bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transformation and Acceptance of Learning Management Systems in HEI
Authors: KAUR ASHNEET , Wadhawan Seema , Gupta Himani
Published: September 2022

The current pandemic has brought vital transformation in the education sector. The shift from traditional smart class systems to the online virtual mode is a significant change in the education sector all over the world. Introduction of LMS in the higher educational institutes has not only spanned the gap created due to lack of physical presence but has also brought revolutionary change in the dedicated students approach towards the learning system. The chapter focuses on the growth trajectory of the LMS and aims to discuss the desire of students to use LMS over traditional methods. Perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness combined with perceived enjoyment influence students' intentions to use the learning management system (LMS), which lastly affects the academic performance of students.
AI and Over-the-Top (OTT)
Authors: Rani Madhu , Shagun  , Gupta Manisha
Published: September 2022

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a field of study that focuses on the development and theory of computer systems that are capable of doing tasks that would normally need the intelligence of humans. Language translation, decision-making, and speech recognition are only a few of the tasks that, in general, need the use of a human brain to be performed properly. In the context of content delivery, an OTT platform (also known as over the top) is a platform that does not provide video via traditional cable or receivers. Video and audio distribution via the internet without the involvement of a multiple system operator (MSO) is referred to as online video and audio distribution. When it comes to the administration and transmission of information, there are several options. Viewers are able to access it from any place at any time and save it for later viewing convenience.
Quantum and Blockchain for Computing Paradigms Vision and Advancements
Authors: Gupta Neha
Published: September 2022

Blockchain and quantum technology breakthroughs are currently being debated publicly across a variety of forums. There are numerous applications and capabilities that can provide transparent, redundant, secure, accountable environments thanks to these technologies. To ensure resource-dependent high security requirements, certain cryptographic primitives and protocols can be used effectively. Quantum proofs, safe quantum solutions, and anti-quantum systems will assess any system for quantum attacks and create a secure quantum computing system. Therefore, this work intends to encourage experts from different fields to provide technology-integrated solutions that combine cost-effective and quality service, quickly, securely, and meet requirements. Researchers will be encouraged to provide helpful overviews and guidance in dealing with real-time applications from post-quantum technologies.
Great Houses of Ile-Ife Nigeria
Authors: Okpako John Rhemute
Published: September 2022

The concept of great houses varies from culture to culture. While there might not be a precise definition for great houses, it can generally be accepted that great houses are associated with the rich and influential members of a society or those who have inherited them. Buildings, like any other cultural artifact, form a part of human heritage. Their importance transcends the provision of shelter. In Nigeria and Ile-Ife, in particular, a town believed to be the ancestral home of the Yoruba speaking people, such great houses have been generally associated with royal families and the elite and their descendants who have inherited those houses.
Modelling Complexity
Authors: Kitchley Jinu Louishidha , Sankaralingom Elangovan
Published: September 2022

Real-world problems are often multidimensional and complex; these parameters invariably include ‘n' number of context specific modulations and additions. Aiming for a holistic integrated framework for a sustainable design adds to the complexity of the design process further. To achieve such a complex goal, it is imperative that a model describing the process is evolved before attempting to solve it by computational design. This chapter looks into the process of modeling such a process. The chapter used the circles of sustainability concept which has derived a model to depict the sustainability, resilience, adaptability, and livability of the cities. This chapter has elaborated the model and has included the other three circles (i.e., the process circle, the engagement circle, and the knowledge circle) and the dynamics between them as a diagrammatic representation. Such a framework is intended to be a palette from which a far more integrated and holistic process of approaching the complex problem could be delivered.
The Influence of External Spaces Building Performance Towards Learners' Thermal Comfort in Taylor's University's Lakeside Campus
Authors: Kam Kenn Jhun , Lim Tze Shwan , Tan Ee Hang , Soon Lam Tatt , Kamarazaly Myzatul Aishah
Published: September 2022

The rapid expansion of urbanization resulted in the necessity of providing more spaces. Due to the insufficient internal spaces, external spaces were used to complement the functionality of spaces on the university campus. However, thermal comfort in the external spaces was much more difficult to control as compared to internal spaces. Thus, it was crucial to identify the parameters affecting thermal comfort. This study presented a fieldwork measurement and personal satisfaction survey to evaluate the microclimate characteristic of the external space as well as the satisfaction of occupants. Findings revealed there was a high level of thermal discomfort in the study spaces that encountered a strong impact from the parametric thermal environment. Hence, the recommendation to take thermal comfort into consideration during the design stage was proposed. The study concluded that a well-performed building would have a great level of thermal comfort and as a result, high frequency and satisfaction of usage of spaces could be achieved.
Sustainability as a Primary Interior Architectural Design Parameter
Authors: Çelik Ceren , Garip Ervin
Published: September 2022

Today, due to the rapid growth of urbanization, sustainability has become an indispensable requirement. Sustainable urban strategies have the potential to integrate the use of sustainability in interior architecture. This chapter examines the potentials of using sustainability as the primary design parameter in interior design. Based on these concepts, an interior design studio was examined. This interior design studio exists as a part of Istanbul Technical University Department of Interior Architecture Program. The university's campus is one of the top 40 green campuses in Europe. Starting from the green campus perspective of Istanbul Technical University, the studio aims to bring a sustainable approach to campus interiors. The studio is a tool to discuss the potentials of accepting sustainability as the primary design parameter in interior design. This approach presents sustainability as a defining factor for the interiors, while also broadening the perspective for when issues of sustainability help create unique characteristics for the interior atmosphere.
Building Performance Comparative Study
Authors: Lim Tze Shwan , Kam Kenn Jhun , Wong Chee Khang , Soon Lam Tatt , Kamarazaly Myzatul Aishah
Published: September 2022

It has been argued that the “green” building has a better indoor environment quality than the conventional building. This concern for the poor indoor environment quality of the building will cause symptoms of “sick building syndrome” and will affect the health of occupants. In addition, energy efficiency is fundamental to attain sustainability in green buildings. But there is no evidence directly showing us that a green building is more comfortable and satisfactory than a conventional building. This research determines the difference in indoor environment quality (IEQ) of both buildings through finding out the parameters of IEQ and testing the occupants' perception and satisfaction. A green building and a conventional building will be targeted, and a list of questionnaires will be given to the occupants to obtain their perception and their satisfaction level. The responses from the occupants of the different buildings will be compared to look into the difference.
Energy Transition Landscape
Authors: M Ezhil Prabhu , Rajendran Kumareswari
Published: September 2022

The research is motivated by the need to develop energy transition landscapes – landscapes that are well adapted to renewable energy and to implement energy conscious landscape planning in large-scale industrial sites. The fossil fuel economy affects climate change, loss of biodiversity, environmental pollution, social inequity, and unhealthy living conditions. These effects, combined with growing concerns about energy security drive the transition to renewable. The aim of the research is to address the environmental degradation that is happening due to the impact of industrialization. As a case industrial scenario, Tamilnadu state has been taken and explained. This research is about sustainable development and not only about renewable energy provision. The integrative concept of “sustainable energy landscapes” is the arena where landscape architecture and other disciplines meet to pursue global sustainability goals.
VR/AR Technology Adoption in Architecture Education
Authors: Kusumo Camelia , Poh Melvyn Ern Meng
Published: September 2022

In recent years, many architecture practices are reinventing themselves to adapt to the aspects of technological needs, such as virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR). Keeping up with the industry, architecture schools are slowly moving towards the adoption of the technology. However, it is important to note that the students' acceptance and confidence in the technology are crucial for the successful implementation of the technology. The findings demonstrated that the students perceived the technology as useful and are willing to adopt it. Therefore, the architecture school demonstration on the innovation process is crucial to have successful adoption of the VR/AR technology.
Impact of the COVID-19 Lockdown on Architecture Students' Well-Being
Authors: Mari TamilSalvi , Gunasagaran Sujatavani , Lim Wey Shan , Lee Sze-ee , Ahmad Jamal Khairool Aizat
Published: September 2022

University students' well-being has become an increasing concern in higher education. The COVID-19 lockdown situation has brought this vulnerable population into renewed focus. The study aims to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown on the well-being of university students. To address the nature of the research question, a survey instrument was used. The questionnaire design was adopted from the depression patient health questionnaire (PHQ-9) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD-7). It consists predominantly of Likert scale questions and several open-ended questions. The instrument was administered online using Google forms. A total of 142 students participated in the study by completing the survey voluntarily. The results of this study demonstrated that students who are staying with family have a higher percentage of moderate to severe anxiety and depression, as compared to participating students who are staying on their own.
Financial Investments in the Global Water Market
Authors: Reza Rajibur , Tularam Gurudeo Anand
Published: September 2022

This chapter examines the relationship between the water sector of the equity markets. It includes the world market and markets of different individual countries such as China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Germany, France, the UK, Brazil, Chile, and the US for the period 2001-2020. Investment returns and volatility of these markets are analyzed to understand investment decision-making in these water markets. The OLS and quantile regressions show that China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Germany, France, the UK, Brazil, Chile, and the US are positively related to the world market. The results confirm simultaneous interactions between the world market and the other nine markets. The ARMA (1,1)-GARCH (1,1) model shows a high degree of persistency in the conditional volatility of stock returns for these water markets which means “explosive” volatility. Moreover, the VAR analyses show that the nine markets positively and negatively affect the world market. The findings may assist the international institutions while deciding investment in water portfolios.
Social Responsibility for a Sustainable Environment
Authors: Bergant Živko
Published: September 2022

Any thinking about preserving the environment is a typical topic of socially responsible action. Today, the notion of social responsibility is abused for various political and business purposes and only left to various civil initiatives. It remains at the level of declarations, voluntary thinking, and philanthropy, albeit it has some impact on corporate practice. The chapter explains that the concept of social responsibility is not something new, as it has accompanied humanity since its inception. Adherence to the principles of social responsibility is a precondition for further successful development, not only of individual companies or countries but of human society in general. It is useful to reflect on the past development regarding the awareness of social responsibility and also the need for future consistent implementation of its principles, especially from the perspective of a sustainable environment. An important direction is to treat the earth as a stakeholder to which companies and individuals are indebted.
Renewable Energy Framework for Sustainability
Authors: Garcia Maria Jesus
Published: September 2022

Urban environments (areas in which multiple activities developed by human beings are brought together) have a strong environmental impact. Therefore, in those areas, rational use of natural resources and efficient consumption of energy must be promoted. Energy efficiency must also be accompanied by a policy of diversifying the sources used in energy production, which opens the door to the use and promotion of renewable energies. Energy efficiency consists not only measures to save and contain demand, but also requires the regulation and management of the supply of renewable energy sources. As a result, clean energy is represented by the low level of emissions into the atmosphere.
Peace Culture?
Authors: Leeper Steven Lloyd
Published: September 2022

The term peace culture is used freely in Hiroshima and around the UN but remains inadequately defined and envisioned. This chapter will examine the concept in depth. It will distinguish peace culture from the dominant war culture, explain why peace and peace culture are still such anemic ideas, offer philosophical or rational reinforcements, recommend concrete peace-culture-promoting actions, and offer a realistic, feasible peace-culture world vision. The author will defend the proposition that global graduation from the current war culture to a genuine peace culture is required to prevent human extinction before the end of this century. Thus, the primary purpose of this chapter is to encourage the immediate, nonviolent overthrow of the violent status quo.
Reflections of Violence in Music
Authors: Varış Yakup Alper
Published: September 2022

One of the ways that the violence reaches every point in our lives and becomes an aesthetic thing is music, and this aestheticization of violence reaches its peak with music. Music, which has been one of the most powerful means of expression, reflection, and healing throughout history for mankind trapped in primitive self, confronts the reality of violence on individuals and society by revealing the factors feeding the violence, creates awareness by determining the direction of violence, is considered as a phenomenon that has positive or negative effects. This study is focused on these features of music and also the relationship between music and violence within the context of aesthetics. It is aimed to examine the reflections of violence on aesthetic creation via violent musical production materials and the musical reflections of violence and related items that have been handled through various examples.
Leadership and Stakeholder Involvement in Creating a Non-Violent Early Childhood Development (ECD) School Environment in South Africa
Authors: Modise Matshediso Rebecca
Published: September 2022

This chapter seeks to consider strategies and means that early childhood development (ECD) leadership in South Africa can use to create a non-violent environment at ECD centers and in the foundation phase in primary schools. In South Africa, ECD is defined as a term indicating the procedures under which children from birth to nine years of age grow and flourish emotionally, morally, socially, physically, and spiritually. The chapter focuses on Pre-Grade 1 to Grade 3 environments. It also addresses the roles that relevant stakeholders can play in support of school leadership in the creation of a violent-free environment. The research is guided by Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory. Since early childhood is a sensitive and impressionable stage in children's lives, a living, supportive atmosphere as well as an enabling social setting is essential to ensure their complete development. This requires the involvement of all stakeholders (school governing bodies), especially members of the schools' leadership teams in considering policy.
Staging Theatrical Child-Centric Violence
Authors: Hodge Matthew
Published: September 2022

Prolific and controversial British-Irish playwright Martin McDonagh has built a prominent career on genre-bending works that combine irreverent humor and aggressive violence. His award-winning black comedy play The Pillowman, which premiered in 2003 at London's renowned National Theatre, is one of the playwright's most well-known and divisive pieces of theatre. Arguably, the play's most memorable moments involve segments reenacting original twisted fairy tale-esque stories. The majority of McDonagh's dark tales center on children characters enduring acts of violence and cruelty, ultimately concluding with disturbing endings. The Pillowman script offers few instructions in its storytelling scenes, allowing—even demanding—artistic ownership of each production's unique aesthetic approach to the unsettling material. This chapter discusses the divisiveness of McDonagh's work, his inspiration from violence in historical fairy tales, and the sensitive considerations and controversies theatre leadership teams must ponder when staging fictionalized child-centric violence.
ICTs and Domestic Violence (DV)
Authors: Olaniran Bolanle A.
Published: September 2022

The use of information communication technologies (ICTs) to empower individuals through social support, help-seeking, and help-providing activities is finding its place in healthcare delivery. ICTs, in particular, offer access to timely and relevant information that domestic violence victims and organizations can tap into. Thus, this article explores the use of ICTs for providing and facilitating support and care-giving services to victims/survivors of domestic violence with online communities and other groups.
Mass Killings Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Keenan Sheri Jenkins , Rush Jeffrey P.
Published: September 2022

Mass shootings have been of interest and concern to a variety of experts including psychologists, sociologists, criminologists, public health experts, and policy makers. Journalists have tracked mass shooting events for a long time. Recently, mass shootings in public places have dominated the national dialogue about gun violence, gun control, and Second Amendment protections due to several mass pubic shootings in recent years that resulted in double-digit victim counts. Regardless of the why, it seems clear that the ability to identify and predict this behavior as early as possible is important, for the killer as well as the community.
Analysis of Antibiotic Prescription Patterns at Community Pharmacy Outlets; A Multi-Centered Study
Authors: Bandara P. M. , Malhamiarachchige O. , Mendis P. , Weerakondaarachchi Y. D. , Weligalle P. M. , De Silva H. H. V. K. N. , Kumari S. B. H. P.
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to analyse the types of prescribed antibiotics, frequency of usage, and age-based prescription patterns in a selected population. This study was granted ethical clearance and data were collected from Kottawa, Kalubowila, and Mawanella. Prescriptions were collected from patients after obtaining informed consent. Results showed that 41% antibiotic prescriptions prescribed with penicillin, 23% with macrolides, 20% with cephalosporin, 9% with quinolones, 4% with nitroimidazoles, and 3% with tetracycline. Clavamox, clarithromycin, and cefuroxime were the most prescribed drugs in the penicillin, macrolide, and cephalosporin categories respectively. We further found that the 21-40 age group was the highest receivers of antibiotics (46%). Considering the dosage frequency of penicillin category drug amoxicillin in different brand names including Clavamox, ranoxly, and novaclav was prescribed three times per day. Macrolide category drugs including clarithromycin and cephalosporin category drug including cefuroxime were prescribed two times per day. Results revealed that penicillin category drugs were the most prescribed antibiotics at a young age (21- 40) and brand clavamox (amoxicillin + clavulanic acid) was the highly used antibiotic with a dosage frequency of three times per day.
Assessment of Opinion and Awareness of the Construction Industry on Suitability of M Sand as a Replacement to River Sand
Authors: Mohamed Shafi Raheem M. S. , Walpita S. C.
Published: September 2022

Fine aggregates are an essential raw material required for concrete production. Majority of the fine aggregate demand is supplied through natural river sand. However, river sand mining is not sustainable in the long run and impacts the environment severely. A more sustainable and cost-effective replacement to river sand should be adopted quickly. Manufactured sand or M sand is a promising alternative to river sand. The suitability of M sand as a replacement to river sand and the opinions and perspective of the construction industry were assessed by doing a comprehensive literature review and collecting data from industry professionals through a questionnaire. The questionnaire was assessed under their categories such as performance, economy, environmental and general. Respondents were also asked to grade their presumed knowledge on each category being assessed, in order to evaluate the validity of individual opinions. The results indicated that the opinion of construction industry professional’s regarding M sand on economic and environmental aspects are similar to the findings of the literature. However, the professionals opinions regarding performance aspects of M sand was mostly mixed and contradicts with literature findings. Professionals who rated their knowledge highest had different opinions about M sand indicating the presence of severe misconceptions and inadequate knowledge within the industry. To overcome this, industry professional’s knowledge on M sand should be raised by providing accurate information about M sand and its benefits. Furthermore, the industry professional’s opinions acknowledged that M sand is being currently underused within the industry. They were confident that in future, M sand use would increase drastically.
Phytochemical Analysis and Evaluation of In-Vitro Antioxidant Activity of Bark Extracts from Madhuca longifolia (Madhu) and Ficus racemose (Attikka) Grown in Sri Lanka
Authors: Hettihewa S. K. , Ruwanpathirana C. M. , Panangalage P.
Published: September 2022

Madhuca longifolia (Maddhu) and Ficus racemose (Attikka) are well known medicinal plants which have been valued for decades in Sri Lankan Ayurvedic medicine. This research was aimed to study the phytochemical analysis and evaluate invitro antioxidant activity of two solvent extracts (70% aqueous acetone and 80% aqueous methanol) obtained from each bark of selected plants. The crude extracts were prepared by steeping the dried powder in each solvent overnight in the dark conditions. Phytochemical screening of crude extracts was performed. In-vitro radical scavenging activity and antioxidant activity were evaluated by using 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. The results of phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, phenolics, flavonoids, carbohydrates, proteins and saponins in both extracts obtained from M. longifolia while revealing the presence of phenolics, flavonoids, carbohydrates, alkaloids, tannins in both bark extracts obtained from F. racemosa. Radical scavenging activity of 80% aq. methanol and 70% aq. acetone extracts obtained from bark of M. longifolia were determined as 25.4±0.1 and 23.1±0.4 mmol Trolox equivalents/100 mg dry weight of bark of M. longifolia (DW) and antioxidant capacity of 80% aq. methanol and 70% aq. acetone extracts were 42.6 ± 0.7 and 38.0 ± 1.1 mmol Fe (ll) equivalents/100 mg DW of the bark. Radical scavenging activity for two different extracts obtained from bark of F.racemosa were as 18.6 ± 0.3 (80% aqueous methanol) 20.2 ± 0.7 (70% aq. acetone) mmol Trolox equivalents/100 g DW of bark. Antioxidant capacity by FRAP assay for the two different extracts of F. racemosa were 28.5 ± 0.4 (80% aq. methanol) and 32.8 ± 1.6 (70% aq. acetone) mmol Fe (II) equivalents/100 g DW of the bark. It was concluded that the presence of remarkable in-vitro antioxidant activity of two different plant extracts were observed while significant antioxidant activity was showed by 80% aq. methanol extract of M. longifolia.
Sociological and Psychological Perspective on Spread of COVID 19 Virus: A Study on Philosophical Paradigms
Authors: Kurukulaarachchi V. K. , Siriwardhana H. A. , Wesley J. P.
Published: September 2022

Sociological and psychological perspectives shape and tune the behaviors of individuals. The Philosophical assumptions integrated in these perspectives are highlighted to be key underlying bases to which determine the reality social sciences. Therefore, having a close concentration on Sociological and psychological perspectives on the spread of the COVID-19 Virus through a philosophical standpoint would allow a deeper notion to realize core of the virus spread. However, these philosophical assumptions are underrated within the research fields limiting it to academics. Further, analyzing into this world pandemic is required to realize the entangled outcomes. This paper discusses results of an archival study conducted through a systematic review of literature. A series of ontological and epistemological reveals of social sciences within the sociological and psychological perspectives related to the spread of the COVID-19 virus is stated. A key reveal is that both sociological and psychological research paradigms are balanced within both interpretive and realist studies. However, a tendency towards scoping the research within natural sciences was visible. Which is identified as the requirement of statistical data to justify into socially constructed phenomena howsoever through a technical-rational stance within the society. It was revealed that the citizens feel apathetic on quantified findings as the psychological findings weren’t interpreted in simple language. This answered the low number of psychology-based research in comparison to multitiered sociological studies. Therefore, the study is concluded encouraging the readers to understand the importance of philosophical paradigms of research in realizing the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
Challenges facing in Organizing Modern Geography Textbooks using Dewey Decimal Classification System: An Analytical Study
Authors: Visakaruban M. , Poologanathan P. , Sajanthan K. , Kesavan Y.
Published: September 2022

The Dewey Decimal Classification System is the basic standard used to organize the information resources collected in libraries. This classification method organizes the universal knowledge using Hindu-Arabic numerals from 000 to 999. In this regard, there are some problems in organizing Geography textbooks.Especially today; the Geography curriculum found in the University curriculum has expanded and developed into anInterdisciplinary Science filed that incorporates various other disciplines. However, the Geography textbooks cannot be organized into a single volume within the given numerical codes 910 and 913-919, which was refered by the Dewey Decimal Classification System. Modern Geography textbooks are not organized in a number construction like Philosophy, Religion and Art. For example, the branches of Human Geography include Political Geography; Cultural Geography and Economic Geography, which have to be organized under the main category of Social Science (300). Similarly, the main branches of Physical Geography are Topography, Geomorphology and Meteorology, Climate Geography, Atmosphere and Rocks, and Oceanography have to be organized under the main category of Science (500). The primary purpose of this study is to identify the Geographical textbooks scattered in different places and propose strategies that will make it easier for the reader to meet their needs. For this research, descriptive methods were used. This study recommends that the library shall develeop and maintain an ‘Athority File of Subject Headings’to organize the Geography Textbooks. Particulalrly this research concludes that organizing Geography textbooks under the Class code 550 will be a solution to bring the Geography textbook under one umbrella for the readers rather than organizing the Geography textbooks under the DDC’s given main category (910).
Imaging in transcatheter native mitral valve replacement with Tendyne mitral valve system: Echocardiographic pathway for the interventional imager
Authors: Al Sergani Hani , Moreo Antonella , Bossone Eduardo , Vriz Olga , Alenazy Ali , Alshehri Ahmed , Al Amri Mohammed , Alhamshari Ahmad , Alamro Bandar , Galzerano Domenico
Published: September 2022

The interaction between the implanter team and the imager team is critical to the success of transcatheter native mitral valve replacement (TMVR), a novel interventional procedure in the therapeutic arsenal for mitral regurgitation. This imaging scenario necessitates the addition of a new dedicated professional figure, dubbed "the interventional imager," with specific expertise in structural heart disease procedures. As its clinical application grows, knowledge of the various imaging modalities used in the TMVR procedure is required for the interventional imager and beneficial for the interventional implanter team. The purpose of this review is to describe the key steps of the procedural imaging pathway in TMVR using the Tendyne mitral valve system, with an emphasis on echocardiography. Pre-procedure cardiac multimodality imaging screening and planning for TMVR can determine patient eligibility based on anatomic features and measurements, provide measurements for appropriate valve sizing, plan/simulate the access site, catheter/sheath trajectory, and prosthesis positioning/orientation for correct deployment, and predict the risks of potential procedural complications and their likelihood of success. Step-by-step echocardiographic TMVR intraoperative guidance includes: apical access assessment; support for catheter/sheath localization, trajectory and positioning, valve positioning and clocking; post deployment: correct clocking; hemodynamic assessment; detection of perivalvular leakage; obstruction of the left ventricular outlet tract; complications. Knowledge of the multimodality imaging pathway is essential for interventional imagers and critical to the procedure's success.
Impact of transient decrease in mixed venous oxygen saturation on prognosis in off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Lee Kyuho , Kim Kwang-Sub , Park Jong-Kwang , Choi Jun Hyug , Kwak Young-Lan , Shim Jae-Kwang
Published: September 2022

Background: The prognostic consequences of transient hemodynamic deterioration due to cardiac displacement, which is most severe during left circumflex artery (LCX) grafting in off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery (OPCAB) are unknown. This study aimed to investigate the association between mixed venous oxygen saturation (SvO2) < 60% during LCX grafting and the occurrence of composite of morbidity endpoints.Methods: Data of patients who underwent elective OPCAB between January 2010 and December 2019 were reviewed. Logistic regression analysis was performed to detect risk factors for the composite of morbidity endpoints, defined as 30-day or in-hospital mortality, postoperative myocardial infarction, prolonged mechanical ventilation > 24 h, cerebrovascular accident, and acute kidney injury. Results: Among 1,071 patients, the composite of morbidity endpoints occurred in 303 (28%) patients. SvO2 < 60% during LCX grafting was significantly associated with the composite of morbidity (OR: 2.72, 95% CI [1.60, 4.61], P < 0.001) along with advanced age, chronic kidney disease, ratio of early mitral inflow velocity to mitral annular early diastolic velocity, and EuroSCORE II. Other major hemodynamic variables including the cardiac index were not associated with the outcome. Additional regression analysis revealed pre-operative anemia as a predictor of SvO2 < 60% during LCX grafting (OR: 2.09, 95% CI [1.33, 3.29], P = 0.001).Conclusions: A decrease in SvO2 < 60%, albeit confined to the period of cardiac displacement, was associated with a 2.7-fold increased risk of detrimental outcomes after OPCAB, implying the prognostic importance of this transient deterioration in oxygen supply-demand balance.
A Critical Review of Phonological Theories
Authors: Hegde M. N.
Published: September 2022

This is a critical review of two major phonological theories: linear natural phonology and the nonlinear optimality theory. Natural phonological theory asserts that phonological processes are phonetically based. Phonological error patterns help organize treatment targets and assess generalization. However, the natural phonology’s explanation of speech sound learning in children does not attain the status of a scientific theory. Process proliferation and poor definitions are other limitations. Optimality theory proposes that speech sounds may be marked (complex, more difficulty to produce, etc.) or unmarked (simple, easier to produce, etc.). Optimality replaces rules with markedness and faithfulness constraints. Constraints are common to all languages, but their ranking are unique to each language. Speakers can violate constraints ranked lower, but not those ranked higher in their language. When speech is imminent, GEN the generator generates a variety of output (response) options and EVAL the evaluator selects an optimal output that is faithful to the higher-ranked constraints. There is no independent evidence for the existence of universal and innate constraints, specific language-based rankings, and the operation of GEN or EVAL. Assumptions of universality of phonological rules and even the existence of such rules are speculative. That children have innate phonological knowledge is an untenable assumption. Most generative phonological theories have little or no empirical validity. Investigations of child-directed speech, statistical learning, implicit learning, sociolinguistics, usage- and exemplar-based phonology and behavior analysis have all supported the view that children master their speech sounds (and language structures) through social interactions.
What’s new in kidney tumor pathology 2022: WHO 5th edition updates
Authors: Tretiakova Maria
Published: September 2022

The 5th edition WHO Classification of Urinary and Male Genital Tumours (2022) introduces significant changes relevant to daily practice, especially in the completely restructured renal cell tumor chapters. Herein we highlight the most important diagnostic updates of known kidney tumor types, new and molecularly defined entities and emerging/provisional entities.
L' agriculture algérienne : l’héritage du passé et les défis contemporains
Authors: Adair Phillipe , Lazreg Messaoud , Bouzid Amel , Ferroukhi Sid Ahmed
Published: September 2022

L’article retrace les différentes étapes de l’évolution, notamment de l’étatisation à la libéralisation, que l’agriculture algérienne a traversées depuis l’indépendance. Il évalue l’impact des réformes et des diverses politiques publiques relatives au régime foncier, à l’emploi, aux modes de financement, au rendement des cultures, au système des prix et des marchés agricoles. Les défis actuels, sécurité alimentaire et changements climatiques, s’inscrivent dans une stratégie de développement durable, tant agricole que rural, fondée sur une approche territoriale.
Les réformes du système algérien de sécurité sociale face aux mutations du marché du travail : quel rôle dans la sous-couverture sociale ?
Authors: Gheroufella Maya
Published: September 2022

L’histoire des réformes du système algérien de sécurité sociale montre une volonté d’unification des régimes et des avantages. Ces réformes, aboutissent en 1983 à un système unique pour l’ensemble des travailleurs. Dès la fin des années 1980, la logique d’unification se heurte à un contexte de crise économique qui impose de nouvelles réformes. Cet article analyse les interactions entre les mutations du marché du travail et les réformes post 1983 du système de sécurité sociale. L’analyse dévoile comment ces interactions ont contribué à forger le système actuel. Elle montre aussi que malgré une certaine flexibilité du système, les réformes menées dans l’urgence de la crise n’ont pas pu freiner la progression de la sous-couverture sociale. Aujourd’hui, l’extension du système s’impose pour les catégories d’occupations apparues suite à la crise et au plan d’ajustement structurel (PAS) et chez qui l’informel persiste.
The scientific wealth of nations with special reference to Algeria: a cross-country productivity analysis of academic research
Authors: Touati Tliba Mohamed
Published: September 2022

This article aims at evaluating and explaining cross-country academic research activities through two-stage DEA methodology. A sample of 161 countries including 19 from MENA region is analyzed. In the first stage, DEA is applied to construct Scientometric Indicator Scores (SIS) for the full sample and Scientometric Efficiency Scores (SES) for 116 countries. In the second stage, as postulated by the New Institutional Economics literature, “Quality of Institutions” is treated as a “fundamental” factor explaining these indicators through “Human Capital” channel. Throughout, an IV approach is applied to correct potential biases where both “Quality of Institutions” and “Human Capital” are treated as endogenous variables.With a mean of 1.8 Scopus documents (per thousand people) for Algeria during 1996-2019 and 4.5 for MENA region against 13.2 documents worldwide, MENA countries and particularly Algeria seem to be trailing behind. As shown by DEA scores, the mean constant return to scale (CRS) SIS score confirms that MENA countries are significantly less productive. However, the mean CRS SES score indicates no significant difference suggesting that MENA countries are not significantly less efficient. This last result indicates, as expected, that low performance of scientific research for many developing countries including Algeria, could be explained, at least partly, through low levels of both "Human Capital" and “GERD”. For SIS model, OLS estimations confirm the previous result even if the human capital coefficient is small and barely significant while IV estimations show that human capital coefficient is more than double and highly significant suggesting that the size of the bias due to endogeneity is important. However, a sizable productivity advantage for HIOCED countries is documented beyond what can be attributed to human capital and GERD. Moreover, IV estimations confirm the key role played by the factor “Quality of Institutions” in explaining SIS (and SES) scores differences. Furthermore, “Cultural Zone” and “Identity of Colonizer” as well as “Natural Resources Rents” prove to be significant exogenous variables. These findings seem to be quite robust with respect to alternative measures of “Quality of Institutions” and “Human Capital”
Implications of Signage on Wayfinding Behaviour of Users: Towards Inclusive Design of Hospital Environment in Nigeria
Authors: Salawu A.
Published: September 2022

Inadequate signage systems and architectural design create physical barriers that cause uneven access to users of hospital buildings during wayfinding, which causes stress, uncertainty, and an unpleasant experience for both staff and patients. The study examines the effects of signs on wayfinding behaviour to achieve inclusive wayfinding in the design of hospitals in Nigeria. The study was conducted at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH), Ilorin Kwara State, Nigeria. A mixed-methods approach was employed for data collection through a survey administered to 140 participants (70 male and 70 female). Thirty respondents were interviewed, and the hospital buildings were observed. According to the findings, direction signage has the most impact on wayfinding since users rely on it the most to make wayfinding decisions, followed by identification signage (text/support icons) that aids in the recognition of target locations. Also, the result illustrates that signage was supported with pictographs while text was interpreted in the main local language (Yoruba), which enhanced understanding of signs across cultures in the state. As a result, the conceptual design and placement of signage and other inclusive navigation components in the hospital should be purposefully and suitably employed, simplified, useful, and appealing for inclusive access, meaning, and interpretation. The main limitation of this study is the non-utilisation of digital signs and various assistive technologies for impaired (sensory and mobility) people of varied ages and abilities.
Review on the Use of Dyestuff for Enhancement of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell Efficiency
Authors: Ukpene A. O. , Morka J. C. , Molua O. C.
Published: September 2022

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) have high energy conversion efficiency and environmental friendliness. Consequently, the aim of this paper is to review the use of dyestuff for the enhancement of dye sensitive solar cell efficiency. For this reason, this paper gives a background of   dye stuff, types and limitations and investigates the important criteria which are considered for selecting dye to enhance DSSC efficiency.
Use of Markov Decision Model to Minimize Maintenance and Replacement Cost of Turbines in the Shiroro Hydro-Electric Power Station, Kaduna River, Niger State Nigeria
Authors: Mohammed A.
Published: September 2022

This paper presents the application of Markov decision model to minimize the maintenance and replacement cost of turbines in the Shiroro Hydro-Eletric Power Station, Kaduna River, Niger State, Nigeria. Data obtained reveals that minimum cost of equipment maintenance through the Markov reward model is achievable and able to ascertain long-run maintenance and the repair/replacement of turbine. Information obtained have the potential to assist engineers and utility staff to plan against turbine failure and hence, improve the stability of power generation which will in-turn lead to accelerate the economic growth of the nation.
Assessment of Lead and Cadmium Concentrations in Raw Cow Milk from Farms near Namanve Industrial Park in Kira Division, Wakiso District, Uganda
Authors: Biryomumaisho S. , Atukwase A. , Manirakiza L.
Published: September 2022

Lead and Cadmium concentrations were analysed in raw cow milk samples collected from smallholder zero grazing households near Namanve Industrial Park in Kira Division in Wakiso district near Kampala city, Uganda. The concentration of heavy metals in milk was tested with atomic absorption spectrophotometry using the Perkin Elmer AAA Model 2380 after acid digestion. The overall mean concentration of lead and cadmium was 0.01 and 0.0083 mg/kg respectively. Of the three wards, Bweyogerere had the highest lead concentration (0.014mg/kg) and cadmium (0.011mg/kg). Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) test of the mean concentrations of lead between and within wards showed significant differences (F = 10.85, P < 0.05) and the findings were similar for cadmium (F=4.77, P < 0.05). Multiple comparison tests (Bonferroni) showed Bweyogerere raw milk had significantly higher lead concentration than milk from Kireka (P=0.008) and milk from Kirinya (P < 0.0001) and also significantly higher cadmium concentration than milk from Kirinya (P = 0.0009). Mean concentration of each metal residue was below the recommended minimum hazardous intake in diet as per Codex/Uganda National Bureau of Standards at 0.02 mg/kg for both lead and cadmium. Therefore, milk from cows reared around Namanve presents no public health-related lead and cadmium hazards.
Effects of Pharmaceutical Effluents on Soil Microbiome and Physicochemical Parameters
Authors: Okoduwa I. O. , Enagbonma B. J. , Imade E. E.
Published: September 2022

Soil contamination from pharmaceuticals is an evolving issue, consequently measurable data on their microbial effects are deficient. Thus, this study investigated the effects of pharmaceutical effluents on soil microbiome and the physicochemical parameters of soil samples obtained from Ugbowo, Benin City, Nigeria using standard procedures. The experiment which lasted for four weeks consists of four treatments of soil samples with pharmaceutical effluents of different percentages and one soil sample without pharmaceutical effluents (control). These include: soil treated with 250 ml of pharmaceutical effluents (25%); soil treated with 500 ml of pharmaceutical effluents (50%); soil treated with 750 ml of pharmaceutical effluents (75%), soil treated with 1000 ml of pharmaceutical effluents (100%) and soil treated without pharmaceutical effluents (0%). There was significant increase in the soil microbial counts in all effluent treatments compared to the control soil. A total of 16 isolates were identified. Ten were isolates belonging to the genera Bacillus, Arthrobacter, Proteus, Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus, Escherichia, Klebsiella, Enterobacter, Streptococcus, and Chromobacterium, while Fusarium sp., Mucor sp., Saccharomyces sp., Aspergillus niger, Rhizopus sp. and Penicillium sp. were the observed fungal isolates. The mean values of the soil physicochemical properties were all significantly higher in the treated groups compared to the control. This study revealed that pharmaceutical effluents altered the soil microbiological and physicochemical properties. The possibility of these alterations was due to the high nutrient content of the effluent which enriched the soil with additional nutrients needed for microbial growth.