. In this paper, we present an exploratory investigation to determine what could be learned by studying the practicalities of collaboration and accreditation of a newly established institution in Oman, namely, Dhofar University. The case study focuses on the practicalities of DU’s external collaboration, national accreditation, and good practices University-wide and within the College of Engineering in particular. The paper aims to present and analyze challenges, good practices, faculty and staff experiences, and solutions that could be a useful pattern for similar institutions. The investigation builds on an internal University-wide self-study and an external review by an accreditation council.
Building social capital with skills transfer in the writing center at American Design University in Qatar
Authors: McHarg Molly
Published: June 2021

This study examines English faculty perceptions of the Writing Center at American Design University in Qatar (ADU-Q) through a social capital analysis. This was part of a larger study that took a sociocultural approach to English faculty perceptions of writing center work at ADU-Q. One of the emergent themes in that study was the lack of students’ language skill transfer from English courses to their disciplines. This finding has critical implications for the development of writing center and writing-across-the-disciplines work by uniting the fields of Composition, TESOL, and writing center research.
One-to-one tutoring and mathematics students’ achievement in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Fraser Barry J. , Hasan Abeer A.
Published: June 2021

In this study in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), we investigated college students’ perceptions of their past experience of receiving one-to-one tutoring support in mathematics when they were in secondary school. In addition, we also explored students’ reasons for taking one-to-one tutoring in mathematics, the perceived impact of one-to-one tutoring in overcoming shortcomings of school mathematics teaching and on their mathematics achievement, and whether the learning environment at school influenced decisions about having one-to-one tutoring. Eight case-study students were involved in recalling how beneficial one-to-one tutoring was through semi-structured interviews. Because of the small sample size, the research involved only qualitative data based on the recollections of college students who were attending a one-year course in the General Education department of Abu Dhabi Men’s College. The research provided valuable insights into how some students considered having a one-to-one tutor beneficial for their achievement when they were in secondary school. Educators must consider students’ learning environment as being one of the main reasons for deciding whether or not to undertake one-to-one tutoring to raise their achievement in mathematics.

ﻓﻲ ھذه اﻟد را ﺳﺔ ﻓﻲ دوﻟ ﺔ ا ﻹﻣﺎ را ت اﻟ ﻌرﺑﯾﺔ اﻟ ﻣﺗ ﺣدة، د رﺳﻧﺎ ﺗ ﺻورا ت طﻼب اﻟ ﺟﺎ ﻣﻌﺎ ت ﻋن ﺗ ﺟرﺑﺗﮭم اﻟ ﺳﺎﺑﻘﺔ ﻓﻲ ﺗﻘدﯾم د ﻋم ﺗﻌﻠﯾﻣ ﻲ ﻓ رد ي ﻓﻲ اﻟ رﯾﺎ ﺿﯾﺎ ت ﻋﻧدﻣﺎ ﻛﺎﻧ وا ﻓﻲ اﻟ ﻣد رﺳﺔ اﻟﺛﺎﻧ وﯾﺔ. ﺑﺎ ﻹ ﺿﺎﻓﺔ إ ﻟ ﻰ ذ ﻟ ك ، ا ﺳ ﺗ ﻛ ﺷ ﻔ ﻧ ﺎ أ ﯾ ﺿً ﺎ أ ﺳ ﺑ ﺎ ب ا ﻟ ط ﻼ ب ﻹ ﺟ ر ا ء د ر و س ﻓ ر د ﯾ ﺔ ﻓ ﻲ اﻟر ﯾﺎ ﺿ ﯾﺎ ت ، وا ﻟﺗﺄﺛﯾ ر اﻟ ﻣﻠ ﺣو ظ ﻟﻠ د رو س اﻟﻔ ردﯾ ﺔ ﻋﻠ ﻰ ﺗ ﺣ ﺻ ﯾﻠ ﮭم ﻓ ﻲ اﻟر ﯾﺎ ﺿ ﯾﺎ ت ، وﻣ ﺎ إذا ﻛﺎﻧ ت ﺑﯾﺋﺔ اﻟﺗ ﻌﻠم ﻓ ﻲ اﻟ ﻣد رﺳﺔ ﻗد أﺛ ر ت ﻋﻠ ﻰ اﻟﻘ را را ت اﻟ ﻣﺗ ﻌﻠﻘﺔ ﺑﺎ ﻟ ﺣ ﺻ ول ﻋ ﻠ ﻰ ﺗد ر ﯾ ب ﻓ ر د ي . د ر س وا ﺣ د. ﺷ ﺎ ر ك ﺛ ﻣﺎﻧ ﯾ ﺔ ﻣ ن ط ﻼ ب د ر ا ﺳ ﺔ اﻟﺣ ﺎﻟ ﺔ ﻓ ﻲ اﻟﺗذﻛﯾ ر ﺑ ﻣد ى ﻓﺎﺋدة اﻟﺗد رﯾ س اﻟﻔ رد ي ﻣ ن ﺧﻼل ﻣ ﻘ ﺎ ﺑ ﻼ ت ﺷ ﺑ ﮫ ﻣ ﻧ ظ ﻣ ﺔ . ﻧ ظ رً ا ﻟ ﺻ ﻐ ر ﺣ ﺟ م ا ﻟ ﻌ ﯾ ﻧ ﺔ ، ﺗ ﺿ ﻣ ن ا ﻟ ﺑ ﺣ ث ﻓ ﻘ ط ﺑ ﯾ ﺎ ﻧ ﺎ ت ﻧ و ﻋ ﯾ ﺔ ا ﺳ ﺗ ﻧ ﺎ دًا إ ﻟ ﻰ ذ ﻛ ر ﯾ ﺎ ت ط ﻼ ب ا ﻟ ﺟ ﺎ ﻣ ﻌ ﺎ ت ا ﻟ ذ ﯾ ن ﺣ ﺿ ر و ا دو رة ﻣدﺗ ﮭﺎ ﻋﺎم وا ﺣد ﻓ ﻲ ﻗ ﺳم اﻟﺗ ﻌﻠﯾم اﻟ ﻌﺎم ﻓ ﻲ ﻛﻠﯾﺔ أﺑو ظ ﺑ ﻲ ﻟ ﻠ ط ﻼ ب . ﻗ د م ا ﻟ ﺑ ﺣ ث ر ؤ ى ﻗ ﯾّﻣ ﺔ ﺣ و ل ﻛﯾ ﻔﯾ ﺔ ﻧ ظر ﺑ ﻌ ض اﻟ طﻼب ﻓ ﻲ وﺟود ﻣد ر س وا ﺣد ﻣﻔﯾد ﻟﺗ ﺣﻘﯾﻘ ﮭم ﻋﻧدﻣ ﺎ ﻛﺎﻧ وا ﻓ ﻲ اﻟ ﻣد رﺳﺔ اﻟﺛﺎﻧ وﯾ ﺔ. ﯾ ﺟ ب ﻋﻠ ﻰ اﻟ ﻣﻌﻠ ﻣﯾ ن ا ﻋﺗﺑﺎ ر ﺑﯾﺋ ﺔ ﺗ ﻌﻠم اﻟ طﻼب وا ﺣدة ﻣ ن ا ﻷﺳﺑﺎ ب اﻟ رﺋﯾ ﺳﯾ ﺔ ﻟﺗ ﻘ ر ﯾ ر ﻣﺎ إ ذا ﻛﺎ ن ﯾ ﺟ ب ﻋ ﻠﯾﮭم إ ﺟ ر ا ء د ر و س ﻓ ر دﯾ ﺔ أ م ﻻ ﻟ ر ﻓ ﻊ ﻣ ﺳ ﺗ و ى ﺗ ﺣ ﺻ ﯾﻠﮭم ﻓ ﻲ اﻟ ر ﯾﺎ ﺿ ﯾﺎ ت .
Correspondence Analysis in Attitudinal Research: The Case of World Englishes and Teaching English as an International Language
Authors: Hassall P. J. , Ganesh S.
Published: June 2021

This paper provides a further investigation into the application of Correspondence Analysis (CA) as outlined by Greenacre (1984, 1993), which is one technique for “quantifying qualitative data” in research on learning and teaching. It also builds on the utilisation of CA in the development of the emerging discipline of English as an International Language provided by Hassall and Ganesh (1996, 1999). This is accomplished by considering its application to the analysis of attitudinal data that positions the developing pedagogy of Teaching English as an International Language (TEIL) (see Hassall, 1996a & ff.) within the more established discipline of World Englishes (cf. Kachru, 1985, 1990). The multidimensional statistical technique Correspondence Analysis is used to provide an assessment of the interdependence of the rows and columns of a data matrix (primarily, a two-way contingency table). In this case, attitudinal data, produced at a number of international workshops which focused on the development of a justifiable pedagogy for Teaching English as an International Language (TEIL), are examined to provide a more complete picture of how these venues differed from each other with respect to the collective responses of the respondents. CA facilitates dimensionality reduction and provides graphical displays in low-dimensional spaces. In other words, it converts the rows and columns of a data matrix or contingency table into a series of points on a graph. The current study presents analyses of two different interpretations of this data.
Managing the Classroom in the 21st Century: Challenges in Engineering Instruction in the Arabian Gulf Region
Authors: Randeree Kasim
Published: June 2021

Strategies for teaching engineering in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have been evolving over the past decades due to innovations in technology, as well as the development of educational methodologies. In the recent past, the focus for engineering faculty has been not only on promoting the skills needed to raise the level of employability of Emirati graduates, but increasingly on new educational methodologies, e-learning and wireless networked laptop technology. Students in the UAE exhibit certain characteristics emerging from a variety of cultural and historical traditions, as well as from methodologies of education used at the pre-tertiary levels. These characteristics include expecting to be passive recipients of taught information, and lack of independence in their approach to problem solving. In this paper I discuss the development of strategies to facilitate the transition of students from passive to active learning; examine the role of technology-driven educational methodologies in promoting independent and group-centered learning skills; and use a case study to explore the instruction of Engineering Design and Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and to examine how classroom management techniques have changed as a result of the growing use of technology.
Arab Tertiary Students’ Perceptions of Effective Teachers
Authors: Saafin Saleh
Published: June 2021

The aim of this descriptive study is to identify Arab tertiary students’ perceptions of the qualities and practices of teachers whom they judge to be effective. The data was collected from 136 Arab freshman students attending the intensive English program in the University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to prepare them for their career programs. A content analysis of the data revealed a set of perceived characteristics and practices that were ranked according to their frequency rate. These results show that although teachers’ ability to teach and help students understand are seen to be essential, certain human aspects of teachers and their attitudes toward their students are seen as crucial for judging their effectiveness. These Arab students considered the human element of their teachers as a very important component of their effectiveness.
Influences of Globalisation and Culture on Motivation of Students in Higher Education in the UAE
Authors: Randeree Mohammed Hussain
Published: June 2021

This paper examines the educational environment of indigenous Gulf Arab students at a UAE institution, many from rural families and with English skills that need further development. The influences on a group of freshman Engineering students, their developing learning skills and the coaching they are given is explored. Practical methods for motivating such students to cross boundaries of world-view and sentiment are discussed, whereby a focus is maintained on their personal context and objectives whilst aiming to achieve excellence in academic accomplishment. A pre-freshman stage is introduced to fill the language void, easing the transition between High School, College and University. A personal view is presented from an educator who himself is crossing many boundaries.
Evolución orbital del satélite FACSAT-1 y estimación de su tiempo de reentrada
Authors: Portilla Barbosa José Gregorio , Murcia Piñeros Jhonathan Orlando
Published: June 2021

El presente trabajo tiene como propósito exponer algunos datos relacionados con la puesta en órbita del satélite FACSAT-1 —primer satélite perteneciente a una institución gubernamental colombiana—, así como estimar la tasa de decaimiento en sus primeros dos años de funcionamiento. Para ello se utilizaron datos de los elementos orbitales desde su puesta en órbita (finales de noviembre del 2018) hasta finales del 2020. Se evidenciaron dos etapas de decaimiento bien diferenciadas: la primera, de 8 m/d y, la segunda —desde finales de septiembre del 2020— de 18 m/d, esto último a causa de un aumento de la actividad solar que se aprecia en el flujo de la emisión solar en 2,8 GHz. También se muestran los resultados de la utilización de un propagador de alta fidelidad que permite modelar la evolución de los elementos orbitales en los próximos años, lo que no solo permitió estimar el reingreso del satélite FACSAT-1 para el primer semestre del 2030, sino también observar el comportamiento de los elementos orbitales en los próximos nueve años.
Conectividad de Internet en Colombia y su relación con los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible (2015-2020)
Authors: Cervera Quintero Jenny Paola
Published: June 2021

En el presente artículo se hace un estudio cuantitativo de carácter exploratorio sobre el avance en conectividad de Internet en Colombia, dada su inclusión en los indicadores de los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible (ODS). De allí, surge como objetivo de investigación verificar el estado de avance de los ODS relacionados con conectividad en Colombia al 2020, a partir de la revisión de los indicadores específicos sobre el tema y los avances desarrollados por los Gobiernos en el periodo (2015-2020), con el fin de reducir la brecha de desigualdad en conectividad de zonas rurales y territorios apartados. Los resultados son alentadores y muestran efectividad estatal en este tema, no obstante, existen vacíos en la información que dificultan su evaluación. En las conclusiones, se evidencia el estado de avance en cada indicador, así como recomendaciones de actualización constante de las bases de datos respecto a los avances en gestión y su relación directa con cada ODS.
La frontera Colombia-Perú vista a través de la Operación de Apoyo al Desarrollo Binacional
Authors: González-Cuenca David , Cano Rodríguez Héctor Mauricio
Published: June 2021

Este artículo hace un estudio cualitativo, con enfoque analítico e inductivo, sobre las implicaciones, en materia de seguridad y desarrollo, de la implementación de la Operación de Apoyo al Desarrollo Binacional en la frontera colombo-peruana, durante el periodo 2007-2019. Para ello, se especificaron las acciones más representativas de la ejecución de la operación; se determinó la evolución de la calidad de vida, a partir de la conceptualización del desarrollo derivada de la operación, y, finalmente, se estableció el alcance y el cumplimento de las metas y objetivos propuestos por la Operación de Apoyo al Desarrollo Binacional Colombia-Perú. Este análisis permitió establecer, por un lado, la importancia de fortalecer operaciones como la de Apoyo al Desarrollo Binacional en esta zona de frontera y en otras de similares características, con el fin de impulsar el desarrollo territorial de la mano de los pobladores de la región, así como, por otro lado, la necesidad de vincular a más instituciones públicas, privadas y gobiernos extranjeros en la construcción de escenarios de cooperación internacional, en beneficio del desarrollo y la seguridad, en este caso particular, de la zona ribereña de los ríos Putumayo y Amazonas, territorios fronterizos entre Colombia y Perú.
Teachers’ instructional strategies and their impact on learner performance in Grade 9 mathematics: Findings from TIMSS 2015 in South Africa
Authors: Mosimege Mogege , Winnaar Lolita
Published: June 2021

Teachers use a variety of instructional strategies when they teach various mathematical topics and concepts. Some of these strategies have been found to positively affect the performance of learners while others do not. This study analysed the teacher questionnaire data from the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Studies (TIMSS) 2015 study in which the teachers indicated the instructional strategies that they used in the mathematics classrooms. The five instructional strategies that were determined from the groupings of the questions were teacher-teacher interaction, teacher-learner interaction, teacher explanation of the content, problem solving with direct teacher guidance and problem solving without direct teacher guidance. The results indicate that the two instructional strategies of problem solving with direct teacher guidance and teacher-teacher interaction were found to be significantly associated with learner performance across the four content domains of algebra, numbers, geometry and data and chance.
The link between career outcomes expectancy and career decision-making self-efficacy of STEM students in a South African university
Authors: Abe Ethel , Chikoko Vitallis , Lubinga Stella N
Published: June 2021

The Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT), one of the highly researched career theories, suggested that outcomes expectance and self-efficacy are crucial factors in the career selection process. The result of career outcomes expectancy (COE) and career decision-making self-efficacy (CDSE) may be pivotal in an individual’s shunning or being more inspired in their career behaviour. Both factors together are important in career decision-making. The aim of this study was to investigate the association among COE and CDSE of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) students at a South African university. The article is based on a quantitative study conducted among a sample of 322 STEM students, of which 203 responses were received. The career outcomes expectancy scale (COES) and career decision self-efficacy scale (CDSES) were used in the collection of data. Data were analysed with the IBM SPSS version 26 software and descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, linear regression and multivariate analytical tools were engaged. Findings show that age and race significantly associated with CDSE. Additionally, COE was found to have a statistically significant relationship with CDSE and that CDSE positively predicted COE. The environment of upbringing was also found to be influential in participants’ CDSE and COE. In line with extant literature, the discussion of the findings is made to proffer recommendations that have implications for practice, policy and further studies.
The complex concept of plagiarism: Undergraduate and postgraduate student perspectives
Authors: Mbutho Nozuko Princess , Hutchings Catherine
Published: June 2021

The prevalence of plagiarism in university students’ academic writing is well documented. Its complex and multifaceted nature has made it difficult to reduce or manage. The literature reveals a lack of significant understanding of plagiarism and related concepts to be due to a poor or an absence of education, and it advocates for extensive and explicit education in what constitutes plagiarism at higher education level. In this review article we explore the literature on undergraduate and postgraduate student perspectives of plagiarism and related concepts in a global context. These perspectives are discussed under the following themes: students’ understanding of plagiarism and related literacy practices such as referencing, the reasons contributing to why students plagiarise intentionally or unintentionally, students’ understandings and views of the seriousness of plagiarism and students’ views on how to curb plagiarism. We believe that through a deeper understanding of students’ perspectives of plagiarism, we could start to develop an all-encompassing strategy to deal with plagiarism at university level.
Low research productivity: Transformation, institutional and leadership concern at a South African university
Authors: Abe Isaac , Mugobo Virimai
Published: June 2021

A key indicator of the academic worth, value and development of a university is its research capacity and publications. The universities of technologies (UoTs) that merged from former technikons have been poorly ranked due to low research performance. Hands have been pointed at the academics, some school of thought blamed the institutions, others pointed at the government agencies in charge of higher education policies, regulation, and restructuring. The aim of this paper is to examine empirically from the institutional point of view, reasons for low research output in the UoTs. A qualitative research approach was adopted by conducting semi-structured interviews with 15 academic staff and a comprehensive focus group meeting among six academics from three faculties in the same UoT. Heavy workload, career ambiguity, poaching, staffing, sabbatical leave policy, large student numbers, unawareness of incentives, poor retention strategies, institutional history, understanding of research mandate, clarity of policies and procedures and poor time management emerged as the contributing factors to low research output in the UoT. According to the fourth dimension of systems archetype, the study contributes to knowledge by allowing a level of understanding into the problem under investigation. Strategic issues to be considered were suggested for the stakeholders as a way forward.
Necessary but not Sufficient: Literacy Pedagogies for Changing Times
Authors: O'Mara Joanne , Auld Glenn , Wood Narelle
Published: June 2021

This paper argues the case for expansive and inclusive models of literacy pedagogy that can be applied to curriculua more generally. Literacy pedagogy in Australia has benefitted from using Freebody and Luke's (1990) Four Roles of the Reader Model. We analyse the Paul Kelly song video, Sleep, Australia, Sleep, using this model. Underpinning this model is the concept that each role is necessary but not sufficient. We discuss the benefits fo pluralism in language and literacy pedagogy in an age of standards-based reforms and shifting repertoires of literacy practices in pedagogies that speak back to the Anthropocene.
Laser photobiomodulation effect on fibroblasts viability exposed to endodontic medications
Authors: Lima Gustavo Danilo Nascimento , Chisini Luiz Alexandre , Conde Marcus Cristian Muniz , Faria e Silva André Luís , Demarco Flávio Fernando , Ribeiro Maria Amália Gonzaga
Published: June 2021

Aim: The literature has not yet reported investigations about the effect of laser photobiomodulation (LPBM) over the cytotoxicity of drugs for endodontic treatments. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate, in vitro, the effect of the association between LPBM and intracanal medications on fibroblasts viability in different exposure times. Methods: Calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) and iodoform (IO) were used pure or associated to LPBM. Eluates of medications were prepared and placed in contact with the cells in three different periods: 24h, 48h and 72h. Laser irradiation (emitting radiation λ 660nm, power density of 10mW, energy density of 3 J/cm²) has been performed in two sessions within a six hour interval, for 12s per well. After each experimental time, the colorimetric assay (MTT) has been performed. Statistical analysis was applied for Mann-Whitney test with 5% α error admitted test. Results: At 24h, the use of LPBM did not increase cell viability while after 72h cell proliferation was stimulated in the group without medications. LPBM application did not increase cell viability in Ca(OH)2 group and IO at any tested time. Ca(OH)2 cytotoxicity at 24h was higher than iodoform, while at 72h not difference was observed. Therefore, after 72 hours was no statistical difference between the IO and Ca(OH)2 groups. Conclusion: LPBM was able to increase cell viability in 72h in the group without medication, although no improvement was observed in the other groups. Thus, LPBM was not able to reduce the cytotoxic effects of the materials on fibroblasts in vitro.
Calidad y tiempo de llenado de las anotaciones de enfermería en un Servicio de Emergencia de Lima – 2018.
Authors: Álvarez Antezana Lourdes
Published: June 2021

Objetivo: Determinar la calidad de las anotaciones de enfermería y el tiempo de llenado en el Servicio de Emergencia durante el segundo semestre del 2018. Material y métodos: Estudio descriptivo de corte transversal. Se trabajó con la totalidad de la población de enfermeras que laboran en el servicio que cumplían los criterios de inclusión, la muestra de anotaciones fue 245. Para la recolección de datos se realizó la técnica de análisis documental, se elaboraron dos instrumentos, el primero evaluó: criterios de legalidad – estructura y contenido, el segundo fue una lista de cotejo, donde se registró el tiempo en minutos. Resultados: De las 245 anotaciones de enfermería evaluadas, el 100% presentó mala calidad. Según la evaluación del criterio de legalidad en las anotaciones, el 19,6% tiene buena calidad, donde solo el 2,9% obtuvo el puntaje máximo: 17, mientras el 16,7% obtuvo como puntaje 16.  Se obtuvo una media de 6,4 minutos DS=3,0 teniendo como rango inferior 3,4 y rango máximo 9,4 minutos de tiempo para la elaboración de las anotaciones de enfermería. Conclusiones: Las anotaciones de enfermería revelan mala calidad y el tiempo utilizado por cada enfermera con 10 pacientes a su cargo demora entre 34 minutos a 1 hora con 34 minutos. Los resultados justifican la implementación de una anotación de enfermería que cumpla criterios con mayor énfasis en relación a criterios de contenido, que cuente con la nomenclatura NANDA, NIC, NOC.
Co-creation of HIVST Delivery Approaches for Improving Urban Men’s Engagement with HIV Services in eThekwini District, KwaZulu-Natal: Nominal Group Technique
Authors: Mashamba-Thompson Tivani Phosa , Lessells Richard , Dzinamarira Tafadzwa , Drain Paul , Thabane Lehana
Published: June 2021

Background: HIV self-testing (HIVST) is one of the recommended approaches for HIV testing services, particularly for helping reach populations who would not normally access facility-based HIV testing. HIVST must be tailored to different populations to ensure uptake. Objective: The main objective of this study was to develop an acceptable HIVST delivery strategy to help improve urban men’s engagement with HIV services. Methods: We invited key stakeholders for urban men’s HIV services to participate in a co-creation workshop aimed at developing HIVST delivery approaches for urban men, using eThekwini municipality as a study setting. We conducted purposive sampling to include health care users and health care providers, representing a range of views across the public sector and voluntary sector. We employed the Nominal Group Technique (NGT) method for data collection. The NGT workshop was conducted in two consecutive phases: phase one was focused on determining barriers for men’s engagement with the current/facility-based HIV testing services; phase two was aimed at determining HIVST delivery strategies. We used the results of the NGT to design a tailored HIVST strategy for urban men in eThekwini District. Results: Participants identified the following psychological factors as the most important barriers to uptake of HIV testing services by urban men: stigma, ignorance about the importance of testing and testing process as well as fear of positive test results. Key stakeholders suggested internal motivation strategies as a potentially effective approach to support HIVST delivery strategy. Guided by the NGT results, we designed a HIVST delivery strategy that is supported by a risk communication approach Conclusion: We designed an evidence-based risk communication mobile health (mHealth) strategy coupled with SARS COV-2 self-testing tailored to improve men’s uptake of HIVST. A follow-up study to evaluate the feasibility of implementing these approaches is recommended.
Aero Submarine: a Theoretical Design
Authors: Akramipour Sepehr
Published: June 2021

Aero submarines (aerosubs) are vehicles that can both fly both in air and travel under water. The concept of dual aerial and aquatic vehicles emerged in 1939 when Russian engineer Boris Ushakov proposed the “flying submarine”[1], and this was followed by further developments including RFS1 [2], convair project in 1964[3] , etc. however, to date, limited attempt has been diverted towards the advanced development of such aircraft. This is heavily influenced by challenges associated with the design and operation of the same. Based on the review of literature the authors aim to introduce a theoretical design for an aerosub (QFS-20) with a view to address the design and operation issues including power, entry to and exit from water.
Motion control methods of the pneumatic artificial muscle and upper body exoskeleton based on it
Authors: Chumichev Mikhail Alekseevich , Martianov Dmitrii Mikhailovich , Aliseychik Anton Pavlovich , Gribkov Dmitry Aleksandrovich , Podoprosvetov Aleksei Valerievich , Orlov Igor Aleksandrovich
Published: June 2021

This article presents the synthesis of the control strategy for an active drive. The authors considers an upper body exoskeleton for lessening the strain on shoulder joint muscles, which happens during any long-range operation with hands above ones head or at a breast height. At the first the optimal control problem for a pneumatic artificial muscle is solved in order to provide the traction force function, which is given in advance, taking into account given mechanical limits. At the second stage stage the optimal control problem for raising the weight from area ”A” to area ”B”, using the impulse control structure, is posed. This research provides analysis and capacities to the optimal trajectory control process for the exoskeleton to reduce thr total energy consumption both inclusing the operator force effect and without it.
Notes on 'Diagnosing Madness'
Authors: Cârlan Alexandru
Published: June 2021

What kind of story could be conveyed about psychiatric patients and the practices of their confinement in the second half of the nineteenth century and the beginning of the twentieth century? How could such an account be grounded? What theoretical tools and frameworks would allow for an apprehension of this situation, and within or across which disciplinary frameworks? Firmly situated in the field of rhetoric of science, Diagnosing Madness. The discursive construction of the psychiatric patient, 1850-1920 attempts such an account, “placing rhetorical analysis of the written word at the center of the web of cultural practices that made asylums possible in the nineteenth century”
Community Health Worker Asthma Interventions for Children: Results From a Clinically Integrated Randomized Comparative Effectiveness Trial (2016‒2019)
Authors: Martin Molly A. , Pugach Oksana , Mosnaim Giselle , Weinstein Sally , Rosales Genesis , Roy Angkana , Pappalardo Andrea A. , Walton Surrey
Published: June 2021

Objectives. To compare asthma control for children receiving either community health worker (CHW) or certified asthma educator (AE-C) services.

Methods. The Asthma Action at Erie Trial is a comparative effectiveness trial that ran from 2016 to 2019 in Cook County, Illinois. Participants (aged 5‒16 years with uncontrolled asthma) were randomized to 10 home visits from clinically integrated asthma CHWs or 2 in-clinic sessions from an AE-C.

Results. Participants (n = 223) were mainly Hispanic (85%) and low-income. Both intervention groups showed significant improvement in asthma control scores over time. Asthma control was maintained after interventions ended. The CHW group experienced a greater improvement in asthma control scores. One year after intervention cessation, the CHW group had a 42% reduction in days of activity limitation relative to the AE-C group (b = 0.58; 95% confidence interval = 0.35, 0.96).

Conclusions. Both interventions were associated with meaningful improvements in asthma control. Improvements continued for 1 year after intervention cessation and were stronger with the CHW intervention.

Public Health Implications. Clinically integrated asthma CHW and AE-C services that do not provide home environmental remediation equipment may improve and sustain asthma control.
Compressive Myelopathy in Dengue Infection
Authors: Kashyap Abhishek , Singh Keshave , Arora Sumit , S Anuradha
Published: June 2021

Cases:

We report 2 cases of compressive myelopathy secondary to spontaneous neuroaxial bleed in dengue infection. One was treated by surgical decompression during the recovery phase of illness, whereas the other was treated nonoperatively.

Conclusion:

A conscious decision for surgical decompression should be taken in cases not responding to initial medical management and planned during the recovery phase of dengue infection.