bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of the egg-predator Carcinonemertes conanobrieni on the reproductive performance of the Caribbean spiny lobster Panulirus argus
Authors: Berben Amanda , Stephens Natalie C. , Gonzalez-Cueto Jaime , Velasquez Yulibeth , Quiroga Sigmer , González María Teresa , Baeza J. Antonio
Published: June 2023

Background

The Caribbean spiny lobster Panulirus argus is heavily fished throughout its Greater Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico distribution, suggesting a heightened susceptibility to a fisheries collapse. In 2017, a nemertean worm, Carcinonemertes conanobrieni was described from ovigerous females of P. argus in Florida, USA. A year later, the presence of the same egg predator was recorded along the southern Caribbean coast (Colombia). The effect of this egg predator on the reproductive performance, including fecundity, embryo mortality, and reproductive output, of its host is unknown. This study tested whether C. conanobrieni affects embryo mortality, fecundity, and reproductive output in brooding females of P. argus.

Results

Artisan fishers caught 90 ovigerous lobsters near Pueblo Viejo, Magdalena, Colombia. Each ovigerous female was examined for the presence/absence of the egg predator. Lobster egg mortality (%), fecundity (nº eggs female−1), and reproductive output (%) were estimated. Prevalence of C. conanobrieni in the studied population was 87.78%. The mean intensity of C. conanobrieni (all life stages) in the population was 11.68 (± 1.98) egg predators per brood mass sample. Infected females brooding late-stage embryos exhibited lower fecundity, lower reproductive performance values, and higher embryo mortality compared to infected females brooding early-stage embryos. Embryo stage and worm infection level negatively impacted fecundity and reproductive output. Worm infection level and the number of adult nemertean worms also negatively affected embryo mortality.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate an adverse effect of C. conanobrieni on the reproductive performance of P. argus. The interactive impact of this egg predator, natural stressors, and anthropogenic stressors on individual P. argus reproductive performance could facilitate losses at large-scale fisheries levels.
Evaluation and assessment of roles of neurootological examinations, vestibular tests, and videonystagmography in patients with dizziness
Authors: Jhawar Manan , Srivastava Anurag , Keshree Nirnay Kumar , Munjal Vishal Rattan , Pathak Ramji
Published: June 2023

Background

Vertigo and dizziness are frequent clinical symptoms. Peripheral vertigo and central vertigo are two different types of vertigo that result from a disrupted vestibular system. Imbalance and dizziness are frequent initial complaints. It is common for improper diagnosis and subpar treatment to result from a lack of a systematic approach to the examination and laboratory evaluation of the vestibular system. A correct diagnosis can be made with a fundamental knowledge of vestibular physiology and the right examination methods.

Objectives

The current study was done to evaluate and assess the roles of neuro-otological examinations, vestibular tests, and videonystagmography among patients with dizziness visiting a tertiary care centre.

Methodology

An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among patients complaining of vertigo at a tertiary care centre for the duration of 18 months. A total of 64 patients were included according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Various diagnostic tests were applied and correlated with the complaints of the patients.

Result

Forty-two percent of patients with dizziness had hearing loss, and 26.5% had tinnitus. 57.8% had the PTA test within the normal limit, and the head shake test (videonystagmography) was positive among 39.1%. Caloric test abnormality was seen in 53.1% of patients with dizziness. Neuro-otological examination of the head shake test was found positive in 29.7% of cases. 79.7% of cases show a positive Fukuda test. SP > AP is seen among 9.4% of cases in EchoG. 67.1% show a positive Romberg test. The Dix-Hallpike test was positive among 31.2% of dizziness patients.

Conclusion

In conclusion, history and neuro-otological testing can aid in the diagnosis of vertigo, but they cannot be relied on if the vertigo is complex. Only symptomatic history and neuro-otological tests are helpful in cases like a simple unilateral posterior canal BPPV, but in a complex case with tinnitus, aural fullness, Romberg positivity, or Fukuda positivity, we need the assistance of additional investigations such as vestibular tests such as ECochG and VNG.
Evaluating the impact of different control states in current psychiatric research design
Authors: Williams Harry
Published: June 2023

A ‘control’ provides a point of clinical comparison for a new intervention, allowing researchers and clinicians to draw more confident conclusions about the effectiveness or potential harm of a given, often novel, therapy. Although this aspect of a trial's design provides the basis from which interventional impact is measured, it is often less closely examined. This commentary appraises a Cochrane Review that compares various controls in common use in modern psychiatric research and aims to characterise their effects on the outcomes of that research.
Healthcare utilisation in the United Arab Emirates for children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and comorbidities
Authors: Almai Ahmad M. , Salpekar Jay A.
Published: June 2023

The prevalence of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder is consistent worldwide. Psychiatric comorbidities are common, although less is known about how those comorbidities affect utilisation of healthcare services. Access to paediatric mental healthcare is a challenge in many regions. However, access to care in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is supported by a well-established healthcare infrastructure with widely available primary care physicians. A review of diagnosis codes suggests that a clear correlation exists between the number of comorbidities and increased utilisation of available mental health services. Infrastructure in the UAE may represent a successful model for paediatric mental healthcare.
Clinical and cost evaluation of two models of specialist intensive support teams for adults with intellectual disabilities who display behaviours that challenge: the IST-ID mixed-methods study
Authors: Hassiotis Angela , Kouroupa Athanasia , Hamza Leila , Marston Louise , Romeo Renee , Yaziji Nahel , Hall Ian , Langdon Peter E. , Courtenay Ken , Taggart Laurence , Morant Nicola , Crossey Vicky , Lloyd-Evans Brynmor
Published: June 2023

Background

Intensive support teams (ISTs) are recommended for individuals with intellectual disabilities who display behaviours that challenge. However, there is currently little evidence about the clinical and cost-effectiveness of IST models operating in England.

Aims

To investigate the clinical and cost-effectiveness of IST models.

Method

We carried out a cohort study to evaluate the clinical and cost-effectiveness of two previously identified IST models (independent and enhanced) in England. Adult participants (n= 226) from 21 ISTs (ten independent and 11 enhanced) were enrolled. The primary outcome was change in challenging behaviour between baseline and 9 months as measured by the Aberrant Behaviour Checklist-Community version 2.

Results

We found no statistically significant differences between models for the primary outcome (adjustedβ= 4.27; 95% CI −6.34 to 14.87;P= 0.430) or any secondary outcomes. Quality-adjusted life-years (0.0158; 95% CI: −0.0088 to 0.0508) and costs (£3409.95; 95% CI −£9957.92 to £4039.89) of the two models were comparable.

Conclusions

The study provides evidence that both models were associated with clinical improvement for similar costs at follow-up. We recommend that the choice of service model should rest with local services. Further research should investigate the critical components of IST care to inform the development of fidelity criteria, and policy makers should consider whether roll out of such teams should be mandated.
Correspondence
Authors: Huffer Lynne
Published: June 2023

This essay examines the final two sentences of Bersani’s Intimacies, a book he cowrote with the psychoanalyst Adam Phillips. The strange temporality of Bersani’s correspondence at the end of Intimacies coincides with the “friendly accord” invoked by Socrates at the end of the Phaedrus. This conception of correspondence as friendly accord elucidates the notion of impersonal intimacy Bersani described earlier in the book as remaining in touch, through memory, with a god we followed. Correspondence also recalls Bersani’s earlier Baudelaire and Freud, where Baudelairean “Correspondances” signal not the harmony of self and world but an ego-disseminating spiritualization of the senses. This examination of Intimacies’ final passage also tracks a distinctively Bersanian oscillation between particularizing and universalizing engagements with the world in a mise en abyme structure that articulates possibilities for new modes of relation through practices of ascetic spirituality.
Failure
Authors: Benedicto Bobby
Published: June 2023

This essay examines the role of failure in the work of Leo Bersani through the lens of self-shattering, impersonal narcissism, and castration. It revisits Bersani’s account of narcissism and masochism in “Erotic Assumptions” and critiques his subsequent shift toward impersonal narcissism in Homos and Intimacies. The essay concludes by showing how the notion of castration, roundly rejected by Bersani, may address the impasse between solipsism and sociality that he attempted to resolve through sameness.
Happiness
Authors: Colebrook Claire
Published: June 2023

The opposite of happiness is not unhappiness but disindividuation. Bersani’s reading of Freud and his identification of sexuality at odds with the happiness of liberal society also provides a nascent account of neoliberalism’s capture of queer sex.
Prenatal diagnosis of bone dysplasias
Authors: Nishimura Gen , Handa Atsuhiko , Miyazaki Osamu , Tsujioka Yuko , Murotsuki Jun , Sawai Hideaki , Yamada Takahiro , Kozuma Yutaka , Takahashi Yuichiro , Ozawa Katsunori , Pooh Ritusuko , Sase Masakatsu
Published: June 2023

Bone dysplasias are individually rare but collectively common. The prenatal diagnosis of bone dysplasias, especially perinatally lethal dysplasias, is of major interest to obstetric services. The current nosology of genetic skeletal disorders addresses over 400 disorders. However, in clinical practice, we encounter only a limited number of disorders, such as FGFR3-related dysplasias, osteogenesis imperfecta, and type II collagenopathies. The recent development of non-invasive prenatal genetic testing using cell-free fetal DNA in maternal blood samples has had a major impact on the prenatal diagnosis of genetic diseases. However, imaging examinations remain critical for the final diagnosis of bone dysplasias because molecular testing only shows genetic variants, and not their pathogenicity – most variants are clinically insignificant. Bone dysplasias are typically suspected when limb shortening is identified by screening ultrasound. Further assessment can be followed by more detailed ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and CT. Based on these data, rational decision-making is feasible, even when the definitive prenatal diagnosis is not feasible. Here, we highlight key images of common bone dysplasias obtained by currently available modalities.
The identification of high-performing antibodies for RNA-binding protein TIA1 for use in Western Blot, immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence
Authors: Fotouhi Maryam , Worrall Donovan , Ayoubi Riham , Southern Kathleen , McPherson Peter S. , Laflamme Carl ,   NeuroSGC/YCharOS/EDDU collaborative group,   ABIF Consortium
Published: June 2023

A member of the RNA-binding protein family, T-cell intracellular antigen-1 (TIA1) regulates mRNA translation and splicing as well as cellular stress by promoting stress granule formation. Variants of the TIA1 gene have implications in neurogenerative disorders including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Reproducible research on TIA1 would be enhanced with the availability of high-quality anti-TIA1 antibodies. In this study, we characterized twelve TIA1 commercial antibodies for Western Blot, immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence using a standardized experimental protocol based on comparing read-outs in knockout cell lines and isogenic parental controls. We identified many high-performing antibodies and encourage readers to use this report as a guide to select the most appropriate antibody for their specific needs.
Assessment of non-communicable diseases screening practices among university lecturers in Ghana – a cross sectional single centre study
Authors: Brenyah Joseph Kwasi , Kyei-Dompim Joan , Koranteng Tannor Elliot , Twum Peter , Boakye Okyere Portia , Gyapong-Korsah Barbara , Brenyah Florence , Agyare Christian
Published: June 2023

Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a major cause of morbidity and mortality globally. In low-income settings, some NCDs are without symptoms so regular screening for early detection is key. However, routine screening for NCDs is limited in the general public and even among the elite. We therefore set out to assess health screening practices among lecturers in a university in Ghana.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional study involving 205 lecturers in Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology from February to August 2022. A questionnaire was used to gather data from both male and female university lecturers based on their self-reported declaration of being male or female. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results: We found that, 41 (20.0%) lecturers (both men and women) had never checked their blood pressure (BP), 140 (68.3%) check their BP twice a month and 24 (11.7%) do so more than 3 times a month. Overall, 105 (57.18%) lecturers have high BP (>120 mmHg, >80 mmHg). Among the lecturers with hypertension, 59 (50.9%) often checked their BP each month, whereas 22 (18.97%) did not. The study found that, 164 (80%) of the lecturers have never checked their blood sugar level since they assumed lectureship position. Among the lecturers who check their blood sugar, 78 (47.55) are not happy with their blood sugar levels. Lecturer’s age (40 to 49 years) was found to be associated with BP in the bivariate analysis (p=0.036), but not in the multivariate analysis (p=0.114). In the bivariate analyses, female lecturers were found to have a higher risk (OR 1.35; 95% CI 0.29-6.21) of developing hypertension compared to male lecturers.

Conclusions: The study has revealed that lecturers, just like the general population have moderate health care checks. The need to setup occupational health therapy units in all universities is overdue.
Quality of life among patients with chronic heart failure in Nam Dinh Province, Vietnam
Authors: Ngo Hoang Huy , Tran Ly Thi Hai , Nguyen Nguyet Thi , Mai Anh Thi Lan
Published: June 2023

Background: This study aimed to assess the quality of life of patients with chronic heart failure (HF) to improve their treatment and care.

Methods: This study was conducted to evaluate the quality of life of 89 patients suffering from chronic heart failure and was assessed using the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ). In addition, the presence of depressive symptoms and perception of social support were also assessed by the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS).

Results: Of the 89 HF patients, 53.9% were female and 46.1% were male. The mean age of 89 patients was 62.28±13.26 years old, of which 64% were 60 years old and older. The mean time that patients lived with HF was 8.49±4.59 years. The overall Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire mean score was high at 67.19±13.31 points. Regarding personal characteristics, the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire scores were significantly higher in women vs men, widowed/divorced vs being married patients, and patients living alone vs living with family detailed (67.52±11.80 vs 66.80±15.02; p=0.032), (67.58±11.62 vs 65.27±20.11; p=0.000), and (73.3±14.95 vs 66.50±13.04; p=0.014), respectively. Regarding heart failure associated features, the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire scores were significantly higher in patients living with longer heart failure, in more severity of Beck Depression Inventory-II, and lower levels of social support (all p-values of 0.000).

Conclusions: The results of the study showed a poor quality of life in patients with chronic heart failure and raised concerns about improving the patients’ quality of life.
The concept of melodic progression (Seyir) in Persian classical music
Authors: Sanayei Sina
Published: June 2023

Melodic progression is one of the most essential elements of the “Mode” definition in Iranian and Arabic-Turkish music. There is a distinctive manifestation of this concept in Persian classical music due to the distinctive features of Dastgāh. This article aims to trace some continuities in the concept of melodic progression, reaching from the earliest medieval treatises, through the Safavid period, and into the modern era, when the Dastgāh became dominant. In this musical system the concept of melodic progression has recently been termed Seyir-e Naghmegi, where Seyir is used as an acronym for that concept. The purpose of this study is to explore the role and position of Seyir within the Dastgāhi system. So this study’s problems are: Due to the multi-layered structure of the Dastgāh, how many levels is the concept of Seyir defined? How are the different levels of the Seyir concept related to each other? The recent reports on Seyir in the literature on the subject, from the micro to macro levels, have been discussed separately. Thus, the purpose of the study was to come to a conclusion by describing different repertoire narrations and deductive reasoning in order to draw a conclusion. Using a descriptive-analytic approach, the article collected written information as library studies and discussed it. Manuscripts and treatises are also studied using the historical method. According to this study, the Seyir concept appears at three levels, each of which is independent, coherent, and contiguous. According to the article, the following three levels have been identified: Micro level: Gūsheh, Middle level: Āvāz, Macro level: Dastgāh. This study demonstrates that Seyir, as an abstract concept in a modal structure, does not define “melody” in any exact sense, thus forcing the melody to conform to the exact expression of the mode. The concept of Seyir in a Dastgāhi system, as a framework that is closed in the dimensions of seven Dastgāh-hā and five or with a grace of six Āvāz-hā, offers the possibility of endogenizing new modes on previously used platforms within the system. While the use of different permutations of the tetrachords and pentachords gives “98 Circles” the concept of Seyir can create infinite modes. In short, the Seyir in its general and common sense in the Iranian and Arabic-Turkish field refers to a set of modal aesthetic criteria that provides the basis for transforming mode into a definite and tangible form. As Seyir progresses from abstraction (sound scale) to determination (melody), it incorporates concepts such as melodic figures. In this regard, Seyir’s ability to organize new modes on a mutual scale with existing modes is expanded.
MODELAGEM DA CURVA DE RETENÇÃO DE SOLOS ARENO ARGILOSOS UTILIZANDO DADOS SECUNDÁRIOS DA LITERATURA
Authors: Matias Dias Maike , Riseuda Pereira de Sousa
Published: June 2023

A curva de retenção do solo é uma função característica necessária para a resolução de problemas geotécnicos relacionados com fluxo em solos não saturados. Estudo de processos no solo como: infiltração, drenagem, movimento de soluto e disponibilidade de água para as plantas são exemplos de estudo que requisitam o conhecimento da curva de retenção por se tratar de uma ferramenta conceitual que permite interpretar o comportamento de solos não saturados a partir de mudanças na sucção.
Fast diffraction model of lithography mask based on improved pixel-to-pixel generative adversarial network
Authors: Zhang Junbi , Ma Xu
Published: June 2023

Mask three-dimensional (3D) effect is a vital influence factor of imaging performance in the advanced extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography system. However, the rigorous 3D mask diffraction model is very time-consuming and brings a great computational burden. This paper develops a fast and accurate method to calculate the mask diffraction near-field (DNF) based on an improved pixel-to-pixel generative adversarial network, where the deformable convolution is introduced for fitting the crosstalk effect between mask feature edges. The long short-term memory model is added to the generator network to fuse and exchange information between the real parts and imaginary parts of DNF matrices. In addition, the simulation accuracy of DNF is enhanced by using the subpixel super-resolution method in the up-sampling step. The calculation accuracy is improved by more than 50% compared to the traditional network, and the calculational efficiency is improved by 128-folds compared to the rigorous electromagnetic field simulation method.
Generation and characterization of intense terahertz pulses from DSTMS crystal
Authors: Meng Xianze , Wang Kang , Yu Xieqiu , Ding Yingying , Zeng Yushan , Lin Ting , Feng Renyu , Li Wenkai , Liu Yi , Tian Ye , Song Liwei
Published: June 2023

Matter manipulation in terahertz range calls for a strong-field broadband light source. Here, we present a scheme for intense terahertz generation from DSTMS crystal driven by a high power optical parametric chirped pulse amplifier. The generated terahertz energy is up to 175 µJ with a peak electric field of 17 MV/cm. The relationship between terahertz energy, conversion efficiency, and pump fluence is demonstrated. This study provides a powerful driving light source for strong-field terahertz pump-probe experimentation.
Fanout periodic poling of BaMgF4 crystals
Authors: Herr Simon J. , Tanaka Hiroki , Breunig Ingo , Bickermann Matthias , Kühnemann Frank
Published: June 2023

The angle-dependent poling properties of 0.5-mm-thick BaMgF4 (BMF) crystals are investigated by means of calligraphically poled, radially oriented domains. We present a fanout periodic poling pattern for quasi-phase matching (QPM) applications, which covers an angular spectrum of about 14°. Within this range there is no angle-dependent degradation of the domain quality. This is the first realization of non-parallel domains for QPM in BMF-crystals.
A multi-level analysis of prevalence and factors associated with caesarean section in Nigeria
Authors: Ajayi Kobi V. , Olowolaju Samson , Wada Yusuf H. , Panjwani Sonya , Ahinkorah Bright , Seidu Abdul-Aziz , Adu Collins , Tunji-Adepoju Olajumoke , Bolarinwa Obasanjo Afolabi
Published: June 2023

The choice of caesarean section (CS) plays a significant role in maternal and neonatal health. However, suboptimal CS uptake suggests unmet obstetric care leading to adverse maternal and neonatal health. Considering that maternal health problems in Nigeria remain a public health problem, this present study aims to assess the prevalence and multilevel factors associated with caesarean section among women of reproductive age in Nigeria. Data from the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey were analysed. Our analyses included 19,964 women of reproductive age, with their last birth within five years preceding the survey. Multilevel logistic regression analysis was carried out to examine the predictors of the caesarean section in Nigeria. The prevalence of CS among women of reproductive age in Nigeria was 3.11%. Women from the Yoruba ethnic group [aOR = 0.52; 95%(CI = (0.32–0.84)], with two children [aOR = 0.67; 95%(CI = 0.52–0.88)], three children [aOR = 0.49; 95%(CI = 0.36–0.66)], four children and above [aOR = 0.34; 95%(CI = 0.26–0.46)], those who practised Islam [aOR = 0.74; 95%(CI = (0.56–0.99)], and those that had a normal weighted baby [aOR = 0.73; 95%(CI = 0.60–0.99)] were less likely to report having a CS in Nigeria compared to those from Hausa/Fulani ethnic group, those who had one child, those who practised Christianity, and those who had a high weighted baby. Also, women residing in rural areas [aOR = 0.79; 95% (CI = (0.63–0.99)] and the South-South [aOR = 0.65; 95%(CI = (0.46–0.92)] were less likely to have CS compared to those residing in urban areas and North Central. The study concluded that several individual and community-level factors, such as religious belief, number of children, ethnicity, place of residence, and region of residence, were associated with CS utilisation in Nigeria. Our study highlights the need for different regional, local, and cultural contexts for evidence-based policy and programmatic efforts to facilitate equitable access to a caesarean section in Nigeria.
Schistosoma mansoni egg-derived thioredoxin and Sm14 drive the development of IL-10 producing regulatory B cells
Authors: Chayé Mathilde A. M. , Gasan Thomas A. , Ozir-Fazalalikhan Arifa , Scheenstra Maaike R. , Zawistowska-Deniziak Anna , van Hengel Oscar R. J. , Gentenaar Max , Manurung Mikhael D. , Harvey Michael R. , Codée Jeroen D. C. , Chiodo Fabrizio , Heijke Anouk M. , Kalinowska Alicja , van Diepen Angela , Hensbergen Paul J. , Yazdanbakhsh Maria , Guigas Bruno , Hokke Cornelis H. , Smits Hermelijn H.
Published: June 2023

During chronic schistosome infections, a complex regulatory network is induced to regulate the host immune system, in which IL-10-producing regulatory B (Breg) cells play a significant role. Schistosoma mansoni soluble egg antigens (SEA) are bound and internalized by B cells and induce both human and mouse IL-10 producing Breg cells. To identify Breg-inducing proteins in SEA, we fractionated SEA by size exclusion chromatography and found 6 fractions able to induce IL-10 production by B cells (out of 18) in the high, medium and low molecular weight (MW) range. The high MW fractions were rich in heavily glycosylated molecules, including multi-fucosylated proteins. Using SEA glycoproteins purified by affinity chromatography and synthetic glycans coupled to gold nanoparticles, we investigated the role of these glycan structures in inducing IL-10 production by B cells. Then, we performed proteomics analysis on active low MW fractions and identified a number of proteins with putative immunomodulatory properties, notably thioredoxin (SmTrx1) and the fatty acid binding protein Sm14. Subsequent splenic murine B cell stimulations and hock immunizations with recombinant SmTrx1 and Sm14 showed their ability to dose-dependently induce IL-10 production by B cells both in vitro and in vivo. Identification of unique Breg cells-inducing molecules may pave the way to innovative therapeutic strategies for inflammatory and auto-immune diseases.
Common predators and factors influencing their abundance in Anopheles funestus aquatic habitats in rural south-eastern Tanzania
Authors: Mahenge Herieth H. , Muyaga Letus L. , Nkya Joel D. , Kifungo Khamis S. , Kahamba Najat F. , Ngowo Halfan S. , Kaindoa Emmanuel W.
Published: June 2023

Background

The role of larval predators in regulating the Anopheles funestus population in various malaria-endemic countries remains relatively unknown. This study aimed to investigate the common predators that co-exist with Anopheles funestus group larvae and evaluate factors that influence their abundance in rural south-eastern Tanzania.

Methods

Mosquito larvae and predators were sampled concurrently using standard dipper (350 ml) or 10 L bucket in previously identified aquatic habitats in selected villages in southern Tanzania. Predators and mosquito larvae were identified using standard identification keys. All positive habitats were geo-located and their physical features characterized. Water physicochemical parameters such as dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS) and temperature were also recorded.

Results

A total of 85 previously identified An. funestus aquatic habitats in nine villages were sampled for larvae and potential predators. A total of 8,295 predators were sampled. Of these Coenagrionidae 57.7% (n = 4785), Corixidae 12.8% (n = 1,060), Notonectidae 9.9% (n = 822), Aeshnidae 4.9% (n = 405), Amphibian 4.5% (n = 370), Dytiscidae 3.8% (n = 313) were common. A total of 5,260 mosquito larvae were sampled, whereby Anopheles funestus group were 60.3% (n = 3,170), Culex spp. 24.3% (n = 1,279), An. gambie s.l. 8.3% (n = 438) and other anophelines 7.1% (n = 373). Permanent and aquatic habitats larger than 100m2 were positively associated with An. funestus group larvae (P<0.05) and predator abundance (P<0.05). Habitats with submerged vegetation were negatively associated with An. funestus group larvae (P<0.05). Only dissolved oxygen (DO) was positively and significantly affect the abundance of An. funestus group larvae (P<0.05). While predators’ abundance was not impacted by all physicochemical parameters.

Conclusion

Six potential predator families were common in aquatic habitats of An. funestus group larvae. Additional studies are needed to demonstrate the efficacy of different predators on larval density and adult fitness traits. Interventions leveraging the interaction between mosquitoes and predators can be established to disrupt the transmission potential and survival of the An. funestus mosquitoes.
ИНСТИТУТ ГРАЖДАНСКОЙ ДЕЕСПОСОБНОСТИ НЕСОВЕРШЕННОЛЕТНИХ И ПРАКТИКА ЕГО ПРИМЕНЕНИЯ
Authors: Voronina S.V. , Sadykova J.E.
Published: June 2023

The Institute of Civil Capacity of Minors is a long-standing subject of scientific knowledge. Eachnew stage of social development affects the definition by national legislation of the legal status of minorparticipants in civil turnover, expressed in the general norms of the Civil Code on individuals. The institution of the legal capacity of minors at the present stage of development has undergone, although not significant,transformations. A certain stage of the economic, social and legal development of modern society contributedto the legislative consolidation of the institute of emancipation, the right to engage in entrepreneurial activity,the right of minors to be members of cooperatives, previously unknown to the Russian legal order. Rapidevolution obliges to improve the legal infrastructure designed to provide adequate legal opportunities forminors to the dictates of time.
CITIZENSHIP AS AN ELEMENT OF THE CONSTITUTIONAL AND LEGAL STATUS OF A PERSON AND A CITIZEN IN THE DONETSK PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC AND THE LUHANSK PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC
Authors: Kanakova A.E.
Published: June 2023

One of the inalienable features of the state is citizenship, since the existence of the state cannot beensured solely through the constitutional consolidation of the general characteristics of the state and society.It is the presence of persons who have a stable legal connection with the state that ensures the real functioningof public authorities and civil society, turning them from legal structures into functioning legal institutions.In 2014, the Lugansk People's Republic and the Donetsk People's Republic adopted Declarations of Sovereignty,the purpose of which was to mark the moment of formation of states separate from Ukraine. Consequently,the formation of new states predetermines the raising of the question of the status of persons living in theterritories of the Lugansk People's Republic and the Donetsk People's Republic, and their citizenship. Theconstitutional and legal status of the relevant persons was transformed following a qualitative and (or)quantitative change in their citizenship, which entailed not only a different scope of rights, freedoms andduties of a particular individual, but also the content of the principles of the constitutional and legal statusof an individual, on which the essential filling the position of the individual in society.
QUOTA AS A LEGAL TOOL FOR IMPROVING THE EFFICIENCY OF THE EDUCATION SYSTEM
Authors: Nefedova E.V.
Published: June 2023

The author examines the provisions of the current regulatory legal acts of the Russian Federation,guiding (strategic) documents defining the directions of legal policy to improve the effectiveness of theeducation system. The hypothesis is put forward that one of the legal instruments to stimulate interestin specific areas of training, as well as to equalize the needs of the labor market, is the institute of quotas.Referring to the various points of view of scientists on the functional purpose of quotas, their practicalimplementation in the conditions of modern state-legal laws, the author puts forward a provision on thepossibility of perceiving quotas as an independent legal means aimed at regulating public relations. Applyinga variety of means and methods of cognition, among which a special role was assigned to the dialecticalmethod, as well as with the help of comparative legal, formal legal methods, the conclusions are argued,specifying the doctrine of the means of legal regulation, legal advantages, incentives and restrictions in law,aimed, inter alia, at improving the effectiveness of the education system.
ON UNDERSTANDING CONTINGENCY IN THE QUALIFICATION OF VIOLENT CRIMES
Authors: Tydykova N.V.
Published: June 2023

The article analyzes the practice of interpreting the term «contingency», which is used by the legislatorin the constructions of articles 105, 131 and 132 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation. It is notedthat there is no legal definition of this concept, and law enforcement has not developed common approaches.Possible variants of understanding this term in the compositions of rape and violent acts of a sexual natureare being explored. It is proved that for the purposes of qualifying these crimes, it is impossible to use theapproaches that have developed in the practice of qualifying murders, both because of their inconsistencyand because of the significant differences between these crimes. It is noted that at present there are no initialgrounds for determining the nature of the connection between rape or sexual assault and other grave orespecially grave crimes against a person, which would determine the contingency of these crimes. A numberof qualifying issues have been identified that require resolution in order to form a uniform law enforcementpractice: the impact of the time gap between crimes and the procedure for their commission on qualificationon the basis of their conjugation, the possibility of qualifying as crimes conjugated to each other, providedfor by Art. 131 and 132 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation.
ОБЗОР ЗАКОНОВ О НОРМАТИВНО-ПРАВОВЫХ АКТАХ СТРАН СНГ
Authors: Sorokin V.V. , Ibragimov Z.I.
Published: June 2023

The operation of the law on regulatory legal acts in those countries where it has been adopted is aimedat streamlining the system of regulatory legal acts and resolving related issues, from designing to evaluatingthe effectiveness of the impact of the act on public relations. The laws under consideration actualize the legalregulation of public relations, taking into account changes in supranational regulation of relations in thecontext of Eurasian regional integration, prospects for further harmonization of the legislation of the EAEUmember states, as well as the CIS member states.
Sajátos szegmensek meghatározása a szabadidős kerékpározók körében
Authors: Bundság Éva Szabina
Published: June 2023

Az utóbbi években a kerékpározás közkedvelt tevékenységgé vált, a kerékpáros turizmus fellendült, a kerékpárok iránti kereslet emelkedik és a piac egyre erősebben bővül. Jelen kutatás a kerékpáros populáció szegmentált megközelítésére fókuszál, és célja, hogy sajátos szegmenseket azonosítson a szabadidős kerékpározók körében. A kutatás eredményei alapján a szegmentálás a kerékpározók körében is értelmet nyer, hiszen jól körülhatárolható, sajátos tulajdonságokkal, motivációkkal és szokásokkal rendelkező csoportok különíthetők el. A kérdőíves megkérdezés alapján, ami 246 kitöltő válaszát tartalmazza, 4 kerékpáros szegmens azonosítható, melyeknél tudatosság, felkészültség, közösségi aktivitás, rendezvénylátogatás, valamint preferenciák tekintetében mutatkoznak különbségek. Az eredmények gyakorlati szempontból is relevánsak, hiszen a szegmensek jellemzőire alapozva hatékonyabban lehet a kerékpározókat elérni, megszólítani és személyre szabott ajánlatot kínálni számukra.
A magyar turisztikai térségekbe tervezett DMSZ-modell és a TDM-modell összehasonlító elemzése
Authors: Nagy Gabriella , Mókusné Pálfi Andrea , Aubert Albert
Published: June 2023

Magyarország Kormánya 2020 végén helyezte hatályba a turisztikai térségek meghatározásáról szóló 429/2020. (IX. 14.) kormányrendeletet. A rendelet egy új turisztikai intézményrendszer kialakítását vetíti elő, ami – a desztinációs logikát követve – több hasonlóságot mutat a korábban már aktívan működő turisztikai desztinációmenedzsment (TDM) rendszerrel (NTS 2005). A desztinációmenedzsment szervezetekből (DMSZ) álló új ágazatirányítási szint szervezeti modelljét a Nemzeti Turizmusfejlesztési Stratégia 2030 – Turizmus 2.0 (NTS 2021) tartalmazza. A kutatás elsősorban a 2020-ban kijelölt turisztikai térségek (429/2020. (IX. 14)) földrajzi határait veti össze a korábban kiépített TDM-rendszer működési területével, majd értékeli a két rendszer alapvető hasonlóságait és eltéréseit a szervezeti modell, a feladatellátás és a finanszírozás szintjén primer adatgyűjtés és az NTS 2021 tartalomelemzése alapján.
Coliving – mcdisneyfikáció a turizmusban
Authors: Bencze Máté , Gyurákovics Bernadett
Published: June 2023

Az átalakulóban lévő foglalkoztatási struktúrák, megoldások, az egyre bővülő lehetőségek hatással vannak a munkavégzés módjára, térbeli és időbeli megszervezésére. A munkavégzés helye rugalmasabbá vált, és a technológiai fejlődésnek köszönhetően szélesedik az a réteg, akik megválaszthatják, hogy hol töltik munkaidejüket. Jelen tanulmány bemutatja, hogy a távmunkában dolgozó munkavállalók milyen feltételek mellett próbálnának ki egy olyan szolgáltatást, ahol a munkahetüket egy turisztikai desztinációban, közösségi térben tölthetnék el. Az eredményeink útmutatóként szolgálhatnak szállodatulajdonosok, -üzemeltetetők számára, azzal, hogy irányt szabnak, hogyan bővíthetik a szolgáltatásaik körét és javíthatják a minőségét. A megváltozott körülményekhez és igényekhez alkalmazkodva újfajta megoldást kínál a munkavállalók számára a munka–magánélet egyensúly problematikájának kezelésére.
Effect of duration of mycelia fragmentation and concentration on virulence of Mycosphaerella fijiensis in banana
Authors: Kumakech Alfred , Edema Richard , Okori Patrick
Published: June 2023

Mycelia from 3 isolates of Mycosphaerella fijiensis (Mak 01, Mak 02 and Kaw 10) were fragmented for 3 and 1 minutes, and tested at 5 mg mL-1, 10 mg mL-1 and 15 mg mL-1 for virulence in the screen house. Disease severity was found to depend on the level of fragmentation and concentration. Inoculation of Gros Michel plantlets with mycelia fragmented for 3 minutes resulted in significantly higher levels of disease severity (AUDPC) than fragmentation for 1 minute for all the isolates. For both times of fragmentation, AUDPC increased with concentration. The highest and lowest AUDPCs for both times of fragmentation were achieved with concentrations of 15 and 5 mg mL-1, respectively. Overall, all the three isolates demonstrated high levels of virulence, with Mak 01 causing the highest severity (AUDPC - 98.5) when compared to Mak 02 (AUDPC - 93.5) and Kaw 10 (AUDPC - 92.2) for 3-minute fragmentation and concentration of 15 mg mL-1. Collectively, our data demonstrate that a potent inoculum of Mycosphaerella fijiensis for in vitro studies can be reliably prepared by fragmenting weighed mycelia in a blender.
E-commerce and Online Dispute Resolution in Hong Kong
Authors: Lin Yang
Published: June 2023

This article critically examines the development of online dispute resolution (ODR) in Hong Kong, focusing on the Electronic Business Related Arbitration and Mediation System International Online Dispute Resolution Centre Limited (eBRAM). As an independent, not-for-profit organization, eBRAM offers a platform for resolving disputes among micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). The article explores eBRAM’s potential impact on local MSMEs and legal professionals, Hong Kong’s position as an international business hub, and its complementarity with existing dispute resolution providers.

Keywords: ODR; eBram; LawTech; Hong Kong.
Tikanga and the Law Wānanga
Authors: Doogan Judge Michael
Published: June 2023

Tikanga Māori is increasingly influencing the law of New Zealand, in every jurisdiction. The Environment Court is becoming more concerned with issues which necessitate knowledge of different tikanga Māori, matauranga Māori and Te Reo Māori. The following is a discussion on how tikanga affects the incorporation of Treaty of Waitangi and Māori concepts in the Resource Management Act 1991. It then moves to how and to what extent the Environment Court can consider relational and mana whenua issues. And lastly, Judge Doogan gives insights from a Māori Land Court, Waitangi Tribunal and Environment Court judge for practitioners on understanding tikanga issues and working with Māori collectives.

Keywords: Environment Court; Māori Land Court; Waitangi Tribunal; Resource Management Act 1991; Lex Aotearoa; Te Reo; tikanga; mātauranga; mana whenua; procedure; advocacy.
Ethnobotanical Survey on the Plants Used in the Control of Nematodes in the Zone of Niayes of Thies/Senegal
Authors: Diouf El Hadji Gorgui , Diop Doudou , Gueye Abdoulaye , Ndior Talibouya , Ndour Mamadou Latyr , Faye Adama , Kébé Mamadou
Published: June 2023

Crop losses in vegetable crops due to nematodes are a concern in a country like Senegal where food demand is increasingly high. The use of chemical pesticides has made great progress in increasing harvests in Senegal. But these pesticides have negative effects on the environment and on human health. Crops are often contaminated as well as groundwater. The use of natural products to remedy this phenomenon is very important, especially in areas such as the Niayes zone where the climate and soil are very favorable for market gardening and where water contamination is very sensitive. The aim of our study is to identify the plants used to control nematodes in the Niayes area of Thiès. To this end, we conducted an ethnobotanical survey of 100 people of different ages and sexes in this area. The results showed 17 plant species used to control nematodes in 12 families. Among these species, the most cited were Azadirachta indica A. Juss. Juss, Calotropis procera (Ait.) F. and Cassia Occidentalis L. Leaves (71%) are mostly used. The sample is often dried and ground (45%) or fresh (case of hydrodistillation) (53%) before preparation. Water (92%) is the most used solvent for extraction. Maceration (85%) and infusion are the most common preparation methods. The application of these preparations by systemic action (94%) is more adopted than fumigation. Local people find these preparations rather effective (78%), which is very encouraging. The present study constitutes a database for further studies in the field of Senegalese pharmacopeia. In addition, scientific research on bionematicidal substances may be conducted in the future to evaluate the effectiveness of these plants identified in the Niayes area of Thiès for the protection of vegetable crops against nematodes.
Combined Anthocleista vogelii and Alstonia boonei Stem Barks Extract Alleviates Hyperlipidaemia and Renal Malfunctions in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia-Induced Rats
Authors: Uroko Robert Ikechukwu , Uche Mercylyn Ezinne , Nweje-Anyalowu Paul Chukwuemaka , Obiwuru Ikenna , Aguwamba Chinedu , Aaron Chinomso Friday
Published: June 2023

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a urological disease prevalent among the ageing male population, which impairs the quality of life, including hyperlipidaemia and a decline in renal functions. Combining Anthocleista vogelii and Alstonia boonei stem bark extract has effectively managed BPH and its associated complications. This study evaluated the effects of a combined Anthocleista vogelii and Alstonia boonei stem bark extract (CAASBE) on the lipid profile and renal functions of rats induced benign prostatic hyperplasia with testosterone propionate injection. The study comprised five treatment groups, with groups 1 – 5 being the normal control, BPH control, standard control, BPH+200 mg/kg CAASBE, and BPH+400 mg/kg CAASBE, respectively. BPH was induced in the groups 2 – 4 rats by subcutaneous administration of testosterone propionate injection (5 mg/kg) for 28 days, and treatment with Finasteride and CAASBE were administered orally. The BPH control rats exhibited a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the total serum cholesterol, triacylglycerol (TAG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), urea, creatinine and significant (p < 0.05) decline in the serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) compared to the normal control. Conversely, treatment of the BPH rats with 200 and 400 mg/kg of CAASBE significantly (p < 0.05) reversed the altered total serum cholesterol, TAG, LDL-C, HDL-C, urea and creatinine to normal levels comparable to that of the normal control and standard control respectively. These findings show that CAASBE alleviates hyperlipidaemia and renal malfunctions in the BPH rats suggesting it could be effective in managing BPH complication.
Perceived Organizational Support and Job Embeddedness in Startup Employees
Authors: Khusna Faridatul , Suseno Miftahun Ni'mah
Published: June 2023

Job embeddedness has proven to have an effect on the effectiveness and productivity of companies, including startups. Employees who have job embeddedness in their work tend to feel more attached to colleagues, work and the organization and express attachment by maintaining organizational membership in the workplace.This study analyzes the perceived organizational support and job embeddedness. The subjects in this study were 105 employees at a startup company in Yogyakarta. Sampling using random sampling technique. Data were collected job embeddedness scale and perceived organizational support scale. The data analysis method uses correlation techniques and the results, there is a positive relationship between perceived organizational support and job embeddedness in startup employees. One way that companies can use to improve job embeddedness is to provide positive support for employees. The perception of organizational support has an important role in increasing employee job embeddedness.Keterikatan kerja terbukti berpengaruh pada efektifitas dan produktifitas perusahaan, termasuk startup. Karyawan yang memiliki job embeddedness dalam pekerjaan cenderung merasa lebih melekat pada kolega, pekerjaan dan organisasi dan mengekspresikan keterikatan dengan mempertahankan keanggotaan organisasi di tempat kerja. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui hubungan persepsi dukungan organisasi dengan keterikatan kerja. Subjek dalam penelitian ini sejumlah 105 karyawan di salah satu perusahaan startup di Yogyakarta. Pengambilan sampel menggunakan teknik random sampling. Pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan dua alat ukur, yaitu skala keterikatan kerja dan skala persepsi dukungan organisasi. Metode analisis data menggunakan teknik korelasi dan hasil analisis menunjukkan terdapat hubungan positif antara persepsi dukungan dengan job embeddedness pada karyawan startup. Salah satu cara yang dapat digunakan oleh perusahaan untuk meningkatkan job embeddednes adalah memberikan dukungan positif terhadap karyawan. Hal ini menunjukkan bahwa persepsi dukungan organisasi memiliki peranan penting dalam meningkatkan Keterikatan kerja pada karyawan.