bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of E-Learning Media on Cognitive Skills Enhancement of Students
Authors: Khan Rahmat Ullah , Inamullah Hafiz Muhammad , Irshadullah Hafiz M
Published: September 2018

The significant time that learners spend on using e-learning media for teaching learning purpose at schools and homes creates some thought provoking questions like how the use of e-learning media may influence cognitive skills enhancement?, and if it does have influence, then how much? The study evaluates the effects of e-learning media on cognitive skills enhancement of science students respectively, and compares the impact of elearning media on cognitive skills enhancement of male and female science learners. The study is experimental in nature. Results of the study are tested at significance level alpha: a = 0.05. After conducting pre-tests, treatment and post-tests, it is found that the post-test results of male and female science students are better than their pre-test. It is also found that the cognitive skills enhancement score of both genders of students of experimental group is higher than the score of both genders of students of control group on the basis of post-tests scores. It is also found that there was no difference between cognitive skills enhancement score of male students of experimental group and that of female students of experimental group on the basis of post-tests scores. Consequently, it is concluded that the use of e-learning media has considerable positive effect on the achievement of male and female science students and it enhances their cognitive skills, but no considerable difference was observed between the cognitive skills enhancement of male and female students using e learning media.
Delimitation of the Central Business District Peshawar (Pakistan)
Authors: Ali Amjad , Malik Sher Muhammad , Jan Mushtaq Ahmad
Published: September 2018

The present study identifies the limits and pattern of commercial activities within CBD of Peshawar. Retailing is topmost paying commercial activity and occupies the highest bid-rent location in the city. The Central Business District (CBD) is the retail heart of the city. The spatial arrangement of commercial activities happens to be very complex and their limits are dynamic in the CBD of Peshawar. The land value, rent values, taxation system, commuter behaviour, nature and transformation of commercial activities are directly dependent on this spatial arrangement and delimitation of CBD. The methodology adopted for this study is the combination of traditional rules/methods with modern tool of GIS. The results for spatial arrangement of commercial activities and delimitation of CBD are more precise which can enable the city planners and investors to achieve better sustainable development in city and regional context.
Geographic, Ethnic and Linguistic Composition of Afghanistan: Methodological rich points of Language Policy and Planning
Authors: Ahmad Ayaz , Hussan Sana , Safiullah
Published: September 2018

This paper evaluates the Language Policy and Planning's (LPP) Methodological Rich Points (MRP) in the geographic, ethnic and linguistic composition of Afghanistan. The theoretical construct is taken from the work of Nancy H. Hornberger on MRP in LPP. The paper explores a range of primary and secondary sources, and finds that the presence of inequality, marginalization and oppression in intra-ethnic and intralanguage group relations, sharing of resources and power account for neglect of the MRP in Afghan LPP. The geographic details in conjunction with explanation of historical process of migrations and conquests explains that most of the minority language speakers are concentrated in the difficult to reach areas of Afghanistan for their safety. Further, the limiting factors of Afghan geography explains the preservation of minority languages from the effects of majority languages. The study concludes with the proposal that it would be helpful to avoid the pitfalls of the current LPP in future by giving due attention to MRP.
Negotiating Identity of a Teacher and Teacher Leader in Teaching English to the Speakers of Other Languages: Evidence from Literature
Authors: Shah Sayyed Rashid , Amin Rooh Ul , Ahmad Hussain
Published: September 2018

The aim of this theoretical paper is to understand the meaning of identity and it is shaping at the workplace. While focusing on teacher leaders’ professional identity, this paper examines the notion of identity, and its development in education settings. The notion of identity formation determines teacher identity formation and teacher leaders’ identity development in various contexts. The paper reviews literature on how teachers evolve their leadership identity as a result of personal characteristics integrated into external and internal factors. This assimilation contributes to the process of identity formation. Personal attributes include credibility as a competent classroom teacher, intrinsic motivation for leadership, ability to create a positive school culture, utilization of the past experiences and having knowledge of the field. Other factors include influence of context or school culture, professional support available at work, appreciation and guidance from senior leadership, leadership models or structures in schools, professional learning communities, campus-based professional development courses or programs, professional networking and collegial practices in the school. The reviewed literature also indicates that teacher leadership identity is an important aspect of teacher professional development, particularly in the UK and the US school settings. The review also brings up the significance of teachers as leaders and highlights how teachers shape their leadership identity while working in school context. As this review identifies lack of research on teacher leaders’ identity formation in TESOL contexts as well as higher education institutions, it concludes with suggestions for future research in the said field.
Soft Power and Cultural Diplomacy as Counter-terrorism Measure in Contemporary International Politics
Authors: Fatima Noor , Khan Zahid Ali
Published: September 2018

Public diplomacy lies at the heart of modern development of information age and shapes the concept of social and political thought. This paper analysis the concept of soft power vis-a-vis counter terrorism strategy of nation states and discusses the significance of the soft power and public/cultural diplomacy in building image, nation branding and ultimately building a narrative. It will bring the reference point of Pakistan on the issue of relevance with today's world at the same time carrying a negative image of terrorist state. This paper establishes co-relation between nation branding and public diplomacy. Since the hard power is meeting with failure in order to curb the terrorism, there is limitation of state capacity to use hard power in bringing the structural changes needed for curbing terrorism. The paper recommends that there is a great need for revisiting religious narrative that extremists invoke for justification of their acts.
Foreign Languages’ Planning in the Post-Taliban Afghanistan
Authors: Ahmad Ayaz , Hussan Sana , Safiullah Muhammad
Published: September 2018

This paper analyses the management of foreign languages in the language planning of Afghanistan after the fall of Taliban. The analyses assess the suitability of foreign languages performing developmental and peace-making roles in domains where distribution of power is contested by the Afghan ethnolinguistic groups. Primary data of the paper comes from a questionnaire based survey and followup interviews. Analysis reveals the presence of various modern languages such as French, German, Russian and English in Afghanistan. The acceptance of foreign languages especially English is overwhelming in Afghanistan. Among foreign languages, English happens to be the most vigorous and promising language. However, a significant portion of Afghans oppose the growing influence and power for the foreign languages in Afghanistan. The paper notes, an uneven spread of English as the dominant foreign language in Afghanistan. Therefore, foreign languages' role in development and peacemaking may not be achieved due to lack of equal access. The paper recommends a wide-range of interventions to help in making foreign languages a resource for development and peacemaking. The intervention includes social, economic and political equality and equal opportunities in learning of foreign languages. It is also emphasised that the promotion of local languages is not to be affected by the availability of foreign languages.
National Plan for Devolution of Power under 18th Amendment: Challenges for Government in the New Pakistan
Authors: Begum Sajida , Ashraf Muhammad Imran , Ishaque Waseem
Published: September 2018

History of the politics of agitation and protest indicate that political agitation has always been converted from any point to the issue of provincial autonomy in Pakistan. The case of Pakistan Tehrik-E-Insaf (PTI), on alleged rigging after the general elections of 2013 also suggests that the protest after general elections 2018 would at last be transformed from rigging to demanding the redressal of provincial grievances over devolution of power under 18th amendment. Since, provincial governments including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) had continuously been registering grievances about the transfer of liabilities without transferring corresponding assets and resources to provinces. In current scenario under the slogan of 'New-Pakistan' the registering of complaints by political leadership against federation though the card of provincial autonomy would have more and prolonged potential and attraction for the general public rather than merely protest on rigging. Therefore, the biggest challenge for the government in new Pakistan would be addressing the provincial issues. Because sooner or later the protest led by opposition political parties over rigging in 2018 elections would be transformed within one year into the protest for provincial issues. In the backdrop, this study highlights the challenges for newly established government of PTI in-terms of center-province relations over provincial autonomy. Further, conventional approach of federalism (extreme centralized federalism) still prevails in Pakistan which ultimately poses impediments to center-provinces virtuous working relations. That’s why it would be significant to investigate that on what issues working relation between federal and provincial governments may potentially be deteriorate. Political and economic measures have also been suggested in this study for PTI government to address the regional grievances and disparity in New-Pakistan.
Effects of Integrated lessons on Learning Urdu Language Skill of Students at Primary Level
Authors: Zaidi Naseem , Khatoon Sufiana
Published: September 2018

The study explores the effectiveness of integrated and traditional instruction method in developing reading and writing skills in Urdu language at primary level. As an experimental study it used Pretest, post-test and control group design in finding these effects. The researcher developed integrated instruction model for Urdu language by combining contents of Urdu and Islamic Studies by adopting multidisciplinary approach. Lesson plans were prepared by the researcher according to the integrated instruction model to teach the primary level students. In order to measure the performance of the students, teacher made achievement test was prepared by the researcher. The validity of the developed instrument was checked through expert opinion and reliability was checked through pilot testing. This experimental work was carried out for sixteen weeks in a public sector primary level school in Islamabad. Population of experiment was grade IV students. Seventy-six students were selected from class IV for experiment through the draw method. Students were assigned to experimental and control group after their performance in Pre-Test. Experimental group was taught through integrated instruction method while control group was taught through traditional instruction method. After the completion of the experimental period post-test was administered. The data were collected through teacher made achievement test. Data were then analyzed applying independent t-test. The results of study revealed that integrated learning was more effective in developing basic skills of reading and writing of Urdu language in students at prima
The Role of Socio-Economic Factors in Earning of Women in Education Sector District Peshawar (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa)
Authors: Qadir Fazli , Tariq Muhammad , Jehangir Muhammad
Published: September 2018

This paper overviews socio-economic factors as determinants of working women earnings in education department of district Peshawar Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. For this purpose, a primary data was collected through a structured questionnaire from 126 working females in September, 2017. Multinomial logistic regression technique has been used for the estimation of results. The main findings of the study are that education, experience, family income, and locality of job area showed positive relationship with working women earnings. However, marital status remained insignificant. Based on the findings of this study the researchers recommended that females are significantly contributing in family expenditures. Therefore, government should invest more in female’s education and prioritize it.
Evaluation of Chemistry Curriculum at Secondary Level and Objectives of National Curriculum of Chemistry 2006
Authors: Fatima Batool , Ishfaq Umbreen , Tahir Tehseen
Published: September 2018

The study evaluates chemistry curriculum at the secondary level. Chemistry is the science subject which help in technological advancement. It deals with the study of composition, structure, properties, and different changes which take place in matter. There are different careers in chemistry such as in food processing, industries, health etc. The progress of any country depends on the achievement in the field of chemistry. The successes of these reforms are associated with chemistry curriculum. Therefore, this study re-examines the objectives of National Chemistry Curriculum 2006 and identifies the nature of implementation of chemistry curriculum. Questionnaire based data from 138 chemistry teachers (male and female) teaching at secondary level in District Haripur determined that modern teaching techniques are required in teaching chemistry. So, it is recommended to improve curriculum at regular intervals according to global standards.
Failure in the English Subject in Government High Schools for Boys in District Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan
Authors: Shah Niamat , Aijaz Niaz Muhammad , Idris Muhammad
Published: September 2018

This descriptive study investigates the failure in the English subject to find out the causes of failure in the English subject in Government High Schools for Boys in district Mardan, so viable suggestions to overcome the failure rate in the English subject in district Mardan, KP Pakistan are proposed. The population of this research is all public high Schools of district Mardan, which were 380 in number. 64 schools were selected through Stratified sampling technique. Questionnaire as research instrument was used for data collection. The collected data was analyzed, interpreted and results were shown in percentage in tabular form. The findings of the study highlighted the failure (33%) in English, (02%) Urdu and (04%) in Pakistan studies. Causes of failure like lack of qualified and well trained teachers, overcrowded classrooms, non-availability of language laboratories and A.V Aids, inappropriate teaching method and lack of Principals’ supervision were identified. At the end provision of qualified and competent teachers, facilities like language laboratories and A.V. Aids, principals’ Proper supervision of classrooms for teachers’ better performance are recommended.
Classroom Observation: Linking Teacher Evaluation and Professional Development in TESOL
Authors: Shah Sayyed Rashid , Amin Roohul , Ahmad Hussain
Published: September 2018

This study examines the impact of increasingly challenging nature of classroom observation as part of teacher evaluation in English Language Teaching (ELT). This paper highlights the complex nature of evaluative classroom observation systems in various educational contexts. It also considers various issues that embody the challenging nature of classroom observation and teacher evaluation in connection to the professional development of teachers. In a small-scale study of Teaching of English to the Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) professionals in Saudi English as a Foreign Language (EFL) context, it adopts an interpretive approach and utilizes semi-structured interviews to collect data. The results, presented in four major themes provide a detailed account of teachers’ perceptions of the role of classroom observation in their professional learning and development. However, this development has not occurred due to the observation as a tool to elevate teaching and learning standards, alternatively, the managerial demands and the fear of being fired or transferred to remote campuses have stimulated teachers to develop professionally and offset this challenge. Despite their personal drive to professionalize themselves in a collaborative and professional culture, the challenge of observation still prevails owing to the teachers’ lack of autonomy and some insufficiently trained observers’ subjective approach.
Comparative Analysis of the Scholars Perception about Research in Public and Private Universities in Pakistan
Authors: Khan Nasrullah , Aaijaz Niaz Mohammad , Idris Mohammad
Published: September 2018

The base of a successful university in providing quality education and practical knowledge for improving the lives of the youths in terms of social, economical and intellectual development are only possible through promoting research culture. Research conduct and writing is the most important tool for identifying remedial recommendations for education and related problems. This research presents comparative analysis of the research in Public and Private Universities in Pakistan. The research identifies current research practices, their strengths and weaknesses and provides recommendations for improvement. Research supervision and writing are two different parts but in reality these are parts of a single activity which is called thesis writing process. In Pakistan, research culture is considered very difficult and complicated activity because scholars do not accept challenges and the supervisors do not take the required interest. The study highlights the areas where scholars and supervisors need improvement, more struggle, and scientific as well as academic zest.
Performance Evaluation of Mutual Funds: A Data Envelopment Analysis
Authors: Bangash Romana , Hussain Arif , Azhar Muhammad Hassan
Published: September 2018

This study conducts a regression analysis between the efficiency scores and the explanatory variables. Data was collected for explanatory variables like age of the mutual fund, size of fund family, number of funds in funds family, and volatility (beta). As this study used input oriented model, mutual funds were categorized and relatively evaluated on the basis of similar outcomes and inputs charged. Out of 44 mutual funds understudy, only 7 of the mutual funds were cost efficient. This indicates that nearly 37 of the mutual funds under study have more costs associated to them as compared to the return they are offering to the investors. It has been safely assumed that all the mutual funds, which are below the efficiency frontier, should compare themselves with the industry benchmark efficient mutual funds. In order to make these inefficient mutual funds reach the optimum and higher efficiency score, the fund managers should check every input and determine the slack they can afford to reduce the input without reducing the output generating from it.
Relation of Occupational Stress and Job Satisfaction: A Study of Secondary School Heads in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Authors: Suleman Qaiser , Hussain Ishtiaq , Shehzad Saib
Published: September 2018

This paper examines the relationship between occupational stress and job satisfaction among secondary-school-heads in the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. A sample of only 402 secondary-school-heads (Male n = 260, Female n = 142) was selected with the help of multistage sampling technique. A descriptive and correlative design was employed. Two standardized tools were employed i.e., "Occupational Stress Index (OSI)" and Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire (MSQ) for seeking the responses. Pearson's correlation and linear regression were employed to analyze data statistically. The findings exposed a strong inverse relation between occupational stress and job satisfaction. Furthermore, a substantial negative correlation between all the subscales of occupational stress and overall job satisfaction is also present. Eight subscales of occupational stress, i.e., role ambiguity, responsibility for persons, under participation, unreasonable group and political pressure, low status, strenuous working conditions, peer group relations, and unprofitability were found significant predictors and have negative effect on job satisfaction. So, the researchers recommend focusing reduction in the level of occupational stress among secondary-school-heads. Elementary and Secondary Education Department should have collaboration with policy makers to formulate rewarding and effective strategies for stress reduction for secondary school heads to have high spirit for yielding good outcomes.
Curriculum of Mathematics in Pakistan and International Standards: A Comparative Study
Authors: Khan Hafiz Mohammad Ather , Farooqi Muhammad Tahir Khan , Mehmood Shahid
Published: September 2018

Curriculum which is considered as the main tool education cannot remain the same endlessly. With the expansion of spectrum of knowledge, upgrading of the curriculum is needed with the passage of time. It is nevertheless, the timely updates and restructuring of curriculum can enhance the standard of education. It is therefore, change in curriculum and comparative analysis of the curriculum has been a hot debated topic not only in Pakistan but also all around the world. Current design of the study can be used to analyze the curriculum of mathematics for secondary level of education prescribed by the Punjab Text Book Board. The sole purpose of this comparative study of mathematics is to better analyze the policy objectives of the subject of mathematics curriculum for education at secondary level in Pakistan. Secondly, the study was aiming to analyze curriculum processes while referring to certain objectives, content, methodology and assessment techniques. Thirdly, this research study was aiming to critically review the subject matter of mathematics while highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the subject of mathematics taught at secondary level of education in Pakistan. Fourth, the aim of this research study is to explore the suggestions of curriculum specialists about the salability of the value of mathematics curriculum in education of secondary level in Pakistan. Fifthly, the study used to recommend measures to upgrade the curriculum of mathematics implemented for secondary school education in the country. The population under study comprised of teachers, students, opinion of national curriculum professionals and materials provided about the mathematics curriculum from the Curriculum Bureau in Provinces of Pakistan. Suggestions and recommendations are provided in the end of the research study while better concluding the results and findings in the end of the paper.
Empowered Leadership and Employee Outcomes: Mediating Role of Employee Engagement
Authors: Ghani Usman , Masood Muhammad Tahir , Zia Ur Rehman
Published: September 2018

Drawing on empowerment literature and intrinsic motivation, this study examines the relationship of empowering leadership and employee outcomes (service performance and organizational citizenship behavior; OCB), along with mediating role of employee engagement. Based upon data of 970 officer level employees working in banking industry of Pakistan, hierarchical regression results demonstrated that empowering leadership behavior is positively related to employee service performance and OCB. Further, the results also reveal employee engagement partially mediated the relationships between empowering leadership and employee behavioral outcomes.
Cost Effectiveness of Teachers Working at Government and Private Colleges
Authors: Farooqi Muhammad Tahir Khan , Khan Hafiz Muhammad Ather , Qambar Ghulam
Published: September 2018

The paper analyses cost and effectiveness of academic staff working at government and private colleges district Bahawalpur. Therein, it focuses, (a) comparison of cost between private and Government Colleges, (b) finding the sector which readily adopts new trends in education through costeffectiveness, (c) evaluates the use of resources in government and private college in terms of quality efficacy, and (d) compare the achievement in education in government and private sector by utilizing cost-effectiveness analysis. Survey approach was used for data collection. So, two separate questionnaires were developed on a five point Likert scale. Cost and effectiveness in government and private college were then reviewed. The sample was selected from the universe of teachers and Parents of Bahawalpur district. Data were then analysed and presented through means and t-test. Major findings of the study indicated government college teachers’ salary fall between 50,000 to 100,000 and private college salary 20,000 to 50,0000. Majority of teachers in both sectors teach undergraduate and graduate level classes. Very few teachers teach higher level classes. Government college teachers show more flexibility in their behaviour as claimed by respondents, than their private counterparts. Private college did superior work in the category of ethic than Government College. It is observed that private college teachers encourage the students learning by doing in the classroom more than Government College.
Prospects of Federalism in Pakistan
Authors: Tariq Muhammad , Malik Muhammad Shoaib , Qumber Ghulam
Published: September 2018

Federalism is created by a state having heterogeneous population with a desire to have provisions for adequate distribution of economic resources within a democratic form of government. The economic interaction is usually guaranteed by the constitutional arrangement of the land. The desire for the creation of a federation may be the economic interaction, interdependence on each other by the Centre and federating units. Proper distribution of powers between the Centre and Federating Units flourish when the residuary powers are vested in the federating units. The 18th Constitutional Amendment made a landmark in the history of Pakistan as it introduced a paradigm shift in the democratic set-up of the country. This shift had long been cherished by most of the mainstream political parties as it gives an opportunity to the ruling parties to complete the tenure of the government.
Causes of Teacher’s Favoritism and Its Effects on the University Students: A Case Study
Authors: Ali Amjid , Khan Dost Muhammad , Hussain Mujeeb
Published: September 2018

This study aims at exploring and examining the causes of teacher's favoritism and its effects on the university students. Quantitative tools are applied to collect data for the study and to check its reliability. The results of the data reveal that the teachers favor the students on the basis of gender, race, area, similar political ideology and family/blood relation. The study also indicates that a teacher's favoritism in the class affects boldness, mutual trust and respects between students and teacher which results in the student's struggle for favoritism instead of studies and academic achievements. Moreover, the students may opt for leaving the institute in which favoritism exists. The study also shows that both male and female students have the same opinions regarding different factors and effects of favoritism. The study concludes that the students' flair, potential, abilities and academic achievements should be emphasized as essential criteria for testing and evaluating the students' academic performance. It will, further, compel the students to focus on their studies, rather than on gaining teacher's favor.
Penambahan Layanan pada Firmware DD-WRT untuk Wireless Router Linksys WRT160NL
Authors: Lokananta Felix , Nugroho I. Hargyo Tri
Published: October 2018

Jaringan wireless LAN banyak digunakan dalam perkantoran yang memberikan keuntungan seperti Samba Server, Printer, Squid Server, dan Torrent Client. Namun pada umumnya dibutuhkan paling tidak sebuah komputer untuk menjalankan layanan-layanan tersebut. Dalam jaringan wireless LAN dibutuhkan perangkat wireless router yang dilengkapi dengan firmware agar bisa berjalan dengan baik. Firmware DD-WRT dinyatakan sebagai firmware open source yang memberikan keleluasaan kepada user untuk menambahkan layanan  pada sebuah wireless router. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mempelajari penambahan layanan pada wireless router berbasis DDWRT serta menguji kinerja layanan yang ditambahkan tersebut pada wireless router. Hasil pengujian menunjukkan DD-WRT dapat digunakan sebagai firmware alternatif untuk memenuhi kebutuhan layanan pada skala kecil. Namun, penambahan layanan ini harus memperhatikan spesifikasi wireless router.

Keywords—DD-WRT, wireless router, firmware, samba, squid
Membingkai Teknologi Komputasi Awan: Perspektif Wartawan
Authors: Irwansyah Irwansyah
Published: October 2018

Tahun 2011 merupakan erabaru teknologi komputasi awan (Cloud Computing). Teknologi komputasi awan adalah solusi teknologi informasi dan komunikasi yang memberikan kosempatan kepada konsumen untuk dapat menyewa layanan teknologi dari penyedia (provider). Penyedia memberikan jasa pengelolaan infrastruktur , platform, dan aplikasi jasa teknologi informasi sehingga memudahkan konsumen tanpa harus berinvestasi. Hanya saja, ketika media baik media massa cetak dan media online menyebarluaskan informasi tentang teknologi komputasi awan, yang terjadi adalah penggunaan istilah-istilah teknologi yang berada pada level pakar (expert sphere) yang sulit dimengerti oleh masyarakat luas. Analisis yang digunakan adalah tiga kategori teknologi komputasi awan seperti Platform as a Service (Paas), Infrastructure as a Service (Iaas), dan Software as a Service (Saas); dua lapisan model Arnold Pacey seperti lapisan pakar (expert sphere) dan pengguna (user sphere) dalam pemanfaatan teknologi;dan dua pendekatan dari Arnold Pacey tentang pendekatan obyek (object approach) dan manusia (human approach). Dengan metode analisis isi diperoleh bahwa pemberitaan tentang teknologi komputasi awan lebih banyak pada kategori Paas, expert sphere, dan object approach.  Kemudian penelitian ini memperlihatkan adanya kecenderungan penggunaan bahasa dan tulisan wartawan yang tidak seimbang. Dengan menggunakan analisis framing, penelitian ini memperlihatkan adanya bingkai tertentu yang dilakukan oleh wartawan dalam menulis artikel dan berita terkait dengan teknologi komputasi awan.

Kata kunci : Teknologi Komputasi Awan, Level Pakar dan Pengguna, Pendekatan Obyek dan Manusia, Bingkai Media
Effects of blueberry leaf and stem extracts on hepatic lipid levels in rats consuming a high-sucrose diet
Authors: Matsuura Yasushi , Sakakibara Hiroyuki , Kawaguchi Maho , Murayama Emi , Yokoyama Daigo , Yukizaki Chizuko , Kunitake Hisato , Sakono Masanobu
Published: September 2018

Background: Blueberry stems, a by-product of blueberry leaf tea production, are typically discarded. We evaluated the effects of hot-water extracts of rabbiteye blueberry (Vaccinium virgatum Aiton; RB species) leaves and stems on hepatic lipid levels in rats consuming a high-sucrose diet.Methods: Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into groups that received a control high-sucrose diet alone or supplementation with 2.0% blueberry leaf extract or 0.5% or 2.0% blueberry stem extract. Blood and hepatic lipid levels, hepatic lipogenic enzyme activity, and hepatic quercetin metabolites were evaluated after 28 days of ad libitum consumption.Results: Supplementation with the extracts did not affect body weight gain, food intake, liver and white adipose tissue weights, or serum lipid levels. Hepatic triglyceride and total cholesterol levels were reduced in the groups that received 2.0% supplementation of either extract. Hepatic malic enzyme activity was also reduced in those groups. Quercetin and its glycosides, the major polyphenols identified in the extracts, accumulated in the liver as quercetin aglycone and quercetin metabolites. Conclusion: We demonstrated how daily consumption of blueberry leaf and stem extracts can decrease hepatic lipid levels, potentially downregulating malic enzyme activity. These effects were intensive in leaf extracts. The active compounds existed in both extracts may be quercetin and its glycosides. Therefore, blueberry stems and leaves may be an attractive candidate novel functional food.Keywords: Blueberry leaf; blueberry stem; quercetin; hepatic lipid; rat; functional food
Isolation of dihydroxyacetone-producing acetic acid bacteria in Vietnam
Authors: Vu Huong Thi Lan , Nguyen Oanh Thi Kim , Bui Van Thi Thu , Bui Uyen Thi Tu , Ngo Nghiep Dai , Dang Thao Thi Phuong , Yukphan Pattaraporn
Published: September 2018

Sixty-six acetic acid bacteria (AAB) were isolated from fourty-five flowers and fruits collected in Hochiminh City, Vietnam. Of the sixty-six, thirty-one isolates were selected as dihydroxyacetone (DHA)-producing AAB based on the reaction with Fehling’s solution and grouped into three groups by routine identification with phenotypic features. Group I composed of fourteen isolates and was assigned to the genus Acetobacter, Group II composed of thirteen isolates and was assigned to the genus Gluconobacter and Group III was the remaining four isolates and was assigned to the genus Gluconacetobacter. Ten isolates among the thirteen isolates of Group II gave a larger amount of DHA (22.2–26.0 mg/mL) than Gluconobacter oxydans NBRC 14819T (19.8 mg/mL), promising for the potential use in producing DHA. In phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences, six isolates of the ten potential DHA producers were suggested to be candidates for new taxa in the genus Gluconobacter.
Physical chemical and electrochemical study of the electrolyte based on bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imidur 1-(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl)-3-methylimidazolium
Authors: Le Phung My Loan , Ngo Khanh Hoang Phuong , Vo Thanh Duy , Tran Man Van
Published: September 2018

In seeking the electrolyte replacing the conventional electrolyte based on organic solvent, bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imidur-1-(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl)-3-methylimidazolium ionic liquid was studied for using as electrolyte in lithium batteries. Bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)-imidur-1-(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl)-3-methylimidazo-lium was synthesized via tosylate 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl by using microwave or ultrasound irradiation. The physico-chemical and electrochemical properties including melting temperature (Tm), degradation temperature (Td), density, viscosity, ionic conductivity and electrochemical window of synthesized ILs were characterized and compared to those of commercial electrolyte and electrolytes based on imidazolium and ammonium cations. Bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imidur-1-(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl)-3-methylimidazolium exhibited good thermal stability, excellent electrochemical stability in comparing to the commercial electrolyte and ammonium cation based ILs. However, the high viscosity of ILs is still an obstacle for lithium-ion batteries application. Thus, the addition with small amount of organic solvent is able to improve the viscosity, the cycling behavior without destroying the non-volatility and thermal stability of the ionic liquid.
COMPARISON OF ANTIHYPERTENSIVE EFFECT OF MOXONIDINE VERSUS CLONIDINE IN RENAL FAILURE PATIENTS.
Authors: GEORGE DR.MATHEW , JOSEPH DR.LINCY , MATHEW MRS.DEEPTHI , SHAJI ALISHA MARIA , JOSEPH BIJI , SARA SAM STEFFI
Published: September 2018

Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against blood vessel walls as the heart pumps out blood, and high blood pressure, also called hypertension, is an increase in the amount of force that blood places on blood vessels as it moves through the body. Factors that can increase this force include higher blood volume due to extra fluid in the blood and blood vessels that are narrow, stiff, or clogged(1).

High blood pressure can damage blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their ability to work properly. When the force of blood flow is high, blood vessels stretch so blood flows more easily. Eventually, this stretching scars and weakens blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the kidneys.
Comparative effect of turmeric (Curcuma longa) and durba (Cynodon dactylon) on the healing of surgical wounds in cattle (Bos indicus)
Authors: Mamun Mohammad Abdullah Al , Juyena Nasrin Sultana , Ali Khan Md Abu Hadi Noor , Islam Md Aminul
Published: September 2018

Herbal preparations are used traditionally in wound management to promote wound healing process. In Bangladesh, there are limited researches on the use of herbal products to assist healing process. Therefore, this experiment was carried out to exploit turmeric (Curcuma longa) and durba (Cynodon dactylon) pastes in the treatment of surgical wounds in cattle and to study their healing effect on wound sutured with horizontal mattress using nylon. A total of 36 surgical wounds were made in six cattle. Tincture benzoin was used as control group. Follow-up information was recorded from day 0 to day 21 postoperatively. Some morphological characters such as swelling area of wound, elevation of sutured line from the skin surface, width of sutured area and contraction length per week were recorded to determine the healing process of the wounds. Bacteriological and histopathological studies were also performed. All wounds were closely monitored to observe any complications such as swelling, wound dehiscence, suture abscess, local infection and exudation etc. Results showed that Tr. Benzoin seal caused marked tissue reaction in wounds in comparison to turmeric and durba paste. Turmeric paste showed splendid results in the healing of the wounds produced in cattle. Durba paste also has wound healing activity but less effective than that of turmeric. This study could help veterinarians to consider herbal products especially turmeric for healing of wounds with minimum complications. Dissemination of these findings among the farmers may prevent skin degradation caused by the postoperative complications of the wound and thus improve the health status of livestock.Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. June 2018, 4(2): 164-171
Prevalence of malnutrition and associated factors affecting the nutritional status of Adivasi (tribal) children aged 24-59 months in Bangladesh
Authors: Kabir Md Ruhul , Rahman Mostafizur , Mamun Md Abdullah Al , Islam Homayra
Published: September 2018

Despite of recent progress in reducing the incidence of child malnutrition in Bangladesh, there are large disparities exists across gender, geographical regions, ethnic and economic groups. Adivasi‟s (tribal people) are regarded as one of the most exploited and deprived section of the society and their children are one of the worst victims of under-nutrition. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and associated factors of malnutrition in different tribal children aged 24-59 months. Data was extracted from a project named “Adivasi Fisheries Project (AFP)” and the study considered 125 children from four purposively selected household (HH) clusters of four ethnic groups (Santal, Garo, Oraon, and Hajong) by quota-sampling design using the farmer field school (FFS) as the sampling frame. Malnutrition status was determined by measuring underweight, stunting and wasting and the associations between variables and malnutrition status were found out. Regression analysis then confirmed the contributions of risk factors. The prevalence of underweight, stunting and wasting was 28%, 42% and 13% respectively. Malnutrition was found to be higher among Hajong and Oraon compared to Santal and Garo. Significant association was observed between family income and malnutrition status. Having a family income below 4000 BDT (~$50) significantly increased the risk for underweight, stunting and wasting. Moreover, younger mother‟s (age < 20 years) was more prone to have underweight and wasted children than their older counterparts. The study pinpointed that the standard of living of adivasi (tribal) people need to be improved and socio-demographic issues need to be addressed to tackle the malnutrition status of their children.Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. June 2018, 4(2): 178-185
Genetic and phenotypic parameter estimates for body weight and egg production at sexual maturity in Hilly×Fayoumi crossbred chickens
Authors: Das Ashutosh , Gupta Mukta Das , Khan Md Kabirul Islam , Momin Md Moksedul , Miazi Omar Faruk
Published: September 2018

A crossbreeding experiment between Hilly, a locally adapted chicken type in Bangladesh and Fayoumi, an egg type light chicken breed was carried out to evaluate phenotypic performances and to estimate genetic parameters for body weight and egg production at sexual maturity. Results show the mean hatch weight of Hilly♂ × Fayoumi♀ (H♂×F♀) crosses was 35±0.1 gm. In this study, H♂×F♀ crossbred showed a heavier body weight (1551± 32.0 gm/bird) at 20 weeks in comparison with other indigenous chicken genotypes in Bangladesh. The highest body weight gain was found in 8-10 weeks of age. H♂×F♀ crossbred hens exhibited sexual maturity at an average age of 147.5±1.6 days with an average body weight of 1350± 16.8 gm/bird. The mean weight of eggs at sexual maturity was 33.7±0.5 gm/egg. The estimates of heritability for body weight were ranged from 0.15 to 0.26. We observed a positive genetic correlation between weight at sexual maturity (WSM) and egg weight at sexual maturity (EWSM), meaning that hens with high weight at sexual maturity would produce heavier eggs.Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. June 2018, 4(2): 186-192
Effect of ipil ipil and bean leaves supplementation on egg production, egg quality and growth performance of Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica)
Authors: Sarkar Sumon , Aziz Fahima Binthe , Hasan Md Mahmudul , Islam Rakibul , Parvez Misrat Masuma
Published: September 2018

This study was conducted to determine the effect of ipil ipil and bean leaves supplementation on egg production, egg quality and growth performance of Japanese quail. A total of 40 “Japanese Quail” at the age of 42 days (06 weeks) old were divided into four groups T0, T1, T2 and T3 respectively. Group T0 was considered as control which fed only with commercial layer ration. Group T1 was supplemented with formulation of 2 gm grinded ipil ipil leaves, Group T2 with 2 gm grinded Bean leaves and Group T3 with 2 gm grinded ipil ipil leaves plus 2 gm grinded Bean leaves per kg feed respectively. Observations were recorded for growth performance, egg production and egg quality of quail. Increased egg production rate was observed in ipil ipil supplemented groups (group T1). Body weights were increased significantly (p<0.05) in all treated groups in respect to the control and highest was recorded in combined ipil ipil and Bean leaves supplemented groups (Group T3). In treatment groups, there were significant increase in egg production, but in case of control group, the egg production was not increased. There was no significant pathological change in any internal organs of the layer of treated groups. Best result was found in the group T3. The present study reveals that combined supplementation of ipil ipil and bean leaves gives better result over the other groups in respect to growth performance, egg production and egg quality.Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. June 2018, 4(2): 201-206
Morphological characterization of NERICA mutant lines and their parents
Authors: Rana Md Masud , Islam Md Ashraful , Imran Shahin , Rubani Silve , Hassan Lutful
Published: September 2018

A total of 10 NERICA lines (7 mutants along with 3 parents) of advanced generations were used for morphological and molecular characterization. The experiments were conducted in both Aus and Aman season, 2014 under different field conditions at the field of Biotechnology division, BINA, BAU Campus, Mymensingh-2202 following Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. The genotypes differed significantly for all the traits. The seasonal differences on all the traits except 100-seed weight were also highly significant. The season’s × genotypes interactions were highly significant. The mean value of days to maturity was the lowest in Aman season than Aus season and the mean yield of rice lines was the highest in Aman season than Aus season. The phenotypic co-efficient of variations (PCV) were higher than genotypic co-efficient of variations (GCV) for all the traits studied indicating that they all interacted with the environment to some extent. All the traits studied expressed moderate to high heritability estimates ranging from 53.70 to 99.54%. High heritability along with high genetic advance was noticed for the traits, number of filled grain panicle-1, number of unfilled grain panicle-1 and plant height. Significant positive correlations were recorded for yield plot-1 with effective tillers hill-1 and panicle length and significant negative correlations were recorded for yield plot-1 with days to maturity and unfilled grains panicle-1. Plant height, total tillers hill-1, effective tillers hill-1, panicle length, filled grains panicle-1 and 100-seed weight showed direct positive effect on yield plot-1 at both genotypic and phenotypic level. Therefore, these characters would be reliable criteria for improving yield.Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. June 2018, 4(2): 207-221
Comparison the effects of animal fat (ghee) with that of vegetable fat (dalda) in respect to hemato-biochemical parameters in mice
Authors: Rahman Md Saidur , Hasan Md Mehedi , Kabir Md Ehsanul , Sultana Nahid Nawrin , Bhuiyan Md Eliusur Rahman , Ahmad Nazim
Published: September 2018

The experiment was conducted to compare the effects of animal fat (ghee) and vegetable fat (dalda) in respect to hemato-biochemical changes in mice. A total of twenty one, 45 days old (Swiss Albino) mice were randomly divided into three equal experimental groups as A, B and C (n=7). Group A was considered as control and fed only broiler pellet, group B was fed broiler pellet with ghee (25 gm/1000 gm feed) and group C was fed broiler pellet with dalda (25 gm/1000 gm feed) respectively. At day 40, all mice were sacrificed to collect blood for hematological parameters where blood profile was analyzed by biochemical tests. Total erythrocyte counts were significantly (p<0.05) higher in ghee and dalda supplemented mice (B: 8.99±.34 million/cu. mm. and C: 8.27±.43 million/cu.mm.) compared to control group (A: 7.49±.22 million/cu.mm.). The significantly (P<0.05) higher hemoglobin concentration was recorded in ghee supplemented group B (9.02±.18 gm/dl) than other groups and control group A showed lowest value (7.59±.52 gm/dl). In Blood profile analysis, serum cholesterol and HDL value were higher in ghee and dalda supplemented group than control group. On the other hand triglyceride value was significantly (P<0.05) lower in control group (A: 44±4.58 mg/dl) than ghee and dalda supplemented group (B: 80.33±2.51 mg/dl, C: 71.2±4.26 mg/dl). The study suggests that ghee and dalda supplementation with regular diet would be able to significantly increase cholesterol and triglyceride in mice.Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. June 2018, 4(2): 222-226