bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A General Framework for Modelling Conditional Reasoning - Preliminary Report
Authors: Casini Giovanni , Straccia Umberto
Published: July 2022

We introduce and investigate here a formalisation for conditionals that allows the definition of a broad class of reasoning systems. This framework covers the most popular kinds of conditional reasoning in logic-based KR: the semantics we propose is appropriate for a structural analysis of those conditionals that do not satisfy closure properties associated to classical logics.
Interpolants and Explicit Definitions in Extensions of the Description Logic EL
Authors: Fortin Marie , Konev Boris , Wolter Frank
Published: July 2022

We show that the vast majority of extensions of the description logic EL do not enjoy the Craig interpolation nor the projective Beth definability property. This is the case, for example, for EL with nominals, EL with the universal role, EL with role hierarchies and transitive roles, and for ELI. It follows in particular that the existence of an explicit definition of a concept or individual name cannot be reduced to subsumption checking via implicit definability. We show that nevertheless the existence of interpolants and explicit definitions can be decided in polynomial time for standard tractable extensions of EL (such as EL++) and in ExpTime for ELI and various extensions. It follows that these existence problems are not harder than subsumption which is in sharp contrast to the situation for expressive DLs. We also obtain tight bounds for the size of interpolants and explicit definitions and the complexity of computing them: single exponential for tractable standard extensions of EL and double exponential for ELI and extensions. We close with a discussion of Horn-DLs such as Horn-ALCI.
On the Expressive Power of Intermediate and Conditional Effects in Temporal Planning
Authors: Gigante Nicola , Micheli Andrea , Scala Enrico
Published: July 2022

Automated planning is the task of finding a sequence of actions that reach a desired goal, given a description of their applicability and their effects on the world. In temporal planning, actions have a duration and can overlap in time. In modern temporal planning formalisms, two features have been introduced which are very useful from a modeling perspective, but are not yet thoroughly understood: intermediate conditions and effects (ICE) and conditional effects. The expressive power of such constructs is yet not well comprehended, especially when time is dense, and no minimum separation is required between mutex events. This paper reveals that both ICE and conditional effects do not add expressive power with regards to common temporal planning formalisms. In particular, we show how they can be compiled away using a polynomial-size encoding that makes no assumptions on the time domain. This encoding advances our understanding of these features, and allow their use with simple temporal planners that lack their support. Moreover, it provides a constructive proof that temporal planning with ICE and conditional effects remains PSPACE-complete.
Dynamic Deontic Logic for Permitted Announcements
Authors: Li Xu , Gabbay Dov , Markovich Réka
Published: July 2022

In this paper, we introduce and study a dynamic deontic logic for permitted announcements. In our logic framework, it is permitted to announce something if announcing it would not lead to forbidden knowledge. It is shown that the logic is not compact, and we propose a sound and weakly complete Hilbert-style axiomatisation. We also study the computational complexity of the model checking problem and the decidability of the satisfiability problem. Finally, we introduce a neighbourhood semantics with a strongly complete axiomatisation.
Discovering User-Interpretable Capabilities of Black-Box Planning Agents
Authors: Verma Pulkit , Marpally Shashank Rao , Srivastava Siddharth
Published: July 2022

Several approaches have been developed for answering users' specific questions about AI behavior and for assessing their core functionality in terms of primitive executable actions. However, the problem of summarizing an AI agent's broad capabilities for a user is comparatively new. This paper presents an algorithm for discovering from scratch the suite of high-level "capabilities" that an AI system with arbitrary internal planning algorithms/policies can perform. It computes conditions describing the applicability and effects of these capabilities in user-interpretable terms. Starting from a set of user-interpretable state properties, an AI agent, and a simulator that the agent can interact with, our algorithm returns a set of high-level capabilities with their parameterized descriptions. Empirical evaluation on several game-based scenarios shows that this approach efficiently learns descriptions of various types of AI agents in deterministic, fully observable settings. User studies show that such descriptions are easier to understand and reason with than the agent's primitive actions.
On the Relationship between Shy and Warded Datalog+/-
Authors: Baldazzi Teodoro , Bellomarini Luigi , Favorito Marco , Sallinger Emanuel
Published: July 2022

Datalog^E is the extension of Datalog with existential quantification. While its high expressive power, underpinned by a simple syntax and the support for full recursion, renders it particularly suitable for modern applications on Knowledge Graphs, query answering (QA) over such language is known to be undecidable in general. For this reason, different fragments have emerged, introducing syntactic limitations to Datalog^E that strike a balance between its expressive power and the computational complexity of QA, to achieve decidability. In this short paper, we focus on two promising tractable candidates, namely Shy and Warded Datalog+/-. Reacting to an explicit interest from the community, we shed light on the relationship between these fragments. Moreover, we carry out an experimental analysis of the systems implementing Shy and Warded, respectively DLV^E and Vadalog.
Inference with System W Satisfies Syntax Splitting
Authors: Haldimann Jonas , Beierle Christoph
Published: July 2022

In this paper, we investigate inductive inference with system W from conditional belief bases with respect to syntax splitting. The concept of syntax splitting for inductive inference states that inferences about independent parts of the signature should not affect each other. This was captured in work by Kern-Isberner, Beierle, and Brewka in the form of postulates for inductive inference operators expressing syntax splitting as a combination of relevance and independence; it was also shown that c-inference fulfils syntax splitting, while system P inference and system Z both fail to satisfy it. System W is a recently introduced inference system for nonmonotonic reasoning that captures and properly extends system Z as well as c-inference. We show that system W fulfils the syntax splitting postulates for inductive inference operators by showing that it satisfies the required properties of relevance and independence. This makes system W another inference operator besides c-inference that fully complies with syntax splitting, while in contrast to c-inference, also extending rational closure.
Learning Typed Rules over Knowledge Graphs
Authors: Wu Hong , Wang Zhe , Wang Kewen , Shen Yi-Dong
Published: July 2022

Rule learning from large datasets has regained extensive interest as rules are useful for developing explainable approaches to many applications in knowledge graphs. However, existing methods for rule learning are still limited in terms of scalability and rule quality. This paper presents a new method for learning typed rules by employing entity class information. Our experimental evaluation shows the superiority of our system compared to state-of-the-art rule learners. In particular, we demonstrate the usefulness of typed rules in reasoning for link prediction.
ALASPO: An Adaptive Large-Neighbourhood ASP Optimiser
Authors: Eiter Thomas , Geibinger Tobias , Higuera Nelson , Musliu Nysret , Oetsch Johannes , Stepanova Daria
Published: July 2022

We present the system ALASPO which implements Adaptive Large-neighbourhood search for Answer Set Programming (ASP) Optimisation. Large-neighbourhood search (LNS) is a meta-heuristic where parts of a solution are destroyed and reconstructed in an attempt to improve an overall objective. ALASPO currently supports the ASP solver clingo, as well as its extensions clingo-dl and clingcon for difference and full integer constraints, and multi-shot solving for an efficient implementation of the LNS loop. Neighbourhoods can be defined in code or declaratively as part of the ASP encoding. While the method underlying ALASPO has been described in previous work, ALASPO also incorporates portfolios for the LNS operators along with self-adaptive selection strategies as a technical novelty. This improves usability considerably at no loss of solution quality, but on the contrary often yields benefits. To demonstrate this, we evaluate ALASPO on different optimisation benchmarks.
Defining Defense and Defeat in Abstract Argumentation From Scratch -- A Generalizing Approach
Authors: Blümel Lydia , Ulbricht Markus
Published: July 2022

We propose a general framework to investigate semantics of Dung-style argumentation frameworks (AFs) by means of a generic defeat notion formalized by refute operators. After establishing the technical foundations, we propose natural generic versions of Dung's classical semantics. We demonstrate how classical as well as recent proposals can be captured by our approach when utilizing suitable notions of refutal. We perform an investigation of basic properties which semantics inherit from the underlying refute operator. In particular, we show under which conditions a counterpart to Dung's fundamental lemma can be inferred and how it ensures the existence of the generalized version of complete extensions. We contribute to a principle-based study of AF semantics by discussing properties tailored to compare different refute operators. Finally, we report computational complexity results for basic reasoning tasks which hold in our general framework.
An intervention study examining the effectiveness of loving kindness meditation in reducing depressive symptoms: Compassionate coping as a mediator?
Authors:   Department of Psychology, Division of Clinical Psychology, Leiden University, 2300 RB Leiden, The Netherlands, Silhan Mike , Garnefski Nadia ,   Department of Psychology, Division of Clinical Psychology, Leiden University, 2300 RB Leiden, The Netherlands
Published: July 2022

Aim: We are interested in whether the LKM intervention has the potential to decrease depression and increase self-compassion. Self-compassionate coping was examined as a mediating variable. Methods: A sample of 57 university students underwent a pretest-posttest design. Self-compassion was measured with the Self-Compassion Scale, depression with the Patient Health Questionnaire – 9, and self-compassionate coping was assessed using the Self-Compassionate Coping Measure. Participants completed all measures at both pre and posttest. Between both measurement moments there were 12 days in which participants followed either the LKM or a control exercise daily. Repeated measures ANOVAs and a simple mediation analysis were performed. Results: Over time, both groups decreased in their depression and increased in their self-compassion scores. Assignment to the LKM condition did not result in significantly higher self-compassion scores compared to control. We found a significant effect of LKM for depressive symptoms only when controlling for successfully completed homework exercises. Self-Compassionate coping did not emerge as significant mediator in our statistical analysis. Conclusion: The results indicate a mixed picture regarding the efficacy of LKM in reducing depression and increasing self-compassion. Both conditions were possibly too similar and involved helpful elements. Further research into the antidepressant utility of LKM is warranted to understand the exact mechanisms of action.
Rendimiento de sistema fotovoltaico autónomo de 500 Wp bajo las condiciones climáticas de Chachapoyas, Amazonas
Authors: Bautista Alcantara Roicer Esmit , Espinoza Canaza Fernando , Barrena Gurbillón Miguel Angel , Gosgot Angeles Wildor
Published: July 2022

Las energías renovables son fuentes de energías limpias, inagotables y crecientemente competitivas. Se diferencian de los combustibles fósiles principalmente en su diversidad, abundancia y potencial de aprovechamiento en cualquier parte del planeta, pero sobre todo en que no producen gases de efecto invernadero causantes del cambio climático ni emisiones contaminantes. Una de ellas es la energía solar, y la luz del sol se convierte directamente en electricidad a través de las células solares fotovoltaicas. En la UNTRM de Amazonas se instaló un sistema fotovoltaico (SFV) de 500 Wp para abastecer con energía eléctrica en 220 V al Estar Estudiantil, a través del circuito eléctrico para iluminación con un foco LED de 8 W y tres tomacorrientes dobles para cargar las baterías de teléfonos celulares o de laptops de los estudiantes. El SFV está constituido por dos paneles fotovoltaicos de 260 Wp cada uno, regulador de carga, dos baterías de gel 100 Amph cada una, inversor de carga de 600 W. El rendimiento del SFV alcanzó una máxima potencia en día soleado de 386,24 Wp (77,25 % de la potencia máxima), en día combinado 350,43 Wp (70,10 % Potmáx) y en día nublado 250,89 Wp (50,18 % Potmáx); lo que superó en todo momento lo necesario para cargar la batería de cuatro teléfonos celulares, dos laptops y el funcionamiento de un foco LED.
Propuesta metodológica para caracterizar los parámetros del clima en relación con los valores ideales y la fenología de los sembríos de café en Puno
Authors: Rosas García Jorge Luis
Published: July 2022

Evaluar la variabilidad promedio presentadas entre 2010 – 2018 de: la humedad relativa, la precipitación mensual, la temperatura máxima y mínima respecto a los rangos óptimos recomendada en la literatura especializada de sembrado de café. Citar documentos que sustentan el impacto de la variabilidad sobre la producción de café.

Se analizaron los datos oficiales meteorológicos determinados mediante las coordenadas de ubicación geográfica de 23 fincas de sembrado de café en Puno, luego, mediante un análisis estadístico ploteamos las curvas de variabilidades promedio representativas en relación de los estadios fenológicos del café.

Los resultados muestran altos rangos de variabilidad en dos de los tres grupos de fincas analizadas: alta precipitación, humedades relativas dentro del 90 y 98 %, temperaturas altas o bajas con respecto al rango idóneo, presencia de Hyphotenemus hampei (La Broca del café), Hemileia Vastratix (Roya) y Mycena citricolor (Ojo de pollo) en las zonas donde hubo incidencia previa de alta precipitación. 
Relación de los niveles de testosterona sérica y el tamaño testicular en alpacas según grupo etario y mes del año en Tacna, Perú
Authors: Gandarillas Daniel , Torres Edith A. , Quispe Abel E. , Rios Rosarios M. , Puma Angelina
Published: July 2022

El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar la relación del tamaño testicular con los niveles de testosterona sérica en alpacas según la edad y mes del año. Se trabajó con ocho machos (4 jóvenes y 4 adultos). Las mediciones del tamaño testicular se realizaron con una regla Vernier y la determinación de los niveles de testosterona en suero se realizó mediante una prueba de quimioluminiscencia. Los adultos presentaron mayor tamaño testicular en los meses de abril, octubre, noviembre y en jóvenes en abril y noviembre. Así mismo, se encontró una diferencia significativa (t=3.17; p=0.009) entre adultos (8.41 cm2) y jóvenes (6.57 cm2). Con relación al nivel de testosterona, tanto en adultos y jóvenes, los niveles más altos fueron en el mes de abril. La comparación entre jóvenes y adultos no presentó diferencias significativas (t=0.23; p=0.81).  Además, la concentración de testosterona no presentó una relación significativa con el largo (r = 0.41), ancho (r = 0.21) y área testicular (r = 0.32).
Impact of magnesium addition in zinc oxide matrix for enhanced structural, optical, antimicrobial and anticancer properties
Authors: Thiruchelvi M. , Senthamilselvi M.M. , Venkatraman B.R.
Published: July 2022

In the present work, low cost, high efficiency and multifunctional inorganic biocidal (antibacterial and anticancer) materials such as ZnO, MgO and MgZnO nanocomposites (NCs) have been developed with a facile precipitation process. XRD studies confirmed that the prepared NCs exhibit hexagonal, face-centered cubic and hexagonal structures respectively. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images revealed spherical shaped ZnO, MgO and MgZnO NCs. The elemental (Zn, Mg and O) compositions of the prepared NMs were identified using EDAX spectra. The photoluminescence (PL) spectra of the prepared NMs revealed oxygen vacancies at 487 nm, 500 nm and 524 nm respectively. They correspond to the active free radicals (OH, O2 and H2O2) production and these results were responsible for their biocidal activities. Furthermore, the biocidal effects of the MgZnO NCs were studied on the human breast cancer cell line and microbes. The cell viability studies proved that MgZnO NCs possess higher anticancer properties than ZnO and MgO NMs. Overall results displayed that the MgZnO NCs exposed better biocidal effects than ZnO and MgO NMs which can be used for biomedical and industrial applications to improve human health conditions.
Studies on the application of Zirconia nanoparticles for the removal of heavy metal (Pb (II)) from the aqueous solution
Authors: Prabha N. , Jayapriya G. , Vennila M.
Published: July 2022

In this present study, Zirconia nanoparticles (nanosorbent) have been prepared by both chemical and green methods. The nano sorbent was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) - EDAX and FT-IR techniques. The XRD data revealed the mean crystalline sizes of adsorbent. The surface morphology of adsorbent was studied by SEM. Removal of lead (II) was studied by adsorption of nano sorbent. An unadsorbed lead concentration was found using complexometric titration against standard EDTA with EBT as an indicator. The factors such as dosage, pH and concentration of Pb (II) were examined to find the efficiency of the process. Adsorption isotherms such as Freundlich and Langmuir isotherm models confirm that the reaction is spontaneous one. Kinetic studies proves that it follows Pseudo-second order kinetic model and was found to be the best fitted model.
INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS FOR THE USE OF SPECIAL (SECRET) INVESTIGATION TECHNIQUES
Authors:   Yaroslav Mudriy National Law University, Marochkin Oleksii , Povzyk Yevhen ,   Yaroslav Mudriy National Law University
Published: July 2022

The article deals with the issues of international standards for the use of special (secret) investigation techniques. The provisions of international documents (primarily the European Convention on Human Rights) are analyzed in detail, as well as the case-law of the European Court of Human Rights on a given topic. Based on the analysis of these sources, it allowed to distinguish the following standards for the use of special (secret) investigation techniques: 1) the right to know about the evidence obtained through the use of special (secret) investigative techniques; 2) rules of admissibility of evidence obtained through the use of special (secret) investigative techniques; 3) prohibition of provocation during the use of special (secret) investigative techniques; 4) the right to call and cross-examine witnesses in connection with the use of special (secret) investigative techniques; 5) the quality of the law providing for the use of special (secret) investigative techniques; 6) the legality of the use of special (secret) investigative techniques; 7) the right to an effective remedy in connection with the use of special (secret) investigative techniques. In the course of scientific research, it turns out the content of standards for the use of special (secret) investigative techniques. It is established that the right to know about the evidence obtained through the use of special investigative techniques provides sufficient time and opportunity to prepare defense by a person charged with a criminal offence. It is noted that the rules of admissibility of evidence obtained through the use of special (secret) investigative techniques provide for the study of the fairness of the proceedings as a whole, as well as clarifying the question of whether the right to defense and importance of evidence is respected. International standards for the use of special (secret) investigative techniques are also proposed to include the prohibition of provocation, which provides for the separation of provocation itself and investigation of a crime mainly in a passive way. The right to call and cross-examine witnesses embodies the principle that before a guilty verdict, all evidence of the accused's guilt must be presented in his presence. It is substantiated that the standards defined in Article 8 of the Convention and the relevant practice of the European Court on Human Rights can be divided into two categories: the quality of the law providing for the use of special (secret) investigative techniques and the legality of the use of special (secret) investigative techniques. The last standard concerns the right to an effective remedy and provides for the availability of appropriate mechanisms when using special (secret) investigative techniques.
PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT MECHANISMS IN THE PUBLIC SERVICE SYSTEM OF UKRAINE
Authors:   Interregional Academy of Personnel Management, Maistrenko Kateryna
Published: July 2022

The article examines that the current state of personnel management in state bodies remains poorly developed, known concepts and models that have been tested in various structures do not yet ensure the effective functioning of this system. It was found that currently the quality of personnel of state authorities at all levels does not fully meet modern requirements and is a serious obstacle to the development of state institutions. One of the main reasons for this situation is the insufficient level of professionalism of public officials. It was determined that the main reasons that hinder the increase in the authority of public officials among the population are: corruption of officials, bureaucracy, detachment from the interests of citizens, lack of moral qualities, weak professional training. It was revealed that the need to change the principles of public service management and the application of a scientifically based personnel policy in government bodies is overdue for today. To manage personnel processes in the public service, first of all, a comprehensive assessment of the state of personnel potential is necessary based on a systematic approach, taking into account both quantitative and qualitative indicators. Secondly, the creation of an information base that would increase the efficiency and effectiveness of human resources management, the possibility of forecasting and modeling the development of personnel processes. It was emphasized that the main goal of personnel policy should be to ensure the normal functioning of state authorities based on the formation of an effective personnel management system. At the same time, the personnel policy should be implemented by following the established principles, rules, norms and restrictions of internal and external relations of public servants.
Dielectric metal/metal oxide nanocomposites: modeling response properties at multiple scales
Authors: Henderson Brett , Adluri Archita , Paci Irina
Published: July 2022

Nanocomposites with metallic inclusions show great promise as tunable functional materials, particularly for applications where high permittivities are desirable, such as charge-storage. These applications strain quantum mechanical computational approaches, as any representative sample of the material includes hundreds if not thousands of atoms. Many continuum methods offer some predictive power for matrix-inclusion composites, but cannot be directly applied to composites with small inclusions, for which quantum and interfacial effects dominate. Here, we develop an adjustable finite element approach to calculate the permittivities of composites consisting of a metal-oxide matrix with nanometer-scale silver inclusions, by introducing an interfacial layer in the model. The approach involves solving the Laplace equation with Dirichlet and Neumann boundary conditions. We demonstrate that such a continuum model, when appropriately informed using quantum mechanical results, can capture many of the relevant polarization effects in a metal/metal oxide nanocomposite, including those that contain arbitrarily-small inclusions, at a fraction of the computational cost of performing the full quantum mechanics
[4]Triangulenes with Three Oxygen-Boron-Oxygen (OBO) Units and Anti-Kasha Emissions
Authors: Chen Xiaobin , Tan Dehui , Dong Jiaqi , Ma Tinghao , Yang Deng-Tao
Published: July 2022

Triangulenes have attracted enormous interest due to the intriguing properties. However, the limited synthetic approach and intrinsic instability make the investigation of their properties inaccessible. The synthesis of heteroatom-doped triangulenes becomes an alternative strategy of studying triangulenes. Herein, we report the synthesis of three [4]triangulenes, which are edge-modified by three oxygen-boron-oxygen (OBO) units. The structure of OBO-doped [4]triangulene is confirmed by the single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis, revealing an off-plane core with three edge-modified OBO units. These OBO-doped [4]triangulenes exhibit high stability towards air and moisture. Both theoretical calculations and photophysical investigation of OBO-doped [4]triangulenes indicate that this kind of molecules display anti-Kasha fluorescence and phosphorescence emissions. The binding behaviors of (OBO)3-[4]triangulenes toward pyridine were also studied.
Cis-selective double spirocyclization via dearomatization and isom-erization under thermodynamic control
Authors: Yokoe Hiromasa , Kiriyama Akiko , Shimoda Miho , Nakajima Satoru , Hashizume Yuna , Endo Yuto , Iwamoto Ryoko , Tsubuki Masayoshi , Kanoh Naoki
Published: July 2022

Spiro compounds have been considered key scaffolds for pharmaceutical applications. Although many synthetic meth-ods exist for monospirocycles, fewer approaches are known for dispirocycles. Here, we report a highly cis-selective method for constructing a 5/6/5-dispirocyclic structure containing pyrrolidine and γ-lactam rings with various substit-uents from a series of N-arylpropiolamides. The high cis-selectivity would result from isomerization under thermody-namic control. Cis- and trans-diastereomers can be in equilibrium, favoring cis-adducts.
What X-ray absorption spectroscopy can tell us about the active state of earth-abundant electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Risch Marcel , Morales Dulce M. , Villalobos Javier , Antipin Denis
Published: July 2022

Chemical energy storage is an attractive solution to secure a sustainable energy supply. It requires an electrocatalyst to be implemented efficiently. In order to rationally improve the electrocatalyst materials and thereby the reaction efficiency, one must reveal the nature of the electrocatalyst under reaction conditions, i.e., its active state. For a better understanding of earth-abundant metal oxides as electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), the combination of electrochemical (EC) methods and X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) has been very insightful and still holds untapped potential. Herein, we concisely introduce the basics of EC and XAS and provide the necessary framework to discuss changes that electrocatalytic materials undergo, presenting manganese oxides as examples. Such changes may occur during preparation and storage, during immersion in an electrolyte, as well as during application of potentials without or with catalytic reactions. We conclude with a concise summary of how EC and XAS are currently combined to elucidate the active state as well as an outlook on future opportunities to understand the mechanisms of electrocatalysis using combined operando EC-XAS experiments.
Growth Synchronization and Size Control in Magic-Sized Semiconductor Nanocrystals
Authors: Mazzotti Sergio , Mule Aniket S. , Pun Andrew B. , Held Jacob T. , Norris David J.
Published: July 2022

“Magic-sized” nanocrystals (MSNCs) grow in discrete jumps between a series of specific sizes. Consequently, MSNCs have been explored as an alternative route to uniform semiconductor particles, potentially with atomic precision. However, because the growth mechanism has been poorly understood, the best strategies to control MSNC syntheses and obtain desired sizes are unknown. Experiments have found that common parameters such as growth time and temperature have limited utility. Here, we theoretically and experimentally investigate reactant supersaturation as a tool to control MSNC growth. We compare direct synthesis of CdSe MSNCs with ripening of isolated MSNCs or their mixtures. Surprisingly, we find that MSNCs readily synchronize to the same growth trajectory, even starting from distinct initial conditions, explaining the robustness of MSNC growth. Further, by understanding the synchronization mechanism, we demonstrate methods to control the final MSNC size. These results deepen our knowledge of MSNCs and indicate strategies to tailor their growth.
Health and social impacts of geophagy in panama
Authors: Crawford Lachlan , Bodkin Katherine
Published: July 2022

introduction: geophagy is a human behaviour involving the ingestion of earthy substances such as soil and clay. common among pregnant women in rural, tropical areas, it is culturally accepted within some societies and stigmatized within others. There is no scientific consensus on the effects of geophagy on human health. This study was developed as a comprehensive diagnostic to assess the causes, social aspects and potential health impacts of geophagy among pregnant women in rural Panama. Methods: private, structured interviews (n=41) were carried out with women in ten subsistence community farms in the province of Veraguas and the ngöbe-bugle comarca. Additional interviews with healthcare workers were conducted at nearby healthcare facilities. five soil samples were collected in locations indicated by confirmed geophagists, subjected to simulated human digestion and analyzed for mineral composition and parasite eggs. results: There is no cultural or religious element to the practice; rather it seems to be driven by physiological desires tied to the smell of the material. prevalence is higher among women with lower education levels and poorer nutritional status suggesting that the practice is associated with low socioeconomic status. soil analysis did not indicate presence of parasites, but there are potential nutritional benefits of the practice by providing essential minerals missing in the diet. discussion: we find that geophagy in panama may offer nutritional benefits. however, without a clearer understanding of specific effects of soil in the gastrointestinal tract, it is difficult to determine direct biophysical impacts of geophagy.
UNI-Directional Double Run Multi-Marker Based Standardization of “Amruthothram” Ayurvedic Medicine by HPTLC
Authors: Manish Kumar Gupta  , Ketaki Dhane  , Birendra Shrivasttva  , Supriya Hyam  , Sujit Nagare
Published: July 2022

Ayurveda and Unani Medicine are the most classy and commonly practiced systems in India. In India’s AYUSH systems, some 8,000 herbal remedies have been codified. Amruthotharam/Amrutottaram Kashayam is one of such preparation which takes care of metabolic disorders through inflammation. The formulation contains guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), haritaki (Terminalia chebula), and shunthi (Zingiber officinale) in the ratio 6:4:2. Natural remedies obtained from wild sources; therefore, sustaining consistent product quality is difficult because of extrinsic variables including soil conditions, light and water availability, temperature changes, nutrients, and geographic location. The present work aimed to develop and validate uni-dimensional double development high-performance thin layer chromatography to standardize the marker-based compounds such as gallic acid, berberine and gingerol-6, because the power of one-dimensional chromatography is often inadequate for complete resolution of the components present in complex samples which can be improved by separating actives through UDDD.
Justicia en el acceso a la tecnología emergente: la terapia génica desde Latinoamérica
Authors: Díaz Torres Sofía Teresa
Published: July 2022

La tecnología en salud avanza rápidamente en la búsqueda por mejorar la condición humana. No obstante, la innovación tecnológica implica cuestiones técnicas, metodológicas, legales, éticas y morales que varían según el contexto sociocultural. Así, reconocemos un problema determinado geográficamente, el acceso justo a la tecnología emergente, que apremia a Latinoamérica. Se toma como ejemplo la terapia génica para reconocer, a partir de una revisión bibliográfica, por qué los investigadores están a favor, en medio o en contra del avance tecnológico en genética y del uso de la terapia génica en seres humanos. Concluimos que la justicia social debe ir más allá de la simple distribución de bienes, materiales y recursos. Por ello, enfatizamos la necesidad de un enfoque transdisciplinario que acompañe el avance tecnológico desde el punto de vista jurídico y filosófico, y proponemos el valor bioético de la solidaridad como pilar para la toma de decisiones futuras.
The study of the correlation level of cystatin-c elevation in hemodialysis patients with Toxoplasma gondii in Baquba / Diyala
Authors:   College of Medicine, University of Diyala, Diyala, Iraq, Salah Salem Maysaloon , Jassim Shaker Mohammed , Khalid Mohammed Nabil
Published: July 2022

Background: Toxoplasma gondii is the most common infection of protozoa, affecting a wide range of hosts. Toxoplasmosis is usually asymptomatic in immunocompetent persons, but in immunocompromised persons (e.g., patients on dialysis) significant problems, and may progress to a life-threatening infection.Objective: To investigate the correlation level of cystatin-C elevation in hemodialysis patients with Toxoplasma gondii in Baquba / Diyala.Patients and Methods: A group of blood samples, consisting of 75 dialysis patients and 50 healthy controls, to totaling 125 were examined for the detection of anti-toxoplasma antibodies and Cystatin-C In Baquba Teaching Hospital from November 2020 to April 2021 using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent assay . Results: The total numbers Of the 125 samples examined, were showed that the Mean ± SE for cystatin-c in the group of patients was 2.43 ± 0.10 higher compared to the healthy individuals 2.02 ± 0.21, The results show that correlation coefficient between Toxoplasma IgG and Cystatin-c in hemodialysis patients, where it was found that the correlation coefficient between them was 0.34. Conclusion: The level of cystatin-C in hemodialysis patients was higher compared to the control group , and found significant correlation between the rice of Cystatin-C and the presence of toxoplasma IgG in dialysis patients. Keywords: Toxoplasma gondii, Hemodialysis, Cystatin-c
Best Time for Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Following Endoscopic Sphincterotomy Post Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors:   College of Medicine, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq, Muhammed Dewana Azhy
Published: July 2022

Background: Choledocholithiasis occurs in 10–15% of patients with symptomatic gallstones. Stones in the common bile duct ought to be removed to avoid complications like acute pancreatitis and cholangitis.Objective: To estimate the timing of Laparoscopic cholecystectomy after endoscopic sphincterotomy (post endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) and its outcomes.Patients and Methods: A clinical prospective comparative study was done in the Surgical Department of Rizgary Teaching Hospital in Erbil during the period from 1st of January 2019 to 1st of December 2021 on a sample of 50 patients with Common Bile duct stones categorized into two groups; group I (25) patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy within 72 hours of ERCP (early), while (25) patients with laparoscopic cholecystectomy beyond 3 days (1-6 weeks) of ERCP were included in group II (delayed). Results: Mean surgical duration for group I patients was significantly shorter than the mean surgical duration for group II patients (p=0.02). The mean hospital stay duration for group I patients was markedly shorter than the mean hospital stay duration for group II patients (p<0.001). There was an obvious association between the two groups regarding wider cystic duct, and intraoperative adhesions.Both findings were found more in group II. Conclusion: Earlier laparoscopic cholecystectomy after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography has better intraoperative and postoperative outcomes than delayed laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Keywords: Gall stones, Obstructive jaundice, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography
Desvestindo a fatalidade
Authors: Rodríguez Sanchez Mercedes
Published: July 2022

Este artigo apresenta um estudo sobre a construção do arquétipo da femme fatale cinematográfica através do design do vestuário, desde a aparição da personagem da vamp no cinema mudo, até as femmes fatales do thriller erótico dos finais de 80 e 90, passando pelas mulheres que protagonizaram o film noir clássico da década de 40. A autora realiza uma seleção de filmes levando em consideração não apenas a qualidade do filme, mas fundamentalmente baseada na importância do design do figurino para a construção de personagens icônicas e a repercussão que determinados fatos tiveram, quer nas tendências da indústria da moda, quer na construção do arquétipo da mulher fatal no imaginário coletivo.
Moral distress among staff nurses in RAS AL khaimah hospitals, united arab emirates
Authors: Shah Suleman , Salgado Arnel B.
Published: July 2022

Nurses suffer from moderate to high levels of moral distress in different clinical settings that affect nurses' quality of care and the organization's reputation. Moral distress causes nurses' dissatisfaction, burnout and eventually change or quit their position. The aim of this study is to describe the moral distress intensity, frequency, association with demographic variables and specialty of care. The impact of moral distress on the staff nurses is also described. A descriptive study is used to achieve the objectives of this study. Twenty one (21) items of the Moral Distress Scale-Revised (MDS-R) were used to measure moral distress intensity and frequency. The mean moral distress score was 77.43, SD 45.58 (0-336). Staff nurses from the coronary care unit and intensive care unit had significantly higher and lower moral distress respectively (f = 3.47, p = 0.004) and no significant relation was found among sociodemographic variables such as sex, nationality, marital status etc., except for age, which had a significant relationship with moral distress (f = 3.17, p = 0.017). Approximately one third (33.98%) of the staff nurses wanted to leave their current position because of moral distress. Strategies to overcome moral distress of staff nurses and future research at other setting and larger sample size are recommended.
Variation in the Pronunciation of English by New Zealand School Children
Authors:   , Kennedy Marianna
Published: July 2022

This thesis presents a nationwide survey of selected phonemic and phonetic variables used by New Zealand school children. New Zealand English (NZE) is often described as homogeneous compared to other varieties. However, the discovery of dialect regions for playground vocabulary in New Zealand (Bauer & Bauer 2003) and reports of regional dialects in Australian English justify exploring variation in pronunciation across New Zealand.

The data set for this research is a set of anonymous group interviews from 33 schools around the country. The relatively small amount of data from each location is a primary factor in determining the study’s methodology. Tokens from each school are tagged with socio-economic class and ethnicity ratings, based on the characteristics of the school as a whole. Both social and regional factors are considered as potential explanations for the patterns of variation that are revealed. All data sets have variation of some kind, as this was a criterion for including them as part of the research.

The nature of the data set limits the number and type of variables suitable for investigation. The completed research consists of auditory studies of four features and acoustic analyses of two. These are, respectively, non-pre-vocalic /r/, linking /r/, TH-fronting, voicing of the final segment in with, FOOT fronting, and FOOT and THOUGHT neutralisation before /l/. The study also includes six small surveys of lexical pronunciations, though these do not contain enough data to contribute to findings about regional and social variation among the young speakers. Factors affecting the variables’ distributions in the data set are complex, and often appear to interact as explanations for the findings. Two variables, non-pre-vocalic /r/ in Otago and Southland and voicing in the final segment of with, are best described as regionally variable, while ethnicity is a primary factor in the distributions of three variables: TH-fronting, linking /r/ and non-pre-vocalic /r/ in the North Island. Socio-economic class appears to influence the distributions of linking /r/ and TH-fronting.

The final discussion explores potential sources for future regional variation in NZE. Social factors such as socio-economic class and Māori and Pasifika populations are unevenly distributed in New Zealand, and are predictable catalysts for potential regional variation in NZE. The statistical analyses presented in this thesis indicate that both these factors contribute to regional differences in the data set. The discussion also considers borrowing, geographic isolation and variables’ stigma and prestige as factors in their distributions.
Thermodynamics and Strong-coupling Superconducting Energy Gaps
Authors:   , McCann Duncan Michael
Published: July 2022

Superconductivity is a field where much research has been conducted into explaining all aspects of this phenomenon in many materials. BCS theory provided the principal understanding of superconductivity in conventional materials yet fails to entirely describe those which exhibit greater coupling-strengths as well as the more unconventional superconductors. Formulations have been proposed which extend BCS theory in various ways such as scaling the predicted energy gap by values representative of greater coupling strengths.

In order to further extend such formulations we applied our own theory which recalculates the energy gap based solely on thermodynamic parameters, in the hope of improving their accuracy. Comparisons of this energy gap calculated from existing critical-field measurements as well as computational predictions for a range of weak- to strong-coupling type I s-wave superconductors were made with experimental tunnelling measurements. Our thermodynamic theory provided an accurate temperature-dependence of the energy gap for all these superconductors except for the strongest coupler which produced erroneous predictions.

An extra-strong-coupling superconductor Pb₀.₇Bi₀.₃ was synthesised and it’s critical-field measured in order to rigorously test our theory in the strong-coupling regime. It exhibited type II superconductivity contrary to our belief and as such measurements were insufficient for an accurate comparison. However, computational calculations predicted an accurate temperature-dependence for the energy gap of Pb₀.₇Bi₀.₃ when compared with experimental tunnelling measurements. Thus our theory appears to apply for this extra-strong-coupling type II superconductor and not for the strong-coupling type I superconductor, which prompts further investigation. These comparisons depend upon the accuracy with which the temperature-dependence of the energy gap can be measured - not an easy task.

Extension was also made to d-wave superconductivity where our theory provided little improvement over a scaled BCS interpretation for several overdoped samples of the unconventional Bi-2212 superconductor. However, and this is a most important conclusion, this is due to the weak nature of the coupling in this material which we were able to establish.

Thus our theory appears to provide several promising first-order results and warrants further investigation and application to a range of superconductors.
Horizontality: From "Window" to "Ground", Exploring Immersive Audiotory Space as an Interactive Participant Medium
Authors:   , Panther Jon
Published: July 2022

My sound-based arts practice is currently concerned with the shift of focus from the materiality of the sonic art object to the conceptual and semantic dimensions involved in interaction within a system. The twentieth century saw the dawn of technologies that could not only mediate the sonic arts in new ways but also inform its techniques and tropes. Over the last few decades we have seen the emergence of the genres Transmission and Telematic Art, the methodology of both often being informed by new concepts of space. The rise of post-industrial Capitalism situates us in a new epoch of spatial awareness. This seems particularly relevant now that mediated sonic and communication technologies are an integral part of our lives. Transmitting media “punching a hole in space” now ignore acoustic container boundaries: a sound heard and its source can exist separately yet simultaneously. Physical location and distance become less relevant. How does this create a shift in how we perceive the spatial within the practice of living?; and 2. redefining concepts of author and audience. All who participate are involved in authorship creating a form that is impossible to mediate to a passive audience 5. My work explores how this situation and the aesthetics deriving from it inform me as a practitioner within the medium of sound: the generative and emergent behaviour that arises from relationship as a form of “composition” and, of particular interest to me, the desire to shift focus from the traditional role of sound as an object of aesthetic expression to immersive interactive auditory space as a means of entering into dialogue with the multidimensional environment which humanity inhabits.
Participatory music notation: Composition for mixed-experience performance contexts
Authors:   , Mann Amos
Published: July 2022

Use of notation in participatory music can productively mediate participation, audience reception, and participatory/presentational tensions. Interviews with practitioners show egalitarian leadership and open membership strategies produce mixed-experience groups that are wide-ranging in the type and level of experience of members. Open approaches to sound production engage participant freedom, representing and substantiating the utopian. A potential trend is identified here: mixed-experience contexts with more open approaches to sound production appear to be more likely to use notation in ways that are more fundamental to participation. Through composition, development of notation, and instigation of a participatory performance context, research findings are engaged to produce a body of new works as a contribution to both participatory and expert fields. The relationship between notation and context is modelled as an ecological network. The relational qualities of notational forms are categorised by Peircian semiotic sign-type and degree of precision. This notation function typology is applied to the body of new works. This analysis is combined with performance comparisons of expert and mixed-experience work versions. Trends are exposed: participatory values are exemplified by the relational qualities of the notational forms used.