bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Teleconsultation Device, Consult Station, for Remote Primary Care: Multisite Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Falgarone Géraldine , Bousquet Guilhem , Wilmet Arnaud , Brizio Albert , Faure Valérie , Guillouet Celestin , Baudino Franck , Roque Isabelle , Mayol Samuel , Pamoukdjian Frederic
Published: February 2022

Background

Telemedicine technology is a growing field, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Consult Station (Health for Development) is the first telemedicine device enabling completely remote medical consultations, including the concurrent collection of clinical parameters and videos.

Objective

Our aim was to collect data on the multisite urban and suburban implementation of the Consult Station for primary care and assess its contribution to health care pathways in areas with a low density of medical services.

Methods

In a proof-of-concept multisite prospective cohort study, 2134 consecutive patients had teleconsultations. Consultation characteristics were analyzed from both the patient and practitioner perspective.

Results

In this study, the main users of Consult Station were younger women consulting for low-severity seasonal infections. Interestingly, hypertension, diabetes, and preventive medical consultations were almost absent, while they accounted for almost 50% of consultations with a general practitioner (GP). We showed that for all regions where the Consult Station was implemented, the number of consultations increased as GP density decreased. The study of practitioner characteristics showed GPs from metropolitan areas are motivated to work with this device remotely, with a high level of technology acceptability.

Conclusions

The multisite implementation of Consult Station booths is suitable for primary care and could also address the challenge of “medical deserts.” In addition, further studies should be performed to evaluate the possible contribution of Consult Station booths to limiting work absenteeism.
Traditional Machine Learning Models and Bidirectional Encoder Representations From Transformer (BERT)–Based Automatic Classification of Tweets About Eating Disorders: Algorithm Development and Validation Study (Preprint)
Authors: Benítez-Andrades José Alberto , Alija-Pérez José-Manuel , Vidal Maria-Esther , Pastor-Vargas Rafael , García-Ordás María Teresa
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

Eating disorders affect an increasing number of people. Social networks provide information that can help.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to find machine learning models capable of efficiently categorizing tweets about eating disorders domain.

METHODS

We collected tweets related to eating disorders, for 3 consecutive months. After preprocessing, a subset of 2000 tweets was labeled: (1) messages written by people suffering from eating disorders or not, (2) messages promoting suffering from eating disorders or not, (3) informative messages or not, and (4) scientific or nonscientific messages. Traditional machine learning and deep learning models were used to classify tweets. We evaluated accuracy, F1 score, and computational time for each model.

RESULTS

A total of 1,058,957 tweets related to eating disorders were collected. were obtained in the 4 categorizations, with The bidirectional encoder representations from transformer–based models had the best score among the machine learning and deep learning techniques applied to the 4 categorization tasks (F1 scores 71.1%-86.4%).

CONCLUSIONS

Bidirectional encoder representations from transformer–based models have better performance, although their computational cost is significantly higher than those of traditional techniques, in classifying eating disorder–related tweets.
Sickle Cell Transplantation Evaluation of Long-term and Late Effects Registry (STELLAR) to Compare Long-term Outcomes After Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation to Those in Siblings Without Sickle Cell Disease and in Nontransplanted Individuals With Sickle Cell Disease: Design and Feasibility Study (Preprint)
Authors: Krishnamurti Lakshmanan , Arnold Staci D , Haight Ann , Abraham Allistair , Guilcher Gregory MT , John Tami , Bakshi Nitya , Shenoy Shalini , Syrjala Karen , Martin Paul L , Chaudhury Sonali , Eames Gretchen , Olowoselu Olusola Festus , Hsieh Matthew , De La Fuente Josu , Kasow Kimberly A , Stenger Elizabeth , Mertens Anne , El-Rassi Fuad , Lane Peter , Shaw Bronwen E , Meacham Lillian , Archer David
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

There are sparse data on the long-term and late effects of hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) for sickle cell disease (SCD).

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to establish an international registry of long-term outcomes post-HCT for SCD and demonstrate the feasibility of recruitment at a single site in the United States.

METHODS

The Sickle Cell Transplantation Evaluation of Long-Term and Late Effects Registry (STELLAR) was designed to enroll patients with SCD ≥1 year post-HCT, their siblings without SCD, and nontransplanted controls with SCD to collect web-based participant self-reports of health status and practices by using the Bone Marrow Transplant Survivor Study (BMTSS) surveys, health-related quality of life (HRQOL) using the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Pediatric Profile-25 or Pediatric Profile-29 survey, chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) using the symptom scale survey, daily pain using an electronic pain diary, the economic impact of HCT using the financial hardship survey, sexual function using the PROMIS Sexual Function SexFSv2.0 survey, and economic productivity using the American Time Use Survey (ATUS). We also piloted retrieval of clinical data previously submitted to the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research (CIBMTR); recorded demographics, height, weight, blood pressure, waist and hip circumferences, timed up and go (TUG) test, and handgrip test; and obtained blood for metabolic screening, gonadal function, fertility potential, and biorepository of plasma, serum, RNA, and DNA.

RESULTS

Of 100 eligible post-HCT patients, we enrolled 72 (72%) participants aged 9-38 (median 17) years. We also enrolled 19 siblings aged 5-32 (median 10) years and 28 nontransplanted controls with SCD aged 4-46 (median 22) years. Of the total 119 participants, 73 (61%) completed 85 sets of surveys and 41 (35%) contributed samples to the biorepository. We completed ATUS interviews of 28 (24%) participants. We successfully piloted retrieval of data submitted to the CIBMTR and expanded recruitment to multiple sites in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Nigeria.

CONCLUSIONS

It is feasible to recruit subjects and conduct study procedures for STELLAR in order to determine the long-term and late effects of HCT for SCD.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/36780
Case Study of Patients with HIV during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Garcia Maria Olalla , Lumitaxi Franklin Escobar , Llumitaxi Miryan Guambuguete
Published: February 2022

HIV patients are a vulnerable population to COVID-19, being an infectious disease, even sharing drugs for its treatment. At present, this population has been affected in its care, personal and social dimensions. The COVID-19 health crisis has impacted the regular surveillance and medical supplies needed to keep the deadly disease under control. The objective was: To relate the experiences of patients with HIV who are treated at the Leon Becerra Camacho Hospital of the canton Milagro (Ecuador), during the COVID-19 pandemic. The case study follows the qualitative methodology with a phenomenological approach, with a population of 10 patients diagnosed with HIV who are treated at the Leon Becerra Camacho Hospital. The qualitative data collected was analyzed using the Atlas ti V.9 software. It was known that patients with HIV felt affected at the care level because they did not receive periodic control, likewise anxiety and fear of a possible contagion has generated preventive isolation as a self-care measure. Regarding the information needs, the reports indicated that there is a lack of knowledge in aspects related to the preventive biosafety measures applicable to patients with HIV. In conclusion, there is a significant difference in the quality of care offered to patients before the pandemic and during the pandemic.
Association between Adaptive Evolution of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Spike Protein and Geographically Distinct Virus Epidemiology During the Initial Wave of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic
Authors: Srivastava Sonakshi , Thakur Vikram , Ratho Radha Kanta , Saxena Shailendra K.
Published: February 2022

The ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, putatively caused by the widespread transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has resulted in significant mortality worldwide. The highly varied epidemiology of the disease both temporally and geographically has garnered much attention. The present study aimed to gain a deeper understanding of the varied geospatial disease epidemiology during the first wave of the pandemic. The highly mutable spike (S) protein, which confers fitness to SARS-CoV-2 for its survival and spread was studied using representative sequences determined from the initial phase of the pandemic. Adaptive evolution and selection pressure analysis of 311 whole-genome sequences from across the world including Asia (n=105), Europe (n=101), and the United States (n=105) was performed. A high selection pressure at position 614 of the S protein with a dN/dS (non-synonymous/synonymous substitutions per site) ratio of 124.3 for Asia and 867.9 was predicted for Europe. This positively selected site (i.e. 614) was located in the S1 domain (amino acids 14-680), which acts in binding to the angiotensin-converting co-enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. The US strains did not exhibit significant positive selection at position 614. In addition, 10 sites (144, 241, 255, 262, 263, 276, 439,517, 528, and 557) in domain 1 and 19 sites (692, 709, 723, 752, 862, 864, 877, 892, 939, 951, 1015, 1060, 1076, 1114, 1116, 1128, 1176, 1235 and 1240) in domain 2 of the S protein mediating viral entry into host cells, exhibited significant negative selection among European strains of (SARS-CoV-2), however, no negative selection was observed in the Asian and US groups. The D614G spike protein variant has been correlated with fatal outcomes in European population and countries including Italy, France, Belgium, and Spain. D614G variants under high selective pressure in the Asian and European strains were also observed. In addition, the presence of 29 negatively selected codon sites under low selection pressure in the European group may imply improved viral fitness compared with strains circulating in other continents. In conclusion, selective pressure on the S protein, with maximum substitution rate, may have facilitated adaptive evolution of the virus and contributed to the worldwide spread of the virus.
Concept of Green Supply Chain Management and a Study of Variable Green Technology and Its Effect on Business Development
Authors: Sharma Tripti
Published: February 2022

Abstract: Purpose -The principal aim of the research is to discover the notion of green technology and find the association between green technology and its impact on the organization's efficiency. Design /Methodology Approach- A descriptive approach has been followed, and a comprehensive summarization of literature related to green technology and its impact or critical role in augmenting its performance has been presented. Findings-Keeping literature review as a base the merits of the application of Green technology and all related features are articulated in a structured way. Research Limitations/Implications-There are numerous other applications of sustainability management. Hence, they are not included in this study can be regarded for future research. Practical Implication- The vitality of green technology is presented effectively to motivate various companies to adopt green technology as an eco-friendly practice for augmenting performance. Originality- An attempt to analyze the impact of green technology's adoption on organizations' performance, which indirectly affects the world economies, is made. Keywords: Clean Technology, Sustainability, Eco-friendly, Organizations’ efficiency
Review of Static and Dynamic Wireless Electric Vehicle Charging System
Authors: Lokhande Anirudha Pramod
Published: February 2022

Abstract: Electrified transportation will contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and the stabilization of gasoline costs. To promote the adoption of electrified transportation, a diverse network of charging stations must be established in a userfriendly environment. Wireless electric vehicle charging systems (WEVCS) have the potential to be a viable alternative technology for charging electric cars (EVs) that do not need a plug. This article discusses the present state of wireless power transfer technologies for electric vehicles. Additionally, it contains wireless transformer constructions that have been studied using a range of ferrite forms. WEVCS are linked with health and safety concerns, which have been addressed in recent international standard development. Two main applications, static and dynamic WEVCS, are discussed, and current development is documented using features from research labs, universities, and industry. Additionally, future concepts-based WEVCS are evaluated and studied, including "vehicle-to-grid (V2G)" and "in-wheel" wireless charging systems (WCS), with qualitative comparisons to other current technologies Keywords: Combustion, Diesel Engine, Turmeric Oil, Vibration Analysis, Methyl Ester, and Blends
Total Induced Vertex Stress in Barbell-Like Graphs
Authors: Shiny Joseph , Kok Johan , Ajitha V.
Published: February 2022

This paper introduces new parameters called induced vertex stress and total induced vertex stress in G, respectively. For graphs G and H, aspects of the maximum and minimum total induced vertex stress that can be obtained by 1-edge addition and 2-vertex merging are discussed.
Existence and Uniqueness Results for Singular Boundary Value Problem of Weighted Generalized Fisher Type Differential Equation
Authors: Benkaci-Ali Nadir
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we give existence and uniqueness results of nontrivial positive solution for the boundary value problem of the weighted and generalized Fisher's type differential equation.
Intuitionistic Fuzzy Semi δ-Preopen Sets and Intuitionistic Fuzzy Semi δ-Precontinuity
Authors: Thakur Samajh Singh , Rathor Chandra Prakash , Bajpai Jyoti Pandey
Published: February 2022

The purpose of this paper is to introduce the concepts of fuzzy semi δ-preopen sets and fuzzy semi δ-precontinuous mappings in intuitionistic fuzzy topological spaces and obtain some of their properties and characterizations.
Analysis of Forest Carrying Capacity on Eos histrio in North Sulawesi
Authors: Nastitie Nastitie , Rachmaputri Gantina
Published: February 2022

The International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resource (IUCN) Red List found that there are currently over 8.000 critically endangered species and the number seems likely to rise in the future. One of the species included in the IUCN Red List is Eos histrio, also known as the Red-and-blue lory, a bird endemic to Indonesia that inhabits Nusa Utara Islands, North Sulawesi. It lives in a forest with tall trees as its natural habitat. According to the Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS), the forest area is decreasing every year and has caused the bird to lose their habitats and its population is declining. IUCN also reported that there are 8.230 – 21.400 Eos histrio in 1999, however in 2016, it was only around 5.500 – 14.000. Its population will be declining due to extensive deforestation and poor conservation. Using Pontryagin maximum principle, this study found that one of the methods to protect the Eos histrio population is by reducing deforestation in North Sulawesi by at least 10% where the population of the bird could increase within a year.
Gourava and Hyper-Gourava Indices of Some Cactus Chains
Authors: B. Basavanagoud , Policepatil Shruti
Published: February 2022

The mathematical chemistry deals with applications of graph theory to study the physicochemical properties of molecules theoretically. A topological index of a graph is a numeric quantity obtained from the graph mathematically. A cactus graph is a connected graph in which no edges lie in more than one cycle. In this paper, we compute Gourava and hyper-Gourava indices of some cactus chains.
Geopolítica del Proyecto de Integración de la Infraestructura Regional Sudamericana
Authors: Giudice Baca Victor , Sáenz  San Martin Magaly
Published: February 2022

El IIRSA fue  planteado en Brasil el año 2000. El objetivo estratégico es construir  una  infraestructura  regional capaz de lograr una ocupación ordenada del  Territorio  Amazónico y  Trasandino. El IIRSA se  compone  de  diez Ejes de  Integración. El Eje  Interoceánico Central que une los Puertos de Santos (Brasil) e Ilo (Perú) es  el  objeto de  la  presente  Investigación. El  mayor interés de Brasil, el  Mercosur  y  Bolivia  es  construir  puertos  de  salida  a la  Cuenca del Pacífico por territorio del Perú y Chile. El IIRSA involucra a 12 países de Sudamérica.
Relación del Crecimiento del Sector de la Construcción con el Valor del Suelo Urbano en el Eje Comercial Coronel Mendoza de Tacna al 2020
Authors: Espinoza Vidaurre Sam M. , Martínez Valdivia Ana N. , Gambetta Quelopana Renza L.
Published: February 2022

El presente artículo tiene como objetivo analizar la relación entre el crecimiento económico del sector de la construcción con el aumento del valor del suelo urbano, en el eje comercial de Coronel Mendoza en Tacna al año 2020, para lo cual se ha establecido como hipótesis que existe una vinculación directa positiva entre el crecimiento del sector construcción con el valor del suelo urbano, basados en los la información de campo obtenida  con la aplicación del Modelo PER (Presión, Estado, Respuesta) que permitió la identificación de síntomas y causas, así como la consulta de fuentes primarias de entidades reguladoras u organismos del estado, bajo un diseño de investigación descriptiva y correlacional.
Los principales resultados del Banco Central de Reserva del Perú (BCR, 2019) indican que “el crecimiento del PBI del sector construcción, cuyo índice es del 3,8%, influye en el valor arancelario de los predios en el eje comercial de Coronel Mendoza, con un incremento creciente de un 5%, en el valor mínimo, y un 30% en el valor máximo anual”.
Los bienes inmuebles destinados a la actividad comercial en el sector de estudio representan el 47.90% del suelo urbano y el 1.02% del suelo urbano de Tacna provincia, sin embargo, el incremento del uso comercial se ha expresado en un 15% en el último año, mientras que el uso residencial ha disminuido en un 19%; por otro lado, el sector construcción creció en un 5.04% anual, demostrándose así que el crecimiento del sector construcción incide en el incremento del valor del suelo urbano en el eje comercial de estudio.
The effect of the brood and the queen on early gene expression in bumble bee workers' brains
Authors: Santos Priscila , Starkey Jesse , Galbraith David , Amsalem Etya
Published: February 2022

Worker reproduction in social insects is often regulated by the queen,
but can be regulated by the brood and nestmates, who may use different
mechanisms to induce the same outcomes in subordinates. Analysis of
brain gene expression patterns in bumble bee workers (Bombus
impatiens) in response to the presence of the queen, the brood, both or
neither, identified 18 differentially expressed genes, 17 of them are
regulated by the queen and none are regulated by the brood. Overall,
brain gene expression differences in workers were driven by the queen’s
presence, despite recent studies showing that brood reduces worker egg
laying and provides context to the queen pheromones. The queen affected
important regulators of reproduction and brood care across insects, such
as neuroparsin and vitellogenin, and a comparison with
similar datasets in the honey bee and the clonal raider ant revealed
that neuroparsin is differentially expressed in all species.
These data emphasize the prominent role of the queen in regulating
worker physiology and behavior. Genes that serve as key regulators of
workers’ reproduction are likely to play an important role in the
evolution of sociality.
Extensive Myocardial Infarction Complicated with Stroke as the First Presentation of HIV in A Young Sudanese Male, Case Report
Authors: Eljack Moh. , Mohammedali Najla Fouad Nassir , Ahmed Omer Idris , Nour Alshareef B. , Ahmed Khabab Mohamed , Haroun Mazin S. Hassan , Abdallah Abdallah M. , Ali Mustafa Mohamed Ibrahim
Published: February 2022

HIV can be associated with cardiovascular complications. We highlight
unusual presentation of HIV patient with MI and stroke. 30 year old HIV
male presented with MI complicated by stroke. Recovered within 5 days
with anti-ischemic and diuretics. Screening tests for unusual
presentations prevent fatal complications of common diseases.
IL-35 ameliorates psoriasis by suppressing the accumulation of iNOS-expressing myeloid-derived suppressor cells
Authors: Zhang Junfeng , Zhang Yunsheng , Yang Zhiya , Cheng Dalei , Zhang Hui , Wei Li , Liu Chen , Fu Jia , Yan Fenglian , Li Chunxia , Dong Guanjun , Shi Hui , Ning Zhaochen , Wang Changying , Zhao Mingsheng , Dai Jun , Shi Dongmei , Xiong Huabao
Published: February 2022

Background and Purpose: Psoriasis is an immune-associated disease,
however, the pathogenesis of psoriasis remains unclear. We investigated
the mechanism of IL-35 in psoriasis treatment. Experimental Approach:
PASI and Baker scores were used to evaluate the Imiquimod-induced
psoriasis mouse model. Flow cytometry is used to detect changes in
immune cells and to select target cells. The changes of inflammatory
factors were detected by ELISA. Adoptive transfused was used to
demonstrate the effect of the corresponding cells. Key Results: IL-35
expression in patients with psoriasis was significantly increased. The
number of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in patients was also
significantly increased. Similar results were obtained in mice with
imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis. IL-35 had potent immunosuppressive
effects on psoriasis model mouse, leading to a decrease in the total
number of MDSCs and its subtypes in the spleen and psoriatic skin
lesions. The level of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) secreted by
MDSCs also decreased significantly; however, there was no difference in
the level of IL-10 in MDSCs. Adoptive transfer of MDSCs from
IMQ-challenged mice weakened the effect of IL-35. When MDSCs were
isolated from iNOS knockout mice that were established with IMQ and
transfected into IMQ-induced WT mice, there was no significant
difference in psoriasis area and severity index scores between IL-35 +
iNOS-/–MDSC and IL-35 treatment groups. Conclusions and Implications:
IL-35 plays an important immunosuppressive role in psoriasis by
inhibiting the counts of MDSCs expressing iNOS. This study may serve as
a new therapeutic strategy for patients with chronic psoriasis or other
cutaneous inflammatory diseases.
Medial Thigh Fasciocutaneous Flaps for Reconstruction of the Scrotum following Fournier Gangrene: A case report
Authors: Mwenibamba Rodrigue , Nteranya Daniel Safari , Mukakala Augustin , Wabene Christian , Rugendabanga Angelique , Kibukila Fabrice , Mitima Nathan , Niyondiko Jean Claude
Published: February 2022

Fournier’s gangrene, a rapidly progressive necrotizing fasciitis of the
perineum and external genitalia remains a medical-surgical emergency.
The authors present a case of coverage of a scrotal loss of substance
with testicular exposure by a medial fasciocutaneous flap in a fifty
years male patient.
Ensaio teórico sobre afinidade no Espiritismo
Authors: da Fonseca Alexandre
Published: February 2022

Segundo o Espiritismo, a afinidade é uma das condições fundamentais para a ocorrência de fenômenos espíritas como o intercâmbio mediúnico, a eficácia da prece e do passe, e a influência dos Espíritos sobre os encarnados. Entretanto, a Doutrina Espírita (DE) não descreve em detalhes o mecanismo da afinidade entre dois ou mais Espíritos. Diversos autores espíritas encontraram nos conceitos simples de frequência e sintonia da Física uma forma de descrever o conceito de afinidade do Espiritismo. Esses conceitos permitem compreender a afinidade entre pessoas e Espíritos que tem os mesmos pensamentos, sentimentos e gostos. Porém, não permitem entender o mecanismo da afinidade em fenômenos como o intercâmbio mediúnico de um Espírito muito endurecido através de um(a) médium moralmente elevado(a). Analogias com fenômenos fisiológicos foram propostos para explicar isso, mas carecem de fundamentos na própria DE. Neste trabalho, proponho uma nova definição de conceito de afinidade com base no aprofundamento dos conceitos de frequência e sintonia da Física. Assim como um objeto físico material não possui apenas uma única frequência natural de vibração, mas um espectro amplo de frequências naturais, proponho definir um conceito de espectro de vibrações de um Espírito baseado no seu conjunto de qualidades morais. A partir disso, mostro que é possível definir uma nova explicação dos mecanismos da afinidade entre dois Espíritos que concilia os conceitos da DE em torno do assunto com o fato de um mau Espírito poder se comunicar através de um médium de moral elevada. Como consequência, mostro que essa proposta também permite explicar a capacidade de um médium de controlar os excessos e desequilíbrios de um Espírito comunicante e a dificuldade de médiuns de moral mediana receberem comunicações de Espíritos bastante elevados.
Privacy Trust Framework for Evaluation of Security Breaches in Digital Learning Environment – Research in Progress
Authors:   Doctoral Programme in Cyber Security African Centre of Excellence on Technology Enhanced Learning National Open University of Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria 3Faculty of Computational Science & Informatics, Academic City University, Accra, Ghana 4Williams College of Business, Xavier University, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA., D.R. Adegbenro , Nwaocha V. , Longe O.B. , Okunoye A.O.
Published: February 2022

Our research focus is to identify privacy concern as a factor that influence learners trusts in online learning environments. We intend to elucidate and provide a framework that can assist institutions and instructors who design and implement e-learning platforms and online courses to address these concerns. The essence of the proposed framework is to serve as an evaluation tool for assessing security breaches in digital learning environments using appropriate theoretical. Keywords: Privacy, Trust Framework, Evaluation, Security Breaches, Digital Learning Environment
Effect of Efficient Tax Collection in Nigerian Local Government: A Case Study of Yewa North Local Government Area, Ogun State, Nigeria.
Authors:   Department of Taxation The Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro Ogun State, Nigeria, Adelusi A.I. , Adigun K.O.
Published: February 2022

This study is aimed at identifying the problems of tax collection in Yewa North Local Government Area, Ogun State, Nigeria. The study emphasizes the extent to which the tax collection irregularities hindered sustainable infrastructural development that arises from low-income generation by the local council, in the study area. The opinions of the population of study comprising taxpayers and authorities were sought through a structured questionnaire to elicit the opinions of fifty (50) respondents in the study area, then analysis of data was done by using the simple percentage method, while the formulated hypotheses were tested using the chi-square of fit technique at 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed that there were inadequate facilities and infrastructure for the people, income generated by the council through taxes and levies was grossly inadequate. The study concluded that the local government needs to focus on improving the quality and condition of infrastructures such as inner roads within the communities. It was recommended that the citizens should pay tax correctly, and as at when due, the local government authority should make payment of taxes and levies to be very convenient for compliance. Keywords: Tax, Tax collection, Small Scale Business, Local government, infrastructures
Efficient Seventh-Order Hybrid Block Process for Solving Stiff Second Order Ordinary Differential Equationsl.
Authors:   1Statistics Department, Federal Ile-Oluji, Ondo State, Nigeria 2Mathematics Department, Federal University, Oye Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria 3Department of Basic Medical Science, College of Health Sciences, Ijero Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria, Olanegan O. O. , Ogunware B. G. , Fajulugbe O. J.
Published: February 2022

In this research, we proposed a derivation and application of an accurate hybrid block method for the direct integration of second order ordinary differential equations with initial value problems. The method developed by way of collocating and interpolating the power series approximation to give a continuous linear multistep method. The evaluation of the continuous method at the grid and off grid points produced the discrete block method. The basic properties such as order, error constant, zero stability, consistency and convergence of the method were properly examined. The block method derived produces more efficient results when compared with the work carried out by some authors to solve stiff second order ordinary differential equations. Keywords: Power Series, Collocation and Interpolation, Block Method, Initial Value Problems, and Stiff ODEs
Theological Patterning in Jeremiah: A Vital Word through an Ancient Book
Authors: Abernethy Andrew T.
Published: February 2022

Abstract

There is growing scholarly interest in detecting how the book of Jeremiah, as historically rooted as it is, guides later readers to hear God’s voice. Building on the previous findings that Jeremiah’s writtenness and organization enable later audiences to discern its relevance, this article considers how theological patterning contributes to this end. By focusing on three patterns, patterned places, nations, and people, it is evident that these networks of recurring, corresponding depictions of the God-human-world relationship assist the reader in grasping the enduring relevance of the prophetic word in Jeremiah.
Eutychus in Acts and in the Church: The Narrative Significance of Acts 20:6–12
Authors: Glavic Julie A.
Published: February 2022

Abstract

Eutychus’s unlucky evening in Acts 20:6–12 is frequently overlooked by preachers and commentators alike, deemed to be either too comical, awkward, or separable for serious study. This essay argues that, rather than being separable, the passage plays a significant role in furthering the Lukan argument for Pauline authority running throughout the second half of the book of Acts. Narrative analysis reveals that Acts 20:6–12 defends Paul’s Jewishness, his connection to Jewish and Christian authorities, his legitimacy as teacher, and his establishment of Gentile Christian communities like the one in Troas. A canonical approach offers a glimpse at how this passage might be relevant to Christian communities today.
The Expectation of Grace: Paul on Benefaction and the Corinthians’ Ingratitude (2 Corinthians 6:1)
Authors: Oropeza B. J.
Published: February 2022

Abstract

This article contributes to discussions on ancient patron-client relationships with a view to God as a benefactor who bestows favors on the early followers of Christ. The perspective sheds light on Paul’s word to the Corinthians that they should not receive God’s grace in vain (2 Cor 6:1), a warning that creates tensions for interpreters who assume that divine grace is freely given without expecting anything in return. This study shows that the system of gift giving and reciprocity, especially in conversation with Seneca, helps alleviate the tensions. It elaborates on gratitude as the proper human response to divine gift giving and undesirable reprisals as the appropriate consequence for ingratitude.
Echoes of Sodom and Gomorrah on the Day of the Lord: Intertextuality and Tradition in 2 Peter 3:7–13
Authors: Juza Ryan P.
Published: February 2022

Abstract

This study proposes that the writer of 2 Peter has echoed the narrative tradition of Sodom and Gomorrah in 2 Pet 3:7–13. After their destruction in Gen 18–19, these cities were developed in subsequent literature into archetypes of wickedness and judgment and eventually were applied eschatologically to the day of the Lord. The writer signals his use of Sodom and Gomorrah as a prototype for God’s eschatological judgment and salvation of the cosmos in 2:6–8. Numerous corresponding words, phrases, and themes demonstrate the echo and provide fresh insights into many of the vexing questions associated with 2 Pet 3:7–13.
Why the Danielic “Son of Man” Is a Divine Being
Authors: Zehnder Markus
Published: February 2022

This article addresses the question whether there are compelling reasons that suggest that the Son of Man as presented in the MT of Dan 7:13–14 must be a divine being, as opposed to having only symbolic, human, or angelic status. It presents nine arguments that support a divine understanding of the Son of Man and deals with one of the most important counterarguments. The investigation is located in the broader context of the question of monotheism within the Hebrew Bible and draws some conclusions concerning the theological consequences of the affirmation of the divinity of the Son of Man.
Nahum’s Representation of and Response to Neo-Assyria: Imperialism as a Multifaceted Point of Contact in Nahum
Authors: Timmer Daniel C.
Published: February 2022

Using an intertextual approach that focuses on the multifaceted transmission of concepts in addition to textual transmission of discrete points of ideology, this article examines how the biblical book of Nahum presents the Assyrian Empire and how it responds to it. While Nahum’s categories nearly mirror those of the relevant Neo-Assyrian sources, the response Nahum formulates to Assyrian imperialism is radically different from the militarily-driven project of world domination whose influence Nahum’s author so keenly felt. The nature of Nahum’s reaction to Assyria also distinguishes it from some other responses to non-Israelite nations in the HB/OT.
“So Was This People": Translating Haggai 2:14 in the Past Tense
Authors: Goswell Gregory
Published: February 2022

The theme of temple building dominates the prophecy of Haggai. The neglected option of translating the prophetic application of the priestly ruling found in Hag 2:14 as past tense is shown to be syntactically viable and the best solution to a number of interpretive issues related to the meaning of Haggai 2. The usual practice of translating the verse in the present tense is shown to be problematic, for none of the common explanations of the people’s (supposedly) present defilement is convincing. A past-tense translation of Hag 2:14 relieves the interpreter of the need to work out the source of the people’s state of uncleanness, for it was their earlier neglect of the ruined temple that caused God to reject their sacrifices (a fault exposed by the prophet in chapter 1) and this has been remedied with the commencement of temple-rebuilding.
Magical Expectations and the Two-Stage Healing of Mark 8
Authors: Ayayo Karelynne Gerber
Published: February 2022

The purpose of this study is to investigate Mark’s detailing of the two different means of healing employed by Jesus in his interaction with the blind man of Bethsaida (Mark 8:22–26). The use of spit in the first attempt can be located within the context of Greco-Roman practices of magic, while the uniqueness of Jesus’ second attempt by touch alone is a method that lacks clear pre-Christian parallels. Although scholars commonly recognize Mark’s intentional juxtaposition of the physically blind man in 8:22–26 with the spiritually blind disciples in 8:27–33, they lack consensus regarding the particular points of comparison. This article argues that Mark’s attention to the means of healing in the first pericope suggests a continued focus on the means by which the followers of Jesus gain full understanding of his Messianic identity, and it sees that both passages culminate in the principle expressed in 8:33.
A God by Any Other Name: Polyonymy in Greco-Roman Antiquity and Early Christianity
Authors: Croy N. Clayton
Published: February 2022

Abstract

The phenomenon of polyonymy—the use of multiple names, epithets, and descriptions for a deity—is defined and distinguished from closely related ideas. The Greco-Roman practice is illustrated via five deities: Zeus, Dionysus, Apollo, Selene, and Isis. Related practices of the earliest Christians are explored via selected NT texts in Acts and John. Although monotheism placed some restrictions on early Christian use of polyonymy in the strict sense of proper names, a profusion of titles was readily employed to describe Jesus. This distinction corresponds roughly to the difference between contact syncretism and internal syncretism.
An Exegetical and Biblical Theological Evaluation of N. T. Wright’s “How God Became King"
Authors: Gundry Robert H.
Published: February 2022

Abstract

During his public ministry, Jesus taught extensively in words and deeds about the kingdom of God. In How God Became King, N. T. Wright weds this material with Jesus’ self-sacrificial death to argue that God’s kingdom was also established by those words and deeds and, above all, by that death rather than by the force of arms. Growing out of this argument are an advocacy of pacifism, theocracy, and the divine right of human rulers, on the one hand, and a repudiation of democracy, the separation of church and state, and just war theory on the other hand. Undergirding these pros and cons is the use of Israel’s theocracy as a pattern to be followed in political engagement as part of Christians’ evangelistic enterprise. This review finds Wright’s arguments exegetically and biblically-theologically unconvincing.
“After the Deportation”: Observations in Matthew’s Apocalyptic Genealogy
Authors: Piotrowski Nicholas G.
Published: February 2022

Abstract

A handful of scholars have recently focused on the importance of “the deportation to Babylon” in Matt 1:11, 12, 17 and the determinative role it plays for understanding the author’s conceptualization of redemptive history. Others, however, demur. This article draws attention to three observations heretofore neglected in the discussion of what “the deportation to Babylon” might mean for appreciating the narrative’s theological setting, as well as interpreting the entire gospel: (1) an “interrupted chiasm"; (2) the precise meaning of μετοικεσία in 1:11, 12, 17; and (3) the enumeration of the generations in 1:17. The aggregate effect is to read Matthew’s genealogy in apocalyptic terms as an attempt to assert Yahweh’s covenantal faithfulness despite the chaos of historical events—namely, the exile that inhibits the path to fulfilling Davidic and therefore also Abrahamic promises.
Nahum’s Shaking Cypresses
Authors: Cook Gregory
Published: February 2022

The final two words of Nah 2:4 (2:3 NRSV) seem to suggest shaking trees, but scholars either emend MT or interpret the clause metaphorically. The literature deems the possibility of still-standing trees as ill-fitted to the context of Nah 2. This article proposes that the words והברשים הועלו do indeed refer to standing cypress trees. In Nah 2:4, the Ninevites see distant trees quaking as the besiegers chop them down to build siege engines. Sennacherib (reigned 705–681 B.C.) had created forests around Nineveh during his expansion of the city. These forests included transplanted cypresses. Nahum prophesied that these trees would be turned against the city by invading forces.
Markedness: Contrasting Porter’s Model with the Linguists Cited as Support
Authors: Runge Steven E.
Published: February 2022

The linguistic concept of markedness underpins significant portions of Stanley Porter’s “planes of discourse” model. The work of several linguists is regularly cited in conjunction with the development of his ideas with little other argumentation or explanation offered, creating the impression that his claims are consistent with and supported by the cited works. This article compares Porter’s claims with those found in the primary literature cited and demonstrates that his markedness claims find little support there; however, Porter offers no rationale or linguistic justification for for such a dramatic departure from established linguistic methodology
The Wicked in Ambush (Job 27:18–19)
Authors: PINKER ARON
Published: February 2022

Verses 18–19 have been generally understood as referring to the wicked and his demise, or the sudden loss of his wealth. The objective of this study is to clarify the image that the author tried to convey. I suggest that this image is the wicked in ambush of the innocent, a situation often referred to in the Tanach. Job claims that the wicked would not succeed in his entrapment efforts.
"The Sin of the Sanctuary” and the Referent of מקדש in Ezekiel 44
Authors: WARREN NATHANAEL JAMES
Published: February 2022

In Ezekiel 44, foreigners are prohibited from entering the sanctuary of Ezekiel’s visionary temple. Past scholars have often read this passage in view of postexilic xenophobic developments in the Israelite attitude toward the foreigner, especially noting the foreigners’ total exclusion from the later Herodian temple precincts, the violation of which was punishable by death. However, I argue that in keeping with common Priestly tradition, Ezekiel reserves the term “sanctuary” (מקדש) for the realm of the Levites and Zadokite priests, that is, specifically the inner court of the temple complex. In light of this interpretation, Ezekiel 44 cannot be read to represent any especial polemic against the foreigner, pagan, or proselyte. Rather, I assert that the traditional place of the foreigner within the cultus of the first temple is understood to be among the native Israelite laity within the outer court of the temple complex.
Nahum and the Question of Rape
Authors: COOK GREGORY D.
Published: February 2022

In recent years, numerous biblical scholars have labelled Nah 2:8 [2:7, NRSV] and 3:4–7 as judgment by rape. This article tests this claim against an established feminist definition of rape. While these passages lead the reader to expect rape, it is argued that Nah 2:8 and 3:4–7 utilize allusions to Ishtar and Jezebel to portray the cultic desecration of Ishtar and Nineveh. Notably, the stripping of Nineveh’s queen elicits only horror in 3:7. The prophet’s motive was not to entice but to appall. By means of literary disjunction, these passages reverse the Neo-Assyrian Empire’s use of erotic Ishtar imagery and expose its ghastly spiritual and physical qualities.
The Author of 4 Maccabees and Greco-Roman Paideia: Facets of the Formation of a Hellenistic Jewish Rhetor
Authors: Desilva David A.
Published: February 2022

It has long been recognized that the author of 4 Maccabees displays a high level of linguistic, literary, and rhetorical skill that plausibly suggests formal education. This study explores the author’s literary accomplishment in the light of Greek education, especially at the secondary and tertiary stages. The author is shown to exhibit facility in many of the particular skills nurtured by the progymnasmata, to reflect the kind of cultural knowledge inculcated by the core texts read in the Greek curriculum, and to demonstrate knowledge of philosophical discourse and rhetorical skills typically taught beyond the secondary level of education. While it remains unknown whether the author studied in the general institutions of his city (relying on private venues for his deep acquaintance with Jewish texts and traditions) or in special institutions established by the Jewish community where Greek education and Jewish cultural knowledge could be combined, he stands as an example of a Jewish author who has most certainly been formed by the standard Greek curriculum through some venue.
Eve’s Curse Revisited: An Increase of “Sorrowful Conceptions”
Authors: Curley Christine , Peterson Brian
Published: February 2022

Translators have rendered Eve’s curse in Gen 3:16a in various ways. Taking into account lexical, syntactical, and rhetorical considerations, we propose that the phrase עצבונך והרנך should be translated “your sorrowful conceptions.” Yhwh’s curse on Eve, therefore, was an increase in the rate of barrenness and infertility, and the emotional turmoil that engendered. As a result of the curse, Yhwh makes a descriptive (not prescriptive) observation that Eve would “desire” (תשׁוקה) her husband to help remove the stigma of the curse—something the man would seek to exploit. Syntactically, interpreting Eve’s curse as the emotional anguish that accompanies infertility and barrenness parallels Adam’s emotional toil over the now-cursed and unproductive earth. Rhetorically, the curse of infertility may explain why the author(s) of Genesis chose to include the motif of matriarchal barrenness as well as the “barrenness” of the land (famine) with which the Patriarchs had to contend.
GROUNDING RESPONSIBILITY IN APPROPRIATE BLAME
Authors: Menges Leonhard
Published: February 2022

When confronted with the question of why it is appropriate to morally blame a person for some bad action, it may seem plausible to reply that she is morally responsible for it. Some authors, inspired by Peter Strawson’s "Freedom and Resentment," argue, however, that thinking this way is backwards. They believe that a person is morally responsible for some bad action because it would be appropriate to blame her for it. The aims of this paper are to present this account, to highlight some of its important but often overlooked features, and to defend it against pressing objections.
IS SOME BACKWARDS TIME TRAVEL INEXPLICABLE?
Authors: Miller Kristie
Published: February 2022

It has been suggested that there is something worrisome, puzzling, or incomprehensible about the sorts of causal loops sometimes involved in backwards time travel. This paper disentangles two distinct puzzles and evaluates whether they provide us reason to find backwards time travel incomprehensible, inexplicable, or otherwise worrisome. The paper argues that they provide no such reason.
THE PROBLEM OF OTHER ATTITUDES
Authors: Shiller Derek
Published: February 2022

Non-cognitivists are known to face a problem in extending their account of straightforward predicative moral judgments to logically complex moral judgments. This paper presents a related problem concerning how non-cognitivists might extend their accounts of moral judgments to other kinds of moral attitudes, such as moral hopes and moral intuitions. Non-cognitivists must solve three separate challenges: they must explain the natures of these other attitudes, they must explain why they count as moral attitudes, and they must explain why the moral attitudes are systematically correlated with ordinary propositional attitudes. After presenting the problem, this paper examines several contemporary theories with some initial promise for solving it, and argues that they are insufficient.
DOGMATISM WITHOUT MOOREANISM
Authors: Fuqua Jonathan
Published: February 2022

One common way of attacking dogmatism is to attack its alleged Mooreanism. The thought is that dogmatism includes (or perhaps entails) Mooreanism, but that Mooreanism is false and thus so is dogmatism. One way of responding to this charge is to defend Mooreanism. Another strategy is to articulate a version of dogmatism without Mooreanism. This paper is an attempt to articulate the latter view.