bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Exchange Rate Volatility to Stocks’ Return in Indonesia: The Augmented Markov-Switching Egarch Approach
Authors: Wasiaturrahma Wasiaturrahma , Putri Dita Normalaksana , Ajija Shochrul Rohmatul
Published: January 2021

The stock price is one indicator that represents the economic performance in a country. Changes in stock prices, including various factors, as an example, is the exchange rate changes as the representation from the foreign exchange market. The fluctuating exchange rate price also influences the volatility of the stock price. Furthermore, volatility has different high and low regime stages that will cause a disparate impact on the outcome of the relationship changes. This study aims to examine the presence of asymmetric volatility and its effects on the volatility of LQ45 stock returns, as well as the changes in exchange rates of Rupiah against USD from 1997 to 2017. Using the Augmented Markov Switching EGARCH  approach,  the  results  of  this  study  indicate  an  asymmetric  behavior  in  the  volatility  of LQ45 stock returns. High volatility regimes are more dependent and more unstable than low volatility regimes, and low volatility regimes dominate the duration compared to the high volatility regime. The good and bad news give different impact on LQ45 stock return volatility and exchange rate changes. Moreover, the unstable economies will respond faster than the stable economies in terms of facing the exchange rate changes.
Lignin as an Active Biomaterial: A Review
Authors: Solihat Nissa Nurfajrin , Sari Fahriya Puspita , Falah Faizatul , Ismayati Maya , Lubis Muhammad Adly Rahandi , Fatriasari Widya , Santoso Eko Budi , Syafii Wasrin
Published: January 2021

Lignin is the second most naturally abundant biopolymer in the cell wall of lignocellulosic compound (15-35%) after cellulose.Lignin can be generated in massive amounts as by-products in biorefineries and pulp and paper industries through differing processes. Most lignin is utilized as generating energy and has always been treated as waste. Due to the high amount of phenolic compounds in lignin, it is considered as a potential material for various polymers, building blocks, and biomaterials production. Even though lignin can be utilized in the form of isolated lignin directly, the modification of lignin can increase the wide range of lignin applications. Lignin-based copolymers and modified lignin show better miscibility with another polymeric matrix, outstanding to the enhanced performance of such lignin-based polymer composites.This article summarizes the properly updated information of lignin’s potential applications, such as bio-surfactant, active packaging, antimicrobial agent, and supercapacitor.Keywords: active packaging, antimicrobial agent, bio-surfactant, lignin, supercapacitor
Hubungan Letak Aksial dan Variasi Ketebalan Papan terhadap Penyusunan Skedul Pengeringan Kayu Cemara Gunung (Casuarina Junghuhniana Miq.) (Relationship Between Axial Location and Board Thickness Variation on the Development of Drying Schedule of Cemara Gunung (Casuarina Junghuhniana Miq.))
Authors: Putera Hanan Purana , Listyanto Tomy
Published: January 2021

The research aimed to determine drying characteristics, developing drying schedule, and its relationship to the axial position of the sample on the stem, board thickness, specific gravity, and percentage of heartwood.This research used cemara gunung (Casuarina junghuhniana Miq.) as samples with 6 replications and 2 factors that are the axial location (bottom, middle, and top) and board thickness (2 cm, 3 cm, and 4 cm). The drying schedule development followed the Terazawa Method, in which the samples were dried within a temperature of 100°C for 72 h. The proper schedule was then applied and evaluated. The research obtained 11 variations of the drying schedule.The chi-square analysis results indicated that the board thickness and percentage of heartwood were significantly correlated with the development of the drying schedule. The drying schedule using board thickness of 2 cm, 3 cm, and 4 cm can be dried with an initial temperature of 60°C, 50°C, and 47°C, respectively. The wet-bulb depression was 4°C, 2°C, and 2°C, respectively, and the final temperature was 90°C, 80°C,and 65°C, respectively.  Keywords: axial, board-thickness, Casuarina junghuhniana, drying-schedule, Terazawa method
Dampak Jangka Pendek Penjarangan Hutan Campuran terhadap Keanekaragaman Serangga Terbang di KPH Banten (Short-Term Impact of Thinning of Mixed Forest on the Diversity of Flying Insects in Forest Management Unit of Banten)
Authors: Budiaman Ahmad , Haneda Noor Farikhah , Lumbantobing Sarah Nova Irene
Published: January 2021

Forest thinning is a sylvicultural practice that aims to provide better growth space for increasing tree growth and stand quality. Forest thinning is a form of forest disturbance that has an impact on the forest environment, including flying insects. This study aimed to assess the impact of thinning of mixed forest stands on the diversity of flying insects. Eight circular plots of 0.1 ha were laid out systematically on thinning plots of 15.3 ha. Parameters observed in the plot included environment factors (stand composition, temperature, humidity, and canopy cover), abundance, species composition, and biodiversity index of flying insects (diversity index, species richness index, evenness index, and similarity index).  The sweep net was used to collect the flying insects. Mann-Whitney test was used to compare the index of biodiversity of flying insects before and after forest thinning. Forest thinning caused a decrease in abundance, species composition, diversity index, richness index, and evenness index of flying insects. Forest thinning led to a decrease in the abundance of herbivorous flying insects and an increase in the abundance of predatory flying insects. Flying insect species found before thinning was not identical to those after thinning.Keywords: diversity index, flying insect, forest ecosystem, forest tending
Produksi dan Laju Dekomposisi Serasah Ceriops tagal di Cagar Alam Tanjung Panjang (The Production and Decomposition Rate of Ceriops tagal Litter in Tanjung Panjang Nature Reserve)
Authors: Thalib Mirawati , Baderan Dewi Wahyuni Kyai , Katili Abubakar Sidik
Published: January 2021

Mangrove vegetation growsalong the coastal line and iscapable of thriving in salty water. Therefore, the study reported in this articlesought to describe the production and decomposition rate of Ceriops tagal litter in Tanjung Panjang Nature Reserve in Randangan Sub-District, Pohuwato District, Gorontalo Province. A survey method was employed, and a purposive sampling technique was used for selecting the research site. The data of litter production was collected using a litter trap of 2m x 1m. Decomposition data was collected using a litter bag sized of 1m x 1m. The results showed that litter production containing leaves at Station I reached 46%, twigs 40%, and fruits 14%. At Station II, the production of litter containing leaves reached 42%, twigs 45%, and fruits 13%. At Station III, the production of litter containing leaves reached 48%, twigs 43%, and fruits 9%. The decomposition rate (R) of C. tagal litter at each station was obtained with an average on the 14th day of 0.42 g, 0.75 g, and 0.77 g, respectively. On the 28th day, it was 0.75 g, 1.00 g, and 0.89 g; on the 42nd day was 1.13 g, 1.27 g, and 1.22 g; and on the 56th day was 1.48 g, 1.62 g, and 1.59 g. The ratio of the decomposition rate of C. tagal litter on day 14 to day 56 increased. This condition was influenced by several environmental factors, including salinity, which ranged from 4.5-6.3‰, ambient temperature at 27-28°C, dissolved oxygen at 2.0-5.0 mg/L, and soil pH between 5.9-8.0.Keywords: Ceriops tagal, decomposition rate, litter production, Pohuwato
Pengaruh Karakteristik Kimia terhadap Sifat Mekanis dan Keawetan Alami Tiga Jenis Kayu Kurang Digunakan (Effect of Chemical Characteristics on Mechanical and Natural Durability Properties of Three Lesser-Used Wood Species)
Authors: Augustina Sarah , Wahyudi Imam , Darmawan I Wayan , Malik Jamaludin , Kojima Yoichi , Okada Taiyo , Okano Naoki
Published: January 2021

Chemical, mechanical, and natural durability properties of three lesser-used wood species from North Kalimantan, namely nyatoh (Palaquium lanceolatum), pisang putih (Mezzettia leptopoda), and sepetir (Sindora wallichii) woods,were analyzed to seek the interrelationships amongthem and give an overview related to their utilization. The results showed that pH values of three wood species were categorized into moderate to weak acid levels. The extractive contentsin hot and cold water as well as in NaOH 1% of sepetir wood were higher than those of nyatoh and pisang putih woods. In contrast, the solubility in ethanol-benzene of nyatoh wood was the highest. The ash content in the three wood species were categorized intomedium level. Lignin contents in sepetir and nyatoh woods were classified as moderate, while lignin content in pisang putih wood was high. Holocellulose and hemicellulose contentsin sepetir wood were higher than those in nyatoh and pisang putih woods, whereas alpha cellulose in sepetir wood was the lowest. MOE values of the three wood species were classified as strength class of IV‒V, while MOR and compression parallel to the grain were classified as strength class of IV. The hardness value of nyatoh wood was higher than that of other woods.The durability of the three wood species was classified into poor (low durable). The relationship between chemical characteristics and mechanical properties of wood was primarily influenced by its major components (cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin), whereas natural durability was influenced by its minor components (extractives and inorganic materials).Keywords: lesser-used wood species, mechanical properties, natural durability, parameters interrelationship, wood chemical characteristics
Pemodelan Spasial Kesesuaian Habitat Elang Jawa (Nisaetus bartelsi) di Taman Nasional Bromo Tengger Semeru (Spatial Modeling of Javan Hawk-Eagle (Nisaetus bartelsi) Habitat Suitability in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park)
Authors: Aryanti Nirmala Ayu , Susilo Tander Scila Serata Dwi , Ningtyas Ari Nadya , Rahmadana Mahmuddin
Published: January 2021

Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (TNBTS) is a conservation area as the habitat of endemic species in Java Island, such as the Javan hawk-eagle (Nisaetus bartelsi). One of the spatial models of habitat is the Ecological Niche Modeling (ENM) approach. This study aimed to determine habitat suitability for the Javan hawk-eagle in TNBTS. The research was conducted from September 2019 to January 2020. The habitat suitability model used the present coordinate point data and the Javan hawk-eagle habitat environment variables. The data were then analyzed to build a Javan hawk-eagle habitat suitability model using the Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) algorithm. The results showed three models of habitat suitability categories, i.e.: high of 15,131.18 ha (30%), medium 11,216.61 ha (22%), and low 23,298.41 ha (48%). The evaluation of the Javan hawk-eagle habitat suitability model in TNBTS has an excellent model accuracy with an AUC value of 0.97 and a standard deviation of 0.93.Keywords: endemic, habitat, Javan hawk-eagle, maximum entropy, spatial modeling
The Removal of Cured Urea-Formaldehyde Adhesive towards Sustainable Medium Density Fiberboard Production: A Review
Authors: Lubis Muhammad Adly Rahandi , Manohar Sumit Yaday , Laksana Raden Permana Budi , Fatriasari Widya , Ismayati Maya , Falah Faizatul , Solihat Nissa Nurfajrin , Sari Fahriya Puspita , Hidayat Wahyu
Published: January 2021

Medium density fiberboard (MDF) is an engineered wood product that has density and specific gravity similar to solid wood, ranging from 600 to 800 kg/m3 of density and 0.6 to 0.8 of specific gravity. This makes MDF suitable to partially replace solid wood, particularly for interior application. Approximately over than 100 million m3 of MDF are produced in 2020, resulting in a large amount of waste MDF will be generated in the next 20 years. MDF is produced using urea-formaldehyde (UF) resins adhesive. UF resins adhesive is a poly-condensation product of urea and formaldehyde via an alkaline acid two-step reaction. Sustainable MDF production is required as the world is facing climate change and deforestation. Recycling is a way to support sustainable production in the engineered wood products manufacturing. Many attempts have been done to find ways to recycle waste MDF. The main problem is UF resins, which bond the MDF panel fibers. In order to re-manufacture the waste MDF into new recycled MDF, UF resins should be eliminated from the waste MDF before being used. The presence of UF resins in MDF can interfere with the utilization of the recycled fibers, whether it will be used as a raw material for new MDF or other composite products. This paper reviews the process of removal of cured UF resins from waste MDF panel by considering the hydrolytic stability of cured UF resins for MDF recycling, providing a comprehensive review of how cured UF resins can be removed from waste MDF and characterization of recycled fibers obtained from recycling prior to re-manufacturing of recycled MDF panel.Keywords: hydrolysis, medium density fiberboard, resin, recycling, resin removal, urea-formaldehyde
Household Livelihood Strategy Based on Capital Assets in Fire-Prone Areas, Ogan Komering Ilir Regency, South Sumatra
Authors: Nurlia Ari , Purnama Dadang Hikmah , Kadir Sabaruddin
Published: January 2021

Forest and land fires are problems that have not been resolved and occur almost every year. Various policies related to forest and land fires began to be promoted nationally and have restricted communities in managing their land. This causes a vulnerability in society. Farmers are required to carry out various methods and strategies to overcome economic problems. This research aims to analyze the livelihood assets and livelihood strategies of farmer households. The study was conducted from February to June 2020 in Pulu Beruang Village, Tulung Selapan Sub-District, and Kayu Labu Village, Pedamaran Timur Sub-District, Ogan Komering Ilir Regency. This research is a survey research using a mixed sequential explanatory approach by using the triangulation principle.The quantitative data collection is done through a household survey using a questionnaire to 75 respondents in Pulu Beruang Village and 70 respondents in Kayu Labu Village.Qualitative data collection was carried out through in-depth interviews, Focus Group Discussions (FGD), and field observation. The results showed that Pulu Beruang Village had a greater asset score in human capital and financial capital. In comparison, Kayu Labu Village had a greater score in natural capital. Physical capital and social capital in both villages had scores that were not distinctly different. Hence, they did not have a different effect on community resilience. Livelihood assets owned by the community influence their household livelihood strategies. The household livelihood strategy in Pulu Beruang Village uses human capital and financial capital, agricultural sector and non-agriculture, especially trading, and swallow’s nest business. Meanwhile, the livelihood strategies of farmers’ households in Kayu Labu Village rely on their natural capital and agricultural sectors, such as fisheries and purun crafts.Keywords: forest and land fires, livelihood asset, livelihood strategies
Antimicrobial Activity of Ten Extractives from Toba, North Sumatra and Mt. Merapi National Park Regions, Indonesia
Authors: Ismayati Maya , Zulfiana Deni , Himmi Setiawan Khoirul , Tarmadi Didi , Meisyara Dita , Zulfitri Apriwi , Kartika Titik
Published: January 2021

Investigating beneficial chemical compounds of plant extracts is one of the ways to prevent biodiversity loss. This study evaluated the antimicrobial activity of indigenous plant extracts from Toba, North Sumatra, and Mt. Merapi National Park regions against Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, and Candida tropicalis by calculating the zone of microbial growth inhibition. Among the plant extracts, T5 that identified asToona sinensisshowed the highestmicrobial inhibitionto the growth of C. albicans, B. subtilis, S. typhi, and E. coli with the diameter growth of approximately 2.00, 1.80, 1.33, and 1.33 cm, respectively. Based on those results, T. sinensis was thensubsequently fractionated using n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol, respectively.The resulted fractions also were evaluated for antimicrobial bioassay. All fractions have shown activity in inhibiting the growth of the microbes at 1% concentration. However, each fraction showedgrowth inhibition against certain microbes. The n-hexane fraction showed the greatest inhibitory activity for E. coli and S. typhi; ethyl acetate fraction for B. subtilis and C. albicans; and methanol fraction for E. coli and S. typhi. The results revealed that T. sinensis plant extract has great potential asan antimicrobial agent. Further investigation is needed to observe the mode of antimicrobial action of fractionated crude extracts of T. Sinensis. The exploring potency of Indonesian biodiversity opened up a new way for the utilization of plants for economic development and conservation.Keywords: antimicrobial plants, indigenous knowledge, Toba-North Sumatra, Mt. Merapi
Analysis of the Effect of Attitude toward Environment, Perceived Control Behavior and Ecological Packaging on Green Purchase Intention on Packaging Drinking Water (AMDK) Brand Cleo Eco Shape
Authors: Hafiz Ahmadian , Permana Dudi
Published: January 2021

This study examines the impact of Attitude toward Environment, Perceive Control Behavior and Ecological Packaging on green purchase intention of Cleo Eco Shape Bottled Drinking Water (AMDK). The population used is all Indonesian citizens who have not bought Cleo Ecoshape brand bottled water products. The sample used was 120 respondents. PLS is used to analyze research data. The results of this study indicate Attitude toward Environment, Perceive Control Behavior and Ecological Packaging have a positive and significant effect on Purchase Intention.
Foreign Direct Investment in the United Arab Emirates: A Study on the Main Contributors
Authors: Alshamlan Mariam Abdalla , Fernandez Vania Maria , Fernandez Manuel
Published: January 2021

Foreign Direct Investment support the development of the host countries and provides opportunities for the Multinational Corporations to geographically diversify their operations into greener pastures and reap better benefits. This study focuses on a few of the most relevant factors that attract FDI into the UAE. It is observed that the inflow of FDI into the UAE is on the increase year-on-year during the last five years. The relevant factors that make the UAE FDI-attractive are the political stability, geocentric location, well-developed infrastructure, stable currency, well developed financial system, the global crowd-pulling event the Expo 2020, and the proactive and investor-friendly policies of the government.
How Child and Youth Care Students Think About and Practice Forgiveness: A Qualitative Course-Based Research Study
Authors: Bellefeuille Gerard , Derkson Michelle , Bush Alyssa , Leverenz Karley , Panchyshyn Katrina
Published: January 2021

At the core of child and youth care (CYC) practice is the ability to cultivate meaningful and positive relationships with children and youth. As CYC students we are taught from day one that knowing one’s self is a pre-condition to building positive and meaningful relationship with others. As a result, we are educated to become more self-aware, a process that involves building our capacity to honestly recognize our beliefs, emotions, personality traits, values, biases, and motivations. Most importantly, we are taught to be forgiving because as human beings we are adept at hiding awkward or painful truths from ourselves. The aim of this course-based study is to contribute to the body of relational CYC knowledge by investigating the perceptions of CYC students’ understanding and practice of the concept of forgiveness. The data were analyzed using a six-phased process of thematic analysis based on the work of Braun and Clark (2006). Four themes emerged from the thematic analysis: (a) freedom, (b) learning how, (c) forgiveness is a process, and (d) your road to forgiveness is your own.
Supply and Regulation Services Provided by Re-greened Landscapes in the Sahel: Case of Two Villages’ Clusters Dan Saga and Tabofatt in Niger Republic
Authors: Saidou S. , Iro D. G. , Ambouta K. J.-M.
Published: January 2021

The objective of this study is to assess the importance of the supply and regulation services provided by the regreened landscapes in certain anthropized areas of Sahel zone. The methodology used is based on a socioeconomic survey coupled with an inventory of woody vegetation in agroforestry parks in two villages’ clusters: Dan Saga and Tabofatt. Ethnobotanical analysis tools and allometric equations are applied on the data collected. These led to three main results. First, a total of 43 and 34 species registered are used in six (6) usages, such as food, forage, technological, energetic, and medicinal uses respectively both in Dan Saga and Tabofatt cluster. Second, the two landscapes contain a remarkable specific flora diversity which contributes not only to soil fertility but also to sequester 6.04±0.236 and 4.5 9±0.568 tCO2.ha-1 respectively at Dan Saga and Tabofatt. And thirdly in the landscapes of two clusters the amount of woody species inventoried, meets the amount of social use requirements. These results show that scaling up of regreening program should focus on promoting useful species through updating the current forest legislation.
Nutritional Characteristics of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Composite Flours Obtained by Food Fortification
Authors: Mugalavai Violet K. , Aduol Kevin O. , Onkware Augustino O.
Published: January 2021

High prevalence of protein-energy malnutrition among the vulnerable population, especially children has prompted research on fortification of common staple cereal foods such as rice. However, rice has inferior nutritional value compared to other popular cereals, such as maize, therefore limiting its full utilization. Its storage protein, glutelins, is not easily digested by monogastric animals; therefore, food to food fortification of rice flours provides protein nutritional compensation as well as improvement of other nutrients. This study was carried out to determine the proximate and mineral (Fe, Zn, Mg, Ca, P) composition of rice composite flours. Methodology: The blending ratios (rice: maize: sorghum: pumpkin: carrots: baobab: amaranth) used in the study were 70:0:0:7.5:7.5:5:10 (AT1), 45.5:24.5:0:7.5:7.5:5:10 (AT2), 35:35:0:7.5:7.5:5:10 (AT3), 23.3:23.3:23.3:7.5:7.5:5:10 (AT4) and 100% rice flour (AT5). Proximate analyses were performed according to Association of Official Analytical Chemist (AOAC) methods. Atomic absorption spectroscopy was used to determine the minerals. Data analysis was done using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Mean comparisons for treatments were done using Bonferroni tests and significance level was set at P≤0.05. Findings: Moisture content of the composite flours ranged from 10.87 to12.55% and was significantly different (p<0.05). Ash content was not significantly different (p<0.05) and ranged between 1.08 and 1.85%. The fat content ranged between 5.38 and 10.67%; with AT4 having the highest and AT5 having the least fat content. The carbohydrate content was significantly (p<0.05) different among the flour; ranging between 66.65 and 73.51%. Crude fibre ranged between 1.42 and -2.20%, whereas the protein content ranged from 6.88 to 7.73%. Iron content ranged between 0.06 and 0.08 mg/100g zinc ranged from 0.19 to 0.56 mg/100g. The phosphorus content ranged from 0.07 to 0.18 mg/100g with no significant (p<0.05) difference. The calcium content was significantly (p<0.05) different among the flours and ranged from 1.41 to 1.91 mg/100g. Conclusion: The results show that the flour composites have the potential to improve nutritional status of consumers. Thus, consumption of AT1, AT4 and AT5 composite flours with a protein content of 7.3%, 7.7% and 7.4% maybe recommended for children aged 6 - 59 months in order to prevent protein-energy malnutrition.
Typology of Management of Transhumant Sheep and Goat Farms in Greece: Proposals for the System Continuity
Authors: Siasiou A. , Karelakis C. , Galanopoulos K. , Mitsopoulos I. , Lagka V.
Published: January 2021

Transhumant farming system is one of the earliest agricultural activities in Greece having an important role in the conservation of biodiversity, the preservation of rural tradition and cohesion of the rural population. The objective of this study was to construct a transhumant farm typology that could be used as a tool by the decision makers or farmers to improve the management of the farms. The required information was obtained from totally 551 Greek transhumant producers. A Principal Component Analysis gave five components related to the production cost of the farms, the intensity of management, the evolution of the extensive character of the system, the type of herds and the future of the system. Using multivariate techniques, a farm typology was established with four categories. The three categories, were characterized by lower production cost and intensification rate while preserved generally a more extensive character. Among them the first group defined as “evolution of the farming system” bred mainly sheep and producers were significantly more adaptive to some kind of innovations, the second group was constituted mainly by large goat herds while the third one by small sheep herds’. The fourth group, defined as the “intensive one” meaning high production cost, intensification rate and working hours per female as well as limitation of time spent grazing. Besides the definition of the character of the transhumance nowadays the results interestingly, highlighted the future of transhumant farms that tends to be doubtful for a number of farmers originated mainly by the last group.
Postmenopausal Bleeding: An Update
Authors: Ara Nasreen Shaikh Zinnat , Mahjabeen Nusrat , Shahreen Safinaz
Published: January 2021

The clinical approach to postmenopausal bleeding requires prompt and efficient evaluation to exclude or diagnose endometrial carcinoma and endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia and to find out the real source. Postmenopausal bleeding is ‘endometrial cancer until proven otherwise’, although only 1-14% of such patients will actually have cancer. Clinical risk factors of endometrial carcinoma such as obesity, unopposed estrogen use, polycystic ovary syndrome, diabetes mellitus and family history of gynaecologic malignancy also should be considered during evaluation. Postmenopausal bleeding usually attributed to an intrauterine source, but it may arise from the cervix, vagina, vulva or fallopian tubes & ovaries. The origin of bleeding can also involve non-gynaecologic sites, such as the urethra, bladder, anus/rectum/bowel, or perineum.

Meticulous history and thorough physical examination are must. Initial evaluation is by TVS, if endometrial thickness (ET) is <4mm no further evaluation is required but follow up consultation must. If ET is> 4mm, hysteroscopic evaluation and endometrial sampling is recommended

Blind endometrial sampling is not accurate as only reveals when endometrial cancer exceeds more than 50% of the endometrial surface area so may be done if hysteroscopic evaluation is not possible. Higher dose of progesterone may be required for endometrial protection when higher doses of estradiol as hormone replacement therapy are used, or in women with high BMI. Unopposed estrogen therapy is associated with a duration and dose-related increase in risk of endometrial hyperplasia and cancer. Endometrial protection requires an adequate dose and duration of progestogen. Endometrial hyperplasia with atypia has much malignant potential but endometrial hyperplasia without atypia may be managed medically with 3 monthly endometrial sampling, if no regression or further progression hysterectomy is the choice of treatment. Finally, patient counseling with discussion of risks /benefits of different options of treatment modalities is the cornerstone of success of addressing postmenopausal bleeding.
The Association of a Floating Elbow and a Homolateral Dislocated Floating Shoulder (About a Case)
Authors: Sidi El Hacen , Rkiba Zakaria , El Kassimi Charafeddine , Rafai Mohamed , Garch Abdelhak
Published: January 2021

The floating elbow is a rare lesion, characterized by the presence of a fracture of the humerus and one or both bones of the homolateral forearm. Double disturbances of the upper suspensory shoulder complex, commonly referred to as “floating shoulder” injuries, are ipsilateral fractures of the clavicle and scapula with loss of bone attachment of the glenoid.  The combination of a floating elbow and floating shoulder is extremely rare, added an ipsilateral dislocation of the glenohumeral remains exceptional. No case has been reported in the literature of such a lesional association. This observation makes it possible to describe an extremely rare lesion, by proposing the therapeutic attitude and the prognosis.
Elective Repair of Adult Abdominal Wall Hernia: A Nigerian Tertiary Hospital Experience
Authors: Ray-Offor Emeka , Okeke Chidi Joshua
Published: January 2021

Background: Hernia repair is one of the most common procedures performed by general surgeons, mostly in an elective setting. The true incidence/prevalence of hernias in Nigeria is unknown, however, suture (tissue) repair is predominantly reported.

Aims: To study the distribution of adult abdominal wall hernia and the surgical and anaesthetic techniques for elective repair in a Nigerian tertiary hospital.

Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study of surgical patients undergoing elective abdominal wall hernia repair in University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital Nigeria from January 2009 to December 2014. Data extracted from the theatre records were patients’ demographic, type of hernia, repair technique, anaesthesia, operating time, and cadre of performing surgeon. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 20.

Results: A total of 400 adult patients had elective repair of abdominal wall hernias during study period. The age range was from 17- 85 years (mean 39.3 ± 6.0) and M: F ratio of 1.9:1. There were 287(70.9%) inguinal, 43(10.6%) incisional and 36(8.9%) epigastric hernias. Mesh repair was recorded in 11(2.7%) cases with laparoscopic technique in 2 cases. Subarachnoid block was the choice anaesthesia in 365(85.4%) cases. The least mean operating time (38.6 mins) recorded was in repair of femoral hernia and longest (105.3mins) with incisional hernia repair.

Conclusions: Suture repair is the predominant repair technique. Routine hernioplasty and laparoscopic hernia repair need to be encouraged.
Complete Stenosis of the Uretero Vesical Junction in Urogenital Tuberculosis: Management and Evolution
Authors: Elidrissi O. , Rkik M. , Bai W. , Ghannam Y. , Dakir M. , Debbagh A. , Aboutaieb R.
Published: January 2021

Urogenital tuberculosis continues to be a major health problem around the world due to the epidemic of HIV infection.

We report the case of a 40-year-old patient followed for urogenital tuberculosis and who presented during her follow-up a complication of her disease type ureteral stenosis, managed by endoscopic route.

We try through our work to focus on the value of surveillance after anti-bacillary treatment in order to watch for complications and act in an innocuous way.
The Association of Clinical Characteristics and Lifestyle Habits with Poor Glycemic Control in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Marjanović Marijan , Đido Vedran , Bralić Lang Valerija , Martinović Željko , Ovčina Amer
Published: January 2021

Background: The goal of this paper is to explore clinical characteristics and lifestyle habits in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and their association with poor glycemic control.

Material and Methods: Total of 541 subjects of over 40 years of age with type 2 diabetes mellitus of both genders were included in the study. Anthropometric measurement, glucose level in plasma, HbA1c, triglycerides, AST, ALT, creatinine and eGFR were collected at the time of study entry and patients were asked to fill out the questionnaire on lifestyle habits.

Results: Patients with elevated triglyceride and LDL cholesterol levels, alcohol consumers and smokers were more likely to have poorly controlled glycaemia.

Conclusions: Our study showed a significant impact of patient characteristics to poor glycemic control. Physician activities to reduce cholesterol, triglyceride levels and improve lifestyle habits in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus will result in better glycemic control.
TL Characteristics and Dosimetric Aspects of Mg-Doped ZnO
Authors: Abraheem Abeer Z. , Khamis F. , Abdulla Y. A.
Published: January 2021

Dosimetry characterization and the evaluation of kinetics parameters of trapping states of Mg-doped ZnO phosphors synthesized by Sol-Gel technique. The thermoluminescence response of Mg-doped ZnO samples showed a linear response when exposed to X-ray radiation and the optimum annealing condition was 400oC/4h for the three concentrations. A broad-shaped TL glow curve with an upper bound of 270 °C, which shifts to lower temperatures with increasing dose, indicating that general order (GO) kinetics thermoluminescence processes are involved. We conclude that the ZnO doped Mg phosphors under study are promises to develop dosimeters for high radiation dose measurements. Kinetic parameters, such as activation energy (E), frequency factor (s), and order of kinematic order (b), were estimated by the Glow Curve Deconvolution (GCD) method. ZnO:Mg phosphor has a great potential as a dosimeter for monitoring in the fields of ionizing radiation.
Klein Nishina Differential Equation for the Selection of Radiation Shielding Material (C, AL, Fe, and Zn) on the Basis of Attenuation and Cross sectional Area
Authors: Dhobi Saddam Husain , Kumar Das Santosh , Yadav Kishori
Published: January 2021

On studying the Electronic and Atomic Cross sectional area for low atomic masses (Carbon, Aluminum, Iron and Zinc) using Klien-Nishina differential equation. The atomic cross section among these elements for same energy of incidence photon the atomic cross section area found on order of Carbon Aluminum Iron Zinc. This show with increasing atomic number and mass the cross section area of material goes increase. But the mass attenuation goes decrease with increasing in mass and number of materials made up of high atomic weight and number. This is clearly seen in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. Therefore, among these elements protective material is made up of Carbon has more safety than other (Al, Fe, Zn).
Knowledge and Practice of Assessment: Empirical Evidence from Early Childhood Teachers in the Kumasi Metropolis, Ghana
Authors: Frimpong Samuel Oppong , Osei Dorigen
Published: January 2021

Sound assessment fosters learning, improves teaching, and provides information about what has been done or achieved by learners. Children cannot develop without them being assessed. However, information available to the researchers suggests that researches is done or are not done specifically at the early childhood level. This sequential explanatory mixed method was used to examine knowledge and assessment practices in some selected ECE centres in the Kumasi Metropolis. Two hundred and forty-two trained early childhood teachers were selected using table of random numbers and purposive sampling procedures. Self-developed questionnaire and a structured interview were used for data collection. The findings show that most of the participants had some level of understanding on assessment practices. It was found that, the majority of the teachers used assessment tools such as class exercise, portfolio building, in assessing their children. It was further found that most of the teachers had some level of experiences as they use the assessment tools, although they couldn’t use multiple tools in their assessment. To maintain and improve the teachers’ level of understanding on assessment practice, it is recommended that refresher courses on modern trends of assessment should be frequently organised to keep and maintain the knowledge base and skills of the teachers in assessment practices. It is also recommended that teachers should be sensitized on regular basis on the importance of their assessment practices to effectively practicalize the assessment done on pupils.
Children’s Problem Behaviour and Their Effect on Class Activities in Early Childhood Centres of Effutu Municipality
Authors: Oppong Frimpong Samuel , Gyapong Mark
Published: January 2021

The purpose of the study was to examine the prevailing children’s problem behaviour and their effects on class activities in pre-schools in Effutu Municipality of Ghana. The study adopted the concurrent mixed methods design. Data were collected through a semi-structured interview schedule and questionnaire. The stratified random sampling technique was used to aid the selection of 15 schools from the Municipality. Simple random sampling was used to select 45 respondents from schools to respond to the questionnaire and purposive sampling was used to sample 15 participants for the qualitative data. The quantitative data was analysed using frequencies and percentages while the qualitative data were analysed thematically. It emerged from the study that the predominant types of children’s problem behaviour which teachers encountered were; aggression, non-compliance, destructiveness, refusal to take instruction and intentional destruction of property. Among the effects of the problem behaviours the study revealed were inattention from class activity thereby impeding participation in academic activities; breeding of social exclusion from peers, the behaviour challenges resulting in violent actions (behaviour) and other misbehaviour against others. Based on the findings, it is recommended that Effutu Municipal Assembly, Winneba Educational Directorate and the headteachers from the selected schools for the study should organize programmes in collaboration with the early childhood unit on how to cope, prevent and deal with   problem behaviour and its effects to ease the burden of parents and teachers and also help the learners to benefit from their academic activities. Early childhood education teachers should also make changes to their lesson delivery strategies by asking learners to read out loud, and by actively engaging the supposed disruptive learners more often to improve their concentration and class participation.
The Ontological Necessity of Mood, or Vice Versa
Authors: Frissell Elizabeth M.
Published: January 2021

The paper begins by emphasizing the importance of so-called complete philosophical works on ontology to include ideas on mood and emotions, noting the lack of this inclusion in many texts. Next, it uses and dives into Heidegger’s Being & Time, as an example of an ontological work that aptly includes explanations of mood & emotions, or “attunement” in Heideggerian terms. It is also noted the critical difference between Heidegger’s approach to these topics and the approach taken by psychologists and those in similar fields. Finally, the paper concludes by arguing for the importance of Being & Time, Heidegger, and ontological work on mood.
Exploiting Gamification and Interactive Activities to Achieve Better Students’ Engagement in ELT Classes
Authors: Govindarajan Ramesh
Published: January 2021

Students’ active engagement and participation in the learning process has always been the most desirable factor in English Language Teaching (ELT) classes. Yet, it remains challenging for educators to engage students and make them participate. This qualitative research addresses the potential for exploiting gamification and interactive activities to achieve improved engagement in ELT classes. The integration of technology in education enables educators to use web-based games and interactive activities in ELT classes to get students’ engagement. An analysis of the research done in the related fields proves that games and interactive activities, integrated with technology, can be more effectively used in ELT classes to deliver better outcomes, which include enhanced motivation, active engagement, and willing participation of learners in the learning process. Another observation is that the current scenario has reinforced the need for using gamification and interactive activities in online classes. For instance, pedagogical applications like Forum (Moodle), Nearpod, Kahoot!, and H5P can be used in both regular face-to-face classes and in online classes. A careful analysis of some research findings proves that educators face a number of difficulties such as lack of training and insufficient time to prepare. However, the researchers in the field have also provided some possible solutions such as collaboration at different levels. The present scenario demands new approaches as online classes necessitate the implementation of modern techniques such as web-based gamification and interactive activities in order to actively engage students in ELT classes.
Methods for Learning English Vocabulary Employed by Iraqi EFL Learners at University of Technology
Authors: Lafta Jassim Lina
Published: January 2021

The main goal of this study is to indicate the strategies' types that are employed by Iraqi EFL students to learn Vocabulary. To achieve this aim, the author wants to show which methods that are employed most repeatedly by Iraqi EFL students at University of Technology? Tests of vocabulary(pre/post-test) were adopted in this research to get the aim of the experiment. The author used tests to indicate the influence of meta-cognitive methods on the process of learning English vocabulary. Tests of this study relied on Nation's multiple-choice test of vocabulary knowledge (1990). The researcher asked thirty Iraqi EFL students from University of Technology to be as participants in the current study. Fifteen was the number of male and the same number was for female students. The results indicated that determination strategies were most frequently employed than other types among Iraqi EFL students . On the other hand, using metacognitive strategies were the least frequently among the students.
Le Morte d’Arthur as Literary Remediation Process to RPG Game
Authors: Lima Martinez Lis Yana De , Moraes Vinicius De , Maggio Sandra Sirangelo
Published: January 2021

This article presents a proposal for the elaboration of an RPG game with board support based on the remediation of literary narratives and which is thought both for use in the classroom, as a didactic tool, but understood essentially as a playful activity. For that, we first start an observation about the act of playing and what it means in society and in linguistic terms. Subsequently, we are concerned with defining what a game is so that we can effectively present the proposal. To better exemplify it, we present as an example the remediation of Arthurian legends from Le Morte d’Arthur, by Thomas Malory, a project that we have previously tested. The discussion about the behaviour of games then runs through authors such as Johan Huizinga (1980) and Jesper Juul (2005).
Questioning of Stable Gender Roles in Tawfiq Al-Hakim’s The Song of Death
Authors: Gurung Gol Man
Published: January 2021

This paper is a critique of conventional gender roles in Tawfiq Al-Hakim’s The Song of Death. The research presents Hakim’s challenge to the masculinity especially in Arabian Islamic culture that is guided by revengeful motive of mother. Being a woman, Asakir is guided by the patriarchal motif of revenge i.e., an eye for an eye. It is Asakir, a widow who ironically thinks that version of masculinity has to be preserved by her in order to do so she makes her son Ilwan take revenge on his father’s murderer but in vain. Ilwan is represented as one of the modernists guided by social norms, decorum and laws. In order to critique the conventional notion of masculinity, the research makes use of theoretical insights of Judith Butler, Judith Halberstam and some ideas from others. Finally, the research concludes that Hakim is critical of conventional masculinity. The mother is presented as a strong advocate of masculinity but her failure at the end of the play ironically displays the implacability of gender-based roles in modern society like that of Cairo.
A Review on Historical Aspects of Critical Pedagogy
Authors: Singh Raj Kishor
Published: January 2021

This paper makes a review of inventory and application of critical pedagogy in education sector, in particular, and also in general practices of critical thinking, skepticism, decision making process, etc. Critical pedagogy as a concept originated and developed in academia, for development of critical mind of learners. Education broadens the students’ views of reality. Education is transformative, bringing all kinds of changes in human mind, as well as in the society and the nation. Education makes students critical and skeptical on the issues which are frequent in their daily life. Therefore, all kinds of social, cultural, economical and political issues are solved by critical mind of the learners. Education must be democratic in nature and system. People in power make education system in their own favour, dominating the powerless people. Therefore, education is political. Those who participate in critical pedagogy resist the constraints that those in power impose on them.                    Critical pedagogy can be applied in all faculties and subjects like music, economics, mathematics, sociology, political science, English language teaching, English literature teaching, and so on. Teachers also must be qualified with the critical pedagogy approach. They must be confident with the knowledge and skills for applying Freire’s methods of teaching effectively in the classroom. They must be critical thinkers, self-reflective, culturally conscious for the pedagogical situation to enhance students’ understanding of the world.

The major purpose of this review is to point out the effectiveness of critical pedagogy in education and in general. After teachers’ role in critical pedagogy, knowledge of the language and of the world, consciousness or ‘conscientization’, power resistance, value judgments, perception of reality and truth, empowerment, transformation, decision making skills, critical thinking, skepticism, negotiation, problem posing and solving, and many other aspects of learning in critical pedagogy are explained in this review paper.
The Concomitant Subversion of the Gender Binary through the Assertion of Transgender Identity: A Study of Manobi Bandyopadhyay’s A Gift of Goddess Lakshmi
Authors: Anita V S
Published: January 2021

In their attempt at gender identity assertion, the transgendered simultaneously subvert the gender binary norm. The reclamation of one’s gender identity aids the transgender individual to correct the biological mishap that results in a female psyche trapped in a male body and vice versa. The intense psychological conflict and the horrific transphobic violence from family and society, often drives the transgendered to suicide. Lisa R Miller and Eric Anthony Grollman in “The Social Costs of Gender Non-Conformity  for Transgender Adults: Implications for Discrimination and Health” claim that the 2008 NTDS (the National Transgender Discrimination Survey) proves that frequent stigmatization and assault often drives the identity minorities towards substance abuse, alcoholism and/or suicide (Sociological, 826). However, the accomplishment of gender identity transforms the hitherto diffident individual to express oneself fully and  articulate his/her personality in its entirety. Manobi Bandyopadyay’s A Gift of Goddess Lakshmicharts her struggle to become the woman in her mind in the face of ridicule and harassment from the academic circle. Her determination and persistence to assert herself paved her way to become the first transgender principal in India. Therefore it may be assumed that the subversion of normative dichotomy of gender results in the establishment of the transgendered’s true gender, which assists in the expression of one’s personality.