bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep Learning Model for Predicting Head Kinematics from Crash Videos
Authors: Hasija Vikas , Takhounts Erik G.
Published: November 2021

Head kinematics information is very valuable as it is used to measure brain injury risk. Currently, head kinematics are measured using wearable devices or instrumentation mounted on the head. These instrumentation and wearable devices can have errors due to faulty sensors and due to relative motion between the wearable device and the respective body region. This paper proposes a novel method to predict the head kinematics directly from videos without any instrumentation using a deep learning approach. To prove the concept, a deep learning model was developed for predicting time history of head angular velocities and their respective peaks using Finite Element (FE) based crash simulation data. This FE dataset was split into training, validation, and test datasets. A combined Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) and Recurrent Neural Network (RNN) based deep learning model was developed using the training and validations sets. The test (unseen) dataset was used to evaluate the predictive capability of the deep learning model. On the test dataset, correlation coefficient obtained between the actual and predicted peak angular velocities was 0.73, 0.85, and 0.92 for X, Y, and Z components respectively.
Long Non-Coding RNA AC022306.2 Promotes Cell Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion by Mediating GALK2 in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Liu Xin , Huang Zhenghao , Qin Honglei , Chen Jingwen , Zhao Yang
Published: November 2021

BackgroundLong non-coding RNA (LncRNA) has been exhibited to exert significant function among human cancers. AC022306.2, as a newly discovered lncRNA, has an unclear function in ovarian cancer (OC). This study aims to uncover the functional role of AC022306.2 in OC and discover its possible mechanism. MethodsThe expression of AC022306.2 and Galactokinase 2 (GALK2) in OC tissues and adjacent non-tumor tissues was detected via qRT-PCR. The CCK-8 assay, cell clonogenesis assay, scratch healing assay and trans-well assay were used to reveal the function of AC022306.2 and GALK2 in ovarian cancer cell lines. Mice xenografts experiment was performed. Bioinformatics predicted the microRNA (miRNA) that bond with AC022306.2 and GALK2, and dual luciferase reporter system confirmed it. Rescue experiments of miRNA mimics and siGALK2 transfection on the basis of AC022306.2 over-expression were carried out to uncover the mechanism by which AC022306.2 played cancer-promoting roles in ovarian cancer.ResultsIt was found that AC022306.2 was up-regulated in EOC tissues compared with adjacent non-tumor tissues. The elevated expression of AC022306.2 was related to the FIGO stage of OC. Functional experiments showed that AC022306.2 overexpression accelerated proliferation and aggression of OC cells in vitro and accelerated tumor growth in vivo. We also found that GALK2 was up-regulated in OC tissues. The expression of GALK2 mRNA in OC tissue was positively associated with the expression of AC022306.2. After AC022306.2 was knocked down, the expression of GALK2 was down-regulated. In addition, GALK2 depletion restored the proliferation and aggression capabilities of OC cells after AC022306.2 overexpression. Mechanically, AC022306.2 acted as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) of miR-369-3p to modulate the expression of GALK2. The up-regulating of miR-369-3p or the down-regulating of GALK2 partially reversed the effect of AC022306.2 overexpressed on cell propagation and aggression in OC. ConclusionsAC022306.2 is a new oncogene in the carcinogenesis and development of OC. AC022306.2 improves the development of OC by regulating the miR-369-3p / GALK2 axis, indicating that AC022306.2 may have the potential to become a new molecular target for the treatment of OC.
Testosterone Protects Mice Against Zika Virus Infection And Suppresses The Inflammatory Response In Brain
Authors: Zheng Bohan , Sun Jiajun , Luo Haoran , Yang Ling'en , Li Qi , Zhang Luping , Si Youhui , Cao Shengbo , Ye Jing
Published: November 2021

Background: Testosterone is an important hormone affecting human growth and development. Recent studies have shown that testosterone is related to immune regulation. Infection with Zika virus (ZIKV) can cause testicular damage and decrease testosterone secretion. However, whether testosterone plays a function in the pathogenesis of ZIKV is still unclear. The main objective of this study was to understand the role of testosterone in central nervous system injury and inflammation induced by ZIKV. Methods: In this work, a mouse model was used to evaluate the role of testosterone in ZIKV infection. Histopathological analysis, flow cytometry, and real-time PCR were performed to investigate the mechanism by which testosterone improved survival in mice after ZIKV infection.Results: ZIKV infection caused testicular damage and decreased testosterone secretion in mice, and testosterone supplementation after ZIKV infection reduced mortality and pathological symptoms in mice. Histopathological analysis showed that testosterone treatment after ZIKV infection could reduce inflammatory cell infiltration in the brain and alleviate brain injury. Flow cytometry and quantitative real-time PCR results confirmed that testosterone treatment could reduce the CD8+ T cell infiltration and the expression of interferon gamma and inflammatory cytokines induced by ZIKV. Conclusion: Testosterone plays an important protective role in mice during ZIKV infection and can be used as a potential therapeutic treatment for ZIKV infection.
Assessing Differential Item Functioning (DIF) For Pearson Test of English (PTE) A study of Test Takers with Different Fields of Study
Authors: Ghaemi Hamed
Published: November 2021

Differential Item Functioning (DIF), which is a statistical feature of an item and provides a sign of unpredicted performance of items on a test, occurs once dissimilar groups of test takers with the same level of ability show different performance on a single test. The aim of this paper was to examine DIF on the Pearson Test of English (PTE) test items. To that end, 250 intermediate EFL learners with the age range of 26 - 36 in two different fields of study (125, Engineering, and 125 Sciences) were randomly chosen for the analysis. The Item Response Theory (IRT) Likelihood Ratio (LR) approach was utilized to find items showing DIF. The scored items of 250 PTE test takers were analyzed using the IRT three-parameter model utilizing item difficulty (b parameter), item discrimination (a parameter), and pseudo-guessing (c parameter). The results of the independent samples t-test for comparison of means in two groups depicted that Science participants performed better than the Engineering ones particularly in Speaking & Writing and Reading sections. It is evident that the PTE test was statistically easier for the Science students at 0.05 level. Linguistic analyses of Differential Item Functioning items also confirmed the findings of the quantitative part, indicating a far better performance on the part of Science students.
Loss of ARID1A Expression is Associated with Systemic Inflammation Markers and has Important Prognostic Significance in Gastric Cancer.
Authors: Wang Xuan , Che Keying , Shi Tao , Liu Qin , Xu Xinyun , Wu Hongyan , Yu Lixia , Liu Baorui , Wei Jia
Published: November 2021

Background: The tumor suppressor gene AT-rich interactive domain 1A (ARID1A) and systemic inflammatory response (SIR) have been reported to be related to the sensitivity of immunotherapy. This study intended to explore the relationship between ARID1A expression and SIR, and to further elucidate the prognostic value of ARID1A expression in gastric cancer (GC).Methods: The mRNA and protein expression of ARID1A were detected in 272 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tumor tissues. The data of nine systemic inflammation markers were collected one week before gastrectomy. Univariate and multivariate COX analysis were used to screen out independent predictors of GC.Results: Negative expression of ARID1A protein was related to GC with microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) (p=0.033), positive programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) (p=0.005) and lower albumin level (p=0.0064). Low expression of ARID1A mRNA was common in GC with abnormal E-cadherin (p=0.020) and higher platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR) (p=0.0391). Multivariate COX analysis showed that the expression of ARID1A protein (p=0.023), age (p=0.004), T stage (p=0.009) and N stage (p=0.009) were independent predictors of GC. The nomogram established by independent predictors can accurately evaluate the survival risk of patients with GC.Conclusions: The loss of ARID1A protein expression was associated with MSI-H subtype and high expression of PD-L1 in GC. Negative ARID1A protein and low expression of mRNA were associated with aberrant systemic inflammatory markers. Expression of ARID1A protein had important prognostic significance in GC.
Exploring the Mechanism of Quercetin for the Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation by Geo Gene Chip Combined With Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking
Authors: xin tan , Xian Wei , Li Xiaorong , Chen Yongfeng , Geng Jiayi , Wang Qiyi , Gao Qin , Tang Bi , Wang Hongju , Kang Pinfang
Published: November 2021

PurposeAtrial fibrillation (AF) is a common atrial arrhythmia. Quercetin (Que) has some advantages in the treatment of cardiovascular disease arrhythmias, but its specific drug mechanism of action needs further investigation. To explore the mechanism of action of Que in AF, core target speculation and analysis were performed using network pharmacology and molecular docking methods.MethodsQue chemical structures were obtained from Pubchem. TCMSP, Swiss Target Prediction, Drugbank , STITCH, Binding DB, Pharmmapper, CTD, GeneCards, DISGENET and TTD were used to obtain drug component targets and AF-related genes, and extract AF from normal tissues by GEO database differentially expressed genes. Then, the intersecting genes were obtained by online Wayne mapping tool. The intersection genes were introduced into the top five targets selected for molecular docking via protein-protein interaction (PPI) network to verify the binding activity between Que and the target proteins. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis of the intersected genes using program R was performed to further screen for key genes and key pathways.ResultsThere were 65 effective targets for Que and AF. Through further screening, the top 5 targets were IL6, VEGFA, JUN, MMP9 and EGFR. Que treatment of AF may involve signaling pathways such as lipid and atherosclerosis pathway, AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications, MAPK signaling pathway and IL-17 signaling pathway. Molecular docking suggests that Que has strong binding to key targets.ConclusionThis study systematically elucidates the key targets of Que treatment for AF and the specific mechanisms through network pharmacology as well as molecular docking, providing a new direction for further basic experimental exploration and clinical treatment.
Complete Genome Analysis of a Novel Picorna-Like Virus From a Ladybird Beetle, Cheilomenes Sexmaculata
Authors: He Yu-Juan , Ye Zhuang-Xin , Chen Jian-Ping , Zhang Chuan-Xi , Lu Gang , Li Jun-Min
Published: November 2021

The ladybird beetle Cheilomenes sexmaculata (family Coccinellidae, order Coleoptera), is a common insect predator of agricultural pests. In this study, the full genome sequence of a novel picorna-like virus, temporarily named “Cheilomenes sexmaculata picorna-like virus 1” (CSPLV1), was identified from C. sexmaculata. The full-length sequence of CSPLV1 was 11,384 nucleotide (nt) in length (excluding the polyA tail) with one predicted open reading frame (ORF) encoding 3727 amino acids, a 13 nt 5' untranslated region (UTR) and a 187 nt 3' UTR. The ORF of CSPLV1 consisted of four distinct domains including an RNA virus helicase domain (3029-3319 nt), a peptidase domain (5555-6121 nt), an RNA-dependent RNA polymerase domain (7154-8101 nt) and a picorna-like coat protein domain (8606-9283nt). Phylogenetic analysis based on the conserved RdRP sequence showed that CSPLV1, together with Wuhan house centipede virus 3, Hypera postica associated virus 1 and Diabrotica undecimpunctata virus 1, formed as an unclassified group which is closely related to the clade Solinviviridae. To the best of our knowledge, CSPLV1 is the first picorna-like virus revealed in C. sexmaculata.
Evolution of tin oxide (SnO2) nanostructures synthesized by hydrothermal method
Authors: GAHLOT AJAY PRATAP SINGH , Pandey Rupali , Singhania Sandeep , choudhary Arijit , Garg Amit , Gupta Prof.Mridula
Published: November 2021

Tin oxide (SnO2), a versatile metal oxide due to its wide range of applications and its nature as an amphoteric oxide, has attracted researchers globally for many decades. Hydrothermal synthesis of wide band gap oxides with controllable nano shape and size is of primary attraction leading to myriad areas of applications such as electrodes in Lithium-ion batteries, gas sensing, photo-catalyst etc. to name a few. In this work, we have synthesized different types of nanostructures of Tin oxide through low temperature(180oC) Hydrothermal process by varying the concentration of its precursor solution (SnCl4.5H2O) from 0.0625M to 0.25M. The characterization of as -Synthesized SnO2 done using UV-Vis spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X ray (EDX) and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) confirm synthesis of tin oxide and formation of various nanostructures as a function of concentration of the precursor solution. The evolution of various shapes of nanostructures has been discussed in light of existing theories.
Compositional aspects and bacteriological quality of camel milk from Tunisian oasis
Authors: Zahran Khaldi , Mounir Nafti , Tabarek Jilani
Published: November 2021

This study was planned to investigate the raw milk characteristics and quality aspects and to evaluate the impact of nongenetic factors on physicochemical composition and microbial quality of milk from local Maghrebi camels (Camelus dromedarius) kept under a traditional system in oasis areas, southern west, Tunisia. Forty-nine individual milk samples were collected from lactating Negga over two periods of the year (winter and summer). Animals belonging to private flocks were between 5 and 17.5 years of age, with parity numbers ranging from first to sixth. Samples were analyzed for physical parameters, chemical composition, mineral concentrations, and microbiological features according to standard methods. The overall means of physical characteristics were 6.63 ± 0.22, 1030.63 ± 2.54, and 19.11 ± 4.08 for pH, density, and acidity, respectively. No significant association (P > 0.05) between physical characteristics and nongenetic factors has been observed. The average results of chemical composition for dry matter, protein, fat, casein, lactose, ash, and casein/protein ratio were 115.24±15.67g/L, 30.98±6.40 g/L, 32.84±4.88 g/L, 22.77±4.27 g/L, 37.21±4.64 g/L, 6.87±1.59 g/L, and 0.74±0.06 g/L respectively. Season, parity, and age were confirmed to impinge significantly on chemical components, except for lactose. The maximum contents of total solids, protein, casein, and fat content were observed during winter. The third lactation was characterized with the highest content of total solids, protein, casein, and lactose; while the highest fat content was recorded in the second lactation. Lactose content was stable throughout all the studied age classes (P > 0.05), whereas the other chemical constituents, showed an obvious superiority in the age class of 7≤ age ≤ 9 years. Season, parity, and age of the animal exerted a significant effect on all minerals. The highest levels of Ca, P, and K were recorded in the winter (P<0.01) whereas Na showed an opposite pattern and was higher in the summer (P<0.01). All major minerals were higher in milk from multiparous than primiparous camels, with maximum concentrations at the fourth lactation. The uppermost levels of mineral concentrations were recorded in the age class of 7≤ age ≤ 9 years. The lowest ones were those of animals over 12 years old. The microbial analysis of raw milk which is affected by season, parity, and age showed higher overall contamination levels in all studied bacterial counts. The highest levels were observed in winter, among the multiparous and oldest Negga. The results highlighted the complete absence of the two dangerous pathogens Salmonella and CSR in all analyzed samples.
‘Not finding causal effect’ is not ‘finding no causal effect’ of school closure on COVID-19
Authors: Endo Akira
Published: November 2021

In a paper recently published in Nature Medicine, Fukumoto et al. tried to assess the government-led school closure policy during the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan. They compared the reported incidence rates between municipalities that had and had not implemented school closure in selected periods from March–May 2020, where they rigorously matched for potential confounders, and claimed that they found no causal effect on the incidence rates of COVID-19. However, the effective sample size (ESS) of their dataset had been substantially reduced in the process of matching due to imbalanced covariates between the treatment (i.e. with closure) and control (without) municipalities, which led to the wide uncertainty in the estimates. That said, the study title "No causal effect…" is a rather strong statement because the results are also consistent with a strong mitigating effect of school closure on incidence of COVID-19.
Appropriate cesarean rates using Robson’s Ten-Group Classification System in a Brazilian private practice
Authors: Campos Andrea Silveira de Queiroz
Published: November 2021

Background

The increasing rates of cesarean sections (CS) in places with adequate access to health care is a global concern because they are related to higher rates of maternal and neonatal complications and do not provide a positive childbirth experience for women. The objective is to highlight the possibility of achieving CS rates acceptable by WHO standards, like Nordic countries, following evidence-based protocols in Brazil.

Methods

A cross-sectional study evaluated CS rates by Robson Groups for women who sought vaginal delivery in a private health practice in Brazil, comparing the rates with Swedish data. A collaborative practice with midwives and obstetrician, adopting evidence-based guidelines, was offered. The overall CS rate, CS rate by Robson group, contribution of each Robson group to the overall CS rate, clinical and non-clinical interventions and vaginal birth, pre-labor CS and intrapartum CS proportions were estimated. The expected CS rate for the population by the WHO c-model tool was calculated. The analysis used Microsoft EXCEL and the software "R Studio" (version 1.2.1335. 2009-2019).

Results

The overall CS rate was 15.1% (within the expected by the WHO c-model tool) in a population composed of 43.7% of women in Robson Group 1, 11.4% in Group 2 and 14.9% in Group 5, the greatest responsible for higher rates of CS, who altogether contributed to 75.4% of all cesarean sections.

Conclusions

Multidisciplinary care following evidence-based protocols, associated to a high motivation of both women and professionals of childbirth care for a vaginal route for delivery may lead to a significant and safe reduction of CS rates, obtaining better results even in contexts such as Brazil, where there is high medicalization of obstetric care and excess of CS.
Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Pregnant Women towards Obstetric Ultrasound at Mulago Hospital: A Cross-sectional Survey
Authors: Maniragena Janvier , Kasozi Derrick , Mubuuke Gonzaga Roy , Murachi Erick Jacob
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Obstetric ultrasonography in antenatal care (ANC) is globally recognized as one of the ways through which maternal mortality can be reduced. Pregnant women’s knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes are thought to influence their response towards obstetric ultrasonography. This study was conducted to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of pregnant women towards obstetric sonography at Mulago hospital.Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study that involved 300 pregnant women who reported for obstetric sonography at Mulago hospital in Kampala, Uganda. Consecutive sampling technique was used to recruit participants into the study. The data was collected using interviewer-administered questionnaires and was analyzed quantitatively into descriptive statistical tables, percentages and graphs using Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) version 25.0 software.Results: The study had a response rate of 100%. Most participants had good knowledge of obstetric ultrasound scan. However, there was a misconception that ultrasound has harmful effects. Generally, participants had a positive attitude but poor practices towards obstetric ultrasound scan. Long waiting time and lack of privacy were reported by most participants as leading factors that contributed to the poor practices. Conclusion: This study shows that the knowledge and attitude of pregnant women towards obstetric ultrasound in Mulago hospital were good. However, their practices were poor. The concerns that need to be addressed in order to improve their practices include patient’s privacy, waiting time and the misconception regarding the safety of ultrasound that it can cause cancer.
Ppe.XapF: High Throughput KASP Assays to Identify Fruit Response to Xanthomonas arboricola pv. pruni (Xap) in Peach
Authors: Fleming Margaret B. , Miller Texanna , Fu Wanfang , Li Zhigang , Gasic Ksenija , Saski Christopher
Published: November 2021

Bacterial spot, caused by Xanthomonas arboricola pv. pruni (Xap), is a serious peach disease with symptoms that traverse severe defoliation and black surface pitting, cracking or blemishes on peach fruit with global economic impacts. A management option for control and meeting consumer demand for chemical-free, environmentally friendly fruit production is the development of resistant or tolerant cultivars. We developed simple, accurate, and efficient DNA assays (Ppe.XapF) based on SNP genotyping with KASP technology to quickly test for bacterial spot resistance alleles in peach fruit that allows breeders to cull seedlings at the greenhouse stage. The objective of this research was to validate newly developed DNA tests that target the two major QTLs for fruit resistance in peach with diagnostic utility in predicting fruit response to bacterial spot infection. Our study confirms that only two Ppe.XapF DNA tests, Ppe.XapF1-1 and Ppe.XapF6-2, are needed to distinguish between susceptible and resistant alleles. Use of these efficient and accurate Ppe.XapF KASP tests resulted in 44% reduction in seedling planting rate in the Clemson University peach breeding program.
Rough Set Theory-Based Multi-Class Decision Making Framework for Cost Effective Treatment of COVID-19 Suspected Patients
Authors: Majumder Sandip , Kar Samarjit
Published: November 2021

Rough set theory approximates a concept by the three regions, namely positive, negative and boundary regions. The three regions enable us to derive three types of decisions, namely acceptance, rejection and deferment. The deferment decision gives us the flexibility to further examine suspicious objects and reduce misclassification. The main objective of this paper is to provide a cost effective treatment of a patient suspect to COVID-19 positive by using multiclass three-way decision making with the help of Rough set theory. The cost-based analysis of three-way decisions brings the theory closer to real-world applications where costs play an indispensable role. In our approach, we extend the three-way decision to three-way multiclass decision, offering a new framework of multiple classes. Different types of misclassification errors are treated separately based on the notation of loss function from Bayesian decision theory. In our cost sensitive classification approach, the cost caused by a different kind of error are not assumed to be equal. Finally, a numerical example for a cost effective treatment of a patient with COVID-19 disease is considered to demonstrate the practicability and efficacy of the developed idea in real-life applications.
Air Pollution Associated with Cognitive Decline by the Mediating Effects of Sleep Cycle Disruption and Changes in Brain Structure in Adults
Authors: Lo Chen-Chen , Liu Wen-Te , Lu Yueh-Hsun , Wu Dean , Wu Chih-Da , Chen Ting-Chieh , Fang Yu-Ting , Lo Yu-Chun , Chen You-Yin , Kang Lo , Tsai Cheng-Yu , Lee Yueh-Lun , Chuang Kai-Jen , Ho Kin-Fai , Chang Ta-Yuan , Chuang Hsiao-Chi
Published: November 2021

The effects of air pollution on sleep and dementia remain unclear. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of air pollution on cognitive function as mediated by the sleep cycle. A cross-sectional study design was conducted to recruit 4866 subjects on which PSG had been performed. Fifty of them were further given a cognitive function evaluation by the MMSE and CASI as well as brain images by CT and MRI. Associations of 1-year air pollution parameters with sleep parameters, cognitive function, and brain structure were examined. We observed that O3 was associated with a decrease in arousal, an increase in the N1 stage, and a decrease in the N2 stage of sleep. NO2 was associated with an increase in the N1 stage, a decrease in the N2 stage, and an increase in REM. PM2.5 was associated with a decrease in the N1 stage, increases in the N2 and N3 stages, and a decrease in REM. The N1 and N2 stages were associated with cognitive decline, but REM was associated with an increase in cognitive function. The N1 stage was a mediator of the effects of PM2.5 on the concentration domain of the MMSE. O3 was associated with an increase in the pars orbitalis volume of the left brain. NO2 was associated with increases in the rostral middle frontal volume, supramarginal gyrus volume, and transverse temporal volume of the left brain, and the pars opercularis volume of the right brain. PM2.5 was associated with increases in the pars triangularis volume of the left brain and the fusiform thickness of the right brain. In conclusion, we observed that air pollution was associated with cognitive decline by mediating effects on the sleep cycle with changes in the brain structure in controlling executive, learning, and language functions in adults.
Ritualizing Helmets – Symbolic Protocol of the Iron Age in Dolenjska
Authors: Blečić Kavur Martina
Published: November 2021

The ritualization of helmets, along with fragmentation and hybridization, is a well-known fact in the wider area of South-Eastern Europe. It is apparent on the numerous examples of the helmets of the Illyrian type, interpreted in various contexts, for various purposes and in different ways. In the territory of Dolenjska (Slovenia), two Illyrian helmets of the type III A found in the grave VII/19 at Kapiteljska njiva in Novo Mesto present an exception. This is an exclusive double interment of the Eastern Alps region, both concerning its size and funerary construction, and the offerings consisting of warrior’s and equestrian equipment, ornaments and personal items, along with a set of bronze vessels and the first example of helmets of the Illyrian type among the communities of the Late Hallstatt circle in Dolenjska. The context of the grave may be dated into the second half of the 5th century and the beginning of the 4th century BC. The very choice of luxurious objects points to the state of the deceased and their immediate surrounding, ascribing to themselves the power (military, political, economic, ideological) through the practice of massive destruction during funerals. Such ritualization, deliberate destruction or damaging of objects became the ritual practice. As the “sacrifices” of an unique ritual protocol, the deliberate and violent ritualizations became a medium, and the symbolic manipulation of “cultural” proofs was a reflection of social dimensions of the living, i.e. precisely the communities of the Dolenjska Hallstatt society at its eastern frontiers.
Biological evaluation of Stachys iberica subsp. stenostachya (Boiss.) Rech.f. and Scutellaria orientalis subsp. sosnowskyi (Takht.) Fed. growing in eastern Anatolia
Authors: GULSOY TOPLAN Gizem , CİVAŞ Ayşe , MATARACI KARA Emel , TAŞKIN Turgut , GENÇ Gülay Ecevit
Published: November 2021

Lamiaceae is one of the largest families in the plant kingdom, including the genus Stachys and Scutellaria, which are used in many folk medicines throughout the world for the prevention and also the treatment of several disorders. In vitro biological potential of Stachys iberica subsp. stenostachya and Scutellaria orientalis subsp. sosnowskyi were investigated in the current study. The aerial parts of the plants were extracted using different solvents such as n-hexane, chloroform, and methanol. In addition, infusions of each plant were prepared. The antioxidant potential of the samples was determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ABTS assays, ferrous ion-chelating, and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays. Anticholinesterase activity of the extracts was also determined. Spectrophotometric analysis was used to assess the total phenolic content of the samples. The antimicrobial activities of samples were determined by minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) against seven bacteria and three Candida spp. yeast. According to the findings, the infusion demonstrated significant antioxidant properties, whilst the extracts demonstrated high-to-moderate antioxidant effects. The n-hexane extracts showed higher antifungal activity against C.parapsilosis and C.tropicalis. These outcomes suggest that these two species from Turkey could be employed in the manufacture of phytopharmaceuticals.
EFFECT OF CLING WRAP ON BODY TEMPERATURE AND WEIGHT AMONG LOW BIRTH WEIGHT NEONATES ADMITTED IN SICK NEWBORN CARE UNIT OF SELECTED MEDICAL COLLEGES OF WEST BENGAL
Authors:   Final year M.Sc Nursing student, College of Nursing Medical College Hospital Kolkata, West Bengal, India., Parvin Sahenaz , Rani Adhikari Uma ,   Lecturer, College of Nursing Medical College Hospital Kolkata, West Bengal.
Published: November 2021

Background: Low birth weight (LBW) is a major challenging public health problem in developing countries. LBW neonates are more susceptible to evaporative heat loss and develop hypothermia immediately after birth that may lead to morbidity and mortality. An experimental study was undertaken among low birth weight neonates in selected medical colleges of West Bengal, with the objectives of effect of cling wrap on body weight and temperature among LBW neonates. Methods: 60 (E =30 & C= 30) subjects were recruited by simple random sampling technique (along with neonatal characteristics). Data were collected through record analysis proforma, digital baby weighing scale and digital thermometer. All tools were tested for validity and reliability and instruments were calibrated before data collection. Permission obtained from Ethics committee before data collection. Results: The findings revealed that most of the subjects (76.67%) had hypothermia in pretest and majority of the subjects (60%) had hypothermia in posttest in control group and most of the subjects (83.33%) had hypothermia before use of cling wrap whereas no one had hypothermia after the use of cling wrap in experimental group. There was significant difference in body temperature between control and experimental group for all five days in post-test at 0.05 level of significance. There was no significant difference in body weight between the control and experimental group of neonates but weight loss is less in experimental group than control group which is not statistically significant for all five days in posttest. The results also showed the significant association between post-test level of thermoregulation and weight at birth in control group of neonates. Conclusion: Therefore, use of cling wrap might be a simple innovative intervention for maintaining body temperature and preventing weight loss to some extent among LBW neonates.
A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF UNDERGRADUATES SCIENCE PROCESS SKILLS
Authors:   Department of Integrated Science Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa., David Femi Mathew , Simon Abu ,   Department of Integrated Science Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa.
Published: November 2021

The concept of science process skills encompasses the conceptual understanding of the basic scientific inquiries that underlie the achievement of the trending science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education being encouraged by governments and educators globally and which Nigeria is not exempted. Nevertheless, the importance of science process skills is well documented in the literature. However, research investigating the variation in science process skills among undergraduates is scarce. Thus, the current study aimed to compare differences in science process skills between undergraduates in public and private tertiary institutions in Nigeria. Two hundred and six undergraduates pooled from public and private tertiary institutions in Kogi State, Nigeria, participated in the study. The independent t-test found no statistically significant difference between the private and public tertiary institution students in SPS, t (204) = 1.147, p = 234. The study attributes this outcome to the poor knowledge of SPS among undergraduates in public and private tertiary educations. Thus, it is recommended that effort should be geared towards imparting SPS knowledge to the learners.
ACTIVE PROBIOTIC ANALYSIS OF FERMENTED CEREAL AND LEGUMES COMMONLY CONSUMED IN NIGERIA
Authors:   Department of Biology, Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa., O. Omale Moses
Published: November 2021

Active probiotic organisms are good bacteria considered to be live micro-organisms that are obtained from fermented foods. Evidence has shown that probiotics are essential in human health. This studys primary objective is to isolate and characterize the active probiotic organisms present in certain fermented food samples. Maize, African oil bean, and castor oil were subjected to analysis. The result found the presence of active probiotic organisms such as Pedioccocus, Lactobacillus, Micrococcus, and Bacillus species. The study concluded that these organisms are responsible for the fermentation of carbohydrates and protein-rich seeds.
BACTERIOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF LOCALLY PRODUCED SOYBEAN MILK
Authors:   Department of Biology Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa., U. Adobu Shedrach
Published: November 2021

Soybean milk is a regular beverage commonly sold across the streets and markets in Nigeria and beyond. The demand for soybean milk is fast growing due to its affordability and similarity to dairy milk, including its health benefits. However, there is a growing concern about the public health-related issues associated with this artisanal products production, storage, and distribution. The primary objective of the present investigation was to evaluate the bacteriological composition of the locally produced soybean milk commonly consumed in the Kogi state of Nigeria. The samples for the study were collected from vendors in different locations of the state. The analysis was conducted on the samples using established standard procedures. The result found certain microorganisms such as Micrococcus spp, Lactobacillus spp, Streptococcus spp, Enterobacter spp, Klebsiella spp, and other fungi, which comprises Aspergillus spp and Saccharomyces. The study concludes that the soybean milk consumed in the study parameter was mainly contaminated with varying bacteria.
CORRELATION BETWEEN BODY APPRECIATION AND FEMALE BREAST SELF-EXAMINATION
Authors:   Department of Physical and Health Education Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa., Joseph Ekpa
Published: November 2021

For many decades, cancer has remained a ubiquitous part of public health concern that has assumed a public health problem across the globe. Perhaps, several actions have been documented that attempt to provide a solution to the increasing spread of the disease. Breast self-examination is a cancer curbing strategy that has received enormous research attention in recent years. Nevertheless, many factors have been implicated in the BSE variance. Numerous studies have suggested that body appreciation is positively correlated with health behaviors and health care practice. The current study examined the relationship between body appreciation and BSE practice, using a sample of women (N = 248) in Kogi State, Nigeria. Linear regression resultsestablisheda positive correlation between body appreciation and BSE practice (p < .0.05). This result informs knowledge regarding determinants of BSE behavior among the female. The research concludes with a discussion of the practical implications and recommendations.
CORRELATION BETWEEN SOCIAL FEEDBACK AND ARTISTIC MOTIVATION AMONG FINE ARTS STUDENTS
Authors:   Department of Fine Art Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa., Francis Ejeh , Samuel Umoru ,   Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa.
Published: November 2021

Art is an essential component of human life. It is a necessary discipline in the educational system of every society and is considered a professional field because it requires skills and mental capabilities to be presented as a concept. Most importantly, artistic concepts are created for evaluation. Hence, feedbacks are integral to creative art. The primary objective of the current study was to examine the artistic motivation of fine art students based on social feedback. One hundred and six (n = 106) students enrolled in fine and applied art departments in tertiary institutions in Kogi State, Nigeria, were employed as the studys participants. Data were collected using self-report measures. The simple linear regression analysis performed on the data established a positive correlation between social feedback and artistic motivation. The study concludes that social feedback is an essential component of artistic creativity.
EFFECT OF EDUCATIONAL LEVEL ON ATTITUDE TOWARDS THE PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED PERSONS IN KOGI STATE, NIGERIA
Authors:   Department of Curriculum Studies Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa., Esther Ejeh , Alila Joseph ,   Department of Curriculum Studies Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa.
Published: November 2021

People living with physical challenges constitutes part of the larger society and should be given the inclusive opportunity to engage fully in societal activities. The plight of persons with disabilities in Kogi State, Nigeria, has attracted increasing concern over the years. Thus, the present study aimed to examine the variations in attitude towards the person with physical challenges in Kogi State based on educational level. The study adopted a cross-sectional research design. One hundred and seventeen (n=117) participants randomly pooled from different locations in the Kogi State, Nigeria, participated in the study. The participants completed a self-report measure of the modified version of the Attitudes towards Disabled Persons (SADP) Scale. The result revealed that the participants primarily showed positive attitudes towards persons with physical challenges despite their educational level. Also, the result of the simple linear regression conducted to test the hypothesis revealed that educational level does not predict attitude towards the physically challenged.
EFFECT OF INTERNET ADDICTION ON PHYSICS PRACTICAL WORK AMONG SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS
Authors:   Department of Physics Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa., Monica Abuh , Yakubu Peter ,   Department of Physics Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa.
Published: November 2021

Physics education possesses great potential in providing an outstanding opportunity to drive and shape sustainable development for the future world. Perhaps, the subject is among the science subjects that are better learned through laboratory experiments. Practical physics work enables students to do experiments on the fundamental laws and principles and gain experience of using a variety of measuring instruments and other physics-related apparatus. However, insinuation suggests that most students show less commitment to practical work, attributed to various factors. Thus, the purpose of the present study was to examine internet addiction as a factor that could explain the variation in students participation in physics practical. One hundred and forty-four students who met the inclusion criteria were selected from secondary schools in the Kogi state as the participants. The respondents completed a self-report measure of internet addiction and practical physics participation. The result revealed that compulsive internet usage significantly predicts participation in physics practical. Thus, the study concluded that internet addiction is a positive determinant of students engagement in physics practical.
EFFECT OF SCHOOL LOCATION ON THE ADOPTED COGNITIVE STYLE OF PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN KOGI STATE
Authors:   Department of Integrated Science Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa., Aboritoli Sunday
Published: November 2021

Primary education is globally recognized as the foundation laying stage of education.Over the past few decades, researchers have devoted interest to the differences in reasoning, problem-solving, and perception that underlie cognitive style. Numerous researchers have also attributed the differences in cognitive style to various social, cultural, psychological, and demographic factors. However, the purpose of the present study is to examine school location as an environmental factor that could predict childrens cognitive styles. Sixty-four primary school students drawn from primary schools in rural and urban communities in the Kogi state participated in the study. The Group Embedded Figure Test (GEFT) was used for data collection. The result of the study revealed that the school location significantly predicted field independent/dependent cognitive style. Thus, the study concluded that the school environment is a positive determinant of adopted cognitive style.
FARMING ANXIETY AS A PREDICTOR OF FARMERS INTENTION IN THE ERA OF FARMING INSECURITIES
Authors:   Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa., Kebiru Ibrahim Mohammed
Published: November 2021

Over the years, Nigeria and other African countries have witnessed an increasing rate of insecurities that cuts across all aspects of society. The growing trend of farmer-herdsmen conflict, banditry, and kidnapping that characterizes the contemporary farming sector is undoubtedly affecting the socio-economic growth and food production in the country. There is a growing concern about farmers motivation and willingness to access their farmlands in this era of constant insecurity. The present study aimed to examine farming anxiety as a psychological construct that could account for the variation in farming intention among the farmers. The study was conducted in the middle-belt region of Nigeria, and four hundred and thirteen farmers drawn from some volatile communities in Benue, Kogi, and Nasarawa state participated in the study. The respondents completed self-report measures of farming anxiety and intention. The regression analysis performed on the data revealed a positive interaction between the independent and dependent variables. Thus, the study concluded that farming anxiety is a significant predictor of farming intention.
IMPROVING STUDENTS ENGAGEMENT IN PHYSICS USING COMPUTER ASSISTED INSTRUCTION METHOD
Authors:   Department of Physics Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa., Stephen Daikwo
Published: November 2021

Contemporary society has witnessed a growing trend of technological innovations in the educational landscape. The phenomenon has been widely integrated into the education system of Nigeria. Perhaps, researchers have deployed different computer technologies to enhance students performance in varying subjects. The present study aims to determine whether computer-assisted instructional methods would affect students engagement in physics in secondary school. A total of one hundred and eighty-seven secondary school students were drawn from eight public secondary schools in Ankpa and Lokoja in Kogi state as the studys participants. The study adopted aquasi-experimental pre-test, post-test study design. The result revealed a significant difference in students engagement in physics between the students taught with the computer-assisted instructional method and those taught with the conventional way at MD = 5.08, t (185) = 7.328, p = .000. Thus, the study concludes that a computer-assisted instructional method is an indispensable tool that could influence students engagement in physics, especially among secondary school students. The practical implications and recommendations are discussed.
INFLUENCE OF TEACHERS PEDAGOGICAL COMPETENCE ON ATTITUDE OF SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS TOWARDS TECHNICAL AND VOCATIONAL EDUCATION
Authors:   Department of Technical EducationKogi State College of Education, Ankpa., Robert Akor
Published: November 2021

Technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in Nigeria is intended to help the federal and state education authorities in their determination to revitalize, reform, and expand the provision of skills, vocations, science, and technology geared towards the socio-economic development of the nation. TVET also includes a wide range of skills development opportunities incorporated into national and local contexts. There are increasing insinuations suggesting that TVET in the Nigerian set-up is challenged by unfavorable perceptions of the concept by learners. The primary aim of the study is to examine secondary school students attitudes based on TPC. One hundred and sixteen senior secondary school students drawn from public and private secondary schools in Kogi State participated in the study. The participants completed self-report measures on attitude towards TVE and perceived teachers pedagogical competence. The findings revealed that 65.5% of the respondents expressed a negative attitude towards science process skills. Also, it was found that teachers pedagogical competence influenced attitude towards TVET. The findings and practical implications of the study are discussed.
RELIGIOUS COMMITMENT AS A PREDICTOR OF HEALTHCARE SEEKING BEHAVIOR AMONG RURAL DWELLERS IN KOGI STATE
Authors:   Department of Physical and Health Education Kogi State College of Education, Ankpa., Nuhu A. Seidu
Published: November 2021

In recent years, efforts have been devoted to enhancing the health care system of Nigeria to provide efficient and reliable health care services to the people. However, insinuations suggest that many people are not utilizing the available healthcare facilities, especially in rural communities. Perhaps, religious attachment is a significant determinant of several behavioral domains. The present study aimed to examine variations in HSB among the rural dwellers of Kogi State, Nigeria, based on religious commitment. Two hundred and sixty-nine Muslim and Christian worshipers chosen from religious centers in different locations of the state participated in the study. The respondents completed a self-report measure of healthcare-seeking behavior and the religious commitment inventory. The result of regression analysis indicated a positive influence of religious commitment on healthcare-seeking behaviors in rural populations. It was concluded that religious commitment should be included in the focus of the healthcare providers in providing all-inclusive care for rural dwellers in Kogi state.