bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maintenance of Balanites aegyptiaca scattered trees for improving sesame (Sesamum oriental) grain yield and soil properties in lowlands of Tigray, Ethiopia
Authors: weldu Halefom
Published: May 2024

A species of dryland tree called Balanites aegyptiaca provides numerous environmental and socioeconomic benefits. Those trees are cultivated by agriculturalists in their fields in lowlands of Tigray, but there was insufficient scientific data on how Balanites aegyptiaca trees affected the study area's soil characteristics and sesame yields. The purpose of this study was to look into the behavior of Balanites aegyptiaca to improve sesame yields and soil properties in Kafta-Humera District. Two variables were utilized to think about soil physicochemical properties and collect 48 pooled tests: separate from the tree trunk at four levels and soil profundity at two levels, reproducing the RCBD calculate framework on six trees. To study sesame yield, four-level log spacings were used, replicated six times.In addition, ANOVA was used to determine sesame seed yield and soil physicochemical properties. The outcomes demonstrated that the sesame seed yield was significantly (using p<0.05) from the Balanites aegyptiaca tree. Under the canopy as opposed to outside of it, and in the topsoil as opposed to the subsoil layer, the BD was significantly (p<0.05) lower. Findings for additional soil chemical parameters, including pH, OC, total N, available P, K, Ca, and CEC, showed a significant (p<0.05) increase in the crown area relative to the field and surface area over the subsurface layer. Under its canopy, the multipurpose tree Balanites aegyptiaca generally improves soil fertility; when grown on agricultural land, it can also boost soil and plant productivity in drought-prone areas when managed properly.
Two Distinct Classes of Quiescent Galaxies at Cosmic Noon Revealed by JWST PRIMER and UNCOVER
Authors: Cutler Sam E. , Whitaker Katherine E. , Weaver John R. , Wang 王 Bingjie 冰洁 , Pan Richard , Bezanson Rachel , Furtak Lukas J. , Labbe Ivo , Leja Joel , Price Sedona H. , Cheng Yingjie , Clausen Maike , Cullen Fergus , Dayal Pratika , de Graaff Anna , Dickinson Mark , Dunlop James S. , Feldmann Robert , Franx Marijn , Giavalisco Mauro , Glazebrook Karl , Greene Jenny E. , Grogin Norman A. , Illingworth Garth , Koekemoer Anton M. , Kokorev Vasily , Marchesini Danilo , Maseda Michael V. , Miller Tim B. , Nanayakkara Themiya , Nelson Erica J. , Setton David J. , Shipley Heath , Suess Katherine A.
Published: May 2024

We present a measurement of the low-mass quiescent size–mass relation at cosmic noon (1 < z < 3) from the JWST PRIMER and UNCOVER treasury surveys, which highlights two distinct classes of quiescent galaxies. While the massive population is well studied at these redshifts, the low-mass end has been previously underexplored due to a lack of observing facilities with sufficient sensitivity and spatial resolution. We select a conservative sample of low-mass quiescent galaxy candidates using rest-frame UVJ colors and specific star formation rate criteria and measure galaxy morphology in both rest-frame UV/optical wavelengths (F150W) and rest-frame near-infrared (F444W). We confirm an unambiguous flattening of the low-mass quiescent size–mass relation, which results from the separation of the quiescent galaxy sample into two distinct populations at

log
(

M

⋆

/

M

⊙

)
∼
10.3

: low-mass quiescent galaxies that are notably younger and have disky structures, and massive galaxies consistent with spheroidal morphologies and older median stellar ages. These separate populations imply mass quenching dominates at the massive end while other mechanisms, such as environmental or feedback-driven quenching, form the low-mass end. This stellar mass-dependent slope of the quiescent size–mass relation could also indicate a shift from size growth due to star formation (low masses) to growth via mergers (massive galaxies). The transition mass between these two populations also corresponds with other dramatic changes and characteristic masses in several galaxy evolution scaling relations (e.g., star formation efficiency, dust obscuration, and stellar-to-halo mass ratios), further highlighting the stark dichotomy between low-mass and massive galaxy formation.
Recovering Data of an Observation of the Leonids in 1869 from the Lisbon Geophysical Observatory (Portugal)
Authors: Aparicio A. J. P. , Vaquero J. M.
Published: May 2024

The Leonid meteor shower is renowned for its scientific and public interest. In a search for meteorological data from Portuguese stations, records on an observation of the Leonids in 1869 from the Lisbon Geophysical Observatory “Infante Dom Luiz” were found. Given their potential value, a digital version with metadata is provided in the present note (the recovered data are available on doi:10.5281/zenodo.11221019). The observation took place from 9 PM on 1869 November 13 to 6 AM on November 14, local time in Lisbon, with mostly clear skies and 4–5 observers covering completely the sky. They recorded 1980 meteors, noting Zodiacal Light visibility and detailing meteor counts every five minutes.
D5.3 Past-to-present EBV integrated datasets and status indicators using Water Framework Directive data streams for selected freshwater ecosystem types in the Habitats Directive
Authors: Lyche Solheim Anne , Demars Benoît O. L. , Moe Jannicke , Mentzel Sophie , Thrane Jan-Erik , Rasmussen Jes , Dillinger Benno , Hellsten Seppo , Kuoppala Minna , Riihimäki Juha , Johnson Richard , Fölster Jens , Mjelde Marit
Published: May 2024

This report provides a showcase of three essential biodiversity variables (EBVs) related to the EU Water Framework Directive (WFD) and possible synergies with other EU policies. The report consists of two major parts: the species level EBV on macrophyte species in Nordic lakes and the community condition EBVs for phytoplankton in lakes and benthic invertebrates in rivers based on their deviation from reference conditions measured by Ecological Quality Ratios (EQR-values). The macrophytes species modelling predicts species distribution for two species (Isoetes lacustris and Potamogeton lucens) selected from a dataset of more than 2000 lakes and close to 100 single species. The model is based on observations of each species occurrence and abiotic co-variates (alkalinity, temperature, phosphorus-concentration) from the same lakes identifying the niche for each species. The outputs of the model show all lakes where each of the species potentially can occur. The model is also used to predict impacts of nutrient pollution on the species distribution of each species, showing a clear reduction in their distribution range. The community condition EBVs are based on data reported annually by countries to the European level (EEA). The data are used to assess community condition and trends, showing a recent improvement of condition for water bodies that were in poor or bad condition in 2015, thereby demonstrating the positive effect of mitigation measure to nutrient and organic pollution. Interactive dashboards showing maps and timeseries are developed and fully accessible. Initial analysis of land-use effects shows a negative impact on the condition in areas with > 30% agriculture and > 10% urban areas.
Synchroa medogensis, a new species of Synchroidae (Coleoptera) from Xizang, China
Authors: Pan Zhao , Wang Shaopeng
Published: May 2024

Synchroa medogensis, a new species of Synchroidae Lacordaire, 1859, is described and illustrated, based on a single male collected from Mêdog, Xizang, China. This new species is close to S. elongatula Nikitsky, 1999 and S. melanotoides Lewis, 1895, but could be distinguished by the elongated antennae and elytra, the apically narrowed prosternal process and the stout parameres.

The new information of this new species provided in this paper include: description, type information, distribution and comparison amongst S. medogensis sp. nov., S. elongatula and S. melanotoides.
The impact of dietary intervention on myokines: a narrative review
Authors: Assyov Yavor , Chechev Kristian , Gateva Antoaneta , Vera Karamfilova , Gatev Tsvetan , Popov Dobrin , Naydenov Yuliyan , Zaharieva Emanuela , Konova Natalia , Yordanova Savelia , Marinov Bozhidar , Nikolova Diana , Kamenov Zdravko
Published: May 2024

This review elucidates the role of dietary factors in influencing myokine secretion, complementing the recognized benefits of physical activity on metabolic health. While exercise is known to positively modulate myokines, contributing to their health-promoting effects, an exploration into how diet affects these critical cytokines remains sparse. Through analysis of the literature, this work identifies dietary patterns that markedly affect myokine levels, underscoring the complex relationship between nutrition and myokine activity. The investigation reveals that specific dietary approaches can profoundly alter myokine secretion, suggesting an essential avenue for combined dietary and exercise interventions to optimize health outcomes. These insights highlight the need for further detailed study into diet-induced myokine modulation.
Timberlines of the Greek high mountains: status quo at the turn of the millennium
Authors: Brandes Robert , Christopoulou Anastasia
Published: May 2024

The present review article provides an overview about the timberlines of the Greek high mountains. It informs about the existing tree species and about the altitude, physiognomy and dynamics of the timber-line ecotones. Subsequently, it gives an interpretation of the human influence and the geo-ecological fac-tors, which may have caused the altitudinal limit of tree growth in Greece. A latitudinal and local change in timberline-forming tree species creates high heterogeneity between the research areas and makes this their most remarkable feature. Moreover, in Greece there is no rise in timberline altitude from north to south. In some areas, fir-dieback causes a local decline in timberline altitude, which is the predominant dynamic process. An anthropogenic depression of the forest line is certainly common. Yet, a natural forest cover reaching up to the peak zones of the Greek high mountains is unthinkable. The identified timberline-forming factors and the prevailing site conditions speak against this. In accordance with the Mediterranean climate regime, it is obvious that not only the climatic conditions of winter (frost, snow) determine the limits of tree growth. The (macro- and micro) climatic impacts of summer (drought, high insolation) play a highly important role as well. Against this background, the climate-ecological hindrances to the establishment of trees, i.e. the germination and the survival of seedlings, are identified as key-factors for understanding the Hellenic timberlines (“regeneration hypothesis”). Against the back-ground of global warming, suggestions for further research on the ecology and dynamics of the Greek high mountain timberlines are provided. 
Randomized symmetric Gauss-Seidel method for solving linear least squares problems
Authors: Sha Fan , Zhang Jianbing
Published: May 2024

We introduced a random symmetric Gauss-Seidel (RSGS) method, which was designed to handle large scale linear least squares problems involving tall coefficient matrices. This RSGS method projected the approximate residual onto the subspace spanned by two symmetric columns at each iteration. These columns were sampled from the coefficient matrix based on an effective probability criterion. Our theoretical analysis indicated that RSGS converged when the coefficient matrix had full column rank. Furthermore, numerical experiments demonstrated that RSGS outperformed the baseline algorithms in terms of iteration steps and CPU time.
Existence and multiplicity of triple weak solutions for a nonlinear elliptic problem with fourth-order operator and Hardy potential
Authors: Kefi Khaled
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the existence of triple weak solutions for a system of nonlinear elliptic equations with a fourth-order operator. The problem arises in the mathematical modeling of complex physical phenomena.
L’Alsace protestante : illusion d’unité, réalités multiples
Authors: Tourtet Raphaël
Published: May 2024

L’historiographie religieuse régionale a longtemps dressé une ligne de partage entre une Alsace catholique et une Alsace protestante au singulier. Cette division étonne pour l’époque moderne quand on sait la pluralité des protestantismes. L’approche comparative entre les cas microhistoriques de Sainte-Marie-aux-Mines, de Bischwiller et du bailliage de Cleebourg veut questionner l’émergence d’une conscience ou d’une appréhension unitaire des protestants en Alsace dès les XVIIe et XVIIIe siècles. Le pluralisme confessionnel de ces trois espaces est représentatif de la complexité protestante dans la région. L’étude des relations et de la coexistence intra-protestante dans ces espaces souligne comment, malgré une proximité dogmatique, des frontières confessionnelles se dressent entre protestants. Si des ententes et des actions communes semblent émerger timidement dans la seconde moitié du XVIIIe siècle, elles restent circonstanciées en fonction de besoins ou pour la défense des droits confessionnels face aux catholiques. Ces ententes évoquent alors plus une reconnaissance mutuelle entre protestants qu’une fraternité ou une conscience d’unité. Cette dernière semble davantage s’amorcer dans le regard extérieur des autorités sur les protestants d’Alsace à la fin du XVIIIe siècle, sans pour autant gommer les différences internes.
Éclairer l’Assemblée nationale sur les particularités alsaciennes par l’écrit :
Authors: Fischer Daniel
Published: May 2024

Le comité des droits féodaux de l’Assemblée nationale est fréquemment sollicité à partir de 1789, tout comme le comité diplomatique à partir de 1790, au sujet d’une question alsacienne : celle des princes d’Empire possessionnés en Alsace qui refusent de reconnaître dans leurs États l’abolition des droits seigneuriaux. Johann Peter Stupfel (1725-1795), agent du prince-évêque de Spire, concerné par cette affaire, entend influencer par l’écrit les travaux des députés, et construit l’idée de l’impossibilité du règlement rapide de cette affaire par le versement d’indemnités, aussi généreuses soient-elles. Les imprimés que Stupfel publie anonymement permettent de comprendre comment cette crise politico-diplomatique a suscité la structuration de deux discours antagonistes reposant sur une écriture différente de l’histoire du rattachement de l’Alsace à la France de 1648 à 1789 : celui de l’adhésion et du partage progressif mais désormais irréversible d’un sort commun avec l’ensemble des Français d’un côté et, de l’autre, celui d’irréductibles particularités de l’Alsace, dont la constitution est le fruit de la sédimentation de clauses de traités internationaux et d’un partage équilibré des souverainetés qu’on ne saurait remettre en question.Mots-clés : comité des droits féodaux, comité diplomatique, droit public, traités internationaux, Révolution française.
L’Alsace, une région mobilisée dans la patrimonialisation de la Neustadt
Authors: Blanc-Reibel Cathy
Published: May 2024

L’histoire de la Neustadt est étroitement liée à l’histoire spécifique de l’Alsace. Construite à partir du Bebauungsplan de 1880 lors du rattachement de l’Alsace à l’Empire allemand, dès son origine, la mise en œuvre de cet ensemble urbain est corrélée à la situation frontalière de Strasbourg, entre France et Allemagne. Cette situation géographique lui a valu, et lui vaut, une attention particulière tout en lui conférant une dimension symbolique. L’ensemble architectural de la Neustadt évolue de facto entre deux nations : l’une qui a mis en œuvre le plan d’urbanisme et l’autre qui a concouru à sa patrimonialisation. Cet article vise à retracer les événements qui ont permis de mettre en valeur cet ensemble urbain, notamment en dressant un parallèle entre la patrimonialisation de cet espace urbain strasbourgeois et l’acceptation de l’histoire de l’Alsace, tant à l’échelle locale, nationale et internationale. En effet, les liens entre l’histoire de l’Alsace et ce patrimoine strasbourgeois sont prégnants, la Neustadt de Strasbourg pouvant être considérée comme une métonymie de l’évolution des relations franco-allemandes.
Invisibles aux yeux de l’État. Une première estimation des « disparitions administratives » en Région de Bruxelles-Capitale
Authors: Moriau Jacques , Malherbe Alain , Sanderson Jean-Paul , Pierre Adèle , Leclercq Alexandre
Published: May 2024

En Belgique, la domiciliation donne accès aux droits fondamentaux par l’inscription des personnes au Registre National. Le Registre National centralise toutes les données qui sont recueillies par les communes. L’invisibilisation administrative a donc des conséquences directes sur la jouissance des droits sociaux. Elle a trois origines distinctes : l’absence d’inscription, la radiation, la suppression de personnes du Registre National. Au départ de l’analyse des données du Registre National, cet article s’intéresse aux phénomènes d’« invisibilisation administrative », c’est-à-dire à la disparition ou la radiation, volontaire ou involontaire, des registres administratifs. Une analyse anthropologique des pratiques administratives concernant la domiciliation des personnes introduit l’article qui est poursuivi par une quantification et une spatialisation du phénomène d'invisibilisation administrative et enfin une enquête sociologique auprès des personnes victimes d’invisibilisation administrative éclaire leurs parcours d’exclusion.
Advances in Sensor Technologies for Detecting Soil Pollution
Authors: Singha Ranjit , Singha Surjit , Ruben V. Muthu , Haokip Alphonsa Diana
Published: May 2024

The present chapter elucidates progressions in the surveillance of soil pollution, with a specific emphasis on integrated systems and sensor technologies. Future trends (e.g., enhanced selectivity, regulatory adoption), deployment platforms (field-deployable, wireless networks), and sensor types (electrochemical, optical, and biosensors) are discussed. Increasing sensitivity and specificity, facilitating on-site, real-time analysis, and integrating sensing with remediation strategies are priorities. The discourse highlights the revolutionary capacity that soil pollution sensors possess to propel environmental monitoring and management forward. Collaboration among stakeholders is critical for successfully implementing sensor-based approaches and driving innovation.
Examining the Effects of Forest Fires
Authors: Eriş Müjgan Bilge , Demirel Duygun Fatih , Gönül Sezer Eylül Damla
Published: May 2024

Forest fires have been a major concern for many countries over an extended period of time due to natural and human induced factors. In recent years, detection of forest fires has progressively shifted toward advanced technologies where the remote sensing approaches are fully operational. To enhance fire management strategies, it is crucial to gain a comprehensive understanding of the fire dynamics and its consequences on the environment, operational sources, and economic sectors. Therefore, this chapter develops an integrated framework to predict and analyze the effects of forest fires by using system dynamics approach and remote sensing technology, ultimately leading to the establishment of a conceptual model and conclusive insights.
Autonomous Systems Revolutionizing Health Insurance Industry
Authors: Stanly Anupa , Aruna K.
Published: May 2024

Financial services, particularly the insurance service sector, are increasingly embracing technology. Autonomous systems, which include artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and automation, are driving a striking revolution in the health insurance industry. This research provides a comprehensive analysis of various facets, such as the use of autonomous systems, expediting claim processing, identifying, and preventing fraud, improving the customer experience, data-driven decision-making, and adherence to healthcare legislation. The study concludes by highlighting the sector's profound impact from autonomous systems and pointing to a promising future for health insurance that will be characterised by operational effectiveness and customer-centricity. This study sets out a thorough exploration of the dynamic world where autonomous systems are changing the laws governing health insurance. This investigation's main objectives are to achieve operational excellence and provide services that are utterly customer-centric.
An Intelligent Robotic Fogger System for Predicting Dengue Outbreaks
Authors: Dolly D. Raveena Judie , Jagannath D. J , Dinesh Peter J.
Published: May 2024

Humans may encounter an arboviral illness through viruses transmitted by mosquitoes, commonly resulting in a fever known as breakbone fever. This term reflects the severity of muscle spasms and joint pains associated with the illness. While some cases are asymptomatic, others can be fatal. Dengue awareness often arises during seasonal changes. The integration of AI in dengue prediction becomes crucial for early diagnosis and treatment. Utilizing appropriate deep learning classifiers can aid in categorizing cases based on their severity. This article advocates for the implementation of an intelligent robotic fogger system in predicted areas. This approach employs interprofessional strategies to safeguard health workers and residents in regions prone to dengue outbreaks.
The prognostic effect of cardiac rehabilitation
Authors: Seneviratne N. , Firmin R.K.
Published: May 2024

No abstract available.
Two simple techniques to mitigate against serious perfusion accidents
Authors: Firmin R.K. , Pathinayake A. , Harischandra D.V.T.
Published: May 2024

No abstract available.
Understanding the Heparin/Protamine reaction as applied to cardiac surgery
Authors: Firmin R.K. , Harischandra D.V.T. , Munasinghe Dulan , Jayaliya E.V.C. , Piyasiri G.
Published: May 2024

No abstract available.
History of Cardiac and Thoracic Surgery in Sri Lanka
Authors: Amarasena G.A.C.
Published: May 2024

No abstract available.
Critical Literature Review of Contemporary Research on Attitudes Towards World Englishes
Authors: Fernando Dinali
Published: May 2024

Locally and globally, the position of English is uncontested, making it the most sought-after languages to be learnt today. While there is little disagreement about the need to learn English, language teaching and learning efforts are often beset by questions of which variety of English is most suitable for the classroom. This is complicated by attitudes towards varieties of English. This paper is a literature review to inform a study of attitudes towards World Englishes among Sri Lankan English teachers. It presents a critical review of existing literature that combines elements of a systematic review. Based on 50 recent studies, the paper first presents key findings in an overview of the main trends in contemporary research on attitudes towards World Englishes (AWE). It next presents a selection of findings based on a critical analysis of these studies. These findings include the proliferation of AWE studies in countries that formerly considered English a foreign language, a preference for survey methods and AWE studies in pedagogical contexts, recurring findings across studies from different parts of the world, and the researchers' engagement with the concept of attitudes. The critical analysis of the studies uncovered conceptual and methodological shortcomings that also reflect the limitations previously identified in WEs research and language attitudes research. This paper concludes with the recommendation to consider moving beyond positivist, quantitative approaches such as surveys in the study of AWEs that consider language attitudes to be fixed and measurable in order to produce generalisations. Instead, this paper advocates more inductive, qualitative approaches that focus on the individual and the subjective and consider language attitudes as unfixed, volatile, and evolving in context, which might provide new insights into the field.
Buddhism and Women Empowerment: Review of Literature and Future Research Directions
Authors: Rajapaksha Sisitha , Hennayake Yashodhara , Hewage Janani , Randika Malith , Weerakkody Shalini
Published: May 2024

Buddhism emerged as a belief system that promoted the principles of equality, fairness, and moral fortitude, thereby empowering women. In today's world, it is more important than ever to promote women's empowerment. In the Buddhist age, women were fully empowered in religion and morals. Even though there was economic freedom and social equality, things stayed the same in politics and around the house. Overall, Buddhist women had more freedom, equality, better status, and a more liberal environment than women did in the past. During the Buddhist Period, women had more power. Current social concerns demand more and more empowered women in society to tackle the challenges that we face. It is a timely requirement of academia, especially in the context of Sri Lanka, to revisit and research the literature related to Buddhism and women empowerment to provide sustainable solutions to the prevailing issues in the current society. This paper aims to revisit the prevailing literature related to this area and suggest future research directions. A desk research strategy has been followed in this conceptual paper, and a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) in the PRISMA framework has been conducted in order to perform the review. VOSviewer software has been used to perform keyword co-occurrence analysis. Articles have been obtained from the Scopus database. A comprehensive framework is needed to be established in order to study the issues related to this area. More empirical studies, as well as qualitative studies, can be conducted in order to gain a clear picture of the relationship between Buddhism and Women's Empowerment.
Effect of Development Finance Lending on Financial Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises in Sri Lanka
Authors: Gunawardena P.A.T.R. , Weligamage S.S.
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this study is to identify the relationship between development finance lending on the financial performance of SMEs and determine what components of development finance credit have the most impact on the growth of SMEs. The study was adopted with a target sample of 120 registered SMEs within the ABC Bank PLC, Sri Lanka. Secondary data was collected for the study using internal documents from the SME section in ABC Bank PLC and annual reports. SME financial performance has been considered as the dependent variable, whereas development finance credit amount, development finance loan period, initial credit amount, and collateral requirement have been considered as independent variables. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics, correction and multiple regression approach. Findings revealed that development finance credit positively influences the financial performance of SMEs through the amount of credit provided, the initial credit amount, the collateral requirement, and the loan period granted by the bank, which affects the financial performance negatively based on the analysis. The study also found that all SMEs borrow credit to increase their financial performance. The study concludes that return improved with each consecutive loan, showing that microfinance facilities enhance the financial performance of SMEs in Sri Lanka with the evidence from ABC Bank PLC. The regression results propose that development finance credit gives more to the financial performance of SMEs and thus higher return.
Taboos and Transgressions: Social Perceptions of Dark Art Practices in Imperial Rome and Ancient Sri Lanka
Authors: Jayawardena S.G.
Published: May 2024

This research aims to illuminate the intricate socio-cultural dynamics surrounding "Dark Art" practices in two divergent historical contexts: Imperial Rome and Ancient Sri Lanka. By delving into the perceptions, taboos, and transgressions associated with these practices, the study offers a nuanced understanding of how these societies grappled with the shadowy realms of occultism, magic, and mysticism. This research also sheds light on the complex social perceptions of these practices while underlining the critical role of secondary readings in unravelling the intricacies of these enigmatic traditions. The research will span across distinct historical periods, focusing on pivotal epochs, including the Imperial Roman period and corresponding eras in Ancient Sri Lankan history. Through rigorous analysis of historical texts, secondary readings, archaeological artefacts, and socio-anthropological insights, this study will uncover specific Dark Art practices that were prevalent within each cultural landscape. With a keen focus on societal perceptions, the study will examine how these practices were positioned within broader cultural narratives and power structures. By investigating the taboos and transgressions associated with Dark Art, it seeks to explore how these practices challenged normative boundaries and potentially disrupted the established social order. The role of gender and social status will be scrutinized to discern if marginalized groups had a distinct involvement in or resistance against these practices. By conducting this cross-cultural analysis, the research aims to contribute to a deeper comprehension of the complex interplay between Dark Arts, social norms, and transgressions. This study not only enriches historical scholarship but also offers insights into how societies historically negotiated the tension between the allure of the forbidden and the preservation of societal cohesion. Ultimately, by unravelling the intricacies of these practices and their societal responses, the study endeavours to shed light on the perennial fascination with the arcane and the forbidden.
The Intangible Culture Illustrated by the Use of Clothing in Domestic Rituals of Traditional Sinhalese Society
Authors: Ihalagama H.A.A. Swarna
Published: May 2024

In any society, all the physical (tangible) and immaterial (intangible) phenomena artificially created on the natural environment by the members of that society belong to its unique culture. Buildings, vehicles, food, clothes, dagobas, statues, etc. are examples of tangible culture and rituals, beliefs, folklore, etc. are examples of intangible culture. There is an inseparable relationship between the tangible and intangible aspects of a culture, even if such classifications have been made based on the prevailing theoretical and practical usage. In the creation of any physical product or material, appropriate technical knowledge and skill should be used, and in the implementation of any immaterial practice, physical products or materials should be used. This research investigates the way in which clothing belonging to tangible culture is used in rituals belonging to intangible culture. Accordingly, the objective of this research is to examine the way in which clothes were used in the main life events, such as birth, puberty, marriage and death, in the traditional Sinhalese society and the inseparable relationship between tangible culture and intangible culture. The research problem is “how the intangible side of Sri Lankan traditional culture is illustrated by the use of clothes in domestic rituals?”. The secondary source was widely used for data collection, and interviews and direct observation were slightly used to make the primary data more reliable. To analyze the data and draw conclusions, a qualitative research methodology was used.
A Narrative Review on Human Anxiety Detection in Social Media using Natural Language Processing
Authors: Senanayake Ashala , Liyanage Sidath
Published: May 2024

Currently, with the boundless proliferation of social media platforms, it is undoubted that the world is in the middle of a significant phase of social media evolution. These virtually created user environments allow users to create, share, and interact with content. Most people who interact with social media make a pitch to share their mood, tension, feelings, and behaviour unhesitatingly with the community. Mostly, these data can be taken as a mirror that reflects the mental health status of a person, such as stress, anxiety, and suffering. With increased social media penetration, people tend to share their disturbances rather than suffer alone. Anxiety can be taken as an ordinary human emotion which prepares the human body for potentially vulnerable situations. It would be beneficial if there were any system that could predict if a person is anxious before going through a critical situation that would have to be clinically treated. This study is a narrative review of anxiety detection over the past ten years. Furthermore, this qualitative study discusses an overview of anxiety detection using Natural Language Processing (NLP) and key concepts highlighting emerging trends. We conclude that the existing state-of-the-art social media anxiety detection mechanisms can be outperformed using deep learning based on large pre-trained language models. Furthermore, it can be safely stated that a specific pre-trained large language model for social media anxiety detection is a crucial necessity yet to be fulfilled.
Blockchain-Based Secure Distributed File Storage for Community Cloud Computing
Authors: Jinasena T.M.K.K. , Nayanathara B.P.S.
Published: May 2024

Cloud storage is the most used option for storing and sharing files. However, cloud storage has issues like lack of transparency, privacy, security, and trust. On the other hand, local file storage is always faster and more secure than public cloud storage. Besides, a community cloud is more economical and scalable than private storage. However, due to the ad-hoc nature of community users, developing such a community cloud storage has always been a challenge due to data privacy, security, and availability concerns. Recent developments in blockchain technology and computer security are promising to resolve most of these challenges. Thus, in this research, we are presenting blockchain-based, distributed file storage for community cloud computing. This research, which focuses on local communities, allows them to securely share the excessive storage with the locals to earn something while gaining access to faster, more reliable large-scale local storage. By replacing the central authority of third-party storage vendors and migrating to distributed file storage, local communities will achieve greater security, reliability, and control over their data while reducing the risks of data failures and interruptions. Due to symmetric encryption, data privacy would be 100% assured even though they are stored in other peoples' computers. Moreover, this system uses Reed Solomon. Using the Reed Solomon algorithm, the system can retrieve files even when users holding 33.33% of the files are not present. Besides, it allows local communities to make effective use of their idle and unallocated computer resources transparently.
The Treaty of 1815? Or the Proclamation of the Convention for the Ceylon Settlement Act?
Authors: Herath Saman
Published: May 2024

This research aimed to investigate the Paper written by the British in 1815 AD called 'Givisuma', in historiography and within the Sinhalese context. In 1815, the paper that the British documented regarding the Ceylon and obtained signatures from elites at Kandy has been attested in various Sinhala language sources as 'Givisuma'. Several scholars have been mentioning this as 'Sammutiya' (Convention). Nevertheless, in this regard, English words included in the primary sources indicate a different Sinhala literal meaning. The paper of 1815 is commonly referred to as the 'Proclamation' in the primary sources and its Sinhala meaning is being ignored in secondary Sinhala language sources and usage among the Sri Lankans. 'Proclamation' means the Sinhala literal meaning of, "Prakasha Pattraya", "Danveem Pattraya". A 'Proclamation' is a formal announcement, usually made by a government or other powerful authority which has been used as a means of expression by the British colonialists and the legal mechanism to affirm the accession of a British king or queen and confirm the right to the lands belonging to the Great Britain. A 'Treaty' is a legal document in international relations. A 'Convention' is a set of rules for parties who agree to a convention to solve a problem that affects a number of people in the world. The components included in a 'Treaty' are called 'Agreements'. Thus, this research seeks to determine the most fitting name for the document proposed in Sri Lanka in 1815 considering its Sinhala language meaning. The Historical Research Method has been used for this research. Considering the medium of expression enforced by the British in their colonies, their content, and the nomenclature given to those expression mediums, the paper written in Ceylon in 1815 has a different meaning than the meaning that emerges from the term 'Treaty'. The findings suggested that, based on historical considerations, the document 1815 in Sri Lanka may be more accurately described as the "The Proclamation of the Convention for the Ceylon Settlement Act, 1815" rather than using the term "1815 treaty (Givisuma)".
Cortical excitability in patients with migraine with aura and depressive symptoms: a visual evoked potentials study
Authors: Casillo Francesco , Abagnale Chiara , Sebastianelli Gabriele , Di Renzo Antonio , Parisi Vincenzo , Cioffi Ettore , Serrao Mariano , Di Lorenzo Cherubino
Published: May 2024

Background: Migraine is a brain disorder characterized by recurring headache attacks, and emotional comorbidities, such as anxiety and depression, may influence the repetition of these attacks. The lack of sensory habituation is a common neurophysiological abnormality in migraine, and research suggests that it is under the influence of serotonin and other monoamines that are also involved in mood disorders. This study aimed to investigate the influence of emotional symptoms on cortical information processing in patients with migraine with aura by correlating cortical activity with self-perceived emotional distress. Methods: Visual evoked potentials from monocular stimulation were recorded in 16 patients with migraine with aura (MA) and 22 healthy volunteers (HV). The visual stimulus consisted of a full-screen black-and-white checkerboard pattern with a reversal rate of 1.55 Hz. 600 consecutive traces were collected and divided into six sequential blocks of 100 sweeps. Before the recording session, both MA patients and HV completed the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). Pearson's correlation test was used to find correlations between electrophysiological and psychometric variables in HV and MA patients. Results: Compared to HV, MA patients showed a significant difference in the degree of habituation to repeated visual stimulation between the two groups, resulting in a habitation deficit. Psychometric test results showed that trait STAI and BDI values were significantly higher in MA patients. In the MA group, BDI correlated negatively with the amplitude of the first block and positively with the degree of habituation. Conclusions: These results highlight a link between the level of brain responsiveness and depressive symptoms in patients with MA. Further research is required to confirm whether the same correlations exist in patients with other headache disorders.
Beliefs about raw milk production and consumption and their relationship with health in Miraflores, Boyacá, Colombia
Authors: Guarín-Patarroyo Camilo E. , Restrepo Ochoa Diego A. , Gomez-Sierra Fabio A.
Published: May 2024

The consumption of raw milk in Colombia continues despite the regulations issued to standardize or prohibit it. In the municipality where this study was carried out, more than 90% of the population chooses to consume this product, being at potential risk of acquiring diseases. The objective of this study was to understand the beliefs surrounding the production and consumption of raw milk and its relationship with health. It was carried out in 2020. Ethnography was used as a method of data collection and analysis. It was found that this phenomenon is related to the economy, identity, and ecology and is a central axis and articulator of various socio-cultural activities. It is guided by traditional production practices that do not fully respect biosafety and hygiene. Furthermore, the consumption of raw milk is socially approved and is the result of a social construction that arose independently of the physicochemical and microbiological properties of raw milk. Furthermore, local and national government regulators are not interested in this productive sector or in the consequences that their practices may have on the health of consumers. Thus, the responsibility for the consumption of raw milk and the possible acquisition of diseases passes from the food industry to the consumer. It is up to each consumer to make raw milk a safe food.
Prediction of Recurrent Lateral Ankle Sprain and Ankle Pain Using Applied Care Strategies and Patient-Reported Outcomes
Authors: McCann Ryan S. , Ohrnberger Elisabeth , Kosik Kyle B. , Gribble Phillip A.
Published: May 2024

Context

Patients with lateral ankle sprains (LASs) often have deficient patient-reported outcomes (PROs) at return to activity (RTA), potentially increasing risk for recurrent LAS and ankle pain. Additionally, applied care strategies are known to correct impairments, but their ability to mitigate risk for long-term consequences remains unknown.

Objective

To determine if applied care strategies and PRO scores at RTA and 6 months after RTA predict recurrent LAS and ankle pain 12 months after an acute LAS.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Online survey.

Patients or Other Participants

We enrolled 63 individuals within 1 week of sustaining an acute LAS.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Participants completed online surveys about their health history and recent LAS. At RTA and 6 months after RTA, participants completed online surveys regarding demographics, applied care strategies, and PROs, including the Foot and Ankle Disability Index (FADI), Identification of Functional Ankle Instability, Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire, and Short Form-8 (SF8). At 12 months post-RTA, we asked participants if they sustained recurrent LASs. Chi-square analyses determined if recurrent LAS and ankle pain at 12 months were related to applied care strategies or ankle pain at RTA. Independent t tests compared demographics and PROs at RTA and 6 months between participants with and without a recurrent LAS or ankle pain at 12 months. Logistic regression and area under the receiver operating characteristic analyses determined if demographics, applied care strategies, ankle pain at RTA, and PRO scores at RTA and 6 months predicted recurrent LAS and ankle pain at 12 months.

Results

Participants with a recurrent LAS had a lower walking boot use (P = .05) and were taller than those without (P = .03). Increased height and lack of walking boot use were predictive of recurrent LAS (P < .01, R2 = 0.33, area under the receiver operating characteristic = 0.81 [0.68, 0.95]).

Conclusions

Individuals with LAS who are taller and do not use a walking boot might have greater risk for a recurrent LAS withing 12 months of RTA.
Effect of calcium hydroxide on fracture resistance and microhardness of dentin in human teeth
Authors: Sethi Simar , Gupta Alpa , Kurian Ansy Hanna , Abraham Dax , Chauhan Parul , Aneja Kritika , Jala Sucheta , Singh Arundeep
Published: May 2024

Aim:

Calcium hydroxide to date is a widely used intracanal medicament during endodontic treatment. Long duration of exposure of dentin to calcium hydroxide may influence the fracture resistance and microhardness of dentin thereby affecting the tooth. The aim of this review was to identify and systematically analyze the effect of calcium hydroxide on fracture resistance and microhardness of dentin in human teeth.

Methods:

A PubMed and Scopus search was performed using keywords 'fracture resistance' and 'microhardness' along with Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) terms 'Calcium hydroxide' and 'dentin' and 'tooth' till 12th March 2022. The reference list of each selected article was also explored to identify additional articles. An inclusion criteria was set that had to be met by each study for it to be selected for the review. Only articles written in English language were included in this systematic review. The review was conducted according to the PRISMA checklist.

Results:

Ten in-vitro studies that fulfilled the inclusion criteria were included in this review. The findings of majority of studies showed that an exposure duration of more than one month to calcium hydroxide decreased the fracture resistance and microhardness of dentin thereby affecting the strength of the tooth. Further, one week of exposure to calcium hydroxide did not show any significant change in fracture resistance.

Conclusion:

Based on the analysis of the studies included in this review, it can be concluded that increased duration of exposure of dentin to calcium hydroxide negatively affects the fracture resistance and microhardness, thereby weakening the tooth.
reseña de La persuasión política: claves para mejorar la comunicación entre la clase política y la ciudadanía en tiempos de desafección
Authors: Rodríguez Virgili Jordi
Published: May 2024

Introducción: En el contexto actual de cambios significativos en la comunicación política y una creciente desafección ciudadana hacia los líderes tradicionales, el autor de esta reseña presenta al libro "La persuasión política: claves para mejorar la comunicación entre la clase política y la ciudadanía en tiempos de desafección" de Roberto Rodríguez Andrés. Se destaca la importancia de esta obra en la comprensión de los desafíos actuales en la comunicación política y la necesidad de abordar la persuasión como elemento central en esta disciplina. Metodología: La metodología empleada en la reseña implica una revisión crítica y analítica del contenido del libro de Rodríguez Andrés. Rodríguez-Virgili evalúa la estructura, los argumentos y las evidencias presentadas por el autor, así como su relevancia en el contexto actual de la comunicación política. Además, contextualiza la obra dentro del panorama académico y profesional, identificando sus posibles contribuciones y limitaciones. Resultados y Discusión: La reseña destaca la rigurosidad académica y la claridad expositiva del libro de Rodríguez Andrés, resaltando su enfoque multidisciplinar y su capacidad para integrar diversas perspectivas teóricas y prácticas en el estudio de la persuasión política. Se discuten temas clave abordados en la obra, como el uso de técnicas persuasivas por parte de los políticos, la influencia de las emociones en el discurso político y la importancia de una comunicación ética y efectiva en tiempos de polarización y desafección. Conclusiones: La reseña concluye que el libro de Rodríguez Andrés es una contribución significativa al campo de la comunicación política, tanto para académicos como para profesionales. Destaca su relevancia en la comprensión de los desafíos contemporáneos en la comunicación política y su capacidad para proporcionar un marco conceptual sólido y fundamentado. Asimismo, subraya la importancia de promover una comunicación política que fomente el debate informado y el compromiso cívico, en línea con los principios democráticos.