bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
English First Additional Language teachers’ perceptions of translanguaging pedagogy: A case of Vhembe District, Limpopo Province
Authors: Ralushai Mpfariseni M , Ntombela Berrington X , Rammala Johannes
Published: November 2024

This article reports on Grade 7 English First Additional Language (FAL) teachers’ perceptions of their use of a translanguaging pedagogy in teaching English FAL among Grade 7 learners in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province. The Continua of biliteracy model (CBM) underpinned the study. CBM foregrounds the development of biliteracy among bi/multilinguals and supports the view that learners’ communicative repertoires and language practices form an integral part of their learning process. The participants in the study were 6 Grade 7 English FAL teachers purposefully selected from three different primary schools. The study collected data through classroom observations, open-ended questionnaires, and semi-structured interviews. The overall results of the study revealed two differentiated strands of the teachers’ perceptions of the translanguaging approach in the teaching and learning of English FAL among Grade 7 learners. Firstly, the majority of Grade 7 teachers have a positive outlook on translanguaging pedagogy in the teaching and learning of English FAL. Alternation and flexible use of Tshivenḓa HL and English are permitted for scaffolding and acceleration of L2 learning. Secondly, the study revealed that some of these Grade 7 English FAL teachers objected to the use of translanguaging in preference for an English-only approach to accelerate the learning of English in their L2 classrooms. In their view, Tshivenḓa Home Language and English must be taught in isolation because of their distinct linguistic systems.
Students’ utilization of their indigenous languages as resources that bolster dialogical participation during their learning
Authors: Zulu Ntokozo , Gumede Mzuyabonga
Published: November 2024

The exclusive use of English as a Medium of Instruction (MoI) in South African higher education sometimes creates barriers to students’ access to knowledge, knowledge sharing and knowledge construction; more especially to students who use English as a second language. The objective of this conceptual paper is to argue that the use of the indigenous languages alongside English, has a potential to encourage students to dialogically participate in their learning using existing knowledge as their frame of reference. The body of literature that the authors have reviewed communicates the historical facts that the indigenous languages have always been put on the margins in the South African learning spaces. Therefore, the author’s line of argument tries to suggest that indigenous languages can be utilized as resources for learning. Dialogical participation enables students to express their views effortlessly and meaningfully through applying their critical thinking capabilities. The students who can reflectively and critically think in their indigenous languages have a potential to develop skills that can enable them to make informed and decisive decisions. In addition, dialogical participation cognitively develops students to be creative problem-solvers in their social worlds and ultimately in their worlds of work. The utilization of indigenous languages for learning decolonizes the unjust imposition of colonial languages as the only ones that can be used for epistemological access and knowledge creation. Thus, the valuing of the indigenous languages and knowledge in a dialogue is an act of ubuntu, which is part of collectivity and equality. The researchers, therefore, premise their argument on student-centered learning in that the students can be academically developed to cooperatively shape and own their learning in the medium of dialogic engagements under the auspices of their indigenous languages and English as a lingua franca.
Detection and Stimulation of Child Development Questionnaire for 2-4 Years
Authors: Wulansari Nira , Ariyanti Abidin Fitri , Kendhawati Lenny , Yustikasari Lubis Fitriani , Indri Hastuti Ajeng , Rahmah Fatima
Published: November 2024

Child development involves expected abilities to evolve at various age stages, encompassing motor, cognitive, language, emotional, and social aspects. These fundamental abilities serve as the building blocks for more intricate development. Delays in achieving these milestones can potentially impede later-stage development. This study aims to develop a suitable developmental screening tool for Indonesian children aged 2-4 years, facilitating accurate early detection of developmental delays. The instrument's development involves five stages: (1) Test Conceptualization, (2) Test Construction, (3) Test Tryout, (4) Analysis, and (5) Revision. In the first stage, The Gesell's developmental concept was used. Four child psychologists reviewed the instrument's content during the test construction phase, followed by a feasibility test conducted on four mothers. From an initial formulation of 91 items for ages 2-3 years and 85 items for ages 3-4 years, expert judgment and cognitive interviews led to the elimination of certain items, resulting in 71 items for ages 2-3 years and 75 items for age 3-4 years in the tryout version.The  tryouts were performed on mothers who met the following inclusive criteria: have  children aged 2-4 years with no history of prenatal, post-natal, or developmental delays, not clinically diagnosed psychological problem,  and familiar with the Google form. One hundred eighty-six mothers (age range = 23-48 years, mean = 31 years) participated in the study. The tryout demonstrated the initial validity of all aspects of children's development aged 2-4 years (content validity index range = 0.83–1.00) and  good reliability (range of internal consistency coefficient = 0.562-0.768) for each developmental aspect. Item analysis indicated that only a small number of items need to be eliminated or revised in both age groups.  The results suggest the instrument is a promising tool to measure children development aged 2-4.
Hero in Augmented Reality (HEAR): Interactive Learning Media to Increase Learning Interest in Knowing about Indonesian Heroes for Kindergarten Student
Authors: Khotimaharani Septyara , Nur Azizah Nissa , Rahmadianti Salma , Kahaerul Angga , Yanuar Abadi Hilda , Nugraha Asyahidda Fajar
Published: November 2024

Historical subjects are mandatory for kindergarten students. One of the best examples is to recognize every national hero of Indonesia to nurture high devotion to patriotism. But there are some problems such as the laziness to read some textbooks and the difficulties to memorize some long materials that sometimes come up to the student. With the use of the development of technology, this study aims to introduce several heroes in Indonesia through learning media which is a learning application based on augmented reality. This application can help kindergarten school learners to increase their insight or knowledge, especially on historical subjects. This research is using R&D (Research and Development). The main focus of this study is to design a digital learning application about national heroes in Indonesia. There are some features offered on this app including 3D (three dimensions) animations, audio features (audio information), and text is written materials based on augmented reality. 25 kindergarten school students responded and answered the questionnaire. The use of HEAR as a learning media can be increasing kindergarten students’ reading intention and knowledge, especially on how they recognize the Indonesian hero figure. This innovation is designed to help the student to recognize the national heroes of Indonesia which are integrated with technology so that they can use it anytime and anywhere
Use of the E-Raport Application in Improving Preschool Educators' Digital Literacy Competency
Authors: Masrur Eviani Masruroh
Published: November 2024

It is hoped that the use of technology, especially the e-Report application, will open up opportunities to increase the understanding and application of digital literacy among ECCE educators. By focusing on the question of how implementing the e-Report application can enrich the digital literacy competencies of ECCE educators, this article explores various scientific literature to identify the benefits, challenges and implications of using this technology in the context of early childhood education. Through in-depth literature analysis, this article details the positive impacts that may result, such as increased efficiency, monitoring children's progress, and the integration of digital literacy in the teaching process. On the other hand, challenges related to policy, infrastructure and lecturer training are also considered to provide a balanced picture.
Development of a validated RP-HPLC/PDA method for the quantitative estimation of tepotinib in tablet dosage form
Authors: Chepyala Sumalatha , Medidi Srinivas , Malik Jitender Kumar
Published: November 2024

A novel and effective reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic (RP-HPLC) technique has been developed to determine the tepotinib, an anti-cancer drug, in a tablet formulation. Furthermore, this method has been validated in accordance with the guidelines of the International Conference on Harmonization. The mobile phase consisted of a mixture of potassium dihydrogen orthophosphate and acetonitrile in a ratio of 15:85 v/v, while the flow rate of the mobile phase was maintained at a constant rate of 1.0 ml/minute. The analysis was conducted using an isocratic approach on a C18 analytical column with dimensions of 250 × 4.4 mm and a particle size of 5 μm. To detect tepotinib, a photo diode array detector was employed, with a wavelength of 284 nm. The quantification of tepotinib was not affected by the presence of excipients. The concentration range of the calibration curve was linear, spanning from 8 to 12 μg/ml. In terms of precision, both intra-day and inter-day relative standard deviations were found to be less than 2%, thus indicating high precision and repeatability. The recovery rate of the compound ranged from 99.76%–101.34 %, with relative standard deviations not exceeding 2%. The limit of detection and quantification were determined to be 0.02 μg/ml and 0.06 μg/ml, respectively. The system suitability parameters were deemed to be within the acceptable range. Therefore, this current report proposes an innovative analytical approach for the evaluation of a recently discovered anti-cancer drug, tepotinib, through the utilization of the RP-HPLC methodology.
Wisdom of nature: Cardiovascular, anti-obesity, and immunomodulator nutraceuticals
Authors: Azzahra Fatimah , Suleman Hafizha Fadhila , Yunas Ranum Wanudya , Iswandana Raditya
Published: November 2024

This article comprehensively describes the nutraceutical potential of active compounds found in natural products, with a focus on their effects on cardiovascular health, obesity management, and immune response modulation. These compounds, derived from medicinal plants and microorganisms, promise to contribute significantly to the development of innovative health therapies. The action mechanisms of these compounds in improving heart function, combating obesity, and modulating the immune response are detailed, providing a scientific basis for potential nutraceutical strategies in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease, obesity, and increasing endurance. The clinical implications of these findings stimulate the development of new therapeutic products that may improve the overall well-being of society.
Dynamic load tests of access ramp to Rędziński Bridge in Wrocław
Authors: Zwolski Jarosław , Bień Jan , Kużawa Mieszko , Rawa Paweł
Published: November 2024

Dynamic load tests performed before commissioning a bridge generally have three main goals: to determine the response of tested structures to dynamic loads, to define the dynamic characteristics of the bridge used in the assessment of its condition changes during the operation and to optimize design methods by using the results of experimental studies. In this paper the main attention was focused on the use of experimental data to determine the Dynamic Amplification Factors (DAF) for concrete box girders and deck directly loaded by road vehicles. Applied methodology of dynamic tests of the Rędziński Bridge access ramp as well as the procedure of DAF calculation are presented. Results of experimental tests are compared with recommendations of design codes and improved procedure of DAF calculation for concrete box girders of road bridges is proposed.
Seasonal and comparative evidence of adaptive gene expression in mammalian brain size plasticity
Authors: Thomas William R , Richter Troy , O’Neil Erin T , Baldoni Cecilia , Corthals Angelique P , Elverfeldt Dominik von , Nieland John , Dechmann Dina KN , Hunter Richard G , Dávalos Liliana M
Published: November 2024

Contrasting almost all other mammalian wintering strategies, Eurasian common shrews,
Sorex araneus
, endure winter by shrinking their brain, skull, and most organs, only to then regrow to breeding size the following spring. How such tiny mammals achieve this unique brain size plasticity while maintaining activity through the winter remains unknown. To discover potential adaptations underlying this trait, we analyzed seasonal differential expression in the shrew hypothalamus, a brain region that both regulates metabolic homeostasis and drastically changes size and compared hypothalamus expression across species. We discovered seasonal variation in suites of genes involved in energy homeostasis and apoptosis, shrew-specific upregulation of genes involved in the development of the hypothalamic blood brain barrier and calcium signaling, as well as overlapping seasonal and comparative gene expression divergence in genes implicated in the development and progression of human neurological and metabolic disorders, including
CCDC22
,
FAM57B
, and
GPR3
. With high metabolic rates and facing harsh winter conditions,
Sorex araneus
have evolved both adaptive and plastic mechanisms to sense and regulate its energy budget. Many of these expression changes mirrored those identified in human neurological and metabolic disease, highlighting the interactions between metabolic homeostasis, brain size plasticity, and longevity.
The ESCRT protein CHMP5 restricts bone formation by controlling endolysosome-mitochondrion-mediated cell senescence
Authors: Zhang Fan , Wang Yuan , Zhang Luyang , Wang Chunjie , Chen Deping , Liu Haibo , Xu Ren , Haynes Cole M , Shim Jae-Hyuck , Ge Xianpeng
Published: November 2024

The dysfunction of the cellular endolysosomal pathway, such as in lysosomal storage diseases, can cause severe musculoskeletal disorders. However, how endolysosomal dysfunction causes musculoskeletal abnormalities remains poorly understood, limiting therapeutic options. Here, we report that CHMP5, a member of the endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT)-III protein family, is essential to maintain the endolysosomal pathway and regulate bone formation in osteogenic lineage cells. Genetic ablation of
Chmp5
in mouse osteogenic cells increases bone formation in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically,
Chmp5
deletion causes endolysosomal dysfunction by decreasing the VPS4A protein, and CHMP5 overexpression is sufficient to increase the VPS4A protein. Subsequently, endolysosomal dysfunction disturbs mitochondrial functions and increases mitochondrial ROS, ultimately resulting in skeletal cell senescence. Senescent skeletal cells cause abnormal bone formation by combining cell-autonomous and paracrine actions. Importantly, elimination of senescent cells using senolytic drugs can alleviate musculoskeletal abnormalities in
Chmp5
conditional knockout mice. Therefore, our results show that cell senescence represents an underpinning mechanism and a therapeutic target for musculoskeletal disorders caused by the aberrant endolysosomal pathway. These results also uncover the function and mechanism of CHMP5 in the regulation of cell senescence by affecting the endolysosomal-mitochondrial pathway.
Tuberculosis susceptibility in genetically diverse mice reveals functional diversity of neutrophils
Authors: Ravesloot-Chávez Mariëtta M , Van Dis Erik , Fox Douglas , Anaya Sanchez Andrea , Espich Scott , Nguyenla Xammy H , Rawal Sagar L , Samani Helia , Ballinger Mallory A , Thomas Henry , Kotov Dmitri , Vance Russell , Nachman Michael W , Stanley Sarah A
Published: November 2024

Tuberculosis (TB) is a heterogenous disease in humans with individuals exhibiting a wide range of susceptibility. This heterogeneity is not captured by standard laboratory mouse lines. We used a new collection of 19 wild-derived inbred mouse lines collected from diverse geographic sites to identify novel phenotypes during
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
(
Mtb
) infection. Wild derived mice have heterogenous immune responses to infection that result in differential ability to control disease at early timepoints. Correlation analysis with multiple parameters including sex, weight, and cellular immune responses in the lungs revealed that enhanced control of infection is associated with increased numbers of CD4 T cells, CD8 T cells and B cells. Surprisingly, we did not observe strong correlations between IFN-γ production and control of infection. Although in most lines high neutrophils were associated with susceptibility, we identified a mouse line that harbors high neutrophils numbers yet controls infection. Using single-cell RNA sequencing, we identified a novel neutrophil signature associated with failure to control infection.
Complementary cognitive roles for D2-MSNs and D1-MSNs during interval timing
Authors: Bruce R Austin , Weber Matthew A , Bova Alexandra S , Volkman Rachael A , Jacobs Casey E , Sivakumar Kartik , Stutt Hannah R , Kim Young-cho , Curtu Rodica , Narayanan Nandakumar S
Published: November 2024

The role of striatal pathways in cognitive processing is unclear. We studied dorsomedial striatal cognitive processing during interval timing, an elementary cognitive task that requires mice to estimate intervals of several seconds and involves working memory for temporal rules as well as attention to the passage of time. We harnessed optogenetic tagging to record from striatal D2- dopamine receptor-expressing medium spiny neurons (D2-MSNs) in the indirect pathway and from D1-dopamine receptor-expressing MSNs (D1-MSNs) in the direct pathway. We found that D2-MSNs and D1-MSNs exhibited distinct dynamics over temporal intervals as quantified by principal component analyses and trial-by-trial generalized linear models. MSN recordings helped construct and constrain a four-parameter drift-diffusion computational model in which MSN ensemble activity represented the accumulation of temporal evidence. This model predicted that disrupting either D2-MSNs or D1-MSNs would increase interval timing response times and alter MSN firing. In line with this prediction, we found that optogenetic inhibition or pharmacological disruption of either D2-MSNs or D1-MSNs increased interval timing response times. Pharmacologically disrupting D2-MSNs or D1-MSNs also changed MSN dynamics and degraded trial-by-trial temporal decoding. Together, our findings demonstrate that D2-MSNs and D1-MSNs had opposing dynamics yet played complementary cognitive roles, implying that striatal direct and indirect pathways work together to shape temporal control of action. These data provide novel insight into basal ganglia cognitive operations beyond movement and have implications for human striatal diseases and therapies targeting striatal pathways.
Single-cell characterization of menstrual fluid at homeostasis and in endometriosis
Authors: Schwalie Petra C , Bafligil Cemsel , Russeil Julie , Zachara Magda , Biocanin Marjan , Alpern Daniel , Aasna Evelin , Deplancke Bart , Canny Geraldine , Goncalves Angela
Published: November 2024

Progress in detecting and understanding endometrial conditions in women of fertile age, such as endometriosis, has been hampered by the invasiveness of the sample collection procedure. Menstrual fluid (MF) can be sampled non-invasively and could provide a unique opportunity to study the physiological state of tissues in the reproductive system. Despite this potential, the use of MF for diagnostics and research has been limited. Here we establish protocols and assess the feasibility of collecting and processing MF in an outpatient setting. We characterize the cellular contents of MF from 15 healthy women using flow cytometry and single-cell RNA-sequencing, and demonstrate the ability to recover millions of live cells from the different cellular fractions of interest (epithelial, stromal, endothelial, perivascular and blood). Through computational integration of MF with endometrial samples we show that MF sampling is a good surrogate for endometrial biopsy. In a proof-of-principle case-control study, we collect MF from a further 7 women with a diagnosis of endometriosis and 11 healthy controls. Through RNA sequencing of 93 MF samples from these women we highlight important differences between
ex vivo
and cultured cells, identify impaired decidualisation, low apoptosis, high proliferation, and both higher and lower inflammatory activity in different subsets of immune cells as distinguishing features of endometriosis patients. Finally, we identify potential novel pan-cell-type biomarkers for this neglected condition.
Global asymmetries in international doctoral education
Authors: Eta Elizabeth Agbor , Stockmann Nico , Kontio Hanna , Lehtomäki Elina
Published: November 2024

Critical discourses of internationalisation of higher education and decoloniality have motivated this study unfolding global asymmetries present in Finnish doctoral education in the field of educational sciences. The data are doctoral dissertations related to education development in Africa completed at Finnish universities between 2000–2021 (N=100). We first describe the regional distribution and educational contexts where the research is located through a content analysis. Second, we conduct a network analysis of the institutional affiliations of co-authors of article-based dissertations, supervisors, and examiners of the doctoral dissertations and map the institutional connections in doctoral education. Then we present and discuss the findings from the content analysis, the dissertation mapping, and the institutional network analysis against the discourses of internationalisation and decoloniality that influence doctoral education in Finland and beyond. Finally, we reflect on implications for internationalisation of doctoral education in internationalised contexts, especially in North-South collaborations.
The Influence of Sociodemographic Factors on Anti-social Behavior among Children: A Case of Bobaracho Area, Nyaribari Chache, Kenya
Authors: Omwenga Michael , W Mwangi Sarah
Published: November 2024

Background: Antisocial behaviour among children has become a growing concern, often linked to various family and sociodemographic factors. This study aims to investigate the influence of these sociodemographic variables on children's antisocial behaviour in the Bobaracho area of Kisii County, Kenya.
Methodology: A descriptive survey approach was employed, targeting a population of 200 students. A stratified sampling method was used to select a sample of 150 children aged 14-20 years.
The Objective: To find out the association of sociodemographic factors with the anti-social behaviors’ children from Bobaracho area, Nyaribari Chache, Kenya.
Null Hypothesis: There is no association in sociodemographic factors and antisocial behavior among children in Bobaracho area.
The Aim: To investigate the influence of sociodemographic variables on children's antisocial behaviour. Data was collected through structured questionnaires and qualitative interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS version 20, while qualitative responses were categorized thematically.
Findings: The analysis revealed significant factors influencing antisocial behaviour, including early parenting practices, media exposure, inadequate counselling, family separation, and lack of parental care. Notably, family conflict and parents' disciplinary responses were also critical. Key statistics indicated only 95.3% children responded. The gathered data revealed poor parenting (29%), media influence (7.7%), inadequate counseling (14%), broken homes (14.7%), peer influence (11.9%) and drug abuse (23%) influenced anti-social behavior. Additionally, the study showed that children's anti-social behavior was influenced by family conflict, parents' responses to their children's activities, and the discipline applied or not applied.
Conclusion: The study suggests that in addition to receiving education on effective parenting, parents, and guardians should be encouraged to monitor their children’s behavior, adjust household conditions to promote healthy child development, and monitor their children’s behavior. School heads who report to the board of management ought to consult specialists when providing advice and counseling.
A Comparative Analysis of Safety Programs and Employee Productivity in Oil and Gas Versus Construction Industries in the Niger Delta Region
Authors: Tsado Sala, Lazarus , L. Nwaogazie, Ify , N. Ugbebor, John
Published: November 2024

This study assesses the impact of safety programmes on employee productivity in selected Oil and Gas and Construction industries in the Niger Delta. A descriptive cross-sectional design was used, surveying 390 employees through structured questionnaire distributed online. Data analyses were conducted using IBM SPSS (version 26) and Xlstat (version 16), with reliability of constructs confirmed by Cronbach's alpha values between 0.630 and 0.916. Bartlett’s and Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) tests established the suitability of Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and a Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA) explored the relationship between reward mechanisms for safety compliance across industries. The findings show that Management Commitment (MC) is highest in Oil and Gas (Multinational) companies (mean = 4.56), correlating with higher productivity (mean = 4.16), while Construction (Indigenous) companies score the lowest (mean = 3.49), with reduced productivity (mean = 4.05). Safety Participation (SP) and Safety Compliance (SC) are consistently strong across industries, particularly in Oil and Gas (Multinational), which also leads in Safety Promotional Policies (SPP) and Safety Training (ST), both linked to higher productivity. Safety Knowledge (SK) and Employee Involvement (EI) also show positive associations with productivity, especially in Multinational firms. In all, the study highlights that robust safety management practices, especially in Multinational Oil and Gas companies, significantly enhance employee productivity. Strengthening safety parameters like management commitment, compliance, and training is essential for improving productivity across industries. Given that the multinational companies in oil & gas and construction industries in Niger Delta are currently ahead of indigenous companies, it is recommended that indigenous companies should improve and invest in effective workplace safety programmes.
Citrobacter freundii Pyothorax Complicating Tubercular Infection in an Immunocompetent Patient
Authors: Laouali Ali Moussa Mahaman , Soumaïla Maïga , Hamadé Zonon , Edmond Bonsa , Leithisia Ouédraogo , Kadiatou Boncoungou , Giselle Badoum , Ouédraogo Martial
Published: November 2024

Purulent tubercular pleural effusion is a severe form of tuberculosis. Tubercular coinfection with Citrobacter freundii in purulent pleural effusion is rarely described in the literature. Early recognition of this pleural coinfection and appropriate management are necessary for better outcome. We report the first case of pyothorax secondary to Citrobacter freundii and Mycobacterium tuberculosis in an immunocompetent patient in the Pneumology Department of the Yalgado Ouédraogo University Hospital (Burkina Faso). The present case highlights the challenges faced during diagnosis and management of this particular coinfecton. Appropriate clinical and diagnostic collaboration is crucial for favourable prognosis.
Calotropis procera Mediated Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles and its Antibacterial Effect on Selected Pathogens
Authors: D. A. Aina , O. H. Animashaun,
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the green synthesis and antibacterial potential of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) derived from Calotropis procera leaf extract. The AgNPs was characterized using Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-VIS) Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning and Transmission Electron Microscopy (SEM and TEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD). The spectrum from UV-VIS had a peak centered at 445 nm confirming the formation of AgNPs, SEM-TEM micrographs showed them as aggregated, spherical in shape and about 15.30 – 17.66 nm in size, while EDX revealed Ag with highest proportion (75.56 %). The FTIR analysis revealed the presence of functional groups such as alcohols, ethers, esters, alkenes, carboxylic acid and amines. The XRD confirmed the crystalline nature of the synthesized CP-AgNPs. The synthesized AgNPs showed strong antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli (18.1±0.2 mm), Enterobacter sichuanensis (16.8±0.5 mm), Pseudomonas aeroginosa (14.4±0.3 mm), Staphylococcus aureus (22.2±0.5 mm) and Streptococcus agalactiae (21.5±0.1 mm). This study demonstrates an efficient, eco-friendly method for synthesizing AgNPs with strong antibacterial potential, which could be valuable for developing alternative antimicrobial agents.
Fishing Gears and Practices in the Bukbhora Oxbow Lake: Implications for Biodiversity Conservation in South-west Bangladesh
Authors: Talukdar Anik , Shaha Amrita , Begum Nasima , Islam Rakibul , Hasan Mehedi , Nima Akhery
Published: November 2024

Bukbhora ox-bow Lake (baor) is one of the most renowned baors in the south west Bangladesh and supports diverse fisheries communities. The present study was conducted to identify the types of fishing gears and crafts including their mode of operation in fishing in the Bukbhora baor during the period from July 2023 to June 2024. A total of 18 fishing gears and crafts were recorded at different stations of the Bukbhora ox-bow Lake. Fishing gears were categorized as nets (8), traps (3), hooks and lines (3), wounding gears (2) and crafts (2). Among nets, highest mesh size recorded 5-8 cm in fash jal whereas the lowest was thela jal 0.25 cm. The highest fishing effort/day was found for Jhaki Jal (cast net) 13-15 and the lowest was recorded in case of current and punti Jal (01). Highest CPUE (kg/effort) was found in ber jal (15-18) and the lowest was found in Thela jal (1-1.5). Similarly seine net contributed to the highest catch (70.19%) and push net was the lowest (1.00 %). Maximum fishers had pieces of kochal (Seine net) and komar (drag net) 2-5 pieces and those were jointed together (each of 18 fishers groups separately work) during the harvesting period. Fishing (harvesting of carp species) started in November-December and completed on 30th June in each season. Based on the usage, the seine net was found as the most usable gear by the fishermen constituting 78.15% and fewer amount by traps. The highest price of fishing gear was observed in case of ber jal (about 1,00,000 BDT) and the lowest price was for punti jal (250-2500 BDT). Among 16 fishing gears 5 of these were found illegal in this study due to its mesh size and destructive behavior of fish biodiversity. Except some, majority fish species trapped in the recorded fishing traps were Small Indigenous Species, whereas fishing hooks and lines were used to catch carnivorous fish species mainly. Wounding fishing gears were used for wounding large size fishes during heavy flood or when water level becomes low. This study showed that 40.91% fishers had their own fishing craft (dingi nouka) where 59.09% had no craft. It is recommended to strong implementation of all conservation guidelines and acts to prevent illegal fishing, seizing of destructive fishing gears and also protecting potential breeding habitats.
Impact of Additives and ZnO Nanoparticles on the Sonodegradation of Methylene Blue
Authors: Islam Md. Shaharul , Avick Md. Samiul Bari , Hossain Jahangir , Alam M. Shamsul , Uddin Md. Helal
Published: November 2024

Sonohemical method for the degradation of toxic dyestuffs is now considered as a promising technique. An important dye namely Methylene Blue (MB) was degraded using ultrasound irradiation at different pH. The impact of various additives like CCl4, H2O2, NaCl and Na2SO4 with different doses for MB degradation was observed. The degradation efficiency of ZnO nanoparticles was also measured. The sonolysis was conducted for 0, 5, 15, 25 minutes and the extent of degradation was measured by UV–vis spectrophotometer. Acidic media was more efficient for degradation compared to basic media. 200 µM/L doses H2O2 of 20 mM concentration showed highest efficiency (41.98%) to degrade the MB molecules. On the other hand CCl4, Na2SO4 and ZnO nanoparticles also showed maximum 35.63%, 34.88% and 41.72% degradation efficiency respectively. The efficiency increases in the presence of additives and ZnO nanoparticles in comparison to the efficiency (18.88%) obtained without these additives.
A Centenary Review on Leaf Rot Disease of Coconut
Authors: Rithesh Lellapalli , N V Radhakrishnan , Thara Susha S , G S Sreekala , T Anuradha , M. S Aswathi , Mohapatra Sucharita
Published: November 2024

Coconut leaf rot disease (LRD) has posed a significant threat to coconut palms for over a century, causing widespread foliar damage, stunted growth, and reduced yield. The disease, often associated with the complex interaction of Root (wilt) disease (RWD), has been a persistent challenge since its first reports in the early 1900s. Despite extensive research, understanding the etiological agents and developing effective management strategies remain difficult due to evolving pathogenic profiles and climate variability. This centenary review consolidates over 100 years of research on LRD, offering a comprehensive analysis of the disease’s progression, and environmental influences, in coconut cultivation. It contrasts traditional management methods, such as cultural and chemical controls, with modern integrated disease management (IDM) approaches, including biological control agents and host resistance breeding. The review also explores the role of plant-microbe interactions, emphasizing the potential of microbial antagonists as biocontrol agents. Given the economic significance of coconuts in tropical regions, this review highlights the urgent need for region-specific disease management strategies and the development of climate-resilient coconut varieties. Additionally, it identifies research gaps and future directions to advance sustainable solutions for mitigating the impact of LRD.
Antibiogram of Bacteria Isolated in Raw Milk Sold in Makurdi Metropolis, Benue State, Nigeria
Authors: I.G. Innocent, , B.J. Yaakugh, , M.I. Kuleve, , M. Suleiman, , G.S. Dafur, , M.I. Adamgbe, , T.O. Doris, , G.C. Ezechukwu,
Published: November 2024

The antibiogram profile of bacteria isolated from raw milk source in Makurdi, Benue State. Samples were collected in six different areas where raw milk are sold and were analyzed. The most frequently identified bacterium was Escherichia coli, which constituted 72(32.4%) followed by Staphylococcus aureus 42(18.92%), Salmonella species were the third most common, representing 30(13.51%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Proteus species both had 16(7.21%), Bacillus species 20(9.91%), and Streptococcus species 20(9.01%). The antibiogram results revealed that all isolated bacteria showed significant sensitivity to Chloramphenicol and Gentamicin. These findings highlight the need for government support for local milk producers to obtain resources and establish collection centers with adequate pasteurization facilities, thereby reducing the risks linked to the consumption of contaminated milk products. It is crucial that milk is pasteurized immediately after collection to lower bacterial loads, especially pathogenic strains. Further research is essential to devise effective strategies to tackle the issues Arelated to unpasteurized milk.
Expediente
Authors: Editorial Equipe
Published: November 2024

PROJETO GRÁFICOTainá Moraes e Edvaldo Monteiro
DIAGRAMAÇÃOZeta Studio
EDITORESIvanise AndradeLívia VieiraSusana Morales
EDITOR ADJUNTOAndré Holanda
CONSELHO EDITORIALAdriano Duarte, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, PortugalAfonso Albuquerque, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, BrasilAlessandra Aldé, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, BrasilAna Paula Goulart, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, BrasilAndré Lemos, Universidade Federal da Bahia, BrasilAndrew Herman, Wilfrid Laurier University, Ontario, CanadáAngela Prysthon, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, BrasilAntonio Fidalgo, Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilhã, PortugalBenjamim Picado, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói - BrasilCésar Guimarães, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, BrasilChrista Berger, Universidade do Vale do Rio dos Sinos, São Leopoldo, Rio Grande do Sul, BrasilEneus Trindade, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, BrasilErick Felinto, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, BrasilEvelyne Cohen, École Nationale Supérieure Sciences de l’information et des bibliothèques, Villeurbanne, FrançaFrancisco Paulo Jamil Almeida Marques, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza, BrasilFrançois Jost, Université Sorbonne Nouvelle-Paris 3, Paris, FrançaGiovandro Marcus Ferreira, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, BrasilGuilherme Maia de Jesus, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, BrasilIluska Coutinho, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, BrasilItania Maria Mota Gomes, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, BrasilJames Katz, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, Estados UnidosJavier Días Noci, Universidad Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, EspanhaJoão Freire Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, BrasilJosé Luiz Braga, Universidade do Vale do Rio dos Sinos, São Leopoldo, Rio Grande do Sul, BrasilJuremir Machado, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, BrasilKimberly Sawchuk, Concordia University, Montreal, CanadáLiv Sovik, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, BrasilMarcius Freire, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, BrasilMarcos Silva Palacios, Universidade Federal da Bahia, BrasilMaria Ataíde Malcher, Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Manaus, Amazonas, BrasilMaria Carmem Jacob, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, BrasilMarie-France Chambat-Houillon, Université Sorbonne Nouvelle-Paris 3, Paris, FrançaMichel Maffesoli, Sorbonne, Paris, FrançaOthon Jambeiro, Universidade Federal da Bahia, BrasilPierre Lévy, Ottawa University, Ottawa, CanadáRob Shields, University of Alberta, Edmonton, CanadáRousiley Maia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, BrasilWill Straw, McGill Institute, Montreal, CanadáWilson da Silva Gomes, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brasil
Wegzugsteuer: Zur Auslegung des § 6 AStG
Authors: Beinert Stefanie
Published: November 2024

Unternehmerfamilien zeichnen sich durch eine zunehmende Mobilität im Gesellschafterkreis aus. Die steuerrechtlichen Beschränkungen der Niederlassungsfreiheit (Art. 49 AEUV), die in der Wegzugsteuer liegen, haben daher große Bedeutung. Häufig ist der Wegzug nur temporär, d.h. auf den Verlust des deutschen Besteuerungsrechts folgt nach einer Phase des Nichtbestehens des Besteuerungsrechts die erneute steuerrechtliche Verstrickung der Anteile. Man sollte meinen, dass der Gesetzgeber den Wegzug akzeptiert und den Zuzug attraktiv gestaltet, was aber nicht der Fall ist. Die Vorschrift des § 6 AStG wirft eine ganze Reihe von Auslegungsfragen auf; einigen soll nachfolgend nachgegangen werden.
Forks in the road, routes chosen, and journeys that beckon: A selective review of scholarship on children's testimony
Authors: Brown Deirdre A. , Lamb Michael E.
Published: December 2018

In this brief review, we reflect upon the key contributions of research examining children's eyewitness testimony. Children's testimonial ability became a focus of interest for researchers about 40 years ago in the wake of several high‐profile child abuse cases that prompted questions about children's reliability in the face of problematic interviewing and other suggestive influences. Since that time, scholars have examined children's capacity to provide accurate and detailed descriptions of their experiences and also evaluated the impact of various suggestive techniques. We have learned much about the conditions that are likely to promote reliable testimony from children and, conversely, when we might have cause for concern about the veracity of their reports. We highlight here some methodological and translational issues that have plagued the field and suggest some areas for future research focus.
Human Skin Equivalents Demonstrate Need for Neuro‐Immuno‐Cutaneous System
Authors: Vidal Yucha Sarah E. , Tamamoto Kasey A. , Nguyen Hanh , Cairns Dana M. , Kaplan David L.
Published: December 2018

A variety of human skin equivalents (HSEs) has been designed for clinical use or for exploratory skin research. In vitro HSE models have been used to target relationships between the skin and nervous or immune systems but have not yet considered the neuro‐immuno‐cutaneous (NIC) system. In this study, HSEs are described, with and without neural and immune components, to discern these types of effects. These systems are composed of only primary human cells and contain an epidermis, dermis, hypodermis (with immune cells), and human induced neural stem cells for the neuronal component. RNA sequencing is utilized to confirm differences between sample groups and to identify unique or important genes with respect to sample type. Only samples with both neural and immune components result in the upregulation of genes in all the key biological pathways explored. The analysis of protein secretion confirms that this group has measurable functions related to all key cell types. Overall, this novel skin tissue system confirms that designing HSEs that include the NIC system results in a tissue model that reflects key functions. These systems could be used to identify selected targets of interest in skin research related to healthy or diseased states.
A Review of Vanadium Dioxide as an Actor of Nanothermochromism: Challenges and Perspectives for Polymer Nanocomposites
Authors: Faucheu Jenny , Bourgeat‐Lami Elodie , Prevot Vanessa
Published: December 2018

VO2 has been intensively studied as a model system for metal‐insulator transition (MIT), ever since its phase switching behavior at relatively low temperature (Tc = 68 °C) was discovered. Its thermo‐active characteristics have been studied for applications in thermal solar collectors to prevent overheating of the fluid absorber, smart windows, and smart tiles to optimize thermal comfort in buildings. In the last few decades, strong efforts were made to develop protocols to process VO2‐based material into thin films, coatings, porous layers, and glazings in order to provide thermo‐active properties to common substrates. A selection of complementary works in both the synthesis of VO2 nanoparticles and formulation of VO2‐polymer nanocomposites is proposed in the present review. The perspective of this work is to provide an easy entry to the thermochromic nanocomposite research field as a tutorial to tackle future challenges such as improving the application‐oriented properties, in particular transition temperature Tc and solar transmittance modulation ΔTsol. Synthesis techniques to fabricate VO2 particles and nanoparticles and strategies to insert VO2 particles in a polymer matrix are presented.
Cancer‐Targeting Graphene Quantum Dots: Fluorescence Quantum Yields, Stability, and Cell Selectivity
Authors: Zhang Qing , Deng Sinan , Liu Jinlin , Zhong Xiaoxia , He Jie , Chen Xianfeng , Feng Bowen , Chen Yanfei , Ostrikov Kostya (Ken)
Published: December 2018

Folic acid, due to its high affinity toward folate receptors (FR), is recognized as one of the most promising cancer targeting vectors. However, the inherent defects of low water solubility (1.6 µg mL−1), high sensitivity toward photo‐bleaching, low fluorescent quantum yields (QYs, <0.5%) seriously limit its practical application. Herein, ultrastable, highly luminescent graphene quantum dots (GQDs) that selectively target diverse cancer cells are prepared and tested. The new GQDs present step changes compared to common folic acid through an ≈6250 times increase in water solubility (to ≈10 mg mL−1), more than 150 times in QYs (up to ≈77%), while maintaining luminescence stability up to 98% when subjected to UV, visible light, and heating over 360 min. It is shown that the suppression of nonradiative transitions by amino groups pyrolyzed from pterin plays a key role in the mechanism of high QYs and excellent stability. The functional groups that are likely responsible for the selective targeting of cancer cells with different levels of folate receptor expression on the surface are identified. Collectively with these promising properties, the new functional graphene quantum dots may open a new avenue for cancer diagnosis, drug delivery, and therapies.
Rapid Crystallization for Efficient 2D Ruddlesden–Popper (2DRP) Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Qiu Jian , Zheng Yiting , Xia Yingdong , Chao Lingfeng , Chen Yonghua , Huang Wei
Published: December 2018

Due to the additional introduction of bulky organic ammonium and the competition between bulky organic ammonium and methyl ammonium in 2D Ruddlesden‐Popper (2DRP) perovskite, the crystallization process becomes complicated. Here, it is demonstrated that the rapid crystallization controlled by processing solvents plays an important role in achieving high‐quality 2DRP perovskite films. It is found that the processing solvents, e.g., dimethylacetamide (DMAC), N,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF), and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), with a different polarity and boiling point, have almost no effect on crystal structure and phase distribution but have a remarkable effect on crystallization kinetics, crystal growth orientation, and crystallinity of 2DRP perovskite. Compared to polar aprotic solvent DMF and DMSO with a high boiling point, DMAC with low polarity and a suitable boiling point has a weak coordination to lead and ammonium salts and is easy to escape during solution processing, which is able to accelerate the crystallization rate of 2DRP perovskite. Benefitting from the rapid crystallization enabled high‐quality 2DRP perovskite films, the best‐performing device with improved stability and a power conversion efficiency of 12.15% is obtained using DMAC solvent. These findings may give guidance for solvent engineering for highly efficient 2DRP perovskite solar cells in the future.
Applications of Metal–Organic‐Framework‐Derived Carbon Materials
Authors: Yang Wenping , Li Xiaxia , Li Yan , Zhu Rongmei , Pang Huan
Published: December 2018

Carbon materials derived from metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have attracted much attention in the field of scientific research in recent years because of their advantages of excellent electron conductivity, high porosity, and diverse applications. Tremendous efforts are devoted to improving their chemical and physical properties, including optimizing the morphology and structure of the carbon materials, compositing them with other materials, and so on. Here, many kinds of carbon materials derived from metal–organic frameworks are introduced with a particular focus on their promising applications in batteries (lithium‐ion batteries, lithium–sulfur batteries, and sodium‐ion batteries), supercapacitors (metal oxide/carbon and metal sulfide/carbon), electrocatalytic reactions (oxygen reduction reaction, oxygen evolution reaction, and hydrogen evolution reaction), water treatment (MOF‐derived carbon and other techniques), and other possible fields. To close, some existing problem and corresponding possible solutions are proposed based on academic knowledge from the reported literature, along with a great deal of experimental experience.