bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are the presence of asthma and the COVID-19 infection associated with behavioral changes in Lebanese adolescents?
Authors: Azzi Vanessa , Karam Joya Maria , D’Andrea Wendy , Malaeb Diana , El Khatib Sami , Sakr Fouad , Dabbous Mariam , Hallit Souheil , Soufia Michel
Published: March 2024

Background: Little evidence is available about psychological stressors in Lebanese asthmatic adolescents, where health-risk behaviors are a serious threat to public health. In addition, the COVID-19 epidemic has had a substantial influence on adolescents’ mental health globally, especially in Lebanon, where the ongoing economic and political challenges have largely impacted their psychological well-being. This study aimed to explore the association of asthma and the COVID-19 infection with behaviors among Lebanese adolescents.
Methods: Data were collected in July 2023, using the snowball sampling technique. Inclusion criteria for participation in the study included being of a resident and citizen of Lebanon and aged 12–18 years. Behavioral problems were assessed using the Youth Self-Report (YSR) scale, which yields nine subscales (anxious/depressed, withdrawn/depressed, somatic complaints, social problems, thought problems, attention problems, rule-breaking behavior, aggressive behavior, and other problems) and a total score.
Results: Asthma was significantly associated with somatic complaints (Beta [β] = 2.98), attention problems (β = 0.01), and other behavioral problems (β = 0.68). Having contracted the COVID-19 infection, compared to healthy asymptomatic state (β = 1.55), was significantly associated with more anxious behaviors. In the case of stratifying the analysis in terms of gender, the results showed that the presence of asthma was significantly associated with more social behaviors (β = 3.31), thought problems (β = 2.91), attention problems (β = 0.02), other behavioral problems (β = 1.71), and total behavioral problems (β = 5.71) in males. In case stratifying the analysis as to school type, the presence of asthma was significantly associated with more somatic complaints (β = 2.77) in participants from private schools whereas it was significantly associated with more total behavioral problems (total YSR scores) (β = 5.05) in participants from public schools.
Conclusion: It is confirmed that asthma and psychiatric disorders are interconnected, so it would be of great importance to include screening through a psychological intervention in treating asthmatic adolescents by means of (1) recognizing factors affecting patients’ mental health, and (2) regulating uncontrolled behaviors that can exacerbate symptoms in order to avoid the future morbidity.
Association of behaviors and asthma control in a sample of Lebanese adolescents with asthma
Authors: Azzi Vanessa , Malaeb Diana , El Khatib Sami , Sakr Fouad , Dabbous Mariam , Hallit Souheil , Soufia Michel
Published: March 2024

Background: The relationship between behavioral problems and asthma is bidirectional; while the presence of a chronic disease such as asthma might predispose the person to stress, anxiety, and other behavioral issues, behavioral problems might in turn cause uncontrolled asthma through nonadherence to asthma management strategies. In Lebanon, behavioral problems and uncontrolled asthma could be of significant concern for adolescents. Consequently, we found it necessary to evaluate association between behavioral problems and uncontrolled asthma in a sample of Lebanese adolescents.
Methods: Data for this cross-sectional study were collected using the snowball sampling technique in July 2023. The questionnaire was developed with Google Forms and distributed to participants via social media platforms and messaging applications. The Asthma Control Test (ACT) was used to check for uncontrolled asthma, and the Youth Self-Report (YSR) scale was used to assess behavioral problems. It yields nine subscales (anxious–depressed, withdrawn–depressed, somatic complaints, social problems, thought problems, attention problems, rule-breaking behavior, aggressive behavior, and other problems) and a total score.
Results: When taking each behavior score as an independent variable, older age was associated with lower ACT scores (more controlled asthma); F(15, 186) = 3.66, P = 0.014, and 95% Confidence Interval (CI) [-0.85, -0.10]. Living in a rural area, compared to urban was associated with higher ACT scores, P = 0.018, and 95% Confidence Interval (CI) [0.28, 2.94]. The intake of the COVID-19 vaccine, P = 0.003 and 95% CI [0.73, 3.55]; waterpipe smoking, P = 0.017 and 95% CI [0.38, 3.85]; and having more somatic complaints, P = 0.005 and 95% CI [0.04, 0.25], also were significantly associated with higher ACT scores (more uncontrolled asthma). When taking the total behavior score as an independent variable, higher YSR scores were associated with higher ACT scores (more uncontrolled asthma), F(10, 191) = 4.30, P = 0.038, and 95% CI [0.003, 0.10].
Conclusion: Our findings support the inclusion of mental health treatments for better asthma control and point to a link between behavioral issues and uncontrolled asthma. In a developing nation without a clear established strategy for asthma prevention, the findings of this study could help develop potentially beneficial public health treatments.
YBX-1 alleviates sepsis-stimulated lung epithelial cell injury
Authors: Lu Xin , Dai Shouqian , Li Pengfei , Zhou Yuqian , Xu Feng
Published: March 2024

Objective: To explore the role of Y-box binding protein 1 (YBX-1) in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated inflammation and oxidative stress of BEAS-2B cell line and clarify the underlying mechanism.
Methods: LPS-stimulated BEAS-2B cells were used as a cell model of sepsis-stimulated acute lung injury (ALI). Immunoblot and quantitative polymerase chain reaction assays were used to detect the expression of YBX-1 in LPS-stimulated BEAS-2B cells. 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide, TdT-mediated dUTP nick end labeling, and immunoblot assays were conducted to determine the effects of YBX-1 on cell survival. JC-1 staining and adenosine triphosphate production were used to detect the effects of YBX-1 on mitochondrial function. Immunostaining and enzyme-linked immunosorbent serologic assay were performed to examine the effects of YBX-1 on the inflammation and oxidative stress of cells. Immunoblot assay was conducted to confirm the mechanism.
Results: YBX-1 was lowly expressed in LPS-stimulated BEAS-2B cells and enhanced the survival of LPS-stimulated lung epithelial cells. In addition, YBX-1 improved mitochondrial function of LPS-stimulated BEAS-2B cells. YBX-1 inhibited the inflammation and oxidative stress of LPS-stimulated BEAS-2B cells. Mechanically, YBX-1 inhibited mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) axis, thereby alleviating sepsis-stimulated ALI.
Conclusion: YBX-1 alleviated inflammation and oxidative stress of LPS-stimulated BEAS-2B cells via MAPK axis.
University and the changes of contemporary culture
Authors:   Adam Mickiewicz University Poznań, Melosik Zbyszko
Published: March 2024

The article is devoted to problem of the relationship between university and contemporary culture. There are following main areas of the analysis: equality and inequality of educational opportunity at the higher education level, a role of general and specialist training in the students' teaching, academic freedom, hierarchical structure of university and pluralism of academic discourse. All these subjects are analysed against the background of a broader social and cultural condition
Integrated character of information technology and educational space
Authors:   University of Zielona Góra, Osmańska-Furmanek Wielisława
Published: March 2024

Influence that information and communication technologies exert forces changes on educational system and at the same time education is searching for new, modern and innovative solutions. Integration processes that go along with this are additional force that makes responding to new challenges inevitable. It is impossible for each citizen to create his/her own, well-formed knowledge and to take responsibility for this activity without a fundamental change in education system, e.g. without resigning from teaching in aid of developing learning processes and shaping the ability to absorb future technologies. The article presents pedagogical and social aspects of changes which take place in the area of information technologies and influence they exert on extending the man's educational space both internal and external one. It touches on issues related to penetration of mediated space and cyberspace into it and formation of new forms and methods of communication.
Enhancing Automated Loading and Unloading of Ship Unloaders through Dynamic 3D Coordinate System with Deep Learning
Authors: Wang Lufeng , Li Qu , Fu Wei , Jiang Fei , Song Tianxing , Pi Guangbo , Sun Shijie
Published: March 2024

This paper proposes a deep learning approach for accurate pose estimation in ship unloaders, improving grasping accuracy by reconstructing 3D coordinates. A convolutional neural network optimizes depth map prediction from RGB images, further enhanced by a conditional generative adversarial network to refine quality. Evaluation of simulated ship unloading tasks showed over 90% grasping success rate, outperforming baseline methods. This research offers valuable insights into advanced visual perception and deep learning for next-generation automated cargo handling.
Evolution of urban planning concepts of global urbanization and the framework of transcontinental links
Authors: Spiridonov Vladimir
Published: March 2024

A critical review of the evolution of the concepts of global forms of settlement is given, taking into account the influence of transcontinental and cross-border ties on global urban and interethnic integration processes. Such concepts include: network forms of settlement, megalopolises or megaregions, global or world cities. A brief description and graphoanalytic models of simultaneously existing views on the organization and development of macro-regional and global settlement, as well as an analysis of their impact on global relations, are proposed. The features and problems of the formation of the world settlement framework, as well as methodological and methodological aspects of conflict resolution of urbanization processes and the development of global communications are put forward. The topic of the development of research on urbanization processes in the Russian Federation and in the world is included in the list of priority areas for the development of fundamental scientific research of the Russian Academy of Architecture and Construction Sciences and the Ministry of Construction of Russia. The methodology of the work is based on the consistent use of methods of comparative analysis of the concepts of urban development of the global settlement system, taking into account the formation of a framework of transcontinental connections, as well as graphical comparison (modeling) of these concepts and transcontinental corridors included in the main programs and projects of global transport development.
Una infinita potencia de negación: Blanchot y el humanismo de los años 1940
Authors: Alarcón Luis Felipe
Published: March 2024

Resumen: “La literatura y el derecho a la muerte” es probablemente el más citado de los textos del pensador francés Maurice Blanchot. Durante décadas ha sido discutido por figuras tan importantes como Emmanuel Levinas, Jacques Derrida o incluso el escritor Paul Auster. Y es que su importancia es doble: por un lado, es a menudo considerado como una importante vía de acceso al pensamiento literario de Blanchot. Por el otro, constituye un sustancioso ejemplo de la nueva recepción de Hegel en Francia, una vez acabada la Segunda Guerra Mundial. A pesar de que no hay dudas sobre su inspiración kojèvo-hegeliana y su centro en lo que podríamos llamar “experiencia literaria”, este artículo se propone explorar otra de sus capas: su relación con la discusión en torno al humanismo y el Terror, tan olvidada como central en la Francia de fines de los años 40. Intentaremos así sentar las bases de una nueva lectura de esta pieza fundamental en la producción blanchotiana.
El acontecimiento de una verdadera vida: la filosofía de François Jullien y el recurso cristiano
Authors: Solís-Nova David
Published: March 2024

Resumen: El pensamiento de François Jullien ha realizado valiosos aportes a la filosofía contemporánea, principalmente, nutriendo la interpretación de algunas temáticas clásicas desde la originalidad de la milenaria sabiduría china. Este enfoque ha revelado aspectos que la filosofía occidental, con su metafísica centrada en el ser, ha pasado por alto. Entre estos aspectos, Jullien ha llamado la atención sobre cómo han quedado impensados, al menos para la filosofía, una serie de recursos de lo se podría llamar ‘pensamiento cristiano’. La pregunta central de esta investigación es si esta lógica cristiana representa un recurso más, entre varios, que Jullien ha explotado en su trabajo intelectual o si, además, constituye una de las fuentes fundamentales de su propia obra y el comienzo de posibles des-coincidencias con la filosofía del ser. Las conclusiones indican una presencia notable e indispensable de estas nociones cristianas en su propuesta argumental, aunque sin pasar por la fe. Este estudio comenzará revisando las principales tesis del filósofo francés y, al mismo tiempo, describirá cómo él mismo las ha ido poniendo en relación y discusión con la doctrina cristiana.
Avaliação do desempenho mecânico e absorção capilar de concretos com incorporação de aditivos cristalizante submetidos a danos nas primeiras idades
Authors: Tambara Rafael Fumaco , Júnior Luis Urbano Durlo Tambara , Venquiaruto Simone Dornelles , Costa Fernanda Bianchi Pereira da
Published: March 2024

RESUMO Esta pesquisa avaliou o fenômeno de autocicatrização nas propriedades mecânicas e absorção capilar de concretos estruturais. Foram avaliados dois aditivos cristalizantes em pó, dosados de acordo com o teor recomendado pelos fabricantes. Aditivos cristalizantes aumentam a densidade do gel C-S-H e formam cristais insolúveis, bloqueando fissuras. Três traços de concreto foram produzidos: referência, aditivo-X com 0,8% e aditivo-Y com 2,0% em relação a massa do cimento. Aplicou-se 75% da carga de ruptura aos 3- e 14-dias para gerar microfissuras e comparar com a referência. Posteriormente, a autocicatrização foi avaliada aos 28- e 76-dias. A propriedade de resistência à compressão axial foi determinada aos 28-dias, revelando que os aditivos cristalizantes contribuíram para um aumento médio de 12% desta propriedade. A idade do carregamento dos concretos não apresentou um impacto significativo na resistência à compressão axial, mas apontou resultados significativos entre os tipos de aditivos estudados, conforme ANOVA. As propriedades de absorção de água por capilaridade foram avaliadas aos 28- e 76-dias, indicando uma redução de absorção de água média de 42% devido ao uso dos aditivos cristalizantes. Em conclusão, a incorporação dos aditivos cristalizantes contribuiu de maneira positiva para a autocicatrização dos concretos estudados, indicando uma recuperação parcial das microfissuras.
Primary Health Care nurses’ role in treating Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction
Authors: Assis Gisela Maria , Rodrigues Nayara dos Santos , Oliveira Franciele de Freitas de , Silva Camilla Pinheiro Cristaldi da , Arruda Drielle Fernanda , Nunes Ana Carolina Silvy , Martins Gisele
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT Objective: To understand Primary Health Care nurses’ role in treating Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction. Method: Cross-sectional multi-methodological research, composed of quantitative and qualitative steps, independently and sequentially. Data collected remotely, through a questionnaire and focus group, analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis by Braun and Clarke, respectively. The project was approved under Opinion 22691119.0.0000.0030. Results: A total of 145 nurses participated in the study in the quantitative step and 20 in the qualitative step, working in Primary Health Care in Brazil. Of the 93.1% nurses who reported having already cared for people with Urinary Tract Dysfunction, only 54.4% provided guidance, mainly for training the pelvic floor muscles. Conclusion: Even though they have legal support and access to demand, nurses do not have the knowledge to offer conservative treatment for Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction. Despite this, they were motivated to do so as long as they received specific training.
Avaliação da usabilidade do aplicativo móvel Quali+ para pessoas com hipertensão arterial
Authors: Silva Louyse Victória Ferreira da , Santos Joelma Silva , Sousa Mailson Marques de , Gouveia Bernadete de Lourdes André , Oliveira Simone Helena dos Santos , Almeida André Atanasio Maranhão , Almeida Taciana da Costa Farias
Published: March 2024

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a usabilidade do protótipo de aplicativo móvel “Quali+” para pessoas com hipertensão arterial. Método: Estudo descritivo, transversal, de avaliação heurística de um protótipo de aplicativo móvel realizado entre junho e julho de 2021, em hospital universitário. Participaram 22 pessoas com hipertensão arterial, na cidade de Campina Grande, PB, Brasil. Para mensuração da usabilidade, aplicou-se o instrumento Smartphone Usability questionnaiRE. Níveis (70 pontos apresentam boa usabilidade. Utilizou-se da estatística descritiva. Resultados: A média geral de usabilidade foi 105,8(7,44 pontos, obtiveram-se como menor escore 83 e, maior 113. A usabilidade se enquadrou no nível mais elevado (80 pontos). Conclusão: A avaliação da usabilidade constatou que, ainda que se trate de um protótipo, o aplicativo apresenta boa usabilidade, podendo ser considerado para o uso rotineiro na autogestão em saúde. Pesquisas futuras são necessárias para verificar a eficácia.
Factors associated with external causes in elderly attended by the mobile emergency care service
Authors: Brito Ana Angélica Oliveira de , Vasconcelos Beatriz Barros de , Santos Ana Maria Ribeiro dos , Lima Débora de Oliveira , Madeira Maria Zélia de Araújo , Sá Guilherme Guarino de Moura , Nolêto Julyanne dos Santos , Oliveira Rouslanny Kelly Cipriano de
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the prevalence and factors associated with external causes in elderly people attended by the mobile emergency care service. Method: Cross-sectional study with 1,972 pre-hospital care records of elderly victims of external causes from 2019 to 2020. A descriptive and bivariate analysis was performed, with a significance level of 5% (p<0.05). Results: The prevalence of external causes in elderly people attended by the mobile emergency service was 12.2%. Falling was the most frequent occurrence. The associations of the occurrence of falls with age from 90 years old (OR=29.31; p<0.001) and female gender (OR=5.38; p<0.001) stood out, as well as the suspicion of ingestion of alcoholic beverages with occurrence of violence (OR=4.17; p<0.001) and traffic accidents (OR=1.97; p<0.001). Conclusion: The study showed factors associated with injuries due to external causes in theelderly and may support the formulation of coping strategies for this problem.
Impactos antrópicos na composição florística e funcional dos mecanismos de regeneração em um fragmento florestal urbano do Planalto Atlântico Paulista, Sudeste do Brasil1
Authors: Martins Pedro Rufino , Vinha Daniella , Meireles Leonardo Dias
Published: March 2024

RESUMO Fragmentos florestais urbanos estão submetidos a pressões antrópicas que podem afetar sua regeneração secundária. Analisamos a composição florística e funcional dos mecanismos de regeneração de um fragmento florestal com 2 ha no Aeroporto Internacional de Guarulhos, Estado de São Paulo, Brasil, para avaliar a resiliência funcional dos mecanismos de regeneração diante de perturbações antrópicas. A vegetação arbórea apresentou elevada riqueza, com o predomínio de espécies zoocóricas e tolerantes à sombra. Os mecanismos de regeneração foram compostos por espécies nativas, mas apresentaram impactos antrópicos e ambos estão susceptíveis à invasão biológica. A maior abundância de espécies de crescimento rápido nos mecanismos de regeneração demonstra que o processo de secundarização florestal encontra-se estabelecido no fragmento, o que pode ocasionar uma sucessão retrogressiva a estádios pioneiros, alterando sua composição florística e funcional.
The Concept of Quality of Life in the Perception of Older Uruguayans: a qualitative study
Authors: Campomar Mariana Seoane , De Marchi Renato José , Riva Federico , Celeste Roger Keller
Published: March 2024

Abstract The research objective was to investigate the conception of quality of life in Uruguayan older adults, trying to build a model adapted to them. Based on Grounded Theory, a qualitative study was carried out between 2017-2018 in several regions of Uruguay. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in older adults (mean age 71 years, SD 5.4) with theoretical and snowball sampling. Theory emerged through the core category “living the best as possible”, interpreted as the conception of older adults about quality of life. The emerging themes were: “context events”, “link with others”, “activities facing life” and “adaptation strategies”. When facing stressful events, participants develop coping strategies through social support and internal locus of control, to achieve quality of life and successful aging. The empirical evidence developed from this qualitative research portrays a model established from a specific age and cultural context, in which social and psychological dimensions interact to face aging and achieve quality of life.
Rechtliche Auswirkungen des grundgesetzlichen Prinzips der Völkerrechtsfreundlichkeit auf das Verhältnis zwischen deutscher Rechtsordnung und Europäischer Menschenrechtskonvention
Authors: Schmahl Stefanie
Published: March 2024

The constitutional principle of friendliness towards international law cannot fully avoid competition between the protection of fundamental rights under the Basic Law and the pro-tection of human rights under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). The pri-mary reason for this is that there is no conflict rule that is able to resolve the rivalry potential between the Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) and the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR). While the domestic requirement that the Basic Law takes precedence over the Convention is irrelevant under international law, the ECHR’s claim to be respected does not directly affect domestic law. This is a consequence of the moderate dualism of the Basic Law. The constitutional principle of friendliness towards international law does mitigate, but not eliminate, the potential for conflict between the domestic and the European human rights level. Manageable solutions to avoid hardened lines of confrontation are therefore to be sought with the help of a functional and legal-sociological perspective. In this respect, it is crucial that the ECHR, in contrast to the Basic Law, does not establish its own sovereignty, but is exclusively called upon to limit the sovereignty of its contracting States for the benefit of the individuals concerned. The added value of an external human rights control compared to a national control of fundamental rights lies in its neutrality in terms of legal culture. Howev-er, insofar as it carefully deals with the precedents of the ECtHR, the FCC can retain its own leeway and influence the process of interpreting the Convention. Understood in this way, the principle of friendliness towards international law can contribute to the development of a common European legal culture.
Rechtliche Implikationen der Völkerrechtsfreundlichkeit: Sonderfall EMRK und EGMR – Österreich
Authors: Pabel Katharina
Published: March 2024

The European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) enjoys constitutional status in Austria. This is a special case, both in comparison with the integration of the ECHR in the legal systems of other contracting states and in comparison with the rank of other human rights treaties in Austria. However, the constitutional rank alone does not mean that the Austrian legal system is particularly friendly to international law, namely the ECHR. It does, however, lead to a self-evident reference to the guarantees of the Convention and the case law of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) in the everyday application of fundamental rights, which is more an expression of the function of the ECHR as a supplement to national constitutional law than of a special friendliness towards international law. Additional aspects, however, suggest that the Austrian legal system is friendly to international law with respect to the ECHR.
EMRK-Freundlichkeit der Bundesverfassung kritisch beleuchtet
Authors: Keller Helen , Dillena Anja
Published: March 2024

Switzerland is generally considered to be ECHR-friendly. The Convention does play an important role concerning constitutional review in the context of fundamental rights protection. However, challenges to Switzerland’s European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR)-friendliness regularly arise in the form of popular initiatives that are problematic from a human rights perspective. The Swiss Federal Supreme Court (FSC) is generally cautious and reserved when resolving conflicts between domestic law and the ECHR, although approaches vary between the FSC’s different sections. Differences can also be found in the application of the principle that certain kinds of claims will only be examined if the applicants have properly invoked and substantiated them, as per Art. 106(2) of the Law on the Federal Tribunal.
Völkerrechtsfreundlichkeit in der Rechtsprechung des Bundesverfassungsgerichts
Authors: Paulus Andreas
Published: March 2024

The article traces the development and judicial practice on the “friendliness” or openness towards international law. From a rather sceptical note in a judgment dealing with the “Con-cordats” of the Länder, the Federal Constitutional Court developed into a generic term for the obligation to comply with international law, including the orientation and guidance of international court decisions for domestic law. The values of Article 1 (2) and Articles 24-26 of the Fundamental Law generally lead to a duty to observe international law in the practice of the Federal Constitutional Court and the specialised courts. Exceptions can only be con-sidered in the case of violations of the Basic Law itself or in the case of a deliberate decision by the legislature against the application of a treaty obligation. In that case, they lead how-ever to a duty to adapt the corresponding obligation at the international level.
Insecticidal activity of crude olive pomace oils from Kabylia (Algeria) against the infestation of Rhyzopertha dominica (F.) and Sitophilus oryzae (L.) in stored wheat grains
Authors: Kerbel Safia , Azzi H , Kadi H , Fellag H , Debras J-F , Kellouche A
Published: March 2024

The insecticidal effect of four crude olive pomace oils extracted from pomace collected from four localities of Kabylia, refined olive pomace oil and extra virgin olive oil were assessed under laboratory conditions for the control of adults of Rhyzopertha dominica (Fabricius, 1792) (Coleoptera: Bostrychidae)) and Sitophilus oryzae (Linnaeus, 1763) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). The doses used ranged from 0.1 to 0.4 ml/25 g of durum and soft wheat seeds. In addition, the quality indices and the fatty acid composition of these oils were evaluated. The results show that the legal quality indices were well within the legal limits for crude olive-pomace oil (COP), refined pomace oil (ROP) and extra-virgin olive oil (EVO) categories. The effectiveness of these vegetable oils is highly dependent on the insect species, the dose rate, the exposure time and the type of oil tested The main fatty acids from all samples tested, were oleic (61.89–79.25%), palmitic (8.34–15.71%) and linoleic (8.17–16.52%) acids. For both species and substrates tested, mortality is dose and time of exposure dependent. The highest dose (0.4 ml/25 g) causes ≥ 63.75% mortality, after 24 h of exposure. Comparison of LD50 (ml/25 g) indicates that olive oil was generally more toxic than crude and refined pomace oils, for both insects and substrates, values varies from 0.005 to 0.189. The most sensitive insect was S. oryzae for most vegetable oils tested. Likewise, oils significantly reduced the F1 offspring of both insects and seed weight losses. No progeny were observed in the two pests at the highest dose, and therefore no weight loss was recorded. The results also revealed that the six oils affect the germination capacity of durum and soft wheat seeds when the dosage is increased. The results collected remain encouraging for the recommendation of natural substances as part of integrated pest management programmes against insect pests of stored grains.
Recurrent Guillian Barre’ Syndrome vs acute onset CIDP - study of 2 cases.
Authors: Mohan Sankalp , Dhamne Megha Chetan
Published: March 2024

The most common acquired immune mediated polyneuropathies are acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy(AIDP), a form of Gullian Barre syndrome (GBS) and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy(CIDP). Sixteen percent of CIDP patients may present acutely like AIDP, developing in less than 8 weeks. Also GBS which is usually monophasic can have recurrences . Distinguishing Acute onset CIDP(A-CIDP) and recurrent AIDP may be difficult in early stages but may be crucial to guide the treatment strategies.
The practice of Daylight Saving Time in Canada: Its suitability with respect to sleep and circadian rhythms
Authors: De Koninck Joseph , Nixon Ashley , Godbout Roger
Published: March 2024

Daylight Saving Time (DST) is the practice of setting the clocks one hour forward from Standard Time (ST) in the spring and back again to ST in the fall. This commentary discusses the impact of bi-annual time changes on sleep and circadian rhythms and suggests avenues to minimize negative outcomes on the well-being of Canadian citizens. Ideally, ST should be close to solar time, meaning that daylight is equally distributed before and after noon time, i.e., when the sun is at its highest point in the sky. In Canada, some provinces are proposing to opt out of DST to either return to constant ST throughout the year or to implement permanent DST. National and international associations of clinicians and researchers on sleep and biological rhythms and in health sciences have positioned themselves in favour of permanent ST. In Canada, the Canadian Sleep Society and the Canadian Society for Chronobiology have also issued such a position. This commentary focuses on the implications of previous research findings for sleep and health in Canada given its northern geographical location. It concludes with a research agenda focusing on the Canadian context.
Формы и содержание международного сотрудничества ЕАЭС с международными организациями на примере сотрудничества в сфере трудовой миграции и социальной защиты
Authors: Ischenko Natalia
Published: March 2024

Евразийский экономический союз (далее — ЕАЭС, Евразийский союз, Союз), обладая международной правосубъектностью, вправе осуществлять международное сотрудничество, в том числе заключать международные договоры. Автор статьи, уделяя значительное внимание вопросу международной правосубъектности Евразийского экономического союза, приходит к выводу о том, что даже в случае, если договор заключается по вопросам, относящимся к компетенции Союза, а именно по вопросам внешнеторговой деятельности в части торговли товарами, речь идет скорее о том, что у Евразийского союза есть частичная внешняя компетенция, так как на всех этапах заключения международных договоров необходимо согласование государств-членов. В работе анализируются и другие формы международного сотрудничества ЕАЭС, например, заключение меморандумов о взаимопонимании и юридически значимое взаимодействие Союза с международными организациями и интеграционными объединениями. Автор предлагает свою классификацию форм международного сотрудничества ЕАЭС, в которую включает и такую форму сотрудничества, как взаимодействие в формате диалога, обмена информацией и организации совместных мероприятий. Наиболее подробно исследуются формы и содержание международного сотрудничества Евразийского союза с международными организациями в сфере трудовой миграции и социальной защиты. Такое сотрудничество осуществляется Евразийской экономической комиссией посредством заключения меморандумов о сотрудничестве и взаимопонимании или на основе взаимодействия без заключения этих актов. Наличие заключенного меморандума делает сотрудничество более системным, подразумевает разработку планов реализации совместных мероприятий на определенный период, создание рабочих групп, регулярное проведение консультаций. Сотрудничество Евразийского союза с международными организациями в сфере трудовой миграции и социальной защиты является одной из приоритетных сфер международной деятельности ЕАЭС.
Comparative Study of Crank-Nicolson and Modified Crank-Nicolson Numerical methods to solve linear Partial Differential Equations
Authors:   Research Scholar, Department of Mathematics, N V Patel College of Pure & Applied Sciences, The Charutar Vidyamandal University, Vallabh Vidyanagar, Anand, Gujarat, India, Sharma Tejaskumar C , Pathak Shreekant P , Trivedi Gargi
Published: March 2024

Objectives: This paper aims to address the limitations of the Crank-Nicolson Finite Difference method and propose an improved version called the modified Crank-Nicolson method. Methods: Utilized implicit discretization in time and space, with parameters k = 0.001, h = 0.1, and γ = 0.1. Conducted extensive testing on various partial differential equations. Findings: Results, displayed in Table 1, showcase the method's stability and accuracy. Comparative analysis in Table 2 demonstrates the Modified Crank-Nicolson method consistently outperforming the traditional approach, reaffirming its superiority in accuracy. Novelty: The modified Crank-Nicolson method offers a significant enhancement to the traditional Crank-Nicolson finite difference method, making it a valuable tool for effectively solving partial differential equations. Keywords: Crank­Nicolson Method, Modified Crank­Nicolson Method, Finite Difference, Partial Differential Equations, Parabolic Equations, Python Software
Employing Incremental Learning for the Detection of Multiclass New Malware Variants
Authors:   Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Computing & Information, Al-Baha University, Al-Baha, Saudi Arabia, Alzahrani Mohammad Eid
Published: March 2024

Background/Objectives: The study aims to achieve two main objectives. The first is to reliably identify and categorize malware variations to maintain the security of computer systems. Malware poses a continuous threat to digital information and system integrity, hence the need for effective detection tools. The second objective is to propose a new incremental learning method. This method is designed to adapt over time, continually incorporating new data, which is crucial for identifying and managing multiclass malware variants. Methods: This study utilised an incremental learning technique as the basis of the approach, a type of machine learning whereby a system retains previous knowledge and builds upon the information from the newly acquired data. Particularly, this method is suitable for tackling mutating character of malware dangers. The researchers used various sets of actual world malwares for evaluating the applicability of these ideas which serves as an accurate test environment. Findings: The findings of the research are significant. We utilizing 6 different datasets, which included 158,101 benign and malicious instances, the method demonstrated a high attack detection accuracy of 99.34%. Moreover, the study was successful in identifying a new category of malware variants and distinguishing between 15 different attack categories. These results underscore the effectiveness of the proposed incremental learning method in a real-world scenario. Novelty: This research is unique because of the novel use of a tailored incremental learning technique for dealing with dynamic threat environment of malwares. However, with a new threat they cannot be so well adapted using traditional machine learning methods. On the other hand, the technique put forward in this paper facilitates continuous learning that can be modified to match different types of malicious software as they develop. The ability to evolve and adapt is an important addition to current cybersecurity practices that include malware identification and classification. Keywords: Cybersecurity, Malware Detection, Incremental learning
Lung Cancer Detection and Severity Analysis with a 3D Deep Learning CNN Model Using CT-DICOM Clinical Dataset
Authors:   PG and Research, Department of Computer Science, Mary Matha Govt Aided Arts & Science College, Mananthavady, Kerala, India, Eldho K J , Nithyanandh S
Published: March 2024

Objectives: To propose a new AI based CAD model for early detection and severity analysis of pulmonary (lung) cancer disease. A deep learning artificial intelligence-based approach is employed to maximize the discrimination power in CT images and minimize the dimensionality in order to boost detection accuracy. Methods: The AI-based 3D Convolutional Neural Network (3D-DLCNN) method is employed to learn complex patterns and features in a robust way for efficient detection and classification. The pulmonary nodules are identified by 3D Mask-R-CNN at the initial level, and classification is done by 3D-DLCNN. Kernel Density Estimation (KDE) is used to discover the error data points in the extracted features for early removal before candidate screening. The study uses the CT-DICOM dataset, which includes 355 instances and 251135 CT-DICOM images with target attributes of cancer, healthy, and severity condition (if cancer is positive). Statistical outlier detection is utilized to measure the z-score of each feature to reduce the data point deviation. The intensity and pixel masking of CT-DOCIM is measured by using the ER-NCN method to identify the severity of the disease. The performance of the 3D-DLCNN model is done using the MATLAB R2020a tool and comparative analysis is done with prevailing detection and classification approaches such as GA-PSO, SVM, KNN, and BPNN. Findings: The suggested pulmonary detection 3D-DLCNN model outperforms the prevailing models with promising results of 93% accuracy rate, 92.7% sensitivity, 93.4% specificity, 0.8 AUC-ROC, 6.6% FPR, and 0.87 C-Index, which helps the pulmonologists detect the PC and identify the severity for early diagnosis. Novelty: The novel hybrid 3D-DLCNN approach has the ability to detect pulmonary disease and analyze the severity score of the patient at an early stage during the screening process of candidates. It overcomes the limitations of the prevailing machine learning models, GA-PSO, SVM, KNN, and BPNN. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Disease Prediction, Lung Cancer, Deep Learning, Cancer Detection, Computational Model, 3D-DLCNN
An Alternative Method for Finding the Critical Path of the Network in Fuzzy Time Cost Trade off Problem
Authors:   Assistant Professor, Department of Mathematic, Bishop Heber College (Affiliated to Bharathidasan University), Tiruchirappalli, 620017, Tamil Nadu, India, Abinaya B , Amirtharaj E C Henry
Published: March 2024

Background : The critical path approach is used to determine the network's longest path, according to historical records. This study examines a different approach to determining the construction network's longest path. Method: Here, the network is viewed as a directed acyclic graph, and the critical path of the network is found using the longest path algorithm of the network. To find the best answer for a building project, the longest path that was found was integrated into a linear programming issue. The triangle fuzzy variable defines all of the project's inputs. The 992 square foot building area is incorporated, and three project manager’s quotes are used as a triangular fuzzy variable. Findings : This work has the options of getting quotation from the project managers, convert them as the fuzzy variables such as triangular fuzzy variable, Trapezoidal fuzzy variable and pentagonal fuzzy variable. After the network is converted into a linear programming problem using the fully fuzzy mathematical model, the best possible solution is found. Novelty and applications : Alternative method for critical path of the network has been incorporated. It has been found that the proposed method reduces the time to find the critical path of the larger networks. Keywords: Directed Acyclic Graph, Longest Path Algorithm, Triangular Fuzzy Variable, Fuzzy Linear Programming Problem, Fully Fuzzy Mathematical Model
Optimal Location of EV Charging Stations in the Distribution System Considering GWO Algorithm
Authors:   Research Scholar, Department of Electrical & Electronics Engineering, Annamalai University, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India, Golive Sai Goutham , Paramasivam B , Ravindra J
Published: March 2024

Objectives: The transition from conventional vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs) has been significantly influenced by the current scarcity of fossil fuels and the environmental concerns surrounding greenhouse gas emissions. The exploration of the optimal location of electric vehicle charging stations has been prompted by the electrification of the transportation system and the increasing demand for EVs. Methods: One of the main challenges is the detrimental impact of improper positioning of charging stations on the power distribution network. The Grey Wolf Optimization (GWO) approach is used to determine the effective Charging Stations (CS) locations to minimize the losses, which is the major objective of the proposed technique. An IEEE 33 bus system is used to implement the suggested technique. Findings : The proposed method finds the suitable deployments for EVCS within the distribution system, which is of utmost importance due to the constraints imposed by limited battery capacity and prolonged charging periods. This article proposes the optimal location for EVCS to minimize losses inside the distribution network. Novelty: The effectiveness of the proposed GWO is evaluated by comparing it with the PSO optimal algorithm. Finally, a comparison of system voltage and nominal voltage is presented and the probability comparison of EV location with the base case and the proposed algorithms is presented. Keywords: Electric Vehicle Charging Station, Distribution System, GWO, System and Nominal Voltage
A Comparative Analysis of Random Forest and Support Vector Machines for Classifying Irrigated Cropping Areas in The Upper-Comoé Basin, Burkina Faso
Authors:   Institut de l’Environnement et de Recherches Agricoles, 04 BP 8645 Ouagadougou 04, Burkina Faso, Traoré Farid , Palé Sié , Zaré Aïda , Traoré Moussa Karamoko , Ouédraogo Blaise , Bonkoungou Joachim
Published: March 2024

Objectives: This study investigates the performance of two machine-learning algorithms in classifying land areas across the Upper-Comoé basin in Burkina Faso. Methods: Within the Google Earth Engine data processing environment, Support Vector Machine (SVM) and the Random Forest (RF) algorithms were applied to a Landsat-8 OLI image of March 2019, to discriminate agricultural land areas, with an emphasis on irrigated areas. Findings: The results indicated good to excellent classification performance, with overall accuracies and Kappa coefficients between 71% and 99%, and 0.66 and 0.99, respectively. The RF method outperformed the SVM in terms of mapping "accuracy", but in terms of spatial distribution of classes, the SVM method provided a mapping close to reality, due to the density of the classes generated. Novelty: Our findings suggest that remote sensing can constitute a tool fully adapted to the needs of services in charge of agricultural water management in Burkina Faso. Keywords: Irrigation, Random Forest, Support Vector Machine, Google Earth Engine, Burkina Faso
Material Performance Evaluation of Cinder Based Light Weight Concrete with Micro-reinforcement
Authors:   Research Scholar, Department of Civil and Structural Engineering, Annamalai University, Chidambaram, 608002, Tamil Nadu, India, Sadhana K , Suguna K , Raghunath P N
Published: March 2024

Objectives: The present work examines the viability of using industrial solid waste, like cinder, to create lightweight aggregate concrete. Utilizing cinder aggregate as a substitute material for coarse aggregate in producing concrete not only helps in the conservation of natural resource but also provides a feasible solution for solid waste management. Method: The mechanical characteristics of cinder based lightweight concrete were improved by the inclusion of polypropylene fibre as micro-reinforcement, in volume proportions of 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, and 0.4%. The laboratory tests that were conducted on the polypropylene fibre reinforced cinder based lightweight concrete included compressive strength test on cube specimen and cylinder specimen, flexural strength test on prism specimen and modulus of elasticity test on cylinder specimen. Findings: The findings show that cinder aggregate can be satisfactorily utilized as an alternate material to coarse aggregate in the production of lightweight concrete. It has been found that 0.3% of polypropylene fibre was the ideal dosage of micro-reinforcement that can be incorporated in lightweight concrete. Novelty: Further, a multiple linear regression (MLR) model was suggested to evaluate the performance parameters of the fibre-reinforced lightweight concrete, providing an alternative to the time and material consuming experimental works. Scatter plots and Statistical indicators such as R2, RMSE and MAPE indicated that the model demonstrated a strong correlation between the predicted values and the experimental results. Keywords: Cinder aggregate, Lightweight concrete, Mechanical characteristics, Micro reinforcement, Regression model
Development of an Adaptive Acquisition and Transmission System for Digital Processing of ECG Signals under Variable n-QAM Schemes
Authors:   Instituto Tecnológico de Tijuana, Cárdenas-Valdez José Ricardo , Ramírez-Arzate Fortunato ,   Instituto Tecnológico de Tijuana, Corral-Domínguez Ángel Humberto ,   Instituto Tecnológico de Tijuana, Hurtado-Sánchez Carlos ,   Instituto Tecnológico de Tijuana, Calvillo-Téllez Andrés ,   Instituto Politécnico Nacional, García-Guerrero Enrique Efrén ,   Universidad Autónoma de Baja California
Published: March 2024

In the post-pandemic era, it is critical to monitor and transmit biomedical signals, specifically ECG. This study aims to develop a platform that enables signal acquisition, adaptation, and transmission using different n-QAM modulation schemes. The system comprises an acquisition stage implemented in the 2.5 GHz band employing the Olimex module and electrodes equipped with an Ag/AgCl type sensor. To effectively manage appropriate bandwidths during implementation of the various n-QAM modulation schemes, an adaptive algorithm was developed and applied to the system. The power amplifier was operated in the linear region to enhance the crest factor and achieve an ACPR close to 30 dBc, demonstrating an appropriate demodulation of the electrocardiogram (ECG) signal, it is feasible to shift to modulation schemes above 64-QAM in order to detect high frequencies and perform a subsequent Fourier analysis. As a telemedicine proposal, the developed system offers flexibility in signal acquisition, data storage, and digitalization, in addition to a multivariable n-QAM scheme; the hardware implementation ensures n-QAM scheme compatibility. For the purpose of contributing to telemedicine via RF transmission, the system was executed on an AD9361 transceiver, which removes the requirement for a traditional signal vector generator and enables optimal control of the tones to be transmitted.