bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of a School-Home Partnership Model at a Small Rural Elementary School in Georgia
Authors:   , Waters Janice Davis
Published: February 2022

This study investigated the impact of the School-Home Partnership Model at Metter Intermediate School, a small rural school in southeast Georgia. The subjects of this student were parents, students, and teachers of the school. In particular, this study investigated the impact of the School-Home Partnership Model on "at-risk" students. For the purpose of this study the term "at-risk" student is defined to mean a student identified as being below grade level in reading and/or math based on the guidelines of Georgia's Early Intervention Program (EIP). The term "at-risk" student as used in this study also means a student identified as a special education student according to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Quantitative methods and interviews were used to collect and analyze data. Theses methods consisted of document analysis, surveys, and interviews. The investigation results show that parents, students, and teachers had very positive attitudes toward the school. Extensive communication stratefies were utilized between the home and school. Children's attendance in school improved, while the number of discipline referrals to the school office increased for "at-risk" students. Quantitative data based on Criterion-Referenced Competency Tests (CRCT) showed limited changes. Report card grades showed improvements in grades for "at-risk" students in reading, math, and spelling. Parents of both non "at-risk" and "at-risk" students overwhelming believed they could better assist their children learn if teachers provided more ideas of ways they could help their children at home.
Effects of a 28-day carbohydrate-restricted diet on metabolic and performance markers in professional firefighters
Authors:   , Waldman Hunter Scott
Published: February 2022

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in firefighters (FF) around the nation. Recent observational studies have emerged suggesting that FF consume calorically dense foods, high in sugar and fat, but low in nutritional value which can exacerbate heart diseases and impair performance. The potential to improve cardiometabolic and performance measurements when following a carbohydrate (CHO) restricted diet (CRD) has gained interest in the literature. To date, only one study has employed a nutrition intervention in FF, yet its’ focus was on nutrient dense foods and antioxidant supplements. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the cardiometabolic and performance effects of a 28-day CRD in FF. 15 career FF participated and finished the present study. Participants reported to the laboratory on 9 separate occasions. Trial 1 consisted of participants having a blood draw performed for assessment of their heart disease risk followed by body composition, blood pressure, and a glucose challenge test (GCT) to assess glucose impairment following ingestion of a 75 g glucose beverage. Trial 2 consisted of a graded exercise cycling test with 5 stages followed by a maximal Wingate for 30 s. Finally, the last trial included the FF physical performance assessment (FPPA) which consisted of a 2.41-km run followed by 2 min of maximal pull-ups, push-ups, and sit-ups. The first 3 trials were used as familiarizations, the second 3 trials were used as baseline measurements, and the last 3 trials followed the 28-day CRD. The CRD consisted of ad-libitum consumption of fat and protein and keeping CHO < 25% daily kilocalorie intake. Dependent variables measured pre- and post-diet included body composition, lipid profile, insulin, cortisol, c-reactive protein (CRP), GCT, substrate oxidation rates, Wingate variables, and the FPPA. Following the diet, participants had significant reductions in CRP, blood pressure, 2.41-km run time, CHO oxidation rates, and fat mass. Participants also had significant increases in high density cholesterol count, fat oxidation rates, and pull-up repetitions. Overall, our results show that a CRD in a high-stress occupation can favorably change markers of heart disease and body composition without decrements to physical performance.
The behaviour and treatment outcomes of paediatric hemangiomas
Authors:   Mercy Multispeciality Dental Centre, Department of Plastic Surgery, Kilpauk Medical College, Department of dentistry Shri Sathya Sai Medical College and Research Institute, Balakrishnana Gowri , Balasundaram K.A. , Gunasekaran Manikandan , Shunmugavelu Karthik
Published: February 2022

Aim: Infantile hemangiomas are the most common vascular tumours of infancy, affecting up to 12% of infants by the first year of life. The main aim of this study is to present the best treatment modality based on the behaviour of hemangiomas in paediatric population and their pattern of progression or regression with age and in response to intralesional steroids and sclerosing agents administered, along with the rate of recurrence in cases where surgical intervention was done. Materials and methods: A total of 25 patients were in- cluded in this study based on inclusion and exclusion cri- teria. The injections (Kenacort /Kenalog, as intralesional injection) were administered at monthly intervals and patients were reviewed. Based on the response elicited to this minimally invasive procedure the patients were divided into the following three groups: A-Responders, B-incomplete responders, C-Non-responders. Surgical intervention was taken up in incomplete responders and Non responders with significant aesthetic and functional compromise. Results: Of all lesions only 16% of the cases responded to non-surgical treatment methods, and were further sub- categorised into: Group A (Responders) which comprised of 2 (8%) of the cases, Group B (Incomplete responders) n= 2(8%) and Group C (Non-Responders) n=21 [84%. All patients belonging to group B and C were treated surgically and fairly good prognosis was documented, as amongst 8% (n=2) + 84% (n=21), 87% (n=20) of the patients were completely cured and re- currence due to the presence of residual tumour was noted in only 13% (n=3) of the cases. Conclusion: As the psychological impact of the congeni- tal deformity on patients is generally more detrimental than it is measurable, except for the post-surgical or traumatic deformities in the treatment of medium size tumours the surgical excision seems to be a worthwhile procedure.
EFFECTS OF EMPLOYEES ATTITUDE TO WORK ON PRODUCTIVITY
Authors: GOMATHY Dr .C K
Published: February 2022

Workplace attitude will have an impact on the presence of innovation and creativity, which can lead to a gradual increase in the productivity of an organization. Workers with a positive attitude toward their job and the company are more likely to make helpful suggestions and they make the ideas that help in the growth of the business. On the other hand, workers with a negative attitude may only be concerned with producing enough to get by while having little interest in innovation and they are least bothered about the improvement of the company. Companies that experience high employee turnover levels not only incur the high costs associated with hiring workers, they also experience reduced productivity until the new workers are up to speed. Employees who feel good about their jobs and workplace may be less likely to leave for greener pastures, helping companies to minimize the productivity gap associated with turnover. Employees with negative attitudes may eventually seek an improved work situation, decide to leave the company. Keywords: Work place, Organizations, Job satisfaction, Co-Workers, Client Interaction
Factors Affecting Business Success of Small & Medium Enterprises (SMEs); Case Study of Thailand
Authors: Jasper Ann
Published: February 2022

Purpose: The purpose of this research is to conduct a study on the factors affecting business success of Small & Medium Enterprises (SMEs), with a Case Study of Thailand.

Design/ Methodology/Approach: For the research methodology, the paper adopted the desktop literature review method (desk study), which  involved a vast and detailed review of studies and research addressing the on the factors affecting business success of Small & Medium Enterprises (SMEs), with a Case Study of Thailand. Simultaneously, an in-depth research of the top keywords related to the same topic was conducted  in various databases. As a result, the study was purely qualitative, drawing its findings from secondary sources of information.

Findings: The results show that customer and market, and resources and finance played an important role in ensuring the SMEs business success in Thailand. Innovative product, quality, cost, reliability, and services are the key strategic dimension in business success. Innovative product gives added value to the customer and it is important to achieve a suitable balance between product quality and costs. Small-business owners must have a missionary zeal about their products or services, be willing to be personally involved in it, be willing to stick with the business, be able to define the market clearly and pay attention to details and proactiveness. Beside that, companies must compete based on their strength and specialization which is classified as cost leadership.

Originality/Value: The study concluded that the SMEs Characteristic, Customer and Markets, the way of doing Business & Cooperation, Resources and Finance, and External Environment have significant positive effect on the Business Success of SMEs in Thailand. Management know-how, Product and Services, and Strategy were found to have no significant effect on the Business Success of SMEs in Thailand.
CORPORATE COMMUNICATION PRACTICES AND ONLINE REPUTATION MANAGEMENT
Authors: Jasper Ann
Published: February 2022

Purpose: The purpose of the study is to investigate the effect of corporate communication practices on online reputation management.

Design/ Methodology/Approach: The paper adopted the desktop literature review method. This involved an in-depth review of studies related to corporate communication practices and online reputation management. An in-depth search of the top keywords related to corporate communication practices and online reputation management was done in various databases. Thus, the paper was purely qualitative, drawing its findings from secondary sources of information.

Findings: The research concludes and provides practical strategic recommendations regarding effective communications to help guide managers in their planning and execution of their CSR endeavours.

Contribution to policy and practice: Thus, the stronger the attribution of organizational responsibility, the stronger are the emotions like anger and the more likely the act to harm the organization. Undoubtedly, reputation management requires a shift in mindset and approach. Crucially, there is a need for more robust theoretical and practical findings to use as a basis for online reputation building via online communication practices.

Originality/Value: This paper is justified by the fact that it adds to the knowledge and fills the gap that exists with regard to online reputation management. However, from the current review of the papers, some have presented knowledge gaps that form the basis of the current study. Therefore, given the observed problem with many firms in managing online reputation/image, the current paper sought to look into the problem and provide recommendations for further reference by scholars and policymakers.  This paper is, thus, important to policymakers in the information and communication sector as it enables them to formulate policies that support and ease the adoption of digital marketing in organizational branding.
DISCRETIONARY BENEFITS AND EMPLOYEE RETENTION IN STATE AGENCIES: A CASE OF REGULATORY STATE AGENCIES UNDER THE NATIONAL TREASURY, NAIROBI CITY COUNTY, KENYA
Authors: Cheptoo Sang Hilda , Kilika James
Published: February 2022

Purpose: Retention of employees in Kenya’s state agencies has been cited as a big challenge that has continued to undermine effective and efficient service delivery to the public. Employee retention is key to these agencies and failure to retain employees significantly affects their operations thus having a great impact on their service delivery, sustainable development and contribution towards Vision 2030. This study explored the influence of discretionary benefits on employee retention in Kenya’s state regulatory Agencies operating under the National Treasury.

Design/ Methodology/Approach: The study adopted descriptive and cross-sectional research designs and 320 employees of the four regulatory state agencies under the National Treasury, Kenya, as of 30th June 2017. Stratified proportionate simple random sampling was used in selecting a sample size of 175 with top, middle-level management and support staff used as strata. Quantitative and qualitative primary data was collected using self-administered semi-structured questionnaires. The study used both descriptive and inferential statistics to analyze the collected data.

Findings: The study found a positive and significant relationship between three independent variables namely health insurance, wellness programs, and work-life balance and the dependent variable which was employee retention. A pension plan was found to have an insignificant relationship with employee retention.

Contribution to policy and practice: The study concluded that that managers should craft strategies aimed at reducing attrition rates.

Originality/Value: The study extends the literature on strategic human resource management. It is the first study to be conducted on employee retention in state agencies.
Factors affecting implementation of preference and reservation directive on government procurement opportunities in Kenya
Authors: Arunga Awuor
Published: February 2022

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to determine factors affecting the implementation of preference and reservation directives on government procurement opportunities in Kenya: a case of the central bank of Kenya.

Design/ Methodology/Approach: The investigation utilized stratified arbitrary inspecting, the adolescent, ladies and people with handicaps being the strata of particular elements prequalified with the Central Bank of Kenya in its mind office in Nairobi and the three branches (Mombasa, Kisumu and Eldoret). From that point, straightforward arbitrary testing was utilized to choose 310 respondents from the strata who were issued with surveys. Information was gathered utilizing self-regulated polls. The information gathered was broken down by the utilization of illustrative and inferential measurements. Numerous relapse models were utilized to demonstrate the connection between the reliant variable and the free factors.

Findings: R square value of 0.768 means that 76.8% of the corresponding variation in the implementation of the 30% preference and reservation directive on government procurement in Kenya can be explained or predicted by (regulatory framework and requirements, procurement opportunity awareness and sensitization, the capacity of disadvantaged groups, ethical and compliance issues) which indicated that the model fitted the study.

Contribution to policy and practice: The discoveries of the investigation demonstrated that administrative system and prerequisites, obtainment opportunity mindfulness and sharpening, the limit of distraught gatherings, moral and consistency issues have a positive association with the execution of the 30% inclination and reservation order on government acquirement openings in Kenya.

Originality/Value: The study extends the literature on open organizations and recommends that they should grasp administrative structure and prerequisites, acquisition opportunity mindfulness and refinement, the limit of impeded gatherings, moral and consistency issues in order to improve the usage of the 30% inclination and reservation.
Effect of financial perspective on the performance of Small and Medium Enterprises
Authors: Kiptanui Albert
Published: February 2022

Purpose: There are several ways through which business practices can be established in specific areas, which can lead to outstanding business performance. Using balanced scored model, this study looked into the effect of of financial perspective on the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) performance.

Design/ Methodology/Approach: The study was conducted in Elgeyo Marakwet County in Kenya and sampled 95 SMEs using simple random sampling method. First hand data from sampled SMEs was collected using questionnaires and analysed using Ordinal Least Squares (OLS) regression model.

Findings: The study found out that financial perspective had significant influence on SMEs performance (β = 0.017, p < 0.847).

Contribution to policy and practice: The study confirmed the need for the county government and microfinance institutions to support SMEs financial by offering them cheap, affordable and low interest loan to the resident.

Originality/Value: The study extends and contributes to the strategic management literature on factors affecting performance of SMEs. It is the first study to establish financial and customer perspetive as determinants of SMEs performance in Elgeyo Marakwet County in Kenya.
Effect of cash management automation on financial management in Meru County government
Authors: Mugambi Bonface Mutuma
Published: February 2022

Purpose: The main purpose of the study was to find out if ICT adoption has a significant effect on financial management in the Meru County Government. Effective public financial management has attracted the attention of many scholars in identifying the best practice and how to install fiscal disciplines. In search of good governance and sound financial management, the World Bank has been at the forefront in championing this aspect. Lack of effective financial management practices hinders effective service delivery.  

Design/ Methodology/Approach: Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) theory is one of the models used to explain how technology is accepted by the users. A descriptive survey research design study was used. The population for this study is composed of the Meru county government staff. The sample size was 70 respondents in total, a questionnaire was used as the research tool whose validity and reliability was measured accordingly. Mean and regression analysis was computed when analyzing data.

Findings: The findings established that Cash management automation enables county leadership to understand the true cost of service delivered by the county per activity; that Through Cash management automation, the county finance department is able to reconcile transactions data in real-timeOn Cash management automation the study concludes that successful cash management automation in any institution is essential due to difficulties that come with accessing credits whenever an organization is facing liquidity several constraints.

Contribution to policy and practice: From the findings on cash management automation the study recommends that automation systems should be fully implemented as it increases cash management. For Meru county Government to realize growth, investment in technology should be made in order to enhance service delivery and transparency in cash management.

Originality/Value: This study is the first of its kind to empirically explore cash management automation on financial management in Meru county government.
A WAVELET TRANSFORM AND DATA MINING TECHNIQUE BASED PROTECTION TECHNIQUE FOR MICROGRID
Authors:   Department Of Electrical & Electronics Engineering, Technocrats Institute of Technology, NARWARE MAMTA , SOLANKEE LAXMAN ,   Department Of Electrical & Electronics Engineering, Technocrats Institute of Technology
Published: February 2022

With the emphasis on reducing carbon footprint and promoting the utilization of non renewable resources of energy in production of electricity, the micro grids have emerged as popular arrangement. Micro grids have empowered the users with flexibility in generating & controling electricity as per their requirements and have reduced their dependence on utility grid. Also they can now transfer surplus electrical energy to utility grid and can earn monetary gains. Photovoltaic systems have emerged as indispensable alternative over other distributed energy resources that can be inetrated in microgrids due to their simple design, easy to install and easy to maintain features. However the deep penetration of microgrid systems is posing threat to reliable & optimal operation of main utility grids.
PERANCANGAN GAME TIMBANGAN BUKAN OTOMATIS ELEKTRONIK INTERVAL TUNGGAL SEBAGAI MEDIA PEMBELAJARAN
Authors: Nasution Rifyan
Published: February 2022

Dalam rangka mendukung proses pembelajaran pada pelatihan fungsional penera, pengembangan media pembelajaran diperlukan sebagai alternatif untuk praktikum. Banyak peserta pelatihan fungsional penera yang belum memiliki Unit Metrologi Legal (UML) sehingga kurang memiliki akses untuk melakukan latihan pada timbangan yang sesungguhnya setelah mengikuti pelatihan fungsional. Hal ini menjadi kendala karena peserta pelatihan diharuskan untuk mengikuti ujian kompetensi setelah lulus dari pelatihan fungsional. Adanya media pembelajaran edukasi ini diharapkan dapat meningkatkan kemampuan untuk melakukan peneraan timbangan bukan otomatis elektronik dalam persiapan menghadapi ujian kompetensi. Metodologi yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini mengacu pada referensi Luther dengan Multimedia Development Life Cycle (MDLC). Aplikasi yang digunakan untuk membuat media pembelajaran ini adalah construct 2. Penerapan media pembelajaran ini diharapkan dapat memfasilitasi peserta pelatihan setelah mengikuti pelatihan fungsional penera. Peserta pelatihan yang tidak memiliki akses alat praktikum di tempat asal peserta pelatihan tetap dapat berlatih kembali untuk menghadapi ujian kompetensi. Untuk penelitian lebih lanjut, media pembelajaran ini diharapkan dapat dikembangkan lagi dalam hal animasi, desain, fitur, serta peningkatan dari 2 Dimensi menjadi 3 Dimensi agar peserta pelatihan mendapatkan simulasi praktikum yang lebih baik. Metodologi yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini mengacu pada referensi Luther dengan Multimedia Development Life Cycle (MDLC). Aplikasi yang digunakan untuk membuat media pembelajaran ini adalah construct 2.  Penerapan media pembelajaran ini diharapkan dapat memfasilitasi peserta pelatihan setelah mengikuti pelatihan fungsional penera. Peserta pelatihan yang tidak memiliki akses alat praktikum di tempat asal peserta pelatihan tetap dapat berlatih kembali untuk menghadapi ujian kompetensi. Untuk penelitian lebih lanjut, media pembelajaran ini diharapkan dapat dikembangkan lagi dalam hal animasi, desain, fitur, serta peningkatan dari 2 Dimensi menjadi 3 Dimensi agar peserta pelatihan mendapatkan simulasi praktikum yang lebih baik.
El complemento de pensión por jubilación para mujeres con más de dos hijos -por su aportación demográfica a la Seguridad Social- no se abona a perceptoras de pensión de jubilación anticipada por voluntad propia. El art. 60.4º LGSS no supone una discriminación directa de acuerdo con la Directiva 79/7/CEE, de aplicación progresiva de igualdad de trato entre hombres y mujeres en materia de Seguridad Social.
Authors: Ballester Pastor Inmaculada
Published: February 2022

El complemento por maternidad que tiene por finalidad compensar por la aportación demográfica a la Seguridad Social no se concede si las mujeres son pensionistas de jubilación anticipada voluntaria de acuerdo con lo dispuesto en el art. 60.4º LGSS. El Tribunal de Justicia europeo resuelve cuestión prejudicial planteada por el Juzgado de lo social n.º 3 de Barcelona y concluye que la norma española no vulnera el art. 4º de la Directiva 79/7 porque dicha regulación no está comprendida en el ámbito de aplicación de la mentada Directiva.

The maternity supplement, which is intended to compensate for the demographic contribution to Social Security, is not granted if women are voluntary early retirement pensioners in accordance with the provisions of art. 60.4º LGSS. The European Court of Justice resolves the preliminary ruling from the Social Court No. 3 of Barcelona and concludes that the Spanish law does not violate art. 4 of Directive 79/7 because said regulation is not included in the scope of the aforementioned Directive.
Járványok és dögvész az ókori Mezopotámiában
Authors: Bácskay András
Published: February 2022

Cuneiform texts from the second and first millennium are one of the oldest sources for plague or pestilence in the ancient times. Letters from the royal archive of the kingdom Mari written in the early second millennium inform us individual cases of contaminations in royal court and the outbreak of plague in various cities. Similarly to the conception of diseases, plague and pestilence were considered as a punishment of the gods. Moreover, the concept about illnesses including plague is closely connected to the impurity. The Mesopotamians used several medical and magical practices to protect themselves. In this paper magical amulets (so called ‘plague amulet’ and necklace made of various amulet stones) and a healing treatment (an ointment) were presented. Rituals were also performed to protect domestic animals against pestilence. A complex Neo-Assyrian ritual for purifying the military camp were here also presented.
Pseudo-Denys the Areopagite on Divine Unity and Infinity : A Philosophical Analysis of On the Divine Names VIII and X-XII
Authors: Vassányi Miklós
Published: February 2022

In this paper, I propose to philosophically analyze how Denys conceives especially of divine unity and infinity in some of the closing parts of his major work On the Divine Names. In particular, I will argue that Part VIII understands divine infinity in terms of unbounded creativity; that Part X views God as the principle of cosmic unity; that Part XI points us to God as the source of overwhelming harmony; while Part XII – leading the way to Denys’ ultimate statement on the insufficiency of the divine names – looks at God as “ever receding.” After spelling out in more specific terms what these insights reveal to us of the Areopagite’s philosophical theology, I will try to put that theology into the broader historical context of Denys’ complex relationship with Neoplatonism, hoping in this manner to contribute to a hypothetical reconstruction of his intellectual profile.
ANTIMICROBIAL, ANTIBIOFILM, AND PROBIOFILM EFFECTS OF GALLIC ACID ON EXOPOLYSACCHARIDE-DEPENDENT AND -INDEPENDENT BIOFILM OF MODEL STRAINS STREPTOCOCCUS THERMOPHILUS CNRZ 447 AND STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS ATCC 43300
Authors: Badra Boubakeur , Moustapha Soungalo DRABO , Hafidha KHADEM , Rimmibtiri Segda , Muhammad Ajmal Shah , Aly SAVADOGO
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to identify an approach that can simultaneously prevent biofilm-associated damage from Staphylococcus aureus, the most prevalent agent of mastitis in cattle in Algeria and dairy product spoiler, and improve the properties of dairy starters and probiotics. Selected strains Streptococcus thermophilus CNRZ 447 and methicillin-resistant S. aureus ATCC 43300 were cultured independently in broth containing increasing concentrations of gallic acid. S. aureus ATCC 43300 was shown to be an exopolysaccharide-independent biofilm producer. Gallic acid exhibited a dose- and strain-dependent antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and probiofilm effects. The molecule of gallic acid improved the exopolysaccharide production ability of S. thermophilus and altered adhesion determinants (e.i., auto-aggregation and surface hydrophobicity) of both strains. This study indicated that biofilm-associated phenotypic characteristics, such as the composition of the extracellular structure, should be determinant in the action of gallic acid on microorganisms. The intriguing stimulation of S. aureus ATCC 43300 biofilm by gallic acid could not allow us to conclude on its use as a biofilm preventing compound. Nonetheless, gallic acid was demonstrated to be a potent antimicrobial compound against S. aureus and an enhancer of biofilm phenotypic characteristics (including adhesion properties and exopolysaccharide production) of S. thermophilus. These observations suggest that gallic acid or related phenolic compounds can be used to improve the properties of probiotics and the performance of microbial cell factories. Subsequently, gallic-acid adapted S. thermophilus cultures could be explored to disperse S. aureus in dairy products and industrial materials.
ANTIMICROBIAL CHARACTERISTICS OF BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS BY A THERMOTOLERANT MICROALGA CHLORELLA VULGARIS ISOLATED FROM THERMAL SPRINGS OF TURKEY
Authors: KOCBERBER KILIC NUR , SAFRAN Elif , DÖNMEZ Gönül
Published: February 2022

This study presents bioactive character of 10 thermal microalgae that were isolated from thermal springs (Turkey). Strain A was the most successful microorganism with the maximum antimicrobial activity. Strain A was identified as C. vulgaris according to its 18S rDNA. The effect of nitrogen concentrations (0.5 g/L, 1.0 g/L, and 1.5 g/L) and temperatures (30 °C and 45 °C) on bioactive compounds production by thermotolerant C. vulgaris was studied. The highest antimicrobial effect was found in the biomass when microalga was cultivated in media with 1.0 g/L nitrogen at 30 °C. On the other hand, stress conditions like 45 °C and media with 1.5 g/L nitrogen, microalgae produced more efficient bioactive compounds then at 30 °C in media with 1.5 g/L nitrogen. S. aureus ATCC BAA 976 and S. aureus ATCC 1026 were affected the most by bioactive compounds of C. vulgaris. In addition, chloroform was the most efficient solvent to obtain effective extracts from C. vulgaris. Pigments and polar compounds had important role for higher antimicrobial activity under harsh conditions like 45 °C and media with 1.5 g/L nitrogen. In addition, caffeic acid having bioactive character was firstly shown for C. vulgaris in the current study.
MICROENCAPSULATION OF BIFIDOBACTERIUM LACTIS Bi-07 WITH GALACTOOLIGOSACCHARIDES USING CO-EXTRUSION TECHNIQUE
Authors: Lai Pui Yin , How Yu Hsuan , Pui Liew Phing
Published: February 2022

Probiotics play an important role in human gut health. However, it remains a challenge to maintain the viability of probiotics throughout the gastrointestinal transit. Hence, this study aimed to microencapsulate Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07 with galactooligosaccharides (GOS) using the co-extrusion technique. Optimization of calcium chloride (1.0% w/v to 3.0% w/v) and GOS concentration (1.0% w/v to 5.0% w/v) were performed in the encapsulation of B. lactis Bi-07 based on bead size and microencapsulation efficiency. The study found that microbead prepared with 1.5% (w/v) sodium alginate, 2.0% (w/v) calcium chloride and 3.0% (w/v) GOS showed the highest microencapsulation efficiency. The size of the bead produced was 735.69 μm with the highest microencapsulation efficiency of more than 94%. Besides, the microencapsulation efficiency and bead size were compared between B. lactis Bi-07 beads with or without GOS. Results showed that the encapsulated B. lactis Bi-07 with GOS was had a larger bead size and lower microencapsulation efficiency than encapsulated probiotic cells without GOS. Furthermore, the encapsulated B. lactis Bi-07 and free cells were subjected to simulated gastrointestinal treatment where the cell viability was evaluated. Encapsulated B. lactis Bi-07 with GOS showed higher cell viability than encapsulated B. lactis Bi-07 without GOS and free cells after the simulated gastrointestinal treatment. The viable cell count of encapsulated B. lactis Bi-07 with GOS remained more than 107 CFU/mL. This showed that the optimized encapsulated B. lactis Bi-07 with GOS could survive the human gastrointestinal to confer health benefits and the potential to be incorporated into functional foods.
CARRIER DEVELOPMENT FOR PGPR-BIOFERTILIZER AND ITS EXPLOITATION UNDER CADMIUM AND LEAD STRESSED CONDITION
Authors: PAL AMIT KUMAR , Sarkar Balaram , Sengupta Chandan
Published: February 2022

Worldwide overpopulation needs progressive crop yield creating environmental pollution. Low cost and easily available biofertilizer development is the best alternative for a sustainable agricultural system. In this study different agricultural waste such as wheat bran, sesame bran and bagasse were used as a carrier for the isolated PGPR. Two most potent cadmium and lead tolerant PGPR were isolated from Indian agricultural soil and identified as Lysinibacillus varians strain KUBM17 (accession number MG976681) and Pseudomonas putida strain KUBM18 (accession number MG976684). PGPRs were inoculated in different possible combinations of carrier materials. The growth and survivability of PGPRs were checked with plate count technique frequently up to 120 days. The best carrier was selected for PGPR application on radish and gram plants to check their plant growth-promoting ability. Sesame bran showed higher CFU count (7.8 x106/gm) for the PGPRs from the early days. Whereas, wheat bran and bagasse individually showed slower but sustainable nutrient availability for both the PGPRs. Wheat bran, sesame bran and bagasse in 1:1:1 ratio produced decent performance throughout the time period. The carrier mixture as biofertilizer showed higher plant biomass, germination percentage, chlorophyll content and other growth parameters on radish and gram plant under cadmium and lead stress. Carrier grown Lysinibacillus varians and Pseudomonas putida were able to nullify the toxicity of cadmium or lead and significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced almost all the plant growth parameters of both the plants. So, wheat bran, sesame bran and bagasse can be used for cheap PGPR-biofertilizer development.
A PRIMARY APPROACH FOR SEPARATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF α-AMYLASE FROM WHITE PITAYA (HYLOCEREUS UNDATUS) PEELS BY POLYMER/SALT TWO PHASE SYSTEM
Authors: Shad Zahra , Hussin Anis Shobirin Meor , Akbari-adergani Behrouz
Published: February 2022

α-Amylase was isolated from white pitaya peel with two phase system in aqueous media and then characterized. The effects of polyethylene glycol (PEG), PEG concentration, molecular weight, sodium citrate, and sodium chloride (NaCl) on yield and purification factor were studied. The highest purification factor (4.5) and yield (83%) were obtained in system PEG 6000 (14% w/w)-sodium citrate (18% w/w) with 6% (w/w) NaCl. The purified α-amylase molecular weight exhibited a band above 40 KDa by SDS-PAGE. α-Amylase showed optimum activity at pH of 6.0 and temperature of 55 °C. The activity of this enzyme was stable in the pH scope of 6-8 and temperature scope of 10-55 °C. Various metal ions were evaluated for amylase activation/inhibition effect. Na+ and Ca2+ were exhibited to have appropriate activating effect, where as Mn2+, Zn2+, Fe3+, Ni+, Ba+ and Cu2+ had inhibition effect. In addition, this enzyme showed remarkable stability in the existence of TritonX-100, SDS, sodium perborate, Tween 20 and Tween-80. In conclusion, this enzyme has high stability and activity at suitable temperature and pH, and in the existence of different surfactants and metal ions. This approach has a potential in progress of various industrial applications by introducing a method for applying new, low-cost, and biocompatible amylases source.
ISOLATION AND DETERMINATION OF CHROMIUM (VI) AND NICKEL (II) RESISTANT SIDEROPHORE PRODUCING BACILLUS CEREUS(sp) AND ANALYSIS OF THE PROTEIN EXPRESSION USING BIOINFORMATICS TOOLS
Authors: Dutta Subhayan , Basak Rohini , Chakraborty Swati
Published: February 2022

Siderophores are produced by bacteria, fungi and plants to facilitate uptake of iron, they are low-molecular-weight chelation agents and protect from stress responses. Pyoverdines act as fluorescent siderophores, plays an important role under iron-limiting conditions. During the stress condition a change in the broth culture was observed where it turned green from yellow, indicating some kind of pigment release. According to some reports the pigment release happens due to the presence of Siderophore in microorganisms. This colour change can also be considered as microbial sensor for color change detection. The bacterial sample was tested for the chromium (VI) and Nickel (II) resistant capacity, presence of siderophore, DNA and protein content. The chromium (VI) and nickel (II) resistant isolates were identified as Bacillus cereus (BF2). The siderophore was detected using qualitative and quantitative assays. Using various bioinformatics softwares the siderophore produced by Bacillus cereus (Rock 3-28) was compared with the isolated culture because both of their molecular weight varied from the range of 48kDa-65kDa. National Center For Biotechnology Information (NCBI), Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST), Clustal Omega, Expert Protein Analysis System (ExPASy), Self-Optimized Prediction Method with Alignment (SOPMA) and SWISS-MODEL tools were used to study the pyoverdine protein which coded for the enzyme L-ornithine N5-oxygenase. The FASTA sequences of the query sequence were compared with other species using BLAST. The sequences of protein were used for structural and functional analysis and for phylogenetic tree construction.
LANTIBIOTICS OF MILK ISOLATES: A SHORT REVIEW ON CHARACTERIZATION AND POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS
Authors: Nettoor Veettil Vajid , Chitra Vijaya
Published: February 2022

Milk, due to its high nutritional content, is an excellent medium for supporting growth of diverse group of microorganisms, many of which produce beneficial compounds like bacteriocins. Class I bacteriocins, called lantibiotics, are ribosomally synthesized, post-translationally modified peptides containing unusual amino acids, such as dehydrated and lanthionine residues with antibacterial activities.  Bacterial strains isolated from milk and dairy products produce a range of lantibiotics which can employed for development of food preservatives, flavor enhancers and as alternate treatment strategies for multi drug resistant bacterial pathogens. The diverse category of lantibiotics from milk isolates include well characterized prototypes like nisin to newer peptides yet to be studied.  In this review, details of most prominent lantibiotics obtained from milk isolates have been presented with special focus on applications of these lantibiotics in therapeutics and food.
AQUATIC PLASTICS WASTE BIODEGRADATION USING PLASTIC DEGRADING MICROBES
Authors: Asiandu Angga Puja , Wahyudi Agus , Sari Septi Widiya
Published: February 2022

Plastic is a synthetic polymer that is highly used every year in almost every field of life. Aquatic plastic waste is plastic that scattered in the aquatic environment in the form of macroplastic or microplastic. Plastic production is expected to continue increasing from year to year. Due to the massive production and use of various plastic products, the accumulation of plastic waste in the environment is still increasing resulting in environmental pollution. Biodegradation is considered as the appropriate method to solve the problem. Plastics biodegradation involves various enzymes produced by plastic degrading microorganisms including algae, bacteria, and fungi. During biodegradation, plastics polymer will be converted into microbial biomass and gases through several steps including biodeterioration, biofragmentation, depolymerization, assimilation and mineralization. Thus, this process has less side effect on the environment.
LIPASE-CATALYZED TRANSESTERIFICATION OF MEDIUM-LONG-MEDIUM STRUCTURED LIPID (MLM-SL) USING PALM OLEIN AND PALM KERNEL OIL IN BATCH AND CONTINUOUS SYSTEMS
Authors: Utama Qabul Dinanta , Sitanggang Azis Boing , Adawiyah Dede Robiatul , Hariyadi Purwiyatno
Published: February 2022

Lipase-catalyzed transesterification between refined bleached deodorized palm olein (RBDO) and palm kernel oil (RBDPKO) has been investigated to produce medium-long-medium structured lipid (MLM-SL). The synthesis was catalyzed by a specific sn-1,3 commercial lipase (Lipozyme TL IM) in batch and continuous systems.  Progress of the transesterification of this study was monitored as triacylglycerol (TAG) with equivalent carbon number (ECN) 40, presumably that of 1,3-dilauryl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycerol (LaOLa). The results showed that lipase-catalyzed transesterification using RBDO and RBDPKO could potentially be used as the main substrate for MLM-SL synthesis, both for batch and continuous systems. In batch system, transesterification of RBDO and RBDPKO at the ratio of 1:2 at 50oC yielded in the highest concentration of ECN 40 (LaLaO/LaOLa, 7.34%) but also a higher total concentration of partial acylglycerol fractions (Di- and Monoacylglycerols; DAGs and MAGs). Thus, this condition also obtained transesterified lipid rich in EC N40 with a lower slip melting point as compared to other substrate ratios.  In a continuous system, transesterification at RDBO:RBDPKO of 1:1 at 50oC and 15 min of residence time were selected as the optimum conditions, resulting in 5.39% EC N40 with a minimum concentration of DAGs and MAGs.
DEVELOPMENT OF A VEGAN SAUSAGE WITH YOUNG GREEN JACKFRUIT, OYSTER MUSHROOM, AND COCONUT FLOUR AS AN ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY PRODUCT WITH CLEANER PRODUCTION APPROACH
Authors: Paranagama Iranga , Wickramasinghe Indira , Somendrika Dulani , Benaragama Kasun
Published: February 2022

Veganism or vegetarianism is a trending topic in the modern world. Natural disasters, climate change, and pandemics lead people towards healthier and plant-based diets and nature-friendly lifestyle. Higher meat consumption has led the world into a huge struggle resulting in global warming, rising sea levels, disease spreading like swine flu, bird flu, coronavirus, etc. The main objective of this research was to develop a socially responsible vegan product, minimizing its environmental impact with a cleaner production approach. Generally, many vegan products are produced using soy as the main ingredient, but it is the second-largest agricultural driver of deforestation globally. Currently, there are no significant studies done on vegan product development considering the environmental impact and cleaner production. Concerning all these objectives, this vegan sausage was developed with young green jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus), oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus), and coconut flour (Cocos nucifera Lin.) as main ingredients. This product was subjected to sensory evaluation, proximate analysis using AOAC and SLS methods, and microbiological analysis. The moisture, ash, total fat, crude protein, and crude fibre contents of the product were 64.49 ± 0.16%, 2.62 ± 0.18%, 5.94 ± 0.25%, 3.95 ± 0.30% and 1.22 ± 0.16% respectively. Total carbohydrate value and energy profiles were 21.78 ± 0.38% and 156.3 kcal/100 g calculated according to the Codex Guideline on Nutrition Labelling. Following a cleaner production approach helped to identify that it is more environmentally friendly using electricity than LPG in Sri Lanka for this kind of product development and to reduce the total CO2 emission per kg of vegan sausage from 0.678 kg CO2/kg to 0.477 kg CO2/kg.
APPLICATIONS OF PLANT LECTINS IN BIOTECHNOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS
Authors: NAIK SANJAY , KUMAR SANJIT
Published: February 2022

Lectins are carbohydrate-binding proteins broadly used in various therapeutic and biomedical applications. The variable affinity of lectins towards variety of carbohydrates has raised attention for the biologist to explore functional aspects of lectins.  Lectins express specificity to simple carbohydrates for example mannose, lactose, sialic acid, complex glycan, and glycoproteins. Lectins are classified based on their sugar specificity and are used as a tool to study protein-carbohydrate interactions. Lectins are ubiquitous in nature and identified from all sources such as bacteria, fungi, algae, and animals. Plants are the most abundant source of lectins, and till now, more than three hundred lectins were characterized from plants. These are distributed to various parts of a plant according to their requirements and function. The physiological role of lectins in a plant is still not well understood. The overabundant presence of lectins in plant seeds and storage tissues indicated their role in plant development. Plant lectins shows a broad range of activities like antibacterial, antifungal, insecticidal, anticancerous, antileishmanial, antiviral, and anticoagulants. In this review, we aim to highlight the plant lectins classification and their application in various biological aspects.
VALORIZATION OF PERILLALDEHYDE MOLECULE CONTAINED IN THE ESSENTIAL OIL OF Ammodaucus Leucotrichus Coss. FROM THE SAHARAN ZONES OF MOROCCO
Authors: Bouzekri Omayma , Elgamouz Sabah , Ghaleb Adib , Amechrouq Ali , El Idrissi Mostafa , Choukrad M’barek
Published: February 2022

The aim of this work is to valorise the species Ammodaucus leucotrichus Coss which is known by its abundance in perillaldehyde. The plant material was collected from two regions in Morocco: Errachidia and Smara region, then was hydrodistilled. The essential oils (EOs) obtained were firstly characterized by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Secondly the EO with the major component is the perillaldehyde was used as starting material to semi-synthesize three p-menthane monoterpenoids. The semi-synthesized compounds from perillaldehyde were studied for their docking behavior against Lung Cancer with the crystallographic structure of the kinase domain of EGFR protein using surflex-docking.
The GC/MS analysis of essential oils, showed a total of 25 components accounts 99.51% for Errachidia’s EO while 28 components account for 99.83% for Smara’s EO. GC/MS analysis showed that perillaldehyde is the major components in the EO of Errachidia with a percentage of 74.71%. For this purpose, Errachidia's EO was used to semi-synthesize the perilla alcohol, the perillic acid, and the perillartine. The three compounds were obtained in good yield, their structures were confirmed by GC/MS and Infrared (IR). The molecular docking study showed a good binding affinity between the perilla alcohol (POH) and the lung cancer receptor than perillic acid and perillartine.
The species Ammodaucus leucotrichus Coss. could be considered a promising source of p-menthan monoterpenoids, known for their anticancerous properties.
DEVELOPMENT OF A CALCIUM-FORTIFIED DRINK BASED ON KEFIR, EGGSHELL, CITRIC FRUITS, AND TAP WATER
Authors: Chulibert María Eugenia , Casabonne Cecilia , Ramadán Silvana Sandra , Rigalli Alfredo
Published: February 2022

Calcium is an essential and critical component of human health. However, most people do not cover daily calcium recommendations. Therefore, a calcium-based drink, called BEVERAGE, is developed in order to offer an alternative source of this mineral to the population. A combination of kefir, eggshell, citric fruits, and tap water were investigated. Orange was selected because it provides the highest amount of carbohydrates for fermentation, and it is accessible to the population. The proportion of components that produce the highest concentration of calcium in the BEVERAGE was with 10 g of kefir, 6 g of eggshell, 200 ml of orange juice, and 800 ml of tap water, 20 ºC, and 72 h of incubation. With these conditions, the BEVERAGE was fortified with 600 mg calcium/liter. In addition, the intestinal absorption of calcium was evaluated through an ex vivo model of the everted small intestinal sacs, proving to be higher than the control solutions (water+CaCl2, juice+CaCl2). This study provides a methodology to prepare at home a beverage that could contribute to increase daily calcium intake.