bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chronique sur la sécurité humaine : sécurité sanitaire, sécurité environnementale, migrants et réfugiés
Authors: Balmond Louis
Published: January 2024

Soumission à Epi-revel

The Covid-19 crisis has been omnipresent in discussions on human security and some of its consequences are still being felt. As a result, it has too often led to the neglect of threats to other dimensions of this security. The challenges of health security are also, if not above all, in the search for health for all through the development of primary health and the use of traditional medicine, which the World Health Organization is trying to impose. Climate threats, whether man contributes to them or not, are developing rapidly without States seeming capable of taking measures to deal with them. The human and economic costs of the disasters that can result have human and economic consequences that have become progressively unbearable, especially since they are at the origin of migratory movements that States as well as international organizations are unable to control.

La crise du Covid-19 a été omniprésente dans les réflexions sur la sécurité humaine et certaines de ses conséquences se manifestent encore. De ce fait, elle a conduit trop souvent à négliger les menaces pesant sur d'autres dimensions de cette sécurité. Les enjeux de la sécurité sanitaire sont aussi, sinon surtout, dans la recherche de la santé pour tous à travers le développement de la santé primaire et du recours à la médecine traditionnelle, que l'Organisation mondiale de la santé tente d'imposer. Les menaces climatiques, que l'homme y contribue ou non, se développent rapidement sans que les États semblent capables de prendre les mesures pour y faire face. Les coûts humains et économiques des catastrophes qui peuvent en résulter ont des conséquences humaines et économiques devenues progressivement insupportables, d'autant qu'elles sont à l'origine de mouvements migratoires que les États aussi bien que les organisations internationales ne parviennent pas à maîtriser.
Sécurité et énergie. La politique énergétique de l’UE. Le cas du gaz russe
Authors: Hamant Hélène
Published: January 2024

Soumission à Epi-revel

La question de la vulnérabilité des États membres de l’Union européenne et de leur dépendance à l’égard de la Russie en matière gazière revient régulièrement à la une de l’actualité. Cette étude examine comment l’Union aborde cette question et comment elle travaille à réduire ses faiblesses. Elle montre que, contrairement à une opinion assez commune, l’UE n’est pas une proie si facile. Elle a des règles anciennes qui entrent en contradiction avec la stratégie de Gazprom et en a adopté de nouvelles. Elle a renforcé le contrôle sur les accords énergétiques conclus par ses États membres avec des pays tiers. Elle a pris des mesures pour prévenir les ruptures d’approvisionnement. Enfin, elle diversifie ses sources d’approvisionnement.

International audience

The question of the vulnerability of the member-states of the EU and their dependance on russian gas is to be found regularly in the media headlines. This study will examine how the EU approaches this issue and how it tries to reduce its weak points. It will demonstrate that despite the fairly widespread common opinion, the EU is not such an easy pray after all. The EU is used to employing its traditional rules of action which seemingly enter into conflict with Gazprom strategy. It also has adopted some newrules. It has reinforced the control over the energy-treaties concluded by its member-member-states with outside business-partner-countries. It has taken measures to prevent supply disruptions and, finally, diversifies its resources for supplies.
Del uso a título de marca a la aplicación funcional del Derecho de marcas (o sobre cómo aplicar el Derecho de marcas de manera conforme con la jurisprudencia del Tribunal de Justicia) [Parte II]
Authors: GARCÍA PÉREZ Rafael
Published: January 2024

El Tribunal de Justicia de la Unión Europea no requiere ya el uso a título de marca como requisito para la infracción del derecho de marca. El Tribunal de Justicia ha sustituido el análisis tradicional por otro basado en el menoscabo de las funciones de la marca. Este cambio constituye un verdadero desafío para los ordenamientos jurídicos en los cuales el uso a título de marca se encuentra profundamente asentado. El presente artículo propone una nueva forma de aplicar el Derecho de marcas –el análisis funcional– que es respetuosa con la jurisprudencia del Tribunal de Justicia.
Obligatoriedad y Funciones de la Jurisprudencia del Tribunal de la Rota Romana
Authors: Umaña Yeshica
Published: January 2024

La presente contribución tiene como objetivo principal examinar el valor de la jurisprudencia y ofrecer una reflexión para determinar si las funciones que le son atribuidas por el ordenamiento canónico, le revisten de obligatoriedad, y si en consecuencia, deben los tribunales eclesiásticos de las Iglesias Particulares resolver las causas de acuerdo a los mismos criterios aplicados por el Tribunal de la Rota Romana. En este sentido, es conveniente empezar por exponer el concepto de jurisprudencia y analizar detenidamente las funciones que le son otorgadas por el legislador; tales como la interpretación y la suplencia en caso de lacuna legis. Palabras clave: (jurisprudencia, Rota Romana, interpretación, suplencia, tribunales).
Basic Wind Speed Prediction for the Design of Building in Siem Reap
Authors:   Institute of Technology of Cambodia, Doung Piseth , Lin Chanthorn ,   Institute of Technology of Cambodia, Vong Siden ,   Institute of Technology of Cambodia, Sion Rachhan ,   Institute of Technology of Cambodia, Chhin Rattana ,   Institute of Technology of Cambodia, Han Virak ,   Institute of Technology of Cambodia
Published: January 2024

A basic wind speed is a very crucial parameter used for calculating the wind loads on building structures. In Cambodia, the selection of the basic wind speed for the structural design remains uncertain due to insufficient fundamental studies on the wind characteristics associated with regional climate. This article aims to predict the basic wind speed in Siem Reap, Cambodia, as a case study based on datasets received from a meteorological station. The wind speeds were measured at Siem Reap airport in the form of hourly speed and then statically converted to 3-second gust speed using Gaussian distribution transformation. The extreme value distributions, such as Gumbel and Gringorten, were utilized to analyze the extreme wind speed in accordance with a return period. The results showed that with a return period of 50 and 700 years, the basic wind speed was found to be 35 m/s and 41 m/s, respectively. These results could provide an alternative selection for the estimation of wind load for the structural design of building in Siem Reap. However, additional studies on the assessment of the existing structures under the discovered wind speeds should be conducted in order to ensure the reliability of the results.
Efficacy of insecticides on rice leaf folder (Cnaphaloceocis medinalis Guenee) in rice in Tuek Thla commune, Serei Saophoan city, Banteay Meanchey province
Authors:   National Meanchey University, Chheang Chhouk , Ngy Socheat ,   National Meanchey University
Published: January 2024

Rice leaf folders are the major insect pests of rice crops. Insecticides are used by farmers to reduce the yield loss caused by rice leaf folders, but there are hundreds of insecticides available on the Cambodian market, which makes choosing the right insecticide difficult. This experiment was conducted (1) to determine the variation of a population of rice leaf folders in six treatments: control and using insecticide treatments, and (2) to determine the type of insecticide that is effective. The treatments were tested on field plots (5m x 4m). There are six treatments, and each treatment was replicated three times in a Randomized Complete Block Design. The treatments were T0 = Control, T1 = Emamictin-benzoate 50WDG, T2 = Cypermethrin 10EC, T3 = Thiacloprid + Isoprocarb 450WP, T4 = Diazinon 50EC, and T5 = Thiamethoxam 350SC. The data was collected by counting the number of rice folder larval populations from 100 hills of rice which is equal to one square meter before and after applying the insecticides. The rice yield per square meter in each plot was also collected. The results showed that the rice leaf folder had severe damage in the tillering stage (about 14 days after transplanting). The most effective insecticide in killing rice leaf folders was Emamictin-benzoate 50WDG (T1) at 87.68%, followed by Diazinon 50EC (T4) at 83.04% and Cypermethrin 10EC (T2) at 81.51%. There was a significant difference if compared with Thiamethoxam 350SC (T5) and Thiacloprid + Isoprocarb 450WP (T3) at 80.95% (p <0.05). As a result, we can conclude that Emamictin-benzoate 50WDG is highly effective and yields the highest yield when used to control rice leaf folders.
Femmes et territoire : démarche d’intégration des savoirs des femmes wȢbanakiiak dans les travaux du Bureau du Ndakina
Authors: Hébert-Lefebvre Megan , Blanchet Edgar
Published: January 2024

Le Ndakina, territoire ancestral de la Nation w8banakii (abénakise), peut être considéré, dans une perspective holistique, non seulement comme une entité géographique, mais comme englobant un ensemble de savoirs et d’activités ancestraux qui dépendent de conditions sous-jacentes telles que l’accès et la possibilité de transmettre. Les effets cumulés du colonialisme, des changements climatiques et de l’anthropisation du territoire ont des impacts sur la Nation qui ne sont pas répartis ni exprimés uniformément. Dans ses analyses, le Bureau territorial porte comme angle mort un accès difficile aux savoirs et perspectives des femmes w8banakiiak. Il a donc entrepris une démarche visant à mieux comprendre et mobiliser ces expériences. Nous brossons un portrait de l’expression du lien des femmes au territoire, que nous proposons d’organiser selon quatre dimensions inspirées de la roue de médecine. La pêche, la chasse et la cueillette alimentaire, médicinale ou pour l’artisanat sont pratiquées par les femmes. Plusieurs vont en territoire pour d’autres activités associées à la famille, la transmission, ou à des fins de ressourcement. Les témoignages suggèrent que le territoire est pour plusieurs une relation, activée à certains moments de la vie et déterminante dans la construction identitaire. Ces résultats ont des implications pour une analyse d’impact sensible à la diversité de l’expression de la territorialité, accordant plus d’importance à la culture et au bien-être global.
Contribution des pratiques de gestion traditionnelle de la mangrove face aux changements climatiques dans le Blouf en Basse Casamance (Sénégal)
Authors: Diatta Claudette Soumbane , Dieme Barnabé Ephrem A. , Diedhiou Yaya Mansour
Published: January 2024

Cet article met en évidence la contribution des coutumes et des pratiques diola de la Basse Casamance dans la conservation de la mangrove et une résilience aux changements climatiques. La conservation des paysages de mangrove et la résilience aux changements climatiques sont devenues des préoccupations majeures pour les acteurs de l’environnement. Presque partout dans le monde, la mangrove se dégrade (FAO 2007). Au Sénégal, notamment en Basse Casamance, elle a connu une régression spectaculaire durant la période sèche (1970-1990), à cause d’une salinisation croissante des eaux du fleuve et des sols (Cormier-Salem 1992; Marut 2010). En effet, le changement climatique a introduit une menace plus importante dans la zone littorale casamançaise avec l’érosion des côtes, la raréfaction des ressources, la dégradation des écosystèmes littoraux et les conflits sociaux de plus en plus aigus. Avec toutes ces nuisances, les milieux côtiers, notamment la mangrove et ses ressources, sont profondément fragilisés accentuant leur vulnérabilité. Ainsi, même si une timide régénération naturelle de la mangrove est observée depuis les années 2000 à la faveur d’une pluviométrie plus favorable et des reboisements, il reste encore des poches de dégradation (Cormier-Salem 2015).

Néanmoins, en dépit de cette apparente dégradation, les communautés diola, par leurs comportements fondés sur leurs valeurs sociétales, ont favorisé la conservation de certains espaces de mangrove. Cela à travers leurs activités traditionnelles et cultuelles limitant l’accès à des sites décrétés sacrés. Ces espaces régis par des règles strictes constituent des modes de régulations sociales traditionnelles. Ils font partie ainsi des sites les moins soumis aux phénomènes de dégradation.
La résonance d’imaginaires politiques au Comité pour les droits humains en Amérique latine (CDHAL) : des zapatistes aux défenseures du territoire
Authors: Goulet-Poulin Jean-Sol
Published: January 2024

L’analyse de l’historicité de la vision du monde commune aux militant.es du CDHAL, sous-tendue par certains imaginaires politiques, permet de mieux comprendre la sensibilité et l’ouverture qu’elles et ils ont envers ces savoirs autochtones. C’est via l’analyse de contenu thématique d’un corpus de fonds d’archives personnelles et d’entretiens que les données de la recherche ont été créées. Ainsi, analyser la place que prennent les savoirs autochtones dans les milieux altermondialistes québécois via la résonance du zapatisme au tournant des années 2000 permet de constater l’entrelacement d’imaginaires politiques autochtones et allochtones. En effet, en 1996 le projet politique du CDHAL est transformé par l’implication de militant.es altermondialistes dans l’organisme chez qui les conceptions libertaires et zapatistes des imaginaires politiques de dignité, d’autonomie et d’internationalisme ont résonné dans les années précédentes. Ces imaginaires sous-tendent la pratique de la solidarité directe du CDHAL et s’actualisent à la suite du moment altermondialiste québécois (1994-2001) dans la perspective résolument féministe et décoloniale que ses militant.es mettent de l’avant depuis plusieurs années.
Les pérégrinations du Ring en France. Premières conclusions et perspectives de recherches1
Authors: Simon Yannick
Published: January 2024

Cet article est une contribution à l’étude de la diffusion du Ring en France. Il livre les premières conclusions portant sur la période comprise entre 1904, année de la première représentation intégrale du cycle en France, et 1959, date à laquelle est montée la première production dans le style du Nouveau Bayreuth sur le sol français. L’étude s’accompagne de la réalisation d’une base de données qui réunira, à terme, toutes les productions françaises du Ring entre 1904 et aujourd’hui. Dès à présent disponible sur le site Dezède, le dossier Le Ring en France donne accès à la chronologie des représentations, aux distributions et à un ensemble de sources (articles de presse, programmes de salle, etc.) amené à s’enrichir. Au travers de ce corpus en cours de réalisation, se dessine l’histoire du wagnérisme en France, mais aussi celles de ses modes de représentation, de sa mise en scène et de sa réception.
Teismai Katalikų bažnyčios (lotynų apeigų) gyvenime
Authors: Smilgys Petras
Published: January 2024

Up to now the catholics of Lithuania don’t have the Code of Canon Law in their native language. So it is impossible to become acquainted with this important document of the Church, which regulates her juridical side. The members of the (Church are not only the priests or monks, but they are laymen too, so it is important for all of us to know our regulations, the rights and obligations, to know and understand the legal aspect of the teaching and sanctifying Church, to become acquainted with existing tribunals and legal sanctions provided for violations of different regulations in the Church. This article just seeks to present a short structure of above mentioned tribunals, to acquaint with provided institutions of tribunals and possible fulfilment ofthem, and granted competence to each of them. The courts of law exist not only in the Church. Of course all the Christians are urged to regulate their relations according to the spirit of Gospel and the courts of law newer and nowhere will express a positive reality, but if they are that place where seeks justice - they will fulfil a positive role.
Multi-ancestry meta-analysis of host genetic susceptibility to tuberculosis identifies shared genetic architecture
Authors: Schurz Haiko , Naranbhai Vivek , Yates Tom A , Gilchrist James J , Parks Tom , Dodd Peter J , Möller Marlo , Hoal Eileen G , Morris Andrew P , Hill Adrian VS ,   International Tuberculosis Host Genetics Consortium
Published: January 2024

The heritability of susceptibility to tuberculosis (TB) disease has been well recognized. Over 100 genes have been studied as candidates for TB susceptibility, and several variants were identified by genome-wide association studies (GWAS), but few replicate. We established the International Tuberculosis Host Genetics Consortium to perform a multi-ancestry meta-analysis of GWAS, including 14,153 cases and 19,536 controls of African, Asian, and European ancestry. Our analyses demonstrate a substantial degree of heritability (pooled polygenic h2 = 26.3%, 95% CI 23.7–29.0%) for susceptibility to TB that is shared across ancestries, highlighting an important host genetic influence on disease. We identified one global host genetic correlate for TB at genome-wide significance (p<5 × 10-8) in the human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-II region (rs28383206, p-value=5.2 × 10-9) but failed to replicate variants previously associated with TB susceptibility. These data demonstrate the complex shared genetic architecture of susceptibility to TB and the importance of large-scale GWAS analysis across multiple ancestries experiencing different levels of infection pressure.
Leveraging inter-individual transcriptional correlation structure to infer discrete signaling mechanisms across metabolic tissues
Authors: Zhou Mingqi , Tamburini Ian , Van Cassandra , Molendijk Jeffrey , Nguyen Christy M , Chang Ivan Yao-Yi , Johnson Casey , Velez Leandro M , Cheon Youngseo , Yeo Reichelle , Bae Hosung , Le Johnny , Larson Natalie , Pulido Ron , Nascimento-Filho Carlos HV , Jang Cholsoon , Marazzi Ivan , Justice Jamie , Pannunzio Nicholas , Hevener Andrea L , Sparks Lauren , Kershaw Erin E , Nicholas Dequina , Parker Benjamin L , Masri Selma , Seldin Marcus M
Published: January 2024

Inter-organ communication is a vital process to maintain physiologic homeostasis, and its dysregulation contributes to many human diseases. Given that circulating bioactive factors are stable in serum, occur naturally, and are easily assayed from blood, they present obvious focal molecules for therapeutic intervention and biomarker development. Recently, studies have shown that secreted proteins mediating inter-tissue signaling could be identified by ‘brute force’ surveys of all genes within RNA-sequencing measures across tissues within a population. Expanding on this intuition, we reasoned that parallel strategies could be used to understand how individual genes mediate signaling across metabolic tissues through correlative analyses of gene variation between individuals. Thus, comparison of quantitative levels of gene expression relationships between organs in a population could aid in understanding cross-organ signaling. Here, we surveyed gene-gene correlation structure across 18 metabolic tissues in 310 human individuals and 7 tissues in 103 diverse strains of mice fed a normal chow or high-fat/high-sucrose (HFHS) diet. Variation of genes such as FGF21, ADIPOQ, GCG, and IL6 showed enrichments which recapitulate experimental observations. Further, similar analyses were applied to explore both within-tissue signaling mechanisms (liver PCSK9) and genes encoding enzymes producing metabolites (adipose PNPLA2), where inter-individual correlation structure aligned with known roles for these critical metabolic pathways. Examination of sex hormone receptor correlations in mice highlighted the difference of tissue-specific variation in relationships with metabolic traits. We refer to this resource as gene-derived correlations across tissues (GD-CAT) where all tools and data are built into a web portal enabling users to perform these analyses without a single line of code (gdcat.org). This resource enables querying of any gene in any tissue to find correlated patterns of genes, cell types, pathways, and network architectures across metabolic organs.
EphrinB2 knockdown in cervical spinal cord preserves diaphragm innervation in a mutant SOD1 mouse model of ALS
Authors: Urban Mark W , Charsar Brittany A , Heinsinger Nicolette M , Markandaiah Shashirekha S , Sprimont Lindsay , Zhou Wei , Brown Eric V , Henderson Nathan T , Thomas Samantha J , Ghosh Biswarup , Cain Rachel E , Trotti Davide , Pasinelli Piera , Wright Megan C , Dalva Matthew B , Lepore Angelo C
Published: January 2024

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by motor neuron loss. Importantly, non-neuronal cell types such as astrocytes also play significant roles in disease pathogenesis. However, mechanisms of astrocyte contribution to ALS remain incompletely understood. Astrocyte involvement suggests that transcellular signaling may play a role in disease. We examined contribution of transmembrane signaling molecule ephrinB2 to ALS pathogenesis, in particular its role in driving motor neuron damage by spinal cord astrocytes. In symptomatic SOD1G93A mice (a well-established ALS model), ephrinB2 expression was dramatically increased in ventral horn astrocytes. Reducing ephrinB2 in the cervical spinal cord ventral horn via viral-mediated shRNA delivery reduced motor neuron loss and preserved respiratory function by maintaining phrenic motor neuron innervation of diaphragm. EphrinB2 expression was also elevated in human ALS spinal cord. These findings implicate ephrinB2 upregulation as both a transcellular signaling mechanism in mutant SOD1-associated ALS and a promising therapeutic target.
Impact of online learning on physical activity during COVID-19 lockdown period among female undergraduate students in Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Almeheyawi Rania , Alsini Alaa , Aljadrawi Bayadir , Alshehri Layan , Algethami Rawan , Althobaiti Razan , Alrubeai Ahlam , Alzahrani Hosam , Alshehri Fahad , Alshehre Yousef
Published: January 2024

Background

During early 2020, because of the COVID-19 pandemic and related lockdown, most education systems—including universities—shifted from face-to-face classes to online learning. In Saudi Arabia, this might have contributed to a decreased level of physical activity (PA) and a concurrent increase in sedentary behaviour among young adults. This study aimed to investigate the impact of online learning on PA during the COVID-19 lockdown period among female undergraduate students in Saudi Arabia.

Methods

Data were collected through an online survey administered to participants. It consisted of three sections including demographic information, participants’ perception towards online learning and PA, and PA level using the self-reported active-questionnaire survey tool. The association between online learning and PA was measured using linear regression. The statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results

A total of 197 female undergraduate students were included; 95.4% of them were aged 18–24 years old, and 59.9% were in the normal body mass index range (18.5–24.9 kg/m2). In terms of PA level, 55.3% were highly active, 33.5% were moderately active and 10.1% were low-active. In terms of students’ perception of engaging in PA, 53.3% of students reported that engaging in PA definitely affected their psychological status. Moreover, compared with those attending <25 hours/week of online learning, those who attended >30 hours/week had lower PA (r =  − 363.24; 95% confidence interval (CI) −593.97, −132.50), followed by those attending 25–30 hours/week (r =  − 277.66; 95% CI −484.65, −70.66).

Conclusion

Online learning has negatively affected the PA level of female undergraduate students in Saudi Arabia during the COVID-19 lockdown period, in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, this might affect their phycological status. Nevertheless, future studies are warranted to further investigate the relationship between PA level and psychological status.
Analysis of biogas production from sewage sludge combining BMP experimental assays and the ADM1 model
Authors: Rocha Mariana Erthal , Lazarino Thais Carvalho , Oliveira Gabriel , Teixeira Lia , Marques Marcia , Mangiavacchi Norberto
Published: January 2024

The Anaerobic Digestion Model No. 1 (ADM1) was employed to simulate methane (CH4) production in an anaerobic reactor (AR), and the associated bench-scale biochemical methane potential (BMP) assay, having sewage sludge (SWS) from a municipal wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) as feedstock. The SWS presented the following physical-chemical characteristics: pH (7.4–7.6), alkalinity (2,382 ± 100 mg CaCO3 L−1), tCOD (21,903 ± 1,000 mg L−1), TOC (895 ± 100 mg L−1), TS, TVS, and VSS (2.0%, 1.1%, and 0.8%, respectively). The BMP assay was conducted in six replicates under anaerobic mesophilic conditions (37 ± 0.1°C) for 11 days with a CH4 yield registered of 137.6 ± 6.39 NmL CH4 or 124 ± 6.72 CH4 g−1 VS−1. When the results obtained with the BMP bench-scale reactors were compared to the output generated with computational data by the ADM1 model having as input data the same initial sewage tCOD, similar cumulative CH4 production curves were obtained, indicating the accuracy of the ADM1 model. This approach allowed the characterization of the sludge and estimation of its biogas production potential. The combination of BMP assays, experimental data, and ADM1 model simulations provided a framework for studying anaerobic digestion (AD) processes.
The distribution and conservation of areas with microendemic species in a biodiversity hotspot: a multi-taxa approach
Authors: Araujo Helder F. P. de , Machado Célia C. C. , Silva José Maria Cardoso da
Published: January 2024

Background

Microendemic species are species with very small geographic distributions (ranges). Their presence delimitates areas with microendemic species (AMs), denoting a spatial unit comprising at least one population of at least one microendemic species. AMs are assumed to be distributed distinctively and associated with specific ecological, historical, and anthropogenic attributes. However, the level of influence of these factors remains unclear. Thus, we studied the distribution patterns of microendemic species within the Brazilian Atlantic Forest to (a) identify the region’s AMs; (b) evaluate whether ecological (latitude, altitude, distance from the coastline), historical (climate stability), and anthropogenic (ecological integrity) attributes distinguish AMs from non-AMs; and (c) assess the conservation status of the Atlantic Forest’s AMs.

Methods

We mapped the ranges of 1,362 microendemic species of angiosperms, freshwater fishes, and terrestrial vertebrates (snakes, passerine birds, and small mammals) to identify the region’s AMs. Further, spatial autoregressive logit regression models were used to evaluate whether latitude, altitude, distance from the coastline, Climate Stability Index, and ecological integrity can be used to discern AMs from non-AMs. Moreover, the AMs’ conservation status was assessed by evaluating the region’s ecological integrity and conservation efforts (measured as the proportion of AMs in protected areas).

Results

We identified 261 AMs for angiosperm, 205 AMs for freshwater fishes, and 102 AMs for terrestrial vertebrates in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, totaling 474 AMs covering 23.8% of the region. The Brazilian Atlantic Forest is a large and complex biogeographic mosaic where AMs represent islands or archipelagoes surrounded by transition areas with no microendemic species. All local attributes help to distinguish AMs from non-AMs, but their impacts vary across taxonomic groups. Around 69% of AMs have low ecological integrity and poor conservation efforts, indicating that most microendemic species are under threat. This study provides insights into the biogeography of one of the most important global biodiversity hotspots, creating a foundation for comparative studies using other tropical forest regions.
Analysis of Blood Donor Deferral Pattern during COVID-19 Pandemic at a Tertiary Care Hospital-based Blood Centre, Jammu and Kashmir, India: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Qureshi Mohd Zubair , Shah Saadat Nazir , Handoo Shazia , Bilal Sheikh , George Akhil V , Maroof Peer
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Blood donor deferral is vital for ensuring safe blood transfusion. However, with the unfolding Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, significant changes were made in donor screening and blood donation criteria, resulting in a shift in the pattern of donor deferrals. Aim: To estimate the blood donor deferral patterns during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Transfusion Medicine at SMHS Hospital/GMC Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India. The study spanned two years, from March 2020 to February 2022. All blood donors were screened in accordance with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MOHFW), National Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) control organisation (National blood transfusion services) 2017 guidelines. The data was analysed in Microsoft Excel, considering factors such as age, gender, type of deferral, and reasons for deferral. Results: Deferred blood donors were most common in the age group of 18-33 years. During the study period, a total of 19,895 blood donors (19493 males and 402 females) were registered for blood donation. Out of these, 3441 donors (17.30%) were deferred, with a male donor deferral rate of 3258/19493 (16.71%) and a female donor deferral rate of 183/402 (45.52%). Temporary blood donor deferrals accounted for 3272 (95.09%) cases, while permanent deferrals were 169 (4.91%). The most common cause of deferral was low haemoglobin, accounting for 991/3441 (28.80%) cases, followed by deferrals due to reasons attributable to the COVID-19 pandemic (786/3441, 22.84%) and hypertension (653/3441, 18.98%). Conclusion: The study observed a substantial increase in the total donor deferral rate, as well as a change in the donor deferral pattern during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Developing a Comprehensive Framework for Socio-Environmental and Educational Support to Enhance Student Learning
Authors: Careemdeen Jalal Deen
Published: January 2024

Aims: This research aims to comprehensively explore the intricate concepts surrounding Socio-Environmental and Educational Support for student learning. Grounded in an extensive analysis of open-access databases, the study leverages reputable platforms such as Sage Journals, Scopus, Google Scholar, ERIC, JSTOR, Emerald, Science Direct, SpringerLink, Taylor and Francis, and DOAJ to provide an overarching perspective on socio-environmental and educational support.

Study Design, Place, and Duration: Utilising strategically crafted keywords, the investigation delves into pivotal dimensions of socio-environmental and socio-educational support within student learning. Conceptually framed within Bronfenbrenner's socio-ecological theory (1979, 1995), the study synthesises secondary data and contemporaneous literature reviews from diverse perspectives. The research proposes a nuanced framework with four integral components—home environmental support, school environmental support (including teacher and peer support), community support, and virtual environmental support.

Methodology: The research adopts a comprehensive approach, synthesising secondary data and contemporaneous literature reviews. Employing Bronfenbrenner's socio-ecological theory as a conceptual framework, the study utilises strategically crafted keywords to explore pivotal dimensions of socio-environmental and socio-educational support for student learning. A systematic review of 158 studies closely aligned with the core theme was conducted, incorporating both published and unpublished sources. The grey literature technique was employed to enhance the study's robustness, allowing for in-depth analysis and conceptualisation of insights not readily available in commercial publications.

Results: The research comprehensively explains the dynamic interplay between socio-environmental factors and educational support in optimising student learning experiences. The proposed framework, encompassing home environmental support, school environmental support (including teacher and peer support), community support, and virtual environmental support, offers a nuanced perspective on effective strategies for fostering an environment conducive to student learning.

Conclusion: In conclusion, this study thoroughly explores Socio-Environmental and Educational Support for student learning. By embracing diverse sources and employing a systematic approach, the research offers valuable insights into the complex interrelationships among socio-environmental factors, educational support, and student learning experiences. The proposed framework serves as a foundation for future discussions and the development of effective strategies to enhance the learning environment for students.
Financial Sukuk: Concept, Legal Principles, and Types
Authors: Afifi Zuhair Khalid
Published: January 2024

Sukuk, often referred to as Islamic bonds, represent a unique and innovative financial instrument within the realm of Islamic finance. Originating from the principles of Shariah law, Sukuk offer a distinct alternative to conventional bonds by adhering to Islamic principles that prohibit the payment or receipt of interest (Riba). Instead of interest-bearing debt, Sukuk are structured as investment certificates, granting investors a share in the ownership of tangible assets or services. This adherence to Shariah principles ensures that Sukuk are compatible with Islamic ethical and legal standards, attracting a diverse range of investors seeking financial instruments aligned with their religious beliefs. As Sukuk continue to gain prominence in global financial markets, they contribute to the development of more inclusive and diverse investment options, catering to both Islamic and non-Islamic investors alike. This research paper presents a thorough literature review of Sukuk in the Islamic economy and showcases their definition, typologies and other aspects. Sukuk, often referred to as Islamic bonds, play a significant role in the Islamic economy. These financial instruments comply with Islamic law (Shariah) principles, which prohibit the payment or receipt of interest (Riba) and promote risk-sharing and asset backing. Sukuk provide an alternative means for raising capital that aligns with Islamic finance principles. The study herein is of significance for researcher as well as postgraduate researchers in the areas of Islamic banking, economy studies and accounting.
Skin Cancer Detection: A Review Using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Shinde Pooja , Ingle Yashwant
Published: January 2024

Skin cancer is a serious health concern, and early detection is crucial for effective treatment. Machine learning algorithms have shown promise in detecting skin cancer, but there is still much to be explored in terms of their effectiveness and efficiency. This paper presents a comparative analysis of different machine learning algorithms for skin cancer detection, including Support Vector Machines, VGG16, VGG19, Inception, Xception , and Convolutional Neural Networks. The study uses a dataset of 30,000 skin images, from which 21000 images are provided as training data and the rest 9000 are put in testing dataset. In the case of skin cancer detection, machine learning can be used to analyze images of skin lesions and identify those that are likely to be cancerous. This can help doctors to make more accurate diagnoses and provide earlier treatment. The results show that the neural network algorithm outperforms the other algorithms in terms of accuracy and speed. The CNN model came up with an accuracy of 74% being the highest from the rest of the five models performance. The study underscores the potential of machine learning in enhancing early detection capabilities, thereby aiding medical professionals in more accurate diagnoses and timely intervention for improved patient outcomes. Continued research in this domain is essential for refining algorithms, incorporating more extensive datasets, and advancing the integration of AI into clinical practices for enhanced cancer diagnostics.
Comparative Assessment of Crop Water Productivity of Drip Irrigated Green Pepper under Poly-House and Open-Field Conditions
Authors: Abegunrin T. P. , Ojo O. I. , Lasisi M. O.
Published: January 2024

Crop water productivity (CWP) is a crucial factor in determining the sustainability of agricultural practices. Drip irrigation is a method that has shown potential in improving CWP in crop production. The study aimed to compare the crop water productivity of green pepper production under poly-house and open-field environments during 2020/2021 and 2021/2022 growing seasons. The experiment was conducted during the dry seasons of 2020.2021 and 2021/2022 at the Teaching and Research Field of Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria. The beds were prepared, nursery was established, drip irrigation system was installed and fumigation was carried out before transplanting. The experimental design was a randomized complete block (RCBD) with nine replications in each environment. The same design was applied to both poly-house and open-field conditions. The factors are environment (poly-house and open-field) and irrigation intervals of 5, 6 and 7 days (I5, I6 and I7). Data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance and Tukey’s Honestly Significant Difference (HSD) was used for multiple comparison. Drip irrigation was applied to all plots at different irrigation intervals. The results showed that the crop water productivity under poly-house and open-field environments in 2020/2021 growing season were: I5: 29.67, I6: 36.97, I7: 20.92 and I5: 17.06, I6: 21.45, I7: 12.21 kg/m3. Similarly, in the 2021/2022 growing season, the CWP values were I5: 16.90, I6: 23.27, I7: 12.95 and I5: 9.60, I6: 14.01, I7: 6.81 kg/m3 under poly-house and open-field, respectively. The results revealed that water productivity was more efficient at low levels of water supply in the poly-house during the 2020/2021 and 2021/2022 growing seasons. The production of green pepper under poly-house increased water conservation, reduced nutrient leaching, enhanced crop productivity for sustainable agricultural practices and water management.
Assessment of Micronutrient Status in Jasmine (Jasminum azoricum L.) Growing Soils of Huvina Hadagali Taluk, Vijayanagara District of Karnataka, India
Authors: Sharanabasava  , Bhanuvally Manjunatha , Ravi S.  , Bhat S. N. , Mahadevaswamy  , Ramesh G.
Published: January 2024

The present study was conducted during winter (November‑December, 2022) in Jasmine growing area of Huvina Hadagali Taluk, Vijayanagara District to assess the soil micronutrient status in Jasmine growing area and analysed for their fertility parameters. A total of 60 soil samples were collected, of which 30 surface (0‒20 cm) and 30 subsurface (20‒40 cm) soil depths covering six villages namely Huvinahadagali, Hanakanahalli, Vinobhanagara, Meerakornahalli, Devagondana-halli and Thippapura. In surface soil, available micronutrients boron, zinc, iron, copper and manganese ranged from 0.45 to 1.28, 0.24 to 0.98, 1.17 to 7.90, 0.30 to 3.76 and 2.44 to 22.52 mg kg-1, respectively. Mean soil pH was 7.96, mean soluble salt was 0.27 dS m-1 and soil organic carbon ranged from 2.40 to 6.80 g kg-1. In subsurface soil, available micronutrients boron, zinc, iron, copper and manganese ranged from 0.36 to 1.09, 0.16 to 0.80, 0.96 to 6.76, 0.16 to 2.72 and 1.84 to 20.86 mg kg-1, respectively. Mean soil pH was 8.06, mean soluble salt was 0.32 dS m-1 and soil organic carbon ranged from 1.60 to 6.00 g kg-1. The results showed that depending on the nutrient nature, their concentration was either found in the range of deficit, or sufficient or in excess due to poor nutrient management practices like continuous use of chemical fertilizers and less use of organics which results in poor soil fertility leading to low yield and low quality of Jasmine flowers.
Evaluation of Promising Lines of Vegetable Amaranth (Amaranthus viridis L.) Suitable for Cultivation in North Eastern India
Authors: Bora G. C. , Gogoi S. , Bora P. K. , Rahman S. , Deka J.
Published: January 2024

Sixteen accessions of vegetable amaranth (Amaranthus viridis L.) were collected from different locations of the state of Assam and North East. The accessions were tested for leaf and plant yield and component characters under different breeding trials. They were evaluated consecutively for three years in the Deptt. of Horticulture, AAU, Jorhat in station trials. The accessions viz., Am-1, Am-2, Am-3, Am-4, Am-5, Am-6, Am-7, Am-8, Am-9, Am-10, Am-11, Am-12, Am-13 (Boga Morisa), Am-14 (Ranga Morisa), Am-15 and Am-16 were tested in zonal trials covering UBVZ (Upper Brahmaputra valley zone), NBPZ (North Bank Plains zone) and LBVZ(Lower Brahmaputra valley zone) also. In these trials, among all genotypes JorAm-1(Shyamali) and JorAm-2 (Rodali) were found to be the best for leaf and plant yield and other component characters.The AICRP(VC) trials conducted throughout the country exhibited average plant yield of 137q/ha inJorAm-1 and 133.18 q/ha in JorAm-2 with 25 – 30% yield increase over the best check variety. Shyamaliwas a green leaf variety whereas Rodali was a purplish variety. The edible leaves were getting ready for plucking at 30 – 35 days after sowing. Both of them were found to be tolerant with 5% infection to leaf spot and aphids. They have been recommended in the Zonal Research Committee Meeting (ZREAC)andAnnual Technical Committee Meeting (ATCM) held at Assam Agricultural University (AAU), Jorhatfor release in the state of Assam. In view of the consumer preference and taste, the varieties are spreading very fast and getting popularity throughout entire NE states.Considering yield performance and other desirable characteristics, extensive cultivation of these varieties may be done in better performing states also.
Effects of Political Instability on Private Investment: Empirical Investigation from African Firms
Authors: Ibrahim NJI Ngouhouo , Ngahane Donald Franklin Njintcha
Published: January 2024

Using data from the World Bank Enterprise Surveys (WBES), our analysis focuses on the effect of perceptions of political instability on private investment at the firm level in Africa. We apply econometric techniques to correct for biases inherent in the data, such as measurement errors, missing observations, and the endogeneity problem. We used time series cross-section analysis employing the two-stage least squares (2SLS) method. Our results show that political instability has a negative and significant impact on business investment, irrespective of location of the firms. However, this effect is insignificant and weak for small firms. Furthermore, we identify a significant impact of administrative constraints, regulatory constraints and infrastructure constraints on investment. These findings highlight the importance of Strengthening political stability in order to stimulate investment, especially in small towns. Putting in place incentives and programmes to encourage employee training can improve business productivity.
Coping with technological disaster: An application of the conservation of resources model to the Exxon Valdez oil spill
Authors: Arata Catalina M. , Picou J. Steven , Johnson G. David , McNally T. Scott
Published: December 2002

One hundred twenty‐five commercial fishers in Cordova, Alaska, completed a mailed survey regarding current mental health functioning 6 years after the Exxon Valdez oil spill. Economic and social impacts of the oil spill and coping and psychological functioning (modified Coping Strategies Scales, Symptom Checklist 90‐R) were measured. Multiple regression was used to test the utility of the Conservation of Resources stress model for explaining observed psychological symptoms. Current symptoms of depression, anxiety, and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder were associated with conditions resource loss and avoidant coping strategies. The Conservation of Resources model provided a framework for explaining psychological impacts of the oil spill. Future research is needed to identify factors related to recovery.
Refugee families' experience of research participation
Authors: Dyregrov Kari , Dyregrov Atle , Raundalen Magne
Published: December 2002

Because refugees can experience crisis, bereavement, and traumatization, there has been a rapid increase of research carried out with refugees. This study investigated how refugee families respond to participation in research. A previous study explored how adults and children had communicated about the difficult question of repatriation after arriving in a new country. Did the in‐depth interviews harm or benefit them? Are there any ethical risks in research on traumatized refugees? From an original sample of 74 Bosnian refugees (5–73 years), 30 family members from 9 families including 14 children aged 6 to 19, were re‐interiewed. The refugees rated participation as positive. A few parents lacked information that could have enabled them to inform the children better before the interviews. The study shows that studies on traumatized/bereaved populations can have beneficial effects.
Hostility and functional health status in women veterans with and without posttraumatic stress disorder: A preliminary study
Authors: Butterfield Marian I. , Forneris Catherine A. , Feldman Michelle E. , Beckham Jean C.
Published: December 2002

This study investigated hostility and functional health status in 90 women veterans with and without PTSD. Compared to women without PTSD, women veterans with PTSD reported significantly higher levels of hostility. Minority status was associated with increased hostility. Compared to a national sample, hostility scores for women with PTSD were greater by a factor of 1.5. PTSD diagnosis was also associated with poorer functioning on all SF‐36 Health Surrey scales. Controlling for age and education, hostility was related to all SF‐36 Health Survey scales in the women with PTSD.
Presymptomatic Genetic Testing with an APP Mutation in Early‐Onset Alzheimer Disease: A Descriptive Study of Sibship Dynamics
Authors: Quaid Kimberly A. , Murrell Jill R. , Hake Ann M. , Farlow Martin R. , Ghetti Bernardino
Published: December 2002

Early‐onset Alzheimer disease (AD) accounts for only 5% of all cases of Alzheimer disease. To date, mutations in three different genes, the Amyloid precursor protein (APP), Presenilin 1 (PS1), and Presenilin 2 (PS2), have been identified as causative in early‐onset AD, making predictive testing possible. Predictive testing for early‐onset Alzheimer disease is a relatively new phenomenon. This paper describes the process of identifying a new mutation in the APP gene associated with early‐onset AD, notifying family members, and offering participation in research as well as predictive testing. The goal is to share the complexities of predictive testing in a sibship newly identified as being at risk for an adult‐onset, incurable neurodegenerative disease.