bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Migraine as Risk Factors for Lung Cancer: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Lu# Hongting , Xu# Zhanyu , Zheng Tiaozhan , He Dongming , Zheng Zhiwen , Ou Xinhuai , Duan Xiaohong , Li Shikang
Published: March 2024

Background
This study investigates the potential causal association between migraine experiences and an increased risk of lung cancer diagnosis. Utilizing a Mendelian randomization approach with two distinct cohorts, we aim to further examine the notable prevalence of lung cancer in individuals previously diagnosed with migraines.
Methods
Data for this analysis were derived from the OpenGWAS project database. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) significantly correlated with genetic predisposition to migraines were employed as instrumental variables. The primary lung cancer datasets were obtained from the UK Biobank and the International Lung Cancer Consortium (ILCCO), with additional analyses on lung squamous cell carcinoma and lung adenocarcinoma subtypes. The "TwoSampleMR" package in R (version 4.3.0) facilitated the Mendelian randomization analysis.
Results
Employing a multiplicative random effects model, the inverse variance-weighted (IVW) method was primarily used for the most reliable estimations of causal inference. The IVW method indicated an odds ratio (OR) of 1.0363 (95% CI: 1.0003–1.0737, P = 0.0480) and an OR of 75.0950 (95% CI: 2.7592–2043.7688, P = 0.0104) for the association between migraines and lung cancer. These results signify a statistically significant association (P < 0.05), identifying migraines as a risk factor for lung cancer. No evidence of heterogeneity or pleiotropy was observed.
Conclusions
Migraines significantly contribute to the risk and progression of lung cancer. Further investigations are essential to clarify the causal dynamics between these conditions.
Immersive Virtual Reality Enhanced Reinforcement Induced Physical Therapy (EVEREST)
Authors: Altukhaim Samirah , Sakabe Naoko , Nagaratnam Kirubananthan , Mannava Neelima , Kondo Toshiyuki , Hayashi Yoshikatsu
Published: March 2024

Background
motor impairment of the upper limb (UL) after a stroke is common, which negatively impacts patients’ quality of life. Stroke survivors may develop a condition known as learned non-use, resulting in a tendency to avoid using the affected hand due to failure. Previous research has shown that constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT), where the healthy arm is physically constrained to encourage the use of the stroke-affected arm, is effective in UL rehabilitation. However, some patients find it exhausting and tiring. New technologies have been applied to stroke rehabilitation alongside conventional techniques in recent years. For example, immersive virtual reality (IVR) has emerged as a new treatment approach for stroke rehabilitation, simulating real-life activities to work on self-care skills. Method: in this pilot study, we evaluated the efficacy of the IVR, which incorporates positive reinforcement components in motor coordination as opposed to CIMT using IVR technology. Eighteen participants were randomized to an IVR group to receive VR intervention plus physical therapy (PT) sessions or a control group to receive PT sessions alone. Participants were instructed to reach with either their affected or unaffected hand to a randomly assigned target in the VR. The movement of the virtual image of the UL was reinforced by visual feedback to the participants. Treatment effects on motor recovery were investigated using the Fugl-Meyer (FM) scale for the UL, kinematic dataset, and a questionnaire.
Results
the IVR group exhibited significant improvements in FM scores (p < 0.05) between the first and fifth session, signifying a substantial recovery of UL motor function, with the fifth session showing higher scores. The time to target in the last session reduced compared with that in the first session, suggesting motor learning and recovery (p < 0.05). The patients were highly engaged and motivated during the sessions because they felt like they were in charge of the virtual image of their upper body.
Conclusions
The results suggest that positive reinforcement within the IVR could encourage motor recovery of the affected hand and may facilitate the application of motor learning and neuroplasticity principles during neurological rehabilitation.
Optimization of biofertilizers derived from vinegar residues to improve soil quality and alleviate salinization of the land
Authors: Feng Fang , Jiang Bin , Yan Banrui , Li Jiaxin , Shaik Firdoz
Published: March 2024

Saline land rehabilitation plays a crucial role in expanding arable land resources and ensuring food security. To achieve green and sustainable improvement of saline and alkaline land, the present study utilizes vinegar residue waste composted with inter-root bacteria PGPR (phosphorus solubilizing, potassium solubilizing, and nitrogen fixing bacteria) to produce organic fertilizers that are beneficial to plants, thus rehabilitating saline and alkaline land. The total nutrient content (Σ (N + P2O5 + K2O) of the heap at the end of composting increases by 49.85%. PKN-VR (vinegar residue compost with added phosphorus solubilizing, potassium solubilizing, and nitrogen-fixing bacteria) treatment group significantly increases the stem length (55.99%), root length (54.29%), fresh weight (71.4%), and dry weight (57.9%) of wheat seedlings in the saline soil. In addition, the compost products increase the content of chlorophyll (62.2%), proline (94%), and soluble sugar (62.7%), and decrease the content of MAD (malondialdehyde) by 24.05%, thus enhancing the resilience of wheat seedlings. The contents of total nitrogen, total potassium, and total phosphorus, as well as quick-acting potassium, quick-acting phosphorus, and alkaline dissolved nitrogen in the soils of the treatment groups are significantly increased by the addition of microorganisms. The soil fertility enhancement also increases the enzyme activities of the soil. The results show that PKN-VR has considerable potential in saline soil remediation, realizes the resource utilization of vinegar residue waste, and provides a new management method for the green development of agriculture.
A stochastic approach to delays optimization for narrowband transmit beam pattern in medical ultrasound
Authors: Razzetta Chiara , Candiani Valentina , Crocco Marco , Benvenuto Federico
Published: March 2024

In ultrasound imaging, state-of-the-art methods for Transmit Beam Pattern (TBP) optimization have well-known drawbacks like non-uniform beam width over depth, significant side lobes, and quick energy drop-out beyond the focal region. To overcome these limitations, we develop a TBP optimization approach by focusing on its narrowband approximation and considering transmit delays as free variables instead of linked to specific focal depths. We formulate a non-linear Least Squares problem to minimize the difference between the TBP corresponding to a set of delays and the desired one, modeled as a 2D rectangle elongated along the beam axis. Three metrics are defined to quantitatively evaluate the results. Results obtained by synthetic simulations show that the main lobe width is considerably more intense and uniform over the whole depth range compared to classical focalized Beam Patterns. The application of the method to elastogra-phy shows improvements in the ultrasound energy concentration along a desired axis.
Experimental determination of tin partitioning between titanite, ilmenite, and granitic melts using improved capsule designs
Authors: Huang Fangfang , Wang Jintuan , Xiong Xiaolin , Gao Mingdi , Li Li , Wei Chunxia
Published: March 2024

Investigating mineral/melt Sn partitioning at high temperatures and pressures is a difficult task because Sn is a redox-sensitive multivalent element and easily alloys with noble metal sample capsules. To obtain accurate Sn partition coefficients between titanite, ilmenite, and granitic melts, we developed single capsule Pt or Au and double capsule Pt95Rh5 (or Au)-Re designs to avoid significant Sn loss at a controlled oxygen fugacity (fO2). With these new capsule designs, we performed piston-cylinder experiments of Sn partitioning between titanite, ilmenite, and granitic melts. The experimental P-T-fO2 conditions were 0.5–1.0 GPa, 850–1000 °C, and ~QFM+8 to ~QFM-4 (quartz-fayalite-magnetite, QFM, buffer), with fO2 controlled by the solid buffers of Ru-RuO2, Re-ReO2, Co-CoO, graphite, and Fe-FeO. The obtained mineral/melt Sn partition coefficients (DSnmin/melt) are 0.48–184.75 for titanite and 0.03–69.45 for ilmenite at the experimental conditions. The DSnmin/melt values are largely dependent on fO2, although the effects of temperature and melt composition are also observed. DSnTtn/melt strongly decreases with decreasing fO2, from ~46–185 at the most oxidizing conditions (Ru-RuO2 buffer), to ~2–16 at moderately oxidizing to moderately reducing conditions (Re-ReO2 to Co-CoO and graphite buffers), to <1 at the most reducing conditions (Fe-FeO buffer). DSnIlm/melt exhibits a variation trend similar to DSnTtn/melt but is always lower than DSnTtn/melt at a given fO2. These DSnmin/melt values can be applied to quantitatively assess the mineralization potential of granitic magmas. Using DSnTtn/melt, we estimate that Sn contents are ~150–400 ppm in the pre-mineralization magmas of the tin-mineralized Qitianling plutons (South China).
impacto da Pandemia de COVID-19 na educação brasileira: desvendando desigualdades em três estados da Federação
Authors: Oliveira Janaina , Santana Lucas Barbosa , Colombo Luciléia Aparecida
Published: March 2024

O presente estudo tem como objetivo apresentar um panorama dos planos implementados e seus resultados efetivos, através de um estudo comparado, entre três estados da federação, de distintas regiões do país, observando-se os impactos dessas ações e, sobretudo, do ensino remoto, na educação básica brasileira. O estado de pandemia foi decretado em março de 2020, em relação ao novo coronavírus, obrigando os Estados e Municípios a emitirem normativas para o enfrentamento da emergência de saúde pública, dentre estas, a suspensão das atividades escolares e laborais. Partimos do pressuposto que a pandemia ressalta as desigualdades sociais do país, principalmente, no que se refere ao acesso à educação pela população de baixa renda. Com isso, foi adotada uma análise comparativa, a fim de observar as políticas efetivamente implementadas por diferentes estados e regiões do Brasil, estabelecendo semelhanças e distinções entre as ações empreendidas e os resultados obtidos. Para realizar essa análise, foram selecionadas três redes de ensino nos seguintes estados da federação: Amazonas, Maranhão e São Paulo. Tais escolhas se justificam não só pela relevância política e econômica bem como pelas consideráveis distinções de acesso à internet e aos recursos tecnológicos necessários para execução das atividades remotas.
Pengembangan Aplikasi Web Kebugaran berbasis Responsive Web Design (RWD) untuk Membantu Mencapai Berat Badan Ideal setelah Pandemi Covid-19
Authors: Sayud Sunthon , Nurkhamid  , Jati Handaru
Published: March 2024

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah mengembangkan aplikasi web kebugaran berbasis Responsive Web Design (RWD) yang dapat digunakan sebagai media informasi untuk membantu mencapai berat badan ideal. Penelitian ini meliputi pengembangan web dan pengujian kelayakan web untuk menganalisis kualitas situs web menggunakan metode “4 Pillars of Web Testing” yang meliputi tahapan pengujian functionality, performance, compatibility, dan accessibility. Penelitian ini dilakukan dengan menggunakan metode Research and Development (R&D) dengan model waterfall yang meliputi tahapan requirements, design, implementation, verification or testing, dan deployment and maintenance. Instrumen yang digunakan untuk pengujian kelayakan web berupa checklist untuk pengujian aspek functionality, serta instrumen berupa tools yang digunakan untuk pengujian aspek performance, compatibility, dan accessibility. Berdasarkan hasil pengujian web yang telah dikembangkan menunjukkan hasil bahwa: 1) aplikasi web kebugaran berbasis Responsive Web Design (RWD) telah dibangun melalui tahapan pengembangan perangkat lunak yang sesuai dengan kebutuhan spesifikasi; 2) hasil analisis kualitas web telah memenuhi syarat “4 Pillars of Web Testing” dari aspek functionality, performance, compatibility, dan accessibility.
Perancangan Ulang UI/UX Aplikasi Mobile Siakad UNY Menggunakan Metode Design Thinking
Authors: Mandaraka Yohanes Nathaniel Heros , Nurkhamid
Published: March 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan merancang ulang antarmuka dan pengalaman pengguna Aplikasi SIAKAD UNY melalui metode Design Thinking. Hasilnya adalah prototype UI/UX menggunakan Figma yang diuji melalui System Usability Scale (SUS) dan User Experience Questionnaire (UEQ). Hasil pengujian menunjukkan peningkatan dalam kejelasan, efisiensi, daya tarik, stimulasi, kebaruan, dan ketepatan. Metode ini efektif dalam menghasilkan desain antarmuka dan pengalaman pengguna yang lebih baik, dengan potensi meningkatkan minat dan kepuasan pengguna dalam menggunakan aplikasi SIAKAD UNY.
Producción de semillas de calidad de variedades mejoradas y materiales regionales disponibilidad de los pequeños productores agrícolas Plan Semilla
Authors: Aristizabal Diego , Tobar S Sandra Liliana , Sarmiento Luisa Fernanda , Díaz J. Ana Luisa , Ramírez D. J
Published: March 2024

El Plan Semilla es una apuesta interinstitucional entre SENA, ICA y Corpoica, para incrementar la disponibilidad de semilla de calidad y reactivar sistemas locales de producción en especies de importancia económica y de seguridad alimentaria, a través de un esquema de recuperación, limpieza, multiplicación, escalamiento y provisión de materiales regionales y/o mejorados. Contribuye a la mejora de las capacidades en las organizaciones inscritas para consolidarlas como núcleos productivos de semilla de calidad.
Diseño metodológico de construcción del Pectia : anexo 1
Authors:   Corporación Colombiana de Investigación Agropecuaria - AGROSAVIA,   Departamento Administrativo de Ciencia, Tecnología e Innovación,   Ministerio de Agricultura y Desarrollo Rural
Published: March 2024

En las páginas siguientes, se encuentra una descripción del marco metodológico y conceptual con el cual se construyó el Pectia, los resultados más sobresalientes del diagnóstico del sector agropecuario desde la perspectiva de la CTi y el plan estratégico en sí, partiendode su misión, visión, objetivos estratégicos, factores habilitantes y factores específicos, con sus respectivas estrategias ylíneas de acción. En el último capítulo, se proponen mecanismos para su implementación, seguimiento y evaluación.
Preferences on Governance Models for Mental Health Data: Qualitative Study With Young People
Authors: Carey Emma Grace , Adeyemi Faith Oluwasemilore , Neelakantan Lakshmi , Fernandes Blossom , Fazel Mina , Ford Tamsin ,   The MindKind Consortium, Burn Anne-Marie
Published: March 2024

Background

Improving access to mental health data to accelerate research and improve mental health outcomes is a potentially achievable goal given the substantial data that can now be collected from mobile devices. Smartphones can provide a useful mechanism for collecting mental health data from young people, especially as their use is relatively ubiquitous in high-resource settings such as the United Kingdom and they have a high capacity to collect active and passive data. This raises the interesting opportunity to establish a large bank of mental health data from young people that could be accessed by researchers worldwide, but it is important to clarify how to ensure that this is done in an appropriate manner aligned with the values of young people.

Objective

In this study, we discussed the preferences of young people in the United Kingdom regarding the governance, sharing, and use of their mental health data with the establishment of a global data bank in mind. We aimed to determine whether young people want and feel safe to share their mental health data; if so, with whom; and their preferences in doing so.

Methods

Young people (N=46) were provided with 2 modules of educational material about data governance models and background in scientific research. We then conducted 2-hour web-based group sessions using a deliberative democracy methodology to reach a consensus where possible. Findings were analyzed using the framework method.

Results

Young people were generally enthusiastic about contributing data to mental health research. They believed that broader availability of mental health data could be used to discover what improves or worsens mental health and develop new services to support young people. However, this enthusiasm came with many concerns and caveats, including distributed control of access to ensure appropriate use, distributed power, and data management that included diverse representation and sufficient ethical training for applicants and data managers.

Conclusions

Although it is feasible to use smartphones to collect mental health data from young people in the United Kingdom, it is essential to carefully consider the parameters of such a data bank. Addressing and embedding young people’s preferences, including the need for robust procedures regarding how their data are managed, stored, and accessed, will set a solid foundation for establishing any global data bank.
Deconstructing Fitbit to Specify the Effective Features in Promoting Physical Activity Among Inactive Adults: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Takano Keisuke , Oba Takeyuki , Katahira Kentaro , Kimura Kenta
Published: March 2024

Background

Wearable activity trackers have become key players in mobile health practice as they offer various behavior change techniques (BCTs) to help improve physical activity (PA). Typically, multiple BCTs are implemented simultaneously in a device, making it difficult to identify which BCTs specifically improve PA.

Objective

We investigated the effects of BCTs implemented on a smartwatch, the Fitbit, to determine how each technique promoted PA.

Methods

This study was a single-blind, pilot randomized controlled trial, in which 70 adults (n=44, 63% women; mean age 40.5, SD 12.56 years; closed user group) were allocated to 1 of 3 BCT conditions: self-monitoring (feedback on participants’ own steps), goal setting (providing daily step goals), and social comparison (displaying daily steps achieved by peers). Each intervention lasted for 4 weeks (fully automated), during which participants wore a Fitbit and responded to day-to-day questionnaires regarding motivation. At pre- and postintervention time points (in-person sessions), levels and readiness for PA as well as different aspects of motivation were assessed.

Results

Participants showed excellent adherence (mean valid-wear time of Fitbit=26.43/28 days, 94%), and no dropout was recorded. No significant changes were found in self-reported total PA (dz<0.28, P=.40 for the self-monitoring group, P=.58 for the goal setting group, and P=.19 for the social comparison group). Fitbit-assessed step count during the intervention period was slightly higher in the goal setting and social comparison groups than in the self-monitoring group, although the effects did not reach statistical significance (P=.052 and P=.06). However, more than half (27/46, 59%) of the participants in the precontemplation stage reported progress to a higher stage across the 3 conditions. Additionally, significant increases were detected for several aspects of motivation (ie, integrated and external regulation), and significant group differences were identified for the day-to-day changes in external regulation; that is, the self-monitoring group showed a significantly larger increase in the sense of pressure and tension (as part of external regulation) than the goal setting group (P=.04).

Conclusions

Fitbit-implemented BCTs promote readiness and motivation for PA, although their effects on PA levels are marginal. The BCT-specific effects were unclear, but preliminary evidence showed that self-monitoring alone may be perceived demanding. Combining self-monitoring with another BCT (or goal setting, at least) may be important for enhancing continuous engagement in PA.

Trial Registration

Open Science Framework; https://osf.io/87qnb/?view_only=f7b72d48bb5044eca4b8ce729f6b403b
A Corpus-based Study on Lexical Features in the English Version of Report on the Work of the Government (2003-2023)
Authors: Ye Binyi
Published: March 2024

In the context of globalization, China’s voice has been recognized by more and more countries. As the most important political document of China, The Report on the Work of the Government is the main content of translation research of political papers. Its translation provides a significant window for people worldwide to understand China comprehensively. Based on the corpus method, this paper analyzes the lexical features of the English version of Report on the Work of the Government (2003-2023) in terms of the average word length, the type-token ratio, keyword and high-frequency words to explore the image of China constructed, and offer experience for the translations of other publicity materials.
Research on Practical Teaching Reform of Applied University Courses: A Case Study of "Concrete Structure Design"
Authors: Song Xingyu , Yin Lu , Li Bingyan
Published: March 2024

By analyzing the current situation and deficiencies of the teaching of concrete structure design courses, summarizing teaching experience, and combining with the characteristics of our university's "applied" talent training, this study explores the teaching reform of concrete structure design courses for the 2021 level civil engineering majors. The exploration primarily focuses on optimizing teaching content, improving teaching methods, strengthening practical components, and diversifying assessment methods. Practice has shown that this approach has a demonstrative effect on undergraduate teaching in civil engineering at our university.
Investigating Banhatti indices on the molecular graph and the line graph of Glass with M-polynomial approach
Authors: Ghods Masoud , Ramezani Tousi Jaber
Published: March 2024

Topological indices are numerical values related to a chemical structure that describes the correlation of chemical structure with different physical properties and chemical reactions. Glass has wide applications in architecture, tableware, optics, and optoelectronics. In this article, first, the mathematical relationship between M-polynomial and Banhatti indices such as K-Banhatti, d-Banhatti, and hyper d-Banhatti indices are obtained. Then using M-polynomial, Banhatti indices are calculated.
Deep Learning Driven Liver Tumor Detection and Classification
Authors: Reddy Ajjuguttu Triveni
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Liver tumors represent a significant health concern globally, ranking as the fifth most prevalent type of tumor in men and the ninth in women according to recent Global Cancer Statistics for 2018. The current diagnostic methods involve utilizing imaging tests such as Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and ultrasound, often requiring invasive tissue sampling for confirmation. However, these approaches are not only costly but also time-consuming, posing challenges in timely diagnosis and treatment. This paper proposes an innovative solution leveraging deep learning techniques in image processing for liver tumor diagnosis. Specifically, we introduce a Classification Ensemble model combining ResNet, UNet, ResUNet, Xception, and DenseNet architectures. These models are adept at extracting intricate features from medical images, enhancing the accuracy of tumor classification. Additionally, we integrate state-of-the-art object detection models, including FasterRCNN, YOLOv3, and YOLOv5, to enable precise localization and delineation of liver tumors within the images. We focus on the liver tumors such as cholangiocarcinoma and metastatis. Overall, our proposed framework holds promise in revolutionizing liver tumor diagnosis, potentially leading to earlier detection, improved patient outcomes, and reduced healthcare costs.
Dermatological Malignancy Detection Using CNN
Authors: Parashar Ms. Komal
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Skin cancer is a prevalent and potentially life-threatening disease that continues to pose a significant public health concern. Starting stage detection Plays a crucial part in enhancing treatment efficacy. Furthermore, the advancement of deep learning has enabled the creation of automated frameworks for detecting maligant cancer. This proposed system utilizes a varied dataset encompassing various types of skin cancer, such as malignant melanomas and benign nevi, to educate a learning model. Utilizing CNN, pertinent features are automatically extracted from skin cancer images, facilitating precise classification. Assessment of the suggested system showcases encouraging outcomes concerning sensitivity, specificity, and overall precision. Comparative assessments against conventional techniques underscore the superior efficacy and effectiveness of the devised model in identifying potential skin cancer instances. Moreover, the system's interpretive capacity is heightened through the integration integration of attention mechanisms offering insights into the areas of focus within the skin cancer images
Smart Hand Gloves for Deaf and Dumb People
Authors: Jadhav Shravani , Mhatre Siddhi , Patil Riddhi , Sorte Prachi
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Approximately 2.78% of the population in our nation is nonverbal. They communicate with people by using their hands and facial gestures. As is well known, those who are silent are mute and those who are not are unaware of sign language, which is a way for silent individuals to communicate. Thus, we have put forth a brand-new method known as “The SPEAKING SYSTEM TO THE MUTE PEOPLE”. Thus, this system will be helpful in solving the issue. The accelerometer sensors form the foundation of the system. Mute people believe that every deed has a purpose. The accelerometer sensors accelerate with each action and provide a signal to the Arduino. The speech signal is created by the Arduino by synchronizing its motion with that of the database. The Guide Me app is being used as the system's output. Since gestures are consistent with people's communication habits, a lot of study has been done on gesture detection using a vision-based method.
How perception of university financial aid influences the social-givingback behavior of students receiving aid
Authors: Li Pingping , Zhu Huaixin , Liu Yanbin , Yuan Yanpeng
Published: March 2024

We used social construction theory to investigate the mechanisms and boundary conditions that underlie the relationship between perception of financial aid and social-giving-back behavior in the context of students in need who receive financial aid at China's universities. The results
of a time-lagged field survey with 436 students indicated that their perception of financial aid was positively related to their social-giving-back behavior, and that self-concept mediated this relationship. Furthermore, when the students perceived that financial support was intended for their
benefit, this strengthened the relationship between their perception of financial aid and self-concept, which, in turn, reinforced the indirect effect of perception of financial aid on students' giving-back behavior through their self-concept. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
Professional commitment and willingness of art education college students to become teachers: Learning satisfaction as a mediator
Authors: Hao Jie , Qian Zhou
Published: March 2024

There is currently a teacher shortage in remote areas in China, as the willingness of government-sponsored students to enter the profession continues to decrease because of factors such as high work pressure and relatively low salaries. We investigated the influence of professional
commitment on willingness to enter the teaching profession among 395 government-sponsored teachers' college students majoring in art education, and assessed the mediating role of learning satisfaction in this relationship. The results indicated there was a significant positive correlation
between professional commitment and teaching willingness. Additionally, learning satisfaction played a mediating role in this relationship. Our findings contribute to understanding of the relationships among professional commitment, teaching willingness, and learning satisfaction among teachers'
college students majoring in art education within the context of Chinese higher education. The results also offer practical insights for educators to enhance the willingness of art education majors to enter the teaching profession.
The Global Islamic Calendar as a Solution for Unified Religious Rituals: Its Relevance to Fiqh and Astronomy
Authors: Yaqin ‘Alamul
Published: March 2024

Muslims had time differences in carrying out Islamic religious rituals. The last two international congresses in 2016 in Turkey and 2017 in Indonesia carried their own criteria and were used in several countries. Meanwhile, the majority of the calendars that Muslims refer to are the Ummul Qura' Calendar of Saudi Arabia. This article aims to compare the results of that three calendar regarding the determination of the beginning of the months of Ramadan, Shawwal, Dzulhijjah from 1444 to 1448 H. and the implication of each criterion in the aspects of sharia and astronomy. This article is a qualitative research with descriptive and comparative analysis. The result shows, the differences betweean the three calendar is 53.33% and the similarity is 46.67%. Turkey's criteria for 2016, are the most established to become the Global Islamic Calendar from fiqh and astronomy perspective, but there is a weakness in the application of the conditions for reporting new moon sighting until 00.00 UT, meaning that the day changes at midnight which results in areas that are more eastern have to wait a long time and can have an impact on the law of other worship. The Indonesia criteria have accommodated the weaknesses of Turkey criteria but the scope of the hilal visibility limits is too narrow. Ummul Qura’ calendar does not meet the requirements of international congress so far. Therefore, three calendar above must complete each other to realize unified Islamic Global Calendar and new fiqh formulation of the global Islamic calendar and related worship.
Hydrolysis of Phospholipids in Presence of Phospholipase D:Thrmodynamic and Kinetic Studies of Hydrolysis in Water and Alcoholic Environments
Authors:   Department of Chemistry, College of Science, University of Kerbala, Karbala, Iraq, S. Hussein Ikram , M. M. Al-Rammahi Thaer ,   Department of Chemistry, College of Science, University of Kerbala, Karbala, Iraq
Published: March 2024

Phospholipase D(PLD)catalyzes the hydrolysis of phospholipids to produce phosphatidic acid and hydroxyl compounds. Phosphatidylcholine (PC) is the most abundant phospholipid in animals and plants, often constituting nearly 50% of total complex lipids in animals and plants. However, Phosphatidylserine (PS) makes up around 5–10% of all phospholipids. This work includes the monitoring thermodynamic and kinetic of the enzymatic hydrolysis of PC and PS in both water and ethanol. All experiments were performedusing the Schlink line technique inN2present as an inert gas to prevent the oxidative stress. UV/Vis. spectrophotometer was used to observe the kinetic of all enzymatic reactions. In addition, the Origin 2019 software was used to analyze and find the kinetic parameters of the enzymatic hydrolysis reactions. The results show that the enzymatic hydrolys is reactions of PC in water and in ethanol occurredat the same conditions, enzymatic activity 1.752 U/mg, temperature 37 ᵒC, and pH =7. However, the enzymatic hydrolysis reactions of PS in water occurred at different conditions than in ethanol. The enzymatic substitution reaction of PSinethanol was thermodynamic favorable reaction due to the value of the ∆G =_164.868 J, but in water was thermodynamically unfavorable ΔG = 65.048 J. However, the enzymatic hydrolysis reaction of PC in water was thermodynamically unfavorable ∆G = 345.319 Jaswellas in ethanol ∆G = 74.433 J. The study shows that there is clear impact of present nitrogen bases of PC and the environment of the hydrolysis on the activity of the enzymatic catalyzing.
Challenges Facing Us in DNA Analysis from Human Hair Samples: A Review
Authors:   Forensic DNA Center for Research and Training, Al-Nahrain University, Jadriya, Baghdad, Iraq, K Ibrahim Al-Sammaraie Halah , Husam Al-Tabra Reem ,   Forensic DNA Center for Research and Training, Al-Nahrain University, Jadriya, Baghdad, Iraq, Abdul Lateef Mahdi Asia ,   Forensic DNA Center for Research and Training, Al-Nahrain University, Jadriya, Baghdad, Iraq, Mohammed T. Jaber Mayyahi ,   Forensic DNA Center for Research and Training, Al-Nahrain University, Jadriya, Baghdad, Iraq, R. Jaafar May ,   Forensic DNA Center for Research and Training, Al-Nahrain University, Jadriya, Baghdad, Iraq, Mahdi Al-Zubaidi Mohammed ,   Forensic DNA Center for Research and Training, Al-Nahrain University, Jadriya, Baghdad, Iraq, A. Jawad Asmaa ,   Forensic DNA Center for Research and Training, Al-Nahrain University, Jadriya, Baghdad, Iraq
Published: March 2024

Human hair is a valuable tool in criminology, aiding in population studies through statistics and DNA analysis. It's easily identifiable at crime scenes, often clinging to clothing, carpets, and various surfaces, including animal fur, through a process known as secondary transfer. Forensic analysis of hair evidence serves several purposes; it can help establish the possibility of a connection between a suspect and a crime scene or between a suspect and a victim. It can demonstrate that there is no evidence linking the perpetrator to the crime scene or the suspect to the victim. While microscopic hair analysis cannot definitively identify a specific individual as the source of the hair, it does provide a solid basis for association. The wealth of macroscopic and microscopic details available in hair examination can also provide strong evidence for the defense. To understand the challenges of conducting DNA tests on hair, it's essential to study hair structure and composition. DNA in hair is not evenly distributed throughout every part of the hair; it exists in both nuclear and mitochondrial forms.
Human Activity Recognition Using Inertial Sensors in a Smartphone: Technical Background(Review)
Authors:   Department of Computer, College of Science, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq., Khalaf Hade , Riyadh Musaab ,   Department of Computer, College of Science, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq.
Published: March 2024

Human Activity Recognition (HAR) stands at the intersection of machine learning, deep learning, and sensor technology, primarily focusing on leveraging inertial sensors in smartphones and wearable devices. This paper presents a comprehensive technical overview of HAR, examining the amalgamation of machine learning and deep learning systems while considering the data inputs from mobile and wearable inertial sensors. The review encompasses a broad spectrum of methodologies applied to HAR, ranging from classical machine learning algorithms to cutting-edge deep learning architectures. Emphasis is placed on the nuanced challenges and opportunities posed using inertial sensors in smartphones and wearables. This includes discussions on data preprocessing strategies, feature extraction methods, and model architectures, accounting for the unique characteristics of sensor data, such as noise, variability, and power consumption. The paper explores recent advancements, scrutinizing state-of-the-art approaches, innovative model architectures, and emerging trends in HAR. Through a comparative evaluation of various machine learning and deep learning techniques, the review aims to guide researchers and practitioners in selecting the most appropriate methods for HAR applications across diverse scenarios. In conclusion, this paper serves as an inclusive guide to the technical landscape of HAR, incorporating insights from both mobile and wearable inertial sensors. By synthesizing existing knowledge and addressing future research directions, it aims to propel advancements in developing robust and efficient systems for recognizing human activities, accommodating the evolving landscape of sensor technologies in mobile and wearable devices.
Nudging in the Workplace: Exploring a Micro-level Approach Towards Corporate Sustainability
Authors:   , Decrinis Leonie
Published: March 2024

In the face of growing societal challenges and rising stakeholder pressure on companies to address these issues, this thesis explores ways to facilitate more responsible and sustainable business conduct. It focuses on micro-level organisational dynamics and assesses the application of nudging as a managerial approach to encourage behaviour change in support of corporate sustainability. Three independent papers underlie this dissertation, each providing unique insights into the research topic. Paper 1 maps and synthesises knowledge from diverse disciplines on previously applied nudging interventions in organisations in areas relevant to corporate sustainability. It creates a comprehensive framework, compiling information on the target persons, the barriers to behaviour change, the nudging types and mechanisms, and the behavioural outcomes that the reviewed studies report. Based on the research clusters and gaps identified, the article formulates a research agenda that the two subsequent papers address and build upon. Paper 2 presents a conceptual evaluation synthesising insights from nudging research with the literature on ethics and compliance management. It critically examines how organisations can use nudging to promote ethical conduct as an essential micro-foundation of corporate sustainability. More specifically, the article highlights uncertainty, anonymity, and injustice as barriers to ethical decision-making in complex workplace situations and defines values-oriented conditions for addressing these barriers. Based on the conditions formulated, it assesses different nudges regarding their strengths and limitations to tackle the same barriers. It provides suggestions for their improved implementation with the overarching aim of fostering values orientation within the workplace. Paper 3 employs a field experiment to explore the use of message frames as nudges in an automotive company promoting electric mobility to support corporate sustainability. The tested nudges emphasise emotional, sustainability, and cost-saving motives for employees' adoption of electric vehicles. We find positive effects for all of these nudges, even though the durability of the nudging effects is constrained. The cost-saving message has the most enduring and strongest impact overall. The insights gained from this experiment strengthen the arguments concerning different nudging mechanisms raised by my prior two papers with practical evidence of nudging. Collectively, this thesis contributes to the micro-level literature on corporate sustainability with knowledge about the drivers and mechanisms of employee sustainable behaviour that nudges can address. Moreover, it offers critical insights into how nudges can contribute to shaping organisational contexts as key levers of behaviour change toward corporate sustainability. For practitioners, the findings of my dissertation provide guidance on the use of nudges to target cognitive and non-cognitive determinants of employee behaviour in support of corporate sustainability.
A Comunicação Jurídica nas Assessorias dos Órgãos da Administração Direta do Poder Executivo do Distrito Federal
Authors: Sousa Rosilene Paiva Marinho , Nakano Natalia , Araújo Paula Carina de , Soares Filho Carlos de Paula , Oliveira Frederico Ramos de , Verano Bernardo Tadeu Machado , Ribeiro Deise Fátima Guimarães , Leão Carlos Henrique Martins , Moura Rebeca dos Santos , Costa Mirele Carolina Souza Ferreira , Shintaku Milton
Published: March 2024

Esta obra, que é fruto de um projeto de pesquisa desenvolvido pelo Instituto Brasileiro de Informação em Ciência e Tecnologia (Ibict), do Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Inovação (MCTI), tem como interesse dar visibilidade e voz às equipes de Assessores jurídicos que atuam arduamente para orientar os colaboradores do Poder Executivo Distrital nos princípios do Direito Administrativo. Com isso, ressalta-se a importância dessas unidades no âmbito do serviço público e de seus profissionais, com o interesse de apresentar a complexidade da sua atuação.
Economic convergence of the Balkan countries towards the European Union
Authors: Gashi Silvana , Avdulaj Jonida
Published: March 2024

This paper aims to analyze the economic performance of Balkan countries in comparison to the European Union (EU) average, with the objective of assessing the convergence of Balkan nations toward the EU during the period 2000–2019. The economic variables under consideration encompass per capita income, the corruption perception index (CPI), salary levels, and direct foreign investments. Employing β-convergence, rooted in neoclassical growth theories, this study aims to test the hypothesis that economically disadvantaged countries experience more rapid growth in per capita income than their wealthier counterparts. The empirical findings of this investigation reveal a discernible long-term convergence among the Balkan countries themselves, as well as towards the EU member states. The rate of convergence exhibits variations contingent upon the developmental status of the respective countries, along with nuances related to their economic structure and corruption levels. Despite these observed convergences, a substantial gap persists, and the pace of economic integration of Balkan nations into the EU appears to be a gradual process. This study underscores the complex relationship between economic convergence, country-specific characteristics, and the broader context of regional integration.
Síndrome biliar obstructivo como manifestación atípica de la enfermedad de Weil: una serie de casos
Authors: Forero Rios Maria Paula , Salcedo Miranda Diego Fernando , Puentes M Fabian E , Dussan Diego Alejandro , Martinez Ramirez Mauricio
Published: March 2024

La leptospirosis es una infección sistémica zoonótica, transmitida a través de la piel, mucosas o ingesta de agua contaminada por espiroquetas patógenas del género Leptospira en mamíferos y roedores infectados. Se presenta con sintomatología inespecífica de aparición aguda asociada a dolor abdominal, hemorragia subconjuntival e ictericia, que suele tener una resolución completa en la mayoría de los pacientes; sin embargo, en menor porcentaje puede progresar causando complicaciones sistémicas graves, con alto riesgo de mortalidad principalmente por nefropatía aguda, disfunción hepática asociada a ictericia y hemorragias, llamada síndrome de Weil o fiebre icterohemorrágica.
Se presenta una serie de casos de pacientes que cursaron con síndrome biliar obstructivo como principal manifestación de infección grave por leptospirosis.
Pulmonary valve stenosis due to extrinsic compression by a large mediastinal mass. An atypical cause of pre-syncope.
Authors: RESTREPO JUAN FELIPE ORTEGA , WILLIAMS OWEN , El-Medany Ahmed
Published: March 2024

Mediastinal masses are occasionally involved in extrinsic compression of
heart structures such as cardiac chambers, great vessels, and their
branches. In rare cases, this can lead to haemodynamic compromise.
Echocardiography is key to identifying and describing salient features
that might explain a patient’s symptoms, and contributes valuable
prognostic information. Here, we report a case study of a young male
patient who presented with cardiac symptoms and was referred to our
outpatient department for a routine transthoracic echocardiogram
revealing an unusual presentation of right ventricular outflow tract
obstruction, pulmonary valve compression, and pulmonary stenosis
secondary to a large extracardiac mass.
Unidimensional longitudinal strain in moderate-severe aortic stenosis with low flow and preserved systolic function.
Authors: CARLESSILUNA CARLOS , MORBIDONI JUAN , Garello Evangelina , Perello Leonel , Strada Bruno
Published: March 2024

Purpose: Low flow (LF) (stroke volume index (SVI) <
35ml/m ) is a prognostic marker in aortic stenosis
(AS). Longitudinal strain evaluated with speckle tracking is related to
LF. Unidimensional strain derived from Mitral Annular Plane Systolic
Excursion (MAPSE) is a surrogate of longitudinal strain. The objective
was to evaluate the relationship of the unidimensional longitudinal
strain (LVSTRAIN) with the LF in moderate (MAS) or severe (SAS) AS.
Methods: Patients with MAS (aortic valve area < 1.50
cm ) or SAS (aortic valve area ≤ 1 cm
) and ejection fraction ≥50% were evaluated.
LVSTRAIN was calculated using the average of lateral and medial MAPSE,
and divided by the length of the left ventricle (LV) in diastole. In SAS
four groups were substratiﬁed, depending on LV flow status: normal flow
(NF) vs. LF and mean pressure gradient levels: low gradient (LG)
(<40 mmHg) vs. high gradient (HG) (≥40 mmHg).
Results: One hundred and fifty-nine patients were evaluated. LF
was 20.14%. LVSTRAIN was 16.74% (±2.45) in NF and 12.28% (±3.06) in
LF (p=<0.001). A correlation was observed between the LVSTRAIN
and the SVI (r=0.47-p=<0.001), both in MAS (r=
0.51-p<0.001) and in SAS (r=0.45-p=<0.001). Patients
with LF and MAS had lower LVSTRAIN than those with NF, 11.39% (±2.51)
and (16.75% (±2.05), respectively (p=0.007). Patients with SAS with
both LFHG and LFLG had lower LVSTRAIN than those with NF
(p=<0.001). Conclusion: LVSTRAIN is decreased in
patients with MAS or SAS and LF. A significant correlation was observed
between SVI and LVSTRAIN in both SAS and MAS.
Using Mindfulness to Manage Moral Injury in Veterans: Feasibility, Satisfaction, and Initial Evidence of a Live Web-based Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kelley Michelle , Bravo Adrian J. , Burgin Elizabeth E. , Gaylord Susan , Vinci Christine , Strowger Megan , Gabelmann Jeff M. , Currier Joseph
Published: March 2024

Objective: The present study assessed initial evidence of
program feasibility, satisfaction, and pre-to post-intervention changes
in moral injury symptoms among recent-era veterans who participated in
Mindfulness to Manage Moral Injury (MMMI), a live facilitated web-based
7-week mindfulness-based program targeting moral injury among veterans.
Method: Of 56 recent-era veterans who met study criteria and
were randomized, 40 (71.4%) completed the pre- and post-intervention
survey and attended at least one treatment session. Of these 40, 21
completed MMMI and 19 completed an equally intensive educational support
(ES) control intervention. Among the analytic sample ( n = 40),
most participants identified as White (77.5%), were men (62.5%), and
reported a service-connected disability (82.5%). Results:
Participants attended on average 6.11 sessions. Program satisfaction was
moderately high across both conditions. Several significant condition x
time interactions were found, with those in the MMMI condition reporting
greater pre- to post-intervention decreases in moral injury (η2=.121),
impaired functioning due to moral injury (η2=.129), shame-related
experiences due to moral injury (η2=.105), and other-directed moral
injury (e.g., betrayal, difficulty forgiving others; η2=.129) as
compared to the ES condition. Conclusions: These preliminary
findings suggest MMMI appears feasible and acceptable and may be able to
reach veterans who may not seek traditional Veterans Affairs Medical
Center care or who prefer a web-based program. Given its promise for the
treatment of moral injury among veterans, MMMI warrants additional
large-scale clinical-trial testing.