bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heritage Spanish Speakers (Back) in Mexico
Authors: Tacelosky Kathleen
Published: February 2022

Children who have learned to speak Spanish at home, have had some or all of their schooling in English, and who go (back) to the homeland of their family—in this case, Mexico—are a type of heritage speaker. Informed by a decade-long, qualitative research study based in Mexico, I discuss the educational trajectories of such students in order to identify ways to support their transition to schooling in Spanish. Because the field of Spanish as a Heritage Language has been supporting student achievement in reading andwriting for decades, its pedagogies and methods offer a ready source of applicability to the Mexican context. However, I conclude that Mexican educators and decision-makers must also consider locally appropriate applications and broader curricular changes.
SHL Literacy Skills
Authors: MacGregor-Mendoza Patricia , Moreno Gabriela
Published: February 2022

For SHL learners in U.S. schools, formal exposure to reading is more frequently experienced in English rather than Spanish. Consequently, research in SHL literacy focuses more on writing development and presumes SHL/SNS learners possess little to no reading skills in Spanish. We assert that SHL reading abilities are not inexistent, rather, that texts used in traditional classroomreading activities do not provide adequate measures of such skills (Brantmeier, 2005). Our efforts in designing an innovative reading task as part of a placement measure (MacGregor-Mendoza & Moreno, 2020a), provided an opportunity to investigate how diverse literary forms aid in identifying the literacy skills that SHL learners already do possess. The present study demonstrates that shedding the perspective of reading from an L2 standpoint and instead, modeling texts after those used by SHL learners in their own daily literacy practices provides greater opportunities to discern their reading abilities for the purposes of placement and beyond.
RAM-VO: A Recurrent Attentional Model for Visual Odometry
Authors: Cleveston Iury , Colombini Esther L.
Published: February 2022

Determining the agent's pose is fundamental for developing autonomous vehicles. Visual Odometry (VO) algorithms estimate the egomotion using only visual differences from the input frames. The most recent VO methods implement deep-learning techniques using convolutional neural networks (CNN) widely, adding a high cost to process large images. Also, more data does not imply a better prediction, and the network may have to filter out useless information. In this context, we incrementally formulate a lightweight model called RAM-VO to perform visual odometry regressions using large monocular images. Our model is extended from the Recurrent Attention Model (RAM), which has emerged as a unique architecture that implements a hard attentional mechanism guided by reinforcement learning to select the essential input information. Our methodology modifies the RAM and improves the visual and temporal representation of information, generating the intermediary RAM-R and RAM-RC architectures. Also, we include the optical flow as contextual information for initializing the RL agent and implement the Proximal Policy Optimization (PPO) algorithm to learn a robust policy. The experimental results indicate that RAM-VO can perform regressions with six degrees of freedom using approximately 3 million parameters. Additionally, experiments on the KITTI dataset confirm that RAM-VO produces competitive results using only 5.7% of the input image.
Mobile robots: a study on sensing and perception systems
Authors: Teixeira Marco Antonio Simões , Oliveira Andre Schneider de , Arruda Lucia Valeria Ramos de
Published: February 2022

Sensors traditionally used in mobile robotics provide raw data. Most of this data is processed and converted into information. This thesis had to goal study traditional sensing techniques, using RGB and 3D sensors, and propose a new sensing approach embedded in a compact hardware, named the DeepSpatial sensor. To reach the goal, a study of point cloud processing in land robots and air flights was carried out, and later the hardware and software architecture was proposed for a new sensing approach. The thesis was developed in the collection of articles model, consisting of 4 articles published in journals, where each chapter presents the summary of each published paper.
Analysis on Conveying of Miniature and Microparts on a Platform Subjected to Sinusoidal Displacement Cycles with Controlled Dry Friction
Authors: KILIKEVIČIUS Sigitas , FEDARAVIČIUS Algimantas , DAUKANTIENĖ Virginija , LIUTKAUSKIENĖ Kristina
Published: February 2022

This paper presents a novel method for convey-ing of miniature and microparts on a subjected to sinusoi-dal displacement cycles in the horizontal direction when the effective coefficient of dry friction between the part and the platform is periodically being controlled. Hereby, the required dynamic directionality is achieved via the system asymmetry created by periodic alteration of the effective coefficient of dry friction between the micropart and the platform. A mathematical model of conveying process is developed and solved numerically to determine the influence of frictional properties, friction control and sinusoidal excitation parameters on the conveying process characteristics. It was found that the velocity and direction of conveying can be easily controlled in a wide range by changing the phase shift between the function of the ef-fective dry friction coefficient and the function of horizon-tal sinusoidal displacement cycles as well as the duration of effective dry friction coefficient reduction. To test the theoretical findings in practise, an experimental setup for micropart conveying with controlled dry friction was cre-ated and build. The experimental results revealed the func-tional capabilities of the proposed method for micropart conveying by demonstrating how the velocity, direction and step size are controlled by regulating the parameters of friction control and sinusoidal excitation.The proposed method can be practically used in conveying, feeding, manipulation and assembly systems for miniature and microparts in the mechatronics, elec-tronic and other industries.
Research on Multi-objective Parameter Dynamic Optimization Design of HEV Considering Mode Transition
Authors: Huang Kang , Tang Zhiyu , Qiu Mingming , Wu Di , Zhang Bingzhan
Published: February 2022

The parameter optimization of hybrid electric vehicle is very complex and has always been the focus of research, due to the highly intertwined relationship between powertrain configurations and EMS. In addition, automated powertrain is typical cyber-physics system that contains discrete states, such as modes and gears. Transition between discrete states is a contributing factor that causes discomfort. Therefore, in order to solve the above problems, this paper proposes a multi-objective dynamic optimization algorithm considering mode transition. The algorithm consists of two layers. The first layer optimizes fuel economy and dynamic performance, the second layer optimizes ride comfort and smoothness performance, and the results of the second layer are returned to the first layer for re-optimization in real time. The mode transition frequency is used as the comfort objective function, and the threshold value of the engine high efficiency working area is added to the optimization parameter selection. The results show that the optimization method proposed in this paper realizes the parameter decoupling, and the optimization results achieve the global optimization. Effectively improves the vehicle performance and reduces engine start-stop frequently.
Modeling of the Missile Launch Dynamic Processes in Short-Range Air Defense System
Authors: FEDARAVIČIUS Algimantas , JASAS Karolis , SLIŽYS Egidijus , SURVILA Arvydas
Published: February 2022

Armament systems such as guns, launchers simulators are effective tools for training armed forces personnel. A firearm is a complex biomechanical system, so the best quality of training is achieved when training in a simulator, repeating the dynamic processes of the weapon by simulating the perception of real weapon use (feeling). The paper investigates the dynamic and stability properties of the short-range air defense system RBS-70. The RBS-70 short-range air defense system is designed to combat low-flying air targets. The purpose of this paper is to present the physical and mathematical models with com numerical dynamic simulation of the launcher in the first phase of missile flight. The theoretical model was formulated in the vertical plane and verified by the numerical modeling simulation.
Utilization of Carbon Fiber Torque Tubes in Ultra-Light, High Powered Propulsion Systems
Authors: Kirschey Gerhard , Burich Lawrence A.
Published: February 2022

There has long been a need for increasing the limits of propeller shafting. Carbon fiber torque tubes satisfy many of these needs by allowing for greater spans, higher speeds, lower weights, and better balance as compared to steel or aluminum torque tubes. These torque tubes are usually connected to a device on either end with the purpose of compensating for misalignment. This misalignment can be created by several conditions such as machining tolerances, installation, thermal growth, and/or hull flexure. These devices are typically rigidly or flexibly connected to the torque tube. Now, with the added advantages of carbon fiber materials and the latest fastening advances, a shafting system with more benefits than steel or aluminum can be used.
Proposals for Design Methodologies for Ice Class Propellers
Authors: Bose Neil , Veitch Brian , Doucet Michael
Published: February 2022

This paper describes proposals for design methodologies for ice class propellers. The design rationale for these proposals uses limit state analysis. To date, the methods are tentative as they form proposals for standards. The proposals include both steady and unsteady loading components arising from ice and hydrodynamic loads and the structural response in the form of direct stresses, fatigue loadings and existing residual stresses. Exceptional loads arising from impact loads of ice on stopped blades are also considered as a separate limit state.
New Alloys and Service Performance on High Speed Crafts
Authors: Philin J. A. , Ushkov S. S. , Chaschinov V. A.
Published: February 2022

This paper presents the test results of new propeller alloys developed by the authors to extend the service life of the propellers used on oceangoing hydrofoil craft. Comparative tests of high speed propellers cast with a new grade of corrosion resistant nitrided steel alloy as well as titanium alloys are summarized. These propellers have high specific strength and corrosion resistance in sea water. In addition, the design of these propellers was changed to have large skew to reduce the cavitation effects on the inclined propeller operation.

Steel shafting with oxide coatings and graphite bearing compounds is introduced to avoid corrosion in sea water when titanium propellers are fitted. This approach resulted in the successful corrosion isolation of the titanium propellers from the shafting and hull. When these new propellers were installed they significantly increased the propeller service life on the oceangoing hydrofoil craft.
Optimization and Stochastic Modeling Applied to Propulsion Shafting Alignment
Authors: Owen Steven Eugene
Published: February 2022

Two aspects of propulsion shaft alignment analysis are discussed: a) finding an optimized solution by minimizing the deviation between bearing loads, and b) determining the acceptability of the optimized solution (or any alignment solution) by calculating the probability of acceptable bearing loads that result from a simulated series of random bearing offset events.

The optimizing method is straight forward: the bearing loads are calculated using a· series of bearing offsets which are independently allowed to vary within a range of predetermined displacements. The acceptability of the alignment solution is judged against desired bearing load criteria. Several types of internal and external causes of bearing elevation effects are recognized, and the combination of the effects are presented as shaft alignment conditions.

By distributing the nominal offset solutions about their most likely values, a simulation can be performed which reveals the probability of an acceptable solution when using the same acceptability criteria used in the optimizing calculations. A triangle distribution is shown in a subroutine and can be employed in an algorithm designed to randomly distribute the bearing offsets. Methods are described and examples are presented which show the application of shaft alignment optimization and probability analysis to produce alignment solutions which meet example criteria.
Small Propeller Cup: A Proposed Geometry Standard and a New Performance Model
Authors: MacPherson Donald M.
Published: February 2022

A widely used technique to correct and enhance vessel performance is the propeller "cup" - a curvature applied to the trailing edge of a propeller blade. Although cupping has become a regular procedure in small propeller shops, it is typically applied without any systematic rules or quantifiable understanding of its effect on performance. The traditional definitions of cup (e.g., light, heavy) vary greatly from one company to the next, and even from one project to the next within the same company. It is the goal of this paper to provide a consistent definition of cup geometry for practical use in industry, as well as a new performance model that can be used in propeller calculations.
Hydrofoil Sections with Thick Trailing Edges
Authors: Cox Bruce D. , Kimball Richard W. , Scherer Otto
Published: February 2022

Subcavitating hydrofoil sections with thickened trailing edges offer potential advantages of greater structural rigidity and delayed cavitation inception. In order to evaluate this concept two foils were tested in the M.I. T. water tunnel, one with a relatively thick trailing edge (2% of chord) and the other with a conventional sharp edge. Both foils were designed to develop a lift coefficient of 0.20 and incorporate near-optimal chordwise distributions of loading and thickness. This paper presents measurements of lift and drag as functions of incidence and Reynolds number, as well as surface cavitation inception, and near wake velocity surveys. Data for the thickened foil fitted with a beveled trailing edge and with a splitter plate are also given. These results are compared with analytical predictions, taking account of tunnel boundary effects. Recommendations are offered for further analytical and experimental research.
Propeller Blade Cavitation in Unsteady Flow: Analysis of the Scale Effects
Authors: Amromin Eduard , Kovinskaya Svetlana
Published: February 2022

Two parameters can be fixed during the cavitation experiments: cavitation number and Strauhal number. However, scale effects should be taken into account for marine propeller blades in the wake of a ship's hull. Flexural vibration of the blades in an unsteady flow cause changes in the pressure distribution about blade sections and their Lift oscillations. The magnitude of vibration depends on cavity length which is a function of section Lift, as well as cavity separation position. As a result, this length depends on Reynolds and Weber numbers which are defined by the blade dimensions. Numerical analysis of such scale effects is based on a combination of two- and three-dimensional hydroelastic models utilizing potential flow theory with an implicit account of viscous effects.
Public Expectations of School Board Trustees
Authors: Piscitelli Anthony , Perella Andrea M. L. , Payler Adam
Published: February 2022

School board trustees play an important role in the education of children throughout Ontario. Using an online survey of Ontario residents, expectations of school board trustees are explored in detail. The survey included an open-ended question that asked respondents what role they see being performed by trustees, as well as a question that asked respondents whether they preferred a “delegate” governing model, which believes trustees should represent constituents, or a “trustee” model, which believes trustees should render decisions based on their best judgement. On the surface, respondents see three primary and distinct roles: represent the public; support the administrative functions of the school board, and to ensure educational outcomes are met. In addition, the sample tilts favourably towards the “delegate” governing model. Regression models identify some factors that help explain respondents’ choices.
The Internationalization of Post-Secondary Education in Manitoba: A Critique of Two Government Policy Approaches, 1999 - 2021
Authors: Browning Kimberly , Elnagar Abdelhady
Published: February 2022

International education has become a policy sector of increasing importance to the Canadian province of Manitoba. Provincial governments with opposing political ideologies can impact international education policy differently. Using narratives as an analytical framework, we identify themes by examining the approaches taken to the international post-secondary education (PSE) sector in Manitoba under the last two governments that held office. The analysis reveals that while both governments’ policies are underpinned by neoliberalism reflecting the economic benefits of international student recruitment and retention, key differences are identified. While cultural diversity and global understanding, policy coordination and collaboration, associated leadership, strategy, and a regulatory framework were important components of international PSE policy, there has been a discernible shift towards an austerity agenda, free market policies, and a reconceptualization of international PSE as an immigration-focused policy. The paper concludes that the current government’s focus on labour markets and immigration when it comes to international PSE means that other aspects of internationalization are little understood and supported.
Imaginarios culturales, videoclips y medio ambiente
Authors:   Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, San Cornelio Gemma
Published: February 2022

Hace unos pocos días de la publicación del nuevo trabajo de la cantante Rosalía, Saoko, y ello ha generado un aluvión de análisis y reacciones de todo tipo en torno a la producción musical, la estética de la cantante o el videoclip. Es en este último en el que me centraré a propósito de uno de los comentarios que ha recibido, relacionado con el imaginario que el clip evoca.
The dynamics of development of relations between the Republic of Korea and Mongolia in modern historical period
Authors: Grigor'eva Yuliya Gennad'evna
Published: February 2022

This article is dedicated to examination of the modern stages of transformation of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Korea and Mongolia. The subject of this research is the political interaction of Mongolia and the Republic of Korea over the period from 1990 to 2020. The goal lies in the analysis of crucial aspects of the high-level Mongolian-South Korean visits, as well as determination of the key stages in the development of bilateral relations over the period from 1990 to 2020. Research methodology leans on the historical-retrospective method, which allowed tracing the vector and dynamics of the development of relations between the Republic Korea and Mongolia, as well as chronological method aimed at outlining the stages of establishment and development of cooperation and fundamental changes thereof. The scientific novelty lies in the fact that this topic is poorly studied, It is revealed that over the past 30 years, Mongolian-South Korean relations have taken a new leap 4 times. In 1999, the visit of the Korean Leader Kim Dae-jung to Mongolia lead to the establishment of "complementary cooperation" between the two countries; in 2006; visit of the Korean President Roh Moo-hyun to Mongolia in 2006 marks consolidation of the status of “friendly nations”; in 2011, the Presidents Lee Myung-bak and Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj announced the transition to a "comprehensive partnership". In 2021, the Republic of Korea and Mongolia agreed upon propelling the bilateral relations to the level of strategic partnership, which made South Korea the sixth country to achieve a high status of bilateral relations.
Feeling like a ‘real’ scientist
Authors: Varma Aalok
Published: February 2022

Peer reviewing helped a graduate student to finally gain a sense of belonging within the research community.
The relationships between toad behaviour, antipredator defences, and spatial and sexual variation in predation pressure
Authors: Zamora-Camacho Francisco Javier
Published: February 2022

Background

Animal behaviour is under strong selection. Selection on behaviour, however, might not act in isolation from other fitness-related traits. Since predators represent outstanding selective forces, animal behaviour could covary with antipredator defences, such that individuals better suited against predators could afford facing the costs of riskier behaviours. Moreover, not all individuals undergo equivalent degrees of predation pressure, which can vary across sexes or habitats. Individuals under lower predation pressure might also exhibit riskier behaviours.

Methods

In this work, I tested these hypotheses on natterjack toads (Epidalea calamita). Specifically, I gauged activity time, exploratory behaviour and boldness in standard laboratory conditions, and assessed whether they correlated with body size and antipredator strategies, namely sprint speed, parotoid gland area and parotoid gland colour contrast. Additionally, I compared these traits between sexes and individuals from an agrosystem and pine grove, since there is evidence that males and agrosystem individuals are subjected to greater predation pressure.

Results

Sprint speed as well as parotoid gland contrast and size appeared unrelated to the behavioural traits studied. In turn, body mass was negatively related to activity time, boldness and exploration. This trend is consistent with the fact that larger toads could be more detectable to their predators, which are mostly gape unconstrained and could easily consume them. As predicted, females exhibited riskier behaviours. Nonetheless, agrosystem toads did not differ from pine grove toads in the behavioural traits measured, despite being under stronger predation pressure.
A Prospective Study to Evaluate BISAP Score in Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Tomer Anurag , Dhooria Harmeet Pal Singh , Nar Amandeep Singh , Mishra Atul , Singh Ravinder Pal , Mishra Akashi
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Acute Pancreatitis (AP) is among leading cause of acute abdomen in the study institution. There is a need of simple criteria to stratify patients in Emergency Department. The Bedside Index for Severity in Acute Pancreatitis (BISAP) score is one such score. Aim: This study evaluates the BISAP score to predict organ failure, pancreatic necrosis and moderately severe/severe AP in tertiary health care center in India and promote its use. Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted on 50 consecutive patients diagnosed as AP from May 2019 to April 2020 and admitted in Emergency Department of DMC Hospital, Ludhiana, India. BISAP score was calculated based on data obtained within 24 hours of hospitalisation. Severity of AP was defined according to the Revised Atlanta Classification, 2012. Organ failure was defined using the Modified Marshall scoring system. Data was expressed in terms of median, frequencies (number of cases) and relative frequencies (percentages); range; mean±Standard Deviation (±SD). All statistical calculations were done in Microsoft Windows Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) version 21.0. Results: The leading cause of AP in present study is gall stones, with maximum 26 (52%) cases. Second most common cause is alcohol with 11 (22%) cases. Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS) is the most common component of BISAP score, present in 47 (94%) cases. Pancreatic necrosis present in 12 (24%) cases. Incidence of pancreatic necrosis rises at score ≥3 which is statistically significant (p-value- 0.008). Transient organ failure was present in 14 (28%) cases, persistent organ failure was present in 9 (18%) cases and 27 (54%) cases had no organ failure. At score ≥3, there is increased risk of organ failure and it is statistically significant (p-value ≤0.001). There are 27 (54%) mild, 14 (28%) moderately severe and 9 (18%) severe cases of AP. At score ≥3, there is increased risk of moderately severe and severe pancreatitis and it is statistically significant (p-value ≤0.001). Conclusion: There is statistically significant trend of increasing incidence of organ failure, pancreatic necrosis and moderately severe/severe AP at BISAP score ≥3. Thus, BISAP score is simple yet accurate scoring system to improve early risk stratification in AP.
Perceptions of First Year MBBS Learners on the Use of WhatsApp Groups as an Adjunctive Tool to Facilitate Learning in Anatomy- A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Gowri Tallapalli Lakshmi Sri , Chandrashekhar D , Prashanti Tulluru , Kavitha Mudavath , Rao Jana Siva Koti Srinivasa
Published: February 2022

Introduction: The abundant usage of mobile devices, its applications and access to information has changed the learners’ way of study, communication and work. Structured and strategically planned usage of this application would support traditional teaching and learning. Based on this widely used WhatsApp social network has been chosen for complementing learning of Anatomy amongst the learners of first year MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine Bachelor of Surgery). Aim: To assess the first year MBBS students learners’ perceptions on WhatsApp group discussions conducted during their study period in Anatomy. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Government Medical College, Nizamabad, Telangana, India, in which all the first year MBBS learners (100) of Anatomy from September 2016 to May 2017 and which were on WhatsApp group were included. Discussions using mobiles with facilitator and later perceptions of the learners with a questionnaire were analysed on the implementation and utility of the application. Results: A total of 98 learners answered the questionnaire on perceptions. A 91% of learners admitted that the application was useful to them by >50%. It was observed that 87% of learners were able to communicate with peer group and with their co-learners. A total of 95% felt this could be done with every subject and continued for juniors too with an added advantage of learning academics. A total of 84%, 94% and 95% of learners felt it helped them to prepare for theory, practical and viva-voce exams, respectively. Conclusion: The study concludes that the WhatsApp group discussions can be continued to inculcate learning environment amongst the learners in Anatomy and it should be combined with traditional teaching to enhance learning.
Investigation of Heat Dissipation Efficiency of the Liquid-Cooled Spring Lamp
Authors: Duc To Anh , Thang Bui Hung , Tuan Bui Anh , Phuong Mai Thi , Minh Phan Ngoc , Huy Bui
Published: February 2022

In this article, the results that we have obtained from our experiments with the heat dissipation process of the liquid-cooled spring lamp are presented. Our measurements clearly demonstrated that using liquid as a coolant did enhance the efficiency of the heat dissipation process, as the temperatures of the LED chips reduced by 16 degrees compared with normal spring lamps, which do not use coolant. Because of this decline in temperature, the average lifetime of the chips is increased by approximately 367%. In addition to that, the liquid that we used in our experiments (silicone oil) has high transparency and thus does not have any negative impacts on the brightness of the LED chips.
Critical Success Factors of Online Shopping: Rural Perscpective
Authors: Vakamullu Gopalakrishna , Misra Nihar Ranjan , Venugopal Koppala
Published: February 2022

The rural consumer behaviour has been explored by many corporates with respect to the behaviour, purchase power and adoption at the stand point of promoting their products to the rural, wherein certain habits associated with media have also been studied by many researchers. Technological shift of rural consumers is found comparatively better. Yet, the trendy practices of online shopping have certain barriers to get the maximum effectiveness from rural market. Urban transition, infrastructure development and technological revolution have grown the rural consumer adaption but not as equal as in urban place. Identification and assessment of certain barriers of online shopping in rural places as the aim, the study was carried out in Srikakulam District. Method blend of descriptive research design, qualitative and quantitative approach, convenience sampling of non-probability and cross-sectional survey was conducted. Data collected from primary and secondary sources was analysed and discussed with the inferential statistics of multiple regression of analysis. Results related to the weightages of certain items of independent variables have been explored and elaborated the extent they will explain the dependent variable. Management implications on physical touch, trust variables, delays in delivery, payment problems, stretch of bargaining, refund policy, education of technology and problems with network were diffused into conclusions as well as suggestions.
Caudal Skeleton Variations in Alburnoides Fish Species from Iranian Water Basins
Authors: Mohammadi-Sarpiri Fereshteh , Keivany Yazdan
Published: February 2022

The species in the genus Alburnoides is distinguished based on having a combination of some morphological characteristics and different fin ray counts. Most descriptions are based on morphological characteristics and molecular approaches. The species are widely distributed in the Iranian basins. Since osteological structures of fishes provide major biological and ecological information, studying these structures is valuable. The present study was conducted to provide a caudal skeleton variations in Alburnoides fish species from Iran for the first time. For this purpose, three specimens of Alburnoides species were collected from different basins using the gill net (1mm) and electrofishing device and fixed in 10% buffered formalin. Then, the specimens were cleared and stained with alcian blue and alizarin red for osteological examination. Based on the results, several differences were observed among the species. The caudal shape comparison of Alburnoides species from the Inland water of Iran revealed some differences among them including the shape of the epural and rudimentary neural arch. However, ten species of Alburnoides, from Iran were not distinguishable based on these osteological characteristics.
Genetic Aspects in Congenital Heart Diseases in Infant of Diabetic Mother: A Review Article
Authors: H. Hassan Mohammed , Hassany Amany Abdelaty , Rashwan Nagwan I. , Ahmed Ahmed El-Abd
Published: February 2022

Background: The pathogenesis and effects of maternal diabetes on their infants is still not entirely understood, but it's likely to have several teratogenic mechanisms. The fetal heart is anatomically and physiologically altered by diabetes mellitus. About 400 genes are thought to be involved in the etiology of congenital heart disease such as DAW1, DNAI1,DRC1, PDE2A,CCDC39,TMEM67, and ICAM. Endothelial cells and immune system cells exhibit the cell surface glycoprotein CD54, also known as intercellular adhesion mollecule-1 (ICAM-1), which is thought to contribute to atherogenesis by increasing monocyte accumulation within the artery intima. In adult individuals with unexplained cardiac dysfunction as well as animals with myocarditis, ICAM-1 expression has been seen on cardiac myocytes. So, the aim of our review is to explore variant genetic aspects implicated in development of congenital heart diseases (CHD) in infants of diabetic mothers and the possible effect of diabetes mellitus.

Conclusion: Genes that were highly enriched in cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) were found to be among the many differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in embryonic heart tissues from diabetic mothers, including ICAM-1, which had the greatest connection degree in the protein-protein interaction (PPI) of both upregulated DEGs and shared DEGs and are major determinants in development of CHD among infant born to diabetic mothers.
Umbilical Cord Care Knowledge and Practice: What is the Status of National Chlorhexidine Gel Scale-Up in Nnewi Nigeria?
Authors: Onubogu C. U. , Okeke K. N. , Ugochukwu E. F. , Ezeudu C. E. , Igwe W. C. , Muokwugwo E. O. , Edokwe E. S. , Agu N. V.
Published: February 2022

Background: Use of chlorhexidine gel for cord care was scaled up in Nigeria to address the high burden of neonatal deaths from severe sepsis but there is scarcity of data on its uptake.

Aim: A cross-sectional study was conducted to examine the cord care practices of mothers in Nnewi.

Methods: Data was obtained using an interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire, and analyzed with SPSS version 21. P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. 

Results: Mean age of the 214 studied mothers was 29.6 ± 5.53 years.  Majority had at least secondary education (93.5%), were income earners (83.2%), attended ante-natal clinic (ANC) (83.1%) or delivered (81.8%) in a health facility with skilled provider, and received health education on cord care during pregnancy for the index baby (80.4%). Health education was mostly received during ANC (75.6%[130/172]) and from nurses (73.3%[126/172]). Majority knew about methylated spirit use (89.3%) and the consequence of poor cord care (75.7%) but only 2.8% were aware of chlorhexidine gel use.

Umbilical stump was commonly cleaned with methylated spirit (89.3%) and or hot compress (24.8%). Thereafter, 47.7% applied nothing while others applied petroleum jelly (33.2%), toothpaste (8.9%), dusting powder (3.3%) etc. Reasons given for adopting a particular practice included efficacy (54.7%), advice by people (25.7%), peer’s influence (8.4%) and convenience (8.4%).  Factors significantly associated with using an antiseptic agent for cord care were maternal age, educational level, access to or source of health education, and frequency of ANC visits.

Conclusion/Recommendation: Respondents demonstrated good knowledge and practice of standard cord care but awareness and use of chlorhexidine gel was almost non-existent. .

Hindrances to effective national chlorhexidine scale-up should be identified and addressed. There’s serious need for enlightenment campaigns on chlorhexidine efficacy using public media channels such as radio jingles.
Serological Evidence of Rickettsial Infection by Weil-Felix Test in Tertiary Care Hospital in Bangladesh
Authors: Begam Mahfuja , Shampa Shaira Akter , Farzana Aleya , Chowdhury Mahbuba , Tarafder Shirin
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Rickettsial infections are re-emerging diseases and are major causes of febrile illnesses throughout the Asia-Pacific region. It is difficult to diagnose due to the non-specific clinical manifestations, absence of reliable and affordable diagnostic tests thereby contributes to increasing the acute febrile burden and preventive illness in many populations. Undiagnosed or late-diagnosed cases are associated with high morbidity and mortality.

Objectives: The study aimed to determine rickettsial disease by Weil-Felix test and to know the frequency of rickettsial diseases in febrile patients presenting to tertiary care hospitals in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Methods: In this study, a total of 135 peripheral blood samples were taken and tested by Weil Felix test from clinically suspected patients of rickettsial fever.

Results: Weil- Felix test was positive in 33((24.4%) cases. Of Weil- Felix test-positive cases, OX-2 was positive in 87.87% cases, followed by OX-K (6.06%), OX-19 (3.03%), and both OX-2 & OX-K (3.03%) cases. OX-2 positive cases are suggestive of spotted fever group, OX-K of scrub typhus group, OX-19 of typhus group, and OX-2 & OX-K are suggestive of both spotted fever group and scrub typhus group. This finding suggests that most cases were infected with spotted fever group rickettsiae (SFGR).

Conclusion: Analyzing the present study's findings, it may be concluded that rickettsial infection is not uncommon in Bangladesh. Weil-Felix test can be used in laboratories to diagnose rickettsial diseases where specific reliable serological or molecular test is not available.
Climate Change: A Charismatic to Traumatic Path of Indian Biodiversity
Authors: Udaykumar M. S. , Umesh K. B. , Pooja N.
Published: February 2022

Climate change has become a customary part of a study in all sciences. This review article aims at studying the climate change and its impact on the biodiversity in India. Climate change mainly alters biodiversity in terms of extinction of species. Climate change and biodiversity are parallel lines of the tracks on which human is running his exploitative train of greed. This article focuses on the biodiversity in India, importance and threats. Article also suggests the measures to overcome the climate change and biodiversity loss in India.
Sustainable Production of Barnyard Millet through Improved Production Technologies
Authors: Sukanya T. S. , Chaithra C. , Nagaraja T. E. , Latha H. S. , C. Hadli Deepti
Published: February 2022

Barnyard millet is cultivated for food besides fodder. Millets are less nutrient demanding, cultivated with low chemical inputs, less greenhouse gasses emitting crop thus millets reduce carbon footprint in agriculture. In India, barnyard millet is a significant dry land crop and cultivated over an extensive range of environmental situations under deprived soil conditions for human consumption and for fodder as well. It has the distinct feature of drought resistance and can survive water logging for two weeks which are unique features of it. Crop has wide flexibility and lodges a special place in marginal rainfed areas because of its short life cycle. In India, it is largely cultivated in two different agro-ecologies i.e., in the mid hills of Himalayan region of Uttarakhand in the North and Deccan plateau region of southern peninsula of India. Less productivity of crop is largely due to poor crop management practices. Barnyard millet is considered of regional importance and hence little attention is been given for research despite its higher significance. Considering the significance of the crop, an initiative has been undertaken to draw out the agronomic management strategies for barnyard millet for sustained productivity and to compile the agronomic studies on the crop.
Genetic Studies and Response of Rice Germplasm (Oryza sativa L.) to Brown Spot Incidence in Aerobic Condition
Authors: Shahani Monika , Kumar Rajesh , . Nilanjaya , Kumar Ashutosh , Kumar Avinash , Bijarania Subhash
Published: February 2022

The present investigation was carried out with 150 rice genotypes and three check varieties namely Rajshree, Pankaj and Rajendra Neelam with the view of assessing the variability in traits related to productivity and studying the response of these varieties towards brown spot resistance under the aerobic condition. These genotypes were evaluated for brown spot incidence and yield potential by recording observation for 11 quantitative traits by using augmented randomized complete block design at Rice research farm of RPCAU, Pusa, Bihar, during Kharif season of 2019.  Analysis of variance revealed significant differences amongst the genotypes for all the eleven traits studied. Based on the mean performance, 14 genotypes out of 150 genotypes were significantly superior to the best check, Rajendra Neelam, for three traits viz., grain yield/ plant, Percent Disease Intensity (PDI) and area under disease progress curve (AUDPC), which are considered key traits for the assessment of brown spot incidence.  The genotypes viz., VLD 16 entry no. -5, Udyagiri entry no.-9, and SKL 6 entry no.-94 significantly exhibited high mean for majority of the traits under study. Based on the AUDPC values, genotypes Satabdi, PS-4, Haryana Basmati and SKL6 were resistant for brown spot incidence. For most of the traits studied, moderate to low value of phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) and genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) was recorded.  Higher magnitude of broad sense heritability and genetic advance as per cent of mean (GAM) were perceived for days to 50% flowering, plant height, no. of tillers per plant, no. of panicles per plant, filled grains per panicle, grain yield per plant, PDI, AUDPC signifying that direct selection by these traits can be rewarding for achieving yield improvisation and resistance to brown spot disease
Effect of Plastic Mulching and Irrigation Levels on Yield of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Authors: Kishore Gottam , Babu Banda Maheswara , Challa Lakshmi Poojitha , Kumar S. Vinod , Konga Upendar , Durga M. Lakshmi
Published: February 2022

Plastic mulches are widely used for cultivation of vegetables. An experiment was conducted to observe the impact of plastic colour mulches on soil temperature, water use efficiency (WUE) and produce of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) under drip irrigation from 2015-2016. The treatments were laid out in split plot design with three replications. The plastic coloured mulches used were white on black, silver on black and black. 60, 80, 100 and 120% evapotranspiration (ET) used as irrigation levels and a non-mulched treatment as control. Due to the interaction effects, treatment white colour on black plastic mulch with 80% ET i.e., I2M1 recorded the maximum yield (93.54 t ha-1) followed by silver colour on black plastic mulch with 80% ET (I2M2) produced 87.65 t ha-1. Plastic colour mulching improved production compared to bare soil. as the plants grown in white colour on black plastic colour mulch resulted 40 to 54% increase in yield compared to control treatment.
Speargrass [Imperata cylindrica (L.) Raeuschel] Growth in Relation to Season, Rainfall and Temperature Patterns of Southern Agro-ecologies of Nigeria
Authors: Aluko O. A. , Amosun J. O. , Adetayo A. O. , Dauda T. O.
Published: February 2022

Speargrass posed a major constraint to crop producion in some agroecologies in Nigeria.  Hence, the study was conducted to investigate the influence of seasons, rainfall and temperature patterns on speargrass components growth with the view to improve its management. This study was conducted between 2014 and 2016 at Eruwa (7˚32’0˚N, 3˚ 25’0 ˚E, 187m altitude) in Derived savanna (DS) and Kishi (08˚.98’N, 003˚.94’E; 364m altitude) in the southern Guinea savanna (SGS)–northern fringe agroecologies of Nigeria. Twelve months of the year starting from July were randomly assigned to plots in an abandoned speargrass infested farmland, replicated three times and arranged in Randomized Complete Block Design. Monthly temperature, rainfall and speargrass samples (shoot and rhizome) were measured. Results showed that rainfall amount varied across the months in both locations. The highest rainfall was recorded in September (264.20 mm) and hottest month was May, 2016 (28.5oC) in Derived savanna between 2014 and 2016 (Table 1). Kishi had 186 mm rainfall in the wettest months and the hottest months had 28.0 oC within the specified period of the study (Table 2).  Total speargrass total dry weight (STDW) increased with rise in rainfall in both locations. Meanwhile, there were variations in the components (Shoot and rhizome) weight. However, there was decline in speargrass dry matter during the dry months (January to April) in the locations. This might have reflected the effects of moisture deficit.  Notwisthanding, Rhizome:shoot varied  at both locations. Derived savanna (Eruwa) had rhizome:shoot >1.00 in five months throughout the study (5/24), while southern Guinea savanna (Kishi) had rhizome:shoot >1.00 in eleven months (11/24). Speargrass control might be more challenging especially in SGS than DS in the months with higher Rhizome:shoot ratio > 1.00. Derived savanna had more months (19/24 months) with lower rhizome:shoot ratio (< 1.00) than SGS (13/24 months). This might have resulted from more rainy months and better distribution of rainfall in Derived savanna for speargrass shoot growth and the resultant decrease in rhizome:shoot (< 1.00). This is a clue for better translocation of herbicides for season-long speargrass control.
Relationship between Knowledge and Practice of Physical Activity and Development of Chronic Diseases among Adults in Port Harcourt, Rivers State
Authors: Udo Orukwowu , Chigozie Nwondah , Dennis Wogu , John Akpan Ido
Published: February 2022

Background: Non-communicable disease (NCD) is a disease that is not transmissible directly from one person to another. The aim study is to assess the relationship between knowledge and practice of physical activity and development of chronic diseases among adults in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Materials and Methods: The study was conducted among residents in Port Harcourt metropolis, Rivers State. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used for this study. A multi-stage sampling method was used to recruit 333 participants into the study. The study included adults who were 45yrs and above at time of the data collection, and who must have lived in Port Harcourt for at least 1 year. All adults who were critically ill at the time of this study were excluded. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect responses from the participants. Information collected were entered into the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 21 software as numeric codes and analyzed. Ethical clearance for the study was gotten from the Ethics Committee of Rivers State University and informed consent was obtained from all participants.

Result: This study found that majority of the participants, (64.9%) had good knowledge of physical activity while (35.1%) had poor knowledge physical activity. About (25.2%) of the participants engage in physical activity, while (53.6%) of them regularly do physical activity. The result showed that a statistically significant association was observed between tobacco consumption at (p=0.0001), alcohol consumption at (p=0.0001) and chronic diseases. Also a statistically significant relationship between knowledge of physical activity and chronic disease.

Conclusion: This study concludes that there is a significant relationship between lack of exercise and development of chronic diseases. Also, socio-demographic characteristics and social lifestyle of the respondents have a great influence on physical activity, development and progression of chronic diseases among adults. The study recommends that health workers should organize regular health education and promotion on physical activity among adults in Port Harcourt and other parts of the country.