Regular Basis Research Articles

A robust force identification method based on L1+2-norm approximation theory

Obtaining the real force of the structure is the basic condition for efficient vibration reduction design. However, the uneasiness and instability of the inverse problem make the force identification still challenging. On the basis of L2-norm regularization, we propose a new method for force identification based on L1+2-norm approximation theory. By introducing the L1-norm penalty operator, a joint norm approximation optimization model is constructed to limit the non-zero force and punish the force value which approaching to zero, so that it can adapt to the identification of various types of forces. Then the optimal force solution is obtained by using the Primal-dual interior point method. Finally, the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed method are verified by numerical simulation and experiment of asymmetric plate and double-layer plate structures. Different from previous studies, the L1+2-norm method in this work has high robustness, considers the characteristics of sparse regularization and L2-norm regularization, and can adapt to the identification of continuous forces and sparse forces at the same time, which has potential engineering application value.

Is It Safe to Take 650 mg of Paracetamol on a Regular Basis?

: The commonest medication to treat moderate to severe pain and fever in adults and children is paracetamol and it has been observed that there has been a rapid increase in the intake of paracetamol-650 since the COVID-19 pandemic and it has continued to date. This analgesic and antipyretic medication showed an increase of 150% in its consumption during the pandemic, simultaneously escalating its self-medication. Concerns have been expressed about the indirect advertising of prescription medications, their illogical use, and improper self-medication, which has resulted in overdose and certain serious side effects. Chronic pain and pyrexia are the most common symptoms witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic. The intake of paracetamol-650 has also been increased as a prophylactic measure due to the widespread fear generated during COVID-19. The usage of paracetamol has been shifted from 500 mg to 650 mg for mild and moderate pain and fever during and after the end of the pandemic. This raises concerns about the misuse of paracetamol-650mg which may cause damage to the liver, stomach, and kidney chronically. So, this review article aims to generate awareness among the public and physicians about the rationale of paracetamol as an analgesic and antipyretic.

Longitudinal changes in vertical stride regularity, hip flexion, and knee flexion contribute to the alteration in gait speed during hospitalization for stroke

Changes in stride regularity and joint motion during gait appear to be related to improved gait speed in hospitalized patients with stroke. We aimed to clarify the changes in stride regularity and joint motion during gait through longitudinal observations. Furthermore, we aimed to clarify the relationship between changes in gait speed, stride regularity, and joint motion during gait. Seventeen inpatients with stroke were assessed for physical and gait functions at baseline, when they reached functional ambulation category 3, and before discharge. Physical function was assessed using the Fugl-Meyer assessment for the lower extremities and the Berg Balance Scale. Gait function was assessed on the basis of gait speed, joint motion, stride regularity, and step symmetry using inertial sensors. The correlations between the ratio of change in gait speed and each indicator from baseline to discharge were analyzed. Both physical and gait functions improved significantly during the hospital stay. The ratio of change in gait speed was significantly and positively correlated with the ratio of change in vertical stride regularity (r = 0.662), vertical step symmetry (rs = 0.627), hip flexion (rs = 0.652), knee flexion (affected side) (r = 0.611), and ankle plantarflexion (unaffected side) (rs = 0.547). Vertical stride regularity, hip flexion, and knee flexion (affected side) were significant factors in determining the ratio of changes in gait speed. Our results suggest that stride regularity, hip flexion, and knee flexion could explain the entire gait cycle and that of the affected side. These parameters can be used as indices to improve gait speed.

Psychosocial Outcomes Associated With Types and Intensities of Physical Activity in People With Spinal Cord Injury: The Mediating Role of Self-Efficacy and Functionality.

Low rates of participation and quality of life (QoL) and high rates of psychological distress are common in spinal cord injury (SCI) population. Research has supported the mediating role of self-efficacy and functionality in improving psychosocial outcomes. Furthermore, evidence supports the impact of physical activity (PA) on psychosocial variables, but little is known about the types and intensities of PA. The objective of this study was to determine whether functionality and/or general self-efficacy (GSE) mediate the relationships between the various types of PA: (1) lifestyle and (2) leisure-time physical activity(LTPA); and various intensitiesof PA: (1) mild, (2) moderate, and (3) heavy PA with participation, psychological distress, and perception of QoL. The Physical Activity Recall Assessment for SCI, and measures of functionality, GSE, participation, psychological distress, and perception of QoL were administered to 159 participants. Path analysis was performed using Jeffrey's Amazing Statistics Program. GSE significantly mediated, and functionality partially significantly mediated, the relationship between LTPA and psychosocial outcomes. GSE and functionality did not mediate the relationship between lifestyle activity and psychosocial outcomes. It is recommended that people with SCI perform LTPA on a regular basis to achieve psychosocial benefits. These programs should be accompanied by strategies to improve GSE.

What Motivates Secondary School Teachers to Continue to Use Classroom-Based Physical Activity? A Self-Determination Theory Approach

ABSTRACT Purpose This study aimed to examine the motivational regulations of secondary school teachers to use classroom-based physical activity (CBPA). Methods A total of 148 secondary school teachers (response rate, 34%) completed a survey including the Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire (α = 0.79–0.92), the Intrinsic Motivation Inventory perceived competence (α = 0.85) and perceived autonomy (α = 0.86) subscales, and the perceived relatedness with students scale (α = 0.93). Results English, Norwegian, and mathematics CBPA were used by 13%, 26%, and 22% of respondents, respectively. Thirty-seven percent of the teachers reported using in-class physically active breaks one to four times a week or daily. There was a positive correlation between teachers’ perception of autonomy, competence, relatedness with students, and self-determined regulations for applying CBPA. A stepwise regression analysis showed that identified regulation for CBPA and perceived competence explained 31% of the likelihood of using CBPA in future teaching. Conclusion To improve rates of teachers using CBPA on a regular basis in secondary school, implementers need to focus on strengthening teachers’ personal held values about and perceived competence for using CBPA.

Examining the Effect of 8-Week Educational Games on Gross Motor Skills in Children with Autism

Families with autistic children expect their children to be self-sufficient and to play games like normal children. However, it appears that there are few initiatives and scientific research in our nation that would emphasize the importance of physical activity-based educational games in order to overcome this problem. The study's goal was to look at the impact of educational games on the development of gross muscular motor skills in people with autism. The study comprised 11 boys aged 10 to 12 who had never previously engaged in an educational game program on a regular basis. Measurements were gathered from the participants twice: once before the 8-week instructional gaming program and once after it ended. The control group received no instructional game software. The SPSS package application was used to perform statistical analysis on the data. There was a significant difference between the experimental group's pre-test and post-test results in hand grip, medicine ball throwing, speed, flexibility, sit-up, and balance (p<0.05). As a result, at the end of eight weeks, the educational game program based on physical activity and exercise had a positive influence on the gross motor abilities of children with autism. It may be recommended in this regard to further extend and promote educational game programs, as well as to include educational games in the education programs of children with autism.

Case Report: Ofloxacin-induced fixed drug eruption

Background Fixed Drug Eruption (FDE) is a rare form of drug-induced dermatoses that appears as well-defined, erythematous patches occurring within hours of medication’s administration with or without blistering and resolves with post-inflammatory residual hyperpigmentation. Case presentation A 50-year-old male patient visited the outpatient department with chief complaints of burning micturition, increased urine frequency, and high-grade fever with chills lasting three days. Blood and urine investigations indicated leukocytosis and remnants of pus cells, respectively, confirming the diagnosis of urinary tract infection intervened with a tablet ofloxacin. Two hours after drug consumption, intense itching was noticed over the body, which soon progressed to blackening discoloration; blisters developed with a burning sensation over the webs of the palm and on the arm, with hyperpigmentation of the lower lip. Furthermore, painful patches with serous discharge developed in the oral cavity and penile tip. He had encountered a similar episode seven years before, which confirmed the diagnosis of fixed drug eruption (FDE). Immediate treatment included injectable steroids, antihistamines, cephalosporin antibiotics, and intravenous fluids with discontinuation of the ofloxacin drug. He adhered well to the treatment and had a remarkable improvement after 72 hours with residual hyperpigmentation, following which, the patient was advised to avoid similar medicine in the future to prevent a recurrence. Conclusions This case report concludes that the adverse drug reactions should be considered mandatorily with antibiotic audits on a regular basis to ensure that the course of treatment is appropriate and adequate, and any inappropriate reaction should be reported immediately. The rationality of the treatment and inappropriate prescriptions must be reported.

Continued Immunization By Mothers in Children Aged 18 Months Through the Role of Health Workers in Puskesmas Curug Kota Serang

Background: Immunization is one of the most effective health interventions in the world and can save millions of lives. However, in the world there are still more than 19 million children who have not been vaccinated or whose vaccinations are incomplete so that it can cause these children to be very susceptible to disease risk, even though immunization will increase the child's immune system. The purpose of the study was to analyze and explain the influence of predisposing factors (knowledge, education, mother's occupation, husband's support and participation of health workers) on the provision of follow-up immunization to children aged 18 months at the Curug Health Center in Serang City in 2021.
 Methods: Using a quantitative approach with a cross sectional design. A sample of 101 respondents. Data analysis was carried out using univariate analysis, which describes the frequency distribution, bivariate analysis to determine the relationship between variables and multivariate analysis with linear regression analysis.
 The results of this study found that there was a relationship between knowledge, education, work, husband's support and communication and services of health workers with the provision of further immunization for children aged 18 months at the Curug Health Center in Serang City in 2021. The most dominant variables were the communication and service variables of health workers.
 It is hoped that the Curug Health Center can provide counseling or education about the importance of providing immunizations to patients, especially mothers who have toddlers on a regular basis.
 Keywords: Provision of follow-up immunization to children aged 18 months, knowledge, education, work, husband's support and communication and services.

Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Emergency Contraceptive Among Female Preparatory School Students in Awsi Resu Zone(01), Afar, Ethiopia, 2023

BACKGROUND: Students in preparatory schools are more likely to engage in risky sexual behavior, which may lead to a rise in untended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and STIs. Many of these unplanned pregnancies can be avoided using emergency contraception. Therefore, this study was aimed at assessing the knowledge, attitude, and practice of emergency contraceptives. OBJECTIVES: To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of emergency contraception among preparatory school students of Awsiresu zone (01) in Afar, Ethiopia. Methods: A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted in selected preparatory schools in Awsi Resu Zone, Afar, Ethiopia, from October 20 to November 8, 2023, among 419 female students who were selected using the systematic random sampling method. A semi-structured questionnaire was developed and entered into the Kobo toolbox. Data were collected by five female public health officer students using interview-administered methods. A one-day discussion was held among group members and data collectors on how to obtain consent and collect complete data. The collected data was exported to SPSS window version 26 for analysis, and a descriptive analysis was performed for all variables. RESULT: Three hundred ten (74.0%) of the students said that they have heard about emergency contraceptives. 57.7% of the students had a positive attitude towards emergency contraceptives. One hundred (32.3%) of the students said that EC is recommended as a regular contraceptive method, and another one hundred forty-one (50.2%) students said that EC can prevent STIs. Among the ten respondents who had used emergency contraceptives, six (60%) used regular contraceptives. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS: The study findings showed that most of the respondents who had ever heard of emergency contraception had good knowledge and a positive attitude, despite some respondents having misunderstandings about emergency contraceptives. Therefore, the Afar Health Bureau should distribute educational materials such as brochures, posters, and flyers that teach about emergency contraception and arrange programs on a regular basis to provide accurate information concerning the utilization of emergency contraception.

136 Evaluation of internal parasite burden in grazing beef cattle in North Carolina over a production lifecycle

Abstract Gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) parasite infections can be detrimental to not only cattle health and immunity, but also result in economic loss and poor performance. Cattle grazing in the southeast are challenged even further by the favorable environmental conditions for parasite development, especially those animals who have yet to develop an immunity to combat parasitism. To diminish potential economic and performance-based losses, many beef producers treat animals for GIN parasites with anthelmintics on a regular basis without proper diagnosis. Anthelmintic resistance(AR) develops when deworming products are overused and misused. To minimize the development of AR, selective deworming and sustainable management practices should be implemented. However, the severity of parasite burden over the production cycle needs to be better understood in beef cattle herds before recommendations can be made. Thus, the objective was to investigate the rates of GIN parasite infections through fecal egg counts (FEC) and the impact on body weight (BW) and body condition score (BCS). Angus-based cattle (6 mo-13 yr, n = 1,154) on a were utilized from five different research and educational herds across North Carolina. Cattle were categorized based on their age at the start of the project as either calves (n = 446), yearling heifers (n = 205), 2 year old (n = 260), 3-5 year old (n = 501), or 6+ year old (n = 206). Starting in September, FEC, BW, and BCS were collected and analyzed every 90 d at critical production timepoints (calving, breeding, weaning, and 90d post-weaning) to monitor the severity of GIN parasite challenge. Cattle on study were not treated with anthelmintics regardless of parasite load, with the exception of calves at four of the locations at the time of weaning. All data were analyzed using Proc MIXED in SAS with repeated measures. Statistical significance was declared at P ≤ 0.05 and a trend at 0.10 > P > 0.05. Age of cattle had an impact on FEC overall (P < 0.05), however, there was no difference between FEC of mature cattle over 3 yr (4.29 ± 4.9 eggs/gm). Calves had the greatest FEC (120.59 ± 4.2 eggs/gm) while cattle 6+ yr had the least (3.68 ± 4.5 eggs/gm). Cattle age at each location affected BCS and BW (P < 0.05). Between age groups across locations, time had an impact on FEC, BW, and BCS (P < 0.05). There was also a tendency (P = 0.6) for location to impact FEC. Calf sex did not affect (P > 0.05) FEC. Further FEC analysis of cattle under 2 yrof age is required to better understand when a natural immune response to GIN parasite infections develops.

The relationship between nursing and midwifery undergraduate students’ health beliefs and breast cancer knowledge levels and their breast self-examination behavior

Abstract Purpose This study was conducted to investigate the relationship between nursing and midwifery undergraduate students’ health beliefs and breast cancer knowledge levels and breast self-examination (BSE) behavior. Materials and method This study was based on a cross-sectional research design and conducted in a Web environment. Four hundred and forty-eight female students were included who study in the 3rd or 4th years of the nursing and midwifery departments. Research data were collected between December 2020 and January 2021 by utilizing the Introductory Information Form, the Champion’s Health Belief Model Scale, and the Comprehensive Breast Cancer Knowledge Test. Results It was revealed that 52.7% of the students performed BSE on a regular basis. Based on the practice of BSE, it was found that there was a statistically significant difference between the mean scores of benefits, obstacle perception, confidence/self-efficacy, and motivation subscales of CHBMS (p < 0.05). In terms of the risk of not performing BSE among students, having an extended family increased the risk by 3.29 times, not applying a clinical breast examination by 6.53 times, and a 1-unit increase in weighted GPA by 2.18 times; a 1-unit increase in the obstacle perception score related to BSE practice increased risk by 1.11 times. Conclusion and recommendations Nurses’ and midwives’ health beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors should be improved with regard to the importance of breast cancer and BSE throughout their education, so that they can be role models for preventive healthcare practices in society.

When the Rainbow is Bittersweet: Reflections on Being Queer and Indian in Durban

South Africa is one of the few countries in Africa that no longer criminalises same-sex sexual activity, and the only one to recognise same-sex marriage under the legal system. Yet, at the same time, several groups in the country practice a conservatism that discourages people from being themselves, be it in professing their gender or their sexuality. This article explores the trials and tribulations of making a documentary film with a minority population within one such minority population – Queer and Indian – in Durban, the site of the largest number of Indians outside India. Written in a reflective style that frames the positioning of the authors, a key question posed is: what are the daily issues that queer South African people deal with? Battling with conservatism while trying to find one’s queer voice is just one of them. The film engages with a few people who were generous to allow us to use their experiences with the state, the society, and healthcare. How does one reconcile the Rainbow Nation, the promise of constitutional equality with the insularity that people face on a regular basis? This article aims to be the start of a much larger conversation that needs to be had.

Assessment of knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to the prevalence of sheep scab among communal sheep farmers in Eastern Cape Province, South Africa

Background and Aim: Sheep scab is one of the most contagious diseases of sheep found in rural communities worldwide and is a major health and welfare concern for sheep farming. Information on the attitudes of communal farmers to sheep scab remains speculative in the Eastern Cape Province. This study aimed to investigate knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to the prevalence of sheep scab among communal sheep farmers in Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Materials and Methods: From June to August 2022, a cross-sectional survey using a semi-structured questionnaire (n = 160) was conducted in two rural communities of the Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality in Eastern Cape Province. Purpose sampling was used to obtain respondents’ knowledge, attitudes, and management practices regarding sheep scabs. Results: Among respondents, 81% were males and 19% were females. The majority of sheep farmers (59%) in both communities were aware of sheep scabs, but the majority (64%) did not receive any farming training. The majority of sheep farmers (65%) believed that sheep scab was the most serious threat to their sheep production since it increased mortality. In the past 3 years, approximately 57% of respondents reported an increase in the prevalence of sheep scab. The majority of farmers reported wool loss as the most noticeable clinical symptom (73%). More than 80% of sheep farmers do not use acaricide on a regular basis. Sixty-one percent of farmers prefer a pour-on topical application method. The frequency of annual dipping was every fortnight (40%), during summer and winter (24%). Most farmers (66%) regularly vaccinate their sheep. Conclusion: The prevalence of sheep scab is increasing in these communities; however, a better understanding of the factors that facilitate its transmission is required to allow improved management and control of this disease. The government must involve extension officers and distribute them to disseminate information to farmers. Thus, it will be easy to translate the literature into action. Keywords: communal sheep farmers, Eastern Cape Province, season, sheep scab control methods, sheep scab.

Perceived Soccer Literacy: A Construct Linking Soccer Video Games Play to Soccer Engagement

Abstract: This study investigates soccer video games as a platform to promote soccer engagement (i.e., involvement, behavioral intentions) among those who do not physically play soccer regularly. Perceived soccer literacy is proposed as a construct explaining the promotional effect, consisting of the four sub-themes of affective attitude, perceived functional knowledge, perceived critical knowledge, and perceived competence. A study was conducted based on an online survey and with US and Canadian adults who do not physically play soccer on a regular basis. With structural equation modeling, (1) the association between soccer video game use and perceived soccer literacy was examined (via mean comparison) and (2) perceived soccer literacy’s link to soccer involvement and behavioral intentions was tested (via latent variable path analysis). Positive links were reported from soccer video games usage to all four sub-themes. Perceived soccer literacy imposed significant influences on soccer involvement/intentions, where perceived critical knowledge was the most influential.

Effectiveness of Disinfection with 70% Isopropyl Alcohol to Reduce Bacterial Contamination of Mobile Phones Carried by Medical Personnel in Baghdad Teaching Hospital

Mobile phones, despite their importance in daily life, can disseminate pathogens due to their frequent contact with hands. The purpose of the present study is to determine the prevalence of bacterial contamination on the mobile phones of healthcare personnel at the Baghdad Teaching Hospital, to identify the contaminating microorganisms, and to determine the preventive efficacy of 70% isopropyl alcohol. Sixty mobile phones from 40 physicians and 20 nurses were analyzed for microbial contamination. After collecting samples from each phone, they were disinfected with 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes and samples were recollected. Twenty four hours of aerobic and anaerobic incubation of agar plates at 37 °C. The results indicated that 34 (56.7%) out of 60 samples were contaminated with bacteria. Approximately 57.5% of the mobile phones used by physicians and 45% of those used by nurses contained microorganisms. Before disinfection, the most common bacteria found in mobile phones were coagulase-negative staphylococci, followed by Staphylococcus aureus, hemolytic (3.33%) and non-hemolytic (3.33%) Streptococci. While, E. coli and fungi contaminates were also found on mobile phone surfaces in equal percentage (6.67%). Following disinfection with 70% isopropyl alcohol, the number of bacteria was reduced to nil in 83.3% of the colonized mobile phones. This investigation demonstrated that commercially available, affordable and device safe wipes containing 70% isopropyl alcohol can significantly reduce mobile phone contamination. As a result, it is crucial for medical professionals to sterilize their mobile phones on a regular basis, as this can limit the dissemination of pathogens to patients and reduce the incidence of hospital acquired infections.

A Comprehensive Analysis of Beekeeping Risks and Validation of Biosecurity Measures against Major Infectious Diseases in Apis mellifera in Europe

Background/Objectives: In a collaborative effort, FAO, the International Federation of Beekeepers’ Association “Apimondia”, the Appalachian State University, and the Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e Toscana (IZSLT), the FAO Reference Centre for Animal Health and Food Security Discipline Apiculture, health, and biosecurity, designed an online international survey (“Knowledge, Awareness and Practice”-KAP) as a risk assessment tool to validate biosecurity measures able to prevent and control the main honeybee (Apis mellifera subsp.) infectious diseases. Methods: The KAP survey was disseminated through various channels for 14 months (January 2019–March 2020). Beekeepers’ knowledge on nosemosis, American foulbrood (AFB), and European foulbrood (EFB) management was assessed. Beekeepers’ attitudes were investigated by asking them to provide a score called “Acceptance by beekeepers”. Results: Of the 410 respondents, the majority of them (68.3%, n = 252) were from Europe. European beekeepers (n = 252) considered “Highly acceptable” the following practices: removing combs that show signs of dysentery and feeding colonies for nosemosis; the quick identification and management of affected hives for American foulbrood and European foulbrood. Instead, the following practices were considered as not acceptable by beekeepers: for nosemosis, the use of antibiotics and sampling of hive debris for early detection; for American foulbrood and European foulbrood, the shook swarm, the destruction of the whole apiary, as well as their treatment with antibiotics. Conclusion: This study demonstrated the validity of the present “Knowledge, Awareness and Practice” (KAP) survey to validate the best practices for the main infectious honeybee diseases, considering the pragmatic point of view of beekeepers. Sustainable practices for disease control are preferred by the European beekeepers. While having an adequate knowledge base for the early detection of the investigated honeybee diseases, European beekeepers tend to be aware of the health status of their hives, embracing advanced, practice-oriented training. Authors highlight that the selection of practices and their validation should be revised on a regular basis, to be adapted in a timely manner to the current infectious honeybee disease situation, in order to build up a resilient and effective stock of practices.

Inventory Management with Advance Booking Information: The Case of Surgical Supplies and Elective Surgeries

Problem definition: Medical operations require a large volume and variety of consumable supplies that are kept in hospital inventory and replenished on a regular basis. Stringent requirements on the availability of these supplies, together with high variability in their daily usage, contribute to the high inventory costs of the surgical departments in hospitals. We investigate the value of utilizing Advance Booking Information (ABI) on elective surgeries—which are often booked up to months in advance—in reducing inventory costs. Methodology/results: We study a single-item, periodic-review, stochastic inventory control problem, where the item demand in each period is driven by the number and type of surgeries requiring the item, and with the available information on elective surgeries integrated into the ordering decisions. Given that item usage from each case is uncertain and only realized after the surgery, ABI provides imperfect information on future demand. Through exact analysis of a simplified version of the problem, as well as extensive numerical experiments using synthetic and real data, enabled using a state aggregation technique, we provide insights on and quantify the value of using ABI as a function of the number of periods of ABI integrated into the ordering decisions. We identify a relevant parameter regime—namely, high backlog (relative to holding) costs and when surgeries are booked sufficiently in advance—where the value of using ABI could be significant and the majority of the benefits can be gained through incorporating only one period of ABI beyond the order lead time. In a case study conducted using real data, we observe up to 26% reduction in average inventory levels, without violating the service levels. Managerial implications: By incorporating readily available elective surgery schedules into replenishment decisions of surgical supplies, hospitals could significantly reduce inventory costs without compromising the availability of the supplies. Funding: This work was partially funded by The Ontario Ministry of Government and Consumer Services (MGCS). The views expressed in the paper are the views of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the Province. Supplemental Material: The e-companion is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/msom.2021.0063 .

Nutrients composition, physical, microbial and sensory properties of functional cake enriched with plantain-velvet bean flours

Functional foods can be considered to be those whole food, fortified, enriched or enhanced foods that provide health benefits beyond the provision of essential nutrients (e.g., vitamins and minerals), when they are consumed at efficacious levels as part of a varied diet on a regular basis. Wheat flour is a finely ground powder prepared from wheat grain. Flour can be produced from other starchy plant foods and used in baking. Although flour can be made from a wide variety of plants, the vast majority is made from wheat. Plantain is a crop plant with green leaves and herbaceous stem. Its fruits are cherished by many people. More than 60 plantain varieties have been identified. Velvet bean belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is among the various underutilized wild legumes and is wide spread in tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world. It is considered a viable source of dietary proteins. This study therefore investigated assessment of nutritional, physical, microbial and sensory properties of functional cake produced from wheat, plantain and velvet bean flours blends. The procured velvet bean and plantain were thoroughly washed, peeled, dried and converted into flours. Wheat, plantain and Velvet flours composite were prepared in the ratio 240:37.5:22.5, 210:60:30 and 150:105:45 respectively and 100% wheat flour was used as the control. The samples were evaluated for their nutritional quality; gross and metabolizable energy, total starch, total sugar; physical properties; weight, volume and specific volume, Microbial; total plate counts, fungi and coliform tests and sensory properties; taste, colour, appearance, aroma, texture and overall acceptability. Nutritional quality revealed that gross, metabolisable energy, total starch, and total sugar ranged from 21.08 – 26.39 kCal/g, 8.89 – 11.65 kCal/g, 16.64 – 21.13% and 0.11 – 0.38% ; weight, volume and specific volume ranged from 33.35-36.95, 819.80-944.35, 23.67-26.02; ; total plate counts, fungi and coliform ranged from 2.44 x 105 to 5.61 x 105 cfu /g, 1.73 x 103 to 2.41 x 103 cfu /g and 1.1 x 101 to 1.21 x 102 cfu/g and sensory properties; taste, colour, appearance, aroma, texture and overall acceptability ranged from 7.2 – 8.6, 7.9 – 6.0, 6.0 -8.3, 7.4 to 8.1, 7.5 – 7.9 and 7.5 – 8.7. Addition of plantain and velvet beans flour blend significantly (p < .05) enhanced the nutritional quality, physical properties and sensory properties of the functional cake produced. Storability test is imperative.

Implementation of Rules and Routines in Physical Education Teaching and Learning in China

Physical education is a significant aspect of the Chinese education system. Moreover, on a regular basis, physical education is an integral part of the Chinese education system. Therefore, the following study looks into different rules and routines for physical education teaching and learning in China. Most of the rules and regulations are formed based on guidelines provided by the Ministry of Education. Therefore, a systematic discussion regarding physical education training in China is conducted in the analysis. The significance of physical education (PE) in the Chinese education system cannot be overstated. It serves a dual purpose by not only promoting physical fitness but also fostering holistic personal development. PE contributes to the physical well-being of students, helping them lead healthier lives, but it also instills essential life skills like teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. In China, the Ministry of Education, as the overarching authority on educational matters, plays a pivotal role in shaping the rules and routines governing physical education. These rules encompass a wide array of aspects related to the curriculum, including the allocation of resources, curriculum design, assessment, and teaching methodologies. By adhering to these regulations, educational institutions across the country can ensure a standardized and comprehensive approach to physical education.

Upaya Pemberdayaan Kader dan Ibu Hamil tentang Senam Hamil untuk Mengatasi Ketidaknyamanan Kehamilan pada Ibu Hamil di Posyandu Kinasih Banjarsari Surakarta

Pregnancy exercise is a form of structured exercise or exercise. Exercising on a regular basis will improve blood circulation, strengthen muscles and flex joints and can reduce common disorders during pregnancy such as aches, back pain, muscle stiffness, constipation, and reduce leg swelling. Doing pregnancy exercise regularly can reduce lower back pain, one of which is by kneeling, rotating the pelvic bones, bending the buttocks, bending the knees, chest. The purpose of this community service is that after receiving counseling it is hoped that pregnant women and Health Cadres members of Posyandu Kinasih, Banjarsari Subdistrict, Surakarta can apply and be able to provide education to pregnant women to carry out pregnancy exercise to overcome discomfort in pregnant women. The target of counseling activities about pregnancy exercise is all Health Cadres and pregnant women in the Banjarsari Village, Surakarta. The expected output of pregnancy exercise counseling activities for cadres and members of the Balita Kinasih Posyandu in Banjarsari Surakarta Village is an increase in knowledge and skills about pregnancy exercise for mothers and cadres. The results of community service are that after counseling cadres and pregnant women become more knowledgeable, understand about pregnancy exercise as evidenced in the results of the evaluation through the distribution of questionnaires, the average value of the level of knowledge is from 70% to 90%. Based on the implementation of community service, it can be concluded that there is an increase.