bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Demise Of Slavery In The District Of Columbia, April 16, 1862
Authors: Hussey Michael
Published: May 2024

On Thursday, May 22, 1862, Margaret C. Barber of Washington, D.C. stood before the Board of Commissioners for the Emancipation of Slaves in the District of Columbia. She presented a claim to the Commission to be compensated by the Federal Government, which had freed her 34 slaves. She was not alone in making such a request, as more than 1,000 District residents filed similar documents, but hers was the second largest. Documents from her claim provide a vantage point onto both the institution of slavery and the beginning of its demise during the Civil War.
As of April 16, 1862, all slaves within the District of Columbia were freed by the "Act for the Release of Certain Persons Held to Service or Labor in the District of Columbia," passed by the U.S. Congress. According to this Act,
All persons held to service or labor within the District of Columbia by reason of African descent are hereby discharged and freed of and from al I claim to such service or labor; and from and after the passage of this act neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except for crime, whereof the party shall be duly convicted, shall hereafter exist in said District.
The Act passed after considerable congressional and Presidential debate and compromise. Some urged a cautious approach for fear of alienating slaveholding border states such as Kentucky. Abolitionists wanted immediate emancipation without compensation to slave owners, with some suggesting compensation be given to slaves instead. Non-abolitionists tended to favor compensation to former owners.
Fristsche, Life And Death In The Third Reich
Authors: Thompson Antonio
Published: May 2024

Historian Peter Fritzsche's latest work, Life and Death in the Third Reich, is an attempt to study the relationships between Germans and Nazis. In doing so he reveals the appeal of the Nazis on the German public and the depth of collective guilt among the Germans for racism, the Holocaust, and World War II, in other words, the crimes of the Third Reich. In this endeavor, Fritzsche joins other key historians, including Christopher R. Browning ( Ordinary Men: Reserve Police Battalion 101 and the Final Solution in Poland, 1993) and Daniel Goldhagen (Hitler's Willing Executioners: Ordinary Germans and the Holocaust, 1997). Fritzsche's previous work, Germans into Nazis (1999), examined-the role of the post-World War I era on Germany, the impact of the Treaty of Versailles, and the creation of the Volk. His new monograph seems almost a natural extension of the first study.
Loewen, Teaching What Really Happened
Authors: Laing Annette
Published: May 2024

Since 1995, James W. Loewen's Lies My Teacher Told Me has enjoyed phenomenal success in both sales and influence. Nobody who has read it can look unskeptically at a history textbook again. Loewen' s Lies Across America (1999) proved a worthy successor, inviting readers to look critically at the historical plaques and monuments that litter the American landscape. More recently, Loewen turned his attention to the forgotten heritage of structural racism in small-town America, in his 2005 book Sundown Towns. Now, in Teaching What Really Happened, Loewen promises in the subtitle that he will explain How to Avoid the Tyranny of Textbooks and Get Students Excited About Doing History. Loewen has an ambitious goal, and he sets out to fulfill the promise of the subtitle in a volume that appears in the Multicultural Education Series of the Teachers College Press, which suggests another major goal for this book, that of incorporating a more robust multicultural agenda into K-12 history. Neither aim will be surprising to anyone familiar with Loewen's work, but this time, he attempts to lay out for readers a blueprint of sorts for connecting the two.
بناء مقياس للتفاعل الاجتماعي لرياض الاطفال بأعمار (4-6) سنوات
Authors: Hind Adel Ghazi  , Assis  prof. Dr. Hikmat Abdel Sattar Alwan
Published: May 2024

برزت أهمية البحث ببناء مقياس التفاعل الاجتماعي لأطفال الرياض بعمر ( 4-6) سنوات ، مما يسهم مستقبلا تفاعلهم مع البيئة التي تحيط بهم وايضا زيادة تطوير قابلياتهم للمهارات والقدرات والانتقال بها إلى المهارات الرياضية الخاصة التي تعتمد عليها جميع الفعاليات والألعاب الرياضية وتلخصت مشكلة البحث في وجود ضعف في عدم تفاعل الاطفال اثناء اللعب مع الاطفال الاخرين بسبب انعزال الاطفال في الوقت الحالي في منازلهم على الاجهزة الالكترونية وايضا قلة استخدام العاب هادفة في رياض الاطفال تنمي تفاعلهم مع البيئة والاطفال الاخرين لتسد تلك الفجوات وبالتالي يسبب لهم عدم تطوير قابلياتهم للمهارات الاساسية وقدراتهم الحركية , كانت اهم اهداف البحث في تصميم العاب صغيرة وفق ااستراتيجية التعلم باللعب والتفاعل الاجتماعي لأطفال بأعمار 4-6 سنوات وكذلك بناء مقياس للتفاعل الاجتماعي لأطفال بأعمار 4-6 سنوات , , اما الفصل الثالث فتطرق الى منهج البحث واجراءاته الميدانية حيث ان عينة البحث تم تحديدها عمديا من اطفال روضة اليمامة والبالغ عددهم (130) طفل من الذكور والاناث للعام الدراسي(2023-2022), فيما تناول الفصل الخامس الاستنتاجات والتوصيات وكانت اهمها ظهور فروق معنوية بدلالة إحصائية بين نتائج الاختبار القبلي ونتائج الاختبار البعدي للمجموعتين التجريبية والضابطة في اختبارات البحث جميعها مما يدل على ان استراتيجية التعلم باللعب المستخدمة في البحث قد اسهمت بشكل كبير في تنمية التفاعل الاجتماعي وتنمية بعض القدرات الحركية وبعض المهارات الاساسية لأطفال الرياض بعمر (4-6) سنوات , واهم التوصيات استخدام مقياس التفاعل الاجتماعي لأطفال الرياض والمعد من قبل الباحثان للأطفال كل بداية عام دراسي جديد بمساعدة معلمات الرياض لمعرفة الثغر الغير مرغوب بها لدى الاطفال والايجابيات والسلبيات التي تواجه الاطفال في حياتهم للتعرف على مستوى التفاعل الاجتماعي للطفل العراقي .
On the formation of a 33 solar-mass black hole in a low-metallicity binary
Authors: El-Badry Kareem
Published: May 2024

A 33M⊙ black hole (BH) was recently discovered in an 11.6-year binary only 590 pc from the Sun. The system, Gaia BH3, contains a 0.8M⊙ low-metallicity giant () that is a member of the ED-2 stellar stream. This paper investigates whether the system could have formed via isolated binary evolution. I construct evolutionary models for metal-poor massive stars with initial masses ranging from 35−55M⊙, which reach maximum radii of 1150−1800R⊙ as red supergiants. I then explore what combinations of initial orbit, mass loss, and natal kick can produce the period and eccentricity of Gaia BH3. Initial orbits wide enough to accommodate the BH progenitor as a red supergiant can match the observed period and eccentricity, but only if the BH formed with a significant natal kick (). These models are disfavored because such a kick would have ejected the binary from the ED-2 progenitor cluster. I conclude that Gaia BH3 likely formed through dynamical interactions, unless the BH progenitor did not expand to red supergiant dimensions. Only about 1 in 10,000 stars in the solar neighborhood have metallicities as low as Gaia BH3. This suggests that BH companions are dramatically over-represented at low-metallicity, though caveats related to small number statistics apply. The fact that the luminous star in Gaia BH3 has been a giant – greatly boosting its detectability – only for $$1% of the time since the system’s formation implies that additional massive BHs remain to be discovered with only moderately fainter companions. Both isolated and dynamically-formed BH binaries with orbits similar to Gaia BH3 are likely to be discovered in Gaia DR4.
Effect of Fluid Intelligence on Reading and Listening Abilities
Authors: Amjad Sheikh Habiba , Al Mamun Nasir , Meem Ayesha Siddiqa , Himi Samsad Afrin
Published: May 2024

The present study explored the effect of fluid intelligence on reading and listening abilities. A total of 50 undergraduate students (age ranging from 20 to 24 years) participated in this study. Data were collected using the shortened version of Raven’s Standard Progressive Matrices, and the tests assessed reading and listening ability. The obtained data were analyzed using an independent sample t-test. Results indicated that individuals with high intelligence outperformed on reading and listening comprehension compared to individuals with low intelligence. However, no significant gender difference was observed in intelligence, reading ability, and listening ability (p > .05). The findings offer crucial allusions for educational institutions in designing the curriculum for students.
Jagannath University Journal of Life and Earth Sciences, 9(1): 1-6, 2023 (June)
Formulation and Cell Viability Assessment of Microparticles of Isolated Lactobacillus sp. with Alginate-Chitosan Solution
Authors: Akhtar Sadia , Begum Shamima
Published: May 2024

This study was performed to isolate the probiotic Lactobacillus sp. from dairy products available in Dhaka to form microparticles with isolated Lactobacillus probiotic bacteria and determine cell viability. Depending on their biological and physical traits and selective growth in MRS agar and MRS broth medium, the isolates were recognized as Lactobacillus spp. Major biochemical tests and growth at different temperatures were taken into account for the identification of the isolates. Low pH tolerance, homo- or hetero-fermentative activity, hydrolysis of arginine, and antibiotic susceptibility tests were conducted to assess probiotic activity. Among several isolates of Lactobacillus sp., four showed considerable tolerance to lower pH (pH 3.0) and growth at different temperatures (15 to 37°C). They were resistant to common antibiotics like penicillin (10µg), gentamicin (30µg), tetracycline (30µg), chloramphenicol (30µg), erythromycin (15µg) and streptomycin (30µg). The isolates were shown to have superior probiotic capabilities and may be employed as possible probiotic microorganisms after comparing all probiotic features evaluated in this experiment. The capacity of probiotic bacterial cells to survive when stored and in gastrointestinal transit is difficult to maintain. As a solution to these obstacles, microparticles were formulated with sodium alginate and chitosan. The cell viability check of the microparticles was continued for two weeks, and the response positively indicated increased stability. The results show promise for the encapsulation of the isolates.
Jagannath University Journal of Life and Earth Sciences, 9(1): 69–80, 2023 (June)
Effect of Psychoeducation on Reducing Burden Among Primary Caregivers of People with Schizophrenia
Authors: Zaman Fatema Tu Zohra Binte , Moni Munia Jahan
Published: May 2024

Schizophrenia is a serious psychological illness that needs long-term treatment. Family members, especially those who care for a patient at home, experience the burden of providing long-term care. Psychoeducational intervention may enhance the caregiver’s outcomes. The major goal of the study was to explore the effect of psychoeducation on reducing the burden among primary carers of people with schizophrenia. In this study, thirty-two participants (32 caregivers) were purposefully selected based on the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).  A personal information form and the Bangla version of the Zarit Burden Interview scale were administered. Total participants were divided by simple randomization into two groups (i.e., experimental and control groups). Following the baseline evaluation by questionnaire, the experimental group of 16 caregivers received two sessions of psychoeducation, but the control group of the same number of caregivers did not. The effectiveness of psychoeducation was evaluated using a pretest-posttest control group design. Findings suggested that psychoeducation decreased the level of burden, and after the intervention, the mean score of the experimental group was lower than that of the control group. These findings found that the psychoeducation intervention had a positive outcome in reducing the burden on caregivers of patients who deal with schizophrenia.
Jagannath University Journal of Life and Earth Sciences, 9(1): 81–94, 2023 (June)
Selfitis Behaviour as Predictor of Psychological Distress among Students of Dhaka City
Authors: Zaman Fatema Tu Zohra Binte , Rathi Sayema Rahman , Hoq Mozammel , Sarker Jim , Arabi Sumiya , Hasan Tasnimul
Published: May 2024

Selfie is an interesting self-portrait phenomenon that has changed young people's communication and leisure time. Instead of living in the present moment, people are busy clicking selfies and uploading them on social media, adversely impacting their psychological health. Thus, the present study was designed to explore the impact of selfitis behavior on psychological distress among students at various educational levels (i.e., schools, colleges, and universities). Data were collected purposively from 400 participants at different educational institutions situated in Dhaka city. A package of Bangla-adapted versions (Zaman and Konica, 2019) of measuring tools (i.e., selfitis behavior scale and psychological distress scale) and a personal information form were used to collect the necessary information regarding the study.  Results revealed that selfitis behavior was positively correlated with psychological distress. The individual effect of selfitis behavior construct identified two significant predictors (i.e., environmental enhancement and attention seeking), which jointly explained 12.6% of the variance in psychological distress. Here, the strongest predictor of psychological distress was attention-seeking, which alone explained 10.3% of the variance in psychological distress.  Further, results also revealed that the three significant demographic predictors (i.e., socioeconomic status, daily selfie-taking, and educational qualification) jointly explained 16.1% of the variance in psychological distress. These results suggest valuable insights for researchers, educators, and educational counselors dealing with these concerns. Additionally, the findings would aid psychologists, parents, teachers, and other stakeholders in comprehending the factors contributing to psychological distress.
Jagannath University Journal of Life and Earth Sciences, 9(2): 133-146, 2023 (December)
Assessing the Validity and Effectiveness of Student Worksheets and Creativity Tests in Enhancing the Creativity of Open University Students
Authors: Dwikoranto Dwikoranto , Surasmi Wuwuh Asrining , Suparti Suparti , Setiani Rahyu
Published: May 2024

This research aims to create valid and effective Student Activity Sheets (SAS) and Scientific Creativity Tests (SCT) in order to enhance the creativity of open university students. The validity of SAS and SCT is determined by achieving a minimum score of 2.50 in both content validity and construct validity categories. Similarly, their effectiveness is measured by: (1) observing a statistically significant increase in students' scientific creativity at a 5% significance level; and (2) achieving a minimum average n-gain in the medium category. This research follows an Educational Design Research approach and utilizes a pre-experimental design with a one-group pre-test and post-test design. The research subjects consist of undergraduate students at Open University Surabaya during the 2023/2024 academic year. The data collection instruments used in this research include: (1) a Validity Assessment Sheet for SAS and SCT; and (2) the SCT test. The research data, which includes pre-test and post-test scores, are collected after conducting prerequisite tests such as normality and homogeneity tests. These scores are then analyzed using a paired t-test to identify any differences in students' scientific creativity between the pre-test and post-test stages. The average level of improvement in scores is calculated using the normalized gain (N-gain) method. The research data, in the form of scores obtained from the assessments of the validity of learning tools by three Learning Experts, are analyzed using the average method to determine validity, as well as by using Cronbach's alpha (α) to assess reliability. The same analysis is conducted for the Research Instrument scores. The research findings demonstrate that both SAS and SCT tools are valid and effective in enhancing student creativity.
Mycobacterium abscessus Corneal Ulcer with Conjunctival Toxicity due to Topical Amikacin
Authors: Jung Jin Wook , Ahn Min , Cho Nam Chun , You In Cheon
Published: May 2024

Purpose: This report presents a case of repeated toxic conjunctival necrosis caused by amikacin eye drops in a patient with a corneal ulcer induced by Mycobacterium abscessus (M. abscessus).Case summary: During treatment for herpetic keratitis with complaints of conjunctival hyperemia and eye pain in the right eye for 1 month. Slit-lamp microscopy revealed a circular corneal epithelial defect and stromal infiltration of her right eye. Gram staining and culture were performed, and eye drops were prescribed for empirical treatment. The bacterial culture grew M. abscessus. Antibiotic susceptibility tests showed resistance to quinolone. The patient was prescribed amikacin eye drops and the corneal epithelial defects improved. Two weeks later, circular conjunctival epithelial defects and hyperemia were observed on the inferior conjunctiva. Conjunctival necrosis caused by amikacin was suspected. The amikacin eye drops were discontinued and the conjunctival lesion improved. However, the patient’s corneal ulcer recurred. The amikacin eye drops were restarted, but conjunctival toxicity recurred, so she was treated with topical clarithromycin and moxifloxacin. The eye drops were gradually reduced and the lesion healed leaving mild corneal opacity.Conclusions: M. abscessus-induced keratitis resistant to quinolone antibiotics requires long-term combined therapy with multiple drugs. Amikacin eye drops should be used carefully as conjunctival toxicity may occur.
THE HIDDEN IMPACTS OF OCCUPATIONAL STRESS ON PATIENT SAFETY CULTURE
Authors: Nguyen Minh Thien , Do Anh Thi Lan , Luong An Tran Hong , Ly Long Tieu , Dang Ngan Thi Thien , Nguyen Nhan Thi Thu , Pham Yen Thi Kim , Nguyen Hue Thi Hoang , Nguyen Ngoc Thi Bach , Sam Vu Ha Nhu , Van Trieu Hoang , Nguyen Xuan Thi Truong
Published: May 2024

Previous studies have shown that over 45% of healthcare workers exhibit symptoms of stress, but the impacts of occupational stress on PSC are not well understood. This study was to determine the relationship between occupational stress and PSC at Pham Ngoc Thach Hospital in 2022. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 390 hospital employees at Pham Ngoc Thach Hospital in November 2022. Data was collected using the Vietnamese version of the HSOPSC 2.0 tool (Cronbach’s alpha 0.68-0.93) and the DASS-21-S. The results showed that 15% of hospital employees had mild to severe stress. The average PSC score was 3.13 with a standard deviation of 0.36 (5-point Likert scale). Higher occupational stress was associated with lower overall PSC. Specifically, occupational stress negatively impacted three domains of patient safety: teamwork, error communication, and hospital management support for patient safety. This study demonstrates that reducing healthcare worker stress could be an intervention to improve PSC. Hospitals should consider implementing workplace stress relief initiatives as an important factor in promoting PSC in healthcare, which can directly impact patient health and satisfaction.
Relevansi Single Presence Policy dalam Menjaga Kesehatan, Ketahanan, dan Daya Saing Perbankan Indonesia Menghadapi Resesi
Authors: Fahmi Wahyu , Indri Syahfitri
Published: May 2024

Abstract. The Single Presence Policy (SPP) was implemented in Indonesia since 1998 with the aim of maintaining the stability and resilience of the national financial system. Amid the threat of a predicted global recession, the relevance of SPP in maintaining the health, resilience, and competitiveness of Indonesian banking becomes important to be studied. This research uses a normative juridical legal research method with a qualitative approach. Data was collected through library research and analyzed descriptively. The purpose of this research is to analyze the relevance of SPP in maintaining the health, resilience, and competitiveness of Indonesian banking in facing a recession. The research results are expected to provide input for regulators and banks in formulating appropriate policies to maintain the stability and resilience of the national financial system.
 
Keywords: Single Presence Policy, bank health, bank resilience, bank competitiveness, recession).
PELATIHAN PEMBUATAN WEB COMPANY PROFILE UNIT KERJA KARANG TARUNA KELURAHAN TEGAL PARANG
Authors: Ariani Fattya , Sumarna Sumarna , Nurdin Hafis , Supriadi Riki
Published: May 2024

Karang Taruna is an organization that exists in Indonesia. Because surely in every village there is this organization. Karang Taruna is a place for teenagers to develop themselves to be responsible and have a social spirit. Technological developments can now be enjoyed by everyone throughout the world. Looking for information, we just have to type in Google what we want, after that so many references appear so that we can read the latest information without fear of missing out on information and this is a very significant difference where in the past it was very difficult to get the latest information and You have to wait a while to get this information. Now a problem where people don't know about Karang Taruna Tegal Parang Village and the activities they carry out. The solution offered is training in creating a company profile website for Karang Taruna, Tegal Parang. The training is carried out using the Technical Assistance method in the form of Training. The results obtained from this training were that the youth organization administrators can understand how to create a company profile website and can host the website they created. So that it can produce the latest information to citizens.
Entrepreneurial Ecosystems: Measurement, mechanisms and outcomes
Authors:   , Schrijvers Mirella Theresia
Published: May 2024

Entrepreneurship is an important driver of economic growth. Entrepreneurs create new jobs, introduce innovations in the market and improve productivity. In addition to increasing economic welfare, entrepreneurs can also contribute to solving important societal challenges. For these reasons there is much interest in how we can stimulate entrepreneurship. One of the determining factors is the environment in which entrepreneurship takes place. Entrepreneurs use resources from their environment and act in a specific context shaped by rules and culture. To study the interplay between the entrepreneur and their context, the entrepreneurial ecosystem concept emerged.

An entrepreneurial ecosystem comprises a set of interdependent actors and factors in a certain territory that enables productive entrepreneurship. While there has been a lot of interest in the concept from both policymakers and practitioners, we still lack an understanding of various mechanisms in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. To study these we need more structural quantitative data. This dissertation creates a large dataset to measure entrepreneurial ecosystems in all regions in Europe. This data is then analyzed to better understand the interdependency between the different elements in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

While it is well established that entrepreneurship contributes to economic growth, it is not clear how entrepreneurs might affect other dimensions of societal wellbeing such as sustainability or social inclusion. Since high-growth firms are generally considered the most important output of entrepreneurial ecosystems, this dissertation studies how these firms contribute to various aspects of wellbeing. The results show that high-growth firms are a heterogeneous group and one can distinguish between different types of firms based on how they interact with their stakeholders.

The studies in this dissertation show that the mechanisms in the entrepreneurial ecosystem are complex and multifaceted. There is not one type of entrepreneurial ecosystem and what works well in one region may not be successful in another. To develop an entrepreneurial ecosystem one thus needs to combine knowledge of the specific region with an understanding of the general characteristics of an ecosystem, such as the strong interdependency between elements. The output of the entrepreneurial ecosystem, productive entrepreneurship, also showcases strong diversity. While all of these new firms contribute to economic growth, their impact on societal wellbeing is more diverse. If the goal is to strengthen societal wellbeing it is therefore important to distinguish between firms based on their wellbeing impact. The entrepreneurial ecosystem could then be shaped to support the firms that contribute the most to societal wellbeing.
Synthesis of Zinc Oxide and Silver Nanoparticles by Chemical Method, Study of Structure, Properties and Applications
Authors: Abdullaeva Zh. , Atanazarova A. , Urmonov D. , Polotov I.
Published: May 2024

Zinc and silver oxide nanoparticles are widely used in technology, science, cosmetology and medicine. Research objectives: to study the synthesis of zinc and silver oxide nanoparticles by a chemical method, to study the structure, properties and medical applications of synthesized nanoparticles. Synthesis of zinc oxide and silver nanoparticles performed using chemical method, which saves energy, temperature and the cost of expensive equipment. The synthesized zinc and silver oxide nanoparticles range in size from 17 to 26 nanometers. The skin-irritating effect of the medicinal cosmetic gel based on nanoparticles of zinc oxide and silver obtained by our method was not revealed.
Development of Digital Show Methodology
Authors: Korobtseva N. , Karshakova L. , Obetkovskaya M.
Published: May 2024

The article proposes a method for creating a digital display of a clothing collection using modern information technologies. The authors analyzed technologies that can be used to display the collection in a digital environment. Particular attention is paid to 3D modeling and animation, as well as the integration of virtual models and scenes into videos. An algorithm is proposed that includes the stages of creating the image of the collection and selecting avatars, animation of the process of passing models in designed clothes across the stage in three-dimensional space. The purpose of this work is to consider the features of using neural networks for generating images, online resources and three graphic editors: a general-purpose 3D editor Blender, a 3D editor for designing and visualizing clothing Clo3D and a program for color correction, editing and video processing DaVinci Resolve. The main task was to study the possibilities of these technological solutions for creating motion design for a virtual fashion show of a clothing collection. Development algorithms are described at different stages: from searching for an artistic image using neural networks and digital design to developing animation design and video post-processing. The research materials contribute to understanding the possibilities of digital design in the field of fashion. The described tools allow you to create realistic clothing models, demonstrate animation and fabric simulation, and present collections in a dynamic format. In conclusion, recommendations are offered for the use of computer graphics for the effective development of virtual screenings. The article is intended for specialists in the field of costume and fashion design, computer graphics, virtual reality, as well as for anyone interested in innovative approaches to the organization and presentation of digital products.
An Appeal of the Legal Framework for the Prohibition of Attempted Suicide in Nigeria
Authors: Uwaegbulem Izunwanne Lights
Published: May 2024

Suicide has continued to be a global problem. More and more persons people are resorting to suicide as the panacea to all their problems. No matter the reason behind this profound conclusion, one will agree that suicide requires a lot of strength to carry out, and is an act that not many persons can resort to. Suicide is not a happy occurrence, it is an act which leaves grief and sadness with the families, friends, and other persons responsible for the deceased as well as the society at large. At first, many societies in a bid to dissuade potential candidates from carrying out this life-ending act decided to prohibit attempted suicide. Consequently, anyone who attempted suicide was liable to punishment. This punishment however could be felt by the person who made the attempt only if the person failed. Where the person succeeded, one would wonder about the necessity of a post-mortem punishment. That notwithstanding, post-mortem punishment did exist at some time. With the progress of time, some societies realised that the prohibition of attempted suicide did little to dissuade a person intent on ending it all and they were forced to depart from such position. However, Nigeria is one of the countries where attempted suicide remains a crime. The same applies to many other African countries. Religion in Africa is predominantly Christianity and Islam and their views of suicide have a profound impact on how suicide is viewed in Africa. This article advocates for a departure from the present legal framework on attempted suicide in Nigeria in the light of present realities.
Enhancing Human Development in Nigeria Through Constitutional Reform via the Human-Rights-Based Approach to Development
Authors: Ibe-Ojiludu Somadina
Published: May 2024

Development indexes and scholarship portray Nigeria as non-developed. Non-development is acutely felt in the sphere of human development. This article interrogated the state of Nigeria’s human development by showing that the violation of human rights law is at the heart of Nigeria’s lack of human development. It offered some constitutional reform proposals that could potentially cure the country’s perceived human development weaknesses. It also utilised the human-rights-based approach to development. Consequently, the article answered the following research question: Is it possible to realise human development in Nigeria using the human-rights-based approach to development by way of constitutional reform? While acknowledging the weakness in the often argued importance of making chapter 2 of the 1999 Constitution justiciable, it made a case for the introduction of suo motu intervention by the judiciary in order to boost the realisation of rights that enhance human development: Right to health, right to education and right to a decent standard of living. It also argued for the relaxation of the rigidity of dualism in the 1999 Constitution in order for Nigerians to benefit from certain doctrines, like the principle of progressive realisation, which favour the aforementioned rights that enhance human development. To buttress this point, the paper then cited the innovative section 254(c)(2) of the 1999 Constitution which, to promote the plight of the Nigerian worker, did something similar with regard to the accommodation of international law instruments related to industrial relations.
The Unfulfilled Promise of Interdisciplinarity in Comparative Law: Dialogues with Legal Geographers
Authors: Poncibò Cristina
Published: May 2024

The article examines the unfulfilled promise of interdisciplinarity in comparative law and suggests a new focus for it: namely, in legal geography’s study of the multiple dimensions of law and space. This article maintains that comparative law may benefit from a fresh dialogue with legal geographers, whose critical perspective, in both theory and practice, to law and space has enabled them to develop their field in a truly interdisciplinary way. This article will argue that it is time for comparative law scholars to enter into a more constructive dialogue with legal geographers, accessing their more systematic conceptualisations of space, place and scale in order to better understand – and critique – the entangled relations of law and space in these, our ‘interesting’ times.
PiGame 2023: una escape room matematica
Authors: Bassi Caterina , Brunetto Domenico , Cangiotti Nicolò , Nappo Francesco
Published: May 2024

Questo articolo presenta una recente esperienza didattica rivolta a studenti delle scuole secondarie di primo e secondo grado italiane tramite la costruzione di una escape room virtuale. Tale esperienza ha coinvolto oltre 50 scuole e 1500 studenti nell’occasione del Pi Day 2023, la Giornata Internazionale della Matematica. L’articolo si concentra sull’idea progettuale dei problemi matematici presentati e sulle modalità di realizzazione di un contesto virtuale che riproduca fedelmente l’esperienza di gioco escape room.
Evaluation of shear bond strength of feldspathic porcelain on various laser surface treated cobalt-chromium discs
Authors: Kondareddy Sreedevi , C. K. Anulekha Avinash , Jayyarapu Dilip , N. Sudhir
Published: May 2024

Brief Background
The aim of the study is to compare and evaluate shear bond strength of porcelain fused to metal substructure fabricated using conventional method, surface treated with different laser modalities and direct metal laser sintering.

Material and Methods
Forty samples made of Co-Cr were fabricated, divided into control (Group A) and three test groups (Group B, Group C, Group D) (n=10 each). Groups A, C, D samples were made by conventional lost wax technique and B by laser sintering. All the samples were sandblasted and group C and D were surface treated with Nd: YAG and Er: YAG lasers respectively. Further, samples were veneered using 2mm of porcelain. The samples were placed in a jig and held in a universal testing machine to test the bond strength between Co-Cr and porcelain. Samples were subjected to shear stress until the fracture occurred and the results were noted. Data analysis was done using one- way analysis of variance and Post-Hoc test.

Result
The mean shear bond strength was highest in group D (Er: YAG laser treated Co-Cr), then group B (Laser sintered Co-Cr), then group A (Sandblasted Co-Cr) and group C (Nd: YAG laser treated Co-Cr) which was the least.

Conclusion
All the groups showed significant difference in shear bond strength. Er: YAG laser surface treated Co- Cr had highest bond strength to porcelain, then laser sintered Co-Cr, followed by sandblasted Co-Cr and least Nd: YAG surface treated Co- Cr.

Key Words
Er:YAG Laser, Nd:YAG Laser, Conventional technique, Co-Cr alloy, DMLS, Porcelain, Shear bond strength.
Darboux transformation of symmetric Jacobi matrices and Toda lattices
Authors: Kovalyov Ivan , Levina Oleksandra
Published: May 2024

Let J be a symmetric Jacobi matrix associated with some Toda lattice. We find conditions for Jacobi matrix J to admit factorization J = LU (or J = 𝔘𝔏) with L (or 𝔏) and U (or 𝔘) being lower and upper triangular two-diagonal matrices, respectively. In this case, the Darboux transformation of J is the symmetric Jacobi matrix J(p) = UL (or J(d) = 𝔏𝔘), which is associated with another Toda lattice. In addition, we found explicit transformation formulas for orthogonal polynomials, m-functions and Toda lattices associated with the Jacobi matrices and their Darboux transformations.
Cardiocerebrovascular benefits of early rhythm control in patients with atrial fibrillation detected after stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ma Liang , Wang Baofu , Fan Jiasai , Zhou Hufang , Li Jingen , Li Weisheng , Zheng Xiangying , Wang Xian
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of early rhythm control (ERC) on the occurrence of cardiocerebrovascular events in patients diagnosed with atrial fibrillation detected after stroke (AFDAS).

Methods

A systematic search was conducted across nine databases from inception to October 15, 2023 to identify clinical trials comparing ERC with usual care interventions in AFDAS patients. The primary outcome assessed was recurrent stroke, with secondary outcomes including all-cause mortality, adverse events related to arrhythmias, and dementia.

Results

Analysis of five studies, consisting of two randomized clinical trials (RCTs) involving 490 patients and three cohort studies involving 95,019 patients, revealed a reduced rate of recurrent stroke [odds ratio (OR) = 0.30, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.11–0.80, P = 0.016 in RCTs; OR = 0.64, 95% CI 0.61–0.68, P < 0.00001 in cohort studies] and all-cause mortality (hazards ratio = 0.94, 95% CI 0.90–0.98, P = 0.005 in cohort studies) in the ERC group compared to the usual care group. In addition, ERC was associated with superior outcomes in terms of dementia.

Conclusions

Patients with AFDAS who underwent ERC treatment exhibited a decreased risk of cardiocerebrovascular events compared to those receiving usual care. These results support the potential benefits of implementing an ERC strategy for this specific patient population.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, Identifier [CRD42023465994].
Exploring alternative assessments during COVID: Instructor experiences using oral exams
Authors: Gaines Theresa , Burrows Nikita Lauren
Published: May 2024

Research into conventional summative assessment methods, such as written exams, has been extensively documented in the literature. However, as academia evolves in response to changing dynamics, there is a growing demand for more robust summative assessment approaches. Oral exams have emerged as a noteworthy form of summative assessment with intrinsic formative qualities, enabling instructors to delve deeply into students’ comprehension within a meaningful learning framework. Considering the constraints imposed by the traditional written examination format during the COVID pandemic, two educators implemented oral assessments in their chemistry courses, one in general chemistry and the other in organic chemistry. This article presents a comprehensive account of their approach, course structure, rubrics, documentation procedures, and the challenges associated with implementing oral exams. Furthermore, the authors offer insights derived from perceived course outcomes, experiences, collaborative efforts, and reflections from this transformative process. Through candid exploration, this article delves into both the potential advantages and the hurdles associated with the adoption of oral exams in chemistry education. It serves as a valuable resource for educators seeking innovative assessment strategies.
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis and primary ovarian failure: a two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis in a mixed-gender cohort
Authors: Mo Yuanhang , Shang Anquan , Wei Guoguo , Xu Donghui , Hou Yuxi , Shao Xiaowen , Yue Chaoyan
Published: May 2024

Background

The causal relationship between juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and primary ovarian failure (POF) remains uncertain. To elucidate this relationship, we employed a two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis.

Methods

The single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with JIA were obtained from a previously published genome-wide association study (GWAS), while the pooled data for POF originated from the FinnGen consortium. The study populations consisted exclusively of individuals of European descent. In our Mendelian randomization analysis, we performed inverse-variance weighted analysis, weighted-median analysis, weighted-mode analysis and Mendelian randomization-Egger regression analysis, supplemented by sensitivity analyses to validate the accuracy and robustness of the findings.

Results

The IVW (OR = 1.23, 95% CI 1.06-1.43; P = 0.007) and weighted median (OR = 1.25, 95% CI 1.06-1.47; P = 0.009), along with sensitivity analysis validation, provide compelling evidence of a significant causal association between JIA and POF.

Conclusion

The study revealed a significant causal association between genetically predicted JIA and POF, indicating that JIA significantly elevates the risk of developing POF. Therefore, it is recommended to implement screening for premature ovarian failure in women diagnosed with JIA.
Cardiovascular health in pediatric patients with X-linked hypophosphatemia under two years of burosumab therapy
Authors: Brener Avivit , Cleper Roxana , Baruch Guy , Rothschild Ehud , Yackobovitch-Gavan Michal , Beer Gil , Zeitlin Leonid , Kapusta Livia
Published: May 2024

Introduction

X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) is caused by an inactivating mutation in the phosphate-regulating endopeptidase X-linked (PHEX) gene whose defective product fails to control phosphatonin fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) serum levels. Although elevated FGF23 levels have been linked with detrimental cardiac effects, the cardiologic outcomes in XLH patients have been subject to debate. Our study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and severity of cardiovascular morbidity in pediatric XLH patients before, during, and after a 2-year treatment period with burosumab, a recombinant anti-FGF23 antibody

Methods

This prospective observational study was conducted in a tertiary medical center, and included 13 individuals with XLH (age range 0.6–16.2 years) who received burosumab every 2 weeks. Clinical assessment at treatment initiation and after .5, 1, and 2 years of uninterrupted treatment included anthropometric measurements and cardiologic evaluations (blood pressure [BP], electrocardiogram, conventional echocardiography, and myocardial strain imaging).

Results

The linear growth of all patients improved significantly (mean height z-score: from -1.70 ± 0.80 to -0.96 ± 1.08, P=0.03). Other favorable effects were decline in overweight/obesity rates (from 46.2% to 23.1%) and decreased rates of elevated BP (systolic BP from 38.5% to 15.4%; diastolic BP from 38.5% to 23.1%). Electrocardiograms revealed no significant abnormality throughout the study period. Cardiac dimensions and myocardial strain parameters were within the normative range for age at baseline and remained unchanged during the study period.

Conclusion

Cardiologic evaluations provided reassurance that 2 years of burosumab therapy did not cause cardiac morbidity. The beneficial effect of this treatment was a reduction in cardiovascular risk factors, as evidenced by the lower prevalence of both overweight/obesity and elevated BP.
A methane monitoring station siting method based on WRF-STILT and genetic algorithm
Authors: Fan Lu , Hu Xinyun , Wang Xiaodong , Ma Kun , Zhang Xiaohan , Yue Yu , Ren Fengkun , Song Honglin , Yi Jinchun
Published: May 2024

Reducing methane emissions in the oil and gas industry is a top priority for the current international community in addressing climate change. Methane emissions from the energy sector exhibit strong temporal variability and ground monitoring networks can provide time-continuous measurements of methane concentrations, enabling the rapid detection of sudden methane leaks in the oil and gas industry. Therefore, identifying specific locations within oil fields to establish a cost-effective and reliable methane monitoring ground network is an urgent and significant task. In response to this challenge, this study proposes a technical workflow that, utilizing emission inventories, atmospheric transport models, and intelligent computing techniques, automatically determines the optimal locations for monitoring stations based on the input quantity of monitoring sites. This methodology can automatically and quantitatively assess the observational effectiveness of the monitoring network. The effectiveness of the proposed technical workflow is demonstrated using the Shengli Oilfield, the second-largest oil and gas extraction base in China, as a case study. We found that the Genetic Algorithm can help find the optimum locations effectively. Besides, the overall observation effectiveness grew from 1.7 to 5.6 when the number of site increased from 1 to 9. However, the growth decreased with the increasing site number. Such a technology can assist the oil and gas industry in better monitoring methane emissions resulting from oil and gas extraction.
A novel homozygous RSPH4A variant in a family with primary ciliary dyskinesia and literature review
Authors: Shen Chenling , Shen Yilin , Huang Weiyi , Zhang Andi , Zou Tianyuan , Guo Dongye , Wang Hao , Wu Jichang , Hu Haixia , Xiang Mingliang , Ye Bin
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a rare heterogeneous disease caused by abnormalities in motile cilia. In this case report, we first analyzed the clinical and genetic data of a proband who was suspected of having PCD on the basis of her clinical and radiological findings.

Methods: Whole-exome sequencing was performed, and a variant in the RSPH4A gene was identified in the proband. Sanger sequencing was used for validation of RSPH4A variants in the proband, her sister, her daughter and her parents. Finally, the phenotypic features of the patient were analyzed, and the current literature was reviewed to better understand the gene variants in PCD related to hearing loss and the clinical manifestations of the RSPH4A variant in PCD.

Results: The chief clinical symptoms of this proband included gradual mixed hearing loss, otitis media, anosmia, sinusitis, recurrent cough and infertility. Her DNA sequencing revealed a novel homozygous T to C transition at position 1321 within exon 3 of RSPH4A according to genetic testing results. This variant had never been reported before. The homozygous variant resulted in an amino acid substitution of tryptophan by arginine at position 441 (p.Trp441Arg). The same variant was also found in the proband’s sister, and a heterozygous pathogenic variant was identified among immediate family members, including the proband’s daughter and parents.

Discussion: A literature review showed that 16 pathogenic variants in RSPH4A have been reported. Hearing loss had only been observed in patients with the RSPH4A (c.921+3_6delAAGT) splice site mutation, and the specific type of hearing loss was not described.
MRGPRX2 antagonist GE1111 attenuated DNFB-induced atopic dermatitis in mice by reducing inflammatory cytokines and restoring skin integrity
Authors: Wong Trevor K. , Choi Ye Gi , Li Philip H. , Chow Billy K. C. , Kumar Mukesh
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterised by itching, erythema, and epidermal barrier dysfunction. The pathogenesis of AD is complex and multifactorial; however,mast cell (MC) activation has been reported to be one of the crucial mechanisms in the pathogenesis of AD. The MC receptor Mas related G protein-coupled receptor-X2 (MRGPRX2) has been identified as a prominent alternative receptor to the IgE receptor in causing MC activation and the subsequent release of inflammatory mediators. The current study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effect of a novel small molecule MRGPRX2 antagonist GE1111 in AD using in vitro and in vivo approaches.

Methods

We developed an in vitro cell culture disease model by using LAD-2 MC, HaCaT keratinocytes and RAW 264.7 macrophage cell lines. We challenged keratinocytes and macrophage cells with CST-14 treated MC supernatant in the presence and absence of GE1111 and measured the expression of tight junction protein claudin 1, inflammatory cytokines and macrophage phagocytosis activity through immunohistochemistry, western blotting, RT-qPCR and fluorescence imaging techniques. In addition to this, we developed a DFNB-induced AD model in mice and evaluated the protective effect and underlying mechanism of GE1111.

Results and Discussion

Our in vitro findings demonstrated a potential therapeutic effect of GE1111, which inhibits the expression of TSLP, IL-13, MCP-1, TNF-a, and IL-1ß in MC and keratinocytes. In addition to this, GE1111 was able to preserve the expression of claudin 1 in keratinocytes and the phagocytotic activity of macrophage cells. The in vivo results demonstrated that GE1111 treatment significantly reduced phenotypic changes associated with AD (skin thickening, scaling, erythema and epidermal thickness). Furthermore, immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated that GE1111 treatment preserved the expression of the tight junction protein Involucrin and reduced the expression of the inflammatory mediator periostin in the mouse model of AD. These findings were supported by gene and protein expression analysis, where GE1111 treatment reduced the expression of TSLP, IL-13, and IL-1ß, as well as downstream signalling pathways of MRGPRX2 in AD skin lesions. In conclusion, our findings provide compelling in vitro and in vivo evidence supporting the contribution of MRGPRX2-MC interaction with keratinocytes and macrophages in the pathogenesis of AD.