bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Teaching the Inevitable: Embracing a Pedagogy of Failure
Authors: Eckstein Lydia E. , Finaret Amelia B. , Whitenack Lisa B.
Published: May 2023

Failure is often taken as a given in higher education, as an inevitable part of learning new things. Yet, it remains a part of learning that students tend to fear, and faculty tend to neglect. As faculty, we do not always strategize with or leverage our students’ struggles and failures for improved learning. Instead, we hope that students learn from their mistakes and study harder or try harder the next time, because moving on with material in class is necessary to meet learning objectives. In this article, we outline several strategies for using failure advantageously for promoting student growth and learning, and to minimize the stigma of struggle in academia. We make concrete suggestions and outline strategies and resources for faculty to incorporate a “pedagogy of failure” into their work with students and we describe structural barriers to using failure strategically in higher education.
Hubungan Health Literacy dengan Pola Menyusui pada Ibu Nifas
Authors: Fatmawati Atikah , Suhartanti Ika , Rahmawati Diana Eka
Published: May 2023

Latar Belakang: Makanan terbaik bagi bayi adalah Air Susu Ibu (ASI), karena mengandung zat gizi lengkap, higienis, dan aman. Pemberian ASI tidak lepas dari pola menyusui yang diterapkan. Salah satu faktor yang menentukan penerapan pola menyusui pada ibu sesuai kebutuhan bayi adalah Health Literacy (HL).
Tujuan: Mengetahui hubungan health literacy dengan pola menyusui pada ibu nifas di Rumah Sakit Lavalette Malang.
Metode: Jenis penelitian yang digunakan adalah studi cross-sectional. Populasi penelitian adalah seluruh ibu nifas. Teknik sampling yang digunakan adalah quota sampling, dengan jumlah 30 responden. Data dikumpulkan dengan menggunakan kuesioner Short-Form Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLS-SF-12Q) dan kuesioner pola menyusui. Data kemudian dianalisis menggunakan uji spearman-rank (α<0,05). 
Hasil: Hasil penelitian didapatkan sebagian besar responden memiliki HL (56,7%) dan pola menyusui (56,7%) dalam kategori baik. Berdasarkan perhitungan uji statistik didapatkan p value=0,012, maka ada hubungan yang signifikan antara HL dengan pola menyusui pada ibu nifas. Nilai koefisien korelasi didapatkan 0,455 yang menunjukkan kekuatan hubungan bersifat sedang.
Kesimpulan: Dengan memiliki HL yang baik, ibu dapat menerapkan pola menyusui yang tepat, memilih durasi, frekuensi, serta posisi menyusui yang baik, sehingga memberikan dampak positif selama proses menyusui. Hal tersebut juga mengurangi peluang gagal ASI eksklusif. Tenaga kesehatan disarankan untuk lebih masif memberikan edukasi terkait pola menyusui dan penerapannya, serta meningkatkan HL dengan cara bijak dan positif.
Kejadian Obesitas dan Hubungannya dengan Defisiensi Fe pada Anak Usia Sekolah: Tinjauan Sistematis
Authors: Ayu Wilis Cahyaning , Nathania Devina , Ikhwanurrosida Rahmatya , Rahayu Nadhiroh Siti
Published: May 2023

Latar Belakang: Masalah kesehatan gizi di masyarakat menjadi topik krusial yang banyak dilaporakan baik pada negara maju dan berkembang. Kejadian defisiensi Fe pada anak-anak banyak dikaitkan dengan kondisi obesitas termasuk juga kelebihan berat badan (overweight), namun hubungan antar keduanya saat ini masih diidentifikasi lebih lanjut.
Tujuan: Mengidentifikasi hubungan antara obesitas pada anak usia sekolah (7-19 tahun) dengan defisiensi Fe serta parameter spesifik yang digunakan melalui tinjauan sistematik.
Metode: Penelitian ini dilakukan dengan tinjauan sistematis menggunakan tiga database yaitu PubMed, scopus dan scienceDirect. Strategi pencarian literatur dilakukan dengan Covidence software dengan memasukkan kriteria inklusi dan eksklusi yang telah ditetapkan. Lima literatur terpilih dari rentang tahun 2015 hingga 2021.
Ulasan: Kekurangan Fe didefinisikan sebagai adanya dua atau lebih nilai abnormal dari parameter berikut: (i) serum ferritin (SF) <15µg/L (ii) serum iron (SI) <10.7 µmol/l; (iii) Total iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) >62,7 µmol/l; dan (iv) %Transferrin Saturation (%Tsat) <15%. Defisiensi Fe pada kondisi obesitas terjadi melalui peningkatan mekanisme proinflamasi dan peran leptin yang dapat menurunkan ketersediaan serta penyerapan Fe dalam tubuh. Parameter (sTfR) Soluble Transferrin Receptor digunakan sebagai parameter terbaik untuk mengidentifikasi defisiensi Fe pada individu obesitas sedangkan (SF) Serum Ferritin memiliki keterbatasan sebagai indikator status besi pada anak obesitas.
Kesimpulan: Temuan ini menunjukkan bahwa kejadian obesitas pada anak-anak dapat menyebabkan peningkatan resiko defisiensi Fe. Masalah kekurangan zat besi dan obesitas menjadi masalah kesehatan masyarakat yang memiliki efek kesehatan jangka pendek dan panjang yang merugikan, terlebih anak usia sekolah yang berada pada fase pertumbuhan dan perkembangan kognitif. Parameter sTfR secara signifikan tidak dipengaruhi oleh peradangan karena adipositas sehingga dapat membedakan defisiensi Fe dari hipoferromie inflamasi.
The Exploratory Sequential Design With Generalized Linear Models for the Learning Strategy Analysis
Authors: Zhang Zhidong , Ramos Liza
Published: May 2023

The researchers explored a mixed methods research design through the analysis of a set of interview data.  Saldana’s model was utilized to complete the opening coding data and thematic coding data. Three themes were recognized to support the cooperative learning models. These included: a) Knowing by Undergone Events and Contexts, b) Implementation and Action, and c) Opinions and Perceptions, which consisted of a Cooperative Learning Model (CLM). The frequencies of the terms and phrases consisted of the evidence variables. A generalized linear model (GeLM) was utilized to examine the relationship between the three themes and Cooperative Learning Model. The GeLM analysis reported the relationships between the CLM and three themes. This was a new practice to integrate Saldana’s qualitative data analysis and the GeLM into one mixed methods design.
The Effect of Mindfulness on Aggressive Behavior: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Utami Yasmin Adlina Heraputri , Yudiarso Ananta
Published: May 2023

Aggressive behavior is a concerning issue that requires attention because of its negative effects on victims. It can manifest in various forms and can be carried out by anyone, at any time. The reasons and conditions that contribute to this behavior are closely linked to an individual’s level of mindfulness. Previous studies have shown that mindfulness can minimize this aggressive behavior. Therefore, this meta-analysis study aims to examine the effect of mindfulness on aggressive behavior. It involves 17 scientific studies with 6,722 respondents. The entire results showed a negative relationship between mindfulness and aggressive behavior. The study obtained an effect-sized result of -.270 with 95% Cl [-.336, -.205] and I2 of 83.89%. This implies that mindfulness and aggression behavior have a small effect size due to other variables, factors, and mediators. These other variables and moderators need to be included in future studies to describe other factors more related to this behavior. Furthermore, similar studies need to be added to confirm the correlation between mindfulness and aggression behavior.
Deep Learning based Paddy Leaf Disease Identification
Authors:   Department of CSE,RNS Institute of Technology Bangalore,India ,, A N RamyaShree , L Anusha ,   Department of CSE,RNS Institute of Technology Bangalore,India, P Jyoti ,   Department of CSE,RNS Institute of Technology Bangalore,India
Published: May 2023

Paddy is one of the most important agricultural commodities in the world with a number of cuisines scattered across the globe, which are incomplete without it. In developing countries like India, paddy has spurred agriculture driven growth in the past century, when export of agricultural produce was the major source of foreign exchange. At times, the prices face a blow from the demand side, while at times facing drastic conditions on the supply side. In such years, farmers often cannot afford the services of agricultural consultants for tasks such as detection of leaf diseases and addressing them at the earliest. The solution we have proposed, is a low cost system that uses CNN Algorithm to detect leaf diseases in the leaves of paddy plants with an average 93.27% accuracy to make things easier for both the farmers as well as consumers, since this would balance the prices at a median price, which is both profit-earning for farmers as well as affordable to the consumers at all times of the year.
Study of Clustering Methods in Data Mining
Authors:   Assistant Professor, HOD PG& Research Department of Computer Science, St.Josephs College of Arts and Science, Cuddalore, Mr M.Arumaiselvam , Ms R.Anitajesi ,   M.phil Scholar, St.Josephs College of Arts and Science, Cuddalore
Published: May 2023

A study will be made on the various clustering methods. Method of grouping set of physical or abstract objects into classes of similar objects is called as clustering. Splitting a data set into groups such that the similarity within a group is larger than among groups are done by clustering algorithm. This paper discusses about few types of clustering methods- Partitioning methods, Hierarchical methods, Density-based methods, Grid-based method, Model based methods, Constraint based methods.
Study on Data Mining Techniques for Cancer Prediction System
Authors:   Assistant Professor, Jecintha Roseline , Ms Poonguzhali ,   PG & Research Department of Computer Applications, St.Josephs College of Arts & Science, Cuddalore
Published: May 2023

Cancer occurs when changes called mutations obtain situate in genes that control cell growth. The mutations permit the cells to divide and multiply in an uncontrolled, hectic way. The cells are multiplying, producing copies that obtain increasingly more abnormal. In the majority cases, the cell copies finally form a tumor. Cancer is the most vital reason for death in the world. The most of common cancers diagnosed in the world are those of the breast, lung, and blood cancers. The prognosis of different cancer is extremely variable. Several cancers are curable with early detection and treatment. Cancers that are aggressive at a later stage may be more difficult to cure. Knowledge Discovery in the database (KDD), which includes data mining techniques are has been used in healthcare. This study paper we have discussed various data mining techniques that have been utilized for the breast cancer, lung cancer, blood cancer. We focus on present research being carried out using the data mining approach to enhance the breast, lung, blood cancers risk factors are diagnosis and prognosis.
A Model That Reproduces an Empirical Rule Distinguishing the Developmental Path of Complete Hox Gene Clusters From Split Clusters
Authors: Papageorgiou Spyros
Published: May 2023

Abstract: Hox gene clusters are crucial in Embryogenesis. It was observed that some Hox genes were located in order along the telomeric to centromeric direction of the DNA sequence: Hox1, Hox2, Hox3…. These genes were expressed in the same order in the ontogenetic units of the Drosophila embryo along the Anterior-Posterior axis. The two entities (genome and embryo) differ significantly in linear size and in-between distance. This strange phenomenon was named Spatial Collinearity (SP). Later, it was observed that, particularly in the Vertebrates, a Temporal Collinearity (TC) coexists: first is Hox1 expressed, later Hox2 and even later Hox3,…,. Hox clusters are irreversibly elongated along the force direction. According to a Biophysical Model (BM), pulling forces act at the anterior end of the cluster while a cluster fastening applies at the posterior end. During Evolution, the elongated Hox clusters are broken at variable lengths thus split clusters may be created. An Empirical Rule was formulated distinguishing development due to a complete Hox cluster from development due to split Hox clusters. BM can explain this Empirical Rule. In an accidental mutation where the cluster fastening is dismantled, a minimal pulling force can automatically shift the cluster inside the Hox activation domain. This cluster translocation can probably explain the absence of temporal collinearity in Drosophila.
Coexistence of Thread and Sheet Chaotic Attractors for Three Dimensional Lozi Map
Authors: LOZI René
Published: May 2023

Since its original publication 1 in 1978, Lozi’s chaotic map has been thoroughly explored and continues to be. Hundreds of publications analyze its particular structure or apply its properties in many fields (electronic devices like memristor, A.I. with swarm intelligence, etc.). Several generalizations have been proposed, transforming the initial two-dimensional map into multidimensional one. However, they do not respect the original constraint that allows this map to be one of the few strictly hyperbolic: a constant Jacobian. In this paper we introduce a three-dimensional piece-wise linear extension respecting this constraint and we explore a special property never highlighted for chaotic mappings: the coexistence of thread-chaotic attractors (i.e., attractors which are formed by collection of lines) and sheet-chaotic attractors (i.e., attractors which are formed by collection of planes). This new 3-dimensional mapping can generate a large variety of chaotic and hyperchaotic attractors. We give five examples of such behavior in this article. In the first three examples, there is coexistence of thread and sheet-chaotic attractors. However, their shape are different and they are constituted by a different number of pieces. In the two last examples, the blow up of the attractors with respect to parameter a and b is highlighted.
The Psychological Impact of Covid-19: A National Survey among Iranian Citizens
Authors: Abolfathi Momtaz Yadollah , Zanjari Nasibeh , Delbari Ahmad , Forughan Mahshid
Published: May 2023

Identifying the psychological impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the general population can help with planning and preparing for future pandemics. The main objective of the current study was to examine the psychological impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic among Iranian citizens in 2021. The current study used an online cross-sectional survey via web-based questionnaires among Iranian citizens. Perceived feelings during the COVID-19 pandemic were measured by the validated self-reported inventory by Reynolds et al, 2007. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including percent, mean, and standard deviation, as well as inferential statistics, including, correlation, chi-square, independent t-test, and analysis of variances (ANOVA) by SPSS.22. The average age of the respondents was 34.62 (±11.86). The most frequent feelings experienced by Iranian citizens were boredom (44.0%), nostalgia (40.6%), anxiety (35.3%), and nervousness (34.1%). Female participants, younger respondents, unemployed, single individuals, and those living in the urban areas experienced significantly higher levels of the negative feelings. The results of the study showed the high prevalence of the psychological effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in Iranian citizens, particularly among women, single, and unemployed people. Therefore, we need to develop more supportive and consultative packages for future pandemics as well as implement psychological rehabilitation after the crises.
The Impact of COVID-19 on the Epidemiology and Outcomes of Candidemia: A Retrospective Study from a Tertiary Care Center in Lebanon
Authors: El Zakhem Aline , Mahmoud Omar , Zakhour Johnny , Nahhal Sarah B. , El Ghawi Nour , Omran Nadine , El Sheikh Walaa G. , Tamim Hani , Kanj Souha S.
Published: May 2023

Invasive fungal infections, notably candidemia, have been associated with COVID-19. The epidemiology of candidemia has significantly changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. We aim to identify the microbiological profile, resistance rates, and outcomes of COVID-19 associated candidemia (CAC) compared to patients with candidemia not associated with COVID-19. We retrospectively collected data on patients with candidemia admitted to the American University of Beirut Medical Center between 2004 and 2022. We compared the epidemiology of candidemia during and prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, we compared the outcomes of critically ill patients with CAC to those with candidemia without COVID-19 from March 2020 till March 2022. Among 245 candidemia episodes, 156 occurred prior to the pandemic and 89 during the pandemic. Of the latter, 39 (43.8%) were CAC, most of which (82%) were reported from intensive care units (ICU). Non-albicans Candida (NAC) spp. were predominant throughout the study period (67.7%). Candida auris infection was the most common cause of NAC spp. in CAC. C. glabrata had decreased susceptibility rates to fluconazole and caspofungin during the pandemic period (46.1% and 38.4% respectively). Mortality rate in the overall ICU population during the pandemic was 76.6%, much higher than the previously reported mortality of candidemia from previous studies at our center. There was no significant difference in 30-day mortality between CAC and non-CAC (75.0% vs 78.1%; P =0.76). Performing ophthalmic examination (P = 0.002), CVC removal during the 48 hours following the candidemia (P = 0.008) and identifying the Candida spp. (P = 0.028) were significantly associated with a lower case-fatality rate. The epidemiology of candidemia has been significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic at our center. Rigorous infection control measures and proper antifungal stewardship are essential to combat highly resistant species like C. auris.
Clinical, Genetic, and Epidemiological Characteristics of Ar-Rhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy Associated With the Pathogenic Founder Variant NP_00454563.2 (p.Glu259Glyfs*77) in Gene PKP2
Authors: Robles-Mezcua Ainhoa , Ruiz-Salas Amalio , Medina-Palomo Carmen , Robles-Mezcua María , Díaz-Expósito Arancha , Ortega-Jiménez María Victoria , Gimeno-Blanes Juan Ramón , Jiménez-Navarro Manuel , García-Pinilla José Manuel
Published: May 2023

Introduction and objectives: arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is a hereditary heart disease defined by the progressive replacement of the ventricular myocardium with fibroadipose tissue, which can act as a substrate for arrhythmias, sudden death, or even give rise to heart failure (HF). Sudden death is frequently the first manifestation of the disease, particularly among young patients. The aim of this study is to describe a new pathogenic variant in the PKP2 gene. Methods: A descriptive observational study that included 8 initially non-interrelated families with a diagnosis of ACM undergoing follow-up at our HF and Familial Cardiomyopathies Unit, who were carriers of the NM_004572.3:c.775_776insG; p. (Glu259Glyfs*77) variant in PKP2 gene. The genetic testing employed next-generation sequencing for the index cases, and the Sanger method for the targeted study with family members. We compiled personal and family histories, demographic and clinical characteristics, data from the additional tests at the time of diagnosis, and arrhythmic events at diagnosis and during follow-up. Results: We included 47 subjects, of whom 8 were index cases (17%). Among the evaluated family members, 16 (34%) were carriers of the genetic variant, 3 of whom also had a diagnosis of ACM. The majority were women (26 patients; 55.3%), with a mean age on diagnosis of 48.9 ± 18.6 years, and a median follow-up of 39 [24-59] months. Worthy of note are the high incidence of arrhythmic events as the form of presentation and in follow-up (21.5% and 20.9% respectively), and the onset of HF in 25% of the sample. The most frequent ventricular involvements were right (4 patients 16.7%) and biventricular (4 patients 16.7%); we found no statistical differences in any of the variables analysed. Conclusions: This variant is a pathogenic variant of gene PKP2 that has not previously been described and is not present in the control groups associated with ACM. It has incomplete penetrance, a highly variable phenotypic expressivity, and was identified in 8 families of our geographical area in Malaga (Andalusia, Spain), where we can establish a founder effect and describe the clinical and risk characteristics.
Multitouch Options
Authors: Guillaume Tristan
Published: May 2023

In this article, the multitouch option, also called the n  touch option (or the “baseball” option when

n  3 ) is analyzed and valued in closed form. This is a kind of barrier option that sets a gradual knockout / knock-in mechanism based on the number of times the underlying asset has crossed a predefined barrier in various time intervals before expiry. The higher the number of predefined time intervals during which the barrier has been touched, the lower the value of a knock-out contract at expiry, and conversely for a knock-in one. Multitouch options can be viewed as an extension of step barrier options, preserving the ability of the latter to adjust the exposure to risk over time, while eliminating the notorious danger of “sudden death” that holders of step barrier options are faced with. Unlike occupation time derivatives, the payoff at expiry does not depend on the amount of time spent outside the authorized range, but on the number of passages beyond the authorized range.
Impact of Climate Change on Phenology of Entomophilous Plants and Honey Bee (Apis mellifera L.)
Authors: Romanovskaja Danuta , Baksiene Eugenija , Razukas Almantas
Published: May 2023

Changes in the dates of phenological phases of plants and insects reflect changes in climate. The aim of the study was to determine the phenological patterns and interrelationships of spring-flowering entomophilous plants (Corylus avellana L., Alnus incana Moench., Tussilago farfara L., Salix caprea L., Acer platanoides L., Taraxacum officinale L., Prunus L., Malus domestica Mill.) and the honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) in response to climate change. The research was carried out at Vokė Branch of the Institute of Agriculture, Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry, using data from phenological observations during 1961–2020. The results of the studies showed that over a 60-year period, a trend towards earlier dates of all phenological events studied was observed. Significant and larger-scale changes occurred starting from the decade 1981–1990. Throughout the entire study period, with the exception of one decade, the dates of honeybee emergence on flowers correlated reliably with the dates of entomophilous plant phenophases. Due to the advance of plants phenophase dates the synchrony with honeybee emergence dates changes however, these changes had a positive effect on the foraging conditions of overwintering honeybees.
Quinone Pool, a Key Target of Plant Flavonoids Inhibiting Gram-Positive Bacteria
Authors: Zhang Li , Yan Yu , Zhu Jianping , Xia Xuexue , Yuan Ganjun , Li Shimin , Deng Beibei , Luo Xinrong
Published: May 2023

Plant flavonoids have increasingly paid a close attention to for new antimicrobial agents or adjuvants. In our previous work, it was confirmed that the cell membrane is the major site of plant flavonoids acting on the gram-positive bacteria, and which likely involves the inhibition of the respiratory chain. Inspired by the similar structural and antioxidant characters of plant flavonoids to MKH2, we deduced that the quinone pool is probably a key target of plant flavonoids inhibiting gram-positive bacteria. To verify this, twelve plant flavonoids with six structural subtypes were preliminary selected, and their MICs against gram-positive bacteria were predicted from the antimicrobial quantitative relationship of plant flavonoids to gram-positive bacteria. The results showed they have different antimicrobial activities. After their MICs against S. aureus were determined using broth microdilution method, nine compounds with the MICs ranged from 2 to 4,096 μg/mL or more than 1,024 μg/mL were eventually selected, and then their MICs against S. aureus were determined interfered with different concentrations of MK-4 and the MKs extracted from S. aureus. The results showed that the greater the antibacterial activities of plant flavonoids were, the more greatly their antibacterial activities decreased along with the increase of the interfering concentrations of MK-4 (from 2 to 256 μg/mL) and MK extract (from 4 to 512 μg/mL), and while those, with the MICs equal to or more than 512 μg/mL, decreased a little or remained unchanged. Especially, under the interference of MK-4 (256 μg/mL) and MK extract (512 μg/mL), the MICs of α-mangostin, a compound with greatest inhibitory activity to S. aureus in these twelve plant flavonoids, increased by 16 times and 8 to16 times, respectively. Based on these above, it was proposed that the quinone pool is a key target of plant flavonoids inhibiting gram-positive bacteria, and which likely involves multiple mechanisms including some enzyme and non-enzyme inhibitions.
Assessing Humoral Immuno-Inflammatory Pathways Associated with Respiratory Failure in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Regolo Matteo , Sorce Alessandra , Vaccaro Mauro , Colaci Michele , Stancanelli Benedetta , Natoli Giuseppe , Motta Massimo , Isaia Ivan , Castelletti Federica , Giangreco Federica , Fichera Daniela , Aparo Paola , Lanzafame Alessandra , Russo Mario , Santangelo Nicola , Noto Paola , Malatino Lorenzo
Published: May 2023

All severe cases of SARS-CoV-2 infections are characterized by a high risk of disease progression towards ARDS, leading to bad outcome. Respiratory symptoms in COVID-19 patients often do not correspond to disease’s worsening. A dysregulated host response to the large viral load could play a key role in the disease progression. In our sample median age was 74 years (72-75) and 54% were men. Median period of hospitalization was 9 days. Firstly, we observed an asynchronous trend of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) in 764 selected among 963 patients who were consecutively recruited in two hospitals (Cannizzaro, S. Marco) in Catania, Italy. NLR values in deceased patients showed an increase from baseline over time. By contrast, CRP tended to fall from baseline to median day of hospitalization in all four subgroups, but steeply increased at the end of hospitalization only in ICU-admitted patients. Then we evaluated the relationships between NLR and CRP as continuous variables with PaO2/FiO2 ratio (P/F). Finally, we made mediation and moderation analyses to determine the link between inflammation (CRP), immune system (neutrophils and lymphocytes) and respiratory failure (P/F). CRP, neutrophils and P/F are linked in the same pathogenetic chain leading to respiratory failure.
Evaluation of Rainfall Products in Semi-arid Areas: Application to the Southeast of the Republic of Djibouti and a Focus on the Ambouli Catchment
Authors: Moussa Omar Golab , PATUREL Jean-Emmanuel , Salles Christian , Mahé Gil , Jalludin Mohamed , Satgé Frederic , Ismail Nour Mohamed
Published: May 2023

The Republic of Djibouti is a small country in the Horn of Africa and, as in most developing countries, rain gauges are sparse and data are scarce. This study aims to report on the reliability of gridded precipitation datasets (P datasets) across the Republic of Djibouti through direct comparisons with rain gauge measurements from the annual to the daily time scales. Our specific objective is to be able to use such products in the context of hydrological modeling at a daily time step. Given the scarcity of available data in the Republic of Djibouti, our study was carried out on two time windows (1980-1990 and 2008-2013) and two gauge networks with different spatial resolutions: the southeast of the Republic of Djibouti (5000 km2) and the Ambouli catchment (794 km2), which drains the city of Djibouti. The reliability of these products is analyzed with quantitative metrics and categorical metrics, exclusively at a daily time step for the latter. The performance of the P datasets degrades from the annual time scale to the daily time scale. Even though the same products exhibit the best performance at the various time scales, the performance of most of the products differs from one spatial scale to another. Our results demonstrate the importance of the temporal and spatial windows, as the same products can perform differently according to the scale. For all the spatiotemporal scales, the most reliable product is MSWEP v.2.2. This P dataset is derived from a combination of satellite products (multiple sensors such as infrared and passive microwave), reanalysis products, and rain gauge observations. A strong discrepancy between rain gauge observations and P datasets is revealed according to the categorical metric at a daily time step. The analysis of rainfall events triggering runoff, using a 10 mm rainfall threshold showed that the most efficient products were unable to accurately detect such events at a daily time step, with a significant underestimation of rainfall events higher than 10 mm. None of these products, even the most reliable, can be used for a calibration/validation of a hydrological model at a daily time step.
Is Sulphite a Toxicant?
Authors: M Raghul
Published: May 2023

Sulphites are the most widely used food additives for their versatile applications in processing; perhaps we are negligence of its shortcomings. On account of various research studies, sulphites induce serious allergic reactions and other health alignments, but still regulatory agents permit its usage. Is it a wiser choice? The purpose of this paper is to clear up ambiguity and provide a clear view on why sulphites are employed in the food industry, why its usage is restricted, and why sulphite is a toxicant
The Immune Response in Canine and Human Leishmaniasis and How This Influences the Diagnosis- a Review and Assessment of Recent Research
Authors: Ivanescu Larisa Maria , Andronic Bianca Lavinia , Grigore Hristodorescu Smaranda , Martinescu Gabriela , Mindru Raluca , Miron Liviu
Published: May 2023

Laboratory diagnosis of leishmaniasis remains a major challenge, demonstrating variable efficacy in detecting infected mammalian hosts. Thus, there is a great need for the accuracy of the identification of appropriate antigens to also improve diagnostic tests. This review brings to the fore the sensitivity of the balance in canine and human leishmaniasis, which greatly influences the progression of the disease and especially the diagnostic methods. The problem of diagnosis arises in asymptomatic leishmaniasis, since in these conditions the methods considered as reference in the diagnosis of leishmaniasis no longer show certainty, being influenced for the most part by the immune response of the host, which is different according to the presence of other associated diseases or even according to the breed, when we talk about dogs. Consequently, the diagnosis and surveillance of leishmaniasis cases remains an open topic, with the need for new methods adapted to the immunological status of the host.
Long-Term Effects of COVID-19 on Sleep Patterns
Authors: Batool-Anwar Salma , Fashanu Olabimpe S. , Vassell Ca'Shana , Quan Stuart F.
Published: May 2023

Objectives: To examine the long term impact of COVID-19 on sleep patterns and development of sleep disorders. Methods: Using the centralized Massachusetts General Brigham (MGB) Research Patient Data Registry (RPDR), SARS-CoV2 positive patients were surveyed about their sleep patterns before and after the viral infection. Information related to co-morbid conditions and medications were obtained through chart review. Results: Two hundred and forty five completed surverys were analysed. Average age was 53.3 ± 16.3 years, and participants were predominantly Non-Hispanic White (84.1%) and female (74.3%). Average BMI (kg/m2) was 29.9 ± 6.9, and a greater proportion was non-smokers (63.2%). After COVID-19, there was an increase in the percentage of participants reporting difficulty initiating (31 ± 46% vs. 39 ± 49%, P=0.01), and maintaining sleep (43 ± 49% vs. 57 ± 49%, P<0.001), and use of sleep aids (24 ± 43% vs. 30 ± 45% P=0.003) with an incidence rate of 24.3%, 37.4%, and 12.3% respectively. In addition, there was an increase in daytime fatigue and the need for napping (58 ± 49% vs. 36 ± 48%, P <0.0001) with an incidence of 8% and 23% respectively. The sleep symptoms persisted beyond 12 months among 28% of the participants and were predominantly seen among women. Conclusions: Infection with SARS-CoV2 has negative effects on sleep, and a significant proportion of adults experience insomnia and daytime sleepiness beyond 12 months after recovering from the initial infection.
The Effect of Nitrogen Fertilization on Tree Growth, Fruit Yield and Quality of Clementine Nules on Two Citrus Rootstocks in the Gharb Region (Morocco)
Authors: Omari Fatima Ezahra , Beniken Lhou , Zouahri Abdelmjid , Benaouda Hassan , Benkirane Rachid , Benyahia Hamid
Published: May 2023

The objective of the current study is to evaluate the effects of nitrogen rate N on tree growth, fruit yield and quality of clementine Nules variety, budded on Flhorag and Carrizo citrange rootstocks, grown on clay soils at the Experimental station of Sidi Allal Tazi, INRA Morocco, over five seasons. The experiment has been carried out in a split-plot design with three replications, including the nitrogen doses as the main plot and rootstock the subplot. Three fertilization treatments of the rates of N (g/tree) (T0: control (native nutrient), T1: 270, T2: 540 in g/tree) and 135 P2O5, 270 K2O g/tree have been applied to citrus trees in field conditions.
The study found that nitrogen rate and rootstock genotype had significant effects on vegetative growth, yield, and fruit quality of Nules clementine. As N rate increased, vegetative growth improved significantly, with the trees grafted on Carrizo citrange and fertilized with T2 (540 N g/tree) showing the best results. A strong positive correlation was also observed between canopy volume and fruit yield for both rootstock genotypes. Carrizo citrange proved to be a more efficient rootstock for Nules variety than Flhorag, with higher yield and better fruit quality.
As a conclusion, the recommended NPK rate for obtaining an optimal yield and good fruit quality of Nules clementine fruits was 540 N-135 P2O5-270 K2O g/tree/year under Sidi Allal Tazi–Gharb (Morocco) conditions.
National & International Financial Market Regulation and Supervision System: Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Shavshukov Viacheslav M. , Zhuravleva Natalia A.
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this original study is to critically analyze the emergence and development of the national models of financial regulation; international standards and codes; regional and national financial regulation and supervision (the case of UK, USA, Sweden, EU and Finland). The research raises both academic and regulatory concerns. It aims at shaping changes (innovations) in the supervisory practices of national and international regulators in response to new developments in FinTech markets, digital products, financial instruments and risks. Secondly, it will stimulate more systematic work on regulatory databases, registration and reporting procedures in various economies in different financial markets. The author identifies five main systems of national financial regulatory markets: the multi-tiered, multi-agency US system; the Twin Peaks model (UK); the mega-regulatory model (Sweden). There is a thorough review of international standards and institutions that work for the stability of financial systems. The analysis of regional and national systems of financial regulation and supervision is based on the examples of the EU and Finnish institutions. National macro and microeconomic regulation and supervision have been examined with a focus on the US Federal Reserve and the US Treasury. National and international regulatory institutions have been evolving along several lines. First, minimum capital and credit risk requirements for banks (80s of the 20th century) are complemented in the 21st century by buffer reserves, liquidity and leverage standards. Second, regulation focuses on ensuring the sustainability of the national economy. The regulatory focus is on ensuring the sustainability of national and global financial systems. Third, there is an increase in the number of supervised institutions. Fourth, there is a division of functions between central banks (macroeconomic regulation) and one or two mega-regulators (microeconomic regulation and supervision). Fifth, there is a division of labour between the international financial institutions (BIS, IMF, WB) and national regulators. Sixth, the focus is on protecting consumers and investors, and countering money laundering and the financing of terrorism. Seventh, there is an understanding for a common approach by central banks to new financial technologies and cybersecurity.
Selective Block of Upregulated Kv1.3 Potassium Channels in ON-Bipolar Cells of the Blind Retina Enhances Optogenetically Restored Signaling
Authors: Kleinlogel Sonja , Schilardi Giulia , Kralik Jakub
Published: May 2023

Loss of photoreceptors in retinal degenerative diseases also impacts the inner retina: bipolar cell dendrites retract, neurons rewire and protein expression changes. ON-bipolar cells represent an attractive target for optogenetic vision restoration. However, above-described maladaptations may negatively impact the quality of restored vision. To investigate this question, we employed human post-mortem retinas and transgenic rd1_Opto-mGluR6 mice expressing the optogenetic construct Opto-mGluR6 in ON-bipolar cells and carrying the retinal degeneration rd1 mutation. We found significant changes in delayed rectifier potassium channel expression in ON-bipolar cells of degenerative retinas. In particular, we found an increase in Kv1.3 expression already in early stages of degeneration. Immunohistochemistry localized Kv1.3 channels specifically to OBC axons. In whole-cell patch-clamp experiments, ON-bipolar cells in the degenerated murine retina were less responsive, which could be reversed by application of the specific Kv1.3 antagonist Psora-4. Notably, Kv1.3 block significantly increased the amplitude and kinetics of Opto-mGluR6-mediated light responses in ON-bipolar cells of the blind retina and increased the signal-to-noise ratio of light-triggered responses in retinal ganglion cells. We propose that reduction of Kv1.3 activity in the degenerated retina, either by pharmacological block or by KCNA3 gene silencing, could improve the quality of restored vision.
Factors that Affect Perceptions of Gig Workers
Authors: Carroll Zed
Published: May 2023

Just 2 years ago, 35% of Americans were involved with gig work. According to Statista, over half of Americans will be freelancing through online gig work by 2027. Research on how consumers select gig workers, or taskers, is still mostly underexplored. The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential impact of a tasker's gender and self-presentation in their profile picture on consumer perceptions and choices. We proposed that taskers who have a professional headshot as the profile picture will receive higher ratings on competence, warmth, and trustworthiness than taskers whose profile picture is a selfie. We also proposed that taskers who smile in their profile picture will receive higher ratings on competency, warmth, and trustworthiness than taskers who do not smile. Furthermore, we predicted that professionalism has a stronger positive impact on perceptions of male taskers than on female taskers for our third hypothesis. Lastly, we hypothesized that gender bias exists on gig platforms, such that smiling will have a stronger positive effect on female taskers’ competence, warmth, and trustworthiness than on male taskers. Our study had 292 Kennesaw State University students who were tested online through Qualtrics. Our first and second hypotheses are not supported but our last two have partial support. There is a significant main effect of gender, and we find that male taskers are rated significantly higher on competence, warmth, and trustworthiness, compared to female taskers. Professional photos give male taskers an advantage over professional female taskers and female taskers are punished more for not smiling than male taskers. Future directions include looking into factors such as Race, Age, or background setting could be investigated. Conducting similar tests in a larger and more externally valid setting could yield more concrete results. Continuation into this new area of gig work could lead the way into revolutionizing how freelancers conduct their public appearance or how gig work platforms could handle this new market.
Research on the Evaluation Model of School Management Quality in the Compulsory Education Stage Based on Big Data Technology
Authors: Min Guanghui , Lin Muhui , Liu Ying , Li Zhe
Published: May 2023

With the spread of compulsory education emerged school management problems continued, and the quality of school management in compulsory education has attracted a great deal of attention in China. However, the application of information technology in the field is not yet detailed and wide, resulting in problems of heavy workload and high difficulty in the whole evaluation process. Accordingly, we use big data technologies such as Apache Spark, Apache Hive, and SPSS to carry out data cleaning, correlation analysis, dynamic factor analysis, principal component analysis, and visual display on 1760 sample data from 40 primary and secondary schools in Q Province in China, and constructs a model school management of quality evaluation in the compulsory education stage, which reduces the 22 management tasks required for previous evaluation to 5, greatly reducing the workload and difficulty of evaluation. It has improved the efficiency and accuracy of evaluation, and further promoted the simultaneous development of education of five domains and education equity in the compulsory education stage.
The Interplay of Formal Institutional and Cultural Distances and the Financial Performance of Foreign Subsidiaries in Latin America
Authors: Correa da Cunha Henrique , Amal Mohamed , Andersson Svante , Floriani Dinora Eliete , Farrell Carlyle
Published: May 2023

We investigate how formal institutional distance (FID) moderates the relationship between cul-tural distance (CD) and the financial performance of foreign subsidiaries firms. Following recent research, we estimate the asymmetric effects of CD by considering its size and direction towards host countries on the opposite poles of each cultural dimension` scale. We propose that a limited understanding of the formal institutions in the host country, as measured by the magnitude and direction of the FID, can have a positive moderating effect, increasing the impact of CD on finan-cial performance. This is mainly because foreign subsidiary firms may be more reliant on their ca-pacity to navigate the less formal (and more implicit) aspects of the host country's institutional environment, such as their ability to cope with the CD. We use foreign subsidiary data from the Orbis database including 22 developed and 22 developing home countries and over 1400 foreign subsidiaries during a period of 3 consecutive years operating in 10 of the largest economies (host countries) in Latin America including: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Chile, Ecuador, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela. Findings confirm the asymmetric effects of CD, howev-er, by considering the direction of FID, our findings reveal that the higher the FID towards less developed host countries, the more significant the effects of CD on the financial performance. These findings contribute to the knowledge of how formal and informal institutional distances in-teract by showing that the greater the FID towards less developed host countries, to higher the impact of CD on the financial performance of foreign subsidiary firms.
The Neutrino Mass Problem: From Double Beta Decay to Cosmology
Authors: Civitarese Osvaldo
Published: May 2023

The neutrino is perhaps the most elusive member of the particle zoo.

The questions about its nature, namely: Dirac or Majorana, the value

of its mass and the interactions with other particles, the number of its

components including sterile species, are long standing ones and still re-

main in large extent without conclusive answers. From the side of the

nuclear structure and nuclear reactions, both theories and experiments,

the need to elucidate these questions have, and still has, prompt crucial

developments in the fields of double beta decay, double charge exchange

and neutrino induced reactions. The measurements of neutrino flavor os-

cillation parameters contribute largely to restrict models with massless

neutrinos. From the particle physics side, the possibilities to extent the

standard model of electroweak interactions to incorporate a right handed

sector of the electroweak lagrangian are directly linked to the adopted neu-

trino model. Here, I would like to address another aspect of the problem

by asking the question of the neutrino mass mechanism in the cosmological

context, and particularly about dark matter.
qPCR System for Alongshan Virus Detection
Authors: Litov Alexander , Okhezin Egor , Kholodilov Ivan , Polienko Alexandra , Karganova Galina
Published: May 2023

The recently discovered Jingmenvirus group includes viruses with a segmented genome, RNA of a positive polarity, and several proteins with distant homology to the proteins of the members of the genus Flavivirus. Some Jingmenvirus group members, namely Alongshan virus (ALSV) and Jingmen tick virus, are reported to be tick-borne human pathogens, causing a wide variety of symptoms. ALSV is widely distributed in Eurasia, yet there is no reliable assay for its detection. Here, we describe a qPCR system for the detection of ALSV. Our data show that this system can detect as low as 104 copies of ALSV in the probe. It shows no amplification with common tick-borne viruses circulating in Eurasia, Yanggou tick virus—another member of the Jingmenvirus group—or some known members of the genus Flavivirus. The qPCR system was tested have no non-specific signal for Ixodes ricinus, I. persulcatus, Dermacentor reticulatus, D. marginatus, Haemaphysalis concinna, and H. japonica ticks. Overall, the qPCR system described here can be used for reliable and quantitative ALSV detection.
The Lifestyle and Struggles of the Institutionalized Elderly During the COVID – 19 Pandemic – An Empirical Approach
Authors: Coman Claudiu , Barbat Carmen , Goian Cosmin , Bularca Maria Cristina , Andrioni Felicia , Popp Lavinia , Chirugu Geanina , Netedu Adrian , Burlacu Mihai , Balauta Danut
Published: May 2023

(1) Background: Our paper aimed to examine the ways in which the care centers for the elderly acted and adapted during the pandemic period, by taking into account the opinions of the beneficiaries, of the employees and of the managers of those centers. (2) Methods: in order to conduct the research we used a mixed-method approach. Considering the quantitative research, we applied a questionnaire to 430 institutionalized elderly from Timis county, Romania. Considering the qualitative analysis, we conducted interviews with 31 institutionalized elderly, with 7 employees and 4 managers. (3) Results: most institutionalized elderly were mainly satisfied with their life in the care centers, the main difficulties they had were: the impossibility of being close to loved ones, and the difficulty of adapting to the living conditions within the center, and the elderly were satisfied with the interactions they had with the staff of the care centers. (4) Conclusions: the research conducted provides a view on the lifestyle of the elderly from care centers during the pandemic, it highlights the struggles of the elderly and it can be used as a point of reference for the further improvement of the lifestyle of the elderly within the care centers.