bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Moscow and Saint Petersburg Censuses at the Turn of the 20th Century as Sources for Labor History Studies
Authors: Shchinova Anastasia Kirillovna
Published: May 2021

The article studies urban censuses taken in Moscow and Saint Petersburg at the turn of the 20th century as important sources for labor history studies (a cross-disciplinary field of research). The article addresses aggregated data of urban censuses taken in Saint Petersburg in 1881, 1890, 1900 and 1910 and in Moscow in 1882, 1902 and 1912 which provide occupational data. The research subject is the structural content of census occupational tables. When analyzing Moscow and Saint Petersburg censuses, the comparative-historical method is used to identify similar and unique data of historical sources. Despite numerous studies carried out by Russian and foreign scholars addressing pre-revolutionary censuses, one of the aspects of the sources (that is temporal occupational distribution of males and females in Moscow and Saint Petersburg) is still poorly studied. The article briefly describes the creation of each census, analyzes the way occupational data were registered and shows changes in the census program of Saint Petersburg and Moscow from 1881 to 1912. One can see different formation of Moscow occupational groups. Whereas an industry branch prevailed in 1882, social status of the worker dominated 1902 and 1912 censuses. In Saint Petersburg the distribution was related to an industry branch accompanied by a production status. The author considers census structure studies important for comparing temporal data and further analysis of labor activity in Moscow and Saint Petersburg presented in the sources understudy.   
Evolution of Fighter Aircrafts in the interwar Years: Cluster Analysis in History of Engineering
Authors: Kuzmin Yury Viktorovich
Published: May 2021

The article carries out cluster analysis of piston-engine fighters designed between 1920 and 1944 and takes into account more than 500 modifications of aircrafts that were serially manufactured in 18 countries. The author divides the period understudy into five-year segments and studies designs as far as such parameters as maximum speed, wing load and power load are concerned. Correlations of these variables are considered as well and special attention is paid to the correct distance determination. The article demonstrates dynamics of the main fighter characteristics between the world wars. It was found out that the main factor in the growth of fighter speed in 1920-1944 was the wing load related to modernization of profiles, quality and mechanization of the wing rather than growth of engine power of aircrafts. One can see repeating models of development in each period. These are a “power” approach that used new technologies “straightforwardly”, for instance, by totally increasing power loading, and a complex approach that provided for much better results. The author has revealed the leadership of the British aerodynamic school in 1920-1940 and has numerically demonstrated the change in the focus of the US design school from a "powerful engine - light aircraft" method to a "perfect aerodynamics - long flight range" method. He has shown the place of the Soviet design school as well. It has been found out that the last (during this period) sharp increase of wing load was not performed in the USSR and Japan. This led to rather low speed of fighters in these countries during the Second World War. The author discusses the reasons for this as well.
What is Digital History after all?
Authors: Vladimirov Vladimir
Published: May 2021

The article summarizes the author’s report at a discussion organized by the editorial board of the Istoricheskaya Informatika journal that addressed the book “What is Digital History?” by Salmi H. published in 2020. The book is named a manual for students thus justifying the opinion to consider the material presented to readers as representing a set of the most established positions and opinions in the field of digital history. The book discusses such issues as the time of digital history birth, its definition, subject field, functions as well as the importance for the widespread dissemination of historical knowledge in society. The author criticizes the concept of prerequisites for digital history birth outlined by H. Salmi which completely ignores the History and Computing movement in Western Europe and North America which played an important role in the formation of Russian historical information science and which was the discussion panel where many digital history issues were raised and resolved. The structure of the book is discussed as well. The article emphasizes the author's viewpoint on the importance of geographic information systems and technologies for historical research which he clearly underestimates. It is concluded that historical information science and digital history are different spheres of interdisciplinarity.
Digital History, Digital Historical Sources and Criticism: Review of “What is Digital History?”by Hannu Salmi
Authors: Povroznik Nadezhda
Published: May 2021

The article is a review of the book “What is Digital History?” by Salmi H. which discusses digital history, a new field in history, and defines its framework. The review considers a range of issues related to digital sources, their typology, approaches to the formation of the source base and their criticism. The article analyzes the author’s attitude to digitized historical sources based on original analogous sources and born-digital ones as well as methods of their processing used by contemporary historians. These aspects have a direct impact on present day historical research and must be taken into account by historians. The review also addresses the author's views on epistemology and hermeneutics which are increasingly important in the digital age.  The topics named are unevenly distributed in the book. Sources of a new type are considered in detail in the chapter “The Digital Past: Sources and Problems”. Other issues are studied in the rest of chapters and in less detail. The review is complemented with examples of other projects and modern publications that were not included in the text of the reviewed book, but are essential for the topic as a whole.
Discussion Club of Istoricheskaya Informatika Journal. Discussing the Book “What is Digital History?” by Hannu Salmi
Authors: Volodin Andrey
Published: May 2021

This article reports about the new initiative of the Historical Information Science Journal editorial board aimed at creating a discussion club to review topical monographs. The journal today covers many fields of history digitization such as historical information science, digital history, digital humanities. The first discussion of the club addresses the book by the Finnish Science Academy professor Hannu Salmi titled “What is Digital History?” (Medford: PolityPress, 2020). The first club meeting was attended by L.I. Borodkin, V.N. Vladimirov, I.M. Garskova, N.G. Povroznik and moderated by A.Yu. Volodin. The article briefly characterizes the series the reviewed book is a part of. Those are “What is history?” series by Polity publishing house. The author describes the monograph structure in general and analyzes new historiographic examples provided by H. Salmi which relate to digital history discussions and issues which are characterized by numerous approaches, opinions and projects. Considering the writer’s definition of digital history as a “mobile layer of historical research with multiple approaches, projects, publications, services and sources” the author concludes that this field can hardly be precisely defined nowadays. This is true of the experimental character of the majority of projects within this sphere.
Formation of the “New” USSR Food Industry Worker in 1928-1937. Comparative Content Analysis of Branch and General Circulation Periodicals
Authors: Soloshchenko Natalia
Published: May 2021

The article discusses the developing of correct methodological approaches to compare the content of the USSR food industry branch and general circulation newspapers related to the formation of the “new worker” in 1925-1937.  Analyzing branch newspaper “Pishchevik” (“Za pishchevuyu industriyu”, “Pishchevaya industriya”) and general circulation newspapers “Babaevets” (Babaev confectionery factory), “Nasha Pravda” (Krasnyi Oktyabr' confectionery factory) and “Za Boievye Tempy” (Rot Front confectionery factory) by means of MAXQDA program, the author concludes about the equal focus of these newspapers on the formation of the “new worker” who was expected to fulfill the tasks to develop food industry and industrialize the USSR. The "new worker" of general circulation papers is a young lady striving to become a competent and full-fledged participant in production processes, social and party life. The branch newspaper of food industry portrayed the youth, production leaders, shock workers, Stakhanovites and Komsomol members as the "new worker". Differences in the main features of the "new worker’s" image between the branch and general circulation periodicals tell us about the specific feature of the target audience of these periodicals. The confectionary factories were dominated by females whereas males were prevalent in food industry as a whole.
Scheme of directly measuring quantum density matrix by δ-quench method
Authors: Wen Yong-Li , Zhang Shan-Chao , Yan Hui , Zhu Shi-Liang ,   National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures, School of Physics, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China,   Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Quantum Engineering and Quantum Materials, School of Physics and Telecommunication Engineering, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China,   Frontier Research Institute for Physics, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Quantum Matter,  South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
Published: May 2021

Density matrix, which characterizes a quantum state, plays an important role in quantum mechanics. Recently, a method which can directly measure the elements of a density matrix was proposed. Compared with the conventional quantum state tomography which is widely used to reconstruct the density matrix, this measurement method has the advantages of directness and simplicity. However, this direct measurement method relies on an extra pointer space. The addition of this extra pointer can increase the complexity of an experiment. In this paper, we first review previous work on direct measurement, then we propose a scheme to directly measure the density matrix based on δ-quench, which is also a direct measurement method but needs no additional pointer. This proposal reduces the complexity of the measuring system and further simplifies the measurement. We propose two schemes to realize this δ-quench measurement, then analyse their superiorities in different situations of measurement. An experiment to measure photon's density matrix is also designed.
Relationship Between the of Type of Accessory Navicular Bone and Radiological Parameters of the Foot
Authors: Bayram Serkan , Kara Mustafa
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND:In this study, we evaluated to the relationship between the type of accessory navicular bone (ANB) and radiological parameters of foot in patients with bilateral ANB of different types. METHODS:Patients with bilateral ANB of different types participated in this study, from May 2019 to April 2020. Patient data, including age, sex, body mass index (BMI), and presence of symptoms were obtained. We aimed to compare the radiological parameters of both the feet for evaluate the differences from one another in patients with bilateral ANB of different types (one side type 1 and contralateral side type 2) because the foot angles may differ in each person. Seven radiographic parameters were measured, including calcaneal pitch angle, talocalcaneal angle, tibiocalcaneal angle, naviculocuboid overlap, talonavicular coverage angle, anteroposterior talo-first metatarsal angle, and the lateral talo-first metatarsal angle, which evaluated hindfoot, midfoot, and forefoot alignment. RESULTS: Twenty patients (13 women and 7 men) with a mean age (and standard deviation) of 38.5 {plus minus} 12.3 years were included in the study. The patients had a mean height of 168.1 {plus minus} 7.1 cm, a mean weight of 77.2 {plus minus} 10.5 kg, and a mean BMI of 27.4 {plus minus} 4.3 kg/m2. There was no significant difference between type 1 and type 2 in all radiological parameters. There was no significant correlation between radiological parameters and age, BMI, or the presence of symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: We found that the type of ANB had no effect on the radiological measurements of the foot in which we evaluate the parameters patients with bilateral ANB of different types. Additionally, age, BMI, and the presence of symptoms, also demonstrated no correlation with the radiological parameters of the foot.
Fermentation and Extrusion effects on Nutritional and Organoleptic Compositions of Unripe Plantain and Pigeon Pea Blends
Authors: Orekoya Elias Similoluwa , Ojokoh Anthony Okhonlaye , Arogunjo Ayodele Openla , Aribisala Jamiu Olaseni , Gabriel Paul Oladimeji , Ajayi-Moses Oluwatayo
Published: May 2021

This research investigated effects of fermentation and extrusion on unripe plantain and pigeon pea blends. The samples were blended and prepared in three combinations (A=100g unripe plantain; B= 70g unripe plantain: 30g pigeon pea; C= 50g unripe plantain: 50g pigeon pea) and sectioned into four group (i.e. group 1 = preconditioned and fermented; group 2 = extruded; group three = fermented and extruded; and group 4 = unfermented/unextruded). Semi-solid state fermentation method was employed to ferment the blended samples for 96 hours. The physicochemical parameters (i.e pH, temperature and total titratable acidity) of these fermented samples were evaluated. The total microbial counts include; 9 bacteria, 2 yeasts and 4 molds were isolated and identified as; Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus, Micrococcus luteus, Staphylococcus aureus, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus fermentum, Leuconostoc mesenteroides, Lactobacillus mali, Streptococcus lactis, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Candida utilis, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus candidus, and Mucor hiemalis. There were significant variations in the values of pH and total titratable acidity (TTA) during fermentation. This was also same for the proximate contents of the fermented and extruded flour blends when contrasted with the raw flour blends. The fermented unextruded group 1 (11.73±0.01%) has the highest moisture contents and least in the raw sample B (6.34±0.00%). The raw flour blends protein content increased from 2.57±0.03 to 10.17±0.00% and from 2.58±0.02 to 16.27±0.01% in the fermented extruded blends. The carbohydrate content in the raw flour blends was highest (67.97±0.02 to 74.32±0.00%) and least in fermented unextruded samples (38.28±0.01 to 62.72±0.01%). The fat content was highest in the fermented unextruded blends (2.52±0.01 to 6.33±0.00%) and least in raw blends (1.33±0.02 to 2.01±0.02%). The sensory evaluation of the samples showed a good preference for fermented-extruded samples. Findings from this research have established that fermented and extruded unripe plantain and pigeon pea blend enhanced nutritional value of food.
Response of Some Soyabean Genotypes to Spraying with Potassium Silicate and Its effect on Yield and its Components, as Well as on Pod Worm Infestation Rate
Authors: Abdallah Nagat G. , Nagib S. R. , Ibrahim Hoda E. A.
Published: May 2021

A field experiments were conducted at Mallawy Agric. station, (latitude of 28 N, longitude of 30 E and altitude of 49 m above sea level), El-Minia Governorate, Egypt, during two successive growing seasons (2019 /2020) to study the effect of different concentrations of potassium silicate (P.Si), 0,3,6 and 9cm3/L foliar spray, under four soyabean genotypes, i.e. Giza 111, Giza22, Line3(H3L119 selected from Giza82) and Line7(H4L130 selected from Giza83) on yield ,its attributes and seed chemical analysis as well as pod warm infestation. The results indicated that, in both seasons foliar spraying of potassium silicate had highly significant effect on all studied character except seed index (S.I.). The concentration (6 cm3/L.) gave the highest values of seed yield (S.Y./F.) at 31.8 and 31.2% in the two seasons, respectively, as compared to control, as well as decreased the pod worm infestation (P.W.%) by 64.85% average both seasons. In the other hand Giza 22 surpassed the other genotypes regarding most characters, also the interaction between potassium silicate and soyabean genotypes had significant effect for all studied traits in both seasons, except seed weight/plant(S.W.) in the first season, the best values for all traits were obtained by foliar spraying of potassium silicate(6 cm3/L.) with Giza 22, furthermore the interaction ships among seed yield and its attributes through simple correlation( r) and regression(b) analysis were evaluated. Regarding correlation coefficients the seed yield was positively and significantly correlated with number of seeds /plant (No.S/P), number of pods plant-1 (No.p/p), Seed weight/ plant and seed index A strong correlation of seed yield with these traits indicated that, simultaneous improvement of these traits is possible. These findings indicate that selection for each of number of seeds plant-1, number of pods plant-1, seed weight/ plant and 1000-seed weight would be accompanied by high yielding ability under such conditions. Also, the seed yield was positively and significantly correlated with quantity traits Protein percent, oil percent, chlorophyl a (chl,a) + b (chl,b) and carotin(crt.), using silicon may be involved in cell elongation and/or cell division. negative and significant correlations were observed between seed yield (ton/fed.) and each of Infestation pods (P.W.%) and seeds (S.W.%) with pod worm percent. Decrease in these traits will ultimately Increase the seed yield. Regression procedure indicated that 6cm3/L. of potassium silicate gave the highest yield and yield components and reduce the pod worm infestation.
International Tourism and Economic Growth in Zimbabwe: An ARDL - Bounds Testing Approach
Authors: Nyoni Thabani , Mose Naftaly , Thomi John
Published: May 2021

This study investigated the effect of international tourism development on economic growth in Zimbabwe, using time series data spanning over the period 1980 to 2017. The main aim of the study was to examine whether international tourism is a pathway to economic recovery in Zimbabwe. The study adopted the tourism growth model proposed by Balaguer and Cantavella-Jorda [1] and applied the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) bounds testing approach and its associated Error Correction Model (ECM). The direction of causality between international tourism and economic growth was examined using the Granger causality test in an error correction framework. The findings of the study show that the Tourism-led Growth Hypothesis (TLGH) is valid both in the short-run and long-run while the Economic-Driven Tourism Growth Hypothesis (EDTGH) is valid in the long-run only. This implies that the resource allocation strategy for the Government of Zimbabwe should prioritize both international tourism and economic expansion. The study, therefore, recommends that the Government of Zimbabwe should allocate resources towards supporting the tourism sector to stimulate economic growth in the country. On the other hand, the study, guided by the validity of the EDTGH in the long run, suggests that the Government of Zimbabwe should also consider allocating resources to other sectors currently driving the economy, for example, the agriculture and manufacturing sectors; as this will stimulate economic expansion in the long run.
A Note on Estimating Unreported Sample Statistics for Meta-Analysis
Authors: Eisenhauer Joseph G.
Published: May 2021

A major challenge confronting meta-analysts seeking to synthesize existing empirical research on a given topic is the frequent failure of primary studies to fully report their sample statistics.  Because such research cannot be included in a meta-analysis unless the unreported statistics can somehow be recovered, a number of methods have been devised to estimate the sample mean and standard deviation from other quantities.  This note compares several recently proposed sets of estimators that rely on extrema and/or quartiles to estimate unreported statistics for any given sample.  The simplest method relies on an underlying model of normality, while the more complex methods are explicitly designed to accommodate non-normality.  Our empirical comparison uses a previously developed data set containing 58 samples, ranging in size from 48 to 2,528 observations, from a standard depression screening instrument, the nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9).  When only the median and extrema are known, we find that the estimation method based on normality yields the most accurate estimates of both the mean and standard deviation, despite the existence of asymmetry throughout the data set; and when other information is given, the normality-based estimators have accuracy comparable to that of the other estimators reviewed here.  Additionally, if the sample size is unknown, the method based on normality is the only feasible approach.  The simplicity of the normality-based approach provides an added convenience for practitioners.
Evaluation of the Behavior of Cashew Genotypes against Anthracnose Disease Aggression in Agroforestry Farms in Northern Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Guy Brou Kouassi , Dabé Doga , Nafan Diarrassouba , Franck Oro Zokou , François N’goran Yao Claude , Nazaire Kouassi Koffi II , Odette Dogbo Denezon
Published: May 2021

As in all cashew producing areas, anthracnose causes enormous production losses in cashew agroforestry farms in Côte d'Ivoire. To overcome this problem, the use of anthracnose-resilient production plant material in cashew forest agrosystems is becoming a necessity for sustainable development. Thus, this study was carried out with the aim of evaluating the behavior of genotypes of cashew trees cultivated in peasant agroforestry systems in the north of Côte d'Ivoire. To do this, peasant agroforestry cashew orchards were prospected, cashew trees were marked, codified and geolocated. The incidence and severity of anthracnose were then assessed on the marked and geotagged cashew leaves, twigs, inflorescences and fruits. Descriptive analysis of the incidence and severity data revealed that more than 50% of the genotypes studied are resilient to anthracnose with an incidence on nuts in the order of 0.00 ± 5.75%. The ACP explained 52.96% of the total variability observed with the first two axes. The CAH made it possible to structure these genotypes into four groups. MANOVA showed that genotypes in groups 2 and 4 exhibited traits of resilience against anthracnose disease. Group 2 was characterized by a relative absence of disease in the fruits (0.00 ±0.00) and by very severe infections in the twigs (88.19 ± 2.98). Groups 4 were differentiated by low fruit infections (1.32±0.32) and low incidence on fruits (2.17±1.09). These results should help promote the agroecological management of anthracnose disease, enhance and intensify agroforestry practices in Côte d'Ivoire.
Effect of Pre and Post Infection Administration of Zinc and Selenium on some Biochemical indices in Wistar Rats infected with Trypanosoma brucei
Authors: Tese Timothy , Anigo Kola Matthew , Jonah Alice Onyeche , Kugama Meshack Anthony , Andrew Tinok , Ibrahim Janet Larai , Arumona Raymond , Chinten William Denbon Genesis
Published: May 2021

Aims: The effect of pre and post-infection administration of zinc and selenium on Trypanosoma brucei brucei infection in wistar rats on some biochemical parameters were investigated.

Study Design:  The study was designed to evaluate the effect of pre and post infection administration of zinc and selenium on Trypanosoma brucei brucei infection in wistar rats.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the Nigerian Institute for Trypanosomiasis Research (NITR), Kaduna and Department of Biochemistry, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, between January 2014 to March 2014.

Methodology: Fifty four (54) wistar rats were divided into nine groups of six (6) rats each. Groups III-IX were infected intraperitoneally with 1x103parasite load. Animals in group III were                       infected but untreated while the infected/treated groups received prophylactic (IV, V and VI) and therapeutic (VII, VIII and IX) treatment with zinc and selenium 50mg/kg and 10mg/kg body weight respectively.

Results: Results obtained showed that serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine amino transferase (ALT) and aspartate amino transferase (AST) activities in the infected-untreated control group were significantly different (P<0.05) and higher as compared to infected treated and normal control. Similarly, the two minerals significantly decreased (P<0.05) the levels of Urea and Creatinine in the infected treated when compared to the infected untreated rats, with the exception of creatinine value of the post-infected treated with selenium where there was no significant (P>0.05) decrease. On the other hand, a significant (P<0.05) increase in serum levels of total Protein, albumin and total bilirubin and no significant (P>0.05) difference in direct bilirubin was recorded in infected treated group compared to infected untreated and normal control.

Conclusion: It was concluded that administration of zinc and selenium ameliorate the infection-induced biochemical changes in tissues and organs associated with Trypanosoma brucei brucei infection in Wistar rats.
Site-specific Crop Nutrient Management for Precision Agriculture – A Review
Authors: Gorai Tapan , Yadav Pankaj Kumar , Choudhary Gopal Lal , Kumar Anil
Published: May 2021

Present irrational crop and nutrient management practices have raised several concerns of high merit. The concerns include low factor productivity or nutrient use efficiency (NUE), declining crop productivity, farmer’s profitability, impaired soil health and ecological contamination. Site-specific nutrient management (SSNM), after considering indigenous nutrient supplying capacity of soil using plant and soil analysis, can feed the crop in synchrony with its nutrient requirement in different physiological growth stages. Besides, several modern geospatial techniques viz. remote sensing techniques, geographic information system (GIS), global positioning system (GPS), proximal sensing; information and communication technologies (ICTs) including decision support system, smartphone apps and web services can also assist in diagnosis of soil and crop nutrient status, fertilizer recommendation and its dissemination to users. Optical and thermal remote sensing can effectively detect crop stress including nitrogen (N) deficiency through several vegetation indices especially normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). GIS techniques with spatial data acquired by GPS, can create spatial variability map and management zone (MZ) for precise farm operations including variable rate fertilization. Proximal crop sensors viz. chlorophyll meter and Green Seeker can also recognize crop nitrogen status and promote fertilizer N use efficiency by synchronizing fertilizer N supply with crop requirement. Even proximal soil sensing using electromagnetic radiation and contact electrode can estimate soil properties like soil pH, electrical conductivity, major and micronutrient content. Several decision support systems such as QUEFTS based model, crop manager, nutrient expert® and smartphone apps like ‘crop doctor’ can suggest for precise application of agro-inputs to rural youths and farmers. Yield monitoring and mapping tool can generate historical GIS database for spatial variability of crop yield under farmers’ crop management practices and assessment of nutrient uptake. Variable rate machinery based on variability map and sensor technologies can also be used for fertilization under different management zones. Therefore, SSNM technologies can enhance NUE; improve and sustain crop productivity, profitability; avoid nutrient wastage; maintain good soil health and environmental safety.
Effect of Integrated Use of Organic Manures and Chemical Fertilizers under Soil Test Crop Response Approach on Soil Properties and Yield of Maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Pandey Varsha , Srivastava Ajaya
Published: May 2021

A field experiment was conducted at Crop Research Centre, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, during kharif 2019 to study the effect of integrated use of organic manures and chemical fertilizers under STCR approach on physico-chemical, biological properties of soil and yield of maize crop in a Mollisol. The experiment comprised of 9 treatments replicated thrice.  The treatment details were Control (no fertilizers), RDF, STCR (inorganic mode), STCR INM mode, 75% STCR dose of N (inorganic mode) + Green manure, 50% STCR dose of N (inorganic mode) + Green Manure, 75% RDN +  Green Manure, 50% RDN + Green Manure and FYM + Green Manure + Intercropping with urd. The lowest yield and soil properties were observed under control. The highest water holding capacity (63.20%), available N (183.98 kg ha-1), available P (28.94 kg ha-1), microbial biomass carbon (335.35 µg/g soil) and urease enzyme activity (30.06 µg urea/g soil/h) was observed under T4 (STCR INM mode). The highest organic carbon (0.99%), available K (200.85 kg ha-1) and dehydrogenase activity (223.60 µgTPF/gsoil/day) was observed under T5 (75% STCR dose of N (inorganic mode) + Green manure). The highest maize yield was observed under T4 (STCR INM mode). Therefore, the present investigation clearly reveals the significance of balanced and efficient utilization of resources under STCR approach on soil and crop productivity of maize crop.
Platelet to Lymphocyte Percentage Ratio as a Marker of Arterial Stiffness in Hemodialysis Patients‎
Authors: Gazzar Hend H. Al , El-Badry Amr M. , El-Bedewy Tamer A. , El-Naggar Gamal F.
Published: May 2021

Aim of the Work: To evaluate platelet to lymphocyte percentage ratio as a marker of arterial stiffness in hemodialysis

Study Design: Cross sectional.

Place and Duration of Study: Tanta University Hospitals; Hemodialysis Units, from June 2019 till October 2020.

Methodology: The study included 80 end stage renal disease patients (40 males and 40 females) on regular hemodialysis for at least 3months. Laboratory investigations included complete blood counts (CBC), lipid profile, serum albumin, calcium, phosphorus, parathormone hormone, uric acid and C-reactive protein (CRP). Ankle brachial index (ABI) was measured using a hand held Doppler. Data obtained was statistically analyzed.

Results: In our study, abnormal ankle-brachial index was found to be associated with high neutrophil %, high platelet count, high platelet lymphocyte percentage ratio (PL%R) and platelet lymphocyte ratio (PLR), elevated cholesterol and low density lipoprotein levels, and presence of cerebrovascular and coronary artery diseases. In multivariate analysis, PL%R and PLR were independently related to abnormal ABI in hemodialysis patients with P value 0.03 and 0.04 respectively. PL%R had sensitivity 92% and specificity 83% while PLR had sensitivity 81% and specificity 60%. There was a positive correlation between PL%R and CRP as a marker of inflammation.

Conclusion: Increased platelet-to-lymphocyte percentage ratio was independently associated with increased arterial stiffness in hemodialysis patients.
Insecticidal Activity of Powder and Essential Oils of Vepris heterophylla (Rutaceae) and Syzygium aromaticum (Mytaceae) Towards Callosobruchus maculatus F. walp (Coleoptera: Bruchidae) on Post-Harvest Vigna unguiculata (Fabaceae) in the Far-North Region of Cameroon
Authors: Noël Matseu Sakou Gerardine , Illiassa Ngatanko , Habiba Kouninki , Elias Nukenine Nchiwan
Published: May 2021

The bioinsecticidal effect of powders and essential oils of S. aromaticum (L.) flower buds and V. heterophylla (Engl.) leaves against adult cowpea weevil C. maculatus was studied. Powders were tested by direct contact only while essential oils were tested by direct contact and indirect contact (inhalation and repellency). In 500 mL glass jars, the individual and combined powders were applied to 100 g of cowpea seeds at 0.5 g, 1 g, 1.5 g and 2 g doses for both leaves and flower buds of V. heterophylla and S. aromaticum respectively. The essential oils were also applied individually and after equilibrium combination on 50 g of cowpea at 4 µL/mL, 8 µL/mL, 12 µL/mL, 16 µL/mL. All the infestations were then achieved by adding 20 bruchids of 48 h old. The essential oil obtained was purified and analyzed with Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). 72 h after the individual treatment, 100% mortality was obtained at 2 g dose for V. heterophylla and 0.5 g dose for S. aromaticum compared to the control jars (1%). The combined powders were found to be more effective with 100% of mortality at a dose 1 g after 48 h of exposure. For essential oils, 100% and 90% of mortality were obtained respectively at 8 µL/mL dose for S. aromaticum (160 µL/kg) and 16 µL/mL dose for V. heterophylla (320 µL/kg) 72 h after treatment. In addition, the essential oil of S. aromaticum showed relatively higher repellant properties with an average repellency percentage of PR = 89.37% than that of V. heterophylla (PR = 70.62%). 100% of mortality was induced after inhalation of essential oils of S. aromaticum and V. heterophylla at doses 10 µL and 40 µL respectively after 72 h of exposure time. The results obtained from the GC-MS showed that the major components in the essential oil of S. aromaticum were eugenol (83.40%) although that of V. heterophylla were Spathulenol (23.66%), Beta-Caryophyllene oxide (16.46%) and 6-Isopropenyl-4 (16.30%). The powders and essential oils of the tested plants applied individually or after equilibrium combination showed interesting prospects for controlling Callosobruchus maculatus and effectively preserving cowpea seeds in storage warehouses.
Improving the Solder Joint Reliability Prediction Accuracy for Quad Flat No Lead Packages
Authors: Talledo Jefferson
Published: May 2021

This paper discusses the modeling approach used in improving the solder joint reliability prediction for Quad Flat No Lead (QFN) packages. A new power equation fatigue prediction model was developed based on the accumulated creep strain energy density from FEA (finite element analysis) simulation and the corresponding actual experimental result in terms of solder characteristic life of different QFN packages. The new curve fitted fatigue life correlation equation was then used in the solder joint reliability modeling together with the use of a hyperbolic sine constitutive model for lead-free solder. The model prediction using the new curve fitted equation was compared with the result from using the equation previously published. Based on the results, the new curve-fitted life prediction equation was able to improve the accuracy of solder life prediction. This study shows that solder joint reliability prediction could be improved by developing a prediction model based on actual data and consistent FEA modeling considerations in terms of methodology, material model and properties.
Comparative Study on Iris Manifestations between COVID-19 Severe Cases and Non-COVID Individuals
Authors: Ayda Y. Rosy , Mooventhan A. , Vinothkumar M. H. , Kayelarasi C. A. , Vijaykanth S. , Manavalan N.
Published: May 2021

Aims: To compare the iris manifestations between COVID-19 positive (severe) cases and their age and gender matched non-COVID-19 individuals.

Study Design and Setting: A comparative cross sectional survey performed in Government Omandurar Medical College, Chennai

Methodology: This study was performed to compare the iris manifestations between COVID-19 positive (severe) cases (n = 119) and their age and gender matched non-COVID-19 individuals (n = 119). Iris manifestations (both right and left eyes) of all the subjects (both study and control groups) were observed at only one point in time, and was compared between the groups.

Statistical Analysis: Descriptive statistics (Frequency distribution and percentage) were performed using Microsoft excel 2010. Within-group analysis was performed using Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test, while the between-groups (study and control) analysis was performed using Chi-square test with the use of statistical package for the social sciences, version 16. P value < 0.05 was considered as significant.

Results: The research findings in right iris showed a significant difference at p<0.05 in Inner Pupillary Border (IPB), Autonomic Nerve Wreath (ANW), Scurf Rim (SCR), Inflammatory Sign (IS) and Lung Lesion (LL), while no significant difference at p<0.05 in Pupil Size (PS), Absorption Ring (AR), Iris Constitution (IC) and Stress Ring (STR) between the study and control groups. Likewise, the results of the left iris showed a significant difference at p<0.05 in IPB, ANW, SCR, LL and STR, while no significant change at p<0.05 in PS, IC, AR and IS between the study and control groups.

Conclusion: The paper aid comparison of the iris manifestations between COVID-19 positive and their age and gender matched non-COVID-19 individuals. The findings are of broad use to the scientific and medical communities searching for safe, cost-effective diagnostic approach. The present study is important in furthering our understanding of the importance of looking into the iris for diagnostic purpose.
Effects of Different Beverages on Salivary pH and Time Taken by Saliva to Regain Normal pH among Teenagers
Authors: Hirani Haris , Iqbal Nasima , Bijarani Ali Nawaz , Hashmi Unaiza Pervaiz , Khurram Samreen , Baig Nasir Jamal
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Status of oral health depends on diet that we consume on daily basis. Diet does not predispose tissues of oral cavity at risk but it’s the change in pH that leads to acidic oral environment causing dry mouth, tooth decay, erosion and bad breath. Potential role of various foods in enamel demineralization has been evaluated. The decreased pH for longer durations ultimately leads to enamel dissolution and lesion formation. the current study is aimed to evaluate the change in pH in oral cavity after consumption of Milk, Milk with added sugar, carbonated drink and fresh lemon juice.

Methodology: It was a cross sectional study conducted at tertiary care hospital of Karachi from November 2020 to January 2021. An elementary school was contacted for permission access to recruit the teen ager students (13-16year) of either gender. The total calculated sample size at 50% proportion of school strength was 140 students that were further divided into 4 groups i.e., 35 students / group. Recruited participants were educated regarding the study protocols and aims moreover they were divided into groups (Group A, B, C and D) randomly and milk, milk with added sugar, carbonated drink and fresh lemon juice was given to participants to drink in respective order of grouping. After consumption of specific drink pH readings were recorded after 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour and 2 hours. Saliva was obtained in sterile container for 5 times from one participant. The salivary pH was directly estimated using the digital pH meter (SIGMA pH meter: model number 131) calibrated with buffers of pH 4 and 7.

Results: The mean age of participants was 13.9 ± 2.3 years. There were 89 (63.5%) females and 51 (36.4%) males. Most of the participants were from 8th and 9th class. The decrease in pH of saliva after consumption of either drink was observed in all groups when compared to controls. The paired t test analysis revealed a significant (p-value=0.002) decrease in pH after 15 minutes and that acidic level of pH was maintained for 30 minutes (p-value=0.037). ANOVA analysis showed insignificant relation among all groups after having beverages. As after two hours salivary pH returned to normal range when compared to control.

Conclusion: There was no any difference in salivary pH after consuming milk, milk with added sugar, carbonated drink and fresh lemon juice after 15 minutes. After 2 hours pH of saliva reverts to its normal value.
Determination of Leachate Plume Migrations from Selected Cemeteries in Benin-City Metropolis using Integrated Physicochemical and Geophysical Methods
Authors: Airen O. J.
Published: May 2021

Environmental geo-forensics which involves an integrated suite of geochemical and geophysical  techniques was used to detect and evaluate contaminant plume migrations from three cemeteries (names of the cemeteries are; First, second and third cemeteries, all in Benin City) within Benin-City metropolis, South-South Nigeria. The study aimed at determining the risks to groundwater and soil by assessing the rate of leachate plume migrations on the study area. The Very Low Frequency-Electromagnetic (VLF-EM) surveys revealed locations of conductive bodies. The Electrical Resistivity Imaging (ERI) surveys showed patterns and resistivity values indicating the presence of leachate plumes around second and third cemeteries, and no presence of leachate around first cemetery. Soil samples from shallow depths within the vicinities of the cemeteries revealed pollution which had probably migrated from the study area. The surface and subsurface soil investigations showed pure laterites which is impervious to fluid flow. Generally, many depressions were identified within the study area, although migration rate is low because it is controlled mainly by the subsurface geology. A time lapse study showed contaminant migration rates of 41.6 cm/month and 51.7 cm/month in the horizontal directions in the second and third cemeteries respectively and 19.2 cm/month in the vertical directions for both (second and third) cemeteries. Also, the arrival time of migrating plumes in laterite layer under was estimated to be 4 years. This investigation demonstrates the suitability of environmental and criminal geo-forensics for identification and evaluation of electrically conductive contaminant plumes, and also to monitor the plume as it travels within the subsurface.
Implications of Philately in the Development of Mathematical Skills for the Primary Cycle
Authors: Lupșe Mădălina , Cioruța Bogdan-Vasile , Pop Alexandru Leonard
Published: May 2021

The development of mathematical skills for the primary cycle is a triple challenge in the current context of education in Romania. The first of the challenges is given by the fact that education has become an activity still unstructured with political movements and decisions, implicitly with the changes that have taken place in the ministerial apparatus. The second challenge is given by the methodological changes and of the school curriculum, which comes as a completion of the first challenge, and the third challenge is given by the weight of the teachers in making mathematics an attractive discipline. In this sense, the challenge for us is to show that this triple barrier can be overcome. As such, in the present study, a mixed-method of presenting the mathematical contents in the classroom is proposed, especially for the preparatory group, class I and II, through the prism of the instruments offered by the Romanian thematic philately. The results of the study are presented in the form of worksheets, of which we present only excerpts to summarize the possibilities arising from the association of philately with notions of mathematics training for the primary cycle.
Are Street Foods Safe: Detection of Escherichia coli in Street Foods Sauces
Authors: Dagalea Flyndon Mark S. , Lim Karina Milagros C. , Vicencio Manuela Cecille G. , Ballicud Jonsel Juris C. , Burac Moises Ronn B. , Vibar Justine Jane B. , Villadolid Vincenette Brea E.
Published: May 2021

Good manufacturing practices (GMP) is the key in quality food services. This is to ensure that the food our body take in is safe from harmful bacteria that may cause disorder in its normal function. In this research, detection of Escherichia coli (E. coli) was done in the sauces of the street foods vendor at the University of Eastern Philippines. The result of this study will be of use to the local units that need to regulate the franchise of these street foods; to ensure that safety in the delivery of food products. Samples were collected from the stalls of the street vendors and were subjected to microbial analysis. Results showed that E. coli is present in the street sauces but in minimal count. Though the count is far from the threshold, vendors must consider increasing their knowledge and practices with GMP to ensure safe and quality food delivery.
Sustained poor mental health among healthcare workers in COVID-19 pandemic: A longitudinal analysis of the four-wave panel survey over 8 months in Japan
Authors: Sasaki Natsu , Asaoka Hiroki , Kuroda Reiko , Tsuno Kanami , Imamura Kotaro , Kawakami Norito
Published: May 2021

Objectives

This study aimed to compare the longitudinal change of the psychological distress of healthcare workers (HCWs) with non-HCWs during the repeated outbreaks of the COVID-19 in Japan.

Methods

The data were retrieved from the Employee Cohort Study in the Covid-19 pandemic in Japan study. An online survey was conducted on March 2020 (T1), on May 2020 (T2), on August 2020 (T3), and on November 2020 (T4). Psychological distress was measured by the Brief Job Stress Questionnaire. A mixed-model repeated-measures ANOVA was conducted as an indicator of the group differences.

Results

A total sample of analysis was n = 996 (HCWs, n = 111; non-HCWs, n = 885). HCWs consisted of physicians/nurses/midwives and other HCWs (eg, pharmacists, clinical laboratory technicians) in the clinical settings (n = 19; 17% and n = 61; 55%, respectively), and HCWs not working in the clinical settings (n = 31; 28%). Being HCWs were associated with a significant increase in psychological distress from T1 to T2, T3 and T4 (P = .001, P = .002, P < .001; respectively).

Conclusions

The mental health of HCWs deteriorated through the COVID-19 outbreaks compared with non-HCWs. HCWs are continuously the important targets to provide mental health support.
Assessment of the Sun Nuclear ArcCHECK to detect errors in 6MV FFF VMAT delivery of brain SABR using ROC analysis
Authors: Tattenberg Sebastian , Hyde Derek , Milette Marie‐Pierre , Parodi Katia , Araujo Cynthia , Carlone Marco
Published: May 2021

Institutions use a range of different detector systems for patient‐specific quality assurance (QA) measurements conducted to assure that the dose delivered by a patient’s radiotherapy treatment plan matches the calculated dose distribution. However, the ability of different detectors to detect errors from different sources is often unreported. This study contains a systematic evaluation of Sun Nuclear’s ArcCHECK in terms of the detectability of potential machine‐related treatment errors. The five investigated sources of error were multileaf collimator (MLC) leaf positions, gantry angle, collimator angle, jaw positions, and dose output. The study encompassed the clinical treatment plans of 29 brain cancer patients who received stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR). Six error magnitudes were investigated per source of error. In addition, the Eclipse AAA beam model dosimetric leaf gap (DLG) parameter was varied with four error magnitudes. Error detectability was determined based on the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC). Detectability of DLG errors was good or excellent (AUC >0.8) at an error magnitude of at least ±0.4 mm, while MLC leaf position and gantry angle errors reached good or excellent detectability at error magnitudes of at least 1.0 mm and 0.6°, respectively. Ideal thresholds, that is, gamma passing rates, to maximize sensitivity and specificity ranged from 79.1% to 98.7%. The detectability of collimator angle, jaw position, and dose output errors was poor for all investigated error magnitudes, with an AUC between 0.5 and 0.6. The ArcCHECK device’s ability to detect errors from treatment machine‐related sources was evaluated, and ideal gamma passing rate thresholds were determined for each source of error. The ArcCHECK was able to detect errors in DLG value, MLC leaf positions, and gantry angle. The ArcCHECK was unable to detect the studied errors in collimator angle, jaw positions, and dose output.