Comprehensive Comparative Analysis Research Articles

Who supports Jihadi foreign fighters in Syria and Iraq? Assessing the role of religion- and grievance-based explanations

ABSTRACT This article explores public support for Jihadi foreign fighters, an area largely unexplored in existing literature, despite its relevance to counterterrorism. The study draws on two key theoretical perspectives: grievance-based explanations that propose support for militancy arises from perceived societal injustices, and religion-based explanations that look at the role of religious factors in fostering support for religious militancy. Using original survey data from 5145 Muslim respondents across seven countries (Cyprus, Germany, Israel, Kenya, Lebanon, Palestine, Turkey), the study empirically tests these perspectives. The findings underscore religious fundamentalism as a potent influencer of support for foreign fighters. By providing large-scale survey data and a comprehensive comparative analysis of dominant theories, this research enhances our understanding of the dynamics that underpin public support for Jihadi foreign fighters.

Optimizing power consumption and position control in an electro-hydraulic system with cylinder bypass and NN-MPC

This study introduces an innovative approach to enhance the energy efficiency and position control performance of electro-hydraulic systems, employing a comprehensive comparative analysis. It presents and evaluates three control techniques: Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) control, Model Predictive Control (MPC), and Neural Network Model Predictive Control (NN-MPC). These methods are systematically assessed across varying load conditions. Notably, our research unequivocally establishes the exceptional performance of the NN-MPC approach, even when confronted with load variations. Furthermore, the study conducts an exhaustive examination of energy consumption by comparing a conventional system, where a flow control valve is not utilized as a hydraulic cylinder bypass, with a proposed system that employs a fully open Flow Control Valve (FCV). The results underscore the remarkable energy savings achieved, reaching up to 9% at high load levels.

Forms of degeneration of blood cells, their physiological and clinical significance, mechanisms of formation, shadows of cells in blood smears of birds

Relevance. An overview is presented of the patterns of appearance, physiological and clinical significance of shadows of cells, a comparative experimental cytomorphological analysis using the example of polychromatophilic erythroblasts (PolyErythro), shadows of erythroblast (ShadErythro) and undifferentiated shadows cells of in peripheral blood smears of chickens Gallus gallus L.Methods. The studied individuals were divided into four groups (n = 40) depending on the age of the chickens (Postembryonalis — P1, P7, P23, and P42): 1, 7, 23, and 42 days of postembryonic ontogenesis) of a factory herd. ShadErythro apoptotic changes, undifferentiated cell shadows were characterized. Were calculated and characterized the morphophysiological parameters of PolyErythro, ShadErythro and unidentified shadows of cells by high-resolution color microphotographs in blood smears of birds (Pappenheim stained); a total of 158 (n = 158) microphotographs were analyzed.Results. The structured ShadErythro were able in chromatinolized. Unidentified shadows of cells were in a state of cytolysis, fragmentation of the cytoplasm, karyopycnosis and karyorrhexis, chromatin fragmentation, and karyolysis were noted. Structured of ShadErythro and undifferentiated shadows of cells were light purple with a reddish tint. Significant difference in the area of ShadErythro (Sshadow, μm2) was recorded in the ascending area of PolyErythro (Scell, μm2), within 25% (p ≤ 0.001), an increase in the percentage of difference between the minimum and maximum values of the ShadErythro area (Pshad.-cell-differ.-min-max,%) of Pcell-differ.-min-max,% PolyErythro was 36% (p ≤ 0.001). The difference in the percentage difference between the minimum and maximum values of the area of the nucleus of erythroblasts (Pnucleus-differ.-min-max) and the shadows of the nucleus of erythroblasts (Pshad.-nucle.-differ.-min-max) is significantly less than the analogous values (noted above) for cells and shadows erythroblasts, for example, Pnucleus-differ.-min-max exceeded Pshad.-nucle.-differ.-min-max by only 21% (p ≤ 0.001). The percentage of difference between the minimum and maximum values of the nuclear-cytoplasmic ratio ShadErythro (PN/C Ratio-shad.-cell) significantly exceeded the analogous value of PolyErythro (PN/C Ratio) within 64% (p ≤ 0.001). At the same time, the nuclear-cytoplasmic ratio of PolyErythro (N/C Ratio) and ShadErythro (N/C Ratio-shad.-cell) had a relatively minimal difference. The ShadErythro nuclear-cytoplasmic ratio (N/C Ratio-shad.-cell) exceeded the PolyErythro nuclear-cytoplasmic ratio (N/C Ratio) by only 12% (p ≤ 0.001). ShadErythro is maximally represented in chickens aged P1 — 40% and up to 30% (p ≤ 0.05) in P23. In P7, the amount of ShadErythro decreased by 30% (p ≤ 0.05), in P42, a decrease in ShadErythro to 20% (p ≤ 0.05) was recorded. The described dynamics of ShadErythro is due to physiological adaptive processes in the body of broiler chickens in the early period of postembryonic ontogenesis. The data obtained by us from a comprehensive comparative morphophysiological analysis of forms of degeneration of blood cells will be useful in the clinical diagnosis of animal pathologies, experimental and theoretical studies of cellular adaptations of the functional blood system and the whole organism.

Enhancing Software Quality through Early-Phase of Software Verification and Validation Techniques

Purpose: The core objectives of this conducted research were threefold: first, to assess whether early-phase verification and validation (V&V)techniques, encompassing software design review, code review, and inspection, significantly contribute to defect prevention throughout the software development process; second, to evaluate the impact of these techniques on the efficiency of software development in terms of time, cost, and resource allocation; and third, to conduct a comprehensive comparative analysis between early-phase verification and validation (V&V)techniques and traditional post-development testing regarding their effectiveness in defect prevention and software quality improvement.
 Methodology: Employing an experimental approach, this study conducted case studies within Tanzanian software development organizations. Data were meticulously gathered through surveys and interviews involving software professionals. Both quantitative and qualitative data were systematically analyzed to ensure data reliability and ethical considerations.
 Findings: The research findings indicate that early-phase verification and validation (V&V) techniques shine as powerful tools for defect prevention, leading to a substantial reduction in defect counts and elevating software quality metrics, such as reliability and user satisfaction. Notably, these techniques demonstrated a favorable impact on software development efficiency by shortening development cycles and curtailing costs. When compared to traditional post-development testing, early-phase verification and validation (V&V) techniques consistently outperformed in the realm of defect prevention and software quality enhancement.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study's outcomes underscore the transformative potential of early-phase verification &validation techniques, urging the software development industry to pivot from defect detection to defect prevention. The insights garnered here offer practical guidance for organizations aiming to streamline their software development processes, economize costs, and deliver top-notch software products that closely align with user expectations. While conducted in a Tanzanian context, these findings reverberate across the global software development landscape, underscoring the universal relevance of early-phase verification and validation (V&V) techniques as pivotal enablers of software quality assurance and operational efficiency.

Life cycle analysis (cost and environmental) of different renewable natural gas from waste procedures based on a multivariate decision-making approach: a comprehensive comparative analysis

Abstract This article presents a framework that focuses on structural considerations within gas networks to evaluate and rank various feasibility options for renewable natural gas (RNG) cases. Specifically, the analysis examines and compares a range of methods for producing RNG using natural gas from waste (NGFW), considering different types of waste as feedstock. To analyze and evaluate the different methodologies, the article uses a decision architecture based on life cycle analysis (cost and environmental). These tools are used to determine the most favorable path for the NGFW process. The preferred pathway is identified by considering a range of decision scenarios that take into account variables such as geographical conditions, the availability of various feedstocks and the different stakeholders’ priorities. The results show that according to the economically neutral scenarios and those that favor economic considerations, the pathway involving RNG generation from landfill gas coupled with a pressure swing adsorption (PSA) upgrading technology emerges as the optimum choice. Conversely, in a scenario where environmental sustainability is a priority, the process that emerges as most advantageous is the use of animal manure with the addition of a PSA upgrading unit. The designed structure can be adapted to different regions, each with its own unique geographical features and feedstock resources, and can be customized to meet the varying interests of stakeholders. Based on both parametric assessments and analytical interpretations, this article not only identifies optimal pathways but also provides a set of recommendations and strategies aimed at improving economic behavior.

A convenient assay for soluble Dectin-1 lectin domain binding to insoluble β-glucans

β-Glucan is a homopolymer with a backbone of β-1,3-linked glucose residues. The solubility and biological activity of β-glucan can be influenced by the length of the backbone and the length/interval of the β-1,6 branches. Dectin-1 is crucial in innate immunity through its binding to exogenous β-glucans. However, there are few quantitative binding affinities available and there is no comprehensive comparative analysis of the binding of Dectin-1 to insoluble β-glucans. Here, we have developed a simple binding assay for the interaction between Dectin-1 lectin domain (Dectin-1 CTLD) and insoluble β-glucans. We utilized the paramylon particle as a model of insoluble β-glucans. Dectin-1 CTLD bound to paramylon (particle size 3.1 μm) was separated from unbound Dectin-1 CTLD by centrifugation using a membrane filter (pore size 0.2 μm). The protein in the filtrate was quantified by SDS-PAGE and densitometry. The amount decreased in proportion to the amount of paramylon in the mixture. A control experiment using the Dectin-1 CTLD inactive mutant W221A showed that the mutant passes through the filter without binding paramylon. These results are evidence of site-specific binding of Dectin-1 CTLD to paramylon and demonstrate that the separation of paramylon-bound/unbound Dectin-1 CTLD is achievable through centrifugation using a filter. The assay was extended to other insoluble β-glucans including curdlan. Additionally, it can be utilized in competitive inhibition experiments with soluble short-chain β-glucans such as laminarin. The assay system allows for quantitative comparison of the affinities between insoluble and soluble β-glucans and Dectin-1 CTLD, and should be useful because of its low-tech convenience.

Advancing tuberculosis diagnosis and management in cynomolgus macaques using Xpert MTB/RIF ultra assay

The detection and management of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) infection, the causative agent of tuberculosis (TB), in macaques, including cynomolgus macaques (Macaca fascicularis), are of significant concern in research and regions where macaques coexist with humans or other animals. This study explored the utility of the Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra assay, a widely adopted molecular diagnostic tool to diagnose tuberculosis (TB) in humans, to detect DNA from the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex in clinical samples obtained from cynomolgus macaques. This investigation involved a comprehensive comparative analysis, integrating established conventional diagnostic methodologies, assessing oropharyngeal-tracheal wash (PW) and buccal swab (BS) specimen types, and follow-up assessments at 3-month, 6-month, and 12-month intervals. Our results demonstrated that the Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra assay was able to detect MTBC in 12 of 316 clinical samples obtained from cynomolgus macaques, presenting a potential advantage over bacterial culture and chest radiographs. The Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra assay exhibited exceptional sensitivity (100%) at the animal level, successfully detecting all macaques positive for M. tuberculosis as confirmed by traditional culture methods. The use of PW samples revealed that 5 positive samples from 99 (5.1%) were recommended for testing, compared to 0 samples from 99 buccal swab (BS) samples (0.0%). In particular, the definitive diagnosis of TB was confirmed in three deceased macaques by MTB culture, which detected the presence of the bacterium in tissue autopsy. Our findings demonstrate that the implementation of the Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra assay, along with prompt isolation measures, effectively reduced active TB cases among cynomolgus macaques over a 12-month period. These findings highlight the advance of the Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra assay in TB diagnosis and its crucial role in preventing potential outbreaks in cynomolgus macaques. With its rapidity, high sensitivity, and specificity, the Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra assay can be highly suitable for use in reference laboratories to confirm TB disease and effectively interrupt TB transmission.

Comparative analysis of standard mathematical modeling approaches to solve Einstein’s field equations in spherically symmetric static background for compact stars

This study examines Einstein’s field equations in the context of general relativity, comparing five distinct methodologies: (a) vanishing complexity, (b) embedding class one or the Karmarkar condition, (c) conformally flat spacetime, (d) conformal killing symmetry, and (e) the Karmarkar scalar condition. The first four methods reveal a significant connection between two metric potentials, while the fifth method provides a coordinate-independent condition expressed in terms of structural scalars. The paper provides a comprehensive comparative analysis of a new exact solution derived by assuming a common metric function and solving the remaining metric functions through corresponding bridge equations to evaluate their effectiveness and validity. Critical parameters such as thermodynamic factors, causality conditions, stability, and mass function analysis are investigated.

A Comparative Study of Financial Report of SBI and ICICI Bank

This research paper conducts a comprehensive comparative analysis of the financial reports of two prominent banks in India, namely the State Bank of India (SBI) and ICICI Bank. The study aims to provide insights into the financial performance, stability, and strategic positions of these banks, shedding light on their respective strengths and weaknesses. The research methodology involves an in-depth examination of the annual financial reports, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements, over a specific period. Various financial ratios, such as liquidity ratios, solvency ratios, and profitability ratios, are employed to evaluate the financial health of both SBI and ICICI Bank. The paper delves into the historical context and evolution of both banks, highlighting their distinct roles in shaping India's banking landscape. It explores how SBI, being a public sector bank, differs from ICICI Bank, which operates in the private sector, in terms of governance, policies, and market strategies. Furthermore, the study analyzes the impact of economic and regulatory changes on the financial performance of SBI and ICICI Bank. This includes an examination of their responses to challenges such as economic downturns, changes in interest rates, and regulatory reforms. The comparative study extends beyond financial metrics, considering the banks' technological advancements, customer service initiatives, and overall market positioning. Additionally, the paper discusses the banks' contributions to the socio- economic development of India and their roles in promoting financial inclusion.

Comparative Analysis of Convolutional Neural Network-Long Short-Term Memory, Sparrow Search Algorithm-Backpropagation Neural Network, and Particle Swarm Optimization-Extreme Learning Machine Models for the Water Discharge of the Buzău River, Romania

Modeling and forecasting the river flow is essential for the management of water resources. In this study, we conduct a comprehensive comparative analysis of different models built for the monthly water discharge of the Buzău River (Romania), measured in the upper part of the river’s basin from January 1955 to December 2010. They employ convolutional neural networks (CNNs) coupled with long short-term memory (LSTM) networks, named CNN-LSTM, sparrow search algorithm with backpropagation neural networks (SSA-BP), and particle swarm optimization with extreme learning machines (PSO-ELM). These models are evaluated based on various criteria, including computational efficiency, predictive accuracy, and adaptability to different training sets. The models obtained applying CNN-LSTM stand out as top performers, demonstrating a superior computational efficiency and a high predictive accuracy, especially when built with the training set containing the data series from January 1984 (putting the Siriu Dam in operation) to September 2006 (Model type S2). This research provides valuable guidance for selecting and assessing river flow prediction models, offering practical insights for the scientific community and real-world applications. The findings suggest that Model type S2 is the preferred choice for the discharge forecast predictions due to its high computational speed and accuracy. Model type S (considering the training set recorded from January 1955 to September 2006) is recommended as a secondary option. Model type S1 (with the training period January 1955–December 1983) is suitable when the other models are unavailable. This study advances the field of water discharge prediction by presenting a precise comparative analysis of these models and their respective strengths

Diabetes Prediction using Data Mining Techniques

This project delves into the realm of data mining for diabetes prediction, with a focus on enriching the well- known Pima Indian Diabetes dataset by incorporating vital health metrics, particularly heart rate, derived from fitness trackers. The initiative encompasses three integral components: firstly, the exploration and enhancement of the dataset through the integration of heart rate; secondly, the application of diverse data mining techniques, ranging from logistic regression and random forest to support vector machines and naive Bayes, along with advanced machine learning algorithms and neural networks, for a comprehensive comparative analysis of their efficacy in diabetes prediction; and finally, the development of a user-friendly web application disseminating diabetes-related information, detailing project methodologies, and offering users the ability to assess their diabetes risk through instant feedback based on inputted health details. This multi-faceted approach not only contributes to the field of healthcare data analytics by evaluating diverse prediction methods but also aligns with contemporary trends in wearable technology integration for health monitoring, bridging the gap between data analytics and public health awareness. The findings offer valuable insights for healthcare professionals and researchers striving for robust methods in diabetes prediction and prevention.

Pool boiling simulation using molecular dynamics approach: Comparing the effectiveness of adding nanoparticles versus creating porous nanostructures

This paper presents the pool boiling process of argon atoms on the copper surface by employing molecular dynamics simulation. Through the application of molecular dynamics simulation, this study explores three cases: the plain surface, and adding platinum and aluminum nanoparticles to the argon fluid. The main objective is to offer a comprehensive comparative analysis to highlight the significance and innovation of this research. The investigation aims to assess the effectiveness of two methods for improving heat transfer: the addition of nanoparticles to the base fluid and the creation of porous nanostructure. By subjecting these approaches to identical simulation conditions, an enthralling evaluation unfolds. The simulation framework is first validated, and then the results are presented and compared with the case of creating porous geometry. The results reveal that while the evaporation rate has a similar impact in both cases, creating porous geometry results in a 3.68% higher argon temperature compared to adding nanoparticles. On the other hand, adding nanoparticles enhances the maximum heat flux by approximately 15% more than creating porous geometry. This research compares two approaches to offer valuable investigations and insights into enhancing heat transfer efficiency due to the growing demand for strategies that promote heat transfer.

Ocular toxicity associated with anti-HER2 agents in breast cancer: A pharmacovigilance analysis using the FAERS database.

Anti-human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) agents have exhibited pronounced tumor-inhibitory activity, yet the accompanying ocular toxicity has frequently been underestimated. We aim to conduct a comprehensive comparative analysis of ocular toxicity risk related to various anti-HER2 agents. We executed a retrospective pharmacovigilance investigation based on the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database, covering the period from Q2 2018 to Q1 2023. The disproportionality analysis was performed to assess ocular toxicity risk. Multivariate logistic regression was implemented to mitigate potential biases. Moreover, the time to onset of ocular toxicity was also evaluated. A total of 3467 ocular adverse event (AE) reports concerning anti-HER2 agents were collected. At the preferred term (PT) level, there were 69 positive signals, among which excessive eye blinking, abnormal sensation in the eye, and asthenopia presented a significant risk. In comparison to tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), antibody drugs were associated with a broader range of ocular disorders at Standardized MedDRA Queries (SMQ)levels, including conjunctival disorders, corneal disorders, ocular infections, ocular motility disorders, optic nerve disorders, and retinal disorders. In terms of onset time, pertuzumab displayed an earlier onset at 21.5 days, while trastuzumab deruxtecan had the latest at 91.5 days. In summary, our study reveals varying degrees of ocular toxicity related to anti-HER2 agents, with a significantly higher risk observed in antibody drugs. Additionally, novel ocular toxicity signals, not documented in product labels, have been detected. In the future, further research will be necessary to validate our findings.

Complete Mitochondrial Genome and Phylogenetic Analysis of Tarsiger indicus (Aves: Passeriformes: Muscicapidae).

Tarsiger indicus (Vieillot, 1817), the White-browed Bush Robin, is a small passerine bird widely distributed in Asian countries. Here, we successfully sequenced its mitogenome using the Illumina Novaseq 6000 platform (Illumina, San Diego, CA, USA) for PE 2 × 150 bp sequencing. Combined with other published mitogenomes, we conducted the first comprehensive comparative mitogenome analysis of Muscicapidae birds and reconstructed the phylogenetic relationships between Muscicapidae and related groups. The T. indicus mitogenome was 16,723 bp in size, and it possessed the typical avian mitogenome structure and organization. Most PCGs of T. indicus were initiated strictly with the typical start codon ATG, while COX1 and ND2 were started with GTG. RSCU statistics showed that CUA, CGA, and GCC were relatively high frequency in the T. indicus mitogenome. T. cyanurus and T. indicus shared very similar mitogenomic features. All 13 PCGs of Muscicapidae mitogenomes had experienced purifying selection. Specifically, ATP8 had the highest rate of evolution (0.13296), whereas COX1 had the lowest (0.01373). The monophylies of Muscicapidae, Turdidae, and Paradoxornithidae were strongly supported. The clade of ((Muscicapidae + Turdidae) + Sturnidae) in Passeriformes was supported by both Bayesian Inference and Maximum likelihood analyses. The latest taxonomic status of many passerine birds with complex taxonomic histories were also supported. For example, Monticola gularis, T. indicus, and T. cyanurus were allocated to Turdidae in other literature; our phylogenetic topologies clearly supported their membership in Muscicapidae; Paradoxornis heudei, Suthora webbiana, S. nipalensis, and S. fulvifrons were formerly classified into Muscicapidae; we supported their membership in Paradoxornithidae; Culicicapa ceylonensis was originally classified as a member of Muscicapidae; our results are consistent with a position in Stenostiridae. Our study enriches the genetic data of T. indicus and provides new insights into the molecular phylogeny and evolution of passerine birds.

Assessing Green Features of “Phumdi” as a Sustainable Material: A Comparative Analysis with Bamboo, Wood, Metal, and Plastic

Sustainable materials and their potential application in building industries are gaining attention; however, there is still largely unexplored floating biomass, notably “Phumdi”, as a sustainable floating building material. Phumdi, a distinctive floating biomass, is observed in specific wetland habitats in the Loktak Lake located in Manipur, India. This heterogeneous mass of vegetation, organic matter, and soil has been utilised by several communities for various purposes, such as medicine, food, forage, and material for building houses, handicrafts, and aquaculture activities. Such floating bodies serve as a sanctuary for a wide range of flora and fauna. The study aims to conduct a comprehensive comparative analysis of phumdi as a sustainable floating material in comparison with other widely recognized construction materials such as recycled plastics, bamboo, corrugated metal sheets, and wood by evaluating the “green feature” chart. The research and experiments carried out on phumdi have underscored the highest sustainability level for its use, i.e., 15 green features, followed by wood and bamboo with 14 features, and the other two materials with low sustainability performance: plastic barrels with seven features and corrugated zinc metal sheets with eight features. Further investigation is necessary for the advancement of this material as a viable alternative for biomass-based building materials.

Flowering genes identification, network analysis, and database construction for 837 plants.

Flowering is one of the most important biological phenomena in the plant kingdom, which not only has important ecological significance, but also has substantial horticultural ornamental value. In this study, we undertook an exhaustive review of the advancements in our understanding of plant flowering genes. We delved into the identification and conducted comparative analyses of flowering genes across virtually all sequenced angiosperm plant genomes. Furthermore, we established an extensive angiosperm flowering atlas, encompassing a staggering 183 720 genes across eight pathways, along with 10 155 ABCDE mode genes, which play a pivotal role in plant flowering regulation. Through the examination of expression patterns, we unveiled the specificities of these flowering genes. An interaction network between flowering genes of the ABCDE model and their corresponding upstream genes offered a blueprint for comprehending their regulatory mechanisms. Moreover, we predicted the miRNA and target genes linked to the flowering processes of each species. To culminate our efforts, we have built a user-friendly web interface, named the Plant Flowering-time Gene Database (PFGD), accessible at http://pfgd.bio2db.com/. We firmly believe that this database will serve as a cornerstone in the global research community, facilitating the in-depth exploration of flowering genes in the plant kingdom. In summation, this pioneering endeavor represents the first comprehensive collection and comparative analysis of flowering genes in plants, offering valuable resources for the study of plant flowering genetics.

A comprehensive comparative analysis of transfection reagents for siRNA delivery

A comprehensive comparative analysis of transfection reagents for siRNA delivery

Estimation of uncertainty in computation of importance factors and probability of undesirable events for safety-critical multi-unit systems, based on Binary Decisions Diagrams

This paper addresses current needs of the Multi-Unit Probabilistic Safety Assessment (MUPSA) methodology, which consists of a series of eight essential steps for conducting Probabilistic Safety Assessment (PSA) in the context of a multi-unit Nuclear Power Plant (NPP), co-located on a single site. The focus of this study revolves around one of the steps of the MUPSA methodology, which includes the examination of the importance factors and uncertainty analysis. Emphasizing the role of this step within MUPSA, the paper highlights the hypothesis and estimations made, along with the determination of system importance factors and failure frequency. To illustrate the practical application of these concepts, the paper presents three illustrative examples. The first example involves a 3-terminal reliability network, while the second example features an illustrative calculation applied to a system designed for potential use in a real NPP, compared to a Monte-Carlo simulation. Moreover, the second example involves the evaluation of a medium voltage distribution system (MVDS) designed to meet the auxiliary supply requirements of a nuclear power plant. This analysis is performed using a binary decision diagram (BDD), and the results derived from the BDD evaluation are then verified with those obtained through a Monte Carlo simulation for a comprehensive comparative analysis. Finally, an uncertainty analysis is achieved using a BDD reliability model, using the results of fault trees developed by National Company SN Nuclearelectrica S.A. (SNN), Department of Nuclear Safety, in the context of the Coordinated Research Project (CRP- I31031).

REVIEW OF TELECOMMUNICATION REGULATION AND POLICY: COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS USA AND AFRICA

This paper presents a comprehensive comparative analysis of telecommunication regulation and policy frameworks in the United States (USA) and various African countries. Telecommunications play a pivotal role in socio-economic development, and the regulatory environment significantly influences the sector's performance. The study explores the historical evolution, regulatory bodies, and frameworks in both regions, aiming to identify commonalities, disparities, and the impact of regulatory approaches on market dynamics. The review begins by delineating the theoretical foundations of telecommunications regulation, emphasizing concepts such as market liberalization, competition, and regulatory governance. A historical overview traces the development of regulatory frameworks in the USA and Africa, shedding light on the contextual factors that shaped each region's approach. In examining telecommunications regulation in the USA, the paper delves into the roles and responsibilities of key regulatory bodies, notably the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The regulatory framework is scrutinized, with a focus on market liberalization, spectrum management, and licensing policies. Achievements and challenges within the US regulatory landscape are critically evaluated. Turning to Africa, the study explores the diverse regulatory approaches adopted by selected countries and the influence of regional organizations on policy formulation. Common challenges faced by African regulators, as well as unique contextual factors shaping the regulatory landscape, are discussed. The heart of the analysis lies in the comparative assessment of regulatory objectives and policy instruments between the USA and Africa. The study evaluates the alignment of these objectives with the socio-economic context of each region and assesses the effectiveness of policy instruments in achieving regulatory goals. Examining the impact on the telecommunications sector, the paper contrasts market structures, competition levels, and the role of regulation in fostering technological development. The analysis extends to the implications of regulatory frameworks on the deployment of emerging technologies, such as 5G. The paper summarizes key findings, highlighting patterns, trends, and lessons learned from the comparative analysis. The implications of these findings for future research are discussed, emphasizing the potential for international collaboration and the identification of areas where improvements in regulatory frameworks can contribute to the sustainable development of the telecommunications sector in both the USA and Africa.
 Keywords: Telecommunications Regulation, Telecommunications Policy, Comparative Analysis, USA, Africa, Digital Inclusion.

Revealing brain connectivity: graph embeddings for EEG representation learning and comparative analysis of structural and functional connectivity.

This study employs deep learning techniques to present a compelling approach for modeling brain connectivity in EEG motor imagery classification through graph embedding. The compelling aspect of this study lies in its combination of graph embedding, deep learning, and different brain connectivity types, which not only enhances classification accuracy but also enriches the understanding of brain function. The approach yields high accuracy, providing valuable insights into brain connections and has potential applications in understanding neurological conditions. The proposed models consist of two distinct graph-based convolutional neural networks, each leveraging different types of brain connectivities to enhance classification performance and gain a deeper understanding of brain connections. The first model, Adjacency-based Convolutional Neural Network Model (Adj-CNNM), utilizes a graph representation based on structural brain connectivity to embed spatial information, distinguishing it from prior spatial filtering approaches dependent on subjects and tasks. Extensive tests on a benchmark dataset-IV-2a demonstrate that an accuracy of 72.77% is achieved by the Adj-CNNM, surpassing baseline and state-of-the-art methods. The second model, Phase Locking Value Convolutional Neural Network Model (PLV-CNNM), incorporates functional connectivity to overcome structural connectivity limitations and identifies connections between distinct brain regions. The PLV-CNNM achieves an overall accuracy of 75.10% across the 1-51 Hz frequency range. In the preferred 8-30 Hz frequency band, known for motor imagery data classification (including α, μ, and β waves), individual accuracies of 91.9%, 90.2%, and 85.8% are attained for α, μ, and β, respectively. Moreover, the model performs admirably with 84.3% accuracy when considering the entire 8-30 Hz band. Notably, the PLV-CNNM reveals robust connections between different brain regions during motor imagery tasks, including the frontal and central cortex and the central and parietal cortex. These findings provide valuable insights into brain connectivity patterns, enriching the comprehension of brain function. Additionally, the study offers a comprehensive comparative analysis of diverse brain connectivity modeling methods.