Transylvanian Review

Educational and socio-economic strategies for the sustainability of Iberian Mediterranean grasslands

2024-04-09T13:27:00+03:00

In the study of Mediterranean grasslands, field students identified two large groups of grasses belonging to two phytosociological classes: Stellarietea mediae, of interest as a CO² sink and as a pasture for cattle and horses, and Poetea bulbosae, of great importance for sheep farming. Coverage of the study plots is between 60-100%. Hordeum leporinum communities absorb high amounts of CO²and can support 1.8 cows/ha/year, while Poa bulbosa communities can support 25 sheep/ha/year. Both classes are identified and studied in the field and in the laboratory by the students of the double master's degree Olive and Olive Oil and Teaching, ESO, Baccalaureate, Vocational Training or Language Teaching. The student in the field learns to take data, and then in an analytical phase in the laboratory to differentiate the inventories on the basis of floristic composition, so he has been able to differentiate the alliances of the two classes studied in depth, as is the case of Hordeion leporini and Trifolio subterranei-Periballion. An active didactic methodology is applied, in which the students assimilate 100% of the contents, and obtain a training that enables them to defend the conservation of Mediterranean grasslands. In short, this work combines botany with education to achieve a sustainable current development, but also to ensure the future of the planet. Therefore, we have focused this work on grasslands and educational strategies to train future environmental managers, achieving 100% success.

Chromolaena odorata L. An Invasive Alien Species: As a Destructive Weed and A Prospective Drug

2024-05-11T14:18:27+03:00

Chromolaena odorata (L.) King and Robinson (Asteraceae), formerly known as Eupatorium odoratua L., is a perennial weed. Chromolaena odorata L., (Asteraceae) is considered as an invasive alien plant species as it has successfully invaded open/degraded forests and forests plantations, fallow/wastelands, roadsides and other open areas in high rainfall regions of India. It grows in almost pure stands and are better competitors as compared to indigenous plant species as a result it brings down the diversity of the native plant communities invaded by it. However, Chromolaena odorata L. also exhibits anti‑inflammatory, antipyretic, analgesic, antimicrobial, cytotoxic and numerous other relevant medicinal properties on an appreciable scale, and is also well known in some parts of the world as a traditional medicine for treatment of various ailments. This review aims to summarize the role of C. odorata L. both as an invasive alien species (IAS) as well as its wound healing activities of biological systems, which are crucial for its use as a potential future drug design, development and application for the treatment of wounds.

Improved prediction of stock market trends in Saudi Arabia by combining artificial neural networks and fuzzy logic techniques

2024-04-09T12:08:20+03:00

An integrated prediction model designed for the KSA Stock Exchange utilizes Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) and Fuzzy Logic approaches. The analysis examines thedaily closin g prices of the Al Rajhi share index in the Saudi stock market index from January 15, 2020, to July 15, 2020, to identify important market moves and patterns throughout this timeframe. The suggested model is rigorously assessed utilizing essential statistical metrics such as R-squared, Mean Absolute Percentage Error(MAPE), Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE), Mean Absolute Error (MAE), and Mean Squared Error (MSE). The indicators together offer a strong evaluation of the model's accuracy and predictive capability, providing significant insights for investors and stakeholders in navigating the changing Saudi Arabian stock market.

Methodology of educational supervisors using cloud computing applications to guide the training of mathematics teachers in the adoption of the authentic assessment process and electronic achievement files

2024-05-15T13:49:26+03:00

Abstract: our research article aims at a methodology for educational supervisors who use Cloud Computing applications to train mathematics teachers in the authentic assessment process and management of electronic achievement files. By integrating these technological tools, supervisors offer teachers interactive and personalized training, thus facilitating their understanding and implementation of authentic assessment methods.

Cloud computing applications enable supervisors to share educational resources, case studies, and real-world examples of authentic assessment with teachers, fostering a deeper understanding of assessment concepts and best practices.

Additionally, these tools make it easy to create, track, and manage electronic student success files, providing teachers with an effective way to document and track student progress over time. Instructional supervisors can provide guidelines and examples for collecting and analyzing data, as well as strategies for using this information to tailor instruction and meet individual student needs.

By combining cloud computing applications with authentic assessment methods, instructional supervisors provide mathematics teachers with the tools needed to meaningfully assess student skills, promote critical thinking, and foster a dynamic, focused learning environment.

Prediction of safety factors on slopes by using machine learning multilayer perceptron and decision tree techniques

2024-04-09T12:36:56+03:00

A more accurate strategy for measuring and predicting slope safety and risk was the study's goal. This study used machine learning methods to create accurate forecast models for the earth slope factor of safety (F.S). Multilayer perceptron (MLP) and decision tree (DT) have been chosen for the analysis. These methods have been widely used in geotechnical analysis and domain stability because of their unique benefits. We chose MLP, DT, and learning algorithms
as our core analytical approaches. The MLP and DT methods predicted the security component value as the main result of the earth slope mathematical models. In this study, 69.5 percent of the 105-group database was used to train the model, and 30.5% tested its accuracy. The controlled machine learning method-based decision tree (DT) and multilayer perceptron (MLP) computer models are used to analyze dump slope stability. SoftMax activates the output layer. The model summary showed 19.21 training cross-entropy errors and 11% erroneous predictions. The testing model had a 10.59 cross-entropy error and 21.9 wrong predictions. In the training classification phase, 36 viruses failed and two remained stable. This yields 94.7% accuracy. Testing classification yielded 18 failing viruses and 4 stable viruses. Maximum tree depth is 3, minimum parent node cases are 100, and minimum child nodes are 50. MLP models
have superior accuracy, precision, and recall than DT models, which have 0.676, 0.604, and 0.711. The results summary reveals 3 nodes, 2 terminal nodes, and 1 depth. Therefore, MLP models outperform DT models.

Discharge of NCA battery using copper strip in salt water

2024-04-09T12:54:02+03:00

The application of Li-ion batteries has been growing with the e-mobility revolution of computers, cellular phones and electric vehicles. As this revolution accompanies, manufacturers consider recycling wasted Li-ion batteries an important resource of raw material for manufacturing the lithium-ion battery. During the disposal, transport and crushing for recycling of the battery, it is necessary to crush for separation into black mass, plastic and metal parts, but there is a risk of explosion because of the residual voltage of the battery. Therefore, the discharge process is an important step in the recycling. This work aimed to investigate a new method to discharge the cylinder-type battery using salt water solution with the copper conductor that contacted and no-contacted with the battery. A gap value between the battery and copper conductor was a variable factor in the discharge process. The salt water called as electrolyte solution in the gap caused an electrical short circuit and accelerated discharging. During the discharge process, the battery cap and valve corroded when the battery did not come into contact with the copper conductor, causing the elements of the battery’s anode and cathode to dissolve into the solution. But, the voltage drop reached nearly 99%. However, the battery did not corrode when it contacted the copper during discharge, and the voltage drop reached approximately 90% after 8 hours with a 2 mm gap. Here, we report the battery discharge based on an electrochemical reaction, schematic diagram, and chemical analysis of the precipitate generated during the discharge test.

PREDICTION OF NEW OSTEOPOROSIS CASES USING TIME SERIES AND ARTIFICIAL NEURAL NETWORKS: A COMPARATIVE STUDY

2024-04-09T12:29:30+03:00

Osteoporosis stands as a significant public health concern characterized by diminished bone density and heightened susceptibility to fractures, affecting over 200 million individuals globally. Recent statistics from the International Osteoporosis Foundation indicate that approximately 33% of women aged 50 and above and 20% of males are at risk of experiencing osteoporotic fractures during their lifetime. This study aims to juxtapose the predictive efficacy of time series models and artificial neural networks to enhance the early detection of osteoporosis cases. Methodologically, the research involves preprocessing and standardization of datasets to optimize their suitability for machine learning applications. An Artificial Neural Network (ANN) tailored for osteoporosis prediction demonstrates superior predictive performance when compared to conventional approaches such as the autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model. The enhanced predictive capabilities are substantiated through rigorous statistical analyses evaluating the model's accuracy. Osteoporosis data spanning from 1965 to 2023 are sourced from the official website of the Australian Government Institute of Health and Welfare.

Two classes of explicitly solvable sextic equations

2024-05-11T13:07:55+03:00

The generic monic polynomial of sixth degree features 6 a priori arbitrary coefficients. We show that if these 6 coefficients are appropriately defined—in two different ways—in terms of 5 arbitrary parameters, then the 6 roots of the corresponding polynomial can be explicitly computed in terms of radicals of these parameters. We also report the 2 constraints on the 6 coefficients of the polynomial implied by the fact that they are so defined in terms of 5 arbitrary parameters; as well as the explicit determination of these 5 parameters in terms of the 6 coefficients of the sextic polynomial.

Explicitly solvable algebraic equations of degree 8 and 9

2024-05-11T13:27:54+03:00

The generic monic polynomial of degree N features N a priori arbitrary coefficients c_m and N zeros zn . In this paper we limit consideration to N = 8 and N = 9 . We show that if the N —a priori arbitrary—coefficients cm of these polynomials are appropriately defined—as it were, a posteriori—in terms of 6 arbitrary parameters, then the N roots of these polynomials can be explicitly computed in terms of radicals of these 6 parameters. We also report the constraints on the N coefficients cm implied by the fact that they are so defined in terms of 6 arbitrary parameters; as well as the explicit determination of these 6 parameters in terms of the N coefficients c_m .

EXPLICITLY SOLVABLE SYSTEMS OF FIRST-ORDER DIFFERENCE EQUATIONS WITH HOMOGENEOUS POLYNOMIAL RIGHT-HAND SIDES

2024-05-11T13:35:23+03:00

In this short paper we identify special systems of (an arbitrary number) N of first-order Difference Equations with nonlinear homogeneous polynomials of arbitrary degree M in their right-hand sides, which feature very simple explicit solutions. A novelty of these findings is to consider special systems characterized by constraints involving both their parameters and their initial data.

A class of solutions of the asymmetric May-Leonard model

2024-05-11T13:43:04+03:00

The asymmetric May-Leonard model is a prototypical system of 3 nonlinearly coupled first-order Ordinary Differential Equations with second-degree polynomial right-hand sides. In this short paper we identify a class of special solutions of this system which do not seem to have been previously advertised in spite of their rather elementary character.

Augmented reality and Mathematics Education: Application of augmented reality on geometric shapes

2024-05-15T13:46:00+03:00

The application of augmented reality on geometric shapes revolutionizes the learning of mathematics by offering an interactive and immersive approach. Using this technology, students can visualize and manipulate geometric shapes in their real-world environment, making the abstract concepts of geometry more concrete and accessible. Augmented reality also allows for personalization of learning by adapting activities to the individual needs of students. By integrating augmented reality into the teaching of geometric shapes, educators can stimulate students' interest in mathematics and promote the development of essential skills such as problem solving and spatial thinking.

Chorioamnionitis management Challenges, expectations, and reality - A descriptive study at maternity in Tunisia

2024-05-11T13:59:59+03:00

About 2-5% of pregnancies face a chorioamnionitis risk, which can be fatal, if coupled with preterm birth. The new discussions offer the word 'Triple I' that improves the accuracy and management of investigations. Nevertheless, its study is still limited in Tunisia.
The objective of this study was to establish the diagnostic and therapeutic management of chorioamnionitis in pregnant women at various gestational ages and to determine the maternal and fetal consequences.

METHODS

This descriptive and retrospective longitudinal study was conducted at the Tunis Maternity and Neonatology Center from January 2020 to December 2021. All pregnant patients admitted to Services A and D were included in the study if the diagnosis of chorioamnionitis was made either in the emergency department or during hospitalization, regardless of the gestational age and the initial reason for hospitalization. Data were anonymously collected and analyzed looking at the mothers’ and newborns’ outcomes.

RESULTS

In 3280 hospitalizations, chorioamnionitis was in 1.4%. The majority of my patients were from the age group of primigravida (63%) and primiparous (69.5%). The mean diagnostic gestational age was 36.8 weeks. Diagnosis was performed based on clinical signs, which accounted for 80.4% of cases during hospitalization. Prominent clinical features include ruptured membranes in 76% cases, tinted amniotic fluid in 15.2%, maternal fever in 21.7% cases, uterine contractions in 52.1%, non-reassuring fetal heart rate recording in three patients (32%), and maternal tachycardia in two patients (4.3%). The most frequent association of symptoms observed was membranes rupture and fever (73.9%). Antibiotic therapy and pregnancy termination were the standard practice, and 32.6% of patients received corticosteroids. This included the cesarian section in 89.13% of the cases. The maternal complications comprised of endometritis (2.2%) and postpartum hemorrhage (2.2%). Neonatal mortality was 19.6% only, where the mortality rates were decreasing with increasing gestational age. The main adverse neonatal outcomes were pre-maturity (50%) and respiratory distress (30.6%).

The study reveals that duration of hospital stay has a statistically meaningful relation to the time between the admission and diagnosis of chorioamnionitis (p = 0.004). The association between the Apgar score and fetal heart monitoring was not found to be of statistical significance (p = 0.760). This rate of neonatal death and complication was significantly affected by the birth weight and gestational age (p<0.001). The duration of hospital stays differed according to gestational age, with the advanced gestational ages related to the shorter hospital periods (Rho=-0.391, p=0.008).

CONCLUSION

The treatment of chorioamnionitis at the Tunis Maternity and Newborns Center is multifaceted and includes early diagnosis, antibiotic therapy, and pregnancy termination. There is an impact of gestational age on the maternal and neonatal outcomes hence early screening and management becomes imperative. This study underlines that there is a requirement for additional studies and standardized management approach for chorioamnionitis, to address resource challenges effectively.

Survey on caregivers' burden of care patients with chronic stroke and considerations on the role of the physiotherapist

2024-05-11T14:36:03+03:00

Introduction: Stroke is a leading cause of disability and poses significant challenges not only to patients but also to their caregivers, who often experience considerable psycho-physical burdens. The role of caregivers in the rehabilitation process is crucial, yet the impact of caregiving on their well-being is not fully understood. This study aims to analyze the psycho-physical load on caregivers of chronic stroke patients, evaluate the variables affecting their health, and assess the significance of physiotherapists in improving patient rehabilitation outcomes. Materials: A sample of 30 chronic stroke patients and their caregivers involving home-based rehabilitation services was examined over an eight-week period. The study utilized various scales such as the Short Form Health Survey 36 (SF-36), Barthel Index, Stroke Impact Scale 3.0, Modified Rankin Scale, and Caregiver Burden Inventory to assess the health status of patients and the burden on caregivers before and after the intervention. Results: The study found significant improvements in patient health metrics (SF-36, Barthel Index, Stroke Impact Scale, Modified Rankin Scale) post-rehabilitation. Similarly, a notable reduction in caregiver burden was observed, highlighting the effectiveness of targeted physiotherapy interventions in alleviating the psycho-physical stress on caregivers. Conclusion: Physiotherapists play a critical role in stroke rehabilitation, reducing caregiver burden. Early identification of exhaustion, timely physiotherapy, and multidisciplinary rehabilitation can improve patient independence and quality of life for both patients and caregivers.

Marketing and Communication Strategies: A Case Study of Student Recruitment at Selected Public Universities

2024-05-11T14:09:43+03:00

Background: Higher education faces challenges in attracting first-time students due to market forces and revenue competition. Recruiting first-time university students is a challenge for higher education recruiters in attracting and enrolling students effectively.

Materials and methods: Increased competition among higher education institutions (HEIs) requires competitive marketing and communication recruitment strategies. The study aimed to analyse the role of marketing and communication strategy in student recruitment. A qualitative study of two public universities in South Africa's Eastern Cape province revealed competition among institutions for first-year students.

Results: Universities use a mix of traditional and technology-based communication strategies, with print media, digital media, newspapers, brochures, and social media being the most effective.

Conclusion: The study suggests incorporating competitive marketing and communication intelligence strategies to boost student recruitment and regularly revise marketing communication tools to gain a competitive advantage and market share.

The Inﬂuence of Observers on Quantum States: A Dialogue on the Entanglement of Thought and Reality

2024-05-11T17:52:29+03:00

In quantum mechanics, the boundaries between thought and reality often blur, challenging our conventional understanding of nature and the universe. We delve into a speculative yet thought-provoking dialogue at the intersection of these complex phenomena, drawing inspiration from the notorious Schrödinger's cat paradox. This paradox, a cornerstone in the discourse of quantum theory, raises intricate questions about the observer's role and the element of consciousness in determining the state of quantum systems.

This dialogue explores the hypothesis that an observer's thoughts and convictions could inﬂuence the outcome of quantum events, examining the implications of such a perspective on the inherent randomness and indeterminacy prescribed by quantum mechanics. We navigate through diverse viewpoints, including the observer eﬀect, diﬀerent interpretations of quantum mechanics, and the potential impact of the human mind on the physical world.

To bridge the gap between the tangible and the abstract, we consider the quantiﬁability of thought and its translation into machine-readable formats. We contemplate whether the electrical and biochemical processes underlying the idea could have a bearing on quantum states and, subsequently, whether the randomness observed in quantum events like Schrödinger's cat paradox is truly inherent or subject to inﬂuence.

As we embark on this intellectual journey, we draw upon seminal works and scientiﬁc principles to foster a deeper understanding of the intricate dance between consciousness and quantum reality. While acknowledging the speculative nature of this exploration and the current scientiﬁc consensus, we remain open to the possibilities and mysteries that the quantum universe may hold, ever-mindful of the evolving landscape of research and discovery in this ﬁeld.