bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Dynamics of Great-Power Energy Politics in South-Eastern Europe: The EU versus the US and Russia?
Authors: Deák András , Szabo John , Weiner Csaba
Published: May 2022

South-Eastern European (SEE) countries are typically keen to maintain the status quo in their energy systems, generally characterized by underinvestment, high coal share and utility affordability needs. Their energy mixes have historically been determined by external factors, currently mainly related to decarbonization pressure. This article assesses how the EU’s ongoing decarbonization-driven withdrawal from supporting natural gas projects shapes fuel choices in nine selected SEE countries and may have geopolitical consequences. It is based on more than 70 interviews with stakeholders from these countries, EU institutions, and international organizations. In exploring and theorizing the geopolitical ramifications of the energy transition in SEE, it applies a novel approach, which draws on theories of power and the concept of an assemblage, which we link to theories on entanglement and disentanglement. We find that the EU’s climate policy significantly changes local infrastructural assemblages and the EU’s disentanglement from natural gas goes against Russian and US efforts. By wielding its power to support such an energy transition, the EU has shifted the bipolar system ‘EU/US vis-à-vis Russia’ defined along a single geopolitical ruleset (supply security), to a tripolar disposition ‘EU-Russia-USA’ defined along two rulesets (supply security and climate policy). In addition, China has become involved. States will thus have to take crucial energy policy decisions in a new geopolitical context.
Defusing Existential and Universal Threats to Compatibilism
Authors: Latham Andrew J. , Tierney Hannah ,   Journal of Philosophy Inc.
Published: May 2022

Many manipulation arguments against compatibilism rely on the claim that manipulation is relevantly similar to determinism. But we argue that manipulation is nothing like determinism in one relevant respect. Determinism is a "universal" phenomenon: its scope includes every feature of the universe. But manipulation arguments feature cases where an agent is the only manipulated individual in her universe. Call manipulation whose scope includes at least one but not all agents "existential manipulation." Our responsibility practices are impacted in different ways by universal and existential phenomena. And this is a relevant difference, especially on Strawsonian approaches to moral responsibility, which take facts about our responsibility practices to be deeply connected to the nature of responsibility itself. We argue that Strawsonian accounts of moral responsibility are immune to manipulation arguments, and no attempt to modify the scope of manipulation or determinism featured in these arguments will help incompatibilists secure their desired conclusion.
Assessing the Evidence on the Differential Impact of Menthol versus Non-menthol Cigarette Use on Initiation and Progression to Regular Smoking: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Kim Mimi M. , Curtin Geoffrey M.
Published: May 2022

Background:Despite numerous assessments of the public health impact of menthol cigarettes, a rigorous synthesis related to menthol cigarettes and behavioral outcomes is lacking. This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the question: Does menthol cigarette use have a differential impact on initiation and progression to regular smoking compared to non-menthol cigarette use?Methods:We consulted 6 databases from their inception to October 15, 2021. We included articles comparing menthol versus non-menthol smokers among 4 predefined smoking initiation and progression outcomes. We assessed risk of bias was using the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Evidence-Based Practice Center approach. We applied a random-effects model to pool adjusted odds ratios.Results:We qualitatively synthesized 16 adjusted studies across the outcomes. Results from one meta-analysis suggested no difference between menthol and non-menthol smokers in likelihood to report daily versus non-daily smoking.Conclusion:This systematic review and meta-analysis did not identify a consistent, statistically significant, or differential association between menthol use and progression to regular smoking. Varying definitions of outcome measures and lack of longitudinal evidence limited the confident conclusions that could be drawn from this evidence base.
Different Levels of Leisure-time Physical Activity, Coping, and Mental Health among Older Adults with Diabetes during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Jungjoo  , Kim Junhyoung , Han Sua
Published: May 2022

Background: The COVID-19 has led public health researchers to try to improve mental health among older adults with diabetes. Leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) has emerged as a means of coping with mental health difficulties in the pandemic. Methods: We extracted
301 respondents from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) based on the following criteria: over 50 years old and the onset of diabetes. We used multiple questionnaire items to assess mental health (ie, loneliness, happiness, and positive and negative affect) for older adults with diabetes.
We used multivariate analysis of variance to investigate the relationships between the fixed variable (ie, LTPA) and outcome variables (ie, mental health). We categorized LTPA participation into 3 groups (ie, low, mid, and high) and examined mental health following various levels of LTPA participation.
Results: LTPA participation showed a significant group mean differences for loneliness, happiness, and positive affect, but not for negative affect. High-LTPA respondents presented lower loneliness and higher happiness than low-LTPA respondents. High-LTPA and mid-LTPA respondents indicated
higher positive affect than low-LTPA respondents. Conclusions: This study provides evidence of the benefits of LTPA on mental health for older adults with diabetes and suggests that high-LPTA involvement can be effective in promoting mental health among older adults with diabetes in
the COVID-19 era.
Report on the DHSNIST Workshop on Standards for an Enduring Capability in Wastewater Surveillance for Public Health (SWWS Workshop)
Authors: Lin Nancy J , Servetas Stephanie L , Jackson Scott A , Lippa Katrice A , Parratt Kirsten H , Mattson Philip , Beahn Clare , Mattioli Mia , Gutierrez Sally , Focazio Michael , Smith Ted , Storella Paul , Wright Sarah
Published: May 2022

Wastewater surveillance is a promising approach to monitor biological and chemical contaminants on a community level in support of public health and safety decisions. Wastewater surveillance has recently been shown highly effective for the early detection of SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks within specific populations such as communities or buildings. As such, significant advances have been made in wastewater surveillance since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, many challenges remain to be addressed to establish an enduring capability for wastewater surveillance poised to respond to new targets as they emerge. The Standards for an Enduring Capability in Wastewater Surveillance for Public Health Workshop, co-sponsored by the National Institute of Standards and Technology and the Department of Homeland Security, aimed to identify these challenges and identify potential standards-based solutions to address them. This free, three-day, virtual workshop convened over 500 participants representing over 20 countries who are involved in all aspects of wastewater surveillance from sampling and testing methods to results/reporting and use of data, and represented organizations including government, public health, testing and manufacturing, academia, and non-profits. The presentations, panel discussions, and polling led to the emergence of three themes for standards for wastewater surveillance: concordance without constraints, nationally consistent, and building for the next pandemic.
Readmission Rates in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis: A Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Padarti Akhil , Amritphale Amod , Kilgo William
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory central nervous system demyelinating disorder resulting in neurologic decline. Patients predominantly have a relapsing and remitting disease course requiring multiple hospitalizations and, occasionally, rehospitalizations. Hospitalization readmission rates are important metrics that have direct financial implications for hospitals and serve as an indicator of disease burden on patients and society. We sought to analyze hospital readmissions of patients with MS and identify the subsequent predictive characteristics/comorbidities for readmission.

METHODS

All hospital admissions due to MS were queried using the 2017 Nationwide Readmissions Database. All patients with nonelective rehospitalization within 30 days of discharge were examined.

RESULTS

The 30-day readmission rate for MS is 10.6% (range, 10.4%–10.8%). Female sex has a protective role in readmission rates, and age has no effect. Comorbidities, including heart failure, acute kidney injury, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic kidney disease, respiratory failure, substance abuse, diabetes, hypertension, peripheral artery disease, liver failure, anemia, coagulation disorders, cancer, depression, and infections, are predictive of readmissions, whereas sleep apnea is protective. No effect is seen with neurologic blindness, plasma exchange, or intravenous immunoglobulin treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Several medical comorbidities are predictive of hospital readmission of patients with MS. Most rehospitalizations are due to infectious and neurologic etiologies; thus, targeted interventions may lead to lower readmission rates.
Discovery and functional assessment of a novel adipocyte population driven by intracellular Wnt/β-catenin signaling in mammals
Authors: Liu Zhi , Chen Tian , Zhang Sicheng , Yang Tianfang , Gong Yun , Deng Hong-Wen , Bai Ding , Tian Weidong , Chen YiPing
Published: May 2022

Wnt/β-catenin signaling has been well established as a potent inhibitor of adipogenesis. Here, we identified a population of adipocytes that exhibit persistent activity of Wnt/β-catenin signaling, as revealed by the Tcf/Lef-GFP reporter allele, in embryonic and adult mouse fat depots, named as Wnt+ adipocytes. We showed that this β-catenin-mediated signaling activation in these cells is Wnt ligand- and receptor-independent but relies on AKT/mTOR pathway and is essential for cell survival. Such adipocytes are distinct from classical ones in transcriptomic and genomic signatures and can be induced from various sources of mesenchymal stromal cells including human cells. Genetic lineage-tracing and targeted cell ablation studies revealed that these adipocytes convert into beige adipocytes directly and are also required for beige fat recruitment under thermal challenge, demonstrating both cell autonomous and non-cell autonomous roles in adaptive thermogenesis. Furthermore, mice bearing targeted ablation of these adipocytes exhibited glucose intolerance, while mice receiving exogenously supplied such cells manifested enhanced glucose utilization. Our studies uncover a unique adipocyte population in regulating beiging in adipose tissues and systemic glucose homeostasis.
Multi-modal affine fusion network for social media rumor detection
Authors: Fu Boyang , Sui Jie
Published: May 2022

With the rapid development of the Internet, people obtain much information from social media such as Twitter and Weibo every day. However, due to the complex structure of social media, many rumors with corresponding images are mixed in factual information to be widely spread, which misleads readers and exerts adverse effects on society. Automatically detecting social media rumors has become a challenge faced by contemporary society. To overcome this challenge, we proposed the multimodal affine fusion network (MAFN) combined with entity recognition, a new end-to-end framework that fuses multimodal features to detect rumors effectively. The MAFN mainly consists of four parts: the entity recognition enhanced textual feature extractor, the visual feature extractor, the multimodal affine fuser, and the rumor detector. The entity recognition enhanced textual feature extractor is responsible for extracting textual features that enhance semantics with entity recognition from posts. The visual feature extractor extracts visual features. The multimodal affine fuser extracts the three types of modal features and fuses them by the affine method. It cooperates with the rumor detector to learn the representations for rumor detection to produce reliable fusion detection. Extensive experiments were conducted on the MAFN based on real Weibo and Twitter multimodal datasets, which verified the effectiveness of the proposed multimodal fusion neural network in rumor detection.
Climate change influences on the geographic distributional potential of the spotted fever vectorsAmblyomma maculatumandDermacentor andersoni
Authors: Alkishe Abdelghafar , Peterson A. Townsend
Published: May 2022

Amblyomma maculatum(Gulf Coast tick), andDermacentor andersoni(Rocky Mountain wood tick) are two North American ticks that transmit spotted fevers associatedRickettsia.Amblyomma maculatumtransmitsRickettsia parkeriandFrancisella tularensis, whileD. andersonitransmitsR. rickettsii,Anaplasma marginale,Coltivirus(Colorado tick fever virus), andF. tularensis. Increases in temperature causes mild winters and more extreme dry periods during summers, which will affect tick populations in unknown ways. Here, we used ecological niche modeling (ENM) to assess the potential geographic distributions of these two medically important vector species in North America under current condition and then transfer those models to the future under different future climate scenarios with special interest in highlighting new potential expansion areas. Current model predictions forA. maculatumshowed suitable areas across the southern and Midwest United States, and east coast, western and southern Mexico. ForD. andersoni, our models showed broad suitable areas across northwestern United States. New potential for range expansions was anticipated for both tick species northward in response to climate change, extending across the Midwest and New England forA. maculatum, and still farther north into Canada forD. andersoni.
miR-9-5p promotes myogenic differentiation via the Dlx3/Myf5 axis
Authors: Dong Liying , Wang Meng , Gao Xiaolei , Zheng Xuan , Zhang Yixin , Sun Liangjie , Zhao Na , Ding Chong , Ma Zeyun , Wang Yixiang
Published: May 2022

MicroRNAs play an important role in myogenic differentiation, they bind to target genes and regulate muscle formation. We previously found that miR-9-5p, which is related to bone formation, was increased over time during the process of myogenic differentiation. However, the mechanism by which miR-9-5p regulates myogenic differentiation remains largely unknown. In the present study, we first examined myotube formation and miR-9-5p, myogenesis-related genes including Dlx3, Myod1, Mef2c, Desmin, MyoG and Myf5 expression under myogenic induction. Then, we detected the expression of myogenic transcription factors after overexpression or knockdown of miR-9-5p or Dlx3 in the mouse premyoblast cell line C2C12 by qPCR, western blot and myotube formation under myogenic induction. A luciferase assay was performed to confirm the regulatory relationships between not only miR-9-5p and Dlx3 but also Dlx3 and its downstream gene, Myf5, which is an essential transcription factor of myogenic differentiation. The results showed that miR-9-5p promoted myogenic differentiation by increasing myogenic transcription factor expression and promoting myotube formation, but Dlx3 exerted the opposite effect. Moreover, the luciferase assay showed that miR-9-5p bound to the 3’UTR of Dlx3 and downregulated Dlx3 expression. Dlx3 in turn suppressed Myf5 expression by binding to the Myf5 promoter, ultimately inhibiting the process of myogenic differentiation. In conclusion, the miR-9-5p/Dlx3/Myf5 axis is a novel pathway for the regulation of myogenic differentiation, and can be a potential target to treat the diseases related to muscle dysfunction.
HIF1α is dispensable for oocyte development and female fertility in mice
Authors: Chen Yujia , Du Siyu , Huang Zhenyue , Han Longsen , Wang Qiang
Published: May 2022

Background

It has been thought that oocyte may develop in a low oxygen environment, as changes in follicle structure and formation of a fluid-filled antrum. The survival of hypoxic tissues is controlled by hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) that are activated in a low oxygen state. HIF1α is expressed in mature mouse oocytes and continues to be expressed after fertilization, from the 2-cell to blastocyst stage. However, the physiological roles of HIF pathway during oogenesis and embryogenesis have still not been elucidated in detail.

Methods

Mutant mice with oocyte-specific HIF1α deletion were generated by crossing Hif1αfl/fl mice with transgenic mice expressing Gdf9-promoter-mediated Cre recombinase. Breeding assay was carried out to detect female fertility. In vitro fertilization and embryo culture were used to assess early embryo development. Oocyte meiotic progression was also examined. Quantitative RT-PCR was used for analyzing of candidate genes expression.

Results

We successfully generated mutant mice with oocyte-specific deletion of HIF1α. Oocytes loss of HIF1α did not affect female fertility, ovulation and early embryo development. Moreover, oocytes can mature in vitro, and form well-organized spindle in the absence of HIF1α. In addition, pronounced differences in Hif2α and Hif3α mRNA expression were not observed in HIF1α-deleted oocytes. These results revealed that HIF pathway in oocytes is not essential for female fertility.
Impact of length and width of footwear on foot structure of preschool-aged children
Authors: Puszczalowska-Lizis Ewa , Lizis Sabina , Prusak Magdalena , Omorczyk Jaroslaw
Published: May 2022

Background

Due to the dynamics of developmental changes, the preschool age is of crucial importance for the later health and efficiency of the feet. The aim of this study was the analysis of the fitting of indoor footwear and its impact on the features of the foot structure in 6-year-old children.

Methods

The study group consisted of 100 children, including 50 girls and 50 boys at the age of 6 years. The applied device was the CQ-ST podoscope and the Clevermess. The data were analyzed based on Mann-Whitney U test, Chi-square test and regression analysis.

Results

About 60% of children wore correctly fitted shoes in terms of length and width. Multiple regression models with two variables explaining the variance of the Clarke’s angle were statistically significant for girls (right foot: p < 0.001 and left foot: p = 0.009), and boys (right foot: p < 0.001 and left foot: p < 0.001). The influence of predictive variables on the values of the heel angle (γ) was statistically significant for girls (right foot: p < 0.001 and left foot: p < 0.001) and boys (right foot p < 0.001 and left foot: p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Both in the case of girls and boys, the frequency of using too long and too wide shoes was higher in relation to the frequency of using too short and too narrow shoes. The length and width of the shoes affected the length and width of the footwear both in girls and boys. The longer and wider the shoes, the lower the height of the arch. Longer shoes are accompanied by a greater transverse arch, and wider ones with a lower transverse arch of the foot.
Muslim Meranao Consumers on the Marketing Strategies for Halal Branded Food Products
Authors: Caraecle Aldrich June
Published: May 2022

Food consumption is very critical for Muslim consumers, as they have to consume halal products. For food companies to satisfy Muslim buyers and develop an effective marketing strategy, it is necessary for them to evaluate customer satisfaction. Thus, this study assessed the level of satisfaction of Muslim Meranao consumers toward the marketing strategies for halal branded food products. The study made use of descriptive survey research utilizing a researcher-made questionnaire, and the data was analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Applying purposive sampling, a survey was conducted to a total of 120 Meranao customers, which comprised 40 Meranao fathers, 40 mothers, and 40 Meranao Ulama. The overall assessment of the three groups of respondents showed that Meranao consumers were not satisfied with the marketing strategies of food companies for their product, price, place, and promotion strategies, or the 4P’s. The survey revealed that among the 4P’s, promotion strategies got the highest mean score of 2.48, while price strategies had been found to have the lowest satisfaction with a mean of 2.26. The dissatisfaction felt by the consumers may signify problems with the existing strategies of the companies. The findings of the study will guide manufacturers in enhancing their marketing strategies to attain perfect compliance with halal business practices.
Agencies and Communities Participation in the Climate Change Programs
Authors: Patungan Ellen , Martinez Delie Jean , Nolasco Margie , Base Ebonie
Published: May 2022

Metro Naga is primarily composed of Naga City and its surrounding municipalities in the province of Camarines Sur. It is located within the heart of Bicol’s largest river basin area and is considered a flood-prone region. This provides challenges to the government agencies responsible for implementing climate change programs. The study utilized the descriptive-evaluative design of mixed methods of research to evaluate the community participation in the current programs and campaigns for Disaster Risk Reduction Management (DRRM) and Climate Change Adaptation (CCA). Information was gathered through Structured questionnaires, guided interviews, and focus group discussions (FGDs) from the randomly selected respondents of the four (4) Municipalities of Metro Naga. Based on the findings of the study, community residents only participated “often” on the DRRM and CCA programs ( = 2.94) and the problems encountered in its implementation were no access to effective and applicable disaster risk financing and insurance (90%) and lack of initiative from the community to rebuild and repair the houses/buildings destroyed by the disaster (28%). As a result, continuous campaigns on community involvement in disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation should be established. The adoption of community-based disaster risk reduction management will give opportunities to the community residents to be equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to be adaptive and disaster resilient.
The Importance of Knowledge Base among Kindergartner Teachers on Language Structure in Teaching Reading Effectively
Authors: Kilat Christie Mae
Published: May 2022

Reading plays a vital role in learning, and yet it is a common problem in many classrooms nowadays. Many researchers are looking for a solution to this problem. Various methods and strategies are needed to come to a solution. By then, the role of the teacher comes in; he will implement these methods and strategies intended for reading. As the teaching-learning process, still problem arises if the teacher has not had enough knowledge on how to effectively teach reading.  This study was conducted to determine the knowledge base of kindergartner teachers of Language Structure in teaching reading effectively in the schools of Gitagum, Libertad and Initao, Misamis Oriental. This descriptive type of study involves thirty-three kindergartner teachers in the three municipalities of Misamis Oriental based on the District offices enrolment. The respondents were given a survey questionnaire to rate themselves on their level of knowledge on the basic components of reading and to test themselves on their knowledge and abilities on Language Structures. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics like mean, percentage, and t-test.  The results showed inconsistency in their level of knowledge, the outcome of the knowledge, and ability test. Hence, the kindergartner teachers still lack knowledge of language structure and require in-depth training and seminar-workshop.
Perceptions of Students, Faculty and Administrative Staff on the Data Privacy Act: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Ramos David Paul
Published: May 2022

The Data Privacy Act of 2012 was enacted to “protect the fundamental human right of privacy of communication while ensuring a free flow of information to promote innovation and growth.” Data privacy pertains to the right of an individual not to disclose his or her information. Since privacy is a universal human right, it is the responsibility of the government to protect the rights of its people to privacy and provide measures to protect their data. Given that the Data Privacy Act’s implementation is a relatively recent development in the Philippines, little is known about the various stakeholders’ perceptions towards it. A qualitative study that utilized semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore selected students’, faculty member's, and administrative staffs’ perceptions of the Data Privacy Act. Non-probability, purposive sampling was used to recruit six respondents. An interview guide was developed to help in the facilitation of the interviews. Data were analyzed through the 6-step thematic analysis by Braun & Clarke (2006). Four themes emerged: 1) Limited awareness of the law, 2) Somewhat familiar with the purpose/ functions of the law, 3) Issues in the implementation of the law in the academe, and 4) Ambiguity in the necessity of the law. Recommendations to improve compliance with the Data Privacy Act, such as the designation of personal information controllers or data privacy officers (DPO) to ensure that security measures are in place to protect personal and sensitive information, were also discussed.
Relevance of “Pananaroon” to Islam and Culture of Meranaw
Authors: Diamaoden Arsalan , Mama Insah , Macarambon Mohammad Jihan , Camama Marwah
Published: May 2022

Meranaws of Lanao areas is known as a Riyayatan ko Kambilangataw (role model in characters and good deeds). They have their unique cultural beliefs, tradition, and ethics, such as kambilangataw (etiquette), kaseselai (giving worth), kapoporowai (praise) kasangila (heed), kapamagawida (helping each other), kapakiroroyoden (sense of empathy), and kapamagipata, (caring person). This paper attempted to describe the significance of pananaroon (Meranaw proverbs) in contemporary Meranaw society. This also to determine the role of pananaroon in the lives of the Meranaw people since time immemorial until now. Finally, this is to find out the awareness of the Meranaws regarding the practice of pananaroon from the Islamic perspective. The researchers used a qualitative-naturalistic research design. This study gathers data through an oral interview of some informants from Marawi City and Municipality of Butig, Lanao del Sur. Field-based research was undertaken through the observational method, Focus Group Discussion (FGD) with the traditional leaders, local officials, and selected respondents from the academe. Findings revealed that the etymology of the word “pananaroon” comes from the word “taro,” which means speech. Pananaroon (Meranaw proverbs) is already a part of the Meranaw cultural practices, especially during important events such as a wedding, enthronement, etiquette, and settling family feuds or conflicts. The practice of pananaroon is not only confined to its relevance to the M?ranaw culture, but it also symbolizes nobility and societal rank in society.
Indigenous Practices and Beliefs of Rice Farmers in the Second District of Capiz, Philippines
Authors: Magallanes Jocelyn
Published: May 2022

People of a long time ago lived in harmony with nature. Because of their dependency on the environment and intimacy with nature, they have come up with a set of beliefs and traditions that becomes the basis of modern rice farming practices. This descriptive study aimed to investigate and document the indigenous practices and beliefs of rice farmers in the second district of Capiz, Philippines. Using the researcher’s made questionnaire and interview schedule, data were gathered from 59 rice farmers.   Findings revealed that the majority of the respondents were in their middle age (45-57 years old) and were high school undergraduates. Before planting rice, farmers perform Bungad (planting rice and lemongrass in the corner of the rice field facing east). In planting rice, farmers assure that their stomach is full, the sea is in high tide, and the moon is in progress to the full moon.   Another is Gabuo (throwing sliced turmeric while walking around the ripe grains for three consecutive afternoons) to drive away evil spirits.  After harvesting, farmers perform pamutang butang or thanksgiving by offering a portion of their best yield to someone they believe mystic.  Local farmers utilize mouse traps, dead animals, and plastic strips to get rid of rats, mole cricket, rice bugs, and birds (Maya), respectively. Indigenous practices and beliefs of farmers were based on their forefathers and from their personal observations and experiences. It is recommended that concerned agencies must document farmers’ indigenous beliefs and practices.
Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council’s (BADAC) Drug Clearing Program: Basis for the Development of Community Rehabilitation Program for Drug Surrenderees
Authors: Rebusquillo Saerel
Published: May 2022

The social and medical problems of drug abuse are a matter of increasing global concern. The government, through its joint efforts with the concerned agencies, the authorities, and criminal justice professionals, sought to find solutions to address the problems on illegal drugs. Unfortunately, until now, it has not been solved. The war on drugs became an unending process of killings and repeated use of drugs. This study aimed to evaluate the extent of implementation of the Barangay Drug Clearing Program and the problems encountered in Albay province. To facilitate the study, the researcher used a descriptive method of research. The respondents of the study were the barangay officials, drug surrenderees, and police officers in the two selected municipalities and cities in the second district of Albay. The statistical techniques used in the study were weighted arithmetic mean, Kruskal Wallis H, and Mann Whitney u. The survey questionnaire was used to facilitate the collection of data from the respondents. Data revealed that the pre-operation phase, operation phase, and post-operation phase of BADAC’s drug clearing program are implemented. However, the topmost problem encountered is the lack of rehabilitation facilities. Thus, the program of BADAC is functional through the active participation of the barangay officials, but inevitable problems occur in its implementation.
Developing a Pastry Product with Tropical Liquid Seaweed Eucheuma Cottonii
Authors: Macas Lezyl , Cano Jesszon , Gucor May Amor , Olaso Lilanie , Lim Darwin
Published: May 2022

Currently, our society lives under a deceptive apprehension of there being food abundance. Many humans are surrounded by using quick meals prosperous in calories and unsaturated fats, high-powered advertising, and over-consumption. The mass market has truly emerged as accustomed to the expression of junk food to designate such offerings, yet this incredibly processed food is bumped off in giant amounts. This study aimed to develop a pastry product with tropical liquid seaweed (Eucheuma Cottonii). The participants chose lot 2 with 10 grams of tropical liquid seaweeds according to their impression and judgment of the product in terms of appearance, chose lot 2 with 10 grams according to the product’s visual sensation, chose lot 1 with 5 grams according to the fineness and crunchiness of the product, chose lot 1 with 5 grams according to the degree of the flavor, terms of general acceptability the participants chose lot 1 with 5 grams as their preferred treatment and the ideal amount of tropical liquid seaweed in making pastry. Moreover, tropical liquid seaweed (Eucheuma Cottonii) is loaded with nutrients, especially different dietary fibers, and other nutrients. Furthermore, using tropical liquid seaweed in making white peanut cookies is ideal for the benefit of people in terms of health.
Glocalized Experiential Learning Infused Resource Package in Earth and Life Science
Authors: Nagal Raphael Kevin
Published: May 2022

The study aimed towards the development and evaluation of glocalized experiential learning-infused resource package in Earth and Life Science. The study used the educational design research method and involved the generation of a learning resource package. Participants of the study include the Grade 11 students of LNFVHS, S.Y. 2019-2020, as well as learning experts. Both qualitative and quantitative data were gathered for the study. Qualitative data came from focus group discussions, while quantitative data came from the results of the Bioenergetics test and Learning Material Evaluation Form. The least mastered competencies generated were The Cell, Photosynthetic Reactions, and Acquisition and Utilization of Energy. From this result, a glocalized experiential learning infused resource package was developed consisting of three learning materials based on the least mastered concepts--two (2) print materials (Learner’s Material and Teacher’s Guide) and one (1) non-print (Video-Based Module). The resource package was rated as very acceptable (3.70 for Learner’s Material, 3.65 for Teacher’s Guide, and 3.62 for the Video-Based Module). The study revealed that when learning materials were glocalized, contextualized, and infused with experiential learning activities, learners were more likely to be engaged in learning the concepts. The learning package developed helped in encouraging independent learning and a good source of supplemental learning material for Grade 11 and other grade levels.
Textual Analysis of the Short Stories of Francis J. Kong
Authors: Rodriguez Elmira , Napigkit Chorla
Published: May 2022

The short story as a literary genre mirrors life, which touches the emotions of the readers. This study employs qualitative analysis using the inspirational stories of Francis J. Kong, namely Scarred Hands, Sweet Success, and The Most Important Ingredient in Service, False Conclusions, and Sweet Revenge. The characters’ responses to various incidents were analyzed and compiled from consolidated opinions and feelings to assure that contextual presentation is considerable. Internal conflicts of Francis J. Kong’s stories are choices between optimism and pessimism, determination and resignation, egoism and altruism, being impulsive and restrained, as well as tranquility and turmoil. Meanwhile, external conflicts are options between trust and wealth, positivity and negativity, declination and approval, indifference and concern, ill-mannered and gracious. These conflicts, resolutions, and morale are believed to boost readers’ strength, confidence, and collaboration with others. The main characters’ choices demonstrate the values of creative thinking, acting, sharing constructive outlook, and rekindling the hearts that relates to the readers’ experiences and perspectives. Resolutions narrated are directed towards acceptance of failure and defeat conceptualized through self-realization from a conventional perspective. The moral lessons commonly constitute the virtue of acclimatizing the essence of goodness and reverence of life, as the outgrowth of building one’s strength, values, and faith in God that would translate an epitome of humanity
A Suitability Assessment of the Functional Content Platform for Firefighter’s Stress Reduction (part 2)
Authors: Park Tae-Hee , Kim Tae-Sun , Park Jung-Hwa , Jun Young-Tae , Lee Ji-Hyang , Kim Chi-Jung , Kwon Jin-Suk
Published: May 2022

Firefighters are constantly exposed to dangers in disaster sites and they need a plan to safeguard their mental health. There are various programs in place, such as mental and physical health stabilization rooms, to reduce stress and prevent mental illnesses. While these are easily accessible during work, they are lacking in function. To effectively decrease the stress of firefighters, a beam projector set, a speaker, a LED lamp were installed in an independent booth, called a activity healing room. Such rooms were built in fire stations and its effects on stress were analyzed. The indicator was based on measurement of a respiration rate and a heart rate. Additionally, for the qualitative analysis, mental health interviews of firefighters confirmed stress reduction. The results of this study are expected to be used as baseline data to enhance psychological resilience in firefighters and to revitalize their mental and physical health using stabilization rooms.
Waterproof Characteristics of Fire Pumps for Fire-fighting Vehicles
Authors: Kwon Yong Joon , Yoon Myung Oh , Bang Chang hoon
Published: May 2022

The water shooting performance of existing fire pump vehicles was found to be insufficient when extinguishing fire at the Go-yang Reservoir, and thus, the need for a high-pressure pump was raised. Therefore, the National Fire Agency enforced the standard for high-pressure pumps as 4.0 MPa; further, they categorized fire pumps into general pumps and high-pressure pumps. In this study, an empirical experiment was conducted on the water shooting characteristics of a high-pressure pump by manufacturing a device equipped with a high-pressure pump that conformed to the abovementioned standards. A water shooting test similar to fire suppression activities was conducted by connecting fire hoses and nozzles at a straight distance of 300 m. The experiment confirmed that, based on the pump pressure of 1.5 MPa, the tip pressure considerably fluctuated during water shooting, and the difference in pressure loss rate at the low-pressure and high-pressure outlets was confirmed. Because these characteristics threaten the safety of fire-fighters during field activities, a need was confirmed for technology development that can improve the limit on the tip pressure increase in the high pressure pump standard and the rapid pressure increase.
THE CURRENT STATE OF BIBLICAL SCHOLARSHIP IN ESTONIA
Authors: Nõmmik Urmas , Riistan Ain
Published: May 2022

Estonia is one of the most extreme nations in the Western world regarding a modest belonging to the churches and scepticism towards religious institutions. This article presents a short overview of the history of Estonian academic landscapes from the point of view of biblical studies and the University of Tartu as the historical nodal point of all Estonian academic life. The paper sketches six polarities that characterise the work of biblical scholars in Estonia. The first polarity marks national versus international, since biblical scholars struggle with the needs of the narrow national academic sphere and the broad international scholarship. The second polarity is the tension between scientific and popular spheres, of which both are needed to have a sustainable national academic environment, but academic publications are rare. The third problem is the polarity between the historical-critical and the religious, generally designated as a conflict between conservatives and liberals in Estonia. Particularly in the Lutheran church, several theologians and pastors publicly distinguish between “church theology” and “university theology,” and the label of liberalism keeps sticking. The fourth polarity concerns religious versus anticlerical and non-institutional religion. Biblical scholars are confronted with a very ambivalent attitude towards churches, demanding flexibility to understand the exact auditory. The fifth polarity marks the academic study versus new spirituality interpretations: how to approach people speaking the jargon of new spirituality, who might be religiously illiterate, individualistic, and sceptical towards institutionalised churches. Open theological discussion versus political-nationalist ideology is the sixth polarity. After gaining independence and becoming free from communist ideology, the lifetime of one generation has not been enough to cope with all the changes in the world view to emerge a free, tolerant and cohesive society. The situation welcomed the import of fundamentalist Christianity, far-right politics and the phenomenon of cultural war.
COVID-19 Infection Induced Mania
Authors: Roy Ishani , Sanyal Debasish
Published: May 2022

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection or Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, is associated with various psychiatric consequences, which are because of various types of stressors, may be fear of infection or social isolation, hospitalization, death and so on. In the present case report, a 44-year-old female with a history of pentazocine addiction and no known history of previous psychiatric illness was admitted to the Emergency Ward with vacant, withdrawn look, unnatural fixed posture, mutism, refusal to eat. These symptoms developed after discharge from another hospital where she was treated for COVID-19 induced severe pneumonia (resolving). The very next day, the patient demonstrated excessive talkativeness and jovial mood with echolalia. The patient was treated symptomatically and recovered without the use of any antipsychotics. This report highlights the probability of the mania like symptoms being linked to COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2 infection) highlighting the need for assessment of various psychiatric manifestations during COVID-19 infection.
Prognostic Role of CRS in High Grade Serous Ovarian Tumour Patients Receiving Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Central India
Authors: Ali Manal Ashraf , Durrani Naila , Parveen Khaneta , Ahmad Zeeshanuddin , Meenai Farah Jalaly
Published: May 2022

Introduction: Ovarian tumours are rarely diagnosed early, patients presents only when the abdominal mass is appreciable in size. The current mode of treatment involves neoadjuvant chemotherapy with interval debulking surgery, followed by completion of the chemotherapy. The pathological examination of the interval debulking specimen allows an evaluation of the extent of the response to the chemotherapy and sensitivity of the tumour to the same. The Chemotherapy Response Score (CRS) developed by Bohm S et al., is being used to predict the prognosis of these patients. The advent of molecular genetics has allowed us to categorise tumours as per the mutations they possess, the prominent in High Grade Serous Carcinoma (HGSC) being TP53, BRCA1/2 and Homologous Recombination Deficiency (HRD). This knowledge is used to cater to the specific therapeutic needs of the patients. Aim: To apply the CRS to cases of high grade serous carcinomas of the ovary, presenting to the centre and association of the score with their survival. Materials and Methods: A total of 30 patients of high grade serous carcinoma of ovary who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy and had interval debulking surgery were included in the study. The histopathological examination of the resected specimen was done with special emphasis on the omental deposits and the degree of necrosis, fibrosis, inflammation, macrophages and residual tumour. Chi square statistics with p-value association of was done, to establish significance. Results: The histological parameters of necrosis, chronic inflammation and residual tumour in the omental deposits were found to be the most significant in association of to the CRS scores. Also, the CRS grading was associated with the survival of the patients. Conclusion: The CRS was found to associate well with the survival of the patients. This study recommends that CRS score be done in all post NACT high grade serous ovarian tumours, which will guide further treatment.
Action Research on Impact of 21st Century Pedagogy in Teaching and Learning
Authors: Dorji Nima
Published: May 2022

The importance of educational transition towards its reform from traditional way to modern way in teaching learning is in much demand for effective teaching and learning process for the 21st century children in school.

This study begins with a discussion on the features of the 21st century pedagogy in effective teachings and learnings. It then analyses the finding of the surveys done for the students of grade IV- VI students (38 boys and 48 girls) of Rinchengang Primary School on the impact of 21st Centuray pedagogy.

It was mainly focused on the general interest of the children on the new 21st century pedagogies and the old traditional pedagogies. Since the study being focused on the impact, the quantitative method has been adopted to collect data and the purposive sampling with dialectic action research spiral techniques was used for the selective groups from each section.

The result was highly significant with difference between the old and new teaching learning pedagogy. For this particular study the four major components of Kagan’s 21st century Pedagogies like the CL structures, sitting arrangement, brain breaks  and traffic signals were  found effective in teaching and Learning.
Effect of Fertility Levels and Biofertilizers on Growth Parameters, Root Architecture and Quality of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)
Authors: Yadav Pratistha , Yadav Deen Dayal , Pandey Hanuman Prasad , Yadav Ankit , Sachan Ravindra , Yadav Smriti
Published: May 2022

The present field experiment was conducted during Rabi season of 2017–18 at the Student's Instructional Farm of Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh to evaluate the effect of different fertility levels and biofertilizers on growth parameters, root architecture and quality of late sown chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). The experiment comprised of 12 treatment combinations in split plot design which comprised 4 treatments [F1 (control), F2 (RDF 100%), F3 (75% RDF), F4 (50% RDF)] in main plot and 3 treatments [B1 (Rhizobium + PSB), B2 (Rhizobium + PGPR) and B3 (Rhizobium + PSB + PGPR)] in sub plots with three replications. Results showed that among the different fertility levels, application of 100% RDF significantly enhanced growth parameters, root architecture and protein yield over the control. Among the different biofertilizers treatments application of Rhizobium + PSB + PGPR had significantly improved growth parameters, root architecture and protein yield as compared to Rhizobium + PGPR. The combined application of 100% RDF with Rhizobium + PSB + PGPR resulted in significantly higher growth parameters, root architecture and protein yield of late sown chickpea during winter (Rabi).
Interactive Effects of Moisture Content and Packaging Material on Common Bean Seed Yield and Yield Components
Authors: Adjei E. A. , Banful B. K. , Asiedu E. A. , Amoah R. Adu , Arthur M. , Yeboah S. , Asibuo J. Y.
Published: May 2022

Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) provides nutritional, economic and health benefits. Ghana has introduced the first four commercial varieties for adoption. Maintaining seed quality in storage is challenged in the humid regions due to high temperature and high relative humidity. The study determined the interactive effects of seed moisture content (MC) and packaging material on quality of seeds stored for 8 months and subsequent seed yield and yield related components. A 2x2 factorial in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) was used, replicated three times. Seeds were dried to 8 and 11% MC, kept in polythene bags and plastic containers and stored for 8 months under ambient and cold conditions. There were no significant differences (p>0.05) for plant stand at two weeks after planting, days to first and fifty percent flowering, chlorophyll content, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, and seed yield. Leaf area index of plants developed from seeds dried to 8% MC and packed in polythene bags were significantly higher than the other interaction effects. The lowest plant stand was observed in plants developed from seeds dried to 11% MC and packed in plastic containers. 1000SW of seeds dried to 11% MC and packaged in plastic containers were 32.77% higher than in seeds dried to 8% MC and packaged in plastic containers. The Ennepa common bean seeds can be dried to 11% MC and packaged in polythene bags and stored for 8 months without significant seed deterioration.