bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of norm-referenced regulation and indirect methods in optimizing law and reducing regulatory risks
Authors: Trofimov Egor Viktorovich
Published: January 2024

The subject of the study is public relations in dynamically developing areas, where direct methods of public administration and traditional legal tools show their ineffectiveness. The purpose of the article is to develop an approach to the applicability of indirect methods in administrative and legal regulation in the context of the transition to Industry 4.0. The research was carried out on the basis of an interdisciplinary approach using method of system analysis and the dogmatic method. As a result of the study, it was concluded that increased government influence on the economy led to the formation of a process approach to administrative and legal regulation. However, the use of this approach assumes that identifying a defect is a norm that cannot, as a general rule, entail negative consequences for an economic entity. This feature is dissonant with the approach to legal regulation, and in a process sense it contains the less social value and carries the more threats, risks and costs, the more detailed it is. Overcoming the negative consequences of direct regulation is possible by using indirect methods of public administration, in which the solidarity of non-state actors with state goals is achieved through economic interest. Non-state regulation not only includes rule-making and control, but also requires providing incentives. Norm-referenced regulation is used in semi-formalized areas in which the state does not have awareness and effective tools for influence, but can use an incentive mechanism in areas of interest to the private sector. In such cases, the emphasis shifts from state to non-state regulation. In the context of the transition to Industry 4.0, the state will transfer regulatory functions to the private sector for self-regulation and local regulation with indirect influence from the state.
Development of Тaganrog city as a tourist center
Authors: Ismailova Natal'ya Valer'evna , Sadkovskaya Oksana Evgen'evna , Rundin Dmitrii Vasil'evich
Published: January 2024

The subject of the study is the planning and architectural organization of the city. The object of the study is the city of Taganrog, Rostov Region (Russia). The change in the main vector of socio-economic transformations of the city, as a large industrial pole of the region, at the same time having important cultural and historical significance, is due to the current socio-economic transformations in the country. Among the new strategic priorities and directions for the city are the preservation and development of the cultural space and the development of the tourist potential of the city, to the implementation of which there are a number of positive prerequisites. The changes taking place cause the need for spatial transformations of the urban fabric. The problems and features of the planning structure and infrastructure of the urban area were considered, as well as obstacles to urban planning transformation and the formation of the city as a tourist center (destination) were identified. To comprehensively solve the existing urban planning problems of the city of Taganrog and form it as a tourist center, a single architectural and urban planning approach is proposed (hereinafter, a single approach). The proposed approach is based on the principles of development: hospitality, compliance with needs, continuity, connectivity and «accessible sea». A single approach synchronizes urban planning mechanisms, within the framework of which a system of architectural and urban planning measures is made to implement a certain goal – the formation of a tourist destination. The system of measures is formed taking into account the justified principles of development, planning methods and techniques. As a practical application of a single approach, a set of architectural and urban planning measures and urban planning mechanisms for their implementation is proposed. Recommendations are given on updating the documents for regulating urban planning activities, taking into account the complex of architectural and urban planning measures: the master plan, local standards for urban planning design, land use and development rules, rules for the improvement of the territory of the municipality.
Migration in rural areas of Ethno-national regions of the Russian Federation: trends and consequences
Authors: Ryazantsev Sergei Vasil'evich , Bragin Alexey
Published: January 2024

This article analyzes the aspects of rural migration in the Russian Federation, highlighting its importance for the sustainable development of the regions. Particular attention is paid to migration in the ethno-national regions of the country, where it is considered as a complex and volatile phenomenon that has a profound impact on economic well-being, social infrastructure, cultural development and demographic structure of both donor and recipient regions. The authors analyze in detail both positive and negative aspects of migration flows in rural areas, including their impact on the labor market, entrepreneurial activity and social stability. Changes in the social life of rural communities caused by migration and the impact of these changes on traditional lifestyles and cultural values are also considered. The article is based on statistical data on the scale of migration of ethnonational regions for 2010-2022. The study is based on a comprehensive analysis of socio-economic, demographic and socio-cultural aspects of rural migration, with an emphasis on the ethnonational characteristics of the regions. Quantitative analysis of statistical data and qualitative analysis of current migration trends were used. The article presents an innovative analysis of the role of ethnic factors in migration processes and their impact on socio-cultural dynamics in recipient cities of the Russian Federation, including large cities such as Moscow, Ufa, Kazan, Makhachkala and Cheboksary. The basics of how rural population migration affects urban processes such as housing construction, infrastructure development and social integration are highlighted. The authors emphasize the need for coordinated actions of regional and federal authorities in managing migration flows and solving related problems. The directions for future research are proposed, including the analysis of the consequences of migration for the socio-economic and cultural environment of cities and the development of adaptation strategies for migrants, taking into account their ethnic and cultural identity. In conclusion, the article emphasizes the importance of migration processes for the social and economic development of Russia.
Theoretical Understanding and Practical Implementation of Administrative Responsibility for Beatings
Authors: Vodianaia Mariia , Lyashuk Anna Valer'evna
Published: January 2024

The object of the study is social relations related to the protection of physical health and mental, moral and moral well-being of the individual. The subject of the study are the norms of administrative and criminal legislation establishing responsibility for beatings, materials of law enforcement practice of internal affairs bodies and the activities of courts of general jurisdiction in cases of this category. The authors consider in detail the features of objective signs of the legal composition of an administrative offense provided for in Article 6.1.1. of the Administrative Code of the Russian Federation. Modern approaches to understanding the physical and psychological security of the individual are investigated. Particular attention is paid to the procedure of actions of police officers in identifying, suppressing and documenting torts containing signs of beatings. The work used a set of general scientific methods of cognition (dialectical, systematic approach), as well as private scientific research methods, such as formal legal, statistical and sociological methods. The scientific novelty of the study lies in the concept proposed by the authors to determine the object of such an offense as beatings. Under the object of the considered tort, the authors propose to understand the totality of the legally protected rights of citizens to the psychological and physical integrity of the individual. A special contribution of the authors to the study of the topic is the proposed algorithmization of the actions of law enforcement officers in the course of law enforcement activities in cases of beatings.
On the Question of the Peculiarities of Using an Interdisciplinary Approach in Modern Scientific Research in the Field of Law
Authors: Osipov Mikhail Yur'evich
Published: January 2024

The research subject of this article is the features and patterns of the use of an interdisciplinary approach to modern scientific research in the field of law. The relevance of this problem and the need to study the patterns of using an interdisciplinary approach in the field of law is because, on the one hand, it is becoming increasingly widespread in the legal sciences. On the other hand, the "inept" use of an interdisciplinary approach in the field of law can lead to a significant decrease in the effectiveness of scientific research in the legal sciences and lead to difficulties in assessing the significance of the obtained research results. The purpose of this work is to identify the patterns of using this approach based on the analysis of the features of the interdisciplinary approach in modern scientific research in the field of legal sciences and to propose ways to use it most effectively in modern scientific research in the field of jurisprudence. В В В В В  The scientific novelty of the conducted research is as follows. During the analysis of the features and patterns of the use of an interdisciplinary approach in modern legal science, it was found that not all researchers understand the features (specifics) of the use of an interdisciplinary approach in legal research. The specificity of using an interdisciplinary approach in legal research is that an interdisciplinary approach allows us to identify common patterns of formation, development and functioning of state-legal phenomena as a variety of social phenomena. Therefore, in order to increase the effectiveness of using an interdisciplinary approach in modern scientific research in the field of legal sciences, it is better to conduct research on the purely legal side of state-legal phenomena within the framework of a disciplinary approach and traditional legal methods, an interdisciplinary approach, in our opinion, should play the role of a kind of philosophical basis that does not allow the absolutization of knowledge and assumes the need for dialogue in in order to conduct scientific research more productively.
Client assessment of the effectiveness of the systemic arrangement method (group short-term psychotherapy method)
Authors: Podnebesnaya Ekaterina Borisovna
Published: January 2024

Our country is moving towards the inclusion of broad psychological assistance in the list of services provided within the framework of compulsory medical insurance. In this regard, the study of the effectiveness of various modalities of psychotherapy is of particular relevance. The article discusses systemic arrangements – a method of group short-term psychotherapy. Its effectiveness has become the subject of research. Today, this type of psychological assistance is one of the most popular. The study was conducted on the basis of the psychological center "Open Reality" in Moscow. To assess the effectiveness, a continuous survey method was used among clients who used system arrangements to solve their problems. A total of 50 respondents who underwent appropriate therapy from February 25, 2022 to March 3, 2023 were interviewed. The use of a statistically significant sample to study the effectiveness of the system placement method is the novelty of this study. Subsequently, the data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis. The results showed that 50% of respondents (25 people) rate the effectiveness of this method above 6.0 points on a 10-point scale. The data obtained allow us to conclude that the use of the system placement method allows us to obtain positive results from the majority of clients. The conducted research is of practical importance and allows us to recommend the method of systemic arrangements for providing psychological assistance to the population. In the future, it is planned to analyze customer requests in order to find out in which cases the use of arrangements is most effective. In order to expand the understanding of the material used in the study, the article also provides a description of a specific arrangement, followed by a detailed assessment of the effectiveness given by the client.
The specifics of the functioning of a structural metaphor in a public dialogue
Authors: Menzhulina Daria , Gunko Yuliya Aleksandrovna
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study is to identify and describe the specifics of the functioning of metaphorical transference and its role in public dialogue. The material for the analysis was transcribed video recordings of an interview with Daria Zlatopolskaya in the framework of the program "White Studio" of the television channel Culture. The object of the study is a structural metaphor, "that is, those cases when one concept is structurally metaphorically ordered in terms of another" [11, p. 35]. The subject of the study is the process of origin and the nature of the deployment of metaphorical transference in public dialogue. The authors pay special attention to the description of the mechanism (model) of the functioning of metaphor, as well as the integrating function of metaphorical transfer in public dialogue. In addition, the paper presents linguistic tools demonstrating the transfer of signs of the source sphere to the target sphere in metaphorical projection. The method of scientific observation, the descriptive method (including methods of observation, generalization, interpretation), the method of semantic analysis, the method of contextual analysis, the method of pragmatic analysis. The scientific novelty of the study lies in considering the role of structural metaphor in building a public dialogue, in looking at metaphorical transfer not as an unusual use of a word, but as a transfer of one situation to another, unfolding throughout the whole communicative episode or part of it. As a result of the study, it was concluded that metaphorical transference is the result of the co–creation of speakers, the stimulus of which in most cases is set by the presenter. Metaphorical transference connects the communicative episodes of a TV interview as a communicative event, performing an integrating function. During the conversation, the presenter and the interlocutor actualize certain aspects of the source sphere or the target sphere, as a result of which the metaphor narrows or expands. The constant return to a given metaphor determines the nonlinear structure of public dialogue.
A comprehensive secure system enabling healthcare 5.0 using federated learning, intrusion detection and blockchain
Authors: Almalki Jameel , Alshahrani Saeed M. , Khan Nayyar Ahmed
Published: January 2024

Recently, the use of the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) has gained popularity across various sections of the health sector. The historical security risks of IoMT devices themselves and the data flowing from them are major concerns. Deploying many devices, sensors, services, and networks that connect the IoMT systems is gaining popularity. This study focuses on identifying the use of blockchain in innovative healthcare units empowered by federated learning. A collective use of blockchain with intrusion detection management (IDM) is beneficial to detect and prevent malicious activity across the storage nodes. Data accumulated at a centralized storage node is analyzed with the help of machine learning algorithms to diagnose disease and allow appropriate medication to be prescribed by a medical healthcare professional. The model proposed in this study focuses on the effective use of such models for healthcare monitoring. The amalgamation of federated learning and the proposed model makes it possible to reach 93.89 percent accuracy for disease analysis and addiction. Further, intrusion detection ensures a success rate of 97.13 percent in this study.
The effect of high-intensity plyometric training on anaerobic performance parameters: a pilot study in U17 elite A league
Authors: Söyler Mehmet , Zileli Raif , Çingöz Yunus Emre , Kılınçarslan Gökmen , Kayantaş İdris , Altuğ Tolga , Asan Selim , Şahin Musa , Gürkan Alper Cenk
Published: January 2024

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of high-intensity plyometric training (HIPT) on some parameters in elite soccer players in the U17. Volunteer soccer players were randomly divided into two groups according to their positions: the regular training (RT) group (age: 16.71 ± 0.47 years; stature: 163.46 ± 3.31 cm; body weight: 61.04 ± 1.59 kg) and the HIPT group (age: 16.64 ± 0.50 years; stature: 165.60 ± 3.03 cm; body weight: 59.76 ± 1.92 kg), and each group included five defenders, five midfielders, and four attackers. While the RT group did only routine soccer training, the HIPT group performed high-intensity plyometric training three days a week in addition to routine soccer training. In the study, body weight, stature, sprint (10 m, 30 m, and 40 m), jump (standing long jump, right and left-limb triple hop) and 5-0-5 change of direction speed test measurements of the soccer players were taken. Skewness and Kurtosis values obtained from the pre-test and post-test measurements were calculated to test whether the normality assumption of the study was met. A mixed measure two-way ANOVA test was used to determine the difference between the pre-test and post-test. The significance was set as p < 0.05. The results indicated that 8-week high- intensity plyometric training provided more improvement in measured performance parameters than routine soccer training. As a result, when the data obtained is examined, it can be said that HIPT had better values in sprint, jump, and change of direction parameters, so plyometric training was more beneficial for anaerobic parameters than routine soccer training in children. It is recommended that the trainers make their plans considering these results.
Involucramiento Parental, Satisfacción con la Vida y Orientación al Logro en Estudiantes Secundarios en Chile
Authors: Yáñez-Cancino Alejandra Paz , Salgado Mauricio , González Luis
Published: January 2024

Este estudio investiga el efecto mediador de la satisfacción con la vida entre el involucramiento parental y la orientación al logro escolar en una muestra de adolescentes chilenos. La satisfacción con la vida se conceptualiza como un recurso familiar que los adolescentes utilizan para gestionar su vida escolar. Se ajustaron dos modelos estadísticos utilizando los datos de una submuestra de 426 estudiantes de 1° a 3° medio, obtenida de la Encuesta Nacional sobre Trayectorias y Transiciones Estudiantiles en Chile. El primer análisis examina el rol mediador de la satisfacción con la vida entre el involucramiento parental, específicamente de padre y madre, y la orientación al logro. Los hallazgos indican que la satisfacción con la vida media casi totalmente el efecto del involucramiento paterno en la orientación al logro, mientras que el involucramiento materno ejerce un efecto parcial a través de la satisfacción con la vida. El segundo análisis evalúa el efecto moderador del género del adolescente en la relación mediada por la satisfacción con la vida. Los resultados muestran que el género tiene un efecto moderador en la mediación para el involucramiento materno, pero no para el paterno. Este estudio resalta la importancia de la satisfacción con la vida de los adolescentes como un mediador esencial entre los contextos familiar y escolar, subrayando además el efecto de moderación que sobre esta mediación tiene la composición del sexo en las relaciones entre padres, madres y adolescentes.
Educación sexual, autoridad parental, interés superior del menor y libertad de conciencia: el caso Jiménez (1999)
Authors: Cespedes Rodrigo
Published: January 2024

Este trabajo analiza una sentencia de la Corte Europea de Derechos Humanos sobre educación sexual en las escuelas. El Tribunal declaró el caso era inadmisible porque, en su opinión, no había discriminación y los derechos de los padres no fueron infringidos ya que las lecciones de sexualidad proporcionaron información objetiva sobre la diversidad de la sexualidad humana y no abogaron por ningún comportamiento sexual en particular.
Severely Acutely Malnourished Children under Five of Age in Chad Setting: Cases of the Notre Dame des Apôtres Hospital in N'Djamena
Authors: Aristide Kemoral , Doutoum Abdelsalam Adoum , Nazal Alhadj Markhous , Roumane Moukhtar , Laurent Kodji , Mbaigolmem Valery Beral , Allanidjimte Tog-Yangue , Tidjani Abdelsalam
Published: January 2024

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Malnutrition is a pathological condition which combines both the deficiency of macroelements and trace elements, with increased susceptibility to infections. This state is manifested clinically by biochemical, anthropometric or physiological analyses. Malnutrition is one of the major causes of child mortality worldwide. It remains a major public health problem. Hence the objective of this work is to determine the epidemiological-clinical profiles of Severely Acute Malnourished at Notre Dame des Apôtres Hospital (HNDA). This was a prospective, descriptive study spread over 7 months from January 1 to July 31, 2023, including all severely acutely malnourished children with medical complications admitted to the Therapeutic Nutritional Unit (UNT). The variables studied were epidemiological and clinical. Data were entered and analyzed using Word 2016, Excel 2016 and SSPS 18.0 software. 1454 children were admitted to the UNT, 1080 cases of wasting, i.e. a frequency of 74.27%, and 90 SAM with oedema children, i.e. 6.18% of cases treated at the HNDA. Boys were the most represented with a percentage of 45.04% and a M/F sex ratio of 1.15. The combination of vomiting and diarrhea is the most dominant reason for admission with a percentage of 26.96%. The results of this work show that the clinical situation of malnourished children is strongly linked to epidemiological profiles. The parents of these children are therefore required to be educated about the personnel and their children's hygiene and authorities level poverty solutions needed to improve to decrease the incidence of malnutrition.
Vermicompost Dosage Effects on Physical and Physico-Chemical Properties of Non-GM Cotton in Vidarbha's Rainfed Farms
Authors: Mounika C. , Kadu P. R. , Konde N. M. , Reddy P. Nagaseshi
Published: January 2024

The experiment, conducted at COART, Akola during Kharif 2021-22, evaluated the impact of various vermicompost doses on physical and physico-chemical properties of Non-GM cotton cultivars in rainfed agriculture. Employing an FRBD with eight treatments replicated thrice, the study revealed that the application of 60 kg N ha-1 through vermicompost (T4) led to the most significant improvements: reduced soil bulk density (1.24 Mg m-3), increased water holding capacity (58.22%), and elevated organic carbon content (5.67 g kg-1). The Hirsutum cultivar, Chetna J1, displayed the best results. Conversely, the lowest pH (7.57) and EC (0.25 ds m-1) were observed in treatment T2, where 60 kg N ha-1 was supplied through vermicompost to the Arboreum cultivar, AVC 14.
Review on Multilayer Farming: A Way Towards Farmer Prosperity
Authors: Solanki B. P. , Choudhary Raghuveer , Ninama A. R. , Ram Keval , Jaiswal Jatin
Published: January 2024

Multilayer farming is an innovative agricultural strategy that redefines traditional farming practices by harnessing vertical space to cultivate multiple layers of crops within a single agricultural system. This approach is designed to overcome challenges associated with land scarcity and inefficient land use. The concept involves arranging different crops in layers, utilizing the vertical dimension to its fullest extent. The layers can include ground-level crops, vines climbing on trellises, and even trees or shrubs, creating a multi-tiered ecosystem. This arrangement optimizes sunlight exposure, nutrient distribution, and water usage, resulting in enhanced productivity. One of the key advantages of multilayer farming is its potential to significantly increase overall yield per unit of land. By strategically combining plants that complement each other in terms of growth patterns, resource requirements, and ecological interactions, farmers can create a symbiotic environment that maximizes the use of available resources. Resource efficiency is a focal point in multilayer farming. The intercropping of different plant species helps in nutrient cycling, reducing the need for external inputs. Furthermore, the diverse plant composition can deter pests and diseases, reducing the reliance on chemical interventions. The vertical stacking of crops also allows for efficient water usage through integrated irrigation systems. Beyond its practical benefits, multilayer farming contributes to biodiversity preservation. The coexistence of various plant species fosters a more resilient and ecologically diverse agricultural landscape. This can have positive effects on soil health, pollination, and overall ecosystem stability.
The Susceptibility to Rubella Virus Infection among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinics in Unguja, Zanzibar: The Need to Employ Multiple Strategies to Control Congenital Rubella Syndrome in Tanzania
Authors: Mirambo Mariam M. , Nyawale Helmut , Michael Fausta , Mamba Peter , Hassan Karim , Ali Habib M. , Minja Caroline A. , Damiano Prisca , Mshana Stephen E.
Published: January 2024

Aims: This study was conducted to determine the proportion of pregnant women susceptible to Rubella virus infection in Zanzibar, the information that might be useful in future control interventions.

Study Design: A cross-sectional hospital-based study.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Unguja Zanzibar between May 2023 and July 2023.

Methodology: Sociodemographic and other relevant information were collected from pregnant women attending antenatal clinics using structured questionnaires. Blood samples were collected from each consented woman. Detection of Rubella IgG antibodies was done by an indirect Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay. Data analysis was done by using STATA version 15.

Results: The median age of enrolled participants was 27[Interquartile range (IQR): 23-31] years while the median gestation age was 28 [IQR: 20-32] weeks. Out of 171 participants, 10/171(5.8%) [95% Cl:2-9.6%] were negative to Rubella virus IgG antibodies indicating susceptibility to active Rubella virus infection that can lead to Congenital Rubella Syndrome. On multivariate analysis, history of congenital malformations (OR: 27.4, 95% CI: 1.29-580.5, p=0.033) was significantly associated with susceptibility to Rubella virus infection.

Conclusion: Despite high level of natural immunity, there is a considerable proportion of pregnant women in Zanzibar susceptible to Rubella virus infection necessitating the need for multiple strategies to reach a goal of Congenital Rubella Syndrome elimination.
Comparative Assessment of Conventionally and Locally Sourced Surfactants for Enhancing Steam Flooding Techniques for Heavy Oil Recovery in Niger Delta
Authors: Odo Jude Emeka , Onyekonwu Mike Obi , Ikiensikimama Sunday Sunday , Uzoho Chidinma Uzoamaka
Published: January 2024

The recovery of heavy oil reserves presents a significant challenge in the petroleum industry due to its high viscosity and poor mobility characteristics. Steam flooding, as a thermal Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) technique, has shown promise in mobilizing heavy oil deposits. However, the limited success of conventional steam flooding in heavy oil reservoirs necessitates innovative approaches. This study explores the utilization of conventional and locally sourced surfactants in surfactant-enhanced steam flooding (SESF) for heavy oil recovery in the Niger Delta region. The study examines the selection, formulation, and injection of surfactants specifically tailored for heavy oil reservoir conditions. Laboratory experiments, core flooding tests, and numerical simulations are conducted to evaluate the impact of surfactants on interfacial tension reduction, wettability alteration, and improved oil mobility in heavy oil reservoirs subjected to steam flooding. The project’s findings demonstrate the significant potential of (SESF) for heavy oil recovery. The synergistic effects of surfactants and steam, including the reduction of oil-water interfacial tension, lead to increased oil production rates, reduced steam consumption, and enhanced sweep efficiency. Furthermore, economic assessments are conducted to evaluate the feasibility of implementing this approach on a field scale, considering both technical and economic aspects. This study not only contributes valuable insights to the field of heavy oil recovery but also underscores the practicality of surfactant-enhanced steam flooding as an environmentally responsible solution for unlocking the vast heavy oil reserves worldwide. The research bridges the gap between laboratory findings and real-world applications, offering a promising path forward for the sustainable development of heavy oil resources.
Education in Sri Lanka: A Historical, Administrative, and Contemporary Overview with Emphasis on Secondary Schooling
Authors: Careemdeen Jalal Deen
Published: January 2024

Aims: This research aims to comprehensively explore the historical evolution, administrative intricacies, and current state of secondary education in Sri Lanka, with a particular focus on the post-independence era. It seeks to provide valuable insights into the challenges, initiatives, and policy measures that have shaped the educational landscape in the country.

Study Design:  The study adopts a historical research design, meticulously tracing the trajectory of education in Sri Lanka from ancient times through the colonial periods to the contemporary era. It places a particular emphasis on the post-independence period, scrutinizing administrative reforms, decentralization efforts, and the structure of secondary schooling.

Place and Duration of Study: The research is conducted in Sri Lanka, encompassing various regions and educational institutions across the country.

Methodology: Grey literature, including historical documents, archival records, and unpublished reports, serves as a pivotal source for this study. Government reports, policy documents, and contemporary educational sources are analyzed to provide a nuanced understanding of the challenges and initiatives in Sri Lanka's education system. Internal memos, working papers, and non-peer-reviewed literature are utilized to dissect administrative structures, policy measures, and curriculum development.

Results: The research reveals the intricate historical journey of education in Sri Lanka, highlighting the impact of colonial rulers on the traditional education system. Post-independence challenges and initiatives, such as decentralization efforts and administrative reforms, are scrutinized. The contemporary education system, including diverse school categories and the flow of education from preschool to tertiary levels, is comprehensively analyzed. Key policies, such as free education, medium of instruction, and compulsory education, are detailed to showcase the government's commitment to inclusive and accessible education.

Conclusion: In conclusion, this study provides a holistic understanding of the multifaceted dimensions of education in Sri Lanka. By examining historical roots, administrative intricacies, and the current state of the secondary education sector, the research sheds light on the enduring pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment in Sri Lanka's educational journey. The findings offer valuable insights for scholars, policymakers, and those interested in the dynamic evolution of education in the country.
Alefacept treatment in psoriatic arthritis: Reduction of the effector T cell population in peripheral blood and synovial tissue is associated with improvement of clinical signs of arthritis
Authors: Kraan Maarten C. , van Kuijk Arno W. R. , Dinant Huibert J. , Goedkoop Amber Y. , Smeets Tom J. M. , de Rie Menno A. , Dijkmans Ben A. C. , Vaishnaw Akshay K. , Bos Jan D. , Tak Paul P.
Published: October 2002

Objective

To investigate whether alefacept (a fully human lymphocyte function–associated antigen 3 [LFA‐3]/IgG1 fusion protein that blocks the LFA‐3/CD2 interaction) is able to reduce the signs and symptoms of joint inflammation in patients with active psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

Methods

Eleven patients with active PsA were treated with alefacept for 12 weeks in an open‐label and explorative study. Clinical joint assessment and laboratory assessments were performed at baseline and after 4, 9, 12, and 16 weeks of treatment. Serial synovial tissue (ST) biopsy specimens from an inflamed index joint (knee, ankle, wrist, or metacarpophalangeal joint) were obtained by arthroscopy at baseline and after 4 and 12 weeks of treatment.

Results

At the completion of treatment, 6 of 11 patients (55%) fulfilled the Disease Activity Score (DAS) response criteria. Nine patients (82%) fulfilled the DAS response criteria at any point during the study. There was a statistically significant reduction in CD4+ lymphocytes (P < 0.05), CD8+ lymphocytes (P = 0.05), and CD68+ macrophages (P < 0.02) in the ST after 12 weeks of treatment compared with baseline. The ST and peripheral blood of those patients fulfilling the DAS response criteria contained more CD45RO+ cells at baseline and displayed a significant reduction in these cells compared with nonresponding patients.

Conclusion

The changes in ST, together with the improvement in clinical joint scores, after treatment with alefacept support the hypothesis that T cell activation plays an important role in this chronic inflammatory disease. Furthermore, since alefacept, a T cell–specific agent, led to decreased macrophage infiltration, the data indicate that T cells are highly involved in synovial inflammation in PsA.
Symptomatic macroglossia and tongue myositis in polymyositis: Treatment with corticosteroids and intravenous immunoglobulin
Authors: Chauvet E. , Sailler L. , Carreiro M. , Paoli J. R. , Arrue P. , Astudillo L. , Oksmann F. , Delisle M. B. , Arlet Ph.
Published: October 2002

Symptomatic macroglossia occurs in some rare congenital muscle diseases, such as Becker's and Duchenne's dystrophies or Pompe's disease. Herein we describe a case of symptomatic macroglossia with myositis of the tongue occurring in a patient with polymyositis. Tongue myositis was evidenced by dysarthria, frequent biting during mastication, swallowing difficulties without aspiration, and noisy breathing. Magnetic resonance imaging showed homogeneous hypertrophy of the tongue, especially the mouth's floor muscles. The diagnosis of tongue myositis was established by electromyography and biopsy. No other cause for the macroglossia was found. Symptoms resolved quickly with corticosteroid and intravenous immunoglobulin treatment. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of symptomatic tongue myositis occurring in the course of polymyositis.
Association of autoantibodies to nuclear lamin B1 with thromboprotection in systemic lupus erythematosus: Lack of evidence for a direct role of lamin B1 in apoptotic blebs
Authors: Dieudé Mélanie , Senécal Jean‐Luc , Rauch Joyce , Hanly John G. , Fortin Paul , Brassard Nathalie , Raymond Yves
Published: October 2002

Objective

To demonstrate the association between autoantibodies to nuclear lamin B1 (aLB1) and protection against thrombosis (“thromboprotection”) in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and to elucidate the mechanism by which aLB1 cause thromboprotection in vivo. Since a number of autoantigens in SLE have been localized specifically to the external surface of apoptotic blebs, it was hypothesized that circulating aLB1 may block the procoagulant effect of apoptotic blebs by binding to LB1 displayed at the external bleb surface.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was performed using serum samples obtained at first evaluation of 259 English Canadian and French Canadian patients from SLE registries at 3 hospitals. A case–control study was performed to analyze the relationship between aLB1 and lupus anticoagulant (LAC) status and thrombotic manifestations between onset of disease and last followup. Reactivity of aLB1 with Jurkat or endothelial cells, which had been induced to undergo apoptosis, was determined by indirect immunofluorescence. Localization of LB1 in apoptotic cells and blebs was analyzed by confocal microscopy and surface labeling of cell membrane proteins.

Results

High‐titer aLB1 was restricted to a subset of SLE patients (46 patients), with an overall frequency of 17.8% (range 11.6–24.3% in the 3 centers). LB1 antibodies were significantly associated with LAC but not with antibodies to cardiolipin (aCL) or β2‐glycoprotein I (anti‐β2GPI). The frequency of thrombosis differed markedly depending on aLB1 and LAC status, as follows: presence of LAC and absence of aLB1 50%, presence of both LAC and aLB1 22.7%, absence of both LAC and aLB1 25.5%, absence of LAC and presence of aLB1, 20.8%. Further subclassification of patients based on aCL and anti‐β2GPI status revealed that, in the presence of LAC but in the absence of aCL, anti‐β2GPI, and aLB1, the frequency of thrombosis was 40%, whereas in the presence of aLB1, it decreased strikingly, to 9.1%. LB1 was found to be translocated into surface membrane blebs during apoptosis and to be entirely enclosed within the apoptotic bleb plasma membrane of Jurkat and endothelial cells.

Conclusion

The presence of aLB1 in SLE patients with LAC essentially nullifies the strong prothrombotic risk associated with LAC. Hence, aLB1 is associated with thromboprotection. Reactivity of aLB1 with apoptotic blebs does not seem to play a direct role in mediating this protection, since LB1 is buried within apoptotic blebs and inaccessible to circulating aLB1. The mechanism by which aLB1 confers thromboprotection in SLE remains to be elucidated.
Calcium‐independent phospholipase A2 through arachidonic acid mobilization is involved in Caco‐2 cell growth
Authors: Sanchez Teresa , Moreno Juan J.
Published: October 2002

Several studies indicate that phospholipase A2 (PLA2) expression and/or activation account for the high levels of arachidonic acid (AA) detected in cancer and, together with the elevated expression of cyclooxygenase‐2, lead to cell proliferation and tumor formation. Using Caco‐2 cells, a human colorectal carcinoma cell, we studied the role of high‐molecular‐weight PLA2s, cytosolic PLA2 (cPLA2), and calcium‐independent PLA2 (iPLA2) in the AA cascade and in cell growth. Treatment with an antisense oligonucleotide against cPLA2α decreased [3H]AA release induced by ionophore A23187 or by a phorbol ester but did not affect the release of [3H]AA, [3H]thymidine incorporation, or Caco‐2 growth induced by fetal calf serum (FCS). However, these parameters were significantly modified by iPLA2 inhibitors and by an antisense oligonucleotide against iPLA2β. Our results show that iPLA2 was involved in AA release and the subsequent prostaglandin production induced by serum. Moreover, these data indicate that iPLA2 may be involved in the signaling pathways involved in the control of Caco‐2 proliferation. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Inhibition of epidermal growth factor‐induced invasion by dexamethasone and AP‐1 decoy in human squamous cell carcinoma cell lines
Authors: Shiratsuchi Toru , Ishibashi Hiroaki , Shirasuna Kanemitsu
Published: October 2002

Invasive squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) cells degrade extracellular matrix (ECM) via an extracellular protease cascade that includes urokinase‐type plasminogen activator (uPA), plasmin, and the metalloprotease (MMP) family of collagenases. In this study, treatment of oral SCC cells with epidermal growth factor (EGF) stimulated the cells to invade Matrigel (constructive basement membrane (BM) protein). EGF‐induced cell invasion was inhibited by antibodies to uPA and by synthetic uPA inhibitors. EGF also induced increased expression of uPA and uPA receptor (uPAR) proteins and mRNA, as well as transcription factor activator protein‐1 (AP‐1)–DNA binding. These EGF‐induced changes were inhibited by treatment with dexamethasone (DEX). DEX treatment also stimulated the production of plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1. Moreover, transfection of SCC cells with AP‐1 decoy oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs) resulted in the suppression of EGF‐induced uPA and uPAR expression and Matrigel invasion. These results suggest that oral SCC cells invade Matrigel mainly through the uPA‐plasmin cascade, which is mediated by the transcription factor AP‐1. The uPA–uPAR interaction is essential for augmenting proteolytic activity and uPAR‐mediated signaling, which ultimately induce motility and invasion. Since DEX inhibits the expression of both uPA and uPAR, it may be a useful treatment for oral SCC. J. Cell. Physiol. 193: 340–348, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
On the Kolmogorov constant in stochastic turbulence models
Authors: Heinz Stefan
Published: October 2002

The Kolmogorov constant is fundamental in stochastic models of turbulence. To explain the reasons for observed variations of this quantity, it is calculated for two flows by various methods and data. Velocity fluctuations are considered as the sum of contributions due to anisotropy, acceleration fluctuations and stochastic forcing that is controlled by the Kolmogorov constant. It is shown that the effects of anisotropy and acceleration fluctuations are responsible for significant variations of the Kolmogorov constant. It is found near 2 for flows where anisotropy and acceleration fluctuations contribute to the energy budget, and near 6 if such contributions disappear.
Atomic arrangement at the AlN/ZrB2 interface
Authors: Liu R. , Bell A. , Ponce F. A. , Kamiyama S. , Amano H. , Akasaki I.
Published: October 2002

Low-dislocation-density GaN films (∼108 cm−2) have been grown on closely lattice-matched ZrB2 substrates by metalorganic vapor phase epitaxy using low-temperature AlN as a buffer layer. High-resolution electron microscopy images of the AlN/ZrB2 interface region reveal that the AlN buffer layer does not grow directly on the ZrB2 substrate. Instead, the existence of an unintentional intermediate cubic-phase layer (approximately 2 nm thick) has been observed. Misfit dislocations are evident at both interfaces of the intermediate layer. Our analysis indicates that the intermediate layer has a lattice constant a=4.6 Å, and that it is a ternary alloy of ZrxByNz, which should result from a transformation from the hexagonal phase of ZrB2 due to interdiffusion of nitrogen and boron at the elevated temperature required for growth of GaN. This intermediate cubic-phase layer of ZrxByNz appears to have been so far unavoidable in the growth of high-quality GaN epilayers on ZrB2 substrates by our technique.
SITE PREFERENCE AND VIBRATIONAL PROPERTIES OF Ni3Al WITH TERNARY ADDITIONS Pd AND Ag
Authors: KANG YAN-MEI , CHEN NAN-XIAN , SHEN JIANG
Published: October 2002

The site preferences of Ag and Pd in Ni 3 Al are evaluated based on interatomic pair potentials that are converted from ab initio cohesive energy and Möbius–Chen's lattice inversion theorem. The calculated results are in good agreement with experimental data. Thus, the phonon density of states for (Ni,Pd) 3 Al and Ni 3 (Al,Ag) , the corresponding Einstein and Debye temperatures are also evaluated, which describe phenomena associated with lattice vibrations of ternary intermetallic compounds.
Mobile IP route optimization method for next‐generation mobile networks
Authors: Takagi Yasushi , Ihara Takeshi , Ohnishi Hiroyuki
Published: October 2002

Mobile IP has gained attention as a technology that can provide mobility to universal users independently of the access network. The introduction of Mobile IP in mobile core networks is currently under investigation. This paper discusses route optimization methods when Mobile IP technology is applied to mobile core networks. More specifically, it discusses means of resolving the “Triangle Routing” problem, which occurs when communications from a correspondent node to a mobile node must be routed through a Home Agent (HA). This paper first describes the conventional route optimization method being investigated by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) and indicates problems with that method. It then proposes a new Mobile IP Border Gateway (MBG) method for solving the problems of the conventional method. The MBG method enables packets that arrive from another network to be directly received at the mobile node by having a Border Gateway router maintain Binding Information consisting of the care‐of address and home address that were originally being maintained by the Home Agent for the communicating node. This paper also shows that introducing the MBG method enables the mean route length within the network to be shortened and the traffic volume routed through the Home Agent to be reduced. Finally, it shows methods of reducing the burden of registering Binding Information at the Mobile IP Border Gateway and indicates the applicability of the MBG method to large‐scale mobile communications networks. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn Pt 1, 86(2): 31–41, 2003; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecja.1151
AGC output characteristics in broadband mobile communication systems
Authors: Taira Akinori , Ishizu Fumio , Miyake Makoto
Published: October 2002

At present, there are increasing demands for transmission and reception of multimedia information, and various broadband communication systems are being considered in order to respond to these requests. In these systems, frequency‐selective fading due to the delayed wave is one of the most important problems. One of the properties of the frequency‐selective fading environment is the phenomenon that the received power depends on the transmitted data pattern. Thus, there can arise a problem that the AGC output deviates from the reference value when there is a difference of patterns between the data part and the AGC part. This paper investigates the relation between the transmitted pattern and the received power distribution in the frequency‐selective fading environment, and calculates the probability distribution under the condition that there is no fading fluctuation. Then, the AGC output characteristics are examined by computer simulation for the case in which there is a pattern difference between the data part and the AGC part. It is shown that the output distribution greatly depends on the selection of the pattern in ordinary environments in broadband mobile communication. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn Pt 1, 86(2): 42–50, 2003; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecja.1152