bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Quest for Communicative Competence in Foreign Language Learning in English Schools, 1968–2010
Authors: Daniels John
Published: October 2022

This chapter looks to identify the role of communicative competence
as an objective for language teaching through the different periods and
methodologies which have marked language learning in England over
the author’s thirty-five years as a middle school language teacher and
researcher. As an autobiographical account it therefore focuses on Cuban’s
second level in the multi-layered curriculum: the teacher ‘deciding what
to teach and how to present it’. Cuban’s curriculum model is particularly
relevant to this paper’s exploration of how the intended curriculum, the
official framework within which modern foreign languages are taught,
is subject to a range of different influences. The development of intensive
language programmes to supplement classroom language learning
demonstrates how teachers can respond to an identified problem, here
the difficulty of developing productive language skills that are essential
for communicative competence.
Diversity of Fireflies (Coleoptera: Lampyridae) of Sungai Teratak, Sabah, Malaysia.
Authors: Foo Kevin , Dawood Mahadimenakbar Mohamed
Published: October 2022

This study was conducted to investigate the diversity and possible factors that structure the distribution and abundance of fireflies along Sungai Teratak. Six sampling occasions were conducted from March to April 2014 where ten display trees were chosen as sampling stations. Species abundance and composition of fireflies and other insects were assessed by visual assessment and sampling with aerial net. Four Pteroptyx species were discovered with difference in relative abundance, namely Pteroptyx bearni (93.1%), Pteroptyx valida (2.2%), Pteroptyx malaccae (3.9%), and Pteroptyx tener (0.8%). The results of Shannon-Weiner index, H’ was 0.316, and Simpson’s index of diversity with the value of 0.131 indicated that the firefly at Sungai Teratak was low in diversity. Abundance of firefly varied significantly between the six sampling occasions (Kruskal-Wallis = 15.382, d.f. = 5, p <0.05) but shows no difference in abundance between the ten display trees (Kruskal-Wallis = 14.181, d.f. = 9, p > 0.05).  The abundance of fireflies was found to be positively correlated to the abundance of other insects (Pearson’s correlation r = 0.740, p <0.05). Comparison of fireflies’ abundance on full moon and new moon nights showed no significant difference (Mann-Whitney U = 46.00, z = -0.326, p >0.05 and Mann-Whitney U = 25.50, z = -1.945, p >0.05). Although the abundance of male (n= 232) firefly outnumbered the female (n= 149), statistical analysis proved no significant difference between both group (Mann-Whitney U = 8.50, z = -1.529, p >0.05). The mangrove trees being colonized by fireflies at Sungai Teratak was mainly from the species Avicennia alba.
Aquatic Insects and Water Quality Study at Kimanis River, Crocker Range National Park, Sabah, Malaysia
Authors: Vian Chaw Vi , Harun Sahana , Hee Kueh Boon , Hui Andrew Wong Bak , Fikri Arman Hadi
Published: October 2022

A survey on the aquatic insect communities was conducted in Kimanis River, Ulu Kimanis, Crocker Range Park (CRP), Sabah with the objectives to study (i) the composition of stream insect communities, (ii) stream water quality and (iii) the relationships between aquatic insects and freshwater quality parameters in Kimanis River, Ulu Kimanis, CRP. The sampling was carried out using surber net in October 2015 and January 2016. A total of 1,801 individuals from nine orders of 28 families were collected from Kimanis River. Trichopterans fauna was found to be the prominent taxa in this study. Shannon-Wiener Index of upstream strata was recorded slightly higher than downstream strata with Hâ€™= 1.97 and Hâ€™= 1.85 respectively. Water integrity of Kimanis River could be considered as excellent with minimal pollution. Both water quality parameters and biotic indices indicated that the aquatic insect population was affected by the water quality in their surroundings. This proved the use of aquatic insect communities as bioindicator for rapid assessment of water quality in CRP.
A Preliminary Assessment of Insect Diversity in Imbak Canyon â€“ Batu Timbang
Authors: Chung Arthur Y. C.
Published: October 2022

This insect diversity survey by the Sabah Forestry Department team was carried out from 16th to 20th of August, 2017 in Imbak Canyon â€“ Batu Timbang area. Nocturnal insect diversity was assessed through light-trapping while diurnal insects were documented through fruit-baited traps, sweep nets and forceps. The mean nocturnal insect species richness was 48 species while the mean abundance was 55 individuals. These values were affected by the presence of many wild honeybees, Apis dorsata and the unexpectedly wet weather. Some Bornean endemic species were recorded, which included moths, beetles, dragonflies and a butterfly species. The Bornean endemic butterfly, Papilio acheron, is a rare species documented during the survey. Interesting and iconic species recorded are the Malaysia national butterfly, Trogonoptera brookiana and the worldâ€™s largest bush cricket, Macrolyristes imperator. These insect data provide salient information to enhance the conservation of the Batu Timbang forest. They will serve as baseline information for other insect research work in future. Threats, such as forest fire, fragmentation, illegal clearing of vegetation and poaching are likely to indirectly affect the insect fauna. As such, continuous monitoring and enforcement at strategic locations are important to minimize these threats.
Land and Freshwater Snails of Imbak Canyon Conservation Area (ICCA), Sabah, Northern Borneo
Authors: Seng Liew Thor
Published: October 2022

This paper presents the first checklist of land and freshwater snails of Imbak Canyon Conservation Area (ICCA) as part of the Imbak Crayon Scientific Expedition 2017. The specimens of land and freshwater snails were collected from six standard sampling plots and several random locations around Batu Timbang Basecamp between 17th and 19th August 2017. A total of 21 species of land snail and one species of freshwater snail are presented in a checklist. Currently, 24 species of land snails and one species of freshwater snail are recorded in ICCA, after including two species that were previously recorded but yet to be published.
Birds of Imbak Canyon Study Centre, Imbak Canyon Conservation Area, Tongod, Sabah, Malaysia
Authors: Ahmad Norhayati
Published: October 2022

A survey on birds of the Imbak Canyon Study Centre was conducted from 16th to 26th August 2017, in every direction along the roads, forest trails through the understorey, i.e. whenever fine weather permitted. A total of 92 species of birds from 33 families were recorded. A total of 27 species are Near Threatened, one species is Vulnerable (Blue-headed Pitta), one species is not recorded (White-crowned Shama) and one species are Critically Endangered (Helmeted Hornbill). The present survey contributed nine new records to the area, updating the compiled list to 252 species, from the previous 243 species. The nine new records are Lesser Cuckoo Shrike, Red-bearded Bee-eater, Dark-sided Flycatcher, Yellow-vented Flowerpecker, Van Hasseltâ€™s Sunbird, Temminckâ€™s Sunbird, Yellow-bellied Prinia, Bold-striped Tit Babbler, and White-necked Babbler. All new records of the area are in the Least Concern category except the White-necked Babbler, which is Near Threatened.
Screening for Antibiotic-Producing Bacteria from Imbak Canyon Conservation Area (ICCA)
Authors: Ong Kuan Shion
Published: October 2022

Antibiotic resistance is an escalating threat to public health. Therefore, there is an urgent need for new antibiotics. This study aims to screen for antibiotic-producing microorganisms from the forest soil of Batu Timbang. Soil samples were collected, diluted and spread plated onto 1/5 Nutrient Agar (NA) and Actinomycete Isolation Agar (AIA) for the isolation of antibiotic-producing microorganisms. A total of 180 bacterial isolates were screened for their antibiotic-producing ability, and ten were tested positive for inhibitory activity against one or more test pathogens via agar overlay assay (Staphylococcus aureus ATCC BAA-1717, Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 700802, and Acinetobacter baumannii ATCC BAA-1605). Ten bacterial isolates were subjected to 16S rRNA gene amplification and gene sequence analysis. The isolates were identified to be closely related to the genus Variovorax, Streptomyces, Kitasatospora, Chromobacterium, Burkholderia, Pseudomonas and Massilia. Three isolates (Variovorax sp. A5, Variovorax sp. A6 and Kitasatospora sp. H8) are potentially novel as these isolates form a different clade from their respective closely related species via phylogenetic tree analysis using reference sequences obtained from GenBank/EMBL/DDBJ databases. The antibiotics produced by the bacterial isolates might potentially be new, as novel species might possess unique biosynthetic gene clusters to produce new compounds. Nevertheless, further taxonomic identification and antibiotic isolation work is required. This study has revealed the potential of antibiotic discovery from Batu Timbang (Imbak Canyon Conservation Area) and its implications in tackling antibiotic resistance.
Fruit flies of Batu Timbang Forest Within Imbak Canyon Conservation Area, Sabah, Malaysia (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: Rahman Homathevi
Published: October 2022

A survey of fruit fly fauna was carried out at Batu Timbang Research Station, (Imbak Canyon Conservation Area â€“ ICCA), Telupid, Sabah from 17th to 20th of August 2017. Fruit flies were collected using aerial net and bottle traps containing an attractant (Methyl Eugenol (ME) and Cue-lure (CUE)) at Lanap Trail, Rafflesia Trail and base camp. A total of 77 fruit flies belonging to Bactrocera were collected. This includes six species and three morphospecies, of which Bactrocera tau was the dominant species (56 individuals). This is the first study on fruit fly species at Imbak Canyon Conservation Area.
Taxanomic Composition and Conservation Status of Plants in Imbak Canyon, Sabah, Malaysia
Authors: Pesiu Elizabeth
Published: October 2022

A study of plant diversity and their conservation status was conducted in Batu Timbang, Imbak Canyon Conservation Area (ICCA), Sabah. The study aimed to document plant diversity and to identify interesting, endemic, rare and threatened plant species which were considered high conservation value species. A total of 413 species from 82 families were recorded from the study area of which 93 taxa were endemic to Borneo, including 10 endemic to Sabah. These high conservation value species are key conservation targets for any forested area such as ICCA. Proper knowledge of plant diversity and their conservation status is vital for the formulation of a forest management plan for the Batu Timbang area.
Short Notes on Saproxylic Arthropods of Batu Timbang Research Station, Imbak Canyon Conservation Area
Authors: Dawood Mahadimenakbar M.
Published: October 2022

A sampling of saproxylic arthropods was conducted from a fallen log located close to an existing trail and was situated under shaded area. All arthropods (larvae, pupae and adults) found in the fallen log were collected and kept in vials containing 75 % ethanol solution for identification. A total of 7 insect orders and 1 class of arthropod (Diplopoda) were collected. 15 species of ants were collected but only 1 species observed residing in the fallen log. Other ants were collected foraging on the deadwood. Only one species of termites (Blattodea: Havilanditermes atripennis) was recorded. Other orders found include Coleoptera (beetles), Orthoptera (mole cricket), Dermaptera (earwig), Diptera (fly) and Lepidoptera (moth).
Macrofungi of Imbak Canyon â€“ Batu Timbang Area, Sabah
Authors: Sathiya Seelan Jaya Seelan
Published: October 2022

Macrofungi survey was carried out from 21st to 26th of August, 2017 during the Imbak Canyon Conservation Area (ICCA) Scientific Expedition at Batu Timbang Area, Imbak Canyon, Sabah. The purpose of the study was to survey the diversity of mushroom forming-fungi or macrofungi because such study and information is poorly documented and limited in Malaysia. In this scientific expedition, we obtained a total of 106 species from 13 different families within Basidiomycota and Ascomycota. The most dominant family found was Polyporaceae with 25 species were collected, 23% of the total samples collected. We identified four different species of edible mushrooms and two deadly poisonous mushrooms. About 47% unidentified group will be subjected for DNA analysis. Apart from that, we characterized some of the polypore till genus or species level. The most interesting species from this study area were Earliella scabrosa and Panus similis that were recorded to have a medicinal properties. A glowing mushroom, Mycena illuminans is a new record for the Imbak Canyon region. Diversity of the ectomycorrhizal mushrooms which are specific to dipterocarp trees in Batu Timbang should be explored. Endemic and IUCN red listed species like Buglossoporus sp. found in the study area should be preserved for DNA. Future studies are needed in order to conserve the hidden knowledge of undescribed groups of mushroom from this region.
Species Composition and Distribution of Zingiberaceae in Mt. Hamiguitan Expansion Site, Davao Oriental, Philippines
Authors: Acma Florfe M.
Published: October 2022

This study was conducted to assess the composition and distribution of gingers (Zingiberaceae) in Mt. Hamiguitan expansion site, Tumalite, San Isidro, Davao Oriental, Philippines. Transect walk and opportunistic sampling were carried out along established forest trails, rivers, creeks and streams. Fourteen (14) ginger species were found, of which 10 species are endemic to the Philippines, two species are introduced, and two species are unidentified to the species level. The species belong to two subfamilies (Alpinioideae and Zingiberoideae) and three tribes (Alpinieae, Globbeae, and Zingibereae). The species recorded include Alpinia haenkei C.Presl, Alpinia cf. vulcanica Elmer, Alpinia rufa C.Presl, Alpinia sp., Curcuma zedoaria (Christm.) Rosc., Curcuma longa L., Etlingera dalican (Elmer) A.D.Poulsen, Etlingera hamiguitanensis Naive, Etlingera sp., Geocharis fusiformis (Ridl.) R.M.Sm., Globba campsophylla K.Schum., Hornstedtia conoidea Ridl., Hornstedtia microcheila Ridl., and Meistera muricarpa (Elmer) Å korniÄk. & M.F.Newman. These species represent 47% of the total genera and 14% of the total species of Zingiberaceae in the Philippines. Cluster analysis (numerical analysis) using morphological descriptions supported present taxonomic placements of the species. The data indicated that G. fusiformis is the most abundant ginger in the area.
Effects of the total solar eclipse of March 9, 2016 on the animal behaviour
Authors: Wiantoro Sigit
Published: October 2022

Studies on animal behaviour associated with natural phenomenon such as a solar eclipse, provides valuable contribution to the ecology of the studied animal. An observation on the effect of the total solar eclipse on the environment and animal behaviour was done in Central Sulawesi, Indonesia on March 8-9, 2016. Four recorded environmental factors changed dramatically during the solar eclipse. Air temperature, light intensity, and wind-speed dropped and reached the peak around the maximum eclipse, whereas humidity increased at the same time. The observed animals, i.e. Heckâ€™s macaque, flying fox, maleo, amphibians, and several insects showed unusual behaviour as a response to the environmental changes. Meanwhile, tarsier showed no response to the solar eclipse. This observation revealed the effect of the total solar eclipse on the environment and animal behaviour.
A new record of Euphorbia atoto (Euphorbiaceae) in Bangka Belitung and notes of Coptosapelta hammii (Rubiaceae) for Borneo
Authors: Mustaqim Wendy A.
Published: October 2022

Euphorbia atoto (Euphorbiaceae) and Coptosapelta hammii (Rubiaceae) have been recently collected from Belitung Islands, east of Sumatra, west Malesia. The discovery of Euphorbia atoto, combined with specimens kept in BO, is a new record for Bangka and Belitung Island, while C. hammii is considered to be an important rediscovery of a species thought to be endemic. Further examination of previously collected materials of C. hammii shows that this species has also been collected from Borneo, which means this species is no longer endemic to Belitung. Descriptions, photographs, notes on uses and a brief discussion are given.
The Daily Activity Budgets of Long-tailed Macaque (Macaca fascicularis) at Padang Teratak Wildlife Sanctuary, Beaufort, Sabah, Malaysia
Authors: Wong Anna
Published: October 2022

At present, the conversion of natural forests into urbanized and agricultural plantation areas are rising at an accelerated rate. Due to the loss of suitable habitats, wildlife i.e. macaques are forced to move into or nearby areas close to humans. The increased encounters between humans and macaques have led to conflicts between both when macaques utilize human resources. A preliminary study was conducted to explore the daily activity pattern of macaques based on age-sex and time in human-dominated areas (e.g. human settlements, oil palm plantation and fruit orchards). . The study was conducted in Padang Teratak Wildlife Sanctuary (PTWS) located in the district of Beaufort, eastern part of Sabah, Malaysia. Opportunistic observations were conducted along the roads encompassing seven villages in four days per month from December 2015 to January 2016. The survey was conducted in four time frames for 11 hours per day (06:00-09:00, 09:00-12:00, 13:00-15:00 and 15:00-18:00) to document behaviour of macaques with regards to the time of the day. Overall, a total of 1,462 individuals from 221 groups with total direct contact of 96 hours, 53 minutes out of 132 hours, consisting of multi-males multi-females (173 encounters), multi males (18), solitary male (28) and solitary female (2). There were 13 behavioural activities recorded and the study revealed that macaques spent most of their time for moving (28.4%), foraging (25.2%), resting (19.1%) and grooming (12.3%). Results from ANOVA showed that the daily activity patterns of each categories within age-gender varied showing there was a relation between daily activity budget and age-gender of macaques. In addition, Chi-square test indicated there were interactions between age-gender and time on daily activity. In contrast, time did not have an effect on their activity pattern.  Good wildlife management practices by understanding the behaviour of macaques in human settlements near degraded forests is crucial since habitat sharing by humans and macaques raise the concern of safety and health issues. The frequent encounter between this species increases transmission of some zoonotic diseases to humans such as the malaria parasite (Plasmodium knowlesi).
Diversity of praying mantises (Insecta: Mantodea) in Bukit Piton Forest Reserve, Lahad Datu, Sabah
Authors: Mustaffa Nazirah
Published: October 2022

This study was the first attempt to investigate the praying mantis diversity and composition on a long term basis in a regenerating forest of Bukit Piton Forest Reserve. The study area was a disturbed forest which had been affected by logging activities and forest fires, and undergone a restoration programme. Twelve sampling sessions were carried out over a period of one year,  from August 2016 to July 2017, totalling  144 sampling days and nights. Methods included light traps, baited traps, and manual searching. A total of 187 individuals belonging to 19 species were successfully collected. The species sampled represent approximately 16% of the species that occur in Borneo. Mantidae was the dominant family, accounting for about 53% of total species and 36% of total individuals. The dominant species was Tropidomantis tenera which belongs to the family Iridopterygidae and made up 27% of the total individuals.  The diversity indices showed that the praying mantis cenosis in the area was moderately diverse. This study highlighted the importance of a regenerating forest for the preservation of a significant portion of the biodiversity. We hope that the information obtained from this study will contribute towards a better understanding of the diversity of this fascinating group of insects, as well as the importance of a regenerating forest as a habitat worthy of conservation efforts.
Assessing the Relatedness of Abelmoschus Accessions using Morphological Characters
Authors: Ogwu Matthew C
Published: October 2022

Character analysis of Okra (Abelmoschus [Medik.] species, Malvaceae) accessions was carried out using morphological data to evaluate their genetic distinction and relatedness. Seeds of five Abelmoschus accessions (NG/MR/01/10/002, A.E 3, NG/MR/MAY/09/009, NGAE-96-0065 and NG/OA/05/12/160) were obtained from the Gene Bank of National Centre for Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Ibadan, Nigeria. Based on the International Board for Plant Genetic Resources standard descriptors for Okra, 16 qualitative morphological characters were selected based on their relevance to Abelmoschus breeding, crop distinction, utilization and conservation. The five accessions present significant differences with two of the accessions (NG/MR/MAY/09/009 and NG/OA/05/12/160) closely related and other three (NG/MR/01/10/002, A.E 3 and NGAE-96-0065) closely related too. Accessions NG/MR/01/10/002, A.E 3 and NGAE-96-0065 had medium or intermediate growth habit while accession NG/MR/MAY/09/009 and NG/OA/05/12/160 shows erect growth habit. General aspect of the stem, nature of branching, fruit pubescence, fruit shape, position of the fruit on the main stem, leaf shape, fruit colour, and fruit length at maturity had the most effect on observed relationship between the accessions. Scatter plots derived from the principal component analysis suggest moderate tendency of grouping with the genus where two distinct clusters were obtained from the dendrogram. Together, these results suggest that the five okra accessions may be the descendants of the two commonly cultivated Abelmoschus species in Southern Nigeria (i.e. A. esculentus and A. caillei).
Effects of mechanical and acid scarification on germination performance of Schizolobium parahyba (Fabaceae â€“ Caesalpinioideae) seeds
Authors: Salazar Ana
Published: October 2022

Improving seed germination of native species is fundamental for assisting restoration practices, particular in highly degraded ecosystems such as tropical moist forests. Tropical moist forests of Central and South America continue to decrease as a result of fragmentation and conversion of forested land to agriculture. Schizolobium parahyba is a pioneer legume tree species widely used in restoration practices due to its fast growth rate, nitrogen-fixing capacity, and wood properties. Seeds of this species exhibit low germination as a result of physical dormancy, which highly limits its propagation on a large scale. We evaluated the effects of mechanical and acid scarification treatments with solutions of sulfuric (10%, 20%) and chloridric (25%, 50%, 75%) on Schizolobium parahyba seed germination. Mechanically scarified seeds had higher germination percentage (92.5%) than seeds treated with chloridric acid (50%), sulfuric acid (33.13Â±.2.11%) or intact seeds (17.5%). Seeds soaked in 10% sulfuric acid for 1 and 5 minutes exhibited higher germination values than seeds soaked in 20% for 10 minutes. Seeds soaked in 75% and 50% chloridric acid solutions for 5 and 10 minutes had an overall higher and faster germination than seeds soaked in 25% for 1 minute. This study indicates that mechanical scarification and acid scarification with solutions of chloridric acid solutions of 50% and 75% can highly improve large-scale propagation of S.parahyba and thus assist habitat restoration and conservation practices in degraded moist tropical forests.
Diversity of Frogs In Tawau Hills Park, Sabah, Malaysia
Authors: Wong Anna`
Published: October 2022

A study on the diversity of anurans was carried out via Visual Encounter Survey (VES) method in Tawau Hills Park (THP), from June 2009 to September 2010. Twenty-eight line transects were established and surveyed, resulting in 925 individuals from 51 species, representing six families. Eighteen species were new locality records for THP, bringing the total number of identified frogs to 68 species. These frogs occupy elevations from lowland area (200 m a.s.l.) at the headquarters of THP, Balong substation and Merotai substation to submontane area (>900 m a.s.l.) at Mount Maria, Mount Lucia and Mount Magdalena. All 68 species recorded represent 62% of the total frog species found in Sabah, with 15% of them endemic to Borneo. Frog species in THP were dominated by Ranidae (39.4%) and Dicroglossidae (24.4%). Limnonectes leporinus was the most abundant species (10.2%), followed by Meristogenys orphnocnemis (10.1%). The high species diversity and richness in THP could be due to the rich topography of this park, which provides ample feeding, breeding and shelter for frogs.
Establishing optimal conditions for nursery production and domestication of Crassocephalum crepidioides (Benth.) S. Moore.
Authors: Dossou Justin
Published: October 2022

Crassocephalum crepidioides (Benth.) S. Moore is a plant consumed as a green leaf vegetable in several regions of Benin. But the species is still not domesticated and is harvested from wild according to the seasons. The plant remains as an undervalued food plant in Benin. This study aims to find the optimal conditions for nursery production of this species for its better valorization and domestication in order to contribute towards reducing food insecurity. We tested seed germination capacity and seedling growth of C. crepidioides in a nursery. We used cow dung and poultry manure to fertilize the transplanting board before transplanting seedlings from the seedbed whereas control plots were kept without fertilization. In addition, we tested shade impact on seedlings considering two variants (under shade and out of shade). Seedlings were transplanted in the following three spacings (20x20 cm, 30x30 cm and 40x40 cm). We used two water doses (22 liters/day and 44 liters/day) to water each â€‹â€‹3.30 mÂ² seedbed. The freshly harvested seeds showed about 19 dayâ€™s latency with a germination rate to 15.10 % while conserved seeds showed a latency time to 5 days with a germination rate to 12.70 %. Fertilization and shade influenced significantly the growth of C. crepidioides. Cow dung and poultry manure are suitable for soil fertilization for better plant development. The dose of water supplied to the seedbeds and transplanting spacings during the dry season also significantly influenced the growth of C. crepidioides. We found that that the 20x20 cm transplanting spacing reduces evaporation and transpiration, which is better for plant development.
Assessment of Spatial Variability and Temporal Dynamics of Dissolved Organic Matter (DOM) at Lower Kinabatangan River Catchment, Sabah.
Authors: Murdin Norizati
Published: October 2022

The spatial and temporal variability of dissolved organic matter (DOM) characteristics and surface water quality in the Lower Kinabatangan River Catchment were determined between October 2015 and May 2016. The objectives of this study were: (i) to distinguish the DOM absorption characteristics and physicochemical quality of surface water draining from different types of land use: oil palm plantation (OP), secondary forest (SF) and semi-natural vegetation (SV); and to examine its temporal variations during dry and wet periods. The collected physicochemical parameters data was analysed and classified based on the Malaysian National Water Quality Standard (NWQS). Findings indicated all the parameters fall into Class I, except for pH, total suspended solids (TSS) and concentration dissolved oxygen (DO). Linear discriminant analysis has been applied to distinguished the physico-chemical and absorption DOM properties data into mutually-exclusive spatial and temporal groups. Interestingly, the pH, DO and total nitrogen values were exhibited as dominant parameters at SV during both low and high rainfall periods. The dominance of these parameters suggested that the spatially and temporally varied water quality were influenced by both natural processes (e.g precipitation rate) and anthropogenic factor (e.g land use change). Whereas, both absorption coefficients (a340) and spectral slope (S275-295) were more dominant at SF and OP respectively. This might be due to increasing terrestrial DOM loadings as well as significant degradation of DOM via microbial and/or photochemical reaction.
Description of New Pseudeustetha species from Malaysia (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Galerucinae s. str.)
Authors: Takizawa Haruo
Published: October 2022

The small oriental genus of Chrysomelidae, Pseudeustetha Jacoby, 1899 from Malaysia was studied. A total of eight species of the genus are recorded from Malaysia, of which seven are described as new to science: Pseudeustetha minima, P. nakasekoi, P. rufohirsuta, P. sabahcola, P. sarawacensis, P. sinarutensis and P. unicolor, n. spp. The occurrence of P. hirsuta (Jacoby) in Borneo (Sabah, Sarawak) and Peninsular Malaysia was not confirmed in this study. A tentative key to the 11 known species of the genus is provided.
Traditional Knowledge on Plants Utilization in Postpartum Care: An Ethnobotanical Study in Local Community of Cimande, Bogor, West Java, Indonesia
Authors: Arimukti Septiani Dian
Published: October 2022

An ethnobotanical study was conducted in five villages in the vicinity of Cimande Resort, Bogor, West Java, predominantly occupied by the Sundanese people.  Forty-eight species of plants were recorded in their application in postpartum care and four species of plants in the care of the newborns. â€œJamu Godoganâ€ or boiled herbs, taken by mothers on day 8-15 after birth, contained most diverse herbs of 11 plants species. Three species (Curcuma longa, Piper betle, and Plectranthus scutellarioides) have more than two utilization categories. Nine out of 50 species of utilized medicinal plants have not been registered in the Indonesian Medicinal Plants Index and Medicinal Plants Dictionary; thus, new records.
Ontological paradox of computer-based technologies used in education and learning
Authors: Ichuloi Anthony , Nyaoko Ogaro D.
Published: October 2022

This study sought to investigate the ontological paradox of computer-based technologies used in education and learning. The argument of this article is that today, the use of computer-based technologies to enhance learning and disseminate knowledge is indispensable; however, this leads to an onto-educational shift in the way we regard intellectual development of learners as a subjective factor in education and the employed learning technologies themselves; a natural human subjective element of learning and knowledge is considered to be ineffective, while technologically stored and transferred facts of knowledge are given higher regard. Computer-based technologies used in education are appraised and institutionalized to the height that learners are sometimes unable to reflect on their own without recourse to the aid of such technologies. It is not enough to employ technology and technologically enhance learning, but also we have to question its impact on the intellectual development of learners. Appropriating Heidegger’s phenomenology, the ontology of the human subject provides a philosophical and normative foundation for a comprehensive analysis of the use of computer-based learning in the technological frame since it allows us to rethink more seriously about subjective factors in education in today's growing technological society. This article recommends that the embracement of educational and learning technologies should consider both subjective and technological aspects; a blended education and learning system would be appropriate.
SOLUTION FOR STEKLOV BOUNDARY VALUE PROBLEM INVOLVING THE P(X)- LAPLACIAN OPERATORS
Authors: YÜCEDAĞ Zehra , MURAD Vahup
Published: October 2022

In this paper, we concerned with Steklov boundary value problem involving - Laplacian operator. By means of the Mountain Pass theorem together with Ambrosetti- Rabinowitz condition, we prove the existence nontrivial weak of solutions in Sobolev spaces with variable exponent under appropriate conditions on f(x,u) .
Murat Höyük Erken Tunç Çağı Taş Kalıpları
Authors: BAMYACI A. Onur , ÖZDEMİR Abdulkadir
Published: October 2022

Doğu Anadolu Bölgesi, Bingöl İli Solhan ilçesinde, Murat Nehri kenarında yer alan Murat Höyük’te 2019 yılında yapılan kurtarma kazısı sonucunda ele geçen taş döküm kalıpları dikkat çeken buluntular arasındadır. Höyüğün en erken tabakası Erken Tunç Çağı III’e (MÖ 2500-2200) tarihlenmektedir. Doğu Anadolu Erken Tunç Çağı arkeolojik materyal kültüründe yaygın görülmeyen, gelişmiş sürtmetaş işçiliği ve metal döküm teknolojisinin varlığını gösteren taştan üretilen iki parçalı döküm kalıpları, Murat Höyük’ün Erken Tunç Çağı tabakasına aittir. Kazı alanında in-situ olarak gün ışığına çıkarılan taş kalıpların olasılıkla sap delikli balta üretiminde kullanılmış olduğu negatif modellerinden anlaşılmaktadır. Doğu Anadolu’da görülen balta kalıpları en erken MÖ 3. binyıl başlarına tarihlenmekte ve yaygın olarak Karaz tipi baltalar için üretildikleri bilinmektedir. Morfolojik olarak benzer örneklerin MÖ 2. Bin Koloni Çağı’nda Orta Anadolu’da Kültepe metal işliklerinde ele geçen, taştan özenli bir işçilik sergileyen döküm kalıpları ile yapılan analojik değerlendirme sayesinde Murat Höyük kalıpları ile sap delikli balta üretildiği anlaşılmaktadır. Tüm Önasya’da MÖ 2. Binyıla ait oldukları kabul edilen sap delikli baltaların Murat Höyük ETÇ III tabakasında MÖ. 3. Binyılın 3. Çeyreğinden itibaren ortaya çıkması ilgi çekicidir. Metal alet endüstrisinin önemli bir buluntu grubu olan ve bu çalışma ile ele alınan Murat Höyük kalıplarının kabul edilenin aksine daha erken bir dönemde sap delikli balta üretiminde kullanımı Doğu Anadolu arkeolojisinin Erken Tunç Çağı’na önemli bir katkı sağlayacağı şüphesizdir.
Resuloğlu Erken Tunç Çağı Toplumunun Sosyoekonomik Yapısına İlişkin Gözlemler
Authors: ÜNAR Aslı
Published: October 2022

2003 yılından bu yana Resuloğlu yerleşimleri ve mezarlığında gerçekleştirilen kazılar, Delice ile Kızılırmak’ın birleştiği bir bölgede ziraatçı ve hayvan yetiştirici, aynı zamanda çevredeki topluluklar ile iletişim içerisindeki bir toplumun sosyal yaşamı hakkında önemli sonuçlar vermektedir. Bölgede varlığı bilinen Hattili toplulukların sosyal yaşam biçimleri ile ekonomik ve politik organizasyonlarının anlaşılmasında, özellikle seçkin sınıf (!) dışındaki toplumsal kesimin günlük yaşamı, geçim kaynakları ve stratejilerine ilişkin bilgilerimiz sınırlıdır. Resuloğlu’nda gerçekleştirilen kazılar bu bilgilerin arttırılmasına katkı sağlamaktadır. 2010 yılından itibaren araştırılan Güneydoğu Höyüğü’nde, Erken Tunç Çağı III’e tarihlenen oldukça sağlam korunmuş yapılar ile silolar, tahıl depolama vasıtasıyla, bir topluluktaki ekonomik stratejilerin işletilmesi ve bunun toplumsal yapıdaki değişim ve dönüşümlere etkisinin anlaşılması noktasında oldukça değerli ve özgün bilgiler sunmaktadır. Erken Tunç Çağı için kapsamlı sonuçlar ortaya koyan Resuloğlu kazıları vasıtasıyla depolamanın, yeni sosyal ve politik uygulamaların geliştirilmesi ve toplumsal değişim ve dönüşüm süreçlerine etkisi tartışılmıştır. Resuloğlu topluluğunun sosyo-ekonomik yapısı; sosyal ve çevresel dinamikler, yerleşim modelleri, sosyo-kültürel yapı, üretim ve uzmanlaşma ve tahıl depolamanın ışığında ekonomik stratejiler gibi konular üzerinden incelenmiş ve sosyo-ekonomik değişimin kanıtları bu unsurlar üzerinden değerlendirilmiştir.
Konya Karahöyük Asur Ticaret Kolonileri Çağı Fayans Eserleri (The Faience Artifacts from The Assyrian Trade Colonies Period in Karahöyük, Konya)
Authors: GÜRDAL Sevgi , OZAN Ali
Published: October 2022

Konya Karahöyük’ün MÖ II. binyılın ilk çeyreğinde Asur ile Anadolu Arasında kurulan ticaret ağı içerisinde önemli bir istasyon olduğu kabul edilmektedir. Arkeolojik kazılar Erken Tunç Çağı’ndan itibaren iskân edilen höyüğün I-IV. tabakalarının MÖ II. binyılın ilk çeyreğine tarihlendiğini göstermiştir. Konu edilen döneme tarihlenen tabakalarda çok sayıda nitelikli buluntular ortaya çıkartılmıştır. Bu buluntular arasında aynı zamanda bu makalenin de konusunu oluşturan fayans eserler de bulunmaktadır. İç Anadolu’da Asur Ticaret Kolonileri Çağı yerleşimlerinde ortaya çıkartılmış fayans eserlerin kalıplarının henüz bulunmamış olması, geniş bir yayılım alanına sahip olmaları ayrıca sayıca az bulunmaları da dikkate alınarak birden fazla merkezde üretilmiş olabilecekleri öne sürülmüştür. Bu makalenin konusunu oluşturan boncuk, kulpsuz fincan formunda kaplar, çıplak tanrıça figürinleri, tavşan figürini ve Omega (Ω) baskı yüzeyli damga mühürlerden oluşan fayans eserlerin tamamı Karahöyük’ün Geç Koloni Çağı sonu-Eski Hitit Çağı başına tarihlenen I. tabakasında günışığına çıkartılmıştır. Karahöyük’te bulunan çıplak tanrıça ve tavşan figürinlerinin benzerlerine Orta Anadolu merkezlerinde de rastlanmıştır. Omega (Ω) baskı yüzeyli damga mühürler ise hem İç Batı Anadolu merkezlerinde hem Orta Anadolu hem de Mezopotamya’da geniş bir alanda görülmektedir. Bu eserler tipolojik olarak bir standarta sahipken Karahöyük fayans fincanları ünik buluntular olarak karşımıza çıkmaktadır.
Geoprocessamento e geoeconomia: análises multidisciplinares
Authors: Fontgalland Isabel Lausanne
Published: October 2022

Durante os últimos vinte anos, a Terra foi o centro de observação e informação geoespacial, usando para tantas plataformas habilitadoras que melhoraram a capacidade dos estudiosos em analisar, monitorar e informar sobre o desenvolvimento sustentável e outras preocupações fundamentais, quanto por integrar de forma eficiente a análise eficaz de todas as informações socioeconômicas e ambientais regional, nacional e internacional. Nos artigos aqui apresentados tem-se um overview de tudo o que tange aos problemas geofísicos, climáticos e econômicos, convivendo num contexto histórico, da evolução crítica da cooperação, bem como da gestão de conflitos que encerram milhões de pessoas em todo o Brasil seja em torno dos recursos naturais mais vulneráveis, seja em torno de proteção ambiental.
Surface circulation properties in the eastern Mediterranean emphasized using machine learning methods
Authors: Baaklini Georges , El Hourany Roy , Fakhri Milad , Brajard Julien , Issa Leila , Fifani Gina , Mortier Laurent
Published: October 2022

Abstract. The eastern Mediterranean surface circulation is highly energetic and composed of structures interacting stochastically. However, some main features are still debated, and the behavior of some fine-scale dynamics and their role in shaping the general circulation is yet unknown. In the following paper, we use an unsupervised neural network clustering method to analyze the long-term variability of the different mesoscale structures. We decompose 26 years of altimetric data into clusters reflecting different circulation patterns of weak and strong flows with either strain or vortex-dominated velocities. The vortex-dominated cluster is more persistent in the western part of the basin, which is more active than the eastern part due to the strong flow along the coast, interacting with the extended bathymetry and engendering continuous instabilities. The cluster that reflects a weak flow dominated the middle of the basin, including the Mid-Mediterranean Jet (MMJ) pathway. However, the temporal analysis shows a frequent and intermittent occurrence of a strong flow in the middle of the basin, which could explain the previous contradictory assessment of MMJ existence using in-situ observations. Moreover, we prove that the Levantine Sea is becoming more and more energetic as the activity of the main mesoscale features is showing a positive trend.
Future Law, the Power of Prediction, and the Disappearance of Time
Authors: Neuwirth Rostam Josef
Published: October 2022

The human fascination with the art of predicting the future derives from the practical need to anticipate events to make adequate decisions. While science fiction has undoubtedly contributed greatly to this field, there are a large number of other forms of expression of the same desire to predict the future in almost every field of activity—from the arts to science, from technology to linguistics, and from artificial intelligence to magic—all of which constantly contribute to bringing the future closer to the present. However, there is one field that potentially has the greatest predictive power of them all: that is the field of law. To release this latent power of law, this article argues, a cognitive revolution has to take place, one that is related to the perception of time. Awareness about this cognitive change is dawning and is currently manifesting itself in a general trend derived from related trends of convergence in language and technology. These trends are captured by the rise of the rhetorical figures of oxymora and paradoxes, or so-called “essentially oxymoronic concepts,” that increasingly pervade all human activities. Over the course of time, these concepts appear to have shown the magical power of bringing opposites into closer contact and possibly transcending their apparent contradictions to create a new reality. Pondering the future role of law while considering the present perception of time based on the dichotomy of the past and the future, this article inquires how far oxymora and paradoxes such as science fiction and space-time indicate an acceleration, a gradual shrinking and even a possible disappearance of time (as we know it).
Clean Hands Are Not Enough: Lectio Divina for Novices in the Mérode Annunciation
Authors: Patgett Lea Patricia
Published: October 2022

Iconographic analysis of The Mérode Annunciation has traditionally ignored how the medieval mind forged chains of memory prompts to expand meditation. Even the recent focus on devotional themes has largely failed to accommodate the mental process of meditation itself. The meditating mind prefers to move smoothly between prompts so that it can take full advantage of recollection — a mental process hampered by discursive analysis. Recollection retrieves stored memories and then links them in a continuous chain of meaning. The Campin workshop used embellishments — including placement, color and materials — to enhance the ductus of the Annunciate reading sacred scripture with clean hands and a pure heart. Such mnemonics are open-ended and multilayered within the framework of a specific devotional theme. They are metaphorical steps available to all who hope to conceive Christ spiritually and receive the blessings of eternal life.
Free vibration of functionally graded porous beams with varying cross-section
Authors:   Faculty of Civil Engineering, University of Architecture HCMC, Vietnam, Ton Lan Hoang That
Published: October 2022

This article gives the vibration behaviors of functionally graded porous beams with varying cross-sections. By using a simple beam model and finite element method, we can calculate the natural frequencies for cantilever beams under the influences of porosity as well as non-uniform cross-section. Some examples of estimating natural frequencies for this structure are given, which show that our method is simple and reliable.
A new design of the seat suspension of the vehicles using the NSS: Part 1-Dimensionless characteristic of the NSS
Authors:   School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi 435003, China Hubei Key Laboratory of intelligent Conveying technology and device, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi, China, Yang Haohan , Nguyen Vanliem ,   School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi 435003, China Hubei Key Laboratory of intelligent Conveying technology and device, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi, China, Liu Wenjie ,   School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi 435003, China Hubei Key Laboratory of intelligent Conveying technology and device, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi, China, Chen Jun ,   School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi 435003, China Hubei Key Laboratory of intelligent Conveying technology and device, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi, China
Published: October 2022

Based on the dynamics theory and the negative stiffness structure (NSS), the new design of the driver's seat suspension of the cab or vehicle added by the NSS is proposed to enhance the isolation performance of the driver's ride suspension. To design the driver's seat suspension added by the NSS, the dynamic models of the NSS and driver's seat suspension are then established to calculate the vibration equations. The influence of the design parameters of the NSS and driver's seat suspension on the isolation performance of the driver's seat suspension is simulated and analyzed based on the dimensionless characteristic of the restoring force and displacement of the driver's seat suspension system. The research results show that the dimensionless characteristic of the restoring force and displacement of the driver's seat suspension added by the NSS is greatly affected by the geometrical ratios (1 and 2) and stiffness ratio () of the NSS. To improve the ride comfort of the driver's seat, the ratios of 1 = 0.6, 2 = 1.2, and  = 0.6 should be applied for the design process of the driver's seat suspension equipped with the NSS.
A new design of the seat suspension of the vehicles using the NSS: Part 2-Isolation performance of the NSS
Authors:   School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi 435003, China Hubei Key Laboratory of intelligent Conveying technology and device, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi, China, Liu Wenjie , Nguyen Vanliem ,   School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi 435003, China Hubei Key Laboratory of intelligent Conveying technology and device, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi, China, Chen Jun ,   School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi 435003, China Hubei Key Laboratory of intelligent Conveying technology and device, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi, China,   School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi 435003, China Hubei Key Laboratory of intelligent Conveying technology and device, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi, China, Yang Haohan
Published: October 2022

Based on the dimensionless characteristics of the NSS added into the driver's seat suspension and its optimal ratios, a dynamic model of the driver's seat suspension equipped with the NSS is then built to evaluate the isolation performance of the NSS on improving the driver's ride comfort under the different excitations of the bumpy and random road surfaces. The reduction of the root mean square value of the displacement (zws) and acceleration (aws) of the driver's seat is the objective function for evaluating the isolation performance of the driver's seat suspension equipped with the NSS. The results indicate that with the optimal ratios of the 1 = 0.6, 2 = 1.2, and  = 0.6 of the NSS added into the driver's seat suspension, the driver's ride comfort is strongly reduced under both the vibration excitations of the bumpy and random functions. Particularly, the values of xws and aws of the driver's seat suspension added by the NSS are strongly reduced by 39.03% and 62.36% in comparison with the driver's seat suspension without the NSS. Therefore, the application of the NSS on the driver's seat suspension of the vehicles is not only simpler than that of the active or semi-active suspension systems in terms of structure, complexity, and cost but also can remarkably improve the driver's ride comfort.