bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stress, Anxiety and Depression of Undergraduate Medical Students in a Public Medical Programme in Malaysia: A Risk Factor Analysis
Authors:   Department of Pathology and Institute of Pathology, Laboratory and Forensic Medicine (I-PPerForM), Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Selangor, Malaysia, Omar Effat , Md Yasin Mazapuspavina ,   Primary Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Selangor, Malaysia, Ismail Ilham Ameera ,   Primary Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Selangor, Malaysia, Shaari Syahrul Azlin ,   Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Selangor, Malaysia, Baharuddin Hazlyna ,   Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Selangor, Malaysia, Siran Rosfaiizah ,   Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Selangor, Malaysia
Published: August 2024

This study aims to investigate the prevalence and factors affecting stress, anxiety, and depression of medical students in a public university in Malaysia. Medical students of years 1 to 5 were invited to answer an anonymised Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) questionnaire. Sociodemographic data were also collected. The results were analysed using descriptive and univariate/multivariate logistic regression analyses. Out of 907 participants, 35.2% reported to having stress, anxiety 43.5% and depression 7.1%. Students in year 1 were more likely to be anxious compared to year 5 [β: 2.059; 95% CI: (1.247, 3.398); p = 0.014], and those from B40-families were more likely to be stressed [β: 1.79; 95% CI: (1.183, 2.718); p = 0.006] compared to T20-families. Those without psychiatric and medical illnesses had 80% [β: 0.202; 95% CI: (0.69, 0.597); p = 0.004] and 34% [β: 0.666; 95% CI: (0.445, 0.994); p = 0.047] reduction in stress level, while 86% [β: 0.143; 95% CI: (0.038, 0.535); p = 0.004] and 39% [β: 0.614; 95% CI: (0.409, 0.923); p = 0.019] had reduction in anxiety levels. In addition, those without psychiatric illness had 91% [β: 0.094; 95% CI: (0.032, 0.275); p = <0.001] reduction in depressive symptoms. Those who considered counselling were 1.8 times more likely to be stressed [β: 1.849; 95% CI: (1.367, 2.500); p = <0.001] and had anxiety [β: 1.879; 95% CI: (1.387, 2.545); p = <0.001]. There is a moderate prevalence of anxiety and stress among medical students, but a low occurrence of depression. Being in year 1, B40 socioeconomic group, having medical and psychological illnesses resulted in a higher risk of stress, anxiety and depression.
Nursing Informatics Competency among Nurses at a Teaching Hospital in Malaysia
Authors: Karim Jalina ,   Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Veni S. Vimala , Hamzah Amisam , Adlan Nurfataniah , Mat Roziah ,   Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia,   Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia,   Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia,   Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Published: August 2024

Nursing informatics merges nursing science with information and analytical sciences to identify, describe, manage, and disseminate nursing data, information, knowledge, and wisdom. Identifying nurses’ informatics competency will help improve information technology utilisation in clinical practice. The aim of this study was to assess basic competency in nursing informatics and related factors influencing nurses working in a university teaching hospital. Thus, a cross-sectional study was conducted. A stratified random sampling of the total population of 1,136 nurses with sample size of 316 nurses participated in this study. The data was collected using a self-reported questionnaire utilising the Nursing Informatics Competency Assessment Tool (NICAT) reaching targeted sample by convenient approach. The results of this study showed that 85% (n = 269) nurses were competent in nursing informatics competency. There was a significant relationship between basic nursing informatics competency and sociodemographic of age (t = 4.194, p = 0.000), gender (t = –2.558, p = 0.011), educational level (F [2,313] = 5.094, p = 0.007) and working discipline (F [6,309] = 8.309, p = 0.000). There was also a significant relationship between basic nursing informatics competency and working experience (ρ = –0.231, n = 316, p = 0.000). However, the study is based on self-reporting and does not measure the actual performance of nursing informatics competency. Overall, the findings indicated the need for improvement in nursing informatics by exposure or awareness for potential age group and particular clinical setting for training and educational of nursing informatics.
Frontiers of Biogeography relaunched with Pensoft Publishers
Authors: Whittaker Robert J. , Franklin Janet , Costello Mark John
Published: August 2024

Frontiers of Biogeography, the scientific journal of The International Biogeography Society (TIBS), is now being published in partnership with Pensoft Publishers, who provide a sophisticated review and publication platform, enhancing publication and dissemination of scholarly work for authors.

Frontiers of Biogeography has been selected for inclusion in the Web of Science™.

The International Biogeography Society is committed to the growth and success of Frontiers of Biogeography as a service to biogeographical science.

Frontiers of Biogeography will continue to support low cost, high quality, high visibility, open-access publishing for biogeographers.
Total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of extracts obtained from tobacco waste seeds, grown under organic production
Authors: Stoyanova Liliya , Angelova Romova Maria , Docheva Margarita , Kirkova Desislava
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to determine the total phenolic content of Oriental tobacco waste seeds, grown under organic production, and to evaluate their antioxidant activity by extraction with different solvents under different conditions. The extraction was performed with H2O, 99.9% CH3OH, 60% CH3OH, and 96% C2H5OH under maceration and ultrasonic extraction at 20°C and 40°C. All solvents were used in a volume of 4 mL, 5 mL, and 6 mL. The total phenolic content varied between 0.89 mg/g GAE (maceration; sample/solvent ratio 0.1g/5mL, C2H5OH) and 5.85 mg/g GAE (maceration; sample/solvent ratio 0.1g/6mL, C2H5OH). Ethanolic and 60% methanolic extracts had the highest antioxidant activity as determined by the DPPH method; 60% methanolic and water extracts had the highest antioxidant activity as determined by the ABTS method; while methanolic and 60% methanolic extracts had the highest antioxidant activity as determined by the FRAP method. In addition, the content of nicotine in tobacco seed extract was not detected.
Chemical characterization and antioxidant activities of essential oil of Ficus elastica Roxb. ex Hornem. leaves
Authors: Attama Chika , Luka Lawrence , Ndakudu Chidama, Bulama
Published: August 2024

The present study investigates the chemical constituents and antioxidant potential of essential oils extracted from Ficus elastica. The essential oils were obtained through steam distillation and were subjected to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis to determine their constituents representing 100% of the total peak areas. The analysis revealed the presence of 34 compounds. Among these compounds, Caryophyllene was found to be the major constituent, accounting for 50.57% of the total percentage area. Among other identified major compounds include γ-Muurolene (8.19%), camphene (5.69%), Heptacosane (2.61%), and Heneicosane (2.60%). Furthermore, the antioxidant potential of Ficus elastica essential oil was evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and hydrogen peroxide radical scavenging methods. The results indicated that F. elastica’s essential oil exhibited significant radical scavenging activity when compared to the standard antioxidant, Ascorbic acid. For the highest concentration tested (10 μL/mL), the DPPH scavenging inhibition percentage was 45.26% for F. elastica and 90.40% for Ascorbic acid. Similarly, the hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity at 10 μL/mL was found to be 74.90% for F. elastica and 90.12% for Ascorbic acid. Additionally, the essential oils demonstrated high radical scavenging and chelating activity. The quantitative DPPH and hydrogen peroxide assays indicate the potent antioxidant activity of F. elastica essential oil, making it a promising candidate for further biological and chemical analysis. The isolation of therapeutically active compounds from these essential oils can be pursued, considering their potential role in the management and treatment of various diseases.
Biological control of pathogenic fungi using Pseudomonas brassicacearum isolated from Aronia × prunifolia (Marshall) Rehder roots
Authors: Mustafa Luau Burhan , Al-bayatı Ahmed Ismael Naqee , Albayati Dunya , Özkoç İbrahim
Published: August 2024

Endophytic bacteria, which are the subject of this study, serve as natural antifungal agents in the struggle against fungal infections, offering an eco-friendly alternative to chemical fungicides. So, it was aimed to determine the antifungal capacities of endophytic bacteria from Aronia ×prunifolia roots in the study. 25 endophytic bacteria were isolated, and their ability to act as biocontrol agents was evaluated by measuring fungal growth inhibition and chemical properties. Later, bacteria that showed a positive effect were identified through 16S gene sequencing. The results showed that the LB2 bacteria had the greatest ability to inhibit the selected fungi and the biochemical tests showed that the bacteria were Gram-negative, did not form spores, their colonies were well defined, and they could break down starch and gelatin, which was later diagnosed as Pseudomonas brassicacearum according to phylogenetic relationships. This study is the first report on which P. brassicacearum was isolated from A. ×prunifolia roots for the first time. These findings contribute to our understanding of the potential of endophytic bacteria, particularly P. brassicacearum, as natural antifungal agents in plant and human protection, offering a promising and sustainable approach to combat fungal infections while reducing the use of chemical fungicides.
Announcement effect of tender offer share buyback around turmoil period – evidence from India
Authors: B. Suresha , Desai Kavitha , Thomas Rejoice , K John Nijumon , Renju Koshy Elizabeth
Published: August 2024

The announcement of a buyback informs the market about the company’s decision to repurchase its own shares. This announcement highlights the company’s price valuation and the inefficiencies that exist in the market. This study examines the share buyback announcement effect during the COVID-19 period. The study considered the stocks listed in the National Stock Exchange (NSE) that offered share buyback under tender offer mode during the pre-pandemic period between April 2016 and February 2020 and the post-pandemic period between March 2020 and March 2022. 75 firms in the pre-pandemic period and 43 in the post-pandemic period that announced share buyback under the tender offer method were analyzed. The event study methodology using a market model was employed to determine the presence of abnormal returns during the event period, which consisted of –21 days and +21 days. The findings of the study revealed the existence of abnormal returns in and around the announcement date. Besides, statistically significant cumulative abnormal average returns (CAAR) were also found on the event day, i.e., on Day 0. The study found that the impact of buyback announcements on stock returns significantly differed before and after COVID-19 for 10 and 21-day periods, with no significant differences for shorter periods. These insights can help traders and fund managers make informed portfolio adjustments during turbulent market periods surrounding buyback announcements.
AcknowledgementThe authors express their sincere gratitude and special thanks to Dr. Krishna T.A., Assistant Professor, Department of Professional Studies, School of Commerce, Finance and Accountancy, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bangalore, India, for encouraging, motivating and providing all the required support throughout this empirical investigation and to accomplish this research task.
Groundwater quality assessment for drinking, irrigation purposes and fuzzy logic-based water quality index for industrial suitability in Walajapet taluk, Ranipet district, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Loganathan Sankar , Sathiyamoorthy Mahenthiran
Published: August 2024

Ranipet district in Tamil Nadu is one of the major industrial zones in India. Groundwater has been extensively used in this region for drinking, agricultural, and industrial purposes. For finding the groundwater quality, representative samples have been collected in the premonsoon (PRM) and postmonsoon (POM) seasons of 2023 and analysed for major physicochemical parameters. The drinking suitability was analysed based on drinking water quality index, and it showed that 68.52 and 70.37% of samples from the PRM and POM seasons are classified as poor groundwater for drinking. The groundwater's suitability for irrigation was analysed based on various irrigation quality indices, and it highlighted that most of the groundwater was suitable for agriculture. Industrial suitability was determined by several industrial quality indices. Due to the simultaneous application of several indices, a sample is categorised into many water quality groups, introducing bias into handling and decision-making. The Mamdani fuzzy inference system creates a unique integrated industrial water quality index to address this issue. The index revealed that only 24.07 and 9.26% of samples from the PRM and POM seasons, respectively, were free of corrosion or scaling, while the remaining samples were inappropriate for industrial use.
Rethinking speaking in ELT: Where does intelligibility stand in the EFL classroom?
Authors: Constantino Correia Rúben
Published: August 2024

Learning a Foreign Language (FL) is, as a rule, seen by experts as a major asset for global understanding and the mobility of people. English is found at the top of the pyramid as the number one language to achieve these goals. Nowadays, being able to express oneself intelligibly in English is decisive for students who want to thrive both academically and professionally. Indeed, the concept of intelligibility is now firmly established in the field of Applied Linguistics as one of the key factors in explaining success or otherwise in communication between interlocutors from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Accordingly, the essence of this article lies in the analysis of the communicative teaching practices of EFL teachers in Portugal and how they reflect on the learners’ speaking proficiency and intelligibility. Findings show that English continues to be taught with little regard to its real-world use, creating a gap between the learners’ needs/expectations and their true learning. Overall, the article focuses on the need for a reconceptualisation of speaking within an intelligibility frame of mind. Thus, it poses a challenge to traditional approaches to language teaching and learning practices by claiming a need to rethink approaches to learners’ oral proficiency grounded in the intelligibility principle.
De (on)tembare Noordzee
Authors: van Dooren Korneel , Fias Mona
Published: August 2024

Doorheen de eeuwen hebben we een gelaagde relatie opgebouwd met de zee. Terwijl haar onstuimigheid ontzag inboezemt, biedt ze ook volop kansen. De klimaatverandering dwingt ons echter onze relatie met de zee te herzien. In dit AGORA nummer belichten we een aantal sociaalruimtelijke processen die daarmee gepaard gaan.
Negative News about the Catholic Church as A Challenge for a More Active and Critical Reading of the News
Authors: Kraner David
Published: August 2024

Media content is not the facts that happened, but the media's representation of these facts. The media report and narrate reality in a way that is as interesting as possible for the audience. Because media content contains exaggeration, drama and speculation and frames facts in different contexts, consumers of media content rightly feel that the media distort the truth. We find that there is a very large discrepancy between the life of the Catholic Church (and Catholics) and the news we find in the media, and that the line between fake news and convincing news is very thin. In order to ascertain the facts in media news (and to distinguish between facts, exaggerations and representations), it is necessary to critically evaluate media content. This requires a high level of personal engagement and knowledge of the topic, but also professional expertise in media content. As a result, most users do not analyse media content, but interpret it intuitively or take it literally. Our 2019 survey shows that the media in Slovenia most often associate the Catholic Church with sexual abuse, money and politics. In an analysis of 3 735 articles, we examined these topics in detail and found that the connotations of these articles are polarised: half are positive, half negative. Furthermore, in these articles we find no reports on serious socio-political problems and the positive solutions offered by the Catholic Church.
The drive-through COVID-19 vaccination in Yogyakarta
Authors: Chandra Lukman Ade , Nirwati Hera , Puspitasari Ika , Dibtyanusa Ajib , Sutono Sutono , Achmad Bayu Fandi , Kumara Intan Fatah , Siswishanto Rukmono
Published: August 2024

Introduction: COVID-19 vaccination is the government's priority to control viral transmission. Drive-through system provides quick means of product or service delivery; however, it has not been extensively adopted as a vaccination method. This study aims to describe the implementation of the drive-through COVID-19 vaccination conducted by the Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing at Universitas Gadjah Mada in collaboration with several national and regional, governmental and non-governmental institutions. Methods: The drive-through vaccination involved online registration, data collecting, reporting, on-site dose preparation, injection, and post-vaccination monitoring while participants remained in their vehicles. The events were scheduled between July and September 2021 in either FK-KMK UGM Campus or Grha Sabha Pramana, UGM. These venues are on the inner property side of UGM, therefore is no disruption of public traffic. Participants who are eligible and receive an invitation may attend the immunization venue according to the schedule. Results: In ten vaccination events, 20,870 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine were administered. Most participants were young people, with slightly more women than men. The drive-through vaccination went relatively well and offered many benefits such as improving vaccine coverage, time efficiency, social distancing, and herd immunity. Yet, issues like mild Adverse events following immunization and an accumulation of vehicles occurred. Therefore, careful planning and risk anticipation are necessary. Conclusion: The drive-through vaccination generally provides rapid and safe vaccine delivery to large communities. This method could be an alternative to delivering mass vaccinations requiring rapid and extensive coverage.
Enhancing the Role of Posyandu Cadres in Early Detection and Support for High-Risk Pregnant Women through a Psychoeducation Approach
Authors: Meo Maria Lupita Nena , Rotty Monique Priscilla Fransiska , Mapaly Heilbert Armando
Published: August 2024

Introduction: High-risk pregnancies are a major cause of maternal morbidity and mortality, both on a global and national scale. Tuminting Public Health Center, which is a partner in the Community Partnership Empowerment activities, has a significant number of patients with high-risk pregnancies. This indicates an urgent need for the care of high-risk pregnant women. Pregnant women with high-risk pregnancies require priority and continuous care, including early screening/detection, monitoring, and support. However, a situation analysis at the partner site has identified several issues, including: 1) Posyandu cadres are not actively involved in supporting high-risk pregnant women, resulting in these women not receiving appropriate healthcare for their pregnancy conditions. 2) Health promotion media for high-risk pregnant women is limited, preventing these women from receiving accurate health information tailored to their condition.  The objectives of these activities are to enhance the role of cadres in supporting high-risk pregnant women and to improve the availability of health promotion media as a support tool for cadres in their role. Methods: To address these issues, the proposers offer the following solutions: 1) Training on early detection, monitoring, and support for posyandu cadres using a psychoeducational approach.2) Training on the use of digital media for health promotion for high-risk pregnant women for cadres. Results: This training was attended by 37 cadres at Tuminting Public Health Center. Participants' knowledge levels were evaluated before and after the activity.  The evaluation of these activities showed a p-value of 0.000, indicating that there was a difference in the knowledge of the training participants before and after the training. Conclusion: Training activities with a psychoeducational approach can improve the knowledge of cadres, enabling them to enhance their role in early detection and support for high-risk pregnant women.
Empowerment Tuberculosis Cadres with Participatory Socialization as Effort to Improve The TB Suspect's Achievements at The Sempu’s Public Health Center
Authors: SEPTIYANINGSIH NANDA EKA PUTRI , MANDAGI AYIK MIRAYANTI , RAMADHAN SYAHRUL , PUTRI SEPTIANINGRUM SHINTA TRI ANANDA
Published: August 2024

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease with high mortality and morbidity rates in Indonesia, caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The Case Detection Rate (CDR) in Banyuwangi is still relatively low at 54% compared to the set target. In Banyuwangi, one of the Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Yayasan Bhanu Yasa Sejahtera Yabhysa, supports the TB control program in the region. Since 2021, this community has collaborated with the Banyuwangi Health Department to implement community-based TB interventions in 28 Community Health Centers (Puskesmas) spread across 16 districts, with a total of 66 active TB cadres. The aim of this community service is to train Tuberculosis (TB) cadres through socialization to improve the performance of TB suspects in Sempu Banyuwangi Community Health Center. Methods: The analysis of knowledge improvement data used a paired T-test with a 95% Confidence Interval. The test was conducted to evaluate the difference in knowledge improvement before and after education. Results: From the results of this community service, there was an increase in knowledge before and after socialization by 0.06 or 6%. The formation of TB cadres through contact investigation simulation carried out in community service activities resulted in the formation of four cadres. Conclusion: Based on the pre-test and post-test results, respondents showed a 6% increase in knowledge. The hope of this community service is to improve the achievement of TB suspect cases and reduce TB cases in Sempu Community Health Center.
Research on the Talent Cultivation Mode of Colleges and Universities Specializing in Japanese Language in the Context of “New Arts”
Authors: Li Xianrui
Published: August 2024

In the context of the "New Liberal Arts," the talent cultivation model for Japanese language programs in higher education faces both new challenges and opportunities. The "New Liberal Arts" promotes core principles such as interdisciplinary integration, innovation and practice orientation, and the cultivation of comprehensive qualities, driving profound transformations in the education sector. As a language discipline, Japanese studies must innovate upon traditional foundations to meet the contemporary demand for multifaceted and application-oriented talent. This paper analyzes the current state of Japanese language talent cultivation, reveals existing issues, and proposes corresponding optimization strategies. The research finds that curriculum design needs to enhance interdisciplinary content integration, teaching methods should focus on interaction and practical application, faculty development requires urgent improvement, and practical training and internships must be reinforced. Additionally, the enhancement of students' comprehensive abilities should be woven throughout the entire educational process. By exploring these aspects, this study aims to provide references for the reform of Japanese language education in higher education, supporting the development of high-quality Japanese professionals with an international perspective, innovative capability, and practical skills.
Research on Legal Issues of Protection of Rights and Interests of Internet Consumers in China
Authors: Fu Yulong
Published: August 2024

This paper explores the current status and issues of China's laws regarding the protection of consumer rights in online transactions, aiming to analyze challenges in their implementation and propose reform recommendations. Firstly, it reviews China's existing legal framework, including major legislative provisions and judicial interpretations. Subsequently, through an analysis of ambiguities in legal application, challenges in regulatory enforcement, and barriers to consumer rights protection, it exposes the primary issues in current legal implementation. Finally, based on these findings, specific reform suggestions are proposed to clarify legal applicability, enhance regulatory efficiency, and improve mechanisms for consumer rights protection, aiming to enhance the effectiveness and fairness of consumer protection in China's online environment.
Research and Analysis on the Pathogenesis of Allergic Rhinitis in Children and Its Treatment by Chinese and Western Medicine
Authors: Liu Bo
Published: August 2024

Allergic rhinitis in children is a common allergic disease, when it recurs, the symptoms are significant, long-lasting, to children's daily life and learning has brought a huge burden.Western medicine has abundant clinical experience in treating this kind of disease, but the unique dialectical thinking and treatment system of traditional Chinese medicine also show undeniable advantages.The purpose of this study was to explore the etiology of allergic rhinitis in children, the relationship between allergic rhinitis and TCM syndrome types, and the advantages and disadvantages of TCM and WM treatment.It is found that allergen, heredity, environmental factors and immune imbalance are the common causes leading to high incidence of diseases. On the whole, TCM can classify different syndrome types and apply corresponding treatment methods, effective relief of the disease, improve the quality of life.We hope this paper can provide a new perspective and guidance for clinical diagnosis and treatment.
Research on Multicultural Drama Education Based on Self-determination Theory: A Case Study of "Hamlet"
Authors: Liu He , Wei Hao , Yao Zixuan
Published: August 2024

In a multicultural context, drama education, as a distinctive pedagogical paradigm, facilitates the achievement of educational objectives effectively. Compared to traditional classrooms, student-centered instruction based on self-determination theory places greater emphasis on nurturing students' intrinsic motivation for learning. This article uses the high school Chinese literature text "Hamlet" as a case study, applying the perspectives of autonomy, competence, and relatedness—the three psychological needs of self-determination theory—to various aspects of practical teaching. This approach constructs a framework for multicultural drama education.
Practice and Research Progress of Auricular Massage Therapy for Insomnia in Patients with Breast Cancer
Authors: Zhang Liling , Wang Huitong , He Yuanmei , Chen Kun
Published: August 2024

This paper discusses the practice and research progress of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) auricular acupuncture massage therapy for insomnia in breast cancer patients. Firstly, it introduces the background and significance of insomnia in breast cancer patients, pointing out the limitations of traditional treatment methods. It then elucidates the theoretical basis of TCM auricular acupuncture massage for insomnia, including ear acupuncture theory, the association between massage and insomnia, and the treatment mechanism. Subsequently, it describes the clinical practice of TCM auricular acupuncture massage in the treatment of insomnia in breast cancer patients, including research methods, practical processes, and result analysis. Finally, it summarizes the current research progress and prospects future research directions and trends.
Absurdity of Law and Order: An existentialist reading of Franz Kafka’s The Trial
Authors: Ghosh Barbita
Published: August 2024

This paper aims to posit the absurdity with which Franz Kafka has treated the element of Law and Justice in The Trial. It is through the character of Josef K., the protagonist, that one comes across the fragility of a citizen’s fundamental human rights and how one tragically succumbs to the inevitable trial and execution implemented by the bizarre judicial system. This paper piles up instances from the novel to validate its argument questioning the dysfunctionality of the jurisprudence: the baselessness of the arrest of Josef K., the unprofessional conduct of the court, the adulterous approach of the worker-lady in the court and, the ultimate execution of the accused. Josef K. being trapped in a labyrinthine network of bureaucratic traps, a Kafkaesque representation; this paper aims at exploring the totalitarian state of the novel’s setting and parodies the dark legal system that navigates throughout the novel leading to the transformation of the trials into a judgement. The existential misfortune to which all humans are destined, the inescapable suffering, brings out the absurd element of the novel.
Fault Detection Using Artificial Neural Network and Wavelet Transforms for Power Transformer
Authors: Yawale Nikhil
Published: August 2024

Abstract: The requirement for a stable supply of electrical energy to meet the needs of the modern world has expanded dramatically, necessitating near-faultless power system functioning. The main goal is to reduce the frequency and duration of undesired power transformer outages by imposing a high point demand that includes criteria for dependability (no false tripping) and operating speed (quick fault detection and clearance time). For many years, the second harmonic restraint concept has been widely applied in industrial applications. It employs the discrete Fourier transform (DFT) and frequently confronts issues like lengthy restrain times and the inability to distinguish internal defects from magnetizing inrush circumstances. As a result, artificial neural networks (ANNs), a strong tool for artificial intelligence (AI) that can imitate and automate information, have been suggested for defect identification and tracking in normal and inrush conditions. For the investigation of power transformer transient conditions under diverse settings, the wavelet transform (WT) is utilized, which has the capacity to extract information from transient signals in both the time and frequency domains at the same time. In the MATLAB/SIMULINK environment, all of the above-mentioned conditions of a power transformer to be investigated in a power system are modelled.
Modernizing Mainframe Monitoring: A Comparative Analysis of Observability Dashboarding Tools
Authors: Lazarus Raymond
Published: August 2024

Abstract: This article explores the critical role of observability dashboarding in mainframe environments, focusing on the integration and support of modern observability tools. It examines the functionalities and benefits of leading solutions such as Prometheus with Grafana, Dynatrace, Datadog, AppDynamics, IBM Instana, and Checkmk, providing insights into how organizations can enhance their mainframe monitoring capabilities. The article emphasizes the significance of a multi-tool observability strategy, highlighting its advantages in flexibility, redundancy, and comprehensive coverage. Key benefits of effective observability, including proactive issue detection, downtime reduction, improved capacity planning, and enhanced security monitoring, are thoroughly discussed. The article also outlines best practices for implementing observability in mainframes, covering unified dashboards, standardized metrics, automation, training, and continuous improvement. By analyzing these tools and strategies, the research offers valuable guidance for organizations seeking to streamline their observability approaches, ultimately enhancing customer experience and operational efficiency in mainframe-dependent environments. This comprehensive examination of mainframe observability techniques provides a roadmap for leveraging legacy systems alongside cutting-edge monitoring solutions, addressing the evolving needs of modern IT infrastructures.
Natural Synthesis, Characterisation, and Photocatalytic Performance of Nanoparticles made of Manganese Dioxide using Manganese Acetate Tetrahydrate as Precursor
Authors: Kumar Anil
Published: August 2024

Abstract: This study describes a straightforward, effective, and environmentally benign method for producing manganese dioxide nanoparticles (MnO2 NPs) using Nyctanthes arbor-tristis leaf extract. It was discovered by Fourier-transform infrared spectra that the plant extract contributed to the creation of MnO2 NPs. The band gap of the synthesised MnO2 NPs was identified as the source of the absorption peaks observed in the UV–visible absorption spectra at 412 nm. X-ray diffraction analysis was used to identify the crystal phase of the MnO2 NPs and validate the development of crystalline MnO2 NPs. According to the X-ray diffraction pattern, MnO2 NPs have crystalline nature. Furthermore, the synthesised MnO2 NPs' was revealed by field emission scanning electron microscopy investigation with EDS which gives Information about Compositional elements. MnO2 NPs have the ability to degrade MB dyes in the UV-Visible light spectrum by photocatalysis. Using Methylene Blue as an organic pollutant, the photocatalytic activities for the dye degradation of MnO2 NPs were assessed
Preocupaciones ambientales: el hidrógeno y el agua en el desarrollo sostenible
Authors: Garcia Maria del Carmen
Published: August 2024

En este ensayo se trata el problema del cambio climático y sus efectos, principalmente enfocados en la región patagónica, en Argentina. Se discute desde una preocupación por las condiciones y posibilidades de que Argentina se constituya, en un futuro cercano, en productor y proveedor de hidrógeno verde para el mercado global y frente a las necesidades ambientales locales relacionadas con la escasez de agua. Siendo el agua y no solo el viento un requisito indispensable para la producción del hidrógeno. Tomando en cuenta las recomendaciones y mandatos de los ODS 2030 y reconociendo la importancia del tratado de París, se plantea la necesidad de la apropiación de la discusión en todos los estamentos de la sociedad, atendiendo a las condiciones para un desarrollo sostenible
Nodarījumu kriminalizācijas problemātika Latvijas krimināltiesībās
Authors:   Rīgas Tehniskās universitātes Inženierekonomikas un vadības fakultātes Starptautisko ekonomisko sakaru un muitas institūta Muitas un nodokļu katedra, Čevers Toms
Published: August 2024

Applying comparative scientific research method, the author of the article makes inquiries into discovering the prerequisites for the criminalization of harmful behaviour. He argues that, when adopting criminalization policy, it is necessary to balance the discretionary power of legislator in accordance with the principle nullum crimen sine lege and such legal principles of constitutional rank as proportionality and ultima ratio. Criminalization of commercial smuggling clearly indicates the problems of criminalization in Latvian criminal law. The threshold of criminal liability for the deed in question shall be determined taking into account only the amount of taxes evaded due to the illegal trafficking of goods across the country’s customs border.
Kriminālprocesa mērķa izpratne Monteskjē tiesību filozofijas perspektīvā
Authors:   Latvijas Universitāte, Lielbriede Linda
Published: August 2024

The concept of the purpose of criminal proceedings in contemporary Latvian criminal procedure has been subject to revision, as the threat of punishment has gradually assumed a central role in the fair regulation of criminal relations. In reviewing the penal policy, the legislator’s task is not only to target the offender, but also to remember the need to respect the rights and freedoms of the individual. Montesquieu’s philosophy provides theoretical guidelines for implementation of proportionate and just modification of punishment as a means of social coordination in a democratic and legal state.
Prettiesiski darījumi komerctiesībās: Civillikuma 1415. pants un Komerclikums
Authors:   Latvijas Universitāte, Balodis Kaspars
Published: August 2024

According to Article 1403 of the Civil Law of Latvia, a legal transaction is a performance of a permissible action aimed at establishing, changing or terminating legal relations. Article 1415 of the Civil Law stipulates that an impermissible or indecent action, the purpose of which is contrary to religion, laws or good morals, or which is intended to circumvent the law, may not be the subject-matter of a legal transaction; such transaction is void. The prohibition of unlawful transactions is a restriction of private autonomy. One of the main aims of the Commercial Law of Latvia is to ensure a wide private autonomy in commercial transactions. Nevertheless, there are quite a few provisions in the Commercial Law that prohibit certain transactions or activities, thereby making them unlawful and void in the sense of Article 1415 of the Civil Law. These restrictions found in the Commercial Law are introduced in order to maintain legal certainty in commercial activity and to ensure the interests of merchants and third persons taking part in commercial transactions.
Proposal for the Regulation in Matters of Parenthood: A Critical Overview of Jurisdictional and Conflict-of-Laws Rules
Authors:   Riga Graduate School of Law, Fillers Aleksandrs ,   University of Latvia
Published: August 2024

In 2022, the European Commission (EC) published the Proposal for a Council Regulation on jurisdiction, applicable law, recognition of decisions, and acceptance of authentic instruments in matters of parenthood and on the creation of a European Certificate of Parenthood. Its main objective is to ensure that same-sex couples receive recognition of parenthood. The article offers a concise critical overview of the two aspects of this Proposal – jurisdictional and conflict-of-laws rules. In particular, the author observes that the Proposal suffers from the mismatch between its particular focus on rainbow families and a much broader scope. While its rules are advantageous for surrogacy arrangements and rainbow families, the authors of the Proposal have seemingly forgotten that according to its scope, the Proposal covers certain forms of adoption and paternity disputes that may arise years after the child’s birth. Jurisdictional rules and conflict-of-laws rules found in the Proposal are less suitable for these types of “parenthood matters”. Nonetheless, overall, even if these technical deficiencies were to be solved, the Proposal’s future seems grim as it takes a definitive stance on the divisive issues of same-sex parenthood and surrogacy arrangements.
Freedom of Expression versus Hate Speech: Limits and Their Changeability
Authors:   University of Latvia, Dupate Kristine
Published: August 2024

The main issue discussed in the present article is, as follows: whether the freedom of expression may be restricted, and whether it has actually been restricted in order to avoid hate speech in the situation of threat? The answer to this question is both ‘yes’ and ‘no’. ‘No’, because the criteria for distinction between freedom of expression and hate speech remains unchanged, and ‘yes’, because, firstly, the criterion of ‘the context’ becomes more ‘intense’ and ‘sensitive’, and, secondly, the ‘intensity’ and ‘sensitivity’ of the context may be reflected in national legal regulation by recognizing additional situations as hate speech. Meanwhile, ‘the context’ is always changing, therefore the borders between the freedom of expression and hate speech likewise vary perpetually.
Arguments Against Damages as a Legal Remedy in Public Procurement Proceedings
Authors:   University of Latvia, Danovskis Edvins
Published: August 2024

The purpose of the article is to facilitate discussion regarding the lost profits as a legal remedy in public procurement cases. Although the issue regarding damages in public procurement procedure has been thoroughly researched before, this article is intended to outline some robust arguments that have not been discussed before, as far as it is known to the author. The article outlines two main arguments against the usage of the lost chance doctrine in public procurement cases: 1) although the lost profit is a widely recognized type of damages in civil law, it is misused in public procurement procedure; 2) awarding lost profits in public procurement cases leads to unfair and even immoral results. The article presents several examples from the Latvian administrative court practice and therefore yields an insight into the existing situation on this matter in Latvia. Whereas the article produces arguments against the use of the lost profit as a type of damage, it is neither disputed nor elaborated that the search for other effective legal remedies should be considered instead of lost profits.
Performance of Debt on Behalf of Debtor
Authors:   University of Latvia, Karklins Janis
Published: August 2024

This paper analyses the general Latvian private law framework and the legal consequences in cases where a third party performs the debt on behalf of the debtor. Historically, the Latvian Civil Law has taken a conservative position on this issue, not recognizing legal subrogation in the event of a debt termination. Although legal subrogation is considered foreign in the Latvian Civil Law (with certain exceptions in the case of recourse by a guarantor), it is recognized in certain Latvian laws. An assessment of Latvian case law reveals a number of judgments, which have addressed this issue, and historically the courts have not recognized legal subrogation. However, recent case law also contains judgments, which may lead to the conclusion that in certain cases there is legal subrogation where a person performs an obligation on behalf of the debtor. Given that there is some uncertainty on this issue, including the legal consequences of a third party performing a debt on the debtor’s behalf without the debtor’s knowledge and against his will, the paper sets out proposals and solutions to be taken to harmonize the approach in similar cases not only in case law but also in legal doctrine.
Elderly People in Society – Whose Duty is it to Care for Them?
Authors:   University of Tartu, Tavits Gaabriel
Published: August 2024

This article addresses the obligation to care for the elderly and the constitutionally guaranteed right to state assistance in case of old age and disability. According to the Constitution of Republic of Estonia, the duty to take care of family members in need rests with the family. At the same time, everyone has the right to state assistance in case of old age, which also includes the right to social welfare services. Although the Estonian Constitution provides for the right to state assistance, this assistance must be provided by legislation passed by the parliament. A care reform has been carried out in Estonia, and one of its goals is to reduce the burden on people in financing care facility places and to simplify the possibilities to family members in caring for persons in need. Although the state aspired to offer more support to people in the financing of care facility places, it sis not succeed because of the increasingly expensive prices of care facility places.
Gravitating the components, technologies, challenges, and government transforming strategies for a Smart Bangladesh: A PRISMA-based review
Authors: Bhuiyan Mohammad Rakibul Islam , Hossain Rashed , Rashid Maksuda , Islam Md Mominul , Mani Lisa , Milon Md Noor Uddin
Published: August 2024

This paper aims to establish a technologically advanced and environmentally sustainable country that efficiently utilizes resources, fosters citizen participation, and stimulates economic development to transform a Smart Bangladesh. This review study, based on the PRISMA framework, seeks to analyze the elements, technologies, difficulties, and governmental approaches. Researchers conducted a systematic evaluation of relevant papers and studies to thoroughly analyze the present status and future potential of Smart Bangladesh. The researchers utilized the PRISMA 2020 platform to identify and choose relevant 150 studies and 17 reports from indexed publications, including Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, DOAJ, and other sources. The key findings of this paper highlight the importance of constructing a nation that is both technologically advanced and environmentally sustainable nation. Bangladesh encompasses a holistic perspective on the advancement of technology, efficient utilization of resources, active involvement of its citizens, and effective implementation of government regulations. The assessment examines the fundamental elements of a technologically advanced Bangladesh, including developing technology, encountered obstacles, and governmental measures employed to realize this objective. The relevance of this comprehensive review contributes to a deeper understanding of the potential opportunities and obstacles associated with the process of transitioning towards a smart nation.
Investigation of heat transfer and pressure drop in flexible metal hoses with corrugated surfaces
Authors: Yildiz Sebiha , Alparslan Zeynep , Cosar Ilker , Yavuz Salih , Gunes Hasan
Published: August 2024

In this study, we conducted a numerical investigation of heat transfer and pressure drop in annular corrugated and 1-, 2-, and 3-start spiral-corrugated flexible metal hoses. To validate the numerical results for pressure drop, we established an experimental set-up. The pressure drop results were verified through experimental data, while the numerical heat transfer results were validated against existing correlations in the literature. The results obtained using the corrugated flexible metal hoses were compared to those of a smooth tube, and all hoses along with the smooth tube were 1 meter long. The hydraulic diameters of the annular corrugated hose and the spiral corrugated hoses were 25 mm and 26.2 mm, respectively, with a corrugation depth of 3.2 mm for all hoses. Water, at an average temperature of 25?C, was used as the fluid, with a constant surface temperature of 70?C for the test tube. Analyses were conducted for Reynolds numbers ranging from 10000-50000. The results indicated that the fluid outlet temperature and pressure drop values for the annular corrugated hose were generally higher than those for the spiral corrugated hoses. Among the hoses tested, the 1-start spiral corrugated hose showed the highest friction factor, 7.83 times higher than that of the smooth tube. The 3-start spiral corrugated hose achieved the highest Nusselt number, 1.4 times higher than that of the smooth tube, at a Reynolds number of 20000. The performance evaluation criteria for all hoses ranged from 0.6-1.