bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality for Industrial and Business Intelligence
Authors: Desai Karishma , Dileep Kumar M. , Khairi Mohamed Omar , Govindarajo Normala S. , Sharma Vinod
Published: March 2024

The world of innovation and innovative technologies is rapidly proving its scope and benefits across the business sector featuring business intelligence tools. The traditional way of searching data sources, visualizing those data, and arriving at business decisions has transformed with tools of computational intelligence. Here the role of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) comes into the picture. The current work looks into the possibilities of VR and AR in business, which support predictive analytics, customer analytics, business analytics, and data visualization aspects through systematic literature review and content analysis. In this paper, a systematic analysis of associations and features of both VR and AR has been done by detailing the outline, organization, management, and devices for business and industry intelligence. The objective of the current work is met with the insights and understanding of VR and AR in relation to business intelligence.
Service Innovation Through Blockchain Technology in the Tourism and Hospitality Industry
Authors: Singh Amrik , Hassan Shuaibu Chiroma
Published: March 2024

Blockchain technology is an emerging technology useful to provide innovative solutions in various sectors. The real world uses cases of blockchain technology such as faster cross-border payments, identity management, crypto currencies, smart contracts, and supply chain-blockchain technology are here to stay and have become the next innovation just like internet. There have been attempts to formulate and introduce digital money, but they have not been successful due to security and trust issues. Blockchain has moved past crypto currency and discovered implementations in other real-life applications; this is where we can expect blockchain technology to be simplified and not remain a complex concept. Blockchain technology's desirable characteristics are decentralization, integrity, immutability, verification, fault tolerance, anonymity, audibility, and transparency. The present chapter aims to investigate the applications, trends, and benefits in a real-world environment. This chapter presents a detailed review of blockchain technology, the benefits, and its applications in different fields.
Exploring Enlarged Perceptions of Value
Authors: Garg Ankit , Pandey TR , Singhal Ritesh Kumar , Sharma Himanshu , Singh Anubhav Kumar
Published: March 2024

This chapter explores how virtual reality (VR) technology has been used in Indian tourism with a focus on how users view it as valuable. In order to do this, the chapter introduces a thorough framework that takes into account a variety of elements, including perceived advantages (such as utility, novelty, social image, telepresence, and enjoyment), sacrifices (comprising complexity, health risk, physical risk, and cost), and the overall perceived value. This research is used in the chapter to examine Indian travelers. The chapter's findings will point to a number of important patterns. First, it helps prove that people's judgements of VR's value are significantly influenced by their perceived telepresence—the sensation of being there in a virtual environment—and its perceived usefulness. Contrarily, the main trade-offs that influence how much people value VR usage are the perceived health risk and physical risk. It's interesting to note the perceived expense of using VR to be a significant factor in determining perceived value or not.
Blockchain Technology
Authors: Singh Shailey
Published: March 2024

This chapter unravels the relationship between blockchain technology and the surge of digital currencies, reshaping the foundations of modern finance. Exploring technical nuances, advantages, and challenges, it starts with a breakdown of blockchain's elements—decentralized ledger, consensus mechanisms, cryptographic principles, and smart contracts. Moving through history, it unveils the birth of digital currencies on the blockchain, from Bitcoin to Ethereum, stablecoins, utility tokens, and CBDCs. Delving into advancements, the chapter scrutinizes enhanced security, transparency, reduced transaction costs, financial inclusion, and programmable money via smart contracts. It navigates challenges like scalability, regulations, privacy, and environmental concerns. Concluding, it synthesizes key insights, emphasizing the transformative impact of digital currencies and urging readers to reflect on the evolving landscape. This concise exploration guides researchers, academics, and professionals navigating the dynamic intersection of blockchain and digital currencies.
Fair Trade and Ethical Sourcing in Agriculture
Authors: Salah El Din Mohamed , Reason Masengu
Published: March 2024

This chapter examines the contemporary practices and implications of fair trade and ethical sourcing within the agricultural supply chain, highlighting its pivotal contribution in achieving sustainability. Fairtrade scheme is considered an alternative to traditional trade systems that supports farmers in developing nations by promoting sustainable development and anti-poverty efforts. The usefulness of fair-trade programs has been questioned. Ethical sourcing is a comprehensive concept that focuses on incorporating and fostering environmental and social standards in all supply chain activities. However, the application of fair trade and ethical sourcing can be challenging. By conducting an extensive literature review, the chapter seeks to identify the principles and benefits of fair trade and ethical sourcing in developing a sustainable agricultural supply chain, investigate the challenges associated with fair trade and ethical sourcing, and finally, to present case studies and recommend best practices for implementing fair trade and ethical sourcing.
Incorporating Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) in Enhancing Sustainable Agriculture in Selected Rural Areas of Zimbabwe
Authors: Risiro Joshua , Jaravaza Divaries Cosmas , Mukucha Paul
Published: March 2024

The purpose of the study was to explore how Indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) could be integrated with modern farming techniques in order to enhance sustainable agriculture in selected rural areas. The sustainable livelihoods approach and post-colonial theory were used as the theoretical framework for the study. The interpretive approach was adopted for data generation by the researchers. Data were generated using individual interviews, focus group discussions (FGD), and field observations. Data were presented and analyzed using thematic approach. The study found that sustainable indigenous farming strategies including indigenous land management strategies, indigenous water conservation methods, and biodiversity management strategies could be integrated with modern farming techniques to reduce land degradation, loss of biodiversity, and lessen the impacts of climatic change in rural communities. The study recommends that farmers incorporate indigenous strategies with modern forms of farming in enhancing sustainable agriculture.
Enhancing Food Security Through Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Kaponda Tendai , Chiwaridzo Option T.
Published: March 2024

The Pfumvudza programme is an example of how sustainable agriculture can empower smallholder farmers and contribute to global food security. Usage of zero-tillage and mulching has improved soil health and yields, reduced water usage, and boosted the livelihoods of farmers. Pfumvudza offers valuable lessons for other nations grappling with food insecurity. Its principles can be adapted to diverse agroecological contexts, while its theoretical implications can inform research on long-term impact assessment, and the influence of policy on such programs. The study recommends continuous monitoring and evaluation, tailoring practises to different environments, integrating technology and capacity building among farmers, encouraging community participation and securing policy support, and prioritising climate-resilient and gender-inclusive practises. Future research directions include investigations into the program's adaptability, explorations of its social and economic implications scrutinising its climate change resilience, and fostering global collaboration for knowledge exchange.
IoT Device for Predicting Water Disasters
Authors: Natarajan Vithya , Umamaheswari  , Mothilal Tendulkar
Published: March 2024

The key objective of the idea has been to help individuals who live close to rivers and dams by forecasting water disasters. In order to identify the water calamity in advance and save lives, the authors are using IOT, sensors, and renewable energy sources. This system will be utilized to limit the number of deaths and provide a simple means of self-rescue. The MCU serves as the IOT system's general controller. Information like the daily status of the disaster is stored in the cloud system. This kind of automated project is straightforward.
IoT Devices for Natural Disasters
Authors: Vinora A. , R. Nancy Deborah , Sivakarthi G. , Soundarya M. , Balagi V.
Published: March 2024

IoT sensors are hardware components that gather data and identify environmental changes. These are the components of an internet of things ecosystem that connects the virtual and real worlds. The benefits and drawbacks of IoT include its application in traffic systems, time savings, improved data collection, increased security, and so forth. The intricacy of the system, increased unemployment, privacy problems, security risks, and the likelihood of systemic corruption are some drawbacks. A catastrophe is defined as a large-scale disturbance that can be caused by either natural or man-made sources and can last for a short while or a long time. There are several categories into which catastrophes can be categorized: natural disasters, geological disasters, biological disasters, nuclear disasters, industrial disasters, and man-made disasters. IoT is a collection of different devices that are networked together to provide efficient connection and enable coordination towards outcomes.
Utilizing AI and Machine Learning for Natural Disaster Management
Authors: R. Varsha V. , Naganandini S. , Hariharan C.
Published: March 2024

Natural disasters pose a substantial threat to human lives, property, and ecosystems, necessitating more effective prediction and response mechanisms. This chapter explores the utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) techniques to improve the accuracy and timeliness of natural disaster prediction, offering innovative solutions to address the complex challenges associated with these catastrophic events. It discusses the limitations of traditional forecasting methods and emphasizes the potential of AI and ML in processing vast datasets, identifying patterns, and enhancing predictive models. In conclusion, this paper advocates for the integration of AI and ML into existing disaster management frameworks, offering the potential to transform prediction accuracy and response effectiveness. The innovative solutions discussed can help reduce the adverse impact of natural disasters on communities, economies, and ecosystems, ultimately fostering a safer and more resilient future.
The Leader Coach
Authors: Nunes Figueiredo Paula Cristina
Published: March 2024

How to accelerate the development of leaders has been the subject of study, but there is still a need for more research into the potential of coaching. This study aims to investigate the ways in which coaching can support the development of leaders. Surveys are conducted with middle and top leaders because they play a crucial role in identifying and training future leaders within the organization. The authors reach two main conclusions: 1) This leader views himself as a transformational leader and is concerned with the development of future leaders. 2) This leader uses coaching as a practice and a skill for developing future leaders. Leader takes the coach's role when he supports and encourages personal and professional development of other leaders. The executive coaching is chosen by transformational leaders with the goal of promoting internally developing leaders in the organization. The leader who cares about the development of new leaders within the organization assumes the role of leader-coach through the development of skills and the use of coaching as a leadership development practice.
The Influence of Coaching Competences on the Commitment and Development of Leaders in Organizations
Authors: Alves Jéssica , Nunes Figueiredo Paula Cristina
Published: March 2024

Leadership development is an ever-present issue in a constantly changing and complex world in which organizations increasingly need leaders who are prepared for new contexts. Coaching, as a practice of personal and professional development and as a skill, has emerged as a way of promoting the development of leaders. The aim of this research is to explore the influence of coaching skills on the commitment and development of leaders in organizations. Results show a positive relationship between leaders' coaching skills and organizational commitment, highlighting coaching as an effective tool for promoting employee commitment in organizations. This research did not show that coaching competences influence the implementation of leadership development practices within the organization, or even the promotion of coaching as a practice. Finally, no evidence was found that organizational commitment influenced the existence of leadership development practices. Implications and recommendations for future studies were also presented.
My Leader Is My Coach
Authors: Cannata Davide , Danels Lisa
Published: March 2024

Modern leadership theories emphasize that one of the leader's roles is to develop and support employees to fulfill their career development goals. Coaching is one effective practice for helping people develop their potential. However, substantial differences exist between the traditional and the leader-follower coaching dyads. While traditionally the whole interpersonal experience with a coach happens within the coaching practice, the leader and the follower share many experiences at both the dyadic and the team levels. Furthermore, while the goals of traditional coaching are set around the personal development of the coachee, leaders also need to direct followers toward common goals and take managerial tasks like monitoring performance and distributing rewards. This chapter explores the dynamics of building a coaching relationship within the leader-follower dyad. The authors advocate the need to sustain a coaching-inductive relationship throughout all the interactions of the leader and the follower beyond the coaching interactions. They present two case studies to showcase these principles.
Internet of Things for Smart Agriculture
Authors: Kumari Shabnam , Tiwari Shrikant , Naithani Kanchan , Subbiah Priyanga
Published: March 2024

The convergence of the IoT and agriculture has given rise to the concept of smart agriculture, transforming traditional farming practices into data-driven, efficient, and sustainable endeavors. This work provides a comprehensive overview of IoT applications in agriculture, aiming to understand the state of the field, its challenges, and its future prospects. This work discusses the key components of IoT-based smart agriculture, including sensor networks, data analytics, and automation technologies. It highlights the role of IoT in precision farming, resource optimization, and crop monitoring. Moreover, it explores challenges and considerations related to data security, privacy, and the digital divide are thoroughly examined. Also, this work identifies emerging trends such as the integration of artificial intelligence, blockchain, and edge computing in smart agriculture. These innovations promise to further enhance productivity, reduce environmental impact, and ensure food security in an ever-changing world.
Self-Consciousness and the Unwillingness to Communicate
Authors: Nguyen Cuong Huy
Published: March 2024

Willingness to communicate (WTC) inside the classroom has been vastly investigated. However, little research examines willingness to communicate in classes of English as a medium instruction. This ethnographic case study explored the reasons behind this phenomenon, through class observations and interviews. The findings showed that self-consciousness was the main barrier to their WTC in English as a second/ foreign language (L2WTC). The students were self-conscious of their own English proficiency and the risk of social rejection. Self-consciousness, which was initially found in only some students, gradually spread out and made up a Vietnamese-speaking classroom environment that deprived the whole class of the opportunities to speak English. An in-depth understanding of self-consciousness related to students' L2WTC will enable instructors and administrators to adopt proper measures to safeguard a classroom environment favorable for oral communication in English.
Common Trends in Frameworks for Analyzing Intercultural Content in Language Teaching Course Books
Authors: Hoa Chau Thi Hoang , Truong Vien
Published: March 2024

The growing number of studies on how culture and what types of culture should be included in EFL education entails the existence of several frameworks for intercultural content analysis. This chapter undertakes a systematic review of analytical frameworks employed in 28 pertinent studies published within the last 15 years. The findings propose three common trends in classifying intercultural content, based on (1) socio - geographical distribution of English use, (2) the nature of language and culture education, and (3) the depth of intercultural interaction involved. Among these, frameworks grounded in the socio-geographical distribution of the English language are notably prevalent. Also, the study revealed that combining multiple frameworks for the analysis of intercultural content is commonly practiced. This review aims to increase educators' awareness of the presence of intercultural aspects in language teaching. Finally, it seeks to fill the gaps in existing literature by addressing the categorization and trends in the application of intercultural content analysis.
The Implementation of Constructivism in Teaching English to Young Learners
Authors: Tran Ngoc-Chau T. , Nguyen Cuong Huy
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this study was to comprehend how instructors in a private school system in Vietnam apprehended the constructivism theory and the obstacles they faced when putting it into practice when teaching English at elementary levels. A multiple case study design was utilized to collect qualitative data from four primary teachers from one campus of this school system, through semi-structured interviews and classroom observation. The findings indicated that the participating teachers did not have a proper understanding of this learning theory, which brought about the lack of self-reliance in their discussion and implementation of it. The challenges confronting them were concerned with time constraints, learners' levels, the English curriculum itself, and teachers' workload. It is necessary for the teachers to attend more workshops on not only the general constructivism learning theory but also the concrete, contextualized constructivist pedagogical practices in the language classroom.
Enhancing EFL Listening Skills With Mobile-Assisted Language Learning
Authors: Vu Nguyen Ngoc , Lieu Dinh Tran Thuy , Van Nguyen Thi Thu , Lien Nguyen Thi Hong
Published: March 2024

Mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) has received substantial attention from both scholars and English teachers. In line with this development, mobile apps provide tools to create interactive videos. suggesting their value and potential to improve listening activities. This paper critically examines the extent Edpuzzle app influenced the development of students' listening abilities. Participants were 52 first-year, non-English majors with elementary English proficiency from a higher education institution in Vietnam. Three data collection tools, including tests (pre- and post-test), a questionnaire, and an interview, were used in the study's mixed-methods design. The post-tests revealed that for listening skills, EG fared better than CG. Additionally, the results of the survey and interview reveal that the experimental group had a favorable perception of the application of Edpuzzle to listening practice. It is concluded that the Edpuzzle app's MALL and interactive videos support effective learning outcomes, especially in EFL listening practice.
Rubber Plantations in Sri Lanka: An Examination of Historical and Current Grievances in the Pahala Karannagoda Grama Niladari Division
Authors: Gamage Lakmini , Udya K. A. Udani
Published: March 2024

Plantation agriculture was introduced to Sri Lanka by the Dutch, but it was under British rule that several crops were cultivated on a large scale, including coffee, cinchona, cocoa, tea, and rubber. Among these crops, rubber was first cultivated in the Kalutara district and later spread to other parts of the country, becoming one of Sri Lanka's major export crops during the British period. This paper explores the history of rubber plantations in Sri Lanka and investigates the grievances of rubber planters in the Pahala Karannagoda Grama Niladari division of the Kalutara district. The study aims to examine the History of rubber cultivation during the British period in Sri Lanka and the challenges faced by rubber planters in the selected area in the present day. A mixed-method approach is used for this research. Data was collected using field investigations and observing text documents. Field investigations were conducted in the Pahala Karannagoda Grama Niladari division. Key informant interviews were conducted with 73 purposive samples. Data was analyzed based on the thematic analysis method employing rural grievances theoretical principles. The findings of the study suggest that rubber plantations gradually developed and contributed significantly to the country's economy, and rubber planters in the Pahala Karannagoda Grama Niladari division face various challenges related to climate change, labor issues, and lack of government support. The paper concludes with recommendations for addressing these issues and improving the conditions of rubber planters in the region.
Determinants of Technical Efficiency in Cow Milk Production in Kurunegala District: An Application of Data Envelopment Analysis
Authors: Herath D. M. H. , Thayaparan A.
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study was to determine the level of technical efficiency scores under the assumptions of both constant returns and variable returns to scales on a sample of 150 cow milk producers in Kurunegala District, Sri Lanka. A structured questionnaire was used to gather the data during 2022 in the study and those data were analysed by Data Envelopment Analysis and Tobit regression model. Results of the data envelopment analysis based on input - oriented reveal that, mean technical efficiency scores estimated for constant returns and variable returns to scales were 0.782 and 0.887, respectively, indicating that substantial inefficiencies occurred in operations among the sample farmers. Further, with respect to returns to scale, out of the 150 dairy farmers, 21 were found to be operating at the constant returns to scale while, 122 and 7 were operating at an increasing return to scale and decreasing returns to scale respectively. Tobit regression model was applied to examine the factors influencing the technical efficiency under the specifications of constant returns to scale, variable returns to scale, and scale effects. The study found that age, sex, family size, credit accessibility, and milking frequency were significantly influence the technical efficiencies in dairy farming. These findings could help to increase the milk production and technical efficiency of cow milk production in the study area.
Does Guaranteed Price Regulate the Market Price of Paddy in Sri Lanka? Exploring the Present and Directing the Future
Authors: Bandara S. M. S. Palitha , Samaraweera G. C. , Gunawardana T. S. L. W.
Published: March 2024

An argument arises that the opportunistic behavior of leading millers controlling the paddy market harms the farmers, small and medium-scale millers, and consumers. Therefore, this study aims to examine the policy-level intervention required to regulate and monitor the supply and prices of paddy to secure producers and to assess the impact of guaranteed prices in regulating the market price of paddy. The study used production, imports, guaranteed prices, and market prices of major three paddy types in five selected districts for 7 years. The one-sample t-test was used for analysis. The results of the study provide new insights for policymakers to revisit strengthening of regulatory mechanisms in the industry to function competitively. Further, the study identified the lapses in the implementation of existing regulatory mechanisms that might be harmful to producers, SMS millers, and consumers. In addition, identified the possibility of policy-level interventions to enhance appropriate regulatory measures under the existing legal provisions to minimize the anti-competitive and opportunistic actions of key players in the industry if any, enabling market forces to operate smoothly while minimizing the impact on the performance of SMS millers.
Explorations in Marx’s Theory of Price - Why Marx is Still Relevant for Understanding the Modern Economy - Volume I: Money and Money Prices
Authors: Samaraweera G. R. S. R. C.
Published: March 2024

No abstract available
Skin testing: A valuable screening tool to identify allergy to anesthetic agents
Authors: Gull Ayaz , Bisati Aariba Z , Qureshi Taha A , Shafi Tabasum , Imran Sheikh , Ashraf Qazi , Rasool Roohi
Published: March 2024

Anaphylaxis is a rapid-onset, life-threatening allergic reaction that needs immediate medical intervention. Typically, immunoglobulin E (IgE) mediated, these reactions necessitate skin testing for assessing drug hypersensitivity. A 31-year-old woman with cervical carcinoma, scheduled for a total hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy under general anesthesia (GA), experienced preoperative urticaria and palpitations, during a blood transfusion. Administering intravenous (IV) pheniramine, ranitidine, and dexamethasone resolved symptoms, allowing surgery under GA. However, post atracurium injection, she developed generalized urticaria and mild hypotension. IV pheniramine and hydrocortisone stabilized her, prompting surgery deferral for an allergology workup. The skin testing was performed, and all drugs tested negative. To prevent non-IgE-mediated reactions, a preoperative regimen of pheniramine 25 mg, prednisolone 50 mg, and famotidine 20 mg was recommended. Subsequently, surgery was performed under GA, using propofol and rocuronium, with the whole perioperative period remaining uneventful. This case underscores the imperative role of skin testing in elucidating perioperative drug usage amid suspected or encountered drug allergies.
Exploring the nexus: Asthma prevalence, smoking habits, and medication adherence among urban slum dwellers of Delhi
Authors: Saroj Shyam Kanhaiya , Kumar Raj , Kumar Manoj
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND:

Asthma is chronic lung disease. Reducing exposure to tobacco smoke is vital for both primary prevention of asthma and disease management. Adherence to medical advice is crucial for the effectiveness of treatments. This research explores the connected dynamics of smoking habits, asthma prevalence, and medication adherence among urban slum dwellers.

METHODS:

A door-to-door survey was conducted in two urban slums of Delhi, employing a random sampling method to study 318 households comprehensively. Two proficient research volunteers administered a questionnaire designed to assess smoking habits, asthma prevalence, adherence to prescribed medications, and devices used by individuals with asthma.

RESULTS:

The overall prevalence of asthma was found at 1.6%, with gender-specific rates of 0.9% and 0.7% for males and females, respectively, with a mean age of 35.62 years (standard deviation = 15.93) in the population of 1376 individuals. Within the cohort of asthmatic patients, 13.6% exhibited severe asthma. Despite their asthma diagnosis, 9.1% were current active smokers, and 18.2% transitioned to the use of smokeless tobacco. The odds ratio for being asthmatic in smokers as compared to nonsmokers was 2.11 (95% confidence interval: 0.81–5.46, P = 0.1224). A significant proportion of patients displayed lapses in adhering to prescribed medication regimens.

CONCLUSION:

The current study sheds light on a concerning trend of negligence observed in both medical adherence and smoking habits among asthmatic patients. The findings underscore the imperative for targeted interventions and educational initiatives aimed at enhancing adherence to medical regimens and mitigating smoking behaviors within this vulnerable patient population. Addressing these factors is pivotal for enhancing comprehensive asthma management, alleviating associated risks, and promoting more favorable long-term health outcomes.
Strategic Initiatives to Improve Tobacco Cessation Delivery in India
Authors: Gupta Rakesh , Aghi Mira B. , Gupta Arpit , Bhatt Garima , Goel Sonu
Published: March 2024

Background:

Globally, India is recognized for providing comprehensive coverage of tobacco cessation through the infrastructure and resources over the last two decades. Nevertheless, its current tobacco burden is worrying due to an increase in ~2 million initiators and 5.87% tobacco related deaths annually.

Objective:

It was to identify and describe challenges and barriers in tobacco cessation delivery that exist at various levels of health care as well as at the level of tobacco users, their care givers and communities in which they live.

Method:

Besides authors’ first-hand collective experience in the tobacco control for over 80 years and ~35 years in tobacco cessation and reviewed references, the stakeholders communications during various events along with telephonic or in-person with some of them were assimilated to comprehend an overall understanding of the issue.

Results:

The challenges and barriers are primarily due to low priority assigned by the relevant functionaries, the inadequacy of resources, poor engagement of health-and insurance-sectors and healthcare workers, a low intent to quit by its users, suboptimal and discontinuous enforcement of the Cigarette and Other Tobacco Products Act of 2003 (COTPA), and indifference of the non-users.

Conclusion:

The countrywide strategic initiatives required “as a package” should include political and bureaucratic commitment, mass communication on benefits of quitting, licensed current users quitting through a timeline, use of systems approach in tobacco cessation delivery, implementation, and enforcement of vendor licensing and the proposed amendments in COTPA. Their perceived benefits will become a win-win situation for all stakeholders engaged in tobacco cessation delivery.
Dentinal tubule penetration following ultrasonic, sonic, and single-cone technique of a biosealer: An ex vivo study
Authors: Abdellatif Dina , Pisano Massimo , Gullà Renato , Sangiovanni Giuseppe , Singh Shishir , Giordano Francesco , Buonavoglia Alessio , Iandolo Alfredo
Published: March 2024

Background:

The endodontic space is complex, and using a single-cone obturation technique fails to ensure a complete filling.

Introduction:

This study aimed to investigate the effect of ultrasonic activation, sonic activation, and single-cone technique of a biosealer on its dentinal tubular penetration.

Materials and Methods:

In the experiment, single-root mandibular premolars were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 20): group A, ultrasonic activation; Group B, sonic activation; and Group C, single-cone technique. Penetration of the fluorescently labeled biosealer was investigated using a confocal laser scanning microscope.

Results:

The data were statistically analyzed using Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney tests (P = 0.05). The highest penetration of biosealer was observed in Group A, followed by Group B (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

Dentinal tubule penetration of biosealer was significantly improved by ultrasonic and sonic activation techniques.
Geographical Information System: Strengthening the Delivery of Medical Education
Authors: Shrivastava Saurabh RamBihariLal , Bobhate Prateek , Umate Roshan
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT

In the field of medical education, geographic information system (GIS) can contribute in several ways to strengthen the process of delivery of education. As medical institutions plan to integrate GIS in the delivery of medical education, there can be some challenges that must be given due attention to optimize the benefits. In conclusion, the integration of GIS in medical education can expose medical students to enriching learning experiences. Acknowledging the importance and merits of GIS, there is an immense need to explore the possibility and introduce it in medical education to benefit medical students and widen their perspective on health care.
A Questionnaire-based Survey of Postgraduate Students on Awareness about Direct Printed Aligners
Authors: Sejani Vishwa , Kubavat Ajay K. , Patel Khyati V. , Patel Riddhi , Patel Anuj , Bhavsar Priyal
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT

Aims and Objectives:

The purpose of this survey was to assess postgraduate students’ knowledge of orthodontic direct printed aligners and their opinions of the treatment modalities that can be used with them.

Materials and Methods:

198 postgraduate learners were given a questionnaire consisting of 25 questions via Google Forms as part of this web-based survey. Results: Compared to their male counterparts, women were more knowledgeable about direct printed aligners.

Conclusion:

The survey concluded that most postgraduate students have knowledge about direct printed aligners. Females are more aware about direct printed aligners than males. Orthodontists were the predominant source of knowledge regarding direct printed aligners.
A Novel Methodology for Hunting Exoplanets in Space Using Machine Learning
Authors: Singh Harsh Vardhan , Agarwal Nidhi , Yadav Ashish
Published: March 2024

INTRODUCTION: Exoplanet exploration outside of our solar system has recently attracted attention among astronomers worldwide. The accuracy of the currently used detection techniques, such as the transit and radial velocity approaches is constrained. Researchers have suggested utilizing machine learning techniques to create a prediction model to increase the identification of exoplanets beyond our milky way galaxy.
OBJECTIVES: The novel method proposed in this research paper builds a prediction model using a dataset of known exoplanets and their characteristics, such as size, distance from the parent star, and orbital period. The model is then trained using this data based on machine learning methods that Support Vector Machines and Random Forests.
METHODS: A different dataset of recognized exoplanets is used to assess the model’s accuracy, and the findings are compared with in comparison to accuracy rates of the transit and radial velocity approaches.
RESULTS: The prediction model created in this work successfully predicts the presence of exoplanets in the test data-set with an accuracy rate of over 90 percent.
CONCLUSION: This discovery shows the promise and confidence of machine learning techniques for exoplanet detection.
A Review of Machine Learning-based Intrusion Detection System
Authors: Mishra Nilamadhab , Mishra Sarojananda
Published: March 2024

Intrusion detection systems are mainly prevalent proclivity within our culture today. Interference exposure systems function as countermeasures to identify web-based protection threats. This is a computer or software program that monitors unauthorized network activity and sends alerts to administrators. Intrusion detection systems scan for known threat signatures and anomalies in normal behaviour. This article also analyzed different types of infringement finding systems and modus operandi, focusing on support-vector-machines; Machine-learning; fuzzy-logic; and supervised-learning. For the KDD dataset, we compared different strategies based on their accuracy. Authors pointed out that using support vector machine and machine learning together improves accuracy.
Digital Annex of Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions and Failure Type Byte Definitions
Authors:   Vehicle E E System Diagnostic Standards Committee
Published: March 2024

The J2012 Digital Annex of Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions Spreadsheet provides DTC information in an excel format for use in your organization's work processes. The column headings include the same information as contained in the J2012 standard. Information in the excel spreadsheet will be updated several times annually and the spreadsheet includes a column heading denoting which DTCs have been updated in the current version.
Petrology Of Intrusive Rocks Of Oban Massif, Southeastern Nigeria
Authors: Grace O Edem , Barth N Ekwueme , Bassey E Ephraim
Published: March 2024

A total of forty- nine (49) fresh rock samples of the various intrusive rocks (granitoids and dolerites)were collected from the field. These rocks intruded metamorphic rocks that include pyllites, schists, gneisses and amphibolites in the Oban Massif. Intrusive rocks pegmatitic granites and granodiorite exhibit porphyritic texture rich in feldspars, quartz, muscovite, biotite, tourmaline and beryl. The granodiorite contains xenoliths of metamorphic rocks.  The dolerites are ophitic and composed of plagioclase, olivine and pyroxene. From the geochemical analyses, the intrusive rocks show SiO2 to be the most abundant chemical component in all the rock units with its highest value recorded in the pegmatitic granite (Av. 70.07%), while the lowest value (59.68%) recorded in the dolerite. Al2O3 also display high concentration in rocks of Oban Massif. The rocks have concentrations of Al2O3> (CaO + Na2O + K2O), low MgO, and TiO2 concentrations while pegmatitic granites exhibit low concentration in FeOTotal. The alkaline and calc-alkaline, granitoid intrusives in the study area were found to be I-type crustal orogenic granitoids that represent a late stage intrusion along major shear and thrust zones.The results of trace elements analysis revealed that almost all the intrusive rocks of Oban Massif contain high Ba content, the highest values occur in the pegmatitic granite with a mean concentration of (2266ppm), while meladiorite was found to contain the least amount of Ba (44ppm).
Pebble morphometry and sieve analysis: tools in determining the depositional environments of sediments in oron and environs
Authors: A Ojong Romeo , I Ugar Samuel , O Odong Peter , A Otele , N Emeka Chimezie , O Odong Peter , Itowe Kiamuke
Published: March 2024

Pebble morphometry and grain size analysis were carried out in parts of Benin Formation exposed along Oron and environs to determine the depositional environment of the sediments. Quartz pebbles (900 pebbles) collected from 60 different locations around stream channels and quarries were subjected to axial measurement of long (L), short (S) and intermediate (I) axis. Fifteen (15) sediments were further subjected to sieve analysis. Results from morphometric studies shows that the pebbles are dominantly compact-bladed (CB) and elongate (E) with mean values for flatness ratio (FR), elongation ratio (ER), maximum projection sphericity index (MPSI), oblate-prolate index (OPI) and braided ratio (BR) as 0.48, 0.61, 0.67, 3.54 and 0.63 respectively with mean roundness value of 32%. Sieve analysis revealed that the sediments are dominantly medium-grained, well sorted, skewed to near symmetrical and leptokurtic to mesokurtic. Bivariate Plots of roundness versus elongation ratio, sphericity versus OP index, FI versus MPSI, and skewness versus sorting indicates deposition of the sediments predominantly in the fluvial environment. Thus, this study showed that the sediments in Benin Formation were deposited by fluvial depositional processes.
Size Distribution And Heavy Mineral Pattern In Some E Gbe Streams, Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Joseph Ayofe Aderogbin , Ekaete E Umoh , Olukayode Adeyinka Falana
Published: March 2024

The Egbe-Isanlu schist belt has received scholarly attention from several researchers but there is no documented report on types and the distribution of heavy minerals in streams of the area. This study is intended to reveal the types of heavy minerals, the distribution and possible source rocks to guide prospectors in gems.  The study area lies within latitude 08o 03' and 08o 16 ' and longitude 05o 31' and 05o 43’ of the Southwestern Basement Complex terrain in Nigeria. Fifteen stream sediment samples were collected at appropriate points along river channels, air dried at room temperature, sieved and subjected to heavy mineral separation process using bromoform. Graphic mean, sorting, skewness and kurtosis were determined and heavy minerals identified under microscope.  The graphic mean ranges between 0.67 (coarse sand) to 2.49 (fine sand), skewness between 0.75 and -0.10 and Kurtosis between 0.87 and 1.88.  The calculated ZTR index ranges between 6.86% and 3.35.0%. The identified heavy minerals in the study area included tourmaline, epidote, rutile, zircon, kyanite, staurolite, garnet and zeolite. These minerals are modernly distributed across the sampled area and in some locations, they are relatively high in abundance.  Some of the heavy minerals are angular to sub-angular in shape suggesting a short distance of travel from source.  The graphic mean gives values that suggests a moderately to poorly sorted sediment and skewness indicated a platykurtic and leptokurtic nature for the sediments. Calculated ZTR index classified the sediments as immature to sub-mature indicating a short distance of travel suggesting that the sediments could have been derived within the catchment area.  The presence of zircon, tourmaline and rutile suggests that the sediments might probably have its source from acid intrusive rocks and pegmatites.
Doradztwo edukacyjno-zawodowe jako element zwiększania dostępności uczelni wyższych dla studentów z niepełnosprawnościami
Authors: Duda Wioleta , Czerw Monika
Published: March 2024

Educational and career counselling as part of making universities more accessible to students with disabilities

Every individual has a range of choices for their life path. It is largely dependent on family, environment, value system and a very important area for every individual - education. It is education that opens a window onto the world, helps us find our place, achieve success, but above all, education is an opportunity for an equal start in adult life for everyone, regardless of background, wealth or place of residence. This is particularly important in the case of people with disabilities who, as full members of society, constantly have to prove that they have the same rights, that they can and want to fulfil the same responsibilities. However, this is not always possible due to the full accessibility barriers that still exist. These also apply to public buildings and services, including education. Measures taken in recent years have significantly improved architectural and digital accessibility. This is also noticeable in higher education, which is increasingly inclusive. However, this support should be extended to assist students with disabilities in their transition to the labour market, so that the inclusion process also takes place after the end of education. It is the educational and career counselling process that responds to the needs of students with disabilities, where they not only receive support, but also have the opportunity to plan their individual career path according to their predispositions, abilities and limitations. The essence of everyone’s life is to flourish, to have new goals. A vocational counsellor focusing on the desirable aspects of the psychological and social functioning of a student with a disability not only participates in his/her vocational activation, but also levels the playing field on the open labour market.
Aktywność fizyczna młodzieży w kontekście zaleceń Światowej Organizacji Zdrowia
Authors: Plutecka Angelika
Published: March 2024

Physical activity of young people in the context of the recommendations of the World Health Organization

The tests performed were diagnostic in nature. The research group consisted of 207 high school students, 121 girls and 86 boys. The empirical analysis allowed us to learn about the time devoted to physical activity among young people aged 14 to 18 years in comparison to WHO guidelines. During the study, the problem of students’ subjective opinion on selected external factors that may influence the level of activity was also diagnosed. Additionally, students shared their observations about who motivates them to take up physical activity and what goals determine them to undertake such activities.
Comparative study of machine learning algorithms for face recognition
Authors: Alagah Komlavi Atsu , Chaibou Kadri , Naroua Harouna
Published: March 2024

Background: The fundamental need for authentication and identification of humans using their physiological, behavioral or biological characteristics, continues to be applied extensively to secure localities, property, financial transactions, etc. Biometric systems based on face characteristics, continue to attract the attention of researchers, major public and private services. In the literature, many methods have been deployed by different authors. The best performance must be found in order to be able to recommend the most effective method. So, the main objective of thisarticle is to make a comparative study of different existing techniques.Methods: A biometric system is generally composed of four stages: acquisition of facial images, preprocessing, extraction of characteristics and finally classification. In this work, the focus is on machine learning algorithms for classification. These algorithms are: Support Vector Machines (SVM), Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Random Forests (RF), Logistic Regression (LR), Naive Bayesian Classification (NB: Naive Bayes’ Classifiers) and deep learning techniques such as Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN). The comparison criterion is the average performance, calculated using three performance measures: recognition rate, confusion matrix, and the Area Under Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve.Results: Based on this criterion, the performance comparison of selected machine learning algorithms, shows that CNN is the best, with an average performance of 100.00% On ORL face database. However, on the YALE database, classical algorithms such as artificial neural networks have obtained the best performances, the highest being a rate of 100%.Discussion: Deep learning techniques are very efficient in image classification as proven by the results on the ORL database. However, their inefficiency on YALE face database is due to the small size of this database which is inappropriate for some deep learning algorithms. But this weakness can be corrected by image augmentation techniques. The comparison of these results with existing state-of-the-art methods is nearly the same. Authors achieved performances of 94.82%, 95.79%, 96.15%, 96.44%, 97.27%, 98.52% and 98.95% for NB, KNN, RF, LR, ANN, SVM and CNN classifiers, respectively. Finally, in depth discussion, it is concluded that between all these approaches which are useful in face recognition, the CNN is the best classification algorithm.