bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methodological Foundations of the Application of the Project Method in Teaching Object-oriented Programming
Authors:   Innovative University of Eurasia, Prokopets E.V.
Published: January 2024

The main problem: The article discusses the author's methodology based on the application of the project method in teaching students of the specialty 1304000 «Computer Engineering and Software» object-oriented programming. The author cites the most important aspects that need to be based on building a methodology for teaching object-oriented programming. At the same time, teachers need to focus on the process of activating the cognitive independence of students. On the basis of the methodology proposed by the author for teaching students the basics of object-oriented programming using the project method, a teacher's activity strategy has been developed aimed at forming students' cognitive independence. Objective: description of methodological recommendations that activate the cognitive independence of students in the study of object-oriented programming through the use of the project method. Methods: The article analyzes the State mandatory standard of technical and vocational education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, a standard curriculum and a working curriculum on the discipline "Fundamentals of object-oriented programming". Based on the results of the analysis, a teaching methodology was developed aimed at the formation of cognitive independence through the use of the project method in the educational process. Results and their significance: The practical result of the analysis carried out by the author was the methodology of teaching object-oriented programming to college students. The main condition for the application of this technique is the use of the project method, the observance of which is necessary for the development of cognitive independence of students. The results of the study have practical significance, which consists in creating conditions for the development of creative abilities, activation of students’ cognitive independence. The methodology proposed by the author of the article will contribute to improving the effectiveness of studying the discipline.
Enfermedades Respiratorias de Mayor Prevalencia Por Heces de Aves Migratorias en Zona Céntrica Del Municipio de Tibú Norte de Santander. Colombia
Authors: Pabón Trujillo Herminio , Posada Miguel Eduardo , Triana Sánchez Margarita Rosa , Barrera José Alfonso , Yazzid Rodríguez Wilmer
Published: January 2024

En la presente investigación, se pretende identificar las enfermedades de mayor prevalencia en la zona céntrica del municipio, las cuales son causadas por las heces de las aves presentes en dicho lugar. Además, se busca establecer medidas preventivas que contribuyan a reducir el impacto del riesgo biológico. Este estudio exploratorio descriptivo tiene como objetivo analizar el impacto que la problemática ambiental en la zona céntrica del Municipio de Tibú, Norte de Santander, Colombia, tiene en la calidad de vida de sus habitantes, desde la perspectiva de estos últimos y cómo han enfrentado la situación. La investigación se enmarca en un enfoque cuantitativo, de campo y de nivel descriptivo. Para recopilar la información necesaria, se llevaron a cabo entrevistas semi-estructuradas aplicadas a la población seleccionada. El análisis de dichas entrevistas se realizó mediante codificación abierta de la Teoría Empíricamente Fundamentada. Los resultados obtenidos revelan que la problemática ambiental ha ocasionado graves perjuicios en la calidad de vida de los residentes del sector, afectando principalmente su entorno físico, salud, economía, costumbres y relaciones sociales. A pesar de que los habitantes de la zona se organizaron y movilizaron para hacer frente a la situación, se encontraron con obstáculos como el poder de las empresas locales, la falta de respaldo gubernamental y la desesperanza ante la ausencia de soluciones efectivas. En la fase final del estudio, se aborda la problemática ambiental como un problema social y se discuten las implicaciones que esto tiene en las políticas públicas.
Uso de la Inteligencia Artificial en la Organización y Planificación de los Viajes Quito-Ecuador
Authors: Sancho Zurita Jaime Vladimir , Herrera Díaz Sylvia del Pilar , Crespo Núñez Ximena Luz , Cadena Echeverria Gonzalo Napoleón
Published: January 2024

El presente proyecto considera los cambios en los procesos que se vienen implementando en la gestión turística, debido a la introducción de aplicaciones informáticas que en su interior tienen incorporados algoritmos de inteligencia artificial que contribuyen a que muchos usuarios que necesitan algún producto o servicio turístico puedan solicitar información, reservar o comprar, de forma virtual, sin intermediación de personas y/o empresas.  Como parte de la metodología se realizó la revisión bibliográfica de artículos relacionados con la inteligencia artificial en general y su utilización en Turismo; se aplicó una encuesta que dio como resultados que, para planificar viajes, los encuestados usan tecnologías de IA, la más utilizada para reserva de pasajes aéreos es despegar.com; alojamiento, booking.com; alquiler de vehículos, es.kayak.com; y, para consumo de alimentos la mayoría no utiliza aplicaciones.   A través de la información consultada del uso de IA en España se encontró datos similares a los levantados en la población encuestada, donde la inteligencia artificial ha ido descartando, en los últimos años, la contratación de empresas operadoras turísticas. Con los datos obtenidos se concluyó que la mayoría de los encuestados emplea tecnologías de inteligencia artificial en sus viajes dejando de lado el servicio de las agencias de viajes.
Explorando Disautonomías y Síndrome de Guillain-Barré: Una Perspectiva con Revisión Narrativa de la Literatura
Authors: Salazar Lengua Cristian , Barrios García Conni , Castelblanco Yurit Sierra
Published: January 2024

El síndrome de Guillain-Barré es reconocido por ser causante de parálisis flácida que puede afectar tanto la musculatura de las extremidades como la musculatura bulbar y su presentación clínica mas común y reconocida es la debilidad; sin embargo, las disautonomías que usualmente acompañan esta condición se relacionan a mayor morbimortalidad y complicaciones graves para el paciente, que pueden afectar diversos sistemas incluyendo cardiovascular, genitourinario, gastrointestinal, entre otros. Este artículo presenta una revisión narrativa de la literatura que explora la información disponible sobre el síndrome de Guillain Barré y las manifestaciones que involucren el sistema nervioso autónomo así como las posibles intervenciones y herramientas que pueden utilizar los profesionales de la salud en rehabilitación, haciendo énfasis en medidas no farmacológicas que podrían prevenir desenlaces graves, así como estrategias educativas para el paciente y su entorno familiar que pueden mejorar la adherencia marcando la diferencia en el curso y desenlace de esta condición.
Effects of discarded cheese-whey amended substrate on growth and flowering of different snapdragon cultivars (Antirrhinum majus L.)
Authors: Munir Muhammad
Published: January 2024

The recycling of organic waste as a feedstock for the plant use emerges to be an eco-friendly process for the production of various fruit, vegetable, and ornamental crops. Cheese-whey has very short shelf life, therefore, in the present study the wasted cheese-whey is used as organic material to observe its effect on ornamental plant. In this study, seven commercial cultivars of snapdragon (Magic Carpet, Antiquity Sunset, Day and Night, Chuckles, Illumination, Madame Butterfly, and Twilight) were planted in pots containing either (1) 1:3:1 ratio of sand, peat-based compost, and perlite substrate (control), or (2) 1:3:1 ratio of sand, peat-based compost, and perlite substrate, which was amended by adding 200 mL per pot cheese-whey. These pots were placed in a glasshouse, under ambient environment. The layout of the experiment was two-factorial completely randomized design with six replicates. All plant growth and flowering parameters were significantly (P?0.05) affected by substrates. Snapdragon cultivars grown in cheese-whey amended substrate displayed maximum plant height, number of leaf per plant, leaf area, leaf fresh weight, leaf dry weight, plant fresh weight, plant dry weight, specific leaf weight, and leaf area ratio. Comparing the cultivars, it was observed that the cultivar Day and Night had maximum days to flowering, plant height, number of leaf per plant, leaf area, leaf fresh weight, leaf dry weight, plant fresh weight, plant dry weight, specific leaf weight, and leaf area ratio. The interaction of the both factors indicated that all snapdragon cultivars had significantly promising results when grown in cheese-whey amended substrate compared to control plants.
Distribution of nutrients and their indexing in major mango-supporting soils of different agro-climatic zones of Karnataka and its impact on yield
Authors: Saha Kaushik , Kumar K.S. Anil , Karthika K.S. , Hegde Rajendra , Prasad Jagdish
Published: January 2024

Knowledge of the spatial distribution of soil nutrients is essential for site-specific nutrient management, which forms an effective strategy in precision agriculture. As mango is one of southern Karnataka’s most important horticultural crops, the present study was conducted on 108 mango orchards under different agro-climatic zones to assess spatial nutrient variability for nutrient management. The soils of the study areas were acidic and non-saline. Nitrogen (N) deficiency was found in 84.26 percent area, whereas phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) contents were medium in most soils. Sulphur was sufficient, and calcium and magnesium contents varied with agro-climatic zones. The micronutrient (Zn, Fe, Mn) status was sufficient, except for copper and boron. The nutrient index for nitrogen was low, while phosphorus and potassium were low to medium. It is inferred that agro-management should include proper nitrogen fertilization, FYM, and boron throughout the growing cycle for better yield and quality.
Hydroponic vs. soil cultivation of lettuce and spinach: A study in a polycarbonate greenhouse at high altitudes in the Trans-Himalayan region
Authors: Kumar Kaushal , Kumari Kamini , Acharya Somen , Tsewang Thupstan , Mishra Alok , Verma Anshu , Chaurasia O P
Published: January 2024

This study compared the hydroponic and soil cultivation systems for lettuce and spinach production in India’s cold desert, high-altitude Trans-Himalayan region. Hydroponic cultivation is a soilless technique that provides fresh vegetables in regions with environmental stress and limited arable land. The experiment was conducted in hydroponic structures designed for leafy vegetable cultivation, including vertical and horizontal circulated nutrient film technique (NFT), non-circulated systems, and soil cultivation in an open, naturally ventilated double-layer polycarbonate greenhouse in Ladakh, India. Results showed that lettuce and spinach grown in the vertical circulated NFT system had significantly better plant growth characteristics such as plant height, number of leaves, leaf area, fresh weight, and yield than horizontal NFT, non-circulated, and soil systems. Moreover, fresh produce from vertical and horizontal NFT systems had higher nitrate content, soluble sugar content, and total sweetness index, indicating better crispiness of the produce. Mineral nutrient contents (Ca, Mg, B, Cu, Mn, Zn, Fe, and Ni) were also higher in the circulated NFT system compared to other systems studied. Thus, this study demonstrated that lettuce and spinach grown in NFT systems produced significantly higher yields with better nutritional quality than soil-grown systems in the Trans-Himalayan region. Hydroponic systems are recommended for successfully producing nutrient-rich vegetables in areas with limited water and arable land. This is the first demonstration of hydroponic systems in high-altitude cold desert conditions for growing leafy greens, and it has promising implications for sustainable agriculture.
Application of photo-thermal models to quantify flowering time and development response of Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum × morifolium Ramat.)
Authors: Munir Muhammad
Published: January 2024

Chrysanthemum is a short-day plant, which flowers when the night length is longer. Photoperiod and temperature are two key environmental factors that affect time of flowering. In the current research, experiments were carried out to study the flowering response of two cultivars of chrysanthemum, i.e., Crimson Glory and Snowscape under four distinct photoperiods (8, 11, 14, and 17 h d?1), shading levels (20, 30, 40, and 60%), and temperatures (10, 15, 20, and 25 °C). A qualitative short-day response was observed in all experiments. Both cultivars took minimum time to flower when grown under 8 h d?1, however, it was significantly delayed when photoperiod decreased. Similarly, days taken to flowering were decreased significantly when plants were grown in 30% shade, which was delayed by increasing shade level (40 and 60%). Temperature also had a significant effect on the developmental phases of flower as above (25 °C) and below (10?15 °C) 20 °C temperature delayed flowering time. The present study also confirms that per day rate of progress to flowering was higher at 8 h d?1 photoperiod, in 30% shade level, and at 20 °C temperature. These findings revealed a prospect of plant scheduling of the flowering time of chrysanthemum cultivars grown in long-day photoperiod to extend their marketing period, as the plants remains vegetative. A steady supply of this flowering annual can also be maintained in the market by growing them under different shades. The quality of plants would also benefit from an ideal growing temperature of between 15-20 °C.
KULIAH KERJA NYATA DAN PEMBERDAYAAN MASYARAKAT MELALUI EDUKASI DI DESA NAGROG
Authors: Jilani Alifa , Ananda Zulfa Istiqomah  , Dana Sanitiya  , Gandara Wibawa Pamungkas  , Huda Jalaludin  , Raden Srimaharsi Yunandharu Hadyan  , Siska Silviani  , Trividar Bagus Ludiono  , Wenda Dadang Sumpena
Published: January 2024

Pendidikan merupakan faktor penting bagi setiap orang untuk mengembangkan potensi dirinya dan mendidik dirinya dengan lebih baik. Penyelenggaraan pendidikan tentunya memerlukan tenaga pengajar, baik secara formal maupun informal. Artikel Ini mendokumentasikan perjalanan program Kuliah Kerja Nyata (KKN) yang berfokus pada pemberdayaan masyarakat melalui edukasi di Desa juara atau yang sering kita ketahui yaitu Desa Nagrog. Kegiatan KKN ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan mutu pendidikan lokal dan menciptakan dampak positif dalam kehidupan masyarakat setempat. Dalam konteks edukasi, berbagai inisiatif telah dilaksanakan, termasuk pemberian edukasi kepada anak Sekolah Dasar (SD) dan Sekolah Menengah Pertama (SMP). Mahasiswa KKN dari Universitas Muhammadiyah Bandung aktif terlibat dalam perencanaan dan pelaksanaan inisiatif ini, menghadirkan perubahan yang signifikan dalam akses pendidikan dan kesadaran masyarakat akan pentingnya pendidikan. Selain meningkatkan mutu pendidikan, program KKN di Desa Nagrog juga mendorong keterlibatan aktif masyarakat. Kolaborasi antara mahasiswa, penduduk desa, dan pihak-pihak terkait telah memperkuat fondasi pemberdayaan masyarakat dalam berbagai aspek kehidupan. Artikel ini memberikan wawasan tentang bagaimana KKN dapat menjadi alat yang efektif dalam meningkatkan pendidikan dan pemberdayaan masyarakat di Desa Nagrog. Implikasi dari pengabdian ini dapat membimbing institusi pendidikan tinggi lainnya yang ingin berperan aktif dalam pembangunan sosial dan pendidikan di masyarakat pedesaan.
Kata Kunci: Pendidikan, Desa nagrog, Masyarakat
Lupus nephritis - case report of an uncommon succession of therapies
Authors:   Rheumatology Department, “Dr. Ion Stoia” Clinical Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Bucharest, Romania, Rovinaru Andreea , Enache Luminita ,   Rheumatology Department, “Dr. Ion Stoia” Clinical Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Bucharest, Romania,   “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Popescu Claudiu ,   Rheumatology Department, “Dr. Ion Stoia” Clinical Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Bucharest, Romania,   “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Codreanu Catalin ,   Rheumatology Department, “Dr. Ion Stoia” Clinical Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Bucharest, Romania,   “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
Published: January 2024

Background. Lupus nephritis (LN) is one of the most severe manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and often occurs within the first five years after diagnosis. Case report. A 33-year-old woman with SLE (arthritis; cutaneous involvement; Raynaud phenomena, vasculitis, pleural effusion, hematological and immunological abnormalities), under treatment with glucocorticoids and hydroxychloroquine developed focal proliferative LN, which progressed under treatment with belimumab. Consequently, intravenous cyclophosphamide and low-dose rituximab were used to induce LN remission, while maintenance therapy relied on mycophenolate mofetil. Conclusions. The case illustrates an uncommon succession of therapies for SLE and LN, with belimumab preceding cyclophosphamide. The decision to induce remission with cyclophosphamide was based on histological aspects of the renal biopsy. Although current recommendations permit the association of belimumab and cyclophosphamide, there is very little practical experience to support it.
Multiple Object Detection-Based Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: S. Hasan Athraa , Yi Jianjun , M. AlSabbagh Haider , Chen Liwei
Published: January 2024

Object detection has become faster and more precise due to improved computer vision systems. Many successful object detections have dramatically improved owing to the introduction of machine learning methods. This study incorporated cutting- edge methods for object detection to obtain high-quality results in a competitive timeframe comparable to human perception. Object-detecting systems often face poor performance issues. Therefore, this study proposed a comprehensive method to resolve the problem faced by the object detection method using six distinct machine learning approaches: stochastic gradient descent, logistic regression, random forest, decision trees, k-nearest neighbor, and naive Bayes. The system was trained using Common Objects in Context (COCO), the most challenging publicly available dataset. Notably, a yearly object detection challenge is held using COCO. The resulting technology is quick and precise, making it ideal for applications requiring an object detection accuracy of 97%
Deformation of a multilayer viscoelastic spherical body with an inclusion under dynamic loading
Authors: Спорыхин А.Н. , Щеглова Ю.Д.
Published: January 2024

В работе рассмотрено многослойное вязкоупругое сферическое тело с заполнителем сложной структуры при динамическом деформировании. Дана общая постановка задачи. Получены точные решения для полей напряжений, деформаций и перемещений в упругой, пластической и вязкой областях.

The paper considers a multilayer viscoelastic spherical body with a filler of complex structure under dynamic deformation. The general formulation of the problem is given. Exact solutions were obtained for the fields of stresses, strains and displacements in the elastic, plastic and viscous regions.
What constitutes “unreasonable delays” in finalising court cases that led to the withholding of members' retirement benefits?
Authors: Marumoagae MC
Published: January 2024

This paper discusses the approaches of both the High Court and the Office of the Pension Funds Adjudicator regarding delays that generally occur in the finalisation of court cases instituted by employers against their employees who are retirement-fund members. Particularly when such employees are alleged to have caused their employers’ economic loss and employers wish to be compensated from their retirement benefits. This paper demonstrates that, while the concept of “unreasonable delay” is relied upon to determine whether retirement funds should release retirement benefits to their members pending the finalisation of employers’ cases against them, both the courts and the adjudicator are yet to develop a workable test that can adequately guide them whendeciding such disputes. This has also exposed retirement funds to continuous litigation regarding decisions that they take, in order to withhold their members’ retirement benefits. This paper argues that there is a need for the judicial development of a test that can guide both the dispute-resolution institutions and boards of retirement funds on how employers’ requests for the withholding of retirement funds’ members’ benefits based on courtcases instituted by employers should be addressed. Particularly, when there are delays in the finalisation of such court cases.
Setting the Bar Behind Bars
Authors: Van der Merwe Kanja
Published: January 2024

As a continent with over 2 000 indigenous languages, Africa is complex regarding linguistic diversity. Whereas fluency in a major language is vital for communication in most bureaucratic, legislative and governmental environments, this skill is sometimes lacking in certain sensitive areas in Africa, such as prison facilities and courts. The term prisoner interpreting refers to the facilitation of communication by an interpreter between a prisoner or detainee and another party who do not share a common language; however, research regarding prisoner interpreting is currently marked by a huge hiatus. The aim of this study was to describe what prisoner interpreting in Nigeria and South Africa may entail; it was undertaken due to the lack of research in this domain. The setting is contextualised by providing background on community interpreting for prisoners and the substandard prison environment, and the necessary communicative competence required of interpreters is investigated. It was found that cultural considerations and dialectal differences are prominent factors to keep in mind when interpreting for prisoners. Power dynamics are examined, the first finding being that language status is problematic if a major language – in this case, English – is privileged above others. Moreover, it was determined that there are often large power gaps between parties. Regarding responsibility and role, it was established that parties in the interaction often have conflicting goals and the interpreter is tasked with deciding whether to comply with norms, or to challenge them. It can be deduced that prisoner interpreting in both Nigeria and in South Africa constitute unique challenges and require the community interpreter to meet a significantly high standard of expectations.
Lexical Creativity in Community Translation Corpus from Ghana
Authors: Asare-Nyarko Clara
Published: January 2024

Although corpus-based research is becoming more common in many languages and in translation studies in general, it tends to be scarce or even nonexistent in Akan and many other African languages that are often considered as minority languages. In fact, failure to use Akan in various fields has hindered its development to some extent, particularly in online electronic resources, human language technology and for optimising online presence. Thelimited availability of resources, such as reference corpora and specialised dictionaries, suggests that translators who work from and into Akan often have to rely solely on their ingenuity in the process of translation. The study, therefore, explored a bidirectional English–Akan parallel corpus, built earlier by the researcher in another study. Using the descriptive translation studies approach, Skopos theory and Baker’s (1992) translation strategies, the paperanalyses lexical creativity as a strategy used to resolve translation problems specific to the language pair: borrowing, compounding and reduplication. Akan may not be a typical minority language, but it is in a disadvantaged position compared to English, which serves as the official language. Consequently, many documents are primarily written in the official language, thereby creating a form of imbalance in terms of language development and translationchallenges for community translators and interpreters who work from and into Akan. The research sheds light on how the abovementioned corpus can empower community translation in Ghana. It also identifies lexical creativity as an effective strategy to stimulate the need for the development of such a community language and to curb the imbalance in relation to English regarding terminology, text-type development, reference resources and translation tools. As translation tools such as Linguee rely on parallel corpora, the bidirectional English–Akan parallel corpus may be uploaded online or enlarged to develop general and professional language tools, and can serve as a basis for other enquiries.
Macrosemia fengi Wang sp. nov. from Yunnan and Guizhou, China (Hemiptera, Cicadidae, Cicadinae)
Authors: Wang Cheng-Bin
Published: January 2024

The genus Macrosemia Kato, 1925 (Hemiptera, Cicadidae, Cicadinae, Dundubiini, Dundubiina) currently includes 16 species (excluding subspecies and varieties), mainly occurring in the Oriental Region. More than half of them, 10 species, are known from China, including one new species, described in the present study.

A new species of cicada, Macrosemia fengi Wang sp. nov., is described from Yunnan and Guizhou, southwest China. Colour plates are presented to illustrate its diagnostic characters. The distribution map of the new species is also given.
Re-description of Parasphaerosyllis indica Monro, 1937 (Annelida, Syllidae), with the establishment of a new species from western Mexico
Authors: Góngora-Garza Gerardo , Tovar-Hernández María , de León-González Jesús Angel
Published: January 2024

Parasphaerosyllis Monro, 1937 is a syllid genus, currently composed of four species: P. indica Monro, 1937 from the Arabian Sea, P. uschakovi (Chlebovitsch, 1959) from the Kurile Islands, P. ezoensis Imajima & Hartman, 1964 from Japan and P. malimalii Capa, San Martín & López, 2001 from the Pacific coast of Panama. The distribution of P. indica is circum-tropical to temperate waters, but the presence of species complexes has been suggested. In order to clarify the distribution of P. indica in many areas of the world, a re-description, based on examination of the type material, is required as a first step to a better understanding of its diagnostic features.

Parasphaerosyllis indica is re-described, based on holotype examination, a new species is established from the Gulf of California and Parasphaerosyllis malimalii is reported for the first time since its description in 2001. Parasphaerosyllis irregulata sp. nov. is distinguished from its congeners by the following features: 1) Palps are free at their base; 2) Two types of dorsal cirri are present: spherical to bulbous and moniliform cirri; 3) Both types of cirri are distributed irregularly. A spherical/bulbous and moniliform cirrus may appear together within the same segment (asymmetrical segment) or only a spherical/bulbous cirrus may appear in several consecutive segments (not alternating as occurs in congeners); 4) The spherical/bulbous cirri may have distal knobs with 1–3 terminal articles; and 5) Bidentate falcigers with short, sub-triangular blades with a proximal tooth slightly larger that the distal one. A taxonomic key to species of Parasphaerosyllis species is included.
The genus Neurigona Rondani, 1856 (Diptera, Dolichopodidae) from Yunnan, China, with descriptions of seven new species and a key to the species of China
Authors: Lin Chen , Wang Mengqing , Yang Ding
Published: January 2024

Previously, only three species of the genus Neurigona Rondani of the subfamily Neurigoninae were known from Yunnan Province. Here, we reviewed the species of Neurigona from Yunnan and added the following seven new species: N. apicilatasp. nov., N. basicurvasp. nov., N. brevidigitatasp. nov., N. convexasp. nov., N. huanglianshanasp. nov., N. quadrimaculatasp. nov., and N. ventriprocessasp. nov. All seven new species are sympatric and were collected from below a reservoir in the Huanglianshan Nature Reserve in Yunnan using three Malaise traps in 2019. This suggests a very high species richness in the Yunnan fauna. A key to the species of Neurigona from Chinese mainland is provided.
Sound reduction of a panel-cavity system with a chaotically vibrating boundary
Authors: Lee Yiuyin
Published: January 2024

Here, I was the first to investigate the sound reduction of a chaotically vibrating curved panel with/without a cavity. A sound reduction formula was obtained by combining the homogeneous wave equation and nonlinear structural governing equation. The chaotic and nonlinear sound radiations were computed from the multi-mode coupled formulations using a numerical integration method. The results obtained from the proposed method and classical harmonic balance method were generally in reasonable agreement. A modal convergence study was also performed to check the proposed method. The effects of chaotic vibration on the sound reduction of a curved panel with/without a cavity were studied in detail.
Extraction of bioactive compounds from yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis St.-Hil.) leaves by packed-bed extractor using hot water as solvents: Kinetics study and mathematical modeling
Authors: Domingues Luiza H. P. , Arantes Matheus S. T. , Marques Geovana S. , Haminiuk Charles W. I. , Fontana Eliton , da Silva Vitor R.
Published: January 2024

The aqueous packed-bed extraction of bioactive compounds from yerba mate leaves was evaluated given their potential application in the food industry. The influence of temperature (50–70 °C) and feed flow rate (10–20 cm3/min) was investigated by central composite design. A mathematical model derived from the differential equation of mass conservation in solid and liquid phases was used to describe the concentration of total phenolic concentration over time, considering a finite volume-based algorithm to solve this multiscale model along the column length and particle radius. The findings demonstrated that higher temperatures improved bioactive chemical extraction yields, although feed flow rate played a role at low temperatures because it improved external mass transfer. Caffeic acid, caffeine, and chlorogenic acid were the principal bioactive chemicals studied, with the highest concentrations extracted being 156.3 × 10−2, 273.5 × 10−2, and 351.6 × 10−2 mg/gYM (mg of bioactive per g of yerba mate), respectively, obtained after 60 minutes of extraction process at 70 °C and a flow rate of 10 cm3/min. The amount of these predominant bioactive compounds extracted exceeded 90% of the total content that could be obtained using water as a solvent. The mathematical model evaluated showed relative mean errors lower than 3% and R2 higher than 98%, suggesting a good fit for the experimental data, with the external mass transfer and effective intraparticle diffusion coefficients ranging between 8.75 × 10−8 to 1.77 × 10−6 m/s and 9.34 × 10−11 to 3.06 × 10−9 m2/s, respectively.
Camera Eyes and Convergence in Creative Evolution
Authors: Posteraro Tano
Published: January 2024

This paper presents an updated argument for Bergson’s theory of evolutionary convergence. Convergence refers to the repeated appearance of like characters, such as the camera-like eye, across distant lineages like snails and spiders, or humans and octopuses. It is an infamously difficult phenomenon to explain by dint of natural selection for chance variations alone. Convergent evolution exacerbates the improbability that chance changes at an insensible scale could be accumulated over generations in order to come together in the composition of a complex eye in one lineage, since it requires that chance variations succeeding each other in a chance order repeatedly arrive together at the same complex result, the eye, across lineages as distant as cephalopods from vertebrates. Bergson’s idea is that convergence is not an accident or anomaly of an otherwise random variational process, but that it rather reveals something important about how evolution works. What it reveals is a deep unity – or homology – underlying the contingent plurality of life forms, and a kind of pattern, or orthogenetic trend, to their repeated convergence on the same organs and traits. This paper explains that idea, links it with the history of orthogenetic theories of evolution, and suggests that it may remain viable according to the current science.
Bergson in Finland
Authors: Nygård Stefan
Published: January 2024

In this article, early 20th-century debates on Bergsonism in Finland are considered with particular attention to the selective forms of appropriation that accompany ideational transfers across geographical and linguistic frontiers. Both scholarly and social appropriations are discussed with a view to exploring what the encounter between Bergson and Finnish cultural life can tell us about the international circulation of ideas. The case study draws attention to centre-periphery dynamics in European intellectual life and to philosophical transfers involving several parties. In Finland, Bergson was filtered through the prism of a traditionally German-oriented academic culture and partly mediated by regional celebrities and milieus such as the city of Copenhagen, an important relay point in the traffic of ideas to and from Scandinavia.
Quantum Computing
Authors: Subramanian R. Siva , Maheswari B. , Nithya T. , Girija P. , Karthikeyan M. , Saraswathi T.
Published: January 2024

Quantum computing overcomes computer limitations using quantum mechanics. This overview covers quantum computing's basics, technology, architecture, and industrial applications. The introduction reveals quantum computing's unique history and powerful development characteristics. Fundamentals like quantum gates, superposition, entanglement, Shor's and Grover's algorithms, and more, are covered. Quantum computing concepts describe quantum mechanics, parallelism, and error correction to optimize its potential. Qubit, quantum processor, Qiskit, and Cirq quantum software frameworks are being studied. Quantum computing's issues are thoroughly and impartially assessed in this work. This chapter evaluates quantum computing trends and research paths for future developments. These include the goal of quantum supremacy and the impact of quantum computing on technology. The survey study helps academics, professionals, and industry decision-makers utilize quantum computing to tackle challenging issues and innovate in a quantum-driven world.
Effect of Knowledge Application and Knowledge Storage on Bank Performance Through Fintech Innovation
Authors: Almuayad Khalil M. A. , Chen You Zhen , Alammari Amro A. S. , Al-Dubai Sanaa Abdulghfor
Published: January 2024

Yemeni banks are generally performing well in terms of their operations, but their performance needs to be enhanced and developed using knowledge management as there haven't been many studies done yet on them. This article, therefore, aims to investigate the effect of knowledge application (KA) and knowledge storage (KS) on bank performance (BP) of Yemeni banks with mediating role of fintech innovation (FI). A sample size of 360 respondents from the banks were selected for the study. The authors used a Partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) to analyse the data. The study reveals that KA and KS positively and significantly impact bank performance. In addition, fintech innovation positively and significantly meadiates the relationship between KA, KS, and BP. This highlights the importance of FI in the effective use of knowledge and its impact on BP. These findings provide valuable insights for banks looking to improve their performance through effective knowledge management (KM) and the implementation of fintech innovations
Workplace Diversity and Organisational Performance in Selected Distilleries Firms in Southwest, Nigeria
Authors: Olanipekun Lateef Okikiola , Oderinde Michael Adekunle , Sokefun Eniola Adekunle
Published: January 2024

the increasing effect orchestrated by the advent of globalisation has necessitated more forms of interactions from individuals from different background, culture, and sexual orientations. On a broader term, corporate organisations globally now prioritises being more culturally diverse, and high level of multiculturalism in their workforces. This is due to the distinction reflected herein as compared to what was in vogue during the traditional era of work. In this regard, an investigation from the nigerian perspective become necessary; therefore, this study analysed workplace diversity from the paradigm of organisational performance using selected distilleries firms in ogun state, which is one of the long-standing commercial hubs in nigeria. The theories, which underpinned this study, were similarity/attraction theory and social identity theory. The study population was seven hundred and forty-two personnel from five (5) selected firms and a sampling frame of two hundred and forty-nine (249) employees was drawn using the multistage sampling approach. It was revealed in the findings that cultural diversity has an effect on adaptive performance (r2=0.931<0.5) and age diversity significantly share a nexus with task performance (r2 = 0.812, < 0.05). The study concluded that the practicing diversity is a catalyst for enhancing a strong relationship among employees within an organization. As it affords them become more proactive and improve their creativity and skills. Thus, study recommended that management of distilleries firms in south-western nigeria should develop structures that are supportive in the facilitation of managing diversity through the engagement of melting pot pattern.
Artificial intelligence and machine learning in hemostasis and thrombosis
Authors: Gresele Paolo
Published: January 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming more important in our daily lives, and it’s beginning to be used in life sciences and in healthcare. AI and machine learning (ML) models are just starting to be applied in the field of hemostasis and thrombosis, but there are already many examples of how they can be useful in basic research/pathophysiology, laboratory diagnostics, and clinical settings. This review wants to shortly explain how AI works, what have been its uses in hemostasis and thrombosis so far and what are possible future developments. Besides the great potential advantages of a correct application of AI to the field of hemostasis and thrombosis, possible risks of inaccurate or deliberately mischievous use of it must be carefully considered. A close monitoring of AI employment in healthcare and research will have to be applied over the next years, but it is expected that the appropriate employment of this new revolutionary technology will bring great advances to the medical field, including to the hemostasis and thrombosis area. The current review, addressed to non-experts in the field, aims to go through the applications of AI in the field of hemostasis and thrombosis that have been explored so far and to examine its advantages, drawbacks and future perspectives.
The Efficacy of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) versus Transcranial Direct-Current Stimulation (tDCS) on Migraine Headaches: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Naji Fatemeh , Sharbafchi Mohammad Reza , Khorvash Fariborz , Maracy Mohammad R. , Ghasemi Mobarak Abadi Niloofar
Published: January 2024

Background:

Non-pharmacologic prophylactic methods for chronic migraine have been developed, including the promising non-invasive techniques of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and transcranial direct-current stimulation (tDCS). This study aimed to compare the efficacy of rTMS and tDCS on pain intensity, the impact of headaches on daily life, anxiety, and depression in migraine headaches patients.

Materials and Methods:

This randomized clinical trial was conducted on 72 patients with migraine headaches, randomly allocated to the rTMS and tDCS groups. Participants received 3 and 12 sessions of stimulation over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), respectively. Follow-up measurements, including pain intensity, anxiety, depression, and impact on daily life, were performed one month after the last sessions. Analyses were done by IBM SPSS statistics version 26 software.

Results:

Of 72 patients enrolled in the study, 19 were male (8 in the rTMS group and 11 in the tDCS group). There was no significant difference in baseline characteristics between groups. During the follow-up visit, both groups showed a decrease in anxiety levels (P values = 0.005 and 0.015), while only the rTMS group displayed a significant improvement in depression (P value = 0.01). However, no statistically significant difference was found among the groups regarding changes in pain intensity, anxiety, and the impact of headaches on daily life (P values >0.05).

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest that both rTMS and tDCS may be effective in reducing pain intensity and improving the impact of headaches on daily life and anxiety in patients with chronic migraine. However, significant improvement in depression was only observed in the rTMS group patients.
Comparison of quality of life in laparoscopic and open primary ventral hernia repair according to European registry for abdominal wall hernias quality of life score
Authors: Bayomi Mohamed S. , Fahmi Khaled S. , Sarhan Abd E.-R.M. , Habib Fady M. , Sallam Ahmed M.
Published: January 2024

Background

Ventral hernia can be defined as noninguinal and nonhiatal hernia in the fascia of the abdominal wall. Laparoscopic repair become a popular method with decreased overall complications nowadays. We aimed to provide an efficient management for ventral hernia through comparison of quality of life (QoL) postlaparoscopic and open techniques according to European registry for abdominal wall hernias quality of life (EuraHS-QOL) score.

Patients and methods

The data of 54 patients with primary ventral hernia were collected prospectively. Of these patients, 27 underwent open repair, and 27 underwent laparoscopic repair after excluding patients with a complicated and recurrent ventral hernia and incisional hernia. Perioperative QoL was assessed according to the EuraHS score.

Results

Two groups were designed, each including 27 patients. The most common complication was seroma (25.9%) in open repair, followed by infection (18.5%), while only one case in laparoscopic repair had port site infection; the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). The mean operative time in open repair was 51.2±5.1 and 89.7±9.5 in laparoscopic repair; the difference was highly significant (P<0.001). The mean length of stay in the hospital was 23.1±7.3, and it was 19.1±6 in laparoscopic repair; the difference was significant (P<0.05). All cases in open repair had subcutaneous drain; but not in laparoscopic repair; the difference was highly significant (P<0.001). The EuraHS score in all its items was significant in favor of laparoscopic repair.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic repair was associated with high QoL, less complications, and recovery time as compared with open repair of ventral hernia.
Outcome of endo-anal ultrasound-guided injection of botulinum toxin type-A therapy in puborectalis muscle in patients with anismus
Authors: Abd Elhalim Mohammed F. , Abd El Hafez Emad El Deen M. , Tawfik Hany S. , Abd El Wahab Mostafa B. , Abdelhalim Mahmoud G. , Abuelnasr Mohamed I.
Published: January 2024

Background

Anismus is a functional disorder characterized by dyssynergia and incoordination of pelvic floor muscular contractions at defecation. Despite normal propulsive power used when attempting to defecate, a hypertonic pelvic floor dysfunction results in nonrelaxation or even paradoxical contraction of puborectalis muscle, resulting in failure to straighten the anorectal angle, hence impaired stool evacuation. This study aims at evaluating the outcome of injection of botulinum toxin type-A (BTX-A) in puborectalis muscle in patients with anismus.

Patients and methods

The study included 50 patients who were presented with symptoms of obstructed defecation (OD) and were diagnosed as anismus and failed conservative treatment and biofeedback training. Ultrasound-guided BTX-A injections into puborectalis muscle were done. All patients were followed up for 6 months for OD symptoms and manometric findings.

Results

The current study included 50 patients with a mean age of 36.6±11.9 years presented with anismus for a mean duration of 6.8±2.64 months.

There was a statistically significant improvement in the Longo score of OD at 1, 3, and 6 months when compared with the initial values (P<0.001), while there was no statistically significant difference noticed in the defecation frequency at 3 and 6 months when compared with the initial records.

There was a statistically significant decrease in both resting and squeeze pressures after 3 and 6 months when compared with the initial records (P<0.001).

The overall satisfaction significantly increased to 68 and 64% after 3 and 6 months, respectively, when compared with 0% satisfaction reported at the initial assessment.

Conclusion

According to the current results, injection of BTX-A therapy in puborectalis muscle in patients with anismus is assumed to be effective for short term with good overall satisfaction.
Extended Totally Extraperitoneal (eTEP) Technique vs. Laparoscopic Intraperitoneal Onlay Mesh (IPOM) in Ventral Hernia Repair: A Randomized Comparative Study
Authors: Sehsah Tarek M. , Elshora Ahmed A. , Abd-Raboh Osama H.
Published: January 2024

Background

Repairing of ventral and incisional hernias is a frequently performed surgical intervention in the field of general surgery; this work aimed to compare the extended totally extraperitoneal (eTEP) technique to the intraperitoneal onlay mesh (IPOM) technique for ventral hernias regarding feasibility, cost, operative, and postoperative outcomes of both techniques.

Patients and methods

This randomized controlled study was conducted on 50 patients complaining of ventral hernia. These patients were admitted to Tanta University Hospitals, Egypt, from January 2021 to January 2023. Patients were divided according to the technique used into two2 equal groups: group eTEP (study group): 25 participants were submitted to eTEP repair. Group IPOM (control group): 25 patients were submitted to IPOM repair.

Results

Demographic data were insignificantly different between both groups. Operation time was significantly prolonged in group eTEP compared to group IPOM (P<0.001). Cost and hospital stay were significantly decreased in group eTEP compared with group IPOM (P<0.05). Pain at rest and restriction to normal activity were significantly lower on the first and 14th postoperative days in group eTEP compared with group IPOM (P<0.05). Cosmesis was insignificantly different on the first and 14th postoperative days between both groups. Postoperative seroma, postoperative recurrence, and postoperative ileus were insignificantly different between both groups.

Conclusion

Both eTEP and IPOM demonstrated safety and efficacy in the treatment of de-novo ventral hernia repair (comparable few complications in both groups with no recurrence in this study) with superiority toward eTEP as evidenced by lower hospital stay, cost, postoperative pain, and early return to normal activity.