bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RADIO CHANNEL CHARACTERISTICS IN HIGH-SPEED TRAIN WIRELESS COMMUNICATION CUTTING SCENARIO
Authors: Olarenwaju Adewara Daniel , Abubakar Sadiq Bala , Nnagana Majin Rachael
Published: February 2023

Cutting scenario is one of the common and major scenarios in HST wireless communication, as it is used for flatness and smoothness of HST track. However, very few research has been carried out on how cutting shape affects the wireless communication system in HST, hence the reasons for embarking on the investigation of radio channel characteristics in HST wireless communication in the cutting scenario. In this paper, four key parameters were identified in the cutting scenario; the width-up (Wup), width-down(Wdown), the slope of cuttings and vegetation of the environment. The statistical properties of the channel model determined, the two correlation functions; Cross correlation function and Autocorrelation function determined from the simulation.  The result shows that there is a higher correlation with the larger sum of Wup and Wdown. Also, there is a similarity between the theoretical and simulated channel model
THE ROLE OF TRANSPORTATION NETWORK IN THE INTEGRATION OF HAUSA AND YORUBA ETHNIC NATIONALITIES IN FUNTUA TOWN OF KATSINA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Dangiwa Abubakar Lawal , Ndawayo B. A.
Published: February 2023

The paper examined the role of transportation network in the integration of Yoruba-Hausa ethnic nationalities in Funtua Town of Katsina State. The study was inspired by agitations being made by some notable Nigerians about the possibilities of disintegration of Nigeria as corporate national entity along the lines of ethnic nationalities. This notion is often propelled by sporadic ethnic and tribal disturbances that occur in the country.  However, the cordial relationship that exists in Funtua town between the Yorubas from southwestern axis of Nigeria and the indigenous Hausas cast doubt to such divisive agitations. The data obtained for this study was principally from primary source, which included discussions, in-depth face-to-face interviews, key informant and physical observational techniques. Reasons for the mixing of the two distinct ethnic groups have been investigated and discussed. The study found out that Yorubas migrated during the pre-colonial, from majorly Ogbomosho, Saki and Lagos areas, and founded Funtua at Ile Amodu and Ile Akile clans. The process continued, where Ile Ogbomoso, Ile Amodu and Ile Akile clan were established during the pre-colonial period, when the creation of rail and road networks facilitated the migration and acculturation processes, as Funtua town was linked with the Yorubaland. While, other factors related to costume and beliefs play vital role in strengthening the mutual bond between the two distinct ethnic groups into indivisible one
THE BACKGROUND CONCENTRATION OF SOME HEAVY METALS AT NYSC ORIENTATION CAMP LAYOUT, KATSINA
Authors: Samaila Aminu , Bello S. , Iliyasu S. R. , Sani M.
Published: February 2023

An anthropogenic activities leads to the presence of heavy metals in an environment which lead to environmental pollution. The area has become gradually engage with various waste such as animal waste, refused dump, spilling of petrol, kerosene, engine oil etc which can introduces the trace heavy metals. The research of background concentration of various heavy metals in soil samples taken from the NYSC orientation camp layout, which is situated in Katsina state, Nigeria, at latitudes of 643.7 m to 798.5 m and longitudes of 18 21I32IIE to 18 28I37II, was conducted. At intervals of 100 m, soil samples were taken from the locations, and each 100 m was divided into 10 m. (A1A10). In order to determine the concentration of the five examined heavy metals, a flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer (FAAS) was used (Co, Cr, Pb, Cd, Cu). The locations have an average heavy metal concentration of:- 0.16009, 0.55449, 0.02804, 0.00231, and 0.10406 ppm  Respectively. Significant differences were observed by comparing the mean concentration of the heavy metals in the study areas with world health organization (W.H.O) threshold limit, national and international studies and it was suggested that the samples were not contaminated with the  heavy metals.  But the metals were detected and there is no need for immediate implementation and remediation measures by the relevant authority. It was and recommended that industries, factories and filling station should not be located at the area in order to minimize human activities so as to maintain stable environment free from pollutants
ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF BRYOPHYLLUM PINNATUM AGAINST CLINICAL ISOLATES OF ESCHERICHIA COLI AND KLEBSIELLA PNEUMONIA FROM URINARY TRACT INFECTION PATIENTS
Authors: Moroof M. B. , Sani S. S. , Nwoko O. L.
Published: February 2023

The emergence and spread of resistant strains of bacteria to routinely used antibiotics has made it imperative to continuously search for alternatives that can be used to cure infections, so as not to return to pre-antibiotic era. Plants are known to contain bioactive compounds that can be explored and used in the treatment of infection. The study investigated the antibacterial activity of ethanolic extracts of dried leaf extracts of Bryophyllum pinnatum against clinical isolates of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae from urinary tract infection patients attending Shehu Muhammad Kangiwa Medical Centre. The photochemical screening of the crude extracts of Bryophyllum pinnatum (leaf of life) carried out using standard procedures described by Trens and Jens 2002, revealed the presence of Saponins, Flavonoid, Terpenoids, Alkaloids, Phenol and Tannins . The antibacterial activity of the extracts was carried out using agar cup diffusion method. Four concentrations (200,100, 50 and 25mg/ml) of the extract were tested against Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The zones of inhibition measured at 200,100, 50 and 25mg/ml were: 00,00,00 and 00 mm respectively. The extracts  therefore showed no antibacterial activity against the isolates at all the four concentrations tested. The results of this study proofs that the ethanolic extract of  B. pinnatum leaves has no effect on E. coli and K. pneumoniae isolated from patients with Urinary Tract Infection, and hence cannot be used to treat infections caused by these bacteria.
COMPARATIVE LETHAL IMPACT OF GLYPHOSATE AND PARAQUAT ON AFRICAN MOUND-BUILDING TERMITES (Macrotermes bellicosus Smeathman)
Authors: Otabor Itohan J. , Okrikata Emmanuel , Bulus Shalom
Published: February 2023

In Nigeria, glyphosate and paraquat are common herbicides employed for weed control because they are cost-effective in controlling weeds. It has been shown that, herbicides released into the environment can indirectly affect non-target species, often in harmful ways. We thus investigated the lethal effects of Force up® (glyphosate) and ParaQ® (paraquat) on workers of African mound-building termites (Macrotermes bellicosus Smeathman). The worker termites were treated with 30µl of glyphosate and paraquat at different concentrations viz; 25, 12.5, 6.25, 3.13 and 1.56 ml per 500 ml of water, while distilled water was used as control. Mortality of termites was recorded for 12 and 24 hrs after exposure. Data collected were subjected to variance analysis and probit regression. Results showed that glyphosate caused 48 - 88% mortality, while paraquat caused 36 - 96% mortality after 24 hrs exposure. The mortality was not dose-dependent as 12.5ml of glyphosate and paraquat exerted higher percentage of mortality than 25ml concentration. Conversely, the mortality increased after 24 hrs indicating time-dependent mortality. The toxicity index, i.e. (LC50 and LC90), was 16.82ml and 14.87ml for glyphosate and 2.63ml and 2.196ml for paraquat after 24 hrs of exposure. This apparently shows that paraquat is highly toxic to M. bellicosus at concentrations lower than the recommended rate. These findings calls for the re-evaluation of the use of paraquat-based herbicides in weed control as it negatively impacts termites populations which are key beneficial non-targets
B-CAROTENE EXTRACTION FROM Daucus carota (CARROT) UNDER DIFFERENT CONDITIONS OF TEMPERATURE AND SOLVENTS
Authors: Zubairu Maimuna , Rabiu Karima Mohammed
Published: February 2023

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ORGANOCHLORINE AND ORGANOPHOSPHORUS PESTICIDE RESIDUES IN GRAINS, VEGETABLES AND FRUITS: A REVIEW
Authors: Okereafor Stella , Garba S. , Okunola O. J. , Adamu H. I.
Published: February 2023

Organochlorin and organophosphorus pesticides are broadly applied in agriculture, primarily to boost crop yields and protect crops from pests to reach the needs of a growing global population. This review aims to assess levels of pesticide residues in grains, fruits, and vegetables from already established secondary data from different authors or journals. The data obtained adequately confirmed the presence of concentrations of Organochlorin and organophosphorus residues in vegetables, grains and fruits. Both high and low concentration levels of pesticide residue were documented based on data obtained which showed application of the synthetic pesticides by farmers.  The high or minute concentration of synthetic pesticides poses adverse health effect on human. This review suggest that consumers of these type of pesticides contaminated food are liable to contact diseases associated with pesticides. Pesticides have been related to damage to the kidneys, liver, and nervous system, birth defects, cancer, immunodeficiency, reproductive process disruption, and altering or interfering with normal endocrine system function. Thereby, the use of natural pesticides as an alternative to synthetic pesticides for pest control is highly recommended for food security and sustainable environmental practices.
ACUTE AND SUB-CHRONIC EFFECTS OF SOME SELECTED SYNTHETIC FOOD COLORANTS ON LIVER AND KIDNEY FUNCTIONS IN ALBINO RATS
Authors: Manir Muhammad , Buhari L. Y. , Bilal U. , Bala H. J. , Usman A. M.
Published: February 2023

Synthetic food colorants are widely added to food in order to attract the consumer. Many researchers have incriminated these additives for causing some problems to human health. This research was conducted to determinate the toxic effects of some selected synthetic food dyes (A, B and C) in some biochemical parameters of male albino rats in the acute test. The limit test dose of 5000 mg/kg was administered to four albino rats and then observed individually 1hour post-dosing, and at least once daily for 14 days. Sub-chronic toxicity was evaluated after administering daily oral doses of 1000, 2000, 3000 and 4000 mg/kg body weight, for 28 days to the albino rats. Results of the acute toxicity study indicated that the LD50 of the three different standard synthetic color additives (A), (B) and (C) is more than 5000 mg/kg. While in sub-chronic toxicity studies administration of synthetic food colorants, showed significant increases (P<0.05), in aspartate amino-transferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), serum urea (SUR) and serum creatinine (SCR) values of rats treated with synthetic dyes when compared to those of the control group. The study showed that it takes more than 5000 mg/kg dose of the dye to kill the tested albino rats and also indicated that the colorants affect the liver and kidney functions
COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF CONCRETE MADE WITH MASHED PERIWINKLE SHELL AS FINE AGGREGATE FOR DISASTER MITIGATION
Authors: Ugwu Juliet N. , Egwuagu Onyekachi
Published: February 2023

This study presents the suitability of mashed periwinkle shell (MPS) as fine aggregate on concrete compressive strength for disaster mitigation. The effect of mashed periwinkle shell (MPS) at 0%, 10%, 20%, 50% and 100% replacement as fine aggregate was investigated for its concrete compressive strength. Laboratory and non-linear regression mathematical model methods were adopted in this study. Preliminary tests like sieve analysis, specific gravity etc. were performed on the aggregate materials from which a mix ratio of 1:2:4 was obtained. A total of 60 concrete cubes of 150 mm x 150 mm x 150 mm sizes were cast, properly cured and checked for the 7, 14, 21, 28 days compressive strength. The results obtained showed optimum improvement on concrete compressive strength at 10% and 20% MPS replacement as fine aggregate for both the experimental and model methods. The 100% MPS replacement gave a poor strength gain showing that MPS full replacement as sand in concrete might cause failure of the structure. The mathematical model gave a better representation of the concrete strength and the accuracy of the model determined from results of the coefficient of determination gotten as; 0.980, 0.97, 0.986 and 0.989 respectively. Hence this study tends to mitigate against using sub-standard materials in construction and also solves environmental problems that might arise from dumping periwinkle shells.
A MATHEMATICAL MODEL FOR DIABETES MANAGEMENT
Authors: Kwaghkor Lubem M. , Mohammed A. , Nyamtswam E. V.
Published: February 2023

Treating and controlling of diabetes is called diabetes management. The management of diabetes can be done through improvement of the patient dietary knowledge, attitudes, and practices. This research work is aimed at introducing dietary (diet restriction) to an earlier model for the detection and control of diabetes: to study the effect of physical exercise and dietary on excess glucose, insulin and epinephrine concentrations in the blood in managing diabetes. The resulting model is found to be uniformly and asymptotically stable. The result shows that when physical exercise is combined with recommended dietary in the management of diabetes, the excess glucose, insulin and epinephrine concentrations returns to their normal level faster with time compared to when only physical exercise is used as a control measure. Hence, it is recommended that in the management of diabetes, both physical exercise and dietary should be used as control measures
APPLICATION OF MULTI-ITEMS EPQ MODELS IN COURSE MATERIALS MANAGEMENT: TOWARDS BUILDING A DECISION SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR THE NATIONAL OPEN UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA
Authors: Adoga Peter Ikpe , Muazu H. G. , Barma M.
Published: February 2023

The classic multi-item Economic Production Quantity (EPQ) model was applied in this research to solve the Course Materials production problem of National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN). The EPQ model is one of the essential components of the proposed Decision Support System (DSS) for production and inventory management of course materials in NOUN. Python programming was used to develop the DSS to give a flexible interface that is easy to use by all users. The EPQ module of the DSS generated essential outputs which answers basic questions such as when to produce, how much of each item to produce per production run, the cost of producing each item and the interval between the productions run. Testing of the EPQ module was carried out using test data. When implemented, the proposed solution will enhance decision making in the area of Course Material production at NOUN printing press and reduce the difficulties encountered by staff when using manual processes to resolve complex models on regular basis
MODELS OF SOIL WATER CHARACTERISTICS CURVES: A REVIEW
Authors: Ojo B. S. , Maina M. M.
Published: February 2023

Soil water characteristic curve (SWCC) is very important in the study of unsaturated soil because it represents a soil’s ability to store and release water as it is subjected to various soil suctions. This storage of moisture in soil is paramount in irrigation engineering, as it determines the irrigation scheduling in dryland. This study reviews some SWCC model’s performance to predict the soil from some selected soils in Nigeria from previous work. This previous work contains 7 points between 0 – 1,500 kPa. Seki, which is bimodal, tends to perform better than the rest with R2 value of 0.99. Generally, the bimodal models performed better than the unimodal, due to the flexibility of the curve. However, with the removal of the reference point of 1,000,000kPa (leaving 7 points), all the unimodal models had good performance in the topsoil. Fredlund and Xing performed best and van Genuchten performed poorly in the subsoil. Also, it was observed with the increase in both the organic matter contents and electrical conductivity, the performance of the models decreased. From this review, it is observable that in analysis of 8 or more points and 3 to 7 points Seki’s model and Fredlund and Xing model can be used respectively for further research in the study of dryland soils of Nigeria
AN ESTIMATOR OF MOMENT OF INERTIA OF MAGIC SQUARE ARRAY OF MASSES
Authors: Babura Babangida Ibrahim , Kiri Aliyu Ibrahim , Muhammad Aminu Tukur
Published: February 2023

The classical definition of magic square of order  is a square array of consecutive natural numbers from 1 to  such that the raw, column and diagonal sum add up to the same number. When the magic square entries are considered as an array of masses of a rigid body, it is established that its moment of inertia is a function of  This work consider a more general magic array of masses of a rigid body to establish its inertial moment as a function of the magic sum and the central entry of the array. The paper further discusses the advantage of this development.
Estimating Nonlinear Regression Parameters using Particle Swarm Optimization and Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Emmanuel Sabastine , Okoye Ikechukwu , Ezenweke Chinenye , Shobanke Dolapo , Adeniyi Isaac
Published: February 2023

Obtaining parameter estimates for nonlinear regression model using gauss-newton and gradient-based methods present some complex analytical challenges. In this paper we investigated the effectiveness and simplicity of Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) and Genetic Algorithm (GA) on five nonlinear regression models with varying level of complexities. We developed function in R-programming for each models and performed 30 independent runs for at least 100 iterations for both PSO and GA. We evaluated PSO and GA performance in view of computation time, residual error produced and compared our results with values published online. Based on the results obtained, PSO significantly outperform GA in view of computation time and quality of parameter estimates. Even so, GA required fewer iterations and produced fairly accurate results. Further investigation shows that PSO and GA are both competitive, effective, simple to implement, and can be considered reliable for obtaining the parameter estimates of different nonlinear regression tasks.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF DATA MINING TECHNIQUES FOR MOVIE PREDICTION
Authors: Omotunde Ayokunle A. , Ogunsanwo Gbenga , Adekola Olubukola , Izang Aaron , Abel Samuel B.
Published: February 2023

The rate at which movies are being produced is increasing at exponential rates and it has become pertinent to ascertain success rate since the investment that goes into these movie creation runs in millions of dollars. A number of data mining-based methods, ranging from Support Vector Machine (SVM) to logistic regression, have been proposed with a varying level of success with SVM showing the most promising results. This paper aims to carry out a comparative analysis of the performance of Gradient Boosting and SVM algorithms in optimizing the prediction of movie success. The study developed a framework for the research methodology; the dataset used contained 33 movie attributes and 838 entries. The dataset was cleaned with six attributes; features were identified and selected from the datasets using four methods. These methods include: Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), Lasso Regularization, Combination of Lasso Regularization and Random Forest (RF). Model Formulation were done using Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Gradient Boosting Algorithm and the performance evaluation of the developed predictive models was done using accuracy, precision and recall values. The results shows that the accuracy of the Gradient Boosting algorithm is around 100%, SVM-Linear is 86 %, SVM-Poly is 88%, SVM-RBF is 88% and SVM-Sigmoid is 72%. The study concluded that Gradient Boosting algorithm is more robust in predicting movie success. Also recommended that comparison should be done with different machine learning techniques.
CORRELATION OF PHASE CHANGE MATERIALS ON INTEGRATED SOLAR WATER HEATING SYSTEMS
Authors: Usman Anas , Garba M. M. , Danmallam I. M. , Salihu Sani
Published: February 2023

The correlation of thermal energy storage on the efficiency of thermal storage integrated solar water heatingsystem. The evaluation of the thermal storage and analyzing the efficiency of the collector for solar water heating systems were done in Sokoto. The system was investigated without phase change materials; with usedengine oil and Shea butter oil in other determine the best thermal storage material that improves the collector’sefficiency. The optimum performance analyzed has efficiencies of 4.7 %, 49.2 % and 78.8 % for the water heater without phase change materials and then with used engine oil and Shea butter oil, respectively. Indicating that the increase in temperature of the system using thermal energy storage is significant. Shea butter oil shows optimum performance compared to used engine oil.
A STUDY OF POPULATION GROWTH AND ITS SOCIETAL EFFECTS IN BALI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF TARABA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: USMAN BITRUS DANFULANI , BARMA MOUDU , SALAWU ABDULKADIR SAIDU , ALHASSAN MUSA , HAMIDU UMARU WANIYOS
Published: February 2023

Human beings evolved under conditions of high mortality due to famine, diseases and relatively low fertility rate. In the recent years, human population has drawn attention to the global issues because of the alarming growth rate. The study focused on growth rate of human population and its societal effects. A questionnaire was developed and administered among 389 respondents selected for the study. Also population figures of the area of study was obtained from 2006 National Population Bulletin and information from settlement, farm land, vegetation, build-up, water and others were obtained through Global Positioning System (GPS). The statistical analysis used for the study includes correlation, analysis of variance, and exponential  modelling and simulation study. The results of the analysis showed that the settlement, water usage and farm land increases while vegetation reduces in years 1986, 2005 and 2012.The simulation studies carried out because of availability of relevant data showed an exponential trend of population growth. A population projected indicated a carrying capacity of 322,160 people in the next 30 years and a growth rate of 1.81%. We recommended that the local government should consider population growth at all level of education in its budget. There should be a study of population growth at every level of education; social amenities should be increased as the population increases. The study also recommends for the evaluation of technological, pollution and the social trends on a vital coefficient and the fertility rates for at most 3 years to determine the variation in the population growth.
Homicídio, infidelidade e sujeira em quartos de hotel: problemas de significado probatório
Authors: Pereira Eliomar Da Silva
Published: February 2023

As chamadas evidências não se podem considerar provas dos crimes antes que se lhes imponha um significado probatório, mas este significado é mais problemático do que os discursos acusatórios estão dispostos a admitir. Este artigo pretende discutir as diversas teorias do significado que se encontram na filosofia da linguagem em diálogo com a filosofia da mente, buscando responder o que podemos considerar significado probatório em contexto processual penal. Buscaremos enfatizar como a dimensão pragmática é especialmente relevante para alcançarmos um significado qualquer, sobretudo em questão probatória penal. Ao final, esperamos tornar evidente que o significado probatório depende de muitos elementos ideológicos que contribuem para uma conclusão acerca do que é prova de um crime.
La prueba grafotécnica: fundamentos, validez y fiabilidad
Authors: Cando Shevchukova Sergio Luis
Published: February 2023

La prueba pericial actualmente reviste trascendencia en la toma de decisiones. Su recepción acrítica y la falta de datos empíricos ha provocado mucha preocupación, dada su posibilidad de error. Especial atención exige, en este contexto, la prueba grafotécnica, ya que se ha recibido y utilizado acríticamente como una metodología válida y fiable. Es, pues, objeto de este trabajo analizar cuáles son los fundamentos empíricos de la prueba pericial grafotécnica; es decir, conocer si disponemos de información sobre la validez y fiabilidad de estos procedimientos, abordar sus métodos y, en fin, conocer cómo funcionan. En este estudio se investigan las premisas teóricas y fundamentos de la prueba grafotécnica, y se repasan también las metodologías, técnicas y «leyes» en las cuales se sustenta. A partir de ese análisis se extraerán algunas conclusiones sobre su funcionamiento para conocer si empíricamente mide lo que pretende medir.
Probable cause y la Cuarta Enmienda de la Constitución estadounidense: una garantía tan imprecisa como necesaria
Authors: Bachmaier Winter Lorena
Published: February 2023

El objetivo de la Cuarta Enmienda es proteger el derecho la libertad y a la intimidad de todos los ciudadanos frente a intromisiones no legítimas por parte del estado. Sólo si las autoridades (la policía) acreditan que hay suficientes elementos –lo que en el sistema español denominaríamos indicios racionales– que apuntan hacia la probable comisión de un delito o a la probabilidad de hallar pruebas en un domicilio, esa intromisión podría ser conforme con la Cuarta Enmienda. El concepto de probable cause en el derecho de los Estados Unidos de Norteamérica no es un mero estándar de prueba, pues se trata de un elemento consustancial a la propia noción de rule of law o Estado de derecho. Pero la Cuarta Enmienda no define qué es probable cause, y la jurisprudencia sólo ha podido llegar a afirmar que se trata de un estándar que supera lo que sería una mera sospecha, pero que se ubica claramente por debajo del grado de certeza que se requiere para condenar a un acusado. Dentro de ese amplio rango, el Tribunal Supremo USA ha reconocido que lo determinante será realizar un cálculo de probabilidades. Aquí pretendo reflejar en primer lugar cuál es el significado que la jurisprudencia norteamericana ha otorgado a este concepto, y poner de manifiesto cómo la probable cause, más allá de su consideración o no como estándar probatorio, es una garantía constitucional que adquiere una relevancia aún mayor en la sociedad digital.
The Cheese Stands Alone
Authors: Robichaud Danielle , Byl Lauren
Published: February 2023

Despite a body of scholarly literature about the labour conditions of Canadian academic libraries/ians, little has been written about non-unionized Canadian librarians/archivists or the related historical and evolving labour environment at the University of Waterloo. Drawing on archival records and scholarly literature, this paper situates Waterloo within the Canadian academic library landscape in conversation with existing assumptions and understandings about academic and/or faculty status. It documents failed attempts at unionization and representation of librarians/archivists by the Faculty Association of the University of Waterloo (FAUW), the role of Waterloo administration in those outcomes, and the nature of, and changes to, the Librarian and Archivist Employment Handbook over time.
AI-powered inspections of facades in reinforced concrete buildings
Authors: De Filippo Michele , Asadiabadi Sasan , Kuang J S , Mishra Dhanada K , Sun Harris
Published: February 2023

Worldwide there are plenty of aged Reinforced Concrete (RC) buildings in need of thorough inspections. Cracks, delamination, stains, leakages, debonding and moisture ingressions are common defects found in RC structures. Such problems are typically diagnosed through qualitative assessment of visual and thermal photographs (data) by certified inspectors. However, qualitative inspections are very tedious, time-consuming and costly. This paper presents an alternative novel approach to drastically increase efficiency by decreasing the data collection and analysis time. Data collection for the inspection of facades is undertaken with Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) either through an autonomous pre-programmed flight or through a human-piloted flight. Data analysis is performed by implementing up-to-date AI-powered algorithms to automatically detect defects on visual and thermal photographs. All the recognised defects and thermal anomalies are labelled on the building facade for comprehensive evaluation of the asset. This paper reports that the implementation of AIpowered inspections can save up to 67% of the time spent and 52% of the cost in comparison to the most commonly adopted practice in the industry with an average accuracy of 90.5% and 82% for detection of visual defects and thermal anomalies, respectively.
Cirurgia segura: visão dos acompanhantes de pacientes cirúrgicos pediátricos
Authors: Urbano Eliana Mendonça da Silva , Silva Ivette Francisco Tavares da , Viana Verônica Pinheiro , Gazelle Telma Galvão de Assis
Published: February 2023

Estudo descritivo de abordagem qualitativa, com 27 acompanhantes de crianças internadas num hospital pediátrico do Rio de Janeiro. Objetivou-se caracterizar os acompanhantes da criança hospitalizada na unidade de internação aguardando procedimento cirúrgico eletivo e descrever sua visão acerca da cirurgia segura. Para a coleta dos dados realizou-se entrevista semiestruturada. Os dados foram analisados a partir da análise de conteúdo proposta por Bardin. Da análise, emergiram duas categorias: Desconhecimento sobre a temática e Cirurgia Segura: um conjunto de conceitos. Percebemos que, a temática Cirurgia Segura, bem como as demais metas internacionais de segurança são pouco difundidas entre os participantes do estudo. Há que se propor e implementar estratégias que promovam espaços de discussão e construção compartilhada do conhecimento, com a finalidade de incluir o paciente nas questões de segurança do paciente.
The Effect of Communication, Motivation and Job Satisfaction on Employee Performance: Empirical Study Of Hotel Harper Prints By Aston, Makassar
Authors: Arimbawa I Gede Arya Pering , Goeliling Ardhi , Ripal Tyta , Peringga Putra Arya Bayu , Amin Abd Rahim
Published: February 2023

The functioning of the parts in the organization depends on the human ability in the organization, especially in communication, motivation, and job satisfaction for the direction of achieving employee performance goals. This study aims to test and prove empirically whether communication, motivation,n and job satisfaction have a positive and significant impact on employee performance. This research is quantitative, popular, ion and sam in research areas e all employees of Hotel Harper Perintis By Aston, Makassar with the current population reachesreachingple. The sampling technique in this case uses a saturated sampling technique. This study was analyzed with SPSS 24 software. The results showed that (1) Communication had a positive and significant influence on the performance of Harper Perintis employees by Aston - Makassar; (2) Motivation positively and significantly influence to employee performance of Harper Perintis by Aston - Makassar and (3) Job satisfaction positively and significantly influence to the performance of Harper Perintis employee by Aston - Makassar.
Analysis of the Influence of Physical Environment, Service Quality, and Satisfaction on Revisit Intention at Resort in Batam City
Authors: Wijaya Dewirahayu Sad , Anggraini Ratih
Published: February 2023

The tourism and hospitality industry in Indonesia is in recession due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many businesses have closed to help keep the virus under control, such as shopping malls and tourist attractions. Staycation opportunities in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic can be a profitable business for tourism stakeholders. Taking advantage of the staycation opportunities has increased the popularity of hotels and resorts in Batam City. The study aims to analyze the influence of the physical environment, service quality, and satisfaction on the intention of revisiting resorts in Batam City. The research uses a quantitative approach by examining various variables and analyzed through the sampling process. The respondents of the study were local and domestic tourists who had stayed in Batam City. The results showed that there was a positive influence between the physical environment, service quality, and satisfaction with the intention to revisit. Resort businesses need to understand the concept of staycation and the importance of improving products, services, and satisfaction to customers so that there is a desire to revisit.
EDUCATIONAL LEVEL OF THE POPULATION IN 1970-1979 (ON THE MATERIALS OF THE SVERDLOVSK REGION)
Authors: KORNILOV GENNADIY , ZHARKOV ALEXANDER
Published: February 2023

The article is devoted to the study of the educational level of the population of Sverdlovsk region in the 1970s. The sources for its study were legislative acts reflecting the state policy in the field of education, and materials from the 1970 and 1979 censuses. The purpose of the article is to trace the change in the level of education of the population of the Sverdlovsk region from 1970 to 1979. The authors analyzed the population censuses data on the level of education of the population. Conclusions are drawn about a significant increase in the proportion of people with secondary general and special, as well as higher and incomplete higher education. Among the population of 10 years and over, more than half began to have an education not lower than incomplete secondary, and in the groups of 20-29 and 30-39 years old, the vast majority of them became such. The percentage of people with primary education has decreased among the general population and among young people, but has increased in the older age categories. Compared with the RSFSR, the proportion of persons with secondary general and special education, as well as with higher education, increased during the intercensal period. However, the indicators of higher and incomplete higher education still lagged significantly behind the national level.
Do Civic Engagement Assignments Increase Political Efficacy? An Empirical Study
Authors: Hallenbrook Christopher , Russo Salvatore
Published: February 2023

Research shows successfully completing a course in American Politics can increase feelings of political efficacy in students (Colby et al 2007, Dominguez et al 2017), but do not isolate a specific mechanism that is causing this increase. Some attempts to develop political efficacy have focused on resource intensive projects (Elder et al 2007, DeLaet 2016). We examine the ways in which small classroom assignments that require students to directly practice the skills of citizenship can cause students to gain confidence that they can effectively participate in politics. By comparing sections of POL 101 with interactive assignments and those without we explore what educators can do to foster political efficacy in their Introduction to American Politics courses. Our research therefore has the potential to identify specific, easily adoptable teaching techniques that can increase student political efficacy without burdening either educators or students.
Chronic health conditions measured in general health questionnaires for adolescents in Europe
Authors: Cerqueira Ana , Godeau Emmanuelle , Mitra Sophie , Gaspar Tania , Gaspar de Matos Margarida
Published: February 2023

The present study intends to assess how chronic health conditions are being evaluated in general health questionnaires aimed at adolescents. A review of questionnaires that contain questions about different domains of the adolescents' lives and about chronic disease and/or disability was performed. Different terminologies regarding the domain of chronic conditions (e.g. long-term illness, disability, medical condition, illnesses/disorders, chronic disease, health problems) and different questions formulations and evaluation measures are used. Some questionnaires include questions about the specific areas affected by the chronic health condition and limitations This work allowed an overview of the main categories present in the questions about chronic disease/disability that are currently being included in these instruments. It highlights the importance of considering the adolescents with chronic conditions in the general health questionnaires, as this allows for increasing knowledge about their needs and difficulties. Data collection on adolescents with chronic conditions’ social participation is very important and should be reinforced through improved questions.
The five C-S of positive youth development and life purpose among Roma and Egyptian minority adolescents in Albania
Authors: Dervishi Eglantina , Canollari-Baze Albana , Hysi Fatjona , Wiium Nora
Published: February 2023

The 5Cs model of Positive Youth Development focuses on thriving adolescents who develop positivequalities, which are known to help them deal with challenges, tasks, and psychological concerns. LifePurpose acts as a protective factor in relation to the general well-being of adolescents and supports the5Cs through this process of growth. The aim of this study is to examine the role of the 5Cs of PYD, namelyCompetence, Confidence, Connection, Caring, and Character, and how Life Purpose is explained by the 5Cs. There is no precedent study on the 5Cs model of positive youth development in Albania. In specific, this study investigated the 5Cs of PYD for the two most marginalized minority groups in Albania, the Roma, and Egyptian communities. Data were collected from 201 participants from the three most populated cities with Roma minority (N=100) and Egyptian minority (N=101), aged between 14-20 years old. Association between the 5Cs and purpose in life was found. Life Purpose has an association with Character, Caring, and Connection. In interaction with 5Cs, Life Purpose provides a framework for systematic behavior in life by motivating adolescents to plan and make efforts to achieve in decision-making and performance.
The value of being the decisive voter: Exploratory evidence from a hedonic model
Authors: Peters Ethan , Hall Joshua C.
Published: February 2023

In the field of public economics, there is a literature on calculating the probability of being a decisive voter. The raison d'etre of this literature is to explain voter turnout. In this short empirical paper, we look at the question from a different angle. Heterogeneity in voting preferences means that some individuals vote rationally, others instrumentally, and some individuals are marginal and respond to changes in the probability of being decisive. Individuals with a preference for instrumental voting might be willing to pay more to live in an area with a greater probability of being a decisive voter. If this is the case, housing prices should reflect this higher willingness to pay. We test our theory using hedonic data from Columbus Ohio and find suggestive evidence that voters are willing to pay for a greater likelihood of being a decisive voter. Our results, however, cannot rule out other interpretations.
A computer vision framework for quantification of feather growth patterns
Authors: Thompson Tyler N. , Vickrey Anna , Shapiro Michael D. , Hsu Edward
Published: February 2023

Feather growth patterns are important anatomical phenotypes for investigating the underlying genomic regulation of skin and epidermal appendage development. However, characterization of feather growth patterns previously relied on manual examination and visual inspection, which are both subjective and practically prohibitive for large sample sizes. Here, we report a new high-throughput technique to quantify the location and spatial extent of reversed feathers that comprise head crests in domestic pigeons. Phenotypic variation in pigeon feather growth patterns were rendered by computed tomography (CT) scans as point clouds. We then developed machine learning based, feature extraction techniques to isolate the feathers, and map the growth patterns on the skin in a quantitative, automated, and non-invasive way. Results from five test animals were in excellent agreement with “ground truth” results obtained via visual inspection, which demonstrates the viability of this method for quantification of feather growth patterns. Our findings underscore the potential and increasingly indispensable role of modern computer vision and machine learning techniques at the interface of organismal biology and genetics.
Overexpression of 18S rRNA methyltransferase CrBUD23 enhances biomass and lutein content in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Liu Chenglong , Guo Haoze , Zhao Xinmei , Zou Bingxi , Sun Ting , Feng Jinwei , Zeng Zhiyong , Wen Xueer , Chen Jun , Hu Zhangli , Lou Sulin , Li Hui
Published: February 2023

Post-transcriptional modification of nucleic acids including transfer RNA (tRNA), ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and messenger RNA (mRNA) is vital for fine-tunning of mRNA translation. Methylation is one of the most widespread post-transcriptional modifications in both eukaryotes and prokaryotes. HsWBSCR22 and ScBUD23 encodes a 18S rRNA methyltransferase that positively regulates cell growth by mediating ribosome maturation in human and yeast, respectively. However, presence and function of 18S rRNA methyltransferase in green algae are still elusive. Here, through bioinformatic analysis, we identified CrBUD23 as the human WBSCR22 homolog in genome of the green algae model organism Chlamydonomas reinhardtii. CrBUD23 was a conserved putative 18S rRNA methyltransferase widely exited in algae, plants, insects and mammalians. Transcription of CrBUD23 was upregulated by high light and down-regulated by low light, indicating its role in photosynthesis and energy metabolism. To characterize its biological function, coding sequence of CrBUD23 fused with a green fluorescence protein (GFP) tag was derived by 35S promoter and stably integrated into Chlamydomonas genome by glass bead-mediated transformation. Compared to C. reinhardtii wild type CC-5325, transgenic strains overexpressing CrBUD23 resulted in accelerated cell growth, thereby leading to elevated biomass, dry weight and protein content. Moreover, overexpression of CrBUD23 increased content of photosynthetic pigments but not elicit the activation of antioxidative enzymes, suggesting CrBUD23 favors growth and proliferation in the trade-off with stress responses. Bioinformatic analysis revealed the G1177 was the putative methylation site in 18S rRNA of C. reinhardtii CC-849. G1177 was conserved in other Chlamydonomas isolates, indicating the conserved methyltransferase activity of BUD23 proteins. In addition, CrTrm122, the homolog of BUD23 interactor Trm112, was found involved in responses to high light as same as CrBUD23. Taken together, our study revealed that cell growth, protein content and lutein accumulation of Chlamydomonas were positively regulated by the 18S rRNA methyltransferase CrBUD23, which could serve as a promising candidate for microalgae genetic engineering.
Application of injectable hydrogels in cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Liu Chutong , Liao Yingying , Liu Lei , Xie Luoyijun , Liu Junbo , Zhang Yumao , Li Yuzhen
Published: February 2023

Immunotherapy is a revolutionary and promising approach to cancer treatment. However, traditional cancer immunotherapy often has the disadvantages of limited immune response rate, poor targeting, and low treatment index due to systemic administration. Hydrogels are drug carriers with many advantages. They can be loaded and transported with immunotherapeutic agents, chemical anticancer drugs, radiopharmaceuticals, photothermal agents, photosensitizers, and other therapeutic agents to achieve controlled release of drugs, extend the retention time of drugs, and thus successfully trigger anti-tumor effects and maintain long-term therapeutic effects after administration. This paper reviews recent advances in injectable hydrogel-based cancer immunotherapy, including immunotherapy alone, immunotherapy with combination chemotherapy, radiotherapy, phototherapy, and DNA hydrogel-based immunotherapy. Finally, we review the potential and limitations of injectable hydrogels in cancer immunotherapy.
Where are all the egg genes?
Authors: Maniates Katherine A. , Singson Andrew
Published: February 2023

Complementary forward and reverse genetic approaches in several model systems have resulted in a recent burst of fertilization gene discovery. The number of genetically validated gamete surface molecules have more than doubled in the last few years. All the genetically validated sperm fertilization genes encode transmembrane or secreted molecules. Curiously, the discovery of genes that encode oocyte molecules have fallen behind that of sperm genes. This review discusses potential experimental biases and inherent biological reasons that could slow egg fertilization gene discovery. Finally, we shed light on current strategies to identify genes that may result in further identification of egg fertilization genes.
Seipin—still a mysterious protein?
Authors: Salo Veijo T.
Published: February 2023

Cells store excess energy in the form of lipid droplets (LDs), a specialized sub-compartment of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) network. The lipodystrophy protein seipin is a key player in LD biogenesis and ER-LD contact site maintenance. Recent structural and in silico studies have started to shed light on the molecular function of seipin as a LD nucleator in early LD biogenesis, whilst new cell biological work implies a role for seipin in ER-mitochondria contact sites and calcium metabolism. In this minireview, I discuss recent insights into the molecular function of seipin.
Two new corticioid species of Phanerochaetaceae (Polyporales, Basidiomycota) from Southwest China
Authors: Zhang Qiu-Yue , Liu Zhan-Bo , Liu Hong-Gao , Si Jing
Published: February 2023

Two new corticioid fungi in the family Phanerochaetaceae, Phanerochaete shenghuaii and Rhizochaete variegata, are described and illustrated from Southwest China based on morphological characteristics and molecular data. Phanerochaete shenghuaii is characterized by annual, effused, inseparable basidiocarps from substrate, ivory white to cream hymenial surface when juvenile, buff to yellowish brown with age, buff in KOH, a monomitic hyphal system, smooth cystidia, and ellipsoid basidiospores measuring 4.8–6 × 2.5–3.8 µm. Rhizochaete variegata is characterized by annual, effused, easily separable basidiocarps from substrate, buff-yellow to clay-pink fresh hymenial surface becoming cream to buff upon drying, violet in KOH, a monomitic hyphal system, encrusted cystidia, and ellipsoid basidiospores measuring 3–4 × 2.2–3 µm. The phylogenetic analyses based on ITS + nLSU rDNA sequences confirm the placement of the two new species, respectively, in the Phanerochaete clade and the Rhizochaete clade of Phanerochaetaceae. Phylogenetically related and morphologically similar species to these two new species are discussed.