bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Urban woods in a small Mediterranean city: are native vs alien woods lonely together?
Authors: Varricchione Marco , Carranza Maria L. , D’Angeli Chiara , de Francesco Maria C. , Innangi Michele , Santoianni Lucia A. , Stanisci Angela
Published: May 2024

Recent studies have explored the ecological relationship between native urban forests and self-sown non-native forests in large cities and metropolises but further research efforts dedicated to analyzing this relationship in small cities are still needed. To improve our understanding of the ecology of urban native and alien woods in Mediterranean small cities, we analyzed the woody species richness, the community weight mean of moisture and nitrogen ecological indicators, and soil disturbance indicators in the main urban wood types in Campobasso city (Italy), as well as their spatial distribution pattern across a gradient of cover and aggregation of green areas. The study showed that both native oak woods and Robinia pseudoacacia wood contributed to the maintenance of woody species richness. If we exclude the riparian environment along streams, urban alien woods dominated by R. pseudoacacia occupied marginal areas, tolerating soil disturbance and a high disturbance frequency, thus occupying habitats where the native oak forests could not grow. Native oak woods were only found in large and medium-large patches while urban alien woods filled up the vacant lots, even in small patches, showing therefore a context-dependent distribution. The situation was different for the riparian habitat, where R. pseudoacacia wood shared the ecological niche with the native woods with Populus alba and Salix alba, which calls for action to prevent the spread of this alien species along river banks. Our results highlighted that urban remnant woods should be considered important assets for the planning and upkeep of urban green areas.
Postabortion contraceptive use among women in Nepal: Results from a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Karki Sunita , Puri Mahesh C. , Ale Anupama , Foster Diana Greene , Raifman Sarah , Maharjan Dev , Diamond-Smith Nadia
Published: May 2024

Introduction
: Though the Government of Nepal has developed strategies to integrate contraceptive services with abortion care to better meet the contraceptive needs of women, data indicate that significant gaps in services remain. This paper assessed post-abortion contraceptive use, trends over 36-month, and factors influencing usage.
Methods
Data from this paper came from an ongoing cohort study of 1831 women who sought an abortion from one of the sampled 22 government-approved health facilities across Nepal. Women were interviewed eight times over 36 months between April 2019 to Dec 2023. Bivariate and multivariate analysis were used to analyze the data.
Results
Results show that after abortion, 52.9% of women used modern contraception, with injection being the most prevalent method, followed by condoms, pills, implants, and IUD. The hazard model showed that discontinuation of modern contraception was significantly higher among women desiring additional children (aHR 0.62) and lower among literate (aHR − 0.15) and those with existing children (aHR − 0.30). While women’s age, ethnicity, cohabitation with husband, household’s income and autonomy were not statistically significant.
Conclusion
After having an abortion, we found that just slightly more than half of women used modern methods of contraception; furthermore, this percentage did not increase significantly over the course of three years.
Unravelling the Therapeutic Potential of Aloe vera Phytochemicals as Anti-inflammatory Agents Targeting TNF-α: An In-Silico Approach
Authors: Abinaya C. , Suresh J. , Kokiladevi E. , Uma D. , Bharathi N. , sundar S. T. Bini
Published: May 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a debilitating autoimmune disorder, poses a significant global health burden with limited therapeutic options and associated adverse effects. This study pioneered the investigation of Aloe vera phytochemicals as potential anti-inflammatory agents by targeting the pivotal cytokine Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α), a key mediator of inflammation in RA. Through an integrative in-silico approach, molecular docking analyses evaluated the binding affinities of 74 Aloe veracompounds against TNF-α. Notably, the top-ranking compounds mannan, folacin, and aloesin exhibited superior binding energies compared to approved anti-inflammatory drugs. Subsequent pharmacokinetic and toxicity assessments revealed aloesin as a promising lead-like compound, adhering to drug-likeness criteria with a favorable toxicity profile. These findings position aloesin as a pioneering candidate for further preclinical and clinical investigations, paving the way for the development of novel, safe, and effective anti-inflammatory therapies for RA based on natural products.
An assessment of excess mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic, a retrospective post-mortem surveillance in 12 districts – Zambia, 2020-2022
Authors: Chanda Stephen Longa , Hines Jonas Z. , Malambo Warren , Hamukale Amos , Kapata Nathan , Sinyange Nyambe , Kapina Muzala , Mucheleng’anga Luchenga Adam , Chilengi Roma
Published: May 2024

Background
The number of COVID-19 deaths reported in Zambia (N=4,069) is most likely an underestimate due to limited testing, incomplete death registration and inability to account for indirect deaths due to socioeconomic disruption during the pandemic. We sought to assess excess mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic in Zambia.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective analysis of monthly-death-counts (2017-2022) and individual-daily-deaths (2020-2022) of all reported health facility and community deaths at district referral health facility mortuaries in 12 districts in Zambia. We defined COVID-19 wave periods based on a sustained nationally reported SARS-CoV-2 test positivity of greater than 5%. Excess mortality was defined as the difference between the pandemic monthly death counts (2020-2022) and the median pre-pandemic monthly death counts (2017-2019) using a Microsoft Excel-based tool. We compared median daily death counts, median age at death, and the proportion of deaths by place of death (health facility vs community) by wave period using the Mann-Whitney-U test and chi-square test respectively in R.
Results
A total of 112,768 deaths were reported in the 12 districts between 2020 and 2022, of which 17,111 (15.2%) were excess. Wave periods had higher median daily death counts than non-wave periods (median [IQR], 107 [95-126] versus 96 [85-107], p<0.001). The median age at death during wave periods was older than non-wave periods (44.0 [25.0-67.0] versus 41.0 [22.0-63.0] years, p<0.001). Approximately half of all reported deaths occurred in the community, with an even greater proportion during wave periods (50.58% versus 53.11%, p<0.001), respectively.
Conclusion
There was excess mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic in Zambia, with more deaths among the elderly, and occurring within the community during wave periods. This analysis suggests more COVID-19 deaths likely occurred in Zambia than suggested by officially reported numbers. Mortality surveillance can provide important information to monitor population health and inform public health programming during pandemics.
Canada's wildfire future: climate change below a 2°C global target avoids large increases in burned area by the end of the century
Authors: Curasi Salvatore , Melton Joe , Arora Vivek , Humphreys Elyn , Whaley Cynthia H.
Published: May 2024

Wildfire impacts the global carbon cycle, as well as property, harvestable timber, and public health. Canada saw a record fire season in 2023 with 14.9 Mha burned—over seven times the 1986 - 2022 average of 2.1 Mha. Here we utilize a new process-based wildfire module that explicitly represents fire weather, fuel type and availability, ignition sources, fire suppression, and vegetation’s climate response to project the future of wildfire in Canada. Under rapid climate change (shared socioeconomic pathway [SSP] 370 & 585) simulated annual burned area in the 2090s reaches 10.5 ± 2.1 to 11.7 ± 2.4 Mha, approaching the 2023 fire season total. However, climate change below a 2°C global target (SSP 126), keeps the 2090s area burned near modern (2004 - 2014) norms. Simulated area burned and carbon emissions are most sensitive to climate drivers and lightning but future lightning activity is a key uncertainty.
Empowering Communication: Utilizing Facial Expressions to Classify Interruptibility in the Workplace
Authors: Haris Malik , Mastoi Muhammad Shahid
Published: May 2024

In today's information-driven workplaces, interruptions have grown commonplace and substantially negatively influence individual and team performance. To create a productive work environment, it is essential to comprehend the connection between interruptions and stress. This research paper focuses on utilizing facial expressions to gauge people's stress levels while examining the connections between interruptions, stress, and the consequences of positive or negative feedback. Facial expression analysis may provide important clues about someone's emotional condition, helping us choose when and how to interrupt them. Through the examination of facial expressions, this integrated method seeks to create a holistic system that can reliably identify stress levels while fostering respectful and effective communication techniques. The Interruptibility classification deep convolutional neural network architecture is based on pretrained models (Sequential model) using the Facial Expression Recognition Plus (FERPlus) dataset with Haar Cascade face detection. The small weight of the Sequential model and its better latency performance are its main benefits. Updated annotations are included in the FERPlus dataset for precise emotion categorization. This research helps designers of interruptibility classification systems create more precise systems by revealing patterns and connections between facial expression metrics and stress or non-stress states, promoting a positive and effective work environment. The results provide useful recommendations for controlling interruptions depending on people's stress levels, promoting efficient workplace communication, and minimizing unnecessary disturbances.
Dissecting MacOS Ransomware: A Comparative Analysis and Mitigation Strategies
Authors: Kowalczyk Halina , Zieliński Piotr , Nowak Agnieszka
Published: May 2024

Ransomware remains an alarming threat in the cybersecurity landscape, presenting complex challenges that demand innovative solutions. As the frequency and sophistication of ransomware attacks increase, understanding the dynamics of these malicious endeavors has become crucial for developing effective defense mechanisms. The comprehensive analysis provided here explores various facets of ransomware activity, particularly its impact on MacOS environments, a less commonly discussed target compared to Windows systems. Through an examination of attack vectors, the study highlights the role of user behavior, system vulnerabilities, and the lack of robust cybersecurity measures as primary facilitators of ransomware breaches. Technical mitigation strategies such as regular software updates, stringent access controls, and advanced threat detection systems are evaluated for their effectiveness in thwarting attacks. Additionally, the research delves into policy measures and best practices that can supplement technical defenses, emphasizing the need for continuous education and strategic response planning. Looking ahead, the study suggests avenues for future research, including the potential of artificial intelligence in predictive threat modeling and the importance of cross-sector collaboration in enhancing collective security postures. These insights not only refine current understandings of ransomware defense but also offer a blueprint for advancing cybersecurity resilience in the face of evolving digital threats.
Effect of flavonoid extracts of Ranunculus repens L. on the oxidative stress induced by the glucotoxicity in alloxanized Albino Wistar male rats
Authors: Boutrid Safinez , Tebbani abdelhamid Yacine
Published: May 2024

Diabetes is a pathology related to the development of oxidative stress. The objective of this work is to elucidate the antihyperglycemic and antioxidant capacity of the flavonoid extract obtained from the Ranunculus repens L. in hyperglycemic male Wistar albino rats. The results of this study show antihyperglycemic and antidiabetic activity of phenolic compounds. The flavonoid extracts were able to significantly complex glucose in vitro and activate glycogenesis in the liver. Taken together, these data reveal that the flavonoids in Ranunculus repens L. extract have an interesting virtue of being antihyperglycemic with a positive action on hepatic glycogenesis. Also, these results revealed that these phenolic compounds have an antiradical power that gives them a chemoprotective role against oxidative stress. All these results suggest the use of these natural substances endowed with antioxidant activity as a therapeutic agent that could be a new alternative in the prevention of diabetes and its complications.
A copula-based approach to instream ecological flow determination considering inter- and intra-annual runoff variability
Authors: Liu Xin , Yang Weixing , Zhang Yu , Fang Guohua
Published: May 2024

Instream ecological flow (IEF) provides a flow reference value for maintaining the stability of river ecosystems and enriching biodiversity. Existing methods for determining the IEF often consider only one of the intra-annual runoff distribution characteristics or the inter-annual runoff distribution characteristics. In this study, a copula-based ecological runoff determination method is proposed to consider both annual and monthly runoff magnitudes. The marginal distribution functions of annual and monthly runoff are first determined using the maximum likelihood method. Then the copula function is used to construct the joint distribution function of annual and monthly runoff series. Using the flow duration curve method, the IEF under different annual and monthly runoff exceedance probabilities is calculated. The probability values are combined with the initial IEF values to determine the final IEF process. A case study is conducted using real-world data from the Tongtian River in China. The results show that the total annual basic ecological water demands of the Tongtian River in abundant, flat, and dry water years are 138, 102 and 72.2 billion m3. The proposed method effectively avoids the disturbance of extreme runoff.
Corrigendum to “Differentiating the Presence of Brain Stroke Types in MR
Images Using CNN Architecture”
Authors: Kaliannan Srisabarimani , Rengaraj Arthi
Published: May 2024

In the online version of the article, a change was made in
the authors’ affiliation section. The affiliation of Drs.
Srisabarimani Kaliannan and Arthi Rengaraj in the online
version of the article titled “Differentiating the Presence of
Brain Stroke Types in MR Images Using CNN Architecture”
has been updated in “Current Medical Imaging Reviews”, 2024; 20:
e15734056273238 [1].

The original article can be found online at
https://www.eurekaselect.com/article/138469.

Original:

Srisabarimani Kaliannan1 and Arthi Rengaraj1*

1Department of ECE, SRM Institute of Science and
Technology, Chennai, India.

Corrected:

Srisabarimani Kaliannan1 and Arthi Rengaraj1*

1Department of ECE, SRM Institute of Science and
Technology, Ramapuram Campus, Chennai, India.
Evaluation of Atezolizumab Plus Bevacizumab Versus Modified Lenvatinib Therapy in Child-Pugh A Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: KIMURA MICHIO , YAMADA SHIORI , GO MAKIKO , YASUDA SATOSHI , TOYODA HIDENORI , USAMI EISEKI
Published: May 2024

Background/Aim: Atezolizumab/bevacizumab (Atez/BV) and lenvatinib (LEN) are the recommended first-line treatments for patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Previous reports have suggested that the tolerability and therapeutic efficacy of LEN could be enhanced by modifying its administration method. Therefore, this study compared the efficacy and safety of Atez/BV, the standard LEN therapy (standard LEN), and modified LEN therapy (modified LEN). Patients and Methods: The overall survival (OS) and the rate of discontinuation due to adverse events (AEs) were compared between groups treated with Atez/BV (n=36), standard LEN (n=30), and modified LEN (n=11). Results: Discontinuation due to AEs was required in 22.2%, 23.3%, and 9.1% of patients in the Atez/BV, standard LEN, and modified LEN groups (p=0.485). The median OS for the Atez/BV, standard LEN, and modified LEN groups was 523 [95% confidence interval (CI)=163-818], 382 (95%CI=330-547), and 604 (95% CI=257-656) days, respectively (log-rank test, p=0.949). Conclusion: Atez/BV and the standard and modified LEN regimens showed comparable efficacy and safety.
Preoperative Myosteatosis and Prognostic Nutritional Index Predict Survival in Older Patients With Resected Biliary Tract Cancer
Authors: UTSUMI MASASHI , INAGAKI MASARU , KITADA KOJI , TOKUNAGA NAOYUKI , YUNOKI KOSUKE , SAKURAI YUYA , OKABAYASHI HIROKI , HAMANO RYOSUKE , MIYASOU HIDEAKI , TSUNEMITSU YOUSUKE , OTSUKA SHINYA
Published: May 2024

Background/Aim: Sarcopenia accompanied by systemic inflammation is associated with poor prognosis in patients with cancer. This study evaluated the prognostic significance of sarcopenia (myopenia and myosteatosis) and systemic inflammatory markers in older patients (aged ≥80 years) with resected biliary tract cancer. Patients and Methods: Patients who underwent resection for biliary tract cancer between July 2010 and January 2023 at the NHO Fukuyama Medical Center were retrospectively reviewed. Preoperative computed tomography measured myopenia and myosteatosis, using the psoas muscle index and modified intramuscular adipose tissue content. Associations between clinicopathological characteristics, inflammation-based prognostic scores, and overall survival were analyzed using Cox proportional hazards models. Results: Univariate analysis revealed low C-reactive protein-to-albumin ratio (<0.125), low prognostic nutritional index (<42), low modified intramuscular adipose tissue content, higher T-stage (T3-4), lymph node metastasis, and postoperative complications associated with worse overall survival in older patients (aged ≥ 80 years) with resected biliary tract cancer (n=48). Multivariate analysis identified low prognostic nutritional index (<42) (p=0.007), low modified intramuscular adipose tissue content (p=0.015), higher T-stage (T3-4) (p<0.001), lymph node metastasis (p=0.001), and postoperative complications (p=0.017) as independent predictors of overall survival. Conclusion: Preoperative myosteatosis and low prognostic nutritional index are independent prognostic factors for overall survival in older patients (aged ≥80 years) with resected biliary tract cancer. These factors may be useful for risk stratification and clinical decision-making. Early interventions, such as nutritional support and physical exercise, may improve outcomes after resection of biliary tract cancer.
e-Cigarette Tobacco Flavors, Public Health, and Toxicity: Narrative Review
Authors: Sun Yehao , Prabhu Prital , Rahman Ryan , Li Dongmei , McIntosh Scott , Rahman Irfan
Published: May 2024

Background

Recently, the US Food and Drug Administration implemented enforcement priorities against all flavored, cartridge-based e-cigarettes other than menthol and tobacco flavors. This ban undermined the products’ appeal to vapers, so e-cigarette manufacturers added flavorants of other attractive flavors into tobacco-flavored e-cigarettes and reestablished appeal.

Objective

This review aims to analyze the impact of the addition of other flavorants in tobacco-flavored e-cigarettes on both human and public health issues and to propose further research as well as potential interventions.

Methods

Searches for relevant literature published between 2018 and 2023 were performed. Cited articles about the toxicity of e-cigarette chemicals included those published before 2018, and governmental websites and documents were also included for crucial information.

Results

Both the sales of e-cigarettes and posts on social media suggested that the manufacturers’ strategy was successful. The reestablished appeal causes not only a public health issue but also threats to the health of individual vapers. Research has shown an increase in toxicity associated with the flavorants commonly used in flavored e-cigarettes, which are likely added to tobacco-flavored e-cigarettes based on tobacco-derived and synthetic tobacco-free nicotine, and these other flavors are associated with higher clinical symptoms not often induced solely by natural, traditional tobacco flavors.

Conclusions

The additional health risks posed by the flavorants are pronounced even without considering the toxicological interactions of the different tobacco flavorants, and more research should be done to understand the health risks thoroughly and to take proper actions accordingly for the regulation of these emerging products.
Evaluation of a Remote Patient Monitoring Program During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Retrospective Case Study With a Mixed Methods Explanatory Sequential Design
Authors: Gunn Rose , Watkins Shelby L , Boston Dave , Rosales A Gabriela , Massimino Stefan , Navale Suparna , Fitzpatrick Stephanie L , Dickerson John , Gold Rachel , Lee George , McMullen Carmit K
Published: May 2024

Background

Community health center (CHC) patients experience a disproportionately high prevalence of chronic conditions and barriers to accessing technologies that might support the management of these conditions. One such technology includes tools used for remote patient monitoring (RPM), the use of which surged during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess how a CHC implemented an RPM program during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

This retrospective case study used a mixed methods explanatory sequential design to evaluate a CHC’s implementation of a suite of RPM tools during the COVID-19 pandemic. Analyses used electronic health record–extracted health outcomes data and semistructured interviews with the CHC’s staff and patients participating in the RPM program.

Results

The CHC enrolled 147 patients in a hypertension RPM program. After 6 months of RPM use, mean systolic blood pressure (BP) was 13.4 mm Hg lower and mean diastolic BP 6.4 mm Hg lower, corresponding with an increase in hypertension control (BP<140/90 mm Hg) from 33.3% of patients to 81.5%. Considerable effort was dedicated to standing up the program, reinforced by organizational prioritization of chronic disease management, and by a clinician who championed program implementation. Noted barriers to implementation of the RPM program were limited initial training, lack of sustained support, and complexities related to the RPM device technology.

Conclusions

While RPM technology holds promise for addressing chronic disease management, successful RPM program requires substantial investment in implementation support and technical assistance.
Invasive Brain-Computer Interfaces: A Critical Assessment of Current Developments and Future Prospects (Preprint)
Authors: Kubben Pieter
Published: May 2024

UNSTRUCTURED

Invasive brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are gaining attention for their transformative potential in human-machine interaction. These devices, which connect directly to the brain, could revolutionize medical therapies and augmentative technologies. This viewpoint examines recent advancements, weighs benefits against risks, and explores ethical and regulatory considerations for the future of invasive BCIs.
Cognitive Load and Translation Accuracy in Technology Assisted Simultaneous Interpreting Enabled by Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Li Mengxi
Published: May 2024

This paper uses eye-tracking research to examine the cognitive load and translation accuracy of simultaneous interpretering with and without technology-assisted in the direction of Chinese-to-English translation and to explore the moderating role of simultaneous interpreting ability. It was found that the new type of simultaneous interpreting assisted by speech recognition technology and machine translation technology can significantly reduce the cognitive load of student interpreters and improve the accuracy of translation. However, the advantages of technology-assisted simultaneous interpreting are not significant enough for professional interpreters compared with student interpreters. This paper explains the results of the study from the perspectives of memory pressure, bilingual switching pressure, and the “ceiling effect”.
Lex Mercatoria, alianzas estatal-corporativas y resistencias desde el uso estratégico del Derecho
Authors: Guamán Hernández Adoración Reyes
Published: May 2024

La Lex Mercatoria impone en la actualidad una condicionalidad neoliberal que, por encima de las exigencias formales y sustanciales de la democracia, reduce la capacidad de los Estados, en particular aquellos del Sur Global, a través de una serie de instrumentos que dificultan extremadamente o impiden las posibilidades de realizar políticas transformadoras acordes con la obligación de promover, respetar, proteger, garantizar y reparar los derechos humanos y de la naturaleza, así como de mantener las exigencias de participación democrática de la ciudadanía. Ante este fenómeno, numerosas organizaciones y movimientos sociales han levantado la voz generando un movimiento de resistencia, denuncia y ofensiva permanente, revitalizando las estrategias de “uso subversivo del Derecho”. El análisis de estas estrategias, tras la delimitación del concepto, instrumentos, actores y consecuencias de la Lex Mercatoria, es el objetivo del presente artículo
A guarda da constituição diante de uma agenda política neopopulista-schmittiana: a tentativa de Golpe de Estado ocorrida no Brasil em 08 de janeiro de 2023 e seus antecedentes
Authors: Henrique Abel , Kliemann a Campis Francisco
Published: May 2024

No último dia 08 de janeiro, o mundo testemunhou, assombrado, a tentativa de golpe de Estado ocorrida no Brasil. Milhares de criminosos, em ação meticulosamente planejada,
omaram de assalto Brasília, a capital federal do país. Ato contínuo, invadiram, vandalizaram e saquearam os prédios que sediam as cúpulas dos Três Poderes da República: o Palácio do Planalto (sede da Presidência da República), o Congresso Nacional e o Supremo Tribunal Federal. O ataque, que constitui o mais grave e violento atentado à democracia brasileira desde o famigerado golpe militar de 1964, não foi um ato isolado. Até uma década atrás, seria difícil até mesmo conceber a possibilidade de que a assim chamada Nova República, inaugurada em 1985, poderia vir a sofrer tentativas reais de golpe de Estado como aquela que culminou nos atos de terrorismo doméstico vistos em 08 de janeiro de 2023. No entanto, uma análise retrospectiva nos permite identificar que, de uma década paracá, a jovem democracia brasileira vem sofrendo fortes pressões de grupos antidemocráticos que jamais se adequaram realmente ao novo paradigma político-jurídico instaurado pela Constituição Federal de 1988 e que, pelo contrário, nutrem verdadeiro saudosismo pela antiga ditadura militar brasileira. O objetivo deste artigo é reconstituir a forma como estes movimentos antidemocráticos se desenvolveram no Brasil – por meio de discursos políticos, ativismos militantes e suportes teóricos e intelectuais - até o ponto que veio a desencadear a destruição ocorrida na capital federal.
An Effective Classification of Brain Tumor using Deep Learning Techniques
Authors: Raj Dharshini Sankar
Published: May 2024

Abstract: Brain tumor classification is a critical task in medical imaging, aiding in timely diagnosis and treatment planning. In this paper, we propose a comprehensive approach utilizing deep learning models for the classification of brain tumors into four categories: glioma, meningioma, pituitary tumors, and no tumors. We employ state-of-the-art convolutional neural network (CNN) architectures including ResNet50, DenseNet201, EfficientNetB3, and InceptionV3 for the classification task. To enhance the performance of the model, we employ resizing and augmentation techniques such as flips and rotation, thereby increasing the diversity of the training dataset. This is particularly crucial due to the limitations posed by small-sized datasets in previous methodologies. Our findings underscore the efficacy of deep learning approaches in brain tumor classification, with EfficientNetB3 emerging as a promising model for accurate diagnosis. Furthermore, our utilization of resizing and augmentation techniques demonstrates their significance in mitigating the challenges associated with limited training data.
Global Copyright Consortium: Empowering Decentralisation with Authority - Backed Blockchain
Authors: Vadivelu A.
Published: May 2024

Abstract: Digital images are transferred with ease through the network. Many users are using the images without the knowledge of the owners. Zero watermarking does not alter the original information contained in vector map data and provides perfect imperceptibility. The use of zero watermarking for data copyright protection has become a significant trend in digital watermarking research. However, zero watermarking encounters tremendous obstacles to its development and application because of its requirement to store copyright information with a third party and its difficulty in confirming copyright ownership. However, traditional digital image generation methods have high operational requirements for designers due to difficulties in collecting data sets and simulating environmental scenes, which results in poor quality, lack of diversity, and long generation speed of generated images, making it difficult to meet the current needs of image generation.
Disease Detection in Apple Using Machine Learning
Authors: Paste Aditya
Published: May 2024

Abstract: Crop production is a key component in the agricultural industry. The crop's quality directly affects the rate of output. The crop infection factor emerges as a crucial component of quality. Most of the time, diseases during cultivation are found using conventional methods such as Naked Eye Surveys, Surveys through Experts, etc. The processing time and cost of this process are enormous. High-quality output requires automatic severity detection. The project's goal is to provide a real-time, affordable method of identifying fruit (Apple) disease. Here, disease identification is accomplished via a machine learning-based method. The illness in an Apple is identified by image processing. The 'You Only Look Once'(YOLO) CNN-based algorithm is used to do feature extraction and classification. Based on the nature and degree of the sickness that is detected by this system, a comprehensive report is provided.
Real Estate Website
Authors: Karemore Satish
Published: May 2024

Abstract: The motivation to develop Real Estate Web Application comes from my urge to learn Visual Studio .NET 2005 for building the business logic of the application, SQL server 2005 for database designing and using new web technologies like AJAX, Java Script for website designing. The most influential factor for selecting this application is to add some innovative features to the search engine of a Real Estate Website which can make the task of a property buyer easy to search for property listings. The most significant feature in these websites is the interactive search criterion which lets the buyer specify their requirements to get the correct set of records from the database. The search tool should be strong enough to include all the required features which a buyer may desire. Also, each search requires a post back call to the database to retrieve some set of records but making the website AJAX enabled prevents the annoying post backs. Thus, each call refreshes just the data grid to display the listings rather the whole web page. Some other new features like drag and drop tool to save the listings, retrieving related results for each search, etc make this application more feature rich.
Smart FIR: Blockchain Based FIR Lodging
Authors: Pawade Shreyas , Jain Aditi , Surshetwar Ketaki , Narawade Abhiraj , Sonkamble Prof. Rahul
Published: May 2024

Abstract: In order to effectively deal with major crimes like murder, robbery, rape, and kidnapping, we need a secure system for case reporting. In general terms, victims or proxies complete and file e-initial reports (e-FIRs) online to report cybercrime offenses known as electronic crimes (e-crimes). This approach has some drawbacks which include susceptibility to cyberattacks and fraudulent entries. At the same time, scholars are examining various means of improving traditional ways based on technological advancements. One of the possible alternatives is the utilization of digital currencies like Bitcoin while dealing with criminals involved in electronic fraud. Ethereum has a blockchain which has raised curiosity due to its smart contract mechanism. Improvement in data integrity and prevention of fake registrations are the main goals that are meant to be achieved by incorporating Ethereum into the e-FIR system. Security plus reliability are provided for in high measures by the decentralized and immutable nature of the blockchain. This implies that after adding a record to it, it cannot be altered minus agreement from the network, giving it a high reputation based on how safe it is. The use of blockchain in smart cities, and more specifically the smart contracts in Ethereum, may revolutionize how major crimes are reported and recorded as it can offer much better transparency and information integrity in the eyes of both the public and the police
Educação na Amazônia: vozes e diversidade dos povos da floresta
Authors: Nunes Reginaldo de Oliveira , Oliveira Iuri da Cruz
Published: May 2024

A Amazônia é uma região vasta e diversificada, lar de inúmeras comunidades indígenas, ribeirinhas e remanescentes de quilombolas. Nas últimas décadas, tem havido um reconhecimento crescente da importância de preservar e valorizar essas culturas por intermédio da educação escolar. Nesta obra, intitulada “Educação na Amazônia: Vozes e Diversidade dos Povos da Floresta” exploraremos as intricadas teias da educação na região amazônica, dando destaque às vozes e experiências das populações indígenas, quilombolas e ribeirinhas. Desenvolvido a partir dos textos produzidos no componente curricular de Educação com Povos da Floresta, no curso de Licenciatura em Pedagogia da Fundação Universidade Federal de Rondônia (UNIR), este livro não apenas desvela, mas celebra a diversidade cultural e os saberes ancestrais presentes nesse vasto território. Nos capítulos que compõem esta obra, somos convidados a mergulhar nas culturas indígenas, onde a educação se entrelaça com a sabedoria milenar e a conexão íntima com a natureza. Da mesma forma, somos conduzidos pelos caminhos das comunidades remanescentes de quilombolas, cuja trajetória de resistência e luta por reconhecimento é essencial para compreendermos a diversidade da Amazônia. E não poderíamos deixar de lado os ribeirinhos, habitantes das margens dos rios amazônicos, cuja vida cotidiana é profundamente entrelaçada com o meio ambiente. Ao percorrer as páginas deste livro, somos confrontados com a riqueza e a complexidade da educação na Amazônia. As vozes e experiências dos povos da floresta nos convidam a repensar nossos conceitos de ensino e aprendizado, valorizando a diversidade cultural e o conhecimento tradicional como pilares fundamentais para a construção de uma sociedade mais justa e sustentável. Que esse livro sirva não apenas como fonte de informação, mas também como um chamado à ação, ao diálogo e à solidariedade em prol da educação e do bem-estar de todos os habilitantes da Amazônia e do mundo.
ANALISIS KEABSAHAN TRANSAKSI JUAL BELI DENGAN SISTEM CASH ON DELIVERY MENURUT HUKUM EKONOMI SYARIAH
Authors: Rahmatillah Putri
Published: May 2024

This article aims to analyze the validity of buying and selling transactions with the Cash on Delivery (COD) system according to the perspective of khiyar 'aib. The research method uses qualitative research, which is a type of juridical approach where data is obtained from primary materials in the form of laws and fiqh books. The results of this study conclude that one of the risks in buying and selling transactions with the COD system is the incompatibility of the goods delivered or the goods are damaged. Therefore, the importance of khiyar rights in buying and selling transactions, especially khiyar 'aib. According to the review of muamalah fiqh, it can be concluded that the sale and purchase transaction with the COD system is valid because it has fulfilled the pillars and conditions of sale and purchase and with the enactment of khiyar in the transaction. With the existence of khiyar 'aib in buying and selling transactions, it can minimize the occurrence of losses to one of the parties.
Percepción de jóvenes universitarios arequipeños sobre el servicio de entrega en la última milla
Authors: Aguilar González Hugo Efraín , Salhua Arratia Nittany Alemy , Apaza Laura Gabriel Enrique
Published: May 2024

El objetivo del presente artículo es analizar las percepciones, preferencias y expectativas de los clientes en Arequipa con respecto a la entrega de productos en la etapa final de la cadena de suministros, conocida como “la última milla”. Para este fin, se realizó un estudio empírico en el que la muestra utilizada para el análisis consistió en 385 jóvenes (de 18 a 25 años) y se utilizó un cuestionario estructurado con 10 ítems y una escala Likert de 5 puntos. Se aplicó el Coeficiente de Alpha de Cronbach (0,890) y se desarrolló un baremo de interpretación para facilitar el análisis de las respuestas obtenidas. Los resultados destacan la importancia de aspectos clave como la seguridad, confiabilidad, capacidad de respuesta y empatía durante el proceso de entrega. En consecuencia, se concluye que mejorar la confiabilidad y empatía en la entrega es esencial para el éxito del comercio electrónico y la fidelización del cliente.
The Merchant Networks of Afghan Sikhs: The Cold War, its Legacies and Beyond
Authors: Marsden Magnus
Published: May 2024

This article documents the migration of Afghanistan’s Sikh communities to Asia and Europe during the Cold War and its aftermath. It analyses these migratory trajectories both in the context of conflict in Afghanistan and the refugee flows it created as well as in relation to the long-term role of Afghan Sikhs in transregional trade. The article argues that exploring Sikh migration from Afghanistan through the twin analytical lenses of trade networks and the Cold War helps to illuminate a more complex range of identities and experiences than allowed for by a singular focus on their status as either ‘refugees’ or migrants from ‘the Global South’.
Educação para as relações étnico-raciais: o uso da música como letramentos de (re)existência para uma educação inclusiva
Authors: Ribeiro Gamaliel , Zaluski Jorge Luiz
Published: May 2024

Este texto busca levantar reflexões sobre a importância e necessidades da educação para as relações étnico-raciais e promoção da educação antirracista. A partir do uso conceitual de letramento racial crítico e, da análise de legislações que consideramos oportunas para o enfrentamento do racismo, tais como a Lei nº 14.532, de 11 de janeiro de 2023, Lei nº 7.716, de 5 de janeiro de 1989, que visam criminalizar o racismo, e da Lei nº 10.639, de 9 de janeiro de 2003 sobre a obrigatoriedade do ensino de história e cultura da população afro-brasileira e africana, as compreendemos como avanços no combate ao racismo. Em vista de levantarmos possibilidades para o desenvolvimento de um ensino pautado na luta antirracismo a partir e de que promova o letramento racial crítico, levantamos algumas observações sobre a música Bluesman, de Baco Exu do blues, como alternativa para o levantamento reflexivo em sala de aula para a valorização da história e identidade da população negra.
Entre cidades partidas e quartos de despejo: territórios, nomenclaturas e relações de poder
Authors: Soares Joice
Published: May 2024

Em setembro de 2023, ocorreu o “I Encontro Nacional de Produção, Análise e Disseminação de Informações sobre as Favelas e Comunidades Urbanas do Brasil”, promovido pelo Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística (IBGE). O objetivo central do evento foi discutir a nomenclatura “aglomerados subnormais”, utilizada para designar territórios periféricos como favelas, grotas, alagados etc. nas pesquisas e publicações oficiais do órgão. Neste texto, busquei relatar minha experiência no evento, a partir da descrição de alguns aspectos considerados centrais por mim, além de explicitar o quanto esse encontro me impactou pessoalmente como mulher, negra e periférica que sou. Ao final de minha exposição, concluo que nomear é exercer poder. Ao abrir as portas para a sociedade, o IBGE se aproxima da construção de uma sociedade mais democrática e plural, afastando-se de discursos estigmatizantes e pejorativos sobre esses territórios e suas populações.
Racismo ambiental: uma proposta de sequência de atividades a partir de uma perspectiva CTS
Authors: Prudêncio Christiana Andréa Vianna , Dos Santos Mariana
Published: May 2024

O termo racismo ambiental foi cunhado por Benjamin Franklin Chavis Jr. em 1981 nos Estados Unidos e de lá pra cá, este conceito foi sendo cada vez mais atrelado a uma materialização do racismo estrutural. A literatura tem mostrado que a discussão das relações étnico-raciais encontra pouco, ou nenhum lugar, nos cursos de formação de professores e, no caso do Ensino de Ciências, essa situação é ainda mais grave, uma vez que diversos professores acreditam que não cabe a eles abordar questões como racismo, preconceito e discriminação. O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar uma possibilidade de se discutir elementos da educação para as relações étnico raciais, a partir de um referencial que nos embasa, a Educação CTS (Ciência, Tecnologia e Sociedade), e de uma temática atual: o racismo ambiental. Para isso, elaboramos uma sequência de atividades utilizando o eixo C – Cidadania e Ação da Ferramenta Avaliativa Ciência-tecnologia-Sociedade (FACTS) como template para o planejamento destas atividades, o que se mostrou eficiente, uma vez que os critérios desta ferramenta, quando contemplados, apontam para o desenvolvimento de uma Educação Científica Crítica ao se trabalhar com conceitos relacionados à construção da cidadania e à participação cidadã.
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF CNTS INTEGRATED PP/GLASS FIBER REINFORCED BIAXIAL WEFT-KNITTED THERMOPLASTIC COMPOSITES WITH DIFFERENT KNITTING STRUCTURES
Authors: Demircan Özgür , Yıldız Abdurrahman
Published: May 2024

In this study, four types of biaxial weft-knitted (BWK) fabrics (polypropylene (PP) resin yarn/glass fiber (GF) with different knitting structures such as plain (P), interlock (INT), tuck (T) and tuck&miss (TM) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) (0.4 wt%) were used as reinforcements to produce thermoplastic laminates with MWCNTs. In order to study the mechanical characteristics of the laminates, the flexural, short beam and Charpy impact tests on the samples were performed. In preliminary studies, the BWK fabrics with the plain knittings were used to produce the thermoplastic laminates with and without MWCNTs and positive effect of MWCNTs on the laminates were found out by performing the flexural tests on the specimens. The BWK laminates with the INT and TM knitting types with 0.4 wt% MWCNTs had almost same bending modulus and strength. 5% and 41% higher bending modulus and strength were gained with the BWK laminates with the interlock knitting type with 0.4-wt% MWCNTs compared to that was with the tuck type. 28.2% higher short beam strength and 57% higher Charpy impact energy were obtained with tuck&miss with 0.4-wt% MWCNTs (21.02 MPa and 6.34 Joule) compared to that was with the tuck knitting (16.39 MPa and 4.04 Joule).
Global Shocks and Monetary Policy Transmission in Emerging Markets
Authors: Renzhi Nuobu , Beirne John
Published: May 2024

This paper examines the impact of global shocks on monetary policy transmission in 24 emerging market economies. Using panel local projections over the period 2000 to 2022, the results show that tighter United States monetary policy, higher global financial market uncertainty, and worsening global climate change impair the transmission of monetary policy to inflation and output. Higher financial development in emerging market economies can partially offset the disruption, while more open capital accounts and trade can amplify the impact of global shocks.
The impact of cycling exercise on motor and functional recovery of patients in acute and subacute stroke phase
Authors: Simic-Panic Dusica , Spasojevic Tijana , Pantelinac Slobodan , Zivanovic Zeljko , Vojnovic Larisa , Tomasevic-Todorovic Snezana
Published: May 2024

Introduction/Objective. Neurological impairment and immobility in stroke patients can lead to numerous complications. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of cycling exercises with visual feedback combined with conventional rehabilitation on neurological and motor recovery, balance, walking speed and endurance, and activities of daily living (ADL) in patients after acute and subacute stroke. Methods. A randomized prospective controlled trial was applied to this research. One hundred and twenty-seven hemiplegic stroke patients who received in-hospital rehabilitation were randomly assigned into two groups. Both groups received conventional rehabilitation treatment. The experimental group had an extra 30 minutes of cycling exercises for the upper and lower extremities on a stationary ergocycle MOTOmed muvi. Both groups? neurological status, upper and lower limb function, independence in ADL, balance, walking speed, and endurance were observed before and after the rehabilitation treatment. Outcome measures used were the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), the modified Ashworth scale (MAS), the Brunnstrom Motor Evaluation Scale (BMES), upper and lower Fugl-Meyer assessment (FMA), the Barthel index (BI), the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), the six-minute walk test (6MWT) and the Timed Up and Go test (TUG). Results. The neurological recovery on the NIHSS scale, spasticity of the knee extensor measured by the MAS, the BMES and FMA-LE subscale for the affected leg, and the 6MWT presented more significant improvement in the experimental group than in the control group after the treatment (p < 0.05 for all three analyses). Conclusion. Cycling exercises with visual feedback combined with conventional rehabilitation could promote neurological recovery and improve the motor function of the affected leg and walking speed in patients recuperating after acute and subacute stroke.