bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INSECT PESTS OF TOMATO AND POTATO, AND THEIR MANAGEMENT PRACTICES ADOPTED BY FARMERS OF KATHMANDU VALLEY
Authors: Karki Prashant Jung , Karki Reshma , Mahat Sunita , Bhatt Ritu , Dhoj GC Yubak
Published: September 2024

A survey conducted from January to April across Ramkot, Gotthatar, Lele, and Gamcha studied insect pests in tomato and potato crops and the pest management methods used by local farmers in Kathmandu Valley. Of the 97 randomly selected farmers, 35% were aged 31-40, with most being women. Despite 75% having only primary education, 44% had received training in Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Major pests identified included the South American Tomato Leaf Miner, Tomato Fruit Worm, and Potato Tuber Moth (PTM), with the former two causing significant economic losses, particularly in Lalitpur. Drip irrigation was used by 76% of farmers due to its water efficiency, and crop damage in tomatoes averaged 52%, while potatoes saw 35% damage in Lalitpur. To manage pests, farmers employed various methods: 93% used cultural controls, 24% used biological controls, 29% semiochemicals, and 57% relied on chemical pesticides. Botanical pesticides like Artemisia vulgaris, Eupatorium, and Azadirachtin were often used with cattle urine, and sex pheromone traps were also used. Due to limited knowledge, 24% of farmers applied higher-than-recommended pesticide doses. Major challenges included pest infestations, diseases, fertilizer, irrigation, and labor issues.
SUSTAINING WHEAT IN A CHANGING CLIMATE: POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR EGYPT'S AGRICULTURAL SECTOR
Authors: Islam Karem Rouby , Ragab Rokaya Ragab Abdalla
Published: September 2024

This paper discussed the challenges facing the agricultural sector and food security in Egypt due to climate change, which are: desertification, sea level rise, and water resources, such as the resources of the Nile River, groundwater in the Nile Delta, groundwater reservoirs, in addition to rainfall. The researchers discussed the impact of all these factors on the wheat crop's agricultural area. The wheat crop is especially important to Egyptians, as they rely on bread, which is the main derivative of wheat. This paper also developed four solutions to confront the effects of climate change on wheat in Egypt, and the solutions represented in (1) Development of new wheat varieties that are more resistant to heat and drought, (2) Disseminate and improve sustainable wheat farming practices, (3) Generalizing the cultivation of the most productive wheat varieties, such as Misr 1 and 2 varieties, Sids12, and Giza 171, (4) Reducing the loss of the wheat crop in its various stages, starting from the harvest stage, through the transportation and storage stage, during the milling operations, and ending with distributing the final product to the consumer. The researchers evaluated the advantages and disadvantages of these solutions and chose the most appropriate and easiest to implement among them. The recommendations in this paper are designed to serve as a policy reference for agricultural sector decision-makers focused on climate change and sustainable food security.
PRODUCTION OF INDONESIAN ASSERTIVE SPEECH OF PATIENTS CATATONIC TYPE OF SCHIZOPHRENIA WITH PERSEVERATION SYMPTOMS
Authors: Ali Ali , Gustianingsih Gustianingsih
Published: September 2024

This study aims to analyze the production of assertive speech in Indonesian in catatonic schizophrenia patients who experience symptoms of perseveration. Catatonic schizophrenia is characterized by motor and behavioral disorders, while perseveration is the continuous repetition of words or phrases that are not in accordance with the context of the conversation. This study uses a descriptive qualitative method with subjects of catatonic schizophrenia patients who show symptoms of perseveration in communication. Data were obtained through participant observation, in-depth interviews, and audio recordings of patient communication. Data analysis was carried out thematically to identify patterns of assertive speech production that emerged from patient verbal interactions. The results of this study indicate that although catatonic schizophrenia patients with symptoms of perseveration have difficulty in maintaining a logical and coherent conversation flow, there are still efforts to convey assertive speech in the form of firm statements, although often interrupted by repetition of words. These findings provide important insights into understanding the dynamics of communication in schizophrenia patients, as well as offering implications for the development of more effective communication therapy for patients with similar conditions.
Determining the Relative Importance of Factors Affecting the Selection of High School Students for University Colleges Using Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Ibrahim Hassan M. , Yousif Ali N. , Resen Raja D.
Published: September 2024

Identifying the critical elements that impact students' choice of university majors is critical for leading the nation towards future success. This entails developing a cohort of talented science experts who can pioneer innovations in a variety of industries such as technology, industry, and transportation. To uncover these crucial aspects, this study uses artificial neural networks, a sophisticated analytical technique, to anticipate and assess their relative importance. The study used a descriptive analytical technique, administering a detailed questionnaire to students enrolled in Iraqi universities, resulting in a strong sample size of 238 people. The data was then meticulously analysed using artificial neural networks, a process well-known for its ability to find nuanced patterns and correlations within complicated datasets. The study's findings provide fascinating insights into the factors that influence students' university major selections. The quality of interactions with instructors and classmates during high school is among the most important of these characteristics, demonstrating the substantial influence of mentoring and social dynamics on academic trajectory. Following closely after are thoughts about the economic condition of students' parents, demonstrating the ubiquitous effect of socioeconomic issues on educational decision-making. In summary, this study provides useful information that may be used to guide strategic activities targeted at creating a favourable environment for the development of future leaders. By identifying the fundamental determinants underlying students' university major choices, policymakers and stakeholders may develop focused interventions to assure the nation's preparation for tomorrow's knowledge economy's problems and prospects.
Strategies to Address Drug and Substance Abuse among Youths. A Cross-Sectional Study of Mbare, Harare
Authors: Gusha Memory Dananayi
Published: September 2024

The study sought to investigate the strategies that can be adopted to curb the problem of drug abuse among youths in Mbare. The increasing exposure to the Zimbabwean environment, both as a manufacturer and market of hard-core drugs and substances, has changed the trend of drug abuse among youths in Mbare. The manufacture of drugs such as musombodia, meth, and mutoriro (local drugs made using various concoctions), as well as the entry of new drugs such as bronclee and codeine into Zimbabwe, has intensified the accessibility of drugs to youths, with the preceding result being a high rise in crime rates. Bronfenbrenner’s 1944 Ecological Systems Theory guided the research. The research used qualitative research, using Mbare, Matapi Flats as a case study. Snowballing and purposive sampling techniques were employed to meet the demands of the qualitative study, with a sample size of 20 participants consisting of police, community organisations and youths being selected. The findings showed that educational campaigns, counselling and rehabilitation, and empowerment programs are the major strategies used in the Mbare community to curb drug abuse among youths. The findings also showed that the successful implementation of evidence-based drug abuse prevention programs in communities depends on several factors, including community readiness, stakeholder collaboration, funding and resources, program adaptation and fidelity, program evaluation, and political and social support. The study findings indicate that youths face several hindrances while attempting to obtain substance use services and information. These hindrances include a deficiency in knowledge regarding the availability of services and supports, uncertainty regarding the suitability of services, and insufficiency of accessible data, necessitating comprehensive investigation. In conclusion, the research findings highlight the need for a multi-faceted approach to curbing drug abuse among youths. The approach should address the stigma surrounding substance use disorder and mental health issues, provide more relevant and persuasive public health messaging, enhance knowledge of the neurobiological aspects of addiction, and encourage peer support while addressing the normalization of substance use among youths.
Sociocultural Perceptions, Therapeutic Practices of Hypertension and its Management in Bamenda, Cameroon
Authors: ABOH TEBAH Monica , Antoine SOCPA
Published: September 2024

Hypertension amongst other diseases is a current social and medical problem in Bamenda. People’s perception of the etiology of hypertension, vary and thus influences their therapeutic options (modern medicine and alternative medicines). Government efforts have been made in the years past to curb the prevalence and improve on the management; these efforts seemed to have been insufficient because the prevalence of the condition keeps increasing despite the government efforts which have always been tilted towards modern medicine. Thus, this study seeks to explore the various healings ways in which the people of Bamenda take care of hypertension. The main research question is what are the perceptions, and therapeutic practices of hypertension and its management in Bamenda? Subsequently, the main research hypothesis is that the therapeutic practices against hypertension and its management are determined by social representations on this disease. Obviously, the main research objective is to provide an understanding on how people in Bamenda perceive hypertension, and how it is equally managed. Qualitative research data collection and analysis methods were used. Research techniques used were direct observation, individual in-depth interview, focus group discussion, life history, and secondary data analysis. In addition, theories of Functionalism and Critical Medical Anthropology were used to interpret the results obtained after data analysis. Results from the field revealed that: Many newly diagnosed patients of hypertension are ‘initiated’ into drugs too early without proper checkup; also that many patients’ minds are not psychologically prepared that the drugs they are being initiated into will be for a very long time or even for life. In addition, field findings showed that, if the predisposing factors of hypertension in the lives of patients are well handled, they could discontinue drugs with stable BP ; Management of the disease by biomedical health care providers is still a great challenge, since patients do not adhere to instructions, leading to hypertension related complications; Incorporating the study of non-communicable diseases into the secondary and high school curriculum could improve hypertension management. Educating the population of Bamenda and the North West Region is the key to reducing the prevalence and improving the management of the condition. Thus, education of the population is crucial to reducing the prevalence of the disease and its control.
Examining the Leadership Styles and Effects of Sport Managers
Authors: Güneş Ejder , Kılıç Hüseyin Olcay
Published: September 2024

This study aims to investigate the leadership styles of sports managers and the impacts of these styles. Leadership, in its modern sense, was first used in the British Parliament in the 19th century and has gradually become a significant concept in business, education, and social fields. Leaders guide groups towards specific goals and enhance motivation through tasks such as crisis management, rewarding, and innovation. Management, on the other hand, focuses on coordinating resources and people in harmony to achieve organizational goals. While managers utilize hierarchical authority, leaders create influence through personal skills and charisma. Sports managers bear significant responsibilities when making strategic decisions and managing daily operations. Leadership styles reflect managers' strategic visions, values, and management strategies, and these styles yield different outcomes on organizational performance, team cohesion, motivation, and individual development. Research has shown that various leadership styles, such as transformational, autocratic, and democratic leadership, are key factors determining the effectiveness of sports managers. Leadership influences the dynamics within the organization and enhances employee motivation. This study examines the leadership styles of sports managers and their effects through a literature review methodology. The findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the leadership styles of sports managers and their impacts. These findings will contribute to the existing body of knowledge and serve as a foundation for future research on sports management leadership.
TENDÊNCIAS E DESAFIOS NA CONTRATAÇÃO PÚBLICA EM MOÇAMBIQUE: UMA ANÁLISE DO AJUSTE DIRETO COMO MODALIDADE DE CONTRATAÇÃO
Authors: Tajú Samya Suraya Meragi , Andrade Waty Teodoro , Macia Manuel
Published: September 2024

O objeto do presente artigo é refletir sobre o processo de contratação pública em Moçambique, suas tendências e desafios, tendo como base a modalidade de contratação denominada por ajuste direto que é considerada uma modalidade enquadrada no regime excecional e aplicável sempre que se mostre inviável a contratação em qualquer das modalidades definidas no regulamento de contratação pública. Por regra, todo o processo de contratação deve ser concretizado com base no concurso público no qual podem participar todos interessados desde que reúnam os requisitos de qualificação, e é entendido como a modalidade que garante a observância dos princípios da transparência, imparcialidade, isenção, concorrência e eficiência na prossecução do interesse público. No entanto, em determinadas circunstâncias permitidas por lei, o legislador definiu as hipóteses capazes de excluir o concurso público, ou seja, institui os fundamentos para a contratação direta no setor público. Moçambique tem testemunhado um aumento na adoção do ajuste direto como método de contratação pública, isso pode ser atribuído a fatores como a aparente flexibilidade e a celeridade do processo. No entanto, essa tendência levanta preocupações sobre transparência, equidade e eficiência na utilização dos recursos públicos bem como no critério tido em conta para a escolha da entidade contratada. O estudo tem relevância prática e jurídica na medida em que buscará compreender o ajuste direto, os requisitos legais e os desafios associados a este método de contratação pública. Para a elaboração do presente estudo optamos pela pesquisa qualitativa, tendo como técnicas a análise bibliográfica e documental.
NARRATIVAS DE JOVENS UNIVERSITÁRIOS SOBRE A HOMOFOBIA INTERNALIZADA: UMA ANÁLISE SOB A LUZ DA PSICOLOGIA HISTÓRICO-CULTURAL
Authors: Oliveira Neto José da Silva , Lima Ana Ignez Belém
Published: September 2024

Há processos homofóbicos nas relações universitárias, sejam aqueles manifestos entre alunos, entre professores e alunos ou até mesmo entre alunos e os equipamentos da universidade. A homofobia é um processo psicossocial, o que significa que ela tem uma história, a qual, por sua vez, se enraíza no cotidiano de pessoas homossexuais, inclusive em espaços educacionais como a universidade. Em certos períodos do desenvolvimento, a homofobia pode causar danos significativos na experiência de vida da pessoa que a sofre, e um desses períodos críticos é a juventude, durante a qual nossas necessidades e atividade mudam drasticamente. Este estudo objetivou analisar as narrativas de jovens universitários brasileiros sobre suas vivências de homofobia internalizada. O processo de pesquisa se caracterizou dentro da perspectiva qualitativa e, durante ele, foram realizadas entrevistas com quatro participantes, que responderam ao instrumento Dinâmica do Tempo. O corpus da pesquisa foi analisado a partir da Psicologia Histórico-Cultural de L. S. Vigotski, sobretudo através dos conceitos de sentido e vivência. Por fim, o estudo indicou que a experiência de jovens homossexuais brasileiros universitários é eminentemente marcada por elementos psicossociais de homofobia, os quais contribuem para maiores índices de homofobia internalizada entre esse público, afetando a produção de sentidos negativos acerca de si e do mundo, além de tensionar sua vivência rumo a um desenvolvimento patológico. Nesse contexto de violência, jovens homossexuais universitários podem ficar à mercê de ambientes acadêmicos que não contam com uma estrutura adequada para seu acolhimento, havendo, assim, a necessidade de revisitação dos moldes da universidade.
ULTRASSONOGRAFIA À BEIRA LEITO E DISSECÇÃO AGUDA DA AORTA
Authors: Queiroz Rezende Ulysses , Siqueira de Oliveira Maria Eduarda , Sanches de Carvalho Mariana , Oliveira Banhos Isadora
Published: September 2024

A ultrassonografia à beira leito (POCUS) tem emergido como uma ferramenta essencial na avaliação rápida e eficaz de várias condições críticas no ambiente hospitalar, dentre elas, a dissecção aguda da aorta. Objetivo: revisar a aplicação da ultrassonografia à beira leito no contexto da dissecção aguda da aorta. Materiais e métodos: trata-se de uma revisão integrativa, em que a questão norteadora foi “Como o uso de ultrassonografia à beira leito para diagnóstico de dissecção aguda da aorta em pacientes compara-se ao uso de métodos de diagnóstico padrão em termos de precisão do diagnóstico, tempo até o diagnóstico, taxa de mortalidade e complicações associadas?”. A busca pelos artigos ocorreu no PubMed a partir dos termos “point of care ultrasound" e "acute aortic dissection”, combinados entre si por operadores booleanos. Resultados e discussão: como o diagnóstico precisa ser feito rapidamente, especialmente em pacientes instáveis, a ecocardiografia transtorácica com o uso da ultrassonografia à beira leito é um estudo de imagem rápido e não invasivo que deve ser usado para auxiliar no diagnóstico de dissecção aórtica aguda. Foi demonstrado que o POCUS reduz significativamente o tempo para o diagnóstico dessas patologias em diferentes estudos, com alta especificidade e sensibilidade para diagnosticar a doença, e redução da mortalidade e mortalidade no acompanhamento. Conclusão: concluímos que há grande vantagem no uso do POCUS no departamento de emergência para o diagnóstico de patologias fatais, pois é rápido, portátil, não invasivo e passível de repetição.
Doctors save lives; psychologists save existences: mental health 5G? The role of research and teaching in the current university paradigm
Authors: Soares Luísa
Published: September 2024

Scientific events are important for maturing and debate about science and as such, it is suggested a reflection on a paradigm shift that seems to be taking place, which is mental health is also health vs the previous paradigm called mental health is health. This change occurs, particularly in this post-pandemic context. We are already in the mental health is health paradigm, without which everything else ceases to make sense, or even to exist. Hence the title of this reflective paper: Doctors save lives; psychologists save existences: mental health 5g? Reflecting on the urgency and speed (such as 5G internet) to implement behavioral changes in mental health, this work was presented as a keynote speaker at the 14th National Congress of Health Psychology (which occurred on 8th-10 th of September 2022). It is hoped to reflect and raise some questions rather than answer them.
E-TİCARETE YENİ BAŞLAYAN KOBİ’LERİN PAZARLAMA İLETİŞİMİ ÇALIŞMALARI: NİTEL BİR İNCELEME
Authors: Mirza Elifnur , Cıngı Mustafa
Published: September 2024

Teknolojik sistemlerin hızla gelişmesi ve pandemi sürecinin sınırlayıcı etkisi, küçük ve orta ölçekli işletmelerin (KOBİ) elektronik ticaret (e-ticaret) süreçlerine zamanla uyum sağlamasını ve pazarın rekabet dinamiklerini içselleştirmesini gerekli kılmıştır. E-ticaretin, KOBİ’ler ve müşteriler tarafından kullanımı yaygınlaşırken çoğunlukla lokal olan bu işletmelere küresel olma kapısı da aralanmaktadır. Bu çalışmanın amacı da KOBİ’lerin e-ticaret sürecinde yaşadıkları deneyimleri hakkında bilgi edinmek, e-ticarete atılma nedenlerini, motivasyonlarını, e-ticarette başarının onlar için ne anlam ifade ettiğini anlamak ve bu süreçteki pazarlama iletişimi çalışmalarındaki deneyimlerini ortaya koymaktır. Bu amaca ulaşabilmek üzere nitel araştırma yöntemi desenlerinden fenomenolojinin benimsendiği bu çalışmada e-ticarete yeni başlamış on KOBİ ile yarı yapılandırılmış görüşmeler üzerinden veriler toplanarak analiz edilmiştir. Sonuç olarak KOBİ’lerin e-ticarete başlamalarında yakın çevresindeki insanların teşvikinin fazla olduğuna, e-ticaretteki bilgisizliklerinden ötürü yanlış yönlendirildikleri ve manipüle edildiklerine, sektörlere göre kârlılıkların değiştiğine ve KOBİ’lerin verim almalarına karşın e-ticareti bir külfet olarak gördüklerine, kurumsal olmayan bir yaklaşımla amatör içerikleri kullanarak Instagram'daki yaşamın hızına uygun bir gerçeklik algısı yaratarak pazarlama çabalarında güvenilir ve samimi bir etki oluşturmayı hedefledikleri sonucuna ulaşılmıştır.
1903 Malazgirt Depreminin İngiliz Belgelerine Yansımaları, Misyoner ve Konsolosların Yardım Çalışmaları
Authors: Keskin Tülay
Published: September 2024

Türkiye, Alp-Himalaya deprem kuşağında yer almaktadır. Kuzey Anadolu Fayı, Doğu Anadolu Fayı ve Batı Anadolu Grabenler Bölgesi olarak adlandırılan alanlarda, geçmişte olduğu gibi bugün de pek çok deprem meydana gelmektedir. Bu fay hatları üzerinde yaşanan depremler büyük yıkımlara ve insan kayıplarına sebep olmuştur. Bu depremlerden biri de 1903’te Malazgirt ve çevresinde yaşanmıştır. Deprem, Malazgirt merkezi ve çevresinde binlerce insanın hayatını kaybetmesine ve büyük yıkıma sebep olmuştur. Öyle ki Malazgirt antik duvar kalıntıları dahi tamamiyle yıkılmıştır. Depremin neden olduğu yıkım ve kayıplar Bitlis vilayetinde görev yapan İngiliz konsolosları Frederick G. Freeman ile W. J. Heathcote’un ve Amerikan misyoneri Dr. Underwood’un raporlarına da yansımıştır. Konsolos ve misyonerler de deprem bölgesine giderek incelemelerde bulunmuşlardır. Vilayet yöneticileriyle görüşerek yaşananları yakından takip etmişlerdir. Çeşitli yabancı kaynaklardan kendilerine tahsis edilen yardımları depremzedelere dağıtmışlardır. Nitekim bu çalışmada 1903 Malazgirt depreminin İngiliz belgelerine yansımaları ele alınmıştır. Konsolosların ve misyonerlerin deprem bölgesiyle ilgili gözlem ve değerlendirmelerinin yanı sıra bölgedeki yardım faaliyetleri de incelenmiştir.
Strategi Meningkatkan Kualitas Peran Ibu dalam Penanggulangan Wabah Menuju Keluarga Tangguh di Maluku Tengah Provinsi Maluku
Authors: Lawalata Cornelly M. A , Embuai Selpina , Laisila Maya
Published: September 2024

Peran perempuan atau seorang ibu, sangatlah penting dalam membangun peradaban, membangun sebuah ketahanan keluarga di masyarakat, peran ibu sebagai pilar utama dalam mengasuh, mendidik, pendorong, dan mengawasi anak agar dapat tumbuh dan berkembang sebagai generasi bangsa yang unggul mampu bertahan dalam setiap persoalan termasuk sakit penyakit yang bisa saja dialami. Dari identifikasi Masalah, bahwa wabah malaria disamping diare dan order epidemic dan no epidemic ada 170 kasus, yang tersebar di Maluku Tengah dengan demikian, kondisi pra dan pasca pencegahan haruslah lebih diwaspadai, terlebih dimulai dari keluarga, sehingga diharapkan peran ibu menjadi ujung tombak terpeliharanya ketahanan keluarga. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah mengembangkan strategi meningkatkan kualitas peran ibu terhadap penanggulangan wabah menuju keluarga Tangguh di Maluku Tengah Provinsi Maluku, metode penelitian deskriptif kuantitaf yang dipakai untuk mengkaji masalah yang diteliti, dengan mengidentifikasi peran ibu, dan melakukan pemetaan terhadap faktor pendukung dan faktor penghambat peran ibu dalam penanggulangan wabah. Mengingat sampel adalah homogen sehingga secara purposive, pengambilan sampel 3 dari 18 kecamatan dengan menetapkan 39  responden ibu yang memiliki anak pernah terjangkit wabah, serta organisasi perempuan sebagai partisipasi menekan angka wabah. Hasil penelitian menggambarkan bahwa strategi meningkatkan kualitas peran ibu terhadap penanggulangan wabah, bahwa peran ibu yang dapat diidentifikasi yaitu ibu sebagai pengasuh, ibu sebagai pendidik, ibu sebagai pendorong, dan ibu sebagai pengawas masih berkategori rendah, dan dapat di pengaruhi oleh faktor penghambat dan faktor penunjang peran ibu dalam meningkatkan kualitas peran ibu terhadap penanggulangan wabah.
Analisis Recovery Orang Dengan Gangguan Jiwa di Kepulauan Maluku
Authors: Tasijawa Fandro Armando , Suryani  , Ratumanan Tanwey Gerson , Nanuru Ricardo Freedom , Tuhuteru Hennie , Makaruku Alfian Reymon , Nivaan Goldy Valendria , Tomasoa Valensya Yeslin , Leutualy Vanny , Madiuw Devita , Herwawan Joan Herly , Hentihu Emma Khumairah
Published: September 2024

Mental health is still an issue that has not received optimal attention from various parties. It is because there is a large treatment gap with most mental illness disorders not yet detected, there are still many health workers who have not been trained in mental health screening and management programs, and the treatment gap means that many People With Mental Illness (ODGJ) have not treated. This requires an analysis of recovery in the Maluku Islands region to give meaning to the lives of ODGJ even though they experience relapse. The research aims to analyze the recovery of ODGJ in the Maluku Islands region. This research used a cross-sectional approach with 268 respondents spread across five districts/cities of the Maluku Islands. The data analysis used in this research is univariate, bivariate, and multivariate. The research results show that most respondents live in Central Maluku (29.5%). In the bivariate analysis, it was found that the variables gender, religion, marital status, education level, duration of suffering from schizophrenia, living in the same house,  drug consumption, and visits to the health center were significantly related to ODGJ recovery (p<0.05). Meanwhile, the variables' age and distance from home to the health center showed a statistically insignificant relationship with ODGJ recovery (p>0.05). Meanwhile,multivariate analysis shows that ODGJ living at home is the strongest predictor (OR=8.295, 95% CI=4.441-10.172) among other variables that influence the recovery of ODGJ in the Maluku Islands. The findings of this research are crucial for developing interventions and policies to promote institutional recovery in the Maluku Islands.
SÍNDROME DE KLINEFELTER E O COMPORTAMENTO CRIMINAL
Authors: Galvin Beatriz Faulin , Hassunuma Renato Massaharu , Garcia Patrícia Carvalho , Messias Sandra Heloísa Nunes
Published: September 2024

Introdução: A Síndrome de Klinefelter (SK) é caracterizada pela aneuploidia do XXY, sendo uma doença que ocorre exclusivamente em pessoas do sexo masculino. Seu fenótipo é manifestado por diversas características, incluindo problemas psicossociais, que podem levar o indivíduo a desenvolver uma personalidade criminosa. Os estudos sobre a relação entre a SK e o comportamento criminoso foram iniciados na década de 60, mas ainda são necessárias mais pesquisas para compreender melhor esta associação.  Objetivo: Utilizar o método de revisão integrativa para o estudo da associação da SK com o comportamento criminoso.  Material e métodos: Foi realizado um levantamento de artigos científicos nas bases de dados PUBMED, CAPES, LILACS, e SciELO utilizando a ferramenta de busca avançada e a combinação booleana com os descritores “síndrome de Klinefelter” e “crime” e seus correspondentes em inglês. Resultados: A partir dos critérios de inclusão e exclusão, foram selecionados onze artigos para compor a revisão integrativa, mostrando que os resultados observados nos estudos analisados sugerem fortemente uma possível associação entre a SK e o comportamento criminoso. Conclusões: Embora exista uma associação da SK com comportamentos criminosos, são necessárias futuras pesquisas nas áreas de Criminologia, Psicologia e Psiquiatria para elucidar o papel das alterações mentais e sociais expressas no fenótipo deste tipo de pacientes e a relevância dos fatores ambientais na construção da personalidade criminosa em parte dos pacientes com SK.
EPIGENETICS AND CANCER: THE INFLUENCE OF POST-TRANSLATIONAL HISTONE MODIFICATIONS IN CARCINOGENESIS
Authors: Vivan Santana Maria Caroline , Mataroli de Godoy Sara
Published: September 2024

Cancer is a global concern, with alarming statistics on incidence and mortality. Genetic and epigenetic alterations play fundamental roles in carcinogenesis, influencing gene expression and genome stability. This study aimed to elucidate the main epigenetic modifications of histones related to cancer and the epigenetic inhibitors used as therapeutic methods. Using a narrative review approach, articles published between 2014 and 2024 were selected to discuss the key aspects related to the topic. Post-translational modifications of histones, such as acetylation, methylation, phosphorylation, ubiquitination, and sumoylation, were examined concerning cancer development and progression. Mutations and dysregulation of acetylases and deacetylases have been observed in various cancers, highlighting their role in carcinogenesis and as potential therapeutic targets. Histone methylation, regulated by methyltransferases and demethylases, affects gene expression and, along with changes in DNA methylation levels, contributes to tumor progression. Additionally, phosphorylation, ubiquitination, and sumoylation of histones are dynamic processes that regulate chromatin structure and gene expression; dysregulation of these processes has been implicated in cancer development and progression, underscoring their importance in carcinogenesis. Since epigenetic alterations are reversible, different epigenetic drugs have been developed and applied in cancer treatment. Given that histone epigenetic modifications play a crucial role in oncogenesis, influencing gene expression and tumor progression, understanding these mechanisms is essential for developing more effective preventive and therapeutic strategies against cancer.
Artificial Reason and Artificial Intelligence: the Legal Reasoning Capabilities of GPT-4
Authors:   University of Belgrade Faculty of Law, Serbia, Spaić Bojan , Jovanović Miodrag
Published: September 2024

Despite the widespread adoption of generative transformer large language models and the interest of the global legal community, discussions about the models in philosophy of law mainly have been focusing on what LLMs cannot do. In making the first steps towards a philosophical analysis of the capabilities of AI models in the field of law, we follow the basic idea of Turing’s „imitation game“. Proceeding from the frequently raised characterization of legal reasoning as „artificial“, the paper identifies the undisputed minimum core of the „artificiality“ thesis and asks to what extent it can be imitated by artificial intelligence. To answer this question, we test the legal reasoning capabilities of ChatGPT, the most advanced, up-to-date LLM version of artificial intelligence. The conclusion is that in all relevant types of activities usually associated with legal reasoning – fact-finding, interpretation, qualification, and decision-making – ChatGPT can generate outcomes as if it reasons legally.
Intersex Rights in the Western Balkans And Greece
Authors:   University of Warsaw Krakowskie Przedmieście, Poland, Pikramenou Nikoletta , Simić Jelena ,   Union University School of Law Belgrade, Serbia
Published: September 2024

In 2022 Greece became the fifth country in the world to ban harmful interventions and treatments on intersex infants and children. Previously, Malta, Portugal, Germany and Iceland also legally banned harmful interventions on intersex persons. A crucial difference between Greece and the rest of the aforementioned countries is that it is a Christian Orthodox country located in Southeastern Europe, on the Balkan Peninsula. Drawing from a contextual approach to law, in this comparative analysis the authors will use „contextuality“ to explore the meaning behind legal developments that took place in Greece regarding intersex rights and how they could potentially impact the overall situation of intersex rights in the Balkans. In addition, with this paper the authors seek to relocate the dominant focus of intersex rights from Western and Northern Europe with the aim to boost awareness of intersex issues in the Western Balkan region, especially Serbia.
Comparative View of Public Promise of Reward
Authors:   University of Belgrade Faculty of Law, Serbia, Džipković Ksenija
Published: September 2024

A public promise of reward occurs when an individual publicly promises a reward to an unspecified number of people, achieving a certain outcome. Nevertheless, further discussion is limited without considering the applicable law. Legislators address in different ways the arousal of promisor’s obligation, its nature, and the mechanisms of protection for the performer’s interests. The cause of these drastic differences lies in the legislator’s (dis)approval of a unilateral declaration of intent as a source of obligation. If it is acknowledged that a unilateral declaration of intent can obligate the declarant, a public promise of reward is considered a unilateral legal act. This interpretation is upheld in Germanic, Swiss, and Italian law. Conversely, in legal systems where this view is not accepted, the public promise of a reward is treated as an offer to form a contract. Notable examples of such legal systems are the English and French laws.
Blue-Antifouling: Sustainable Innovation Against Biofouling in Naval Equipment
Authors: Cintia CPA Cardoso
Published: September 2024

Seaweed is a natural source of alginate, a substance composed of alginic acid units and calcium ions, known for its gelling capacity. This material induces self-association, forming stablemicelles that create a hydrated layer on the surfaces of vessels, providing resistance to biofouling. The hydrogel can be crosslinked through physical mixing or by combining hydrophilic and hydrophobic polymers, based on the principles of ecological chemistry. Blue-antifouling represents an innovation in its applicability, being a high-performance non-biocidal product that uses hydrodynamic principles to prevent biofouling in submerged structures. In addition, monitoring macroalgae bloom areas can boost the promotion of the bioeconomy, contributing to the advancement of research in the areas of Marine Science and Technology.
Varicella Vaccination as a Potential Multiple Sclerosis Prevention Strategy
Authors: E. Briggs Connie
Published: September 2024

Multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic, debilitating central nervous system disease afflicting over 2.8 million people worldwide, is caused by unknown genetic and environmental factors, including delayed EpsteinBarr virus (EBV) infection. Here a hypothesis is proposed whereby MS is caused by primary EBV infection contracted after clade 3 varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infection. The hypothesis aligns with MS risk factors (latitude gradients, changing prevalence, sex ratios, migration factors, and viral antibody seroprevalence rates). The proposed hypothesis, which is rooted in the detection of VZV clade 3 DNA in a single MS patient, requires confirmation through examination of a greater number of MS patient VZV isolates. If correct, declining MS incidence rates should be observed within the next decade in countries that began universal early childhood varicella vaccination programs in the early 2000s. Implications for unvaccinated populations with rising MS rates are discussed to highlight varicella vaccination as a potential MS prevention strategy.
Multi-classification of Cad Entities: Leveraging the Entity-as-Node Approach with Graph Neural Networks
Authors: Kurupathi Sheela Raju , Dongryul Park , Bosse Sebastian , Eisert Peter
Published: September 2024

The construction industry faces challenges in extracting and interpreting semantic information from CAD floor plans and related data. Graph Neural Networks (GNNs) have emerged as a potential solution, preserving the structural integrity of CAD drawings without rasterization. Accurate identification of structural symbols, such as walls, doors, and windows, is vital for generalizing floor plans. This paper investigates GNN methods to enhance the classification of these symbols in CAD floor plans, proposing an entity-as-node graph representation. We evaluate various preprocessing strategies and GNN architectures, including Graph Attention Networks (GAT), GATv2, Generalized Aggregation Networks (GANet), Principal Neighborhood Aggregation (PNA), and Unified Message Passing (UniMP) on the CubiCasa5K dataset. Our results show that these methods significantly outperform current state-of-the-art approaches, demonstrating their effectiveness in CAD floor plan entity classification.
Analysis of Synchronization Mechanisms in Operating Systems
Authors: Kode Oluwatoyin , Oyemade Temitope
Published: September 2024

This research analyzed the performance and consistency of four synchronization mechanisms—reentrant locks, semaphores, synchronized methods, and synchronized blocks—across three operating systems: macOS, Windows, and Linux. Synchronization ensures that concurrent processes or threads access shared resources safely, and efficient synchronization is vital for maintaining system performance and reliability. The study aimed to identify the synchronization mechanism that balances efficiency, measured by execution time, and consistency, assessed by variance and standard deviation, across platforms.The initial hypothesis proposed that mutex-based mechanisms, specifically synchronized methods and blocks, would be the most efficient due to their simplicity. However, empirical results showed that reentrant locks had the lowest average execution time (14.67ms), making them the most efficient mechanism, but with the highest variability (standard deviation of 1.15). In contrast, synchronized methods, blocks, and semaphores exhibited higher average execution times (16.33ms for methods, 16.67ms for blocks), but with greater consistency (variance of 0.33).The findings indicated that while reentrant locks were faster, they were more platform-dependent, whereas mutex-based mechanisms provided more predictable performance across all operating systems. The use of virtual machines for Windows and Linux was a limitation, potentially affecting the results. Future research should include native testing and explore additional synchronization mechanisms and higher concurrency levels. These insights help developers and system designers optimize synchronization strategies for either performance or stability, depending on the application's requirements.
Evaluating Racial Bias in Large Language Models: The Necessity for “SMOKY”
Authors: Bussaja Janga
Published: September 2024

This paper evaluates the understanding and biases of large language models (LLMs) regarding racism by comparing their responses to those of prominent African-centered scholar, Dr. Frances Cress Welsing. The study identifies racial biases in LLMs, illustrating the critical need for specialized AI systems like "Smoky,"[1] designed to address systemic racism with a foundation in African-centered scholarship. By highlighting disparities and potential biases in LLM responses, the research aims to contribute to the development of more culturally aware and contextually sensitive AI systems. This comparative analysis underscores the necessity for integrating African-centered perspectives in AI development to dismantle white supremacy and promote social justice.
Fuzzy Cognitive Maps Bridging Transparency and Performance in Hybrid AI Systems
Authors: Leon Maikel
Published: September 2024

The combination of symbolic and sub-symbolic Artificial Intelligence (AI) provides an excellent opportunity for innovations that merge the interpretability of the former with the learning capabilities of the latter. This paper presents Fuzzy Cognitive Maps (FCMs) as a hybrid and flexible model that combines the strengths of both paradigms and proposes them as a feasible solution to the challenges of explainability and interpretability in AI systems without losing working feasibility. FCMs have emerged as a robust framework for representing causal knowledge and facilitating intuitive and justifiable decision-making processes, but there is much more to explore. FCMs can handle the inherent uncertainty and vagueness present in real-world scenarios, allowing for a more natural approach to problem-solving in combination with the learning and adaptation capabilities of sub-symbolic AI. FCMs are an ideal choice for applications requiring high levels of explainability and interpretability.
The Optimization of Weight Functions of R3,1 Space Time by the Echo State Network
Authors: Furui Sadataka , Santos Serge Dos
Published: September 2024

We obtain the optimum weight function of phonetic soliton paths in Weyl fermion sea described by quaternions sitting on (3+1) D lattices. As in the previous work [5] using the Elman Recurrent Neural Network (ERNN) the action of solitonic phonons are derived from the fixed point action prepared for the quantum Chromodynamics (QCD) by DeGrand et al.[20]. We consider 7 paths in (3+1) D space with length less than or equal to 8 lattice units. Comparison of ERNN and the Echo State Network (ESN) are given. The ESN using tanh function for the nonlinear function give stable results as the simulation cycle number increases.
Towards Enhanced Labour Relations: Theorizing Psychological Contracts to Formal work Designs
Authors: Marwa Moses Siruri , Kibet Eric Morusoi
Published: September 2024

Psychological contracts have experienced a resurgence of interest from researchers focusing on the ever-changing nature of employer-employee relationships in organizations. Whereas research on the construct has been robust, there has been little effort in abstracting psychological contracts to formal work designs. This article attempts to build from various multi-disciplinary streams of scholarly argument to advance debate on psychological contracts and formal job designs, the intention being ultimately progressing of a new work design model that ties psychological contracts to formal work designs.
Fundamental Advancements in Structured Reporting in Radiology
Authors: Chia Daniel Msuega , Magaji Godwin Ojaare , Ugande Alexis Aondoaseer
Published: September 2024

The structuring of radiology reports has generated a healthy conversation within the diagnostic medical imaging world. We aim to provide a narrative review of fundamental advancements in structured radiology reporting, along with their benefits and drawbacks, placing special emphasis on the significance of report composition, format, and language, which can assist radiologists and the multidisciplinary medical team to communicate more clearly and efficiently. The narrative’s findings and data were primarily derived from scholarly, peer-reviewed journals such as PubMed, PubMed Central, Google Scholar, and MEDLINE, although we also made use of ephemeral publications and search engines such as Google. Among the search phrases utilized were artificial intelligence, diagnostic medical imaging, fundamental advancements, standardization and structured radiology reports. The worries, questions, and limitations of radiology report structuring on the other hand, include potential user experience problems, limited flexibility of the report template’s contents and reluctance to change, particularly among the older radiologists. We look at the efforts made towards structured radiology reports, which include utilizing standard imaging lexicons, creating reporting templates and incorporating clinical decision support tools. A lot of work is still required from radiologists, healthcare providers, and software developers to make sure that the structured output is eventually accepted, even though it can be laborious and expensive because of challenges like the requirement for testing, authenticating, custom mapping and debugging metrics. The potential for modern technological advancement to enhance the structured reporting process is examined, including artificial intelligent (AI) driven solutions. The review concludes by outlining some of the fundamental advances in structured reporting in radiology, including contextual reporting, natural language processing, common data components, RSNA radiology reporting initiatives, Radlex, BI-RADS, and the most recent, CAD-RADS, as well as AI-reporting solutions, emphasizing their benefits and drawbacks whilst also paying special attention to the significance of report composition, format and language.
Hydrochemical Assessment of Delta Central (South Southern Nigeria) Aquifers
Authors: S.E Apuyor , K.E. Apuyor , E.O Okorodudu
Published: September 2024

Twenty-One (21) water samples collected from seven (7) wells and fourteen (14) boreholes groundwater sources in the Delta Central region of Delta State of Nigeria were analyzed for hydrochemical constituents, to assess their quality. Physiochemical Parameters investigated include PH, temperature, total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), turbidity, and total suspended solid (TSS). Anions such as CL–, SO42-, NO3–, PO42- and cations such as Ca2+, and Mg2+ were determined, employing Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS). Dissolve Oxygen (DO) biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical Oxygen demand, and total coliform count were also determined (except for sample water from Ovwian (SW3), Electrical conductivity (EC), Total Hardness, Cl–, SO42-, NO3–, PO42-, Ca2+, Mg2+, BOD, COD, Cd, Zn and Cu were found to be below the desirable range recommended by WHO. The PH values range from 3.75 to 4.80 for the fourteen boreholes and 5.03 to 6.23 for the seven wells, indicating a predominance of acidic and slightly acidic water respectively. Total hardness values (mgl-1), Cl– (4 to 37.12), HCO3– (<0.001 to 18.90), and total iron (0.01 to 0.2947) are geochemically significant. Heavy metals, including copper, Zinc, Cadmium, and lead are present at a trace level. The water samples are chemically dominated by Cl- and HCO3–, with lesser Ca2+ and Mg2+. The predominance of chloride constitutes a major attribute of seawater intrusion. At the same time, the heavy metals (high level of lead in Ogborikoko (SW1) and Oviorie (SW3) reflect the increasing impacts of anthropogenic pollution and contamination in the two areas. All cases of groundwater resource development in the Delta Central area require thorough investigation to ascertain the scope and type of pre-use treatment required.
Integrating Climate Change Adaptation into Flood Risk Management: Global Perspectives
Authors: Ahmed Dipu Salah Uddin , Snigdhya Nabodoy Saha
Published: September 2024

Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of floods, making it critical to incorporate adaptation techniques into flood risk management plans. This research reviews present worldwide approaches in flood risk management. Recent studies show that non-structural adaptation strategies include early warning systems, natural-based solutions, and climate-resilient infrastructure are growingly important. Global case studies include those from Europe, Asia, the Americas, and Africa show situational answers and several approaches. While many places have made progress, some of the challenges still preventing the integration of climate change adaptation are budgetary constraints, convoluted government, and little data. This study underlines the need of a multidisciplinary strategy and more worldwide cooperation to appropriately control flood hazards in an environment changing.