bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cyberspace as a domain of conflict: The case of the United States - Iran and North Korea
Authors: Vuletić Dejan , Milenković Miloš , Đukić Anđelija
Published: May 2021

Modern society is critically dependent on information as a strategic resource and information and communications technology, which carries out its transmission, processing and exchange. Information and communications technology has created a new environment, cyberspace, in which tensions, disagreements and incidents are becoming more frequent. In recent years, the mentioned area has increasingly appeared as a domain of conflict between the leading world and regional powers. The paper gives a brief description of the concept of operations in several domains and elements of the new concept of joint warfare of the US Armed Forces. The importance of cyberspace for the US has been pointed out with a review of organizational changes and the adoption of certain strategic and doctrinal documents. The paper presents certain events and activities in cyberspace, in recent years, between the United States on the one hand, and Iran and North Korea on the other. The United States Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM) was created in 2009. USCYBERCOM was elevated to the status of a full and independent unified command in May 2018. It indicates the importance of cyberspace for the Pentagon. In many ways, the separation of USCYBERCOM from Strategic Commands, which oversees strategic rejection, is a symbol of the change in the US attitude in cyberspace from "defensive" to "persistent engagement." The United States is still the strongest force in cyberspace and shows ambition to carry out cyber operations at all levels of command. It is unlikely that Iran will provoke the United States into a large-scale military conflict and wage a direct war in cyberspace. Iran has rapidly improved its ability to operate in cyberspace, and it is estimated that this trend will continue. The imbalance can prevent Iran from a direct military conflict with the United States and its allies. Greater action is expected with an asymmetric arsenal such as e.g. cyber attacks. Iranian and North Korean operations are similar in target selection, planning and exploitation of attacks. Both countries undertake different variants of phishing attacks in an attempt to deceive their victims into downloading malicious software by presenting it as a legitimate link or file. Whereas Iran usually had a motive only to cause disruption to the functioning of financial institutions, North Korean motive was both financial and political retaliation. Certain discovered incidents indicate that North Korea devotes much more time to conducting invasive surveillance before carrying out attacks. Numerous examples show that some activities have been prepared over the years and with the support of certain state bodies. Regardless of the fact that an investigation has been launched against certain groups, most often sponsored by states, it is unlikely that this will deter countries such as North Korea and Iran from giving up further activities and will pose an increasing threat to the US security.
Integration and disintegration in international relations as a consequence of global economic processes
Authors: Dulović Ljubomir
Published: May 2021

The subject of this paper is integration as an objective tendency and the most important element of the current global processes and increasingly intensive disintegration processes. Qualitative analysis points to the main characteristics of integration as a consequence of growing interdependence, connectivity and cooperation and disintegration, which is strongly encouraged by the instrumentalization of this process for hidden and masked specific goals. The established process and the worrying and devastating implications in the economic and social function have been analysed. Emerging forces with current and potential geopolitical power as an alternative to the existing order are placed in the context of influencing both opposing processes. The research objective is to consider the inevitability of intertwining and the collision of integration and disintegration, a number of manifested economic and social problems as a consequence of global economic processes, while identifying the significance and impact of different coercive actions on the sustainability and possibility of the established process. The results indicate that the importance of the military force is growing rapidly; the polarization between the developing and developed world is getting deeper, and the border between them is a source of tension and conflict. The constant state of instability, clash and conflict has the potential for numerous and greater dangers in the world in the long run.
Possibilities of implementing the performance management process of non-profit organizations to the defence system
Authors: Saković Radiša , Stojanović Stanislav , Pamučar Dragan
Published: May 2021

The current manner of evaluating the state and capabilities of the Ministry of Defense and the Serbian Armed Forces is gradually losing its relevance and partially deviates from the contemporary trends, which is why the paper singles out a special research problem, aimed at overcoming the traditional understanding of performance management, i.e. gradual introduction of the performance management process into the defense system. Taking into consideration the complexity of the mentioned research problem and the current level of the development of the defense system of the Republic of Serbia, the subject of the research is based on the possibility of considering the implementation of the performance management process of non-profit organizations within the Ministry of Defense and the Serbian Armed Forces. In this regard, the paper starts from the hypothetical view that certain elements of the performance management model of non-profit organizations can be successfully implemented within the defense system. The objective of this paper is to point out the possibility of developing similar solutions in the Ministry of Defense and the Serbian Armed Forces through the presentation of a strategic map and the dashboard of the performance management model of non-profit organizations, with a brief overview of the defense systems of some foreign countries. By the implementation of the method of content analysis, focused on the comparative analysis of the considered models, the research results have confirmed the set hypothetical framework. The paper concludes that there are the objective possibilities for the implementation of the performance management process of non-profit organizations within the Ministry of Defense and the Serbian Armed Forces.
Paper on the conceptual definition of the geo-topographic support
Authors: Đorđević Dejan , Sekulović Dragoljub
Published: May 2021

The Serbian Armed Forces support represents a part of the military activity aimed at creating conditions for the execution of missions and tasks. For successful support, it is necessary to establish the cooperation with relevant institutions of the Republic of Serbia. The conceptual definition of the geo-topographic support has been researched in the context of previous and current regulations, which have shown that the achievements of information and communications technology have influenced not only the development of the geographic information systems, but also directly the definition of this concept. The importance of the geographic information systems in the collection, processing, analysis and use of geospatial data has also determined the contents of the geo-topographic support. The continuous development of the geographic information systems in the direction of establishing a service-oriented approach to the distribution and use of geospatial data, will directly affect the future improvement of the content of the geo-topographic support. Such a process is accompanied by the establishment of the geo-topographic support principle, which should enable the construction and maintenance of a stable structure, in order to successfully carry out the assigned missions and tasks of the Serbian Armed Forces.
Un modèle inspirant pour soutenir la réussite d’élèves autochtones en milieu urbain : le projet Petapan
Authors: Aurousseau Emmanuelle , Couture Christine , Pulido Loïc , Jacob Élisabeth , Lavoie Constance , Duquette Catherine , Bizot Dominic , Pacmogda Pascaline , Blouin Lauriane
Published: May 2021

Cet article présente le projet Petapan, conçu pour soutenir la réussite d’élèves autochtones scolarisés dans une école de quartier en milieu urbain. Des élèves issus de communautés innues et atikamekw y sont accueillis de l’éducation préscolaire à la sixième année du primaire. Une première section présente le projet Petapan et sa principale visée, celle de la réussite éducative des élèves autochtones, dans un contexte de sécurisation culturelle qui engage toutes les personnes du milieu dans un projet éducatif rassembleur. Une deuxième section explique la démarche de recherche collaborative menée de 2017 à 2019, en concordance avec certains principes de reconnaissance et de réciprocité de la recherche autochtone, afin de documenter les pratiques développées pour soutenir la réussite d’élèves autochtones en milieu urbain. La troisième section présente un modèle du projet Petapan abordé selon une approche écosystémique (Bronfenbrenner, 1996) pour comprendre l’influence, sur le développement de l’enfant, de différents systèmes mettant en relation les personnes impliquées, leurs rôles, leurs relations, leurs pratiques ou encore leurs réalisations. Ce texte contribue ainsi à la réflexion concernant le développement de pratiques éducatives pour soutenir la réussite d’élèves autochtones en milieu urbain, ce qui représente un pas vers la réconciliation.
Les conditions favorables à la persévérance scolaire chez des étudiantes et étudiants autochtones de la communauté d’Essipit
Authors: Mansour Alexandra , Maltais Danielle , Cook Mathieu
Published: May 2021

Plusieurs recherches rapportent un écart important entre les étudiantes et étudiants autochtones et non autochtones en ce qui a trait à la persévérance scolaire et à l’obtention d’un diplôme qualifiant. Chez les membres de la communauté innue d’Essipit (Québec, Canada) qui poursuivent des études secondaires, collégiales ou universitaires, la situation est toutefois moins problématique. Cet article est le résultat d’une étude qualitative réalisée auprès de neuf jeunes issues de cette communauté et qui persévèrent dans leurs études. Trois questions ont guidé la réalisation de l’étude : 1) Quels sont les facteurs de protection liés à la persévérance scolaire des jeunes de la communauté d’Essipit? 2) Quels sont les motifs qui encouragent les jeunes de cette communauté à poursuivre leurs études? 3) Quelles interventions mises en place dans cette communauté favorisent la persévérance scolaire? Cet article démontre que différents motifs et facteurs de protection influencent positivement la persévérance des jeunes, dont les encouragements et le soutien que ceux-ci reçoivent de leur entourage et des membres de leur communauté, ainsi que les programmes qui leur sont offerts.
Réflexion portant sur une expérience d’adaptation d’un programme en gestion de l’éducation en contexte autochtone offert en ligne
Authors: Deschênes Émilie
Published: May 2021

Ce texte est issu d’une recherche qualitative et interprétative menée au sein d’une université québécoise et porte sur l’expérience d’adaptation du programme de formation en gestion de l’éducation pour l’offrir dans un contexte autochtone et en ligne. Les objectifs du texte sont : 1) poser un regard sur l’expérience, 2) rapporter des réflexions en lien avec les adaptations et 3) partager les apprentissages et les pratiques prometteuses. Trente-deux (32) personnes participant au projet ont été interrogées. Les résultats proposent que, pour ce type d’adaptation de programme aux milieux autochtones, la pleine collaboration de personnes autochtones soit essentielle, tout comme la sensibilité, la souplesse et les compétences interculturelles des personnes impliquées. Aussi, le rôle de dirigeant est encore en transformation, tout comme l’école autochtone, et un ajustement des pratiques est nécessaire. Notamment faut-il prendre les personnes où elles sont et les accompagner. La formation en ligne a complexifié l’adaptation, mais le succès de l’initiative n’a pas été freiné par cet enjeu. Enfin apparaît la nécessité du codéveloppement pour la prise de décisions et la mise en oeuvre d’actions permettant la décolonisation graduelle des milieux scolaires sur laquelle se poseront des actions d’autochtonisation.
Seasonal variation of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and indices of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in postmenopausal women
Authors: Huta-Osiecka Anna , Wochna Krystian , Kasprzak Zbigniew , Nowak Alicja
Published: May 2021

Background

Some studies indicate vitamin D’s significant contribution to metabolic processess. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the level of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism indices in relation to seasonal changes in 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentration in postmenopausal women.

Methods

Sixteen postmenopausal women meeting health criteria and not using vitamin D supplementation were included in the study. Seasonal variation of somatic features and the serum concentration of 25(OH)D, glucose, insulin, parathormon, sclerostin and lipid profile were determined on two terms (autumn-winter).

Results

Comparative analysis of the variables between the study terms revealed a marked decrease in the concentration of 25(OH)D (p ≤ 0.0001), insulin (p < 0.05), insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR), (p < 0.05). The significant positive correlations of changes (Δ) between autumn and winter in 25(OH)D with body mass (p < 0.05), and fat mass (p ≤ 0.01), measured in the first study term, in the group of women with normal body mass index (BMI), and negative correlation with fat mass (p < 0.05) in women with a BMI value above the reference values, were found. The relationship analysis showed that in women with normal BMI, the decrease in 25(OH)D concentrations was greater when the body fat percentage was higher, whereas in women with a BMI value above the reference values, the higher the fat percentage, the smaller was the decrease in 25(OH)D concentration.

Conclusions

Seasonal changes in 25(OH)D concentration did not significantly affect the concentration of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism indices. The magnitude of decline in 25(OH)D levels depends on the fat mass. We suppose that environmental or lifestyle-related factors, e.g., nutritional behaviours, may have had more influence on metabolic indices than changes in 25(OH)D.
A Novel Methyl-CpG Binding Protein 2 (MECP2) Variant in an Indian Girl with Rett Syndrome
Authors: Chheda Pratiksha , Pande Shailesh , Dama Tavisha , Goradia Dollar , Vinarkar Sushant
Published: May 2021

Rett syndrome is an X-linked dominant disorder that is primarily seen in females and is linked to mutations in the gene coding for Methyl-CpG Binding Protein 2 (MECP2). It is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by impairments in language, repetitive movements, early-onset seizures, delayed growth, autistic features, intellectual disability and abnormal Electroencephalograms (EEG). Author’s reported a case of three year six months old Indian girl who was born of a nonconsanguineous marriage presented with stereotypic hand movements, gradual loss of speech, inability to walk independently and frequent episodes of seizure. Genetic testing for analysis of MECP2 mutations was performed and a novel de novo missense variant (c.361G>A, p.Asp121Asn) was identified, which was predicted to be disease causing on the basis of insilico analysis and clinical findings. The study suggested that a careful evaluation of the pathogenic nature of MECP2 variants supports clinical diagnosis and aids in genetic counseling and patient management.
Hearing-impaired Children and Adults in Need of Cochlear Implant- A Hospital Based Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Islahuddin Malik MD , Nishad Rajeev Kumar , Singh Mangal
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Hearing is essential to learn language and speech and to develop cognitive skills. According to World Health Organisation (WHO), world-wide approximately 350 million people have hearing disorder. The performance of some moderately severe hearing-impaired adults and children using hearing aids is poorer than that of even profoundly hearing-impaired individuals using cochlear implants with advanced speech processing strategies. Aim: To find out the appropriate candidates in need of cochlear implantation in Prayagraj district of Uttar Pradesh, India. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on hearing impaired patients attending Ear Nose Throat (ENT) Out Patient Department (OPD) of tertiary health care center in Prayagraj Uttar Pradesh from August 2011 to July 2012. The study population consisted of 95 patients categorised into four groups (pre-lingual children and adults, post-lingual children and adults) who presented with the chief complaints of impaired hearing and delayed speech. A detailed history, clinical and other relevant systemic examination and investigations were done. Patients were subjected to free field audiometry, pure tone audiometry and Brainstem-Evoked Response Audiometry (BERA) for assessment of hearing threshold level. Patients used hearing aid for six months and after hearing aid use, their hearing threshold and speech discrimination scores were estimated. Patients, whose aided score on open-set sentence test was less than 50%, were selected as candidate for cochlear implants, as they were not significantly benefited by hearing aids. Results: Out of the 95 cases, 48 were found to be suitable for cochlear implantation, which formed 50.5% of the study group. Pre-lingual hearing impaired adults had the highest percentage i.e., 86.7%, fulfilling the criteria for cochlear implantation followed by pre-lingual children, in whom 46.7% fell in this category. A 26.7% of postlingual children and 20% of postlingual adults were found suitable for cochlear implantation. Conclusion: The pre-lingual hearing impaired children and adults are more in need for cochlear implantation than the postlingual hearing-impaired children and adults. Approximately, 134,501 cases were estimated to be, in need of cochlear implantation in Prayagraj district based on the census estimate of 2011.
COVID-19 Pandemic: A Speed Breaker for Routine Immunisation
Authors: Bhadoria Sumit Singh , Shukla Durgesh , Joshi Ashutosh
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Immunisation services are affected by Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic due to lockdown and fear of COVID among public along with problems of workforce management and vaccine supply. All these factors have led to decrease in vaccination coverage. It may further lead to increase in risk of vaccine preventable diseases. Aim: To assess the overall trend and evaluate the vaccination coverage during COVID-19 pandemic in a tertiary care hospital in Gwalior district. Materials and Methods: Record based secondary data from the immunisation OPD of the tertiary care hospital Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India, for the period of 01 February 2020 to 31 August 2020 was utilised in current study. Data were entered into Microsoft Excel version-2007 and analysed. Frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation were calculated as a descriptive measures and graphical presentation to show time trends. The p-value was calculated at 5% level of significance. Results: In the study, 817 children were included, with mean age of 7.46 ±13.59 months. Total 61.1% (499) children were male and 38.9% (318) were female. During the study period, all the children were vaccinated for Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) (10.6%) Pentavalent-1 series (36.4%), Pentavalent-2 series (17.4%), Pentavalent-3 series (12.2%), Measles-Rubella (MR-1) (6.5%), Booster-I (11.8%) and Booster-II (5.1%). Delayed vaccination was seen in 51(6.20%) children. The delay was observed for Pentavalent-2 series (43.1%), pentavalent-3 series (51.0%) and MR-1 (5.9%) and the difference is significant at p-value <0.05. Conclusion: Immunisation services were severely interrupted and completely suspended in April 2020. Certain amount of delay in various doses was also observed. Maintaining routine immunisation is essential in preventing an outbreak of vaccine preventable diseases.
Retinopathy of Prematurity: Nursing Perspective
Authors: Sankar Bindu K , Amin Hrishikesh , Riaz KM , Pappa P , Varghese Shalu
Published: May 2021

Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) is the leading cause of childhood blindness. India and other middle income countries are currently facing the third ‘epidemic’ of this disease which is mainly due to increased survival of preterm babies, suboptimal neonatal care and lack of proper screening and management of ROP. This is a disorder of the immature retina of preterm babies in which abnormal vascularisation occurs after birth. ROP is multifactorial, and is sensitive to the quality of neonatal inpatient care received during early postnatal life. Nurses, being the primary care givers in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs), plays a vital role in prevention and management of ROP.
COVID-19 Prevention Protocol for an Organised Mass Gathering-An Essential Requisite in Pandemic and Post-Pandemic Phase
Authors: Job Sheen , Kapoor Mayank , Panda Prasan Kumar , Mohan Latika , Ravikant .
Published: May 2021

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has stirred up chaos in the whole world. After prolonged lockdowns, finally, society is opening again for business and day-to-day life. Mass gatherings are undoubtedly again expected to start, but carry additional risks for transmission of the virus. We designed a concept model that was validated in about 1000 people gathering in a convocation ceremony at the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak. A protocol was made, a risk assessment was done, and attendees followed-up. The emphasis on thermal screening, hand hygiene, physical distancing, open-air ventilation, refusing attendees having Influenza-Like Illnesses (ILI), and other preventive measures were the means to contain the potential transmission in an organised mass gathering of this magnitude. The dictum “prevention is better than cure” held amidst this outbreak. As a result of this well-structured mass gathering, the event was quite successfully conducted. Further event planning in the COVID-19 scenario or other outbreaks of similar infections must be managed in this way for the prevention of spread.
Effects of Audio-visual Aids on the Academic Performance of Nursery Schools Pupils in Alphabets Reading in Sokoto Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Bawa Nura , Fakomogbon M. A.
Published: May 2021

The study aims to determine the effects of audio-visual aids on the performance of nursery school pupils in alphabet reading in Sokoto metropolis. The study sets out three research objectives, three questions, and two hypotheses. The study adopted a survey design method. All Nursery school pupils in Sokoto metropolis form the population of the study. A purposive sampling technique was used to select two schools (New Dawn and Nagarta College) to participate in the study. New Dawn and Nagarta College were respectively allocated to experimental and control groups through balloting. An intact class from each of the two schools was used for the study. An achievement test instrument was developed by the researchers, validated by experts. To ensure the reliability of the instrument, a pilot study was conducted and a reliability index of 0.94 was obtained using KR-21. The research questions were answered using descriptive statistics, and the two hypotheses were tested using independent sample t-test statistics. Results from the study reveal that the treatment was effective in improving pupils’ academic performance. It was also found that there was a significant difference between the academic performance of the pupils taught using audio-visual aids and those taught the same using the conventional approach in favour of those exposed to the treatment. The study concludes that pupils’ poor academic performance could be a result of poor utilization or inadequacy of instructional media. Therefore the study recommends that Schools management should make audio-visual aids available for effective delivery in the instructional processes, and schools authorities concerned should encourage teachers to make efficient use of the audio-visual teaching aids during the instructional process.
Hydatidiform Mole Coexisting with Healthy and Alive Fetus at Birth: Case Report in Mexico
Authors: Mireles Juan Carlos Marin , Alvarez Carla Eugenia Arenas , Lopez Adolfo Leyva , Aguilar Aldo Guadalupe Bucio , Villalobos Pascal Patric Giuliano Friedlin , Gonzalez Daniel Ponce de León
Published: May 2021

Aims: To describe a case of hydatidiform mole coexisting with healthy and alive fetus at birth in Mexico.

Presentation of Case: A 35 years old pregnant patient at 18+5 weeks of gestational age and a viable fetus by ultrasound, with atypical pneumonia, plus scant bilateral pleural effusion and partial mole implants on admission to hospital. At week 39 of gestation, the pregnancy was interrupted abdominally; a gestation product was obtained, alive, female, and without malformations. The patient did not present complications. The histopathological report of the placenta was compatible with a partial mole.

Discussion: Gestational trophoblastic disease includes partial hydatidiform mole, its occurrence in coexistence with alive and healthy fetus at birth is 0.005-0.01% respect to the total number of pregnancies. The viability of the term of pregnancy will depend on maternal comorbidities, fetalsss well-being and accessible medical surveillance. The ultrasound is the main diagnostic tool. Clinical monitoring is of vital importance after the end of pregnancy, mainly in mother, due to the risk of developing metastatic disease and recurrence of molar pregnancy.

Conclusion: The case report described is relevant, due to its infrequency. In addition, the imaging findings, emphasizes the importance of a complete and adequate evaluation of the placenta and the fetus, in viable gestation conditions in coexistence with partial mole.
Statistical Analysis of Nigeria’s Price Sector: An Econometric Approach
Authors: Omebo D. M. O. , Ailobhio T. D. , Fanen G. I.
Published: May 2021

This study analyzed Nigeria’s price sector using a formulated model for the price sector of the Nigeria economy. A set of simultaneous equations were used to reflect the implicit gross domestic product deflators for each of the sectors of the Nigeria economy and was found to be over identified under the order condition for identification. The model was estimated by ordinary least square method and two stage least square methods. All the variables have expected signs and as indicated by the F –statistic, the overall performance of the entire regression is significant.  The high measure of R2 and Ṝ2, in each case indicates that the explanatory variables included in the equation jointly account for the entire variation. The small RMSE also indicates that the equations have good fit. Durbin –Watson statistics shows that there is no positive first order autocorrelation. The small value of the Theil’s inequality indicates that the equation has good predictive performance. The researcher therefore recommends that government should employ the model so as to be able to monitor price of each of the sectors of the economy and put proper mechanism in place to control those sectors that affect the overall price sector of the economy.
Molecular Characterization of Drug-Resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis Isolated from HIV-Positive Patients in Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Alex-Wele M. A. , Obunge O. K.
Published: May 2021

Aim: Drug resistant tuberculosis is a major challenge in the global bid to control the disease burden and improve treatment outcomes of DRTB infected individuals.

Methods: The Line Probe Assay (LPA) was used to assess the drug resistance pattern and gene mutations in 260 sputum specimens collected consecutively from 260 adult, HIV sero-positive subjects presenting with symptoms suggestive of TB in clinical settings across Rivers State, Nigeria.

Results: The results showed a 61.2% (n = 159) prevalence of TB among all study subjects. LPA analysis showed that 16 (10.1%) were multidrug resistant strains, 17 (10.7%) Rifampicin (RIF) monoresistant strains, 24 (15.1%) Isonaizid (INH) monoresistant strains and 102 (64.2%) drug susceptible strains. Among all 32 RIF-resistant strains, 24 (75%) had a mutation in rpoB S531L at the MUT3 band. Another mutation was observed at rpoB H526D (1/17) in RIF-monoresistant strains but not in MDR-TB strains.  In INH resistant strains, mutations were observed at the katG gene [32/39 (82.1%)] which constituted 13/15 (86.7%) in MDR-TB strains and 19/24 (79.2%) in INH-monoresistant strains (p =0.002). Overall frequency of inhA mutation was 6/39 (15.4%); MDR-TB strains [2/15 (13.3%)] and INH-monoresistant strains [4/24 (16.7%), p = 0.2]. Combined KatG and inhA mutation was found in 1/39 (2.6%) of INH-monoresistant strains and in none of MDR-TB strains. Of the single inhA mutation bands, only 1/39 (4.2%) MUT 3B (T8A mutation) was observed in INH-monoresistant strains.

Conclusion: The results showed that drug-resistant TB is prevalent in Rivers State with various gene mutations observed in the different TB strains isolated, making LPA analysis a necessity in the bid to improving prevention and control efforts in the region.
Validation of Aqua Crop 5.0 Model for Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) Crop at Madakasira Region, Anantapur District, Andhra Pradesh
Authors: Sivamma P. , Sairam N. Naga Hari , Raghavendra G. , Krishna M. Muralee , Priya S. V. Swapna , Sampath . , Venkanna .
Published: May 2021

Crop simulation models were developed to estimate the effects of soil, water, nutrients on grain and biomass productivity and water consumption in different crops. In this study, the Aquacrop model was adopted to predict the volume of water consumed by crops in the Madakasira region, Anantapur district, Andhra Pradesh. The culture of okra was selected for the study, using two irrigation methods: flood and drip. The model estimated the productivity of the crop and the amount of water needed for drip irrigation and flooding in that crop. the results were compared with field productivity, and their respective water requirements, and demonstrated yields of 4.3 t / ha in the flood irrigation system, with average water consumption of 326.6 mm / day, and in the field these values ​​were 3.5 t / ha average water consumption of 386 mm / day. And when using the drip irrigation system, the results obtained were: 5.2 t / ha with water consumption in the order of 320 mm / day, in comparison to the field crop that was 4.3 t / ha, consumption water of 300 mm / day. From the results, it was clear that the model simulates the real conditions of the culture. The cost-benefit ratio was made for experimental field data that clearly show that the yield of the crop under drip irrigation has reached the highest cost-benefit ratio. Therefore, the Aquacrop model was adequate to simulate the conditions of the crop in any circumstances.
Model Validation of Aqua Crop for Brinjal (Solanum melongena) Crop at Madakasira Region, Anantapur District, Andhra Pradesh
Authors: Sivamma P. , Sairam N. Naga Hari , Raghavendra G. , Krishna M. Muralee , Priya S. V. Swapna , Sampath . , Venkanna .
Published: May 2021

Crop simulation models plays a vital role for estimating the effects of soil, water, nutrients on grain and biomass yields and water productivity of different crops. Among the various crop simulation models, Aqua Crop model was adopted for the predicting the crop water requirement in the Madakasira region, Anantapur district, Andhra Pradesh. The Brinjal crop was selected for the study and was irrigated through two different methods i.e., drip and flood irrigation. The model generated the crop yield and crop water requirement for the drip and flood irrigation of Brinjal crop was compared with the actual field results of crop yield and crop water requirement. The simulated crop yield and crop water requirement for the Brinjal crop under flood irrigation was 5.23 t/ha and 326 mm. The actual crop yield and crop water requirement for the Brinjal crop under flood irrigation was 4.2 t/ha and 335 mm. The simulated crop yield and crop water requirement for the Brinjal crop under Drip irrigation was 5.76 t/ha and 318.3 mm.  The actual crop yield and crop water requirement for the Brinjal crop under drip irrigation was 4.8 t/ha and 290 mm.  From the results, it was clear that the model simulated the actual conditions of the crop. The benefit cost ratio was done for the experimental field data which clearly shows that the crop yield under drip irrigation has achieved the higher cost benefit ratio. Therefore, Aqua Crop model was suitable for simulating the crop conditions under any circumstances.
Lignin-Degrading Microorganisms from Organic Soils
Authors: Nagaraju Yalavarthi , Mahadevaswamy . , Gowder S. B. , Triveni S.
Published: May 2021

The most prevalent aromatic polymer in nature is lignin, produced by higher plants and thought to make up 30-35 percent of the non-fossil organic carbon on the planet. Lignin hydrolyzing enzymes such as lignin peroxidase, laccase, manganese peroxidase, and others produce a variety of aromatic monomers, including ferulic and vanillic acids. However, very little research has been done on the role of microbes in lignin degradation. In the present work, we have isolated 25 ligninolytic bacteria and 25 ligninolytic fungi from organic soils of Koppal, Raichur districts of Karnataka. The bacterial isolates were identified as Pseudomonas putida, Bacillus subtilis, based on biochemical tests, and fungi were identified as Aspergillus niger, Trichoderma viridae, Phanerochaete chrysosporium and Pleurotus ostreatus based on morphological characters. The ligninolytic activity of bacterial isolates was high when compared to fungal isolates. All the isolates produced detectable amounts of lignin peroxidase, manganese peroxidase, and laccase under in vitro conditions. In dye decolorization test, fungal isolates KGST-1, KGST-2, and KKSP could decolorize Ramazol Brilliant Blue R and Congo red.
Correlation Analysis for Leaf Pubescence, Leaf Micro-macro Nutrient Content and MYMV Disease Index in Blackgramgenotypes (Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper)
Authors: Rajitha B. , Rajarajeswari V. , Sudhakar P.
Published: May 2021

The present field study was conducted to characterize the blackgram genotypes based on morpho and nutrient content under yellow mosaic virus disease infection. The present investigation was carried out with ten blackgram genotypes (5 known tolerant + 5 known susceptible) in Randomized Block Design (RBD) during summer 2018. Experimental crop was affected by yellow mosaic virus (YMV) naturally at 30 DAS. No management practices were taken for controlling of whitefly population during crop season. Correlation studies were done at 50 DAS which helps to find out the most resistant and most susceptible genotypes among ten backgram genotypes based on leaf pubescence and nutrient content in leaf. Leaf pubescence is one of the most important resistant factors in a number of crops and Minerals, apart from being a vital part of the plant nutrition, may manifest certain maladies in the plants either through disturbing normal metabolism and physiology of the plants or by favouring or by discouraging the plant pathogens, if in excess or otherwise deficient.

Correlation analysis of present field investigation revealed that blackgram genotypes showed strong negative correlation for leaf pubescence, leaf Phosphorous (P) and leaf potassium (K) content with percentage disease index (PDI%) as well as strong positive correlation for leaf Nitrogen (N), leaf Iron (Fe) and leaf Zinc (Zn) content under YMV.
Physiotherapy in Down Syndrome: A Literature Review
Authors: Silva Yasmin Souza , Silva Luciana Lane Gomes Da , Silva Wellington Carlos Da , Neto Agrinazio Geraldo Nascimento , Pereira Thalita De Sousa , Araújo Ana Karoline Campos , Tavares Armando Jarib Gonçalves , Weber Rafaella Alves , Oliveira Livia Gomes De , Cunha Nitiele Elizabete , Luz Leonice Costa , Takada Jacqueline Aparecida Philipino
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Down syndrome is a genetic condition arising from three chromosomal abnormalities, namely trisomy 21 (the most well-known); translocation, and/or mosaicism. This chromosome change occurs in the formation of the fetus, in more detail at the time of cell division, which will characterize the signs and symptoms of the syndrome.

Objective: The purpose of this article is to research the main scientific findings in the last 10                years regarding physical therapy treatments, to verify the best techniques and their respective results, and to address the role of physiotherapy in the development of children with Down syndrome.

Methods: The research only included studies published in the period from 2009 to 2019, systematic review articles and limited the Portuguese and English languages ​​were excluded, excluding all incomplete articles, duplications, abstracts that did not address, and those works that do not have a scientific basis.

Results: In this systematic review, it can be seen that the main research results were disseminated and stored in databases (SciELO, Medline, and LILACS), focusing on the study of and DS patients, specifical children in early childhood. There are few studies on down syndrome in adults. Another important aspect is the concentration of research in the field of sports physiotherapy, few studies have focused on other areas of physiotherapy, such as respiratory, cardiovascular, and cognitive physiotherapy, which go in the opposite direction.

Conclusion: Physiotherapy for patients with DS can improve the quality and life expectancy of these individuals, but the needs of patients with this syndrome involve some physical, physiological and psychological aspects and require the attention of a multidisciplinary team.
Development of a Simpler but Accurate Free Gas Deviation Factor for Fractured (Dual-Porosity) Volumetric Gas Reservoir Fluid
Authors: Alawode A. J. , Falode O. A.
Published: May 2021

Gas compressibility factor, also known as gas deviation factor or Z-factor, is a thermodynamic correction factor which describes the deviation of a real gas from ideal gas behaviour. The, free gas Z-factor in the Material Balance Equation (MBE) of single-porosity gas reservoirs with insignificant rock (matrix) compaction (after pressure depletion) does not reflect cases in low-permeability gas reservoirs having remarkable rock compaction. Through gas MBE modifications, previous researchers developed Z-factors for dual-porosity (fractured) low permeability gas reservoirs by incorporating gas desorption; however, their approaches create complexity for routine calculations. Therefore this study was designed with the purpose of deriving a free gas Z-factor for single-porosity low-permeability gas reservoirs and further modifying it for more simplicity and accuracy in a dual-porosity scenario. The free gas Z-factor derived for single-porosity low-permeability gas reservoirs is expressed as:  where , , , ,  and  are single-porosity Z-factor without rock compaction at pressure , water compressibility, initial water saturation, matrix compressibility, initial gas saturation and pressure depletion, respectively. However, the developed dual porosity free gas Z-factor model incorporates ratio of dual porosity to initial matrix porosity, and it is expressed as:    where  and  are initial matrix porosity and fracture porosity, respectively. The Z-factor model was graphically and statistically correlated with an existing free gas Z-factor model for dual porosity reservoirs. For all the hydraulically fractured shale gas formations considered, the correlations yield R2 values of 1.000.
Phase Prediction of High Carbon Pearlitic Steel: An Improved Model Combining Mind Evolutionary Algorithm and Neural Networks
Authors: Qiao Ling , Liu Yong , Zhu Jingchuan , Wang Yuan
Published: May 2021

Accurate phase constitution prediction is crucial for guiding the new steel design with desirable properties. This article uses three machine learning (ML) algorithms, backpropagation neural network (BPNN), radial basis function neural network (RBFNN), and fuzzy neural network (FNN), to compare the accuracy of predictive model. Toward the collected data, statistical measure of correlation is taken in the present work by determining Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC). The results show that the testing accuracy using BPNN is higher than the corresponding testing accuracy using RBFNN and FNN. With these understandings, the well‐known optimization algorithms, namely, mind evolutionary algorithm (MEA), are implemented to find optimal hyperparameters set that is able to induce a higher predictive capability. The resulting MEA‐BPNN further enhances the prediction results in the present dataset and efficiently explores the relationship between alloying elements and phase constitution. Finally, the reliability and practicability of the model are verified by experimental measurement on the ferrite content for prepared steels, and their mechanical properties are tested for engineering applications. As such, the work proposes a useful MEA‐BPNN model for predicting the phases of high carbon pearlite steel and provides an alternative route of designing new steels in a given system.
Lighting up the Electrochemiluminescence of Carbon Dots through Pre‐ and Post‐Synthetic Design
Authors: Arcudi Francesca , Ðorđević Luka , Rebeccani Sara , Cacioppo Michele , Zanut Alessandra , Valenti Giovanni , Paolucci Francesco , Prato Maurizio
Published: May 2021

Carbon dots (CDs), defined by their size of less than 10 nm, are a class of photoluminescent (PL) and electrochemiluminescent (ECL) nanomaterials that include a variety of carbon‐based nanoparticles. However, the control of their properties, especially ECL, remains elusive and afflicted by a series of problems. Here, the authors report CDs that display ECL in water via coreactant ECL, which is the dominant mechanism in biosensing applications. They take advantage of a multicomponent bottom‐up approach for preparing and studying the luminescence properties of CDs doped with a dye acting as PL and ECL probe. The dependence of luminescence properties on the surface chemistry is further reported, by investigating the PL and ECL response of CDs with surfaces rich in primary, methylated, or propylated amino groups. While precursors that contribute to the core characterize the PL emission, the surface states influence the efficiency of the excitation‐dependent PL emission. The ECL emission is influenced by surface states from the organic shell, but states of the core strongly interact with the surface, influencing the ECL efficiency. These findings offer a framework of pre‐ and post‐synthetic design strategies to improve ECL emission properties, opening new opportunities for exploring biosensing applications of CDs.
Dust cloud explosion characteristics and mechanisms in MgH2‐based hydrogen storage materials
Authors: Tsai Yun‐Ting , Huang Guan‐Ting , Zhao Jue‐Quan , Shu Chi‐Min
Published: May 2021

The mechanisms involved in premixed magnesium and hydrogen hybrid and synthetic MgH2 dust cloud explosions were investigated. The results revealed that trace amounts of H2 in Mg explosions can markedly increase explosion severity. Furthermore, H2 addition can weaken the influence of oxygen deficiency on Mg explosion. Moreover, the explosion intensity of synthetic MgH2 was far stronger than that of premixed Mg/H2 mixture or Mg alone because the vacancy defects in Mg and H atoms can form after dehydrogenation of MgH2, which caused that Mg and H2 are prone to oxidation and nitrification in air atmosphere at a low temperature, thereby promoting the explosion. This demonstrates that the explosion risk of MgH2 (even other H2 storage materials) is related to its H2 storage capacity and dehydrogenation temperature. Therefore, for H2 storage materials, the better H2 storage performances can exhibit higher explosion risks.
Heritable disorders of oxygen sensing
Authors: Semenza Gregg L.
Published: May 2021

Hypoxia‐inducible factors (HIFs) activate gene transcription in response to reduced O2 availability and play critical roles in development, physiology, and disease pathogenesis. Mutations that dysregulate HIF activity are the genetic basis for tumor predisposition in the von Hippel–Lindau syndrome and excess red blood cell production in hereditary erythrocytosis.
Nonclassic fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva: A child from Angola with an ACVR1G328E variant
Authors: Martín‐García Diana , Towler O. Will , Xu Meiqi , Alfonso‐Hernández Osmany , Oliveira Paula R. , Alonso‐Clavo Marleny , Shore Eileen M. , Kaplan Frederick S.
Published: May 2021

Little is known about FOP in Africa and few cases of nonclassic fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) have been reported on the continent. Here we report a three‐year‐old girl from Angola with a nonclassic FOP clinical presentation that is characterized by complex malformations of the toes and fingers, reduction defects of the digits, absence of nails, progressive heterotopic ossification, and a confirmed heterozygous ACVR1 variant at c.983G > A. Emerging knowledge of FOP can serve as a catalyst for increasing awareness of FOP in under‐represented medical communities by achieving a correct FOP diagnosis, improving access of individuals with FOP to clinical trial recruitment, and enhancing the ability of affected individuals to be part of and interact with the international FOP community.
The Art of M. Michael Cohen, Jr.
Authors: Cohen Aaron , Cohen Justin
Published: May 2021

This article describes Dr. M. Michael Cohen, Jr.'s passion for art and music. His two sons share family memories and photos. Dr. Cohen developed a keen interest in the visual arts, collecting lithographs, enjoying many art exhibits, and conducting original research on Picasso's art. His interest in faces formed a central connection between his professional life and his artistic interest. His love of music began as a young boy. Classical music and opera were the soundtrack to his creative pursuits. He enjoyed sharing music with his family immensely, especially opera performances.
Transient total blindness associated with alcoholic ketoacidosis
Authors: Sato Hiroki , Kyan Ryoko , Kamada Chinami , Kaku Mitsunori , Sato Shota , Tawara Toshihiro , Sakawaki Eiji , Sakawaki Sonoko , Takeyama Yoshihiro
Published: May 2021

Background

Methanol poisoning is often suspected in patients with high anion gap metabolic acidosis and visual deficits. Although alcoholic ketoacidosis can cause high anion gap metabolic acidosis, reports on vision loss are limited. We report the case of a patient with alcoholic ketoacidosis with transient total blindness.

Case Presentation

A 56‐year‐old man complaining of total blindness was transferred to our hospital. Physical examination revealed a clear consciousness and mydriasis with an absence of pupillary light reflex. Blood analysis revealed high anion gap metabolic acidosis with a high ketone body concentration. Alcoholic ketoacidosis was diagnosed because the patient had a chronic alcohol abuse history and denied methanol intake. As acidemia improved because of fluid infusion and glucose and vitamin B1 supplementation, his visual acuity recovered. He was discharged after 44 days without visual deficits.

Conclusion

Patients with alcoholic ketoacidosis may present with acute vision loss, which recovers along with treatment.