bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating dry biomass and plant nitrogen concentration in pre-Alpine grasslands with low-cost UAS-borne multispectral data – a comparison of sensors, algorithms, and predictor sets
Authors: Schucknecht Anne , Seo Bumsuk , Krämer Alexander , Asam Sarah , Atzberger Clement , Kiese Ralf
Published: October 2021

Abstract. Grasslands are an important part of pre-Alpine and Alpine landscapes. Despite the economic value and the significant role of grasslands in carbon and nitrogen (N) cycling, spatially explicit information on grassland biomass and quality is rarely available. Remotely sensed data from unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and satellites might be an option to overcome this gap. Our study aims to investigate the potential of low-cost UAS-based multispectral sensors for estimating above-ground biomass (dry matter, DM) and plant N concentration. In our analysis, we compared two different sensors (Parrot Sequoia, SEQ; MicaSense RedEdge-M, REM), three statistical models (Linear Model; Random Forests, RF; Gradient Boosting Machines, GBM) and six predictor sets (i.e. different combinations of raw reflectance, vegetation indices, and canopy height). Canopy height information can be derived from UAS sensors, but was not available in our study. Therefore, we tested the added value of this structural information with in-situ measured bulk canopy height data. A combined field sampling and flight campaign was conducted in April 2018 at different grassland sites in Southern Germany to obtain in-situ and the corresponding spectral data. The hyper-parameters of the two machine learning (ML) approaches (RF, GBM) were optimized and all model set-ups were run with a six-fold cross-validation. Linear models were characterized by very low statistical performance measures, thus were not suitable to estimate DM and plant N concentration using UAS data. The non-linear ML algorithms showed an acceptable regression performance for all sensor-predictor set combinations with average (avg) R2cv of 0.48, RMSEcv, avg of 53.0 g m2 and rRMSEcv, avg of 15.9 % for DM, and with R2cv, avg of 0.40, RMSEcv, avg of 0.48 wt.% and rRMSEcv, avg of 15.2 % for plant N concentration estimation. The optimal combination of sensors, ML algorithms and predictor sets notably improved the model performance. The best model performance for the estimation of DM (R2cv = 0.67, RMSEcv = 41.9 g m2, rRMSEcv = 12.6 %) was achieved with a RF model that utilizes all possible predictors and REM sensor data. The best model for plant N concentration was a combination of a RF model with all predictors and SEQ sensor data (R2cv = 0.47, RMSEcv = 0.45 wt.%, rRMSEcv = 14.2 %). DM models with the spectral input of REM performed significantly better than those with SEQ data, while for N concentration models it was the other way round. The choice of predictors was most influential on model performance, while the effect of the chosen ML algorithm was generally lower. The addition of canopy height to the spectral data in the predictor set significantly improved the DM models. In our study, calibrating ML algorithm improved the model performance substantially, which shows the importance of this step.
Balanced Scorecard: estrategia para la medición del desempeño en la dirección de proyectos
Authors: Castro-Silva Hugo Fernando , Montes-Guerra Maricela I. , Diez-Silva H. Mauricio
Published: October 2021

Este trabajo de busca analizar el impacto de la utilización del Balanced Scorecard como herramienta estratégica de apoyo en la gestión de proyectos, para el sector de Tecnología de Información en Colombia. El estudio de carácter exploratorio indaga sobre la integración de Balanced Scorecard con las actividades propias de la gestión de proyectos, se desarrolló un trabajo de campo con 105 gerentes de proyectos en el sector de estudio, comparando proyectos desarrollados con diferentes metodologías de seguimiento y control, contra proyectos que han implementado el Balance Scorecard. Los resultados permiten establecer que el Balanced Scorecard es una herramienta que puede mejorar la eficacia y eficiencia de la gestión de los proyectos en términos de alineación de los resultados del proyecto con la estrategia de la organización. Este estudio permite concluir que el Balanced Scorecard permite establecer y hacer medidas estratégicas y conexiones más claras entre el proyecto y la estrategia organizacional, que pueden ocasionar un mejor desempeño interno del equipo del proyecto en términos de entrega oportuna, cumplimiento de presupuesto, gestión de la calidad, alcance y riesgos del proyecto.
Comportamiento del consumidor de destinos turísticos de Ecuador
Authors: Lemoine Quintero Frank Ángel , Hernández Rodríguez Norma Rafaela , Castellanos Pallerols Graciela María , Zamora Cusme Yesenia Aracely
Published: October 2021

La preocupación por el comportamiento del consumidor ha hecho que diferentes autores desarrollen modelos de comportamiento del mismo en general y de destinos turísticos en particular. El objetivo de este trabajo es analizar el comportamiento del consumidor en el proceso de comercialización del destino turístico Sucre – San Vicente de Ecuador y presentar un modelo que permita la comercialización de los destinos turísticos abordados. Para tal fin se recurrió a una investigación de tipo cuantitativa que, a partir de los métodos de análisis y síntesis, hipotético-deductivo, sistémico-estructural e histórico-lógico se obtuvieron como resultados indicadores de índole económico y comerciales aportando estos a la construcción de un modelo. Se concluye que las etapas diseñadas en el modelo permitieron lograr cambios en el comportamiento del consumidor turísticos integrando la gestión de comercialización y facilitando a su vez las condiciones de sostenibilidad en la actividad turísticas del Ecuador.
The differential effects of medical loss ratio regulation on the individual health insurance market
Authors: Cole Cassandra R. , Karl Bradley J.
Published: October 2021

The federal Affordable Care Act (ACA) imposed many new regulations on the health insurance marketplace, including a minimum medical loss ratio (MLR) requirement. However, several states had minimum MLR regulations in place prior to the enactment of the ACA. In this paper, we examine whether insurers operating in states with pre-ACA MLR regulations were better able to adapt to the new MLR requirements imposed by the ACA. We find evidence that state MLR requirements have adversely affected insurer market share. We also find that insurers operating in states without existing MLR requirements experienced decreases in market share relative to insurers operating in states with MLR requirements. Finally, there is evidence of a differential effect of the state and federal MLR requirements based on the extent of market share, with smaller insurers being more adversely affected.
The influence of Small Enterprises Websites on Users’ Satisfaction
Authors: Hallal Jahjah
Published: October 2021

This study advocates that websites’ levels of applications/functions are a major determinant of customer satisfaction, and by extension, a determinant of the merit of a firm's e-commerce system. In particular, it aim is to inspect the potential influence of small enterprises website applications on visitor satisfaction. The model fashioned for this research outlines the main constructs involved in manifesting the potential influence of website characteristics on visitor satisfaction. An instrument consists of 17 questions was designed to collect data required to evaluate the actual satisfaction of visitors with small enterprises websites. The model was tested via surveying individuals in urban New South Wales (Australia). The expectation disconfirmation theory (EDT) was employed to assess user satisfaction. The multiple regression method (MLR) technique was applied to analyse the collected data. The results demonstrated that the competence of website components is critical in shaping visitors, customers, and potential customers’ attitudes, behaviours, and satisfaction.
Organizational Effectiveness of Listed Companies in Food & Beverages sector Sultanate of Oman
Authors: Khan Taslim , Mishra G.P.
Published: October 2021

The financial conditions of Omani firms may have been the closest approximation to learn the influential effect of the country’s economy. In order to evaluate the organizational effectiveness of the Omani companies in Food and Beverages sector, the current paper is following concept on different ratio analyses to measure the company’s performance for a period of the year 2008 to year 2011. The paper clearly focuses on MSMS listed companies of Oman which are listed at the Muscat Security market (MSM) Oman, to note the level of effectiveness and performance of the Omani food & beverages companies, the paper is dependent on secondary data concerning the financial statements of various listed companies on MSM Oman. Other variables are obtained from the general economic condition of the country. Approximately 19 listed companies’ were found to be listed in the sector of food & Beverages, on The MSM website, from 19 firms 3 firms were completely into loss. The data is considered for the span of 4 years and the data of the companies which were in loss was not considered.
The Capital Market Authority Effectiveness in the Regulation of Financial Markets perspectives from the financial sector actors
Authors: Okioga Charles Kombo
Published: October 2021

Capital Market Authority in Kenya is in a development phase in order to be effective in the regulation of the financial markets. The market participants and the regulators are increasingly adopting international standards in order to make the capital markets in sync with those of developed markets. New products are being introduced and new business lines are being established. The Capital Markets Authority (Regulator) is constantly reviewing existing regulations and recommending changes to regulate the market properly. Business lines and activities are being harmonized by market participants to provide a one stop solution in order to meet the financial and securities services needs of the investors. The convergence of business lines and activities of market intermediaries gives rise to the diversity of a firm’s business operations to meet multiplicity of regulations that its activities are subject to. The methodology used in this study was designed to examine the relationship between capital markets Authority effective regulation and the performance of the financial markets. The study used correlation design, the study population consisted of 30 employees in financial institutions regulated by Capital Markets Authority and 80 investors. The study found out that effective financial market regulation has a significant relationship with the financial market performance indicated by (r=0.571, p<0.01) and (r=0.716, p≤0.01, the study recommended a further research on the factors that hinder effective financial regulation by the Capital Markets Authority.
EFFECT OF PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL SYSTEM ON MOTIVATION AND PERFORMANCE OF ACADEMICS IN NIGERIAN PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES
Authors: R.M. OJOKUKU
Published: October 2021

Nigerian universities are presently experiencing a number of challenges, primary among which is dearth of experienced academics, due to the mass exodus of lecturers to other countries in Africa and overseas, where the environment is more conducive to work and remuneration packages are more competitive. Series of research studies have established that a strong relationship exists between human resource (HR) practices and employee motivation and performance; however much still needs to be done in terms of investigating how it applies to academics in Nigerian universities. This study therefore set out to examine the impact of performance appraisal (PA), which is a key HR practice, on the motivation and performance of academics in Nigerian universities. The study sample was drawn from four (4) public universities in south western Nigeria. Data was sourced with the aid of a questionnaire, while percentage and multiple regression analysis were used for data analysis. Findings showed that the university academics see their performance appraisal system as not being accurate and fair enough because it does not capture adequately, all the job components that make up their performance during the review period. The performance appraisal system was also found to exert a strong influence on the academics’ motivation and overall performance. It was recommended that the PA system for academics should be reviewed by university management such that all the components of their job are captured, evaluated, and adequately rewarded. This is expected to impact positively on the motivation and overall performance of the academics, thereby working as a veritable tool for steering university education towards the right direction for national development.
Modelling the Mediation Effect of Service Recovery on the relationship between Customer complaints and Customer loyalty in Retail banking Industry
Authors: Abubakar Muhammad Mujtaba , Mohd Mokhtar Sany Sanuri , Abdullattef Aliyu Olayemi
Published: October 2021

In the last three decades, ample empirical studies have reported the significant association between customer satisfaction, customer complaints and customer loyalty in retail banking. However, the findings of such studies are far from conclusive. Initially, interviews and extensive literature review were undertaken to understand the linkages among the constructs. Anecdotal and empirical evidence indicate direct associations between the independent, mediating and the dependent variables. But, the intervening effect of service recovery is neglected by past studies. Thus, this conceptual paper proposes the mediation effect of service recovery on the relationship between customer complaints and customer loyalty in retail bankin. The insights provided by this paper can assist bank managers in addressing the issues of customer switching and loyalty erosion that embattle the banking industry.
Mobilizing Timely Location-Based Advertising: A Study of Effectiveness on Persuasion
Authors: Lin Hui-Fei , Yeo Benjamin , Chen Yen-Shen
Published: October 2021

Various studies have examined the effects of SMS (e.g. Carroll, Barnes, and Fletcher, 2007; Varnali, Yilmaz, and Toker, 2012). However, the effectiveness of MMS, especially those focusing on how features such as localized search and real time services influence the psychological aspects of users, has received little attention. Moreover, due to the ubiquitously accessible and portable features as well as highly personal devices, it would be valuable to gain insights into consumers’ perceptions of the impact of mobile advertising. Taken together, the goal of this study is to explore effect of mobile advertisements on persuasion. A two (type of mobile ads: SMS vs. MMS) × two (location feature: with location-based service vs. without location-based service) × two (timeliness feature: with immediate message vs. non-immediate message) between-subjects design was set up. The results showed that mobile phone users have greater attention, interest, desire and exhibit more favorable attitude for the brand as well as greater purchase intention when exposed to MMS with location-based and timely services than MMS with location-based but have no timely service. Interestingly, irritation mediates the relationship between the type of mobile advertisement and (1) attention, (2) interest, (3) desire, (4) attitude toward the brand and (5) purchase intention.
Velocidad y efecto de la pelota en el momento del impacto en los servicios de tenis: Confiabilidad de un instrumento para medir el movimiento de la pelota (TRACKMAN)
Authors: Sato Bumpei , Wakatsuki Ryo , Kashiwagi Yu , Funato Kazuo
Published: October 2021

Para verificar la confiabilidad de la precisión de las mediciones realizadas con TRACKMAN analizamos 3 tipos de servicio (Plano, Cortado, con Kick), y comparamos los resultados con los valores obtenidos con el sistema de captura del movimiento en 3D (VICON). Se observaron fuertes correlaciones lineales positivas en velocidad, calculadas con TRACKMAN (x) y VICON (y); (r = 0.996, p<0.01), igual que la cantidad de efecto de la pelota; (r = 0.978, p<0.01). Esto sugiere que la velocidad y la cantidad de los valores de efecto de la pelota calculados con TRACKMAN, que permiten proporcionar retroalimentación inmediata, son suficientes para la confiabilidad y serían útiles en situaciones de entrenamiento.
Radiation-Induced Phenomena in Wide-Gap Laser Materials Used in High-Radiation Areas
Authors: Harutyunyan V. V. , Aleksanyan E. M. , Arzumanyan V. V. , Badalyan A. O.
Published: October 2021

The analysis of the surface states in experimental reflection spectra is carried out peculiarities of the formation of defects of the electronic structure of irradiation corundum crystals is considered. It is shown that change of crystals reflectional ability is related to radiative growth forced by aluminum ions. The processes of radiative growth depend on the type and energy of irradiating high-energy particles. Kinetic of that growth is presented, which relates the intensity of zones with free aluminum ions to the concentration of such zones in near-surface layer.
Edo Spaces, European Images: Iterations of Art and Architecture in Benin
Authors: Anagnost Adrian , Gueorguiev Manol
Published: October 2021

A comparison of European and African depictions of the Kingdom of Benin from the fifteenth through late nineteenth centuries that reads the two bodies of evidence with and against one another.
O JOGO DA MEMÓRIA COMO RECURSO PEDAGÓGICO
Authors: Cunha João  Carlos Leal , Souza Edmilson De
Published: October 2021

Há algumas décadas a sociedade passa por profunda transformação cultural pautada na informática. O uso intenso de tecnologia está presente em produtos, bens e serviços, sejam eles para a mobilidade urbana, produção de alimentos, controle sanitário, produção de medicamentos, ou uso pessoal como os computadores e os celulares, cada vez mais presentes na vida dos jovens. Essa mudança cultural oferece oportunidades para o aprendizado da Matemática no âmbito escolar. O jogo, e, portanto, o brincar, é um importante recurso para potencializar o aprendizado dos estudantes no Ensino Fundamental. O presente trabalho investigou a elaboração de versões online e física do Jogo da Memória e seu uso como recurso pedagógico para auxiliar a aprendizagem de conceitos de matemática utilizando a troca simbólica entre algarismos indo-arábicos e egípcios. A pesquisa foi realizada com estudantes de duas Escolas Estaduais de Campo Grande-MS. Os resultados apontam que a complexidade gradativa dos caracteres e a exigência de realização de operações matemáticas podem alterar a tipologia da resposta dos estudantes, por outro lado, diferentes atividades, independente do uso ou não da informática, potencializam a aprendizagem dos conceitos matemáticos e a assimilação das trocas simbólicas.
CONTROVÉRSIAS SOBRE VACINAS: O QUE PENSAM OS ESTUDANTES?
Authors: Lima Gleice Prado , Silva Adjane Da Costa Tourinho e , Souza Divanízia Do Nascimento
Published: October 2021

A vacina é um marco na história da humanidade, pois sua eficácia garantiu que diversas doenças fossem erradicadas. Entretanto, é perceptível que o número de pessoas que buscam a imunização vem decaindo, fazendo com que doenças, como o sarampo, ressurjam. Com o intuito de engajar alunos em práticas que favorecem o processo de Alfabetização Científica, este trabalho buscou analisar a construção de argumentos elaborados por alunos do 1º ano do Ensino Médio nas aulas de Biologia, por meio de uma sequência de ensino investigativa baseada no tema vacina, já que temáticas que envolvem o enfoque científico e social mostram aos alunos como ocorre a integração ciência, tecnologia e sociedade. A análise dos discursos orais dos alunos evidencia o surgimento de ricos debates sobre o tema. Todavia, os textos escritos de alguns evidenciam argumentos controversos, em que refutadores se opõem completamente às conclusões. Verificou-se ainda argumentos semelhantes aos divulgados em canais de informação, em que a vacinação é apresentada como decisão individual.
Ciência e Valores: uma leitura epistemologicamente guiada de fontes primárias
Authors: Domingues Cordeiro Marinês
Published: October 2021

Introduzo a temática da relação entre ciência e valores, um problema lógico que tem origem no problema da indução e na crítica ao positivismo lógico, com o escrutínio do conceito de subdeterminação. O objetivo geral é apresentar duas teses filosóficas com capacidade heurística bastante interessante para o Ensino de Física e de Ciências, em geral, sobretudo àqueles que, trabalhando com história da ciência no ensino, gostariam de poder examinar os potenciais filosóficos de algumas fontes primárias. O modelo triádico de justificação, desenvolvido por Larry Laudan, é um construto simultaneamente crítico ao positivismo e ao pós-positivismo. Por ser focado precisamente na justificação, tem o poder de permitir as análises de documentos como as Conferências Nobel, por exemplo. Reconhecendo a relação reticulada entre métodos, teorias e objetivos que faz um cientista ou uma comunidade, é possível olhar esses documentos e compreender o processo de racionalização ao qual eles aludem. Analiso a Conferência Nobel de Marie Curie, de modo a mostrar as inter-relações e ajustes entre métodos, teorias e objetivos anunciados pela física, em 1911, que culminaram em uma reestruturação da própria Química. Prosseguindo em relação às teses filosóficas, a ciência como conhecimento social, defendida por Helen Longino, é apresentada e, especificamente a importância dos tipos de crítica intersubjetiva, evidenciais e conceituais, elencados pela filósofa. Tais críticas servem de instrumento heurístico para a análise do trabalho “Sobre o elemento 93” de Ida Noddack, revelando como a subdeterminação de certas evidências pode gerar novas hipóteses, como neste caso, a da fissão nuclear.
The Real Problem(s) with Panpsychism
Authors: Seth A.K.
Published: October 2021

Panpsychism is the notion that consciousness is fundamental and ubiquitous. Defenders of panpsychism appeal, at least in part, to the apparent implausibility of materialist accounts of consciousness. However, materialist accounts are more resourceful than often assumed by proponents
of panpsychism, while panpsychism has insurmountable problems of its own. The real problem with panpsychism is not that it seems crazy. It is that it explains nothing and does not generate testable predictions.
Qualities and the Galilean View
Authors: Liu M.
Published: October 2021

It is often thought that sensible qualities such as colours do not exist as properties of physical objects. Focusing on the case of colour, I discuss two views: the Galilean view, according to which colours do not exist as qualities of physical objects, and the naÃ¯ve view,
according to which colours are, as our perception presents them to be, qualities instantiated by physical objects. I argue that it is far from clear that the Galilean view is better than the naÃ¯ve view. Given the arguments in this paper, the naÃ¯ve view ought to be
taken seriously. The discussion here appeals especially to theorists who, like Goff, are already convinced that the quantitative language of physical science fails to capture all qualities
Can a Post-Galilean Science of Consciousness Avoid Substance Dualism?
Authors: Weir R.S.
Published: October 2021

In Galileo's Error, Philip Goff sets out a manifesto for a post-Galilean science of consciousness. Article three of the manifesto says that a post-Galilean science of consciousness should reject dualism. I argue that there is an important sense of 'dualism' whereby Goff's
arguments are not only compatible with but entail dualism, and not only dualism but substance dualism. I do not suggest that this is bad news for the post-Galilean revolution. But if it is correct then the revolution might equally be considered a restoration.
Assessment of profitability and risk management in vegetable production in Ogun State, Nigeria
Authors: Akinbola Adeyose Emmanuel
Published: October 2021

The study examined the performance and risk management of vegetable production in Ogun State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling procedure was used to select 120 respondents for the study. Data were collected through a well-structured questionnaire and personal interview schedule. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistics such as Ordinary Least Square (OLS) were used for the analysis of this study. The results found out that lack of discriminating pricing system, conflict in policy making, and high cost of inputs affect the market prices and as well serve as the main production risks that were observed by the farmers in the area. The average cost incurred for the production was about ₦6,908, while the total revenue accrued was ₦41,751. The gross margin and net farm income realized per production season were ₦36,973 and ₦34,843, respectively. The value (6.0) of return on investment showed that farmers realized times six of their investment. The variables such as household size, farm size, fertilizer application and equipment were the main determinants of vegetable production in the area. Also, the main challenges faced by the farmers were the infestation of pests and diseases, inadequate funds and climate change consequences. Therefore, it is recommended that the vegetable farmers should be encouraged through technical training on innovative approach to price determination and forming of functioning market structure in the area.
Two Decades of Computing at the University of Belize
Authors: GARCİA David , RABBANİ Farshad
Published: October 2021

Computer science became a distinct academic discipline in the early 1950s. The first computer science degree program was founded in Belize around 45 years later, under the auspices of the nascent University College of Belize, which would subsequently become the University of Belize. We present a twenty-year synopsis of a degree program created in 1998 to build an undergraduate curriculum using the surge of computing in the country of Belize as a catalyst coupled with the recognition of the importance of computing for national development. The four-year undergraduate degree program has resulted in steady student enrolment over the past two decades featuring a female student population consistent with female enrolment in similar computer science programs globally. The study details the origins, development efforts, successes, challenges, and recommendations for the program's future development.
Cognitive Radio Networks Based on Users' Reputation Scheme
Authors: Ammar Mahmoud A. , Rehan Salahedin A.
Published: October 2021

Cognitive Radio (CR) can be defined as a technology that allows users to change the transmission parameters as required to increase the spectrum efficiency. Because of this mechanism, some threats emerge. Two major threats are found in CR. The first is the Primary User Emulation Attack (PUEA), where the attacker is able to transmit at a forbidden time slot effectively, emulating the signals of the primary user. This makes all the system users believe that the spectrum is occupied by a good primary user.  The second threat is known as the spectrum sensing data falsification attack (SSDF). In this case, the attackers send false observation information, intentionally or unintentionally, to the fusion center (FC), causing it to make the wrong decision. In this study, the scheme presented  was based on a users' reputation for secure spectrum access in cognitive radio networks. Each Secondary User (SU) performs local sensing and then forwards the sensing results to the main fusion center FC. The FC makes the final decision about the presence of the primary user based on the proposed approach. The schemes substantially reduce the effect of cognitive users with low reputation values while improving the impact of cognitive users with the high reputation values on the final decision. It has been verified that the proposed approach can improve the sensing performance under the impact of a different number of reliable and unreliable users in a CR network. Results based on simulation show that the proposed scheme outperforms the traditional majority scheme despite a high number of malicious users.
Effect of pH, Sucrose Concentrations and Medium States on in vitro Root-ing of Pineapple (Ananas comosus (L) Merr) cv Queen
Authors: Hamad Abdelhamid M.
Published: October 2021

The effect of medium states (liquid, semi solid, solid), pH (5.0, 5.5, 6.0, 6.5) and sucrose concentrations (10, 20, 30, 40 g/l) on in vitro rooting of pineapple cultured in full strength MS enriched with IBA at 0.5 mg/l were investigated. According to average overall sucrose concentrations, overall pH adjustments, and at each combination of equal sucrose and pH, liquid medium was always super than solid and semisolid. The tallest plantlets (66 to 71 mm) obtained in liquid medium enriched with sucrose at 10 and 20 g/l both adjusted to pH 6.0; sucrose at 20 g/l and adjusted to pH 6.5 and sucrose at 30 g/l and adjusted to pH 5.0. All of the above combinations except sucrose at 20 and pH 6.0  resulted in 100% rooting. Sucrose at 30 g/l and pH 5.0 resulted in two times more (11 roots per shoot) and three times longer roots (39 mm) than the other treatments (5 roots each about 14 mm long). Each rooting parameter had different optimum combinations of medium state, sucrose and pH adjustment. For any parameter, proper pH adjustment could reduce the optimal sucrose enrichment from 30 to 20 and even to 10 g/l. Hence, pH adjustment is suggested as an important approach for reduction of in vitro rooting medium cost.
Prevalence of Vitamin D Deficiency among Type II Diabetic Patients in Shahat, Libya
Authors: Mansour Yahya Saber E. , Ibrahim Nusieba A. Mohammed , A Asmaa Abdulaziz
Published: October 2021

Vitamin D deficiency is one of the most increasingly diagnosed comorbidities in patients with type II diabetes mellitus (TIIDM), suggesting that it may play a role in TIIDM. The present study aims to determine and evaluate Libyan adults' vitamin D (Vit D) status with and without TIIDM. 100 Libyan adults with TIIDM from the Diabetic Clinics and 100 healthy without TIIDM were included in the study. The mean age for the TIIDM subjects was 25.8 ± 15.4 years versus 35.9 ± 4.2 years for the healthy controls. Serum 25 hydroxy cholceferiol (vitamin D), calcium, cholesterol, blood glucose, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and triglycerides were measured and the outcomes were compared between the TIIDM and control groups. Both the TIIDM and healthy agencies had diet Vit D deficiency. The suggested ranges of Vit D had been appreciably decreased in the TIIDM adults compared to the controls (29.1±1.6 nmol/L versus 36.4±1.9 nmol/L). In the TIIDM adults, 66.7% had mild, 30.7% moderate, and 3.3% severe Vit D deficiency, in contrast with 43.7% (mild), 33.5% (moderate), and 6% (severe) in the control group. Overall, 100% of the TIIDM adults and 75% of the healthy adults were Vit D deficient. In this study, compared to the healthy groups with TIIDM, the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among TIIDM adults used to be quite high. Therefore, screening for vitamin D deficiency and supplementation for this population is warranted.
Continuous Glucose Monitoring for Non-insulin Dependent Diabetics in Naturopathic Clinical Practice
Authors: Duizer David
Published: October 2021

With a strong focus on lifestyle medicine and desire for evidence-informed, individualized treatment protocols naturopathic doctors have much to offer the type 2 diabetes patient. The newest addition to the naturopathic doctor’s tool kit is continuous and flash glucose monitoring devices. Data obtained from this technology supports healthy glucose control in type 2 diabetes patients. When clinicians are able to be connected to this data nutrition, exercise, supplement, herbal and medication prescriptions can be individualized to the patients insulin sensitivity and glucose disposal. The article reviews one naturopathic doctor’s approach to type 2 diabetes management using continuous glucose monitoring.
Exploring Black Women’s High Maternal Mortality Rates & Naturopathic Medicine’s Role
Authors: Garcia Amanda Daniella , Onah Racheal Adesuwa
Published: October 2021

Studies have shown that Black women report higher maternal mortality rates (MMRs) compared to any other racial group. Contributing factors that increase racial disparity amongst Black and White MMRs include cardiovascular comorbidities, pregnancy complications, genetic factors, socioeconomic status, racism, and poor healthcare management. While these factors have been identified in multiple research studies, there has not been any inquiry into what actions naturopathic doctors can take within their practice that can aid in decreasing Black women's MMRs. This paper incorporates recommendations given by Black mothers, and outlines how naturopathic doctors have the unique opportunity to decrease MMRs through patient education, informed consent, screening, prevention, and strong relationships built on trust.
Mental Health Care for Youth and Adolescents who Identify as LGTBQ
Authors: Hernandez Oscar , Trevorrow Marianne
Published: October 2021

As a naturopathic doctor, you certainly have some patients who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or questioning (LGBTQ). You may even have friends or colleagues that identify as part of this population. But what many clinicians fail to realize are the many struggles and hardships a young LGBTQ person faces, particularly within their families of origin, who may see their sexual orientation as “lifestyle choice”.
Stop and Smell the Roses: Avoiding Burnout - Ecopsychology in Clinical Practice
Authors: Marier Denis
Published: October 2021

NHS Shetland, the health authority in the Scottish archipelago, has authorized doctors to prescribe interactions with nature as a supplement to traditional health care. The hope is the practice will demonstrate to the traditional medical community the value of such non-traditional and subtle treatments to the health of the human body and mind.1
Eco-reciprocity and the Moral Obligation of Naturopathic Medicine
Authors: Solomonian Leslie
Published: October 2021

Human health is inextricably and reciprocally linked to environmental health. We are fundamentally part of nature, and it is impossible to be healthy in an unhealthy environment.1 Environmental toxicity and climate change created by human actions cause catastrophic and potentially irreparable damage to the health of species and ecosystems.2 North American naturopathic doctors promise to “preserve the health of our planet for ourselves and future generations.”3 Deliberate action must be taken by the naturopathic community to increase stewardship of the natural world.
Naturopathic Considerations in Supporting Older Adults with Cancer
Authors: Bhardwaj Sukriti , Lander Daniel
Published: October 2021

When supporting the older adult with cancer, it is essential to account for the unique concerns within this population beyond cancer type and stage. Common concerns in this population include numerous comorbidities, polypharmacy, nutritional status, treatment tolerance, pain management and quality of life. A comprehensive geriatric assessment is essential for elucidating salient concerns among older adults with cancer as it reduces the risk of treatment toxicities and improves treatment outcomes. Using the results of geriatric assessments, naturopathic doctors can recommend therapies to optimize quality of life and prognosis, specifically in the older adult population with cancer.
Evidence-Based Practice Attitudes, Skills, and Usage Among Canadian Naturopathic Doctors: A Summary of the Evidence and Directions for the Future
Authors: Aucoin Monique , Leach Matthew J , Cooley Kieran
Published: October 2021

Evidence-based practice (EBP) is a framework aimed at facilitating the delivery of best practice care. Despite documented benefits, many health professionals have expressed concerns about EBP. Naturopathic medicine has been cited as being in opposition to EBP; however, this is not supported by the evidence. In a recent cross-sectional Canadian survey of naturopathic doctors, respondents self-reported a moderate to high use of EBP and use of a range of sources of evidence to guide clinical decisions. Evidence-based practice skill was reported to be moderately high, and attitudes were predominantly positive. These findings are consistent with other research undertaken on the topic which has identified a shift towards embracing EBP. Canadian naturopathic doctors have indicated a high level of interest in improving their EBP skills, and we present an upcoming opportunity for skill development.
Hyperthermia in Cancer Care: A Literature Review
Authors: Conte Ellen , Psihogios Athanasios , Seely Dugald
Published: October 2021

Introduction: Hyperthermia (HT) in cancer management refers to the external application of heat to raise intratumoural temperature to between 39°C and 45°C. Locoregional hyperthermia (LRHT) is the most used and studied type of HT in cancer care. A literature search was conducted to produce a monograph to help clinicians and patients make informed choices in considering the application of this therapy.

Methods: A search was performed in Medline and Cochrane library for LRHT and cancer in May 2020. Eligible studies were English-language clinical studies reporting on efficacy, quality of life (QoL), safety, or feasibility. Additional cursory literature scoping was performed to identify missing papers and background information. Papers were independently screened by two reviewers. Following development of a full monograph, a condensed version suitable for publication was created and is presented here.

Results: A total of 980 articles were identified and 166 met inclusion criteria. Most were single-arm or observational. However, among the 166, there were 7 systematic reviews (including 37 RCTs) and 18 additional RCTs identified. Several mechanisms of action have been proposed for HT in cancer care including physiological changes, direct cytotoxic effects, chemosensitization and radiosensitization, and immune modulation. Locoregional HT is used primarily as an adjunct to chemotherapy and radiotherapy due to its possible synergistic effects. Various studies demonstrated improved outcomes for patients treated with LRHT and chemo-and/or-radiotherapy. The best evidence for improved disease control and survival is seen for breast cancer (locally recurrent), cervical cancer, esophageal and gastric cancers, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, and high-risk soft tissue sarcoma. Research related to quality of life (QoL) is limited and often focuses on pain. Hyperthermia with modern technology and treatment planning is generally well tolerated; the most common side effects are discomfort, mild pain, local erythema, skin burns, and, less commonly, subcutaneous burns. Trial heterogeneity and methodological concerns limit the strength of conclusions.

Conclusions: Locoregional HT is a promising adjunct treatment to chemotherapy and radiotherapy for a variety of cancer types. To determine in what situations this therapy could be best applied, more high-quality well-controlled studies are needed.
Kontribusi Manajemen Peserta Didik terhadap Pendidikan Seksual
Authors: Juliadarma Minggusta
Published: October 2021

So far, education experts have contributed a lot of thoughts on tips on child sexual education, but the operation of the education process is only through informal education, which is only in the family environment. This study seeks to present the flow of the sexual education process of children at the school level as an integral part of the learning process. This study discusses the contribution of student management to sexual education of children in schools. This study uses library research methods and uses documentation study as a data collection technique. The results revealed that the process of implementing sexual education in students can be carried out in three stages of activities, namely the stages of admitting new students, the learning process, guidance and monitoring. The first stage is through managing new student orientation activities which are divided into male and female groups, new students are accustomed not to mingle with the opposite sex. This activity should also be used by the school to socialize school rules that contain sexual education values. The second stage, management of the learning process in the form of managing student groupings based on gender (gender grouping); determining the learning method through the expository method, discussion method, exemplary method, and habituation method; as well as managing learning programs by incorporating sexual education values ??into formal subjects such as Biology, Sociology, Morals, and Fiqh. The next stage is to carry out structured guidance related to sexual education coaching under the supervision of guidance and counseling teachers. The final stage in the series of sexual education processes in schools is monitoring activities that involve all stakeholders in the school environment such as the principal, vice principal in student affairs, homeroom teachers, subject teachers, guidance and counseling teachers and even parents.
Implementasi Kebijakan Program Indonesia Pintar (PIP) di Wilayah Kementerian Agama Kabupaten Sidoarjo
Authors: Fadzlun Lilik , Ni’mah Zaidatun , Lestari Lindah Ayu , Huriyah Lilik , Rahman Abdul
Published: October 2021

This study aims to identify and describe the implementation of the Smart Indonesia Program Policy or Program Indonesia Pintar (PIP) in the area of ??the Ministry of Religion, Sidoarjo Regency. The research method used is qualitative research. Data collection techniques used interviews, observation, and documentation with informants, namely application managers to verify the Smart Indonesia Program. Data analysis techniques are data reduction, data presentation and conclusions. The results showed that the Program Indonesia Pintar (PIP) carried out at the Ministry of Religion Office of Sidoarjo Regency was running well so that it could verify student data data to get financial assistance. Students who have registered at educational institutions with KIP, KKS, PKH, as well as parents who have been laid off. This program aims to help parents who are vulnerable to poverty in order to get a good education and prevent dropouts. Every year the funds are disbursed in registered student accounts.
Filosofi Manajemen Pendidikan Islam dalam Perspektif Al-Qur'an
Authors: Marisa Mira
Published: October 2021

Humans are creatures who have a great sense of curiosity. In its history, humans are creatures who do not stop to philosophize, which in essence is that human beings will always seek a truth. Especially how humans are able to manage their own thoughts. relating to humans who will not be separated from the problem of their thinking, this is related to the study of philosophy. Study of philosophy or philosophy in which it connects scientific terms, such as ontology, epistemology and axiology. Of course this is a conversation in which in the three terms, the three of them have different opinions regarding truth research. For this reason, with his thoughts, humans are expected to be able to study various perspectives on scientific research. This research uses library research method, namely library research. With data collection techniques based on reading and writing results from several references such as books, journals and so on. Science from time to time will continue to carry out civilization. It can be seen clearly how the developing field of science gives rise to a plan and movement with the goals to be achieved. The field of science in question is the management of Islamic education. In the perspective of the Al-Qur’an, the management of Islamic education is related to how the forms of cooperation in managing and carrying out tasks in an institution are in line with an Islamic view
TÜKETİCİLERİN İTHAL ÇAY TÜKETİM TERCİHLERİNİN BELİRLENMESİ: GÜNEYDOĞU ANADOLU BÖLGESİ ÖRNEĞİ
Authors: CENGİZ Sercan , OKAN Yusuf Taha
Published: October 2021

Amaç: Bu çalışma ile Güneydoğu Anadolu Bölgesindeki illerde yüksek miktarda tüketilen ithal yani halk arasında “kaçak çay” olarak bilinen çayın tüketim tercihlerinin belirlenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Gereç ve Yöntem: Bu amaçla Güneydoğu Anadolu Bölgesinde ikamet eden ve ithal çay tüketen tüketicilerden kolayda örnekleme yöntemiyle seçilen 452 kişi ile yüz yüze anket yapılmıştır. Araştırmanın diğer bölümünde ise tüketicilerin cinsiyetleri ve memleketleri ile diğer değişkenler arasında istatistiksel olarak anlamlı ilişkilerin olup olmadığı ki-kare analizi yapılarak tespit edilmeye çalışılmıştır. Bulgular: Araştırmada; tüketicilerin aylık ortalama 1.1 kg-2.0 kg arasında ithal çay tükettikleri belirlenmiştir. Diğer yandan ithal çay tüketiminde en önemli faktörlerin damak tadı ve aileden gelme bir alışkanlık olduğu, satın almada ise ambalaj ve kalitenin en önemli faktörler olduğu tespit edilmiştir. Sonuç: Tüketicilerin cinsiyetleri ve ithal çayı en çok tükettikleri öğün, ithal çay tüketim sıklığı, ithal çay tüketme nedeni, ithal çayın genellikle nereden satın alındığı ve ithal çay satın almada dikkat edilen hususlar arasında istatistiksel olarak anlamlı bir ilişki olduğu tespit edilmiştir. Tüketicilerin cinsiyetleri ile diğer değişkenler arasında ise istatistiksel olarak anlamlı bir ilişki olmadığı tespit edilmiştir. Tüketicilerin memleketleri ile ithal çay tüketim tercihleri arasında ise istatistiksel olarak anlamlı bir ilişki olduğu tespit edilmiştir.
Differential diagnosis of classical Bartter syndrome and Gitelman syndrome: Do we need genetic analysis?
Authors: GUVEN Sercin , GOKCE Ibrahim , ALAVANDA Ceren , CICEK Neslihan , BODUR DEMIRCI Ece , SAK Mehtap , PUL Serim , TURKKAN Ozde Nisa , YILDIZ Nurdan , ATA Pinar , ALPAY Harika
Published: October 2021

Objective: Classical Bartter syndrome (cBS) and Gitelman syndrome (GS) are genotypically distinct, but there is a phenotypic overlapamong these two diseases, which can complicate the accurate diagnosis without genetic analysis. This study aimed to evaluate thecorrelation between clinical and genetic diagnoses among patients who have genetically defined cBS and GS.Patients and Methods: The study included 18 patients with homozygous/compound heterozygous CLCNKB (NM_000085) (n:10/18)and SLC12A3 (NM_000339) (n:8/18) mutations. Biochemical, clinical and radiological data were collected at presentation and at thelast visit.Results: In cBS group age at diagnosis, median plasma potassium and chloride concentrations were significantly lower and medianplasma HCO3 and blood pH values were significantly higher. Patients with GS had significantly lower median plasma magnesiumconcentrations and urinary calcium/creatinine ratio. One child with GS had normocalciuria, two children with cBS had hypocalciuriaand hypomagnesemia. Low estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (ml/dk/1.73m2) and growth failure were more evident in cBSgroup. In patients with cBS, nine different CLCNKB gene mutations were detected, five of them were novel. Novel mutations were:one nonsense (c.66G>A, p.Trp22*), one missense (c.499G>A, p.Gly167Ser) and three splice-site (c.867-2delA; c.499-2insG; c.1930-2A>C) mutations. In patients with GS, six different SLC12A3 gene mutations were found.Conclusions: It may not always be possible to clinically distinguish cBS from GS. We suggest to perform a genotypic classification ifgenetic analysis is possible.