bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review paper on Green Hydrogen Production, Storage, and Utilization Techniques in Libya
Authors: Imbayah Ibrahim , Hasan Mashhood , El-Khozondare Hala , Khaleel Mohamed , Alsharif Abdulgader , Ahmed Abdussalam
Published: February 2024

the world is currently facing energy-related challenges due to the cost and pollution of non-renewable energy sources and the increasing power demand from renewable energy sources. Green hydrogen is a promising solution in Libya for converting renewable energy into usable fuel. This paper covers the types of hydrogen, its features, preparation methods, and uses. Green hydrogen production is still limited in the world due to safety requirements because hydrogen has a relatively low ignition temperature and an extensive ignition range and is considered a hazardous element, the lack of infrastructure in Libya, as well as the high cost of production currently. However, the production costs of one megawatt of green hydrogen and fossil fuels are insignificant. This suggests that electricity production from green hydrogen could become an economic competitor to fossil fuels in Libya. This is due to the cost of adding renewable energy to the public electricity grid. Also, the production of gray hydrogen is possible in Libya because of oil through the installation of systems for converting methane gas and capturing carbon dioxide gas.
Is it feasible to design learning media "Tomato Plant Growth" hydroponically based on the discovery learning model?
Authors: Dahliani Lili , Rahman Md. Anisur
Published: February 2024

Information technology has significantly transformed various facets of life, including education, specifically the learning process in higher education. Integrating information technology in education has empowered students to create and utilize diverse digital learning resources. Mobile devices play a vital role in improving student learning outcomes in hydroponic plant growing lessons when used as an additional tool with demonstration and discovery learning approaches, often known as demons-disco learning. This course utilizes hydroponic techniques and mobile devices to improve students' understanding and skill in cultivating vegetables. Mobile applications offer innovative experiences in information and communication technology and opportunities for students to engage in self-directed learning. The chosen learning methodology involves imparting extensive knowledge, a thorough understanding of many components and variations, and an assessment through inquiries about the cultivation of hydroponic plants. Thus, a teacher must develop instructional material that helps students overcome difficulties associated with cultivating hydroponic plants. This study employed a research and development (R&D) approach to fabricate a product, encompassing three of the four research phases: definition (identifying possibilities and issues, gathering data), product design, and development (validating the design, improving the design, and testing the product). Nevertheless, this research is limited to the third phase, notably the validation phase. The findings suggest that the THD (Tomato-Hydroponic-Demonsdisco) learning media is suitable for use. This article will thoroughly analyze THD media and its utilization in lectures.
How well do Earth system models reproduce the observed aerosol response to rapid emission reductions? A COVID-19 case study
Authors: Digby Ruth A. R. , Gillett Nathan P. , Monahan Adam H. , von Salzen Knut , Gkikas Antonis , Song Qianqian , Zhang Zhibo
Published: February 2024

Abstract. The spring 2020 COVID-19 lockdowns led to a rapid reduction in aerosol and aerosol precursor emissions. These emission reductions provide a unique opportunity for model evaluation and to assess the potential efficacy of future emission control measures. We investigate changes in observed regional aerosol optical depth (AOD) during the COVID-19 lockdowns and use these observed anomalies to evaluate Earth system model simulations forced with COVID-19-like reductions in aerosols and greenhouse gases. Most anthropogenic source regions do not exhibit statistically significant changes in satellite retrievals of total or dust-subtracted AOD, despite the dramatic economic and lifestyle changes associated with the pandemic. Of the regions considered, only India exhibits an AOD anomaly that exceeds internal variability. Earth system models reproduce the observed responses reasonably well over India but initially appear to overestimate the magnitude of response in East China and when averaging over the Northern Hemisphere (0–70∘ N) as a whole. We conduct a series of sensitivity tests to systematically assess the contributions of internal variability, model input uncertainty, and observational sampling to the aerosol signal, and we demonstrate that the discrepancies between observed and simulated AOD can be partially resolved through the use of an updated emission inventory. The discrepancies can also be explained in part by characteristics of the observational datasets. Overall our results suggest that current Earth system models have potential to accurately capture the effects of future emission reductions.
A high-accuracy dynamic dilution method for generating reference gas mixtures of carbonyl sulfide at sub-nanomole-per-mole levels for long-term atmospheric observation
Authors: Nara Hideki , Saito Takuya , Umezawa Taku , Tohjima Yasunori
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Atmospheric carbonyl sulfide (COS) has received increasing attention as a potential tracer for investigating the global carbon cycle. Owing to the irreversible photosynthetic absorption of COS, changes in the atmospheric COS mole fraction can be related to terrestrial gross primary production. However, the instability of COS in high-pressure cylinders has hampered the accurate determination of atmospheric COS. Here, we report a dynamic dilution method for generating reference gas mixtures containing COS at ambient levels (ca. 500 pmol mol−1). Our method combined a dynamic dilution system employing a high-accuracy mass flow measurement system and a gravimetrically prepared parent gas mixture containing a micromole-per-mole level of COS filled in a high-pressure aluminium cylinder, the COS stability of which we experimentally validated for at least 10 years. We evaluated the dilution performance of the developed method using a gravimetric parent gas mixture containing approximately 1 μmol mol−1 of COS and chlorodifluoromethane (HCFC-22). In our evaluation experiments, excellent repeatability (0.23 % for COS and 0.43 % for HCFC-22 in terms of relative standard deviation), reproducibility (COS: 0.04 %, HCFC-22: 0.28 %), and dilution linearity (R2 > 0.99, for both COS and HCFC-22) were obtained. The dilution accuracy was examined by comparing the determined HCFC-22 mole fractions in a dynamically diluted parent gas mixture from a mass flow rate measurement system and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC/MS) calibrated using a gravimetrically diluted parent gas mixture. The mole fractions of HCFC-22 from these two methods agreed within an acceptable difference of approximately 2 pmol mol−1, validating the dilution accuracy of the developed method. By re-evaluating the experimental data, we determined the mole fractions of COS and HCFC-22 in an ambient air-based reference gas mixture, with relative standard errors of 0.02 % for COS and 0.12 % for HCFC-22. These results demonstrated that the developed method can accurately generate reference gas mixtures containing COS at ambient levels, which we expect will support long-term observations of atmospheric COS.
Advantages of G-band radar in multi-frequency, liquid phase microphysical retrievals
Authors: Courtier Benjamin Michael , Battaglia Alessandro , Mroz Kamil
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Radar based microphysical retrievals of cloud and droplet properties are vital for informing model parameterisations of clouds and precipitation but these retrievals often do not capture the details of small droplets in light rain or drizzle. A state-of-the-art G-band radar is used here to demonstrate improvements to microphysical retrievals in a case study featuring light rain. Improvements are seen, as compared to W-band radar, in the retrieval of vertical wind speed, due to the location of Mie minima at smaller droplet sizes with the G-band radar. This, in turn, has an impact on the retrieval of the drop size distribution, allowing for better accuracy in the retrieval of the characteristic drop diameter and improvements in the retrieval of the number of concentration of small droplet sizes. The differential Doppler velocity between Ka- and G-bands shows increased dynamic range compared to the Ka-W pairing, particularly for instances presenting small characteristic drop diameters. The increased attenuation experienced at G-band enables improved retrievals of liquid water content and precipitation rate when paired with W-band or Ka-band as compared to the W-band and Ka- band pairing. This is particularly noticeable in periods of light rain where the W-band and Ka-band radars receive negligible attenuation while the attenuation at G-band is much greater.
Inclusions in magmatic zircon from Slavonian mountains (eastern Croatia): anatase, kumdykolite and kokchetavite and implications for the magmatic evolution
Authors: Schneider Petra , Balen Dražen
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Micro-Raman spectroscopy was used to determine the inclusions in magmatic zircon from the Late Cretaceous A-type acid igneous rocks in the Slavonian mountains (Mt. Papuk and Mt. Požeška Gora), in the southwestern part of the Pannonian Basin (Croatia). The mineral inclusions detected in the early-crystallised zircon are anatase, apatite, hematite, ilmenite and possibly magnetite. Numerous melt inclusions comprise albite, cristobalite, hematite, kaolinite, K-feldspar, kokchetavite, kumdykolite muscovite and quartz, where this mineral association is characteristic of so-called nanorocks (nanogranites), commonly found in peritectic garnets from high-grade metamorphic rocks. Here we present the first finding of kokchetavite and kumdykolite in a magmatic zircon. Together with anatase and hematite, these polymorphs are likely evidence of rapid uplift and consequent rapid cooling of hot oxidised magma generated in the lower crust and its emplacement in the upper crustal level. This finding provides further confirmation that kumdykolite and kokchetavite do not require ultra-high pressure (UHP) to form and should not be considered exclusively UHP phases. The rapid uplift was possible due to the formation of accompanying extensional deep rifts during the tectonic transition from compression to extension, associated with the closure of the Neotethys Ocean in the area of present-day Slavonian mountains in the Late Cretaceous (∼82 Ma).
A low-cost and open-source approach for supraglacial debris thickness mapping using UAV-based infrared thermography
Authors: Messmer Jérôme , Groos Alexander Raphael
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Debris-covered glaciers exist in many mountain ranges and play an important role in the regional water cycle. However, modelling the surface mass balance, runoff contribution and future evolution of debris-covered glaciers is fraught with uncertainty as accurate observations on small-scale variations in debris thickness and sub-debris ice melt rates are only available for a few locations worldwide. Here we describe a customised low-cost unoccupied aerial vehicle (UAV) for high-resolution thermal imaging of mountain glaciers and present a complete open-source pipeline that facilitates the generation of accurate surface temperature and debris thickness maps from radiometric images. First, a radiometric orthophoto is computed from individual radiometric UAV images using structure-from-motion and multi-view-stereo techniques. User-specific calibration and correction procedures can then be applied to the radiometric orthophoto to account for atmospheric and environmental influences that affect the radiometric measurement. The thermal orthophoto reveals distinct spatial variations in surface temperature across the surveyed debris-covered area. Finally, a high-resolution debris thickness map is derived from the corrected thermal orthophoto using an empirical or inverse surface energy balance model that relates surface temperature to debris thickness and is calibrated against in situ measurements. Our results from a small-scale experiment on the Kanderfirn (also known as Kander Neve) in the Swiss Alps show that the surface temperature and thickness of a relatively thin debris layer (ca. 0–15 cm) can be mapped with high accuracy using an empirical or physical model. On snow and ice surfaces, the mean deviation of the mapped surface temperature from the melting point (∼ 0 ∘C) was 0.6 ± 2.0 ∘C. The root-mean-square error of the modelled debris thickness was 1.3 cm. Through the detailed mapping, typical small-scale debris features and debris thickness patterns become visible, which are not spatially resolved by the thermal infrared sensors of current-generation satellites. The presented approach paves the way for comprehensive high-resolution supraglacial debris thickness mapping and opens up new opportunities for more accurate monitoring and modelling of debris-covered glaciers.
La ideación de la forma en el espacio. Estrategias de conformación espacial en escultura y arquitectura
Authors: Marcos Carlos L. , Domingo-Gresa Jorge , Spallone Roberta
Published: February 2024

Desde la fundación de la Accademia del Disegno,el dibujo hermanó  a las denominadas bellas artes. Era el instrumento de control intelectual de la labor creativa común a tres disciplinas: pintura, escultura y arquitectura. La pintura sólo puede recrear la ilusión de profundidad, pero, escultura y arquitectura se desenvuelven directamente en el espacio. Esta investigación analiza los paralelismos y las divergencias en las estrategias de la conformación de la geometría en el espacio de ambas disciplinas desde una perspectiva histórica. El análisis se circunscribe en la escultura no figurativa para propiciar un adecuado análisis comparado con la arquitectura, en tanto que disciplina no representacional. Este estudio permite afirmar que existen tres estrategias primarias de conformación del espacio desde el punto de vista de la génesis de la forma: adición, sustracción y limitación o confinamiento. Se pretende contribuir así a establecer una taxonomía común a la arquitectura y a la escultura en relación con la configuración de la forma en el espacio y las acciones conceptuales que la engendran, por un lado, y la dialéctica que se establece entre materia, límite y espacio, por otro, prestando especial atención a las relaciones topológicas de compacidad y conectividad.
Trade, Foreign Capital, and Productive Capacity Nexus: The Moderating Role of Institutions
Authors: Hasan Muhammad Amin , Badar Sheikh Nabeel , Ghouri Amna Abbas , Saad Muhammad
Published: February 2024

International trade and foreign capital inflows are considered significant determinants of economic growth. However, despite being the largest recipients of these inflows, South Asian economies fail to achieve sustainable economic development due to rapid changes in macroeconomic dynamics and political instability. The purpose of the study is to examine the impact of trade openness (TRD), foreign direct investment (FDI), and international remittances (REM) on the productive capacity (PC) of South Asian economies, with a focus on the moderating effects of the institutional quality (INQ) on the aforementioned relations. The study uses the sample of four South Asian countries namely: Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka for the period from 2000 to 2022. The empirical results show that TRD, REM, and INQ exhibit positive and statistically significant effects on PC. The results highlight the significance of international trade, foreign capital inflows, and INQ in determining the PC of South Asian economies. Notably, the findings indicate that FDI has no impact on the PC of the sample economies. Surprisingly, INQ negatively moderates the relationship between REM and PC. Furthermore, INQ positively moderates the impact of TRD on PC. However, INQ does not moderate the effect of FDI on PC in the sample countries. The conclusion section discusses the policy and practical implications of the study, as well as its limitations.
Translation, Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Validation of the Gujarati Version of the Knee Outcome Survey - Activities of Daily Living Scale
Authors: Shah Jinshi , Sheth Megha
Published: February 2024

Background: Knee joint disorders limit functions and reduce quality of life. The Knee Outcome Survey-Activities of Daily Living Scale (KOS-ADLS) is a knee-specific, patient-reported scale that assesses symptoms and functional limitations in activities of daily living experienced due to knee disorders. The original English version of the KOS-ADLS has been shown to be reliable and culturally adapted. The aim of this study was to translate the original version of the KOS-ADLS questionnaire into Gujarati and to validate this Gujarati version of the questionnaire.
Methodology: Translation was done of knee outcome survey as per the WHO guidelines using the forward-backward method. Gujarati translation was done by Gujarati translator. An expert panel of 6 professionals determined the face validity. Changes were made according to suggestions to get version KOS-ADLS-1. Backward translation was done by a translator. A pilot study was conducted to determine fluency, ease and understanding. Suggestions were added and version KOS-ADL-2 was made. This version was administered to 20 participants to find out inter-rater reliability, intra-rater reliability, and Cronbach’s alpha.
Result: There is a strong positive correlation between Gujarati version and KOS-ADLS with interclass reliability (ICC=0.971), and intra-rater reliability of (ICC=0.99) and the Cronbach’s alpha value for test-retest reliability analysis was 0.92.
Conclusion: The Gujarati version of KOS-ADLS was found to be a reliable and valid outcome measure for assessing daily living activities in patients who suffer from knee pathological conditions.

Key words: Knee outcome survey, knee disorders, reliability, validity
Epidemiology and Associated Risk Factors of Gastritis in Patients at District General Hospital, Amravati
Authors: Khandelwal V. , Deshmukh S. , Aurangabadi K.
Published: February 2024

Background and objectives: Many studies are carried out on the prevalence of gastritis in relation to H. pylori infection. Therefore, this study was undertaken to assess the role of socio-demographic factors, dietary habits, economic status, stress level, family status, drug use and other medical conditions in the occurrence of gastritis. Moreover, no such epidemiological study has been conducted at Amravati District. Thus, it is essential to determine the prevalence of gastritis in this area in relation to above mentioned etiologic factors.
Methods: A descriptive, observational, non-interventional study was carried out on 150 patients diagnosed with gastritis at District General Hospital, Amravati. Primary data were collected by interviewing the patients according to the etiologic factors based questionnaire.
Results: Male population was found to be at greater risk for gastritis. Prevalence of gastritis is found to be more prominent in the age group of 14-25 and 36-45 years, respectively. The study found that physical work increases the risk for developing gastritis; subjects from urban locality are found to be more affected by the disease. Furthermore, daily consumption of irritant spicy food and tea may aggravate the gastritis symptoms. Frequent consumption of NSAIDS can be considered as a risk factor for developing gastritis. Moreover, there is a significant association between blood group A (Rh positive), psychological stress, menstrual history, sleeping time, education and risk for developing gastritis.
Conclusion: This study demonstrates a brief overview of various risk factors for gastritis, particularly in the population under study and points out the possible risk factors for the prevention of gastritis.

Key words: Gastritis, Prevalence, Risk factors, epidemiology, India
Effect of Jacobson's Relaxation Technique on Mental Health in Stroke Survivor: A Case Study
Authors: Kamble Sanjivani , Dubey Ramkumar , Lalwani Shivani
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND: Stroke is a condition typically resulting from ischemia or hemorrhage it manifests as an acute focal injury to the central nervous system. Following a stroke, individuals may encounter various functional challenges. However the psychological impact of stroke may end up in stress and anxiety among the survivors. THE IMPACT OF EVENT SCALE (Revised) will assess the overall mental issues faced by the people who are suffering from stroke. . Patients with stroke also usually end up having cognitive failure which is also of major concern so it is really important to assess the cognition in these patients which is being assessed by COGNITION FAILURE QUESTIONNAIRE. There have been limited studies done on effect of stroke on mental health but there has been no study done on effect of Jacobson exercise on mental health in stroke survivors.
Need of the study: Disability, difficulty in performing ADLs has led to development of psychological problems which are leading to mental issues in stroke patients. So there is a need to study the effect of Jacobson relaxation techniques with other physiotherapeutic exercise on the mental health of stroke survivor.
OBJECTIVE: To know the effect of Jacobson’s relaxation technique with physiotherapeutic exercises on mental health in stroke survivors using impact of event scale revised and cognition failure questionnaire.
METHODLOGY: A 63 year old male farmer by occupation with right hand dominance suffered stroke in the month of june’23 was given physiotherapeutic rehabilitation for 4 weeks with Jacobson’s relaxation technique for 3 times a week for 4 weeks using the outcome as impact of event scale revised and cognition failure questionnaire which is used to assess the mental health and the cognition level of patient after any traumatic event, pre and post readings were taken.
RESULT: There was significant change in the mental health of the patient.
CONCLUSION: This can be concluded that physiotherapeutic exercises clubbed with Jacobson relaxation technique can improve the mental health of patients who are suffering from PTSD occurring due to stroke.

Key words: Stroke, Jacobsons relaxation technique, Impact of event scale revised, cognition failure questionnaire, mental health, exercises.
Efficacy of a Guided Music Meditation App as an Audio Distraction Tool for Reducing Anxiety in Children During Dental Treatment
Authors: Solanki Harsh , Sodani Vasudha , Sarvaiya Bhumi
Published: February 2024

Background: In Paediatric Dentistry, effective behaviour management is vital to address common anxiety in children during dental procedures. The current trend involves utilizing mobile apps for convenient, cost-effective mindfulness meditation, offering accessible exercises without the need for professional guidance.
Aim: This study investigates the Music Meditation App's efficacy as an innovative audio-distraction aid, merging modern technology with ancient meditation practices to revolutionize anxiety control and enhance the paediatric dental experience.
Methods: Conducted at Ahmedabad Dental College and Hospital, this prospective, randomized controlled trial involved 40 participants (6-14 years). Two groups were formed: Control (traditional treatment) and Intervention (Zen Lounge Music Meditation app). Outcome measures included pulse rate and Venham Anxiety Index, assessed before and 15 minutes after treatment initiation.
Results: Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in anxiety levels between groups before (p=0.017) and after treatment (p<0.0001). The control group showed increased anxiety levels, while the Music App group exhibited lower anxiety levels (30% relaxed) during treatment. Pulse rates increased for Control (95.6 to 103.85) and decreased for the Music App group (105 to 97.7).
Conclusion: The Music Meditation App demonstrated effectiveness as an audio-distraction aid, significantly reducing anxiety levels and pulse rates in paediatric dental patients. Findings align with previous studies on audio interventions in dental settings, emphasizing the potential benefits of integrating sound-based techniques for improved patient experience.

Key words: Audio distraction, Music Meditation App, Anxiety
Benefits of Artificial Intelligence versus Human-Reader in Chest X-ray Screening for Tuberculosis in the Philippines
Authors: Nampewo Irene , Ariana Proochista , Vijayan Shibu
Published: February 2024

Background: Since 2017, the Philippines Business for Social Progress (PBSP) has implemented active case finding for Tuberculosis under their Advancing Client-centered Care and Expanding Sustainable Services for TB (ACCESSTB) project. This study aims to conduct a comparative analysis of a screening approach using AI for Chest X-ray (CXR) interpretation versus an approach relying solely on human-readers in three major regions of the Philippines.
Methods: This study undertook a retrospective analysis of data derived from two well-established and ongoing screening approaches. The data on number of people screened and the outcome of the screening at each stage of the screening process was extracted from quarterly reports provided by PBSP. Subsequently, the data was analysed to determine the diagnostic yield, the number needed to screen and the drop-out rates.
Results: The AI screening approach had a lower number needed to screen (26.3) compared to human-reader screening (41.5). The main reason driving this difference is the lower drop-out rate after CXR (16.6% in AI approach versus 43.1% in human reader approach). This lower drop-out rate is attributed to the quicker turnaround time for CXR results and this has an important public health benefit because a higher proportion of positive TB individuals participating in the screening will receive treatment in the AI screening approach (3.8% versus 2.4%).
Conclusion: The results illustrate that AI-powered CXR screening has clear benefits compared to screening with human readers. Further research is required to determine the comparative cost-effectiveness of the two screening approaches.

Key words: tuberculosis, active case finding, CXR screening, artificial intelligence, benefit
Analysis of Housing Consumer Protection from the Victim's Perspective (Case Study of Residential "M" Project)
Authors: Listyawati Diyana Suci , Kurniawan Arya Fitri , Aminuddin Muhammad
Published: February 2024

A portrait of residential “M” unclear consumer fate. Which consumers are structurally victimized. Thus, consumers need victim protection and victim support in restoring their rights and obtaining alternative solutions from the state that has an important role in the contribution of the residential “M” project. The methods used in this research are qualitative descriptive methods, in this study also using library studies. The results of this study is Indonesian Consumers Foundation (YLKI) has a role to play in protecting consumers. Which consumer advocates are clearly on the pole who want government intervention to protect consumers. The way through the dissemination of information about regulation of standardization of goods or services to serious threat to offenders. This is because, there is a situation where consumers are often and experience information blindness to make racial decisions in order to consume and use their services, then it is the country that has to provide it. But the state hasn't been able to provide it. So it looks like there's competition in the market mechanism, not only protecting consumers but also protecting producers. Here's a portrait of YLKI's services to residential “M” project consumers who complain about the clarity of their residence, as well as a pre-refund system that has no point.

Keywords: Consumer protection, YLKI, victim protection, victim support
Geophysical Subsurface Mapping Using the Electrical Resistivity Technique: A Comprehensive Study of the Petroleum Training Institute Main Campus in Effurun
Authors: Ojo Odunayo Tope , Chiaka Ike Joy , Mark Ameh Igoche
Published: February 2024

The electrical resistivity method was used to conduct a detailed examination of subsurface geology and hydrogeological parameters at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) Main Campus in Effurun, Nigeria. The research includes field data collecting, sounding curve interpretation, and dipole-dipole data processing. Both qualitative and quantitative methods were employed to gain a complete understanding of the hydrogeophysical features of the research area. The analysis revealed A and AK formations, which include four, five, and six-layer structures, highlighting the subsurface's intricacy. A frequency table was utilised to categorise the distribution of VES curves within the study area into three major groups. This classification was critical for characterising and comprehending the area's hydrogeological and geological complexity. Geo-electric sections were created to illustrate the different underlying layers, such as topsoil, clayey sand, sand, sandstone, and fracture. The study analyzed geoelectric properties and aquifer zones using resistivity isopach maps in 2D and 3D formats. The northeastern part of the study area had higher resistivity values, indicating geological variables affecting rock composition and groundwater supply. The findings are crucial for effective groundwater resource management, environmental assessments, and regional development planning. The geological model, combining data from dipole-dipole, geo-electric, and VES sections, accurately characterized subsurfaces in the PTI Campus area. The study identified six subsurface layers, providing baseline data for future infrastructure development. Recommendations include using advanced geophysical methods and a more detailed assessment of subsurface geology in the Warri region. This study adds to our understanding of the hydrogeological and geological aspects of the PTI Campus area, allowing us to make more informed judgements concerning environmental and infrastructure design. The study offers a comprehensive analysis of subsurface geology and hydrogeological parameters at PTI Main Campus, contributing valuable insights for groundwater management, environmental assessments, and regional development planning.
KARL POPPER ON TWO KINDS OF RATIONALISM
Authors:   Department of Philosophy, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan,, Jawwad Muhammad
Published: February 2024

‘Rational’ and ‘Irrational’ are two words in the philosophical diction which have been very confounding and controversial. For many philosophers, the philosophy of Plato is not only a great example of Idealism but also of rational thought. But for many philosophers it is not according to rational standards or even to standards of common sense. Kierkegaard is supposed to be the father and founder of Existentialism and his dissatisfaction towards reason, rationality and logic is quite obvious. Many great philosophers and thinkers like Schopenhauer, Bergeson, Nietzsche and Freud (the founder of Psycho Analysis) raised many serious questions about the validity of rational arguments and the importance of reason in the complete personality of a human being. The views of Karl R. Popper in this regard are very interesting. He is the strong upholder of Rationalism in Philosophy and Science but he does admit the limitations of a rational thought. This article is an attempt to understand the concept of a valid rational argument according to Karl R. Popper. Key Words: Rational, Irrational, A rational, Critical Rationalism, Uncritical or Comprehensive Rationalism.
MEDIA CONSUMPTION VS. INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATION AGENTS: FORMATION OF NATIONAL IDENTITY
Authors:   School of Communication Studies University of Punjab, Lahore, Rashid Khalid , Rehman Bushra Hameedur ,   Department of Journalism Studies University of Punjab, Lahore
Published: February 2024

Media and interpersonal agents form a person’s sense of belonging to a country. Previous research has confirmed that this formation is influenced by different factors, which might vary depending on how often a person uses media and how much interacts with others. Media and interpersonal agents form National Identity (NI) in different manners and to varied extent. The present study has proposed the model of the comparative degree of the influences of media and interpersonal agents on National Identity Formation (NIF) in Pakistan. The technique of PLS-SEM was applied to test the appropriateness of the model. The findings of the current study show that young people's national identities are influenced by their consumption of print, electronic, and other media, as well as by demographic factors like class, age, school, examination board, fees, father's education, mother's education, and mother's profession, as well as by interpersonal factors like parents who share similar tastes, conversations with peers, conversations with relatives, and interactions with relatives. Keywords: National Identity Formation; Media Consumption; Interpersonal Agents; Proposed Model of NI.
EXAMINING THE MUSLIM NUMISMATIC EVIDENCE IN SRI LANKA TO COMPREHEND THE MUSLIM HERITAGE
Authors:   Department of Archaeology, Hazara University, Mansehra 21300, Pakistan, Raheem Jesmil Abdul , . Shakirullah ,   Department of Archaeology, Hazara University, Mansehra 21300, Pakistan
Published: February 2024

Numerous different Islamic coins have been found in Lanka. Some of them, meanwhile, are hardly notable for the island's economic history. Although they may have been incorrectly identified as coins, they are either not coins at all or have only ever been discovered in commercial settings. Although several Islamic coins have been discovered in Sri Lanka, it is still unknown if these coins originated there, in India, or in other Muslim world. We are only on solid ground when dealing with Islamic money. The aim of this research is to develop a catalogue of coins with origins that have never before been seen in Sri Lanka and to examine their significance in light of the island's political and economic history. The complicated religious, political, and economic ties that Sri Lanka had with the Muslim world for many centuries are what have shaped the island nation's history. As a consequence of these ties, several Islamic coins have been discovered. The under discussion is came from multiple sites excavated by different mission and now on display at three different museums i.e. National Museum Colombo, Archaeological Museum Anuradhapura, Gall Maritime Museums of Sri Lanka and Jaffna Museum were analysis. Keywords: Coins, Muslim in Sri Lanka, Heritage, Trade.
Formación docente y enseñanza del cambio climático: comparación entre España y Colombia
Authors: Rodríguez Pizzinato Liliana Angélica , Morote Álvaro Francisco
Published: February 2024

Esta investigación aborda la formación docente sobre la enseñanza del cambio climático, con el objetivo de comparar los procesos de capacitación docente frente a la crisis ambiental, las actividades didácticas propuestas y la formación pedagógica recibida. El método se basa en un estudio de caso explicativo con 493 docentes en formación de los pregrados de Ciencias Sociales y Geografía de las Universidades de Valencia (España) y Francisco José de Caldas (Colombia) entre 2018 y 2022. El proceso se realiza con un cuestionario cuyos resultados contrastan las propuestas formativas que priorizan la información y recursos frente a la presencia de cursos específicos sobre el cambio climático, así como el valor de las salidas de campo con carácter ambiental. La principal conclusión se orienta con la formación consciente del profesorado sobre el cambio climático, al ejercicio reflexivo sobre temáticas dedicadas a problemáticas ambientales y a una formación ambiental explícita con las cohortes más jóvenes. De esta manera, la educación cobrará sentido para lograr una mayor resiliencia socioterritorial ante los escenarios presentes y futuros de cambio climático.
The Study of Travel Intention after Easing Coronavirus Restrictions—A Case Study in Taiwan
Authors: Li Hung-Yen , Hsieh Pei-En , Li Chiung-Li
Published: February 2024

The Coronavirus has significantly influenced the lives of most people in the world. Coronavirus lockdown extended to the globe. Travel plays an essential role for many people’s lives. However, travel became a dream during COVID-19 pandemic because the global lockdowns have continued for more than three years. Fortunately, global lockdowns have been lifted gradually since 2022. This study aimed to explore the travel intentions of people in Taiwan after the easing of coronavirus restrictions. An online survey was carried out to investigate Taiwanese people’s travel intention after COVID-19 pandemic. The researchers designed a travel intention questionnaire and analysed the data by SPSS 23.0. Descriptive analysis, as well as chi-square and ANOVA tests, were employed to examine variability among the subjects. The study comprised 587 valid samples. The researchers identified statistically significant associations between age, gender, occupation, travel length, travel frequency, travel partner, and travel intention after the lifting of lockdowns.
Deregulation of interferon-gamma receptor 1 expression and its implications for lung adenocarcinoma progression
Authors: Tecalco-Cruz Angeles C , Medina-Abreu Karen H , Oropeza-Martínez Enrique , Zepeda-Cervantes Jesus , Vázquez-Macías Aleida , Macías-Silva Marina
Published: February 2024

Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) plays a dual role in cancer; it is both a pro- and an antitumorigenic cytokine, depending on the type of cancer. The deregulation of the IFN-γ canonic pathway is associated with several disorders, including vulnerability to viral infections, inflammation, and cancer progression. In particular, the interplay between lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and viral infections appears to exist in association with the deregulation of IFN-γ signaling. In this mini-review, we investigated the status of the IFN-γ signaling pathway and the expression level of its components in LUAD. Interestingly, a reduction in IFNGR1 expression seems to be associated with LUAD progression, affecting defenses against viruses such as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. In addition, alterations in the expression of IFNGR1 may inhibit the antiproliferative action of IFN-γ signaling in LUAD.
Identification of immune cell-related prognostic genes characterized by a distinct microenvironment in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Li Meng-Ting , Zheng Kai-Feng , Qiu Yi-Er
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

The development and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have been reported to be associated with immune-related genes and the tumor microenvironment. Nevertheless, there are not enough prognostic biomarkers and models available for clinical use. Based on seven prognostic genes, this study calculated overall survival in patients with HCC using a prognostic survival model and revealed the immune status of the tumor microenvironment (TME).

AIM

To develop a novel immune cell-related prognostic model of HCC and depict the basic profile of the immune response in HCC.

METHODS

We obtained clinical information and gene expression data of HCC from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) datasets. TCGA and ICGC datasets were used for screening prognostic genes along with developing and validating a seven-gene prognostic survival model by weighted gene coexpression network analysis and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression with Cox regression. The relative analysis of tumor mutation burden (TMB), TME cell infiltration, immune checkpoints, immune therapy, and functional pathways was also performed based on prognostic genes.

RESULTS

Seven prognostic genes were identified for signature construction. Survival receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed the good performance of survival prediction. TMB could be regarded as an independent factor in HCC survival prediction. There was a significant difference in stromal score, immune score, and estimate score between the high-risk and low-risk groups stratified based on the risk score derived from the seven-gene prognostic model. Several immune checkpoints, including VTCN1 and TNFSF9, were found to be associated with the seven prognostic genes and risk score. Different combinations of checkpoint blockade targeting inhibitory CTLA4 and PD1 receptors and potential chemotherapy drugs hold great promise for specific HCC therapies. Potential pathways, such as cell cycle regulation and metabolism of some amino acids, were also identified and analyzed.

CONCLUSION

The novel seven-gene (CYTH3, ENG, HTRA3, PDZD4, SAMD14, PGF , and PLN ) prognostic model showed high predictive efficiency. The TMB analysis based on the seven genes could depict the basic profile of the immune response in HCC, which might be worthy of clinical application.
TM9SF1 promotes bladder cancer cell growth and infiltration
Authors: Wei Long , Wang Shi-Shuo , Huang Zhi-Guang , He Rong-Quan , Luo Jia-Yuan , Li Bin , Cheng Ji-Wen , Wu Kun-Jun , Zhou Yu-Hong , Liu Shi , Li Sheng-Hua , Chen Gang
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Bladder cancer (BC) is the most common urological tumor. It has a high recurrence rate, displays tutor heterogeneity, and resists chemotherapy. Furthermore, the long-term survival rate of BC patients has remained unchanged for decades, which seriously affects the quality of patient survival. To improve the survival rate and prognosis of BC patients, it is necessary to explore the molecular mechanisms of BC development and progression and identify targets for treatment and intervention. Transmembrane 9 superfamily member 1 (TM9SF1), also known as MP70 and HMP70, is a member of a family of nine transmembrane superfamily proteins, which was first identified in 1997. TM9SF1 can be expressed in BC, but its biological function and mechanism in BC are not clear.

AIM

To investigate the biological function and mechanism of TM9SF1 in BC.

METHODS

Cells at 60%-80% confluence were transfected with lentiviral vectors for 48-72 h to achieve stable TM9SF1 overexpression or silencing in three BC cell lines (5637, T24, and UM-UC-3). The effect of TM9SF1 on the biological behavior of BC cells was then investigated through CCK8, wound-healing assay, transwell assay, and flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Overexpression of TM9SF1 increased the in vitro proliferation, migration, and invasion of BC cells by promoting the entry of BC cells into the G2/M phase. Silencing of TM9SF1 inhibited in vitro proliferation, migration, and invasion of BC cells and blocked BC cells in the G1 phase.

CONCLUSION

TM9SF1 may be an oncogene in BC.
Identification and validation of a pyroptosis-related prognostic model for colorectal cancer based on bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing data
Authors: Zhu Li-Hua , Yang Jun , Zhang Yun-Fei , Yan Li , Lin Wan-Rong , Liu Wei-Qing
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Pyroptosis impacts the development of malignant tumors, yet its role in colorectal cancer (CRC) prognosis remains uncertain.

AIM

To assess the prognostic significance of pyroptosis-related genes and their association with CRC immune infiltration.

METHODS

Gene expression data were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and single-cell RNA sequencing dataset GSE178341 from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). Pyroptosis-related gene expression in cell clusters was analyzed, and enrichment analysis was conducted. A pyroptosis-related risk model was developed using the LASSO regression algorithm, with prediction accuracy assessed through K-M and receiver operating characteristic analyses. A nomogram predicting survival was created, and the correlation between the risk model and immune infiltration was analyzed using CIBERSORTx calculations. Finally, the differential expression of the 8 prognostic genes between CRC and normal samples was verified by analyzing TCGA-COADREAD data from the UCSC database.

RESULTS

An effective pyroptosis-related risk model was constructed using 8 genes-CHMP2B , SDHB , BST2 , UBE2D2 , GJA1 , AIM2 , PDCD6IP , and SEZ6L2 (P < 0.05). Seven of these genes exhibited differential expression between CRC and normal samples based on TCGA database analysis (P < 0.05). Patients with higher risk scores demonstrated increased death risk and reduced overall survival (P < 0.05). Significant differences in immune infiltration were observed between low- and high-risk groups, correlating with pyroptosis-related gene expression.

CONCLUSION

We developed a pyroptosis-related prognostic model for CRC, affirming its correlation with immune infiltration. This model may prove useful for CRC prognostic evaluation.
Living Plots in the Stone-Time of Necropolitics
Authors: Sealey Kris F.
Published: February 2024

Necropolitical arrangements of bifurcations delineate those ontological antagonisms that code Blackness as ontological lack (as non-position). In this article, I attempt to think about this evacuation of being in terms of the necropolitical’s fleshy excess, as what Alexander Weheliye’s work names “habeus viscus.” In so doing, I explore the implications, for our understanding of the “repressed proximities” of which the necropolitical consists, of arrangements that always-already include entanglements with their fleshy excess. In other words, if the nonposition of the excluded is always positioned within, then living in/against the death-logics of necropolitics is always happening from that “nonposition within.” Hence, a reading of Achille Mbembe’s account of necropolitics must reckon with what Katherine McKittrick names “the creative consequences of the plot and the plantation,” with the implications of the inextricable proximal entanglements between the killing of life and the living that persists, despite. This article focuses on this “living despite.” Through a constellation of thinkers like Katherine McKittrick, Alexander Weheliye, and Zakiyyah Iman Jackson (to name a few), it aims to show that there are, perhaps, other futures that are already “now,” shattering what Édouard Glissant refers to as the “stone of time,” shattering (necropolitical) history as destiny.
A focus on existing infrastructure will pay dividends
Authors: Clark David
Published: February 2024

The strategy is focussed on these skills and technologies where the UK has existing strengths Used wisely, the investment outlined in the strategy could make a significant difference to the sector A number of funding streams already exist Support for existing infrastructure offers reduced risk in expanding the sector Funds for scale-up are difficult to access.
Living in a digital world
Authors: Ibrahim Sharmen
Published: February 2024

Digital skills and tools apply to all areas of our modern world Young people need more than just technical knowledge as they enter the world of work Students need to understand why these skills are relevant to their lives Staff need to be able to communicate the importance of these skills to their students Digital skills need to be adapted to individuals – there is no uniform solution for everyone.
A mission to deliver net zero
Authors: Skidmore Chris
Published: February 2024

Much of the UK’s efforts on net zero are front-loaded and need to be achieved in the next five years A mission-based approach will help the UK deliver net zero Delivering net zero requires a ‘whole society’ approach to policy making Economic success for the UK will come in designing green solutions for the world A political consensus is needed if we are to reach our goal.
Identifying the technologies that will be key to the UK’s future
Authors: Willetts David
Published: February 2024

There have been a number of attempts to identify the right technologies for the Government to support. That selection will change over time and according to national and international political circumstances.