bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelling the Impact of Key Pests of Watermelon on its Performance Using Linear Regression Models
Authors: OKRIKATA Emmanuel , OGUNWOLU Emmanuel Oludele , ODIAKA Ngozi Ifeoma
Published: March 2021

Despite the economic, health, and nutritional values of watermelon, insect pests remain a key limitation to its production globally. However, there has, hardly been any research that has statistically modeled the impact of insect pests on its performance. Therefore, this study aims to determine the relationship between the performance of watermelon and the density of its key pests with the aid of correlation and linear regression models, thereby presenting models for forecasting crop performance vis-à-vis pest density for optimum pest management. Data were collected from 40 m2 plots grouped into 4 replicates (10 plots/replicate) in field experiments (arranged in a randomized complete block design) in the early- and late-sown crops of 2016 and 2017 in the Research Farm of Federal University, Wukari, Nigeria. Plant survival rate (%) negatively and significantly (P ≤ 0.05) correlated with each of mean number leaf-feeding beetles (r = −0.80, R2 = 63.5 %, Y = 92.023 – 3.145x; r = −0.79, R2 = 62.1 %, Y = 95.986 – 5.975x), A. gossypii density (r = −0.67, R2 = 44.9 %, Y = 184.048 – 50.444x; r = -0.65, R2 = 42.4 %, Y = 131.852 – 14.618x), and B tabaci density (r = −0.67, R2 = 45.2 %, Y = 188.832 – 11.138x; r = −0.66, R2 = 43.3 %, Y = 178.738 – 3.701x) in both the early- and late-sown crop of 2016, respectively, with a similar trend in those of 2017. All parameters significantly (P ≤ 0.05) fitted the linear regression model. Densities of all major pests consistently correlated negatively and significantly with fruit yield. Student’s t-test detected significant differences between the early- and late-sown crops of both years. We therefore conclude that watermelon experiences multiple pest infestations whose compositions and intensities vary between seasons, and that their influence on agronomic performance, as shown by the coefficient of determination (R2) values (which were indicative of the reliability of the models with respect to the effect of pests on crop performance), were largely close or > 50 %.
Numerical Solution for Riesz Fractional Diffusion Equation via Fractional Centered Difference Scheme
Authors: VALIZADEH Sohrab , BORHANIFAR Abdollah
Published: March 2021

In this paper, a mixed matrix transform method with fractional centered difference scheme for solving fractional diffusion equation with Riesz fractional derivative was examined. It was obtained that the numerical scheme was unconditionally stable and feasible using the matrix analysis method. Numerical experiments were, then, carried out to support the theoretical predictions.
The Effects of Driver Age and Gender on Vehicle Stopping Distance Under Different Speeds
Authors: Hichim Majid Farag
Published: March 2021

This study was conducted to estimate the stopping distance that is needed to halt a vehicle at different speeds. In order to improve the equality of evaluation, age and gender of the drivers, which affects the reaction times (RTs), were taken into consideration. The measurements of the RTs in a simulated driving environment were executed and the acquired results were statistically analyzed using "Statistical Package for the Social Sciences" (SPSS). The results indicate that participants' ages and genders had a significant relationship with the RTs as P-values < 0.01 and 0.022, respectively. Then, the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was conducted to compare the effect of the predictors' ages, genders, and vehicle's speeds on the vehicle's stopping distance. The overall regression model showed that these predictors had a high significant effect on stopping distance as F(3, 46) = 777.05, P-value < 0.01, and R-square = 0.98. However, gender exclusively was not significant as its P-value > 0.24.
Assessment of traffic safety at median openings using surrogate safety measures: a case study in India
Authors: Mohanty Malaya
Published: March 2021

Traffic safety is an integral part of transportation engineering. In developing countries, its importance is even more. Additionally, at uncontrolled median openings, the severity of road crashes increase many fold. Conventionally, road crash data were used to analyse safety. However, in developing countries, the accuracy of this data is highly questionable. Therefore, in this study, a new technique in addition to post encroachment time (PET), which is a surrogate safety measure is used to predict the severity of probable road crashes at median openings. After the extraction of PET values from field data, they have been compared with the minimum braking times obtained from calculation of minimum stopping sight distance. The comparison shows that while the number of road crashes may be less at lower traffic volume levels, however the severity of those crashes is much higher as compared to the road crashes occurring at high traffic volumes.
Testing roundabout capacity models: a practical aid for choosing the right one based on total capacity calculation
Authors: Mauro Raffaele
Published: March 2021

The determination of efficiency measures, under a known traffic demand, is a central aspect of roundabouts analysis. Many capacity formulations have been available for some time in different countries relating to different roundabout layouts. This paper refers to fifteen roundabout entry capacity models used above all in the European countries, highlighting their input requirements and their algorithm complexity. The formulations reviewed are then compared referring to a test roundabout, with a simple and widespread layout. Monte Carlo simulation have been performed considering 5,000 traffic distribution matrices for each capacity model. The results obtained are critically assessed resorting to the calculation of roundabout total capacity. The probability distributions of total capacity allow finding a model that stands out among all as an advisable choice for a suitable capacity formulation, acting as a synthesis of all those examined. This can be of considerable use in view of practical applications, for the design of efficient and safe roundabout intersections in situations in which a country-specific capacity formulation is not available.
Representación de la vivienda obrera a principios del siglo XX. De las soluciones cotidianas al Concurso de Barrios Obreros para Cartagena de 1902
Authors: Ródenas-López Manuel Alejandro , Juan-Vidal Francisco , Ros-McDonnell Diego , Jiménez-Vicario Pedro Miguel
Published: March 2021

El problema de la vivienda obrera en España se estuvo generando durante décadas debido a diferentes causas socioeconómicas. La promulgación de la 1ª Ley de Casas Baratas en 1911 fue la primera respuesta del Estado como toma de conciencia de este grave problema social, pero en tanto se gestaba, las distintas soluciones para el alojamiento obrero fueron propuestas por múltiples agentes (privados, cooperativas, administración, etc.). Este artículo ofrece un recorrido por algunos proyectos significativos de vivienda obrera en la comarca de Cartagena analizando sus propuestas gráficas, desde las obras más sencillas y cotidianas, hasta la solución excepcional del proyecto para el primer concurso de vivienda social en la España del siglo XX, que propone la construcción de dos barrios obreros en Cartagena. Finalmente se exponen los aspectos y pautas identificadas en este tipo de representaciones para la producción de vivienda.
Una perspectiva inesperada. De la perspectiva en el antiguo Egipto al videojuego Adventure
Authors: Redon Aida Navarro
Published: March 2021

En 1979 Atari lanzó el videojuego Adventure, considerado pionero en los juegos de aventuras rpg (rol-player game), inaugurando un sistema de representación propio que recibió el nombre de perspectiva tres cuartos, que sería empleado posteriormente por todas las grandes compañías de videojuegos. Esta perspectiva tres cuartos se trataba en realidad de un caso particular de perspectiva isométrica frontal de ángulos ZY’=Z’Y que en dibujo arquitectónico se ha venido denominando ‘perspectiva egipcia’ o perspectiva Hejduk. Este acontecimiento tuvo gran repercusión en el comienzo de la representación del espacio virtual mostrando una concepción determinada del mundo, demostrando que la producción del espacio en los videojuegos tiene desde su origen un vínculo interdisciplinar con el espacio materializado de la arquitectura.
Las fuentes gráficas como único testimonio del patrimonio arquitectónico olvidado. La arquitectura fronteriza del reino de Sevilla en la Baja Edad Media
Authors: Molina Rozalem Juan Francisco , Arévalo Rodríguez Federico , Atanasio Guisado Alberto
Published: March 2021

Durante la primera mitad del siglo XIV, el concejo de Sevilla, apoyado por la monarquía, la nobleza local y empujado por el temor a una nueva invasión norteafricana, se involucra en un programa de construcción defensiva que requirió un gran esfuerzo logístico para los medios disponibles en la época. Este programa consistió en la construcción de una red defensiva, al sur del territorio que controlaba, la llamada "banda  morisca", que incluía al menos cuarenta torres defensivas y pequeñas fortificaciones ubicadas en posiciones estratégicas y comunicadas visualmente, cuyo objetivo era neutralizar las razias nazaríes en esta zona fronteriza. De esas torres apenas algunas se mantienen íntegras, la mayoría están en ruina progresiva o han desaparecido. Abandonadas al finalizar la guerra de Granada la documentación existente es muy escasa y en algunos casos se reduce a dibujos, grabados de viajeros y postales fotográficas. El análisis de esa documentación gráfica es una vía adecuada para el conocimiento de ese patrimonio.
De lo que se supone a lo que se ve: el tránsito de la visión simbólica a la perceptiva en la representación paisajista del Renacimiento
Authors: Linares García Fernando
Published: March 2021

En cierta forma, conocer es representar. Existe “paisaje” cuando aparece una comprensión sensible, subjetiva y poética, una suerte de estado de ánimo necesario para contemplar un lugar. Si la naturaleza se convierte en algo agradable depende más de cómo la miramos que de la observación en sí. Este artículo resume el progreso de la mirada paisajística y su representación en la búsqueda estética del paisaje autónomo, principalmente durante la transición en el Renacimiento de la visión alegórica a la perceptiva, así como el dominio de la profundidad; fijando su atención en la evolución descriptiva y funcional de los fondos pictóricos: de ser simples acompañantes ornamentales de segundo plano a protagonistas plenos de la escena; prestando una atención especial a su significado. En menos de dos siglos, entre el XIV y el XVI, los artistas pasaron de pintar ideas a pintar cosas; es decir, del simbolismo narrativo a la iconicidad naturalista, aceptando al paisaje como género propio.
Conversando con… Luis Longhi
Authors: Crespo-Fajardo José Luis , Sagbay-Jaramillo Geovanny , Pillacela-Chin Luisa
Published: March 2021

Luis Longhi Traverso, catedrático de la Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas (UPC) y conferencista internacional, nos recibe una tarde de septiembre a través de videollamada. Estamos ante uno de los arquitectos con mayor proyección del Perú. En las últimas décadas su figura ha sido ampliamente reconocida y sus proyectos le han valido importantes galardones, destacando el Hexágono de Oro 2010, la mayor distinción de la arquitectura peruana. Licenciado por la Universidad Ricardo Palma y con estudios de posgrado en la Universidad de Pennsylvania, trabajó en el estudio de Balkrishna Doshi en Amhedabad (India). En Estados Unidos se desempeñó en las oficinas de Adèle Santos, David Slovic, Gruen Associates y Farrington Design Group, entre otras. En 1994 regresó a Perú para crear la firma Longhi Architects, centrada en realizar arquitecturas con un alto grado de sentido artístico.

 

Un ejemplo es la casa donde actualmente reside y desde la que nos recibe virtualmente: la Casa Chullpas (afueras de Lima), cuyas estructuras tubulares se relacionan con los restos arqueológicos incas de las chullpas de Sillustani, en Puno, su lugar de nacimiento. El interior de la casa Chullpas está lleno de esculturas, unas propias, las más abstractas, y otras de cariz precolombino. Las maquetas de cartón y madera nos recuerdan su oficio docente, en tanto los carteles anunciadores de representaciones teatrales hablan de la época en que ejerció como escenógrafo. Entre piedras y el gris hormigón pintado de tonos magentas, amarillos y azules, el Inca Longhi, como le llaman sus amigos, ha pasado este tiempo de confinamiento.
Corrosion Resistance of Dissimilar GTA Welds of Pipeline Steel and Super Duplex Stainless Steels in Synthetic Brine
Authors: Vargas V.H. , Albiter A. , Domínguez-Aguilar M.A. , Altamirano G. , Maldonado C.
Published: March 2021

The effect of weld passes and single V grove designs on the corrosion resistance of dissimilar welds of a low alloy steel and a super duplex stainless steel was studied in synthetic brine. Welds were manufactured in argon by the gas tungsten arc technique and joined by a high nickel wire of super duplex stainless steel. Samples of weld regions were characterized by composition scans, electrochemical measurements, microhardness, and scanning electron microscopy. In X52/ER2594, a transition region of grain boundaries type II and a band of martensite were formed. The base metal of X52 underwent the highest corrosion rate and localized corrosion occurred in the heat affected zone. Interface ER2594/25Cr7Ni and 25Cr7Ni showed the presence of pitting near intermetallics.
Correlation between KRAS, NRAS and BRAF mutations
and tumor localizations in patients with primary
and metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Bożyk Aleksandra , Krawczyk Paweł , Reszka Katarzyna , Krukowska Kinga , Kolak Agnieszka , Mańdziuk Sławomir , Wojas-Krawczyk Kamila , Ramlau Rodryg , Milanowski Janusz
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Detection of abnormalities in the KRAS, NRAS and BRAF genes
is extremely important for proper qualification of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients for therapy with anti-EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) monoclonal antibodies. However, data about prevalence of mutations in these
genes, in different localizations of CRC tumors, are limited.

Material and methods

We examined the frequency of mutations in the
KRAS, NRAS and BRAF genes in 500 Caucasian CRC patients (200 women
and 300 men, median age 66 years). DNA was isolated from formalin-fixed,
paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues using a Qiagen QIAamp DNA FFPE-kit.
Analysis of mutations was carried out using the KRAS/BRAF, NRAS and BRAF
Mutation Analysis Kit for Real-Time PCR (EntroGen) with the Cobas 480 realtime PCR apparatus (Roche Diagnostics).

Results

KRAS mutations were detected in 190 patients (38%), NRAS mutations in 20 patients (4%), and BRAF mutations in 24 patients (4.8%). There
were no associations between age of CRC patients and frequency of KRAS,
NRAS and BRAF gene mutations. These mutations were significantly more
often diagnosed in women (55.5%) than in men (41%, p < 0.005). Tumors of
the rectum and sigmoideum were the most often observed in both groups
of CRC patients – with and without KRAS, NRAS and BRAF gene mutations.
However, transverse colon, ascending colon and cecum cancers were the
most often affected by mutations.

Conclusions

Our study showed that the occurrence of mutations in the
KRAS, NRAS and BRAF genes is not accidental and depends on the location
of CRC tumors.
The correlation between the granulocyte colony-stimulating factor and the Notch signaling pathway in ischemic brain injury
Authors: Xie Ning , Huang Qin , Han Jingting , Xu Wenyuan
Published: March 2021

Introduction

This study aims to determine the relationship between the granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) and the Notch signaling pathway in ischemic brain injury.

Material and methods

PC-12 cells were treated with the nerve growth factor (NGF) to induce neuronal differentiation then divided into seven groups: 1) no treatment (control); 2) oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) model; 3) overexpressed G-CSF + OGD model; 4) transfected empty vector (negative control; NC) + OGD model; 5) overexpressed G-CSF + γ-secretase inhibitor MW167 + OGD model; 6) MW167 + OGD model; and 7) NC + MW167 + OGD model. The cells were analyzed using immunohistochemistry and apoptosis and CCK8 assays. The expression of the related molecules in the Notch pathway was detected using the Western blotting and quantitative PCR (Q-PCR).

Results

Most PC-12 cells were neuron-specific enolase (NSE)-positive after the NGF treatment. When compared with the control group, the MW167 + OGD and NC + MW167 + OGD groups had the lowest optical density (OD) values, followed by the OGD, NC + OGD and the G-CSF + MW167+ OGD groups. The G-CSF + OGD group had the highest OD value. Concerning apoptosis detection, the control group had the lowest apoptosis rate. The highest apoptosis rates were found in the MW167 + OGD, the OGD, and then the G-CSF + OGD groups.

Conclusions

The blocking of the Notch pathway can attenuate the G-CSF effects, whereas the G-CSF overexpression can activate the Notch pathway to resist the effects of oxygen-glucose deprivation.
Outcome of laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal repair for complicated inguinal hernia in adults at the Hue Central Hospital - II
Authors: Nguyễn Thanh Xuân , Lê Đức Anh
Published: March 2021

Abstract

Introduction: Laparoscopic approaches for inguinal hernia, including transabdominal preperitoneal repair (TAPP) and the totally extraperitoneal approach (TEP), are effective and widely accepted in elective inguinal hernioplasty. The choice an procedure for complicated inguinal hernia repair still controversial. Since the TAPP approach has advantages in assessing hernia content and decreasing incision infection rate and early recovery after surgery.
Materials and Methods: Study participants included 17 patients of complicated inguinal hernia treated by TAPP technique at the Hue Central Hospital - Base 2 from 6/2019 though 6/2020. Descriptive and prospective follow-up study. Results: The mean age was 67,4 ± 14,85. Strangulated hernia and incarcerated hernia respectively accounted for 41,2% and 58.8% among cases. 94,1% cases were indirect hernia. 12 cases (70,6%) were right sided and 5 cases (29,4%) were left sided hernias. The content was small bowel in 58,8% cases, omentum in 23,5% cases and both in 11,8% cases, colon in 5,9%. 7 patients of strangulated hernia with recovery bowel and non resection. The mean durations of unilateral inguinal hernia repair were 77,2 ± 19.3 mins. Mean duration of postoperative stay was 4.2 ± 2.1 days. Postoperativer complications were 5,9% seroma formation. At 6-months evaluation, 1 case was reported with sensation disorder of inguinal area and there was no recurrence.
Conclusions: TAPP is a safe and effective surgical technique for incarcerated inguinal hernia repair.

Keywords: Strangulated inguinal hernia, incarcerated, TAPP, laparoscopic, mesh.

Tóm tắt
Đặt vấn đề: Phẫu thuật nội soi điều trị thoát vị bẹn ngày càng phổ biến rộng rãi với hai phương pháp TEP (totally extraperitoneal) và TAPP (transabdominal preperitoneal). Những trường hợp thoát vị bẹn có biến chứng việc lựa chọn phương pháp điều trị vẫn còn nhiều quan điểm khác nhau. Với cách tiếp cận bên trong khoang phúc mạc phương pháp TAPP có lợi thế trong việc đánh giá tạng thoát vị, giảm tỉ lệ nhiễm trùng và hồi phục nhanh sau phẫu thuật.
Phương pháp nghiên cứu: Nghiên cứu tiến cứu, lâm sàng mô tả, theo dõi dọc 17 người bệnh thoát vị bẹn có biến chứng được phẫu thuật TAPP tại Bệnh viện Trung ương Huế - Cơ sở 2 từ 06/2019 đến 06/2020.
Kết quả: Tuổi trung bình 67,4 ± 14,85 tuổi. Thoát vị bẹn nghẹt 7 người bệnh (41,2%); thoát vị bẹn cầm tù 58,8%. 94,1% thoát vị thể gián tiếp. Bên phải có 12 người bệnh chiếm 70,6%, bên trái 29,4%. Tạng thoát vị được giải phóng 58,8% ruột non; 29,4% mạc nối; 11,8% ruột non và mạc nối và 5,9% là đại tràng. 7 người bệnh thoát vị nghẹt có sự hồi phục ruột non không phải cắt bỏ. Thời gian phẫu thuật trung bình 77,2 ± 19,3 phút. Thời gian nằm viện sau mổ trung bình 4,2 ± 2,1 ngày. Biến chứng sớm sau phẫu thuật 5,9% tụ dịch bẹn bìu. Sau 6 tháng có 1 trường hợp rối loạn cảm giác vùng bẹn; không có trường hợp nào tái phát
Normative value of photostress recovery time among various age groups in southern India
Authors: Bishwash Bhandari , Kumar De Tapas , Kumar Sah Sanjay , Das Sanyam Sandip
Published: March 2021

Background: To determine the normative data and reference value for photostress recovery time (PSRT) following exposure of the macula to light, in various age groups within the Indian population.

Methods: Cross-sectional observational study performed from November 2015 to July 2016 in the Bangalore district of Karnataka state in India. We examined a total of 1,282 eyes of 641 participants and included those with corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) scoes lower than  or equal to 0.4 Logarithm of the Minimum Angle of Resolution (LogMAR). We performed the photostress procedure under standard conditions using the same approach.

Results: The mean ± standard deviation (SD) of the participants’ age was 32.04 ± 15.80, with an age range of 8 to 70 years. The PSRT in participants below 16 years and above 45 years of age were significantly different compared to the 16–25-year-old age group (P  <  0.0001 for both). The PSRT values were significantly different between males and females in the reproductive age group (16 to 45 years old) (P  < 0.0001), but not in the other age groups.

Conclusions: The PSRT values were significantly different in children and older patients compared to the 16 to 25 years age group. We found that as age increased, PSRT increased significantly.
Two-year successful results of femto-LASIK in steep and opacified corneas
Authors: Mounir Amr , Matthias Emad Latif , Awny Islam
Published: March 2021

Background: Flap creation is the most critical step of laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). The introduction of the femtosecond laser with its uniform flaps, which enhance the accuracy of LASIK, has decreased the risk of flap-related complications like buttonholes and incomplete flaps. We recommended femtosecond laser-assisted LASIK (FS-LASIK) in the presence of superficial corneal opacities.

Case Presentation: We report a case of a 31-year-old female who reported to the Cornea clinic of the Sohag Center for LASIK and Corneal Surgeries, Sohag, Egypt, complaining of bilateral decreased vision due to refractive error. The uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) and corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) were 0.01 and 0.7 with a refractive correction of -3.50Ds/ –3.00Dc x 172° in the right eye and 0.01 and 0.6 with a refractive correction of -1.75 Ds/-6.00Dc x164° in the left eye, respectively. Slit-lamp examination of the anterior segment showed bilateral superior vascularized corneal scars and a linear superior conjunctival scar suggestive of old trachoma. Corneal tomographic imaging with a Scheimpflug based tomography device (Oculus Inc., Wetzlar, Germany) revealed a symmetrical bow tie with a very steep cornea without other ectatic changes. The patient underwent bilateral FS-LASIK with an excimer laser. No intraoperative complications occurred. She was followed up for two years with serial corneal topographies and stable post-LASIK results and visual outcomes.

Conclusions: FS-LASIK, in the presence of superficial corneal opacities, was safe and effective and induced no complications with special precautions. However, these findings are yet to be confirmed using well‐designed clinical studies with larger samples and longer follow-ups.
Implementation of E-Government Policy in Making Smart Governance at Government Communication and Informatics Department, Bandung
Authors: Nugraha Budi
Published: March 2021

This research is based on the main problem of E-Government in realizing Smart Governance in Bandung. The implementation of E-Government Policy has not been maximized in realizing Smart Governance in the Office of Communication and Information Technology of the City Government of Bandung. The opinion in this study is related to policy implementation seen from the context of public policy and public administration as the main theory for developing public administration knowledge. With the SWOT analysis, this study shows that first, the environmental conditions in the Bandung Information and Communication Office are good, but E-Government management in creating Smart Governance in the implementation stage is still weak in terms of supervision. Second, inadequate facilities for the implementation of E-Government. Third, the relationship pattern between work units and prevailing norms needs to be improved in its implementation. The fourth implementation of E-Government policies in realizing Smart Governance has been running, but has not touched all aspects of achieving success.
The Role of the Population, Family Planning and Family Development Program (KKBPK) in Reducing Stunting Prevalence
Authors: Mauluddin Agus , Novianti Novianti
Published: March 2021

Stunting is a common issue in the global network. Stunting is one of the fundamental problems that hinder the development of toddlers in the world today and has received great international attention, at least in the last decade. In 2017, for example, around 150.8 million (22.2%) children in the world were stunted. The stunting prevalence data collected by WHO (2005-2017) puts Indonesia in third position, the country with the highest prevalence in the Southeast Asia region (36.4%). Basic health research data in 2018 shows the prevalence of stunting in Indonesia is around 30.8% and is still below the world standard (WHO), which is a maximum of 20%. Many interventions have been carried out to reduce the prevalence of stunting, especially from a (specific) health aspect. However, interventions that only target specific interventions are still ineffective, hence the need for interventions that involve various sectors or stakeholders. The argument from this study is the need for stunting prevention interventions that involve multi-sectors, not only specific ones (health), but also sensitive interventions (Population, Family Planning, and Family Development programs). Strengthened by the latest research shows the focus of studies on multi-sector stunting prevention. Recent studies also prove that it is important to pay attention to a family-based approach (family development) in the prevention of stunting, especially in regards to birth interval management which has an effect on reducing the prevalence of stunting.
GENERAL AND SPECIAL EDUCATOR ATTITUDE TOWARDS
INCLUSIVE EDUCATION
Authors: Saxena Yachna
Published: March 2021

Teachers’ attitudes and beliefs are known to influence their teaching practices and management strategies in the classroom, and therefore directly influencing students’ learning. The existing research indicates that the teachers’ attitudes towards inclusion are inconsistent. The educationalists point out that these inconsistencies are due to differences among the attitudes of various types of educators toward students with disabilities. There are various types of educators like regular education teachers, special education teachers, administrators, and others and according to research each one's attitude is different when it comes to teaching students with disabilities. This quantitative study was designed to investigate teachers’ attitudes towards Children with Special Needs (CWSN) with an exclusive comparison between General Educator
and Special Educator. Data was collected from 260 teachers of Bhopal by using a self-developed survey instrument entitled 'Multidimensional Attitudinal Measurement of Teachers towards Children with Disability Scale' (MAMTCD-Scale). The findings revealed significant difference in attitude between general educators and special educators.
CONSTRUCTIVIST TEACHING AND LEARNING
Authors: Sharma Nishi
Published: March 2021

The idea of constructivism brings the elements of learning, creativity and cognitive
development together. The process provides better engagement among teacher and students through dynamic and interactive feeding of information that the children tries to comprehend themselves through past experiences. Constructivism focuses on process rather than the product. Learning through real life experiences and creating cognitive map makes children grasp the concepts better and apply them in real life applications. The paper tries to overview the theoretical aspects of the constructivist principles and constructivist learning design to execute constructivist teaching and learning in the classrooms
Measurement report: Exploring NH3 behavior in urban and suburban Beijing: comparison and implications
Authors: Lan Ziru , Lin Weili , Pu Weiwei , Ma Zhiqiang
Published: March 2021

Abstract. Ammonia (NH3) plays an important role in particulate matter formation;
hence, its atmospheric level is relevant to human health and climate
change. Due to different relative distributions of NH3 sources,
concentrations of atmospheric NH3 may behave differently in urban and
rural areas. However, few parallel long-term observations of NH3 exist to
reveal the different behaviors of NH3 concentrations at urban
and rural sites in a same region. In this study, online ammonia analyzers
were used to continuously observe atmospheric NH3 concentrations at an
urban site and a suburban site in Beijing from 13 January 2018 to 13 January 2019. The observed mixing ratio of NH3 averaged 21±14 ppb
(range of 1.6–133 ppb) at the urban site and 22±15 ppb (range of
0.8–199 ppb) at the suburban site. The NH3 mixing ratios at the urban
and suburban sites exhibited similar seasonal variations, with high values
in summer and spring and low values in autumn and winter. The hourly mean
NH3 mixing ratios at the urban site were highly correlated (R=0.849,
P<0.01) with those at the suburban site; however, the average
diurnal variations in the NH3 mixing ratios at the urban and suburban
sites differed significantly, which implies different contributions from
NH3 sources and sinks at the urban and suburban sites. In addition to
the emission sources, meteorological factors were closely related to the
changes in the NH3 concentrations. For the same temperature (relative
humidity) at the urban and suburban sites, the NH3 mixing ratios
increased with relative humidity (temperature). Relative humidity was the
factor with the strongest influence on the NH3 mixing ratio in
different seasons at the two sites. The relationships between the NH3
concentrations and temperature (relative humidity) varied from season to
season and showed differences between the urban and suburban sites. The
reasons for the different relationships need to be investigated in future
studies. Higher wind speed mainly from the northwest sector lowered the
NH3 mixing ratios at both sites. Similarly to other primary pollutants
in Beijing, the NH3 mixing ratios were high when impacted by air masses
from the southern sector.
Compound high-temperature and low-chlorophyll extremes in the ocean over the satellite period
Authors: Le Grix Natacha , Zscheischler Jakob , Laufkötter Charlotte , Rousseaux Cecile S. , Frölicher Thomas L.
Published: March 2021

Abstract. Extreme events in the ocean severely impact marine organisms and ecosystems. Of particular concern are compound events, i.e., when conditions are extreme for multiple potential ocean ecosystem stressors such as temperature and chlorophyll. Yet, little is known about the occurrence, intensity, and duration of such compound high-temperature (a.k.a. marine heatwaves – MHWs) and low-chlorophyll (LChl) extreme events, whether their distributions have changed in the past decades, and what the potential drivers are. Here we use satellite-based sea surface temperature and chlorophyll concentration estimates to provide a first assessment of such compound extreme events. We reveal hotspots of compound MHW and LChl events in the equatorial Pacific, along the boundaries of the subtropical gyres, in the northern Indian Ocean, and around Antarctica. In these regions, compound events that typically last 1 week occur 3 to 7 times more often than expected under the assumption of independence between MHWs and LChl events. The occurrence of compound MHW and LChl events varies on seasonal to interannual timescales. At the seasonal timescale, most compound events occur in summer in both hemispheres. At the interannual timescale, the frequency of compound MHW and LChl events is strongly modulated by large-scale modes of natural climate variability such as the El Niño–Southern Oscillation, whose positive phase is associated with increased compound event occurrence in the eastern equatorial Pacific and in the Indian Ocean by a factor of up to 4. Our results provide a first understanding of where, when, and why compound MHW and LChl events occur. Further studies are needed to identify the exact physical and biological drivers of these potentially harmful events in the ocean and their evolution under global warming.
A 1-km global dataset of historical (1979–2017) and future (2020–2100) Köppen-Geiger climate classification and bioclimatic variables
Authors: Cui Diyang , Liang Shunlin , Wang Dongdong , Liu Zheng
Published: March 2021

Abstract. The Köppen-Geiger climate classification scheme provides an effective and ecologically meaningful way to characterize climatic conditions and has been widely applied in climate change studies. The Köppen-Geiger climate maps currently available are limited by relatively low spatial resolution, poor accuracy, and noncomparable time periods. Comprehensive assessment of climate change impacts requires a more accurate depiction of fine-grained climatic conditions and continuous long-term time coverage. Here, we present a series of improved 1-km Köppen-Geiger climate classification maps for ten historical periods in 1979–2017 and four future periods in 2020–2099 under RCP2.6, 4.5, 6.0, and 8.5. The historical maps are derived from multiple downscaled observational datasets and the future maps are derived from an ensemble of bias-corrected downscaled CMIP5 projections. In addition to climate classification maps, we calculate 12 bioclimatic variables at 1-km resolution, providing detailed descriptions of annual averages, seasonality, and stressful conditions of climates. The new maps offer higher classification accuracy and demonstrate the ability to capture recent and future projected changes in spatial distributions of climate zones. On regional and continental scales, the new maps show accurate depictions of topographic features and correspond closely with vegetation distributions. We also provide a heuristic application example to detect long-term global-scale area changes of climate zones. This high-resolution dataset of Köppen-Geiger climate classification and bioclimatic variables can be used in conjunction with species distribution models to promote biodiversity conservation and to analyze and identify recent and future interannual or interdecadal changes in climate zones on a global or regional scale. The dataset referred to as KGClim, is publicly available at http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.4546140 for historical climate and http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.4542076 for future climate.
Influence of biomass burning vapor wall loss correction on modeling organic aerosols in Europe by CAMx v6.50
Authors: Jiang Jianhui , El Haddad Imad , Aksoyoglu Sebnem , Stefenelli Giulia , Bertrand Amelie , Marchand Nicolas , Canonaco Francesco , Petit Jean-Eudes , Favez Olivier , Gilardoni Stefania , Baltensperger Urs , Prévôt André S. H.
Published: March 2021

Abstract. Increasing evidence from experimental studies suggests
that the losses of semi-volatile vapors to chamber walls could be
responsible for the underestimation of organic aerosol (OA) in air quality
models that use parameters obtained from chamber experiments. In this
study, a box model with a volatility basis set (VBS) scheme was developed, and
the secondary organic aerosol (SOA) yields with vapor wall loss correction
were optimized by a genetic algorithm based on advanced chamber experimental
data for biomass burning. The vapor wall loss correction increases the SOA
yields by a factor of 1.9–4.9 and leads to better agreement with
measured OA for 14 chamber experiments under different temperatures and
emission loads. To investigate the influence of vapor wall loss correction
on regional OA simulations, the optimized parameterizations (SOA yields,
emissions of intermediate-volatility organic compounds from biomass burning,
and enthalpy of vaporization) were implemented in the regional air quality
model CAMx (Comprehensive Air Quality Model with extensions). The model
results from the VBS schemes with standard (VBS_BASE) and
vapor-wall-loss-corrected parameters (VBS_WLS), as well as
the traditional two-product approach, were compared and evaluated by OA
measurements from five Aerodyne aerosol chemical speciation monitor (ACSM) or aerosol mass spectrometer (AMS) stations in the winter of 2011. An
additional reference scenario, VBS_noWLS, was also developed
using the same parameterization as VBS_WLS except for the SOA
yields, which were optimized by assuming there is no vapor wall loss. The
VBS_WLS generally shows the best performance for predicting
OA among all OA schemes and reduces the mean fractional bias from −72.9 %
(VBS_BASE) to −1.6 % for the winter OA. In Europe, the
VBS_WLS produces the highest domain average OA in winter (2.3 µg m−3), which is 106.6 % and 26.2 % higher than
VBS_BASE and VBS_noWLS, respectively. Compared
to VBS_noWLS, VBS_WLS leads to an increase in
SOA by up to ∼80 % (in the Balkans). VBS_WLS
also leads to better agreement between the modeled SOA fraction in OA
(fSOA) and the estimated values in the literature. The substantial
influence of vapor wall loss correction on modeled OA in Europe highlights
the importance of further improvements in parameterizations based on
laboratory studies for a wider range of chamber conditions and field
observations with higher spatial and temporal coverage.
Sources and pathways of biocides and their transformation products in urban water infrastructure of a 2 ha urban district
Authors: Linke Felicia , Olsson Oliver , Preusser Frank , Kümmerer Klaus , Schnarr Lena , Bork Marcus , Lange Jens
Published: March 2021

Abstract. Biocides used in film protection products leaching from facades are known to be a potential threat for the environment. This study identifies individual sources and entry pathways in a small-scale urban area. We investigate emissions of commonly used biocides (terbutryn, diuron and octylisothiazolinone (OIT)) and some of their transformation products (TPs; diuron-desmethyl, terbumeton, terbuthylazin-2-hydroxy and terbutryn-desethyl) from a 2 ha residential area, 13 years after construction has ended. Sampling utilizes existing urban water infrastructure representative for decentralized storm water management in central and northern Europe and applies a two-step approach to (a) determine the occurrence of biocides above water quality limits (i.e. predicted no effect concentration, PNEC) and (b) identify source areas and characterize entry pathways into surface- and groundwater. Monitoring focuses on the analysis of selected biocides and TPs by LC-MS/MS in water samples taken from facades, rainwater pipes, drainage and storm water infiltration systems. In standing water in a swale we found high concentrations of diuron (174 ng L−1) and terbutryn (40 ng L−1) above PNEC for surface water. We confirmed expected sources, i.e. facades, but sampling of rain downpipes from flat roofs identified additional sources of all biocides and two TPs of terbutryn and one TP of diuron. Diuron and terbutryn were found in three drainage pipes representing different entry pathways of biocides. In one drainage pipe collecting road runoff only diuron-desmethyl and terbutryn-desethyl were detected. In two other drainage pipes collecting infiltrated water through soil additionally terbuthylazin-2-hydroxy was detected. Concentration of terbutryn and two of its TPs (terbutryn-desethyl and terbuthylazin-2-hydroxy) were highest in one of the pipes collecting infiltrated water through soil which suggests a high leaching potential of this biocide. This study shows that target-oriented monitoring of urban water infrastructure for biocides and their TPs allows for a better identification of biocide emissions into urban aquatic environments.
The value of ASCAT soil moisture and MODIS snow cover data for calibrating a conceptual hydrologic model
Authors: Tong Rui , Parajka Juraj , Salentinig Andreas , Pfeil Isabella , Komma Jürgen , Széles Borbála , Kubáň Martin , Valent Peter , Vreugdenhil Mariette , Wagner Wolfgang , Blöschl Günter
Published: March 2021

Abstract. Recent advances in soil moisture remote sensing have
produced satellite data sets with improved soil moisture mapping under
vegetation and with higher spatial and temporal resolutions. In this study,
we evaluate the potential of a new, experimental version of the Advanced Scatterometer (ASCAT) soil water index data set for multiple objective calibrations of a conceptual hydrologic model. The analysis is performed in 213 catchments in Austria for the period 2000–2014. An HBV (Hydrologiska Byråns Vattenbalansavdelning)-type hydrologic model is calibrated based on runoff
data, ASCAT soil moisture data, and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) snow cover data for various
calibration variants. Results show that the inclusion of soil moisture data
in the calibration mainly improves the soil moisture simulations, the
inclusion of snow data mainly improves the snow simulations, and the inclusion of both of them improves both soil moisture and snow simulations to almost the same extent. The snow data are more efficient at improving snow simulations than the soil moisture data are at improving soil moisture simulations. The improvements of both runoff and soil moisture model efficiencies are larger in low elevation and agricultural catchments than in others. The calibrated snow-related parameters are strongly affected by including snow data and, to a lesser extent, by soil moisture data. In contrast, the soil-related parameters are only affected by the inclusion of soil moisture data. The results indicate that the use of multiple remote sensing products in hydrological modeling can improve the representation of hydrological fluxes and prediction of runoff hydrographs at the catchment scale.
Effect of Ginger-Naproxen on Knee Osteoarthritis: A Clinical Study
Authors: Munir Mehtab , Memon Khalid Mustafa , Jaffri Sajid Abbas , Ali Hasan
Published: March 2021

Objective: To evaluate clinical efficacy and safety of ginger with naproxen, in treating knee osteoarthritis.Study design and setting: Randomized clinical trial conducted in medicine department OPD of National Medical Center,Karachi from 21st September 2018 till 31st March 2019.Methodology: This study was conducted on 60 patients of knee osteoarthritis. After written informed consent, the patientswere randomized to two groups. Group A received tablet naproxen 500mg and capsule ginger 550mg, twice daily and groupB was given tablet naproxen 500mg twice daily. Total 53 patients finished the study (group A: n=27 and group B: n=26).Baseline pain (Visual Analogue Scale) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis index (WOMAC)scores were noted at the beginning of study and reassessed after 6 weeks of the intervention. Safety profile of the drugswas assessed by observing adverse effects. Independent t-test was applied to check difference between the two groups.Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 23.0. P-value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.Results: Before the intervention no significant difference was observed in two groups. However significant difference wasobserved between the groups in pain (p=0.019) and WOMAC (p=0.020) scores after 6 weeks of intervention. Moreoverthere was no significant difference (p=0.914) in occurrence of adverse effects between the two groups at the end of 6 weeksof study.
Rectal Duplication Cyst Mimicking Rectal Prolapse
Authors: Ahmad Asrar , Karar Eelaf , Saleem Irum , Ahmad Nisar
Published: March 2021

Gastrointestinal tract duplications are rare congenital malformations that are benign, presenting usually in childhood. Mostcommon sites include the distal ileum and oesophagus. Rectal presentation is quite uncommon and is usually cystic. Thisis a case of a three year old boy who came with rectal prolapse. On further examination and imaging investigations a presacralcyst was located and a diagnosis of rectal duplication was made. The cyst was completely excised by a posteriorsagittal approach.
PENGARUH PENERAPAN STANDAR AKUNTANSI PEMERINTAHAN BERBASIS AKRUAL, SISTEM PENGENDALIAN INTERN DAN MOTIVASI KERJA TERHADAP KUALITAS LAPORAN KEUANGAN (Studi Kasus Pada Organisasi Perangkat Daerah Provinsi Papua)
Authors: Holle Vania Annissa , Salle Agustinus , Sanggenafa Mariolin
Published: March 2021

This research aims to analyze the influence of accrual-based accounting standard, internal control system, and motivation of work on the quality of financial statements. The population were in 34 departments in Papua Province. The samples of this study were 65 people. The research method was used purposive sampling with criterion are the heads and the staff of sub-divisions of finance who participating in making financial report. Data collection was done by distributing questionnaires directly to each departments in Province of Papua. The analysis technique was used multiple linear regression. This study concludes that accrual-based accounting standard, internal control system, and work motivation have positive and significant effect on the quality of financial statements
PENGARUH GOOD CORPORATE GOVERNANCE DAN INTELLECTUAL CAPITAL TERHADAP FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE (Studi Empiris Pada Perusahaan Manufaktur Yang Terdaftar Di Bursa Efek Indonesia)
Authors: Sinurat Indriyani Ningsih , Daat Sylvia Christina , Hutadjulu Linda Y.
Published: March 2021

This study aims to examine the influence of good corporate governance and intellectual capital to financial performance (financial performance). Corporate governance mechanisms in this research are managerial ownership, institutional ownership, and the proportion of independentcommissioners. Intellectual capital is measured using Value Added Intellectual Capital (VAIC) model which has three components (physical capital, human capital and structural capital), and financial performance is measured by return on assets (ROA). Secondary data was used by derived from the financial statements of manufacturing companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange 2014-2016. The sampling technique used purposive sampling method with multiple linear regression analysis tools. Prior the regression test, the classical assumption test is done first. The results show that managerial ownership, institutional ownership and independent commissioner's proportion have no effect on financial performance, while intellectual capital has an effect on financial performance. The conclusion of this research is that intellectual capital can be used to improve financial performance if company can measure accurately but corporate governance still not proven can improve company's financial performance.