bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MeV Gamma Rays from Fission: A Distinct Signature of Actinide Production in Neutron Star Mergers
Authors: Wang 王夕露) Xilu ,   (N3AS Collaboration), Vassh Nicole ,   (FIRE Collaboration), Sprouse Trevor , Mumpower Matthew , Vogt Ramona , Randrup Jorgen , Surman Rebecca
Published: October 2020

Neutron star mergers (NSMs) are the first verified sites of rapid neutron capture (r-process) nucleosynthesis, and could emit gamma rays from the radioactive isotopes synthesized in the neutron-rich ejecta. These MeV gamma rays may provide a unique and direct probe of the NSM environment as well as insight into the nature of the r process, just as observed gammas from the 56Ni radioactive decay chain provide a window into supernova nucleosynthesis. In this work, we include the photons from fission processes for the first time in estimates of the MeV gamma-ray signal expected from an NSM event. We consider NSM ejecta compositions with a range of neutron richness and find a dramatic difference in the predicted signal depending on whether or not fissioning nuclei are produced. The difference is most striking at photon energies above ∼3.5 MeV and at a relatively late time, several days after the merger event, when the ejecta is optically thin. We estimate that a Galactic NSM could be detectable by a next generation gamma-ray detector such as AMEGO in the MeV range, up to ∼104 days after the merger, if fissioning nuclei are robustly produced in the event.
Discovery of a Fast-expanding Shell in the Inside-out Born-again Planetary Nebula HuBi 1 through High-dispersion Integral Field Spectroscopy
Authors: Rechy-García J. S. , Guerrero M. A. , Santamaría E. , Gómez-González V. M. A. , Ramos-Larios G. , Toalá J. A. , Cazzoli S. , Sabin L. , Miranda L. F. , Fang X. , Liu J.
Published: October 2020

HuBi 1 has been proposed to be member of the rare class of born-again planetary nebulae (PNe), i.e., its central star experienced a very late thermal pulse and ejected highly processed material at high speeds inside the old hydrogen-rich PN. In this Letter we present GTC MEGARA integral field spectroscopic observations of the innermost regions of HuBi 1 at high spectral resolution ≃16 km s−1 and multi-epoch subarcsecond images obtained ≃12 yr apart. The analysis of these data indicates that the inner regions of HuBi 1 were ejected ≃200 yr ago and expand at velocities ≃300 km s−1, in excellent agreement with the born-again scenario. The unprecedented tomographic capabilities of the GTC MEGARA high-dispersion observations used here reveal that the ejecta in HuBi 1 has a shell-like structure, in contrast to the disrupted disk and jet morphology of the ejecta in other born-again PNe.
GW190521: Orbital Eccentricity and Signatures of Dynamical Formation in a Binary Black Hole Merger Signal
Authors: Romero-Shaw Isobel , Lasky Paul D. , Thrane Eric , Bustillo Juan Calderón
Published: October 2020

Pair-instability supernovae are thought to restrict the formation of black holes in the mass range

∼
50
–
135

M

⊙

. However, black holes with masses within this “high mass gap” are expected to form as the remnants of binary black hole mergers. These remnants can merge again dynamically in densely populated environments such as globular clusters. The hypothesis that the binary black hole merger GW190521 formed dynamically is supported by its high mass. Orbital eccentricity can also be a signature of dynamical formation, since a binary that merges quickly after becoming bound may not circularize before merger. In this work, we measure the orbital eccentricity of GW190521. We find that the data prefer a signal with eccentricity

e
≥
0.1

at 10 Hz to a nonprecessing, quasi-circular signal, with a log Bayes factor

ln

=
5.0

. When compared to precessing, quasi-circular analyses, the data prefer a nonprecessing,

e
≥
0.1

signal, with log Bayes factors

ln

≈
2

. Using injection studies, we find that a nonspinning, moderately eccentric (e = 0.13) GW190521-like binary can be mistaken for a quasi-circular, precessing binary. Conversely, a quasi-circular binary with spin-induced precession may be mistaken for an eccentric binary. We therefore cannot confidently determine whether GW190521 was precessing or eccentric. Nevertheless, since both of these properties support the dynamical formation hypothesis, our findings support the hypothesis that GW190521 formed dynamically.
Preliminary Target Selection for the DESI Milky Way Survey (MWS)
Authors: Prieto Carlos Allende , Cooper Andrew P. , Dey Arjun , Gänsicke Boris T. , Koposov Sergey E. , Li Ting , Manser Christopher , Nidever David L. , Rockosi Constance , Wang Mei-Yu , Aguado David S. , Blum Robert , Brooks David , Eisenstein Daniel J. , Duan Yutong , Eftekharzadeh Sarah , Gaztañaga Enrique , Kehoe Robert , Landriau Martin , Lee Chien-Hsiu , Levi Michael E. , Meisner Aaron M. , Myers Adam D. , Najita Joan , Olsen Knut , Palanque-Delabrouille Nathalie , Poppett Claire , Prada Francisco , Schlegel David J. , Schubnell Michael , Tarlé Gregory , Valluri Monica , Wechsler Risa H. , Yèche Christophe
Published: October 2020

The DESI Milky Way Survey (MWS) will observe ≥8 million stars between 16 < r < 19 mag, supplemented by observations of brighter targets under poor observing conditions. The survey will permit an accurate determination of stellar kinematics and population gradients, characterize diffuse substructure in the thick disk and stellar halo, enable the discovery of extremely metal-poor stars and other rare stellar types, and improve constraints on the Galaxy’s 3D dark matter distribution from halo star kinematics. MWS will also enable a detailed characterization of the stellar populations within 100 pc of the Sun, including a complete census of white dwarfs. The target catalog from the preliminary selection described here is public (Available at https://data.desi.lbl.gov/public/ets/target/catalogs/ and detailed at  https://desidatamodel.readthedocs.io).
Web of Science and Scopus are not global databases of knowledge
Authors: Tennant Jonathan
Published: October 2020

Both Web of Science and Scopus are critical components of our research ecosystem, providing the basis for university and global rankings, as well as for bibliometric research. However, both are structurally biased against research produced in non-western countries, non-English language research, and research from the arts, humanities and social sciences. This viewpoint emphasises the damage that these systematic inequities pose upon our global knowledge production systems, and the need to research funders to unite to form a more globally-representative, non-profit, community-controlled infrastructure for our global research knowledge pool.
Safewards Training in Victoria, Australia: A Descriptive Analysis of Two Training Methods and Subsequent Implementation
Authors: Fletcher Justine , Reece John , Kinner Stuart A. , Brophy Lisa , Hamilton Bridget
Published: October 2020

Safewards
is a psychosocial intervention designed to improve practice and staff–patient interactions in mental health wards. However, evidence regarding the impact of training on implementing change initiatives in this setting is mixed. Pre- and post-training surveys were completed by staff from 18 inpatient wards across seven health services in Victoria, Australia. Fidelity audits were undertaken to assess implementation of Safewards into routine practice. Staff knowledge, confidence, and motivation increased significantly from pre- to post-training, with no difference between two different methods of training. Most wards were implementing six or more of the interventions at the end of the trial. A structured approach to training, with flexibility of delivery options, produced positive changes in staff and translation to practice. Substantial investment in training from government and organizations appears to strengthen the uptake and impact of training, and the current study provides evidence that the interventions were implemented as intended. [
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 58
(12), 32–42.]
Reducibility and quasi-periodic solutions for a two dimensional beam equation with quasi-periodic in time potential
Authors: Zhang Min , Wang Yi , Li Yan
Published: October 2020

This article is devoted to the study of a two-dimensional $(2D)$ quasi-periodically forced beam equation

$
u_{tt}+\Delta^2 u+ \varepsilon\phi(t)(u+{u}^3) = 0, \quad x\in\mathbb{T}^2, \quad t\in\mathbb{R}
$

under periodic boundary conditions, where $\varepsilon$ is a small positive parameter, $\phi(t)$ is a real analytic quasi-periodic function in $t$ with frequency vector $\omega = (\omega_1, \omega_2 \ldots, \omega_m)$. We prove that the equation possesses a Whitney smooth family of small-amplitude quasi-periodic solutions corresponding to finite dimensional invariant tori of an associated infinite dimensional Hamiltonian system. The proof is based on an infinite dimensional KAM theorem and Birkhoff normal form. By solving the measure estimation of infinitely many small divisors, we construct a symplectic coordinate transformation which can reduce the linear part of Hamiltonian system to constant coefficients. And we construct some conversion of coordinates which can change the Hamiltonian of the equation into some Birkhoff normal form depending sparse angle-dependent terms, which can be achieved by choosing the appropriate tangential sites. Lastly, we prove that there are many quasi-periodic solutions for the above equation via an abstract KAM theorem.
Healing Conflict With Grigri
Authors: Sarilo Leverett Cedar
Published: October 2020

Hoodoo is an ethnomedical, natural healing method of magical rituals derived from West and Central African traditions, elements of Christianity, Native American folklore and African-American slavery. Rootlore applies herbs, roots, minerals, implements and animal part charms for ritual and personal use as intercessory curios that petition supernatural help and flaunt superstition. Grigri is a hoodoo object believed to protect the wearer from evil. Belief and protection associated with personal hoodoo may be appreciated with concepts in ritual healing, rootlore and meaningful experiences with respect to placebo effects. The study provides a narrative analysis of elements of ritual preparation of a chicken feet Grigri within a shared space with extended family members. In a personal account, a successful attempt of curing a conflict by unconventional means is reported. Ideas about extraordinary experiences outside traditional western medicine arise. Thoughts about the efficacy of taboo ritual material as complementary to western medicine speak to needing more innovative directions in psychotherapy.
Progressive Development of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Its Holistic Evolution of Natural Treatments
Authors: Maral Priyaranjan , Pande Namita
Published: October 2020

This chapter explores the progressive development of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) before and during the establishment of the diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (DSM). In addition, this chapter also tried to investigate the evolution of natural medicines or therapies of PTSD. Findings of the researches showed that significant historical events like wars were the major reasons behind getting recognition of PTSD among worldwide societies. It has a long history as well as existed in different forms and names among human beings. It takes a long time to get the identity, position, and recognition across the different editions of DSM. With the addition of PTSD under trauma and stressor related disorder in the 5th edition of DSM, a large number of PTSD cases were identified and produced as compared to the previous editions of DSM. Moreover, holistic treatment and complementary and alternative medicine approaches were more effective treatment for PTSD and help to nullify the symptoms of PTSD. Ayurveda, meditation, yoga, animals, forest bathing, and ocean therapies were used more for dealing with combat veterans suffering from PTSD.
Digital Learning Challenge in Indonesia
Authors: Prasetio Adhi , Anggadwita Grisna , Pasaribu Rina D.
Published: October 2020

Industry Education Reform 4.0 was launched by the Indonesian government as one of nine priority agendas called Nawa Cita. The reform consists of two main programs: first, to improve the quality of life of Indonesian people through improving the quality of education and training and, second, to revolutionize the nation's character through the policy of restructuring the national education curriculum. There are challenges though to implement those programs including Indonesian geographic, gap to access different level of education, and the gap to achieve the Industrial Revolution 4.0 skills. The aims of this chapter are to explore alternatives and solutions for access to education in Indonesia by utilizing technological advancements including the skills needed to face the current digital era. Education 4.0 is a good approach to answer those challenges. The use of internet technology for digital learning can provide access to students spread across the country. This approach requires skills set that are appropriate to Industry 4.0 by providing a flexible curriculum and online certification.
Women Empowerment Through ICT
Authors: Singh Vandana , Mathur Pallavi
Published: October 2020

ICT has the biggest potential today to become a key vehicle for the socio-economic advancement of women. There exists a plethora of opportunities for ICTs to improve women's economic activities in the field of trade, governance, education, health, crafts, employment in formal as well as informal sectors. It can be used to fight many social issues and to empower weaker segments of society. The purpose of this chapter is to examine the opportunities which ICT can provide to improve the life of a woman in India. It will include the voices which speak of how women can fully participate and benefit from ICT and how ICT can be used as a tool to empower women. Women also should have an equal advantage of technology and the use of ICT should not be restricted to the upper section of the society. The aim here is to explore how women in India can improve their lives by using ICT. At last, it will also suggest ways on how all the segments of the female population can have benefited from technology.
Facilitating the Educational Process in Synchronous Group Advisory Online Meetings in the Hellenic Open University
Authors: Karakolidou Eleni , Leftheriotou Piera , Korres Maria Pavlis
Published: October 2020

The Hellenic Open University launched synchronous online group advisory meetings for the academic year 2016-17 through the Skype for Business videoconferencing platform. This chapter focuses on the extent to which interaction, immediacy, and collaborative learning are developed in this particular online learning environment, as well as on the skills required for an efficient adult e-tutor. Research conducted in 2019 has shown that learners scored high in terms of interaction, immediacy, and collaborative learning between each other and their tutor, especially when working in online workgroups, while the learning process was facilitated by immediate e-tutor feedback, which resolved queries, and the effective facilitation of the discussion. In terms of factors hindering the learning process, learners cited the lack of meaningful relationships with their peers as a leading οne, e-tutors pointed to technical problems, while both agreed on the inadequate use of communication and collaborative tools in an online environment.
Using ICT in the Classroom for Acquiring Digital Competences
Authors: Posavec Kristina
Published: October 2020

This research will explore the use of ICT tools in primary school and its impact on digital competences. What digital competencies can mean in this context and how they can be integrated into the primary school curriculum are some of the questions this chapter will explore. This chapter will present three case studies with three primary school teachers who participated with their students in CRISS project (CRISS is a project financed by the European Commission, through the Horizon2020 programme, ID:732489) during which all used CRISS platform and their experience with the process of students' digital competences evaluation, obstacles that they encountered during this process, and how the use of ICT tools can improve primary school students' digital competences. The advantages and disadvantages of this type of learning method will emerge and be discussed.
From Entrepreneurial Intentions to Entrepreneurial Behavior
Authors: Aparicio Sebastian , Turro Andreu , Noguera Maria , Urbano David
Published: October 2020

Although there is abundant literature on entrepreneurial intentions and entrepreneurial behavior, there is still a lacuna on those factors enabling the pass from intention to action. Motivated by this gap, this study assesses the extent to which the determinants of entrepreneurial intention also have an effect on subsequent entrepreneurial behavior, using an institutional approach as a theoretical framework. With a sample of 2,491 university students from Catalonia (Spanish) through the simultaneous equations, the main findings show that institutions such as opportunity identification, business skills, and entrepreneurs' status encourage students to think of entrepreneurship as a good career choice, which subsequently explains entrepreneurial actions. Theoretical, policy, and practical implications are discussed based on these findings.
Next Generation of Intelligent Cities
Authors: Varadharajan Vijayaraghavan , Rian Leevinson J.
Published: October 2020

Over the past decade, intelligent cities have undergone rapid transformation. The definition of an intelligent city may vary based on the context and the purpose served. However, the next generation of intelligent cities will have unique characteristics that will set them apart from the existing intelligent cities. They will be more people-centered, and they will be formed through the fusion of technology, government, organizations, and people. This chapter explores four intelligent cities in Europe that are setting examples for innovation, ingenuity, technology, public policy making, and sustainable development: London, Amsterdam, Vienna, and Stockholm. With growing emphasis on people involvement in decision making, the intelligent city ecosystem is continuously evolving. However, technology continues to play a prominent role in shaping the intelligent city paradigm. In this contribution, the authors also examine different emerging technologies such as quantum computing, autonomous vehicles, AI, ML, etc. that could potentially impact the next generation of such cities.
A Smart City for the Blind
Authors: Schelin Dago , Gomes Péricles Varella , Quandt Verônica Isabela
Published: October 2020

In this chapter, the authors present the German city of Marburg as an alternative model for the conception of a smart city. Marburg's historical relation with its visually impaired citizens has shaped not only its infrastructure but also its human framework. Generally, smart cities are equated with world-class major metropolitan areas, with international airports, use of high band internet, internet of things, and other IT infrastructures. However, Marburg might be considered a smart city according to other criteria. This case study articulates the uniqueness of what Marburg has been able to achieve using a diverse approach of cultural acceptance of the blind, becoming a world reference for other small cities. The authors suggest that Marburg can serve as a model for other cities. This hypothesis was reached through critical investigations into concepts of smartness and disability, intersected with the insights obtained in a focus group interview.
Supply Chain Management for Agri Foods Using Blockchain Technology
Authors: Dandekar Niranjan , Dua Amit , Das Manik Lal , Shah Viral A.
Published: October 2020

The agricultural supply chain consists of many participants like producer (generally farmer), consumer (people who buy the product and consume them), wholesalers, and retailers. This system consists of many levels of mediator parties as well which have different policies of the commission. Due to the difference in these policies, the producers do not get their fair share of price. Due to the varying prices, consumers also suffer as they do not get the right quality of the product for the right price. There are no central records maintained regarding the transactions between the participants which could lead to many serious problems. To tackle the above-mentioned issues, we need a holistic approach that can provide solutions to most of the above issues. Here, blockchain-based solution can be used to achieve traceability (we can trace the whereabouts of the product, the origin of the product, etc.), transparency (so that a sense of trust is achieved), fairness (by removing the intermediaries), assurance of food safety and pricing (so that nobody has to bear the loss).
Using AI Technology to Support Speaking Skill Development for the Teaching of Chinese as a Foreign Language
Authors: Yingsoon Goh Ying
Published: October 2020

The teaching of Chinese as a foreign language can be supported by using AI technology. Traditionally, the non-native learners can only interact with the instructors and depend on them solely for speaking practices. However, with the advancement of AI technology, the learners can use AI technology for interactive speaking skill development. In this study, the learners were instructed to download an application at https://m.wandoujia.com/apps/6790950. The process on the preparation of this AI technology in supporting their speaking skill development can be accessed at https://sites.google.com/site/gohyi141/assignments/projectinteractivespeakingapp. By using this AI technology, the findings showed a tremendous affirmative responses pertaining to the use of this AI technology. Hence, AI technology should be encouraged in active utilization for the teaching of Chinese as a foreign language in particular and for all language speaking skill development in general.
In Need for More Tailored Feminist Stories in a Time of Crisis
Authors: Grünberg Laura Roxana
Published: October 2020

The chapter follows other attempts to explain the gender backlash within many of current societies. Revisiting some theoretical frames under circulation, and taking Romania as a lived case study, the author argues for the existence of two detached storytelling trends within feminism, which contribute to a crisis of communication, not of content. Academic feminism delivers sophisticated explanatory stories about the gender fatigues aspects, while activist feminism bets on more black and white, confrontational stories and practices. This communication crisis could be accountable for the gender backlash. It is not what feminists say, but how they say it that contributes to the impasse. Today there is a need for more inclusive feminist public stories targeting a wide-ranging society, adaptable to the new realities. Maybe, the author claims, with improved feminist storytellers, the activist feminism of the 21st century could be stronger and cool not only for feminists.
(Desperate) Housewives, Domestic Angels, or Femmes Fatales
Authors: Ricci Debora
Published: October 2020

Language and linguistic practices, based on androcentric type principles, appear as a privileged vehicle for demanding and reiterating certain values and cultural codes. This chapter aims at analyzing the visual language in the media, with a focus on advertising language, in the attempt to demonstrate how the language used is responsible for the formation and preservation of sexual identity and gender stereotypes. A natural consequence of its reiteration would be the passage from an objectified view of women to physical and psychological violence against them. The images appearing on billboards will be correspondingly analyzed with the intention of reflecting on certain gender-related issues that most often go unnoticed.
From Manufacture to Cognofacture
Authors: Lavanderos Leonardo P.
Published: October 2020

This paper aims to contribute to developing a new approach related to the viability concept. This paper also demonstrates the relevance of change from the 'object' concept to the concept of 'relation' for organizational design. A system, or a viable unit in a relational sense, cannot be separated from its circumstances: what surrounds it must remain with it. What is referred to as external is not an entity apart from the unit, and, for that reason, the definitions of 'medium' and 'environment' that are being used do not correspond to these criteria. In the present context, the value generation process is mainly located in the strategic role of intangibles; as noted earlier, value propagation necessarily implies the understanding that this process is distanced from traditional physical rules whenever there emerges a relational field that allows its implementation. Emergent design or warp network is fundamentally a relational process developed from co-autonomy upon a heterarchical operational structure.
Assessing the Role of Simplicity in the Continuous Use of Mobile Apps
Authors: Verkijika Silas Formunyuy
Published: October 2020

The proliferation of smartphones has provided a huge market for mobile apps and created a massive industry for developers/designers creating various mobile apps for use in our daily activities. However, with many mobile apps competition for users attention, the continued use of these apps has become a growing concern as users easily dump one app for another even after just a single use. This study examined the role of simplicity in the continuance use of mobile apps. The study extended the ECM with simplicity and showed that simplicity had a significant direct positive influence on confirmations, perceived usefulness, and satisfaction as well as a significant total indirect effect on continuance intentions. Additionally, all the ECM proposed relationships were confirmed. The study extends the current literature on continuance use of mobile apps by demonstrating the relevance of a concrete factor that developers/designs can manipulate to improve the continuance use for their mobile apps.
Screening Job Candidates With Social Media
Authors: Drake John R. , Furner Christopher P.
Published: October 2020

With the proliferation of social media, job candidate screening and evaluation professionals have new avenues to gather information regarding job candidates. Job candidates recognize that recruiters will examine their social media, and tailor their profiles to foster a positive impression. However, recent popular press news suggests that some employers are taking social media screening to more invasive levels. This study seeks to evaluate how job candidates respond to social media screening from recruiters. Using a scenario-based experiment with 290 subjects, the authors tested relationships between candidate characteristics and trust in the recruiter as well as hesitancy to accept an offer. This research found that under all conditions, trust reduces hesitancy to accept the offer and that age reduces trust in the company. Further, this article found differences in the relationships between privacy protection competence, social media production and trusting stance on trust in the company based on the level of social media screening.
Corona Pandemic, Food Security, and Agricultural Research
Authors: Ginigaddara G.A.S.
Published: October 2020

The current global health crisis has disrupted the whole world creating inter-related challenges of hunger, malnutrition, and food insecurity. Food systems all over the world are under huge stress. The supply chains have been disrupted, consumers are facing problems of accessing even basic food items and paying higher prices for some foods. Sri Lanka took early actions to limit the COVID-19 imposing curfew from time to time for nearly over two months. The majority of people were under home hostage. Schools and universities were closed. Those who are working in various professions stopped reporting to offices physically and started working from home. However, similar to many other countries, Sri Lanka wanted agriculture safely running as an essential business in the country to continue the food supply for markets and consumers. Though freedom was fully granted for the farmers to engage in their agricultural production activities irrespective of lockdown condition imposed in the country, farmers started to face various other problems for receiving agricultural inputs, fulfilling harvesting activities and postharvest preparations, transporting harvests to markets and even finding the right market for the products. Labour shortage mainly due to movement restrictions, social distancing rules, and illness started to impact producers, processors, traders, and others in supply chains. Farmers lost their regular markets and worried about harvesting their current crop and planting for the next season. Export bans and import restrictions created problems of reaching people the needed food items and paying unnecessarily for certain food items (e.g. turmeric powder). At the same time, loss of income and remittances limited people’s purchasing ability. People who carried out small businesses earned daily wages and served in contract basis jobs in certain firms and small-scale entrepreneurs were in more economical crisis and facing serious problems of securing their families with sustainable food supply and consumption.
Stress tolerant rhizobia inhabiting the root nodules of Gliricidia sepium from selected locations of Anuradhapura district, Sri Lanka
Authors: Udapamunuwa V.R.R.U. , Nawanjana P.W.I. , Rajapakse S.
Published: October 2020

The symbiotic association between Rhizobium and leguminous species plays a significant role in sustainable agricultural systems as it contributes higher amounts of fixed nitrogen to soil through biological nitrogen fixation. Gliricidia sepium is one of the most commonly cultivated agro forestry trees in the world. This leguminous tree is widely distributed throughout Sri Lanka. A very limited number of studies are available on G. sepium–Rhizobium symbiosis in Sri Lanka. The main objective of this study is to isolate and identify the stress tolerant Rhizobium sp. in G. sepium as a preliminary approach to use rhizobial strains for cross inoculation of crop legumes in order to minimize the heavy use of chemical nitrogen fertilizers. The root nodules of G. sepium were collected from seven sites in Anuradhapura district which is located in the dry zone of Sri Lanka. A total of 34 strains were tested for their tolerance to different physiological conditions namely pH, salinity, drought and temperature. Fifteen strains showed a higher tolerance among the isolated 34 strains when grown under a wide range of physiological conditions. When these 15 stress tolerant rhizobial strains were grown under extreme physiological conditions, 12 strains could survive well as they often experience adverse environmental conditions in their natural habitat. DNA fingerprinting analysis with ERIC 1R and ERIC 2R showed that the 15 strains are genetically diverse and they belong to 9 clusters at 71% similarity level
Community Perception on Sustainable Utilization of Kaduwela Wetland for Agriculture, Sri Lanka
Authors: Nawarathne W.R.M.D.P. , Dissanayake S.P. , Ginigaddara G.A.S.
Published: October 2020

Wetlands serve as valuable natural infrastructure for agriculture for million years. Food security is a global issue of all nations in the world; especially the developing countries. Demand driven agricultural expansion encroaches natural habitats in urban and rural peripherals in developing countries. This study was conducted to investigate community perception towards upland crop cultivation during the dry season in urban Kaduwela wetland. A structured questionnaire was administered to the farmers to collect information. The results of the factor analysis revealed that concerns in agricultural supportive services, irrigation, marketing and technology as major risks and constraints. According to the results of the binary logistic regression; land extent {Odds Ratio (OR)=0.387}, knowledge on environment friendly farming practices (OR=0.070), knowledge on traditional farming practices (OR=14.696), farming experience of the household head (OR=1.126), and access to extension services by the farmers (OR=0.202) were recognized as positively influencing factors (p<0.05). Provision of regular and reliable extension service for choosing of a right crop and self-generating of quality planting materials could be recommended for sustainability of the upland agricultural system in urban Kaduwela wetland.
Soil Fertility under Different Farmland Management Practices for Sustainable Crop Production in Southern Kaduna, Nigeria
Authors: Oriola E.O. , Atiyong B.R.
Published: October 2020

This study assessed the fertility status of the soils under different Farm Management Practices (FMPs) in southern Kaduna, Nigeria. A total of 25 composite soil samples were collected at 0-20cm soil depth from three locations under the different FMPs in Katugal, Madakiya, Kurmin Sara, Mailafiya and Zankam. The soil samples were analysed using standard laboratory procedures. Simple proportion and percentages were adopted in analysing and summarizing the data. The study revealed that, 56% and 44% of the soils belongs to sandy loam and loam textural classes respectively. These soil textural classes are considered good for the cultivation of maize, guinea corn, millet and ginger in this area. More than 80% of the soil’s bulk densities are within 1.0–1.30gcm-3 threshold, available water holding capacity fell in 0-50mm/m. Similarly, electrical conductivity is >1.0ds/m, while total nitrogen content in 76% fell in 0.10–0.20kg/ha, threshold value. More than 80% of the pH falls within 5.0 and 6.8 in the area. The micronutrients contents are within normal threshold values except zinc and manganese in two of the FMPs. Both microbial biomass nitrogen and soil basal respiration are within the fertility threshold range >1.10% and >2.0% which are considered normal for plant growth. 72% of the organic matter content is <2.6%, while cation exchange capacity of <12.0cmol/kg, phosphorus <8mg kg-1 and microbial biomass carbon (0-10%) in the soils were outside the normal fertility threshold range. The study recommended the use of animal dung, compost, inorganic fertilizers, crop residue as soil conditioners, and liming to improve pH condition to enhance and sustain the fertility of the soils.
Blindness above and below the Poverty Line: Reflections form Sofala, Mozambique
Authors: Roba Assegid A. , Chagunda Margarida , Machissa Tiago S.
Published: October 2020

Although the correlation between visual impairment and poverty has been established, economic assessment is not a standard component of blindness surveys. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of avoidable blindness and its association with poverty in Sofala province of Mozambique. As part of a Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness, 94% of a random sample of 3600 people 50 years responded to questions regarding daily per capita expenditure. The WHO definition of blindness (presenting visual acuity 3/60) was used to determine the visual status of participants, and the World Bank’s threshold of living on $1.25 International Dollar a day demarcated the poverty line. The prevalence of blindness was 3.2% [95% Confidence Interval (CI): 2.6, 3.8]. People living below the poverty line had significantly greater odds of being blind [Odds Ratio (OR): 2.6 (CI: 1.6 to 4.5)]. Age above 60 [OR: 7.0 [CI: 4.6 to 10.80] predicted blindness but the association with illiteracy, gender or rural residence was not significant. Blindness disproportionately affects people living below the poverty line. Development initiatives could augment the impact of blindness prevention programs. Measuring poverty should become a standard component of visual impairment surveys.
Identità di genere e orientamento sessuale in epoca ipermoderna: soggettivarsi tra delega e affermazione di sé
Authors: Levi Flavia Micol , Curti Anna Giulia
Published: October 2020

Quando si parla di identità sessuali i terapeuti solitamente hanno in mente una serie di teorie che raccolgono inevitabilmente anche gli impliciti eterosessisti presenti nella cultura occidentale nella quale siamo inseriti. Questo articolo vuole mettere in luce come questi automatismi permeino alcuni costrutti classici ritenuti per molto tempo fondamentali della teoria psicoanalitica, lasciando gli psicoanalisti contemporanei, in Italia, sprovvisti di chiavi di lettura critiche rispetto alle identità sessuali. Attraverso una lettura orientata dalla Teoria dell’Io-Soggetto di Michele Minolli, si cerca di proporre come possibile punto di partenza uno spostamento dello sguardo dai contenuti storici ad un livello meta-teorico che eviti lo scivolamento verso posizioni antitetiche, ma parimenti ideologiche, che caratterizzano il dibattito attuale.
Eh…la coppia, la coppia!
Authors: Arletti Emanuele
Published: October 2020

Psicoteatro è una serata di puro teatro, che tocca di volta in volta tematiche differenti. Il tema della serata di Bologna è stato quello della coppia. Anche quando crediamo di conoscere noi stessi, i nostri bisogni più intimi e profondi può succedere che nella relazione di coppia emergano parti di noi che ci sorprendono, che non riconosciamo come nostre. Le relazioni di coppia possono riaprire ferite emozionali, farci toccare momenti di estasi, farci sentire folli, ci possono riempire, appagare e completare, o al contrario svuotare e allontanarci da noi stessi.
Detection of muscle metastases on 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography scan in 13 cases
Authors: Doudouh Abderrahim , Oueriagli Salah , Bakkali Jaafar
Published: October 2020

Muscular metastases (MMs) form an infrequent entity, and their physiopathology is still not well-defined. In this study, we estimated the incidence of MMs that were detected by 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography and also specified their metabolic characteristics. This study includes 13 patients with MMs from a remotely located primary tumor. The results of this study showed an incidence of MMs at about 1%, with the most frequently involved muscles being iliopsoas and paraspinal. Lung cancer seems to be the most common tumor that causes MMs. Furthermore, these MMs vary in size and physiological uptake; they seem to be out of the ordinary and easily detected. They are often associated with other extra muscular locations and frequently involve the trunk muscles. Their detection in the course of the evolution of a specific neoplasia testifies to their aggressiveness and portends an unfavorable prognosis. The data in our series confirm that in the literature regarding the underlying primary tumors and anatomical sites involved by MMs.
Schistosomal Peritonitis Presenting as Acute Abdomen: A Case Report
Authors: Abebe Kirubel , Megersa Abebe , Abebe Engida
Published: October 2020

Background-Schistosomiasis is a trematode infestation causing a chronic granulomatous disease in various organs. Both S. mansoni & S. haematobium are endemic in Ethiopia. Most infected individuals are asymptomatic. Ectopic schistosomiasis can affect the lungs, genitalia, CNS, skin, peritoneum, Lymph nodes & other organs. Schistosomiasis as a cause of acute abdomen is seldom reported.Case Detail-A 51years -old male Ethiopian farmer presented with a two weeks history of abdominal pain with recent onset bilious vomiting and abdominal distention. Emergency laparotomy done & the finding was multiple tiny whitish nodule over the peritoneum & small bowel with multiple mesenteric lymphadenopathy. The diagnosis was confirmed with histopathology study.Conclusions- Schistosomal peritonitis is a very uncommon form of schistosomiasis. Physicians should be aware of such atypical presentation in patients from endemic areas of schistosomiasis. And biopsy should be considered in unsettled forms of peritonitis during laparotomy. The pathogenesis is not well known which warrants further study.
“AMPE” Exercise Programme Has Positive Effects on Anthropometric and Physiological Parameters of School Children: A Pilot Study
Authors: MOSES M. Omoniyi1  , AFIFA Daniel  , ASAMOAH M. Anthony  , SARPONG Priscilla  , SARPONG Emmanuel  , APPIAH P. Opoku  , AKOTO Francisca
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND: Projection of the effectiveness of house-hold physical activity may be a vital tool to improve active lifestyle. Although ampe is a common house-hold recreational physical activity among all population groups especially school children in Ghana, no empirical evidence of its effects on the anthropometric and physiological parameters of the children. This pilot study examined the effect of ampe exercise programme on the anthropometric and physiological parameters of school children.METHODS: Purposive and stratified sampling techniques were applied to recruit 78 school children (ages of 9 to 12, mean age of 10.65±0.94 years). The participants attended 40 minutes of ampe exercise program three times per week, for four weeks consecutively. Body mass index, waist circumference, hip circumference, waist-to-hip ratio; % body fat, diastolic blood pressure, systolic blood pressure and heart rate were measured prepost training.RESULTS: Ampe exercise programme produced positive effects on all parameters. Body weight (0.31%) and body mass index (0.58%) decreased significantly (P<0.05). Systolic blood pressure (3.15%), diastolic blood pressure (1.92%) and heart rate (2.13) significantly improved (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION: Ampe exercise programme is effective as paediatric obesity house-hold intervention to provide the impetus for active lifestyles of school children.
Gossypiboma: A Case Series and Literature Review
Authors: Berhanu N. Alemu  , Abraham G. Tiruneh
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND: Gossypiboma (retained surgical sponge) is a rare medical event. It could cause a serious complication that can threaten patients’ life. Its diagnosis is usually difficult because the clinical symptoms are nonspecific and the imaging findings are often inconclusive.CASE PRESENTATIONS: We present two cases, a 32 years old woman who passed a retained surgical sponge via rectum 5 months after cesarean section and a 30 years old lady presented with an acute abdomen that later found to have localized right lower quadrant abscess with a retained surgical sponge.CONCLUSION: The most important approach to reduce the incidence of gossypiboma is prevention. At the end of the surgery, a correct count is always the gold standard safeguard against it. Although errors are not to be completely avoided, continuous CPD and strict adherence to rules of the operating room will reduce its incidence to a minimum.
Levels of Blood Biomarkers among Patients with Myocardial Infarction in Comparison to Control Group
Authors: Shamshirian Amir , Alizadeh-Navaei Reza , Abedi Samira , Jafarpour Hamed , Fazli Hanieh , Hosseini Samira , Hessami Amirhossein , Karimifar Keyvan , Yosefi Sedighe , Zahedi Mohammad , Motamen Sepideh , Ghorbanpour Atiyeh , Zarandi Bahman , Esfahani Aliakbar , Rostamian-Moghaddam Yeganeh , Mehdipour Shirin , Heydari Keyvan , Aghajanian Sedigheh , Pour Mehdi Somayeh , Mehdi Pour , Azizi Soheil
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND: Myocardial infarction (MI) as a term for a heart attack happens due to reduced blood flow to heart myocardium and lack of oxygen supply caused by plaques inthe interior walls of coronary arteries. With respect to the importance of MI etiology, we aimed to study the relationship of MI and blood examination variables.METHODS: This study was conducted in Mazandaran Heart Center as a hospital-based case-control Comprising 894 participants including 465 cases and 429 controls, individually matched by sex and age. Considered blood markers were analyzed using routine laboratory methods and equipment.RESULTS: Of all participants, 64.3% of the cases and 51.0% of the controls were males with a mean age of 61.2 (±13.8) in cases and 62.4 (±14.) in controls. We could not find any differences between cases and controls for total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and alkaline-phosphatase (ALP) (P>0.05). However, levels of creatine-kinase-muscle/brain (CK-MB) (P<0.0001), fasting-blood-sugar (FBS) (P<0.0001), aspartateaminotransferase (AST) (P<0.0001), alanine-transferase (ALT) (P<0.0001) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) (P=0.001) were significantly higher in cases compared to the controls (P<0.05). Multivariable analyses revealed that the risk of MI was associated with high levels of AST (adjusted OR=24.3, 95%CI=3.5±165.6, P=0.001) and LDL (adjusted OR=7.4, 95%CI=1.0±51.8, P=0.001).CONCLUSION: Our investigation indicated that the levels of CK-MB, FBS, AST, ALT and ESR were significantly higher in patients with MI. Besides, our findings showed that the risk of MI in cases with high levels of AST and LDL was about 24 and 7 times more than the control group respectively.
Proportion of Glaucoma among Voluntary People Coming for Glaucoma Screening Program at Jimma University Department of Ophthalmology, Jimma, Ethiopia
Authors: Tolesa Daba Kumale , Gessesse Girum W. , Bekele Sori Sisay
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND: Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide. Glaucoma screening has been controversial, and much of the controversy has centered on the value of mass or community screening.METHODS: The aim of this study was to determine the proportion of glaucoma among volunteer adults who were screened in Jimma University Department of Ophthalmology. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 459 volunteer residents of Jimma town and surrounding areas. The study subjects were aged 40 years and above, who came for community screening program after media announcement during the four consecutive weekends of November 2014. Comprehensive eye examination was done including best corrected visual acuity, intra-ocular pressure measurement, stereoscopic optic nerve evaluation, angle structure evaluation and visual field testing. Three diagnostic criteria for glaucoma were employed for all cases.RESULTS: Of all adults who came for screening, 47(10.24%) were diagnosed to have glaucoma, 59(12.85%) were glaucoma suspects, and 8(1.74%) had ocular hypertension. The proportion of glaucoma increased with increasing age, (P value= 0.001 (99%CI)). Primary open angle glaucoma was the most common form (42.55%) of all new cases while 4.4% of all screened adults were followed by normal tension glaucoma (29.79%), pseudoexfoliative glaucoma (19.15%), and primary angle closure glaucoma (6.38%) Around 5.7% of all glaucoma cases were found to be blind.CONCLUSION: The proportion of glaucoma in this community screening program in Southwest Ethiopia was 10.24% with primary open angle glaucoma being the commonest subtype. Glaucoma community screening should be promoted for early diagnosis and intervention to prevent irreversible blindness.