bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bridging the gap: The role of Teaching Knowledge Test in improving English Language teaching in Saudi Arabia. A Case Study
Authors: Abdulrahman Alhejaili
Published: October 2024

The present case study explores the contribution of the Teaching Knowledge Test to Saudi Arabia's English Language Teaching development regarding the educational reforms presented by Vision 2030. Drawing on a qualitative research approach, twelve EFL TKT-certified Saudi male teachers participated in semi-structured interviews to establish how TKT certification contributes to teacher professional development, motivation, and teaching competency. The study examined how TKT has led to personal growth, job satisfaction, and matching teaching practices prescribed in national education standards, including the Professional Educational Occupational License Test - PEOLT. The findings from the research indicate that TKT certification undoubtedly influences linguistic and professional competencies on a positive note. As a consequence of TKT training, teachers improve their sense of professional identity and consolidate their teaching methods. Teachers reported increased confidence, motivation, and job satisfaction following self-determination and competence-based theories. In addition, this study shows that TKT and PEOLT are complementary and that both assessment results combine to give a complete framework for assessing English language teachers. Continuous teacher training programs are therefore needed to realize the aims of Vision 2030. This study will provide information on the effectiveness of standardized testing in teacher development within the context of Saudi Arabian educational reforms.
Upaya Meningkatkan Akurasi Passing pada Permainan Bola Futsal Menggunakan Media Target
Authors: Syah Randa Oktoveryan , Tri Putra Haikal Raka , Bhakti Yopi Hutomo
Published: October 2024

The aim of this study was to improve passing accuracy in futsal games using cone media at the IMM FKIP Kotabumi cadre futsal team. The research was conducted in two tests, each consisting of planning, action, observation and reflection. The total number of research subjects was 12. Data collection techniques used were tests and observations. The results showed that in the first test, 5 people (34%) succeeded in the whole category. In the second test all participants (100%) were successful. In conclusion, the use of cone media can improve learning outcomes..
Do training and motivation improve employee performance? Evidence from a five-star hotel in Siem Reap Province
Authors: Vang Kimpoun , Yoeung Sothan , Khim Sophoan , Enn Nimol
Published: October 2024

This study aims to assess the connection between training and motivation and their impact on employee performance at Hotel “A” in Siem Reap Province. The research followed a quantitative approach, with a sample size of 77 employees selected from a total of 332 at Hotel “A” in Siem Reap Province using the proportionate stratified random sampling technique. The data collection instrument was developed as a 5-point Likert scale and collected through questionnaires. The data collected was analyzed by descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS v. 26. The results of this research showed that training and motivation have a significantly positive correlation, and employee performance is significantly positively influenced by training and motivation.
The effect of effective leadership on the positive school climate
Authors: Ung Poliny , Yan Dyna
Published: October 2024

Education is essential for everyone and an important factor in the nation's development. A good education requires a school with a management team with effective leadership. A positive school climate involves all staff and stakeholders' commitment, attitude and communication. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of effective leadership on a positive school climate. This study is a quantitative study using causal relationship analysis. The simple random sampling method selected a sample of 154 high school teachers. A five-level rating scale questionnaire was used for data collection. Data analysis using descriptive statistics by SPSS v26 software, confirmatory factor analysis, and structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis by Amos v24 software. Results of SEM analysis give the model fit indexes:Chi-Square = 9.304 (p = 0.594), Relative Chi-Square = 0.846, GFI = 0.982, TLI = 1.003, CFI = 1.000, RMSEA < 0.001 and RMR = 0.004. It indicates that effective leadership significantly influences the positive school climate, with a standard regression coefficient  = 0.89. Effective leadership can also evaluate the positive school climate by 79%.
Consciencialização sobre decisão partilhada em duas Clínicas de Angola entre outubro e novembro de 2022
Authors: Almeida Kátia Costa Brazão de , Pedro Ana Rita , Tomás Ndenga Solange
Published: October 2024

Introdução e Objectivos:
Uma estratégia emergente na evolução dos sistemas de saúde é o modelo de decisão partilhada, o auge dos cuidados centrados na pessoa. O objetivo do estudo é descrever o nível de consciencialização e literacia em saúde sobre a decisão partilhada entre os profissionais de saúde e doentes nas Clínicas Sagrada Esperança, da província de Benguela e do município do Lobito, respectivamente, entre outubro e novembro de 2022.
Métodos:
Trata-se de um estudo observacional descritivo quantiqualitativo com 61 profissionais de saúde e 114 doentes. Os instrumentos de recolha de dados (HLS-EU-Q16, Q-COM-LIT) validados em Portugal, foram contextualizados à cultura angolana e acrescentadas questões abertas sobre consciencialização na decisão partilhada aos dois instrumentos.
Resultados:
Na literacia em saúde 25,4% (n=29) dos participantes apresentaram níveis adequados. Na comunicação e literacia 48,5% (n=30) dos profissionais de saúde consideraram-se competentes. Na decisão partilhada, 42,1% (n=48) dos doentes responderam que o médico, habitualmente informa que será necessário uma decisão conjunta enquanto 78,7% (n=48) dos profissionais de saúde responderam que, habitualmente, informam.  
Conclusões:
Constatou-se que ainda não existe uma consciencialização sobre a decisão partilhada e a participação ativa dos doentes realizam-se em eventos limitados. Nesse contexto, os autores recomendam a implementação de estratégias para aprimorar a literacia dos doentes e a capacitação técnica dos profissionais de saúde em habilidades de comunicação.
Neurotoxoplasmose em Doente com VIH: Diagnóstico e Gestão de Urgência – Relato de Caso
Authors: Alfredo Artur , Vidal Patrícia , Lukoki Clévia , Wete Darlene , Ekundi Elizeu , Andrade Naima
Published: October 2024

Introdução: Neurotoxoplasmose é a infecção do SNC mais frequente em doentes portadores do VIH. Os seus sintomas podem ser défices neurológicos focais, crises epilépticas e distúrbios neuropsiquiátricos. O exame neurológico, permite identificar sinais importantes para o diagnóstico diferencial com patologia psiquiátrica e definir a melhor escolha de exames complementares de diagnóstico no serviço de urgência. A não identificação atempada desta situação pode resultar em défices permanentes ou desfecho fatal.
Apresentação de caso: Trata-se de homem de 52 anos, com diagnóstico recente de infecção por VIH em contexto do falecimento de cônjuge, admitido na Urgência por cefaleia holocraniana, apatia e amnésia referenciado à Psiquiatria. Ao exame físico, constatou-se, lentificação psicomotora, hipoprosexia e diminuição do campo visual com interferência na coordenação motora e mobilização. A RM CE realizada evidenciou lesões multicêntricas, com edema e efeito de massa, descritas como tuberculose/toxoplasmose. Iniciadas medidas anti-edema necessárias e tratamento anti-toxoplasma uma vez que não foram reunidos outros dados que sustentassem a outra hipótese descrita. Teve alta autónomo, após controle clínico e imagiológico feito ao 14º dia de internamento que demonstrou melhoria considerável.
Conclusão: Os meios complementares de diagnóstico solicitados em ambiente de Urgência devem ser um apoio à decisão e resultar em condutas modificadoras. A informação de infecção por VIH e os achados imagiológicos alteram o raciocínio etiológico, permitem o diagnóstico diferencial de infecções do SNC e a consecutiva adequação terapêutica. Na decisão é importante ter em conta o contexto epidemiológico, a informação clínica disponível e as directrizes da OMS que ajudam a orientar a decisão em países em vias de desenvolvimento.
Febre tifóide com manifestações extraintestinais: relato de caso
Authors: Nimi Madalena , Jololo Acácio , Tjikongo Odeth , Napato Agostinho , Viegas Edna , Filipe Ermelindo
Published: October 2024

Febre entérica é uma doença sistémica grave causada classicamente pela Salmonella entérica sorotipo Typhi. Os Sintomas incluem dor abdominal, febre e calafrios, podendo variar em gravidade, que surgem 5-21 dias após consumo de alimentos/água contaminados
Los medios consensuales de solución de conflictos en Colombia
Authors: Monsalve Cuellar Martha Elisa
Published: October 2024

This article explores consensual means of conflict resolution in the Colombian legal context, emphasizing labor law and occupational safety. Conciliation is highlighted as the backbone of labor law in the country, from its incorporation in historical legislation to its consolidation in the 1991 Constitution. In addition, the study examines internal mediation in cases of labor harassment according to the guidelines established by recent laws and resolutions. The text also addresses the evolution of mediation in the collective bargaining process, discussing the criticisms and reforms that have resulted in the elimination of this stage in favor of an extension of direct negotiation. Finally, the article analyses the composition and function of arbitration tribunals, especially in the context of labor disputes, highlighting the need to revise the current system due to a need for more confidence in the impartiality of arbitrators. The paper concludes with reflections on the importance of structural reforms in resolving labor disputes in Colombia.
A prática audiológica no diagnóstico diferencial do Transtorno do Espectro Autista
Authors: Sena Kruger Carollina , De Oliveira Adriane Andrich Martins , Bohn Vanessa , Fracalosse Garbino Juliana
Published: October 2024

É recomendado que crianças sob investigação do TEA realizem avaliação audiológica para estabelecimento do diagnóstico diferencial. O objetivo do presente estudo foi, através da análise de prontuários, traçar o perfil da criança autista ou em investigação diagnóstica, atendida na Clínica-Escola de Fonoaudiologia do IELUSC, no ano de 2020, apontando o relato de manejo que o fonoaudiólogo empregou durante a avaliação auditiva, bem como os achados audiológicos. Foram avaliados os prontuários de 15 crianças, com idade entre um ano e sete meses e seis anos. A queixa principal, descrita em 12 casos (80%), foi atraso de fala; um (6,67%) relatou atraso de fala associado ao transtorno do espectro autista já diagnosticado; um (6,67%) relatou ser pelo TEA, e um (6,67%) relatou atraso de fala associado a otites de repetição. Quanto aos achados audiológicos, 13 (86,7%) tiveram seus diagnósticos audiológicos concluídos com a sugestão de audição dentro dos padrões de normalidade e duas (13,3%) crianças tiveram resultados inconclusivos, por não colaborarem para a finalização dos exames. O número de sessões necessárias para a conclusão diagnóstica variou de uma a quatro sessões, sendo o número médio de 1,53 sessões. Sobre os exames audiológicos, foram conduzidas seis (40%) otoscopias, três (20%) imitanciometrias, sete (46,67%)  PEATE, três (20%) EOA, cinco (33,33%) audiometrias com reforço visual, seis (40%) audiometrias lúdicas e um (6,67%) avaliação comportamental, ou seja, utilizou-se o princípio “cross-check”. Concluiu-se que o diagnóstico diferencial colabora para a definição do diagnóstico do TEA, tendo em vista que  86,6% da amostra teve a deficiência auditiva descartada.
Sensitivity to visual features in inattentional blindness
Authors: Nartker Makaela , Firestone Chaz , Egeth Howard , Phillips Ian
Published: October 2024

The relation between attention, perception and awareness is among the most fundamental problems in the science of the mind. One of the most striking and well-known phenomena bearing on this question is
inattentional blindness
(IB; Neisser & Becklen, 1975; Mack & Rock, 1998; Most et al., 2001, 2005). In IB, naïve observers fail to report clearly visible stimuli when their attention is otherwise engaged—famously even missing a gorilla parading before their eyes (Simons & Chabris, 1999). This phenomenon and the research programs it has motivated carry tremendous theoretical significance, both as crucial evidence that awareness requires attention (Cohen et al., 2012; Prinz, 2012; Noah & Mangun, 2020) and as a key tool in seeking the neural correlates of consciousness (Rees et al., 1999; Pitts et al., 2014; Hutchinson, 2019). However, these and other implications critically rest on a notoriously biased measure: asking participants whether they noticed anything unusual (and interpreting negative answers as reflecting a complete lack of visual awareness). Here, in the largest ever set of IB studies, we show that inattentionally blind participants can successfully report the location, color and shape of the stimuli they deny noticing. This residual visual sensitivity shows that perceptual information remains accessible in IB. We further show that subjective reports in IB are conservative, by introducing absent trials where no IB stimulus is presented; this approach allows us to show for the first time that observers are systematically biased to report not noticing in IB—essentially ‘playing it safe’ in reporting their sensitivity. This pair of results is consistent with an alternative hypothesis about IB, namely that subjects retain awareness of stimuli they fail to report. Overall, these data provide the strongest evidence to date of significant residual visual sensitivity in IB, and even cast doubt on claims that awareness requires attention.
PLEUROTUS OSTREATUS (JACQ.) P. KUMM. E PLEUROTUS ERYNGII (F.) QUÉL. COMO POTENCIAIS AGENTES MICORREMEDIADORES DE EFLUENTES CONTAMINADOS COM BENTAZONA E 2,4-D
Authors: Rozza Graciela , Melo Kézia , Timm Thaynã Gonçalves , Santiago Judith Paola Urón , Giachini Admir José , Coelho-Moreira Jaqueline da Silva , Serbent Maria Pilar
Published: October 2024

Mycoremediation has been studied as an alternative to removing pesticides from wastewater. Here, we evaluated the in vitro capability of the basidiomycetes Pleurotus ostreatus and Pleurotus eryngii as potential remediation agents of effluents containing the pesticides bentazon and 2,4-D, respectively. P. ostreatus and P. eryngii were cultivated in liquid media containing bentazon (4.5 g L-1) and 2,4-D (5.4 g L-1), respectively. Biomass dry weight and CG/MS analysis were performed to evaluate the fungi' capability to grow in the contaminated media as well as to degrade the studied pesticides. To evaluate the toxicity of the wastewater after the cultivation of the fungi, tests with Allium cepa were conducted. P. ostreatus and P. eryngii presented tolerance to the bentazon and 2,4-D, respectively. CG/MS analysis showed that the fungi were not efficient in the removal of bentazon and 2,4-D after seven and twenty-one days of cultivation, respectively. Finally, in both cases, the final effluents were toxic to A. cepa. Despite the non-removal of pesticides, P. ostreatus and P. eryngii have the potential to tolerate bentazon and 2,4-D in liquid media. Therefore, some different cultivation conditions must be tested to explore the potential of these fungi for pesticide removal.
Microbial lipases: propitious biocatalysts for various biotechnological applications
Authors: Carvalho Jéssyca Ketterine , Buzanello Cleide Viviane , Rodrigues Maria Luiza Fernandes , Teleken Joel Gustavo , Santos Paulo Menegotto dos
Published: October 2024

The use of microbial lipases is very important because they have a broad spectrum of catalytic reactions. Lipases catalyze reactions in aqueous and non-aqueous media and have advantages when compared to chemical catalysts, due to their specificity, enantioselectivity and stability at pH and temperature. The interest in research for microbial lipases occurs because of their applicability in various sectors and industries, such as food and beverage production, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, surfactants, dairy products, treatment of effluents containing oils and fats, biofuels, among others. Biocatalysts can be obtained by submerged fermentation (SF) or solid-state fermentation (SSF), which has advantages over SF, because it is possible to use agroindustrial waste as substrate or growth support for microorganisms, becoming an alternative to reduce production costs. SSF is a promising technology for enzyme production, because besides using low-cost substrates, the biocatalyst can be produced in a more concentrated form, facilitating its recovery from the culture medium when necessary. Thus, this paper intends to discuss and review studies on microbial lipases, with direct application of the fermented solid (SSF), focusing on the main microorganisms, substrates and supports used in SSF, applicability of lipases in several industrial sectors, besides presenting conversion results using different microorganisms or/and substrates.
MOLUSCOS BENTÔNICOS COMO BIOINDICADORES DA QUALIDADE AMBIENTAL DE UM RESERVATÓRIO NO SEMIÁRIDO DO BRASIL
Authors: Pereira Alves Yêda Gabriela , Da Silva Breno Carvalho , Moreira Silva Wilza Carla , Azevêdo Evaldo de Lira
Published: October 2024

No semiárido brasileiro, os reservatórios foram construídos, historicamente, para reduzir a escassez hídrica causada pelos longos períodos de estiagem. Portanto, o monitoramento desses ecossistemas é necessário para que a qualidade ambiental seja mantida, podendo-se recorrer aos macroinvertebrados bentônicos como bioindicadores ambientais. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a qualidade ambiental de um reservatório (Jatobá II, Princesa Isabel – PB, semiárido brasileiro), utilizando a comunidade de moluscos bentônicos, analisando dados de riqueza, abundância, análises físicas e químicas da água, além de dados de influência antrópica ao entorno do reservatório. Os resultados mostraram uma baixa riqueza de moluscos (Melanoides tuberculata, Pomacea e Planorbidae), além de elevada abundância de M. tuberculata (98,46%), espécie invasora que costuma se adaptar facilmente, mesmo diante de condições adversas, onde o pH e a condutividade se mostram desfavoráveis para outras espécies. Ainda, foram observadas atividades antrópicas no entorno do reservatório aliadas ao processo de urbanização. As variáveis físicas e químicas apontam para boa qualidade da água, no entanto, a baixa riqueza de moluscos, dominância de M. tuberculata, além da presença de influências antrópicas nas margens do reservatório, refletem desequilíbrio ambiental. Nesse sentido, é preciso que ocorra o monitoramento periódico do reservatório em questão.
ANÁLISE DO GERENCIAMENTO DE RESÍDUOS SÓLIDOS EM UM BAIRRO DO MUNICÍPIO DE MUNDO NOVO, MS
Authors: Silva Nathália Ferreira da , Fleck Izabel Melz , Rosset Jean Sérgio , Fleck Leandro , Ozório Jefferson Matheus Barros
Published: October 2024

O consumo de produtos industrializados aumentou a geração de resíduos sólidos. Objetivou-se a análise do gerenciamento de resíduos sólidos urbanos no município de Mundo Novo – MS, Bairro Berneck.  O estudo caracterizou-se pela aplicação de um questionário estruturado, em 51 residências. A maior parte das residências possuem de 2 a 4 moradores. A renda familiar de 13,7% das residências é de no máximo um salário-mínimo. Quanto ao grau de escolaridade, apenas 3,9% possuem o ensino superior completo. Em relação a quantidade total de resíduos gerados diariamente, 13,7% das residências geram de 4,00 a 5,99 kg dia-1. A maioria dos moradores depositam todos os resíduos misturados no lixo comum. Sobre a disposição final, 82,3% disseram que os resíduos são despejados no lixão municipal ou são queimados. Sobre o conhecimento de quem realiza a coleta seletiva no bairro, 55% responderam que é realizada pelos catadores. Sobre o conhecimento de quais os tipos de materiais que podem ser reciclados, plásticos e papelão foram os mais citados. Somente em 11 casas, os moradores disseram fazer a separação do material reciclável. Conclui-se que ações de educação ambiental são necessárias no munícipio, para a maior conscientização sobre a separação e destinação correta dos resíduos sólidos.
Effect of General Combining Ability for Different Seedling Traits in Mulberry (Morus spp.)
Authors: Kalpana Peddaramanna Gari , C Sushmitha , J S Sapna , K M Lohithashwa , Chikkalingaiah
Published: October 2024

Information regarding the nature of gene action controlling the yield and yield contributing characters are essential for implementing good breeding program. Significant differences were observed among all parents for general combining ability was noticed. Analysis of general combining ability showed the higher magnitude of SCA variance than GCA variance for most of the characters, which indicates the presence of non-additive gene action for most of the traits except for germination percentage, plant height at 60 DAS and number of branches. Out of seven lines M. cathyana is the best general combiner as it shows significant positive GCA for seedling height at 60, 90, 120 DAS, number of leaves per plant, average leaf weight, leaf area and significant negative GCA for internodal distance which is in desirable direction. Also MI-47 is best general combiner as it shows significant positive GCA for seedling height at 90, 120 DAS, number of leaves per plant, leaf area (cm2), number of branches. Among the testers V1 was the best general combiner for germination percentage, leaf area (cm2).
Prevalence of Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency among Plasmodium falciparum Infected Children in Kaduna State, Nigeria
Authors: Bello Bashir Maimuna , Dikwa Karderam Bukar , Abdullateef Abdulrahman , Haroun Ali Ahmad
Published: October 2024

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PD deficiency) is an inherited genetic disorder characterized by reduced or absent activity of the G6PD enzyme. It is prevalent globally, especially in regions where malaria is endemic. The G6PD enzyme plays a critical role in maintaining cellular redox balance and protecting red blood cells from oxidative stress. This study was conducted in Kaduna North Local Government Area, aim to identify G6PD deficiency among children aged 1-5 years. The study utilized several methods, including rapid diagnostic tests for detecting Plasmodium falciparum, automated blood analyzers for measuring red blood cell parameters, quantitative G6PD kits to assess enzyme activity, and spectrophotometer assays. Among 207 children who tested positive for Plasmodium falciparum, 33 (15.94%) were identified with G6PD deficiency in the 1-5 years age group. The highest prevalence was observed in age group 5 (33.33%), while age groups 3 and 4 had the lowest prevalence (12.12%). Males had a higher prevalence (66.67%) compared to females (33.33%), with Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital reporting the highest prevalence rate (16.98%) among the hospitals studiedThe study found that 70.21% of cases exhibited the lowest G6PD enzyme activity (0-4.4 range) U/g Hb, while 19.15% showed normal activity (4.5-13.5 range) U/g Hb, and 10.64% had activity above 13.5U/g Hb. Understanding the genetic underpinnings and implementing appropriate management strategies are essential for effectively managing individuals affected by G6PD deficiency.
The Conditional Effects of Financial Risk on the Relationship between Infrastructure Financing and Financial Performance of Aquaculture Enterprises in the Lake Region Economic Bloc, Kenya
Authors: Nelima Katherine , Maina Kimani , Oluoch Oluoch
Published: October 2024

Background: Financing structure for aquaculture aims at promoting and facilitating the availability of capital and its contribution to fisheries financial performance that leads to poverty reduction of aquaculture enterprises in the Lake Region Economic Bloc in Kenya. The purpose of this study is to analyze the effect of infrastructure financing on the financial performance of these enterprises as moderated by financial risk. The problem is, financing aquaculture has been limited because of the financial risk involved and lack of knowledge of how the aquaculture industry benefits the society today, this has made the infrastructure develop slowly in Kenya.
Materials and Methods: This study applied a cross-sectional survey research design and purposive sampling technique in collecting data from 248 fishermen and 10 county officers in the fisheries department. The study collected primary data through the interviews and questionnaires hence both qualitative and quantitative data was use in the study.
Results: The results indicate that Infrastrucuture. Financing (β=.480,P .000),with R2 .230,F=65.708 P=.000) and FR (β =.391,P=.000) with R2 of .378 and change in R of .148 with F 51.903 P=.000  positively influences Financial Performance. In addition the moderation effect was found to be significant with β .309, P=.000 with R2 of .474 change in R2 .097,F =40.017 P=.000.The moderation model accounts for more variance of 47.4% in FP than the direct effect model at  23% explained by Infrastructure finance.
Conclusion: The study informs financial institutions to know the changes in infrastructural  financing requirements specific to aquaculture, sources of financing and ways to increase its availability.
Effect of Different Planting Material and Methods of Planting on Growth and Yield of Indian Spinach (Basella rubra L.)
Authors: T. Prajwala , Haldavanekar P. C. , Parulekar Y. R. , Rajemahadik V. A. , Dalvi N. V.
Published: October 2024

In recent years, the demand and the awareness for underexploited vegetables and their nutritional importance is increasing. Hence, with a view to stimulate the production of Indian spinach, a field experiment was conducted at College of Horticulture, Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli, Maharashtra in 2023-2024. The eight treatment combinations comprising two different planting materials seedlings (P1) and rooted cuttings (P2) with four various methods of planting viz., flat bed (M1), raised bed (M2), ridges and furrows (M3) and broad ridge (M4) were tested under Factorial Randomized Block Design with three replications. The seedling recorded comparatively maximum stem diameter (12.71mm), number of leaves (68.58) and number of branches per plant (9.08) as compared to rooted cuttings. Similar results were also recorded for yield related attributes. Among the yield attributes maximum herbage yield per plant (247.73g) and total herbage yield per plot (14.86 kg) recorded with seedling. Among methods of planting broad ridge planting recorded significantly highest stem diameter (12.78mm), numbers of leaves (72.83) and number of branches (9.10). Yield parameters viz. total herbage yield per plant (273.03 g) and herbage yield per plot (16.75 kg) was significantly higher with broad ridge planting as compared to flat bed method. Hence, Indian spinach (Basella rubra L.) grown by the seedlings on broad ridges (P1M4) showed better performance with regards to growth and yield attributing parameters especially in areas with high rainfall.
Effect of Bio-fertilizers on Shoot Growth of Dragon Fruit Cuttings (Hylocereus undatus L.)
Authors: Dhanka Mahandra Kumar , R.S.Verma  , Baitha Anup , Choudhary Shikha , Verma Saurabh , Kumar Bipin
Published: October 2024

The present investigation was carried out under open field condition at Horticulture Research Farm, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow Uttar Pradesh., India to determine the effect of bio-fertilizers on the shoot growth of dragon fruit cutting (Hylocereus undatus L.) during the year of 2022-23. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD)with three replications. There were 09 treatments, viz., T1-Control, T2-Azotobacter (1%), T3-Phosphate-solubilizing bacteria-1%), T4-Azotobacter (2%), T5- Phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (2%), T6-Azotobacter (1%) + Phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (1%), T7- Azotobacter (1%) + Phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (2%), T8- Azotobacter (2%) + Phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (1%) and T9-Azotobacter (2%) + Phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (2%). Treatments have showed significant differences among the growth parameters in terms of number of days taken for sprouting, percent sprouting, number of sprouts per cutting, length of the newly emerged shoot, diameter of shoot, average number of spine/areoles, diameter of shoot average number of spine/areoles.
 Among the treatment combination least number of days taken for sprouting ,maximum percent sprouting , maximum number of sprouts per cutting, maximum increase in length of the newly emerged shoot, maximum number of spine/areoles, maximum increase in diameter of shoot, maximum fresh weight of shoot and maximum dry weight of shoot was found in treatment T8- Azotobacter (2%) + Phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (1%) followed by T9-Azotobacter (2%)+ Phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (2%) while minimum has recorded in T1(Control).
Impacts of Land Use and Land Cover Changes on Biomass and Carbon Sequestration in Coastal Kinondoni, Tanzania
Authors: Kitali Luzabeth J. , Zella Adili Y.
Published: October 2024

This study analyzes the impact of land use and land cover (LULC) alterations on biomass depletion and carbon sequestration in Kinondoni, Tanzania, over a 30-year period from 1993 to 2023. This study employs the National Forest Resources Monitoring and Assessment (NAFORMA) models and geospatial analysis to quantify the environmental and economic effects of urbanization, agricultural growth, and infrastructural development on local ecosystems. The deterioration of mangrove forests, essential for carbon sequestration, has resulted in an estimated biomass reduction of 65,600 tonnes, with mangroves representing 93.1% of the overall losses. This deterioration has markedly diminished the region's carbon storage capacity, leading to the emission of 30,830 tonnes of carbon, which is equivalent to 113,150 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO₂). The economic impact of this decrease in carbon sequestration capacity is estimated at around US$ 452,610, signifying a lost opportunity for carbon trading. The degradation of mangroves is recognized as the principal cause of these losses. The study highlights the critical necessity for conservation and restoration measures, specifically aimed at mangrove ecosystems, to alleviate additional environmental and economic deterioration. It promotes sustainable land use regulations and the incorporation of ecosystem services valuation in decision-making processes to improve resilience in coastal Tanzania.
Achieving Carbon Neutrality in Agriculture: Strategies for Mitigating Climate Change and Enhancing Sustainability
Authors: S R. Sneha , G. Rajasree , P. Shalini Pillai , Raj. Sheeja K
Published: October 2024

Global warming and climate change have become a burning issue due to the hike in atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases (GHG). The rising GHG emissions over the past two centuries have caused significant changes in the global climate. Agriculture plays a prominant role in contributing to these emissions, yet its potential for reducing GHGs remains underutilized. Agriculture serves as both a source and a potential sink for GHGs, making it a critical area for intervention in climate change mitigation efforts.
Current agricultural practices, however, face several limitations in addressing GHG emissions. Conventional farming often relies heavily on synthetic fertilizers, leading to substantial nitrous oxide emissions, while livestock farming remains a major source of methane. Additionally, unsustainable land-use practices, such as deforestation and soil degradation, further reduce the capacity of agricultural land to act as an effective carbon sink. These practices, combined with inefficient use of inputs like energy and water, contribute to agriculture's unsustainable carbon footprint. Carbon neutral farming addresses these gaps through a range of practices that maintain and enhance the carbon levels in soils, minimize GHG emission from crop and livestock production, and adoption of farming systems like mixed farming and agro-forestry that reduces emissions while promoting biodiversity. Efficient utilization of fertilizers, energy sources and other farm inputs is crucial, alongside efforts to revitalize soil health. Carbon neutral farming aims to balance the carbon emissions produced by farming activities with equivalent carbon removals or sequestration, resulting in a net-zero carbon footprint. Carbon neutral farming offers a promising pathway to transform agriculture into a sustainable, climate-resilient sector. By reducing emissions, enhancing sequestration, and offsetting remaining carbon footprints, this approach significantly contributes to global climate change mitigation efforts while also improving soil health, increasing biodiversity, and fostering economic viability in farming communities.
Genetic Studies on First Lactation Traits and Life Time Milk Yield in Crossbred Cattle
Authors: Shashikant  , Singh C.V. , Barwal R.S. , Singh C B , Shahi B.N. , Sarma Olympica
Published: October 2024

Aims: To study the genetics on first lactation traits and life time milk yield in crossbred cattle.
Place and Duration of Study: Instructional Dairy Farm, G B Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, India, Between March 2021 and April, 2022.
Methodology: Data for this study were collected from the history sheets of crossbred cattle at the instructional dairy farm. The dataset included 976 crossbred cattle from 66 sires over 32 years (1988–2019). Cows with abnormal or incomplete records were excluded.
Results: The overall least squares mean of first lactation traits viz. age at first calving (AFC), first service period (FSP), first calving interval (FCI), first dry period (FDP), first lactation length (FLL), first lactation milk yield (FLMY) and lifetime milk yield (LTMY) were estimated to be 1153.20± 2.06 days, 192.95±4.90 days, 468.90±5.11days,129.50± 4.38 days, 339.41± 3.64 days,3376.36±50.40 kg and 14930.60±167.65kg, respectively. Season of calving did not significantly affect most traits except age at first calving. Period of calving significantly influenced all traits except first lactation milk yield and lifetime milk yield. Heritability estimates were low, with genetic and phenotypic correlations ranging from very low to high. Variations were mainly due to non-additive genetic variance, suggesting improvements can be achieved through better management and feeding practices.
Conclusion: Therefore, it can be concluded that there is limited scope for selecting cows based on lifetime traits. It is more advantageous to focus on selecting animals based on their performance in earlier lactation traits rather than traits that are expressed later in life.
An Overview of Millets Production in India: Growth and Instability
Authors: D. M. Madhu, , Basavaraj G. , V. V. D. Manisha , R. Hanumanthappa, , Moolimane Chandana Basavaraja
Published: October 2024

The study investigates the growth and instability in area, production and productivity of major and minor millets in the World and India. Global millet production is predominantly in Asia, and India being the top producer of millets. Examination of compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of global millets production during 2000-2021 showed that area declined by 0.69 per cent, production increased by 0.48 per cent and productivity by 1.18 per cent. In India, millet farming witnessed a decline in cultivated area with CAGR of 1.92 per cent while productivity showed increasing growth rates by 0.77 per cent and 2.75 per cent respectively for the period 2000-2021. The improvement in productivity of millets is attributed to varietal improvement and ability of millets to withstand abiotic and biotic stress. Instability index used to assess variability in millet area, production and productivity both at the global and national level for the period 2000-2021 showed low instability. The increase in adoption of improved millet varieties which are drought resistant, adoption of sustainable agronomic practices were the factors attributed to low instability.
Research Status and Trend of Three-Dimensional Force Sensor
Authors: Lu Zihao , Lou Hongxuan
Published: October 2024

The sensor can simultaneously detect the force value information of three dimensions in the three-dimensional space. With the progress of science and technology and the development of the Internet, the sensor is widely used in many fields such as medical rehabilitation and aerospace. The three-dimensional force sensor based on the measuring principle of resistance strain gauge, capacitance type and piezoelectric type is introduced. Because of its advantages of high precision, mature technology and wide measuring range, the three-dimensional force sensor becomes the most mature kind of sensor. At present, the main goal of the elastomer design of the sensor is to improve the measurement accuracy of the sensor and reduce the coupling error between dimensions. Finally, the development trend of the three-dimensional force sensor is prospected based on the research and application status of the three-dimensional force sensor.
Performance Evaluation of Vegetable Cow Pea Variety Arka Garima for Enhancing Productivity in Northern Telangana Zone, India
Authors: Gopal G Venu , Rao N Venkateshwar , Mahesh L , Reddy D Srinivasa , Vijay J
Published: October 2024

In Northern Telangana, vegetable cowpea is a favored crop due to its nutritional value and culinary uses, but growers face challenges with varieties and yields and a lack of seed availability. To address these issues, our KVK trails promoting the high-yielding Arka Garima variety trail were conducted by KVK, Jammikunta in consecutive years of 2021-22 and 2022-23. The study aimed to bridge technology gaps and enhance yields to improve farmer’s income. Data were collected from farmer cum members of FPOs and individual farmer’s studies. The trails were incorporated with drip irrigation and without drip irrigation in some farmer’s fields. The results indicated significant improvements in agricultural productivity and economic returns for the demonstration plots compared to traditional practices. The demonstration plots achieved an average yield of 15.5t /ha, a substantial increase over the 12.0 t ha-1 yield from check plots, reflecting a 29.08 % yield increase. The cost of cultivation was also lower for the demo plots, averaging Rs. 37,050.00 ha-1, compared to Rs.44,700.00 ha-1 for the check plots. Consequently, economic returns were higher with average gross returns of Rs.2, 32,500 ha-1 and net returns of Rs. 1, 95,450 ha-1 for demo plots. The benefit-cost ratio for demo plots averaged 1:5.2 significantly outperforming the 1:3.02 ratio for check plots. It indicates the need for improved extension services, farmer training and better dissemination of best practices. Targeted interventions could further enhance productivity and profitability fully realizing the potential of the Arka Garima variety.
Ice water content‐extinction relationships and effective diameter for TTL cirrus derived from in situ measurements during ATTREX 2014
Authors: Thornberry Troy D. , Rollins Andrew W. , Avery Melody A. , Woods Sarah , Lawson R. Paul , Bui Thaopaul V. , Gao Ru‐Shan
Published: March 2017

The NASA Airborne Tropical Tropopause Experiment (ATTREX) deployment in January–March 2014 yielded more than 34 h of cirrus cloud sampling in the tropical tropopause layer (TTL) over the western Pacific. Cirrus were encountered throughout the TTL, at temperatures between 185 and 207 K, with ice water content (IWC) ranging from >10 mg m−3 to below the instrumental detection limit of 1 μg m−3. Geometric optical extinction (σ) values determined from cloud particle probe measurements ranged from 10−3 m−1 to <10−7 m−1. The median effective diameter (Deff) for cirrus sampled at T > 192 K was 40–50 μm and exhibited a weak temperature dependence, while colder than 192 K, Deff decreased more strongly with decreasing T. From the ATTREX data, a new parameterization of the IWC‐σ relationship for TTL cirrus is derived that will improve the estimation of IWC from lidar and optical probe observations of these clouds.
Spatiotemporal evolution of a severe winter dust event in the western Mediterranean: Aerosol optical and physical properties
Authors: Titos G. , Ealo M. , Pandolfi M. , Pérez N. , Sola Y. , Sicard M. , Comerón A. , Querol X. , Alastuey A.
Published: March 2017

An outstanding Saharan dust event affected the Iberian Peninsula during winter 2016 (20 to 25 February). The impact of this event on ambient PM10 surface levels and its spatial and temporal evolution was investigated by means of data from 250 air quality stations across mainland Spain and the Balearic Islands. The event had a significant impact on surface PM10 levels, and on 22 February, 90% of the air quality monitoring sites registered PM10 concentrations above the EU daily limit value of 50 μg/m3. The study of the attenuated backscattering vertical profiles associated with African dust evidenced a complex structure, with a thick aerosol layer that was at higher altitudes over the pre‐Pyrenees compared to the coastal area of Barcelona but closer to the surface than typically observed at both sites. Optical and physical properties of dust particles were investigated at the continental background Global Atmosphere Watch mountain observatory of Montsec (MSA) in the pre‐Pyrenees. Good agreement was found between in situ and passive remote sensing methodologies once the aloft dust layer reached the MSA station. Scattering Ångström exponent values decreased to values close to zero (even below zero for surface in situ measurements) indicating the predominance of coarse particles. On the contrary, absorption Ångström exponent values increased during the Saharan dust outbreak denoting an absorption enhancement at shorter wavelengths, characteristic of mineral dust particles. Furthermore, the performance of NMMB/BSC‐Dust and BSC‐DREAM8b models has been qualitatively evaluated for the dust spatial distribution across Spain and the vertical structure over MSA and Barcelona showing good agreement.
On the use of self‐organizing maps for studying climate extremes
Authors: Gibson Peter B. , Perkins‐Kirkpatrick Sarah E. , Uotila Petteri , Pepler Acacia S. , Alexander Lisa V.
Published: March 2017

Understanding how climate extremes are sensitive to a changing climate requires characterization of the physical mechanisms behind such events. For this purpose, the application of self‐organizing maps (SOMs) has become popular in the climate science literature. One potential drawback, though not unique to SOMs, is that the background synoptic conditions represented by SOMs may be too generalized to adequately describe the atypical conditions that can co‐occur during the extreme event being considered. In this paper, using the Australian region as a case study, we illustrate how the commonly used SOM training procedure can be readily modified to produce both more accurate patterns and patterns that would otherwise occur too rarely to be represented in the SOM. Even with these improvements, we illustrate that without careful treatment, the synoptic conditions that co‐occur during some types of extreme events (i.e., heavy rainfall and midlatitudinal cyclone occurrence days) risk being poorly represented by the SOM patterns. In contrast, we find that during Australian heat wave events the circulation is indeed well represented by the SOM patterns and that this application can provide additional insight to composite analysis. While these results should not necessarily discourage researchers seeking to apply SOMs to study climate extremes, they highlight the importance of first critically evaluating the features represented by the SOM. This study has provided a methodological framework for such an evaluation which is directly applicable to other weather typing procedures, regions, and types of extreme events.
The 12 September 2016ML5.8 midcrustal earthquake in the Korean Peninsula and its seismic implications
Authors: Hong Tae‐Kyung , Lee Junhyung , Kim Woohan , Hahm In‐Kyeong , Woo Nam Chil , Park Seongjun
Published: March 2017

The seismicity in the Korean Peninsula has increased since the 2011Mw9.0 Tohoku‐Oki megathrust earthquake. Two strike‐slip earthquakes with magnitudes ofML5.1 and 5.8 occurred in the southeastern Korean Peninsula on 12 September 2016. The two events occurred within 48 min. TheML5.8 earthquake was the largest event in the Korean Peninsula since 1978 when national seismic monitoring began. Both events produced strong high‐frequency ground motions. More than 500 aftershocks with local magnitudes greater than or equal to 1.5 followed the events for 2 months. An unreported subsurface strike‐slip fault with a dip of 65° to the east and a strike of N27°E was responsible for the earthquakes. The fault ruptured at depths of 11–16 km, resulting in a rupture plane of ∼26 km2. The aftershock distribution displayed horizontal streaks at a depth of ∼14 km, which was consistent with the focal mechanism solutions from long‐period waveform inversion. The number of aftershocks decreased exponentially with time. The twoML5.1 and 5.8 earthquakes produced regional Coulomb stress changes of −4.9 to 2.5 bar. The spatial distribution of the aftershocks correlated with the Coulomb stress changes. The peak dynamic stress induced by strong ground motions reached 14.2 bar. The groundwater levels changed coseismically in some regions of decreased static stresses. The earthquakes on previously unidentified faults raised attention for the potential seismic hazards by earthquakes with long recurrence intervals.
Two‐dimensional magnetotelluric inversion using reflection seismic data as constraints and application in the COSC project
Authors: Yan Ping , Kalscheuer Thomas , Hedin Peter , Garcia Juanatey Maria A.
Published: March 2017

We present a novel 2‐D magnetotelluric (MT) inversion scheme, in which the local weights of the regularizing smoothness constraints are based on the envelope attribute of a reflection seismic image. The weights resemble those of a previously published seismic modification of the minimum gradient support method. We measure the directional gradients of the seismic envelope to modify the horizontal and vertical smoothness constraints separately. Successful application of the inversion to MT field data of the Collisional Orogeny in the Scandinavian Caledonides (COSC) project using the envelope attribute of the COSC reflection seismic profile helped to reduce the uncertainty of the interpretation of the main décollement by demonstrating that the associated alum shales may be much thinner than suggested by a previous inversion model. Thus, the new model supports the proposed location of a future borehole COSC‐2 which is hoped to penetrate the main décollement and the underlying Precambrian basement.
An 8 month slow slip event triggers progressive nucleation of the 2014 Chile megathrust
Authors: Socquet Anne , Valdes Jesus Piña , Jara Jorge , Cotton Fabrice , Walpersdorf Andrea , Cotte Nathalie , Specht Sebastian , Ortega‐Culaciati Francisco , Carrizo Daniel , Norabuena Edmundo
Published: March 2017

The mechanisms leading to large earthquakes are poorly understood and documented. Here we characterize the long‐term precursory phase of the 1 April 2014 Mw8.1 North Chile megathrust. We show that a group of coastal GPS stations accelerated westward 8 months before the main shock, corresponding to a Mw6.5 slow slip event on the subduction interface, 80% of which was aseismic. Concurrent interface foreshocks underwent a diminution of their radiation at high frequency, as shown by the temporal evolution of Fourier spectra and residuals with respect to ground motions predicted by recent subduction models. Such ground motions change suggests that in response to the slow sliding of the subduction interface, seismic ruptures are progressively becoming smoother and/or slower. The gradual propagation of seismic ruptures beyond seismic asperities into surrounding metastable areas could explain these observations and might be the precursory mechanism eventually leading to the main shock.