bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computational Thinking and Robotics in Kindergarten
Authors: Roussou Evgenia
Published: May 2022

Ever since technology became an integral part of human life, a range of new concepts have surfaced. Computational thinking (CT) has been extensively discussed in the last 15 years and has been gaining popularity in the educational world. Following an overview of the basic literature published on this evasive new concept, an attempt is made to outline the connection between computational thinking and programming with emphasis on tangible programming of educational robots. An implemented educational programme, which attests to the positive impact of robotics on the acquisition of computational thinking skills in early childhood, is presented and evaluated. The study took place in a typical Greek kindergarten in 2017 and focused on the development of particular aspects of computational thinking with the use of a programmable floor robot.
Introducing STEAM Through Tinkercad and Arduino
Authors: Tsolakis Savvas , Theofanellis Timoleon , Voulgari Evagelia
Published: May 2022

During the last years, educators were challenged to move their lessons from the physical classroom to online classrooms due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to this situation, they had to come up with new teaching methods and applications and even use ICT to implement hands-on activities. Teaching robotics, a significant subject to promote STEAM education and computational thinking, had to be continued under these circumstances. In this chapter, the work and the results of teaching robotics in online classes are presented. Tinkercad simulation platform was used to teach robotics and plan projects that later were implemented using the Arduino platform robotic system in the physical classroom as hands-on activities.
Use of STEM Intervention Teaching Scenarios to Investigate Students' Attitudes Toward STEM Professions and Their Self-Evaluation of STEM Subjects
Authors: Kalemis Georgios , Psycharis Sarantos , Zacharis Georgios K.
Published: May 2022

The present research initiated from the hypothesis that students' misconceptions can be resolved and replaced with new knowledge that is structured and organized through robust hypothetically-driven mental models. The assumption being that when students engage in teaching interventions that include hypothesis building and testing through STEM teaching scenarios and constructions, and are given the opportunity to discover the knowledge themselves, consequently, they enhance their attitudes towards STEM courses and career pathways as well as their own self-evaluation in mathematics and science. The quasi-experimental research methodology included a sample of 15-year-old students divided into an experimental and control group. The teaching intervention consisted of three scenarios developed primarily by the European Space Agency (ESA) but later adapted to meet the aptitude levels of students. Results showed improved attitudes in certain STEM courses and career pathways and a positive change in student's self-evaluations in science.
Considerations Regarding Friction Stir Welding of Stainless Steels
Authors: Cojocaru Radu , Botila Lia-Nicoleta , Daşcău Horia Florin , Verbiţchi Victor
Published: May 2022

Due to their extraordinary qualities, X5CrNi18-10 (AISI 304L) and X3CrNiMo17-13-3 (AISI 316) stainless steels are among the most used materials in engineering applications with use in priority areas. This also involves finding new solutions for joining this type of metals, effective alternatives to the widely used conventional welding processes.The paper presents the approaches and results obtained at international level for the FSW welding of X5CrNi18-10 and X3CrNiMo17-13-3 stainless steels.The ISIM results are also presented for the FSW butt welding of X5CrNi18-10 stainless steel plates, 4.0 mm and 1.5 mm thick. Data regarding the materials to be welded, the characteristics of the welding tool and the technological process parameters are presented: the rotation speed of the welding tool and the welding speed.When monitoring the welding process, a method was used that is based on an innovative solution based on the use of the infrared thermographic technique, patented by ISIM Timisoara.When welding FSW in inert gas environment FSW-IG, an innovative technical solution for applying the method was used (submitted for patenting), a method that allows monitoring the process in the case of FSW-IG as well. The results of the evaluation process of the welded joints are also presented: referring to metallographic analyzes at macro and microscopic level, micro-hardness, tensile and bending tests.The very good results obtained internationally, but also those obtained at ISIM Timisoara, represent solid arguments that the FSW process can be applied with very good results for welding of X5CrNi18-10 and X3CrNiMo17-13-3 stainless steels.
Development of Self-Shielded Flux-Cored Wires for Arc Welding of Low-Alloy Steels
Authors: Golovko V. , Kotelchuk O. , Naumeiko S. , Golyakevich Andrey A.
Published: May 2022

Current aspects of the developing of modern self-shielding flux-cored wires composition for arc welding of low-alloyed steels are considered. Advantages and disadvantages of flux-cored wires of carbonate-fluorite, oxide and oxide-fluoride types of are shown in comparison. The effectiveness of gas shielding of molten metal at welding with self-shielding flux-cored wires of carbonate-fluorite type is analyzed considering the thermal properties of their cores. It is shown that to improve reliability of gas shielding at welding using the wires of this type it is important not only to ensure generation of sufficiently large volume of shielding gases at thermal destruction of the wire core, but also to control this process, providing gas evolution at all stages of heating and melting of the wire. The results of complex thermal analysis of the wire core mixtures containing, for example, lithium carbonate show substantially large heat losses for heating and melting of the wire core, which are accompanied by the development of energy-intensive processes of thermal destruction of core components. It is shown that the limitation of lithium carbonate content in the wire at the level of not more than 2 wt. % allows not only to preserve welding arc burning stability at the acceptable level but also to provide effective gas shielding of molten metal and easy separation of slag crust. The control of thermochemical reactions in the core is achieved by selection of its proper composition to ensure favorable melting of flux-cored wire and electrode metal transfer to the welding pool. Results of metallographic examinations of distribution and composition of non-metallic inclusions in metal of the welds made with wires of the oxide and oxide-fluoride types are presented. Main properties of the developed self-shielding flux-cored wires and recommendations on welding are given in conjunction with prospective fields of their application.
Friction Stir Welding in Inert Gas Environment (FSW-IG) of AZ31B Magnesium Alloy
Authors: Cojocaru Radu , Botila Lia-Nicoleta , Daşcău Horia Florin
Published: May 2022

Friction stir welding is an area of interest within ISIM Timisoara, several research projects that have addressed this issue being carried out. At ISIM the research started with the approach of FSW welding of some aluminum alloys (as similar and dissimilar materials) and later extended to other types of non-ferrous metallic materials (magnesium, titanium, copper alloys) and different types of steels respectively. New methods / possibilities of application of the FSW welding process were also researched. The paper presents results obtained by ISIM Timisoara within an ongoing national research project regarding the friction stir welding in inert gas environment (FSW-IG) of the AZ31B magnesium alloy. The experimental research aimed to perform a comparative analysis between the FSW-IG welding and the classic FSW welding for AZ31B magnesium alloy, in the same working conditions in terms of welding equipment, welding tools and technological process parameters. The obtained results show that the application of FSW-IG welding compared to the classic FSW welding brings benefits in terms of weld surface appearance, mechanical strength, elongation at break and behavior to the static bending tests.
Synthesis and Characterization of Chitosan/κ-Carrageenan/Mesoporous Phosphotungstic Acid (mPTA) Electrolyte Membranes for Direct Methanol Fuel Cell (DMFC) Applications
Authors: Atmaja Lukman , Rachmawati Devi Ruchmana , Hartanti Evin Ayu
Published: May 2022

A new biopolymer based on chitosan and k-carrageenan with the addition of mesoporous phosphoric acid (mPTA) filler was used as an electrolyte membrane for Direct Methanol Fuel Cell (DMFC) applications. Electrolyte membranes of pure solution of chitosan, k-carrageenan, and various compositions of chitosan/k-carrageenan (Cs/k-Car) (80/40, 90/30, 100/20 mL) were carried out to determine the composition of chitosan/k-carrageenan optimal. The optimum chitosan/k-carrageenan membrane is Cs/k-Car 80/40 which has a tensile strength of 22.00 MPa and a methanol permeability of 14.33 x 10-6 cm2/s. Membrane Cs/k-Car 80/40 was then added with variations of mesoporous phosphotungstic acid (mPTA) filler (0.05, 0.1, 0.15, 0.2 and 0.25 %) to determine the optimum membrane electrolyte. The chitosan/k-carrageenan/mPTA 0,2% (Cs/k-Car/mPTA 0.2%) electrolyte membrane is the most optimum electrolyte membrane which has a proton conductivity of 12 x 10-3 S/cm and a methanol permeability of 7.64 x 10-6 cm2/s so it is expected to be the most suitable electrolyte membrane for DMFC application. Key words : Electrolyte membrane, chitosan, k-carrageenan, mesoporous phosphoric acid (mPTA), DMFC
Thermodynamic and Adsorption Properties of Flavonoid Rutin from Cassava (Manihot esculenta) Leaves as a Corrosion Inhibitor on the Mild Steel in Sulfuric Acid Solution
Authors: Gusti Diah Riski , Emriadi Emriadi , Efdi Mai
Published: May 2022

Rutin flavonoid compounds have been isolated from cassava leaves and tested for their corrosion resistance against mild steel. Inhibition efficiency and adsorption properties were studied using the weight loss method at temperature variations of 303K, 313K, 323K and 333K and concentration variations of 0.1; 0.5; 1.0; 5.0; and 10 g/L. Potentiodynamic polarization was used to determine the inhibitor type of Cassava Leaf Routine (RCL). The results showed that RCL can reduce the corrosion rate and increase the corrosion inhibition efficiency of mild steel. The thermodynamic parameters have been calculated and the result is that the adsorption corrosion mechanism by physisorption takes place spontaneously with increasing temperature. Based on potentiodynamic polarization, the efficiency of corrosion inhibition by RCL with a concentration of 10 g//L on mild steel was 81.58%. RCL as a mixed corrosion inhibitor.
Structure and Mechanical Properties of High Strength Steel 960QL Weldments
Authors: Ferdinandov Nikolay , Gospodinov Danail , Ilieva Mariana , Radev Rossen
Published: May 2022

The need for welded structures of high-strength steels requires detailed studies on the factors influencing the behaviour of these steels during welding. The present work introduces results on the influence of the welding gap on the structure and some mechanical and technological properties of welded joints of high-strength steel S960QL, joined by submerged arc welding.
Physicochemical Studies of Chitosan Blended Sulfonated Poly Ether-Ether Ketone and Graphene Oxide as Filler for Direct Methanol Fuel Cell
Authors: Nurakhirawati Nurakhirawati , Priyangga Arif , Santoso Mardi , Atmaja Lukman , Widiastuti Nurul , Jaafar Juhana
Published: May 2022

Chitosan (CS) was successfully extracted from the shrimp shell of Litopenaeus vanamei and used as a biopolymer for the fuel cells. The composite membranes containing chitosan blended poly ether-ether ketone (PEEK) and graphene oxide (GO) as filler were fabricated using solvent evaporation method and its physicochemical studies were also investigated. The sulfonation degree of sulfonated poly ether-ether ketone (SPEEK) was 60.61%. Among the fabricated membranes, the CS/SPEEK/SGO membrane was the best membrane to achieve high ion exchange capacity (IEC) which is 5.94 mmol.g-1. Moreover, its methanol uptake and permeability were 6.21% and 6.34×10-6 cm2.s-1, respectively. The highest water uptake was also obtained by CS/SPEEK/SGO membrane which is 61.54% followed by other membranes CS/SGO, CS/GO, CS/SPEEK, CS/SPEEK/GO, and CS. In a comparison, the lowest water uptake was obtained by pristine CS membrane which is 52.17%.
Prospective Implications of Insufficient Sleep for Athletes
Authors: Riegler Kaitlin Elizabeth , Guty Erin T. , Thomas Garrett A. , Bradson Megan L. , Arnett Peter A.
Published: May 2022

Context

Poor sleep is common in collegiate student-athletes and is associated with heterogeneous self-reported complaints at baseline. However, the long-term implications of poor sleep at baseline have been less well studied.

Objective

To examine the implications of insufficient sleep at baseline, as well as factors such as symptom reporting and neurocognitive performance at baseline associated with insufficient sleep, for the risk of sport-related concussion (SRC).

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Undergraduate institution.

Patients or Other Participants

Student-athletes (N = 614) were divided into 2 groups based on the hours slept the night before baseline testing: sufficient (>7.07 hours) or insufficient (≤5.78 hours) sleepers. Athletes who went on to sustain an SRC during their athletic careers at our university were identified.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Four symptom clusters (cognitive, physical, affective, and sleep) and headache were examined as self-reported outcomes. Four neurocognitive outcome measures were explored: mean composite of memory, mean composite of attention/processing speed, memory intraindividual variability (IIV), and attention/processing speed IIV.

Results

Insufficient sleepers at baseline were nearly twice as likely (15.69%) as sufficient sleepers (8.79%) to go on to sustain an SRC. Insufficient sleepers at baseline, whether or not they went on to sustain an SRC, reported a higher number of baseline symptoms than did sufficient sleepers. When compared with either insufficient sleepers at baseline who did not go on to incur an SRC or with sufficient sleepers who did go on to sustain an SRC, the insufficient sleep group that went on to incur an SRC performed worse at baseline on mean attention/processing speed.

Conclusions

The combination of insufficient sleep and worse attention/processing speed performance at baseline may increase the risk of sustaining a future SRC.
Ultrasound Identifies First Rib Stress Fractures: A Case Series in National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Athletes
Authors: Sheng Dana L. , Burnham Kevin , Boutin Robert D. , Ray Jeremiah W.
Published: May 2022

Isolated first rib stress fractures in athletes are thought to be rare. In this case series, 3 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I athletes developed isolated first rib stress fractures over the span of 1 year, indicating that these injuries may occur more often than previously understood. These fractures can be easily missed because of the low incidence, lack of clinical suspicion, and vague presentation. Further, radiographs can fail to reveal such fractures. To our knowledge, this is the largest case series of athletes with first rib stress fractures presenting with vague rhomboid interscapular pain. We also demonstrated that ultrasound successfully visualized these injuries; in the hands of an ultrasonographer or clinical provider trained in musculoskeletal ultrasound, this technique offers an advantageous point-of-care screening imaging modality.
Successful endovascular recanalization of a thrombosed arteriovenous fistula with extensive stenosis
Authors: Li Hai-Lei , Chan Yiu Che , Pai Pearl , Cheng Stephen W.
Published: May 2022

Management of chronic arteriovenous fistula (AVF) thrombosis is challenging. In this case report, we described successful endovascular treatment for a thrombosed AVF with extensive stenosis. A 50-year-old woman presented with diminishing blood flow of her forearm AVF. Diagnostic angiogram showed a long segment of cephalic vein outflow stenosis, occlusion of one accessory cephalic vein branch, and proximal stenosis of the cephalic vein. After angioplasty, the occluded fistula was recanalized without any significant residual stenosis. The AVF had been functional at 6-month follow-up.
Transsphenoidal surgery for prolactinomas in male patients: a retrospective study
Authors: Su Wei-Jie , Cai Hong-Cai , Yang Guo-Chen , He Ke-Jun , Wu Hong-Lin , Yang Yi-Bing , Tang Hong-Xing , Yang Li-Xuan , Deng Chun-Hua
Published: May 2022

Male patients with prolactinomas usually present with typical hyperprolactinemia symptoms, including sexual dysfunction and infertility. However, clinical factors related to sexual dysfunction and surgical outcomes in these patients remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the outcomes of male patients with prolactinomas after transsphenoidal surgery and the risk factors affecting sexual dysfunction. This study was conducted on 58 male patients who underwent transsphenoidal surgery for prolactinomas between May 2014 and December 2020 at the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China. We evaluated the sexual function of patients before and after surgery through International Index of Erectile Function-5 scores, libido, and frequency of morning erection. Of the 58 patients, 48 (82.8%) patients had sexual intercourse preoperatively. Among those 48 patients, 41 (85.4%) patients presented with erectile dysfunction. The preoperative International Index of Erectile Function-5 scores in patients with macroprolactinomas were significantly higher than those in patients with giant prolactinomas (17.63 ± 0.91 vs 13.28 ± 1.43; P = 0.01). Postoperatively, the incidence of erectile dysfunction was 47.9%, which was significantly lower than that preoperatively (85.4%; P = 0.01). Twenty-eight (68.3%) patients demonstrated an improvement in erectile dysfunction. Tumor size and invasiveness were significantly correlated with the improvement of erectile dysfunction. Preoperative testosterone <2.3 ng ml−1 was an independent predictor of improvement in erectile dysfunction. In conclusion, our results indicated that tumor size and invasiveness were important factors affecting the improvement of sexual dysfunction in male patients with prolactinoma. The preoperative testosterone level was an independent predictor related to the improvement of erectile dysfunction.
Dewilding ‘Wolf-land’
Authors: Sands Dara
Published: May 2022

Fostering coexistence between people and wildlife is crucial to both the conservation and restoration of wildlife populations across the globe. Yet, so far research exploring human-wildlife conflict and coexistence has been largely ahistorical, with little focus on the historical trajectories through which human-wildlife interactions have shifted from coexistence to conflicts which have led to wildlife eradication in the past. This paper responds by examining the historical drivers of change which disrupted a long history of human-wolf coexistence in Ireland. Drawing on an extensive review of primary historical sources and secondary literature and applying analytical tools from environmental history, the paper first illustrates the diverse practices and attitudes which helped sustain a continuous period of coexistence up to the seventeenth century. The paper then illustrates how coexistence unravelled during the early modern period following the island's integration into an expanding global capitalist system under a colonial regime who redefined Ireland as a primitive 'Wolf-land'. By engaging with the historical dimensions of human-wildlife interactions and drawing attention to how wildlife has become enrolled in past social conflicts, the article highlights the importance of historical perspectives for informing current strategies aimed at positively transforming human-wildlife conflict towards inclusive and socially just forms of coexistence.

Abstract in Irish: https://bit.ly/33kuqHY
Living with Gorillas? Lessons from Batwa-Gorillas’ Convivial Relations at Bwindi Forest, Uganda
Authors: Ampumuza Christine
Published: May 2022

In recent years, convivial conservation has been proposed as a better alternative to fortress conservation by working with marginalised communities. This is a welcome development because most of the injustices and failures of fortress conservation arose from neglecting local communities’ view of being with nature, and knowledges of nature (plural of knowledge highlights that there are multiple ways and types of acquiring and transmitting knowledge through generations). A critical analysis of the conservation literature indicates a disharmony between the indigenous ways, and Northern ways of being with nature—an ontological discord in conservation. This article considers convivial conservation as starting point to address this discord. Based on the content analysis of stories of Batwa's historical relations with gorillas, unstructured interviews, ethnographic village stays, and empirical observations, we argue that open-mindedness—to learn from, to be affected by and affect our fellow dwellers on earth (human and non-human)—marks the starting point of convivial living. Therefore, convivial conservation can further be enriched by expanding the scope of historical reparations to include knowledges that have been historically excluded. To do so, convivial conservation scholars need to emphasise the co-creation of knowledge with their human and non-human counterparts. By doing so, these scholars will safeguard against marginalising other ways of knowing, thus achieving its transformative agenda.
Impact of educational interventions on pharmacovigilance and adverse drug reaction reporting by resident doctors and faculty members
Authors: Belhekar Mahesh N. , Dhorajiwala Shakeeb S. , Krishnamurthy B.
Published: May 2022

Purpose/Aim:

Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are significantly under-reported worldwide. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of educational interventions (EIs) on knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of hospital resident doctors and faculty members and compare ADR reporting in EI (medical specialties) vs. non-EI (surgical specialties) in these two cadres of doctors.

Materials and Methods:

This study was a prospective comparative study conducted in two groups (EI and non-EI) in resident doctors and faculty members working at a tertiary care hospital. EI group (medical specialties) were provided with EI to increase awareness about ADR reporting, whereas in non-EI group (surgical specialties), no EI was provided and they served as control. Respondents were asked to fill a pretest questionnaire followed by interactive EI in EI group and posttest questionnaire in both groups. The impact of EI among respondents was evaluated by their response to questionnaire and number of ADRs reported after intervention.

Results:

Total (n = 202) respondents were enrolled in the study. The number of resident doctors and faculty members in each group were (n = 101 [50%]). Overall, (n = 100 [49.5%]) were from the medical and (n = 102 [50.5%]) from surgical specialty. Post-EI period, there was statistically significant improvement in KAP domains.

Conclusion:

Our study serves as credible evidence that through EI; statistically significant improvement in KAP of resident doctors and faculty members in both medical and surgical specialties toward ADR reporting and existing pharmacovigilance system can be achieved.
О полиномиально-модульных возвратных последовательностях
Authors: Marchenkov Sergey Seraphimovich
Published: May 2022

Рассмотрены возвратные последовательности над множеством целых чисел, у которых в качестве порождающих функций используются произвольные суперпозиции полиномиальных функций и функции $|x|$, - полиномиально-модульные возвратные последовательности. Показано, как вычисления на трехленточных машинах Минского можно промоделировать с помощью полиномиально-модульных возвратных последовательностей. На основе этого результата сформулированы алгоритмически неразрешимые проблемы, связанные с полиномиально-модульными возвратными последовательностями. Рассмотрены также возвратные последовательности, в которых в качестве порождающих функций используются функции, образованные некоторыми суперпозициями полиномиальных функций и функции $[\sqrt{x}]$. Для множества таких возвратных последовательностей указана алгоритмически неразрешимая проблема.
Короткие полные диагностические тесты для схем с двумя дополнительными входами в одном базисе
Authors: Popkov Kirill Andreevich
Published: May 2022

Доказано, что любую булеву функцию от $n$ переменных можно смоделировать тестопригодной схемой из функциональных элементов с двумя дополнительными входами в базисе «конъюнкция, косая конъюнкция, дизъюнкция, отрицание», допускающей полный диагностический тест длины не более $2n+3$ относительно константных неисправностей типа $1$ на выходах элементов.
Mammalian and reptilian species expected and observed in roadside wildlife markets of southwest Nigeria and the implications for conservation
Authors: Mustafa M.O. , Akinyemi I.G. , Oseni B.A. , Oladapo M.O. , Ejizu A.N. , Ezekwe C.O. , Okpara G.I. , Ajao O. , Olateru C.T.
Published: May 2022

Wildlife provides both consumptive and non-consumptive utilities to human beings around the world. Under wild animal utilization as food and medicine, some wildlife species have been overharvested. Coupled with environmental degradation affecting wildlife species in their habitats, the need to evaluate wildlife populations in Southwest Nigeria is therefore essential. Twenty-three wildlife markets along five highways in Southwest Nigeria were surveyed for two years to determine the pattern of mammalian and reptilian species occurrence; wild animal species assessed were freshly dead and roasted ones. The species named by literatures were tagged Expected while those found in the sales points were referred to as Observed. The names of species found were matched with literatures that established them. Indirect method of species of identification was questionnaire use among stakeholders of wildlife marketing (hunters, traders and farmers) selected through Systematic Random Sampling (Odd Method). This approach firstly identified the wildlife species being sold in the markets and their vernacular (Yoruba) names. These names were linked with literatures that confirmed their scientific names. Results revealed that twelve mammalian and three reptilian species were absent in all road markets. Implication of results is that mammals and reptiles which were absent in all market Roads are those whose populations have reduced in the wild. Recommendations for Government sensitisation on animals absent in the Sales Points about hunting pressure reduction through print and electronic media were first made. Conservation education among forest exploitation professionals, campaign against forest degradation and establishment of more forest reserves and National parks by Nigerian Government were made too.
Geotechnical characterization of an innovative soil stabilization product (Aggrebind/Road Master) usable in the construction, rehabilitation and maintenance of road infrastructure and the construction of social housing in Cameroon
Authors: Ndi Conrad Dieudonné Bébé , Nouaye Boris , Mbessa Michel , Friedman Robert D.
Published: May 2022

Building roads in developing countries has always been very expensive. An efficient and more affordable method is needed. AggreBind’s soil stabilization solutions, known as RoadMaster (RM1 / RM2) and AggreBind (AGB-WT/BT) are offered. The objective of the present study was to make a geotechnical characterization of this product with a view towards its use in the construction, rehabilitation and maintenance of road infrastructure in Cameroon.A series of laboratory tests were carried out; soil identification tests (particle size analysis, Atterberg limits), lift tests (Proctor and modified CBR test), determination of the optimum water content of the material, maximum dry density, immediate CBR index and the CBR index after immersion for 4 days.Only the 95% OPM CBR test was carried out on the soil with the additive AGB-WT/RM1 in order to characterize the effects of the product on the soil.In conclusion, AggreBind/RoadMaster can provide stable, dust-free roads and stabilized base courses for general roads and highways that meet or exceed the bearing capacity requirements of international road specifications. In addition, the use of this product reduces the cost of road construction by 40% to60% and increases in-situ load bearing capacity by 400% to 600%.
Corrigendum: Phenotypic characteristics and gene frequency of the Banyo Goudali zebu (Bosindicus) variety in the high Guinean Savannah zone of Cameroon
Authors: Nsangou A.S. , Meutchieye F. , Manchang T.K. , Bah G.S.
Published: May 2022

No Abstract.
Teachers’ perspectives on the use of ICT in the teaching of a South African home language, Sesotho
Authors: Filita Naledi , Jita Thuthukile
Published: May 2022

The study sought to unpack teachers’ perspectives of teaching one South African language, Sesotho, as a home language using information and communication technology (ICT) in secondary schools in South Africa. Teachers were recruited to participate in the study by providing lesson plans for analysis. From the analysis, four teachers were selected to participate in semi-structured interviews. The Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework guided the study. The following findings emerged from our analysis of data in the study. Firstly, regardless of having limited ICT resources, teachers nevertheless attempted to use those available in their schools to ensure that teaching does not solely depend on traditional methods. Secondly, teachers in the district studied lacked technological knowledge (TK). In addition, teachers seemed to lack knowledge of ICT policies. Finally, lack of Sesotho content on ICT resources affects the adoption of ICT in the teaching and learning of Sesotho. We recommend that in addressing the issue of the digital divide, there is a need to focus on provision of ICT resources to all schools, irrespective of quintile level, and to provide teachers with proper training, focusing on Sesotho and other African languages as subject.
Epidemiology of Kawasaki Disease in children in Switzerland: a national prospective cohort study
Authors: Gradoux  Eugénie  , Di Bernardo Stefano , Bressieux-Degueldre Sabrina , Mivelaz Yvan , Boulos Ksontini Tatiana , Prsa Milan , Sekarski Nicole
Published: May 2022

AIM OF THE STUDY: Kawasaki disease is a febrile illness which can lead to significant coronary artery lesions. Its incidence varies among countries and is highest in Japan (330.2 children under 5 years old/100,000 per year). Since the epidemiology of Kawasaki disease in Switzerland is unknown, we conducted a national prospective data collection between 2013 and 2017 to describe its incidence, diagnosis, and treatment.
METHODS: We collected demographic and clinical data of the children under 17 years old hospitalised with Kawasaki disease in Switzerland between March 2013 and February 2017 using anonymous data collection forms with the help of the Swiss Paediatric Surveillance Unit (SPSU). We defined Kawasaki disease per the 2004 American Heart Association criteria: patients with ≥5 days of fever and ≥4 of the 5 main clinical features were included as complete Kawasaki disease and patients with ≥5 days of fever and <4 of the 5 main clinical features were included as incomplete Kawasaki disease. The incidence was calculated with the data of the Federal Statistical Office of Switzerland, considering permanent residents of the country. The different groups were compared by the unpaired student t-test for continuous variables and Pearson’s chi squared test for categorical variables, respectively.
RESULTS: We included 175 patients: 60% were boys, with a mean age of 38.2 months. The incidence of Kawasaki disease was 3.1/100,000 [95% CI 2.6–3.7] per year in children under 17 years of age and 8.4/100,000 [95% CI 6.7–10.2] per year in children under 5 years of age. The most frequent clinical signs were a rash (85.4%) and changes of the lips and oral/pharyngeal mucosa (83.4%). The diagnosis of Kawasaki disease was made at a mean of 7.3 days after the first symptom. Echocardiography was abnormal in 52.3%. The treatment with intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG) and acetylsalicylic acid was administered in accordance with international guidelines. Subgroup analysis showed that children older than 5 years old had significantly more complete Kawasaki disease than the younger ones (78.8% vs 57.4%, p  = 0.021). Children with “extreme ages” (<1 year old and >8 years old) were diagnosed later (8.6 (±0.9) vs 7.0 (±0.3) days, p  = 0.0129), had longer duration of fever (9.8 (±0.9) vs 8.1 (±0.3) days, p = 0.013) and had more echocardiographic abnormalities (n = 26 (70.3%) vs n = 65 (47.5%), p  = 0.014) at diagnosis. One child died during the acute phase of the illness. 
CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of Kawasaki disease in Switzerland is in the lower range of other European countries.
Challenges of the “New Hybrid Ecosystem”
Authors: Zeman Zdenko , Geiger Zeman Marija , Topić Martina
Published: May 2022

The complex intertwining of mainstream and social media has resulted in the creation of a “new hybrid ecosystem” in which consumers are primarily engaged with ideas and news posted on social media, that are then transmitted as news in mainstream media (Wheeler 2018). In this new “hyper-connected environment” (Pepper 2018), “fake news” occupies a specific position. The concept of “fake news” is very complex, contradictory and ambivalent because it appears as an umbrella term covering various phenomena and different practices of which some are already known, while others are fairly new (Molina et al. 2021). The new communication environment and the role of fake news as part of it, may also be analysed through the celebrity phenomenon. This paper uses the method of discourse analysis to examine texts on various statements by celebrities about COVID-19, published on two web portals in Croatia (index.hr, 24sata.hr). It becomes clear that celebrities function as very potent sharers of fake news, since consumers of online content give great weight to their actions and statements. On the other hand, mainstream media often act as a corrective to social media, in their efforts to convincingly deny fake news and the celebrities that share them on social media.
Luksuz
Authors: Đaić Vjekoslav
Published: May 2022

Osim što u osnovnim crtama dekonstruira koncept luksuza, ovaj se rad dominantno bavi tim konceptom u kontekstu konzumerizma. Dajući argumente za i protiv u radu se razlažu i neke etičke norme koje u potrazi za srećom potvrđuju luksuz kao filozofiju čija je primarna zadaća socijalna distanca. Zato o luksuzu ne treba govoriti iz čiste ekonomsko – potrošačke perspektive. On je prvenstveno i sociološko pitanje kroz koje čitamo aspekte identiteta, kulta ljepote i društvenog statusa. Uspoređujući konzumerizam i potragu za srećom, u radu se iznose i primjeri etički diskutabilnih poslovnih poteza kojima je cilj sačuvati reputaciju marke i braniti je pred uskim krugom potrošača, dok istovremeno time pojačavaju žudnju, sanjarenje i želju među onima koji to nisu. Autor se u radu bavi i temom održivosti te sliku koju luksuzne marke žele stvoriti o sebi kao o lideru u tom području potkrepljuje primjerima. Istovremeno se raspravlja i o tome koliko je nova ekološka perspektiva više kontekst odnosa s javnošću nego ono što bi joj trebala biti primarna svrha.
Haber Kaynaklarının Korunması Meselesinde Kadim Çelişkiler, Yeni Sorunlar: Dijital Güvenlik Odaklı Bir Perspektife Doğru
Authors: YURDAM Serhatcan
Published: May 2022

Haber kaynakları, gazeteciliğin demokratik işlevlerinin hayata geçirilmesinde kilit roldedir. Kaynaklara normatif düzeyde atfedilen rolün gerçekleşmesinde ise belirli pratik çelişkiler vardır. Bunların başlıcalarından biri, aynı zamanda bir basın özgürlüğü meselesi olan haber kaynaklarının güvenliği sorunudur. Gazeteciler meslek pratiği ve etiği açısından kaynaklarını korumakla yükümlüdürler. Bu yönüyle haber kaynaklarının korunması, gazeteciliğin temel meselelerinden biridir. Haber kaynaklarının korunması temelde kaynağın gizliliği ilkesine dayanır. Bu ilkenin pratikte işlerlik kazanması ise etik ve hukuki bağlamda çeşitli çelişkilere konu olur. Günümüzde ise yeni dijital aracıların gazetecilik ortamını biçimlendirmesiyle birlikte, kaynağın korunması ve gizliliği açısından yeni çelişkiler gözlenmektedir. Bu kapsamda haber kaynağının korunmasında temel karakteristiklere ve süregelen çelişkilere bir de dijital güvenlik boyutu eklenmiştir. Bu çalışma, bütünleyici bir literatür değerlendirmesi olarak, geleneksel yaklaşımda esas kabul edilen hukuki koruma mantığının günümüz koşullarında başlı başına yeterli olamayacağını ve dijital güvenlik odaklı etkin bir korumaya giderek daha fazla ihtiyaç duyulduğunu iddia etmektedir. Bu husus göz ardı edilirse kaynağın korunmasına ilişkin mevcut çelişkilerin giderek derinleşeceği varsayımına dayanan çalışmanı amacı kaynakların korunmasına ilişkin bir araştırma gündeminin inşa edilmesine katkı sunmaktır. Bu kapsamda, öncelikle haber kaynağına atfedilen normatif değer ve pratik çelişkiler ele alınmakta ve kaynakların önemi vurgulanmaktadır. Ardından, kaynağın korunmasının etik ve hukuki boyutlarının karakteristikleri ve çelişkileri değerlendirilmekte ve son olarak günümüz gazetecilik ortamında öne çıkan bir boyut olarak dijital güvenlik boyutu ele alınmaktadır.
Development of Student E-Worksheet Based on PBL (Problem Based Learning) to Practice Metacognitive Abilities of High School Student on Reaction Rate Material
Authors:   Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sains, State University of Surabaya, Ketintang Street Surabaya, Indonesia, Suarningtyas Siti
Published: May 2022

Developments in the 21st century is so rapid that innovation in various fields is required one of which is education. Through the implementation of the 2013 curriculum, the metacognitive abilities needed in the 21st century were train. The Problem Based Learning (PBL) model can support students to develop their metacognitive abilities. The rate of reaction as one of the subjects that are difficult to understand can be taught through the PBL learning model. The aim of this study is to develop a Student E-Worksheet based on Problem Based Learning to train students metacognitive abilities on reaction rate material. The Student E-Worksheet development model in this study uses a 4D model. The development of Student E-Worksheet was declared feasible to train student metacognitive abilities. The results of content validity of 94.81% and construct validity of 96.97%. Then the results of practical of observing student activities and questionnaire with a value of 96.37%. The effectiveness of the Student E-Worksheet is seen from the pretest and posttest values ​​which were analyzed using the SPSS Paired Sample t-Test test, a significance value of 0.000 was obtained.
Role of Karṇapuraṇa in Vataja Badhirya w.s.r to Sensory Neural Hearing Loss: A Review Study
Authors: Pamnani Gulab Chand , Sharma Sanjeev , Fiaz Shamsa
Published: May 2022

Introduction: Putting medicated lukewarm Swarasa, Taila, Ghrita, Mūtra into the external auditory canal is known as Karnapūraṇa. It is indicated in many diseases like Bādhirya, Karṇa Śūla, Karṇa Nāda, Karṇa Srāva, Putikarṇa etc. Karnapūraṇa can be practised in healthy individuals and disease as well. Snehana is the primary treatment method to control Vāta and Karṇapūraṇa is a kind of Bāhya Snehana. Material and Methods: Ᾱcārya Caraka and Ᾱcārya Vāgbhatta advocated that Karnapūraṇa should be done daily to avoid the diseases of the ear. In Swasthvritīya Adhyāya, Ᾱcārya Suśruta has mentioned Karnapūraṇa. According to use, Karnapūraṇa can be categorised into two categories one as daily procedure (Dincarya) and second in pathological conditions. Discussion: Effect of Abhyanga can be inferred in two ways: a) Through physical manipulations, and b) By the drug's action in the medicated oil. Massage, produces skin and muscle vasodilation by activating sympathetic nervous system receptors. It improves blood and plasma circulation. Abhyanga relieve acute or chronic muscle tension by changing the pressure of contact on nerve terminals resulting in pain relief. Conclusion: The ears are said to be the seat of Vāta Dośa and are responsible for the hearing mechanism. The disease Bādhirya occurs in ears is mainly due to vitiation of Vāta Doṣa. Karṇapūraṇa does the Vātaśamana and maintains the normal hearing capacity.
Structural Inspection by RPAS (Drones): Quality Work with Preventive Guarantee
Authors:   Professor Responsible for Occupational Safety subjects, Occupational Risk Prevention Master’s Degree, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, Spain, Elizalde Ruben Rodriguez
Published: May 2022

The use of Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS), better known as drones, has spread with multiple and very diverse applications on last years. It includes, among other matters, the civil engineering structures inspections. From an inspection of a viaduct this article was born precisely. The inspection was conducted by the author experimentally, in order to demonstrate that the little aircraft can serve as a quality tool to make this work that is being carried out by qualified personnel and expensive auxiliary means currently. At the end, the author try to demonstrate that we can obtain identical, or even better, quality results, reducing the health and safety risks for the workers who do that work, with time and costs significant savings.
Correlation Between Transmitral Early and Late Diastolic Velocities Ratio and Ratio of Medial Mitral Annular Early and Late Tissue Doppler Velocities
Authors:   Aversi Clinic, Tbilisi State Medical University, Georgia, Maisuradze D
Published: May 2022

Echocardiography is now the most commonly used noninvasive tool for the assessment of cardiac anatomy and function. In addition to commonly established roles such as confirming the diagnosis, etiologic work-up, complication screening, and disease monitoring, echocardiography plays an important clinical role in prognostic assessment.
Primary Cardiac Lymphoma: Role of Imaging Multimodality in Diagnosis
Authors:   Universidade Estácio de Sá – Campus Presidente Varga, Werneck Paulino Soares de Souza Julia , Telles de Andrade Alvares Luiza ,   Universidade Estácio de Sá – Campus Presidente Varga, Righeti Gonçalves Maria Paula ,   Faculdade de Ciências Médicas de Santos, Aisemann Goulart Paiva Ana Beatriz ,   Faculdade de Ciências Médicas de Santos, Lopes Ferreira Ricardo ,   DASA Hospital 9 de Julho, Goulart Paiva Marcelo ,   DASA Hospital 9 de Julho
Published: May 2022

Intracardiac masses are a diagnostic challenge since their symptoms can be common to cardiovascular pathologies. Some methods, whether invasive or not, enable differential diagnosis, histological confirmation, and adequate treatment. To better understand the importance of imaging multimodality and the approach to managing cardiac tumors, we investigated a case of a primary cardiac lymphoma in which the multidisciplinary approach allowed rapid diagnosis and treatment, including of intercurrences, with a promising initial response despite fatal progression due to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection
Mechanical Properties of Natural Fibre Reinforced Geopolymer Composites: A Review
Authors: Al-Ghazali Noor Abbas , Abdul Aziz Farah Nora Aznieta , Abdan Khalina , Mohd Nasir Noor Azline
Published: May 2022

The cement production consumes many natural resources and energy, pollutes the environment, and cannot meet the current building materials’ green and sustainable development requirements. Therefore, geopolymers have gained popularity as cement replacements in recent years. Geopolymers have promising characteristics such as low energy consumption and carbon footprint, valuable compressive strength, fire resistance, flame resistance and good durability. However, these materials suffer from low tensile and flexural strength. Hence, fibres are added to overcome these issues and enhance their toughness index. Natural fibres are biodegradable, low-cost, renewable materials and widely available in many countries. This article reviewed previous Natural Fibre Reinforced Geopolymer Composites (NFRGC) studies, focusing on compressive strength, tensile and flexural strengths, and toughness. In addition, the available literature on the effect of the treatment methods of natural fibres on the mechanical properties of NFRGC has been addressed. The findings indicate that adding the appropriate type and content of natural fibres to geopolymer composites can enhance their mechanical properties. However, more attention should be paid to the effects of the pre-treatment of natural fibres on the performance of NFRGC.
Hybrid Lean Practices Integrated with IR 4.0 and Sustainability in Malaysia Food and Beverages Companies: Conceptual Framework and Hypothesis Development
Authors: Akanmu Muslim Diekola , Nordin Norshahrizan
Published: May 2022

The growing competition within manufacturing practices has motivated organizations to upgrade their conventional production system to a smart, sophisticated systems. This study evaluates the impact of lean manufacturing practices (LMP) and industrial revolution 4.0 technologies on sustainability in the food and beverages industry. Past literature has revealed that lean practices significantly affect sustainable performance. However, the integrated effects of lean manufacturing practices and IR 4.0 technologies on sustainable performance have not been examined empirically. In order to fill the void of this gap, this study intends to have a preliminary investigation of the combined effects of LMP and IR 4.0 technologies on sustainable performance, specifically in the food and beverages industry. Furthermore, the study aims to confirm the future direction of the food industry that is recently employing new technologies in its manufacturing systems. This study is underpinned by the theories of contingency and practice-based view by highlighting the contributions of operations management practices to implement successful strategies in enhancing sustainability performance in food and beverages companies through performance variations. This study extends the current literature on IR 4.0 technologies and lean manufacturing practices as enablers of economic, environmental, and social sustainability. Also, the study provides implications and future direction for industry consultants, practitioners, and academicians.