bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mass Repression in the Heart of Brazil: Facing the Brazilian Military Coup in Goiás
Authors: Marques João Victor Ataides
Published: August 2024

This study scrutinizes the repression and resistance movements in the state of Goiás, Brazil, during the Brazilian military dictatorship (1964-1985). Specifically, it explores the establishment of the military government, analyzes its repressive aspects, and highlights significant resistance episodes against the military regime in this state, located right in the heart of Brazil, in its midwest region.

First, I focus on the key episodes of national importance that occurred in Goiás, dividing them into repression and resistance. Against this background, I introduce the testimony of a notable participant, Neso Natal, who experienced arrest, exile, and brutal torture in that barbarous age. Finally, I reflect on the political violence and repression experienced in this state, recognizing the notable marks it left in Goiás and Brazil and observing how the globe might reflect on this dictatorship’s implications.
Assessing the Chinese Censorship System: The Case of LGBTQ Representations in Entertainment
Authors: Xu Summer
Published: August 2024

This research paper presents a case study of LGBTQ representations in entertainment in China to assess the Chinese censorship system, which is imperfect yet sophisticated. Censorship in China, which is translated in Chinese as “ShenCha,” meaning to “check and refine” your work, has been causing heated discussion, primarily as the State Administration of Radio, Film, and Television (SARFT) exerts more power over the entertainment industry. In this paper, the writer compared the example of the film “Farewell My Concubine” in 1993 and the online TV show “Addicted” in 2016, which both contained LGBTQ contents, highlighting the complexity of the censorship system in China and addressing the content, target audience and censorship decisions of both works. This leads us to the preliminary conclusion, which provides a possible explanation of how the complicated relationship between SARFT, the officials, and feedback from audiences influences the censorship system.
The Impact of Neural Network Complexity on the Detection of Rockfalls on Mars and the Moon
Authors: Zhao Henry
Published: August 2024

The detection of rockfalls is important to real-time tasks on celestial objects, such as finding potentially hazardous or geologically active areas on Mars. Currently, rockfall processing is done by hand, requiring a large amount of human labor. This study intends to test the effectiveness of machine learning on the detection of rockfalls on Mars and the Moon. Specifically, this study tests the impact of neural network complexity, and thus detection time, on the precision, recall, and F1 score of detection results. 5 different convolutional neural networks were trained and tested on a dataset of Mars and moon rockfalls. It was found that Resnet50 with transfer learning performed the best, with a median detection time and recall, and high precision and F1. There also is a rough pattern corresponding longer detection times with more precision and less recall, and shorter detection time with more recall and less precision. From the data gathered, it appears that it is feasible to use machine learning to quickly and effectively detect rockfalls on Mars, for use in real-time processing and decision making.
Accessing the impact of negative externalities from Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations in China
Authors: Liu Shu Jun
Published: August 2024

Concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) have emerged as a result of the rapid industrialization of the livestock sector five decades ago, leading to positives such as increased global food security and negatives: massive point source pollution sites, potential human health effects, and questions over animal cruelty. Though much research has been published in the United States regarding these harms, this paper specifically focuses on trends and pollution from the livestock industry in China. With data gathered from the National Bureau of Statistics, the statistical database for China, and the World Bank, I analyze four geographical areas with differing outputs of meat, which I use as a proxy for the number of CAFOs in a region. The f indings reveal a strong and positive correlation between the output of meat and pollutants. My results show that it is certainly plausible for livestock to be a strong contributor to the varying levels of observed pollutants.
Python Library Dependency Analysis
Authors: Han Steve
Published: August 2024

Python is a high-level programming language used by software engineers, computer scientists, and mathematicians. The purpose of this research is to help with the future development of the Python language, such as the optimization of the PIP manager and choosing built-in packages for Python. The main goal of this research is to analyze the pattern in the dependency network and how it changed after 2016. Using the official API provided by PyPI, a network of all related packages was made. After filtering any incomplete or irrelevant nodes, the entire graph is 10x larger than the research done by Kevin Gullikson in 2016. By ranking the number of edges, connectivity, as well as degree distribution of the nodes, a shift into machine learning and data analysis can be seen in the Python community. Some required packages shifted and reflected the current technological trend in recent years, such as Numpy for machine learning and Django for web development. Future studies are recommended to further investigate any particular changes in the usage of Python.
Single-Parent Families and Adolescent Well-being
Authors: Deng Yayue
Published: August 2024

With the current high divorce rate in lots of countries, including China and the United States, the number of single-parent families is rapidly increasing, so single-parent families are no longer uncommon. However, most people still perceive that the single-parent family structure is harmful to children’s development and adolescent well-being as all socioeconomic support and family responsibilities are shouldered by one parent. Nevertheless, this paper explains that children who grow up in single-parent families can receive and achieve nourishment and well-being equivalent to children in two-parent families by pointing to two factors to alleviate this common concern, one related to the distribution of the divorce rate and household income, and the other related to community support. Also, this paper illustrates the points that truly matter to adolescent wellbeing, including contact, comfort and emotional attachment, attachment behaviors and bonds, and parenting style and scaffolding behaviors, which can be achieved regardless of the family structure and that are more about love, support, attention, and strong attachment bonds.
Shedding Light on the Limbo: A Case Study Evaluating the Problems in the Kutupalong Refugee Camp and How Aid Agencies Provide Support to Address the Issues
Authors: Ding Siyi
Published: August 2024

This paper examines one particular refugee camp, Kutupalong Camp in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, which hosts refugees fleeing religious persecution in Myanmar. I identify several key problems that have arisen in this camp: lack of education and inclusion, food insecurity and malnutrition, and gender-based violence. Various actors are trying to address these problems by working with host communities, addressing structural issues, and providing knowledge to refugees. Actors need to recognize that the three problems are interconnected, and therefore equal attention and resources should be given to each of them to better address the humanitarian problems in Kutupalong camp.

Why was the Kutupalong Camp established? What humanitarian problems does it seek to solve? What are some ways that various actors have tried to solve humanitarian problems within the camp?
Specified Treatments for Common Breast Cancer Cases Containing a p53 Mutation Review
Authors: Lee Aspen
Published: August 2024

With breast cancer being one of the most common causes of death, many researchers have looked into mutations that commonly appear and how they could affect the treatment a patient decides to receive. Mutations in gene TP53 are present in over one third of breast cancer cases, so it is a frequent mutation that is carefully researched and examined. This study aims to review how a mutation in p53 gene in breast cancer patients can influence the form of treatment. Elimination and reviewing of open-source papers, resulted in constant keywords added to the search for specified treatments in modern-day medical technology that have been used or will be in the future. COTI-2 and APR-246 are the compounds that at the time this research was most recently completed, in 2023, have been undergoing clinical trial to be used on patients showing this mutation. Although there have been published papers on this mutation for decades, there is yet to be enough research completed to know whether or not these compounds will positively or negatively impact the process of p53 mutation present treatment plans.
A Review of Global Oral Health
Authors: Jia Renee
Published: August 2024

The oral cavity and the structures within are essential to life processes such as eating, speaking, and breathing. Main components of the oral cavity include the tongue, teeth, gums, and oral microbiome. The health of the oral cavity has strong bidirectional associations with overall health, and frequent oral manifestations of systemic diseases gives the mouth strong diagnostic potential. With an estimated burden of over 3.5 billion cases, oral diseases are considered a public health crisis. There is a strong and consistent association between socioeconomic status and the prevalence and severity of oral diseases, establishing a disproportionate burden. Factors that can impact the integrity of the oral cavity include age, nutrition, and genetics. Modifiable risk factors include diet, quality of oral hygiene, unhealthy lifestyle choices, and their underlying social determinants. Challenges preventing access to oral care include high expenses, lack of insurance, lack of perceived need, unavailability of dental offices, transportation issues, fear of dental treatment, and scheduling difficulties. These barriers have varying impacts on individuals, but especially impact marginalized communities, and stretch beyond physical health to include mental health challenges. The role of healthcare workers in community based oral health awareness programs is discussed and emphasized. There has been some evidence to show that oral health promotion programs are more effective when delivered by healthcare professionals and targeted towards parents and children under the age of 6.
Is Democracy Growing or Dying? Transformations Over the Past Half a Century
Authors: Li Chunyu
Published: August 2024

The issue of whether democracy continues to grow is a contentious matter that deserves considerable attention to unearth the facts. The existing literature reveals how various components have fostered democracy levels over the past fifty years. Specifically, the United Nations (UN) regulations, which have a global effect, serve crucial functions in bolstering democracy. In Arabic countries, the Arab Spring offered a chance to express dissatisfaction with an authoritative approach to political leadership. However, evidence suggests that democracy growth remains relatively constant, and the rate of advancement does not reflect current needs and problems. There are concerns that the number of countries embracing authoritative approaches is increasing, a transformation that could thwart the steps achieved over the past f ifty years. Existing global constraints, encompassing health crises and political wars, are major threats to democracy, and their effects are already evident in some countries. Adopting robust interventions would ensure that democracy prevails and nations enjoy its benefits.
The Ethics of Dementia
Authors: Chang Gloria
Published: August 2024

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia and one of the most devastating brain disorders suffered by the elderly. It can progressively affect patients cognitively and psychologically. Since the disease causes irreversible damage to the brain, various pharmacological treatments (galantamine, memantine, lecanemab) are used to slow down the progression of the disease and the decline of the patient’s quality of life. However, the literature suggests that most treatments have shown more risks than benefits. This paper responds to the challenges by assessing the ethical implications of prescribing drugs that have a limited chance of improving the underlying condition. Many patients lacking capacity, such as dementia patients, have the right to use advance directives to communicate their wishes to the healthcare team in advance. Doctors in the UK also have to strictly adhere to the General Medical Council’s principles to ensure decisions are made in the best interest of the patients. This paper argues that pharmacological intervention is not cost-effective, due to the various adverse drug reactions and the patient’s declining quality of life. However, patients not using drugs will have a continuous progression in the severity of dementia symptoms, leading to a higher financial burden and increased demand for social care.
Monkeys, Machines, and MPTP: Discovery for the Parkinsonian Brain
Authors: Joshi Daniel
Published: August 2024

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a brain disorder characterized by tremors, bradykinesia, and dyskinesia. Although discovered in the early 20th Century, to this day there remains no cure. This research paper highlights the neural identifiers in people diagnosed with PD, the history of artificial intelligence (AI), and several existing methods to improve the lifestyles of PD patients. Also reviewing the history of PD, the paper ventures through some history, discoveries, and breakthroughs surrounding the condition. The goal of this paper is to explain several Parkinsonian experiments and review the capabilities of AI in PD treatment. Finally, the present paper will discuss the limitations of AI in this field and hypothetical treatments to the neurological disorder.
Following the Most Suitable Path to DemocracyPhilippine Scenario: Democracy to Demo-crazy
Authors: Jin Kaixuan
Published: August 2024

The Republic of the Philippines gained independence from the US after World War II in 1946 and boosted brilliant economic status in Asia till the 1960s with the aid and investment from the US. However, the booming economic situation deteriorated which aroused the arguments as compared with other newly founded Southeast Asian countries. Many scholars noticed that the political system played an important role in economic development, while the establishment of democratic system was incapable of safeguarding the healthy development of the economy. As per Samuel Huntington, the performance of democracy outweighed the mere establishment of democratic system (Huntington, 1968). In the Philippines scenario of pursuing the development of democratic system, the performance of democracy was less than satisfactory. The shifts of presidency in 1986 and 2001 driven by two revolutionary movements had actually aroused the political discontinuity and economic instability. Therefore, the paper tries to testify that the performance of democracy affects economic development significantly by analyzing the adverse effect of its political discontinuity on the economy. Through the case study of the Philippines and comparative case study with Singapore in the aspects of national capacity and democratic accountability, the paper substantiates the details of the democratic system and makes an effective response to the prevailing core subject of political institution and economic development, which hopefully might be worthy of reference for other developing countries in the institutional establishment.
Artificial Intelligence for Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Detection
Authors: Herugu Raghav
Published: August 2024

This research paper investigates the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques for the detection of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) using a Histopathological Image Dataset. Three different AI models were trained with varying levels of regularization and dropout layers using TensorFlow, an open-source software library for machine learning. The study found that AI-based techniques can achieve high levels of accuracy in the detection of OSCC, with one of the models achieving an accuracy of almost 90%. The use of regularization and dropout layers was found to improve the accuracy of the models. The results of this research demonstrate the potential of AI in improving the accuracy and speed of cancer detection, which could lead to earlier diagnosis and better treatment outcomes for patients. This research has implications for the development of diagnostic tools in the field of medical image analysis.
Is Health Insurance Health Assurance? An Investigation into the Effects of Step Therapy
Authors: Zhang Xinchun Audrey
Published: August 2024

This paper explores Step Therapy (ST) in the U.S. healthcare system, an insurance policy requiring patients to try specific medications before accessing potentially more effective, costlier treatments. It discusses how this approach, aimed at cost control, affects patient care and physician-patient relationships, highlighting concerns about limited access to necessary medications and health complications. The work essentially emphasizes the need to understand step therapy’s pros and cons that can inform potential legislative changes addressing its unintended effects.
The Effects of Music on Performance in Human Hand-Eye Coordination
Authors: Zhou Ethan
Published: August 2024

In this paper, the effect of music on hand-eye coordination is studied. The intricacies of the complex system that enables hand-eye coordination is discussed, the possible effects of music analyzed, and an original experiment was conducted. In the experiment, participants listened to multiple genres of music while completing a task requiring hand-eye coordination and recording four statistics per trial per task. There were limitations to the experimentation that may have resulted in inconclusive data, but the available data was still analyzed for any possible results. After processing the data, the results indicated that music did not have a significant impact on the participant’s hand-eye coordination for the overall group, but individually, certain participants did significantly perform better with select genres.
INFLUENCE OF CURRENT DENSITY ON MORPHOLOGY AND ROUGHNESS OF SONOELECTRODEPOSITED Zn-Co-Al2O3 NANOCOMPOSITE COATINGS
Authors: Kostić Dragana , Mitrović Marija , Tomić Milorad , Fuchs – Godec Regina , Kostić Duško
Published: August 2024

Nanocomposite Zn-Co-Al2O3 coatings were electrodeposited from three different solutions, at 1, 2, 4 and 6A/dm2 current densities. Electrodeposition time was same for all samples, 15 minutes. Steel plates were used as cathodes while the anode was made of 99.99% pure zinc. All samples were mechanically and chemically prepared before electrochemical deposition of the Zn-Co-Al2O3 nanocomposite coating. Electroplating solutions were prepared from the chemicals of p.a. purity and aluminium oxide nanoparticles. All solutions possesed the same chemical composition, they differed only in the concentration of Al2O3. Solution R1 was without Al2O3, while solutions R2 and R3 contained 2g/dm3 and 5g/dm3 Al2O3, respectively. All experiments were performed in an electrochemical cell, with a volume of 100cm3 at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. The surface of the obtained coatings was examined by Leica EZ4 HD optical microscope at a 100x magnification, while the roughness was measured by TR200 device. Based on the obtained results, it can be concluded that the thickness of the obtained Zn-Co-Al2O3 coatings depends on the current density, but also on the composition of the solution. With increasing current density, the thickness of the coating increases, as well as the roughness of the deposited coatings, while the current utilization decreases with increasing current density, no matter of plating solution composition. The morphology of the coatings was generally uniform and compact with good adhesion.
THE STATIC ANALYSIS OF OPTIMUM CLOSURES OF THIN-WALLED CYLINDERS
Authors: Tošić Gordana , Milovanović Vladimir
Published: August 2024

This paper deals with the problem of optimal vessel end closures subjected to internal pressure. This research aims to analyse the shapes of the middle surfaces in the case of one-arc and two-arc domes. The optimal solutions seek to minimize design complexity while satisfying geometric and strength requirements. For one-arc closures, meridional profiles are defined by a generalized ellipse as well as a Bezier polynomial of the 5th degree, while in the case of two-arc closures, they are represented by Bezier polynomials of the 3rd and 5th degree. The static analysis was conducted using the finite elements method implemented in the Simcenter Femap software package. Appropriate conclusions were derived by assessing equivalent stresses and criterion functions.
ACK1 and BRK non-receptor tyrosine kinase deficiencies are associated with familial systemic lupus and involved in efferocytosis
Authors: Guillet Stephanie , Lazarov Tomi , Jordan Natasha , Boisson Bertrand , Tello Maria , Craddock Barbara , Zhou Ting , Nishi Chihiro , Bareja Rohan , Yang Hairu , Rieux-Laucat Frederic , Lorenzo Rosa Irene Fregel , Dyall Sabrina D , Isenberg David , D’Cruz David , Lachmann Nico , Elemento Olivier , Viale Agnes , Socci Nicholas D , Abel Laurent , Nagata Shigekazu , Huse Morgan , Miller W. Todd , Casanova Jean-Laurent , Geissmann Frederic
Published: August 2024

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease, the pathophysiology and genetic basis of which are incompletely understood. Using a forward genetic screen in multiplex families with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) we identified an association between SLE and compound heterozygous deleterious variants in the non-receptor tyrosine kinases (NRTKs) ACK1 and BRK. Experimental blockade of ACK1 or BRK increased circulating autoantibodies
in vivo
in mice and exacerbated glomerular IgG deposits in an SLE mouse model. Mechanistically, non-receptor tyrosine kinases (NRTKs) regulate activation, migration, and proliferation of immune cells. We found that the patients’ ACK1 and BRK variants impair efferocytosis, the MERTK-mediated anti-inflammatory response to apoptotic cells, in human induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (hiPSC)-derived macrophages, which may contribute to SLE pathogenesis. Overall, our data suggest that ACK1 and BRK deficiencies are associated with human SLE and impair efferocytosis in macrophages.
Mapping Spatial Patterns to Energetic Benefits in Groups of Flow-coupled Swimmers
Authors: Heydari Sina , Hang Haotian , Kanso Eva
Published: August 2024

The coordinated motion of animal groups through fluids is thought to reduce the cost of locomotion to individuals in the group. However, the connection between the spatial patterns observed in collectively moving animals and the energetic benefits at each position within the group remains unclear. To address this knowledge gap, we study the spontaneous emergence of cohesive formations in groups of fish, modeled as flapping foils, all heading in the same direction. We show in pairwise formations and with increasing group size that (1) in side-by-side arrangements, the reciprocal nature of flow coupling results in an equal distribution of energy re-quirements among all members, with reduction in cost of locomotion for swimmers flapping inphase but an increase in cost for swimmers flapping antiphase, and (2) in inline arrangements, flow coupling is non-reciprocal for all flapping phase, with energetic savings in favor of trailing swimmers, but only up to a finite number of swimmers, beyond which school cohesion and energetic benefits are lost at once. We explain these findings mechanistically and we provide efficient diagnostic tools for identifying locations in the wake of single and multiple swimmers that offer op-portunities for hydrodynamic benefits to aspiring followers. Our results imply a connection between the resources generated by flow physics and social traits that influence greedy and cooperative group behavior.
Dual targeting of histone deacetylases and MYC as potential treatment strategy for H3-K27M pediatric gliomas
Authors: Algranati Danielle , Oren Roni , Dassa Bareket , Fellus-Alyagor Liat , Plotnikov Alexander , Barr Haim , Harmelin Alon , London Nir , Ron Guy , Furth Noa , Shema Efrat
Published: August 2024

Diffuse midline gliomas (DMGs) are aggressive and fatal pediatric tumors of the central nervous system that are highly resistant to treatments. Lysine to methionine substitution of residue 27 on histone H3 (H3-K27M) is a driver mutation in DMGs, reshaping the epigenetic landscape of these cells to promote tumorigenesis. H3-K27M gliomas are characterized by deregulation of histone acetylation and methylation pathways, as well as the oncogenic MYC pathway. In search of effective treatment, we examined the therapeutic potential of dual targeting of histone deacetylases (HDACs) and MYC in these tumors. Treatment of H3-K27M patient-derived cells with Sulfopin, an inhibitor shown to block MYC-driven tumors in vivo, in combination with the HDAC inhibitor Vorinostat, resulted in substantial decrease in cell viability. Moreover, transcriptome and epigenome profiling revealed synergistic effect of this drug combination in downregulation of prominent oncogenic pathways such as mTOR. Finally, in vivo studies of patient-derived orthotopic xenograft models showed significant tumor growth reduction in mice treated with the drug combination. These results highlight the combined treatment with PIN1 and HDAC inhibitors as a promising therapeutic approach for these aggressive tumors.
Kynurenine monooxygenase blockade reduces endometriosis-like lesions, improves visceral hyperalgia, and rescues mice from a negative behavioural phenotype in experimental endometriosis
Authors: Higgins Ben , Simitsidellis Ioannis , Zheng Xiaozhong , Collins Frances , Homer Natalie ZM , Denham Scott G , Simpson Joanna P , Millar Mike , Boswell Lyndsey , Lee Hee Y , Kim Yeon G , Park Kyung H , Park Larry C , Sweeney Patrick J , Feraille Gerard , Taddei Alessandro , Chagras David , Alvarez Thierry , Webster Scott P , Horne Andrew , Saunders Philippa TK , Mole Damian J
Published: August 2024

Endometriosis is a common and debilitating neuro-inflammatory disorder that is associated with chronic pain. Definitive diagnosis is based on the presence of endometrial-like tissue (lesions) in sites outside the uterus. Kynurenine monooxygenase (KMO) is a mitochondrial enzyme of tryptophan metabolism that regulates inflammation and immunity. Here, we show that KMO is expressed in epithelial cells in human endometriosis tissue lesions and in corresponding lesions in a mouse model of endometriosis. In mice, oral treatment with the potent KMO inhibitor KNS898 induced a biochemical state of KMO blockade with accumulation of kynurenine, diversion to kynurenic acid and ablation of 3-hydroxykynurenine production. In the mouse model of endometriosis, KMO inhibition improved histological outcomes and endometriosis pain-like behaviours, even when KNS898 treatment commenced one week after initiation of lesions. Taken together, these results suggest that KMO blockade is a promising new non-hormonal therapeutic modality for endometriosis.
Seismic performance of a multipurpose hall building using nonlinear static analysis
Authors: Curo Carlos , Ruffrán A. , Ruiz–Pico A.
Published: August 2024

The nonlinear static analysis method has facilitated models closer to the structural response for strong seismic movements. Therefore, an evaluation of the seismic performance of a multipurpose room building located in a public national university in Chiclayo-Peru was developed by applying nonlinear static analysis, which contains two similar modules of 3 levels each with irregular floors. The structural system of the building is made of bearing walls, it was built in 2010 and was designed according to E.030 (Peruvian earthquake resistant norm) and with the seismic microzoning of Peru. For practical purposes, taking into consideration the symmetry of the global structure, one of the modules was evaluated using nonlinear methods that can simulate the effect of earthquakes on the building using distributed loads on each of the levels. This development included the application of a linear analysis to establish the response spectra and from there implement the nonlinear Pushover analysis. With the results of the analysis, the plastic ball joints of the structural elements of the building were evaluated for both directions. Based on the results, the performance in both directions was determined taking into account the performance levels of HAZUS and VISION2000. The results show a performance of "Life safety" and "Close to collapse" in the X and Y direction respectively, in addition to that, drifts also show a close relation with performance data because HAZUS shows that Y drifts are not favorable, therefore, it is necessary to execute a reinforcement.
Consequences in cost and time in construction projects due to the low level of BIM methodology use
Authors: Andrade A. , Rivera A. , Saigua S. , Castillo T. , Zárate A.
Published: August 2024

BIM (Building Information Modeling) methodology has established itself as an essential tool in the construction industry. Despite this, in Ecuador the implementation of BIM is lagging behind, and although there are some initiatives in private companies, its use is still limited. The purpose of this research is to identify the consequences in cost and time in construction projects due to the low level of use of BIM methodology in 30 projects of private companies in Ecuador. In order to achieve this, the BUA (BIM Use Assessment) tool was used to evaluate the level of BIM use in each project during the planning and design phases. Subsequently, cost and schedule data were collected for the evaluated projects. The results show that the main consequences of the low level of BIM usage are associated with the increase in cost and schedule. It is concluded that promoting the use of BIM is essential to improve the performance of the construction industry in Ecuador.
COVID-19 opportunities in construction projects: the case of Peru
Authors: Sevillanos Alexis , Miranda Yaser , Ccoyllar Isaac , Melgar-Morales Mauricio A.
Published: August 2024

The Covid pandemic has been an unprecedented event in the construction sector, which has generated a series of impacts, for which many researchers have developed studies to identify them. However, many of these studies have focused on the negative impacts and have not focused on collecting the opportunities generated. For this reason, the following study aims to identify the opportunities generated in the medium term because of the COVID-19 pandemic in construction projects, considering the case of the Peruvian construction sector. To this end, the study begins with a literature review where the main opportunities are identified, which are validated by expert judgment. In the next stage, Peruvian professionals were surveyed; the results were processed and categorized using the RII (Relative Importance Index), and finally, the results were discussed. The main opportunities generated by COVID-19 are greater emphasis on hygiene programs, the use of remote work technology, and the acceleration of digitalization in projects. This research will help professionals in the construction sector to exploit the opportunities of disruptive events like COVID-19 that may arise in the future.
Improving the effectiveness of project scheduling by using Earned Value Management and Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Jojok  , Anik  , Syamsul  , Della  , Kristya
Published: August 2024

During construction, uncontrolled resources impact project performance. Earned Value Management (EVM) is a widespread method used for project management based on time and cost control. Advances in Information Technology (IT) provide options to improve the EVM method. The EVM is a project-level method that excludes detailing the behavior of project parameters at the level of construction operations, they are handled in aggregated economic terms over time. Thus, this work studies the improvement of EVM using IT to express the handling of operational variables. This article uses a road construction project as a case study, to evaluate three approaches (i.e., Bayesian Network (BN), Artificial Neural Network (ANN), and Hybrid EVM-ANN) as improvement options for the EVM method. It was found that the ANN provides the best improvement of EVM results. The use of ANN and project parameters improves the handling of EVM. By mayor forecast effectiveness, is expected to improve the quality and availability of data for decision making, a condition which in turn may improve agility and adaptability of the project as-built outcomes. The model EVM-ANN uses parameters that influence project implementation completion, making it easier to assess project time performance based on various conditions in the field so that the project can obtain the best strategy to ensure project completion on time.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Ethical Social Media Usage amongst Dentists: A Cross-sectional Questionnaire-based Study
Authors: Thanneeru Shravani , Mahajan Neerja , Raval Harekrishna Jayendra , Jain Shreya , Saxena Saruchi , Dave Krishna
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Social Media (SM) has proven to be a valuable tool in various fields, including healthcare. However, its improper use can result in several ethical problems. Aim: To evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice of ethical SM usage for professional purposes. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Prosthodontics and Crown and Bridge at K.M. Shah Dental College and Hospital Vadodara, Gujarat, India between October 2022 and March 2023. A total of 319 respondents, including dental postgraduates, academicians, and dental practitioners, participated in the survey online through various SM groups. The questionnaire was created by analysing previous literature and reviewed by experts for accuracy. The survey comprised nine questions with three subsections to evaluate knowledge, attitude, and practice of ethical SM usage The survey was distributed through Google Forms, and the statistical analysis of the results was conducted using the Chi-square test (p<0.05). Results: A survey found that 238 (75.3%) of users have used SM for over five years. The most commonly used platforms are WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook. A total of 153 (48.4%) knew about electronic protected health information, 156 (49.4%) knew about Digital Information Security in Health Care Act (DISHA), and 264 (83.5%) knew about consent’s importance. A total of 227 (71.8% ) of dentists saw SM as a potential risk to patient privacy, but 248 (78.5%) took consent before sharing and 252 (79.7%) used de-identification measures before posting images. A total of 197 (62.3%) of individuals have not participated in any awareness or sensitisation programs regarding the ethical implications of SM usage. Conclusion: The study found dentists understand and prioritise patient privacy on SM. Regular training and policy updates are crucial for sensitising them regarding ethical use.
The Influence of Transformational Leadership Style, Work-life Balance, and Employee Engagement on Employee Performance at SL Corp Indonesia
Authors: Tobiin Mubarok Zulfan , Suyoto  , Purnadi  , Haryanto Totok
Published: August 2024

This research aims to analyze the influence of transformational leadership style, work-life balance, and employee engagement on the performance of SL CORP INDONESIA employees. This type of research is quantitative research with sampling using the simple random sampling method. This research uses primary data sources with data collection instruments using questionnaires. The study was conducted at SL CORP INDONESIA outlets, including Lodeh Iwak Kali, Soto Lawas, Tengkleng Ndeso, and Mampir Pawon, with a population of 151 employees. Then, a sample of 110 respondents was found using the Slovin formula (1960). The method used to analyze the data is a structural equation model (SEM) based on Partial Least Square (PLS) version 3.0. Each hypothesis will be tested to determine the relationship between variables. To test the validity and reliability of research using an outer model. Hypothesis testing uses inner models. The reliability and validity test results (convergent and discriminant validity) show that all values meet the requirements. The evaluation results of the inner model (structural model) show an R Square value of 0.781, which can be said to be strong. Based on the research that has been carried out, the research results show that employee engagement has a significant positive effect on the performance of SL CORP INDONESIA employees (outlet Lodeh Iwak Kali, Soto Lawas, Mampir Pawon, and Tengkleng Ndeso). Meanwhile, transformational leadership style and work-life balance do not affect the performance of SL CORP INDONESIA employees (outlet Lodeh Iwak Kali, Soto Lawas, Mampir Pawon, and Tengkleng Ndeso).
Telemedicine: Benefits and Pitfalls
Authors: Ramachandran Ganesh , Min Aung Ko Ko
Published: August 2024

The concept of providing healthcare remotely for patients is not new. It is a part of everyday medical practice and complements the traditional face-to-face encounters between doctors and patients on a regular basis.
However, with the disruption of traditional healthcare delivery between 2020 and 2022 due to the COVID 19 pandemic telemedicine has become the focus as a method of healthcare delivery that could in some cases replace the traditional time-tested method of physical doctor patient encounters.
This paper aims to look at the advantages and disadvantages of telemedicine, in the provision of quality healthcare without compromising patient safety and guaranteeing good outcomes via a review of the literature.
This reviews the aspects of good practice that must be adhered to in the implementation of telemedicine.
Impact of Hydroponics Technique on Root Characteristics and Physiological Parameters in Chrysanthemum
Authors: Rahman Sofior , Sarma Hridesh Harsha , Sarmah Ruby , Das Sangita
Published: August 2024

An experiment was conducted at Experimental Farm, Department of Horticulture, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat to investigate the response of root characteristics and physiological parameters of chrysanthemum under hydroponics technique. It was laid out on factorial completely randomized design. Total of three replications were done. Experimental variety was chrysanthemum cv. “Rajkumari”. Chrysanthemum plants were grown in seven different growing media combinations viz. M1: coco peat, M2: coarse sand, M3: cinder, M4: coarse sand cinder (1:1 v/v), M5: coarse sand and coco peat (1:1 v/v), M6: coco peat and cinder (1:1 v/v) and M7: coco peat, coarse sand and cinder (1:1:1 v/v) and two different concentrations of nutrient solution (modified Hoagland solution) viz. N1: EC 1.5 dS/m and N2: EC 1.8 dS/m. Results revealed that among different growing media, coco peat was found significantly superior to all other growing media in terms of favouring root characteristics which was followed by   coco peat+ cinder. Meanwhile, among the nutrient solution concentrations, EC 1.5 dS/m was found superior to EC 1.8 dS/m. In terms of physiological characteristics, coco peat+ cinder was found significantly superior to all other growing media which was followed by coco peat + coarse sand + cinder. Meanwhile, among the nutrient solution concentrations, EC 1.8 dS/m was found superior to EC 1.5 dS/m for same parameters.
Application of Pseudomonas sp. and Bio-Resources in Controlling Alternaria Leaf Spot Disease of Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.)
Authors: Jayasri Puli , Simon Sobita , Pujari Kavita , Maheswari Babburi Sai , Veronica Prajwala
Published: August 2024

This study was conducted during the Kharif season 2022-2023 at the Central Research farm,  Department of Plant Pathology, SHUATS, Allahabad, U.P to conclude the Application of Pseudomonas sp. and Bio-Resources in Controlling  Alternaria leaf spot disease of brinjal (Solanum melongena L.). Seedling treatment with bioagent viz., Pseudomonas sp. at 0.25% and bio-resources applied as a foliar spray viz., Neem extract + Clove extract (5 + 5%), Neem oil + Clove oil(5+5%), Neem extract (10%), Clove extract(10%), Neem oil(0.2%), Clove oil(0.2%) and Bavistin(0.1%, treated check) for their effectiveness to manage Alternaria leaf spot of brinjal caused by Alternaria alternata. All the treatments were significantly reduced the severity of the disease and increased growth parameters. Among all the treatments Pseudomonas sp. + Neem extract + Clove extract (32.37%) was most effective followed by Pseudomonas sp. + Neem oil + Clove oil (34.39%) were significantly superior over other treatments in reducing the leaf spot infection of brinjal. The highest cost benefit ratio was obtained in the treatment Pseudomonas sp. + Neem extract + Clove extract (1:6.72). While other treatments also showed significant eff/efficacy to check the disease intensity (PDI) and yield over control in the field condition.
Boosting Cooperative Success: Evaluating the Performance of Farmer Producer Organizations in Tiruvallur District, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Sinega C. , Agila R. , Devi M.Nirmala , Kanaka S. , Selvi R.Gangai
Published: August 2024

Aim: This study examines the performance of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) in Tiruvallur district, Tamil Nadu, with a focus on identifying the key factors influencing their effectiveness.
Methodology: Using an ex post facto research design in 2024, four FPOs operational for over three years were purposively selected, and a sample size of 120 members was chosen through simple random sampling. Data collection involved a comprehensive interview schedule assessing 14 personal, psychological, and socio-economic variables. Correlation and regression analyses were conducted using SPSS software.
Results: In the study examining the performance of FPOs in Tiruvallur district, Tamil Nadu, 14 personal, psychological, and socio-economic variables were analyzed for their influence on FPO performance. Eight variables showed a significant positive correlation with FPO performance such as education, farming experience, annual income, innovativeness, information source utilization, group cohesiveness, decision-making behavior, and attitude towards FPOs having the highest correlation. Conversely, two variables exhibited a negative correlation, with occupation showing a significant negative correlated. Four variables showed a positively correlated but not significant such as age, economic motivation, social participation and capacity building services, while farm size was also negatively correlated but not significantly. The model's R² value was 61.9%, indicating that these 14 variables collectively explain a substantial portion of the variation in FPO performance. This highlights the critical role of fostering positive attitudes, effective decision-making and other positively correlated factors to enhance FPOs performance.
Conclusion: The study underscores the importance of fostering positive attitudes and effective decision-making within FPOs to enhance their performance. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to improve these aspects within FPOs to ensure their success and sustainability.
A GPS velocity field for Fennoscandia and a consistent comparison to glacial isostatic adjustment models
Authors: Kierulf Halfdan Pascal , Steffen Holger , Simpson Matthew James Ross , Lidberg Martin , Wu Patrick , Wang Hansheng
Published: July 2014

In Fennoscandia, the process of Glacial Isostatic Adjustment (GIA) drives ongoing crustal deformation. Crustal velocities from GPS observations have proved to be a useful tool in constraining GIA models. However, reference frame uncertainties, plate tectonics, intraplate deformations as well as other geophysical processes contaminate the results. Former studies have shown that different International Terrestrial Reference Frames have large discrepancies, especially in the vertical component, which hamper geophysical interpretation. We present new velocity estimates for the Fennoscandian and North European GPS network. Our GPS velocity field is directly realized in a GIA reference frame. Using this method (named the GIA frame approach) we are able to constrain GIA models with minimal influence of errors in the reference frame or biasing signals from plate tectonics. The drawbacks are more degrees of freedom that might mask real but unmodeled signals. Monte Carlo tests suggest that our approach is robust at the 97% level in terms of correctly separating different models of ice history but, depending on deformation patterns, the identified Earth model may be slightly biased in up to 39% of cases. We compare our results to different one‐ and three‐dimensional GIA models employing different global ice‐load histories. The GIA models generally provide good fit to the data but there are still significant discrepancies in some areas. We suggest that these differences are mainly related to inaccuracies in the ice models and/or lateral inhomogeneities in the Earth structure under Fennoscandia. Thus, GIA models still need to be improved, but the GIA frame approach provides a base for further improvements.
High manganese concentrations in rocks at Gale crater, Mars
Authors: Lanza Nina L. , Fischer Woodward W. , Wiens Roger C. , Grotzinger John , Ollila Ann M. , Cousin Agnes , Anderson Ryan B. , Clark Benton C. , Gellert Ralf , Mangold Nicolas , Maurice Sylvestre , Le Mouélic Stéphane , Nachon Marion , Schmidt Mariek , Berger Jeffrey , Clegg Samuel M. , Forni Olivier , Hardgrove Craig , Melikechi Noureddine , Newsom Horton E. , Sautter Violaine
Published: July 2014

The surface of Mars has long been considered a relatively oxidizing environment, an idea supported by the abundance of ferric iron phases observed there. However, compared to iron, manganese is sensitive only to high redox potential oxidants, and when concentrated in rocks, it provides a more specific redox indicator of aqueous environments. Observations from the ChemCam instrument on the Curiosity rover indicate abundances of manganese in and on some rock targets that are 1–2 orders of magnitude higher than previously observed on Mars, suggesting the presence of an as‐yet unidentified manganese‐rich phase. These results show that the Martian surface has at some point in time hosted much more highly oxidizing conditions than has previously been recognized.