bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MICROCRÉDITOS EN LA MIPYMES: OPORTUNIDAD O LIMITANTE EN SU CRECIMIENTO EMPRESARIAL
Authors: Antonella Josefina Moreno Mero , Génesis Nicol Mora Qujjije , María Leonor Parrales Poveda
Published: March 2022

Los microcréditos están dirigidos a ciudadanos con limitada posibilidad de pedir un préstamo en el sistema financiero general. Cumplir con un sinnúmero de requisitos, la acentuada crisis económica por Covid-19, una cultura empresarial inestable por la pandemia, un liderazgo temeroso y sin la preparación idónea para incursionar en el ciberespacio dada la situación actual en el Ecuador, son parte de la problemática que se presentan a la hora de solicitar un microcrédito para el sector de las Mipymes. Por ello, se hace necesario investigar el acceso a fuentes de financiamiento en Mipymes y su impacto en el crecimiento empresarial, considerando que microcréditos son un tipo de préstamo de pequeña cuantía y corta duración que se concede comúnmente a personas con un bajo grado de recursos, no poseen avales y, por consiguiente, son excluidas de la banca clásica.  En ese sentido, se consideró el caso de varios bancos nacionales privados y públicos que analizados desde un diseño de investigación tipo descriptivo apoyado en la revisión bibliográfica de las posturas que han surgido en relación a microcréditos muestran su incidencia en el crecimiento de las Mipymes. Los resultados permitieron exponer las bases conceptuales que argumentan las variables de estudio y cómo la banca desde su estructura divisional se ha mostrado ante la crisis de Covid-19, aliviando de alguna manera la presión de las obligaciones crediticias de sus clientes, en un escenario de menor liquidez en los negocios, por la emergencia sanitaria.
Analysis of Rhetorical Appeals to Logos, Ethos and Pathos in ENL and ESL Research Abstracts
Authors: Mohamad Hairul Azhar
Published: March 2022

Based on Connor’s (1996) Contrastive Theory of Rhetoric, this study investigated the degree of the rhetorical appeals and their rhetorical devices in the English as a Native Language (ENL) and English as a Second Language (ESL) research abstract (RAs) from indexed journals. A mapping and selection table of rhetorical devices was introduced based on Aristotelian three elements in rhetoric to produce an effective discourse: i) three rhetorical appeals, ii) topoi, and iii) arrangement of text (Aristotle & Kennedy, 1991). The rhetorical model is also integrated with LIWC2015 psycholinguistic dimensions (Pennebaker, et al., 2015) and Compositionality Model (Bulté & Housen, 2018). The first Aristotelian element refers to three rhetorical appeals to logos, ethos, and pathos which were measured by three LIWC2015 summary variables of analytical thinking, clout and emotional tone respectively. Three rhetorical devices were identified at lexical-phrasal, sentential, and textual level for each rhetorical appeal which fulfilled the other two Aristotelian elements. In total, three summary domains with nine rhetorical devices were analysed in 480 RAs with LIWC2015 software and Readable.com online application. It was found that there are significant correlations among three rhetorical devices identified for each rhetorical appeal to logos, ethos, and pathos. Contrastive analysis revealed that ESL RAs were more rhetorically appealing to logos and pathos than ENL RAs. However, both groups of RAs did not show any significant difference in terms of their appeal to ethos. Finally, research implications and future research directions are also discussed.
The Biopsychosocial and Spiritual Perspective on the Readiness to Quit Smoking: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Mohamed Mohd Haazik , Voo Peter , Maakip Ismail , Robinson Fredie
Published: March 2022

Smoking cessation is a major public health goal today as smoking has threatened the safety, health, and lives of millions of people in the global community. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to identify the role of biopsychosocial and spiritual factors towards the readiness to quit smoking and smoking cessation. The results of the study found that smoking behaviour adversely affects not only the biological aspects but also the psychological, social, and spiritual aspects. Apart from that, this study also found that the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects also play an important role in determining the motivation of smokers to quit smoking holistically. Therefore, research and empirical evidence on the biopsychosocial and spiritual aspects are needed to help healthcare teams to identify the barriers and motivating factors to quit smoking.
Keberkesanan Didik Hibur Terhadap Empati Sejarah dalam kalangan Murid Tahun Empat di Daerah Kota Setar, Kedah
Authors: Ooi Wan Yee , Ahmad Abdul Razaq , Dahalan Shakila Che
Published: March 2022

Kajian ini dijalankan bagi mengenal pasti keberkesanan teknik didik hibur terhadap empati sejarah yang dinilai dari segi empati peristiwa dan empati tokoh dalam kalangan murid tahun empat di daerah Kota Setar, Kedah. Kajian ini turut mengenal pasti perbezaan empati sejarah dalam kalangan murid kumpulan kawalan dan kumpulan rawatan bagi ujian pos berdasarkan jantina. Kajian ini merupakan kajian kuantitatif yang berbentuk kuasi eksperimental. Sampel kajian terdiri daripada 18 orang murid tahun empat. Kumpulan kawalan dan rawatan masing-masing mempunyai sembilan orang murid. Tempoh pelaksanaan kajian ini adalah selama 10 minggu. Instrumen kajian yang digunakan ialah soal selidik. Data dianalisis menggunakan SPSS 26.0 yang melibatkan analisis deskriptif dan inferensi. Kaedah didik hibur ini terbukti berkesan dan menunjukkan terdapat perbezaan yang signifikan berbanding dengan pengajaran lazim dalam penerapan empati sejarah dalam kalangan murid. Bagi analisis ujian pos yang menggunakan ujian-t tidak bersandar menunjukkan terdapat perbezaan yang signifikan empati sejarah dalam kumpulan kawalan dan kumpulan rawatan. Namun, tidak terdapat perbezaan yang signifikan empati sejarah dalam kalangan murid kumpulan kawalan dan kumpulan rawatan berdasarkan jantina bagi ujian pos.
Professional Development Programme Effectiveness: Kota Belud Primary School English Teachers’ Voice into Perspective
Authors: Oyot Daraini , Talip Roslee
Published: March 2022

This research is conducted in order to identify teachers’ perception on the effectiveness of the ongoing Professional Development Programme among the primary school English teachers in Kota Belud, Sabah. This non-experimental research applies survey method and a few sampling techniques in order to obtain the right size of the sample. The data is gathered using a set of questionnaires that has been adopted and are administered to 30 teachers in public primary schools. The data collected is then analysed using descriptive statistics using SPSS. The finding shows that there is no significant difference on the teachers’ perception regarding professional development programme effectiveness based on their gender and teaching experience. The implication and suggestion for further research are also discussed.
ATUAÇÃO PROFISSIONAL E CONDIÇÕES DE TRABALHO NA ATENÇÃO PRIMÁRIA À SAÚDE NO INTERIOR DO NORDESTE BRASILEIRO
Authors: Jardim Renata , Santos Reis Alan , Schott Márcia , Oliveira Santos Daniele
Published: March 2022

A Pandemia de Covid-19 acentuou a necessidade de entender e melhorar as condições de trabalho dos profissionais de saúde, para além dos Equipamentos de Proteção Individual, pois estes trabalhadores enfrentam, muitas vezes, precárias condições de trabalho. Este estudo buscou investigar a atuação profissional e as condições de trabalho de profissionais da Atenção Primária à Saúde no interior do Nordeste brasileiro. Trata-se de uma pesquisa quali-quantitativa, transversal, descritiva, realizada por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas. Dos 86 participantes, 60% (n=52) eram Agentes Comunitários de Saúde, 15% (n=13) técnico(a)s de enfermagem, 12% (n=10) enfermeiro(a)s, 7% (n=6) médico(a)s, 3% (n=3) técnico(a)s em saúde bucal e 2% (n=2) cirurgiões-dentistas. Observou-se que, na atuação dos profissionais, ainda persistem problemas que comprometem a garantia da atenção à saúde das populações no interior da região Nordeste, como a escassez de recursos humanos e materiais, a sobrecarga de trabalho, ou mesmo a precariedade da infraestrutura. A garantia de condições laborais adequadas é fundamental para fortalecer a prevenção e a promoção da saúde da população brasileira, ainda mais, no momento atual de enfrentamento da pandemia e de redução no financiamento do SUS.
SERVIÇO DE ATENDIMENTO MÓVEL DE URGÊNCIA FRENTE ÀS URGÊNCIAS E EMERGÊNCIAS PSIQUIÁTRICAS
Authors: Souza Mariana Silva , Nery Sabrina Beatriz Mendes , Ribeiro Aldalene Ferreira , Cardoso Francisca Kelly Macedo , Silva Natalia Rodrigues da , Alencar Vitoria Pires , Santos Ítalo Taveira dos , Pereira Jennifer Martins , Araújo Louelyn Damasceno Assunção , Aguiar Mariana Sampaio , Araújo Iseneide Gonçalves , Santos Maria Vitória do Nascimento , Freitas Ricardo de Carvalho , Aguiar Camilla Siqueira de , Silva Renata Pedro
Published: March 2022

O presente estudo buscou evidências científicas sobre a assistência prestada pelo Serviço de Atendimento Móvel de Urgência (SAMU) frente às urgências e emergências psiquiátricas. O trabalho realizado trata-se de uma revisão bibliográfica, onde os dados para a construção do artigo foram coletados no Google Scholar, Scielo, BVS e LILACS. Para a busca dos artigos nas bases de dados foram usadas as seguintes palavras-chaves: “saúde mental”, “emergência psiquiátrica” e “pronto atendimento”. Como critérios de inclusão, utilizou-se: artigos completos e disponíveis na íntegra, publicados entre os anos de 2017 e 2021, nos idiomas português e inglês. Quanto aos critérios de exclusão, foram excluídos: editoriais, livros, resumos, descritores que não correspondia a temática e artigos repetidos nas bases de dados utilizadas para a coleta de dados. Os resultados mostraram que nos últimos tempos, houve um aumento significativo no número de pessoas que apresentam transtornos psiquiátricos, dessa forma, exigindo serviços extra-hospitalares que busquem acolher estes pacientes. Ainda existe uma enorme falha no atendimento aos pacientes com transtornos mentais, pois na grande maioria das vezes, os profissionais prestam uma assistência desumana, priorizando apenas a sedação e o encaminhamento imediato para a internação hospitalar, utilizando apenas destes métodos para conter o paciente. Concluiu-se que a assistência prestada pelo SAMU frente às urgências e emergências psiquiátricas ainda é falha, sendo realizado um cuidado mecanizado, utilizando de meios coercitivos. Mostrando, através disso, que o serviço pré-hospitalar em sua maioria tem atuado contra os princípios estabelecidos pela Reforma Psiquiátrica, fazendo com que a assistência se torne desqualificada.
Effective Tree Species for Local Airquality Management
Authors: Beckett K. Paul , Freer-Smith Peter , Taylor Gail
Published: March 2022

The beneficial effect that trees have on air quality is often stated in arboricultural literature but has rarely been researched. The presented study aims to identify trees from 5 contrasting species that maximize the benefit to local air quality. Results show that all trees examined captured large quantities of airborne particulates, from the health-damaging size fractions (particle diameters of 10 to 2.5 |im, 2.5 to 1 |Xm, and <1 |am). Coniferous species were found to capture more particles than did broad-leaves, with pines (Pinus spp.) capturing significantly more material than cypresses (Cupresses spp.). Of the broad-leaved species, whitebeam (Sorbus aria) captured the most and poplar (Populus spp.) the least weight of particles. Trees situated close to a busy road captured significantly more material from the largest particle size fraction than those situated at a rural, background site. There was very little variation between the 2 sites in the weight of particulates from the 2 smallest particle size fractions (i.e., the fractions that are potentially the most damaging to human health).
A Strategy to Establish Trees Among High-Density Housing
Authors: Appleyard Hal StG.
Published: March 2022

High-density housing (HDH) ranks as one of the most hostile of planting environments. The best success rates are realized after the implementation of a planned tree-planting strategy. A strategy converts what is commonly addressed as an annual one-off task into an allencompassing process of events, which when placed into a logical order provide optimal circumstances for ensuring successful tree establishment. The tree-planting strategy developed in Lambeth, United Kingdom, based on observations and consultation with users, has proved to reduce failure rates. It is possible to apply the principles of the strategy developed for HDH to the range of planting environments presented to the tree manager.
Tree Condition Associated with Topping in Southern Illinois Communities
Authors: Karlovich Dean A. , Groninger John W. , Close David D.
Published: March 2022

Twenty-seven percent of trees surveyed in southern Illinois communities showed evidence of topping. Topped trees were nearly 3 times more frequently classified as likely to fail structurally than those individuals not subjected to topping. Frequency of broken branches in the crown, evidence of insect or disease infestation, and cavities in the bole were also greater in topped trees. While the design of this study did not allow determination of a cause-and-effect relationship, increased incidence of conditions associated with tree failure was observed in topped versus nontopped trees.
The Effect of Biobarrier®on Mycorrhizae in Oak and Sweetgum
Authors: Jacobs Karel , Rao Bill , Jeffers Brian , Danielson Donna
Published: March 2022

The effect of Biobarrier®herbicide-impregnated barrier fabric (Reemay, Inc., P.O. Box 511, Old Hickory, TN 37138-3651) on mycorrhizae occurrence was assessed on established pin oak (Quercus palustris) and sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua) trees. Trenches were dug through 24 tree root systems, and in 12 of the root systems, trenches were lined with Biobarrier. Seventeen months later roots were collected from within and adjacent to the trenches. Microscopic examination revealed that ectomycorrhizae occurred on roots of all 12 oak trees, regardless of the presence or absence of the barrier fabric. Similarly, roots from all sweetgum trees, except for 1 control tree (no barrier fabric), had vesicular endomycorrhizae.
A Productivity Timing System for Tree Climbing Training
Authors: Zillmer Ronald E. , Boeder Jeffrey L. , Genich Kevin G.
Published: March 2022

The City of Milwaukee Forestry Division manages more than 200,000 street trees and 120 mi (193 km) of landscaped boulevards. Tree pruning is a major operation that accounts for the pruning of more than 58,000 trees per year, with a majority of such work done by rope and saddle. Our program for current and newly hired employees consists of intense training during a 6-month probationary period. The cornerstone of this training program is based on building climbing proficiency and demonstrating the ability to prune a predetermined number of trees per day within certain size classes. To refine our climbing training program, we developed a unique productivity timing system utilizing a pruning study conducted by the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point in 1992. Over 50% of our current urban forestry specialists (arborists) have been trained under this timing system. A detailed account of the evolution of our system of tree climbing training and productivity assessment will be presented and should be applicable to other urban forestry programs around the world.
Cultural Background and Landscape History as Factors Affecting Perceptions of the Urban Forest
Authors: Fraser Evan D.G. , Kenney W. Andrew
Published: March 2022

Because a large proportion of the urban forest grows on private property, it is necessary to have broad community support for urban forestry. As people from all over the world live in Canadian cities, it was hypothesized that people with different cultural backgrounds would have different perceptions of the urban forest. This hypothesis was tested by (1) researching different landscaping traditions; (2) interviewing members of four different communities; and (3) conducting vegetation inventories. Inventory and interview data provided a consistent picture of the four communities. The British community reacted the most positively to shade trees. They also expressed the greatest willingness to plant shade trees, had the most shade trees per square meter on their properties, and were the only group that liked naturalized parks (hiking paths). The Chinese community showed less yard maintenance than the other communities, and many of the Chinese indicated that they did not want to add trees to their property. The Chinese responded more favorably than the other groups to photographs depicting landscapes free of trees. Italian and Portuguese communities emphasized fruit trees and vegetable gardens, and responded negatively toward shade trees when these were in conflict with their gardens. These cultural differences are largely consistent with the traditional use of trees in British, Mediterranean and Chinese landscaping, and appear to be maintained among North American immigrant populations.
Effects of Horticultural Oil and Foliaror Soil-Applied Systemic Insecticides on Euonymus Scale in Pachysandra
Authors: Sadof Clifford S. , Sclar D. Casey
Published: March 2022

The relative abilities of horticultural oil, acephate, and imidacloprid to control euonymus scale (Unaspis euonymi) throughout the canopy of Japanese pachysandra (Pachysandra terminalis) were compared. Distribution of scales and the level of parasitism were also determined. Horticultural oil gave the greatest level of control (99%) when applied in the dormant season followed by an application that targeted mobile stages of the insects during the summer. Summer applications of acephate gave good control (66%), while imidacloprid was not effective. Most of the live and parasitized scales were observed in the middle and basal portions of the plant canopy. Rates of parasitized scales never exceeded 25% in the control plots. Rates of parasitism were too low to distinguish differences among rates of parasitism in the 4 treatments.
Vegetation Management Along Transmission Utility Lines in the United States and Canada
Authors: Sulak Joseph A. , Kielbaso J. James
Published: March 2022

A survey investigating vegetation control methods along transmission rights-of-way was sent to 220 Utility Arborist Association companies. The survey contained questions regarding right-of-way characteristics, control methods used, total dollars spent on vegetation management, and priorities of the vegetation management program. The ROW area reported represented over 48% of all the investor-owned ROWs over 39 Kv in service throughout the United States. More than 75% of the respondents reported using herbicides on their rights-of-way. However, acres treated mechanically outnumbered those treated chemically by a margin of 2.7:1. Garlon 3A and Garlon 4 topped all herbicides, with a combined 220,574 projected gal (834,961 L) of the estimated 549,869 gal (2,081,474 L) of herbicide applied to transmission rights-of-way in 1995. It appears that quite low levels of active ingredients are being applied per acre. Basal, high-volume foliar, and low-volume foliar with a backpack or handgun applications accounted for approximately 75% of the acres of transmission ROWs treated with herbicides.
Growth and Morphology Differ Between Wind-Exposed Families ofSorbus aucuparia(L.)
Authors: Sæbø Arne , Johnsen Øystein
Published: March 2022

Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia), a small and decorative tree with widespread distribution throughout Norway and Europe, is well suited for growth on street verges, parks, and urban woodlands. With a better knowledge of the genetic variation of its important traits, good genotypes could be selected and the appearance of the trees thus improved. The objective of this study was to describe the variation in growth, morphology, and phenology of rowan between and within seed sources and at different wind exposures. Seeds were collected from 10 to 15 trees within each of six populations in a small area of 1,300 km2(500 mi2) along the southwestern coast of Norway. Three populations were wind-exposed and three were sheltered. From each of the 78 mother trees included, 30 half-siblings were planted in the field at the Særheim Research Centre (58.8°N, 5.5°E). Height growth, stem diameter, number of stems and branches, branch angle, and growth start and termination were recorded annually in five successive years. Large differences in most traits (estimated heritabilities varied from 0.14 to 1.0) were found among families within the stands. However, no important differences could be observed between progenies from wind-exposed trees and those from sheltered trees, and differences among stands were only minor. The results are discussed in relation to the climatic adaptation of rowan and how this plant material can be used in urban settings.
Assessing Residents' Willingness to Pay to Preserve the Community Urban Forest: A Small-City Case Study
Authors: Lorenzo Alfredo , Blanche Catalino , Qi Yadong , Guidry Malcolm
Published: March 2022

Residents' willingness to pay for community urban forest preservation was assessed using a survey questionnaire mailed to 3,009 households in the city of Mandeville, a suburb of New Orleans, Louisiana, United States. Survey responses indicated the following: 1) residents' willingness to pay for urban forest protection and preservation is positively associated with their perceptions of the benefits of trees but negatively associated with their perceptions of the annoying features of trees; 2) the willingness to pay a higher premium (>$12) for tree preservation and protection is directly related to income levels; 3) more female than male respondents are willing to pay $6 to $12 per year for tree preservation but more male than female respondents are willing to pay more than $12 per year for tree preservation; 4) age, level of education, and type of residential ownership are not significantly associated with willingness to pay for tree preservation and protection; 5) more than 80% of respondents view the protection and preservation of urban trees as very important functions of the city and are willing to pay additional taxes for tree protection and preservation; and 6) more than 88% of respondents rate the city's overall performance in tree protection and maintenance as good to excellent. The survey results may find utility in crafting more effective support programs for urban tree protection and preservation.
The Influence of Compaction and Soil Strength on the Establishment of Four Australian Landscape Trees
Authors: Smith Karen , May Peter , Moore Gregory
Published: March 2022

Two experiments were conducted to test the hypothesis that trees able to establish in urban soils will have a higher-than-average tolerance to the higher mechanical impedance and soil strength of compacted soils. Experiment 1 tested the ability of the roots of Corymbia metadata (spotted gum, syn. Eucalyptus maculata), Lophostetnon confertus (brush box), Corymbia ficijolia (red flowering gum, syn. Eucalyptus ficifolia), and Agonis flexuosa (willow myrtle) seedlings to penetrate a sandy loam soil compacted to bulk densities of 1.4 and 1.8 mg • m~3 at 13% gravimetric moisture content. While roots of all species were able to penetrate the soil at the higher bulk density, total root penetration depth was reduced by 60% in all four species. Experiment 2 tested the ability of Corymbia maculata and C. ficijolia to penetrate soil compacted at bulk densities 1.4, 1.6, and 1.8 mg • m~3 at two moisture levels, 7% and 10% gravimetric moisture. At 7% moisture, both species were able to penetrate soil compacted to 1.4 and 1.6 mg • rrr3, but neither species was able to successfully penetrate soil compacted to 1.8 mg • m"3. At 10% moisture, both species were able to penetrate soil compacted to 1.4 and 1.6 mg • m~3. They also were able to successfully penetrate soil compacted to 1.8 mg • nr3, although with significantly less depth of penetration than at the two lower bulk densities.
Carbon Storage by Utility-Compatible Trees
Authors: Johnson Andra D. , Gerhold Henry D.
Published: March 2022

Urban trees can favorably affect factors underlying global warming by storing carbon and by reducing energy needed for cooling and heating buildings. To estimate the amount of carbon stored by smaller types of urban trees, excluding leaves and roots, standardized measurements were taken to determine wood density, wood volume, and dry weight of selected samples ofAmelanchier, Malus, Pyrus calleryana, andSyringa reticulatacultivars. Wood density as defined by specific weight ranged from 0.53 to 0.64 g/cm3for all genera. Densities at two upper trunk positions were significantly different from those at the base. The wood density ofSyringa reticulatawas significantly less than the other genera. Regression analyses of wood weight based on height and diameter of trees up to 12 cm (4.7 in.) dbh indicated a linear relationship inAmelanchier, but curvilinear (not linear) equations explained more of the variation inMalusandPyrus. Smaller trees, those 2.3 to 4.9 cm dbh, typically stored between 2.1 and 2.3 kg of carbon in trunks and branches; trees between 5.0 and 7.9 cm stored between 8.4 and 15.1 kg, and trees larger than 8.0 cm up to 11.7 cm stored between 24.5 and 37.5 kg of carbon. The narrow-crownedPyrus calleryana‘Capital’ stored considerably lower amounts of carbon than the other Pyruscalleryanacultivars. These estimates may be increased by 22% to add carbon stored in roots, according to other studies.
Effect of Basement Sump Pump Effluent on the Growth and Physiology of Urban Black Ash and Green Ash Ornamental Trees
Authors: Lait Cameron G. , Saelim Suomal , Zwiazek Janusz J. , Zheng Yao
Published: March 2022

The effect of basement sump pump effluent discharge in proximity to boulevards and ornamental trees was studied at several sites near Edmonton, Alberta, Canada throughout the summer of 1996. The growth, leaf petiole water potentials, and gas exchange of black ash (Fraxinus nigra) and green ash (F. pennsylvanica) trees were measured at sites with and without nearby sump pump effluent discharge. Black ash trees had higher mortality, altered water relations, and significantly lower caliper increase at the site with sump pump effluent discharge compared to trees at the site without effluent discharge. Green ash trees situated away from sump pump effluent discharge had significantly greater caliper increase than trees situated near effluent discharge. Furthermore, salt injury symptoms were observed on both species of trees located at sites with nearby effluent discharge. Our results demonstrate the importance of monitoring sump pump effluent discharge and its effects on boulevard ornamental trees in areas where soils are poorly drained or contain high levels of salts. It is recommended that basement sump pump effluent discharge hoses should be positioned away from boulevards and ornamental trees.
Host Suitability of Asiatic Elm Species and Hybrids for Larvae and Adults of the Elm Leaf Beetle (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)
Authors: Miller Fredric , Ware George
Published: March 2022

Selected elms (Ulmus spp.) and their hybrids growing at The Morton Arboretum in Lisle, Illinois, U.S., were evaluated in no-choice larval and adult suitability laboratory bioassays for the elm leaf beetle, Pyrrhalta luteola Miiller. No-choice larval suitability studies revealed that the elm biotypes of U. davidiana X U.japonica, U. elongata, U. parvifolia, U. szechuanica, and U. 'Morton'-Accolade™ were the least suitable for larval development and pupation. Ulmus davidiana X U. japonica-wilsoniana-pumila, U. pumila (reference), U. lamellosa, U. macrocarpa, U. szechuanica X U. japonica, U. 'Morton Plainsman'-Vanguard™, and U. 'Morton Red Tip'-Danada Charm™ were more suitable for larval development and pupation. Similar low and high suitability rankings were also observed for adult beetles in no-choice studies reared from the larval suitability study. Larval development time and proportion of larvae reaching pupation appear to be good predictors of adult emergence. Larvae feeding on less suitable biotypes took longer to develop with a lesser proportion of adults emerging. The reverse is also true. Preovipositional period was found, in part, to be a function of suitability. Female longevity reflected suitability for the elms tested in this study. Ulmus pumila appears to be a major influence on both larval and adult host suitability. The least suitable elm biotypes, listed above, show promise for future elm breeding programs and for use in localities with acute and chronic elm leaf beetle populations.
Predictive Equations for Dimensions and Leaf Area of Coastal Southern California Street Trees
Authors: Peper Paula , McPherson E. Gregory , Mori Sylvia
Published: March 2022

Tree height, crown height, crown width, diameter at breast height (dbh), and leaf area were measured for 16 species of commonly planted street trees in the coastal southern California city of Santa Monica, USA. The randomly sampled trees were planted from 1 to 44 years ago. Using number of years after planting or dbh as explanatory variables, mean values of dbh, tree height, crown width, and leaf area responses were modeled using two equations. There is strong correlation (adjusted R2 > 0.70) between dbh as a function of number of years after planting, and total height, crown diameter, and leaf area as a function of dbh. Correlation is weaker between measures of crown height and dbh. This is probably due to crown pruning increasing the variability among measurements for trees having the same or similar dbh. Equations for less-intensively pruned species displayed adjusted R2 greater than 0.70. Equations are presented for predicting dimensions and leaf area and applied to compare tree sizes and growth for all species 15 and 30 years after planting.
Measurement of the Salinity and Freezing Tolerance of Crataegus Genotypes Using Chlorophyll Fluorescence
Authors: Percival Glynn , Fraser Gillian
Published: March 2022

The effect of increasing salinity and freezing stress singly and in combination on a range of chlorophyll fluorescence parameters in foliar tissue of six Crataegus genotypes was examined. In general, increased stress reduced fluorescence values and absorption, trapping and electron transport energy fluxes per leaf reaction center and cross section, with decreased sigmoidicity of OJIP curves as a measure of the plastoquinone pool, reflecting decreased energy fluxes. Based on percentage reduction in a performance index from controls compared to stress-treated values, plants were ranked in order of tolerant > intermediate > sensitive. Use of this Pip ranking criteria enabled the distinguishing of marked differences in foliar salt/freezing hardiness between the Crataegus species used. Interpretation of the photochemical data showed that salinity and freezing affects both the acceptor and donor side of Photosystem II, while OJIP observations provided information regarding structural and functional changes in the leaf photosynthetic apparatus of the test species. It is concluded that chlorophyll fluorescence offers a rapid screening technique for assessing foliar salinity and freezing tolerance of woody perennials.
A Study Of CTLA Formula Values
Authors: Watson Gary
Published: March 2022

Appraisal records dating from 1980 to 1995 were acquired from 51 casualty loss appraisers (usually for privately owned trees) and 24 municipal inventories (primarily for street trees). The final database consisted of 3,966 casualty loss appraisals and 129,880 inventory appraisals. The data from this study were used to develop a reference table of tree appraisal values grouped by size and species classes. The table does not eliminate the need to use the formula, but it does provide an individual an opportunity to compare his or her appraised values to values of similar trees. Appraised values of inventory trees were significantly higher (P< 0.001) than values of casualty loss trees. The difference is partially explained by larger size and higher location rating of inventory trees. The average condition of all the trees appraised was rated as fair.
Bioprospecting autochthonous marine microalgae strain from the Arabian Gulf Seawater, Kuwait for biofuel feedstocks
Authors:   Biological Sciences Department, Kuwait University, Kuwait, Al-Hamar Bader , R Inbamani Anandavalli. ,   Biological Sciences Department, Kuwait University, Kuwait, Komona Saad A. ,   Chemistry Department, Kuwait University,  Kuwait, Fouzi Mouffouk ,   Chemistry Department, Kuwait University,  Kuwait, Ben-Hamadou Radhouane ,   Department of Biological & Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar, Pereira Hugo ,   Centre of Marine Sciences, CCMAR, University of Algarve, Faro 8005-139, Portugal, Bumajdad Ali ,   Chemistry Department, Kuwait University,  Kuwait
Published: March 2022

Bioprospecting programmes are the key to increasing the current portfolio of indigenous microalgal strains accessible for different applications in microalgal biotechnology. In this work, nine fastgrowing microalgal strains isolated from the Arabian/Persian Gulf coastal waters of Kuwait were evaluated for their potential as biofuel feedstocks. 18S rRNA gene sequencing showed that the strains belong to five different genera, namely, Chlorella, Nannochloris, Scenedesmus, Tetraselmis, and Nannochloropsis. In terms of the total lipid content, in comparison to the other strains, Tetraselmis sp. KUBS13G and Tetraselmis sp. KUBS16G displayed higher lipid contents of 29.56% dry weight (DW) and 26.13% DW, respectively, which were dominated by palmitic and oleic acids. Fuel properties calculated from the fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) by empirical equations were compared with EN14214 (European) and ASTM D6751-−02 (American) biodiesel standards. Multicriteria decision analysis (MCDA) methods, such as the Preference Ranking Organization Method for Enrichment Evaluation (PROMETHEE) and Graphical Analysis for Interactive Assistance (GAIA), were used to select suitable microalgae for biofuel feedstock based on their biodiesel fuel properties. Overall, the results suggested that the indigenous microalgal strain Tetraselmis, in particular Tetraselmis sp. KUBS37G, and Scenedesmus sp. KUBS17R are the most suitable strains for biofuel feedstock owing to their improved fuel properties, such as density (ρ) (0.88 g cm−3), low kinematic viscosity (3.1 mm2 s−1), high cetane number (54 and 56, respectively), high oxidation stability (14.6 hr and 14.8 hr), and cold-filter plugging point (1.0°C and -6.1°C).
Involvement of miR-3648 mediated APC2 1 dysregulation in early onset and breast cancer progression
Authors:   Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Park Road, Tarlai Kalan, 45550, 7 Islamabad, Pakistan, Batool Mehwish , Qadir Javeria ,   Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Park Road, Tarlai Kalan, 45550, 7 Islamabad, Pakistan, Shan Misbah ,   Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Park Road, Tarlai Kalan, 45550, 7 Islamabad, Pakistan, Li Feiya ,   Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, ON- Canada., Malik Faraz A. ,   Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Park Road, Tarlai Kalan, 45550, 7 Islamabad, Pakistan, Awan Hassaan M. ,   Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Park Road, Tarlai Kalan, 45550, 7 Islamabad, Pakistan
Published: March 2022

Multiple cancers arise due to aberrations in the Wnt signaling pathway. Several miRNAs modulate the integral components of the wingless integrated (Wnt) signaling pathway. miR-3648 is a human-specific miRNAs that is of particular interest due to its minimal off-targeting effect. In this study, we investigated the expression of miR-3648 and APC2 in breast cancer patients of Pakistan. Correlations of miR-3648 and APC2 expression with clinico-pathological features and breast cancer subtypes were observed in tissue samples by means of quantitative real time PCR. Our results showed that miR-3648 was relatively downregulated in Luminal A subtype, with corresponding upregulation of APC2 in these patients. Moreover, the transcript levels of both miR-3648 and APC2 were found to be inversely regulated in breast cancer women presented with early disease onset, pre-menopause, low tumor grade, early clinical stage, absence of nodal invasion and metastasis, further suggesting the molecular interplay of these molecules in breast cancer development and progression.
Racism And Homosexuality: A Scrutiny Of James Baldwin’s Select Novels
Authors:   Department of English Thiruvalluvar University Serkkadu, Vellore 632 115 Tamil Nadu, India., Sundaramoorthy K.
Published: March 2022

James Baldwin was a novelist and social critic from the United States of America. He was an illegitimate black child. With his works, however, he became a well-known writer in bisexual and LGBT African American literature. Go Tell It on the Mountain, Another Country, Giovanni’s Room, Tell Me How Long the Train Been Gone, Just Above My Head, and If Beale Street Could Talk are among Baldwin’s best-known works. This research article aims to demonstrate how homosexuality is shown in James Baldwin’s works. In the first novel, Baldwin carefully investigated and camouflaged the homosexual issue through John, who was searching for his identity, whereas homosexuality was clearly presented in Giovanni’s Room. Because of the success of Giovanni’s Room as a gay and white novel, Baldwin decided to make homosexuality the central focus of his succeeding works. As a result, Baldwin paved the way for the next generation of homosexual authors to research and discusses LGBT themes in his writings. Journal of University of Shanghai for Science and Technology ISSN: 1007-6735 Volume
Analysis of Process Parameters of Plasma Arc Cutting Using Design of Experiment
Authors:   Mechanical Engineering department, Azad Institute of Engineering & Technology Lucknow, India., Vatsal Kaushik Surya
Published: March 2022

In last forty years there is tremendous research in machining and development in technology. With increase in competition in market and to attain high accuracy now a days the nonconventional machining are become lifeline of any industry. One of the most important non conventional machining methods is Plasma Arc Machining. Its high accuracy, finishing, ability of machining any hard materials and to produce intricate shape increases its demand in market. In thesis work literature has been studied in context to parametric optimization of Plasma Arc Cutting Machine. In order to attain target and optimum results, Taguchi method employed. The appropriate orthogonal array has been selected as per number of factors and there levels to perform minimum experimentation. The work pieces of Stainless Steel (316 L) materials were used for experiment purpose. The optimum value has been determined with the help of main effect plot and ANOVA table. The Regression equation for MRR and Surface Roughness (Ra) has been developed with the help of Minitab 15 Software. Confirmation test have done to confirm the value estimated through the software. The Confirmation for MRR run was done by using the setting of 5.0 bar (Gas pressure), 150 A (Current flow rate), 600 mm/min (cutting speed) and 4.0 mm (arc gap). The optimum parameter level for Surface Roughness are 6.0 Bar (Gas Pressure), 150 A (Current), 400 mm/min (Cutting Speed) and 2 mm (Arc Gap). Experimental results are provided to confirm the effectiveness of this approach. After the confirmation the MRR value was 0.8331g/sec and Ra2.635μm.Errorwithin1 0 % was allowed.
Enhancing Second Language Learning Through Cognitive And Affective Domains
Authors:   Department of English and Other Foreign languages SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Ramapuram, Chennai., Sangeethapriya Dr. S.
Published: March 2022

Education is the instrument of change. Change requires learning. Education is about learning to learn, relearn and unlearn. In this era of technical proliferation, a language teacher needs to use at least one technical device to enhance the learning. Amydale is said to be the seat of emotions. The role of Amydale in Language Learning and Teaching is realized by the second language experts of late. A SL learner can get intrinsic motivation with the help of affective teaching along with online classroom teaching. This generally kindles his curiosity and at the same time reduces his stress. Hence, it is recommended in his covid era.
The relative effectiveness of three full kinetic chain treatment protocols for osteoarthritis of the knee : manual therapy, rehabilitation and a combination thereof
Authors:   , Dwyer Lauren
Published: March 2022

Background : Many treatment options provide symptomatic improvement of joint function for osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. Research suggests full kinetic chain (FKC) manual and manipulative therapy (MMT) and rehabilitation yields greater benefits than home rehabilitation alone. However this treatment combination has never been compared against FKC MMT alone. Objectives : Objectives: To determine the effectiveness of three FKC treatment protocols in the management of knee OA. Method : A single-blinded, randomised comparative trial of sixty-six patients with knee OA, equally allocated to three treatment groups: manipulation only, rehabilitation only or manipulation plus rehabilitation (a.k.a. combination group). Manipulation groups received bi-weekly FKC treatment, while a daily at-home stretching and exercise programme was prescribed to the groups receiving rehabilitation. Treatment lasted three weeks, with outcomes measure taken at baseline, pre-visit 4 and 1-week follow up. Primary outcome measures included the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), and McMaster Overall Therapeutic Effectiveness (OTE) Tool. Results : There was a drop-out rate of 7.6% (n=5), with intent to treat analysis providing the missing data. All three treatment groups showed clinically and statistically significant changes in overall WOMAC scores from baseline to 1-week follow up. The combination group showed the largest improvement (50.5%), followed by manipulation (44.4%) and rehabilitation (33.6%). However, this difference between group improvement was not statistically significant (p= 0.156). Conclusion : All three intervention protocols showed statistically significant improvement in most outcome measures at 1-week follow-up. However, there was no statistically significant difference between groups and therefore it is concluded that the interventions appear to be equally effective in the short-term management of knee OA.
Mitigating Electrostatic Effects on Measurement Accuracy
Authors:   NRD LLC, Gumkowski Greg , Steinman Arnold ,   Electronics Workshop
Published: March 2022

Electrostatic charge can have unwanted effects on the accuracy of instruments making precision weighing measurements. This paper will discuss electrostatic phenomena and their interaction with weighing operations. Charge is generated primarily by the contact and separation of dissimilar materials. If one of the materials is a conductor, charge can be quickly removed or even prevented by connecting the material to ground. In most cases, however, at least one of the materials will be an insulator or an isolated conductor. As contact and separation occurs throughout the weighing process, the materials involved are almost certain to be charged. A charged insulator is also capable of inducing charge on nearby isolated conductors. Examples of materials that may be charged include samples, transport media, and parts of weighing equipment or their enclosures. Once generated, the static charge affects both the instruments and the materials being weighed. Electrostatic forces interact directly with the mechanisms of weighing machines, making precise measurements in the microgram range all but impossible. Electrostatic forces of attraction and repulsion affect light weight sample materials, causing unwanted movement and losses during transfers, as well as the movement and clinging of unwanted particles to measurement surfaces. Measurement problems caused by static charge are not limited to weighing applications. Whenever small physical quantities or objects need to be measured, electrostatic forces can cause errors or unwanted movement of the object being measured. This is true for atomic force microscopes, force and mass measurements, and electrochemical measurements. Mitigation methods for static charge are well known in the electronics industry, as it is imperative to protect sensitive integrated circuits from the effects of static charge, both during manufacture and use. Grounding of conductive materials, replacing insulators with dissipative materials, and air ionization are the primary static control methods. Air ionization is of particular importance in weighing operations as equipment parts, samples or transport media are often insulators or isolated conductors. This paper discusses how static control may be applied in precision weighing operations, both in the equipment and in sample transport, to remove static charge and improve the accuracy and repeatability of measurements.
Measurement of Oscilloscopes Bandwidth
Authors:   Agilent Technologies Microwave Products (Malaysia), Jian Ling Kok
Published: March 2022

Bandwidth measurement of a 63 GHz real-time bandwidth oscilloscope requires a new set of equipment with high frequency capability. The new measurement system setup requires thorough system validation, software development and validation, and measurement uncertainty evaluation. The substitution measurement method is applied in the bandwidth measurement by using a resistive power splitter to deliver an RF signal to two measurement arms. Both of the measurement arms are characterized by two power sensors to obtain the corrective factor for the tracking error of the splitter. The power sensor from one of the measurement arms is then replaced by the oscilloscope input to perform the bandwidth measurement. Uncertainty for mismatch and power sensor calibration factor are the major uncertainty contributors. The measurement uncertainty is evaluated and improved to an optimum value to minimize false reject risk.