bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MAKNA TEOLOGI PERAYAAN NATAL YESUS KRISTUS
Authors: Runturambi Marselino Cristian
Published: March 2021

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mencari bagaimana pemahaman umat kristen tentang Makna Natal, bagaimana upaya dari pimpinan atau lembaga gereja dalam mengajarkan konsep ini kepada anggota jemaat, serta faktor internal dan eksternal yang mempengaruhi pemahaman jemaat tentang konsep tersebut. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian kualitatif dengan pendekatan deskriptif. Data dikumpulkan melalui teknik dokumentasi, observasi dan wawancara. Dari hasil analisis dan pembahasan/interpretasi, maka diperoleh indikasi bahwa: (1) pemahaman dari anggota jemaat GMIM Sion Sentrum Sendangan mengenai Natal masih kurang. (2) peran para pimpinan gereja dalam mengajarkan Natal masih belum memadai. (3) faktor internal yang mempengaruhi pemahaman anggota jemaat dalam memahami makna natal adalah kurangnya semangat untuk mencari tahu pemahaman yang mendalam tentang natal sedangkan faktor eksternal yakni kurangnya pembelajaran dari pimpinan gereja yang mendalam tentang Natal. Dari hasil temuan tersebut maka direkomendasikan agar gereja mempunyai pengajaran yang khusus dan mendalam tentang makna natal, sehingga dapat memudahkan untuk mengajarkan konsep ini, dan dapat menjadi motivasi bagi anggota jemaat untuk mengetahui pemahaman yang mendalam mengenai makna natal.
Integrasi agama dalam pembelajaran sains di Madrasah
Authors: Tahir Muhmmad Tarmizi
Published: March 2021

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis bagaimana konsep dan bentuk implementasi integrasi agama dalam pembelajaran sains (mata pelajaran biologi, matematika, fisika dan kimia) di Madrasah Aliyah Mu’allimin Nahdlatul Wathan Pancor Kab. Lombok Timur, Propinsi Nusa Tenggara Barat(NTB)-Indonesia. Dengan menggunakan metode penelitian kualitatif jenis deskriptif-analitik, data dikumpulkan melalui teknik dokumen, wawancara, dan observasi untuk menggali data tentang integrasi dan internalisasi nilai-nilai keislaman yaitu nilai tauhid, syari’ah, akhlak dan pengembangan sains ke dalam diri peserta didik yang berimplikasi terhadap perilaku dan semangat penggunaan ilmu (aksiologi ilmu) peserta didik. Sains memperkuat dan mendukung keyakinan tentang Tuhan sebagai pencipta alam semesta, sedangkan agama memperkuat dan mengarahkan sains untuk memberikan manfaat dan pemenuhan kebutuhan hidup manusia. Dengan model integrasi apologetik yaitu model integrasi yang didasari oleh pandangan bahwa sains adalah produk yang bersifat universal dan bebas nilai. Karena itu ia dapat dipakai dan berlaku dimana saja dan di lingkungan apa saja. Dalam kaitan integrasi iptek dan imtak berusaha melegitimasi hasil-hasil sains modern dengan mencari ayat-ayat alQur’an yang sesuai, dikaitkan nilai-nilai keislaman dengan teori sains dan telah ada dalam ajaran agama.
Participação social na organização da agenda e na gestão de políticas públicas de desenvolvimento rural
Authors: Galvção de França Caio
Published: March 2021

O artigo aborda a participação social como um dos principais elementos explicativos da criação de um conjunto de políticas públicas diferenciadas para a agricultura familiar e da organização de uma nova agenda do desenvolvimento rural no Brasil. A institucionalização de tais políticas revela mudanças no papel e na dinâmica da participação social associadas ao conteúdo das políticas públicas e de sua relação com as demandas dos movimentos sociais.
Prevalencia de Apendicitis Complicada y Factores Asociados, en el Servicio de Cirugía Pediátrica de los Hospitales Vicente Corral Moscoso y José Carrasco Arteaga
Authors: Sisalima Ortiz Jorge , Córdova Neira Fernando Marcelo , Astudillo Neira EDITOR: Paúl
Published: March 2021

Introducción: La apendicitis aguda es la urgencia quirúrgica más frecuente en el niño, constituye un desafío diagnóstico. Estudios señalan que el factor determinante para las complicaciones por apendicitis son los factores atribuibles al paciente, como la espera antes de acudir a recibir atención hospitalaria.
Métodos: Se realizó un estudio cuantitativo, analítico transversal. El universo fueron todos los pacientes ingresados con diagnóstico de apendicitis aguda en los Hospitales Vicente Corral Moscoso y José Carrasco Arteaga, Abril 2018 - Mayo 2019. La asociación entre variables se determinó mediante Chi cuadrado y la intensidad de asociación mediante RP con IC 95% y valor de P< a 0.05 como significativo.
Resultados: Se investigaron 267 pacientes que ingresaron con diagnóstico de apendicitis aguda; la prevalencia de apendicitis complicada fue de 38,2%. Se observó que los factores asociados fueron diagnóstico inicial erróneo (RP 1.57 IC: 1.16 – 2.14; P=0.01), y tiempo transcurrido desde el inicio de los síntomas hasta la llegada al hospital mayor a 12 horas (RP 2.19 IC: 1.34 – 3.59; P<0.001). Se evidenció como factor protector el haber tenido valoración médica previa (RP 1.48 IC: 1.07–2.04; P=0.01; y condición socioeconómica media – alta (RP 0.71 IC: 0.53 – 0.96; P= 0.03).
Conclusiones: La prevalencia de apendicitis complicada fue elevada y se relaciona con determinados factores.
Asesoramiento educativo centrado en el "nosotros": aconsejar con efectividad y sensibilidad
Authors: Martínez-Domínguez Luis Manuel
Published: March 2021

Este libro, no es un elenco de teorías sobre asesoramiento educativo. Lo que se ofrece, es una síntesis operativa que tiene como marco de referencia la Pedagogía del Nosotros que sirve de punto de apoyo al orientador o educador social para mejorar en su práctica como asesor educativo. La intención con este libro no es ofrecer los rasgos teóricos de las diversas escuelas de asesoramiento y modalidades de intervención. Lo que se busca es preparar profesionales de la educación que sepan conocerse a fondo y transformarse. Que sepan conocer a sus asesorados y sus conexiones. Que sepan discriminar lo fundamental y lo accesorio, y que sepan crear soluciones originales para ayudar a crecer a sus asesorados. En definitiva, se trata de ofrecer al asesoramiento educativo un punto de apoyo desde la Pedagogía del Nosotros
Role of Co-curricular Activities (CCAs) in Academic Success and Increasing Graduate Employability
Authors: Karim Khaled
Published: March 2021

A significant body of research has investigated the impact of extra-curricular (ECAs) or co-curricular activities (CCAs) on academic performance. This review outlines the conceptual and theoretical value CCAs as they apply to students, faculty, staff, and employers of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). The review also describes existing methods of integrating CCAs into post-secondary curriculum in order to increase graduate employability. Based on the findings from the existing literature, the review outlines some recommendations for HEIs to provide CCA opportunities to students to increase academic success and graduate employability.
MOODLE Platform Evaluation in the Light of E-Learning Sites Standards from the Point of View of College of Basic Education Students in The Public Authority for Applied Education and Training in Kuwait
Authors: Al-Anzi Abdul Aziz Dakhil
Published: March 2021

The Study aimed at MOODLE platform evaluating educational website standards through the student's viewpoints who study in the Faculty of Basic Education in the Public Authority for Applied Education and Training in Kuwait. The study used the descriptive survey method. To evaluate MOODLE educational platform, the researchers developed a list of standards consisted of (30) items divided into five domains. The randomly selected study sample consisted of (392) students. The results showed that the evaluation of MOODLE educational platform in light of E-learning sites standards came with a medium degree, they are available to an acceptable degree, and the mean of the tool as a whole was (3.55) by 71%, and the domains rank in order were; the domain of vitality came first with a mean of (3.75) by 74%, while the educational value domain came second with (3.70) by 74%. In contrast, the content domain came third with a mean of (3.48) by 69.6%, while the usage characteristics domain came with (3.47) by 69.4%, where the usage domain came last with a mean of (3.46) by 69.2%. Results also revealed no statistically significant differences (a = 0.05) attributed to the effect of Gender in all domains and the full degree.
COVID-19’s Impact on the International Political Economy of Food Security in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Salifu Gamel Abdul-Nasser
Published: March 2021

International political economy of food security has become a central theme in the development narrative, providing a lens through which contemporary challenges of development are intergrated, rationalized and synthetized for sustainable and equitable development. The paper explores the prominent role of food security in development narratives, but in broader conceptions of state and its social contracts. From the analysis of the spatio-temporal evolutions of households’ strategies for coping wth food insecurity and hunger, this paper clearly argues that food security defined as “access to enough preferred food” is fundamentally political. This study offers a set of different approaches to understanding the dynamics of food politics, grounded in broader theorectical traditions of power politics in food governance. The approaches are evaluated through an identification and analysis of a set of problematiques in food security governance gleaned from an overview of the major literature of note in food security and agricultural economics. The micropolitics of food that work in different constellations of ethnic power to perpetuate food insecurity are well outlined. The paper build upon this tensions by further questioning the regimes of power and how dominant political interests exercise themselves in corporate power structures, dismantling socially-oriented state approaches for enhancing food security. The relevance of intergrating the emerging dimensions of food politics and power, concerned with control of resources and opportunities for food production are also highlighted. With the politics of power not only concerned with material domination but directing rural people’s beliefs, values, behaviours and practices. As well as elaborating on the dorminant issues of food politics that have co-opted to increase food insecurity, the paper outlines alternative visions that are diverse and even incompatible on epistemological grounds. In so doing, the paper argues for triangulation of new ideas to shine the light from different angles to achieve sustainable and equitable food security in the Covid-19 era of food crises and deprivation. In this vein, the review, examines the impact of the mobility restraints set in 2020 by local governments to stem the spread of COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) on food security regimes in Africa, with particular emphasis on how the move has disrupted economies worldwide, disproportionately affecting livelihoods already threatened by poverty and hunger. Whilst the sections heretofore articulate the synergies between food and politics, so much is shared that this review reflects a richer picture of the political economy of food security on the international front.
An Improved Indoor Positioning Method Based on Nearest Neighbor Interpolation
Authors: Zhao Yonghao
Published: March 2021

Nowadays, people’s demand for indoor location information is more and more, which continuously promotes the development of indoor positioning technology. In the field of indoor positioning, fingerprint based indoor positioning algorithm still accounts for a large proportion. However, the operation of this method in the offline stage is too cumbersome and time-consuming, which makes its disadvantages obvious, and requires a lot of manpower and time to sample and maintain. Therefore, in view of this phenomenon, an improved algorithm based on nearest neighbor interpolation is designed in this paper, which reduces the measurement of actual sampling points when establishing fingerprint map. At the same time, some simulation points are added to expand fingerprint map, so as to ensure that the positioning error will not become larger or even better. Experimental results show that this method can further improve the positioning accuracy while saving the sampling cost.
Metaphoric Speculation: Rereading Book 15 of Augustine’s De Trinitate
Authors: McClellan Emeline ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: March 2021

This article argues that De trinitate advocates a process of “reading” God through metaphor. For Augustine, as for Plotinus, human beings understand God (to the degree that this is possible) not by analyzing him rationally but by seeing him through the metaphor of the human mind. But unlike Plotinus, Augustine claims that the imago dei, with its triadic structure of memory, understanding, and will, serves as metaphor only to the extent that it experiences Christ’s redemptive illumination. The act of metaphor is a kind of interior “reading” during which the mind reads the imago dei as a mental text, interprets this text through Christ’s aid, and is simultaneously transformed into a better image.
Temporal Ontology in Ecology
Authors: Black Jack , Cherrington Jim ,   International Association for Environmental Philosophy
Published: March 2021

Theoretical applications of time and temporality remain a key consideration for both climate scientists and the humanities. By way of extending this importance, we critically examine Timothy Morton’s proposed “ecological awareness” alongside Slavoj Žižek’s “parallax view.” In doing so, the article introduces a “past-present parallax” in order to contest that, while conceptions of the past are marked by “lack,” equally, our conceptions of and relations to Nature remain grounded in an ontological incompleteness, marked by contingency. This novel approach presents an ecological awareness that remains temporally attuned to the impasses and inconsistencies which frame our relations in/with Nature.
Determination of value added tax in police and judicial practice
Authors: Šaćirović Dženis , Brulić Haris , Šaćirović Ismet
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we want to present the abuse and bad intentions of the so-called phantom (fake) companies and other intermediary or money laundering companies. The subject of this paper is value added tax evasion in police and court practice. The aim of this paper is to present VAT evasion, in accordance with the legal regulations of criminal legislation, pointing out the ways of committing this crime. In this paper, we use the normative method as well as domestic literature. It is presented how and in what way companies have the obligation to pay VAT for a certain period of time in accordance with the Law on VAT. Through this paper, certain examples (research) are presented in detail of how abuse and larger funds occur in an illegal way, which of course leads to damage to the budget of the Republic of Serbia. It is a criminal offense that is reflected in the evasion of taxes, contributions and other prescribed duties.
Vitamin C biochemistry: From scurvy to COVID-19 treatment
Authors: Zakić Tamara , Budnar Marta , Kalezić Anđelika , Korać Aleksandra , Janković Aleksandra , Korać Bato
Published: March 2021

The story of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) as an antioxidant and a cofactor in numerous biochemical reactions is a part of its long history and it is well known today. However, many questions of its mechanism of action and the benefits that it has on human health are still emerging. This applies not only to the recommended doses but also to the route of its administration. Besides, there are numerous questions about the therapeutic efficacy of vitamin C in various human (infectious) diseases, as well as its immune system function and antiviral potential. The fact that vitamin C can act as a reductant (antioxidant) and a prooxidant further emphasizes its oxidation-reduction (redox) potential in real physiological conditions. Today, the question of the intravenous administration of vitamin C effect in patients with SARS-CoV-2 requires special attention. This review aims to showcase known facts about vitamin C and its mechanisms of action to better understand the current new challenges related to vitamin C.
Negative effects of digital media on the psychophysical development of preschool-aged children
Authors: Mićević-Karanović Jelena , Mesaroš-Živkov Angela , Pavlov Srbislava , Brkljač Tanja
Published: March 2021

The main goal of this research was to determine how familiar preschool-aged children are with certain digital media (internet, social media, mobile phones and computers), how much they use them, what they think about the negative effects of their influences and how much protection from these negative effects their parents and preschool teachers offer. The main method was non-experimental - a survey research on a sample, and the research sample consisted of 110 preschool-aged children. The sample was purposeful and convenient, which suited the exploratory nature of this research. The instrument used is a modified and shortened version of the questionnaire constructed for a broader research project. The results obtained show that the majority of preschool-aged children know what digital media are, that they use them and that they have not had negative experiences when facing them, as well as that they sometimes talk to their parents and kindergarten teachers about the dangers and risks of using digital media. Parents do control the using of digital media, but they more often decide to ban them than to talk to their children about their negative effects, even though it is indicative that prevention, in terms of educating the children, i.e. talking to them and properly informing them on the negative influences of digital media is a better option than strict control and banning their use.
Partnership of parent and teacher in the context of inclusive practice
Authors: Dedaj Marta
Published: March 2021

Inclusion refers to the active participation of children with disabilities in their immediate and wider environment in accordance with their abilities. The paper focuses on the partnership of educators and parents in the context of real inclusive practice, through a strategy of support for children with disabilities. The theoretical basis is a systems approach, which implies the understanding that the studied system is part of a broader system and that the system itself consists of smaller subsystems that are mutually conditioned. A systematic approach to inclusion provides a conceptual framework for determining the combined impact on preschool children in a dynamic relationship with their environment. It can be concluded that inclusion requires partnership work and that one of the priority tasks of an inclusive preschool institution is to develop quality support programs and involve parents in children's activities.
Bioerosión interna en corales masivos asociados a las comunidades arrecifales del Pacífico nororiental tropical: Efecto de factores intrínsecos y extrínsecos
Authors: Cosain-Díaz Jazmín Arleth , Tortolero-Langarica José de Jesús Adolfo , Rodríguez-Troncoso Alma Paola , Bautista-Guerrero Eric , Antuna-Roman Diana María , Salazar-Silva Patricia , Cupul-Magaña Amílcar Leví
Published: March 2021

El desarrollo y el mantenimiento de los arrecifes coralinos depende del balance entre la producción (acreción) y la remoción (erosión) del CaCO3 generado principalmente por corales hermatípicos. El material calcáreo puede ser removido del esqueleto de coral por agentes físicos, químicos o biológicos, y este último es el de mayor influencia. Pese a su importancia, pocos estudios han estimado la tasa de bioerosión en comunidades coralinas de la costa mexicana del Pacífico. En este estudio se determinó el volumen y el porcentaje de CaCO3 removido vía erosión biológica en los principales corales masivos, Pavona gigantea, Porites lobata y Porites panamensis, distribuidos en el Parque Nacional Islas Marietas y el Parque Nacional Isla Isabel (México). Además, se evaluó el efecto de factores intrínsecos (morfología, sexo y edad de las colonias) y extrínsecos (localidad y profundidad) en la bioerosión. Se utilizó la técnica de peso boyante para calcular parámetros de remoción interna y densidad de CaCO3. A nivel de especie, P. gigantea presentó valores de volumen de bioerosión de 71.31 ± 32.35 cm3 (27.28 ± 18.05% de bioerosión interna); Po. lobata, 26.60 ± 4.87 cm3 (16.87 ± 16.31%); y Po. panamensis, 29.6 ± 14.61 cm3 (31.127 ± 29.43%). A nivel de género, Pavona presentó los valores más altos en bioerosión y densidad del esqueleto (1.61 g·cm–3). Con relación a la morfología, la bioerosión fue mayor en colonias masivas, pero considerando la edad, fue superior en colonias más longevas (10–26 años). A nivel de localidad, en el Parque Nacional Islas Marietas se presentaron los valores más altos de volumen y porcentaje de bioerosión. La evidencia sugiere que los arrecifes de coral de la costa central mexicana del Pacífico están experimentando una alta tasa de erosión no conspicua causada por bioerosionadores endolíticos y varía en función de factores intrínsecos y extrínsecos. Si este efecto continúa incrementando, podría poner en riesgo el mantenimiento a largo plazo de las comunidades coralinas, lo que modificaría el balance de los flujos de carbonato y la funcionalidad del ecosistema arrecifal.
Reliability of the Flexible Ruler in Measuring Lumbar Lordosis among Children
Authors: Reshma . , Sirajudeen Mohamed Sherif , Chinnakalai Thangadurai , Suhail Mohammad , Al-Hussinan Nasser M , Pillai Padmakumar Somasekharan
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Postural alignment is commonly assessed, and the abnormal postures are associated with musculoskeletal disorders. There are different methods for screening spinal column anomalies. The flexible ruler provides a safe, portable, inexpensive and non-invasive way to measure the spinal curvature in clinical and larger population. Aim: To determine the intra-rater and inter-rater reliability of flexible ruler in measuring lumbar lordosis among children. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study 81 school children that fulfilled the criteria were recruited with age ranging from 9 to 15 years. Youdas method in standing position was adopted. By using flexible ruler, measurement was taken and without altering the shape of the lumbar curve it was traced in a graph sheet. By using straight ruler, line L and H were drawn by following deep point method. Lumbar lordosis angle was calculated by using the formula, θ=4Arctan 2H/L. Intra-rater reliability: Four measurements were taken by evaluator 1 with a gap of one minute between first two measurements and 3 minutes rest then other two measurements were taken with a gap of one minute between each. The average of first two and the last two measurements were considered as measurements 1 and 2. Inter rater reliability: Two measurements were taken by evaluator 2 by adapting the same procedure. The averages of two measurements were considered as measurement for evaluator 2. This value was correlated with the value of measurement 1 of evaluator 1. The data was analysed using Intra Class Correlation coefficient (ICC) test. Results: The results showed high intra-rater reliability (ICC-0.991; p<0.001) for lumbar lordosis angle by flexible ruler and poor inter-rater reliability (ICC-0.241; p=0.11) for lumbar lordosis angle by flexible ruler. Conclusion: The flexible ruler has shown only intra-rater reliability and additional studies are required to prove inter-rater reliability in measuring lumbar lordosis among children.
Evaluation of Heavy Metals in Local Chickens sold at Central Markets in Ado-Ekiti, Akure and Owena Towns
Authors: Oyebanji Adedayo Olamide , Momodu Daniel Uwaremhevho , Ifedineze Onyinye Victoria , Ogundele Joan Olayinka
Published: March 2021

Local chickens sold in the central markets of Ado-Ekiti, Akure and Owena were randomly sampled and slaughtered. Lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd) and zinc (Zn) in their blood and selected organs (intestine, heart, liver and gizzard) were isolated using wet digestion and their concentrations determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Apart from the blood of chickens from Ado-Ekiti and Owena where Pb was not detected, its concentrations in the blood and organs of the chickens obtained from the three towns ranged from 2.00 to 7.33 mg/kg, exceeding the maximum tolerance levels (0.1 mg/kg) in internal organs of poultry birdsset by EU, ANZFA and FAO/WHO. With the exception of intestine of chickens from the three towns, Cd was only detected in the heart, blood and gizzard of chickens from Akure as well as liver and gizzard of chickens from Owena, covering a range of 0.11 to 0.67 mg/kg. The upper limit exceeded the maximum limits (0.5 mg/kg) according to FAO/WHO. Zn was detected in all selected parts of chickens from the three towns ranging 5.67 to 183.17 mg/kg. Its concentrations were within the permissible limit(10-50 mg/kg) by EU and FAO/WHO in certain selected parts of some chickens while it exceededthe permissible limit (150 mg/kg) by ANZFA especially in the liver of chicken from Ado-Ekiti. Some organs and blood of local chickens sold in the central markets at Ado-Ekiti, Akure and Owena may pose health risks.
Chemical Constituents and Larvicidal Properties of n-Hexane Extract of Parinari excelsa Seeds
Authors: Dokubo A. , Obomanu F. G. , Ebere N. , Ndukwe G. I.
Published: March 2021

The study was conducted to investigate the chemical compositions and larvicidal effect of n-hexane extract of Parinari excelsa seeds against fourth instar larvae of Culex mosquito after 24 h and 48 h exposure. The chemical composition of n-hexane extract of P. excelsa seeds were analyzed using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Larvicidal activity was performed following standard procedures of World Health Organization (WHO). GC-MS analysis showed that the seed extract of P. excelsa contained hexadecyl phenyl carbonate with highest percentage (7.502%, RT=26.39), followed by tetradecyl phenyl carbonate (5.77%, RT=25.90), 1-methyl cyclohex-3-enyldodecyl fumarate (5.70%, RT=24.58), decyl phenyl carbonate (4.70%, RT=28.64) and the lowest, octadecyl-2,2,2-trichloroethyl carbonate (0.62%, RT=13.71). The result showed significant (p<0.05) mortality of larvae  in 24 h and 48 h of exposure. However, the highest larval mortality  was recorded at 48 h exposure. Result of regression analysis indicated that mortality rate positively correlated with concentration having a regression coefficient (R) close to one in each exposure case. The estimated lethal concentrations (LC50) for 24 h and 48 h exposure were 2.056±0.176 µg/ml and 0.429±0.150 µg/ml respectively. This indicates that larvicidal activity recorded for 48 h exposure was 4.8 times more than that recorded for 24 h exposure. The study demonstrated that n-hexane extract of P. excelsa seeds exhibited larvicidal potential and can be utilized as biopesticides to minimize the multiplication of mosquitoes that transmit vector borne diseases.
Titanium, Zinc, Lead, Chromium, Cadmium, Cobalt and Copper Concentrations in Vegetables Produced using Wastewater in Urban and Peri-Urban Areas of Nairobi City County, Kenya
Authors: Rono David K. , Wakhungu Jacob W.
Published: March 2021

Vegetables are rich sources of vitamins, minerals and fibres. Ingestion of vegetables contaminated with heavy metals is one of the main routes through which heavy metals enter the human body and may cause diseases. In this study we investigated the concentrations of titanium, zinc, lead, chromium, cadmium, cobalt and copper in the commonly produced vegetables viz. Brassica sp.,Spinacia oleracea, Amaranthus sp. and Solanum sp. using wastewater in Ruai ward, Nairobi City County, Kenya. Atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) was used to estimate the levels of these metals in vegetables sampled from five plots in the study area. The concentration status for each heavy metal in the samples was compared with the permissible levels for corresponding heavy metals set by the Food and Agriculture Organization and World Health Organization. Our findings indicated the presence of Ti, Zn, Cr and Cu in all the vegetable samples and their concentrations varied considerably, while Pb, Cd and Co were not detected in most samples. The presence of heavy metals in vegetables was in the order of Pb > Cd > Co > Cu > Cr > Zn > Ti. We concluded that vegetables produced using wastewater had elevated levels of the investigated heavy metals at the time of analysis beyond FAO/ WHO safe limits for corresponding metals in leafy vegetables.
Phytochemical Investigation and Anti-Microbial Activity of Clausena anisata on Cariogenic and Periodontopathic Bacteria
Authors: Agbor Ashu Michael , Fotsing Kuete Pierre , Dountio Suzy Hermine , Fokunang Ntungwen Charles , Naidoo Sudeshni
Published: March 2021

Clausen aanisata is used in African traditional medicine to treat a variety of infectious and parasitic diseases. Infectious diseases are a major public health problem especially in developing countries where resistance to commonly used antibiotics is growing exponentially. The objective of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial activity of Clausena anisata on cariogenic and periodonthopatic bacteria. This was a laboratory experimental study using macerated hydroethanolic extracts of the stem and leaves of Clausena anisata in a water-ethanol mixture (30:70) for 48 hours. Phytochemical screening revealed flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, coumarins, phenols, triterpenes and saponosides, these being more abundant in the leaves. The antibacterial activity of the hydroethanolic extracts was evaluated against different clinically isolated strains of three Gram negative (Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitan, Fusobacterium nucleatum and Prevotella intermedia) and two Gram positive (Streptococcus mutans and Latobacillusspp) bacteria. Polyphenols found more in the leaves extract was estimated at 62.8 mgTAE/g against 36.8 mgTAE/g in the stem bark extract. The study revealed that the leaves extract had bactericidal and bacteriostatic activity on isolated strains of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitan and Fusobacterium nucleatum being the most susceptible with MICs of 50 mg/ml whereas the stem bark showed bacteriostatic activity on all isolated strains with Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitan being the most susceptible with MIC of 50 mg/ml. The antimicrobial action of the plant could be exploited in formulation of mouth washes and other medications in the management of oral infections like periodontitis and tooth dacay.
The Effect of Ascorbic Acid on the Physical and Proximate Properties of Wheat-Acha Composite Bread
Authors: Onuegbu N. C. , Ngobidi P. C. , Ihediohanma N. C. , Bede E. N.
Published: March 2021

This work studied the effect of different proportions of ascorbic acid on the physical and proximate properties on wheat-acha composite bread. Bread was produced from wheat (Triticum aestivum) and acha (Digitaria exilis) composite flours. The wheat: acha ratios used were 100:0, 90:10 and 80:20. The proximate, and functional properties of the flours were analysed. The dough improver, ascorbic acid was added at 80, 100 and 120ppm during the bread making process and the proximate, physical and sensory properties of the bread was analysed. Flour sample with 20% acha had the significantly highest values for bulk density (0.744g/cm3), water absorption capacity (1.5g/g), oil absorption capacity (1.564g/g), foam capacity (11.32%) and swelling index (1.24). There was no significant difference in the crude fat and ash content of all bread samples. Significant difference was observed in the volume and specific volume of the bread samples, with 100% wheat flour giving the highest values of 431.33 ml and 3.16 ml/g respectively. However, addition of ascorbic acid significantly improved these parameters with no significant difference between the 100ppm and 120ppm bread samples.  Also the bread samples produced with 100:0 and 90:10 wheat: acha flours showed no significant difference in their sensory properties. The 80:20 composite bread gave significantly lower sensory scores for all the sensory parameters.
Influence of Soybean (Glycine max. L) Sowing Methods and Seed Rate on Nitrogen Accumulation in Soil
Authors: Swapna N. , Shahana Firdouz , Reddy T. Prabhakar , Venkataiah M.
Published: March 2021

The soybean (Glycine max L.) is a crop with a high demand for nitrogen (N). The root nodules that form in soybeans can fix atmospheric N effectively. To quantify available N in the soil a field experiment was conducted at Regional Sugarcane and Rice Research Station, Rudrur to evaluate the impact of varying sowing methods and seed rates on yield of soybean and available N in soil after harvest of crop. Planting methods and seed rates significantly influenced seed yield and available nitrogen in the soil.  Broad Bed Furrow (BBF) method with seed rate 50 kg ha-1 recorded significantly higher number of pods per plant (105) and mean seed yield of 1891 kg ha-1 over flatbed with 50 kg seed rate ha-1 (1757 kg ha-1) respectively. Broad Bed and Furrow method of planting recorded a significantly higher live root nodules and available nitrogen in soil with 50 kg seed rate ha-1. Seed rate of 75 kg/ha recorded highest available N in soil on broad bed and furrow method. Broad Bed Furrow (BBF) method with seed rate 50 kg ha-1 recorded highest net returns (₹ 53,233 ha-1) and highest B:C ratio (2.72) over flat bed of planting.
Sleep Difference between Adolescents and Young Adults
Authors: Verma Pragya , Dubey Ramji , Rani Sangeeta , Malik Shalie
Published: March 2021

Background: Sleep is important for maintaining overall physical and mental health. Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) at growing age need more sleep because it acts as the fuel for rapidly growing brain and bodies. Many physicians encounter young people having health issue developed due to improper sleep. Understanding the connection between sleep and health in AYAs is important as the sleep problem is coming up as a global pandemic that can seriously harm the health, safety, productivity of our nation’s young generation, thus, is a major public health concern.

Aim: The current study investigates the sleep behavior (such as sleep onset, sleep offset, sleep latency, sleep inertia, actual sleep) of adolescents in comparison to young adults.

Methods: Present study is based on self-reported sleep-log entries made by subjects. The collection of data is done on a random basis from school and university set up. Sleep log sheet is an instrument that elicits sleep-related data (sleep onset/offset, latency/inertia, etc.) on a day-to-day basis. Statistical analysis was done using the Mann-Whitney U test at a significance level of p < 0.005.

Results: To conduct this study, individuals of two different age groups were selected; adolescent group (age = 14±01 year; n = 564) and young adult (age = 23±01 year; n = 43). The study shows a significant difference between adolescents and young adult’s timings for various sleep variables such as time to bed (p<0.0001), sleep onset (p<0.0001), sleep offset (p<0.0001), sleep inertia (p= 0.0156). Although, no significant difference was reported in actual sleep duration and sleep latency between the groups.

Conclusion: Outcomes of the study are indicative of sleep deprivation in adolescent students. This information can help us to further understand the sleep-related differences in the behavior of adolescent and young adults. This can aid in devise a better work schedule to optimize their performance.
Can Knowledge about Post Extraction Instruction Affect Post Extraction Behavior: A Cross Sectional Study among the Patients Visited Taibah University College of Dentistry Clinic, Madinah, KSA
Authors: Sahafi Yaser A. M. Al , Juhani Ahmad Mufadi Al , Foudah Badr Mohammad , Alrehaily Lujain Atiq , Jabri Samar Amar Al , Tola Rawan Wadee , Ahmad Mohammad Sami
Published: March 2021

Background: Teeth are among the most important parts of our body which help in mastication, phonetic and esthetic. Now a days tooth extraction can be avoided due to availabilities of most advanced treatment. Mostly, extraction is the treatment of choice for extensive caries and severe periodontitis because of late reporting to dentist due to lack of knowledge. Knowledge about post extraction complications and their management can prevent the occurrence of untoward sequalae following extraction. Previous studies have shown that preoperative patient education can help in decreasing postoperative anxiety, pain and complications.

Methodology: This is a questionnaire based cross-sectional descriptive study. The study was conducted during the period of January to March 2018. Total of 250 patients (138 males and 112 females) were included in the study by the convenient method of sampling that visited the dental clinics of college of Dentistry, Taibah University. Validated questionnaire was asked about post extraction preventive knowledge. Categories of answer was good, average and poor according to number of correct answers. The statistical analysis was performed by the Statistical Package for Social Science version 21 (SPSS Inc Chicago, IL, USA). The significant value was obtained by using Chi Square test and p < 0.05 was set to be significant.

Results: Females and 31-45 years age group had better post extraction preventive knowledge and there was significant relation. Nationality and education level had no significant relation with level of post extraction preventive knowledge. The patients who had better knowledge followed the instructions precisely.

Conclusion: It was concluded that female, patients above middle age group and more qualified patients had more post extraction preventive knowledge and they also followed the instructions very strictly. The importance of study came out that dentist or dental assistant should explain and convince them to follow proper post-operative instruction to avoid complications.
Disseminated Histoplasmosis; A Threat in Advanced HIV Disease Population in Sub-Saharan Africa?
Authors: Mandengue Christine E. , Ekeng Bassey Ewa , Oladele Rita O.
Published: March 2021

Background: Histoplasmosis is a neglected acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)-defining disease in sub-Saharan African countries, which is commonly misdiagnosed as tuberculosis (TB) due to similar imagery and clinical features; patients usually receive presumptive anti-TB treatment that is considered as anti-TB treatment failure. Patients with advanced human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disease (AHD), CD4<200/mm3 or World Health Organisation clinical stage 3 or 4, develop disseminated histoplasmosis (DH) diagnosed at a late stage or at post-mortem, owing to poor clinical suspicion, lack of rapid diagnosis tools to offer rapid and accurate results, and non-availability and accessibility of appropriate antifungal medications. We report 31 cases of DH amongst patients with AHD in sub-Saharan African population from the literature, highlighting the challenging care issue in sub-Saharan Africa.

Results: Out of 31 reported cases 64.51% (20/31) were caused by Histoplasma capsulatum var capsulatum, 48.38% (15/31) being immigrants in Europe, Canada and Japan, with 41.93% (13/31) mortality, and 6 cases having no reported outcome. The poor index of suspicion on the part of clinicians; the lack of skilled laboratory personnel and rapid and accurate diagnosis tools of histoplasmosis for a proper detection of either classical or African histoplasmosis coexisting in many sub-Saharan African countries; and the non-availability and accessibility of appropriate antifungal medications were the most challenges in caring DH in advanced HIV disease population in sub-Saharan Africa.

Conclusion: there is a need for prompt and routine screening of advanced HIV disease patients in sub-Saharan Africa for histoplasmosis as an AIDS-defining illness.
Managing Attitudinal Constraints towards the Environment: A Panacea for Effective Waste Management in Port Harcourt and Its Environs
Authors: Chukwu-Okeah G. O. , Deekor T. N.
Published: March 2021

The management of people’s attitude towards the environment in today’s world has become an issue of global concern as it has been identified as the only way out to achieving a clean, safe and healthy environment. This study examined the waste situation presently in Port Harcourt as well as the constraints to environmental management in Port Harcourt and it was reported that most people have adopted wrong attitudes that impacts on the environment knowingly or unknowingly and hence these overtime have become a way of life that have overtime crept into the society as a lifestyle not minding its attending consequences and as a result puts a limitation to managing environmental challenges. The study also examined environmental and health implications of poor attitudes to waste management and it was discovered that arising from poor attitudes to the environment, the quality of the environment has deteriorated and that this have helped in increasing the spread of communicable diseases among residents and also flooding and other environmental challenges. The study however stated that poor air quality affect human health through adverse health conditions which affects the gastrointestinal linings, respiratory tract diseases and other   ill health. Arising from the study enlightenment campaign for all at schools, churches,        communities and Local Government levels, adoption and integration of environmental education into the present day school curriculum at all levels and the enforcement of environmental laws  on indiscriminate waste disposal will serve as a panacea for effective waste management in   Port Harcourt.
Knowledge and Compliance with Preventive Measures of Cardiovascular Diseases among Health Workers in the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt
Authors: Deborah Nwafor Titilola , Eze Nwafor Chibuike , Christian Elendu Ifeanyi , Fortune Charles Abel
Published: March 2021

Introduction: This analytic descriptive study investigated knowledge and compliance with prevention measures of cardiovascular diseases among health workers in University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt.

Methodology: A sample of 608 health workers drawn from a population of 2500 health workers in University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital using simple random sampling technique participated in the study. Eleven research questions were answered and six hypotheses tested in the study. The instrument for data collection is Cardiovascular Disease Questionnaire. It was vetted by the supervisor and three other experts in health education. The reliability of the instrument established through pilot testing using Cronbach alpha method ranged rom 0.67 to 0.89.

Results: The results of the study revealed that; Health workers in University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital have knowledge of cardiovascular diseases, their signs and symptoms, have knowledge of general risk factors for developing cardiovascular disease, have knowledge of smoking, diet, stress and physical inactivity as risk factors for developing cardiovascular diseases. There is no compliance with cardiovascular disease prevention measures among health workers in University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital. Gender and age have no influence on compliance with cardiovascular disease prevention measures while professional qualification influences compliance with cardiovascular disease prevention measures.

Conclusion: It was therefore recommended among others that health workers in University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital should check on regular basis their blood pressure, sugar and lipid level. They should show preference to healthy diets including fruits and vegetables and engage in periodic physical exercise.
Proximate and Phytochemical Compositions of Dried Seeds of Fluted Pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis)
Authors: Chuku L. C. , Chinaka N. C.
Published: March 2021

Proximate and phytochemical analyses were carried out on dried fruited pumpkin (Telfaira occidentalis) seeds. Standard experimental procedure and statistical analysis using SPSS version 20.1 were carried out after triplicate evaluation of the sample. Results of the proximate analysis indicated that the dried seeds contains moderate percent of carbohydrate (11.43±0.92%) and fibre (15.71±0.74%), high percentage protein (34.56±1.36%) and lipid (32.50±1.08%), ash (4.40±0.02%) and moisture (1.40±0.01%) contents were low statistically. The qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analysis showed that dried seeds of Telfairia occidentalis possessed very low (statistically insignificant, p>0.05) level of cyanogenic glycoside (0.001±0.01 µg/g) which makes it non toxic and consumable. Tannin (0.488 ± 0.012 µg/g) and oxalate (0.194±0.01 µg/g) where low in percentage, while phylate (3.75±0.018 µg/g) and saponin (4.00±0.02 µg/g) levels were statistically high (p<0.05). The analysis revealed the sample as rich in protein and lipid, with moderate amounts of carbohydrate and fibre. It also indicates absence of cynogenic glycoside and low oxalate level which interfere with mineral absorption in the body. Hence, the seed is a very good protein source especially for patients with protein energy malnutrition (PEM), growing children and diabetic patients due to its rich energy source for body utilization and for extraction of cooking oil due to its high lipid content.
Effects of Multilateral Surveillance Criteria on the Pro-cyclicality of Fiscal Policy in Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa
Authors: Simo Guy Noël Piam
Published: March 2021

The objective of this article is to study the effect of multilateral surveillance criteria on the cyclical behavior of fiscal policy in CEMAC. Using a linear regression model and estimated by fixed-effect ordinary double least squares on panel data from 1992 to 2012, we find that the surveillance criteria adopted in 2001 increased the pro-cyclicality of fiscal policy.
A pilot study of oxidative pathways in MS fatigue: randomized trial of N‐acetyl cysteine
Authors: Krysko Kristen M. , Bischof Antje , Nourbakhsh Bardia , Henry Roland G. , Revirajan Nisha , Manguinao Michael , Nguyen Khang , Akula Amit , Li Yan , Waubant Emmanuelle
Published: March 2021

Objective

To assess feasibility, tolerability, and safety of N‐acetyl cysteine (NAC) for fatigue in progressive MS. Secondary objectives evaluated changes in fatigue and oxidative pathway biomarkers on NAC versus placebo.

Methods

Individuals with progressive MS with Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS) > t38 were randomized 2:1 to NAC 1250mg TID or placebo for 4 weeks. The primary outcome was tolerability and safety. The secondary outcome to evaluate efficacy was MFIS change from baseline to week 4 between groups. Exploratory biomarker outcomes included change in blood GSH/GSSG ratio (reduced‐to‐oxidized glutathione (GSH)) and in vivo relative GSH using 7T MR spectroscopy (MRS) between groups. Fisher exact test was used for categorical and rank sum for continuous outcomes.

Results

Fifiteen were randomized (10 NAC, 5 placebo; mean age 56.1 years, 80% female, median EDSS 6.0). At least one adverse event (AE) occurred in 60% on NAC versus 80% on placebo (p = 0.75). There were two AEs attributed to NAC in one patient (abdominal pain and constipation), with 94% adherence to NAC. MFIS decreased in both groups at week 4, with the mean improvement of 11‐points on NAC versus 18‐points on placebo (p = 0.33). GSH/GSSG ratio decreased on placebo (−0.6) and NAC (−0.1) (p = 0.18). Change in GSH levels to total creatine in anterior and posterior cingulate cortex, insula, caudate, putamen, and thalamus did not differ between groups.

Interpretation

NAC was well‐tolerated in progressive MS, although reduction in fatigue on NAC was similar to placebo. Antioxidant blood and MRS biomarkers were not significantly altered by NAC, which could be due to dose, route of administration, time of sample collection, short half‐life, or lack of effect.

Registered

clinicaltrials.gov NCT02804594.