bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La política exterior de El Salvador bajo el gobierno de Nayib Bukele, en el marco de los realineamientos internacionales de los actores políticos latinoamericanos frente a la rivalidad sino-estadounidense
Authors:   Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú, Poole Fuller Esteban , Jianrong Peng ,   Universidad de Ciencia y Tecnología del Suroeste (Mianyang, Sichuan, China)
Published: October 2024

Desde la llegada de Nayib Bukele a la presidencia de El Salvador en 2019, se observa un realineamiento de la política exterior de este país centroamericano. Se ha evidenciado un acercamiento hacia China, al tiempo que se han fracturado las tradicionalmente estrechas relaciones con Estados Unidos, particularmente desde 2021, tras la llegada de Joe Biden a la presidencia estadounidense. A partir del análisis del realineamiento de la política exterior de El Salvador, bajo el mandato de Bukele, este artículo explora las dinámicas actuales de los gobiernos y actores políticos latinoamericanos frente a China y Estados Unidos en un contexto de rivalidad estratégica entre ambas potencias
Gutachten zur Erforderlichkeit von Schülerindividualdaten in NRW/ZEFIR-Materialien Bd. 25
Authors: Schräpler Jörg-Peter , Weishaupt Horst , Jeworutzki Sebastian
Published: October 2024

Das Gutachten zur Erforderlichkeit von Schülerindividualdaten in Nordrhein-Westfalen analysiert die Notwendigkeit einer Reform der Datenerhebung im Schulsystem des Landes NRW. Im Fokus stehen dabei Schülerindividualdaten, die für eine gezielte Steuerung und Verbesserung der Schulentwicklung unverzichtbar sind. Das im Auftrag des Ministeriums für Schule und Bildung des Landes Nordrhein-Westfalen angefertigte Gutachten macht deutlich, dass die derzeit auf Aggregatebene durchgeführten Erhebungen in der amtlichen Schulstatistik den wachsenden Anforderungen nicht mehr gerecht werden. Es wird gezeigt, dass die Einführung von Schülerindividualdaten insbesondere für die Landesverwaltung, aber auch für die Kommunen für eine effektive Steuerung des Bildungssystems und für die Wissenschaft von großer Relevanz sind. Das Gutachten enthält zudem Stellungnahmen der AG Registermodernisierung und Registerzensus des Verbands Deutscher Städtestatistik, der Stadt Essen sowie von den Bildungsmonitorerinnen und Bildungsmonitorern in NRW.
Structural Analysis of Squat Rack using Finite Element Approach
Authors: Sriram G. . , Rajmohan T. . , Tamilarasan A. .
Published: October 2024

In this work, a Finite Element Analysis (FEA) of Squat Rack is presented for the Mild steel (AISI 1045) and Stainless steel (AISI 304) materials. The frame, top bar and J Hook of squat rack are modelled and analysed in ANSYS environment. At first, the static analysis is carried out for predicting the nodal displacements and stresses. Afterwards, the modal Analysis of the developed FE model is carried out and five mode shapes are obtained at five different natural frequencies. For both the analyses, a beam 188 element is selected. The results of static and modal analysis were plotted for the selected materials. By comparison of all the results, it is inferred that the AISI 304 stainless steel produced minimal displacements and stress values. Finally, it is observed that the performance of FE models and their solutions are accurate and robust.
Capítulo I: EL TRIBUNAL ADMINISTRATIVO DE RECURSOS CONTRACTUALES DE LA JUNTA DE ANDALUCÍA Y LOS REQUISITOS DE ADMISIÓN DEL RECURSO
Authors: Santiago Fernández María José , Ruiz-Cabello Jiménez María Lourdes
Published: October 2024

SUMARIO: 1.1. BREVE REFERENCIA A LA CREACIÓN DEL TRIBUNAL 1.2. SEDE Y PÁGINA WEB 1.3. COMPETENCIAS. ÁMBITO SUBJETIVO 1.4. ÁMBITO OBJETIVO DEL RECURSO ESPECIAL EN MATERIA DE CONTRATACIÓN: ACTOS Y CONTRATOS RECURRIBLES 1.4.1. Contratos susceptibles del recurso especial. Cambios producidos por el efecto directo de la Directiva de concesiones. 1.4.2. Actos susceptibles del recurso especial. 1.4.3. Casuística del TARCJA respecto a los actos susceptibles de recurso especial. 1.5. LEGITIMACIÓN ACTIVA PARA LA  INTERPOSICIÓN DEL RECURSO ESPECIAL EN MATERIA DE CONTRATACIÓN 1.6. LUGAR Y PLAZO DE PRESENTACIÓN 1.6.1. Lugar de presentación. 1.6.2. Plazo de presentación
ELEMENTS OF THE INTANGIBLE CULTURAL HERITAGE OF UKRAINE IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE NATIONAL IDENTITY
Authors:   Masaryk University, Faculty of Arts, Department of European Ethnology, Brno, Czech Republic, Navrátilová Barbora
Published: October 2024

The construction of national identity has been a most discussed topic in Ukraine since 1991 when the second-largest European country gained independence and particularly since the Euromaidan protests and revolution in 2014. The everyday and political life, various forms of literary and artistic creations, or historical cultural heritage are the areas where it is possible to observe the phenomenon. The paper focuses on the area traditionally studied by ethnology—traditional vernacular (folk) culture and selected elements of intangible cultural heritage (ICH). The main goal of the study is to show how specific phenomena from the originally vernacular culture of different regions of Ukraine, such as clothing components or traditional dishes, are being actively used, reshaped, and reinterpreted as important symbols in the process of the formation of national identity in the contemporary world. I will discuss three specific cases, which are of high popularity in Ukraine and in the international context: an embroidered shirt known in Ukrainian as the vyshyvanka, a borscht soup, and a decorated Easter egg pysanka. The following text summarizes the initial phase of the study, drawing on scholarly literature and interviews with Ukrainians currently living in the Czech Republic.
RETHINKING REGIONS IN SLOVAKIA—AN IDYLL OF TRADITIONAL CULTURE VERSUS INSTITUTIONAL FLUIDITY
Authors:   Institute of Ethnology and Social Anthropology of Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia, Lukáč Kinčeš Martin
Published: October 2024

Slovakia, as an important part of the former Habsburg Monarchy, was extremely administratively fragmented already in the Middle Ages due to developed mining, forestry, and related industry, but also due to geomorphological conditions forming significant natural barriers. Each political regime operating in this territory imposed its own idea of its territorial-administrative affiliation on the territory and its population, pursuing specific geographical interests (defense of the territory against further secession, e.g., in favor of Poland) and political goals (dimensioning of districts with the aim of minimizing the dominance of the Hungarian national minority). The frequency of these reforms was so high during the 20th century that many of the territorial-administrative reforms didn’t even have time to properly establish and integrate into people’s consciousness. Since 1996, Slovakia has not been able to decide how to reform public administration and its territorial-administrative structure. In fact, people, experts, and politicians rarely agree on its absolute need. Nevertheless, changes in spatial organization of regional units in Slovakia mostly come “from below” (local level) and partly “from above” (national level) influenced by dynamic socio-cultural processes, economic factors, and regional development strategies (caused by joining European Union [EU], particularly related to the implementation of European structural and investment funds). Therefore, new micro-regional units are created, so called “local action groups”, appearing as regional tourism organizations or functional associations of municipalities. In order to conduct new regionalization of Slovakia, in its basic and final concept, a rational approach on the stratification of the territory through the division into geographical regions, historical regions, and cultural regions is necessary, observed as separate sets of regionalization. In view of the above, the submitted contribution will attempt to answer a set of selected questions: Is traditional folk culture a basic parameter of identity in a historically predominantly rural country? Don’t regional and national institutions take over the role of bearers of territorial identity? Which institutional aspects are essential for the creation of regions? What is the position of the stakeholders in the complex system of territorial identities and rethinking regions? Doesn’t every period transformation bring about a certain transposition of defining self-determination and identity, and don’t stable regions become fluid regions?
Neural networks pipeline for quality management in IVF laboratory
Authors: Sergeev Sergei , Diakova Iuliia , Nadirashvili Lasha
Published: October 2024

This study introduces a novel neural network-based pipeline for predicting clinical pregnancy rates in IVF treatments, integrating both clinical and laboratory data. We developed a metamodel combining deep neural networks and Kolmogorov-Arnold networks, leveraging their complementary strengths to enhance predictive accuracy and interpretability. The metamodel achieved robust performance metrics after training and fitting on 11500 clinical cases: accuracy = 0.72, AUC = 0.75, F1 score = 0.60, and Matthews Correlation Coefficient of 0.42. According to morpho-kinetical embryo evaluation, our model’s PRC of 0.66 significantly improves over existing time-lapse systems for pregnancy prediction, demonstrating better handling of imbalanced clinical data.

The metamodel’s calibration metrics (Brier score = 0.20, expected calibration error = 0.06, maximum calibration error = 0.12, Hosmer-Lemeshow test p-value = 0.06) indicate robust reliability in predicting clinical pregnancy outcomes. We validated the model’s reproducibility using an independent dataset of 665 treatment cycles, showing close alignment between predicted and actual pregnancy rates (58.9% vs. 59.1%). With the Bayesian method, we proposed a robust framework for integrating historical data with real-time predictions from neural networks, enabling a transition from retrospective to prospective analysis.

Our approach extends beyond conventional embryo selection, incorporating post-analytical phase evaluation in the IVF laboratory. This comprehensive framework enables detailed analysis across different patient subpopulations and time periods, facilitating the identification of systemic issues and IVF protocol optimization. The model’s ability to track pregnancy probabilities over time and staff members allows for both outcome prediction and retrospective and prospective assessment of IVF treatment efficacy, providing a data-driven strategy for continuous improvement in assisted reproductive technology.
Regional Development Policies in Afghanistan and Neighboring Countries: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Kakar Shams Masood , Özçelik Özer
Published: October 2024

This essay explores the regional development policies applied in Afghanistan and its neighboring countries using a comparative qualitative analysis method. It focuses on infrastructure development, human capital investment, regional integration, and technological innovation policies. It compares development policies in China, Iran, Pakistan, and Afghanistan highlighting key projects which have fostered regional connectivity and economic growth. By comparing these policies, the essay evaluates how these initiatives have contributed to reducing regional disparities. This study aims to provide insights into how regional development policies can address Afghanistan’s socio-economic disparities and promote sustainable development. Despite notable successes, the research identifies ongoing challenges such as political instability, limited financial resources, and weak regional cooperation that impede further progress in Afghanistan. Key policy recommendations for Afghanistan include enhancing regional cooperation, investing in technological infrastructure, and developing human capital to achieve sustainable growth and stability.
DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION OF A MULTI-CHAMBER ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL SYSTEM
Authors: Rodriguez-Ruelas Raul Alfonso , Carrillo-Salazar José Alfredo , González-Camacho Juan Manuel , Cruz-Huerta Nicacio , Rojas-Martínez Reyna Isabel , Livera-Muñoz Manuel , Carrasco-Hernández Francisco , López-Martínez Noe
Published: October 2024

Growth chambers are control devices used in plant research. However, their high costs limit their application to a single environment, which compromises their efficiency for the generation of experimental data. The objective of this research was to design, construct, and assess the performance of a multi-chamber environmental control system capable of regulating both air temperature (AT) and relative humidity (RH). The evaluation was carried out using Syngonium podophyllum Schott plants. Three constant target temperature values (18, 23, and 40 °C) were established, together with a target RH value of 60 %. AT and RH data were recorded every 4 min for three days. The system was built with 15 growth chambers and the following devices: output (AT, RH, and lighting control), input (sensors), and central control managed by two Arduino® Mega 2560 based microcontrollers, plus a programmable logic controller. Programming was done in open-source languages such as Arduino® and Python®. Results indicate that the absolute error (AE) and standard deviation (SD) in AT were higher when the target temperature was lower (AE = 0.59 °C and SD = 0.93 °C) compared to the other higher target temperatures (AE = 0.31 °C and SD = 0.43 °C at 23 °C, and AE = 0.25 °C and SD = 0.51 °C at 40 °C). On the other hand, the AE in RH increased as temperature increased, going from AE = 3.75 % and SD = 5.12 % at 18 °C, to AE = 9.23 % and SD = 10.77 % at 40 °C. The use of open-source technologies allowed the construction of a multi-chamber environmental control system capable of replicating controlled environments.
Morphology of the male reproductive system and sperm in Tingidae (Hemiptera)
Authors:   , Rezende Paulo Henrique
Published: October 2024

Tingidae is a family of Heteroptera that presents lace patterns on the pronotum and hemielytra, which gives them the popular name Lace Bugs. They are exclusively phytophagous, and many species are agricultural pests. Despite their importance, the group has been left underappreciated in recent years. This thesis focused on this family to address two main questions: How reliable is a sperm morphometrical approach as a taxonomical tool when analyzing 16 species at once? What can the ultrastructural aspects of their sperm tell us about the relationships among the Miroidea and Heteroptera? Morphological data on the reproductive system was also described. The morphometric analysis proved helpful in distinguishing species and was shown to be an excellent complementary taxonomic tool. Furthermore, through ultrastructural sperm analysis, the Tingidae resembled the general pattern found in Heteroptera, corroborating the group's synapomorphies. However, some peculiarities were observed regarding the formation of the centriole adjunct, which extends in the anteroposterior axis of the spermatids, flanking the nucleus. It also confirmed previous findings for their sister family, Miridae. Overall, these findings contribute to a better understanding of Tingidae's reproductive characteristics, expand the family's data, and help outline evolutionary scenarios for such characteristics and phylogenetic implications within the suborder Heteroptera. Keywords: Cimicomorpha. Miroidea. Spermatology. Spemiotaxonomy.
Comparative Study of Tube-In-Tube and Bundled Tube System in High Rise Buildings
Authors: Harshith Kumar K  , Dr. S. Kavitha
Published: October 2024

This study evaluates the seismic performance of Tube-in-Tube and Bundled Tube structural systems for high-rise buildings, following IS 1893 standards. Key parameters, including storey displacement, drift, and shear, were assessed in Seismic Zones 3 and 5. In Seismic Zone 5, the Bundled Tube system reduces storey displacement by about 33% compared to the Tube-in-Tube system. Similarly, in Seismic Zone 3, displacements are lowered by 21-24%. The Tube-in-Tube system exhibits higher storey drift, particularly in Seismic Zone 5, where the Bundled Tube system offers a remarkable 85% reduction. In Seismic Zone 3, this reduction ranges from 45-50%. In terms of storey shear, the Bundled Tube system consistently outperforms the Tube-in-Tube system, reducing shear forces by 24-30% across both seismic zones. Overall, the Bundled Tube system proves to be more effective under seismic conditions, minimizing displacements, drifts, and shear forces, making it the superior choice for high-rise structures in earthquake-prone regions. This improvement in performance contributes to safer structural designs in compliance with IS 1893 standards.
Scalable Cloud Execution Engines
Authors: G Renugadevi  , M L Sharvesh  , S Subhashini  , V S Vaishaal Krishna
Published: October 2024

Scalability remains a major concern for many organizations, and as technology evolves expeditiously, the number of users utilizing it also increases rapidly. In this paper, we propose a novel approach to address this challenge through the implementation of a scalable cloud execution engine using a microservices architecture. By using this design we can achieve a system with loosely coupled and independently deployable methods. Also through this, we can achieve enhanced flexibility, scalability, and reusability in our application. Through experimenting with various execution engines it is evident that most of their design relies on monolithic architecture. However, this design poses potential challenges especially when the traffic experiences sudden spikes. Our proposed design provides practical insights for architects and developers seeking to design and deploy highly scalable cloud applications.
The Business Model Canvas (BMC) Approach for Community-Based Ecotourism (CBET) Strategy and Business Transformation in Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR), Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Shaheed Khan  , Freeda Maria Swarna M
Published: October 2024

Alexander Osterwalder’s Business Model Canvas (BMC) is one of trusted and used business frameworks among entrepreneurs, strategists, start-ups, large corporations, and innovators. The BMC in fact, has created ample opportunities to usher in business transformation and help leverage organizations of all hues to greater heights.  The framework has used in the manufacturing, services and even the social sector which has ensured its applicability and acceptability. In the current research the BMC is being applied on the tourism sector, with specific reference to Community-based Ecotourism (CBET), wherein a community, in a heavily forested tribal area, have adopted a business model under the guidance of the Forest Department (FD) of the state of Tamil Nadu and have made the best of efforts to i) create livelihood options, ii) capacity building for tourism and hospitality activities, iii) preservation, protection, conservation of the forest area which is part of a UNESCO designated Biodiversity site (Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve (NBR), iv) promote Ecotourism, which has its impacts on the Environment, Society (Social) and Economy (Economic); thereby creating ample opportunities for business transformation.  The CBET model has in fact, created benchmarks through the Ecodevelopment Committees (EDC) and Ecotourism Management Committees (ETMC), which are managed at the grassroot level.  Every business no doubt requires and plan and strategy, the EDC and ETMC business models have transformed and showcased to the world, what can be done by a community who are not exposed to the world of business, but are affluent about their existence and contribution to protection, preservation, and conservation. The authors have worked with the community over a period, are juxtaposing the thoughts as propounded in the BMC, which will further support in helping in the business transformation of the Community and its tryst with Ecotourism.
Evaluation of broiler performance reared under monochromatic light emitting diode (LED) tubes vis-a-vis incandescent light supplemental lighting
Authors: MI Hossain , MM Hossain , Bala S  , Akter M
Published: October 2024

This study was conductedto evaluate the effect of different monochromatic LED lightson the performance of broiler chickens. A total of 120 day-old Lohmann Meat (Indian River) broiler chicks were randomly assigned to three treatment groups: incandescent light (control), red LED light and white LED light, with each group consisting of four replicates of 10 chicks. The chicks exposed to LED lighting showed higher average live weight and liveweight gain compared to the control group, while no significant differences(P>0.05)were observed in feed intake, feed conversion ratio and survivability. Carcass yields, including breast, thigh, drumstick, wing, neck, liver, heart, and spleen, were not significantly affected by the different monochromatic lighting sources (P>0.05). However, significant differences(P˂0.05)in the weights of the back and proventriculus were observed between the white LED group and the other treatment groups. These results suggest that LED lighting could serve as a better alternative to incandescent bulbs in broiler houses, with the potential to enhance broiler performance and carcass yield.
Small-scale dairy farming and women’s empowerment: insights from Pabna district in Bangladesh
Authors: KMS Hossain , MMH Pasha , SB Sadrul , MNH Chawdhury , HM Murshed
Published: October 2024

This study focusedon the effects of ruralwomen'sinvolvementindairyfarmingasameansoferadicatingpoverty inBangladesh'sruralcommunities for the empowerment of women in some selected areas of the Pabna district of Bangladesh. Dairy farming is a critical component of the agricultural sector and women's participation in the sector has increased in recent years. To illustrate the effect of rural women in social empowerment, the sample was chosen from the households of thePabna district that were actively involved in dairy farming. 50 households from the study were randomly selectedfor data collection. To illustrate the frequency distribution at various category levels of variables, straightforward percentages were produced. Rural women were able to boost their self-esteem, expandtheirsocialnetworks,andeventuallyincreasetheirlevelofempowermentthrough small-scale dairying, which also gave them more control over their family and personal care decisions. Another purpose of the study was to investigate the causes of this trend as well as the advantages that women experience from it. Using a combination of field surveys, interviews, and literature review, the study analyzed the gender dynamics of dairy farming and identified best practices for promoting women's empowerment in the sector. The findings suggest that dairy farming can serve as a viable livelihood option for women in Pabna, providing them with opportunities for income generation and improving household food security. Furthermore, increased participation in dairy farming has led to improved gender equality and social inclusion, highlightingthe sector's potential for promoting women's empowerment in the region. Consequently, the expansion of small-scale dairying into different rural areas of Bangladesh is likely to contribute to the empowerment of these women and combat poverty.
Ground Nesting Behavior of Aotus griseimembra: Rare Terrestrial Evidence in A Strictly Arboreal Species
Authors: Arango-Lozano Julián , Angarita-Corzo Karime , Julio-Guzmán Jose , Angarita Yanes Camilo , Orozco Montilla Sebastian
Published: October 2024

We report a novel observation of ground nesting behavior in a couple of Aotus griseimembra within a successional inter-Andean Forest patch of Colombia. This behavior, previously unrecorded for strictly arboreal primates of the Genus Aotus, challenges conventional understanding. The monkeys exhibited typical species actions but sought refuge on the ground, possibly influenced by habitat alterations. Their visits to the ground sleeping site were monitored and confirmed the vulnerability to predators, competitors in the forest patch. These findings call the attention for further research into the response strategies of neotropical primates to environmental stressors and habitat disturbance.
Pengaruh Penggunaan Herbal Growth Promotor (HGP) pada Pakan Entok Lokal Terhadap pH, Susut Masak dan Warna Daging
Authors: A. Z. Zakaria, A. Novitasari,  M.N. Khamid, R.S. Prayitno NawangsarI, D.N
Published: October 2024

Pakan yang mengandung herbal menjadi alternatif pengganti penggunaan antibiotic growth promotor (AGP) dalam pemeliharaan unggas. Herbal pakan dapat memberikan pengaruh yang relatif sama dengan AGP terhadap target produksi, tetapi belum diketahui pengaruh terhadap karakteristik daging yang dihasilkan. Herbal diharapkan tidak memberikan pengaruh yang merugikan karakteristik daging, sehingga tetap bernilai ekonomis. Herbal Growth Promotor (HGP) merupakan campuran dari bawang putih, kunir/kunyit, jahe, temulawak, temu hitam, temu giring, kencur, sambiloto, kelor, daun sirsak, mengkudu, mineral alami, asam amino alami, multi vitamin alami. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh penambahan HGP pada pakan entok lokal terhadap pH, susut masak dan warna daging entok lokal. Penelitian menggunakan 100 entok lokal dengan pemeliharaan selama 6 minggu. Perlakuan P0 pakan tanpa HGP, P1 pakan dengan HGP  0,2%, P2 pakan dengan HGP 0,4%, P3 Pakan dengan HGP 0,6%, dan P4 pakan dengan HGP 0,8%. Data dianalisis dengan menggunakan analysis of variance (ANOVA). Hasil penelitian menujukkan perbedaan yang tidak siginifikan terhadap pH, susut masak dan warna daging dibandingkan dengan entok lokal tanpa pemberian HGP, sehingga pemberian HGP hingga level 0,8% tidak mempengaruhi karakteristik daging entok yang dihasilkan.
African Indigenous Knowledge Systems: Assessing the Training of the Gusii Children During the Pre-Colonial Period
Authors: Maangi Dr. Eric Nyankanga
Published: October 2024

The main aim of this paper is to discuss the Gusii indigenous education system. Before the coming of Christian missionaries to Africa, Africans and indeed the Gusii people had their own education system. Each ethnic group had a different education which was different from each other based on the different environments. Each ethnic group taught its youth different knowledge, skills and attitudes according to their environment and their needs. This paper examines the organization of African indigenous education among the Gusii of Kenya, the teachers, methods of teaching, the curriculum and indeed a comparison of this kind of education to the formal education that was introduced by Christian missionaries in the second decade of the 19th century A.D.
Instructional Leadership, work Engagement, Self-Efficacy of School Heads: A Structural Equation Model
Authors: Fernandez Marites D. , Tagadiad Celso L.
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to determine the best-fit model of school effectiveness as influenced by instructional leadership, work engagement, self-efficacy of school heads among 400 public elementary school teachers in Davao Region, Philippines. With the used of Structural Equation Model Analysis, results gained a very high levels for Instructional Leadership and work engagement, a high level of self-efficacy of school heads and school effectiveness. Moreover, there was a strong, positive, and significant correlation between instructional leadership and school effectiveness, work engagement and school effectiveness. However, result for self- efficacy and school effectiveness is not correlated. Further, findings revealed that the influence of the exogenous variables indicates that the overall regression model is statistically significant. Furthermore, results showed that the best-fit model was model 3 showing the direct causal relationships of Instructional Leadership and self- efficacy on school effectiveness. Meanwhile, School effectiveness was defined by the retained indicators namely; Effectiveness of the School Climate, Effectiveness of the Relationship with Local Community, Effectiveness of Using Enrichment Activities in School and Student’s Sense of Belonging the Surrounding Environment. On the other hand, instructional leadership style was described with the following retained indicators: Framing the Goals, Supervise and Evaluate Instructions, Provide Incentives for Teachers and Promote Professional Development. While Self efficacy of school heads was described in terms of the retained indicators namely; Efficacy for Instructional Leadership and Efficacy for Moral Leadership. Findings suggest that the policy making body of the Department of Education may look into provision of benefits of the teachers and the school heads to further increase the school effectiveness.
Application of GIS for Monitoring Firefly Population Abundance (Pteroptyx tener) and the Influence of Abiotic Factors
Authors: Abu Seri Nurhafizul , Abd Rahman Azimah
Published: October 2024

This study focuses on the Pteroptyx tener species in the Sepetang River, Malaysia, aiming to evaluate the firefly’s abundance and explore its correlation with various biotic and abiotic parameters. The study was conducted over six months, from November 2021 to April 2022, utilizing Geographic Information System (GIS) software to apply hotspot mapping and Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) analysis to elucidate the spatial distribution of firefly populations. A total of 111,615 individuals were recorded, with a particular focus on this firefly species’ presence on their display trees. Hotspot analysis showed that Station 6, located at the mouth of a river with dense mangroves, hosted 55,723 fireflies (50.01%). In contrast, Stations 9 and 10, near ponds and shrimp settlements, recorded 517–723 fireflies (0.65% and 0.46%). Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r) unveiled a statistically significant positive correlation (r = 0.88, p < 0.05) between wind speed and the abundance of firefly populations within the Sepetang River. However, no statistically significant correlation (p > 0.05) was found between firefly abundance and various other abiotic parameters, including relative humidity (RH), air temperature, tide level, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), salinity, total dissolved solids (TDS), and water clarity. Thus, the results revealed the preference for fireflies due to the availability of vegetation, wind speed and minimal disturbance in this area. In conclusion, this study’s information significantly adds to our understanding of these interesting insects and their complicated relationships in nature. It underscores the importance of preserving their habitats and ecosystems.
Analisis Tafsir Qs. Al-Takasur Dan Implementasinya Dalam Dinamika Kehidupan Modern
Authors: Ashabul Kahfi  , Achmad Abubakar  , Muhammad Irham
Published: October 2024

Surah al-Takasur, the 102nd surah in the Qur'an, warns about the dangers of worldly preoccupation and the importance of awareness of life after death. This research aims to explore QS. al-Takasur to find out its implementation in modern life. The research method is descriptive qualitative with a focus on literature study. The research findings show that preoccupation with wealth and pride in it can distract people from worshiping Allah, until death. Allah's warning in al-Takasur reminds people not to get caught up in worldly competition, because in the end, all worldly pleasures will be held accountable. This study emphasizes the importance of understanding and applying the Qur'an's spiritual message in facing the challenges of modern times.
Moderasi Beragama: Upaya Revitalisasi Nilai-Nilai Pancasila Perspektif Al-Qur’an
Authors: Muhammad Haris Suwandi Pratama  , M. Yusuf Qardawi  , Iskandar
Published: October 2024

This paper aims to assert that moderation is an effort to revitalize the values of Pancasila from the perspective of the Qur'an. This research is a literature research using thematic interpretation approach (maudhu'i). Comprehensively, this paper examines: 1) How is the concept of moderation? 2) How is the urgency of moderation? and 3) How is moderation implemented? The results of this study show that: 1) Moderation is a way of seeing, thinking, and acting to take the middle way (by using the principles of moderation) against excessive religious understanding and expression. 2) Moderation is considered urgent because it is a solution to radical isms. 3) Moderation is implemented to foster spiritual values, humanism, nationalism, democracy, and integrity.
VRJEDNOTE I ZALIHE MARULIĆEVE JUDITE
Authors: Lučić Antun
Published: October 2024

Načinjenim spjevom Judita poduzetni Marulić poziva na odvažan individualan čin i snaženje razvoja književnosti u hrvatskome izrazu. Upućivanjem u samosvojnu renesansnu viziju proizlazi i konstruiranje književnosti, usporedno s povijesnom stvarnošću, odnosno prenesenim prikazom stvaralački subjekt ispisuje i razmiče zbilju. U radu se ukazuje na autopoetično prisezanje biblijskim i klasičnim, usmenim i pisanim „bašćinskim“ vrelima te na posredovanja i vitalne odmake od priznatih tečevina. Osobito se ističu ponorna sjecišta poetskih značenja, ali i vanjski konteksti i odjeci, što navodi na pomaknute metodološke postavke i drukčije interpretativne silnice. Ishodišno se raščlambom prvotiska, uz usporedbe s biranim izdanjima, otkrivaju okomice književnih vrjednota spjeva, neutrte zalihe smislova u kojima se emanira, svrhovito zrcali izrazita ljepota.
Ključne riječi: Marulić; Judita; vrjednota; zaliha; autopoetika; emanacija
Multifocal extra pelvic endometriosis. A rare case report and literature review
Authors: FEGHOUL Nabyla , SEOUDI Zakaria , DERGUINI Mourad , BENDAOUD Hafida
Published: October 2024

Little known, but omnipresent, endometriosis is a gynecological pathology affecting nearly 10% of women of childbearing age. Of exact pathogenesis not yet clear, the entity is multifactorial and complex, defined by the histological development of endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity, functionally similar to the eutopic endometrium, and which will undergo, during each menstrual cycle, the the influence of hormonal changes. The disease, long ignored, is a chronic, heterogeneous, inflammatory disorder, usually leading to chronic pain and impaired fertility. Although in most cases the ectopic implantation site is in the pelvis, it can affect different organ systems, taking on a range of different and non-uniform forms. Complex presentations, particularly multifocal, of the entity are a rare phenomenon, making its early diagnosis and management often difficult. Endometriosis governs one of the most puzzling and most important public health problem patterns not only from a medical and economic perspective, but also from a socio-professional perspective. In this report, we review a case of multifocal extra pelvic endometriosis which was difficult to diagnose, leading to delayed resolution. Our goal is to provide a resource regarding the variable presentations of the disease, to increase awareness and suspicion, while reviewing its management, based on the available evidence.
Factitious blue edema: a case report
Authors: GHODBANE Nacif Eddine
Published: October 2024

Blue edema or factitious edema is an edema located in a finger, a hand or an entire limb, induced by voluntary stricture by a tourniquet. It is spectacular in its appearance but benign in its evolution. We report a case initially suspected of phlegmon of the right upper limb and which finally turned out to be factitious edema. A 14, year-old girl presenting for a painful swelling of the left upper limb, going up to the arm and evolving for a week. On clinical examination, we noted an impressive edema of the left upper limb predominantly in the hand, with fingers blocked in half-flexion. Edema had a purplish color with thin and scaly skin on the dorsal side of the hand. We suspected a problem of infectious or vascular origin, and completed by biological and radiological explorations without abnormalities. The patient was admitted and improved under broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy, but the appearance of the same symptoms in the contralateral limb, with a careful examination of the integuments of the upper limb noting a mark of strangulation in the middle of the right arm, allowed the diagnosis of factitious blue edema.
Epidemiological, clinical, therapeutic and toxicological profile of acute intoxications: A monocentric retrospective study
Authors: YAMOUN Assia , BENBOUDIAF Sabah , KERDOUN Mohamed Amine
Published: October 2024

Objectives. Acute poisonings remain a significant cause of morbidity and mortality globally, posing a major public health challenge. In Algeria, data on the profile of acute poisonings are limited. The objective of this study, conducted at the University Hospital of Setif, was to provide an epidemiological, clinical, therapeutic, and toxicological overview of acute poisonings in this country. Results. This retrospective study, covering the period from the last quarter of 2016 to April 30, 2018, included 406 cases. The results showed a sex ratio of 1.41 with a female predominance. The intoxicated patients had a mean age of 24.74 years, with the most affected age group being between 19 and 29 years (28%). Poisonings were mainly accidental (57%), with 18% of cases involving intentional poisonings, more common among men. Medication poisonings were the most common (54%), followed by carbon monoxide poisonings (37%). Carbon monoxide poisonings were exclusively accidental, while medication poisonings were intentional in 27% of cases. Cosmetics, household products, and carbon monoxide were more often implicated in cases involving females. An incidence peak was observed in winter. The average time between poisoning and hospitalization was 15 hours and 24 minutes. Symptomatic treatment alone or combined with evacuation or detoxification treatment was used in 8.9%, 2%, and 0.2% of cases, respectively. About one-third of patients received specific management, with antidote administration only for carbon monoxide poisonings. Conclusion. The results underscore the importance of public awareness regarding the dangers of poisonings, reducing access to toxic products, and providing healthcare professionals with training to improve therapeutic management and reduce the incidence of acute poisonings.
Pharmacokinetics of Oleandrin Following Administration of a Nerium oleander Extract in Mice
Authors: ABDENNOUR Sara , TAHA DEROUICHE Mohamed Tahar , ROMEUF Ludovic , GAILLARD Yvan , DALIA Farid , AZZOUZ Mohamed
Published: October 2024

Background. Nerium oleander Linn is native of Mediterranean regions of Africa and Europe, where it is used in folk medical practices. The whole plant is known to be toxic. Various studies have shown its antimicrobial and anticancer properties. Oleandrin, the main toxic component in Nerium oleander is an inhibitor of P-glycoprotein. Cardiac glycosides, including oleandrin, are substrates of P-glycoprotein. The presence of other inhibitors in the alcoholic extract may potentially modify the pharmacokinetics of oleandrin. Given the therapeutic potential and the associated toxicity of the alcoholic extract, it is important to investigate the kinetics of oleandrin within this extract. Purpose. The objective of this study was to determine the pharmacokinetic parameters in mice following oral and I.V. administrations of a hydroalcoholic extract of Nerium oleander. Methods. Pharmacokinetic investigations of oleandrin, a cardiotonic glycoside and main active compound in Nerium oleander, were conducted in mice following intravenous administration (30 mg/kg) and oral administration (150 mg/kg) of the hydrolcoholic extract of Nerium oleander. For the oral route, seven times were chosen for the mice sampling. Four times were chosen for the intravenous route. Three mice per group were used at each time point. In the excretion study, seven mice were housed in a mouse urine collection device and a dose of 150 mg/g was administered. A urine sample was collected after 48 hours. Oleandrin was measured by LC-MS/MS validated method. MS data were acquired in the positive ion electrospray ionization (ESI) mode. Two deuterated internal standards, cocaine-d3 and digoxin-d3, were used. The retention times were 8.47 min for oleandrin, 4.78 min for deuterated internal standard cocaine d3 and 5,37 min for deuterated internal standard digoxin d3. Results. The equivalent doses of oleandrin administred to mice were 1710 ug/kg for the oral route and 342 ug/kg for the intravenous route. Oleandrin was rapidly absorbed after oral administration (Cmax at 10 min). The AUC0-inf (ug/L*min) values obtained after intravenous and oral dosing were 34797.7 and 107222 respectively, resulting in an oral bioavailability of 61.6 %. The apparent volume of distribution (Vss) was 0.55 L/kg and Clearance ClT was 0.01 kg* L/min.
Menopausal Symptoms and Quality of Life Among Women in Rural and Urban Communities of North-West Nigeria
Authors: MOHAMMED-DUROSINLORUN Amina , MUHAMMED-IDRIS Zainab Kwaru , BUHARI Oluwabunmi Idera Nimata , MOHAMMED-MUSA Fatima
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Menopause is a significant life milestone in women as they age. It affects Quality of Life, causing physical, cognitive, emotional, and social challenges. The aim of this study was to document Menopausal Symptoms and Quality of Life among menopausal Women in Kaduna, Northwest Nigeria. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted among menopausal women using questionnaires to assess socio-demographics, reproductive histories, perceptions of symptoms and quality of life. The Utian QoL questionnaire (UQoL) and menopause rating scale (MRS) were used. Data was analyzed using IBM Statistical Product and Service Solution version 26.0. Results: Four hundred twenty women were recruited. Total MRS score was 15.38 ± 6.02 with mean scores of 5.61 ± 2.63 somatic, 5.23 ± 2.33 psychological, and 3.56 ± 2.47 sexual domains. Sleep problems (99.8%), physical and mental fatigue (85.2%), joint and muscular pain (82.4%) and sadness (82.1%) were the commonest symptoms. Linear regression of MRS indicated significant association with pregnancies and births (p = 0.011 and 0.022). The overall UQOL was 85.53 ± 12.77. Zero parity and no education were associated with lower UQOL score (p = 0.011 and p = 0.001 respectively). Marriage was associated with a greater UQOL (p = 0.001). Presence of Menstrual related symptoms predicted poor health and sexual UQOL. Conclusion: Prevalence of menstrual related symptoms was quite high and its presence predicted poor Qol. Menopausal women should receive information about symptoms, treatment options, and lifestyle adjustments from healthcare workers to improve their quality of life.
Severe stroke: prognosis of ventilated patients
Authors: CHIBANE Abdelaziz , HAKIMI Abdel Malek , HEMAMID Habiba , LAOUAMRI Okba , MOSBAH Nabil
Published: October 2024

Objective. To determine the outcome of patients with severe stroke who required invasive mechanical ventilation. Materials and Methods. A retrospective study including all stroke patients admitted to the ICU during the last 4 years (2020 and 2023). The primary endpoint was ICU mortality. Results. Thirty-five patients, 20 of them male (sex ratio: 1,3), aged 56,7 ± 18,8 [5 - 79] years were included. Stroke was hemorrhagic in 15 patients (42,8%). 30 patients were intubated. Glasgow score before intubation was 7,4 ± 2,7 [5-13]. Arterial hypertension was found in 65,7 % and diabetes in 42,8% of patients. Three patients were on vitamin K antagonist and three others on antiplatelets. Blood glucose on admission was 1.94 ± 0.72 g/l and systolic blood pressure 152 ± 31 mm Hg. Glasgow score was 6.6 ± 1.9 in intubated patients and 12.4 ± 1.7 in non-intubated patients. Tracheostomy was performed in 28.5% and prolonged the length of stay by 25.2 ± 8.3 days (p: 0.005). The case fatality rate for ventilated patients was 93.5%. No patients were managed by the organ and tissue procurement coordinating team. Conclusion. The prognosis of ventilated strokes is extremely poor, raising the question of early diagnosis and medical and neuro-intensive management in the acute phase
Challenges in the Quality of Malaria Case Management in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Narrative Review
Authors: GUIDIGAN Kodjo , TRAORE Karim , GAZIN Pierre , SISSOKO Mahamadou Soumana
Published: October 2024

Malaria continues to be a parasitic disease that poses a persistent public health concern in countries of the Southern region. Despite the deployment of strategies aimed at its elimination by 2030, significant gaps still impede the achievement of this goal. A critical gap is the quality of case management. This article presents a narrative review specifically focusing on the quality of malaria case management in SubSaharan African countries. It delves into the complex challenges associated with managing this disease, encompassing aspects such as healthcare service organization, diagnosis, treatment, and patient follow-up. The article highlights underlying factors that hinder progress, including insufficient resources, inadequate skills, limited monitoring and evaluation capacities, lack of motivation and commitment among stakeholders, and challenges related to implementation and governance. It explores various initiatives to strengthen and enhance the quality of care, including continuous training programs, epidemiological and operational research endeavors, fostering a culture of quality, and promoting collaboration among stakeholders. Furthermore, the article emphasizes the importance of sustainable approaches at the country level to contribute to effective malaria elimination. It underscores the need for further exploration and implementation of strategies to achieve this crucial goal.
Design and Implementation of Modular Multi-Level Converter Based HVDC System for Grid Connection
Authors: Sushama N. Chavan  , Prof. Walmik A. Gavhane
Published: October 2024

This paper examines Modular Multilevel Converters (MMC) for harnessing power from offshore wind farms. MMCs use many simple Voltage Source Converter (VSC) submodules, enabling high-voltage and high-power applications. They offer faster response times and lower harmonic distortion than traditional two-level VSCs. The paper addresses modelling challenges due to numerous switching devices and discusses the development of Cascaded Two-Level (CTL) converters, which improve output voltage quality. Overall, the study highlights advancements in MMC technology that enhance HVDC transmission capabilities.
A Comprehensive Study on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Authors: Khakre Vaibhav Bhagwan  , Dr. Sharad Kadam
Published: October 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) have emerged as transformative technologies reshaping industries and society. This paper explores the foundational concepts of AI and ML, emphasizing their definitions, methodologies, and applications. AI encompasses a broad spectrum of techniques aimed at mimicking human intelligence, while ML, a subset of AI, focuses on the development of algorithms that enable machines to learn from data. We examine the historical evolution of these fields, the current state of research, and key technologies such as neural networks, natural language processing, and computer vision. The implications of AI and ML are vast, impacting sectors including healthcare, finance, and transportation, and raising ethical considerations regarding privacy, bias, and employment. By analyzing case studies and recent advancements, this paper aims to highlight the potential and challenges of integrating AI and ML into everyday life, paving the way for future research and development in this dynamic domain