bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving Skin Cancer Diagnostics Through a Mobile App With a Large Interactive Image Repository: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Nervil Gustav Gede , Ternov Niels Kvorning , Vestergaard Tine , Sølvsten Henrik , Chakera Annette Hougaard , Tolsgaard Martin Grønnebæk , Hölmich Lisbet Rosenkrantz
Published: July 2023

Background

Skin cancer diagnostics is challenging, and mastery requires extended periods of dedicated practice.

Objective

The aim of the study was to determine if self-paced pattern recognition training in skin cancer diagnostics with clinical and dermoscopic images of skin lesions using a large-scale interactive image repository (LIIR) with patient cases improves primary care physicians’ (PCPs’) diagnostic skills and confidence.

Methods

A total of 115 PCPs were randomized (allocation ratio 3:1) to receive or not receive self-paced pattern recognition training in skin cancer diagnostics using an LIIR with patient cases through a quiz-based smartphone app during an 8-day period. The participants’ ability to diagnose skin cancer was evaluated using a 12-item multiple-choice questionnaire prior to and 8 days after the educational intervention period. Their thoughts on the use of dermoscopy were assessed using a study-specific questionnaire. A learning curve was calculated through the analysis of data from the mobile app.

Results

On average, participants in the intervention group spent 2 hours 26 minutes quizzing digital patient cases and 41 minutes reading the educational material. They had an average preintervention multiple choice questionnaire score of 52.0% of correct answers, which increased to 66.4% on the postintervention test; a statistically significant improvement of 14.3 percentage points (P<.001; 95% CI 9.8-18.9) with intention-to-treat analysis. Analysis of participants who received the intervention as per protocol (500 patient cases in 8 days) showed an average increase of 16.7 percentage points (P<.001; 95% CI 11.3-22.0) from 53.9% to 70.5%. Their overall ability to correctly recognize malignant lesions in the LIIR patient cases improved over the intervention period by 6.6 percentage points from 67.1% (95% CI 65.2-69.3) to 73.7% (95% CI 72.5-75.0) and their ability to set the correct diagnosis improved by 10.5 percentage points from 42.5% (95% CI 40.2%-44.8%) to 53.0% (95% CI 51.3-54.9). The diagnostic confidence of participants in the intervention group increased on a scale from 1 to 4 by 32.9% from 1.6 to 2.1 (P<.001). Participants in the control group did not increase their postintervention score or their diagnostic confidence during the same period.

Conclusions

Self-paced pattern recognition training in skin cancer diagnostics through the use of a digital LIIR with patient cases delivered by a quiz-based mobile app improves the diagnostic accuracy of PCPs.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05661370; https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05661370
Quality Education in Kenya: Perspectives for the Transition of Students from Secondary Schools to Universities
Authors: Mackatiani Caleb Imbova , Kasuki Ngaatu Angelina , Mackatiani Navin Imbova , Likoko Sarah Naliaka
Published: July 2023

Sustainable Development Goal Four (SDG 4) on education ensures inclusive and equitable quality education opportunities for all. United Nations (UN) member states had to adopt the SDGs protocol. Kenya, like any other country in Sub-Sahara Africa, domesticated the SDG. Consequently, this study investigated factors influencing students’ transition from day and boarding schools to University in Mutomo Sub-county, Kenya. The study was based on the system theory propounded by Scott (1987), who adopted a system perspective in analyzing organizations. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The target population for the study was 15 secondary schools, 15 Curriculum Support Officers (CSOs), 128 teachers, 15 principals, 15 chairmen of School Management Boards (CSMBs), and 925 Form four students. Random sampling was used to select 150 students and 45 teachers. Census sample of 15 Principals, Five CSOs. The total sample size was 230. This corresponded to a confidence interval of .05 and a confidence level of 95%, corresponding to a z-score of 1.96 and a standard deviation (SD) of .5. The study findings revealed that resources and institutionalization play a key role in the influence of transition rates of students. Also, the study concluded that the categorization of schools threatens the transition rates. The study suggested adequate capitation to schools be provided by the government regular in-service courses for teachers be held. The study also suggested staffing schools with adequate teachers. The study further recommended that stakeholders be sensitized to providing adequate infrastructure and instructional materials.
University Lecturers’ Perception of Factors Responsible for Elections Malpractices in Nigeria
Authors: Abanobi C. C.
Published: July 2023

This study investigated university lecturers’ perceptions of factors responsible for election malpractice in Nigeria. A research question and three null hypotheses guided the study. A survey research design was used in the study. The population for this study consisted of lecturers in public universities in Delta State. The sample of this study was 300 lecturers in three public universities in Delta State. The instrument used for data collection was a structured questionnaire titled Factors Responsible for Election Malpractice in Nigeria Questionnaire. Experts validated the instrument. Cronbach Alpha method was used to determine a reliability coefficient of .79. Mean (M) and standard deviation (SD), as well as t-test statistics, were used to answer the research question and null hypotheses, respectively. The findings revealed that disregard for the electoral act by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and vote buying among various political parties to win elections by all means, among others, are perceived factors responsible for election malpractice in Nigerian university lecturers in Delta State. The difference between perceptions of factors responsible for election malpractice in Nigeria among university lecturers is not significant based on gender, rank, and religion. Based on the findings, it was recommended, among others, that the government at various levels always uphold the rule of law, especially the electoral act, during and after elections in Nigeria. The INEC should be very transparent at different stages of the election, especially during the collation process. The judiciary should prosecute electoral offenders or politicians who engage in election malpractice to deter others in society. The government at all levels as well as various stakeholders should ensure that there is proper public voter enlightenment before elections in Nigeria.
Literary Devices in Edgar Allan Poe’s Crime Stories: An Analysis
Authors: O. Nodalo Grethyl Ann
Published: July 2023

This study focused on the literary devices used in Edgar Allan Poe’s crime stories. Edgar Allan Poe used certain literary techniques to convey information exactly and accurately. This study would like to examine "Literary Devices in Edgar Allan Poe's Crime Stories: An Analysis ". The devices used by the writer were to convey their ability to use it and identify the interpretations it stands for. This study also aimed to analyze the prevalent literary devices in the Crime Stories of Edgar Allan Poe. The findings of this study served as a basis for proposing technologically aided materials for teaching literature. To meet the objective of this study, the researcher used content analysis to acquire accurate, factual, and systematic data that could provide an actual picture of the data set reviewed. It made use of qualitative study, used of content analysis as it looked into the literary devices utilized in the development of Edgar Allan Poe's selected short stories. The process of analyzing the author's work was anchored with literary devices. This study aimed to analyze the crime stories of Edgar Allan Poe, such as the following: The Murders in the Rue Morgue, The Cask of Amontillado, The Black Cat, The Masque of the Red Death, and The Tell-Tale Heart. Specifically, this study sought to analyze the prevalent literary devices in the crime stories of Edgar Allan Poe. This includes the analysis of the selected short stories based on the different categories to get the literary devices employed and how extensive Edgar Allan Poe's crime stories are when analyzed.
Análise da aspectualização de um poema de Adélia Prado
Authors: Alves Junior Mário Acrisio
Published: July 2023

Este artigo focaliza o fenômeno da aspectualização, conceito que, outrora restrito apenas aos estudos linguísticos, passa a integrar o escopo teórico-metodológico da semiótica em sua vertente discursiva. O objetivo consiste em retomar as contribuições de alguns dos principais semioticistas responsáveis pela difusão da noção de aspectualização e oferecer, a título de amostragem, uma possibilidade de análise pelas vias da perspectiva em apreço. Assim, após uma breve exposição teórica, o artigo segue com o exame de um poema de Adélia Prado, a partir do qual se ilustra a produtividade do fenômeno aspectual, além de confirmar sua estreita e proveitosa relação com textos literários.
Benveniste e a noção saussuriana de sistema
Authors: Rocha Raul De Carvalho
Published: July 2023

Este trabalho propõe-se a pôr em relação a noção de sistema linguístico concebida por Ferdinand de Saussure no Curso de Linguística Geral (1916) e a teoria da linguagem de Émile Benveniste a partir dos Problemas de Linguística Geral I e II (1966; 1974). Parte-se da hipótese de que Benveniste toma a noção saussuriana de sistema de modo a subsidiar uma concepção própria de língua, que vem a estar na base de um novo campo, a Linguística do Discurso. A noção de sistema no Curso diz respeito a uma característica muito particular da concepção de língua em Saussure: a de funcionamento, que se presta à eliminação dos fatores externos ao mecanismo linguístico e, consequentemente, à consideração da realidade intrínseca da língua. Considerando que Benveniste incorpora integralmente a noção saussuriana de sistema (FLORES, 2013), pretende-se discutir como essa noção opera na teoria da linguagem benvenistiana, com especial ênfase em sua teoria da enunciação, sem, no entanto, ignorar os afastamentos que as reflexões de Benveniste produzem em relação ao conceito de língua proposto por Saussure. Portanto, deixa-se de lado o discurso da ruptura, da herança, da influência e tantos outros taxativos, e prefere-se partir da proposta de Normand (2006) de um encontro Saussure–Benveniste e falar não de encontros, mas de propostas distintas, embora não tão distantes.
A justaposição em propagandas: uma análise semântica, pragmática e semiótica
Authors: Mallmann Adriana Cristina Lopes Gonçalves
Published: July 2023

A gramática normativa, no que se refere à estruturação do período composto, associa a justaposição às orações coordenadas assindéticas, descrevendo a justaposição como meramente uma questão de forma. Entretanto, analisando dados reais de interação, no caso deste estudo, as propagandas, atesta-se que, conforme proposto por Gonçalves Mallmann (2021), Gonçalves (2017) e Dias (2009), a justaposição é um processo sintático caracterizado pela autonomia sintática, por uma interdependência semântica e pela ausência de conector entre estas cláusulas. Assim, parte-se do questionamento proposto por Decat (2001), de que a justaposição é uma estratégia comum em propagandas, para verificar se, por apresentar um caráter semanticamente produtivo e aparentemente simples, a justaposição atenderia às demandas do gênero textual propaganda. Diante desse cenário, buscou-se, por meio dos parâmetros da Gramática do Design Visual de Kress; Van Leeuwen (2006) e do mapa cognitivo das afinidades semânticas propostas por Kortmann (1997), observar se os recursos pragmáticos e semióticos empregados nas peças publicitárias, em conjunto com o conteúdo circunstancial implícito nas cláusulas justapostas, corroboram com a finalidade comunicativa do gênero propaganda. Assim, a partir de 22 (vinte e dois) dados, apontam-se algumas reflexões acerca da relação expressiva e produtiva entre a justaposição e o gênero textual propaganda. As análises e discussões estabelecidas confirmam a hipótese de Decat (2001) de que emergem inferências circunstanciais na combinação destas cláusulas, elemento característico das orações justapostas. Além de serem um caracterizador das justapostas, as inferências relacionam-se com os elementos linguísticos e semióticos das propagandas, atendendo plenamente à função comunicativa das mídias.
A posição do falante em relação ao valor facultativo instaurado no português do Ceará
Authors: Lima Liliane Viana , Pessoa Prata Nadja Paulino
Published: July 2023

Segundo Hengeveld e Mackenzie (2008), a modalidade facultativa é uma categoria semântica que diz respeito a habilidades e capacidades de um indivíduo (quando orientada-para-o-participante) ou a condições físicas circunstanciais de ocorrência de um determinado evento (quando orientada-para-o-evento). Com base nessa premissa, objetivamos, com esta pesquisa, descrever e analisar aspectos da modalidade facultativa que mantenham relação com os parâmetros de inclusão do falante no português cearense, tendo em vista as relações existentes entre os níveis Interpessoal e Representacional e Morfossintático na GDF (HENGEVELD; MACKENZIE, 2008) Para esta análise, utilizamos o subprojeto do corpus PROFALA intitulado “O português falado no Ceará”, do qual escolhemos uma amostra de 60 entrevistas do tipo DID. Após a leitura das entrevistas e  a análise quali-quantitativa, identificamos a existência de um continuum de uso do posicionamento do falante em relação valor facultativamente modalizado, que pode permitir-lhe (i) incluir-se totalmente no valor modal facultativo (eu; nós); (ii) incluir-se indiretamente no valor modal facultativo por meio de termos generalizadores (todo mundo; ninguém; você genérico, etc.); (iii) não se incluir no valor modal facultativo (terceira pessoa; sujeito indeterminado). Consequentemente, esta inclusão está diretamente ligada à orientação da modalidade facultativa, de modo que, quanto maior a inclusão do falante, maior a tendência a ocorrer a modalidade facultativa orientada-para-o-participante. Por outro lado, a tendência a não-inclusão propiciaria a modalidade facultativa orientada-para-o-evento.
O fenômeno da oposição em cláusulas coordenadas e subordinadas no ensino de português
Authors: Freitas Amanda Krüger Cardoso de , Silva Leosmar Aparecido da , Cerqueira Mirian Santos de
Published: July 2023

O presente artigo aborda o tratamento dado por gramáticos descritivistas, pela Base Nacional Comum Curricular (BNCC) e pelo livro didático, às orações coordenadas adversativas e às subordinadas concessivas quanto à inter-relação existente entre elas. No que se refere à metodologia, esta pesquisa é do tipo documental, uma vez que toma como corpus de análise o livro didático Aprender e praticar gramática, de Mauro Ferreira, destinado ao ensino médio. Os resultados do estudo mostraram que a BNCC recomenda o trabalho com os efeitos de sentido das orações coordenadas adversativas e das orações adverbiais concessivas, sem tratar necessariamente da relação de sentido entre ambas. Em relação ao livro didático, a pesquisa revelou que a relação não é feita na explicação do conteúdo, mas é feita em uma atividade de forma ainda incipiente. Trabalhos desta natureza podem contribuir para um ensino mais produtivo de língua portuguesa.
Prevention of Damages & Accidents in PSC I-Girders during Stressing & Erection Works
Authors: Mangaraj Abhijit
Published: July 2023

Abstract: As the infrastructure boom in India is in continuous rising trend from last 2 decades, the works of Bridges, structures, viaducts, and elevated corridors for Highways, Railways & Metro are running throughout the country. In these last 2 decades there is very much development in the Construction Materials, Machineries, and Accelerated Bridge Construction Methods to improve the quality & to reduce the construction time. But even by using such advancement, there are frequent failures and accidents of PSC Girders are happening every year across the country, which causes loss of life, property, time and loss of faith on Engineer community from the society. Even though material, machinery, methods are became advance and modern, But Human efficiency, work knowledge, preciseness, effective supervision & quality control not improves to that extent
Hybrid Enhanced Evolutionary Algorithm with Differential Evolution for Distributed No-Wait Flow-Shop Scheduling Problem
Authors: Ellie Kai Steven , Zhang Wenqiang
Published: July 2023

Abstract: The distributed no-wait flow-shop scheduling problem (DNWFSP) holds significant importance in real-world production environments. However, existing algorithms for solving the DNWFSP have limitations such as unsatisfactory solutions. Therefore, this paper proposes a hybrid enhanced multi-objective evolutionary algorithm (HEMOEA) with differential evolution (HEMOEA-DE) to solve DNWFSP with the criteria of minimizing makespan and total processing time. The algorithm incorporates a mathematical model for the DNWFSP. Effective encoding and decoding methods are employed, and DE is utilized as an efficient genetic operator for chromosome recombination. The HEMOEA-DE algorithm combines the Pareto dominating, dominated relationship-based fitness function and vector-evaluated genetic algorithm algorithms within HEMOEA to approach the Pareto Front quickly. To evaluate the performance of the proposed method, experiments were conducted on the E. Taillard benchmark problem. The outcomes were compared with those of other well-known algorithms. Regarding convergence and performance on the DNWFSP, the HEMOEA-DE algorithm outperformed other HEMOEA algorithms.
IoT Inspired Brain Disorders Monitoring and Detection
Authors: Chakraborty Akashdeep
Published: July 2023

Abstract: Today’s rapid changes in technology bring immense competition in work life that in effect perturb the work-personal life balance. This pampered disharmony involuntarily creates stress in human lives. Once the stress is uncontrolled, it will cause severe diseases including neurological disease, ageing effect, cardiovascular disease etc. Amongst these vulnerable diseases, brain disorder is considered more severe one as our control section when becomes scared, the entire body functions will be hampered from their equilibrium state. Most cited brain disorders are Alzheimer and Perkinson disease. There has been tireless effort to detect Azheirmer and Perkinson as well as bipolar diseases and their proper treatment for a decade but the befitted solution is under development. Also the busiest lifestyle may also discard human beings to keep in touch with their parents. The senior citizens are often suffered from these two diseases. In this regard, our aim is to investigate a realistic as well as compatible solution to administer the brain disorders. Internet of Things (IoT) is considered as most efficient and energy saving technology that can provide easy and remote monitoring of target problem. The number of sensors and IoT devices along with applications is used for monitoring the health condition of patients. These devices will monitor the movement of targeted patients at home or out of their homes. Based on their behavior and movement, the treatment will be provided to Alzheimer’s patients. In this review paper, we are trying to response the unanswered question “ Is Brain disorder properly detected and prevented?”. Our attempt is to figure out possible solutions using Internet of Things (IoT) over the problem. The paper will highlight recent development in IoT based brain disorder therpy and attempt to harbinger the process of way-out
Fake Currency Note Detection using Image Processing and Convolution Neural Network
Authors: Selvi Dr. S. Sahaya Tamil
Published: July 2023

Abstract: Counterfeiting money stands for the illegal replication of original currency; hence counterfeit currency is a fake currency that has not been authorized by the government. Every year the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) faces the problem of counterfeit currency notes once filtered and circulated in the market. Commercial areas like the banks, malls, jeweler stores etc., have machine that use Ultraviolet (UV) light and other techniques to detect the authenticity of the currency. But for common people it is very difficult to detect whether the currency is fake or genuine and they may face losses especially during bank deposits and transaction. This paper proposes a system which is designed such that any person can use it easily and detect the authenticity of the currency by scanning the image of the currency note in the mobile phone. The system is developed using image processing technologies and Convolution Neural Network(CNN) classifier.
Ethical Considerations for the Use of AI Language Model
Authors: Gaud Daksha
Published: July 2023

Abstract: The rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and natural language processing have led to the development of sophisticated language models like ChatGPT, Siri, Google Assistant. These models possess the ability to generate human-like text, enabling them to engage in conversations and assist users in various domains. However, as these models become increasingly integrated into our lives, it becomes crucial to examine the ethical considerations associated with their use. This survey-based research paper aims to explore and analyze the ethical implications of deploying ChatGPT and similar language models, focusing on concerns such as bias, privacy, accountability, and transparency. The research was qualitative research as data was collected through surveys using the questionnaire tool. By identifying these ethical challenges, we can foster responsible development, deployment, and regulation of AI technologies to ensure their beneficial and ethical integration into society.
Experimental Investigation and Performance Analysis of a Solar Dryer Using Advanced Heat Transfer Materials
Authors: Sikarwar Nitin , Agrawal Amit
Published: July 2023

Abstract: This thesis evaluates the performance of a mixed-mode solar dryer with a backup heater. This thesis compares the solar dryer alone with the solar dryer with backup heater in terms of drying rate, efficiency, and drying time. The primary collector, the secondary collector on the roof, three drying trays within a drying chamber, and the chimney make up the dryer. A single pass twin duct air heating system and an aluminium plate that has been coated black make up the primary collector. The drying chamber's top secondary collector and side walls are constructed of clear glass. The drying chamber is heated with a banana charcoal burner backup heater.
Performance Evaluation and Optimization of Solar Water Heater Systems: A Comprehensive Experimental Study
Authors: Kumar Pradeep , Agrawal Amit
Published: July 2023

Abstract: Solar water heaters are an efficient and sustainable technology for meeting the growing demand for hot water in residential and commercial applications. This abstract presents a comprehensive overview of the performance evaluation of solar water heater systems through an extensive experimental study. The study aims to assess the effectiveness and efficiency of different solar water heater configurations under varying operating conditions. The experimental investigation involved the measurement and analysis of key performance parameters such as solar collector efficiency, heat transfer efficiency, thermal storage capacity, and overall system efficiency. A range of factors including solar radiation intensity, ambient temperature, water flow rate, and collector tilt angle were systematically varied to examine their impact on system performance.
Determinantes en el uso de simuladores de negocios: caso Company Game
Authors: Sarmiento Suárez Jaime Enrique , Ramírez Montañez Julio César , Villamizar León Maryory Patricia , Arenas Fajardo Reinaldo , Huguet Borén Llorenç
Published: July 2023

El uso de simuladores en los procesos educativos ha tomado fuerza en los últimos años, y se han convertido en herramientas que apoyan al mejoramiento de capacidades y competencias genéricas de los estudiantes, como son: la comunicación asertiva, gestión del tiempo y de la información, trabajo en equipo, técnicas de análisis, entre otras, pero se hace necesario indagar si otros aspectos pueden influir en el momento del uso y aplicación de los simuladores empresariales, así como en los resultados obtenidos. El enfoque utilizado en esta investigación es de tipo cuantitativo-explicativo y de tiempo sincrónico y utiliza como fuente de información la base de datos del simulador de juegos de negocios Company Game, tomando la información de 1.197 registros. El objetivo del estudio es identificar la existencia de variables que influyan en el desempeño de los equipos en el juego de simuladores de negocios, tales como la formación académica, el contexto y el entrenamiento. Los resultados del modelo de regresión logística y el modelo de ecuaciones no paramétricas (PLS-SEM), muestran que el tiempo de dedicación y la cantidad de consultas de páginas asociadas al juego de simulación son los determinantes que explican la variación en los resultados del ranking, brindando una mejor comprensión a las personas interesadas en los procesos de construcción del conocimiento, mediadas por métodos de aprendizaje electrónico que buscan un fortalecimiento en las competencias genéricas.
Factores competitivos en el sector empresarial marroquinero. Caso: pymes marroquineras departamento de Nariño
Authors: Arteaga Flórez Andrea Lorena , De la Rosa Salazar Diego Marcel
Published: July 2023

El sector marroquinero en Colombia está representado substancialmente por micro y pequeñas empresas. Si se observa desde la parte productiva, esta industria es generadora de empleo, bienes intermedios y crecimiento industrial; es volátil, porque es altamente dependiente del comportamiento de la demanda por los productos que ofrece, se incrementa o disminuye por temporalidades de acuerdo con las tendencias de la moda. Esta investigación se centra en caracterizar el sector Marroquinero en el Departamento de Nariño, partiendo de un análisis de mercado de la industria, mediante la herramienta de las fuerzas competitivas de Porter. Se realiza bajo un paradigma interpretativo y enfoque cualitativo, el tipo de investigación es descriptivo y la técnica utilizada es la entrevista y encuesta; concluyendo que es un sector poco atractivo. El sector se percibe con un nivel de rivalidad en equilibrio entre competidores, al igual que con proveedores; se encuentra en un nivel medio bajo para negociar con sus compradores, pero se ve amenazado sustancialmente por productos sustitutos; sus barreras de entrada son bajas y de salida son altas. En general, pese a las amenazas encontradas, aún tiene potencial de crecimiento y desarrollo para quienes lo conocen y sean capaces de ser innovadores.
La innovación tecnológica: una mirada desde la teoría económica
Authors: Chalapud Narváez Eduardo David
Published: July 2023

Esta investigación realiza desde la metodología cualitativa de tipo descriptivo - bibliográfica, una revisión de los aportes teóricos y conceptuales que sobre la innovación tecnológica elaboran los enfoques más relevantes de la teoría económica, y cómo su aplicación sigue influyendo en las organizaciones, en ocasiones con el acompañamiento del Estado. El resultado indica que las diferentes corrientes económicas desarrollan ideas estructurales que, actualmente, se tienen en cuenta en los procesos empresariales cada vez más novedosos y se orientan para dar origen a la competitividad, cambio tecnológico y sostenibilidad institucional en un mercado incierto. Además, el artículo deja algunos puntos de reflexión acerca de la utilidad en el crecimiento económico que poseen principios como la división y especialización del trabajo, la producción como fuente de innovación, gestión del conocimiento, redes de cooperación, la destrucción creativa, evolución tecnológica, extracción de valor y la utilización de recursos en la evolución económica.
New dilemmas of the «just war» theory
Authors: Shanchenko Ekaterina P.
Published: July 2023

Referring to the classical tenets of the “just war” theory, the author also analyses its modern versions. While the research the author arrives at the conclusion that some political scientists have modernized the theory of “a just war” according to the modern times. For instance, due to the existence of new actors on the international arena, there were created a new version, which allows to include non-state actors for the analysis (which consequently led to abolition of such principles as legitimacy of authorities, “last resort” criteria and also led to the implementation of the preventive actions) as well as the principles just post bellum. It is interesting to note that some political scientists associate the theory of “a just war” with the issue of global leadership of the USA. Throughout the history the participants and the aims of the wars have undergone serious changes, so that nowadays they do not sound “just” (for example, theory of punitive war). Analyzing in detail the postulates of the theory of “just war”, the author turns to historical events - the “Arab Spring”, the confrontation between the USA and the USSR, modern information wars. The author arrives at the conclusion that the use of the theory of “just war” for the analysis of modern events remains relevant, however, requires the introduction of new postulates in the norms of the theory, in particular, the addition of the principles of jus ad bellum and jus post bellum.
The Politization of the Mass Consciousness of the Russian Youth in 2022: Possibilities of Evaluation on the Basis of Statistical Analysis
Authors: Popova Olga V. , Grishin Nikolai V. , Suslov Sergei I.
Published: July 2023

The politicization of the mass consciousness of young people is revealed in this study by such parameters as the level of interest in politics, readiness for certain actions to protect interests, priority sources of political information, assessment of the correctness of the direction of development of the situation in the country, as well as the relations of some of these characteristics with the level political trust. The empirical basis of the study is the results of a massive online survey of Russian youth conducted in November 2022. The method of conducting the survey was an online survey. The data were processed using traditional methods of statistical analysis: simple and combined grouping of data, analysis of standardized residuals, correlation analysis, calculation of new variables, multiple regression analysis, multivariate scaling. By modeling a new variable, it was possible to identify high rates of youth interest in politics. It has been established that the level of youth interest in politics is associated with the availability and size of material and social resources of representatives of this group. Positive and negative factors influencing the level of youth interest in politics have been identified. Since, according to the results of the analysis, the levels of political trust and interest in youth politics turned out to be unrelated, it can be argued that the rational component in the formation of political trust among young people is rather weak. The relationship between the level of political trust of young people and the willingness to take certain potential actions to protect their interests has been revealed. Two sets of related potential action strategies have been identified that young people can use to protect their interests.
ENTIDADES TERRITORIALES INDÍGENAS EN COLOMBIA:
Authors: Ordóñez Gómez Freddy , Ordóñez Montoya Laura
Published: July 2023

El multiculturalismo establecido en la Constitución Política de Colombia no ha sido desarrollado de forma completa, lo que se demuestra en la falta de incorporación en la legislación orgánica de ordenamiento territorial de las Entidades Territoriales Indígenas y la consecuente ausencia de reconocimiento de los gobiernos autónomos de los indígenas. Ello tiene su origen en el colonialismo jurídico y en una lectura liberal del multiculturalismo, lo que demuestra el racismo presente en la sociedad, el Estado y el Derecho colombiano. A pesar de esto, los pueblos indígenas adelantan propuestas orientadas a su reconocimiento como autoridades político-administrativas, el Decreto-Ley 632 de 2018 es la más reciente y significativa iniciativa que busca materializar el multiculturalismo emancipatorio y la interculturalidad socioespacial en el país.
Features of the Parameters of 24-Hours pH-Impedance and High-Resolution Esophageal Manometry in Patients with Barrett's Esophagus on Proton Pump Inhibitors
Authors: Maev I. V. , Bordin D. S. , Barkalova E. V. , Ovsepyan M. A. , Valitova E. R. , Kalashnikova N. G. , Andreev D. N.
Published: July 2023

Аim: to identify predictors of insufficient effectiveness of proton pump inhibitors based on the evaluation of the results of 24-hour pH-impedance and high-resolution esophageal manometry in patients with Barrett's esophagus.

Materials and methods. 52 patients with histologically confirmed Barrett's esophagus who are on therapy with proton pump inhibitors were examined. All patients underwent daily pH-impedance and high-resolution esophageal manometry.

Results. According to daily pH-impedance, group 1 consisted of 37 patients who responded satisfactorily to antisecretory therapy, group 2 of 15 patients who demonstrated insufficient response to acid-suppressive therapy, 11 of whom had no clinical manifestations. The total number of reflux averaged 55 in group 1 and 106 in group 2. The average number of acid reflux in group 1 was 5.68, in group 2 — 48.5. The average number of non-acid reflux prevailed in patients of group 2 and averaged 58, in group 1 the indicator averaged 47. Evaluation of the results of high-resolution esophageal manometry showed that violations of the structure and function of the esophago-gastric junction were detected in 21 patients out of 52. Disorders of the motility of the thoracic esophagus were detected in 31 patients out of 52. When comparing the frequency of motor disorders from the thoracic esophagus in groups 1 and 2, no significant differences were obtained. However, significantly more frequent registration of violations of the structure and/or function of the esophago-gastric junction was found in the group with unsatisfactory effectiveness of proton pump inhibitors.

Conclusion. In a number of patients with Barrett's esophagus, there is an insufficient effect of acid-suppressive therapy and at the same time an asymptomatic course of the disease, which may increase the risk of its progression. Predictors of insufficiently successful treatment of patients with Barrett's esophagus may be both insufficient pharmacological effect of proton pump inhibitors themselves, and motility disorders that cause the presence of non-acid reflux, decreased esophageal clearance, which in turn may cause the patient's symptoms to persist and adversely affect the condition of the esophageal mucosa.
Physical Activity and Gallstone Disease
Authors: Grigor’eva I. N. , Notova T. E. , Romanova T. I.
Published: July 2023

Аim: to present data of Russian and foreign studies about association between physical activity (PA) and gallstone disease (GSD).

Key point. A low PA level is one of the four major risk factors for chronic non-infectiuos diseases. The frequency of low PA in men and women of the Russian Federation (according to the medical examination in 2016) is 19 %. The global prevalence of GSD is up to 20 % among adults. Many systematic reviews and meta-analyses have confirmed an inverse association between GSD and PA in the world, regardless of potential risk factors for GSD, with a clear dose-dependent effect — the relative risk (RR) of GSD was 0.87 (95 % CI 0.83–0.92) per 20 metabolic equivalents (MET) of PA per week. According to our results of an epidemiological survey in the framework of the WHO MONICA program in Novosibirsk (n = 870) among women aged 25–64 with low total PA (less than 800 MET/min/week), as well as with the first class of PA in leisure-time, GSD occurred much more often (class 1 — 33 %, classes 2–4 — 8.7–11.0 %, p < 0.01). PA favorably affects almost all mechanisms of gallstone formation: improves cholesterol metabolism in bile, increases serum HDL cholesterol, bile acid synthesis, stimulates the release of cholecystokinin, reduces mucin hypersecretion, increases the diversity and richness of the intestinal microbiota. Daily PA serves as a preventive measure for GSD: the risk of GSD is reduced by 66 % (95 % CI 0.18–0.86).

Conclusion. EASL has recognized PA as a protective agent against gallstone formation.
Salinity induced changes in growth and gill structure of freshwater carp, Cyprinus carpio Linn.
Authors:   Department of Aquaculture, College of Fisheries, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana-141 004, India, Singh G. , Ansal M.D. ,   Department of Aquatic Environment, College of Fisheries, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana-141 004, Shanthanagouda A.H. ,   Department of Aquatic Environment, College of Fisheries, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana-141 004, Kaur V.I. ,   Department of Aquaculture, College of Fisheries, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana-141 004, India, Bansal N. ,   Department of Vety. Anatomy and Histology, College of Veterinary Sciences, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana-141 004, India
Published: July 2023

Aim: The present study was carried out to evaluate salinity induced changes in the growth and gill structure of cosmopolitan freshwater carp, Cyprinus carpio (Linn.). Methodology: Inland saline water (15 ‰ or g l-1) was collected from the salt affected waterlogged areas of village Shajrana (30.3346 0N, 74.1196 0E) in District Fazilka, Punjab (India) and diluted with underground freshwater for preparing different salinity levels (2 to 10 ‰). Fingerlings (10 ±2 cm) of C. carpio were exposed to 0 (control), 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 ‰ salinity after gradual acclimatization with salinity increase @ 1 ‰ hr-1. Results: At the end of 120 days of rearing under saline conditions, 100% fish survival was observed up to 6 ‰ salinity, while 86.66 and 70.00% survival was recorded in 8 and 10 ‰, respectively. However, fish growth declined significantly at all salinity levels (p≤0.05). Gill structure was also affected at all salinity level, but pronounced changes were observed at salinity levels ≥ 6 ‰, including lamellar oedema, epithelial lifting, lamellar hyperplasia, hypertrophy, lamellar fusion, hyalinisation, aneurysm, blood congestion, etc. Interpretation: The results offer referral database to explore optimised economic production of common carp in inland saline areas of the region at salinity levels below 6 ‰. Key words: Carp, Gills, Growth, Production, Salinity, Survival
Decolorization of p-nitrophenol and draft genome sequence of Pseudomonas sp. strain PNPG3: A preliminary report
Authors:   Department of Microbiology, The University of Burdwan, Burdwan-713 104, India, Aftabul Alam S.K. , Saha P. ,   Department of Microbiology, The University of Burdwan, Burdwan-713 104, India
Published: July 2023

Aim: To study decolorization (with concomitant depletion) of p-nitrophenol by a bacterial strain designated as PNPG3 and determination of draft genome sequence of the strain to understand its potential. Methodology: A comparative study of PNP’s decolorization (with concomitant removal) in three different test conditions was undertaken. The experiment was carried out in one-liter volume Schott Duran bottles. Genomic DNA was extracted and draft genome sequence was determined using Illumina HiSeqX platform. Raw reads were assembled and subjected to subsystem classification using several bioinformatics tools (RAST, PATRIC, and NCBI’s PGAP pipelines). The genome sequence was deposited at the NCBI Genome database and the strain PNPG3 was also deposited at MTCC, IMTECH, Chandigarh. Results: The bacterial strain PNPG3 could carry out decolorization with concomitant removal of PNP in all three sets of experiments, including one set, where only distilled water was used. The best decolorization (with concomitant PNP removal) capacity was recorded for set D (with Minimal Medium, MM; PNP, and free cells) followed by set E (MM, PNP, and immobilized cells) and set B (distilled water, PNP and free cells) conditions. The size of the draft genome sequence of the strain PNPG3 was 6,566,321 bp, with 62.26% GC contents. The genome had 6210 protein-coding sequences and 66 tRNA genes. The predictive presence of different types of proteases and siderophore receptors indicated its possible potential for industrial applications and plant growth-promoting activities. Interpretation: The bacterium Pseudomonas sp. strain PNPG3 has the capacity to decolorize p-nitrophenol even in presence of distilled water and it remains viable for up to twelve days. The genome sequence revealed that the strain harbored genes responsible for the metabolism of aromatic compounds, chemotaxis, protease, and siderophore receptors indicating the versatile nature of the strain. Key words: Decolorization, P-nitrophenol, Pseudomonas sp., RAST, Xenobiotic
Beyond Methodological Nationalism
Authors: Rots Aike P.
Published: July 2023

This article discusses the problem of lingering methodological nationalism within Japanese studies. It argues that methodological nationalism remains widespread not only in research but also in university teaching and public dissemination, which legitimises popular conceptions of Japan as a singular, unified entity that is essentially different from both the West and continental Asia. This methodological nationalism is a consequence of the ways in which disciplinary structures contribute to the reification, demarcation and naturalisation of ‘Japan’ and ‘things Japanese’ as distinct objects of study in need of their own guild of specialised interpreters. The article argues that to overcome methodological nationalism, scholars of Japan need to reconsider their choice of subject matter and reflect more upon their use of the adjective ‘Japanese’. It proposes three research agendas for the academic study of Japan. First, we should study discursive and institutional processes of Japan-making instead of being complicit in them. Second, we need to rethink ‘Japan’ as our main spatio-cultural unit by focusing on diversity within the Japanese isles and beyond (including migrant and Indigenous perspectives). Third, we should conduct and contribute to comparative research that focuses on both local particulars and transnational connections, rather than using the nation-state as our main unit of analysis.
Diseño de una propuesta de interpretación ambiental como recurso educativo en una reserva natural de Tandil, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Authors: Silvia Valenzuela Molina  , Aldo G. Ramos Schenck  , Gonzalo Schneider Cherrutti  , Luisina Campo Gómez  , Julia Peyran Massaro
Published: July 2023

El contexto actual de distanciamiento de la sociedad con la naturaleza ha provocado problemáticas ambientales que es necesario comenzar a minimizar. Resulta fundamental generar acciones que contribuyan a revincular a los grupos sociales con el medio. En este sentido, la educación ambiental aparece como la estrategia apropiada para realizar la tarea. Se puede implementar a partir de diversos instrumentos como la interpretación ambiental o del patrimonio, siendo las áreas protegidas lugares propicios para recomponer estos vínculos, se permite así la generación de una conciencia ambiental, una actitud crítica y reflexiva acerca del accionar humano. Se propone como objetivo general propiciar acciones desde la interpretación del patrimonio, que permitan la revalorización de la Reserva Natural Sierra del Tigre (Tandil, Argentina) para contribuir a crear a nivel individual y colectivo conciencia ambiental, pensamiento crítico y compromiso por la sustentabilidad. El presente trabajo se encuentra enmarcado en un proyecto de extensión orientado a establecer procesos de intercambio de conocimientos y experiencias entre actores universitarios correspondientes a la Facultad de Ciencias Humanas de la Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires y los miembros de la cooperadora de la Reserva Natural Sierra del Tigre localizada en la ciudad de Tandil.
Observaciones ornitológicas en la Isla del Coco y sus aguas oceánicas, Costa Rica (julio y setiembre, 2020)
Authors: Sergio Arias  , Michel Montoya
Published: July 2023

La avifauna de la Isla del Coco es compleja en su distribución y presencia. Las expediciones de ecoturismo con fines de observación de aves contribuyen a comprender y ampliar el conocimiento, comportamiento, historia natural y presencia de aves en zonas remotas. El presente trabajo documenta observaciones de comportamientos particulares y registros ornitológicos que amplían la presencia de aves en el área protegida y sus aguas oceánicas. Se incorporan cuatro registros nuevos de especies no documentadas antes en la Isla del Coco y una subespecie, se sugieren aves oceánicas comunes para el vasto territorio marino y se amplía el conocimiento de las aves residentes y endémicas de la ínsula. Las dos expediciones realizadas corresponden a julio y setiembre de 2020, en las cuales se emplearon el protocolo de búsqueda intensiva en los senderos de acceso público y el protocolo pelágico de eBird en los recorridos pelágicos y circunnavegación de la isla para el registro y documentación de especies de aves.
Exposure to micro- and nanoplastics and human reproductive outcomes: a systematic review
Authors: Hunt Kathryn , Davies Anna , Fraser Abigail , Burden Christy , Howell Amy , Buckley Kirsten , Harding Sam , Bakhbakhi Danya
Published: July 2023

Background: Micro- and nanoplastics are novel pollutants which
have been detected in human tissues including placenta and fetal
meconium. However, their association with adverse fertility or pregnancy
outcomes in humans is not known. Objectives: To synthesise
evidence for the presence of micro- and nanoplastics in human
reproductive tissue and their associations with environmental exposures
and reproductive outcomes. Search Strategy: Medline, Embase,
Emcare, CINAHL, ClinicalTrials.gov and ICTRP were searched from
inception to 03/02/2023. Selection Criteria: Studies of human
participants, assessing presence of micro- and nanoplastics in
reproductive tissues, environmental exposures to micro- and
nanoplastics, and fertility or pregnancy-related outcomes. Data
Collection and Analysis: Two independent reviewers selected studies and
extracted data on study characteristics, microplastics detected,
environmental exposures, reproductive outcomes, and risk of bias.
Narrative synthesis was performed due to methodological heterogeneity.
Main Results: Of 1094 citations, seven studies were included,
covering 96 participants. Microplastics were detected in 68 out of 96
placentas examined across all studies, and in all 14 meconium samples.
Two studies reported associations between lifestyle factors (daily water
intake, use of scrub cleanser or toothpaste, bottled water and takeaway
food) and placental microplastics. One study reported associations
between meconium microplastics and microbiota diversity and composition.
One reported placental microplastics levels correlated with reduced
birth weights and 1-minute Apgar scores. All studies had a very high
risk of bias. Conclusions: There is a need for high-quality
observational studies to assess the effects of microplastics on human
reproductive health. Funding: None received Keywords:
microplastics, nanoplastics, pregnancy, fertility, environmental
pollution