bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Drought decreases streamflow response to precipitation especially in arid regions
Authors: Matanó Alessia , Hamed Raed , Brunner Manuela I. , Barendrecht Marlies H. , Van Loon Anne F.
Published: September 2024

Abstract. Persistent drought conditions may alter catchment response to precipitation, both during and after the drought period, hindering accurate streamflow forecasting of high flows and floods. Yet, the influence of drought characteristics on the catchment response to precipitation remains unclear. In this study, we use a comprehensive dataset of global observations of streamflow and remotely sensed precipitation, soil moisture, total water storage and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). Using multivariate statistics on 4487 catchments with a stationary streamflow-to-precipitation ratio, we investigate the influence of drought on fluctuations of streamflow sensitivity to precipitation. Our analysis shows that generally droughts with streamflow or soil moisture anomalies below the 15th percentile lead to around 20 % decrease in streamflow sensitivity to precipitation during drought compared to the historical norm, with up to a 2 % decrease one year after the drought. Negative NDVI anomalies are the only exception, resulting in a 3 % increase in sensitivity. These effects are more pronounced when droughts are longer and more severe. Most changes were found in arid and warm-temperate regions, whereas snow-influenced regions exhibit less sensitivity changes due to drought. In addition, we used step-change analyses on 1107 catchments with non-stationary streamflow-to-precipitation ratio to identify significant abrupt shifts on the timeseries, examining the role of drought in driving these shifts. This analysis revealed both positive and negative shifts in streamflow sensitivity after severe and persistent drought conditions regardless of climate and catchment characteristics. Positive shifts occur only when the drought propagated through the hydrological system after extended dry periods, while negative shifts are usually linked to shorter, intense dry periods. This study sheds light on the importance of considering climate characteristics in predicting dynamic catchment response to precipitation during and after persistent drought conditions.
Localised Failures of Thin Steel Battens Under Extreme Temperature Environments
Authors:   , Athmarajah Gopikrishna
Published: September 2024

This research investigated the behaviour of cold-formed steel (CFS) battens used in the cladding systems of external building envelopes under extreme weather conditions. Through detailed experimental and numerical studies, it examined the critical pull-through and pull-out failures of batten screw connections at elevated temperatures (simulating bushfires) and sub-zero temperatures (simulating blizzards). This research identified the critical parameters influencing these failures and developed new design capacity equations for inclusion in the CFS design standards. The use of the findings from this research will improve the resilience of CFS cladding systems under extreme bushfire and blizzard conditions.
One Tattoo, Two Worlds: Unexplored stories of non-Indigenous Samoan women and Indigenous Samoan Fa’afafine with the malu
Authors:   , Fa'aleava Agapetos
Published: September 2024

One Tatau, Two Worlds: Unexplored Stories of non-Indigenous Samoan Women and Indigenous Samoan Fa’afafine with the Malu, aims to examine how the Samoan malu has integrated non-Indigenous Samoan women and Indigenous Samoan Fa’afafine into the Samoan culture. Malu means protected or sheltered, a traditional tatau (tattoo) that is reserved for High Chiefs' daughters, has now become a symbol for non-Indigenous Samoan Women and Fa’afafine. This is a creative-practice led research and thesis that is visualised in a documentary called One Tatau, Two Worlds (2024), currently showing in film festivals.
Structured Models and Algorithms for Sensitive Data
Authors:   , Hassan Conor
Published: September 2024

The use of confidential data in statistical and machine learning models is increasingly prevalent across industries, necessitating the design of privacy-preserving models and algorithms. This thesis addresses this critical challenge through two main approaches: synthetic data generation and federated learning. We develop novel models and algorithms for parameter estimation in scenarios where data is distributed across multiple confidential sources, combining concepts from variational inference, deep generative modeling, and data augmentation. The innovations in this thesis expand the applicability of Bayesian hierarchical models to novel distributed data settings.
Social Media Misconduct Dismissals in South Africa: Forms of Hate Speech in First-Instance Employment Decisions
Authors:   , Cornish Rene
Published: September 2024

This thesis examines what first-instance social media misconduct dismissals decisions reveal about hate speech in contemporary South African workspaces. It finds racialised hate to be a significant form of hate speech that materialises in textual (words), non-textual (images) and meta-textual modes within social media discourse in contemporary South African workspaces. In doing so, this thesis expands understanding the nexus between social media, employment law and the modes of racialised meaning-making circulating in online workspaces in South Africa, thereby contributing towards ‘de-westernising’ social media dismissal scholarship by extending its horizons to the context of the Sub-Saharan Global South.
Influencia de Girolamo Cardano en la educación de personas sordas: transcripción y traducción al castellano de dos capítulos de la obra De utilitate ex aduersis capienda (1561)
Authors: Moreno Rodríguez Ricardo , Calvo Fernández Vicente , Garrote Camarena Inmaculada , González-González Mª Celeste
Published: September 2024

Las teorías que sustentaron un cambio de mentalidad sobre la posible educabilidad de las personas sordas es una cuestión que todavía requiere amplia investigación. Mientras que figuras como el monje benedictino Pedro Ponce de León en el siglo XVI o Juan Pablo Bonet y Manuel Ramírez de Carrión en el siglo XVII han suscitado un mayor interés, la fundamentación teórica que nutrió el pensamiento que hizo posible las primeras experiencias de instrucción a infantes sordos es actualmente un misterio. Hasta el momento, no hay evidencias escritas que vinculen las ideas del filósofo, médico y matemático italiano Girolamo Cardano y el primer maestro de niños sordos en España; sin embargo, la primera traducción al castellano que aquí se presenta de los capítulos "De surditate" y "De mutis" de su obra De utilitate ex aduersis capienda (1561) implica un avance significativo e innovador en la investigación de la historia de la educación de las personas sordas. Con ello, no se pretende atribuir un papel que se desconoce si desempeñó, sino facilitar el acceso a un texto que permite profundizar y completar el conocimiento sobre la conceptualización de la sordera en el siglo XVI.
Comenius y la presidencia de la Universidad de Harvard
Authors: Tárrega Garrido Jorge
Published: September 2024

El presente artículo pretende revisar las fuentes disponibles y toda la investigación posterior acerca del tan discutido ofrecimiento que se le planteó al reformador pedagógico y filósofo checo Comenius (1592-1670) para presidir la Universidad de Harvard en 1642. Puesto que la noticia no se sustenta más que en los lamentos del escritor americano Cotton Mather (1663-1728) ante la negativa de Comenius a trasladarse al Nuevo Mundo, se procede a analizar la documentación escrita —principalmente correspondencia— de diversos implicados en la supuesta trama, como John Winthrop Jr., gobernador de connecticut, Hartlib, el editor inglés, o el mismo Comenius, y se reflexiona sobre la veracidad de las afirmaciones de Cotton Mather, única fuente en toda la historia.
“Comme t’ha fatto mammeta”: Il topos classico della descriptio puellae in una canzone classica napoletana
Authors: Taccini Lorenzo , Laguna Mariscal Gabriel , Martínez Sariego Mónica M.
Published: September 2024

Questo articolo esamina il trattamento del topos letterario della descriptio puellae nella letteratura greco-latina, come fonte per la sua ricreazione nella canzone classica napoletana “Come facette mammeta” (1906). Il topos conosce due modalità principali: una più erotica e un’altra più idealizzata e platonica. Si parte dall’analisi di un epigramma greco (AP 5.132) del poeta Filodemo di Gàdara e di un’elegia di Ovidio (Am.1.5.17-26), che è diventata il modello per l’imitazione nella tradizione letteraria europea. Sia Filodemo che Ovidio coltivano il topos nella sua modalità erotica. Per altro verso, il tema della descrizione dell’amata, in una modalità idealizzata che chiamiamo blasone, ha precedenti nella poesia latina (Catullo, Properzio) ed è coltivato nel Rinascimento a partire da Petrarca (Canzoniere 90). Nella canzone “Come facette mammeta” viene rappresentata una descrizione sensuale della ragazza amata, immaginata come creata dalla madre da certi ingredienti. La descrizione si concentra su tre attributi fisici: la carnagione del suo corpo (una miscela di bianco e rosso), la bocca (assimilata a fragole e spezie dolci) e i capelli (paragonati all’oro). Questa canzone, sebbene richiami genericamente le descrizioni libidinose di Filodemo e Ovidio, si ispira a un passaggio di Properzio (2.3.9-28) e assimila anche motivi provenienti da Petrarca.
Implementation of Teacher Interpersonal Communication on Student Behavior Changes
Authors: Iman Mujhirul , Sufni Nurul , Putri Eka Julia , Amanda Syahfira
Published: September 2024

This study discusses the Implementation of Teacher Interpersonal Communication on Student Behavior Changes. Communication is an important thing in human life. Of course, positive communication behavior is very important for the formation of student personality and has a very big influence on the success of their education. Student communication behavior has a big psychological influence on learning activities. With the attention of teachers, students will be more active and more enthusiastic in learning because they know that they are not the only ones who want to progress. Because, the good and bad achievements achieved by children will affect them and their further educational development. The method used in this study is using a qualitative method, by interviewing the relevant sources and also conducting observations at the destination. And the results obtained from this study are that interpersonal communication between teachers and students has gone well and can change student behavior for the better. Teachers can do this by communicating in depth with these students, namely by listening actively and not judging students with the aim of knowing and understanding the student's perspective.
The Effect of Business Risk, Company Size, Investment Decisions, Board Size, Profitability on Capital Structure in Property and Real Estate Companies for the Period 2018 - 2022
Authors: Kamaluddin Natalia Angela , Wijoyo Amin
Published: September 2024

This study aims to determine the impact of Business Risk, Firm Size, Investment Decisions, Board Size, and Profitability on Capital Structure in property and real estate sector companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. This study used a sample of 12 companies during the period 2018 - 2022 with a total of 60 data. In this study there are research methods which include Descriptive Statistics, Classical Assumption Test, Multiple linear regression analysis, T test, F test, and Coefficient of determination. Based on the results of the research analysis, it shows that the business risk, investment decision, and profitability variables have a negative and significant effect on the capital structure. Company size variable have no significant influence on capital structure. While the board size variable has a positive and significant effect on capital structure.
Artificial Intelligence Enhanced Learning Management System: Supporting Merdeka Belajar-Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) at a State University in Indonesia
Authors: Anisah Lina , Yawan Hendri , Marhamah Marhamah
Published: September 2024

This research aims to develop an e-learning system integrated with ChatGPT in enhancing students' learning outcomes within the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM). By adopting the Analyze, Design, Develop, Implement, and Evaluate (ADDIE) approach, this study indicates a remarkable 80% satisfaction rate among users of the e-learning platform. Despite focusing on the e-learning development stage and content preparation, there remains an avenue for further investigation, specifically in the realm of classroom action research. The implementation of this e-learning portal stands as a significant milestone in educational technology, emphasizing accessibility, adaptability, and cost-efficiency, offering a durable platform for educational content. User feedback underlines the success of this development, endorsing its continued usage and potential for further advancements. This research not only addresses the immediate effectiveness of integrating ChatGPT into e-learning but also showcases the potential for continual enhancement and the ongoing evolution of educational technologies within the MBKM initiative at Universitas Sembilanbelas November Kolaka.
Carbon Sinks of Steel: Using Bamboo to Combat Climate Change
Authors: Kirchhof Erica
Published: September 2024

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, conventional agriculture accounts for approximately 19-29 percent of greenhouse gas emissions worldwide—a proportion destined to increase with the rising world population. As a result, it is important to uncover areas where methods of sustainable agriculture can be implemented or improved, and fostering these opportunities in the agricultural communities of developing nations offers great potential for reducing international greenhouse gas emissions. For many areas of the world, one promising strategy can be found in the cultivation of bamboo. A perennial plant within the grass family (Poaceae), bamboo belongs to the subfamily Bambusoideae and consists of over 1500 known species in approximately 119 genera. Although endemic to nearly every continent, the greatest species diversity of bamboo can be found in the subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Latin America. This paper aims to examine the cultivation of bamboo in rural communities and developing nations as a strategy of climate change mitigation and land revitalization. The potential of bamboo to be used in international carbon trading schemes is also analyzed. As an agriculturally relevant crop for many remote communities, the cultivation and harvest of bamboo can provide a meaningful source of income to developing areas while also helping nations meet sustainability and emissions reduction goals.
Living Energy
Authors: Gandhi Smiti , Liu Andrew
Published: September 2024

To combat pollution, habitat degradation, and waste of limited resources, scientists and environmental activists advocate for renewable energy – cleaner, inexhaustible forms of power. While there are numerous positives to this energy type, it is more expensive, more intermittent, and less efficient than readily available fossil fuels. For example, solar panels are only 15-21% efficient on average. One solution, the solar concentrator, uses reflective properties of glass to concentrate light towards a solar cell. This project investigates the integration of biofluorescent bacteria into concentrator photovoltaics, using visible light produced by these bacteria as an additional source of photons for solar cells. The purpose was to test how much this biofluorescent bacteria-based solar concentrator can enhance the power output of photovoltaic cells. The experiment consisted of 10 trials containing control glass concentrators and concentrators with biofluorescent E. coli, for a total of 1.5 hours under simulated light conditions and 1.5 hours in the dark. The power (wattage) of each recording was calculated at 15-minute test intervals and used to compare the control and bacteria-applied solar cells. On average, application of biofluorescent bacteria resulted in a power output increase of 61.46% in the light simulation and 273.6% in the dark. These findings suggest that the enhancement of photovoltaic cell performance using biofluorescent bacteria on a solar concentrator can allow for greater amounts of energy to be output by real-world solar panels.
Sustainability Education for Namibian Youth to Advance Efficient Cookstoves and Energy Development
Authors: Lindgren Samantha
Published: September 2024

Efficient cooking has long been of interest for its presence in multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) including Good Health and Well-Being, Affordable and Clean Energy, Quality Education, Gender Equality, and Climate Action among others. Widespread uptake of an efficient cooking device, such as an “improved” biomass or LPG cookstove, has the potential to contribute to progress on many simultaneous fronts. However, unlike other sustainable development and public health initiatives, few cookstove programs include all household stakeholders, and rarely are youth, the future and current users of cookstoves, purposefully engaged in diffusion efforts. The results of a 2019 stratified survey of 200 households in two rural towns, one serving as a control group, in the Hardap region of Namibia indicate that youth-oriented Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) programming may be an effective means of inspiring changes in energy-related attitudes and behaviors in the home and across the community. Households with children who were past participants of an ESD program in the Namib Desert demonstrated an awareness of, and an openness to, solar energy as an alternative to biomass. This study highlights the importance of broadening the definition of stakeholder in the cookstove and energy development sector to include children, and points to youth-oriented ESD as a potential framework for shifting attitudes and behaviors, generationally at home and across the community.
Note From the Editors
Authors: Chen Jocelyn , Thornberg Agnes
Published: September 2024

Dear Readers,
We are proud to present Issue XXIV of Consilience: The Journal of Sustainable Development. As we approach the middle of 2021, we reflect on these past six months with a great sense of hope and optimism. The efficient vaccine distribution in the United States has brought back a feeling of normalcy as cases are dropping across the country. Although the COVID-19 pandemic is still very much real and full recovery from the tragedy that it has imposed will require a lot of time and resources, an end to the pandemic feels within reach and we are very inspired by the leadership and research that is paving the way. 
We recently passed the one-year anniversary of the murder of George Floyd, that sparked conversations and protests against racism across the globe. Racial inequality remains a deeply rooted problem in the United States and we are saddened to see that this spring brought with it further condemnable acts of hatred and violence towards individuals based on race and ethnicity. While we are very delighted to watch as the world has come together to eradicate the COVID-19 virus and distribute the vaccine, it has become clear that these systems are also characterized by inequality. The quest for sustainability is symbiotic with that of equity, we can therefore not look towards a sustainable future without addressing this issue as well.
Although the end of the pandemic may be a time for celebration, we have greater challenges ahead of us. The climate crisis is gaining urgency for each day that passes and it is imperative that the world unites and works together to tackle it. In Issue XXIV, we selected a collection of articles that examine the state of the planet and climate change with scientific rigor and objectivity. We open the issue with innovative ideas of applying biofluorescent bacteria to solar concentrators and bamboo for climate change. Then, the issue dives into studies of the potential for Namibian youths in sustainable cooking and groundwater resources in Long Island and Shelter Island. Finally, we close the issue with an opinion piece evaluating renewable energy goals in the state of California. 
We are immensely proud of the work that has been put into this issue by our team of editors and the authors that have submitted to us. We encourage you to further engage with us and take a look at our Briefings column, which publishes shorter opinion pieces on hot-button topics. You can also subscribe to the Consilience pages on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to stay informed about new articles that are posted, author highlights, events, and other journal news. This spring also saw the launch of our very own newsletter that we invite you to subscribe to here. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us at consiliencejournal@gmail.com.
We hope this issue has instilled you with the same feelings of hope and inspiration that we felt putting it together.
Warmly,
Agnes Thornberg, Editor-in-Chief
Jocelyn Chen, Academic Journal Director
A Bibliography of Karamoja, Uganda: Books and Articles Published in English
Authors: Quam Michael D.
Published: September 2024

The Karamoja region of northeastern Uganda is bordered on the east by the Rift Valley escarpment that drops down into the Kenya territory of Turkana, on the north by the Sudan, on the south by the Mt. Elgon region, and on the west by the home territories of the Teso, Langi, and Acholi peoples. A large region of approximately 27,200 square kilometers, it is dominated by the huge semi-arid plains of its center, where rainfall is seasonal, unpredictable, and too often sparse. In the north and south and along the eastern escarpment the land becomes more forested and mountainous, and in the west the area of the Labwor people is better watered.
Thierry Bianquis
Authors: Bearman Peri
Published: September 2024

The French historian of early Islamic Syria and Fatimid Egypt, Thierry Bianquis, died on September 2, 2014 at the age of 79, leaving a permanent ache in the hearts of those who knew him.
Análisis crítico sobre la existencia y eficacia de las medidas de protección integral en los procesos de justicia indígena por contravenciones de violencia intrafamiliar
Authors: Rassa Iglesias Jorge Luis
Published: September 2024

El trabajo investigativo tiene la finalidad de establecer la existencia de medidas de protección integral para la víctimas de violencia intrafamiliar dentro del sistema de justicia indígena, aquellas que han sido implementadas posterior a la tramitación de unja contienda dentro de la comunidad por lo que, al establecer su sanción y aplicar la correspondiente sanación, no se deja desprotegida a la víctima, más el Presidente de Cabildo, al tomar la determinación o resolución del caso, le dota de un acompañamiento que es del tipo familiar, el mismo que es recomendado por los adultos mayores de la comunidad. Este tipo de justicia ancestral ha pasado de generación en generación por lo que no se puede establecer un derecho escrito para cada uno de los conflictos que se ventilen dentro de su territorio, pero, si se quedan grabadas las memorias de aquello que para los pueblos y nacionalidades es su sentencia, en donde se recogen los datos más importantes y relevantes al respecto como son: los nombres de los involucrados, el tipo de reparación a la víctima y su familia, el cumplimiento y las medidas de protección con el fin de que no se repita lo sucedido puesto que, su reincidencia recaería en una sanción más fuerte y/o el destierro o expulsión de la comunidad. Se tuvo como conclusión que al ser un sistema de resolución de conflictos, goza de jurisdicción, la misma que se ejerce a través de sus líderes o lideresas, que son elegidos a través de un proceso democrático el cuál es respetado por la Comunidad y/o Cabildo, siendo aquellas decisiones de cumplimiento inmediato y con la finalidad de que se restablezca la paz de la Comunidad.
OPTIMIZATION OF CULTURE CONDITIONS AND PARTIAL PURIFICATION OF PHYTASE ENZYME ISOLATED FROM BACTERIAL ISOLATES
Authors: Ohaegbu Chinedu G , Achi Ome K , Nwachukwu Ejikeme , Ngene Anayochukwu C , Achi Ngozi K
Published: September 2024

Background: Phytic acid is an anti-nutritional agent in cereal foods, creating nutritional and health problems in human and animals by chelating minerals thereby causing their reduced uptake by the intestine. This study investigates the effects of culture conditions on the phytase enzyme production by three bacterial strains.
Methods: The three bacterial strains were isolated from traditional fermented foods and confirmed by molecular techniques as Lactococcus lactis LAC460, Lactobacillus fermentum SBC0035 and Lysinibacillus macroides DSM54. The phytase-producing bacterial strains were isolated using a phytase screening agar medium. To optimize the culture conditions for optimal production of phytase from the bacterial strains, different factors were studied.
Results: All the isolates attained maximum growth after 36 h of fermentation, and the absorbance was 0.85, 0.88 and 0.84 at 700 nm for Lactococcus lactis LAC460, Lactobacillus fermentum SCB0035 and Lysinibacillus macroides DSM54 respectively. The combination of 0.75% mannose plus 0.75% sucrose and yeast extract were the most efficient carbon and nitrogen sources for phytase production by all the strains isolated while corn starch and soybean meal were the most efficient alternative carbon and nitrogen sources for phytase production. The optimum pH range and temperature for the activity of phytase were found to be 6.5 - 7.5 and 40-60? respectively for all the strains. The partially purified enzyme from Lactobacillus fermentum SCB0035 was 50% stable for 1 h at 80°C. CuSO4 and FeSO4 showed an inhibitory effect on the phytase activity as the effect was dose dependent while CaCl2 and MgSO4 showed an increase in phytase activity in a dose dependent manner.
Conclusion: This study suggests that the phytase enzyme obtained from the bacterial strains used in this study most especially Lactobacillus fermentum SCB0035 can be exploited in upgrading the nutritional status of feed in animal diet and in the reduction of phosphorus pollution problem in livestock production.
Interrogating Regional Partnership among Youth Entrepreneurs in Africa to Fulfill Sustainable Development Goal Seventeen
Authors: Jubril Bolaji
Published: September 2024

This study aims at addressing the regional partnership among young entrepreneurs in Africa in meeting Sustainable Development Goals through technology, trade, finance, and capacity building. A qualitative research method was adopted during the study. Many African youths indulge in entrepreneurship after graduating from colleges and universities due to a lack of employment on the continent. Second, Africa needs more capacity-building workshops and seminars regionally to enlighten the youths on the importance of being an entrepreneur and molding them towards the path. Third, some youth entrepreneurs are unaware of the SDGs among the participants interviewed. Finally, regional capacity building has empowered many youth entrepreneurs in Africa. The study was limited to three countries in sub-Saharan Africa. Therefore, the generalised study results about Africa are only limited to a few African nations. It was challenging gathering data as most participants were adamant about providing information on camera. Some participants altogether felt uncomfortable participating in the research.
Integrating CPI and Core Data into Logistic Regression for Lithofacies Modeling
Authors: Hasan Alaa M. , Sabe Ahmed H.
Published: September 2024

The lithofacies classification research is part of an extended multidisciplinary reservoir characterization and simulation study that has been implemented on the upper shale member/Zubair formation of the southern Iraqi X oil field. This study has been conducted through the Integrated Reservoir Management School (IRMS) at the Basrah Oil Company (BOC). Lithofacies classification is a process to determine rock lithology by analyzing core and well- log data set. Traditionally, lithofacies were classified manually or with the use of some graphing approaches. Many artificial intelligence techniques have recently been adopted to categorize lithofacies. In this work, two robust algorithms were applied to modeling the lithofacies through specific well section (formation), these procedures were adopted and their results were compared to determine more accurate lithofacies classification method. Logistic Boost Regression LBR and Multinomial Logistic Regression MLR were utilized to model the resulting lithofacies as a function of CPI dataset in order to anticipate discrete properties distribution in non-cored depth in wells.
CPI data, which are available for 49 wells in the upper shale Zubair formation, includes: water saturation, porosity (∅_neutron) and volume of shale (V_sh). However, routine core analyses of permeability, porosity and facies are existent for only one well. For that well, the lithofacies types are sand, silty sand and shale. Two supervised statistical learning techniques, LBR and MLR, has been certified to model the discrete lithofacies distribution as a function of the CPI records. The lithofacies classification was then validated through forming the confusion table and computing the accuracy for each method. LBR was observed to be the optimum approach as it led to more accurate lithofacies classification than MLR in clastic reservoirs. The presented workflow demonstrated reasonable facies distribution that leads to strong relationship between porosity and permeability to estimate the petrophysical properties in non-cored wells.
In addition, the posterior lithofacies distribution were plotted to show the probability of spatial distribution and direction of model. These algorithms implemented through R programming a language commonly used in statistical computing by using software packages. Then, these costs for overall data process acquisition could be reduced.
APPLICATION OF INFRARED LIGHT IN DENTAL MEDICINE. A REVIEW
Authors:   Department of Conservative Dentistry and Oral Pathology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Medical University, Varna, Bulgaria., Panov Vladimir , Krasteva Assya ,   Department of Oral imaging and oral diagnostics, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Medical University, Sofia, Bulgaria.
Published: September 2024

The use of infrared (IR) light in dentistry has developed rapidly over the past few decades. Devices do not require an external energy source but can be activated by body heat. IR can be used to improve diagnosis or treatment. Currently, the use of infrared thermography (ITR) in modern medicine is experiencing continuous growth due to the technological advantages of the method in the prevention and monitoring of some diseases, the selection and evaluation of treatments, as well as its high diagnostic sensitivity and specificity reported by specialized studies. Technological advances in the new generations of infrared detectors have led to an increase in the level of precision offered by thermal imaging as an alternative method of medical diagnosis or treatment. The improved thermal sensitivity has contributed to the expansion of the use of IR in all medical fields, including dentistry, in specialities such as endodontics, odontology, periodontics, prosthetics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, TMJ pathology, implantology, allergology, oral pathology, photostimulation. Thermograms can be stored, processed and sent digitally, which makes them compatible with other modern technologies. Colour coded thermograms are easier to interpret. Infrared thermography has numerous advantages, such as speed of realization, comfort for the patient, absence of contraindications and side effects, qualitative evaluation of the examined affection.
Atrial Fibrillation as the initial presentation of Dilated Cardiomyopathy induced by Hyperthyroidism: A Case Report
Authors:   Cardiology Department, CHU Ibn Rochd, Casablanca, Morocco., Bouazizi A El
Published: September 2024

Dilated cardiomyopathy is a heart condition characterized by the dilation of heart chambers and decreased systolic function of the left ventricle. Hyperthyroidism, an excessive secretion of thyroid hormones, can induce severe cardiovascular disturbances
Molecular Docking and ADMET Studies of some Secondary Metabolites from Buchholzia Coriacea which Target Inos and COX-2 related to Paracetamol Hepatotoxicity
Authors:   Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria., AO Olusola
Published: September 2024

Paracetamol (N-acetyl-p-aminophenol APAP) is a widely used over-the counter analgesic and antipyretic drug, overdose of APAP leads to hepatotoxicity. Buchholzia coriacea plant is useful in folk’s medicine for the treatment of a wide range of diseases due to its secondary metabolites
Tricuspid Regurgitation and Acute Right-Sided Heart Failure: Unexpected Complications of Thyrotoxicosis
Authors:   Department of Cardiology, Chi IBN Rochd, Casablanca, Morocco., Essadqi F
Published: September 2024

Hyperthyroidism, characterized by excessive production of thyroid hormones, can cause various cardiovascular complications, ranging from palpitations and exercise intolerance to severe conditions like atrial fibrillation and heart failure
Splenectomy for an isolated lung cancer metastasis
Authors:   Department of General Surgery, Redcliffe Hospital, Redcliffe, Queensland, Australia., AS Beatty
Published: September 2024

Metastases to the spleen are rare owing to various protective anatomical and physiological features of the spleen itself. Often it occurs in conjunction with widespread disseminated disease and treatment is encompassed as part of the overall systemic treatment rather than targeted towards the splenic metastasis
Screening of Visual Disorders in a Schooled Population in South Lebanon
Authors:   Ophthalmologist, FFSO, Sidon, Lebanon., Mounir Kassir
Published: September 2024

Screening of visual disorders in school population has always been of utmost importance knowing the severe consequences of poor vision on learning capabilities. Many studies have been conducted worldwide, some in Lebanon [1]
Implementation of Date Fruit Sorting Machine Using a Sensor Based Technology
Authors: Vanitha Mahadevan
Published: September 2024

The date palm has significance in Gulf nations, particularly in the Sultanate of Oman. Every summer, the palm produces a large number of date fruit that may be picked. Approximately 70% of it is used for human consumption, while the remaining 30% is used for animal feed and other purposes. Because there are so many different types of dates, they must be classified properly. Omani citizens, used to sort dates by hand. That procedure takes longer time and requires more work. So, while there are various strategies for making the process of sorting date fruit easier and faster, the most efficient one is to use a date sorting machine using color sensor. This machine works with Arduino, color sensors, pistons and conveyor belt. The ultimate objective of this project is to categorize the dates based on the color. The project uses an Arduino microcontroller to receive data from a color sensor and transmit them to pistons in the appropriate order. The date fruit is kept in a conveyor belt that is fixed in a constant low speed. When the color sensor identifies the dates, it activates a specific piston for each color, which pushes the dates into a corresponding basket.
Visual quality assessment for decision making in standardization projects
Authors: Wien Mathias
Published: September 2024

In the context of the development of compression standards for visual media, typically, most decision making relies on the measurement with one or more objective quality metrics. In many cases, a small number of very simple metrics, such as the PSNR or the SSIM, are applied in decision making processes, e.g., in the context of adoption of coding tools in to a draft specification. THis applies to a variety of visual media under consideration, such as classical 2D video or various representations of immersive visual media like dynamic point clouds or meshes. Given the rise of learning-based coding tools and -apparently- competitive end-to-end learned coding schemes, as well as the increasing number of filtering blocks inside or outside of the coding loop of conventional coding schemes, the suitability of such metrics may be questioned. This is due to a potential lack of correlation with mean opinion scores acquired by subjective assessment, especially if specific artifacts, such as temporal consistency, are not well reflected by the metric. This problem can be even more significant for more advanced, potentially learning-based metrics, which may show unexpected behavior if being applied to compression artifacts which have not been known or seen by the time of training the corresponding metric.

Advisory Group ISO/IEC SC 29/AG 5 MPEG Visual Quality Assessment is tasked with evaluating and recommending metrics and testing procedures for the use in standardization projects inside the body of MPEG Working Groups developing compression standards for visual media. This webinar presents recent insights in the performance of metrics and subjective assessment methods for a variety of visual media types. The evaluation includes laboratory tests as well as remote and on-site expert viewing sessions which are frequently conducted during MPEG standardization meetings. The results and the performance of such subjective tests are assessed and used to benchmark objective metrics commonly used or considered for application in the development process. Furthermore and outlook is provided to the dataset of compressed video for study of quality metrics (CVQM) which is currently being developed in AG 5 and which includes reconstructed video sequences from a set of conventional and learning-based coding schemes.
Climate Change Impacts on Coastal Vulnerability and Adaptation Readiness: Maritime Perspective
Authors: Trimedianto Arfin , Marsudi Danang , Lusiani P Faurna , Panjaitan Manahan Budiarto
Published: September 2024

Global climate change has caused serious impacts on coastal areas, including coastal erosion, infrastructure damage, and disruption of marine ecosystems. Sea-level rise and increased frequency and intensity of storms are major threats, exacerbating the economic and social vulnerabilities of coastal communities. In the face of these challenges, effective adaptation efforts and adequate policy support are essential to enhance community resilience. This study aims to explore the impacts of climate change on coastal vulnerability and assess the readiness and effectiveness of adaptation efforts from a maritime perspective. The main focus is on how sea-level rise, storms, and changes in marine ecosystems affect coastal communities, and identify the need for better policies and support for adaptation efforts. This study uses a qualitative approach by collecting primary data through in-depth interviews with coastal community members. Secondary data are also used to complement information related to climate change impacts and adaptation efforts. Data collection techniques include field observations and semi-structured interviews. Data analysis is carried out systematically with coding, categorization, and interpretation steps to identify key patterns and themes. Key findings indicate that the impacts of climate change on coastal areas are extensive. Sea-level rise causes coastal erosion and land loss that impact agriculture and settlements, while increased frequency and intensity of storms result in major damage to infrastructure and economic losses. Impacts on marine ecosystems include coral bleaching and declines in fish species, as well as the impacts of ocean acidification on marine life. Adaptation efforts include seawall construction, mangrove restoration, and community education programs, but are often limited by funding and technical support. The study also identified an urgent need for more comprehensive adaptation policies and additional financial and technical support to improve the effectiveness of future adaptation strategies.
Study of the Implementation of Samarinda Mayor Regulation Number 4 of 2023 in the Kelurahan Tenun Area of Samarinda City
Authors: Yani Ahmad , Eryani Trisna Waty Riza , Salmon Gregorius Agung , Wendy Muhamad
Published: September 2024

This study aims to understand the implementation of Samarinda Mayor Regulation No. 4 of 2022, which amends Mayor Regulation No. 11 of 2022 regarding Guidelines for the Implementation of Community Development and Empowerment Programs (Pro-Bebaya) in Tenun Village, Samarinda Seberang District, Samarinda City. Additionally, the study analyzes the supporting and inhibiting factors related to this implementation. A qualitative descriptive research method was employed, focusing on Edward III's policy implementation model, which includes communication, resources, disposition, and bureaucratic structure. Primary data were obtained through interviews with the Head of Tenun Village as the key informant, along with other informants such as the Village Secretary, the Head of Welfare and Community Empowerment, the Chairman of the Community Group (POKMAS), and local residents. Data collection techniques included observation, interviews, and documentation, with data analysis conducted using the interactive model of Miles and Huberman. The study's findings reveal that communication in the Pro-Bebaya implementation was carried out through community meetings and socialization efforts, while human resources and supporting facilities were adequately available. However, there was a weakness in disposition, specifically the lack of involvement of the Village Community Empowerment Institution (LPM) in the selection of POKMAS members. The bureaucratic structure adhered to the established regulations. Supporting factors for the implementation included high community participation, whereas inhibiting factors were the limited time for program management and insufficient budget allocation compared to community demands. These findings highlight the need for more effective time and budget management in the implementation of the Pro-Bebaya program.
Relapse Risk Factors for Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia: A Retrospective Study of 163 Dogs
Authors: Bannister Sidney , Keys Deborah , Wolff Ewan
Published: September 2024

Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) is defined as an immune-mediated destruction of erythrocytes. Relapses are recognized, but risk factors are poorly defined. We hypothesized that a lower packed cell volume (PCV) on presentation, more transfusions during hospitalization, or a higher total bilirubin would be associated with an increased risk of relapse. IMHA was defined as a PCV less than 30% at diagnosis with two of the following identified: spherocytes, positive Coombs test, elevated total bilirubin, hemoglobinemia, or positive slide agglutination. This was a retrospective study evaluating 163 dogs between January 2005 and December 2019 from one specialty hospital. There were 13 relapses. The probability (95% confidence interval [CI]) of relapse by 3 and 12 mo was 0.05 (0.02–0.13) and 0.11 (0.06–0.22). The probability (95% CI) of relapse by 12 mo in patients who required two or more transfusions was 0.20 (0.09–0.42) compared with 0.07 (0.02–0.19) in patients who did not (P = .191). A lower PCV at diagnosis was not associated with an increased risk of relapse (hazard ratio [95% CI] 0.95 [0.86–1.04], P = .238). A higher total bilirubin was associated with a significantly increased risk of relapse (P = .003). With each increase of 1 mg/dL of total bilirubin, there was a 0.17 (95% CI 0.06–0.28) increase in the probability of relapse. These patients would likely need closer monitoring.
Bacterial Prostatitis Secondary to Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis in an Immunocompetent Dog
Authors: Harvey Samantha , McEntee Elisa , Cole Stephen
Published: September 2024

Salmonella is a rod-shaped gram-negative bacterium of the family Enterobacteriaceae, commonly present in the gastrointestinal tract in humans and animals. Salmonella-associated bacteriuria and prostatitis are rare but have been reported in humans, predominantly older patients with underlying diseases, including urinary tract obstructions, diabetes mellitus, and compromised immunity. In dogs, Salmonella bacteriuria and prostatitis have only been described in patients on immunosuppressive medications. This study reports the case of a 7 yr old male Pit bull terrier mix with Salmonella prostatitis. The patient had a 3 day history of lethargy and anorexia. He was fed a commercial diet and had no previous medical or medication history. On physical examination, he had caudal abdominal pain and a firm, enlarged, painful prostate. Ultrasound revealed marked prostatomegaly with multifocal echogenic fluid-filled cavitations and regional peritonitis. Urine and prostatic fluid culture grew Salmonella (>100,000 colony-forming units/mL) using standard culture methods. Treatment with enrofloxacin was initiated for 8 wk. Repeat urine and prostatic cultures after cessation of antibiotics were negative, and serial fecal cultures were Salmonella negative. This case report is, to the best of our knowledge, the first to describe Salmonella prostatitis and bacteriuria in an immunocompetent dog who was not fed a raw diet.
Clinical Remission of Cutaneous Lymphoma in a Dog Treated with Verdinexor
Authors: Grady Jennifer Lynn , Gencher Jaymee , Adrianowycz Sarah , Martinez-Romero Gisela
Published: September 2024

A 5 yr old female spayed pit bull terrier mix was evaluated for development of multiple dermal nodules over the previous 2 wk with concurrent weight loss and lethargy. A definitive diagnosis of cutaneous epitheliotropic T-cell lymphoma was obtained through histopathology and immunohistochemistry. Treatment was initiated with 32.9 mg/m2 (1.2 mg/kg) of oral verdinexor twice per week, according to label guidance. One week after treatment initiation, clinical remission was noted with complete resolution of the cutaneous nodules. The dog has continued twice-weekly treatments without any interruption and remains in complete remission 17 mo following initiation of verdinexor therapy. This case provides evidence for the utility of verdinexor in the treatment of canine cutaneous epitheliotropic T-cell lymphoma.
Nonfunctional Incomplete Infected Ureteral Duplication in a French Bulldog
Authors: Rousseau Thomas , Fusellier Marion , Bencharif Djemil , Hernandez Juan , Gauthier Olivier , Maitre Pierre
Published: September 2024

A 7 yr old female French bulldog exhibited recurrent purulent vulvar discharge following an episode of pyometra treated by ovariohysterectomy. The diagnosis of ureteral duplication was established through a combination of ultrasonography, computed tomography scanning, and cystoscopy/vaginoscopy. Despite initial medical intervention, the dog’s clinical condition did not improve. Consequently, surgical treatment was pursued to remove the duplicated ureter while preserving the integrity of the urinary tract. Resection of the duplicated ureter was performed from the kidney to the bladder, and the blind ends left in place in the kidney and in the bladder wall were omentalized. Histopathological analysis confirmed the presence of the duplicated ureter. Postoperatively, the dog made a full recovery with no complications or urinary tract dysfunction. Long-term follow-up (11 mo) revealed complete resolution of all clinical signs. Ureteral duplication should be included in the differential diagnosis of vulvar purulent discharge in dogs. Removal of the abnormal ureter resulted in complete resolution of the clinical signs. This case underscores the importance of individualized treatment plans for ureteral duplications in dogs and the potential for successful surgical treatment in selected cases.