bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Broadband Spectral Modeling of the M87 Nucleus
Authors: Niedźwiecki Andrzej , Szanecki Michał , Janiuk Agnieszka
Published: November 2024

We study spectra produced by weakly accreting black hole (BH) systems using the semianalytic advection-dominated accretion flow (ADAF) model and the general-relativistic magnetohydrodynamic (GRMHD) simulation. We find significant differences between these two approaches related to a wider spread of the flow parameters as well as a much steeper radial distribution of the magnetic field in the latter. We apply these spectral models to the broadband spectral energy distribution (SED) of the nucleus of the M87 galaxy. The standard (in particular, 1D) formulation of the ADAF model does not allow us to explain it; previous claims that this model reproduces the observed SED suffer from an inaccurate treatment of the Compton process. The spectra based on GRMHD simulation are in a much better agreement with the observed data. In our GRMHD model, in which we assumed the BH spin a = 0.9, the bulk of radiation observed between the millimeter and the X-ray range is produced in the disk area within 4 gravitational radii from the BH. In this solution, the synchrotron component easily reproduces the spectral data between the millimeter and the UV range, and the Compton component does not violate the X-rays constraints, for

M

̇

≲
0.01

M

⊙

yr−1 and a relatively strong magnetic field, with the plasma β ∼ 1 in the region where radiation is produced. However, the Compton component cannot explain the observed X-ray spectrum. Instead, the X-ray spectrum can be reproduced by a high-energy tail of the synchrotron spectrum if electrons have a hybrid energy distribution with a ∼5% nonthermal component.
Characterizing the Nanohertz Gravitational Wave Background Using a t-process Power Spectral Density
Authors: Sardesai Shashwat C. , Simon Joseph , Vigeland Sarah J.
Published: November 2024

Pulsar timing arrays (PTAs) are sensitive to low-frequency gravitational waves (GWs), which induce correlated changes in millisecond pulsars’ timing residuals. PTA collaborations around the world have recently announced evidence of a nanohertz gravitational wave background (GWB), which may be produced by a population of supermassive black hole binaries (SMBHBs). The GWB is often modeled as following a power-law power spectral density (PSD); however, a GWB produced by a cosmological population of SMBHBs is expected to have a more complex power spectrum due to the discrete nature of the sources. In this paper, we investigate using a t-process PSD to model the GWB, which allows us to fit for both the underlying power-law amplitude and spectral index as well as deviations from that power law, which may be produced by individual nearby binaries. We create simulated data sets based on the properties of the NANOGrav 15 yr data set, and we demonstrate that the t-process PSD can accurately recover the PSD when deviations from a power law are present. With longer timed data sets and more pulsars, we expect the sensitivity of our PTAs to improve, which will allow us to precisely measure the PSD of the GWB and study the sources producing it.
Mass-loss Rate of Highly Evolved Stars in the Magellanic Clouds
Authors: Wen 文 Jing 静 , Yang 杨 Ming 明 , Gao 高 Jian 健 , Chen 陈 Bingqiu 丙秋 , Ren 任 Yi 逸 , Jiang 姜 Biwei 碧沩
Published: November 2024

Asymptotic giant branch stars (AGBs) and red supergiant stars (RSGs) exhibit significant mass-loss phenomena and are considered important sources of interstellar dust. In this work, we employed a uniform method of spectral energy distribution fitting to analyze a large, and hence statistically significant, sample of approximately 40,000 RSGs and AGBs in the Magellanic Clouds (MCs), providing a new catalog of evolved stars that includes stellar parameters and dust properties. Our results reveal that the total dust-production rate (DPR) of the Large Magellanic Cloud is approximately 9.69 × 10−6
M
☉ yr−1, while it is around 1.75 × 10−6
M
☉ yr−1 for the Small Magellanic Cloud, with a few stars significantly contributing to the total DPR. No significant differences were observed in the contributions to DPR from carbon-rich and oxygen-rich (O-rich) evolved stars in the MCs. We explored the relations between stellar parameters (luminosity, infrared color, period, amplitude) and mass-loss rate (MLR) for evolved stars. A prominent turning point at

log
(
L

/

L

☉

)
≈
4.4

appears in the luminosity–MLR diagram of RSGs, potentially related to their mass-loss mechanism. The luminosity–MLR relation of AGBs is highly scattered. The DPR of AGBs shows a clear change with pulsation period and amplitude, with DPR exhibiting a drastic increase at pulsation periods of approximately 300 days and I-band amplitudes greater than 0.5 mag. Metallicity has some impact on the DPR of O-rich stars, with lower metallicity seeming to result in lower mean DPR and a higher proportion of optically thin stars.
Examining the Rotation of the Planet-hosting M Dwarf GJ 3942
Authors: Fonseca Andrew , Dodson-Robinson Sarah
Published: November 2024

Based on radial velocities, EXORAP photometry, and activity indicators, the HArps-n red Dwarf Exoplanet Survey (HADES) team reported a 16.3 days rotation period for the M dwarf GJ 3942. However, an estimate of the magnitude-squared coherence between the HADES RV and Hα time series has significant peaks at frequencies 1/16 day−1 and 1/32 day−1. We turn to TESS photometry to test the hypothesis that the true rotation period is 32 days with 16 days harmonic. Although the average TESS periodogram has peaks at harmonics of 1/16 day−1, the harmonic sequence is not fully resolved according to the Rayleigh criterion. The TESS observations suggest a 1/16 day−1 rotation frequency and a 1/32 day−1 subharmonic, though resolution makes the TESS rotation detection ambiguous.
Substantial Extension of the Lifetime of the Terrestrial Biosphere
Authors: Graham R. J. , Halevy Itay , Abbot Dorian
Published: November 2024

Approximately one billion years (Gyr) in the future, as the Sun brightens, Earth’s carbonate-silicate cycle is expected to drive CO2 below the minimum level required by vascular land plants, eliminating most macroscopic land life. Here, we couple global-mean models of temperature- and CO2-dependent plant productivity for C3 and C4 plants, silicate weathering, and climate to reexamine the time remaining for terrestrial plants. If weathering is weakly temperature dependent (as recent data suggest) and/or strongly CO2 dependent, we find that the interplay between climate, productivity, and weathering causes the future luminosity-driven CO2 decrease to slow and temporarily reverse, averting plant CO2 starvation. This dramatically lengthens plant survival from 1 Gyr up to ∼1.6–1.86 Gyr, until extreme temperatures halt photosynthesis, suggesting a revised kill mechanism for land plants and potential doubling of the future lifespan of Earth’s land macrobiota. An increased future lifespan for the complex biosphere may imply that Earth life had to achieve a smaller number of “hard steps” (unlikely evolutionary transitions) to produce intelligent life than previously estimated. These results also suggest that complex photosynthetic land life on Earth and exoplanets may be able to persist until the onset of the moist greenhouse transition.
Using Structural Causal Modeling to Infer the Effects of Wildfire on Foothill Yellow-legged Frog Occurrence
Authors: Halstead Brian J. , Kleeman Patrick M. , Rose Jonathan P.
Published: November 2024

Fire has influenced Sierra Nevada ecosystems for millennia; however, increasing wildfire size and frequency may yield unforeseen consequences on wildlife populations and their distribution. Foothill yellow-legged frogs Rana boylii have declined in portions of their range and are considered a species of conservation concern. We surveyed streams for foothill yellow-legged frogs in and near the 2021 Dixie Fire footprint using double-observer visual encounter surveys that incorporated time-to-detection methods and used structural causal modeling to improve post-fire inference while lacking prefire data. We found that foothill yellow-legged frog probability of occurrence was 4.93 (95% equal-tailed interval = 0.52–160) times higher outside the footprint of the Dixie Fire than within it, though probability of occurrence was generally low within our sampling frame (ψunburned = 0.21 [0.08–0.49]; ψburned = 0.05 [0.002–0.28]). Measured environmental characteristics, however, were similar within and outside the fire footprint, and observed occupancy patterns might reflect the recent historical distribution of the frogs. Our study emphasizes the importance of site-specific pre-disturbance data when attempting to evaluate the causal effects of disturbances on wildlife. Although it remains to be seen how this species will fare in an increasingly frequent and intense fire regime, foothill yellow-legged frogs may tolerate some level of fire disturbance.
Expérimentation sur les usages d’un outil lexical numérique pour aider à la rédaction scientifique
Authors: LI Jingrao , Hatier Sylvain
Published: November 2024

Dans un but d’aide à la rédaction scientifique des apprenants qui mobilise des genres comme les mémoires, les thèses et les articles de recherche, nous avons élaboré un outil lexical numérique à partir d'une ressource dédiée au lexique scientifique transdisciplinaire (LST). Notre outil fournit des informations sémantiques, syntaxiques, phraséologiques et discursives du LST. Une expérimentation a été menée auprès d’apprenants sinophones afin d’observer les usages de l’outil dans la pratique autonome de production écrite. Elle s’est effectuée sous forme d’une formation à l’écrit scientifique, avec des tâches de production écrite à réaliser à l’aide de l’outil. La formation avait pour objectif de tester l’utilisabilité de l’outil et de faire apprendre des connaissances scientifiques méthodologiques et lexicales. Les manipulations de l’outil ont été enregistrées à l’aide de captures vidéo d’écran afin d’observer d’une manière objective les interactions entre les tâches de production écrite, l’apprenant et l’outil. Les évaluations des apprenants concernant l’outil ont été recueillies à l’aide d’un questionnaire. L’analyse des captures vidéo d’écran et des questionnaires informent sur le fait que l’utilisation efficace de l’outil ne dépend pas uniquement de la conception d’une interface conviviale, mais également du développement des connaissances lexicales des apprenants.
De l’EIAH à l’escape game pédagogique en ligne : une pratique numérique qui favorise les interactions en langues
Authors: Hervé-Pécot Fanny , Ramella Dolly , Richard Élisabeth
Published: November 2024

Cet article présente les résultats d’expérimentations menées dans un espace virtuel, appartenant aux Environnements Informatiques pour l'Apprentissage Humain (EIAH). Les expérimentations ont lieu dans un monde virtuel 2D, créé sur la plateforme GatherTown pour développer un espace propice à l’immersion et aux interactions entre apprenant∙es de langues. L’article examine l’hypothèse selon laquelle la liberté de déplacements et d’exploration de l’espace favorise les interactions verbales, stimule l’apprentissage et la collaboration entre apprenant∙es. Les expérimentations consistent en une série de tests d’escape games pédagogiques créés par des étudiant∙es en master didactique des langues. Ces tests ont été enregistrés et ces captations vidéo ont permis l’analyse des interactions avec et dans l’espace. Les résultats soulignent l'impact de l'agencement spatial du monde virtuel sur les interactions des participant∙es et mettent en avant les avantages de la ludification en termes d'apprentissage et de collaboration en langue étrangère.
Ancient, Medieval, and Early Modern Concepts of the Ius commune
Authors: Pennington Ken
Published: November 2024

“Ius commune” is the term that scholars use to describe the legal system that reigned on the European continent between ca. 1100 and 1750. Modern scholars, however, have generally not understood how the term was used in Roman law, medieval and early modern law. This essay attempts to illustrate the meanings of “ius commune” in the writings of ancient, medieval, and early modern jurists.
Fabriquer des patients autonomes
Authors: Berger Ludivine , Schepens Florent , Kushtanina Veronika , Fidolini Vulca
Published: November 2024

Issu d’une enquête sur les trajectoires de soin des 12-21 ans atteints de diabète de type 1 ou d’asthme, cet article analyse les discours des médecins pour comprendre comment ils organisent les trajectoires de suivi de la maladie en lien avec les perceptions de l’âge des patients. Tout d’abord, l’article analyse les discours de la construction des mandats des spécialistes des soins pédiatriques et adultes, qui opposent les « enfants » et les « adolescents » aux « adultes ». Ensuite, le moment de la transition de la pédiatrie à la médecine d’adulte est analysé au prisme des représentations de l’acquisition de l’autonomie par les jeunes patients.
L’alternance en master : une représentation idéalisée non conforme aux réalités de l’insertion
Authors: Collet Xavier
Published: November 2024

Cet article propose de comparer le devenir de diplômés de master inscrits en formation classique et en apprentissage afin d’identifier un effet propre de l’alternance sur les conditions d’emplois à 30 mois. Dans le prolongement d’une étude exploratoire menée en 2017, l’enquête ad hoc, réalisée dans une université, met en évidence que les écarts observés ne relèvent pas de cette modalité de formation, mais renvoient à des spécificités liées aux spécialités de master (aux débouchés différents), au bassin d’emploi (plus favorable en région parisienne et en lien avec la mobilité des étudiants) et aux caractéristiques sociodémographiques (les hommes et les diplômés issus des classes sociales supérieures connaissant de meilleures conditions d’insertion professionnelles que les autres).
Conflits spatiaux et territorialisation seigneuriale
Authors: de Vasselot de Régné Clément
Published: November 2024

La multiplication des conflits entre châtelains et ecclésiastiques en Poitou, du XIe au XIIIe siècle, révèle une concurrence croissante, née des transformations qui ont affecté l’Église au XIe siècle. Cette compétition finit par provoquer une redéfinition progressive des rapports de force et leur territorialisation, afin de spatialiser les droits sur la terre et les hommes.
Des dominations désincarnées ?
Authors: Schroeder Nicolas
Published: November 2024

L’historiographie francophone récente a mis au premier plan la « lecture spatiale » des sociétés du premier Moyen Âge et la « question ecclésiale » (c’est-à-dire la prise en compte de l’Église comme élément moteur des dynamiques sociales). Sans nier les apports importants de ces paradigmes, il faut souligner qu’ils amènent parfois à considérer comme seuls protagonistes et acteurs sociaux les membres de l’aristocratie ecclésiastique ou laïque. Ce biais semble particulièrement dommageable pour l’étude de la seigneurie, parce qu’il présente comme unidirectionnels les rapports entre élites et mondes paysans. En analysant les rapports entre l’abbaye de Maroilles, le seigneur d’Avesnes et leurs dépendant·e·s au milieu du XIIe siècle, cet article cherche à montrer que l’étude des rapports entre « espaces ecclésiastiques » et « seigneuries laïques » ne peut se comprendre en tenant uniquement compte des « arts de gouverner » de l’aristocratie  : il convient de prêter également attention aux « arts de désobéir » des dépendant·e·s, qui contraignent les élites à coopérer au sein même de leurs affrontements, afin de reproduire leur domination.
Die Bischöfe von Verden in ottonischer Zeit
Authors: Jansen Tobias P.
Published: November 2024

À partir du cas du diocèse de Verden an der Aller, jusqu’à présent peu étudié, cet article examine tout d’abord la formation d’espaces grâce à des échanges entre les grands laïques et ecclésiastiques de Francie orientale pendant la phase missionnaire du IXe siècle, puis l’établissement de centres topographiques dans la région de Verden aux IXe et Xe siècles. Il s’intéresse enfin à la perte du siège épiscopal de Verden par les Billung à la fin du Xe siècle et au début du XIe siècle. Par comparaison avec d’autres diocèses, la question est de savoir comment les caractéristiques des évêques de Verden en tant que relais ont évolué selon des paramètres changeants.
Imitatio episcopi ?
Authors: Martine Tristan
Published: November 2024

Cet article souligne une particularité lotharingienne  : si le rôle des monastères dans l’émergence de nouveaux modèles spatiaux est bien connu en Occident, le cas d’un ancrage spatial de l’aristocratie laïque à la fois sur initiative et sur modèle épiscopal ne se retrouve que dans les régions de l’ancienne Francia Media, en l’occurrence en Lotharingie méridionale.
Terre d’Église puis seigneurie laïque en Bretagne : l’exemple de Rannée/La Guerche (XIe-XIIIe siècles)
Authors: Bachelier Julien
Published: November 2024

Implantée au milieu du XIe siècle en limite du diocèse, la seigneurie castrale de La Guerche prend racine sur un ancien domaine de l’Église de Rennes, Rannée. La lignée castrale est issue d’une dynastie épiscopale qui a adapté sa stratégie dans un contexte de diffusion de la réforme grégorienne. Le château concentre les critères de centralité, mais la polarité religieuse demeure à Rannée jusqu’à la Révolution.
Context Factors in Clause-Type Disambiguation: Old High German ibu- Clauses in the Syntagma
Authors: Redmond Michael
Published: November 2024

In the history of studies in German syntax, clauses have typically been described based on their most salient internal features on various structural levels. Constructional approaches, however, prioritise a holistic and often usage-based view of grammatical structures, in which the distribution of a construction is also information necessary for its correct usage and interpretation. The present study of Old High German syntax adopts this viewpoint and considers distributional regularities of conditional and complement clauses introduced with ibu, comparable to present-day English if and French si. Such clause types have many internal formal features in common, so that they appear to be formally ambiguous. Curiously, they rarely pose interpretation problems. Here, it is argued that part of the knowledge language users have of clausal constructions details their use in a syntagmatic context. This is demonstrated with corpus data showing that clause order, matrix verb semantics and the presence of resumptive adverbs are relevant for the interpretation of clauses. This is supported with evidence that pragmatic effects furthermore play a role in the disambiguation of these clause types and shines light upon methodological and theoretical problems.
E-Payment Adoption
Authors: Nguyen Thanh D. , To Long D.
Published: November 2024

The usage rate of Point-of-Sale (POS) e-payment services in Vietnam is still relatively low compared to other methods, despite their importance in daily e-commerce activities. This study presents a structural model for e-payment adoption specifically for POS. The model integrates various technology adoption theories of Technology Acceptance Model (TAM); Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), as well as concepts such as perceived benefits, perceived risk, and trust. Data was collected from 195 participants who have used or intend to use POS for e-payment and analyzed using the Partial Least Squares–Structural Equation Modeling (PLS–SEM) method. The research findings demonstrated that factors of facilitating conditions, perceived benefits, effort expectancy, social influence, trust, and perceived risk have a significant structural relationship with e-payment adoption via POS. The study also provides insights for managers to enhance the acceptance and use of e-payment via POS and contributes to the exploration of factors influencing e-payment adoption in general.
Enhancing Resilience in Logistics-Based Business Models amid Disruptions
Authors: Al Khatib Inas , Ndiaye Malick , Acquaye Adolf Akwei
Published: November 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted adaptations in business models, including logistics. This article analyzes disruptions to reshape and manage logistics business models effectively, focusing on performance factors crucial for resilience during crises. A comprehensive literature review and interviews with eight industry experts were conducted to identify key dimensions affected by the logistics business model, including value proposition, creation, and delivery within the United Arab Emirate market. Twelve performance factors were identified, including nine essential factors during pandemics and seven factors crucial for maintaining operational effectiveness during crises. This research offers actionable insights for logistical leaders to prioritize factors essential for sustained profitability and performance continuity. This study highlights the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on performance factors in the logistics business model, guiding the development of a more resilient operational framework.
Green Synthesis of Magnetite Nanoparticles Using Syzygium aromaticum for the Removal of Methylene Orange
Authors: Gaminda K. A. P. , Abeysinghe D. T. , Jayasinghe C. D. , Senthilnithy R.
Published: November 2024

Water contamination by textile dyes is a significant environmental issue, as these dyes are resistant to degradation and can have harmful ecological impacts. The present study focuses on using green synthesized magnetite nanoparticles using a sustainable method involving Syzygium aromaticum extract. These green-synthesized iron oxide nanoparticles (GMNPs) were tested for their ability to degrade methyl orange (MO) and compared to chemically synthesized zero-valent iron particles (CnZVIs). The study records that GMNPs were successfully synthesized, with particle sizes ranging from nano to micro scales. Within 20 minutes, 100 ppm of MO was reduced to 43 ppm and reached equilibrium at 120 minutes, with GMNPs removing up to 40 ppm of the dye. At equilibrium, approximately 59% of MO was removed using ~20 ± 1 mg of GMNPs, indicating they were more effective than CnZVIs. Kinetic studies indicated that the pseudo-second-order adsorption model (R2 = 0.9993) was a better fit, while isotherm studies favored the Langmuir isotherm (R2 = 0.9992) and Freundlich isotherm (R2 = 0.9997). This suggests that the adsorption process was favorable for MO removal using GMNPs. Importantly, this research not only provides a promising solution to the problem of water contamination by textile dyes but also underscores the significant potential of GMNPs for environmental remediation, offering hope for a cleaner future.
Applicability of Health, Safety, and Welfare Law Relating to the Construction Industry in Sri Lanka
Authors: Donald L. M. , Vithana N. D. I.
Published: November 2024

Construction is particularly a high-risk industry, with a higher rate of accidents compared to other sectors. In Sri Lanka specifically, numerous construction accidents result from neglecting safety protocols stipulated by relevant authorities. Despite the presence of various Health, Safety, and Welfare (HSW) legislations in Sri Lanka, the incidence of accidents has been steadily increasing. Hence, this research aims to examine the Health, Safety, and Welfare Law pertinent to the Construction Industry, proposing strategies to improve the effectiveness of the current laws. It includes a review of primary legislation governing HSW aspects in Sri Lanka's Construction Industry, such as the Factories Ordinance No. 45 of 1942, Workmen's Compensation Ordinance of 1934, Shops and Office Employees Act No.19 of 1954, Wages Boards Ordinance No.27 of 1941, Employees Provident Fund (EPF) Act No. 15 of 1958, and Employees Trust Fund (ETF) Act No.46 of 1980. Additionally, the research addresses the significant challenges and issues encountered by stakeholders in the Construction Industry when adhering to these laws. This study utilized a mixed-method approach, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. The analysis utilized the RII method, mean and standard deviation assessments, and content analysis. Results revealed a lower average awareness level among respondents concerning these legislations, and significant variability in their understanding. Notably, despite previous suggestions to update existing legislation, this study highlighted that while the laws have been amended, stakeholders remain unaware of these amendments.
A Critical Overview of the Implementation of Right to Information in Sri Lanka
Authors: Weerasekara W. M. D. U.
Published: November 2024

The Right to Information (RTI) is integral to the concept of democracy today, as it embodies key democratic principles including good governance, transparency, and accountability of public authorities. In Sri Lanka, the Right to Information Act No. 12 of 2016, introduced through the 19th Amendment to the Constitution in 2015, stands as a significant initiative within the country's legal framework. Despite being ranked as the world's 4th best mechanism, the practical implementation of Sri Lanka's RTI regime faces several shortcomings even nearly after a decade. Hence, the objective of this research is to critically evaluate the practical application of the Black Letter Law related to the right to information in Sri Lanka. This literature-based qualitative research is a comparative study of jurisdictions. Right to information laws, conventions, legislation, case law, and scholarly publications were used to analyse and identify gaps and propose recommendations based on global best practices to create a robust implementation mechanism for RTI. The study reveals that language barriers, rejection of information on unreasonable grounds, lack of knowledge and awareness, exclusion of NGOs and private organizations from RTI coverage, inadequate media intervention, and misuse of legal provisions are key barriers for coherently executing the right to information in Sri Lanka. Adhering to the principle of maximum disclosure, establishing strong oversight mechanisms, implementing effective records management, fostering supportive political and civil society cultures, and providing training for information officers are recommendations for building a robust RTI mechanism in Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka can also gain insights from India to follow innovative approaches for public awareness at grassroots levels. Thus, it can be concluded that despite a strong legal framework, overcoming implementation barriers requires coordinated efforts and close monitoring.
Characterization of Morphological Brain Changes in Generalized Epilepsy Using Region-based Morphometry
Authors: Wimalasiri D. M. D. T. , Rajapaksha S. R. A. L. , Zhang X. , Sampath W. K. C. , Ediri Arachchi W. M.
Published: November 2024

Magnetic Resonance Imaging has been widely involved in detecting morphological brain changes in generalized epilepsy at voxel level. It is believed that region-based morphometry could provide better characterizations for macro structural changes in the brain with comparative advantages than voxel-based morphometry. The aim of this study is to detect regional brain changes associated with generalized epilepsy and to test the potential of regional brain changes in classification of patients with generalized epilepsy and non-epileptic subjects. 45 patients and 46 non-epileptic subjects were scanned using a 3 Tesla MRI scanner and 3D T1 weighted images were obtained. Images were pre-processed and region based structural metrics (grey matter volumes, white matter volumes, cerebrospinal fluid volumes, cortical gyrification, and sulcus depth) were developed using Computational Anatomical Toolbox (CAT12). Two sample t-tests were used to perform the univariate analyses and results were corrected for multiple comparisons (FDR corrected, p < 0.05). Grey matter volume reductions were detected in cerebellum, frontal lobe, temporal lobe, thalamus, and hippocampal region while bilateral white matter volume reductions were reported in cerebellum. In contrast, cerebrospinal fluid volume increments in left lateral ventricle were also detected. Reduced regional gyrification was detected in left posterior ramus of the lateral sulcus and reduced sulcal depths were detected in occipital pole, cuneus, and posterior ramus of the lateral sulcus in patients. Furthermore, pattern analysis revealed that each metric shows different discriminative abilities to distinguish patients with generalized epilepsy and non-epileptic subjects (Classification accuracy: 61.1%, 62.2%, 58.8%, 61.1% and 60% for GMV, WMV, CSFV, Cortical gyrification and sulcal depth respectively). In conclusion, this study provides a comprehensive understanding about regional structural changes (cortical and subcortical) associated with generalized epilepsy under region-based morphometry. However, pattern analyses do not provide adequate discriminative power and therefore the clinical utility of findings is limited.
Public Interest Over Private Gain: A Critical Examination of the Ethical Perspective in the Sri Lankan Legal Profession
Authors: Gunaratne K. A. Lavanya Lewmini
Published: November 2024

The legal profession is a pillar of societal order, promoting justice and fairness. The objective of this research is to look into the fundamental concepts that characterize the legal profession as a profession primarily dedicated to societal growth rather than private gain. To do that, this paper tries to evaluate frameworks of ethics and present practices of the Legal profession in Sri Lanka using qualitative analysis and critical examination, focusing on the overall dedication to serving public interest. The research identifies a gap in understanding how closely legal practitioners in Sri Lanka emphasize ethical standards in practice. While current literature and frameworks stress upon ethical norms, there is little evidence of how these principles are prioritized above financial rewards in this sector. This research highlights that Attorneys can achieve success in their noble profession by upholding professional ethics, ensuring that the ultimate objective of the legal profession is to administer justice to the rightful individual rather than solely focusing on financial gain.
A Comparative Study on the Antioxidant Potentials of Hybrid and Generic Papayas Available in Jaffna, Sri Lanka
Authors: Needhiraja N. , Chelliah D. , Krishnamoorthy T. , Jayasooriya A. T. R. , Sivasinthujah S. , Senthilnanthanan M.
Published: November 2024

Generic papaya is a tropical plant abundant in Sri Lanka. Traditionally, it has been used therapeutically as it is a good source of polyphenols, carotenoids and an excellent source of vitamins that are powerful antioxidants. Specially, unripe fruit and leaf of papaya are recognized as a remedy for cancer and heart diseases due to their high antioxidant content. Recently, consumption of hybrid papaya fruits has increased as they are readily available in the local markets. However, the phytochemical constituents and quantity of these hybrid papaya varieties may differ from those available in the generic plant and hence their antioxidant potentials may also vary. Meanwhile there is concern within the community whether hybrid papaya has the same nutritional values as generic papaya. However, there have been no investigation done on the antioxidant activity of hybrid papaya available in Jaffna. Therefore, this study focused on investigating the in-vitro antioxidant potential of leaf and unripe fruit of generic and selected hybrid papaya varieties using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. The unripe fruits and leaves of generic and selected hybrid (Red lady, Maradona, Tanin and Vega F1) varieties were collected from the Agricultural Research and Training Centre in Jaffna, Sri Lanka. The unripe fruit was sliced after removing the skin and seeds. The sliced unripe fruit and leaves were shade dried and powdered. The powdered plant materials were macerated with methanol and ethyl acetate separately for 48 hours at room temperature. The DPPH assay was carried out on the methanol and ethyl acetate extracts of the individual plant materials by employing ascorbic acid as the standard. The obtained data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA at 5% significance level and a significant difference between the antioxidant activities of the standard (IC50 value = 12.394 μg/mL) and the selected papaya extracts (IC50 values vary from 430.641 – 6,652.267 μg/mL) was found. Further, the selected hybrid papayas exhibited better antioxidant properties than the generic one; but, did not show a common trend within them. The leaf extracts were found to possess more antioxidant potential than the unripe fruit extracts of the same papaya variety. With respect to the solvents employed in extraction, methanolic extracts of the selected papayas showed better antioxidant activity than the corresponding ethyl acetate extracts. Preliminary phytochemical screening of the leaf and unripe fruit extracts of hybrid papayas revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, polyphenols and glycosides, which could be responsible for their antioxidant activity. The finding of the study revealed that hybrid papaya could be used as a raw material for functional food as generic papaya. However, there is a need to evaluate the other nutritional values to confirm it further.
Investigating the Determinants of Financial Inclusion Among Urban Youth: Evidence from Sri Lanka
Authors: Kalinga M. L.
Published: November 2024

Financial inclusion, defined as equitable access and use of affordable financial services is crucial for fostering economic growth. This study investigates the determinants of financial inclusion in urban youth in Sri Lanka, addressing the critical gap in the literature. Utilising the data from 384 respondents across selected urban areas, the research employs a web-based questionnaire and applied Partial Least Square- Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) to assess the relationships between financial inclusion and key determinants such as Peer Influence, Government Policies, Mobile Banking Usage, Telecommunication Network Quality and Financial Literacy. The findings identify Financial Literacy as the most significant determinant of financial inclusion followed by positive correlations with other variables. The study offers practical insights for financial institutions and policymakers to improve financial literacy and design targeted strategies for enhancing financial inclusion among urban youth. However, the study’s focus on urban youth limits its generalisation to rural population where access and inclusion may differ significantly.
Assessment of Setup-errors in 3Dd-Conformal Radiotherapy for Head and Neck Cancer Patients Using an Electronic Portal Imaging Device
Authors: Karunathilaka U. I. U. , Ramanathan V.
Published: November 2024

Patient setup is crucial in radiotherapy since treatment is delivered as fractionated treatment over a period of time. Using own institutional margins by considering the setup errors will provide better radiotherapy outcome. Therefore, this study aims to assess set up errors for head and neck cancer patients using an electronic portal imaging device at Apeksha Hospital, Maharagama, Sri Lanka. A total of 101 head and neck cancer patients who were immobilized with thermoplastic mask were selected in this study. Stored data from July 2021 to July 2022 were obtained from ARIA patient management system in the Varian 2300CD Unit at Apeksha Hospital. In order to calculate systematic and random errors, translational errors in all directions were collected utilizing 303 pairs of orthogonal portal images. Moreover, three different algorithms were used to obtain the margin of clinical target volume (CTV) to planning target volume (PTV). The estimated systematic and random errors in the directions of antero-posterior, superior-inferior and medio-lateral are 0.13 cm, 0.10 cm and 0.08 cm, and 0.22 cm, 0.21 cm, and 0.19 cm respectively. Less than 0.5 cm margin were obtained by applying three different algorithms. This study indicates that using a 0.5 cm margin for head and neck cancer patients treating in 2300CD Varian Unit at Apeksha Hospital is safe. Further, this study recommends to developing institutional CTV to PTV margin for all sites of cancer to reduce unnecessary radiation to the surrounding normal healthy tissues.
Crossing the text frontier: Teachers resisting African language texts for learning
Authors: Tyler Robyn , McKinney Carolyn
Published: November 2024

Background: Scholars have identified the benefits of using African languages and bilingual approaches in South African education; at the same time, the dominance of language ideologies and systemic constraints work against the full implementation of bilingual education.Objectives: This article tracks the early responses of the pre-service and in-service teachers in two intervention projects to the bi/multilingual pedagogies presented to them and their uptake in their pedagogy.Method: The study probes the responses of teachers who were comfortable with African language use in oral activities but did not yet take this up in reading and writing activities. Data from two focus group interviews in two research projects are analysed using critical discourse analysis.Results: The use of African languages in written form posed a frontier yet to be breached by these teachers in their classroom practices.Conclusion: We argue that the dominant, entangled reasons for what we call the ‘text frontier’ in bilingual learning in South Africa are the following: the coloniality of literacy, linked to colonial language ideologies which position African languages as deficient vehicles of academic pursuit; the lack of bilingual learning materials; teachers’ own experience with using African language texts in their education; and the pressure of monolingual standardised systemic assessments.Contribution: Our work contributes to an understanding of how language and literacy ideologies impact pedagogy. The article concludes with an exploration of the implications of the text frontier for the use of African languages in education.
Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Sommers DeK
Published: November 2024

Instead of considering allergic rhinitis as a disease of acute symptoms, it needs to be understood as a chronic inflammatory disease that involves a level of persistent inflammation even in the absence of symptoms. Given the close functional, immunological and clinical link between asthma and rhinitis, it is reasonable to expect that an effective treatment of rhinitis would affect the comorbid asthma; the occurrence of rhinitis in asthmatic patients ranges from 70% to about 90%. The prevalence of allergic rhinitis in patients presenting to their primary care providers with nasal symptoms is estimated to be 30% to 60%. Diagnostic allergy testing is indicated only if the test result could alter the decision to treat. Empirical treatment is a common approach, as allergic rhinitis is anonfatal disease with safe and effective treatments. Nonsedating antihistamines and nasal steroids are relatively free of side effects, and are reasonably inexpensive. The nasal steroids reduce all symptoms, but the antihistamines are less effective for nasal congestion and minimally address the problem of inflammation. Immune-based specifically targeted molecules, such as the cloned humanised monoclonal antibody-inhibiting human IgE omalizumab, are presently being studied in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis.
Association of Secondary Hyperparathyroidism and Hyperkalemia in Hemodialysis-dependent Chronic Kidney Disease Patients
Authors: Soni Ashutosh , Vishnoi Jagdish , Bhatt Kamlesh , Sharma Kalu Ram , Shukla Akanksha
Published: November 2024

Introduction:

Hyperparathyroidism secondary to chronic renal failure is a condition characterized by increased secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH), secondary to hyperphosphatemia and hypocalcemia. In dialysis patients’ hyperkalemia is a frequent electrolyte disturbance that may result in various complications.

Objectives:

The study aimed to determine the association of secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPTH) with hyperkalemia in hemodialysis patients. There is very little literature on the direct relationship of hyperparathyroidism with hyperkalemia.

Materials and Methods:

This is an observational study of hemodialysis patients visiting a university hospital for maintenance hemodialysis. Patients were randomly selected for the study who were visiting the Department of Nephrology for their regular maintenance hemodialysis program. Serum PTH analysis was done by chemiluminescence method. Serum potassium >5.5 mEq/L was considered hyperkalemia, and serum intact PTH (iPTH) >300 pg/mL was considered as SHPTH.

Results:

The study included 59 participants from dialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease patients. In this study, 64.4% of the participants were male and 35.6% were female. The mean age of the study group was 47.64 ± 13.042 years. 44.1% of the participants had hyperkalemia, and 43.1% of the participants had SHPTH. 89.7% of the patients with SHPTH had hyperkalemia. The mean serum potassium in the iPTH ≤300 pg/mL group was 4.50 mEq/L. The mean serum potassium in the iPTH >300 pg/mL group was 6.33 mEq/L. 90.9% of the participants in the group iPTH: ≤300 pg/mL had serum potassium: ≤5.5 mEq/L while 88.0% of the participants in the group iPTH: >300 pg/mL had serum potassium: >5.5 mEq/L. There was a strong positive correlation between iPTH and serum potassium, and this correlation was statistically significant (rho = 0.72, P ≤ 0.001).

Conclusion:

The present study shows a statistically significant association of iPTH (SHPTH) and serum potassium (hyperkalemia), and high iPTH is positively associated with hyperkalemia.
Role of physical and dentofacial features in bullying among United Arab Emirates schoolchildren and its impact on school performance – A cross-sectional study
Authors: Abutayyem Huda , Alam Mohammad Khursheed , Shqaidef Abedalrahman , Alogaibi Yahya Abdullah
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

Bullying has a lasting effect on young, vulnerable minds, especially among school-aged youngsters. With the help of this study, we intended to examine how physical and dentofacial characteristics contribute to bullying among kids and how it affects their academic performance.

METHODS:

This retrospective cross-sectional study consisted of a self-reported anonymous, pretested questionnaire divided into three major domains, with due institutional ethical clearance being obtained before the study’s commencement.

RESULTS:

The study population consisted of 269 schoolchildren, with 49.8% being males and the majority (55.0%) residing in Ajman. Among the schoolchildren, 35.7% reported being victims of bullying. The majority of bully victims (27.1%) skipped school because of bullying. Additionally, 64.3% of the students had a nickname, primarily used by siblings, and approximately half of the bully victims disliked their nicknames. In terms of happiness, 45.0% of students were neither happy nor unhappy in classes, while 10.8% were very unhappy. Outside of school, 56.9% of participants were very happy, and only 1.1% were very unhappy. Most students (58.7%) did not believe that bullying harms their grades, while 19.7% believed it does. Furthermore, 71.7% of students did not experience bullying due to good grades or showing interest in schoolwork.

CONCLUSION:

Based on results, physical and dentofacial features in bullying among schoolchildren and its impact on school performance, sociodemographic patterns, and factors associated with bullying victimization highlight the need for targeted interventions and preventive strategies to address this issue. Thus, can create a safe and supportive school environment that promotes the well-being and academic success of all schoolchildren.
Effect of Forsus-assisted mandibular advancement on the adaptation of craniocervical posture – A retrospective study
Authors: Rajamanickam Preethi , Varghese Remmiya Mary , Kishore Shreya
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND and OBJECTIVE:

Skeletal Class II malocclusion patients frequently exhibit an extended craniocervical position. The study’s objective was to evaluate how the craniocervical posture has changed following skeletal class II correction using the Forsus fatigue-resistant device (FFRD).

METHODOLOGY:

A retrospective analysis was undertaken using the pre- and post-treatment records of 35 skeletal class II patients who used the FFRD to achieve class II correction. The metrics suggested by Solow and Rocabado were used to evaluate the cranial and cervical positions. Eleven angular parameters were evaluated to determine the relationship between the mandibular ramus and the skull as well as the upper and middle craniocervical positions. To compare the parameters before and after fixed functional therapy, a Wilcoxon signed rank test was used.

RESULTS:

Significant differences were obtained in the parameters SNA, SNB, and ANB post-FFRD. Significant differences were also noted in NL/OPT, NSL/OPT, FH/CVT, FH/OPT, NSL/CVT, NL/CVT, ML/CVT, FH/RL, and oropharynx position.

CONCLUSIONS:

The upper and middle craniocervical posture altered significantly with the FFRD. Skeletal class II correction obtained with FFRD delivered the patients a more erect craniocervical posture.
Changes in the corrosion rate and microstructure of nickel titanium wire in pandan leaves extract
Authors: Nasution Mutia A. , Lubis Hilda F. , Sipayung Ingrid V. , Sitepu Inri N.
Published: November 2024

OBJECTIVE:

This study aimed at determining the effect of pH changes on nickel titanium wire seen based on the corrosion rate and surface roughness of the wire after immersion in pandan leaves extract.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

The sample used nickel titanium wire of 0.016 inches diameter and 5 cm length and consists of five treatment groups: control group, 0.2% chlorhexidine, and 1000 ppm, 2000 ppm, and 4000 ppm pandan leaves extract. The solutions were put into an incubator for 7, 14, and 21 days at 37 °C and removed according to the sample immersion time. The corrosion rate was determined using the weight-loss method, and microstructure roughness was analyzed using a scanning electron microscope.

RESULTS:

Kruskal–Wallis test showed that there was a significant difference in corrosion rate of orthodontic wires of nickel titanium after control submersion, 0.2% chlorhexidine, and pandan leaves extract on 7, 14, and 21 days (P ≤ 0.05), and pandan leaves extract submersion shows that the surface structure is not as bad as artificial saliva and 0.2% chlorhexidine.

CONCLUSIONS:

Pandan leaves extract could inhibit the corrosion rate of nickel titanium orthodontic wire, which might be due to tannin content as an active antioxidant.