bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research Progress on Flavonoids in Traditional Chinese Medicine to Counteract Cardiotoxicity Associated with Anti-Tumor Drugs
Authors: Shi Hongwei , Duan Lian , Tong Li , Pu Peng , Wei Lai , Wang Linlin , Hu Desheng , Tang Heng
Published: March 2024

The development of anti-tumor drugs has notably enhanced the survival rates and quality of life for patients with malignant tumors. However, the side effects of these drugs, especially cardiotoxicity, significantly limit their clinical application. The cardiotoxicity associated with anti-tumor drugs has been a subject of extensive attention and research. Traditional to mitigate these side effects have included reducing drug dosages, shortening treatment duration, modifying administration methods, and opting for drugs with lower toxicity. However, either approach may potentially compromise the anti-tumor efficacy of the medications. Therefore, exploring other effective methods for anti-cardiotoxicity will be the focus of future research. The potential of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in managing cardiovascular diseases and cancer treatment has gained widespread recognition. TCM is valued for its minimal side effects, affordability, and accessibility, offering promising avenues in the prevention and treatment of cardiotoxicity caused by anti-tumor drugs. Among its constituents, flavonoids, which are present in many TCMs, are particularly notable. These monomeric compounds with distinct structural components have been shown to possess both cardiovascular protective properties and anti-tumor capabilities. In this discussion, we will delve into the classification of anti-tumor drugs and explore the underlying mechanisms of their associated cardiotoxicity. Additionally, we will examine flavonoids found in TCM and investigate their mechanisms of cardiovascular protection. This will include an analysis of how these natural compounds can mitigate the cardiac side effects of anti-tumor therapies while potentially enhancing overall patient health and treatment outcomes.
Nomogram for Predicting the Risk of Short Sleep Duration in Myocardial Infarction Survivors
Authors: Xu Jun , Qin Gang
Published: March 2024

Background: Research on post-infarction insomnia, particularly short sleep duration following myocardial infarction (MI), remains limited. Currently, there are no existing guidelines or risk prediction models to assist physicians in managing or preventing short sleep duration or insomnia following MI. This study aims to develop a nomogram for predicting the risk of short sleep duration after MI. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study on 1434 MI survivors aged 20 and above, utilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database spanning from 2007 to 2018. Among them, 710 patients were assigned to the training group, while 707 patients were allocated to the testing group. We utilized logistic regression, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression, and the elastic network for variable selection. The stability and accuracy of the prediction model were assessed using receiver operator characteristics (ROCs) and calibration curves. Results: We included five variables in the nomogram: age, poverty income ratio (PIR), body mass index (BMI), race, and depression. The ROC curves yielded values of 0.636 for the training group and 0.657 for the testing group, demonstrating the model’s good prediction accuracy and robustness through a calibration curve test. Conclusions: Our nomogram can effectively predict the likelihood of short sleep duration in MI survivors, providing valuable support for clinicians in preventing and managing post-MI short sleep duration.
Historical analysis of the reasons and technologies for introducing the administrative-legal regime of martial law in world and domestic practice
Authors: Grishenko Leonid
Published: March 2024

In the article, through a historical analysis of the reasons and technologies for introducing the administrative-legal regime of martial law in world and domestic practice, the author substantiates the conclusion that it originated in the distant past, went through stages of development and today represents a legal system that has been sufficiently developed in theory and tested in practice regime designed to protect individuals, society and the state from threats and dangers of a military nature.
Assessing the Implementation of the MBHTE-BARMM Science Learning Modules: Exploring Issues, Challenges, and Suggestions for Policy Development
Authors: Umpara Norsaima U. , Guimba Wardah D. , Naga Minerva-Saminah M. , Daguisonan Lotis B.
Published: March 2024

This study investigated the implementation of Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MBHTE-BARMM) learning resources by exploring their issues and challenges as well as providing suggestions for policy development. This study utilized a qualitative approach through one-on-one in-depth interview with twenty-five (25) elementary science teachers from various school divisions in the BARMM region who are using the science learning modules. Thematic analysis revealed issues and challenges concerning accessibility, availability, and utilization. Findings highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach focusing on module completeness, content complexity, and essential topics, alongside infrastructure improvement, streamlined procedures, content adaptation, and community engagement. Strengths and weaknesses were identified, emphasizing cultural relevance, alignment with the central curriculum, effective module structure, and cognitive level of the module and its target users. Based on these findings, a six-key-area model for improved implementation is proposed. For policy development, this study can potentially inform policy decisions and educational strategies in the BARMM region, contributing to the ongoing efforts to enhance the quality and relevance of education, ensure equitable access, and address the specific needs of the Bangsamoro people.
Measuring wellbeing in the Global Flourishing Study: Insights from a cross-national analysis of cognitive interviews from 22 countries
Authors: Cowden Richard , Skinstad Deborah , Lomas Tim , Johnson Byron R. , VanderWeele Tyler J.
Published: March 2024

Prior research suggests that cross-national cognitive interviewing can provide preliminarily insights into the extent to which survey items that will be employed in large-scale global research might be understood similarly or differently across countries. Against the backdrop of the recently launched Global Flourishing Study, we used multinational cognitive interview data from 116 individuals (M = 41.4 years, SD = 14.9, female = 50.9%) in 22 countries to explore similarities and differences in item difficulty and comprehension of five of the Global Flourishing Study survey items that are related to personal wellbeing. Interviewer observations indicated that most participants (≥ 90%) did not experience a lot of difficulty responding to each of the items. Focusing on a specific comprehension probe that was common across the five items (i.e., “In your own words, what is this question asking?”), we applied the constant comparative analytic method to generate an overarching theme for each item that captured the common core or essence of how participants across the countries interpreted the items. However, there was some variability—both between and within countries—in how responses to the probe in the different countries related to the overarching theme for each item. Given the richness of the Global Flourishing Study as a possible data resource, including its broad representativeness of the global population and availability as an open access dataset, these findings will be useful to researchers who are interested in using data from the Global Flourishing Study to study human wellbeing in different parts of the world.
Groundwater in the age of plastic
Authors: Nlend Bertil , Lapworth Dan , Cashman Michaela , Lenczewski Melissa
Published: March 2024

Among the emerging contaminants, microplastics (1-5,000 µm) are becoming an important issue due to their ubiquity in the environment. However, research on this emerging contaminant has been conducted mainly in marine surface waters while microplastics (MPs) are now being found in even the most remote parts of the environment. For example, in groundwater which is the primary water source which supply the world, scientists are just starting to gather evidence on risks to groundwater and dependent ecosystems. This paper reviews the current understanding of plastic contamination in groundwater, summarizes methods that can be used for sampling and detection of plastics as well as the status of environmental regulation of plastics. From the handful of published studies, MPs origins in groundwater are mainly from wastewater effluent, road runoff, agricultural activities, and landfill leachate. The relevant nature of these contaminants are related to their high specific surface area and hydrophobicity allowing co-contamination with various hazardous chemicals such as PCBs, PAHs, BPA, PBDEs, heavy metals and antibiotics. Related to this issues of co-contamination in groundwater, there are potential risks to human health and wider ecosystems that are poorly understood and there has been almost no research undertaken on the occurrence of nanoplastics (<1 m) in groundwater systems. MPs can potentially contribute to cardiovascular diseases, skin irritation, cancer, reproductive effects, and respiratory and digestive problems. In addition, soil and groundwater contamination can be detrimental to aquatic micro-organisms. There is an urgent need to develop a better understanding of the risks MP and associated co-contaminants pose and advance national and regional regulations to restrict microplastic contamination of groundwater.
The Core Component of Emotional Impulsivity: Mouse-cursor Tracking Study
Authors: Leontyev Anton , Yamauchi Takashi
Published: March 2024

Individuals with impulsive tendencies often exhibit abnormal reward processing, such as impulsive choice (IC) and impulsive action (IA). It is known that emotion exacerbates these impulsive behaviors (emotional impulsivity). However, the core cognitive trait responsible for emotional impulsivity remains unclear. The dominant theory suggests that emotions primarily impair response inhibition, but an alternative theory proposes that emotions strongly influence one’s capacity to maintain and focus attention on the task at hand. However, the empirical evidence supporting these theories is inconsistent—few correlations have been reported between self-report measures of emotional impulsivity (UPPS) and behavioral measures (stop-signal task) of impulsivity beyond clinical populations. This study probes the interplay among emotions, impulsive action (IA), attentional impulsivity (AI), and impulsive choice (IC) by utilizing mouse-cursor tracking versions of stop-signal and delay discounting tasks. We elicited positive and negative emotions using standardized emotional pictures and examined the extent to which elicited emotions altered behavioral indices (patterns of mouse-cursor motions) of impulsivity—impulsive action, impulsive choice, and attentional impulsivity. Our findings suggest that, in a nonclinical population, both attentional impulsivity and impulsive action represent the cognitive traits that correspond to different aspects of emotional impulsivity. While negative emotional stimuli enhance impulsive action, both positive and negative emotional stimuli heighten attentional impulsivity. This indicates that positive and negative emotions selectively influence impulsive actions and attentional impulsivity.
Does child-directed speech facilitate language development in all domains? A study space analysis of the existing evidence.
Authors: Kempe Vera , Ota Mitsuhiko , Schaeffler Sonja
Published: March 2024

Because child-directed speech (CDS) is ubiquitous in some cultures and because positive associations between certain features of the language input and certain learning outcomes have been attested it has often been claimed that the function of CDS is to aid children’s language development in general. We argue that for this claim to be generalisable, superior learning from CDS compared to non-CDS, such as adult-directed speech (ADS), must be demonstrated across multiple input domains and learning outcomes. To determine the availability of such evidence we performed a study space analysis of the research literature on CDS. A total of 942 relevant papers were coded with respect to (i) CDS features under consideration, (ii) learning outcomes and (iii) whether a comparison between CDS and ADS was reported. The results show that only 16.2% of peer-reviewed studies in this field compared learning outcomes between CDS and ADS, almost half of which focussed on the ability to discriminate between the two registers. Crucially, we found only 20 studies comparing learning outcomes between CDS and ADS for morphosyntactic and lexico-semantic features and none for pragmatic and extra-linguistic features. Although these 20 studies provided preliminary evidence for a facilitative effect of some specific morphosyntactic and lexico-semantic features, overall CDS-ADS comparison studies are very unevenly distributed across the space of CDS features and outcome measures. The disproportional emphasis on prosodic, phonetic, and phonological input features, and register discrimination as the outcome invites caution with respect to the generalisability of the claim that CDS facilitates language development across the breadth of input domains and learning outcomes. Future research ought to resolve the discrepancy between sweeping claims about the function of CDS as facilitating language development on the one hand and the narrow evidence base for such a claim on the other by conducting CDS-ADS comparisons across a wider range of input features and outcome measures.
Effects of visual diet on color perception and aesthetics
Authors: Skelton Alice Elizabeth , Maule John , Floyd Simeon , Wozniak Beata , Majid Asifa , Bosten Jenny , Franklin Anna
Published: March 2024

To what extent are perception and aesthetics shaped by low-level statistical regularities of our visual environments, and on what time scales? We characterized the chromatic statistics of the ‘visual diets’ of people living in remote rainforest and urban environments, by randomly sampling images using calibrated head-mounted cameras as participants went about daily lives. All environments, as is typical for natural scenes, had chromatic distributions with most variance along a roughly blue-yellow axis, but the extent of this bias differed across locations. If color perception and aesthetics are calibrated to the visual environments in which participants are currently immersed, variation in the extent of the bias in scene statistics should have a corresponding impact on perception and aesthetic judgements. To test this, we measured color discrimination and preferences for distributions of color for people living in the different environments. Group differences in the extent of blue-yellow bias in color discrimination were in the opposite direction to that predicted by the differences in scene statistics under an efficient coding framework, but were consistent with perceptual learning in local environments. Preferences for color distributions aligned with scene statistics, but not specifically to local environments, and one group preferred color distributions along an unnatural color axis orthogonal to that dominant in natural scenes. These preferences could be explained by an interaction of culture and perceptual fluency. Our study shows the benefits of conducting psychophysics with people at remote locations for understanding the commonalities and diversity in human perception.
Revisiting the Relationship Between Personality Traits and Vocational Interests From a Profile-Based Perspective: Research Synthesis and New Applications
Authors: Etzel Julian M. , Wille Bart , De Fruyt Filip , Nagy Gabriel
Published: March 2024

This article proposes to link the Five Factor Model (FFM) personality traits to the vocational interest circumplex, a structural model for (1) the interrelations between interest domains and (2) individual differences in interest profiles. Study 1 presents a reanalysis and meta-analytic integration of prior studies (N = 18,291, k = 27) on the relationships between FFM traits and RIASEC interests. Results indicated that all FFM traits are associated with different interest configurations and that the strength of the relationship varies between traits. Study 2 uses a latent circumplex model that partitions the shared variance among interest scales into individual differences in profile levels and profile configurations. This made it possible to estimate standardized effect sizes of the strength of the relationship that allow a more meaningful interpretation about the actual overlap between the construct domains. The latent model was applied to the aggregated correlation matrix from Study 1 and to two additional datasets from Germany (N = 1,032) and Belgium (N = 1,317) that used an alternative eight-type interest taxonomy. Results were remarkably consistent across taxonomies and samples. The associations between FFM traits and interest profiles were mainly attributable to interest configurations. Openness was nearly as strongly related to individual differences in interest configurations as a typical interest scale. Similar strong associations with interest configurations were also found for Extraversion and Agreeableness, whereas those with Neuroticism and Conscientiousness were weaker. In sum, our findings suggest that the overlap between the two construct domains is considerably stronger than previously assumed.
Comparison of hemodynamic and analgesic effects of interscalene block with bupivacaine versus bupivacaine-dexmedetomidine combination for shoulder arthroscopy under general anesthesia
Authors: Mullick Jahangir , Ray Amit Kumar , Chakraborty Soma , Bidyut Bikas Gharami
Published: March 2024

Background: The interscalene block in shoulder arthroscopy is a well-established procedure. Many drugs have been used as adjuvants to local anesthetics to increase the quality of block in regional anesthesia, with variable results.
Aims and Objectives: The present study was designed to evaluate the effect of dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to bupivacaine during interscalene block in terms of intraoperative hemodynamic changes and postoperative analgesia.
Materials and Methods: Thirty patients, aged 20–55 years of either sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I-II, scheduled for shoulder arthroscopic surgery for <2 h, were allocated into two equal groups to receive inj. bupivacaine (0.25%) with inj. dexmedetomidine 1 μg/kg (Group BD, n=15) or inj. bupivacaine (0.25%) with 1 mL normal saline (Group BS, n=15), total volume 20 mL in each case. After settlement of the interscalene block, both groups received general anesthesia as per standard protocol. Hemodynamic parameters (heart rate [HR] and systolic blood pressure [SBP]) were assessed in the intraoperative period, and postoperative pain was assessed using a visual analog scale score in the postoperative period at stipulated time points.
Results: The mean values of HR and SBP were considerably low at all observed time points in the intraoperative period (i.e., at 10 min, 30 min, 60 min, 90 min, and120 min), in comparison with the saline group (P<0.0001). VAS scores between the two groups were considerably lower only at 8, 12, and 18 h in patients receiving dexmedetomidine (P<0.001).
Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant with bupivacaine can achieve a better hemodynamic profile (lower HR and SBP) in the intraoperative period. Also, the use of dexmedetomidine provides better postoperative analgesia profiles in the later part of the postoperative period (8–18 h), and the effect usually wanes by 24 h.
Study on location of cerebral lesion among patients with hemorrhagic cerebrovascular accident
Authors: Chakraborty Nabanita , Banani Kundu  , Soham Chakraborty  , Prabir Kumar Kundu
Published: March 2024

Background: In hemorrhagic cerebrovascular accident, bleeding occurs directly into the brain parenchyma. Intracerebral hemorrhage usually occurs at certain sites in the brain, i.e., thalamus, putamen, cerebellum, and brain stem. The surrounding area of brain may be damaged by pressure produced by the mass effect of the hematoma. Increase in intracranial pressure occurs.
Aims and Objectives: The aim and objective of the study are to compare the localization of cerebral lesions with the frequency of intraventricular hemorrhage and to study the prognosis of hemorrhagic cerebrovascular accident (CVA) as per its anatomical location in computed tomography (CT) scan.
Materials and Methods: One-year observational cross-sectional study was conducted in 60 patients with CT scan diagnosed hemorrhagic CVA.
Results: Regarding the site of the hemorrhagic CVA, the most commonly affected area was basal ganglia (46.7%) followed by thalamus (18.3%); other areas include pons (8.3%), paraventricular (8.3%), cerebellar (6.7%), lobar (5%), internal capsule (3.3%), and intraventricular (3.3%).
Conclusion: This study reflects a spectrum of cerebral location of hemorrhagic stroke which may help in the management of hemorrhagic CVA patients.
A cadaveric study on prevalence, morphology, morphometry, and histology of os peroneum in the South Indian population
Authors: Jincy Raj C  , Lizamma Alex  , Gaddam Vijaya Lakshmi  , Nithin K Raju
Published: March 2024

Background: The complex framework of the human foot enables movement and weight support. The os peroneum (OP) is a sesamoid bone located in the tendon of peroneus longus. Though tiny, it plays crucial roles in foot movement and arch stability injuries to the tendon are significant, and the OP itself can fracture, dislocate, or impinge. Its presence, size, and even histological type influence the proper functioning of the foot. Studying this sesamoid bone, with its variable prevalence and morphology, can fill gaps in foot and ankle pathology research. 
Aims and Objectives: To analyze the prevalence, morphology, morphometry, and histology of OP in human adult cadavers in the South Indian population.
Materials and Methods: Forty-two formalin-fixed human adult cadaveric free lower limbs were selected and studied from the Department of Anatomy, Pushpagiri Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Tiruvalla, Kerala. The prevalence of OP in peroneus longus tendons (PLT) and its various configurations were carefully observed, along with their histological types, and then statistical analysis of the data was done using SPSS version 20.
Results: Thirty-nine out of the forty-two free lower limbs showed the presence of an OP bearing a smooth oval facet, except for one OP with a round facet. All OP were invariably present in the tunnel for PLT on the plantar surface of the cuboid bone. Three different histological types of this tissue were observed, i.e., osseous, cartilaginous, and fibrous.
Conclusion: The present study has attempted to fill the gap in the research data regarding OP in the adult South Indian population. In addition, the knowledge of OP and its configuration in PLT could provide a better radiological and clinical approach to mid- and fore-foot pathologies.
Clinical study of mesh repair in ventral hernia with comorbidities (diabetes mellitus and/or obesity and/or hypothyroidism) in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Madhu BS  , Madhura  , Divya Divya , Shilpa V
Published: March 2024

Background: Ventral hernias comprise the second-most common hernia presentation, or 21–35% of all hernia types in the surgical world. Ventral hernias include incisional, umbilical, epigastric, and spigelian hernias, among others. This study was undertaken to know the different clinical types, age incidence, and predisposing factors for ventral hernia and to study the complications.
Aims and Objectives: This study was undertaken to know the different clinical types, age incidence, and predisposing factors for ventral hernia and to study the complications.
Materials and Methods: Forty-five cases of ventral hernias treated were studied prospectively from January 2021 to June 2022, in which each patient was evaluated thoroughly and surgery was planned to obtain a satisfactory outcome. The distribution of ventral hernias with respect to age, sex, comorbidities, and risk was recorded. Common presenting symptoms of ventral hernias, diagnosis, and complications were studied. The data collected was entered in a proforma, tabulated, and statistically analyzed.
Results: Females were affected much more than males. Out of the three types of hernia that were studied, umbilical hernia showed more incidence (n=23/51%), followed by incisional hernia (n=15/33%), and epigastric hernia (n=7/16%). The most common age presentation was in the fourth and fifth decades. The most common type of mesh repair was pre-peritoneal repair in 28 (62%). The pain was relatively more common post-surgery complications, as noted in 11 (24%). In 100% of the cases, swelling was the complaint, followed by pain (18.8%). Obesity was the most common etiological factor in the development of ventral hernias (60%), followed by diabetes (35%).
Conclusion: The most common ventral hernia was an umbilical hernia. Ventral hernias are more common in females. Obesity and diabetes are observed to be the major predisposing risk factors. Good pre-operative evaluation and preparation, sound anatomical knowledge, and meticulous attention to surgical detail are the most important factors for the prevention of postoperative complications. In view of the limited period of follow-up, we were not in a position to comment on recurrence rates, but when proper surgical procedures are adopted along with pre-operative correction of comorbid factors, results will always be excellent.
Risk factor profile and extubation outcomes in critically ill patients. A single-center prospective observational study
Authors: Abdul Waheed  Mir  , Shafat A Mir  , Falak Ara  , Rashid Fazli  , Sahu Mushtaq  , M Akbar Shah  , Khalid Sofi
Published: March 2024

Background: The problem of extubation failure (EF) remains unexplored in low-resource settings, where predicting the extubation outcomes are more challenging.
Aims and Objectives: This study investigates the incidence of EF and its predictors among patients who received mechanical ventilation (MV) in a tertiary care intensive care unit (ICU).
Materials and Methods: This is a prospective observational study of 130 patients ≥18 years of age receiving MV for ≥48 h and tolerating spontaneous breathing trials in the ICU of a low-resource setting. We collected data on the baseline characteristics and clinical profiles. Patients were categorized into EF and extubation success (ES) groups. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent predictors for EF. A p value of <0.05 is considered statistically significant.
Results: We included 130 patients, and 43 (35.3%) had developed EF. The identified predictors for EF: Moderate to copious secretions (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 3.426 [95% confidence interval [CI] 1.281–10.82]), age >60 years of age ([AOR]: 4.135 [95% CI 1.294–11.93]), and prolonged duration of MV ≥10 days ([AOR]: 4.571 [95% CI 1.392–15.33]).
Conclusion: Moderate to copious secretions, patients >60 years of age, and prolonged duration of MV ≥10 days were the best predictors of EF.
Comparison of different methods of local anesthesia for platelet rich plasma injections to scalp in patients with hair loss - A prospective study
Authors: Vishnu Sundar Ramachandran  , Singaravelu Viswanathan  , Sivakumar Krithiga
Published: March 2024

Background: Platelet-rich plasma injection (PRP) for hair loss is a widely accepted treatment modality at present. The most common problem with PRP is the pain that is associated with the procedure. The type of anesthesia is decided mostly based on preference rather than protocol.
Aims and Objectives: The current study was undertaken to establish a standardized anesthetic protocol for PRP based on the response of the patients undergoing the treatment plan.
Materials and Methods: The study included 60 patients who underwent four sittings of PRP at 1-month intervals for hair loss treatment. The modality of anesthesia was different during each of the sessions - topical anesthesia, vibration anesthesia, nerve block, and ring block. The order of anesthetic modality was different in each patient, to avoid bias. Responses by the patients for the following questions related to anesthetic pain during the procedure was recorded and analyzed based on the type of anesthetic procedure adopted.
Results: Vibration anesthesia had the highest mean intra procedure numerical pain scale value. Nerve block was the least acceptable modality with maximal problems including the pain of the local anesthetic injection and the unsightly visible bulge in the supra orbital region. Post procedural pain was highest for vibration anesthesia and least for ring block. Highest acceptance was seen with the ring block technique.
Conclusion: This is a preliminary study aimed at standardizing the anesthetic protocol for PRP. This modality of treatment involves multiple sittings with long total duration. Improving patient comfort with adequate anesthesia will improve compliance to a great extent.
Examining the Impact of Quality Service on Customer Satisfaction in the Emerging Landscape of Online Clothing Retail in Nepal
Authors: Manandhar Raju Bhai , Karki Tej Bahadur , Manandhar Erika , Khadka Kalpana
Published: March 2024

Online clothing retailers, both domestic and international, offer a wide range of brands at affordable prices, catering to the preferences of the young generation. This study aims to examine the association and effect of quick delivery service, price quotations, and quality products and services with customer satisfaction in online clothing stores in Nepal. The study employed analytical research designs. The study targeted customers involved in online clothing shopping as the theoretical population. The 140 respondents were selected through snowball sampling. Primary data have been collected by using online questionnaire surveys. The study adopted descriptive statistics like mean, standard deviation, covariance, independent sample t-test, and inferential statistics such as correlation and regression to analyze and interpret the data. This study explored online clothing purchases, finding no significant gender differences in perceptions. Positive correlations between key variables, such as price quotations, quick delivery service, and quality products, suggested their impact on customer satisfaction. Regression analysis confirmed significant associations with customer satisfaction, emphasizing the primacy of product quality and service delivery except pricing. The study recommends prioritizing these factors to boost online clothing sales, highlighting their crucial influence on customer satisfaction in the digital retail landscape.
Study of Linear Model Fitting and Distribution Analysis on Random Numbers Generated in Fortran
Authors: Neupane Rajendra , Rai Krishna Bahadur
Published: March 2024

In this study, we employed Fortran 90 programming to generate pseudorandom numbers ranging from 0 to 1 at various sample sizes (n = 1000, 500, 250, 125, 63, 32, 16, 8). Subsequently, linear fitting models were applied to the generated data. Our findings indicated that the higher sample size of n=1000 yielded the least asymptotic standard error for both slope ‘a’ and intercept ‘b’ parameters in the linear equation. We observed a decrease in the sum of squares of residuals as the sample size (n) decreased, indicating that the linear model also provided a better fit to the data with smaller sample sizes. The consistent nature of the kernel density estimate plots suggests that as the sample size increases, the estimation becomes more precise and less affected by random noise or sampling variability, further enhancing the reliability of the estimated PDF.
Nepal's Legal Framework against Sexual Harassment: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Sharma Tribhuwon , Aryal Bhagwan , Pokhrel Mahesh , Shrestha Roselini
Published: March 2024

Background:  This in-depth analysis delves into Nepal's remarkable evolution in combatting and preventing sexual harassment through legal provisions. The review meticulously explores the policies articulated by the Nepal Law Commission, which have played a pivotal role in shaping the nation's approach to addressing and preventing sexual harassment.

Objective: It aimed to explore key legislative acts, amendments, and special provisions that set Nepal apart in the fight against sexual harassment, emphasizing the country's commitment to fostering safe and respectful environments.

Methods: The website of the Nepal Law Commission was the main information source, where 19 pertinent legislation pertaining to sexual harassment were carefully examined. Manual literature searches, desk reviews, and narrative reviews were used to synthesize the content. Both commonalities and distinct approaches were highlighted through a careful review and analysis of the specific sexual harassment-related laws of Nepal and comparison made in with neighboring South Asian countries.

Results: In comparison to South Asian countries, Nepal has a strong legal system that reflects its unwavering commitment to ending sexual harassment. It has a wide variety of legislation that places an emphasis on accessibility and inclusion. Nepal's legal landscape is commended for its clarity, inclusivity, and proactive measures, while challenges such as potential overlaps among laws and the need for integrated coordination are recognized.

Conclusions: The article emphasizes the continuous evolution and refinement of Nepal's legal framework, underscoring the importance of ongoing efforts, public awareness, and international collaboration in shaping effective and inclusive policies against sexual harassment.
A REVIEW OF STEEL SLAG AS A SUBSTITUTE FOR NATURAL AGGREGATE APPLIED TO CONCRETE COLUMNS
Authors: Ali Zahraa Hayder , Abdul-Hameed Nibras N.
Published: March 2024

There are severe ecological imbalances from both carbon emissions and sand mining. Steel slag can be used as an aggregate in concrete to enhance the environment and conserve natural resources because of the impact of depleting resources. The paper's main aim is to investigate the appropriateness of steel slag as an aggregate substitute and determine its impact on the behavior and durability properties of columns subjected to various circumstances and loads. After discussing slag and its properties, its effects on plain concrete were reviewed, followed by its effects on concrete columns. Previous studies indicate that columns made with steel slag aggregate concrete have comparable initial stiffness, strength, and flexibility as regular concrete. For columns with fine steel slag aggregates, the conventional section design approach can be used as an option for the design method. The European standard for stub columns filled with steel slag aggregate concrete under compression is more accurate than the American standard, which is circumspect.
PERFORMANCE OF SCREW HORIZONTAL AND BRIDGE LINKAGE PHOTOVOLTAIC ARRAY CONFIGURATIONS
Authors: Subhi Mohammed Osamah , Majeed Wafaa Saeed
Published: March 2024

Due to partial shading effects on the productivity of solar panels which in turn negatively impacts the performance characteristics of photovoltaic systems, researchers work on different studies to overcome this phenomenon and improve solar system productivity. Therefore, this study aims to investigate different techniques to enhance the output power, fill factor, and efficiency of the PV system by reducing the number of local maximum power peaks, power losses, and mismatch losses. The configurations include a novel static reconfiguration technique, called a Screw Horizontal photovoltaic array, and a recently developed technique known as a Bridge Linkage array. Both of these are modeled using MATLAB/Simulink software and examined during six shading patterns. The novelty of this study is that we combined the above static reconfiguration technique with another modern technique called blocking and bypass diode technology to prevent the effect of reverse current and hotspot phenomena respectively. According to the results, the Bridge Linkage configuration performs the most efficiently under partial shading conditions compared to the Screw horizontal PV array configuration.
Reported Cases of Reincarnation and Social Construction – Understanding Past Life Claims through Socio Cultural Perspectives
Authors: Mazumder Moumita
Published: March 2024

This paper tried to look for factors responsible for repeated past life claims among children. This paper also tried to understand social function of the phenomena of reincarnation and its contribution towards a particular community. Interviews are conducted with six subjects and both their present family members and past life family members are also interviewed. Children started claiming previous life between three to five years of age. All of them showed dissociative tendencies which encouraged the parents look for past life of their child. Apart from that, it was found that child, parents, their families and community took an active role in this whole process. Religious and cultural belief also act as a catalyst in this process. It was also found that reincarnation is serving societal needs and acting as a therapeutic resource for those members who lost their near ones in tragic incident.
ЗМІНА ЦІННІСНИХ ПРІОРИТЕТІВ ГРОМАДЯН УКРАЇНИ В УМОВАХ ЕКЗИСТЕНЦІЙНИХ ЗАГРОЗ
Authors: Шайгородський Юрій
Published: March 2024

У статті досліджуються процеси зміни ціннісних пріоритетів українських громадян під впливом повномасштабного російського воєнного вторгнення в Україну. Показано, що в умовах екзистенційної загрози відбуваються кардинальні зміни структури ціннісних орієнтацій, переосмислюється значущість загальнолюдських і демократичних цінностей, цінності держави та її територіальної цілісності. Наголошується на тому, що консолідація українського суспільства стала його відповіддю на російську воєнну агресію.

Здійснено аналіз морально-психологічних складових сучасних суспільно-політичних процесів. Розкрито поняття ціннісно-орієнтаційної єдності як показника рівня близькості оцінок, установок, цінностей та позицій стосовно суспільно значущих подій та процесів, ключової характеристики системи соціальних зв’язків, регулятора поведінки та орієнтира вибору поведінкових моделей в умовах екзистенційних загроз. Виокремлено чинники, які впливають на рівень ціннісно-орієнтаційної єдності громадян України. Проаналізовано структуру та динаміку змін ціннісних орієнтацій під впливом війни, виокремлено домінантні на нинішньому етапі державотворення цінності. Показано, що основними чинниками консолідації українського соціуму в умовах екзистенційних загроз є його здатність до самоорганізації та суспільної мобілізації, впевненість у перемозі та соціальний оптимізм. Акцентовано, що спроможність суспільства до єднання та самоорганізації є результатом досвіду соціальної взаємодії, набутого в процесі становлення та розбудови громадянського суспільства в Україні, свідченням політичної зрілості громадян.
СОЦІАЛЬНА НАПРУЖЕНІСТЬ: ЗМІНИ В УМОВАХ ВІЙНИ
Authors: Остапенко Марина
Published: March 2024

Стаття є аналізом змісту соціальної напруженості як характеристики стану суспільства та її динаміки в умовах війни. Окреслений феномен розглянуто як індикатор проблем у відносинах, комунікації між різними учасниками політичного і суспільного життя; як наслідок і реакцію суспільства та людини на вплив різних чинників, серед яких політичні, соціально-економічні, національні, культурні та інші. Акцентується увага на особливості прояву соціальної напруженості в умовах криз та війни. Вказано, що в українському суспільстві спостерігається нині нашарування цих умов, що викликає стан тривалої, «хронічної» соціальної напруженості. Війна кардинально змінила звичний соціальний і політичний порядок, вплинула на обмеженість реалізації функцій соціальних і політичних інститутів. Також згадані умови позначилися на психологічному стані як суспільства, так і окремих громадян, загострили почуття тривоги, страху, невизначеності тощо. Разом із цими почуттями, соціологічні дослідження фіксують в українців і почуття надії та оптимізму, які є не лише не втраченими, а є живильною основою віри в перемогу України, надають сил для продовження боротьби за право бути незалежною, демократичною державою, зміцнюють стійкість українського суспільства. Наголошується на важливості розробки шляхів мінімізації негативних наслідків і розповсюдження в суспільстві «хронічного» стану соціальної напруженості, що потребує об'єднання зусиль науковців, представників органів державної влади, медіа, громадянського суспільства. Визначаються перспективні напрями дослідження соціальної напруженості в умовах війни.
ВПЛИВ ЕПІДЕМІЇ COVID-19 НА СОЦІАЛІЗАЦІЮ ТА БЕЗПЕКУ МОЛОДІ
Authors: Карнаух Анна , Свірідов Віталій , Удалов Іван
Published: March 2024

Актуальність теми статті полягає у розгляді взаємозв’язку безпекових і соціально-політичних проблем, які мали місце під час пандемії COVID-19, обмежень і можливостей, які виникли у цей період. Епідемія COVID-19 швидко переросла у загрозу планетарного рівня та набула ознак пандемії. Проблеми, що розглянуті у статті, є актуальними задля забезпечення безпеки молоді, її соціально-політичної активності, можливостей політичної та громадянської соціалізації, а відтак і для безпеки й розвитку усього суспільства у майбутньому. Багато вчених досі приділяють увагу пандемії та її наслідкам для суспільства, зокрема, молоді. Наразі невідомо, чи зіштовхнеться людство знову з подібною загрозою таких масштабів, чи вистачить стійкості політичним, суспільним, державним інститутам у такому разі. Вивчення шляхів до подолання численних загроз під час пандемії та спроби допомогти і забезпечити молодь усім необхідним задля нормального її розвитку є важливими завданнями для політик у сфері освіти, медицини, економічного розвитку, національної безпеки та інших. Мета статті полягає у розгляді та ознайомленні читача з проблемами пандемії COVID-19, які позначилися на суспільно-політичному житті молодих людей. Особливої уваги надано науковим дослідженням, які відображають вплив пандемії на психічне становище молодого покоління та проблем його соціалізації, що відображається й на громадсько-політичних відносинах і процесах. У статті також розглянуті проблеми кризи матеріального та культурного становища молоді. Увага приділяється організації навчального процесу під час встановлених епідемічних обмежень, проаналізовано її наслідки для молоді. Охарактеризовано стан молоді під час епідемії у взаємозв’язку кількох факторів: навчання, соціалізації, матеріального забезпечення, емоційної атмосфери.
ПОЛІТИЧНІ НАСЛІДКИ ГЛОБАЛІЗАЦІЇ ІНФОРМАЦІЙНОГО ПРОСТОРУ
Authors: Побочій Роман
Published: March 2024

Стаття присвячена дослідженню важливого аспекту сучасного суспільства – політичним наслідкам глобалізації інформаційного простору. В контексті швидкого розвитку технологій та безпрецедентної доступності інформації, цей аспект набуває особливої актуальності, оскільки сучасний світ переживає нові виклики та можливості у сфері політики та суспільства загалом. Автор пропонує широкий огляд впливу глобалізації на поширення та обробку інформації в політичному контексті. Важливим фокусом дослідження є аналіз зростання доступності інформації та його роль у формуванні глобальної свідомості. Медіа, соціальні мережі та інші платформи відіграють значну роль у створенні об'єднаної світової свідомості.

Додатково досліджуються важливі аспекти впливу глобальних акторів, як міжнародні корпорації та неурядові організації, на політичні процеси. Ці суб'єкти здатні впливати на політичні рішення та громадську думку завдяки своїй глобальній присутності та ресурсам. Важливо аналізувати роль цих акторів у зміні політичного ландшафту та їх вплив на прийняття ключових рішень. Стаття приділяє значну увагу аналізу кіберзагроз та інформаційної безпеки в політичному контексті. Зростання кібернетичних загроз та ризиків для національної безпеки вимагає ретельного вивчення та вдосконалення стратегій кібербезпеки для ефективного функціонування політичних систем.

Важливою частиною дослідження є також аналіз впливу глобалізації інформаційного простору на розвиток демократії та зміну парадигми зв'язку між владою та громадянами. Розглядається, як можливо використовувати глобалізацію для сприяння участі громадян у прийнятті політичних рішень, як вона може позитивно вплинути на розвиток демократичних процесів. Стаття пропонує розглянути важливі виклики та можливості, які глобалізація інформаційного простору вносить у сучасний політичний ландшафт. Розуміння цих наслідків відкриває двері до змін та адаптації у сфері політики, сприяючи збалансованому та демократичному розвитку суспільства.
QUALIDADE TECNOLÓGICA DE GRÃOS DE FEIJOEIRO ESPECIAL DURANTE O ARMAZENAMENTO
Authors: Cavalcante Adailza Guilherme , Meirelles Flávia Constantino , Filla Vinicius Augusto , Cavalcante Alian Cássio Pereira , Lemos Leandro Borges
Published: March 2024

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito do armazenamento dos grãos de feijoeiro especial em temperatura ambiente sobre as características qualitativas. Foram utilizados nove cultivares de feijoeiro com grãos especiais: BRS Radiante, BRSMG Realce, BRS Pitanga, BRSMG Tesouro, BRS Marfim, BRSMG União, IAC Tigre, EPAMIG Ouro vermelho e EPAMIG Ouro da mata, durante cinco períodos de armazenamento: recém-colhido, 60, 120, 180 e 240 dias após o armazenamento, com exceção do teor de proteína bruta dos grãos que foram avaliados em três períodos (recém-colhido, 120 e 240 dias). Os grãos foram acondicionados em embalagens plásticas fechadas (15,5 x 12 cm), com 1,5 kg de grãos, utilizando-se quatro repetições por cultivar e armazenados em condição ambiente. Foram avaliados: umidade dos grãos, teor de proteína bruta, tempo de cocção, tempo de máxima hidratação, relação de hidratação, embebição antes do cozimento, expansão volumétrica e grãos inteiros após o cozimento. O período de armazenamento influenciou nos parâmetros avaliados em todas as cultivares utilizadas. Há redução das características tecnológicas dos grãos com o período de armazenamento, com exceção do teor de umidade, tempo de cocção e relação de hidratação. Os grãos armazenados a partir dos 120 dias aumentam o tempo de cocção e a relação de hidratação.
Palavras-chave: segurança alimentar; Phaseolus vulgaris L.; temperatura ambiente.
 
Technological quality of special bean grains during storage
 
ABSTRACT: The objective was to evaluate the effect of storage of special bean grains at room temperature on the qualitative characteristics. Nine bean cultivars with special grains were used: BRS Radiante, BRSMG Realce, BRS Pitanga, BRSMG Treasury, BRS Marfim, BRSMG União, IAC Tigre, EPAMIG Ouro Vermelho and EPAMIG Ouro da mata, during five storage periods: freshly harvested, 60, 120, 180 and 240 days after storage, except the crude protein content of the grains, which were evaluated in three periods (newly harvested, 120 and 240 days). The grains were packed in closed plastic packages (15.5 x 12 cm), with 1.5 kg of grain, using four replications per cultivar and stored in ambient conditions. The following were evaluated: grain moisture, crude protein content, cooking time, maximum hydration time, hydration ratio, soaking before cooking, volumetric expansion and whole grains after cooking. The storage period influenced the parameters evaluated in all cultivars used. There is a reduction in the technological characteristics of the grains with the storage period, except for the moisture content, cooking time and hydration ratio. Grains stored after 120 days increase the cooking time and hydration ratio.
Keywords: food safety; Phaseolus vulgaris L.; room temperature.