bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the Bogdanov-Takens bifurcation in a retarded oscillator with negative damping and double delay
Authors: Sarwardi Sahabuddin , Hossain Sajjad , Sajid Mohammad , Almohaimeed Ahmed S.
Published: September 2022

Here we will investigate a retarded damped oscillator with double delays. We looked at the combined effect of retarded delay and feedback delay and found that the retarded delay plays a significant role in controlling the oscillation of the proposed system. Only the negative damping situation is considered in this research. At first, we will find conditions for which the origin of the proposed system becomes a Bogdanov-Takens (B-T) singularity. Also, we extract the second and the third-order normal forms of the Bogdanov-Takens bifurcation by using center manifold theory. At the end, an extensive numerical simulations have been presented to satisfy the theoretical results.
Driving factors and decoupling trend analysis between agricultural CO2 emissions and economic development in China based on LMDI and Tapio decoupling
Authors: Yang Jieqiong , Luo Panzhu , Li Langping
Published: September 2022

Based on mathematical models, in-depth analysis about the interrelationship between agricultural CO2 emission and economic development has increasingly become a hotly debated topic. By applying two mathematical models including logarithmic mean divisia index (LMDI) and Tapio decoupling, this work aims to study the driving factor and decoupling trend for Chinese agricultural CO2 emission from 1996 to 2020. Firstly, the intergovernmental panel on climate change (IPCC) method is selected to estimate the agricultural CO2 emission from 1996 to 2020, and the LMDI model is adopted to decompose the driving factors of agricultural CO2 emission into four agricultural factors including economic development, carbon emission intensity, structure, and labor effect. Then, the Tapio decoupling model is applied to analyze the decoupling state and development trend between the development of agricultural economy and CO2 emission. Finally, this paper puts forward some policies to formulate a feasible agricultural CO2 emission reduction strategy. The main research conclusions are summarized as follows: 1) During the period from 1996 to 2020, China's agricultural CO2 emission showed two stages, a rapid growth stage (1996–2015) and a rapid decline stage (2016–2020). 2) Agricultural economic development is the first driving factor for the increase of agricultural CO2 emission, while agricultural labor factor and agricultural production efficiency factor play two key inhibitory roles. 3) From 1996 to 2020, on the whole, China's agricultural sector CO2 emission and economic development showed a weak decoupling (WD) state. The decoupling states corresponding to each time period are strong negative decoupling (SND) (1996–2000), expansive negative decoupling (END) (2001–2005), WD (2006–2015) and strong decoupling (SD) (2016–2020), respectively.
Gorgojos (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) asociados al cultivo del pistacho (Pistacia vera L.) en Castilla – La Mancha
Authors: Fernández-Carrillo Enrique , Fernández-Carrillo‍ José Luis , Rodrigo-Gómez‍ Sara , Velázquez-de-Castro Antonio J.
Published: September 2022

Se presentan los resultados de diversos muestreos llevados a cabo sobre parcelas cultivadas de pistachero en diferentes localidades de Castilla – La Mancha, en las provincias de Ciudad Real, Cuenca y Toledo. Se han encontrado un total de 8 especies de Curculionidae, de 5 géneros (Brachyderes, Otiorhynchus, Polydrusus, Sitona y Lixus) correspondientes a 2 subfamilias: ENTIMINAE y LIXINAE. Brachyderes marginellus, B. pubescens, Polydrusus subglaber, Otiorhynchus cribricollis y Lixus acicularis se han observado alimentándose de hojas de P. vera y se citan por primera vez sobre esta planta huésped. Polydrusus subglaber y Otiorhynchus cribricollis devoran intensamente sus hojas, por lo que se propone seguir investigando estas dos especies como importantes defoliadores de pistacho en la región. Se aportan datos biológicos y corológicos para las especies encontradas.
Distribución actualizada del género Cerambyx Linnaeus, 1758 (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) en Extremadura: desde los registros históricos al muestreo a escala regional
Authors: Torres-Vila Luis Miguel , Mendiola Francisco Javier , López‍ Rafael , Sánchez‍ Álvaro , Ponce Francisco , Fernández Félix , Zugasti Carlos , De-Juan José M. , Echevarría-León Emilio , Cáceres Yónatan , París Mercedes
Published: September 2022

El género Cerambyx (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) incluye 13 especies con distribución paleártica occidental, siete presentes en Europa y cuatro en la Península Ibérica, todas ellas también registradas en Extremadura: C. cerdo Linnaeus, 1758, C. welensii (Küster, 1845), C. miles Bonelli, 1812 y C. scopolii Fuessly, 1775. Las larvas son xilófagas primarias, perforando la madera viva de árboles sanos o decaídos. Como otros cerambícidos, se incluyen en el diverso ensamble de insectos saproxílicos, un grupo funcional esencial en la degradación de la madera y la potenciación de la biodiversidad. También se han descrito como plagas, pudiendo provocar importantes daños fisiológicos, mecánicos y estructurales. El impacto de los xilófagos en las quercíneas extremeñas ha aumentado alarmantemente en las últimas décadas. Los daños se han atribuido usualmente a C. welensii, pero la evidencia acumulada muestra que este statu quo no es realista, y que C. cerdo contribuye igualmente al decaimiento del arbolado. La escasa información corológica disponible impide efectuar análisis de riesgos del impacto potencial de dichas especies, siendo necesario un conocimiento detallado de su distribución regional. Así, se dispusieron 1826 trampas alimenticias (Red Regional de Muestreo) por toda Extremadura a lo largo de cincoaños (2017-‍2021) durante mayo-agosto en dehesas de encina, alcornoque y melojo. Las trampas cubrieron 437 cuadrículas UTM de 10 × 10 km con una superficie equivalente muestreada de 40.430 km2 (97% de Extremadura). Los registros de las trampas se completaron con otros registros inéditos y bibliográficos. Los datos mostraron: 1) que los registros anteriores a 1980s fueron ocasionales, 2) que C. miles y C. scopolii son especies escasas y localizadas, 3) que C. welensii es una especie ubicua, consistente con su estatus de plaga, 4) que C. cerdo exhibe una distribución generalizada y a menudo abundante, y 5) que la distribución y efectivos poblacionales dependieron del árbol hospedador, destacando que C. welensii fue casi 5 veces más abundante que C. cerdo en alcornoque, y que C. cerdo fue 3-‍4 veces más abundante en encina que en alcornoque o melojo. Los resultados indican que los daños por grandes xilófagos en las dehesas extremeñas tienen como agente causal tanto a C. welensii como a C. cerdo, refutan que C. cerdo es una especie rara y amenazada en la región, y sugieren que la Directiva Hábitats requiere una revisión urgente con el objetivo de eliminar o mitigar el conflicto de intereses entre la protección de C. cerdo y la del ecosistema de dehesa en Extremadura.
Parasitoides calcidoides (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea) asociados con Sibinia subelliptica (Desbrochers, 1873) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) en Bulgaria
Authors: Antov Miroslav , Stojanova Anelia , Todorov Ivaylo , Boyadzhiev‍ Peter , Askew Richard
Published: September 2022

El gorgojo Sibinia subelliptica (Desbrochers, 1873) y un rico complejo de parasitoides calcidoides asociados se criaron a partir de inflorescencias de Dianthus giganteus d’Urv. (Caryophyllaceae) en Bulgaria. Se identificaron los siguientes taxones: Aprostocetus venustus (Gahan) y Baryscapus sp. cercana a garganus (Domenichini, 1958) (Eulophidae); Eupelmus barai Fusu y E. microzonus Förster (Eupelmidae); Aximopsis augasmae (Zerova), A. collina (Zerova), Eurytoma coleophorae Zerova y E. coleopterae Zerova (Eurytomidae); Catolaccus crassiceps (Masi) y Pteromalus ochrocerus (Thomson) (Pteromalidae); y Exopristus trigonomerus (Masi) (Torymidae). Dos de éstos, E. coleophorae y E. coleopterae, son registrados como nuevos para Bulgaria. Todas las mencionadas relaciones parasitoide-hospedador se documentan por primera vez, así como se registra por primera vez la asociación de la planta D. giganteus con todos los parasitoides obtenidos, excepto en los casos de E. barai y E. microzonus. Se establece la nueva asociación trófica de S. subelliptica con D. giganteus.
Meanings of community: Educational developers experience care, satisfying contributions, and belonging in a collaboration across institutions
Authors: Colclough Thomas M. , Howitz William J. , Mann Daniel , Kearns Katherine , Hoffmann Darren S.
Published: September 2022

We share insights from a mixed methods study to describe the experience of educational developers participating in a community of practice (CoP). This CoP consisted of 19 leaders at eight institutions, serving collectively as facilitators of a hybrid, across-institutional, seven-week workshop series on course design for graduate students and postdoctoral scholars. From results of a survey examining the functional and sustaining features of the community, we illustrate that members experience the community aspect of our CoP primarily as a sense of satisfaction/personal fulfillment and, to an extent, in the effectiveness/productiveness of collaborations between members. Members of our CoP experience several community-related benefits specific to their across-institution collaborations. We demonstrate the importance of members’ sense of belonging, overall professional development, and well-being for sustaining our CoP.
Georges Moreau (1868-1935) : administrateur, enseignant et physicien à la faculté des sciences de rennes
Authors: Petit Axel
Published: September 2022

Georges Moreau fut professeur de physique à la faculté des sciences de Rennes de 1895 à 1935 ; il fut aussi un physicien, atomiste convaincu, étudiant les ions produits par les flammes et les vapeurs salines ; mais il fut surtout un administrateur, le doyen de sa faculté. Moreau, figure locale, garant du savoir scientifique, répond en Bretagne aux ambitions générales d’une génération de savants, enfants de la Troisième République, qui idéalise le pragmatisme scientifique, promouvant les applications de la science et sa portée économique.
Louis de Broglie a-t-il adhéré à l’interprétation de Copenhague (1928-1952) ?
Authors: Vila Valls Adrien
Published: September 2022

« Père fondateur1 » de la mécanique ondulatoire grâce à son hypothèse de la dualité onde-corpuscule en 1923, Louis de Broglie a connu une trajectoire intellectuelle et scientifique tourmentée et controversée. Celle-ci se structure autour de deux moments clefs : l’abandon, en 1928, de ses tentatives d’interprétation déterministe et réaliste de la théorie quantique, au profit de l’adoption d’un des avatars de l’interprétation dite « de Copenhague », et le retour, au début des années 1950, au « programme causal ». En nous appuyant sur les écrits de Louis de Broglie nous tâcherons de comprendre la position dans laquelle il s’est replié pendant la longue période qui sépare ces deux « revirements2 ».
Lignées féminines et dynamiques Égypte-Syrie-Iraq au début de l’époque marwanide
Authors: Legendre Marie
Published: September 2022

This article offers to re-examine a number of conclusions in the recent publication of J. Mabra on the governorate of ‘Abd al-‘Azīz b. Marwān in Egypt (65/685-86/705). The book offers an account of the tribal alliances that allowed the Marwanids to access to the califate as well as an examination of some of the dynamics between ‘Abd al-Malik (65/685-86/705) and his governors of Egypt and Iraq. J. Mabra understands the administration of ‘Abd al-‘Azīz as independent from the caliphal centre in Damascus and opposed to his brother’s reform on language use and coinage. After reconsidering the reading of a number of papyrus documents, coins and narrative sources, it is offered here to see the appointment of such a governor as one of the keys to the Marwanid success and to reject the idea that caliphal ruling strategies aimed at centralizing the Umayyad realm.
The Journey Through Mid-Career
Authors: Been Sherry , Moreland Meagan , Anderson Coleen
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this chapter is to add to the body of research regarding women in mid-career who work in academia. This chapter, per the authors, seeks to examine women in mid-career academia who may be at a crossroads to explore their roles in life and career goals. As many women faculty members of academic institutions are navigating the stage of mid-career, past research studies are clear that there are key factors to how academics can thrive. These studies explore specific strategies for women in academia to take in order to be successful. The authors delved into hearing their individual stories to hone the essence of the individual female and then corroborate the information.
Artificial Intelligence in Financial Portfolio Management
Authors: Bhuyan Bikram Pratim , Singh T. P.
Published: September 2022

In finance, a portfolio is a person's or company's total financial holdings. Portfolio risk and expected return are managed via portfolio optimization. Portfolio optimization is a kind of diversification that decreases portfolio risk by combining assets with varying risk profiles. Since the global financial crisis of 2008, asset management practices have undergone a sea change. This study examines a wide range of artificial intelligence (AI)-based asset management systems, focusing on the most urgent concerns and highlighting the benefits in the analysis of fundamentals and producing new investment strategies. Trading is another area where AI is making a big impact. One of the most intriguing aspects of AI is its ability to analyze vast amounts of data and generate trading tips. Using AI in asset management comes with certain disadvantages as well. AI models are difficult for managers to keep track of since they are often complex and opaque. This research provides a throughout overview of the avenues where AI is used in financial portfolio management.
Artificial Intelligence and Auditing
Authors: Üçoğlu Derya
Published: September 2022

Artificial intelligence (AI) technology has impacted businesses and industries as well as audit companies. With the emergence of AI-enhanced systems, many tasks performed by auditors can now be completed more efficiently by these technologies. Such systems are used in different audit tasks, such as risk assessment, audit planning, fraud detection, audit inquiry, transaction testing, inventory count, and document testing. AI platforms designed for auditing provide time-saving, higher efficiency and accuracy, minimized risks and biases, and improved audit quality. This chapter provides examples of AI platforms and tools developed by Big 4 audit firms and discusses the benefits and risks of implementing AI technology in auditing regarding the extant literature.
Perceived Mental Restoration Through Multi-Sensory Qualities in Sustainable Urban Green Spaces
Authors: Ibrahim Filzani Illia , Kamarazaly Myzatul Aishah , Nik Ab Wahab Nik Syazwan , Qayyum Muhammad Mirza
Published: September 2022

A particular region of interest that is relatively understudied is the relationship of urban green spaces and mental restoration through the perspective of multi-sensory design. In the Malaysian context, the topic of urban green spaces and mental restoration have largely been unexplored, and as a result, little is known about it in the local context, especially when it comes to a multi-sensory experience perspective. This study investigates the relationships between urban green spaces and mental restoration through the lens of multi-sensory approach based on the public's perception. A questionnaire survey was used to collect data regarding the users' perceptions of their mental restoration in the setting of Taman Aman. Preliminary results show that users perceive each sensory experience differently, with varying levels of agreement regarding which sensory aspect is most influential to their perceived level of mental restoration. In conclusion, the users' levels of mental restoration is positively affected by their multi-sensory experiences in the presence of an urban green space.
Design Aspects in Urban Greenspaces to Enhance the Social Interaction of Users in Klang Valley
Authors: Gunasagaran Sujatavani , Shi Lik Hong , Mari TamilSalvi , Srirangam Sucharita
Published: September 2022

The rapid growth of the development of urban cities such as Klang Valley adversely affects ecosystems and human social patterns among the urban residents. What is detrimental is the loss of green spaces such as parks. This study aims to find the design aspects of urban green spaces in Klang Valley and the social interaction of users. There is a close relationship between the design aspects and fostering social interactions in urban green spaces. The data was collected through a mixed-method at four chosen urban green spaces. The observation method used was noninteractive observation, and 200 complete surveys were analyzed using descriptive analysis. The users of the urban green spaces consist of 46.5% of nearby residents. Most of the respondents (52%) exercise within the park. Forty-one percent use the park for less than 1 hour, and the highest usage is weekly at 38%. The results show that Malaysians do travel to far urban green spaces but usually every week, which may be weekends. Ninety and one-half percent of users frequent the urban green spaces with acquaintances, which shows that social interactions will be fostered.
BIM for 4IR
Authors: Mari TamilSalvi , Abd Majid Marina , Gunasagaran Sujatavani , Srirangam Sucharita , Kuppusamy Sivaraman
Published: September 2022

This study intends to discover the challenges of implementing BIM in the Malaysian architecture industry to further integrate BIM with Malaysia's green building rating tool, the Green Building Index (GBI). This is to further encourage more green buildings to be built in Malaysia. The outcome of this study recognises the past examinations on BIM implementation that includes definitions, BIM applications, BIM benefits, and BIM future challenges. A qualitative approach using structured interviews was directed to designers to understand the challenges of adapting BIM for green buildings projects in Malaysia. Thus, this study provides insights on BIM application that could positively emerge as a notable tool to enhance green buildings that can accelerate the progress of sustainability within the construction industry in Malaysia. Additionally, this study contributes towards raising awareness among Malaysian architectural firms to invest in BIM as a main tool in designing green buildings.
First-Year Experience (FYE) in Architectural Studio Education During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Ahamad Nurul Alia , Ibrahim Filzani Illia , Koh Jing Hao , Ng Veronica Foong Peng
Published: September 2022

The first year of tertiary studies is vital for students, as they must adapt and settle into university life. First-year students must explore learning challenges and make positive transitional adjustments. The unprecedented pandemic has changed students' learning experiences from the physical classroom to the online realm. This chapter seeks to identify first-year architecture students' learning experiences in an online environment during the COVID-19 pandemic. A set of survey questionnaires is used to collect data on their learning experiences with architectural studio-based learning. The elements considered for the research are learning experience, learning platforms, and the student's readiness with the virtual architectural studio learning environment during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study's findings suggest that students positively impact learning experience, have high satisfaction levels on learning platforms, and are well prepared for online learning. This study will help schools of architecture in Malaysia to develop appropriate responses in the post‐COVID-19 settings.
Violence Against Healthcare Workers
Authors: Blasdell Raleigh , Kilburn Michelle , Krieger-Sample Laura , Oakes Rhiannon
Published: September 2022

The focus of this chapter is violence against healthcare workers. Issues surrounding inconsistent definitions, various data collection strategies, and concerns of underreporting will be discussed. The prevalence of violence in regard to locations, perpetrators, and types of violence, as well as risk factors for violent behaviors will be identified. An examination of the impact of violence in this setting and current responses or strategies to address and prevent such violence concludes the chapter.
Socio-Cultural Barriers of Female Ex-Combatants' Social Re-Integration in Sri Lanka
Authors: Takamatsu Kana
Published: September 2022

This chapter identifies the post-conflict social barriers to the social reintegration of female ex-combatants. This study refers to the case of Sri Lanka concerning the conflict between the government of Sri Lanka and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) that ended in 2009. During the conflict, the LTTE actively recruited female combatants, and women consisted of a significant number of the entire LTTE combatants. However, after the end of the conflict and even today, many of them are rejected by the community. First of all, the LTTE was fighting for Tamil's independence, but Tamil's community has expressed mixed opinions toward the LTTE. Second, female ex-combatants were then and are now a divergence from the gender norms of their society. Third, from their roles in the conflict, female ex-combatants experienced an indelible change in their ideas through the conflict and observed themselves as capable of being independent women. Consequently, they felt a high level of resistance to returning to traditional gender roles.
A Fifty-Year Survey
Authors: McIntyre Jr. Roger N. , Knowles Jr. F. E.
Published: September 2022

Recent and ongoing events have created national concern, fear, and dialogue about potential future acts of mass casualty violence. While much attention has been directed towards the creation of stricter gun control legislation as a means to prevent such acts, little has been mentioned about understanding the offender characteristics and motives for these horrific crimes. Many of the mass shooting offenders share similar features. More attention must be given to these commonalities as a way to understand the event itself, and for the formulation of preventive measures. This study examines mass shooting situations from 1962 to 2013 and analyzes the similarities amongst offenders. In addition, through the application of Identity Theory, it is argued that these acts are perpetrated due to identify conflicts that the violators possess. Through the commission of these acts, they are able to reassert their role and place within society
Analysis of Dispensing Pattern of OTC Drugs in Community Pharmacy Outlets, Sri Lankan Perspectives; A Pilot Study
Authors: Kangara K. M. T. D. B. , Senanayake S. D. , Siriwardhana A. K. , Maanisha N. W. A. N. , Rathnasekara G. A. J. , De Silva H. H. V. K. N. , Rajapaksha R. G. W. D. B.
Published: September 2022

The usage of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs all over the world is high, despite many regulatory guidelines. Therefore, this study was conducted to quantitative and qualitative analysis of the dispensing pattern of OTC drugs. A cross-sectional study was carried out for seven days at selected pharmacies and data was recorded using data sheets available at outlets. During the study period, 75 registered medicines were dispensed as OTC drugs. Of them, 40% were dispensed in age below 25, 35% in age category 25-45, 16% in the age category 45- 65, and 9% over 65 years. Analgesics (15%), and multivitamins (15%), and others such as dental care products (15%) were dispensed in equal percentages. Only 1% of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were dispensed as OTC drugs. The highest OTC drugs dispensed in age over 65 years were analgesics and antitussives (29% each) following antipyretics (25%) between 65-45 years age category and analgesics (15%) and antacids (15%) between 45-25 years age category. The most prescribed OTC analgesic was Paracetamol. This study recommended further qualitative analysis of patients’ decisions in the usage of OTC drugs related to symptoms.
Analysis of Knowledge, Usage and the Practice of Total Body Care Cosmetic Products in Western Province; Sri Lanka
Authors: Hettihewa L. M. , Yasendri K. G. I. M.
Published: September 2022

Cosmetic care product are used for skin, hair and nail caring practices. The cosmetic product regulations in Sri Lankan regulatory authorities is not properly implemented for importing and marketing thus it is needed to prevent the misuse and related adverse events. As an initiative, our team investigated data on knowledge of cosmetic care, and the practicing methods of the participants in western province in Sri Lanka as a phase 1 study. It was a descriptive cross-sectional survey and participants aged from 18 to 70+ years were openly invited. Informed consent was included in the self-administered questionnaire, validated before proper research. It includes questions on knowledge, attitudes, and practice of cosmetic usage. Our data showed that majority were female (71%), age group of 18-39 yrs (93%). 92% of them are Sinhalese, and 17% of Musilms. 93% of participants were aware reasons for using cosmetic product and 68% of them were aware composition of and adverse effects. 93% of them were aware about risk of allergy and 89% of them uses skin and body products. Average using time was more than 5 years by 39% and 31% used it for 1-5 years, rest of them less than one year respectively. Use of cosmetic is mainly for minor skin abnormalities (24%) and to enhance the appearance (16%) others included both reasons (60%). Majority had used both herbal and cosmetic products (63%). 61% of them preferred both local and international products. Most of them had referred social media for the selection of the product. We concluded that participants from western province showing expected personal knowledge on composition, indications, and potential adverse effects. This data is important to consider for preparing cosmetic rules and regulations and also recommend proper scientific based audio and visual educational program in selection process.
Evaluation of Practice on Self-Medication among Allied Health Science Undergraduates of Sri Lanka, Therapeutic and Toxicity Implications
Authors: Perera K. L. C. , Chamara B. A. D. E. , Amarasinghe W. K. , Ariyadasa M. A. C. T. , Masimbula H. W. , De Silva H. H. V. K. N. , Kumari S. B. H. P.
Published: September 2022

The main purpose of the study was to assess the prevalence of self-medication, classes of drugs used as self-medication, identify the patterns of self-medication practices, and examine sociodemographic characteristics, factors that correlate with self-medication and adverse drug reactions caused due to self-medication. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among Allied Health Science undergraduates of Sri Lanka who have practiced self-medication during past 2 months prior to data collection. This study was conducted after obtaining the ethical approval from Ethics Review Committee, CINEC Campus, Malabe. The data were collected as a google form. According to the results, the percentage of the prevalence of self-medication was 59.45%. Commonly used medicines were analgesics, antipyretics (77.82%), expectorants, antitussives (36.95%) and antibiotics (24.34%). Some of the reasons why undergraduates practiced self-medication were influenced from previous experience (62.17%), previous doctor’s prescription (34.78%) and because of the convenience (30.87%). Headache (70%), gastritis (35.21%), running nose (27.82%) and fever (27.39%) were the main four conditions for using self-medication. The reported adverse drug reactions were headache (40.00%), vomiting (22.17%), nausea (20.43%) and diarrhea (13.04%). In conclusion, more than half of the respondents (70%) think that self -medication is safe yet, most participants faced with adverse drug reactions (56.72%). Therefore, we suggest educating the people and implement policies regarding selling, advertising, and the safe use of self-medicated drugs, to prevent the adverse drug reactions.
Factors Influencing Undergraduates’ Satisfaction with the Library: with Special Reference to the Science Library, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
Authors: Hindagolla B. M. M. C. B. , Weerasinghe S.
Published: September 2022

University libraries play a vital role in the information society through the provision of quality information effectively and efficiently to the academic community. The proliferation of Information Technology opens avenues for easy accessibility of information and eliminates the need of physical library visits to satisfy information needs. It is crucial that university libraries adopt innovative strategies to satisfy tech-savvy users in this digital era. Therefore, the library management should identify the significant factors influencing students’ satisfaction towards the library. In this study, undergraduates’ satisfaction was assessed by a conceptual model with the dimensions of Library services, resources and staff. The simultaneous effects of these variables on satisfaction were also determined. Data were gathered through a survey performed among 442 Science undergraduates of University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka and the model was tested using multiple regression analysis. The results indicated that Library services, Library resources and Library staff were strong determinants of undergraduate satisfaction. Library facilities accounted for 41.1% of the variance of students’ satisfaction. It is recommended that the library management should improve Library facilities such as services, resources and staff to enhance the level of undergraduates’ satisfaction with the Library.
Collaboration and Sharing Resources and Services among Institute Libraries of the National Universities in Sri Lanka: with recommendations for improvement
Authors: Ratnayake R. M. S. N.
Published: September 2022

The need for resource sharing among libraries has become even more important today with constraints of finance, space, and manpower. Specific objectives of this study were to develop a database / directory on the resources  available in the institute libraries, to find out the strengths and weaknesses of the institute libraries and librarians in the University sector and to help each other to overcome the weaknesses.  Study used a multi-strategy approach called ‘triangulation’ to collect data and study instruments was literature review, questionnaires and interviews used to analyzed the documents generated by the organizations. This study delineates the ways of collaboration and web-based library cooperation with the conclusion that the automation of libraries and effective formation of country consortium can only promote the effective library cooperation for access to worldwide information and global resource sharing. Current study also recommends that government or UGC should take up development project to provide appropriate Digital Library databases and provide ICT raining at global standard. Further, the study recommends that the libraries should seek for workable partnership efforts, so that the benefits derivable will help them optimize information services delivery, partnership among libraries and related institutions, should be strengthened by the leaders of the organizations through understanding, partnering parties should struggle and cope with changes through professional development so that they can adapt to their new roles, partnering libraries should examine the partnership mission in the light of individual and institutional values before venturing into it, libraries should develop alternative sources of funding than depending solely on their parent institutions.
Adherence to Library Standards: An Appraisal of Grade I Public Libraries in the Western Province of Sri Lanka
Authors: Gamage R. , Alahakoon U. , Ananda Tissa R. D.
Published: September 2022

Grade I is the second-best type of libraries in the public library sector. The study reports the observations of a review team on compliance of libraries to the general quality standards. The objective of the paper is to feature some best practices as well as to highlight the few instances of noncompliance as a measure to assist improves the library functions. It was commendable to see assiduously built local collections and exhibitions, community services, and custom-built quick reference materials. Issues were identified in relation to accession numbers and accession registers, acquisitions, collection development, marketing of resources, organizing materials (especially fiction collections), authority control, and appointment of staff, adoption of the current public library bylaws, management reporting, and automation. The team of reviewers identified that many of these instances of noncompliance are involuntarily avoided in an automated library environment. Also, in some cases new standards should be introduced. Color coding of materials for classification is one such practice that needs to be standardized. It is proposed that Public Library Bylaws issued by the Provincial Councils should be updated to suit the present-day requirements. Also, it was proposed to update the current marking scheme for the appraisal of public libraries by the Department of Local Government, Western Province of Sri Lanka.
Deep Learning Approach to Detect High-Risk Oral Epithelial Dysplasia
Authors: Nandini C , Basha Shaik , Agarawal Aarchi , Neelampari R Parikh , Miyapuram Krishna P , Nileshwariba R Jadeja
Published: September 2022

Introduction:

Oral epithelial dysplasia (OED) is associated with high interobserver and intraobserver disagreement. With the exponential increase in the applicability of artificial intelligence tools such as deep learning (DL) in pathology, it would now be possible to achieve high accuracy and objectivity in grading of OED. In this research work, we have proposed a DL approach to epithelial dysplasia grading by creating a convolutional neural network (CNN) model from scratch.

Materials and Methods:

The dataset includes 445 high-resolution ×400 photomicrographs captured from histopathologically diagnosed cases of high-risk dysplasia (HR) and normal buccal mucosa (NBM) that were used to train, validate and test the two-dimensional CNN (2DCNN) model.

Results:

The whole dataset was divided into 60% training set, 20% validation set and 20% test set. The model achieved training accuracy of 97.21%, validation accuracy of 90% and test accuracy of 91.30%.

Conclusion:

The DL model was able to distinguish between normal epithelium and HR epithelial dysplasia with high grades of accuracy. These results are encouraging for researchers to formulate DL models to grade and classify OED using various grading systems.
Auditory Steady-State Responses to Narrow-Band Chirps in Predicting Aided Behavioral Thresholds
Authors: Vanaja C. S. , Kunjir Ashwini
Published: September 2022

Purpose:

A review of the existing literature shows that auditory steady-state responses (ASSR) to narrow-band (NB) chirps analyzed using q sample averaging is more reliable and accurate than ASSR for modulated tones in predicting behavioral thresholds. Studies in this direction have been carried out to predict hearing sensitivity. However, there is a dearth of studies investigating ASSR for NB chirps in persons using hearing aids. The present study evaluated if ASSR for NB chirps analyzed using q sample averaging could be used to predict aided behavioral thresholds during the hearing aid selection. Specifically, the study investigated the agreement and differences between behavioral thresholds predicted from aided ASSR with aided behavioral thresholds.

Materials and Methods:

Retrospective analysis of clinical records of 24 ears with hearing loss were carried out. The age of the children ranged from 3 to 5 years. Aided behavioral thresholds and aided ASSR for NB chirps were recorded at 500 Hz, 1000 Hz, 2000 Hz, and 4000 Hz.

Results:

Wilcoxon signed-rank test revealed no significant difference between aided thresholds predicted through aided ASSR and measured behavioral thresholds for all four frequencies. The Bland–Altman analysis also showed that the results of the two tests are comparable for all four frequencies.

Conclusions:

Aided ASSR can predict aided behavioral thresholds in children who fail to provide voluntary responses to behavioral tests, but the results need to be crosschecked using other measures. ASSR can thus be added to the protocol used for hearing aid fitting and validation in young children.
Effectiveness of a Short Course on Undergraduate Medical Students' Acquisition of Basic Ultrasound Skills
Authors: Hendi Ali Mohammed
Published: September 2022

Background:

Medical schools in Saudi Arabia generally do not integrate ultrasound training in undergraduate medical study despite its widespread use.

Objective:

To determine the efficiency of a short course in acquiring basic ultrasound skills at the undergraduate medical level.

Subjects and Methods:

Fourth-year medical students of Jazan University (2016/2017; N = 118) were divided into 13 groups. A radiology expert provided each group with a 50-min lecture on “ultrasound in clinical practice” and a 2-h hands-on ultrasound training session. Then, the students were invited to participate in the study by completing a questionnaire eliciting data regarding their opinion, experiences, and satisfaction level for the session and then undertaking skill assessment using two OSCE stations.

Results:

Eighty-one students (68.6%) were enrolled in the study (male: 42; female: 39). The mean scores were high for handling the probe (4.33 ± 1.01) and identifying kidney (4.46 ± 1.08) and liver (4.22 ± 0.97), and moderate for identifying spleen (3.89 ± 0.75), aorta (3.35 ± 0.44), and hepatorenal pouch (3.05 ± 0.35). The students were highly satisfied with the course (4.37 ± 1.01). In the first OSCE station that assessed ultrasound techniques, the mean score was 14.96 (of 18 points; 83.11%) for males and 15.40 (85.56%) for females. In the second station that used static ultrasound image with common pathology, the mean score was 2.4 (of 2.5 points) for both males and females.

Conclusion:

Undergraduate medical students in this study gained adequate skills and satisfaction in terms of using ultrasound and identifying anatomy following the short course. This study highlights the benefits of introducing programs dedicated to ultrasound for undergraduate medical students in Saudi Arabia.
Effect of Hanna Somatic Education on Low Back and Neck Pain Levels
Authors: Huang Qiuju , Babgi Amani Ali
Published: September 2022

Background:

Neck and low back pain are very common worldwide. Hanna somatic education (HSE) is a method of neuromuscular (mind–body) movement retraining that helps in managing pain, but its efficacy has not yet been studied.

Objective:

To evaluate the clinical effect of HSE on low back and neck pain and determine differences in pain, use of pain medication, and number of doctor visits before and after 6 months of HSE sessions.

Methodology:

This retrospective study included patients with neck and/or low back pain of >2-month duration who underwent HSE sessions between January 2016 and January 2018 and completed a minimum one follow-up session. Two to five one-to-one sessions of 40–60 min once every 1–2 weeks for 2–8 weeks were provided for each patient. Pain levels were recorded at each visit using the Wong-Baker FACES Pain Rating Scale. Data regarding medication use and number of doctor visits for pain management were also recorded.

Results:

A total of 103 patients were included, of which 81 (78.6%) were female. Completing a mean 2.8 HSE sessions resulted in a significant pain level reduction. There were significant reductions in the mean low back, neck, and low back + neck pain values between the first and the last visits (P < 0.001). In the 6 months before and after the HSE intervention, the number of patients using pain medication decreased from 53 (53.5%) to 14 (13.6%), respectively, and the mean number of doctor visits reduced significantly from 2 (±1.6) to 0.5 (±1.16) (P < 0.001), respectively.

Conclusion:

Clinical sessions of HSE were found to significantly reduce chronic spinal pain. Further investigations are recommended regarding evidence-based treatment of HSE in patients with muscles pain.
Three Cases of Appendiceal Mucocele
Authors: Hassan Yaqoob , Anees Afzal , Peer Javid Ahmad , Yadav Mithilesh
Published: September 2022

Appendiceal mucocele is an appendicular dilatation secondary to the intraluminal accumulation of mucous material. Adequate pre-operative diagnosis and surgical resection remains the standard management. Here, we present three cases of appendiceal mucocele. In the first case, a 60-year-old female presented with signs and symptoms of acute appendicitis and was admitted and operated. An inflamed distended globular cystic mass of appendix measuring 10 × 6 × 4 cm with a wide base was found and the patient underwent right hemicolectomy. In the second case, a 30-year-old male with symptoms and signs of acute appendicitis was admitted to the emergency department. An open surgery was performed and a distended, tense, and inflamed appendix without perforation of size 6 × 1 × 1 cm was discovered and removed. The diagnosis of mucocele appendix was suspected and confirmed by postoperative dissection of the specimen and histopathology. In the third case, a 25-year-old female patient was subjected to diagnostic laparoscopy in view of non-specific pain abdomen. A diagnosis of mucocele of appendix was made intraoperatively and removed using a specimen bag. Appendiceal mucocele with acute presentation is a rare pathology that clinically resembles acute appendicitis. Preoperative detailed investigations to reach a definitive diagnosis are critical for adequate surgical resection and overall outcome.
L' impact du système qualité sur la valorisation des produits de terroirs et le développement rural
Authors: Younsi Amina , Benmebarek Abdelmadjid
Published: September 2022

Le phénomène de valorisation des produits de terroirs a, depuis les dix dernières années, suscité l’intérêt des producteurs, des agriculteurs, des groupements professionnels et des institutions publiques, mais l’essor attendu pour le développement rural et la compétitivité des territoires n’a pas été atteint pour autant.La labellisation et la protection des produits de terroirs se font très lentement à travers une poignée d’acteurs actifs, cherchant à tirer rapidement profit des produits déjà très spéciaux par rapport aux produits conventionnels, du fait de leurs valeurs culturelles et historiques et leur relation avec la terre qui les produit.La coexistence d’un Système Qualité défaillant avec une réglementation complexe et incomplète sous une responsabilité institutionnelle désynchronisée rend également difficile la généralisation d’une production massive pour la commercialisation à grande échelle et l’exportation.L’identification des blocages techniques, réglementaires et organisationnels a permis de cibler des pistes possibles d’intervention pour permettre l’émergence des produits de terroirs, dans un objectif de diversification des produits agricoles, de développement rural, de valorisation de la biodiversité, de création de revenus, dans des chaînes de valeurs de proximité et bien évidemment, pour une production durable et inclusive.L’équation reste encore difficile à résoudre, car il n’est pas facile qu’un produit de terroir soit labélisé sans un Système Qualité conforme, efficace et opérationnel, qui devra permettre de connaitre les caractéristiques intrinsèques aux produits mais aussi, de garantir leur salubrité selon les normes internationales. Dans cet article, un aperçu du Système Qualité de deux pays européens, leaders dans les produits labélisés, permettra de situer le Système Qualité algérien et de mettre en évidence les voies possibles d’amélioration pour permettre l’émergence des produits de terroirs en Algérie, dans un objectif de sécurité alimentaire.
Rente et intégration commerciale en Afrique. Estimation d’un modèle de gravite pour l’Algérie
Authors: Mehidi Kahina , Oukaci Kamel
Published: September 2022

Cet article a pour objectif d’étudier l’impact de la rente sur l’intégration régionale de l’Algérie et sur son potentiel du commerce avec les pays africains. Ainsi, nous avons retenu un échantillon de 18 pays africains. L’étude a porté dans un premier temps, sur une analyse descriptive de la relation entre l’intégration régionale, l’abondance des ressources naturelles et la diversification, en utilisant une analyse en composante principale (ACP), et dans un second temps, sur l’estimation d’un modèle de gravité pour l’ensemble des pays de l’échantillon sur une période allant de 5332 à 5353. Les résultats montrent, d’une part, que les facteurs traditionnels explicatifs du commerce international à savoir la taille économique des pays partenaires, les coûts de transport, la présence d’accord et la proximité géographique présentent un effet significatif sur les exportations bilatérales. D’autre part, la rente constitue un frein à l’intégration et un obstacle aux échanges. Les résultats de l’estimation du potentiel du commerce de l’Algérie avec ses partenaires africains montrent l’existence d’une forte capacité de croissance des échanges
Potential of Chicken Droppings in Reclaiming Diesel-Contaminated Soil from a Farmland situated at Gonin-gora, Chikun Local Government Area (L.G.A), Kaduna State, Nigeria
Authors: Yahemba J. B. , Orukotan A. A. , Onyeiwu S. C. , Ijah U. J. J.
Published: September 2022

Diesel pollution of soil is widespread and adversely affects soil fertility, plant growth and soil microflora population. This study determined the potential of chicken droppings in reclaiming diesel-contaminated soil from a farmland situated at Gonin-gora, Chikun Local Government Area (L.G.A), Kaduna State, Nigeria using standard methods. Three earthen pots containing 1kg of diesel-contaminated soil each were amended with chicken droppings. Sample A, B and C were amended with 100g, 200g and 300g of pulverized chicken droppings respectively. A fourth sample D was maintained as the control (contained diesel-contaminated soil but was not amended). The duration of the experiment was 12 weeks and sampling was carried out monthly for changes in diesel-utilizing bacteria, physicochemical properties and diesel degradation. The diesel-utilizing bacteria ranged from 1.86 × 106 CFU/g to 7.36 × 106 CFU/g. Samples amended with chicken droppings had higher bacterial growth than the control sample. The diesel-utilizing bacteria identified in this study belonged to the genera Bacillus, Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas, Micrococcus and Staphylococcus. The degradation of diesel was monitored using the weight loss method and there was significant degradation in the diesel content after the study period. The highest degradation of diesel was recorded in Sample C (polluted soil + 30% CD) (30.1%); followed by sample B (polluted soil + 20% CD) (28.3%); then sample A (polluted soil + 10% CD) (22.6%). Sample D (polluted soil without amendment) which was the control had the lowest (17.2%) degradation of diesel. GC-MS showed a significant decrease in carbon compounds of the residual diesel in all samples after the study period. Thus, the results obtained demonstrated the potential of chicken droppings for enhanced bioremediation of diesel-contaminated soil.