Sugarcane growth through fermented bamboo shoot application 

Roniel A. Ardeña, Nyle A. Pardillo, Justine V. Gemida
Northern Negros State College of Science and Technology, Philippines
Sugar Regulatory Administration, Philippines
Corresponding Email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T
This study was conducted to determine the growth of sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) as affected by fermented bamboo shoot application in terms of plant height, number and diameter of nodes, number of leaves, and average number of tillers. Study results would help farmers to find an alternative source in growth promotant hormone that could find in fermented bamboo shoot (FBS) that is locally available compared to synthetic cytokinin. There were four treatments used: t1- 2 ml synthetic cytokinin/L of water (control); t2- 2 ml of FBS/L of water; t3- 7 ml of FBS/L of water, t4- 12 ml of FBS/L of water. These treatments were arranged in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) and were replicated four times. The Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used as a statistical tool of the study and comparison among means using Honest Tukeys Significant difference at 5% level of significance. Sugarcane plants applied with 7 ml bamboo shoot concoctions has highest mean in plant height and number of leaves which is significantly higher than synthetic cytokinin and 2 ml concoction. On the other hand, application of 12 ml concoction got the highest mean in number of nodes and nodes diameter which is statistically higher than synthetic cytokinin and 2 ml concoction but comparable to 7 ml concoction. Based on results, FBS is better source of cytokinin and could be an alternative of using synthetic cytokinin. Results also revealed that using 7 ml and 12 ml concoctions performs better in all agronomic parameters. It is recommended to use FBS as a replacement of using the synthetic cytokinin at the levels of 7 ml and 12 ml concoctions per litre of water. Further study on the effect of FBS must be conducted to determine significance in tiller production of sugarcane. Further research study for the FBS to be analyzed for cytokinin content and will be used as fertilizer to other crops and vegetables are recommended to truly validate the results.

Full Paper PDF

COVID-19 mRNA BNT162b2 vaccine safety and antibodies level among healthcare workers at Centre Hospitalier du Nord

Rosabelle Chedid, Salam El Samad, Josmar Yammine, Nisrine Chami, Mira Daher
Université Antonine (UA), Baabda, Lebanon
Centre Hopistalier du Nord (CHN), Zgharta, Lebanon
Mira Diet Clinic, Ein Remmane, Lebanon

A B S T R A C T
Studying the levels of the anti-spike protein receptor-binding domain (S-RBD) antibodies as well as the vaccine safety is very important to evaluate the protection level against the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2) infection and to motivate individuals to receive the vaccine. In this study, we evaluate the effect of the mRNA BNT162b2 vaccine using the EUROIMMUN anti-SARS-CoV-2 ELISA (IgG) for the measurement. We detected the IgG class antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in the human serum, or plasma, of 217 eligible participants aged >18 years, recruited between March and June 2021. These participants were divided into 2 groups: the first group consisted of 149 participants without prior infection, while the second group included 68 participants who had recovered from symptomatic and asymptomatic COVID-19 infections. All the adverse effects were minor local or systematic reactions such as local pain, asthenia, body ache, muscle pain and headache. The level of the adverse effects increased following the second vaccine dose. The adverse effects were higher in participants with previous symptomatic SARS-CoV2 infection (p=0.020). This was due to the presence of anti-S-RBD IgG levels before the vaccination. Moreover, the adverse effects were higher in females than males after the first dose (p=0.025) and the second dose (p=0.01). As for the anti-S-RBD IgG levels, they were all positive at the end of the second dose. The anti-S-RBD IgG levels 21 days after the vaccination dose were higher than the pre-vaccination levels (p=0.000) and they were higher in previously infected participants before getting the first dose (p=0.000). Our results show a good antibody response at the end of the two mRNA BNT162b2 vaccine doses in both previously infected and not infected participants. Moreover, our study highlighted the minor adverse effects reported following each dose.

Full Paper PDF

Development and validation of multimedia-based instructional module in Science 7

Christian R. Basilio, Eivan Mark S. Sigua
Tinajero National High School Annex-Department of Education, Philippines
College of Education-Pampanga State Agricultural University, Philippines
Corresponding Email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T
This study aimed to develop and validate a multimedia-based instructional module in Science 7. This was initiated as a response to the poor performance of Filipino learners on international and national standard assessments in Science. A descriptive approach of research was utilized in developing and validating the module. Each lesson in the module consisted of the following parts: learning objectives, pretest, discussion of the topic, activities, posttest, and references. The development of the module underwent four phases: planning, content validation and analysis, designing, and development. The Lawshe’s content validity formula was used in determining the essential learning competencies that were included in the module. A validation tool was used by ten experts in validating the content, design/format, technical/technological, and pedagogical aspect of the module. Results of the study showed that all of the validators agreed that the developed multimedia-based instructional module in Science 7 met all the criteria found in each parameter on the validation tool. Therefore, it was concluded that the developed multimedia-based instructional module can be used as instructional material by Science 7 learners.

Full Paper PDF

American films as an educational tool for character development of teenagers

Rudy
Universitas Prima Indonesia, Indonesia
Corresponding Email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T
American superhero-themed films can represent good characteristics and they could be a good way of developing one’s characteristics. By utilizing American animation, superhero and fantasy films as the main data such as Fantastic 4 (2005), Fantastic 4: Rise of Silver Surfer (2007), Frozen (2013), Black Panther (2018), Frozen II (2019), and Aladdin (2019), this qualitative research focuses on the significance of character development and the representations of good characteristics depicted in the films which can be used as a tool for character education. The process of analysis involved the use of Stuart Hall’s representation theory. The results of study suggested that character is something that is essential to develop, especially in teenagers and it is not only about having a good attitude, but it also involves living a good life. In addition, this study showed that at least five good characteristics such as caring, tolerance, politeness, solidarity and kindness frequently appeared in the observed films which can be used as media for teaching about characters at schools or informal educational institutions.

Full Paper PDF

Effect of study habits counselling on senior students’ achievement in English language

Dekera G. Atim, Comfort M. Maor, Rejoice Atim, Nancy N. Igyu
Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Nigeria,
Government Model College, Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria.
Benue State University Makurdi, Nigeria.
Corresponding Email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T
This study investigated the effect of study habits counselling on the academic achievement of senior secondary school students achievement in English language in North-west, Benue State, Nigeria. The study adopted a Quasi-experimental design. The population of the study was five thousand, three hundred and twenty nine SS2 students (5,329) of public schools. The sample size for the study was 100 senior secondary school 2 students drawn from intact class of a public school through multi stage sampling technique. Two instruments were used for the collection of data, English Achievement Test (EAT) and Study Habits Counselling Questionnaire (SHCQ). The reliability of the research instruments was established using Lemma co-efficient Alpha. Data was collected and analyzed using mean and standard deviation to answer research questions and Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) to test the hypotheses. Findings revealed that study habits counselling has significant effect on the academic achievement of secondary school students in English. Study habits counselling has no statistical significant difference in the mean score of male and female students. The study concludes that study habits counselling has effect on the academic achievement of students in English, however, there is no significant difference between male and female. Thus, group guidance should be organized in schools to create awareness on effective study habits. A functional school library should be mounted. Parents and guardians should encourage their children to set up schedules for study. Qualified English teachers should be employed in all secondary schools. Guidance counsellors should include study habits counselling as part of new students’ orientation to facilitate effective study habits among new students.

Full Paper PDF

A review on data center monitoring system using smart sensor network

G.M. Sharif Ullah Al-Mamun, Firuz Kabir, Fahima Nazeen, Jarin Sobah
Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP), Bangladesh
Corresponding Email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T
A data center can be a single structure that contains computer systems or servers, as well as major elements including such storage and network communication systems, or a cluster of buildings that contain movable systems and related components (such as storage and telecommunications systems). All of the business area units’ key operations are run on portable servers in the data center. Several environmental and security hazards can be addressed, and continuous services can be supplied to users, thanks to the data center’s limitless observing conditions. Backup power, environmental management, and redundant data transfer connections are all included. The data center’s security and privacy are critical in this instance. It is critical to avoid time periods in the data centre. Furthermore, as public awareness of environmental issues grows, data center energy consumption has risen to the top of the safety management priority list. Failures in the temperature and humidity functions will be significant. It is critical to pay strict attention to the data center’s security at all times. Manual data center monitoring, on the other hand, is becoming increasingly time-consuming. Units in the technical field are currently emerging at a rapid pace. The data center is under the most strain in this instance. A good detector network, on the other hand, is critical to the advancement of Business 4.0 technology. As a result, we like to utilize a good network of detectors for data center observation protection and privacy. The Internet of Things is frequently utilized for data center observation, as well as a good wireless detector network. A wireless detector system is employed in this paper to track the effectiveness of adjustments in real time.

Full Paper PDF

Academic dishonesty cheating in synchronous and asynchronous classes: A proctored examination intervention

Homer T. Alvarez, Reynald S. Dayrit, Maria Crisella A. Dela Cruz, Clariza C. Jocson, Renzo T. Mendoza, Ariel V. Reyes, Joyce Niña N. Salas
Pampanga State Agricultural University
Corresponding Email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T
In time of pandemic, synchronous and asynchronous learning occurred as a form of distance learning implemented by the Commission on Higher Education and the Department of Education. This research entitled “Academic Dishonesty Cheating in Synchronous and Asynchronous Classes: A Proctored Examination Intervention” was conducted to identify the self-report and types of assessment stated by the respondents. It also determined the effectiveness of proctored synchronous and asynchronous examination in preventing the cheating practices of students. The researchers used a quantitative research design and three adapted questionnaires with 40 participants. The results generated from the questionnaires were analyzed using frequency, percentage, and Mann-Whitney U test. The results obtained the following: most students cheated on assignments, exams, or quizzes; the primary reasons for student dishonesty were stress and worry essentially, and homework was the kind of evaluation that enabled pupils to cheat. Proctored exams provide similar results regardless of whether the exams were conducted asynchronously or synchronously. The following findings on the impact of proctored synchronous and asynchronous exams on students revealed that: most students will be less likely to cheat in a proctored examination. Most of the students believed that these proctored examinations would be a good solution in monitoring remote learning. Therefore, proctored synchronous and asynchronous examinations prevent the academic dishonesty or cheating practices of students.

Full Paper PDF

Public awareness of forensic science: A cross sectional study in Lebanon

Paula Romanos
Independent researcher, Beirut, Lebanon
Corresponding Email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T
Forensic science is the application of science in order to serve the law. Among the vast field of forensics, forensic DNA casework is widely considered as one of the most outstanding types of forensic evidence. To better implement forensic investigation procedures, public awareness of forensic science is crucially required. The aim of this study is to evaluate the level of awareness among Lebanese public community by assessing their knowledge and perception regarding forensics and to question their willingness to participate in the national DNA database or in scientific research. A cross sectional study was conducted over 400 adult Lebanese from both genders residing in the five Lebanese governorates. The survey questionnaire was designed and carried out from August 2021 to February 2022 with 89% as responsive rate. The participants’ characteristics were under study as well as their knowledge and perception statements in the purpose of investigating their relative association through independent t-test. The study revealed that 40% of the participants were aware of the forensic science. In addition, only 26% of the participants are willing to provide DNA sample. Moreover, sex and marital status factors has no impact neither on their public awareness nor on their intention to donate a DNA sample. Nevertheless, characteristics such as age, education, profession, and residency has significant differences. The survey identified that younger, employed, more educated people, and individuals residing in cities showed a better awareness of forensic science and intention to provide a DNA sample. However, it is very early to decisively predict the level of awareness and the rates of participation given the fact that nationwide surveys have yet to be launched. By consequence, awareness campaigns to increase public awareness on the importance of forensics is necessary to reduce concerns and gaps in Lebanese personal knowledge, and to encourage their future participation.

Full Paper PDF

Heuristic approach with teacher-made worksheets in general biology 2: A classroom innovation in distance learning

Abraham D. Cacay
San Felipe High School, San Manuel, Tarlac, Philippines
Corresponding Email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T
Learning science is the most exciting part of being a high school student. The fun learning through exploration and laboratory experiments is the best part of science. This study aimed to test the effectiveness of the heuristic approach with the teacher-made worksheets as a teaching innovation in distance learning in helping the respondents to understand the topics of General Biology 2. This research employed a mixed-method; the qualitative data were evaluated using the phenomenological technique, while the quantitative data were processed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 25 (SPSS v.25). The researcher used a pretest, five teacher-made worksheets, a posttest, and a delayed posttest as tools. Also, focus group discussion was considered to find out the common problems encountered by the students and the researcher himself. All the gathered data was recorded digitally and through field notes and discreetly handled. There are 10 enrolled students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) during the school year 2020–2021, and they were all chosen purposefully. This study involved the five-week topics in the second semester of the 3rd quarter. Results revealed an increase in the respondents’ learning performance based on the mean percentage scores of the posttest. Based on the increase in the mean of the delayed posttest, the innovation promotes retention for the students. The researcher and the students had technical problems because of a power outage and unstable internet connections. Still, respondents face the challenges of output management and helping their parents first before learning. There is a significant difference in the respondents’ performance before and after implementing the innovation. The heuristic approach to teaching improved the performance of the STEM students at San Felipe High School under the subject General Biology 2. It is recommended that teachers use the heuristic approach to teach students how to work in a digital world.

Full Paper PDF

Remediating misconceptions related to particulate nature of matter using video animation: An action research

Yonten Chophel
Daga Central School, Dagana, Bhutan
Corresponding Email: [email protected]

A B S T R A C T
Misconception sabotages the meaningful learning. Young learners can have misconceptions about the science concepts with which they interpret their new experiences, hampering the development of canonical scientific knowledge. Identifying and remediating the misconceptions of the learners is an important task as an educator. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the misconceptions of the 9th grade students on particulate nature of matter (PNM) concept and effectiveness of the use of video animations in remediating those misconceptions. The study adopted a mixed method approach. The sample consisted of 20 students studying in 9th grade of Daga Central School in Bhutan. The misconception was identified using the certainty of response index (CRI) diagnostic technique. The study revealed 10 kinds of misconceptions held by students related to PNM, under the four themes, i.e., All matter is made of discrete particles, Space between the particles is empty, Particles are in constant random motion, and Bonds or forces exist between particles, the number of students’ having misconception on the particulate nature of matter concept reduced considerably in the post-test after the use of video animations as the intervention. The study also revealed that most of the misconceptions that student possesses were rooted in their inability to understand the chemical concepts from macroscopic, sub microscopic, and symbolic perspective. The study contributed in two aspects: first, the study identified four themes in which students had misconceptions, alerting educators to be cognizant when involving in discourse of PNM concepts. Second, the study suggests that use of video animations as a potent strategy to teach PNM concepts to help students develop the canonical scientific knowledge on PNM concepts, as demonstrated by this study.

Full Paper PDF