bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the Efficiency of Employment of the Communities’ Resource Potential using Different Approaches
Authors: Khirivskyi Roman , Yatsiv Ihor , Petryshyn Liudmyla , Pasichnyk Tymofii , Kucher Lesia , Irtyshcheva Inna
Published: March 2022

The paper presents the results of evaluation of the efficiency of employment of the communities’ resource potential using different approaches on the example of Lviv region in Ukraine. The proposed methodology secures creation of a rational system of monitoring of the results of activities of amalgamated territorial communities (ATC) and determines what factorial indices should be improved and concerned by the communities’ managers to conduct more efficient managerial work in the community. For example, in the communities with the budget that is sufficient to secure the increasing development of the community (Davydiv, Dubliany, Zabolottsi ATC), the primary focus can be done on the social development and growth of the infrastructural base, whereas in the ATCs with the low level of economic development (Volia-Baranetska, Lukiv, Mizhenets ATC), the most important task is to secure the sufficient extended growth of the population’s income.
Statistical Anxiety and Achievement among University Students
Authors: Mistima Maat Siti , Mohd Norhatta , Che Ahmad Che Nidzam , Puteh Marzita
Published: March 2022

Statistics is a critical subject for university students. Their achievement has been negatively impacted by statistical anxiety and the obligation to pass the statistics course. By predicting the achievement of 199 students from one of local higher educational institutions students using statistical anxiety, study mode, gender and programme specialization. A survey was used to select respondents from a variety of programs at a local university. A random sampling technique was applied in administering the questionnaire of Statistical Anxiety Rating Scale. The questionnaire consists of 51 items which has six factors that can be answered using Google form. The descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. Statistics anxiety, age, gender, study mode, and program specialization all account for 27 percent of the variation in their achievement. It is possible to improve statistics teaching and learning among university students, despite the fact that the percentage is relatively small. Academic background and previous work experience are important factors to consider when conducting future research with profound statistical understanding.
Cost and Benefit of E - Speed Supervisor In Express Bus
Authors: Sidek Shafie , Manickiam Neelamehan , Ismail Kamarulzaman , Hamzah Jantan Amer
Published: March 2022

Electronic Speed Supervisor, a device that discloses the real-time speed of express bus to passengers is proposed for express bus to solve both intentional speed violation and faulty engine speed limiter. Ex-ante cost-benefit analysis is carried out to assist managers in making decision between alternatives; (1) investment of RM3,000 per bus with monthly maintenance of RM100 per bus, (2) monthly rental and maintenance of RM300 per bus. Additional fare of 50cents per passenger is charged to gain revenue. alternative (1) is found to produce a better net present value, NPV and benefit cost ratio, BCR.
Prevalence of sexual dysfunction in women with cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Esmat Hosseini Seyedeh , Ilkhani Mahnaz , Rohani Camelia , Nikbakht Nasrabadi Alireza , Ghanei Gheshlagh Raza , Moini Ashraf
Published: February 2022

Background: Cancer is one of the most common diseases and it has many physical and psychological consequences. Women with cancer are more likely to suffer from sexual dysfunction (SD) than healthy women.
Objective: To estimate the overall prevalence of SD in women with cancer.
Materials and Methods: The international databases Google Scholar, Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched for related articles without any time limitation. The keywords “Neoplasia”, “Tumor”, “Cancer”, “Malignancy”, “Female Sexual Function Index”, “FSFI”, and “female sexual dysfunction” along with their combinations were used in the search. Inconsistencies in the data were examined using the I2 test. The data were analyzed using the meta-analysis method and the randomeffects model in the Stata software.
Results: The analysis of 24 articles with a sample size of 5483 women showed that the prevalence of SD in women with cancer was 66% (95% CI: 59-74%). The highest and lowest prevalence were in Africa and Europe, respectively (75%; 95% CI: 66-83% vs. 43%; 95% CI: 26-60%, respectively). There was no relationship between the prevalence of SD and the mean age of the women, sample size, yr of publication, or quality of articles.
Conclusion: SD is highly prevalent in women with cancer. African and American women with cancer have a higher average SD prevalence than Asian and European ones.
Key words: Sexual dysfunction, Prevalence, Meta-analysis, Women, Sex.
The association between fetal renal artery indices in late pregnancy and birth weight in gestational diabetes mellitus: A cohort study
Authors: Sadat Jamal Ashraf , Naemi Mahsa , Eslamian Laleh , Marsoosi Vajiheh , Moshfeghi Maryam , Nurzadeh Maryam , Geran Taraneh , Ghaemi Marjan , Zanbagh Leila
Published: February 2022

Background: Estimation of the fetal birth weight and diagnosis of small for gestational age in the fetuses of women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are currently imprecise.
Objective: We aimed to evaluate the association between fetal renal artery Doppler indices and neonatal birth weight in women with GDM in late pregnancy.
Materials and Methods: This cohort study recruited 246 pregnant women from Shariati Hospital in Tehran, Iran, in two GDM and healthy control groups. Participants underwent weekly Doppler ultrasounds in the late pregnancy period (37-40 wk) to determine the Doppler indices of the umbilical artery, middle cerebral, and renal arteries. Fetal growth indices including biparietal diameter, abdominal circumference, head circumference, and femur length were also recorded and compared between the two groups.
Results: Fetal growth indices and estimated fetal weight were not significantly different between the two groups. Neonatal birth weight was significantly higher in the GDM group (p < 0.01). The GDM group had significantly higher renal artery indices (resistance index: p = 0.01, pulsatility index [PI]: p = 0.03, and systolic/diastolic ratio [S/D]: p = 0.01) compared to the control group. Also, there was an inverse linear correlation between umbilical indices and birth weight (PI: p = 0.01, S/D: p < 0.01), and between renal artery indices and birth weight (resistance index: p = 0.02, PI: p = 0.01, and S/D: p = 0.03). In the control group, only umbilical artery PI had an inverse linear correlation with birth weight (p = 0.03) and there was no correlation between renal artery indices and birth weight.
Conclusion: Using Doppler hemodynamic indices of the renal artery in late pregnancy in women with GDM can be helpful for early detection of hypoxic fetuses, who are at risk of being small for gestational age or having intrauterine growth restriction, even when of normal weight.
Key words: Fetus, Gestational diabetes mellitus, Infant, Middle cerebral artery, Renal artery, Doppler ultrasound, Umbilical artery.
The effect of dexamethasone on uterine receptivity, mediated by the ERK1/2-mTOR pathway, and the implantation window: An experimental study
Authors: Niknafs Behrooz , Shokrzadeh Naser , Reza Alivand Mohammad , Bakhtiar Hesam Shariati Mohammad
Published: February 2022

Background: The role of glucocorticoids in implantation has been demonstrated.
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of dexamethasone on endometrial receptivity.
Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 40 BALB/c female mice aged eight wk old weighing approximately 25.0 ± 1.4 gr were used. The mice were divided into four groups (n = 10/each) of control, dexamethasone (100 μg/kg, intraperitoneal injection), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor (PP242) (30 mg/kg, intraperitoneal injection), and dexamethasone and PP242. The endometrial epithelium of the mouse was separated to measure messenger RNA expression of heart and neural crest derivativesexpressed protein 2 (HAND2), Msh homeobox 1 (Msx-1), heparin binding epidermal growth factor (HB-EGF), microRNA (miRNA) Let-7a, miRNA-145 and miRNA-451, using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Also, protein expression of mammalian mTOR and eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E-binding protein1 (4E-BP1) was measured using western blot.
Results: The results revealed that the expression of Msx-1, HAND2, HB-EGF, miRNA-451, and miRNA-Let-7a was significantly decreased in the endometrium in the dexamethasone group compared to the control, while the expression of miRNA-145 in the endometrium was up-regulated. Additionally, the administration of PP242, known as an inhibitor of mTOR, was associated with significantly reduced expression of Msx-1, HAND2, HB-EGF, miRNA-451, and miRNA-Let-7a, while PP242 induced messenger RNA expression of miRNA-145.
Conclusion: It appears that dexamethasone can diminish uterine receptivity during the implantation period, at least to some extent, through the alteration of particular genes that impact endometrial receptivity. Furthermore, the mTOR pathway seemingly showed an essential role in endometrial receptivity.
Key words: Endometrial receptivity, Dexamethasone, HB-EGF, MSX-1, mTOR, Mouse.
Right-side inguinal canal endometriosis at ultrasound: A case report
Authors: Mehdizadeh Abolfazl , Chaichian Shahla , Mirgaloybayat Shahla , Rokhgireh Samaneh , Tahermanesh Kobra , Kadivar Maryam , Farzaneh Farahnaz
Published: February 2022

Background: The first case of inguinal endometriosis was described by Cullen. Endometriosis in the round ligament could be in the pelvic or inguinal area and is a rare disease occurring in 0.6% of women. Women with inguinal endometriosis have a painful inguinal mass during menstrual cycles and they mostly have a history of surgery. The right side is more commonly involved in inguinal endometriosis than the left side (90-94%). A history of gynecologic or abdominal surgery is common in women with inguinal endometriosis.
Case presentation: In our case, a 39-yr-old virgin woman presented with localized pain in the right inguinal that had been present for 4 yr. She did not have any history of previous surgery, and abdominal ultrasonography showed a hypoechoic mass with minimal vascularity. Inguinal endometriosis was correctly diagnosed by two expert radiologists preoperatively, and she underwent laparoscopic surgery.
Conclusion: Considering inguinal endometriosis in the differential diagnosis of women with inguinal masses is important, even if there is no history of gynecologic or abdominal surgery.
Key words: Endometriosis, Inguinal, Ultrasound, Case report.
Corrigendum to “Effect of vitamin D insufficiency treatment on fertility outcomes in frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles: A randomized clinical trial” [Iran J Reprod Med 2014; 12: 595-600]
Authors: Aflatoonian Abbas , Arabjahvani Farideh , Eftekhar Maryam , Sayadi Mozhgan
Published: February 2022

This is a Corrigendum to “Effect of vitamin D insufficiency treatment on fertility outcomes in frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles: A randomized clinical trial” [Iran J Reprod Med 2014; 12: 595-600] and does not have an abstract. Please download the PDF or view the article HTML.
Aquaponics production simulations using the decision-making tool
Authors:   University of KwaZulu-Natal, Mchunu Ntobeko , Lagerwall G , Senzanje A
Published: February 2022

Aquaponics have related food and nutrition security benefit that are important for this country (South Africa). The aim of this study was to apply aquaponics decision-making tool to provide potential aquaponics production data and information for South Africa. This study was designed as 2×3×3 factorial study giving 18 interactions. Because aquaponics are the production of fish and crops concurrently, yield production had two levels- fish and crop, fish stocking density had three levels- low, optimum and higher and aquaponics scale of production had 3 levels- hobby, subsistence and commercial scale. The summary of data of aquaponics variables from the literature was used as optimum level, lower and higher levels were based on experimental design. Yield production (kg) of both fish and plants increased significantly (p<0.05) as fish stocking density was increased. In hobby scale, plants yield was higher than fish yield in all levels of fish stocking density, the plant-fish yield (kg) was 40-33, 80-67 and 150-133, respectively. In subsistence scale, fish-plant yield (kg) was 240-200, 300-267 and 400-333, respectively. In commercial scale, fish-plant yield (kg) was 600-533, 1 100-1 000, 1 500-1 333, respectively. Daily fish feed increased significantly with increase in fish stocking density across all scale of aquaponics production (hobby<subsistence<commercial). In hobby scale, at low fish stocking, 0.65kg feed produced 1 kg fish, at optimum, 0.65kg feed produced 1 kg fish and at higher fish stocking, 0.37kg feed produced 1 kg fish. In subsistence scale at low fish stocking density, 0.38kg feed produced 1 kg fish, at optimum level, 0.63kg feed produced 1 kg fish and at higher level, 0.65kg feed produced 1 kg fish. In commercial scale, in low fish stocking, 0.64kg feed produced 1 kg fish, at optimum, 0.63kg feed produced 1 kg fish and at higher fish stocking, 0.64kg feed produced 1 kg fish. Plant culture have more yield output than fish culture in all aquaponics scale of production. Hobby scale produced the lowest yield than subsistence than commercial scale of production. Hobby scale practise could not produce sufficient yield to support human subsistence. Fish feed closely mirrored yield production. Lower fish stocking density maybe adopted in subsistence scale. Higher fish stocking density maybe adopted in commercial scale. Fish feed could become an economic sustainability constraint in aquaponics production, particularly in a developing country like South Africa. Water availability and quality effects on yield was not determine especially in African context. Key words: Fish stocking density, Yield production, Fish feed, Planting area
Prospects in cultivation and utilization of spiderplant (Cleome gynandra L.) in sub-Saharan Africa: A review.
Authors:   Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Makaza William , Gasura E ,   University of Zimbabwe, Nyakurwa CS , Masekesa RT
Published: February 2022

Spiderplant (Cleome gynandra L.,) exists as a semi-cultivated, indigenous leafy vegetable in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). It has a natural habitat in the tropics and sub-tropics. The crop has the potential to contribute to sustainable food and nutritional security. This is due its richness in both macro- and micro-nutrients (minerals, vitamins and essential oils respectively). With its nutritional and ethnopharmacological uses, it is underutilized due to lack of awareness, promotion of production and utilization approaches globally. Globally, poor resource farmers are depending on such crops for income generation from economically fresh or dried spiderplant. Additionally, the potential contribution of spiderplant to pests and disease management can justify the need for its promotion in SSA. Spiderplant remains a primitive vegetable due to lack of the valorization units in Africa, which miss scientific information and indicators to understand how the cultivation and chemical compositions varies. Development of spiderplant in SSA requires all sectors to engage especially the breeders and consumers so that good agronomic traits can be achieved. All the biotic (response to field and storage pests and diseases) and abiotic stressors (nutrient use, salinity, drought) need to be addressed during spiderplant breeding program. Nonetheless, understanding the functional potential of spiderplant rhizosphere microbiome may promote sustainable bio-fertilizer-and-processing products in agriculture and related industries. Through value chain development, and technology transfer programs, the transformation of research efforts on spiderplant on the creation of sustainable collaboration frameworks for stakeholders in industry, innovations can be rapidly disseminated and popularized. Analysis of constraints and opportunities for orphan crops like spiderplant require the action and engagement of sectors such as farmer organizations, researchers, seed companies, traders, policy makers and consumers. This, therefore, justifies the need for promotional efforts through breeding, value chain development as well as development of national frameworks, which support orphan crops in SSA, aligning with the United Nations (UN) sustainable developmental goals (SDGs) in nutrition, health and food security. Little is known in most developing countries of SSA, on the cultivation, production, utilization and marketing of the vegetable across regions. This article examined the opportunities for the production, utilization, constraints as well as the promotional efforts of spiderplant in SSA. Key words: Cleome gynandra L., indigenous vegetable, nutrition, health, production, utilization, breeding, policies
The nutritional content of the food supplied by food vendors to students in a South African university
Authors:   Durban University of Technology, Khuluse Dawn Sihle , Deen Deen
Published: February 2022

University students often overlook the nutritional content of the food supplied by food vendors, either due to lack of knowledge or being unable to afford the variety of nutritious foods. With the relentless threat of the corona virus (Covid-19) lurking over South Africa and the ongoing search for a vaccine postulating that underlying health risks including diabetes and obesity may be an impediment in the fight of this pandemic, good nutrition is now essential. There is, therefore, a need to provide insight on food consumption and purchasing behaviours in South Africa with particular reference to the youth. Food vendors provide convenient access to affordable meals for university students. Whether the food provided is balanced or not is unknown. This study was, therefore, carried out to examine the nutritional value of the foods sold to university students by food vendors that were contracted to the four campuses of the Durban University of Technology (DUT). Utilising the qualitative approach, technical information was sourced using an observation technique and a structured menu recording sheet. Thus, data was collected by weighing the cooked and pre-cooked items individually to provide accurate nutrient assessment using an electronic food scale. Whilst this study only focused on the macronutrients, it was found that the nutritional value of foods served by these vendors was not balanced due to the fact that the top 15 meals contained more than the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) recommended fat 15-30% contributing to energy. Furthermore, the contribution of carbohydrates (CHO) was less than the recommended percentage of 55-75%. Notably, the students who consumed two or three of the top 15 meals in a day exceeded the recommended intake of fat and energy for that day revealing a high probability that university students can be overweight. This study recommends a menu improvement and a strong collaboration between the food vendors and the university’s Department of Food and Nutrition to develop healthier menu options and assist students in making informed decisions regarding their health and consumption behaviours. The main limitation of this study is that it only focussed on the macronutrients as recommended by WHO of the most popular meals, this study still provides valuable insight into student nutrition and contributes to food consumption patterns by university students. Key words: Nutrition, obesity, overweight, food vendors, university students, eating behaviours, energy, fat
Characterization and optimization of carotenoid extracted from the peels of tomato Lycopersicon esculentum grown in Nigeria
Authors:   University of Nigeria, Uchegbu Nneka N , Ude CN ,   Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Obeta NA , Eze CR
Published: February 2022

The application of synthetic colourants to foods, snacks, and beverages has increased within the past 50 years, and up to a 500% increase has been reported in Nigeria. Consumers of coloured foods and beverages have been showing worries about the possible health hazards of such products over time. Hence, researchers have shifted attention to alternative and natural colourants that are harmless. Extraction of carotenoid from tomato peel by-product will not only solve the problem associated with consuming synthetic colourant but solve the pollution problem connected with tomato processing. This research was conducted to study the kinetics and determine the thermodynamics of carotenoid extraction from tomato peel (Lycopersicon esculentum) using ethanol. Tomato peel by-product was collected, cleaned, oven-dried, and ground. It was characterized to determine the proximate and phytochemicals composition. The carotenoid extraction process parameters were optimized using response surface methodology, and the carotenoid extracted was analysed using a gas chromatograph-mass spectrophotometer. The kinetics and thermodynamics of extraction were studied using a first-order mass transfer model and thermodynamics to determine energy changes involved in the extraction. The result of the proximate analysis showed the following values; crude protein (0.69%), Fibre (20.63%), Ash (17.40%), Fat (8.53%), Moisture (8.13%), and Carbohydrate (44.62%). The phytochemical analysis showed that the tomato peel contains terpenoid, alkaloid, saponin, and flavonoid. The optimal conditions for carotenoid extraction were 0.306 mL/g solvent/solid ratio, 20 minutes extraction time, and temperature of 36 °C with the optimal yield of 82.35%. The result indicates that tomatoes contain 82.35 g of carotenoid. It is observed that the carotenoid contains lutein 1.89%, lycopene 88.11%, β- carotene 2.25%, cis-ζ-carotene 2.41%, γ-carotene 1.23%, cis-lycopene 0.89%, phytofluene 0.62%,ζ-carotene 1.2% and phytoene 1.52%. Therefore, among the components, lycopene is the most dominant with the composition of 88.11% yield, and the extraction was endothermic, spontaneous, and feasible. Ethanol is a good solvent for the extraction of carotenoid from tomatoes peel. Key words: Carotenoid, optimization, extraction, phytochemicals, lycopene, ethanol, flavonoid, saponin, alkaloid
Growth, physiological and yield response of provitamin A biofortified maize cultivars to different natural environments
Authors:   Stellenbosch University, Zuma Mthokozisi , Modi A ,   University of KwaZulu-Natal, Kolanisi U ,   University of Zululand
Published: February 2022

Malnutrition remains a main problem in sub-Saharan Africa regardless of the applied interventions to combat food and nutrition insecurity. Biofortication of staple crops has been regarded as the latest intervention strategy to combat micronutrient diseases such as vitamin A deficiency in developing countries in southern Africa. The aim of the study was to determine the response of provitamin A biofortified maize cultivars under different environmental conditions. A randomized complete block design with five cultivars, two provitamin A varieties and three common maize varieties were planted in two on farm trails located under different agro-ecological zones (Bulwer and KwaDlangezwa) of KwaZulu-Natal in a two-season period (2015/16 and 2016/17). The five cultivars namely Border king (BK), provitamin A biofortified maize (PVABM), local landrace (LL), SC 506 and SC510 recorded a highly significant (P<0.001) plant growth (height and leaf number) in both experimental sites across two seasons (2015/16 and 2016/17). Chlorophyll content showed no significant differences for both trial sites in both 2015/16 and 2016/17 seasons. For the first season, no significant differences (P< 0.05) were observed for biomass among the maize varieties in both trial sites. However, it was observed that SC510 had higher biomass (2.33 t/ha), while BK recorded lowest biomass (0.66 t/ha) in Bulwer. In KwaDlangezwa, the biomass ranged from 0.713 t/ha (PVA) to 1.66 t/ha (SC510). For the second season (2016/17), Biomass in Bulwer ranged from 0.86 t/ha (LL) to 1.52 t/ha (SC510) and 0.94 t/ha (BK) to 1.44 (SC510) in KwaDlangezwa. The performance of the provitamin A biofortified varieties (SC510 and PVABM) showed that they can adapt and produce similarly to common varieties. It is noted that there is potential for these varieties to adapt under different environmental conditions of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The provitamin A biofortified varieties can be produced for human consumption at common smallholder farming systems. Key words: SC510, chlorophyll content, KwaDlangezwa, Bulwer, yield, vitamin A deficiency, planting, smallholder, biofortification
Impact de la production céréalière et des prix des céréales sur la consommation alimentaire et l’évolution des moyens de subsistance des ménages au Burkina Faso
Authors:   Centre Régional AGRHYMET-CILSS, Traoré Sy Martial A , Massaoud W , Oumarou DH , Issoufou B , Simeoné C ,   Université Clermont Ferrand, Abdouramane B ,   Université Abdou Moumouni
Published: February 2022

La mesure de l’insécurité alimentaire est la préoccupation majeure des pays du Sahel comme le Burkina Faso pour anticiper les crises. Ce travail a pour objectif de déterminer les relations entre les variables collectées régulièrement par les systèmes d’information nationaux et les résultats primaires de la sécurité alimentaire que sont la consommation alimentaire des ménages et l’évolution des avoirs relatifs aux moyens d’existence. Cela permet aux analystes de suivre et d’informer rapidement sur l’évolution de la situation alimentaire et de faciliter la prise de décision. Ces informations permettront également d’orienter la réponse en direction des populations les plus affectées. Les résultats des enquêtes de vulnérabilité conduites au Burkina Faso sur plus de 20000 ménages en 2016, 2017 et 2018 et représentatifs au niveau provincial ont servi de base de travail. Des analyses de corrélation et de régression ont été effectuées entre la production céréalière totale, la variation annuelle de la production, les prix des céréales, les dépenses alimentaires des ménages d’une part, et les indices d’évaluation de l’insécurité alimentaire (indice des stratégies d’adaptation basées sur la consommation alimentaire, et stratégies d’adaptation basées sur les moyens de subsistance) d’autre part. Les bonnes productions agricoles céréalières de la province influencent positivement le niveau de consommation alimentaire des ménages et réduisent leur recours à des stratégies extrêmes basées sur les moyens d’existence et sur la consommation alimentaire. Le prix élevé des céréales et sa forte variation impactent négativement les moyens de subsistance et la consommation alimentaire des ménages, tout en accentuant leur recours à des stratégies extrêmes d’adaptation, surtout dans les zones de faible production céréalière. En plus, lorsque les dépenses alimentaires des ménages sont inférieures à 50% des dépenses totales, cela favorise la préservation des moyens de subsistance et améliore leur consommation alimentaire. À l’inverse, lorsque les dépenses sont supérieures à 75%, la vulnérabilité des ménages face à la baisse de la production agricole et à la hausse des prix des céréales est accentuée. Les niveaux de corrélation observés entre les variables étudiées sont dans l'ensemble relativement faibles, mais leur combinaison permet d’améliorer significativement les régressions. Une étude à l’échelle de la région devrait permettre de dégager des relations plus intéressantes. Mots clés : Insécurité alimentaire, Consommation alimentaire, Moyens de subsistance, prix des céréales, production céréalière, Burkina Faso
Effectiveness of nutrition education on nutrient intake and pregnancy outcomes in Migori county, western Kenya
Authors:   Rongo University, Odiwuor Florence A , Kimiywe J ,   Kenyatta, University, Waudo J
Published: February 2022

Maternal nutrition is critical as it lays fundamental foundation for the successful outcome of pregnancy. Kenya’s high rates of under nutrition among women of reproductive age are due to sub-optimal feeding practices, inadequate nutrient intake and insufficient knowledge on nutritionally adequate diets leading to poor pregnancy outcomes. This study assessed nutrient intakes and pregnancy outcomes among pregnant women of about 22 weeks gestation exposed to a psycho-educational nutrition initiative in Migori County. A prospective cohort study design and simple random sampling was used to obtain a sample of 150 pregnant women who were enrolled into the Intervention Study. Data was collected using 24-hour dietary recall, anthropometric measurements and health records and was analysed by Nutri-Survey and SPSS and tested using t-tests and regression model. The mean of macronutrient intakes at baseline were 1613±439 kcal for energy, protein 62.6±24.6 g, carbohydrates 245±7 g, fat 41±2 g and after the intervention, mean energy intake was 2159±309 Kcal, protein 86±2 g, carbohydrates 312±6 g and fat 61±3 g. There was a significant improvement in the intakes for all the macronutrients after four months exposure to the intervention. The mean micronutrient intakes by the women at baseline were, vitamin A, 1255±2131 µg, folic acid, 197±7 µg, vitamin C 67±4 mg, calcium 300±141 mg, iron 115±3 mg and zinc 12±4 mg. The mean intakes after the intervention were, Vitamin A 1750±3560 µg, folic acid 249±7µg, vitamin C 90±6 mg, calcium 442±2 mg, iron 15±3 mg and zinc 16±4 mg. There was a significant increase in intake of all micronutrients after the intervention. Mean gestation age at recruitment was 21 weeks, gestation age at delivery was 37.7 weeks. The mean birth weight was 3098±5 grams. Babies born before 37 weeks gestation were 32.6 % while 67.4 % were born at ≥37 weeks gestation. Coefficients of determination (R2) from the regression model showed that there were positive significant effects of nutrition knowledge obtained from the psycho-educational initiative on nutrient intake after the intervention and on pregnancy outcomes. The intervention had a significant effect on nutrient intake and pregnancy outcomes and should be strengthened in the healthcare system to improve nutrition knowledge and dietary practices for enhanced nutrient intakes and pregnancy outcomes. Key words: Pregnant women, Nutrition Education, Nutrient intake, Pregnancy outcomes
Effects of bacterial exopolysaccharide on rheological properties of acid milk curd and its correlates
Authors:   Hasanuddin University, Malaka Ratmawati , Baco S , Jaya AK , Vargas MAV ,   National Technical University
Published: February 2022

Exopolysaccharide (EPS) is a general term for the forms of bacterial polysaccharides found outside the cell wall of bacteria. The industrial microbiologist has become interested in exploiting microbial exopolymer production due to an increasing interest and need for novel polysaccharides. The use of bacterial EPS in acid milk curd (AMC) production accounts for a quality improvement of the milk curd in terms of stability during the normal operations of storage and transportation. On the other hand, EPS have been used as prebiotic because of its health-promoting effects in human beings. The objective of this study was to evaluate the rheological properties (RP) and their statistical correlations in acid milk curd (AMC) samples added with bacterial EPS. Rheometric properties are suitable parameters to evaluate food quality such as AMC. Some of the RP normally used in this evaluation include elastic modulus (EM), hardness (HR), breaking energy (BE), viscosity (VIS) and stress. Correlation between pairs of these parameters are important to understand in order to predict statistically other parameters in case they cannot be easily determined. Acid milk curd samples were formulated using 10, 15, and 20 % of reconstituted skim milk (RSM), to which 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, and 1 % level of EPS were added, respectively. Samples were pasteurized at 60 o C for 30 min, and at 85 oC for 30s. Afterwards, AMC samples were tempered to 40 °C inoculated with Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus B-5b, and incubated at 37 °C for 16 h. Results indicated that viscosity and hardness showed the strongest and highest correlation among all the parameters evaluated (r=0.9272) and it was comparable to that between viscosity and breaking energy (r=0.8349) and breaking energy and hardness (r=0.7694). However, elastic modulus and viscosity showed a rather low correlation (r=0.5394) and very low correlation (r=0.1830), respectively, suggesting that estimation of elastic modulus from viscosity values would be inaccurate. In general, rheometric properties of acid milk curd increased with higher EPS concentrations until 1 % level of EPS addition. Therefore, it is recommended to use BE and HR values, and BE and VIS values to predict accurate measurements of other RP values. Key words: Exopolysaccharide (EPS), acid milk curd (AMC), rheometric properties (RP), statistical correlation (SC)
A comparative analysis of the nutritional status of children attending early childhood development centres in Gauteng, North-west and Limpopo province, South Africa
Authors:   Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Mokone Suzan M , Manafe M , Ncube LJ , Veldman FJ
Published: February 2022

The nutritional status of children is a valuable indicator of health status and can indicate inequalities in health faced by the populations. The preschool period is the critical stage of active development and growth of physical, social, and mental well-being of children. Children eating patterns and food preferences develop over a lifetime and are influenced by family, ethnicity, and social environment. The purpose of the study was to do a comparative analysis of the nutritional status of children aged 2 to 5 years attending early childhood development centres in South Africa. A quantitative descriptive design was used to assess the nutritional status of 872 children attending preschool in the Soshanguve, Moretele, and Makhuduthamaga areas, and data was collected using a structured, researcher-administered questionnaire. The variables collected were age, sex, weight, height, mid-upper arm circumference. Gender and age-specific BMI cut-off points were used to determine the nutritional status. The study sample consisted of 872 preschool children, of which 422 (48%) were males, and 450 (52%) were females. The prevalence of overweight; obesity, and undernutrition were 7.7%, 3.4%, and 3.2%, respectively. The findings of this study showed that in all ECDs areas, most of the male children had normal weight. In this study, the age of children (p=0.007), as well as ECDs area (p=0.000), influenced the BMI of the children (p=0.007), and that overweight was higher amongst older children, 4 & 5 years from rural ECD area. The prevalence of overweight amongst children was 4.2% (Soshanguve), 9.3% (Moretele), and 9.6% (Makhuduthamaga), and the prevalence of underweight amongst children was 3.9% in Soshanguve, 2.7% in Moretele, and 3.1% in Makhuduthamaga. The prevalence of underweight was higher in urban ECD areas as compared to ECDs in rural areas. In this study, overnutrition was more prevalent as compared to undernutrition. Therefore, there is a need for nutritional intervention which promotes a healthy lifestyle in preschools. Key words: Weight, height, preschool children, nutritional status, overnutrition, undernutrition
Kiedy łzy zamieniają się w perły – czyli o korzyściach wynikających ze zmagania się z traumą
Authors: Ogińska-Bulik Nina
Published: February 2022

The article presents posttraumatic growth phenomena, which was introduced by Tedeschi and Calhoun to identify positive changes experienced as a result of struggle with trauma. These changes include a greater sense of one’s personal strength, increased relations to others, a changed philosophy of life, such as greater appreciation for life, and spiritual growth. The concept, epidemiology, and first of all determinants of posttraumatic growth are presented, among them external factors – related to trauma, such as intensity of traumatic events, the intensity of negative outcomes (such as level of PTSD), and individuals factors, among them coping strategies and personality features (such as optimism, sense of coherence, self-esteem, self- -efficacy, resiliency) of subject who have experienced trauma.
Psychologiczne czynniki sprzyjające wystąpieniu potraumatycznego rozwoju u osób w żałobie
Authors: Felcyn-Koczewska Magdalena , Ogińska-Bulik Nina
Published: February 2022

The term posttraumatic growth was introduced by Tedeschi and Calhun to identify the positive changes occurring as a result of coping with consequences of a traumatic event. The purpose of the research presented in this article was to establish the role of psychological factors such as sense of coherence, personality resiliency, basic hope and noodynamics in posttraumatic growth among people in mourning. 101 subjects (48 men and 53 women), who experienced loss of a close person within two months prior to the test, participated in the study. Their mean age was 43,27 (SD = 15,59). The study revealed that there is a relationship between the variables included in the study and level of posttraumatic growth. First factor of resiliency and meaningfulness had emerged to be the predictors of posttraumatic growth – the higher the levels of these variables the higher benefits from trauma are observed in case of people in mourning.
Prężność a potraumatyczny rozwój u młodzieży
Authors: Ogińska-Bulik Nina
Published: February 2022

Posttraumatic growth has attracted considerable attention over the past decade, however there are few studies of this construct conducted in children and adolescents. The study examined the relationship between resiliency and posttraumatic growth in adolescents. The sample consists of 165 adolescents aged 14–18 years (M = 16,2; SD = 0,94); 52% were girls. Polish version of Posttraumatic Growth Inventory developed by Tedeschi and Calhoun and Resiliency Assessment Scale (version for children and adolescents) were used in the study. 72% of examined young people experienced various kinds of traumatic event (loss of a loved person, in particular). Most of them revealed positive changes in a result of struggling with trauma. Resiliency positively correlated with posttraumatic growth, self-perception and relations to others, in particularly. Sense of humor and openness for new experiences (factor 3 of resiliency) appeared the predictor of positive changes. The findings contribute to our understanding of positive changes result from experiencing traumatic events in youth and indicate that resiliency may increase the probability of occurrence of growth after trauma.
Samoocena jako zasób sprzyjający zdrowiu
Authors: Wrona-Polańska Helena
Published: February 2022

A study on the relationship betweeen level of self-esteem and effective coping with stress as a function of health is presented. The theoretical basis of researches is functional model of health by H. Wrona-Polańska (2003), in which health is a function of creative coping and personal resources. The key psychological health mechanism was subjective resources, which through three paths i.e. competence, emotional, and stress, lead to balance between demands and possibilities of a man i.e. health. Selfesteem influences directly on effective coping with stress and indirectly on health. The level of health depends on positive self-esteem. The results are very important for practical consequences, for psychoeducational and promotion of health.
Pozytywny afekt a relacja między śmiałością, impulsywnością i własną skutecznością
Authors: Basińska Beata , Dåderman Anna
Published: February 2022

Background: Recent research has demonstrated a relationship between personality, affectivity and performance. The purpose of this study was to examine the mediating effect of basic and general positive affectivity on personality traits (venturesomeness and impulsiveness) and self- -efficacy. Methods: The correlational design was used. 175 students filled in the Impulsiveness – Venturesomeness – Empathy Inventory (Eysenck et al., 1985), PANAS (Watson, Clark, 1994 – basic and general positive affectivity) and General Self-Efficacy, GESE (Schwarzer et al., 2008). Findings: Impulsiveness did not matter to the strength of self-efficacy, and was independent of positive affectivity. The results obtained indicated a significant mediating effect of basic positive affectivity, self-assurance and joviality, on the link between venturesomeness and general self-efficacy, and a direct impact of general positive affectivity on self-efficacy.
Satysfakcja seksualna i samoocena a poczucie jakości życia
Authors: Dolińska-Zygmunt Grażyna , Nomejko Agnieszka
Published: February 2022

Numerous studies have shown that sexual satisfaction and self-esteem are strongly related and that they significantly condition a sense of quality of life. The article presents the results of the authors study, which aim was to establish the relation between sexual satisfaction, self-esteem and sense of quality of life for people in they early adulthood. The study sample consisted of 51 men and 49 women aged from 23 to 35 years old, employed and remain in childless informal relationships since at least one year. The Questionnaire of Sexual Satisfaction (author’s method), Self-Esteem Scale by M. Rosenberg and the Questionnaire of Quality of Life by M. Straś-Romanowska were used in the measurement. Results indicate that sexual satisfaction and self-esteem are related and they are predictors of the sense of quality of life. Self-esteem is associated significantly with the global assessment of quality of life and its various spheres – psychophysical, psychosocial, subjective, metaphysical. There is also significant correlation between sexual satisfaction and sense of quality of life. It turned out that there is a significant sex difference between the strength of correlation between sexual satisfaction and the global quality of life and its various spheres. Contrary to stereotypes, this relationship is stronger in women.
Stres i radzenie sobie z nim a nadmierne zaangażowanie w Internet
Authors: Majchrzak Paweł , Kaflik-Pieróg Martyna
Published: February 2022

The present study investigated the extent to which strategies of coping with stress and perception of stress determine the extent of usage of the Internet measured with Young’s Internet Addiction Scale. Analysis were conducted on a data set of 249 students. Different groups of variables determine pathological Internet use in male and female population. In the first group the factors explaining a variation of the dependent variable were: behavioral disengagement and perception of a situation as a threat. In the female group 2 strategies of coping with stress explained dependent variable: using psychoactive substance and non-use of an active coping.
Hemşirelik Eğitiminde Bir Simülasyon Oyunu: “Klinik”
Authors: AÇIL Ayşegül , KEÇECİ Ayla
Published: February 2022

Bilişsel, duyuşsal ve psikomotor öğrenme çıktılarını kapsayan hemşirelik eğitiminde öğrencinin gerekli bilgi, beceri ve tutumu kazanarak, uygulama alanlarında bilgilerini davranışa dönüştürmesi, karşılaştığı problemlerin çözümünde var olan bilgisini yorumlaması ve farklı çözüm yolları üretebilmesi hedeflenmektedir. Günümüzde gelişen bilim ve teknoloji olanakları nedeniyle “dijital yerliler” olarak adlandırılan yeni nesil öğrenenlerin dikkatini çekmek, öğrenme ihtiyaçlarını karşılamak ve birbirleriyle etkileşimlerini desteklemek için yaratıcı öğretim yöntemlerinin kullanılması gerekmektedir. Geçmişten günümüze simülasyonun değişik formlarının yer aldığı hemşirelik eğitiminde simülasyon oyunlarının günümüz eğitim alanlarında daha çok yer bulacağına inanılmaktadır. Bu derlemede simülasyon oyunlarının hemşirelik eğitimindeki kullanımını değerlendirmek ve David Stanley (2011) tarafından geliştirilen “Klinik” isimli simülasyon oyununu tanıtmak amaçlanmaktadır.
Analysis of White Feces Disease (WFD) caused by Vibrio sp. Bacteria and Dinoflagellata in Vannamei Shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) in Brackishwater Culture Pond
Authors: Adam Moh. Awaludin , Widiastuti Irawati Mei , Ernawati Ernawati , Yayan Achmad Yani , Insivitawati Era , Yuliana Yuliana , Pakaya Rini Fitriasari , Soegianto Agoes , Khumaidi Ach.
Published: March 2022

Highlight ResearchIndicated that white feces at Vanammei appeared along with the appearance of the disease besides its main trigger that is Vibrio sp.Increase the availability of carbon for photosynthesis process of phytoplankton.Clinical symptom of shrimp attacked by white feces disease is indicated by a change in intestine.AbstractShrimp disease that currently causes economic loss to shrimp farmers is White Feces Disease (WFD). This disease appeared due to several factors, such as poor pond management, unhealthy shrimp seed, and poor water quality which resulted in the appearance of Vibrio sp. bacteria and Dinoflagellate. This study aimed to analyze the cause of WFD outbreak in vannamei shrimp pond. The study method through direct experiment was applied in shrimp pond. Sampling was performed three times in each feeding tray to collect ten shrimps. Overall, sampling was performed twice a week. The Sample Survey Method was used to collect sample in this study. Result of study showed that clinical symptom was observed through changes in pattern and behavior of vannamei shrimp during culture. However, this observation resulted in insignificant data. Vannamei shrimp infected WFD tended to swim slower and often rose to the surface with body color turned red. Moreover, total organic matter (TOM) increased on week-7 along with the increasing growth of plankton, particularly from the Dinoflagellate group. However, bacterial growth of Vibrio sp. on week-7 was insignificant, yet many shrimps were found dead with white feces during that period. The result of analysis indicated that white feces disease was caused by Dinoflagellate besides the main trigger, namely, Vibrio sp.