bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machine learning techniques in diagnostics and prediction of the clinical features of schizophrenia: a narrative review
Authors: Gashkarimov Vadim R. , Sultanova Renata I. , Efremov Ilya S. , Asadullin Azat R.
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND: Schizophrenia is a severe psychiatric disorder associated with a significant negative impact. Early diagnosis and treatment of schizophrenia has a favorable effect on the clinical outcome and patients quality of life. In this context, machine learning techniques open up new opportunities for a more accurate diagnosis and prediction of the clinical features of this illness.
AIM: This literature review is aimed to search for information on the use of machine learning techniques in the prediction and diagnosis of schizophrenia and the determination of its clinical features.
METHODS: The Google Scholar, PubMed, and eLIBRARY.ru databases were used to search for relevant data. The review included articles that had been published not earlier than January 1, 2010, and not later than March 31, 2023. Combinations of the following keywords were applied for search queries: machine learning, deep learning, schizophrenia, neural network, predictors, artificial intelligence, diagnostics, suicide, depressive, insomnia, and cognitive. Original articles regardless of their design were included in the review. Descriptive analysis was used to summarize the retrieved data.
RESULTS: Machine learning techniques are widely used in the functional assessment of patients with schizophrenia. They are used for interpretation of MRI, EEG, and actigraphy findings. Also, models created using machine learning algorithms can analyze speech, behavior, and the creativity of people and these data can be used for the diagnosis of psychiatric disorders. It has been found that different machine learning-based models can help specialists predict and diagnose schizophrenia based on medical history and genetic data, as well as epigenetic information. Machine learning techniques can also be used to build effective models that can help specialists diagnose and predict clinical manifestations and complications of schizophrenia, such as insomnia, depressive symptoms, suicide risk, aggressive behavior, and changes in cognitive functions over time.
CONCLUSION: Machine learning techniques play an important role in psychiatry, as they have been used in models that help specialists in the diagnosis of schizophrenia and determination of its clinical features. The use of machine learning algorithms is one of the most promising direction in psychiatry, and it can significantly improve the effectiveness of the diagnosis and treatment of schizophrenia.
Pull out suture using the plunger flange of the syringe, a better alternative to the button
Authors: Vyas Amit , Batajoo Santosh , Misra Sayantani
Published: September 2023

: Tendon avulsions within zone 1 of the hand presents challenges for repair. The traditional technique involves using a button to secure the tendon sutured to the bone. This study explores an alternative method utilizing the plunger flange of a syringe.

: The study involved patients with zone 1a and 1b injuries. The plunger flange technique was employed by drilling two holes in the plunger, passing a polypropylene suture through them, and securing it with a sterile knot. The technique was compared with the traditional button approach.

: The plunger flange technique demonstrated feasibility and effectiveness in tendon avulsion repair. Plunger flanges, which eliminated the need for separate sterilization, were more readily available. Patients could initiate therapy sooner post-surgery. Complications, although limited, resembled those of the traditional button method.

The plunger flange technique presents a viable alternative to the button in repairing tendon avulsions. This method is easily accessible, doesn't require separate sterilization, and allows for early therapy initiation. The study suggests that the plunger flange technique could be recommended as a replacement for the button.
Status and Diversity of Butterfly Fauna in Joggers Park, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Prateek  , Mishra Anshu , Mishra Himanshu , Kumar Vikas , Kumar Ashish
Published: September 2023

Field surveys were carried out to assess the butterfly species diversity in different seasons in Joggers Park, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India in 2021 using the line transect method with the aid of digital cameras and binoculars. Joggers Park is rich in floral diversity and therefore, good habitat for butterflies. Altogether, 38 species of butterflies were recorded which belonged to 27 genera and 6 families. Out of the total 38 butterfly species, 58% were common, 29% rare and 13% were the most common species respectively. Nymphalidae was the most dominant (maximum number of 7 genera and 11 species) among the six families. Maximum species richness was reported during summer (April, May and June) and minimum in the rainy season (July, August and September). The present study might be useful in creating awareness among common masses and encouraging the conservation of a wide array of indigenous species of butterfly in the study area.
Prevalence of Low Back Ache and Functional Disability among Traffic Police in South Bangalore
Authors: S. B. Prasoon  , Subramanian Sudhakar
Published: September 2023

Background: Around 70% to 80% of world’s population has experienced Low Back Ache (LBA) at some point in their lives. Traffic police officers are prone to number of risk factors related to LBA every day. Around 96 various tasks must be completed in a full working day by a police officer. Out of these, 46 tasks require heavy physical work. Other tasks which do not require heavy physical work can be made easier if the police officer is physically good and fit. The traffic police do not know that back pain is caused due to their poor posture. Helpless stance, long walking hours, tedious developments of the body and helpless work community configuration are principle hazard factors for these issues. Objective: The purpose of the study is to determine the prevalence of LBA and functional disability among traffic police in South Bangalore. Material and Method: Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire is used to record sites of pain among traffic police officers. Modified ODI scale was administered to traffic police officers with Low Back Ache (LBA). Based on the ODI score, the functional disability was evaluated. VAS is used to measure pain in traffic police officers having LBA. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Result: In a total of 246 traffic police personnel who took part in the study, 96 of them reported with LBA i.e, the prevalence percentage was 39.02%. The mean pain intensity according to VAS was 3.95 ± 1.59. Out of the 96 police personnel who reported LBA, 49 personnel (51%) had moderate disability. Minimal disability was observed in 35 personnel (36.5%) and severe disability was noted in 12 personnel (12.5%). Conclusion: The prevalence rate of Low Back Ache among traffic police in south Bangalore is found out to be 39.02%.
Amor: Verbalization of romantic love in the song genre
Authors:   Kuban State Technological University, Vorkachev Sergey G.
Published: September 2023

The article deals with the ideas about romantic love in the song genre. The research is based Spanish-language texts of Julio Iglesias’ songs. It is established that romantic love is a rather vague concept that allows at least four interpretations: love-passion, intensity of love in general, falling in love and a specific love feeling that has its own characteristics. A generalization of the interpretations of romantic love indicates that it is a subspecies of erotic love, in which value and depression-euphoria moments are accentuated and a dramatic color is added to the circumstances of the evolution of this feeling. In Spanish, the feeling of love is verbalized through the triad amor, querer, cariño, where amor is the name of the generic concept of love, and querer and cariño are mainly focused on conveying its subspecies associated with the desire for physical intimacy and the desire for the good for the beloved. The texts of the song repertoire of Julio Iglesias are dominated by the characteristics of romantic love: a reference to tragic and dramatic life circumstances – betrayal and loss of love, separation, lack of reciprocity, doubts about fidelity, jealousy; features that are predominantly characteristic of the initial stage of love – bursts of euphoria and depression, a feeling of joy and grief, pleasure and suffering; manifestations of love affection – are mentioned frequently. The reflex of romanticism in the lyrics of Julio Iglesias is the deification of the object of love, confidence in the constancy of love, the opposition of “authentic” and “non-authentic” love, the idea of the merging of lovers into a single whole.
Analytical article as a mass media genre (based on English mass media texts)
Authors:   MGIMO University, Nikonova Ekaterina A.
Published: September 2023

The article which is based on the research of English newspaper texts gives an insight into the characteristics of the analytical article. Due to insufficient studies of the English analytical articles this research direction is still an academic challenge. In the paper the analytical article is defined as a text based on an analytical approach which aims at presenting a comprehensive outlook on significant socio-political issues with a focus on cause-effect relation between different informational blocks. The analytical article is aimed at transmitting an objective coverage of a situation for the readers to form their own opinion and work out behavioral tactics. The research made it possible to single out the following basic characteristics of the analytical article: presence of argumentative framework, accurate fact representation, critical approach as an instrument of public dialogue, absence of emotional narrative, fixed structure, where the conclusion plays a significant role. The paper also defines themes and functions of the analytical article.
A Psychoanalytic Perspective on the Idea of Katechon in the Second Epistle to the Thessalonians
Authors: Dumitrescu Marius
Published: September 2023

In this paper we aim to analyze the meanings of the concept of Katechon that appears in The Second Epistle to the Thessalonians, attributed to Paul the Apostle. The concept of Katechon is related to Chapter 2, v. 7, where the steps of the parousia are presented. The Apostle reminds us that the coming of the Antichrist is delayed until his time will come, and the "mystery of lawlessness" will no longer be prevent by "the one who now holds it back" (Katechon) (2 Thess 2:7, 2001c, p. 1566).
Katechon represents a force that obstructs the full manifestation of Evil. The aim of our paper is to analyse an important archetype, such as that of the Self, in order to decipher, in a psychoanalytic key, the enigma of who or what the Katechon in The Second Epistle could be.
Approaching a concept that has religious connotations brings us closer to the analyzes made by C.G. Jung on the concept of Self. The idea of the Antichrist reflects precisely a disruption of the archetype of the Self as a harmonious unity between consciousness and the unconscious, due to the lack of a "hinderer", of a Katechon, in the face of the illicit drive forces of the unconscious.
In the absence of Katechon, consciousness puts itself at the service of the most terrifying forces of the unconscious, trying to justify violence, aberrant sexuality, vanity, immeasurable pride, or, in other words, selfishness and all the complexes that turn man into a veritable monster, bearing the face and likeness of Satan, respectively of the very darkest illicit, destructive drives, which are ruinous to any effort of human achievement.
The Study Regarding the Training and Evaluation Process of the Female Judokas Training Level
Authors: Manolachi Veaceslav , Delipovici Irina , Manolachi Victor
Published: September 2023

The survey results allowed the determination of the hypothetical structure of the training level of female judokas, the emphasis being placed on the paramount importance of the technical-tactical, volitional and motor training level. At the same time, the complex of main registered indices coincides, in general, with the structure of the training level of judokas. However, the extensive investigation of the survey results notes significant differences between the training levels of the female judokas and male judokas, especially regarding the physical training level. The survey shows that the most common manifestations of the motor skills of the female judokas are: explosive force, reaction speed, movements execution speed, coordinating abilities, starting speed, specific resistance, speed resistance, muscle sensitivity, orientation in space, active suppleness, rational relaxation and the speed of a single movement. This set of indices refers only to a force capacity - explosive force – which allows us to consider this fact an essential difference of the structure investigated from that of the physical training level of the male judokas, thus making possible the presumption of the existence of considerable reserves for increasing the mastery of the female judokas, namely in the direction of developing and improving the force and speed-force.
Most specialists recognize the need to make corrections in training plans based on data on the functional state of the neuromuscular system (NMS) of the female judokas in order to increase the level of special physical training and of other aspects of mastery, but are not experienced enough on how the analysis of the test results is performed for the application of concrete individual corrections in the instructive and training process.
Examination of Studies on Critical Thinking in Teacher Education: a Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Hursen Cigdem
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this paper is to examine the studies conducted on critical thinking in teacher education using bibliometric analysis method. Education Educational Research category of Web of Science was preferred as the database. 2,717 publications published between 1989 and 2022 were analyzed using citation, bibliographical coupling, and co-occurrence techniques. Obtained results reveal that the earliest works on critical thinking in teacher education were published in 1989. It was determined that critical thinking in teacher education was met with increased interest after 2010, and that 2019 was the year when the published papers reached a record high. An examination of the citation years of the studies showed that 2021 saw the highest number of citations. USA was found as the country with highest number of publications on critical thinking in teacher education. Most researchers publish their works on the field in the form of articles, and English is the most preferred publication language. The author with the highest citation figures in the field is found as Hwang, Gwo-Jen, while the most frequently cited work was written by Fang in 1996. Document with the highest number of links was authored by Gomez-Jarabo and Sosa in 2018. The keywords with the highest popularity in the studies of researchers in recent years, which have the highest total number of links, were identified as teacher education, higher education, education, learning, curriculum, professional development, creativity, technology, and pedagogy. In this context, researchers who will perform studies in the field are especially advised to prefer keywords with high citation rates in literature review stage. Similarly, researchers are recommended to examine the documents with high citation and link scores in the field. Finally, in their efforts to regulate teacher education policies and programs, countries are advised to find examples in national settings with high total link scores as regards critical thinking approach.
Innovative Technologies as a Means of Forming the Professional Competence of Elementary School Teachers of the New Ukrainian School (NUS)
Authors: Andryushchenko Olena , Riaboshapka Olha , Biletska Svitlana , Tanska Valentyna , Harachuk Tetiana , Bezhenar Inna
Published: September 2023

The article deals with innovative technologies as a way to form the professional competence of elementary teachers of the New Ukrainian School. The relevance of the article lies in the fact that now in order to educate co-educators, a teacher needs to form professional competencies (to be a mentor, a coach, a tutor, an innovator, a facilitator).
The purpose of the article: to clarify the meaning of the concepts of "pedagogical technology", "innovative pedagogical technology", "competence", "professional competence"; to analyze articles and publications on the need to implement innovative technologies in the educational process; to consider the meaning of digital competence and professional competence for teachers.
Methods of work: analysis of scientific literature, system analysis.
Results: as the research on the issue shows, the professional competence of the teacher is based on the fundamental knowledge of the basic subject, general culture and thorough didactic competence. Currently, teachers should develop in children critical thinking, communication and technical skills, emotional intelligence, analytical abilities, taking into account the age characteristics and physical condition of the child.
Novelty is a key competence of every teacher, which is life-long learning.
Conclusion: the use of innovative technologies, psycho-pedagogical and basic knowledge is a complex necessary for the formation of professional competence of elementary teachers of NUS.
Pragmatic Competence in Political Discourse Interpreting
Authors: Onyshchak Halyna , Liutko Nataliia , Yarova Alla , Povoroznyuk Roksolana , Kolоmiiets Inna , Gontsa Iryna
Published: September 2023

The paper aims to give a comprehensive account of translation strategies for English-Ukrainian interpretation of Joseph R. Biden’s speech in Poland. Political speeches serve as a multi-purpose tool, shaping people’s consciousness and reinforcing political practices and firmly held beliefs. Therefore, the appropriate translation methods are needed to retain such a communicative effect on the recipient audience. Political discourse interpreting requires a high level of pragmatic competence, and interpreters must have the skills and knowledge to effectively convey the speaker’s intended meaning in a culturally and linguistically appropriate way.  The current research is based on the semiotic and communicative-pragmatic approaches to the study of political discourse interpreting. In this regard, the comparative method and contextual analysis proved efficient in comparing the source language text with the target one. The study results show that interpreting political discourse sets to provoke similar reactions in the source and target text addresses. The studied speech in English is abundant in stylistic devices and expressive means to exert a pragmatic effect. It has been proven that linguo-stylistic features are retained in the interpreted message by incorporating formal correspondences and various transformations. The interpreter of the political speech in question has the ability to adjust the language, style, and delivery of the interpreted message to fit the cultural and linguistic context of the target audience.
Moje zbrodnie są owocem miłości. Mit Medei w literaturze niemieckojęzycznej
Authors: Wilk Anna Izabela
Published: September 2023

Autorka dokonuje porównania i analizy wybranych utworów podejmujących problem mitu Medei w literaturze niemieckojęzycznej. W kulturze niemieckiej motyw Medei cieszy się szczególną popularnością od połowy lat 70. XX wieku, zostały mu poświęcone liczne inscenizacje teatralne, operowe, opowiadania i powieści. Autorka stawia tezę, że wielki potencjał mitu polega na jego wieloznaczności oraz aktualności. Twórcy umieszczali tragiczną postać dzieciobójczyni w różnych kontekstach, przedstawiając bohaterkę jako opuszczoną kochankę, cudzoziemkę pozbawioną ojczyzny, a nawet ofiarę prześladowań na tle politycznym czy rasowym. Jaka jest prawdziwa twarz Medei? Czy prawdziwa Medea w ogóle istnieje? Czy ta, którą przedstawił Eurypides, odpowiada jednej mitycznej postaci? Nawet w przypadku mitu nie można mówić o homogenicznej koncepcji tej figury. A może rację ma Christa Wolf, twierdząc, że bohaterka stała się przedmiotem politycznej manipulacji? W prezentowanej publikacji pytania te pozostaną bez odpowiedzi, gdyż znacznie bardziej istotna wydaje się sama recepcja mitu i próba adaptacji mitologicznej materii we współczesnym świecie. Można tu zaobserwować dwie odmienne tendencje: próbę archaizacji i osadzenia w mitycznych realiach, a także akcentowanie boskiego pochodzenia bohaterki; druga to próba uwspółcześnienia przy pomocy umiejscowienia historii dzieciobójczyni we współczesności danego pisarza. Można ewentualnie wymienić jeszcze trzecią grupę lub raczej podgrupę: utwory, które mimo umiejscowienia akcji w czasach antycznych, cechują się zdecydowaną aktualizacją poruszanych problemów. Mit stanowi w nich pewien rodzaj kamuflażu. We wszystkich przypadkach mit traktowano zatem jako kompleks reguł i modeli ludzkich zachowań, które z upływem czasu nie uległy zmianie. Z Podsumuwania
Świadomość rodząca obrazy
Authors: Karwowska Marzena
Published: September 2023

Zamieszczone w książce studia stanowią przykład antropologicznego odczytania wybranych tekstów literatury polskiej XX wieku, poddawanych już wcześniej przez badaczy wielokrotnie procesom interpretacyjnym. Bachelardowska teoria ponadkulturowej jedności wyobraźni oraz Durandowska teoria antropologicznych struktur wyobraźni i koncepcja pluralizmu kulturowego pozwalają spojrzeć na artystę jako fenomen wyobrażeniowy, COGITO MARZĄCE, ŚWIADOMOŚĆ RODZĄCĄ OBRAZY. Zawarte w publikacji szkice mają stanowić próbę ukazania, na przykładzie konkretnych tekstów artystycznych, potencjału interpretacyjnego tkwiącego w Bachelardowsko-Durandowskiej antropologii zastosowanej do hermeneutyki dzieła literackiego.
Z Wprowadzenia
Monografia Marzeny Karwowskiej to wartościowa praca, wpisująca się w międzynarodowy krąg badań mających na celu poszukiwanie uwarunkowanych antropologicznie mechanizmów, którym podlega wyobraźnia artystyczna. Stanowi godną uwagi alternatywę dla dominującego w badaniach literaturoznawczych dyskursu postmodernistycznego, odrzucającego w zasadzie antropologiczną perspektywę badań nad treściami kultury. Książka jest potrzebnym, istotnym przyczynkiem do badań nad wyobraźnią twórczą w literaturze polskiej XX wieku, inspirującym do myślenia o treściach kultury jako o systemie wyobrażeń (w tym przypadku rozpatrywanych na poziomie poetyki tekstu).
Z recenzji prof. dr. hab. Stanisława Jasionowicza
Umysł rozstrojony. Próby o trylogii księżycowej Jerzego Żuławskiego
Authors: Sławek Tadeusz
Published: September 2023

Czego nas nauczyła wyprawa na Księżyc, w którą zabrał nas Żuławski? Nie wracając do poszczególnych miejsc lektury, zapytajmy, czy dałoby się znaleźć ich wspólny mianownik, punkt solarny, będący mocnym źródłem energii. Zaryzykujmy: węzłem, który splata wiele nici trylogii jest życie uwolnione od przewodnictwa, którego doświadczeniem źródłowym jest brak i utrata, życie na skrajnym horyzoncie oczekiwań i nadziei, i zawsze bliskie katastrofy. To wizja egzystencji zawieszonej nad przepaścią. Trylogia Żuławskiego jest więc tekstem stoickim: uczy, jak Montaigne, że prawdziwym powołaniem człowieka myślącego jest nauka umierania. Doświadczenie rozbitka jest doświadczeniem par excellence nowoczesnym. Brzegi znanego dotychczas świata okazują się niebezpieczne, a praktykowane na nich modele i style przeżycia okazują się niewystarczające i zawodne. Tadeusz Sławek * Fascynująca eseistyczna wyprawa do świata wykreowanego w trzech powieściach fantastyczno-filozoficznych Jerzego Żuławskiego; świata, który od dawna zasługiwał na naszą uwagę. Na wskroś współczesna interpretacja cyklu powieściowego młodopolskiego pisarza, którego cechowała rozległa wiedza, erudycja i radykalny pesymizm, gdy chodzi o możliwości gatunku ludzkiego i losy całej cywilizacji. Jeżeli powracać do klasycznych dzieł polskiej prozy i przypominać je dzisiaj – to właśnie w taki sposób, który łączy doskonałą znajomość kontekstu historyczno­literackiego i myśli filozoficznej epoki z nowym, śmiałym i subiektywnym sposobem czytania. Z recenzji prof. dr hab. Anny Czabanowskiej-Wróbel
«El memorial de los XII viajeros del suroeste» en El Paso, Texas: la construcción de una identidad regional en una ciudad de frontera de los EE.UU.
Authors: Castillo Gerardo
Published: September 2023

Este artículo examina la narrativa sobre una particular identidad cultural regional que propone el Memorial de los XII viajeros del suroeste en la ciudad de El Paso, Texas, en los Estados Unidos. Según la propia declaración del memorial, este es un proyecto regional en marcha formado por «[…] 12 monumentos heroicos en bronce que celebran las contribuciones multiculturales de hombres y mujeres al desarrollo del suroeste». El argumento de este texto es triple. Primero, sostiene que el proyecto de los XII viajeros puede ser considerado como un collage que incorpora referencias históricas y culturales diferentes dentro de una única gran narrativa. Al hacer ello, segundo, el memorial difumina escalas espaciales y construye una historia regional con la ciudad de El Paso en su centro. Finalmente, el artículo sugiere que la construcción de esta identidad regional heroica y multicultural debe ser entendida en relación con una creciente actividadturística, así como en relación con las expectativas que los visitantes tienen acerca de un área de frontera sureña en los Estados Unidos. El texto se basa en la revisión crítica del material producido por la Fundación de los XII Viajeros y el examen de los personajes y las estatuas de Fray García y Juan de Oñate, los dos únicos viajeros aprobados de la lista propuesta.
Chemical Composition and Antibacterial Activity of Three Volatile Oils Extracted from Nigella sativa L. Seeds
Authors: GÖZCÜ Sefa , AKŞİT Zeynep
Published: September 2023

Nigella sativa L. (Ranunculaceae) and its volatiles have a wide range of benefits. The aim of this study was to investigate the chemical composition and in vitro antibacterial activity of three volatile oils from Erzincan (Local market/Provincial Agriculture and Forestry Office in Erzincan) and Konya. These three samples were grown under different edaphic and climatic conditions. The disc diffusion method was used to test the antibacterial activity against ten standard bacterial strains (Staphylococcus aureus, Clostridium perfringens, Enterococcus faecium, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella enterica, Salmonella enteritidis, Bacillus cereus, Listeria monocytogenes, and Escherichia coli). Monoterpenes were abundant in the chemical composition of all volatile oils tested. The seeds of Erzincan (from local market), Erzincan (from Erzincan Provincial Authority of Agriculture and Forestry) and Konya were characterized by the presence of p-cymene (41.74%-51.98%), α-thujene (16.02%-16.49) and nerol (7.91%-8.50%). Clostridium perfringens (inhibition zone: 35 to 39.3 mm) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (inhibition zone: 29.7 to 38.7 mm) were found to be particularly sensitive to all volatile oils tested. The results of this study show that the volatile oil of the seeds of N. sativa has remarkable antibacterial activity, which may be due to the presence of various secondary metabolites. In view of the uncontrolled development of antibiotic resistance, these compounds can be used for prophylactic or curative purposes.
Variational Bayesian Inference for Exponentiated Weibull Right Censored Survival Data
Authors: Abubakar Jibril , Abdullah Mohd Asrul Affendi , Olaniran Oyebayo Ridwan
Published: September 2023

The exponential, Weibull, log-logistic and lognormal distributions represent the class of light and heavy-tailed distributions that are often used in modelling time-to-event data. The exponential distribution is often applied if the hazard is constant, while the log-logistic and lognormal distributions are mainly used for modelling unimodal hazard functions. The Weibull distribution is on the other hand well-known for modelling monotonic hazard rates. Recently, in practice, survival data often exhibit both monotone and non-monotone hazards. This gap has necessitated the introduction of Exponentiated Weibull Distribution (EWD) that can accommodate both monotonic and non-monotonic hazard functions. It also has the strength of adapting unimodal functions with bathtub shape. Estimating the parameter of EWD distribution poses another problem as the flexibility calls for the introduction of an additional parameter. Parameter estimation using the maximum likelihood approach has no closed-form solution, and thus, approximation techniques such as Newton-Raphson is often used. Therefore, in this paper, we introduce another estimation technique called Variational Bayesian (VB) approach. We considered the case of the accelerated failure time (AFT) regression model with covariates. The AFT model was developed using two comparative studies based on real-life and simulated data sets. The results from the experiments reveal that the Variational Bayesian (VB) approach is better than the competing Metropolis-Hasting Algorithm and the reference maximum likelihood estimates.
Copula based learning for directed acyclic graphs
Authors: Mohsin Russul , Rezaei Tabar Vahid
Published: September 2023

We provide the learning of a DAG model arising from high dimensional random variables following both normal and non-normal assumptions. To this end, the copula function utilized connecting dependent variables. Moreover to normal copula, the three most applicable copulas have been investigated modeling all three dependence structures negative, positive, and weak kinds. The copula functions, FGM, Clayton, and Gumbel are considered coving these situations and their detailed calculations are also presented. In addition, the structure function has been exactly determined due to choosing a good copula model based on statistical software R with respect to any assumed direction among all nodes. The direction with the maximum structure function has been preferred. The corresponding algorithms finding these directions and the maximization procedures are also provided. Finally, some extensive tabulations and simulation studies are provided, and in the following to have a clear thought of provided strategies, a real world application has been analyzed.
Sine-Cosine Weighted Circular Distributions
Authors: Shahsanaei Fatemeh , Chinipardaz Rahim
Published: September 2023

This paper introduces a new family of multimodal and skew-symmetric circular distributions, namely, the sine-cosine weighted circular distribution. The fundamental properties of this family are examined in the context of a general case and three specific examples. Additionally, general solutions for estimating the parameters of any sine-cosine weighted circular distribution using maximum likelihood are provided. A likelihood-ratio test is performed to check the symmetry of the data. Lastly, two examples are presented that illustrate how the proposed model may be utilized to analyze two real-world case studies with asymmetric datasets.
Strong consistency of a deconvolution estimator of cumulative distribution function
Authors: Bui Thuy Trang , Phuong Cao Xuan
Published: September 2023

We study the strong consistency of a deconvolution estimator of cumulative distribution function when the distribution of error variable is assumed to be known exactly and ordinary smooth as well as supersmooth.
Confidence intervals from local minimums of objective function
Authors: Dermoune Azzouz , Ounaissi Daoud , Slaoui Yousri
Published: September 2023

The weighted median plays a central role in the least absolute deviations (LAD). We propose a nonlinear regression using (LAD). Our objective function $f(a, l, s)$ is non-convex with respect to the parameters a, l, s, and is such that for each fixed l, s the minimizer of $a\to f (a, l, s)$ is the weighted median $med(x(l, s), w(l, s))$ of a sequence $x(l, s)$ endowed with the weights $w(l, s)$ (all depend on $l$, $s$). We analyse and compare theoretically the minimizers of the function $(a, l, s)\to f (a, l, s)$ and the surface $(l, s) \to f (med(x(l, s), w(l, s)), l, s)$. As a numerical application we propose to fit the daily infections of COVID 19 in China using Gaussian model. We derive confident interval for the daily infections from each local minimum.
Room temperature ionic liquids viscosity prediction from deep-learning models
Authors: Acar Zafer , Nguyen Phu , Cui Xiaoqi , Lau Kah Chun
Published: September 2023

Ionic liquids (ILs) are a new group of novel solvents with great potential in design-synthesis. They are promising electrolyte candidates in energy storage applications, especially in rechargeable batteries. However, in practice, their usage remains limited due to the unfavorable high-viscosity (η) property at ambient conditions. To optimize the design synthesis of ILs, a systematic fundamental study of their structure-property relationship is deemed necessary. In this study, we employed a deep-learning (DL) model to predict the room-temperature viscosity of a wide range of ILs that consist of various cationic and anionic families. Based on this DL model, accurate prediction of IL viscosity can be realized, reaching an R2 score of 0.99 with a root mean square error of ~45 mPa·s. To further help identify low- and high-η ILs, a low/high-η binary classification model with an overall accuracy of 93% for test prediction is obtained based on the DL model. From the important structure-property relationship analysis governed by the top-rank molecular descriptors of this model, a list of very low-η ILs (i.e., η < 30 mPa·s) that could be potentially useful in battery electrolytes is identified. Based on the finding of the DL model, it suggests that in order to achieve low-η, grafting IL cations into smaller sizes (e.g., smaller head rings) and short alkyl chains and reducing ionization potentials/energies will help. Meanwhile, for the same cations, further reducing anions in sizes, chain lengths, and hydrogen bonds might be useful to further reduce the viscosity. Thus, with a fine selection and molecular grafting of anionic and cationic species in ILs, we believe fine-tuning IL viscosities can be achieved through the proper design synthesis of functional groups in ILs.
The role of smart technologies in wastewater-based epidemiology
Authors: Gonçalves José
Published: September 2023

This article explores the role of smart technologies in advancing Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) for enhanced disease surveillance. Disease surveillance is crucial for monitoring and controlling infectious diseases, and WBE provides a complementary approach by analyzing wastewater to identify and track pathogens. During the COVID-19 pandemic, WBE has been successfully used to detect and monitor SARS-CoV-2 in various types of wastewater, providing early warning of outbreaks and identifying emerging hotspots. However, WBE faces challenges such as the need for specialized equipment and sensitive methodologies. To overcome these limitations, biosensors have been developed, offering high sensitivity, specificity, and rapid results. Electrochemical biosensors are particularly promising for WBE due to their real-time connectivity, low-cost design, and wireless data collection, despite their limitations. Integration of smart sensors into the Internet of Things (IoT) enables seamless data integration and real-time monitoring. Furthermore, the widespread use of smartphones presents an opportunity to revolutionize smart diagnostics by leveraging their features for data analysis and communication.
Le Plan d’Action pour la Réussite en Enseignement Supérieur au Québec 2021-2026
Authors: Beaumatin Léa
Published: September 2023

Cet article propose un résumé synthétique du Plan d’Action pour la Réussite en Enseignement Supérieur, présenté en 2021 au Québec, par le gouvernement. Face au constat d’une réussite étudiante plus faible au Québec par rapport au reste du Canada, malgré un plus grand nombre d’étudiants à l’université, ce plan d’action propose un ensemble de mesures, organisées en quatre axes, pour augmenter cette réussite, dont la définition dépasse la simple obtention d’un diplôme. En agissant à la fois sur l’accessibilité des formations, l’intégration des étudiants dans leur environnement et l’accompagnement tout au long de la formation, le gouvernement aspire à une augmentation du taux de réussite des étudiants québécois. L’accent est également mis sur l’analyse de ces mises en place pour diffuser sur leurs effets et permettre de chiffrer, grâce à des indicateurs, la réelle augmentation du taux de réussite.
Construire un environnement capacitant dans l’enseignement supérieur pour un apprentissage épanouissant et réussi
Authors: Many Holly
Published: September 2023

Cet article explore le concept d'environnement capacitant dans le contexte éducatif, notamment dans l'enseignement supérieur, en s'appuyant sur l'approche par capabilité de Sen (2012). L'environnement capacitant met l'accent sur les apprenants en valorisant leurs émotions, leurs besoins, leurs attentes et en favorisant leur développement personnel. Il vise à concilier la liberté d'accomplissement de chaque individu avec les ressources disponibles. La recherche présentée dans l'article se base sur une expérience menée auprès d'étudiants en Master 1 Sciences de l'Éducation à l'Université de Haute Alsace, montrant comment penser et construire un environnement capacitant en tenant compte des différences individuelles et des facteurs de conversion. Cette étude souligne l'importance de repenser l'organisation de l'espace et d'adapter l'environnement aux besoins spécifiques des apprenants. Elle met également en évidence le rôle crucial des interactions entre pairs dans la création d'un environnement favorable à l'apprentissage et à l'épanouissement personnel des apprenants. Par ailleurs, l'accent est mis sur le développement des capabilités, du pouvoir d'agir des apprenants, en leur permettant de réaliser leur plein potentiel. En intégrant les principes de l'environnement capacitant, les enseignants de l’enseignement supérieur peuvent créer des conditions optimales pour soutenir le développement des apprenants et favoriser des expériences d'apprentissage positives et enrichissantes.
Quelques techniques pour aimer enseigner en amphi et en distanciel synchrone
Authors: Noguès Xavier , Zouggar Amrani Anne
Published: September 2023

L'objectif principal de cet article est de partager les techniques d'enseignement qui nous permettent de rendre plus captivants et bénéfiques, les cours adressés aux grands effectifs ou ceux effectués en distanciel synchrone. Nous pensons que l'utilisation de ces techniques permettra de mieux apprécier, voir de nous réconcilier avec ces deux modes d'enseignement parfois décriés. Parallèlement, nous indiquons les bases théoriques (pour la motivation) ou expérientielles (pour l'attention) qui nous ont permis de sélectionner ces techniques. Nous espérons que cette démarche permettra aux lecteurs non seulement d'utiliser les techniques présentées, mais également de pouvoir inventer eux-mêmes de nouvelles techniques et les diffuser.
Chemical and Functional Characterization of Propolis Collected from Different Areas of South Italy
Authors: Grassi Giulia , Capasso Giambattista , Gambacorta Emilio , Perna Anna Maria
Published: September 2023

The study investigated the chemical and functional characterization of propolis collected in southern Italy, in particular in Basilicata, a region rich in ecological and vegetative biodiversity. Sixteen samples of propolis, collected within a radius of 40 km from each other in the Basilicata region, showed significant differences between the chemical and functional parameters investigated: color index (L*, a*, b*; P<0.05), variation in chemical composition and antioxidant activities, by ABTS and FRAP assays. In general, Lucanian propolis had a low content of waxes (P<0.05) and a high content of resin (P<0.05) and balsams (P<0.05). The content of total phenolic compounds and flavonoids were highly variable, as was the biological capacity. In conclusion, Lucanian propolis showed a remarkable variability, highlighting a significant diversification according to the geographical position and the diversity of the flora surrounding the apiary of which the bees use as a source of resin. This study therefore contributes to the enhancement of the quality of propolis, laying the foundations for the production and marketing of propolis not only in the food industry, but also in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.
A Comprehensive Genetic Study of Microtubule-Associated Genes Clusters for Male Infertility in a Taiwanese Cohort
Authors: Chan Chying-Chyuan , Yen Te-Hsin , Tseng Hao-Chen , Mai Brang , Ho Pin-Kuan , Chou Jian-Liang , Wu Gwo-Jang , Huang Yu-Chuan
Published: September 2023

Background: Identifying genetic mutations that lead to spermatogenic impairment is essential for offering patients informed genetic counseling and preventing the transmission of genetic defects to their offspring, often through the use of advanced reproductive technologies. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to identify potential single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with male infertility. Methods and Materials: Genetic variants that may cause infertility are identified by combining targeted next generation sequencing (NGS) panel and whole exome sequencing (WES). The validation step of Sanger sequencing adds confidence to the identified variants. Results: Our analysis revealed five distinct affected genes covering seven SNPs: based on targeted NGS panel and WES data, namely SPATA16 (rs16846616, 1515442, 1515441), CFTR (rs213950), KIF6 (rs2273063), STPG2 (r2903150) and DRC7 (rs3809611). Infertile men have a higher mutation rate than fertile men, especially those with azoospermia. Discussion and Conclusions: These findings strongly support the hypothesis that dysfunction of microtubule-related and spermatogenesis-specific genes contributes to idiopathic male infertility. The SPATA16, CFTR, KIF6, STPG2 and DRC7 mutations are associated with male infertility, specifically azoospermia, further examination of this genetic function is required.
The Combination of Predictive Factors of Pharmacokinetic Origin Associates with Enhanced Disease Control During Treatment of Pediatric Crohn’s Disease with Infliximab
Authors: Dubinsky Marla C , Rabizadeh Shervin , Pannetta John C , Spencer Elizabeth A , Everts-van der Wind Annelie , Dervieux Thierry
Published: September 2023

Objective: Infliximab (IFX) concentrations are a predictive factor (PF) of pharmacokinetic (PK) origin in the treatment of Crohn’s disease (CD). We evaluated clearance, another PF of PK origin, either alone or in combination with concentrations. Methods: PF of PK origin were evaluated from two cohorts, the first received standard dosing (n=37), and the second was designed to proactively target therapeutic IFX concentrations (n=108). Concentrations were measured using homogenous mobility shift assay. Clearance was estimated using nonlinear mixed effects methods with Bayesian priors. C-reactive protein based clinical remission (<3mg/L in the absence of symptoms) was used for the disease control outcome. Longitudinal changes in disease control due to factors including time, IFX concentration, and clearance were analyzed using repeated event analysis. Change in objective function value (∆OFV) was calculated to compare concentration and clearance. Results: Lower baseline clearance and proactive dosing associated with enhanced disease control during induction (p<0.01). Higher IFX concentrations and lower Clearance measured at the second, third and fourth infusion yielded improved disease control during maintenance (p<0.032). During maintenance, the association with disease control was better with clearance than with concentrations (∆OFV= -19.2; p<0.001), and the combination of both further minimized OFV (p<0.001) with markedly improved clinical yield in the presence of both PF of PK origin. Conclusion: PF of PK origin and lower clearance during induction and maintenance yielded enhanced disease control in pediatric CD treated with IFX. The combination of IFX concentration and clearance are better predictors of therapeutic outcome compared to either one alone.
Late HCC Occurrence in Patients Achieving SVR after DAAs Therapy: A Matter of Follow-Up or Something Else?
Authors: Perrella Alessandro , De Sio Ilario , Bellopede Pasquale , Maddaloni Adelaide , Vitale Luigi Maria , Adinolfi Luigi Elio , Rinaldi Barbara , Izzi Antonio , Sbreglia Costanza , Bernardi Francesca furtura , Trama Ugo , Rinaldi Luca
Published: September 2023

The rapid introduction of DAAs has revolutionized the treatment of chronic HCV infection, however some concerns have been arose about their early and long term safety in real life settings. Therefore, these drugs achieve a robust and sustained virological response in a short duration of treatment, being a quick winning option, but, what then? At now an extensive follow-up in real life settings does not exist particularly on HCC occurrence as recently suggested in a Cochrane review . In this regard from February 2015 to December 2017 a group of 5 Hospital and Academic Centers in Southern Italy (Campania Region) managed an observational, prospective, real-life study on efficacy and safety of DAAs treatment schedule enrolling 1022 consecutive HCV patients treated with IFN-free DAAs regimens being followed-up for 24 months. Our preliminary data on the first 360 patients out of 1022 whose completed at least 66 weeks follow-up, based on clinical, laboratory and expert ultrasonography every three months, showed an SVR in 342 out 360 (95%) patients of which 9 had a new diagnosed HCC (2.63%). Specifically HCC developed in mean after 16,2 months after end of treatment as one or more nodules (2-3 cm in mean) with an increase in alpha-fetoprotein 10 x u.n.v (n.v. <15 UI/mL) in patients with F4 fibrosis staging at the time of treatment enrolment. In conclusion, in view of our findings and literature evidences, regular clinical, laboratory and expert ultrasonography follow-up should carefully performed also on these patients and the current Faster, Higher, Stronger approach to the new antivirals development should strongly be revisited in the light of possible late adverse events like HCC occurrence and the relative economic impact on health care system cost.
A Qualitative Exploration of Exclusive Breastfeeding Practices Among Karen Ethnicity Mothers in Northern Thailand Remote Rural Areas
Authors: Ritthimon Wanchalerm , Thongprachum Aksara , Wungrath ๋Jukkrit
Published: September 2023

Low exclusive breastfeeding rates among the Karen ethnic group in Northern Thailand's remote rural areas underscore the need to understand knowledge, attitudes, and social support to develop targeted interventions. This qualitative study examined exclusive breastfeeding practices and the factors influencing breastfeeding behavior among 14 Karen Ethnicity Mothers (KEMs) in Northern Thailand. A structured interview was used to collect the data, a triangular method to determine the data's validity, and a content analysis method to examine the data revealed seven themes and 14 subthemes. This study identified three key factors for successful breastfeeding: self-motivation, social support, and effective problem management, which included overcoming the family's anti-breastfeeding beliefs. Conversely, unsuccessful breastfeeding stemmed from four issues: inadequate maternal knowledge and misconceptions, family beliefs and culture, maternal health problems, and economic constraints. Therefore, the success of breastfeeding was heavily influenced by both personal and environmental factors. As a result, every KEM should be encouraged to recognize the importance of breastfeeding and to exclusively breastfeed for at least six months, especially those living in remote rural areas and have a different way of life than the natives.