bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An appraisal of statistical and probabilistic models in highway pavements
Authors: Agunwamba Jonah , Tiza Michael Toryila , Okafor Fidelis
Published: April 2024

Accurate performance prediction is crucial for safe and efficient travel on highway pavements. Within pavement engineering, statistical models play a pivotal role in understanding pavement behavior and durability. This comprehensive study critically evaluates a spectrum of statistical models utilized in pavement engineering, encompassing mechanistic-empirical, Weibull distribution, Markov chain, regression, Bayesian networks, Monte Carlo simulation, artificial neural networks, support vector machines, random forest, decision tree, fuzzy logic, time series analysis, stochastic differential equations, copula, hidden semi-Markov, generalized linear, survival analysis, response surface methodology and extreme value theory models. The assessment meticulously examines equations, parameters, data prerequisites, advantages, limitations, and applicability of each model. Detailed discussions delve into the significance of equations and parameters, evaluating model performance in predicting pavement distress, performance assessment, design optimization, and life-cycle cost analysis. Key findings emphasize the critical aspects of accurate input parameters, calibration, validation, data availability, and model complexity. Strengths, limitations, and applicability across various pavement types, materials, and climate conditions are meticulously highlighted for each model. Recommendations are outlined to enhance the effectiveness of statistical models in pavement engineering. These suggestions encompass further research and development, standardized data collection, calibration and validation protocols, model integration, decision-making frameworks, collaborative efforts, and ongoing model evaluation. Implementing these recommendations is anticipated to enhance prediction accuracy and enable informed decision-making throughout highway pavement design, construction, maintenance, and management. This study is anticipated to serve as a valuable resource, providing guidance and insights for researchers, practitioners, and stakeholders engaged in asphalt engineering, facilitating the effective utilization of statistical models in real-world pavement projects.
Politics, its Science, and the Prevention of Wars
Authors: Emerson Peter
Published: April 2024

Majority voting and majority rule – in a word, majoritarianism – have been a cause of division in both parliamentary votes and binary referendums, and sometimes, subsequently, in societies as well. Indeed, at worst, such binary decisions have led to violence and war. Other, more inclusive voting procedures have been developed over the years, as often as not first used in Asia, and their adoption worldwide could lead to decisions, which more accurately reflect the common good. Furthermore, if decisions were based on a methodology which identified, not the more popular of just two options, but the most popular of a few – the option with the highest average preference – governance by a single party or a majority coalition could give way to that which is advocated for conflict zones: all-party power-sharing. Indeed, if such were the norm, consensus in international gatherings could more effectively be achieved, and maybe many violent conflicts could be at best prevented and at least resolved peacefully.
Future-Proofing Islamic Finance: A Bibliometric Review of the Fintech Era
Authors: Amalia Shendy , Riantani Suskim , Wijaya John Henry
Published: April 2024

This study, entitled "Future-Proofing Islamic Finance: A Bibliometric Review of the Fintech Era," investigates the dynamic mix of Islamic finance and financial technology (Fintech) using advanced bibliometric analysis. By utilizing the VOS viewer from 2004 to 2023, a comprehensive review of 998 papers was conducted. The main keywords for this analysis are “Islamic finance,” “financial technology,” and “bibliometric analysis.” Methods: The VOS viewer facilitates comprehensive analysis of the data set, focusing on linkage patterns, publication trends, and influential journals in the realm of Islamic finance and Fintech. Key metrics such as publication growth, prolific authors, influential journals, and prolific countries are analyzed to provide an in-depth understanding of research trends. Results: Bibliometric analysis of 998 papers reveals emerging trends in Islamic finance and Fintech, emphasizing the significance of technology-driven growth in the Islamic finance landscape. This study identifies key research themes, collaborative networks, and important contributions that shape this domain. Research Limitations/Implications: This analysis is based on data extracted using the VOS viewer from 2004 to 2023 and may not cover the entirety of research in Islamic finance and Fintech. It provides a comprehensive yet specific look at trends in this intersection. Conclusions and Recommendations: This bibliometric review provides insight into the evolution of Islamic finance in the context of Fintech, highlighting research growth, influential authors, and key journals. It offers valuable insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers, paving the way for future research linking Islamic finance to technological innovation.
The Effect of Supply Chain Disruptions on Business Post COVID-19
Authors: Pane Medyawanti , Fedor Katia , Kois Addy , McFarland Ethan
Published: April 2024

There are many reasons for experiencing supply chain disruptions. The reasons could be miscommunication between the factory and the warehouse, miscommunication between the warehouse and the stores, or miscommunication between the stores and the customers. We investigated these possible disruptions throughout this paper with the help of a questionnaire. We further investigated the effect of various problems that may occur with the company stock which resulted in supply chain disruptions. There have been many papers written about the effect of the disruptions regarding these problems. With the goal of finding out the tactical approach from the company affects the value of the stock, we investigated this further. Additionally, this paper examined the nature of the tactical standings of the company and the effects on supply chain disruptions and the position of the company stock. Based on the responses to the questionnaire, we found how the tactical elements affect the supply chain disruptions. We also showed the effect of the supply chain disruptions on the company stock.
Can Corporations Support Democracy?: The Vanishing Financial Cost of Election Denial Among House Republicans After January 6th
Authors: Cohen Alexander
Published: April 2024

Can corporations play a sustained role in the support of democracy? Through an examination of Fortune 500 companies’ campaign contributions in the wake of the 2021 Capitol Insurrection, I examine the responsiveness of corporate actors to democratic backsliding. Specifically, I look at changes in campaign contributions to House Republicans who objected to the 2020 Electoral College results. I suggest that corporate responsiveness to undemocratic elites can be explained via the trade-offs between public reputation and government access. Through a Difference-in-Differences (DID) event study, I find evidence of a sharp but declining penalty for Republican election deniers. I additionally demonstrate that more visible corporations were more likely to keep their distance, a finding which emphasizes the role of reputation in these considerations. These results suggest thatwhile corporations have the capacity to respond to undemocratic politicians, their willingness to do so is bounded by their brand image and profit motives.
Understanding the Paradox of Unethical Pro-Organizational Behavior: Development and Validation of a New Thought Experiment Measure
Authors: Liu Chuanjun , Zou Lemei , Wu Junhong , Wang Taolin , Abbas Syed Zain
Published: April 2024

Previous studies have highlighted the paradoxical nature of unethical pro-organizational behavior (UPB), yet no measurement tools specifically targeting this paradox have been developed. This study introduces a new thought experiment measure based on the five-phase development framework by Hinkin (1995, 1998). Phase one, concept clarification, adopted the widely accepted UPB definition from Umphress et al. (2010). Phase two developed and initially validated seven UPB scenarios with high content and ecological validity, capturing the paradox that employees experience regarding UPB (Study 1). Phase three demonstrated that the employees’ UPB choices in these scenarios showed high internal consistency and structural validity (Study 2). Phase four demonstrated high criterion and discriminant validity compared to Umphress et al.’s UPB scale, along with high test-retest reliability (Study 3). Phase five examined the cognitive process underlying UPB through the lens of dual-process theory (Study 4). Cognitive load manipulations (with or without load) revealed that employees under cognitive load made faster decisions but exhibited lower UPB choice frequency, thereby supporting the paradoxical nature of UPB and its cognitive underpinnings. Theoretical and practical implications were discussed.
Measurement Stability, Effect Size Attenuation, and the Replication Crisis
Authors: Weems Carl F
Published: April 2024

The replication crisis has produced a number of suggested reasons and remedies. Recent models have suggested effect sizes may be overestimated when the variables contain error variance (i.e., under ‘noisy’ conditions). However, clear action implications of this realization for researchers are needed. One useful action step concerns addressing the stability of the measurements in question. Here I provide a perspective on the role of measurement stability in effect size estimates and suggest the use of stability estimates to adjust effect size reporting and sample size planning.
Development of a novel task to assess peripheral awareness in the presence of foveal distractors
Authors: Shinozuka Kenneth , McClure Maycee , Alsewaidi Sama , Du Yanji , Fasano Chelsey , Spagna Alfredo
Published: April 2024

Awareness of the visual periphery is a crucial aspect of perception. However, few studies assess the ability to detect peripheral stimuli while competing stimuli of the same type are simultaneously displayed in the center of the visual field. In this study, participants were asked to judge the dominant orientation in a display that contained lines in both the periphery and the center of the visual field; however, the dominant orientation was always in the periphery. Our research advances understanding of peripheral awareness in two ways. Firstly, performance on our task predicts performance on a validated task assessing foveal (central) perception, the random dot kinematogram (RDK), perhaps due to shared mechanisms of global pooling in both tasks. Secondly, our task provides evidence of “subjective inflation,” the phenomenon in which participants overestimate their confidence of peripheral perception relative to foveal perception.
Mechanisms of Change in a Digital Five Ways to Wellbeing Intervention: A Network Intervention Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Prydz Monica Beer , Bjørndal Ludvig Daae , Czajkowski Nikolai Olavi , Røysamb Espen , Nes Ragnhild Bang
Published: April 2024

While digital positive psychology interventions demonstrate effectiveness in promoting wellbeing and reducing illbeing in the general population, their mechanisms of change are relatively underexplored. The wellbeing promotive digital intervention, Five Ways to Wellbeing for All (5waysA), has been shown effective (effect sizes from .20 to .49) in a large (N= 963) randomized controlled trial (Prydz et al., 2024). In the present study, Network Intervention Analysis (NIA) was applied to identify associations and putative mechanisms linking the 5waysA intervention to a set of wellbeing outcomes. Following the 10-week intervention period, the NIA revealed that only positive emotions on an aggregate level were conditionally dependent on the treatment allocation variable. These findings suggest that the effectiveness of the 5waysA intervention primarily reflects the direct enhancement of positive emotions. Our findings provide insights of potential importance for advancing the theoretical framework of the Five Ways to Wellbeing and other mental health and wellbeing promoting interventions.
Reporting, Forgetting, or Reimagining: A Developmental Theory of Traumatic and Adverse Childhood Memories
Authors: Weems Carl F
Published: April 2024

The reliability of child and youth reports of traumatic events and adverse experiences is a critically important but highly contentious issue. This paper presents a developmental perspective for understanding reporting, forgetting, and reimagining such experiences. This perspective addresses the targeted question of how to conceptualize correspondence in reports across time that uses a psychometric starting point (the reliability of reports) and applies a developmental lens (both theory and data) to this data while also integrating relevant neuroscience data. I perform a critical review of 1) recent meta-analysis and data on consistency in reports of TRACEs and 2) critical review of systematic reviews of autobiographical memory in PTSD and 3) integrate emerging developmental and neuroscience research and theory to develop the perspective. The perspective emphasizes that there may be an evolution of the memory of a traumatic event and evolution in the perception of an event as traumatic over time. The perspective therefore emphasizes that the perception of an event or events as traumatic may be both a strict dichotomy of yes or no something happened but also a continuum from strong memory/perception of an event as traumatic to weaker memories and remembering the event differently over time. Implications for intervention and practice and a research agenda is presented.
Center of Attention: Spatial Position Affects Quantity Judgments and Product Preference
Authors: Vanunu Yonatan , Donnelly Kristin
Published: April 2024

Consumers often encounter products featuring assorted components, such as bags of flavored popcorn or flower bouquets. How do they judge the quantity of each component to form overall preferences? Across twelve pre-registered studies, this article shows that spatial positioning significantly shapes judgements of relative quantity. The findings reveal a proximity-to-center bias: When evaluating products with assorted items, consumers tend to perceive a given type of item as more numerous when it appears closer to the center of the display, even when actual quantity is lower. This bias impacted both hypothetical and real choices. Consumers preferred products where the packaging positioned more of the type of item that they liked most, such as a specific popcorn flavor, closer to the center. Remarkably, this preference persisted even when the actual quantity of their favored type was lower. These results suggest that these biases are rooted in selective attention, specifically to the center of the product display. This research highlights the intricate relationship between spatial positioning, quantity judgments, and consumer decision-making, offering valuable insights for product design and display strategies.
The Influence of Age on the Effectiveness of Misinformation Retractions
Authors: McIlhiney Paul , Prike Toby , Ecker Ullrich K. H.
Published: April 2024

Misinformation has become a prescient issue in public and academic domains. One pernicious aspect of misinformation is that it can persistently influence people’s judgements after clear and credible correction—a phenomenon dubbed the continued influence effect. There has been speculation that age may affect people’s susceptibility to the continued influence effect, but previous research has produced inconclusive evidence. In an attempt to reconcile conflicting findings, the current study used a continued influence paradigm in which causal event misinformation was retracted. Two samples were analysed with correlation analyses and linear mixed-effects modelling: an online sample aged 21-79 (the 21+ sample; N = 259) and an in-person sample aged 56-92 (the 56+ sample; N = 143). Results showed that, when controlling for poor encoding of experimental materials in the online 21+ sample, age had no significant effect on the effectiveness of misinformation retractions, though declining effectiveness was observed with advanced older age in the 56+ sample.
Dances in the Name of the Dead: Syarga and Ghyapri/Klepri Rituals Among Gurungs
Authors: Gurung Shanti
Published: April 2024

Within the diversified and multicultural country like Nepal, there are many death rituals depending on the basis of their caste, religion, geographical area and their economic status. The Gurungs have their own kind of death rituals termed as Arghu (pae), in principle, appears to have similar purpose with the annual Shraddha as practices by the Brahmin-Chhetri and other people. The entitled research topic explores about the death rituals syarga and klepri dances to be performed differently during the pae. The ritual of Arghum among the Gurungs is a three-day event which includes the dancing rituals of Syarga and Klepri together with prayers and rituals that aim to send the deceased person’s soul to heaven. Main purpose of this study is to findout how the Gurungs believe their death ritual by dancing and its soul connection to the deceased. The paper follows the interpretative approach to present the story of the special dances and rituals performed in the name of the dead by her/his relatives, friends and fellow villagers. This study was conducted among the gurungs of Gorkha district. Seven death rituals were carried out for the field study where five klepri gurus and 5syarga dancer was taken as respondent. My own participation in and observations of the ritual performances, and activities supplemented by my interview with elderly and knowledgeable people including ritual specialists has yielded the essential data needed to learn about how Gurung people understand human life and the relations between themselves and their deceased ancestors. Main finding of this study is dance in the name of deceased which believes that dance is one of the important part for human life and it’s fluctuations. As same like gurung people believe that we can dance in the name of the dead which reminiscences the previous life where she/he belong to.
Defecto septal ventricular postinfarto: complicación devastadora
Authors: Castro Clavijo Jorge Alberto , Suárez Martinez Arnoldo José , Gutiérrez Silva Jhonny , Barbosa Balaguera Christian Camilo , Liévano Triana Manuel John , Bedoya Loaiza Juan Esteban
Published: April 2024

Introducción: la comunicación interventricular es la complicación mecánica más frecuente después de un infarto agudo del miocardio en especial si cursa con elevación del ST, cuya frecuencia es alrededor de 0.21%, aumentando cuando es extenso y no reperfundido en pacientes con mayor edad, si hay compromiso multivaso y sin colateralidad; es una situación devastadora de mal pronóstico. Presentación de los casos: se describen 2 casos en un hospital universitario de Bogotá posteriores a infarto agudo del miocardio con elevación del ST y sin reperfusión temprana, ambos en choque cardiogénico, el primero con evolución tórpida y mortalidad temprana y la segunda fue llevada a los 10 días a cierre transcatéter, documentándose periprocedimiento un aumento significativo del tamaño del defecto septal, con mayor inestabilidad hemodinámica y muerte posterior al cierre.
PROTECTING AND UNDERSTANDING DIGITAL DESIGNS – THE SHAPE OF THINGS TO COME
Authors: Brancusi Lavinia
Published: April 2024

This study looks into aspects of the new EU design legislation that relate to the subject-matter of digital designs and the extent to which Polish law should adapt for full harmonization. The first part examines the new open-ended definitions of a ‘design’ and ‘product’ with a focus on dematerialized items that exist solely through appearance. The second part touches upon several legal parameters serving the identification of the object of design protection. It discusses the visibility requirement embedded by the filing requirements, the eye-perception of design features, and the disconnection of the scope of protection from the designated product category. The last part takes an interdisciplinary approach based on the rules of psychology and design engineering in order to explain the issues that underline human vision, with a focus on the appearance of user interfaces. The understanding of sensory and cognitive determinants of human perception is a useful guide for a judge or examiner in the assessment of the overall impression of two designs. Because of the challenges resulting from the specificity of digital designs, this article argues that Polish law should comprehensively implement the new EU design provisions in order to prevent further difficulties in enforcement.
THE USE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN ASSESSING A BANK CUSTOMER’S DEBT CAPACITY
Authors: Chłopecka Antonina
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this article is to discuss the issue of financial institutions, and especially banks, using artificial intelligence algorithms to assess the debt capacity of their potential borrowers. The author presents the view that the regulations currently in place are insufficient. In particular, there are no provisions in place to sufficiently protect the interests of bank customers. Additionally, the author considers what claims bank customers could have in the event that an algorithm made an incorrect assessment of their creditworthiness.
Investigation of Veterinary Student and Faculty Perspectives of Factors Affecting In-Person Lecture Attendance
Authors: Frank Nicholas , Wilkinson Julia , Cardamone Carie
Published: April 2024

A proposal was submitted to our institution's curriculum committee to discontinue lecture livestreaming to increase attendance, and we performed a study to investigate factors affecting lecture attendance. In January 2022, the faculty and students were surveyed to explore their perspectives on the impact that student attendance has on both the student and faculty lecture experience. We included a subset of common questions to allow for comparison. For students, in-person lecture attendance was not largely influenced by content or delivery. Instead, most students indicated flexibility, preserving emotional well-being, optimizing efficiency, exams, and COVID-19 as important. Students also indicated that part-time jobs, caring for family or pets, and commuting were additional reasons to elect a remote lecture experience. Faculty also recognized the impact of these factors on lecture attendance, but they were concerned about student learning and preparedness for clinics, and their own effectiveness and wellbeing as educators. Sixty-one percent of faculty agreed that low lecture attendance negatively impacted their overall professional satisfaction and 67% indicated that it decreased their enjoyment of teaching. Faculty mentioned missing real-time feedback from students and they expressed sadness at the loss of personal interactions. After reviewing results of the study, the curriculum committee voted to discontinue livestreaming of lectures. Although students provided strong feedback on the importance of flexibility, the committee agreed with faculty concerns. It remains to be determined if lecture attendance increases because of this decision and preparedness for clinics should be objectively measured in the future.
Pathogens from fomites in clinical setting: A scoping review
Authors: Muhammad Izzati , Wan Ismail Wan Nur Izzati , Samsuddin Niza , Alias Norsyuhada
Published: April 2024

Fomites can potentially transmit infectious or contagious pathogens thus contribute to the widespread of hospital-associated infections (HAIs). A scoping review was conducted to identify the types of fomites and pathogens as well as factors of pathogen distribution in clinical setting according to Arksey & O’Malley framework and PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Three online databases were used to collect the relevant data which revealed that there were 46 reported fomites in clinical setting that have been associated with bacteria, virus, and fungi. The most contaminated fomite with more than 10 species of pathogens was the mobile phone. This distribution might be due to the attitudes of healthcare workers and patients and their practice towards cleaning of mobile phones that prominent especially in Intensive Care Units (ICUs). Future study could investigate the effectiveness of proper hygiene to evaluate the contribution of this action towards the reduction of fomites contamination in the hospital.
Concentrated Growth Factor as an alternative membrane material in periodontal regeneration: A case report
Authors: Mohd Noh Nur Zety , Salehuddin Nurul Qamar , Ali Sharul Nisha , Mohamad Ikhwan Hakimi , Ariffin Farha
Published: April 2024

The risk of further periodontal breakdown increases with a deep intrabony defect. Non-surgical periodontal therapy could pose a challenge and surgical intervention is mainly required to manage the defect. Autologous platelet concentrates such as concentrated growth factor (CGF) may improve surgical outcome due to its enrichment with growth factors. Nevertheless, the outcomes of using CGF as a biomaterial in periodontal regenerative therapy is inconclusive. This case report describes the regenerative management of an intrabony defect on all the first molars of a 24-year-old Malay lady diagnosed with Generalised Periodontitis, Stage III, Grade C. A guided tissue regeneration strategy was utilised on all the first molars except on tooth 46, which was treated with xenografts and a biologic adjunct of CGF. Patient was recalled regularly every week up to two months following the procedure, followed by a three-month interval review. The results showed promising outcomes with an average of 4 mm probing pocket depth reduction and 79.1% radiographic bone fill for both regenerative strategies. The utilisation of biologic adjuncts such as CGF, could offer a viable alternative to collagen membrane in periodontal regeneration without compromising clinical results.
Role of Vitamin D on Endothelial Function and Erythropoiesis: Implications for Sickle Cell
Authors: Agbalalah Tarimoboere
Published: April 2024

Endothelial dysfunction and chronic anaemia are key features of sickle cell disease (SCD), which significantly increases the risk of vaso-occlusive crises, pulmonary hypertension and stroke in affected individuals. Evidence indicates that vitamin D (VD), known for bone health, is linked to better endothelial function by increasing nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability, and promoting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. It also regulates erythropoiesis by enhancing and prolonging red blood cell production and lifespan. VD deficiency is common in individuals affected by SCD, intensifying the already poor cardiovascular health. Up to date, only one study have investigated the effect of VD supplementation, and endothelial function outcome measures in SCD. The potential benefits of maintaining adequate circulating VD concentration in improving endothelial dysfunction and chronic anaemia would be of immense significance to affected individuals living in sub-Saharan Africa, who bear the greatest burden of the disease, with a substantial impact on morbidity and mortality. There is a lack of clinical data investigating the effect of VD on erythropoiesis in SCD. Therefore, this review aims to examine the current evidence regarding the influence of VD on both endothelial function and erythropoiesis and the clinical implications of enhancing endothelial function and erythropoiesis through VD supplementation in this at-risk group. A thorough search of databases, including PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar, was performed to gather relevant articles exploring the interplay between VD, endothelial function and erythropoiesis in SCD. Robust clinical evidence is warranted to show the impact of VD supplementation on improving endothelial function and erythropoiesis in SCD.
Impact of Processing on Nutrients and anti-Nutrients in Tubers and Leaves of Cassava (Manihot Esculenta Crantz)
Authors: Nyambaka Hudson
Published: April 2024

Purpose The study investigated the effect of boiling and deep-frying on the levels of selected nutrients and anti-nutrients in tubers and leaves of new Migyera and MM96/2480 varieties planted in Busia County. Although cassava contains high levels of nutrients (elements and vitamins) that meet nutrient requirements when consumed as the main diet, it requires thorough cooking to reduce high levels of phytochemicals, anti-nutrients affecting nutrient bio-accessibility, and carcinogenic compounds; procedures which also affect the nutrient levels. Methods Tubers and leaves from the tips of the plant were harvested after 8 months. A portion of the tubers was boiled in water (100 ºC, 20 minutes), while another deep-fried in vegetable cooking oil until it turned brown (5 minutes). Leaves were pounded until uniformly macerated and boiled in water (100 ºC, 45 minutes). Levels of nutrients and antinutrients were determined by standard methods. Results The levels of nutrients and anti-nutrients were significantly higher in leaves than in tubers, and also differed significantly in different cassava varieties. Boiling of tubers significantly reduced the nutrients and anti-nutrients levels more compared to frying (P<0.001), ranging from 13.7 to 97.7%. Deep frying of Migyera variety had higher nutrient reduction than in MM96/2480 variety. Essential elements and antinutrients molar ratios indicated that the elements were not bio-accessible. Conclusion Boiling and deep-frying of cassava tubers and leaves results in significant reduction of nutrient and anti-nutrient levels, implying that cassava cannot be used as the main diet; explaining the high level of child malnutrition in such communities.
Convolutional Neural Networks Approximation in Quasi-Orlicz Spaces on Sphers
Authors: AL-Janabi Amna Manaf , Almurieb Hawraa Abbas
Published: April 2024

It is necessary to study the theoretical bases of an approximation deep convolutional neural networks,  because of its interesting developments in vital domains. The approximation abilities of deep-convolution neural  networks produced by downsampling operators in quasi- Orlicz spaces have been studied, since this space is wider and more important than other spaces. In this paper, we define quasi-Orlicz norm on spherical spaces. In addition, modulus of smoothness is also studied in terms of quasi-Orlicz norm. Finally, Function approximation theorems are studied by using convolution neural networks with
An Explicit Form of Harnack’s Inequality for Poisson’s Dirichlet Problem
Authors: Yaqoob Sarah , Al-Yasiri Khaldoun S.
Published: April 2024

The explicit form of Harnack’s inequality for non-negative harmonic functions in the open ball  plays an important role in harmonic analysis and elliptic partial differential equations. In this paper, we establish the explicit form of Harnack’s inequality for Poisson’s Dirichlet problem in the open ball with non-negative boundary data. We involve the Green’s function for Laplacian operator to find it out. Harnack’s inequality for positive harmonic functions can be followed from Harnack’s inequality for Poisson’s Dirichlet problem when the source function is set to be zero.
Identification of Alzheimer’s Disease Hub Genes Based on Improved HITS Algorithm
Authors: Kadhim Dr.Qusay Kanaan , Abd ul kader Rasha Mahdi , Altameemi Atyaf ismaeel , Mohammed Rana jassim
Published: April 2024

Alzheimer's disease is a severe, neurodegenerative condition that gradually breaks memories, thinking abilities, and the ability to carry out even the most basic tasks. The hub genes of AD were examined in this study. They understand how interactions between proteins and non-protein substances are crucial to understanding how proteins work. Network investigations of protein-protein interactions, in particular, help understand biological issues. This article offers a novel approach to identifying essential proteins using weighted PPI networks and Hyperlink-Induced Topic Search (HITS) algorithm. We discovered the top 10 hub genes linked to AD using a protein network analysis: AKT1, TGFB1, GRB2, NFKB1, PIK3CA, PIK3R1, TNF, IFNG, VEGFA, and TP53. It was discovered by gene enrichment that most gene activities might be categorized as vital to the plasma membrane, including engagement in signaling cascades, G-protein composite reliability activation, and cell contact. The prioritized genes were determined by the convergent functional genomics ranking AKT1, TGFB1, GRB2, NFKB1, PIK3CA, PIK3R1, TNF, IFNG, VEGFA, and TP53. To better understand AD pathophysiology and find new biomarkers or medication targets for AD treatment, these molecular pathways hub genes will be helpful.
Countable Paracompactness of Nano Topological Space Modeled by Pre-open Sets Structures
Authors: Jalaukhan Ghufran , AL-Nafie Z.D
Published: April 2024

A new class of paracompactness in the nano topological spaces, termed nano pre open sets, are presented and explored in this article. Since the Nano topology contains at most five sets this leads us to establish new structures of nano open sets, nano open covers, and nano locally refinement coves   new requirement concepts are discussed like Nano pre open covers, Nano pre , , , and Nano pre- regular, Nano pre-normal  spaces, and Countable Nano Pre-open Paracompact. Many new theorems are stated and proved.
Exact Solutions of Cardiovascular Models by using Upadhyaya Transform
Authors: Thakur Dinesh , Kuffi Emad Abbas
Published: April 2024

In many practical fields, such as engineering, physics, chemistry, biology, psychology, economics, and finance, processes are simulated using differential equations. These models solutions, in contrast to algebraic equations, may be more intricate. In order to get at the solutions to these models, it is easy to employ integral transformations. In this paper, we use the Upadhyaya transform to obtain accurate solutions to two cardiovascular models. It is obvious that the Upadhyaya transform is an effective, dependable, and simple technique for solving differential equations.
Using Regression Model to Study the Significant Differences in the Number of Covid-19 Infections
Authors: Murad Noor Sabah , Alkutubi Hadeel Saleem , Al Shamary Nabaa Mohammed
Published: April 2024

Multiple linear regression modeling was used to analyze Covid-19 data, which represents the number of infections in Iraq for the year 2019, in order to find occupational discrepancies between the dependent variable (age) and the independent factors under discussion. This was carried out in addition to the correlation value. Following statistical analysis, a significant correlation was discovered between the independent factors and the dependent variable, age. The age dependent variable and the research's independent variables are evidently different from one another in a substantial degree, as indicated by the analysis of variance table. This is in addition to comparing the number of infections between boys and females for each of the study's variables (blood pressure, oxygen rate, sugar rate, and D-Dimer), and we discovered that there are no appreciable variations in the quantity of infections between males and females based on the factorial experiment analysis.
A Solution of Fractal Dynamic Pharmacokinetics Problem
Authors: Najm Ansam T. Najm , Al-Rammahi Adil
Published: April 2024

There are numerous uses for fractional differential equations in engineering, physics, and technology.  A path for solving the fractal differential equations was examined, and its homogeneous form of  was introduced. The notions of Riemann-Liouville fractional derivatives served as the foundation for the journey.. The solutions of the linear non-homogeneous fractal differential equations are given in detail.
Other Properties of the Class D(T)
Authors: Shawkat Shaymaa
Published: April 2024

The class of D(T)- operators are equivalent to the class of quasi-normal operators. This paper discusses additional properties of this class of operators. Assuming that if the operator T is not far from normality and U serves as an interrupter, it follows that the operator U will be both unique and positive. Moreover, we explore other properties that merge when the operator T commutes with T^* T. In one of our main theorems, we demonstrate that the operator T in the class D(T) is also normal when it is invertible.
Модернізація професійної діяльності в галузі дуальної освіти Німеччини
Authors: Опушко Надія
Published: April 2024

The article examines the problem of using electronic learning (E-learning) in the training of future teachers in German universities, which is a fairly new and at the same time promising direction of comparative pedagogy. This problem has gained particularly active development in recent years, which is largely due to the spread of digital forms of education, which were recognized in Germany as a special category of the latest educational technologies. It is assumed that the constant introduction of new pedagogical technologies will provide wider opportunities for the development of pedagogical universities in Germany and maintain competitiveness in the international market of educational services. It is believed that successful e-learning scenarios take into account the necessary didactic conditions of learning in different contexts, such as authentic or social learning contexts, and provide substantial digital support for learning materials. The authors consider the use of digital learning tools, which have a differentiated presentation and characterize the most widespread types of e-learning used in the training of future teachers in Germany, and cover the modern spectrum of posting event scenarios and lecture materials on the Internet for fully virtual teaching, namely: computer online computer training, internet training, blended learning, exclusively virtual training, and distance training on the Internet. An important aspect of e-learning is the tools and media for its implementation, which include software for portals, a system for managing administrative functions (personnel management and student management), course management, a learning platform, and tools for creating and collaborating on a network. E-learning is widely used in German universities; it supports learning processes through the use of various digital technologies that provide operations in various ways. Teachers are offered a choice of teaching and learning scenarios, and the e-semester reserve is aimed at further supporting classroom teaching.
The vectorial technique: a novel neuronavigation-based tool to measure angles of exposure during skull base dissections
Authors: Porto Edoardo , Revuelta Barbero J. Manuel , Zohdy Youssef M. , Rodas Alejandra , Maldonado Justin , Tariciotti Leonardo , DiMeco Francesco , Solares C. Arturo , Garzon-Muvdi Tomas , Pradilla Gustavo
Published: April 2024

The angle of exposure (AnE) represents a metric that is particularly useful for analyzing circular bony structures during skull base dissections. The authors aimed to develop and validate a neuronavigation-based method to measure the AnE. A formula based on vectorial geometry and the coordinates of three points collected with a neuronavigation system was developed to measure the AnE. The method was validated using a plexiglass phantom head. To demonstrate its applicability, the authors measured the AnE in 6 cadaveric specimens after exposure of the hypoglossal canal using a far-medial approach (FMA) and a far-lateral transtubercular approach (FLTA) and in 6 different specimens after exposure of the jugular foramen using an FLTA and a retrosigmoid approach (RSA). The mean angles measured at 45°, 90°, and 180° using a goniometer during the validation test were 44.8° ± 1.1°, 90.8° ± 1.2°, and 179.7° ± 0.8° using the novel formula (p > 0.05). In the first illustrative application, the mean AnEs for the FMA and FLTA were 129° ± 0.9° and 243° ± 1.9°, respectively. In the second scenario, the mean AnEs were 192° ± 1.3° for the FTLA and 143° ± 2.1° for the RSA. The neuronavigation-based technique described is a highly accurate method to measure the AnE.
Further investigation of the lateral approach for the resection of Knosp grade 4 pituitary adenomas in endoscopic endonasal surgery
Authors: Ding Han , Wu Xiao , Wu Bo Wen , Xiao Li Min , Pan Lai Sheng , Xie Shen Hao , Zhan Jie , Tang Bin , Hong Tao
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVE

The authors performed a further in-depth study of the lateral compartment of the cavernous sinus (LCCS) by the endoscopic endonasal approach to improve the safety and efficacy of the lateral approach for the removal of Knosp grade 4 pituitary adenomas (KG4PAs).

METHODS

Twenty-three cadaveric specimens were used for endoscopic endonasal dissection, and the LCCS was exposed to observe the neurovascular and fibrous structures within. A subclassification of the lateral approach based on further knowledge of the LCCS was proposed and used to resect 86 KG4PAs, and the surgical outcomes of these cases were reviewed. Type A KG4PAs represent tumor that was mainly distributed in the posterosuperior and superolateral compartments, type B KG4PAs represent tumor that was mainly distributed in the anteroinferior compartments, and type AB KG4PAs represent tumor that extended into each compartment with characteristics of types 4A and 4B.

RESULTS

The authors identified multiple fibers that anchored the horizontal segment of the internal carotid artery (ICA) to the abducens nerve. The fibers, the sympathetic nerve, and the inferior lateral trunk form a partition-like structure in the LCCS named the abducens nerve–ICA complex (AIC), and the LCCS can be divided into the superolateral and inferolateral compartments by the AIC. Accordingly, the lateral approach was subclassified into the lateral superior (LS) approach and the anterior inferior (AI) approach. The LS approach was mainly used to resect type A KG4PAs, whereas the AI approach was used to resect type B KG4PAs, and a combination of the two was used to resect type AB KG4PAs. The gross-total, subtotal, and partial resection rates were 81.4%, 12.8%, and 5.8%, respectively. The numbers of cases of postoperative transient cranial nerve palsy, postoperative permanent cranial nerve palsy, ICA injury, and CSF leakage were 6 (6.9%), 2 (2.3%), 1 (1.2%), and 1 (1.2%), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed that the LCCS is divided by the AIC into the superolateral and inferolateral compartments, avoiding the misconception that the LCCS has vertical communication. Therefore, the lateral approach was subclassified into the LS approach and the AI approach for the resection of KG4PAs, which allowed a high gross-total resection rate with acceptable safety in the surgical treatment of KG4PAs.
Long-term outcome of microvascular decompression for typical trigeminal neuralgia with autologous muscle: an analysis of 1025 patients from a developing country
Authors: Ashraf Mohammad , Sajjad Fauzia , Hussain Syed Shahzad , Cheema Huzaifa Ahmad , Ali Sundus , Umar Hira , Gillespie Conor S. , Faiz Umar , Shahid Abia , Akmal Muhammad , Ashraf Naveed
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVE

The objective was to evaluate the long-term outcome of microvascular decompression (MVD) utilizing autologous muscle for trigeminal neuralgia (TGN).

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed of all first-time MVD patients for typical classic TGN without prior surgical intervention who were treated between 2000 and 2019 at a tertiary supraregional neurosurgery practice. Demographic characteristics, surgical findings, operative results, complications, and recurrence rates at 1 year, 5 years, and last follow-up were collected. Pain outcome was assessed using the Barrow Neurological Institute (BNI) pain score. The chi-square test with continuity correction was used to compare categorical variables, and Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox regression were used to identify factors associated with recurrence.

RESULTS

In total, 1025 patients were studied with a median (interquartile range [IQR]) (range) follow-up of 8 (5–13) (3–20) years. In the immediate postoperative period, 889 patients (86.7%) had complete pain relief and 106 (10.3%) had partial pain relief; neither group required medication, and 30 patients (2.9%) had no relief. One hundred forty-one recurrences (13.8%) occurred over a median (IQR) of 3 (2–6) years after surgery. The proportion of patients without recurrence was 97% at 1 year, 90% at 5 years, 85% at 10 years, 82% at 15 years, and 81% at 20 years. There was no significant difference in the probability of recurrence between patients with complete (114/907 [12.6%] recurrences) or partial (19/106 [17.9%] recurrences) postoperative pain relief (p = 0.124, log-rank test). Patients with venous compression (n = 322) had a significantly higher rate of MVD failure (n = 16 [5%]) compared to those with arterial compression (14/703 [2%]) (p = 0.015, chi-square test). In the Cox proportional hazards model, venous compression and lack of immediate postoperative pain relief had hazard ratios of 1.62 (95% CI 1.16–2.27) and 2.65 (95% CI 1.45–4.82) for recurrence, respectively. One hundred twenty-four (12.1%) complications were documented, including facial numbness (44 [4.3%]), facial nerve palsy (37 [3.6%]), CSF leak (13 [1.3%]), and diplopia (5 [0.5%]), which resolved in all patients.

CONCLUSIONS

MVD with autologous muscle provides long-lasting pain relief in TGN patients with vascular compression with minimum morbidity and is a viable alternative to synthetic materials.
Use of circulating tumor cells and microemboli to predict diagnosis and prognosis in diffuse glioma
Authors: Qi Yangzhi , Xu Yang , Yan Tengfeng , Xiong Wei , Zhu Xinyi , Sun Qian , Deng Gang , Yuan Fanen , Ye Liguo , Hu Ping , Liu Baohui , Zhang Shenqi , Deng Shuhang , He Yan , Wu Gao , Ye Qingsong , Chen Qianxue
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVE

Circulating tumor cell (CTC) detection is a promising noninvasive technique that can be used to diagnose cancer, monitor progression, and predict prognosis. In this study, the authors aimed to investigate the clinical utility of CTCs in the management of diffuse glioma.

METHODS

Sixty-three patients with newly diagnosed diffuse glioma were included in this multicenter clinical cohort. The authors used a platform based on isolation by size of epithelial tumor cells (ISET) to detect and analyze CTCs and circulating tumor microemboli (CTMs) in the peripheral blood of patients both before and after surgery. Least absolute shrinkage and selector operation (LASSO) and Cox regression analyses were used to verify whether CTCs and CTMs are independent prognostic factors for diffuse glioma.

RESULTS

CTC levels were closely related to the degree of malignancy, WHO grade, and pathological subtypes. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that a high CTC level was a predictor for glioblastoma. The results also showed that CTMs originate from the parental tumor rather than from the circulation and are an independent prognostic factor for diffuse glioma. The postoperative CTC level is related to the peripheral immune system and patient survival. Cox regression analysis showed that postoperative CTC levels and CTM status are independent prognostic factors for diffuse glioma, and CTC- and CTM-based survival models had high accuracy in internal validation.

CONCLUSIONS

The authors revealed a correlation between CTCs and clinical characteristics and demonstrated that CTCs and CTMs are independent predictors for the diagnosis and prognosis of diffuse glioma. Their CTC- and CTM-based survival models can enable clinicians to evaluate patients’ response to surgery as well as their outcomes.