bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
uberty Health Education and Female Students’ Self-efficacy
Authors:   Department of Community Health Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Iran University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Tehran, Iran., Khatirpasha Simin , Farahani-Nia Marhamat ,   Department of Community Health Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Iran University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Tehran, Iran., Nikpour Soghra ,   Department of Community Health Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Iran University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Tehran, Iran., Haghani Hamid ,   Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Published: February 2021

Background: Adolescence is an essential period in every human’s life. The lack of knowledge on puberty issues may adversely impact an adolescent’s future mental health and self-efficacy. The present study aimed to determine the effect of puberty health education on the general self-efficacy of female students. Methods: This was a quasi-experimental study with a pre-test; post-test and a control group design. This study was conducted on 100 female students of public schools with the onset of menstruation in 2018 in Ghaemshahr City, Iran. To prevent data contamination, the control group was selected from another similar public school. The required data were collected by Sherer General Self-efficacy Questionnaire and analyzed by SPSS using statistics, including mean, standard deviation, Chi-squared test, Fisher’s Exact test, one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and Paired Samples t-test. Results: The study groups were matched for demographic variables except for the mother’s age (P=0.01) and father’s education (P=0.001). Self-efficacy was not low in any of the groups before and after the training. Mean±SD pre-training self-efficacy scores in the intervention (63.68±9.72) and control (65.3±8.78) groups were not statistically significant (P=0.69). Comparing the students’ self-efficacy mean Pre-test-Post-test scores revealed a significant difference in the intervention group (P=0.017); however, there was no significant change in the control group (P=0.284) in this respect. Comparing between-group mean self-efficacy changes concerning before and after the intervention values suggested no significant difference (P=0.294). Conclusion: Puberty health education was effective in promoting the explored female students’ self-efficacy. Accordingly, it is recommended to include puberty education in female students’ courses. In addition, community health nurses are suggested to include this training in their programs.
Las desigualdades sistémicas del Sistema de Educación Intercultural Bilingüe se profundizan durante la crisis sanitaria del COVID-19
Authors: Oñate María Gabriela , Cañas David
Published: February 2021

La emergencia sanitaria del COVID-19 visibilizó las profundas desigualdades sociales del sistema de educación en los sectores rurales e indígenas del país. Este estudio analiza los impactos de la medidas educativas diseñadas ante el COVID-19 en territorio achuar. Se implementó una metodología biográfico-narrativa que incorpora observación participante y entrevistas no estructuradas durante los meses de marzo a junio del 2020 en la comunidad achuar Saapap en la provincia de Morona Santiago. La modalidad a distancia, implementada para reemplazar a la educación en línea de las zonas urbanas, ahonda las desventajas de los estudiantes achuar ya que demanda un aprendizaje independiente con escasos recursos educativos y en lengua foránea acentuando la colonialidad del saber y del ser.
Numerical Investigation of Double Corrugated Steel Plate Shear Walls
Authors: Ghodratian-Kashan S.M. , Maleki S.
Published: February 2021

Recently, corrugated steel plate shear walls have been shown to be an efficient lateral force resisting system for building structures. Corrugated plates have higher out-of-plane stiffness and improved buckling stability in comparison with flat plates which result in improved hysteretic behavior. However, the thickness of the corrugated plates may be limited due to the cold-form process restrictions. This paper investigates the cyclic performance of double corrugated steel plate shear walls. One-story single-bay specimen was designed and modelled and parametric studies were performed. The parametric study considered the orientation of corrugated plates (horizontal or vertical), disconnection of infill plates from columns, disconnection of infill plates from each other, infill plate thickness and infill plate aspect ratio on cyclic performance of double corrugated steel plate shear walls. The present study results show that proper selection of the aforementioned parameters can lead to a desirable cyclic performance. In the end, a recommendation for calculating initial stiffness and ultimate strength of double corrugated steel plate shear walls is given.
“Youth Will Feel Honoured if They Are Reminded They Are Loved”: Supporting Coming of Age for Urban Indigenous Youth in Care
Authors: Mellor Andrea
Published: February 2021

This paper presents the first phase of a community engagement project that explores (re)connecting to coming-of-age teachings grounded in Indigenous ways of knowing and doing for urban Indigenous youth in foster or away-from-home care. An intergenerational group of urban Indigenous Knowledge Holders in and around Victoria, British Columbia, Canada came together to discuss what a culturally appropriate coming of age could look like for urban Indigenous youth in care and how delegated Indigenous child and family service organizations could be involved. Four questions were discussed, and the conversations were recorded and subsequently themed. The event reflected the community’s commitment to supporting youth in their coming-of-age journey. Delegated organizations, in addition to acting as legal guardians for the youth, are cultural resources for the community and help connect youth to culture in their ancestral/home and urban communities. Communities work to ensure that youth have access to safe spaces where they can self-determine their identities as they enter adulthood. (Re)connecting to coming-of-age teachings is important because the imposition of Euro-Western child welfare legislation prevented the passing of cultural teachings. Our findings are consistent with literature that indicates culturally grounded, positive-action initiatives, like traditional coming-of-age rites of passage, help youth to cultivate resilience that can support the transition to adulthood. This aligns with evidence that demonstrates intergenerational cultural continuity is protective to health and wellness for Indigenous youth.
Adaptations to the Serious Illness Conversation Guide to Be More Culturally Safe
Authors: Beddard-Huber Elizabeth , Gaspard Gina , Yue Kathleen
Published: February 2021

The Serious Illness Conversation Guide (SICG) has been shown to be an effective communication tool used by health care professionals when interacting with patients facing a life-limiting illness. However, Ariadne Labs, the originators of the tool, have not tested it with First Nations and Indigenous Peoples. In this project, the British Columbia Centre for Palliative Care and the First Nations Health Authority in British Columbia (BC), Canada collaborated to adapt the SICG to be more culturally safe for First Nations and Indigenous Peoples. Multiple feedback strategies were employed. Feedback was received from 35 older adults, Elders, and community members from two First Nations communities plus approximately 80 nurses serving in First Nations communities across BC. Key areas of focus for feedback on the clinical tool included setting up the conversation, involving family, closing the conversation, and using principles of health literacy to reduce power differences. Three questions were added in response to feedback received. By creating a safe space for dialogue, it is hoped that health care providers and family members will develop a deeper understanding of what is important to the person with a life-limiting illness. These conversations promote patient-centred health care that aligns with patient values and wishes. Findings from this project directly informed modification of the tool to support a more culturally safe conversation. Further research will inform whether this tool is culturally safe for all seriously ill people.
Walking on Our Lands Again: Turning to Culturally Important Plants and Indigenous Conceptualizations of Health in a Time of Cultural and Political Resurgence
Authors: Joseph Leigh
Published: February 2021

We are in a time of Indigenous cultural-political resurgence in Canada (Coulthard, 2014; Manuel, 2017; Simpson, 2017; Talaga, 2018). Increasingly, Indigenous Peoples are finding renewed strength, pride, and grounding through cultural practice and the reestablishment of connection to the land. Included in this resurgence are the relationships between people and plants. When we practise our ancestral relationships with our plant relatives, we heal and strengthen ourselves. The depth of connection to place, to ancestors, and to our own mindful presence is amplified when we partake in millennia-old practices of plant cultivation, stewardship, and the integration of plant foods and medicines into our bodies. This time of resurgence emerges from generations of Indigenous Peoples suffering devastating violence, losses, and trauma as a result of colonization. In this paper I address the role that rebuilding Indigenous plant relationships plays in addressing colonial impacts on Indigenous health and in supporting Indigenous cultural and political resurgence. I also put forth Indigenized models for understanding colonial impacts on health and discuss culturally rooted conceptualizations of health that address these impacts from an Indigenous point of view. Finally, I propose a set of guidelines to consider for conducting respectful ethnobotanical research within Indigenous communities. This paper is borne out of a desire for deeper critical engagement with the intersections between colonial history, intergenerational trauma, and Indigenous plant knowledge. Furthermore, this paper acknowledges the strength and resilience of Indigenous Peoples in the face of historical injustice.
Letsemot, “Togetherness”: Exploring How Connection to Land, Water, and Territory Influences Health and Wellness with First Nations Knowledge Keepers and Youth in the Fraser Salish Region of British Columbia
Authors: Stelkia Krista , Beck Lindsay , Manshadi Anita , Jensen Fisk Ashlyn , Adams Evan , Browne Annette J. , Dixon Corinne , McEachern Diane , Ritchie Wendy , McDonald Shannon , Henry Bonnie , Marsden Namaste , Behn-Smith Daniele , Reading Jeffrey
Published: February 2021

Connection to land has been identified as a central determinant of the health and well-being of First Nations in Canada. The wholistic, interconnected, spiritual, and sacred relationship that many Indigenous Peoples have with the land is an integral part of strengthening physical, spiritual, mental, and emotional health and well-being. However, there has been little empirical evidence on how to assess, measure, and report on connection to land for First Nations Peoples. Using a Two- Eyed Seeing approach, this study explores what connection to land, water, and territory means for health and wellness for First Nations in the Fraser Salish region in the province of British Columbia (BC), Canada. Data were collected through a sharing circle with five First Nations Knowledge Keepers and five youth from Stó:lō communities as part of a land-based gathering in Stó:lō territory. Three themes were identified: (a) “the spirits of the land, water, and territory are within us”: the intersection of cultural identity, spirituality, ancestral knowledge, and health and well-being; (b) letsemot, “togetherness”: relationality; and (c) disruptions and new ways of living. For Stó:lō Peoples, connection to the land is an integral component of health and well-being. Connection to land was found to strongly influence physical, spiritual, mental, and emotional aspects of health while also intersecting with Stó:lō cultural identity, spirituality, ancestral knowledge, and ways of living. The findings can be used to inform the development of an indicator for connection to land, water, and territory as a measurement of ecological wellness for the First Nations Population Health and Wellness Agenda in BC.
DESIGNING INFOGRAPHICS FOR THE EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY COURSE: PERSPECTIVES OF PRE-SERVICE SCIENCE TEACHERS
Authors: Fadzil Hidayah Mohd
Published: February 2021

Despite the existing research on technology use in tertiary education, there is limited scholarly literature on the use of infographics in education or on the effective design of infographics specifically for educational settings. By employing qualitative research, the researcher attempts to explore the learners’ perception of the use of infographics. This research involved the researcher working independently on an in-class research project with 40 third-year undergraduate students. The pre-service science teachers were required to individually create an infographic related to the upper secondary school science curriculum. The findings indicated that the pre-service teachers expressed positive viewpoints about the infographics assignment. When the pre-service teachers were engaged in the learning process, they had a sense of agency and responsibility for their learning. The findings also indicated that this research created a meaningful experience for the pre-service teachers in engaging technology. This research essentially promoted innovations in teaching and learning of the course that encouraged student engagement with technology. Keywords: educational technology, infographic, pre-service science teachers, science education.
DETERMINATION OF EDUCATIONAL EFFICIENCY AND STUDENTS’ INVOLVEMENT IN THE FLIPPED BIOLOGY CLASSROOM IN PRIMARY SCHOOL
Authors: Županec Vera S. , Radulović Branka N. , Pribićević Tijana Z. , Miljanović Tomka G. , Zdravković Vujadin G.
Published: February 2021

The Flipped Classroom (FC) is a teaching approach in which students gain the first-exposure learning with online materials outside the classroom, and then, in the classroom, they focus on interactive or engaging exercises. Despite its considerable publicity, the studies focused on the FC in primary education are deficient. The aim of this research is to determine efficiency and students’ involvement in the flipped Biology classroom in primary school, compared to the conventional classroom (CC) approach. Educational efficiency and students’ involvement are measured by combining the values of the students’ performance and mental effort on the test. Each task in the test was followed by the 5-point Likert scale for evaluation of invested mental effort. The total sample of this research included 112 students, aged from 12 to 13. The results show that the FC approach contributes to the reduction of the students’ mental effort and an increase in the students’ performance. On the basis of calculated efficiency and students’ involvement of applied teaching approaches, it was concluded that the FC represents a feasible and efficient approach to Biology primary education.
Keywords: biology education, flipped classroom, educational efficiency, students’ involvement, mental effort, primary school.
PROSPECTIVE TEACHERS’ COGNITIVE STRUCTURES CONCERNING PROTEIN SYNTHESIS AND THEIR DEGREE OF UNDERSTANDING
Authors: Gerçek Cem
Published: February 2021

The purpose of education is to actualise meaningful learning. Therefore, researching the issues on how students process information and how they configure it is important for meaningful learning. The issue of protein synthesis contains a number of abstract topics and concepts. Hence, it is important in biology teaching to be informed of students’ cognitive structures concerning protein synthesis. This research aims to analyse prospective teachers’ cognitive structures about protein synthesis and their degree of understanding the subject. The research group was composed of 17 volunteering prospective teachers who had been chosen through purposeful sampling. The data were collected via semi-structured interviews. Flow maps and content analysis were used in analysing the data. The results demonstrated that prospective teachers had too many misconceptions about protein synthesis and that their knowledge extent and rich connection are inadequate. The prospective teachers’ degree of understanding protein synthesis was divided into three categories. The results obtained in this research suggested that teachers should be careful in teaching the subject of protein synthesis. Students’ prior knowledge and their misconceptions should be determined and content or contexts to facilitate them to learn an abstract subject such as protein synthesis should be presented.
Keywords: cognitive structure, degree of understanding, flow map, meaningful learning, protein synthesis
EFFECTS OF TECHNOLOGY-ENHANCED METACOGNITIVE LEARNING PLATFORM ON STUDENTS’ MONITORING ACCURACY AND UNDERSTANDING OF ELECTRICITY
Authors: Feyzioğlu Eylem Yıldız , Akpinar Ercan , Tatar Nilgün
Published: February 2021

The aim of this research was to explore the effect of a Technology-enhanced Metacognitive Learning Platform (TeMLP) on student’s monitoring accuracy and understanding of electricity. An interactive TeMLP was prepared on the electricity unit covering the topics of static and current electricity for 7th graders; the platform contained computer animations, science experiments, e-diaries, and metacognitive prompts. In this research, pre-test/post-test control group semi-experimental model was used. The Metacognition Scale and Essay Questions on Static and Current Electricity were used as data collection tools in this research. In addition, Essay Questions on the Learning Platform and the self-explanations of students in the learning platform database were also used in the experimental group. The pre-test and post-test comparisons regarding the Metacognition Scale for the group showed that the students in the experimental group had significantly higher post-test scores compared to control group students in terms of the control and monitoring subscales. The results of the essay questions on static and current electricity revealed an important difference between the groups favoring learning platform. The views of the students about the software support these results. The conclusions drawn by the research led to recommendations for researchers about the metacognitive prompts to be employed in technology-enhanced learning platforms. Keywords: metacognition prompt, science teaching, technology-enhanced learning.
IN-DEPTH TEACHING AS ORIENTED-RESEARCH ABOUT SEASONS AND THE SUN/EARTH MODEL: EFFECTS ON CONTENT KNOWLEDGE ATTAINED BY PRE-SERVICE PRIMARY TEACHERS
Authors: Martínez-Torregrosa Joaquín , Limiñana Ruben , Menargues Asunción , Colomer Rafael
Published: February 2021

Pre-service primary teachers mostly have negative attitudes towards science teaching and learning, and their science background is usually low. This usually results in them feeling unable or unconfident to teach science at school. A previous step to improve their willingness to teach science to children is that they feel they can learn in-depth any science core idea. To do that, a course conducted as oriented-research about a core science problem was developed and used to evaluate the influence of their previous science background and initial attitudes towards science teaching and learning on content knowledge attainment. The chosen science idea was about diurnal astronomy (Sun movements and the Sun/Earth model). Content knowledge attainment was assessed using learning indicators, which represent what pre-service teachers should “know” and “know how” on this science core idea. Overall, pre-service teachers achieved high learning levels on this topic, and no significant differences in content knowledge attained by students according to both initial attitudes and science background were found. This suggests that this teaching methodology could be useful for pre-service teachers to achieve a thorough knowledge on science core ideas, which is considered to be an important step to improve their willingness to teach science at the primary school. Keywords: astronomy education, science content knowledge, teacher education.
Wilson Disease in Children: Diagnosis and Management Update
Authors: Md Benzamin - , Islam Rafiqul , Rahman Nayma , Ghosal Sharmistha , Alam Rubaiyat
Published: February 2021

Wilson disease is an autosomal recessive, copper storage disease, caused by a mutation in the ATP7B gene. Due to mutation in ATP7B is decreased secretion of ceruloplasmin into blood and decrease in excretion of copper into bile. Excess copper accumulate to toxic levels,mainly in the liver and secondarily in other organs. Children clinically become symptomatic after the age of 5 years. Clinical features ranges from asymptomatic raised transaminases to variable degree of liver disease, neurological symptoms and according involvement of other oragns. Diagnosis of Wilson disease is challenging. Modified Leip-zig score is useful for diagnosis. Treatment can be done with zinc and other chelators.

KYAMC Journal Vol. 11, No.-4, January 2021, Page 212-217
Rehabilitation Challenge of Motor Neuron Disease Following Occupational Exposure to Magnetic Fields and Electric Shocks: Case Series
Authors: Newaz Fatema , Hasan Md Israt , Emran Mohammed , Ahmed Syed Mozaffar , Jashimuddin Jasmine
Published: February 2021

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder of motor neurons and their axons characterized by signs of upper and lower motor neuron dysfunction. ALS has been associated with exposures in so called electrical occupation. We have found two young patient who developed features of MND following electrocution within 1 year. Due to this great diversity of possible causing agents for ALS, new researches are necessary to elucidate possible etiologies for a better approach to the patients, promoting preventive programs for the disease, optimizing functions and improving the life quality of the patients. A number of studies have demonstrated cognitive performance deficits following electric injury observed cognitive symptoms and neurobehavioral defecit. As treatment approach rehabilitation is important part of treatment as pharmacological part didn't prove strong recovery. As MND causes high level of disability and dependency on caregiver causes gap in rehabilitation due to psychological issue. Neuropalliative rehabilitation is more important in these patient which is unavailable in our country.

KYAMC Journal Vol. 11, No.-4, January 2021, Page 218-221
Épocas de aplicação de azoxistrobina + mancozebe no controle de mancha branca do milho
Authors: Borth Marcos Rafael , Paduan Fernanda Neves , Alves Karina Aline , Matsumoto Leopoldo Sussumu , Duarte Erich dos Reis , Pedrinho Denise Renata , Suguimoto Helio Hiroshi , Bertolini Edson , Zawadzki Fernando , Sauer Aline Vanessa
Published: February 2021

Um dos principais métodos de controle da mancha branca do milho, o controle químico com estrobilurinas e fungicidas protetores demonstraram efeito no controle da doença, no entanto, condicionada ao momento de sua realização em estádios fenológicos da cultura. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o controle e efeito no progresso temporal da mancha branca do milho com a associação dos fungicidas mancozebe e azoxistrobina em diferentes épocas de aplicação, dois cultivares, duas localidades de plantio e o efeito na produtividade da cultura. Os experimentos foram conduzidos nos municípios de Marechal Cândido Rondon e Sertanópolis, PR. Foram utilizados dois híbridos suscetíveis, DKB230PRO3 e DKB290PRO3. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi de blocos casualizados com 4 repetições. As avaliações foram efetuadas 10 dias após cada aplicação, além de uma avaliação no estádio de maturidade fisiológica. A severidade da doença foi avaliada através da quantificação da área foliar lesionada em 10 plantas por parcela e utilizadas no cálculo da Área Abaixo da Curva de Progresso da Doença, submetidos a análise de variância e o teste de médias. As curvas de progresso da doença foram ajustadas aos modelos logístico e exponencial. A produtividade foi estimada após a colheita manual, com o peso de mil grãos e produtividade (kg ha-1). Aplicações dos fungicidas em estádios V8 e V4+V8+VT proporcionaram melhor controle da mancha branca. Aplicações no estádio V4 não proporcionaram severidades diferentes da testemunha sem aplicação. Não foram observados ganhos significativos em produtividade em função da aplicação dos fungicidas.
The Transition Metal and Non-metal co-Doping Graphene for Oxygen Reduction Reaction Electrocatalysis: a Density Functional Theory Study
Authors: Chen Fengxiang , Yang Lei
Published: February 2021

Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are vital energy-conversion devices in a hydrogen-fueled economic. In this study, we performed density functional theory (DFT) calculations to study 4e− oxygen reduction reaction process on transition metal embedded in single and double vacancies (SV and DV) in a graphene. We calculated bonding energy and adsorption energy on CoX3 (X = B, C, N, Si, P and S) and CoX4 (X = B, C, N, Si, P and S) embedded in graphene. Our DFT results indicate that formation of CoX3 is unfeasible and the formation of CoX4 is feasible. In addition, the crucial role of ligand atoms near embedded metal atoms is revealed via the molecular orbital theory. Then the Gibbs free energy of CoX4 are calculated and the CoN4, CoS4, and CoP4 are predicted to be active for catalyzing ORR, and these also show ligand atoms’ coordination effect for catalytic activity of central metal. Furthermore, we observed that they have identical rate-determining step (RDS). This work can provide some references for transition atoms catalytic doped in carbon materials.
Efficiency of the Quality of Work of the Head in the Conditions of Market Relations
Authors: Zainutdinov Sh. , Nurimbetov R. , Ismailov A.
Published: February 2021

In the conditions of market relations, the work of the management staff of industrial enterprises is of decisive importance. And ultimately, production efficiency depends on the quality of the manager's work. This article discusses the basic requirements of the manager, the place and role of the manager in production management, the performance of functional duties, the manager's responsibility for ensuring production efficiency, etc.
Manufacturing “Football Realism” in the Studio Era
Authors: Buehler Branden
Published: February 2021

Drawing upon material from the Warner Bros. Archives, this article examines the production, marketing and reception of football films released during the classical Hollywood era – specifically focusing on efforts by the studio to create and market “realistic” football action. First, the paper briefly discusses the marketing and reception of two typical football movies from the period, College Coach and Over the Goal, to argue that the public expected football scenes to resemble live games and that the studio acknowledged this desire by attempting to market their football sequences as “realistic.” Then, the paper examines two of the most well-known football movies from the period, Knute Rockne, All American and Jim Thorpe – All-American, and documents how the films’ producers attempted to ensure the movies met these standards for “football realism,” whether that meant casting college football players as extras, enlisting a football-savvy crew, or using newsreel footage during gameplay sequences.
Dealing with Stochasticity in Wood Remanufacturing Operations Planning
Authors: Rafiei Rezvan , Nourelfath Mustapha , De Santa-Eulalia Luis Antonio
Published: February 2021

The planning process of wood remanufacturing operations encompasses challenging characteristic, including divergent co-production (one log tree may produce several different products), alternative processes (different receipts exist to produce the same products), short order cycle, dynamic market behaviour (with highly varying demand) and imperfect raw materials (due to its biological nature, the yield vary considerably). To deal with this complexity, in this paper random demand is modeled as scenario tree and three new predictive multi-stage stochastic programming models are developed with multiple objective functions. After implementing them employing datasets from a wood remanufacturing partner in Canada, the proposed models are compared to a reactive re-planning approach. The obtained results indicate that the new models exhibit higher quality solutions in comparison with their corresponding deterministic two-stage models. We also determine the number of stages for which the multi-stage programs provide better planning than the re-planning approach.
Elastic Net Regression and Empirical Mode Decomposition for Enhancing the Accuracy of the Model Selection
Authors: Al-Jawarneh Abdullah S. , Ismail Mohd. Tahir , Awajan Ahmad M.
Published: February 2021

Elastic net (ELNET) regression is a hybrid statistical technique used for regularizing and selecting necessary predictor variables that have a strong effect on the response variable and deal with multicollinearity problem when it exists between the predictor variables. The empirical mode decomposition (EMD) algorithm is used to decompose the nonstationary and nonlinear dataset into a finite set of orthogonal intrinsic mode function components and one residual component. This study mainly aims to apply the proposed ELNET-EMD method to determine the effect of the decomposition components of multivariate time-series predictors on the response variable and tackle the multicollinearity between the decomposition components to enhance the prediction accuracy for building a fitting model. A numerical experiment and a real data application are applied. Results show that the proposed ELNET-EMD method outperforms other existing methods by capable of identifying the decomposition components that have the most significance on the response variable despite the high correlation between the decomposition components and by improving the prediction accuracy.
Matrix Analysis of Synchronous Boolean Networks
Authors: Rushdi Ali Muhammad Ali , Alsogati Adnan Ahmad
Published: February 2021

The synchronous Boolean network (SBN) is a simple and powerful model for describing, analyzing, and simulating cellular biological networks. This paper seeks a complete understanding of the dynamics of such a model by employing a matrix method that relies on relating the network transition matrix to its function matrix via a self-inverse state matrix. A recursive ordering of the underlying basis vector leads to a simple recursive expression of this state matrix. Hence, the transition matrix is computed via multiplication of binary matrices over the simplest finite (Galois) field, namely the binary field GF(2), i.e., conventional matrix multiplication involving modulo-2 addition, or XOR addition. We demonstrate the conceptual simplicity and practical utility of our approach via an illustrative example, in which the transition matrix is readily obtained, and subsequently utilized (via its powers, characteristic equation, minimal equation, 1-eigenvectors, and 0-eigenvectors) to correctly predict both the transient behavior and the cyclic behavior of the network. Our matrix approach for computing the transition matrix is superior to the approach of scalar equations, which demands cumbersome manipulations and might fail to predict the exact network behavior. Our approach produces result that exactly replicate those obtained by methods employing the semi-tensor product (STP) of matrices, but achieves that without sophisticated ambiguity or unwarranted redundancy.
Matrix Dimensional Analysis for Electromagnetic Quantities
Authors: Rushdi Mostafa Ali , Rushdi Ali Muhammad
Published: February 2021

We utilize the electromagnetically-oriented LTI∅ dimensional basis in the matrix solution of dimensional-analysis (DA) problems involving mainly electromagnetic quantities, whether these quantities are lumped or distributed. Representations in the LTI∅ basis (compared with the standard MLTI basis) are more informative and much simpler. Moreover, matrix DA computations employing the LTI∅ basis are more efficient and much less error prone. Extensive discussions of two demonstrative examples expose technical details of a novel DA scheme, and clarify many important facets of modern dimensional analysis.
SVM Model to Predict the Water Quality Based on Physicochemical Parameters
Authors: Koranga Manisha , Pant Pushpa , Pant Durgesh , Bhatt Ashutosh Kumar , Pant R. P. , Ram Mangey , Kumar Tarun
Published: February 2021

Analysis of water quality is a very important and challenging task in the management of water bodies and requires immediate attention as it adversely affects the health of living beings. Three parameters namely, pH, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), and Turbidity were used for data analysis. In this study for mapping of training samples from input space to higher dimensional feature space, LibSVM, (a library of SVM) was used with the use of two kernel function types Radial Basis Function and Polynomial function. For performing the experiment, the three parameter combinations (C, d, ϒ) were evaluated based upon the kernel by taking various range values to obtain the best type of kernel functions through a 10-fold cross-validation process. After performing all experiments, a comparative analysis was done to evaluate the best parameter combination (C, d, ϒ) and the values of performance measures. The result shows that the optimum model developed using LibSVM with the use of Polynomial Kernel function which gives an accuracy of 99.434% in predicting water quality.
Asymptotic Stability Analysis Applied in Two and Three-Dimensional
Discrete Systems to Control Chaos
Authors: Kumra Neha , Saha L. M. , Das M. K.
Published: February 2021

Asymptotic stability analysis applied to stabilize unstable fixed points and to control chaotic motions in two and three-dimensional discrete dynamical systems. A new set of parameter values obtained which stabilizes an unstable fixed point and control the chaotic evolution to regularity. The output of the considered model and that of the adjustable system continuously compared by a typical feedback and the difference used by the adaptation mechanism to modify the parameters. Suitable numerical simulation which are used thoroughly discussed and parameter values are adjusted. The findings are significant and interesting. This strategy has some advantages over many other chaos control methods in discrete systems but, however it can be applied within some limitations.
Exploration of Intrinsic Microbial Community Modulators in the Rice Endosphere Indicates a Key Role of Distinct Bacterial Taxa Across Different Cultivars
Authors: Wang Pei , Kong Xiao , Chen Hongsong , Xiao Youlun , Liu Huijun , Li Xiaojuan , Zhang Zhuo , Tan Xinqiu , Wang Diandong , Jin Decai , Deng Ye , Cernava Tomislav
Published: February 2021

Microbial communities associated with the plant phyllosphere and endosphere can have both beneficial as well as detrimental effects on their hosts. There is an ongoing debate to which extend the phyllosphere and endosphere microbiome assembly is controlled by the host plant how pronounced cultivar effects are. We investigated the bacterial and fungal communities from the phyllosphere and endosphere of 10 different rice cultivars grown under identical environmental conditions in the frame of a targeted approach to identify drivers of community assembly. The results indicated that the endophytic bacterial communities were clearly separated into two groups. The α-diversity and microbial network complexity within Group I were significantly lower than in Group II. Moreover, the genera Nocardioides, Microvirga, and Gaiella were significantly more abundant in Group II and only present in the interaction networks of this group. These three genera were significantly correlated with α- and β-diversity of the endophytic bacterial community and thus identified as major drivers of the endosphere community. We have identified keystone taxa that shape endophytic bacterial communities of different rice cultivars. Our overall findings provide new insights into plant-microbe interactions, and may contribute to targeted improvements of rice varieties in the future.
Effects of Ocular Direct Current Stimulation on Full Field Electroretinogram
Authors: Blum Maren-Christina , Solf Benjamin , Hunold Alexander , Klee Sascha
Published: February 2021

Studies on weak current stimulation (1–2 mA) examine effects on neuronal cells for the treatment of neurological diseases, like depression. Ocular current stimulation showed positive effects on retinal nerve cells which indicate that neurodegenerative ocular diseases, e.g., glaucoma, can be treated with current stimulation of the eye. However, up to now it remains unclear which exact retinal cells can be influenced. During an ocular direct current stimulation, a significant reduction of the characteristic P50 amplitude of a pattern-reversal electroretinogram (PERG) was found for an anodal and a cathodal stimulation. This current stimulation effect could originate from the modulation of pre-ganglion cell activity or by changes in local ON and OFF responses of ganglion cells. For clarification, we investigate acute direct current stimulation effects on a full field electroretinogram (ERG), which represents the activity of pre-ganglion cells (specifically cones and bipolar cells). The ERG from 15 subjects was evaluated before (ERG 1) and during (ERG 2) an ocular direct current stimulation with 800 μA over 5 min. The current was applied through a ring rubber electrode placed around the eye and a 25 cm2 rubber electrode placed at the ipsilateral temple. For ERG measurements, sintered Ag/AgCl skin-electrodes were positioned on the lower eyelid (active), the earlobe (reference), and the forehead (ground). The volunteers were stimulated in three independent sessions, each with a different current application (randomized order): cathodal polarity, anodal polarity (referred to the electrode around the eye), or sham stimulation. The changes between the two ERG measurements of the characteristic full field ERG amplitudes, a-wave, b-wave, and b′-wave (b-wave measured from zero line) were tested with the Wilcoxon signed-rank test (α = 0.05). Comparing before to during the current stimulation for all applications, the ERG waves showed no effects on amplitudes or latencies. Furthermore, no significant difference between the cathodal, anodal, and sham stimulation could be found by a Friedman test. These results indicate an unlikely contribution of pre-ganglion cells to the previously reported stimulation effect on PERG signals.
Microplastic Shape, Polymer Type, and Concentration Affect Soil Properties and Plant Biomass
Authors: Lozano Yudi M. , Lehnert Timon , Linck Lydia T. , Lehmann Anika , Rillig Matthias C.
Published: February 2021

Microplastics may enter the soil in a wide range of shapes and polymers. However, little is known about the effects that microplastics of different shapes, polymers, and concentration may have on soil properties and plant performance. To address this, we selected 12 microplastics representing different shapes (fibers, films, foams, and fragments) and polymers, and mixed them each with soil at a concentration of 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, and 0.4%. A phytometer (Daucus carota) grew in each pot during 4 weeks. Shoot, root mass, soil aggregation, and microbial activity were measured. All shapes increased plant biomass. Shoot mass increased by ∼27% with fibers, ∼60% with films, ∼45% with foams, and by ∼54% with fragments, as fibers hold water in the soil for longer, films decrease soil bulk density, and foams and fragments can increase soil aeration and macroporosity, which overall promote plant performance. By contrast, all shapes decreased soil aggregation by ∼25% as microplastics may introduce fracture points into aggregates and due to potential negative effects on soil biota. The latter may also explain the decrease in microbial activity with, for example, polyethylene films. Our findings show that shape, polymer type, and concentration are key properties when studying microplastic effects on terrestrial systems.
Toward Understanding the Sex Differences in the Biological Mechanism of Social Stress in Mouse Models
Authors: Takahashi Aki
Published: February 2021

Significant sex differences in terms of prevalence, symptomatic profiles, severity, and comorbidities of psychiatric disorders are quite common. Women have been shown to be more vulnerable to stress and are nearly twice as likely as men to develop stress-related disorders such as depression and anxiety. Therefore, understanding sex differences with respect to the neurobiological mechanisms underlying stress-related disorders is important for developing more efficient pharmacological interventions for women. However, most preclinical studies on stress-related disorders have focused heavily on male rodents. Here, recent developments in the study of repeated social defeat stress models in female mice are summarized. Our findings suggest that a variety of factors need to be considered when employing this model.
Entrepreneurship Education Challenges for Green Transformation
Authors: Mets Tõnis , Holbrook Jack , Läänelaid Siim
Published: February 2021

Associated with global climate agreements and the European Union’s focus on climate-neutral goals by 2050, the development of Green Transformation competencies in society has become topical. This viewpoint paper proposes a conceptual model for applying Entrepreneurship Education (EE) to designing an integrated transdisciplinary, Green Transformation Competence framework. In line with this, EE is seen as a tool for developing an active, informed, responsible, yet sustainable, living ecosystem-oriented and green orientation of citizens in the education system. Nevertheless, this viewpoint recognises several challenges for further research.
Efficacy of Heavy Use Area Protection (HUAP) Pads in Poultry Farm
Authors: Ozbay Gulnihal , Khatiwada Raju , Smith Stacy , Chintapenta Lathadevi Karuna
Published: February 2021

This research focuses on the efficiency of recommended heavy use area protection (HUAP) pads installed in poultry houses utilizing the Choptank River, a tributary of the Chesapeake Bay. The Chesapeake Bay watershed is severely affected by crop agriculture and poultry feeding operations. Water quality degradation along with scarcity of water is a significant concern in this area, suggesting a need for changes in both environmental and groundwater management practices. Our objective in this study was to compare the efficiency of HUAP in reducing litter spillage and nutrient runoff between two poultry houses, one of which was constructed in 2005 and the other in 2009. The poultry house constructed in 2005 did not have HUAP pads initially; they were built in 2006. The poultry house built in 2009 had the pads from the starting point. We collected soil and water samples each month and analyzed them for pH, electrical conductivity (EC), nitrate, nitrite, total nitrogen, phosphate, and other soil properties throughout the year. The pH of soil and water samples was in the range of 6.8–8.0 and 6.5–7.2, respectively. We collected six water samples in total in the ditch, from points at retention ponds near the farm ditch to sites in wooded areas on the farm. Water sample B (where ditch water meets retention pond water from the poultry farm) had the highest EC value and nitrate, nitrite, and total nitrogen concentrations compared with other water samples. The subsequent water samples downstream had reduced loads of nutrients. The study results suggest that there was a minimum carryover of nutrients from soil into the runoff water, storm ditches, and adjacent stream. There was also a minimal effect of house cleaning and storm events in raising the concentration of nutrients in soil and water samples at our study sites. The older poultry site had higher total nitrogen and phosphorous surrounding the pads, whereas no elevated levels of nutrients were identified at the newer site. The ability of HUAP pads to hold onto contaminates decreases with age and use. This study also shows that the impacts from poultry activities on surface and groundwater can be minimized by using management practices such as HUAP pads. These practices can reduce pollution in the farm, increase productivity, and save farmers and ranchers time and money in the long run.
Food System Resilience during COVID-19 Pandemic: The Case of Roman Solidarity Purchasing Groups
Authors: Tarra Simona , Mazzocchi Giampiero , Marino Davide
Published: February 2021

The restriction measures linked to the COVID-19 shock suddenly highlighted the vulnerability of most socioeconomic systems, including the food sector. In a context in which the limitation to the movement of people and goods has put the longer and more structured supply chains in serious difficulty, many experiences and initiatives have emerged as viable alternatives. The aim of the research was to understand if and how the Solidarity Purchasing Groups (SPG) of Rome have contributed to the resilience of the food system of the metropolitan city during the lockdown. The research was based on the results of a questionnaire administered to the SPGs of Rome during the first period of the pandemic (April–July 2020), enriched by some in-depth interviews carried out by the authors. What emerged was that, despite the limited extent in terms of products conveyed within the whole food system, the SPGs represented an important food supply channel during the lockdown period, for two main reasons: a greater flexibility and agility in moving and in handling goods and the possibility of remunerating local farms, contributing to the resilience of the local agri-food fabric. The analysis of the results confirms the strong vitality of such Food Movements in Rome and, at the same time, allows for the identification of a series of interventions that the institutions could adopt to favor the spread of a food environment more compatible with more sustainable and fairer forms of food production and distribution.
Effective Seed Yield and Flowering Synchrony of Parents of CIMMYT Three-Way-Cross Tropical Maize Hybrids
Authors: Chassaigne-Ricciulli Alberto A. , Mendoza-Onofre Leopoldo E. , Córdova-Téllez Leobigildo , Carballo-Carballo Aquiles , San Vicente-García Félix M. , Dhliwayo Thanda
Published: February 2021

Genotype, environmental temperature, and agronomic management of parents influence seed yield in three-way cross hybrid maize seed production. The objective of this research was to generate information on the seed production of six three-way cross hybrids and their progenitors, adapted to tropical lowlands. Data on days to—and duration of—flowering, distance to spike and stigmas, and seed yield of five female single crosses and five male inbred lines were recorded for different combinations of four planting densities and four sowing dates in Mexico. The effect of planting density was not significant. The male inbred line T10 was the earliest and highest seed yield and T31 the latest, occupying second place in yield. The single crosses T32/T10 and T13/T14 were the earliest and had the highest effective seed yield. At the earliest sowing date, the females were later in their flowering, accumulated fewer growing degree days (GDD), and obtained higher yields since the grain-filling period coincided with hot days and cool nights. To achieve greater floral synchronization and therefore greater production of hybrid seed, differential planting dates for parents are recommended based on information from the accumulated GDD of each parent. The three-way cross hybrids were classified according to the expected seed yield of the females and the complexity in the synchronization of flowering of their parents.