bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ocular Manifestations of Septo-optic Dysplasia
Authors: Cappelli Rena , Tucker Christiansen Tiffany , Vance Taylor Danielle
Published: April 2023

Background: Septo-optic dysplasia (SOD) is a congenital deformity of the brain which can result in neurologic, systemic, and physical malformation.Due to the proximity of these deformities to the optic chiasm and optic nerves, ocular manifestations are common.

Case Report: A 28-year-old male with a long-standing history of reduced vision presented for a routine eye examination. Upon examination he was found to have an afferent pupillary defect, bilateral optic nerve pallor with corresponding nerve fiber layer thinning by optical coherence tomography. Humphrey visual field testing revealed a bi-temporal visual field defect. Neurological imaging was obtained with a subsequent diagnosis of Septo-optic dysplasia (SOD).

Conclusion: Our patient had bilateral optic nerve hypoplasia and an absent septum pellucidum without endocrine abnormalities. This case reiterates the importance of accurate diagnosis of amblyopia only in the absence of ocular and neurological disease. This review also highlights the importance of imaging in instances of unexplained optic atrophy.
Lyme Disease Neuroretinitis: A Case Report and Review of Immunologic Workup
Authors: Wingard Michael , Curry Jeffery , Weaver Jeffrey L.
Published: April 2023

Background: Lyme disease is an infection caused by a bacterial spirochete of the borrelia genus. The human vector is from a tick bite by an infected tick of the ixodes genus, commonly referred to as the deer tick or black legged tick. The incidence of Lyme disease is increasing in the United States. Once infected, Lyme disease manifestations usually depend on the stage of infection with late stage infection often causing debilitating illness.1

Case Report: Neuroborreliosis refers to borrelia, causing neurological infection and can occur as acute or late manifestation of Lyme disease. Neuroretinitis is a rare but reported manifestation of neuroborreliosis. Lyme diagnosis requires a two-step serologic test to meet CDC guidelines for Lyme confirmation.1 Testing may be negative early in disease but may turn positive as the disease progresses.

Conclusion: Presented is a case where treatment decisions were made based on equivocal Lyme testing results.
Modelling a pumped storage power plant on the example of the Porąbka Żar power plant
Authors:   Department of Geoengineering and Water Management, Faculty of Environmental and Energy Engineering,  Cracow University of Technology, Twaróg Bernard
Published: April 2023

This article presents the idea and mathematical model of a pumped storage power plant. PSPS Porąbka Żar was selected as the real object for modelling. Due to the specificity of the operation of an intervention-regulatory and scheduled nature related to the coverage of power demand in the power system, the possibility of different modes of operation was taken into account in the model. Porąbka-Żar power plant is a pearl of hydro-engineering on the global stage. It is the first underground and the second largest pumped storage power plant in Poland. It is located in Międzybrodzie Bialskie, in the Silesian province. The short distance between the upper reservoir of the power station, located on Mt. Żar, and the lower reservoir of the międzybrodzkie lake, the high average head of the power station of 432 m above sea level, create great opportunities for accessibility and interference in the operation of the power station. It is equipped with four reversible Francis turbine sets, which operate simultaneously with a total capacity of 500 MW in the generator mode and 542 MW in the pumping mode. Due to its high potential and short turn-on and turn-off times of the turbine sets, it plays an important role in the national power system. The mathematical model was made in Matlab - Simulink software. An important role in the control process of the facility is played by the forecast of both power demand and contingencies. The forecasting model is equipped with elements of artificial intelligence. In addition, the article shows the possibility of supplementing an operating power plant with hybrid elements. The analysis is supported by commentary and a number of charts
The influence of carbide reinforcement on the properties of sintered aluminium alloy matrix composites
Authors:   Department of Materials Engineering, Faculty of Materials Engineering and Physics, Cracow University of Technology, Szewczyk-Nykiel Aneta
Published: April 2023

Based on the commercial aluminium alloy powder blend (Alumix 431D) metal matrix composites reinforced with particles of SiC as well as TiC were produced by conventional powder metallurgy technology and the effect of the type and amounts of reinforced particles on the selected properties and microstructure of sintered composites were investigated. In particular, the densification behaviour, the wear resistance and the corrosion resistance in 3.5% NaCl solution were identified. It was stated that both the type and the weight fraction of carbide used as particulate reinforcement have a great impact on the properties of aluminium alloy matrix composites. It was shown that the introduction of titanium carbide has a more favourable effect on the properties of sintered Alumix 431D matrix composites in comparison to silicon carbide and the optimum content of TiC in composite is 4 wt. % due to the highest hardness, wear resistance (wear rate of 2.86510-3 mm3/m) and simultaneously the best corrosion resistance (corrosion rate of 0.005 mm/year).
ANALYSIS OF FACTORS AFFECTING VIRTUAL TEAMS PERFORMANCE ON BUSINESS PROJECTS
Authors: Wijaya Justin , Mustikarini Carolina Novi , Rahman Fajar Adzani
Published: April 2023

Current technological developments help people to transform learning in a new era to build creativity, hone skills, and improve self-quality by changing the systems, perspectives, and patterns of community interaction with technology, one of which is virtual teams. The interaction of virtual teams has become a way to run a business for organizations can survive in a globally competitive environment. Therefore, organizations need to understand what makes virtual teams more effective and get positive results from virtual teams. The object of this research is the businesses run by students engaged in various sectors who do virtual teams in running their businesses. This research aims to determine the factors that affect the virtual team’s performance. This research is quantitative research with the population of Ciputra University students majoring in the International Business Management Study Program – Regular Class (IBM-RC) who is running a virtual team. Data was gathered using online questionnaires, and then a Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) test was used to confirm the components found in the research variables. The results of the study show that coordination, communication, relationship building, cohesion, trust, and reward are factors that affect the virtual team’s performance.
THE ROLE OF BELONGINGNESS FOR CABIN CREW: BETWEEN WORK PASSION AND JOB SATISFACTION
Authors: Mantiri Stephanie Maria , Sandroto Christine Winstinindah
Published: April 2023

Efforts to increase the job satisfaction of cabin crews must be a priority because their job satisfaction determines the services they provide to passengers throughout the flight. Factors that determine cabin crew job satisfaction include work passion and role of belongingness. This study examined the role of belongingness in the effect of work passion on the job satisfaction of cabin crews. The sample population was cabin crew in the Jakarta area who worked for various airlines. The sample was 70 respondents. The sampling technique used was non-probability sampling, with the convenience sampling method. This study performed validity and reliability tests; p plots normality tests, descriptive statistics, and Preacher Hayes analysis. The analysis method used The Simple Mediation Model, processed through SPSS Process 23.00. The results show that work passion positively affects both the role of belongingness and job satisfaction, and the role of belongingness positively affects job satisfaction. Job satisfaction is affected by the passion for work with the mediating variable role of belongingness. In conclusion, the role of belongingness has been proven to mediate the effect of work passion on job satisfaction for cabin crews in Jakarta.
BOILED BEANS ON TOAST: KARNAD’S CONCERN FOR THE METROPOLITAN ISSUES
Authors: Rao Bharatsingh P.
Published: April 2023

The unchecked growing urbanization in the metropolises like Bangalore at the cost of ecology is a matter of grave concern for mankind as it has been one of the most detrimental factors to environment and a major contributing factor too to global warming and its corollary adverse effects to ecosystem. The urban authorities too hardly ever have a genuine concern for the irreparable damage being caused to the environment in the haphazard implementation of the town planning schemes. On the other hand, the urban dwellers are incessantly in blind pursuit of materialistic affluence hence they too are alarmingly heedless to the future ecological hazards which will be inherited to their progenies. The so called urban development needs a profound introspection for one and all. Karnad has rightly endeavored to share his concern in this regard in one of his later plays Boiled Beans On Toast which deals with the concurrent problem of India. The issue of the chasm between the haves and have-nots in this insensitive civilization also comes to the fore by the by. The growing problem of traffic which is the cause of noise and air pollution is also brought forth in the play.
Tổn thương thận cấp giai đoạn sớm ở bệnh nhân nhiễm khuẩn huyết và sốc nhiễm khuẩn
Authors: Hoàng Hanh
Published: April 2023

Đặt vấn đề: Tổn thương thận cấp (AKI) là một trong những tình trạng nặng ở bệnh
nhân nhập viện. Tổn thương thận cấp có thể tiến triển trong giai đoạn sớm từ thời điểm
nhập viện, thường xảy ra trong 24 giờ đầu nhập viện đơn vị Hồi sức tích cực (ICU). Tại
Việt Nam, các nghiên cứu theo dõi diễn tiến tổn thương thận cấp trong giai đoạn sớm
chưa nhiều. Đề tài này khảo sát tỷ lệ, mức độ, một số đặc điểm lâm sàng, cận lâm sàng
và tiến triển của tổn thương thận cấp ở bệnh nhân nhiễm khuẩn huyết và sốc nhiễm
khuẩn trong 48 giờ đầu
Đối tượng, phương pháp: Nghiên cứu mô tả cắt ngang, phân tích trên 101 bệnh
nhân trên 15 tuổi được chẩn đoán nhiễm khuẩn huyết và sốc nhiễm khuẩn điều trị tại
khoa Hồi sức tích cực - Bệnh viện Trung Ương Huế. Bệnh nhân được điều trị theo phác
đồ, tiến hành theo dõi, lấy mẫu bệnh phẩm xét nghiệm, theo dõi lượng nước tiểu và
creatinin máu.
Kết quả: Tỷ lệ AKI là 60,40%, giai đoạn 1 chiếm 50,82%, giai đoạn 2 chiếm 22,95%,
giai đoạn 3 chiếm 26,23%. Bệnh nhân có độ tuổi lớn, trung bình 60,72 ± 17,41, chủ yếu là
nam giới. Bệnh nhân AKI có thể tích nước tiểu thấp hơn, tỷ lệ sốc cao hơn (p < 0,05), Hct,
pH máu, HCO3- thấp hơn, ure máu, creatinin máu, AST, ALT, Bilirubin TP, PCT, lactate
máu cao hơn so với bệnh nhân không có AKI (p < 0,05). Bệnh nhân AKI có điểm SOFA
và APACHE II cao hơn so với bệnh nhân không có AKI (p < 0,05). 81,97% bệnh nhân
xuất hiện AKI ngay tại thời điểm nhập khoa, hồi phục sớm trong 24 giờ và 48 giờ đầu.
Kết luận: Tỷ lệ AKI là 60,40%, giai đoạn 1 chiếm 50,82%, giai đoạn 2 chiếm
22,95%, giai đoạn 3 chiếm 26,23%. Có sự khác biệt về thể tích nước tiểu, tỷ lệ sốc.
Bệnh nhân AKI có điểm SOFA và APACHE II cao hơn. 81,97% bệnh nhân xuất hiện
AKI ngay tại thời điểm nhập khoa, hồi phục sớm trong 24 giờ và 48 giờ đầu
Từ khóa: Nhiễm khuẩn huyết, sốc nhiễm khuẩn, tổn thương thận cấp.
Toward 3D Retrieval of Exoplanet Atmospheres: Assessing Thermochemical Equilibrium Estimation Methods
Authors: Himes Michael D. , Harrington Joseph , Baydin Atılım Güneş
Published: April 2023

Characterizing exoplanetary atmospheres via Bayesian retrievals requires assuming some chemistry model, such as thermochemical equilibrium or parameterized abundances. The higher-resolution data offered by upcoming telescopes enable more complex chemistry models within retrieval frameworks. Yet many chemistry codes that model more complex processes like photochemistry and vertical transport are computationally expensive, and directly incorporating them into a 1D retrieval model can result in prohibitively long execution times. Additionally, phase-curve observations with upcoming telescopes motivate 2D and 3D retrieval models, further exacerbating the lengthy runtime for retrieval frameworks with complex chemistry models. Here we compare thermochemical equilibrium approximation methods based on their speed and accuracy with respect to a Gibbs energy-minimization code. We find that, while all methods offer orders-of-magnitude reductions in computational cost, neural network surrogate models perform more accurately than the other approaches considered, achieving a median absolute dex error of <0.03 for the phase space considered. While our results are based on a 1D chemistry model, our study suggests that higher-dimensional chemistry models could be incorporated into retrieval models via this surrogate modeling approach.
Protective behaviors during COVID-19 confinement measures in Greece: the role of anxiety, perceived risk and risky-choice framing
Authors: Koulierakis George , Dermatis Anastasia , Zavras Dimitris , Pavi Elpida
Published: April 2023

Confinement measures at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic imposed major changes on the global population. The aim of this study was to explore the level to which the public adhered to protective guidelines by adopting the most appropriate behaviors at that time (such as hand washing with soap and using sanitizer gel) and to identify the determinants of these behaviors. A purposive sample of 1013 individuals was invited and voluntarily participated in the online survey. The questionnaire collected information on demographic data, hand washing, risk perception, anxiety (through the S = Anxiety scale of STAI) and risky-choice framing. Results showed increased levels of anxiety, a moderate perception of the risk of catching coronavirus and increased adoption of protective behaviors, such as handwashing and cleaning surfaces with disinfectant/antiseptic products. Multiple ordinal logistic regression models showed that being female, more educated and cleaning home with disinfectant / antiseptic products predicted handwashing with soap. Additionally, having an increased perception of getting the coronavirus, being older and cleaning the home with disinfectant / antiseptic products predicted handwashing with antiseptics. Public health interventions should take into consideration the unified cleaning pattern and the combined effect of sociodemographic variables and risk perception on the adoption of protective behaviour in the context of a health crisis which is out of people's control.
The influence of the ageing temperature on different properties of the EN AW-7075 aluminium alloy
Authors: Stamenković Uroš , Ivanov Svetlana , Marković Ivana , Gorgievski Milan , Božinović Kristina , Kovačević Avram
Published: April 2023

The influence of the ageing temperature on the hardness, electrical conductivity, thermal diffusivity and thermal conductivity of the EN AW-7075 aluminium alloy was studied in this paper. After solution treating the alloy at 480 °C for 1 h and quenching it in ice water, the investigated alloy was characterized using Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA) in order to determine the optimal temperatures for the isochronal ageing treatments. Afterwards, isochronal ageing was conducted at the temperature range of 110 °C-250 °C for 30 min The hardness, electrical conductivity, thermal diffusivity, thermal conductivity and microstructural features were investigated during the ageing treatments. Hardness had a peak value after ageing at 150 °C, while other properties gradually increased with the ageing temperature. Microstructural investigation of the aged alloy by SEM-EDS revealed the existence of precipitated phases that appear homogenously distributed in the microstructure.
Evaluation of Learners’ Academic Performance in Teaching and Learning Civil Engineering During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Md Nujid Masyitah , Tholibon Duratul Ain
Published: April 2023

Panic due to COVID-19 has disrupted teaching and learning session all over the world—refraining teachers and students from primary, secondary and tertiary education levels from attending physical classes in the traditional way. However with emergency circumstance without proper planning and action in delivering their subject matter, has given huge impacts on academic performance to educators and learners in identifying teaching and learning methods during the time. This study evaluates the academic performance of learners for specific course at the school department of university XXXX during COVID-19 pandemic using open and distance learning. The impacts of delivering in teaching and learning of the course contents through preference approach and use of digital communication technologies on learners’ academic performance during the time were studied. Case study method was used to evaluate the learners’ academic performance. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis was used to evaluate the qualitative data. Results of the analysis revealed that during open and distance learning, the learners’ preferred asynchronous method with WhatsApp social media platform chosen as the medium for communication between educators and learners. The findings show the learners are able to perform well in the course assessments despite the pandemic.
Integrative Technology for Creating Electronic Educational Resources
Authors: Guraliuk Andrii , Zakatnov Dmytro , Lapaenko Svitlana , Ahalets Inna , Varaksina Nataliia
Published: April 2023

To increase the efficiency of using ontologies in the educational process, we have developed the Ontos.xyz resource, which consists of an ontograph editor and a viewer that allows displaying both individual EERs and their collections. The editor allows creating an ontograph that describes the structure of the EER, as well as the ability to assign to each node a context of all types supported by the browser including html-pages, web 2.0 resources, etc. The EER built-in this way allows the integration of data from different sources with the ability to adapt to the conditions of any subject area, regardless of its specifics.

Thus, the digital competencies of the EER creators remain relevant, since they do not need to learn new software resources to work with individual ontology concepts (“ontograph nodes”).

As a result of our research, we have developed a technology for using the ontological approach to create an EER. For its implementation, the Ontos.xyz resource was developed, which is an ontological graph editor. The ontograph allows for the primary visualization of the EER structure, interpreting its structural elements as nodes (vertices) of the graph, and displaying the logic of transitions between structural elements in the form of directed links. With such an approach, the ontology is some kind of aggregator that ensures the integration of the semantic and technological approaches. Building an EER using the ontological approach requires appropriate technological support in terms of description languages, models, software tools, and systems.

The software proposed solution, in contrast to its functional counterparts, focuses on use in the educational process.
New Technologies for Inclusive Learning for Students with Special Educational Needs
Authors: Karagianni Eleni , Drigas Athanasios
Published: April 2023

In recent years, in the context of the educational reform, dominant position is held by the social demand for the inclusion of all students in the regular classroom and the request to redesign the educational process to align with the individualized needs of students. Τhe concept of inclusion, which view the heterogeneity in the light of social justice and equality, refers not simply to the placement of the SEN students in the mainstream school, but basically, to their dynamic engagement in every aspect of the educational process and in the social interactions that flow from it. “E-inclusive” pedagogy refers to teachers’ decisions to providing their students innovative ways of learning and alternative means of completing their tasks, by incorporating the technology in the educational activities. The aim of this paper is to propose tech tools and e-services for the accessibility and active participation of students with special educational needs in teaching and learning procedures of the ordinary classroom and examine the role of teachers in realizing their inclusion / e-inclusion, as the main facilitators and modulators of the classroom settings to an open learning and development ecosystem. The results showed that teachers who provide authentic opportunities for interaction and learning for all their students and incorporate, flexibly, new technologies into their teaching strategies to meet their unique needs, contribute significantly to their acquisition of academic but mainly functional life skills, preparing them for substantial employment and integration opportunities in community life.
About Complex Oil Flow Curve Form in Anomaly Viscosity Low Temperatures and Shear Rates Conditions
Authors: Karimov R.M. , Tashbulatov R.R. , Valeev A.R.
Published: April 2023

This paper presents results of studies of the problem to describe the nature of oil flow at low temperatures and shear velocities for prediction of flow fluidity and determination of the parameters of a cold start of an oil pipeline after an extended downtime. Analytical and experimental studies have been carried out, which include a review of rheological test data from earlier studies available in the literature and an analysis of empirical relation obtained with the rotational viscometry method. More specifically, the existence of a zone of viscosity anomaly for low-paraffin and heavy oils has been proved on the basis of laboratory test data of model mixtures of commercial crude oils and their weighted samples. The necessity has been substantiated to create more adaptive rheological models which fit the total curve of oil flow, including the zone of viscosity anomaly in the transient state of cold start, this zone manifesting itself when reaching a certain temperature, even for low-paraffin oils. Based on the results of this work, the most advance multi-factor rheological models have been identified for description of the total shape of the rheological curve in a wide range of temperatures and velocities.
Op-ed: America’s Disability Programs Are in a Desperate State of Disrepair
Authors: Trimmer David
Published: April 2023

Millions of Americans are denied access to disability insurance due to strict eligibility constraints. This op-ed explores what is wrong with America's disability insurance programs and how to fix them.
Politics, policies, and patient care: Rehabilitation therapists’ experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Vaughn Rachel M. , Bagatell Nancy , McGovern Heather , Feinberg Raiya , Hendry Katherine , Chowdhury Ramis , Cassidy Jessica M.
Published: April 2023

The year 2020 represents a historically turbulent period for the United States marked by the COVID-19 pandemic, a contentious political season, and heightened awareness of racism among citizens. This intersection of medicine, politics, and social unrest generated a demanding clinical environment for healthcare workers, including understudied groups such as physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech-language pathologists. This descriptive qualitative study focused on experiences and perspectives of clinical rehabilitation therapists working in inpatient rehabilitation and acute-care units from September to November, 2020. Thirteen participants completed individual, semi-structured interviews focused on clinical practice and coping strategies. The analysis included a multi-step, inductive process. Four interconnecting factors chronicling participants’ experiences emerged: sociopolitical, institutional, hospital unit, and personal. Stressors and buffers were noted that further shaped individual experiences. Utilization of an ecological framework provided a way to recognize the impact of a complex range of social and environmental factors affecting participants’ experiences on personal and professional levels. Awareness of rehabilitation therapists’ experiences enriches understanding of the pandemic’s effect on healthcare workers and presents clinical implications for healthcare systems to promote therapist well-being.
Post-resuscitation care of patients with return of spontaneous circulation after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest at the emergency department
Authors: Lam Jing Kai Jackie , Pek Jen Heng
Published: April 2023

Introduction:

Out-of-hospital-cardiac-arrest (OHCA) is a major public health challenge and post-return-of-spontaneous-circulation (ROSC) goals have shifted from just survival to survival with intact neurology. Although post-ROSC care is crucial for survival with intact neurology, there are insufficient well-established protocols for post-resuscitation care. We aimed to evaluate post-resuscitation care in the emergency department (ED) of adult (aged ≥16 years) OHCA patients with sustained ROSC and its associated neurologically intact survival.

Methods:

A retrospective review of electronic medical records was conducted for OHCA patients with sustained ROSC at the ED. Data including demographics, pre-hospital resuscitation, ED resuscitation, post-resuscitation care and eventual outcomes were analysed.

Results:

Among 921 OHCA patients, 85 (9.2%) had sustained ROSC at the ED. Nineteen patients (19/85, 22.4%) survived, with 13 (13/85, 15.3%) having intact neurology at discharge. Electrocardiogram and chest X-ray were performed in all OHCA patients, whereas computed tomography (CT) was performed inconsistently, with CT brain being most common (74/85, 87.1%), while CT pulmonary angiogram (6/85, 7.1%), abdomen and pelvis (4/85, 4.7%) and aortogram (2/85, 2.4%) were done infrequently. Only four patients (4.7%) had all five neuroprotective goals of normoxia, normocarbia, normotension, normothermia and normoglycaemia achieved in the ED. The proportion of all five neuroprotective goals being met was significantly higher (P = 0.01) among those with neurologically intact survival (3/13, 23.1%) than those without (1/72, 1.4%).

Conclusion:

Post-resuscitation care at the ED showed great variability, indicating gaps between recommended guidelines and clinical practice. Good quality post-resuscitation care, centred around neuroprotection goals, must be initiated promptly to achieve meaningful survival with intact neurology.
Risk Management Options to Reduce Human Salmonellosis Cases Due to Consumption of Raw Poultry
Authors: Cohn A. R.
Published: April 2023

Salmonella cases due to cross-contamination by, or consumption of, raw poultry continue to be a major public health concern. Processors have yet to identify an effective “kill step” in raw poultry production, and food safety interventions may target many compartments of the supply chain, from breeder and grandparent flocks to consumer cooking practices, complicating the prioritization of specific areas to effectively manage risk. Moreover, raw poultry can be contaminated by diverse Salmonella serovars, ranging from multidrug resistant Salmonella Infantis to pansusceptible Salmonella Kentucky sequence type 152, which has substantially reduced likelihood of causing human disease. “Farm-to-table” risk models help assess the public health impact of different Salmonella risk management strategies and thereby inform policy priorities. This article provides an overview of risk management practices that should be considered and evaluated in Salmonella risk assessments, including risk management strategies focusing on (i) preharvest; (ii) slaughter and further processing; (iii) consumer product handling; and (iv) regulatory approaches. Data and model needs to allow assessment of these risk management strategies are also discussed. The information presented here represents a critical step in ensuring that future Salmonella risk assessment and risk management efforts represent a comprehensive systems approach and consider all potential options for Salmonella risk reduction.
The application based on google maps API to find and manage blood donation volunteers
Authors: Quang Nguyen Huu
Published: April 2023

Most young Vietnamese people now have access to the movement of voluntary blood donation. Volunteers who want to donate blood must meet certain health requirements and wait at least three months between donations. As a result, the blood received falls below the bare minimum, resulting in reserve anemia. Based on these practical requirements, the article proposes a tool to assist health facilities in locating people willing to donate blood in hazardous situations within a reasonable distance. This system is built on a three-layer model that interacts with the database via Entity Framework and uses the Google Map API to locate blood donors. Before being used, the application was tested on a website using blood donation data from volunteers in the Binh Thanh and Go Vap districts.
An Evaluation of the Canopy Layer Urban Heat Island Through Regional Air Temperatures in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, 1990 to 2000.
Authors:   , Ashfield Thomas
Published: April 2023

The urban heat island (UHI) is the difference in equivalent temperatures of a city when compared with its rural surroundings. Interactions between natural and anthropogenic activity have been proposed as key driving mechanisms towards UHIs, and this is often exacerbated by anticyclonic conditions and extreme weather phenomena. Typical studies of the UHI focus on populous and mega-cities rather than smaller towns and cities. The aim of this study was to investigate what factors help to explain why Cheltenham was ranked the hottest town in the United Kingdom (UK) between the years 1990 to 2000 and to what extent the effects of weather and the natural and artificial landscape influenced the magnitude and geographical extent of the UHI in Cheltenham. Data from MIDAS weather stations in Gloucestershire were used for statistical analyses to test and infer the associations between the canopy layer urban heat island (CUHI) in Cheltenham and cloud cover, precipitation, population, and changes in land cover between 1990-2000. Sunspot cycles were used as an experimental surrogate for solar intensity. Air temperature profiles show Cheltenham demonstrates higher temperatures when compared with its rural surroundings with temperatures exceeding 3.43°C (maximum) and 0.95°C (minimum). Correlation analyses show that cloud cover has a significant, weak, negative correlation with maximum and minimum CUHI. The CUHI shows a weak negative correlation with precipitation. In addition, CUHI minimum shows a strong, significant relationship with population growth. This study concludes that small towns and cities demonstrate an urban heat island effect. Furthermore, that Cheltenham’s CUHI is conditioned by fluctuations in cloud cover, precipitation, and changes in population over time.
La nivelación de conocimientos: Retos de la educación post pandemia
Authors: Posso Pacheco Richar Jacobo , Cóndor Chicaiza María Gladys , Herrera Rojas Mercedes del Carmen , Yánez Ronquillo Nancy del Pilar , Jácome Machado Patricia Elizabeth
Published: April 2023

Una vez que los estudiantes retornaron a las clases presenciales, las pruebas de diagnósticos indicaron que existen bajos niveles de conocimientos, por lo que se hizo necesario aplicar diferentes estrategias para nivelarlos. El objetivo de esta investigación fue determinar cuáles fueron las estrategias de nivelación más exitosas en el proceso enseñanza aprendizaje. Se utilizó el enfoque cualitativo basado en el método fenomenológico hermenéutico, se construyó y validó un instrumento que extrajera la información de las prácticas docentes de acuerdo con el objetivo planteado, para lo cual se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas a 22 docentes de diferentes asignaturas pertenecientes a cinco instituciones educativas privadas del Distrito Educativo de Calderón de la ciudad de Quito. Los resultados permitieron conocer que se utilizaron diferentes estrategias para la nivelación, pero las dos mejores estrategias fueron la contextualización en base a las habilidades de los estudiantes y el acompañamiento de los padres de familia o representantes en el hogar, esto permitió homogeneizar los aprendizajes básicos de acuerdo con el nivel de estudio. Se concluye que las estrategias de nivelación deben ser coherentes a los resultados del diagnóstico por lo que deben ser panificadas y abordadas individualmente, no solo para alcanzar los conocimientos básicos sino para que se desarrollen las capacidades de comunicación, resolución de problemas y creatividad.
Exercício Físico Como Aliado Profilático Contra a COVID-19: Uma Hipótese Envolvendo o Receptor do Tipo Toll 7 (TLR-7)
Authors: Martins Ribeiro Diogo , Chaves Andrade Mariléia
Published: April 2023

Objetivo: Investigar a potencial relação entre o Receptor Toll-like 7 (TLR7) e o exercício físico na resposta imune contra a COVID-19. Método: Trata-se de uma revisão bibliográfica fundamentada por estudos originais em Língua Inglesa, indexados na base de dados PubMed e publicados entre 2006 e maio de 2022. Resultados: Evidências sugerem que o TLR7 é importante no processo imunológico inicial contra a COVID-19, pois é responsável no processo de ativação das células dendríticas plasmocitóides e produção de Interferons Tipo I (IFN-I), que estão relacionados à atenuação da gravidade da doença. Além disso, mutações de perda de função do TLR7 e a diminuição da resposta do IFN-I estão associadas ao agravamento da COVID-19. Embora nenhum estudo tenha avaliado diretamente a relação entre exercício físico e TLR7 em casos de COVID-19, evidências disponíveis sugerem que o exercício físico pode provocar alterações na expressão de TLR7, indicando um novo tema para investigação. Conclusões: Novos estudos são necessários para esclarecer os efeitos dos exercícios físicos sobre o TLR7 e seu potencial nas defesas antivirais contra a COVID-19, considerando especificidades como intensidade do exercício, modalidade do exercício, duração da sessão de treinamento ou programa de exercícios, população avaliada ou outras possíveis variáveis.
Os dilemas e transformações que envolvem a maternidade no contexto feminino contemporâneo
Authors: Godinho Gomes Bruna Katerine , Silva Kerolyn Rodrigues da , Saraiva Odara Lélis Leal , Oliveira Pâmela Scarlatt Durães
Published: April 2023

Objetivo: descrever os dilemas e transformações que envolvem a maternidade no contexto feminino contemporâneo. Método: trata-se de uma pesquisa descritiva com abordagem qualitativa realizada em 2020 a 2021 com cinquenta mães cadastradas em uma unidade de saúde básica de um município do norte de Minas Gerais. Foi utilizado um roteiro de questões norteadoras para coleta de dados. Os dados foram coletados através de instrumentos digitais como meet e Google Forms. As falas foram analisadas através da análise de conteúdo. Resultados: os resultados apontaram para uma realidade de dificuldades e prazeres. As falas evidenciam que as entrevistadas precisam de maior apoio no cuidado de suas crianças para que possam retomar suas atividades habituais após a maternidade. Considerações finais: considera-se que o objetivo do estudo foi alcançado devido a possibilidade de avaliar todo processo vivenciado pela mulher após torna-se mãe, o quanto a mulher é afetada psicologicamente no período pós-parto, deviso as mudanças e transformações em sua vida, no corpo, desejos, funções e pensamentos.
Explaining Gender Segregation In Legislative Committees: A Case Of Punjab Assembly (2013-2018)
Authors: Javed Nayab , Malik Ra'ana
Published: April 2023

Legislative committees have the power to take decisions and influence key matters in Legislatures. Women’s descriptive representation is measured through their appointment in various including power/ masculine and low status/feminine committees. This study examines the gender gaps both vertical and horizontal in various parliamentary committees of the Punjab Assembly. The Punjab Assembly has been taken as a case because it is the largest Provincial assembly of Pakistan. The committee system has been taken as a unit of analysis from 2013 to 2018, in order to examine the women’s appointment as heads (horizontal) and member (vertical) in committees. The findings show that the committee allocations are gender-biased; women are over-represented in feminine and low prestigious committees, while under-represented in masculine and power committees. This study suggests, political parties may develop a gender-neutral mechanism for committee allocations.
Influence Of Perceived Teacher Acceptance-Rejection On Study Habits And Achievement Of School Students
Authors: Malik Dr. Muniza , Buriro Dr. Ameer Ali , Dr. Zohra Khatoon
Published: April 2023

This study was conducted to analyze the impact of teacher acceptance or rejection on the study habits and academic achievement of school students. The sample of two hundred students of the tenth class was recruited from the Government schools of Hyderabad city. The age of the participants was 15-17 years. Data were collected after taking permission from the school administration and parents. Study habits inventory (SHAI) and teacher acceptance-rejection scale (TARQ) was administered to the participants. It was assumed that perceived teacher acceptance-rejection would be correlated significantly with the study habits of the participants. Further assumed that low academic achievers would score higher on teacher aggression, neglect and rejection as compared to high academic achievers. Gender differences in the perceived teacher acceptance-rejection were also assumed. Results indicated a significant negative relationship between teacher aggression, neglect, rejection and study habits of the students. Low academic achievers perceived teachers as more neglected and aggressive as compared to high achievers. High academic achievers perceived more teacher warmth and less neglect than low achievers. Gender differences also found in terms of teacher acceptance-rejection, female school students perceived more teacher’s warmth, whereas boys perceived teachers as more controlling than the girls. These findings are helpful to understand the importance of the role of the teacher during schooling specifically. The implication of the findings pointed out the importance of teacher training at the school level especially to make them better able to build a strong and positive relationship with students because it, in turn, influences the study attitudes and achievement level of students.
Representation Of The Feminist Perspectives In Pakistan’s Political Science Academia
Authors: Akram Rabia , Sajjad Fatima
Published: April 2023

The feminist perspectives entered the field of Political Science/ International Relations during the 1980s as part of the larger critical turn in Social Sciences. The marginalization of women’s role and voices in mainstream academic discourse of war and peace remained a key concern of the Political Science/IR feminist perspectives. The current study uses insights from Sandra Harding’s standpoint theory to explore how the feminist perspectives are represented in the Political Science/International Relations academia of Pakistan. This paper undertakes a systematic review of leading (HEC recognized) journals of IR and Political Science in Pakistan, to examine if and how the feminist perspectives is represented in Pakistani International Relations discourse. Since local academic discourses are underrepresented in the largely Eurocentric discipline of Political Science/IR, this study will contribute towards a better understanding of representation on a key critical academic perspective ( Feminism) in Political Science/IR. The results of the study show that feminist perspectives are marginalized in local academia in terms of representation. Serious efforts are required to promote academic research and development in this field with the support of the Government, academic institutions and researchers.
Locating Images of Women in Cervantes’s Don Quixote: A Feminist Approach
Authors: Sheikh Asmat , Choudhry Aqsa
Published: April 2023

This study is the exploration of the novel ‘Don Quixote’(1612) by Miguel de Cervantes a Spanish writer, as this study aims to highlight the two extremes associated with the women. The underlying theoretical concerns are drawn from the books by Sandra M Gilbert, Susan Gubar (2000) and Lois Tyson (2006). The methodology adopted is the descriptive qualitative approach using textual lines from the novel representing the images of women as good or bad. The results drawn shows that the women of patriarchal society are judged and measured on the scales of either angels or monsters in the house and thus are treated according to their roles. A future possible research could be to study why women adopt such self-negating attitudes as opposed to asserting agency.
A Critical Evaluation Of Female Students’ Inclination Towards Higher Studies: A Case Study In The District Of Loralai Balochistan
Authors: Khan Muhabat , Kanwal Nosheen , Ahmed Shahi
Published: April 2023

The aim of the study was to examine the inclination of female students towards higher studies in the Loralai District, Balochistan. The sample of the study comprised teachers (N=100) and parents (N=80) from the Loralai, District. The participants were selected through purposive sampling technique. On behalf of the female students a questionnaire was designed to elicit data from the sample. The collected data was analyzed through t-test. Consistent indicators for low inclination towards higher education were found to be cultural issues, opposition to co-education, low socio-economic status, size of the family, early marriages, distantly situated educational institutions and low parental educational background. Moreover, lack of parental involvement and their differential attitude towards sending their daughters to co-education institutions for higher studies was inversely correlated with female students’ inclination towards higher studies. The implications for solutions were discussed.
Gender Differences In School Dropout Due To Insecurity And Harassment In And On The Way To School In Sindh
Authors: Tabassum Naima , Tabassum Huma
Published: April 2023

This research is aimed to explore gender differences in children’s school dropout due insecurity and harassment in and on the way to school in Sindh. The research is designed as a quantitative research. A survey of 5641 school dropout children in Sindh is done with the help of a questionnaire developed by the researcher. The results of the research show that more than 10% of the children have reported that insecurity on the way from home to school is a cause of their school dropout. The result of t-test shows that more girls than boys are reporting to have left school due to insecurity or harassment they are facing either in school or on the way to school.
Abjection And Marginalization Of Females: A Critical Review Of Leila’s Character In Elif Shafak’s Novel 10 Minutes 38 Seconds In This Strange World
Authors: Mehdi Muntazar , Moen Uzma , Abbasi Shanza
Published: April 2023

In this article, the researchers emphasize on the abjection faced by the protagonist in the novel “10 Minutes 38 Seconds in this Strange World”. In this novel, Shafak discusses the experiences of a prostitute and how she encounters physical and psychological violence. The writer has particularly discussed the unjust treatment of sex workers in Istanbul. In this misogynistic world, victimization and marginalization of particular classes of society is exceedingly pervasive. This particular class of sex workers encounters huge discrimination and persistent intolerance. Elif Shafak’s character Leila in ‘10 Minutes 38 Seconds in this Strange World’ represents these classes. She is a prostitute who has been compelled to enter this profession and this research attempts to look into those very reasons. Such characters have to carry the social stigma attached to their profession even in liberal societies such as America and Turkey. The researchers look into the savage and merciless treatment that Leila has to undergo solely due to the fact that she is a prostitute. The most heart-wrenching aspect is that though she entered that profession not by choice, she still has to tolerate constant brutality and injustice not only from society but from her own flesh and blood as well. The current examination expects to explore the abjection and belittling attitude confronted by Leila. The findings of research uncovered the maltreatment and ruthlessness done to a girl who fell victim to unforeseen circumstances and ended up in a glittery brothel, not opting willingly rather being engaged for a sad and discriminatory life.
Navigating through Covid19- Mothers’ Leadership As Catalyst For Sustainable Development Of the Youth Of Pakistan
Authors: Khalid Seema , Iraqi Dr. Khalid Mahmood
Published: April 2023

Sustainable development and its significance to our future generations is not new to anyone. However, the bay between the knowledge and implementation is yet to be bridged.Covid-19 and its aftermaths are leaving their visible marks on almost all spheres of economy, consequently, the restrictive measures put by the government led to abrupt school closures and absence of social life and called for additional contribution of parents. WHO, UNDP and other global bodies’ reports on the aftermaths of pandemic highlighting the need to meet the emotional and psychological needs of the young children. The situation has intensified the parents’ role in general and mothers in particular, we hypothesize that mothers if use their emotional intelligence can help developing a sustainable youth. The sensitivity and the relative importance led us to use a mixed research design as endorsed by Tashakkori & Teddlie (1998), Greene (2007) and Dorneyi, (2007) who call it “multiple ways of seeing and hearing” (p. 20). This mixed design helped in unearthing the deep-set concepts in the minds of research subjects. Results showed a significant relationship between mother’s EI, and child cognitive development in the form of better interpersonal behaviour and better academic results. Mothers with high EI reported a better relationship with the respective children. In conclusion, these findings support the notion that a mother’s EI could have a significant impact on a child’s cognitive development ultimately leading to a need for future research focusing on Mothers’ EI as a tool for the sustainable development of the youth of Pakistan.
Exploring the Concept of Feminism among Young Urban women
Authors: Razzaq Aneeqa , Ashiq Khan Uzma
Published: April 2023

Aurat March is held every year to highlight the issues of women. The present research was conducted to see how much women know about feminism along with Aurat March. A quantitative method with survey design was used for the present research and a semi-structured questionnaire was developed to collect data from 350 young women of Lahore, Pakistan and15 to 24 years age range was selected. Standpoint theory by Dorothy E. Smith was taken as a theoretical framework to study the results. This research mainly covered the concept of feminism, its growth over time, how ‘Aurat March’ had played its role in the development of feminism, and how it was contributing to shaping the identity of young women. Content analysis was used for open-ended questions and one-way ANOVA along with descriptive statistics was used for closed-ended ones. Results showed that education plays no role in the increment of knowledge and in its quality. This study will help in filling the gaps in Pakistani literature and be base of future studies.