bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging: Progress Report 2022 - 2023
Authors:   Inter American Development Bank
Published: July 2024

At the heart of the IDB Group's mission lies an unwavering commitment to fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) within our organization. We recognize that embracing DEIB empowers us to achieve our mission and make a profound impact in Latin America and the Caribbean. Through ambitious targets and collective responsibility, we amplify diverse voices and actively recruit talent from underrepresented communities. In 2022 and 2023, our collaborative effort led to the development of the 2023-2028 DEIB Framework, aligning with our People Strategy and the recently approved IDB Group Institutional Strategy. This framework outlines our vision and action plan to ensure equitable opportunities, foster inclusion, and recognize contributions from diverse backgrounds. The IDB and IDB Invest achieved EDGE Move and EDGE Plus recertifications in 2023, demonstrating our commitment to workplace gender and intersectional equity. Building on the progress in gender parity, during 2022 and 2023, we added commitments to intersectional diversity, aiming for equitable representation at all levels. Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) played a pivotal role in advancing DEIB initiatives, organizing events, and providing resources to commemorate international days, fostering a culture of inclusion. The 2022 DEI Survey highlighted a favorable DEI Index Score and perceptions of diversity and equity that vary among groups. This survey provided baseline data for targeted solutions. Engaging in diverse talent outreach events and virtual career fairs underscored our commitment to attracting talent from underrepresented groups, while DEIB training sessions and initiatives equipped employees to address biases and promote inclusion. Efforts to strengthen DEIB resources in Country Offices demonstrated our commitment to regional inclusivity and collaboration. The DEIB Awards recognized employee contributions to the DEIB agenda, highlighting our commitment to equality and integration in Latin America and the Caribbean. In summary, our progress reflects our unwavering dedication to fostering an inclusive culture where diversity is celebrated, and every individual feels valued and empowered.
ANÁLISE DO EQUILÍBRIO E FUNCIONALIDADE DE IDOSOS EM TEMPOS DE PANDEMIA: IMPLICAÇÕES COMPORTAMENTAIS E BIOMECÂNICAS NAS RECOMENDAÇÕES PARA REABILITAÇÃO FÍSICA.
Authors: Andréa Fuzer Lira Pereira Alexia , Jacques Bellini Angela , Beppler Martins Tamiris , Moraes Santos Gilmar
Published: July 2024

Objetivos: analisar as características do controle do equilíbrio e da funcionalidade nos idosos com diferentes graus de preocupação em cair após o confinamento domiciliar devido à pandemia de covid-19. Método: participaram 100 idosos entre 60 e 80 anos, de ambos os sexos, que foram submetidos à avaliação da velocidade de oscilação do centro de gravidade e dos sistemas de equilíbrio por meio da plataforma VSR Sport (NeuroCom™) com o protocolo Clinical Test for Sensory Integration in Balance (MCTSIB). A funcionalidade foi avaliada pelo sensor inercial BTS-G Walk, que mensurou o tempo total de realização do Timed Up and Go Test (TUGT). Para quantificar o nível de preocupação em cair, foi utilizada a Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES). Para comparar o nível de preocupação em cair, baixa, moderada, alta, nas variáveis de equilíbrio e funcionalidade, foi utilizada a análise ANOVA one way. Resultados: verificou-se que, dos 100 idosos, 33 apresentaram baixa, 47, moderada, e 20, alta preocupação em cair. Não foram observadas diferenças significativas no equilíbrio e na mobilidade funcional entre os grupos. Contudo, o grupo com baixa preocupação em cair dos idosos exibiu menor tempo no TUGT. Conclusão: o confinamento domiciliar durante a pandemia de covid-19 não prejudicou o controle de equilíbrio ou a mobilidade funcional dos idosos, independentemente do nível de preocupação com quedas.
Comparative analysis of the chemical composition and mechanical properties of duralumin welded joint produced by friction stir welding
Authors: Shchapov G. V. ,   M.N. Mikheev Institute of Metal Physics of the Ural Branch of RAS, Kazantseva N. V. ,   M.N. Mikheev Institute of Metal Physics of the Ural Branch of RAS
Published: July 2024

Friction stir welding is an advanced method of joining various metals and alloys in the aircraft and mechanical engineering industries. This type of welding is used to join materials that are difficult to weld or not weldable by conventional methods. The high-strength D16 aluminum alloy is difficult to weld by fusion, which is associated with the formation of a dendritic structure in the fusion zone leading to a decrease in the mechanical strength of the joint. In the work, the microstructure and microhardness of a welded seam of the D16 aluminum alloy produced by friction stir welding was studied. Using scanning electron microscopy and optical metallography, the authors identified the presence of three zones: the weld core, the thermomechanical impact zone, and the heat effected zone. In the central part of the welded joint (in the core), a laminated onion ring structure was discovered. A change in the chemical composition of the aluminum solid solution was identified in different areas of the weld zones, as well as the presence of a concentration gradient within each zone. In the upper part of the welded seam, the solid solution is silicon-enriched and depleted in copper. Due to the solid solution depletion in alloying elements, the aluminum content in the solid solution in the zone of the welded joint is higher compared to the initial state. The microhardness values in different areas of the welded joint correlate with changes in the chemical composition. In the welded joint zone, a significant decrease in microhardness was found compared to the initial state, and a change in microhardness associated with the chemical composition gradient within each zone was also observed.
Acoustic properties of 15-5 PH maraging steel after energy deposition
Authors: Muravieva O. V. ,   Kalashnikov Izhevsk State Technical University, Muraviev V. V. , Volkova L. V. , Vladykin A. L. , Belosludtsev K. Yu. ,   Udmurt Federal Research Center of the Ural branch of the RAS,   Kalashnikov Izhevsk State Technical University,   Udmurt Federal Research Center of the Ural branch of the RAS,   Kalashnikov Izhevsk State Technical University,   Kalashnikov Izhevsk State Technical University,   Kalashnikov Izhevsk State Technical University
Published: July 2024

The study of the acoustic properties of maraging steels operated under various energy force and temperature actions is a critical task, since it is the method of acoustic structuroscopy that provides the most reliable connection with the structure, stress-strain state and mechanical properties of steels. The paper is devoted to research of the acoustic properties of the 15-5 PH maraging steel samples under various types of heat treatment under the conditions of mechanical tensile and cyclic loads. Samples of the 15-5 PH maraging steel were studied in three structural states: solid solution annealing and subsequent aging at 470 and 565 °C; during tensile tests; during cyclic tension-compression loading. The research used a unique scientific installation “Information-measuring complex for investigation of acoustic properties of materials and products”. It implements the acoustic mirror-shadow multiple reflections method using electromagnetic-acoustic and piezoelectric transducers based on polyvinylidene fluoride film to excite and receive waves and allows determining the velocity of wave propagation with an error of no more than 2 m/s. The acoustic (wave velocity, elastic moduli, electromagnetic-acoustical (EMA) transformation coefficients, acoustic anisotropy coefficients, acoustoelastic coupling coefficients) and electromagnetic (coercive force and electrical conductivity) characteristics of the samples were examined. The samples were studied in the initial state (before loading); stepwise in the process of tensile loads and subsequent unloading; after tensile tests; during cyclic tension-compression loading. It was revealed that the following acoustic parameters of 15-5 PH steel samples are the greatest structural sensitivity to mechanical tensile load and cyclic loading: transverse wave velocity, Poisson’s ratio, double EMA-transformation coefficient, and acoustic anisotropy coefficient.
Constitutional Law and Political Realism: The Negative Theory of Freedom of Speech
Authors: Kulnev Aleksandr S.
Published: July 2024

Classic positive theories of freedom of speech explain enhanced constitutional defense of speech in terms of fundamental values served by expression (pursuit of truth, democratic governance or personal autonomy). Negative approach, which is the subject of this article, focuses not on the high social value of speech, but on the unique risks of its suppression. The dangers of repressive censorship mainly stem from personal interests of office-holders (legislators as well as law-enforcement officers) or from intolerance. Psychological reasons and the architecture of censorial decision-making turn speech into an especially fragile object of regulation. The idea underlying the constitutional status of freedom of speech is the distrust of government decision-making in speech regulation. Judicial review should pay close attention to the design of abridging laws and justifications provided for them. These laws should be worded clearly and should not allow for selective viewpoint censorship. The simplicity of negative approach and its political realism make it the most plausible theory for interpreting constitutional article on freedom of speech (expression).
National Security and Human Rights
Authors: Omarova Zukhra N. ,   Associate Professor of the Department of Constitutional (State) and Administrative Law of the North Caucasus Institute (Branch)
Published: July 2024

The article deals with the problem of national security in the context of ensuring human rights. The relevance of the topic of the article is due to the fact that issues of ensuring national security and protecting the rights of citizens currently arise quite often. Particular attention is paid to the amendments made to the Constitution of the Russian Federation aimed at strengthening guarantees of human and civil rights and freedoms. It is concluded that in order to ensure national security, it is necessary to introduce certain restrictions on the rights and freedoms of citizens by fixing in part 3 of Article 55 of the Constitution of the Russian Federation the general legal mechanism of such restriction. The legislator should introduce the implementation of specific restrictions on rights and freedoms, taking into account their exceptional nature, on a scientific basis.
Who “Banned” New Medicine in the Ottoman Empire?
Authors: Yerlioğlu Akif Ercihan
Published: July 2024

Ottoman Sultan Muṣṭafā II issued an imperial order on the use of new medical drugs and their probable harmful effects in 1703, which dictated an investigation of medical practitioners and the closure of the shops of incompetent physicians. Many historians have consulted the transcription of the document (rather than the original), which has been erroneously dated to the reign of Muṣṭafā II’s successor, Aḥmed III. This fallacy inevitably led to misguided evaluations of the context in which it was actually promulgated. Furthermore, some scholars interpreted the suspicious tone of the decree regarding novel drugs as a total ban on “new medicine” (ṭıbb-ı cedīd) in the Ottoman Empire. In this article, I trace the dating error in the secondary literature and re-evaluate previous archival inferences. Arguing that there is no extant evidence supporting systematic oppression of the adherents of a particular medical framework, I also place the physician’s shop in its eighteenth-century socio-economic context in an attempt to demonstrate the twofold role of the physician in the marketplace as both a health professional and a shopkeeper/artisan.
Batı Anadolu Kırsalında “Ermeni Meselesi”nin Tanzimat Kökenleri
Authors: Arıkan Fatma Melek
Published: July 2024

Ermeni meselesi genellikle Sultan II. Abdülhamid döneminde şiddet olaylarının yaşandığı Doğu vilayetleri ile imparatorluk başkentine odaklanılarak ele alınmıştır. Bu makalenin amacı Ermeni meselesine Batı Anadolu taşrası penceresinden bakarak so- runun kökenlerine dair Doğu vilayetlerine dayanan tarihyazımı literatürünü tamamlayıcı, karşılaştırmalı tarihsel bir perspektif sunmaktır. Makalede, politik ekonomi ile siyasi haklar ve imparatorluğa aidiyette geçerli olan hiyerarşiler arasındaki ilişkiler incelenmektedir. Bu ilişkiler bağlamında, Sünni Müslümanların son dönem Osmanlı İmparatorluğu’ndaki iktisadi ve siyasi konumları irdelenmeden Ermeni meselesinin tam manasıyla anlaşılamayacağı iddia edilmektedir. Çalışmanın özelde odaklandığı coğrafya, geçmişte belirgin bir Ermeni nüfus yoğunlaşmasına sahip olan İzmit-Bursa bölgesi kırsalıdır.
Muhavere as a Strategy for Reconciliation in Ottoman Translation History
Authors: Çeviktay Osman , Karadağ Ayşe Banu
Published: July 2024

The Tanzimat (Reorganisation) Period, which coincided with the end of the 19th century in the Ottoman Empire, sparked efforts towards modernisation in society. In the context of modernisation, translation occupied a central position in the Ottoman literary and cultural polysystem and played a shaping role with different strategies adopted by translators. It was during this period that “the conflict thesis” arguing for a conflict between religion and science was raised in the West, with its reverberations continuing well into our day. One of the leading works supporting this thesis was John William Draper’s book History of the Conflict between Religion and Science, which was published in 1875. The book found its way into Ottoman Turkish through Ahmed Midhat Efendi’s translation, Nizâ-ı İlm ü Din – İslam ve Ulûm. The aim of this paper is to understand and interpret, in the framework of Ottoman translation history, why and how Ahmed Midhat Efendi used muhavere strategy in this translation in order to (re)witness the importance of the role the translator played as an “eloquent mediator” within the Ottoman literary and cultural polysystem.
“Edirne Bâdi Efendi Nüshasının ‘İlk Anonim Kronik’ Olduğu İddiası ile Neşri Üzerine Bazı Mülahazalar” Başlıklı Tenkit Yazıma Verilen Cevaba Cevap
Authors: Öztürk Necdet
Published: July 2024

Bu derginin 61. sayısında yayımlanan tenkit yazıma verilen cevap, derginin müteakip sayısında yayımlandı.
On Zionism or The Zionist Question by Muḥammad Rūḥī al-Khālidī (1864-1913): Exploring the Context of a Pioneering Work
Authors: Saeed El Ali Mariam
Published: July 2024

Every critical evaluation that reviews written contributions by Arab intellectuals in the late Ottoman period is certainly vital; nevertheless, one has to engage in this endeavor cautiously. Not unlike other traditions from the past, the Arabic scholarly legacy during the early 1900s is elusive, multi-layered, and does not just give itself up to “rediscovery.”1 Revisiting any work composed in Arabic in the first decade of the twentieth century should proceed systematically through a process of textual analysis, with the sociocultural milieu of the era firmly kept in mind.
VIII. Taşnak Kongresi Hakkında Yeni Bilgiler ve Alaattin Uca’nın Sözde Değerlendirme Yazısına Cevap
Authors: Çiçek Kemal
Published: July 2024

Osmanlı Araştırmaları Dergisinin 58. sayısında “VIII. Taşnak Kongresinin Perde Arkası ya da Taşnakların I. Dünya Savaşı Öncesi Müttefik Arayışı”1 başlıklı bir makalem yayınlanmıştı.
Yasemin Asadi, İranlı Yolcuların Gözünden Osmanlı İstanbul’u (1802-1905)
Authors: Yıldırım Alper
Published: July 2024

Seyahatnameler bir bölgenin tarihi, coğrafyası, sosyolojik yapısı ve diğer birçok unsuru hakkında bilgi sunması açısından önemli kaynaklardır. Kitapta İran’da seyahatnamelerin sıklaştığı 19. yüzyılda hac yolcularının, Batılılaşma yanlısı devlet adamlarının ve gezginlerin dönemin İstanbul’u hakkında görüş ve betimlemeleri yer almaktadır.
Garibaldi Film Commission
Authors: Pereira Silveira Vanilson , Cardinale Baptista Maria Luiza
Published: July 2024

O artigo tem objetivo de analisar a atuação da Garibaldi Film Commissison e sua relação com o desenvolvimento do turismo cinematográfico no município. Com abordagem qualitativa, a metodologia envolveu um estudo bibliográfico, entrevista e mapeamento das produções audiovisuais. Em relação aos resultados é possível apontar que a criação da Garibaldi Film Commission contribuiu para ampliar o número de projetos audiovisuais, movimentar a economia local e incentivar o desenvolvimento do turismo audiovisual. A variedade das locações, a infraestrutura, a receptividade da comunidade e as parcerias estabelecidas representam aspectos significativos na consolidação da região como um destino film friendly.
Popular and Classical Music in Education. Coexistence or Competition?
Authors: Soszyński Piotr
Published: July 2024

The article discusses the coexistence of popular and classical music in general music education. It touches on the problem of how to distinguish both areas of artistic activity and discusses attempts to define them presented so far. It emphasizes the integrative nature of the exploration of different domains, combining different ways of perception and expression in the context of educational activities.
Międzykulturowa Konferencja Pedagogiki Sztuki – sprawozdanie
Authors: Sasin Magdalena
Published: July 2024

Sprawozdanie dotyczy Międzykulturowej Konferencji Pedagogiki Sztuki „Edukacja przez sztukę dla pokoju”, która odbyła się w dn. 25–28 września 2023 r. w Ustce. Tematyka konferencji, zorganizowanej przez Uniwersytet Pomorski w Słupsku, dotyczyła teoretycznego znaczenia i praktycznego zastosowania różnych dziedzin sztuki w szeroko pojętych działaniach pedagogicznych, w tym w aktywnościach nakierowanych na promowanie i wzmacnianie kultury pokoju. W konferencji wzięli udział naukowcy z różnych krajów, w tym z Ukrainy.
Importance of L-carnitine as Biochemical Marker for Semen Quality Preservation after Cryopreservation in Stallions
Authors: Shitikova Anna M. , Atroshchenko Mikhail M. , Zvyagina Valentina I. , Belskikh Eduard S. , Romanova Alina I.
Published: July 2024

Background: The aim of this work is to study the significance of carnitine fractions and NO metabolites for the assessment of spermatozoa resistance to cryopreservation, for which purpose these parameters were investigated in seminal plasma of animals divided according to the indices of spermatozoa of stallions subjected to cryopreservation. Methods: There were 18 breeding stallions with an average age of 11.28±5.46 years, all 18 were of Arabian breed. Using cluster analysis of indicators of semen quality, animals were identified into two groups: with high and low sperm resistance to cryopreservation-thawing. We assessed standard quality parameters in fresh and cryopreserved sperm, as well as carnitine and its fractions and NO metabolites in stallions’ seminal plasma, steroid hormones level and carnitine fractions in blood serum. Data were analyzed using JASP. Differences at p less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Result: Seminal plasma obtained from animals from the cluster with low motility after cryopreservation-thawing was characterized by a lower concentration of nitric oxide metabolites in 1,79 time (p=0.0415) and free carnitine in 1,64 time (p=0.0349). Positive moderate strength correlation were established between the level of seminal plasma free carnitine and the percentage of live spermatozoa after sperm cryopreservation-thawing.
Expressed Emotion as Moderator Between Openness to Experience and Help-Seeking Attitude Towards Telepsychology of Filipino Generation Zoomers
Authors: Barcelon Erice Sampaga , Abril Princess Kayla Escalante , Alcaraz Ma. Patricia Romero , Tripoli Maryrose Elaine Mendoza , Autriz Arianne Espiritu
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to explore whether expressed emotion moderates Generation Z's openness to experience and help-seeking attitude toward telepsychology and the extent to which the expressed emotion modifies that relationship. A total of 395 people belonging to the said generation participated in an online survey accomplished through Google Forms. The study used a correlational research method that focused on moderation to examine the relationship between Generation Z's openness to experience and their attitude toward telepsychology. Hence, this study sought to increase Generation Z's knowledge of mental health, including Philippine mental health conditions, as they develop a sense of responsibility, reduce ambiguity through telepsychology platforms, and improve their communication skills, which are crucial for ideal emotional socialization. Results have shown that expressed emotion does not seem to have a noticeable effect on Generation Z's attitudes toward seeking help through telepsychology. Nevertheless, there was a favorable correlation between being open to new experiences and having a willingness to seek help through telepsychology. The study adds to the growing body of knowledge on the mental health dynamics of Filipino Generation Z, and it offers beneficial information for the generation, professionals in mental healthcare, educators, and policymakers looking for enhanced support systems and interventions that meet the specific psychological needs of Filipino Generation Zoomers.

Keywords: expressed emotion; generation z; help-seeking attitude; openness to experience; telepsychology
“Your Photos, Your Fault”: Masculine Honor Beliefs and Perceptions of Revenge Pornography
Authors: Renken Noah D. , Hall Samantha J. , Prokhorets Svyatoslav “Slava” , Saucier Donald A.
Published: July 2024

We examined how individual differences in masculine honor beliefs (MHBs) related to third-person perceptions of revenge pornography (i.e., a man distributing nude photos of his ex-girlfriend) in response to a break-up. Consistent with our hypotheses, higher levels of MHBs were associated with higher ratings of the woman as negative, higher levels of victim-blaming the woman, and higher ratings of revenge pornography as justified. Furthermore, participants perceived the woman as more at fault, and the man’s behavior as more justified, when she cheated on him prior to his revenge (compared to when she did not cheat). Overall, our results suggest that both higher levels of MHBs and instances of infidelity inspire beliefs that disempower women victims. Our research extends our understanding of how MHBs and situational factors relate to perceptions of revenge pornography, including its justification and the stigmatization of its victims.
Molinos en la frontera: los rodeznos del obispado de Concepción (1550-1650)
Authors: Lacoste-Gargantini Pablo , Stewart Daniel , Montoya Muñoz Sandra Cristina , Salas-Molina Alejandro , Videla-Lara Marisol
Published: July 2024

El artículo examina las características socioeconómicas de los molinos hidráulicos harineros en el obispado de Concepción, sur de Chile, desde la colonización española hasta mediados del siglo XVII. Desde la perspectiva de historia social se analiza la relación que tuvieron las comunidades religiosas con los molinos hidráulicos; a través de fuentes ubicadas en el Archivo General de Indias y el Archivo Nacional Histórico, se identificaron dieciocho molinos en diversas áreas, desde el río Andalién hasta los fuertes fronterizos. Estos molinos, al igual que otros en América colonial, abastecieron de trigo a las ciudades y consolidaron el estatus social de conventos y familias privilegiadas. Además, se observaron dinámicas únicas en términos de motivaciones, desarrollo e impacto socioeconómico, vinculadas estrechamente al ámbito militar y reflejando integración cultural en la zona fronteriza.
The Impact of Gut Microbiota on Long COVID: Insights and Challenges.
Authors: Araujo-Filho Irami , Meneses do Rêgo Amália Cinthia
Published: July 2024

Long COVID-19, characterized by persistent symptoms following acute COVID-19 infection, presents a multifaceted challenge. Recent research has unveiled the potential role of gut microbiota in shaping the course of Long COVID, offering insights into its consequences and therapeutic avenues. Dysbiosis in the gut microbiota, marked by a reduction in beneficial commensal bacteria and an increase in pro-inflammatory taxa, appears to be a common feature in Long-term COVID patients. Notably, microbiota composition correlates with symptom severity and duration, suggesting a link between gut microbiome composition and Long COVID's clinical manifestations. Various interventions, such as antibiotics, probiotics, and dietary modulation, have been explored as potential strategies to mitigate gut dysbiosis and its effects on Long-term COVID-19. Parallels between Long-term COVID and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) have been drawn, indicating potential shared mechanisms, including gut microbiota involvement. Longitudinal studies highlight the persistence of gut microbiota alterations beyond the acute phase of COVID-19, emphasizing the need for long-term monitoring and interventions. While these findings offer promise, standardized and comprehensive research is essential to establish causality and elucidate the intricate mechanisms underlying the gut microbiota's influence on Long COVID. Understanding this relationship holds the potential to develop novel approaches for managing and improving Long COVID outcomes, addressing a pressing public health concern.
Nanotechnology and Immunetherapy: reduction of hepatotoxicity and anti-antineoplastic efficiency
Authors: Araujo-Filho Irami , Meneses do Rêgo Amália Cinthia
Published: July 2024

The integration of nanotechnology and immune therapy presents a revolutionary approach to cancer treatment, merging the precision of nanoscale engineering with the power of the immune system to combat malignancies. This review article explores the synergy between nanotechnology and immune therapy, highlighting its potential to enhance antineoplastic efficiency and mitigate hepatotoxicity, with a particular focus on liver cancer treatments. Nanotechnology offers novel solutions for targeted drug delivery, controlled release, and the co-delivery of therapeutic agents, thus improving the bioavailability and efficacy of immune therapies. By overcoming the challenges posed by the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), nanotechnology-enabled strategies can potentiate the antitumor immune response and transform "cold" tumors into "hot" ones, making them more amenable to immune-mediated destruction. Despite promising advancements, the field faces challenges such as optimizing nanoparticle formulations for maximal therapeutic efficacy and safety, identifying suitable targeting ligands for specific cancer types, and addressing the heterogeneity of the TME. Comprehensive preclinical and clinical studies are required to assess the biodistribution, metabolism, and potential toxicity of nanocarriers. This review underscores the transformative potential of combining nanotechnology with immune therapy, offering insights into future directions for more effective, targeted, and safer cancer treatments.
Preparation and Properties of a Composite Carbon Foam as Energy Storage and EMI Shield Additive for Advanced Cement and Gypsum Boards
Authors: Gioti Christina , Vasilopoulos Konstantinos C. , Baikousi Maria , Ntaflos Angelos , Viskadourakis Zacharias , Paipetis Alkiviadis S. , Salmas Constantinos E. , Kenanakis George , Karakassides Michael A.
Published: July 2024

This article explores the cutting-edge advancement of gypsum and cement building boards infused with shape-stabilized n-octadecane, an organic phase change material (PCM). The primary focus is on improving energy efficiency and providing electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding capabilities for contemporary buildings. The research investigates the integration of these materials into construction materials, using red-mud Carbon Foam as a stabilizer for n-octadecane (OD@CCF). Various analyses, including microstructural examination, porosity assessment, and additive dispersion, were conducted using X-ray microtomography and density measurements. Thermal conductivity measurements demonstrated the enhancement of composite boards as the OD@CCF content increased, while mechanical tests indicated an optimal additive content of up to 20%. The thermal-regulated capabilities of these advanced panels were evaluated in a custom-designed room model equipped with a homemade environmental chamber, illustrating a consistent temperature environment during heating and cooling cycles. The incorporation of OD@CCF into cement boards exhibited improved thermal energy storage properties. Moreover, the examined composite boards displayed efficient electromagnetic shielding performance within the frequency range of 3.2–7.0 GHz, achieving EMI values of approximately 18 and 19.5 dB for gypsum and cement boards, respectively, meeting the entry-level value required for commercial applications.
Literature Review on Recent Advances on Terahertz Antenna Design
Authors: Abad Jesie , Sacala Rhen John Rey , Arboleda Edwin , Peria Rodmar
Published: July 2024

The terahertz (THz) frequency range, often overlooked in the past, is now gaining recognition for its unique properties and diverse applications. THz waves, positioned between microwave and infrared frequencies, offer safety, broad bandwidth, and low energy consumption. This review highlights the burgeoning importance of THz technology in communication systems, spectroscopy, biomedical imaging, and various industries. It emphasizes the significance of novel antenna designs in enhancing THz system performance and functionality, enabling rapid communication, data transmission, spectroscopic analysis, and sensor capabilities.
Fiscal Policy and Economic Resilience: Impact of Government Consumption alongside Oil and Non-Oil Revenues on Saudi Arabia's GDP During Crises (1969-2022)
Authors: Abdelkawy Nagwa Amin , Al Shammre Abdullah
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the impact of Government Consumption (GC) on Saudi Arabia’s GDP during major economic crises from 1969 to 2022, with a focus on periods marked by fluctuations in oil and non-oil revenues. By integrating these revenue streams, the research provides a more comprehensive analysis of fiscal policy effectiveness during economic downturns. Using an Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model, the study reveals the complex role of Government Consumption (GC) in stabilizing and stimulating the Saudi economy amidst revenue volatility.Key findings indicate that while GC does not significantly influence GDP in the short term, its long-term effectiveness varies across different crises. Specifically, GC has acted as a buffer against immediate economic shocks during certain crises while providing a stimulus for economic recovery in others. For instance, during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, timely fiscal measures significantly boosted GDP, underscoring the importance of adaptive and proactive fiscal policies. Conversely, the 2014-2016 oil price collapse demonstrated that GC alone was insufficient to counteract economic downturns, emphasizing the need for diversified revenue strategies.These findings underscore the dual role of GC in economic stabilization and recovery. During the COVID-19 pandemic, GC played a crucial role in both mitigating negative economic impacts and supporting recovery efforts, showcasing its effectiveness in times of global disruptions. This demonstrates GC's capability as an immediate buffer against economic shocks and a stimulus for economic recovery. In contrast, during the 2014-2016 oil price collapse, GC was less effective, indicating the limitations of relying solely on government spending without broader economic diversification. This highlights the necessity of diversified revenue strategies to complement fiscal measures for long-term economic resilience.The robustness of the findings was ensured through various diagnostic tests, including checks for autocorrelation, heteroskedasticity, and stationarity of residuals. The absence of significant autocorrelation and heteroskedasticity, along with the stationarity of differenced variables, confirms the validity of the econometric models used.The study contributes to the discourse on fiscal policy in oil-dependent economies by illustrating the critical role of diversified revenue strategies and adaptive fiscal measures in enhancing economic resilience. Recommendations are offered for policymakers to optimize fiscal strategies, ensuring robust economic recovery and long-term stability in volatile markets. This research highlights the necessity for Saudi Arabia to refine its fiscal policies towards greater economic diversification and stability.
Regulated ICP-OES Detectible Elements in Utah Lake: Characterization and Discussion
Authors: Valek Rachel Ann , Tanner Kaylee Brooke , Taggert Jacob B , Ryan Rebecca Lynne , Cardall Anna Catherine , Woodland Lauren M. , Tanner Maddeline J. , Williams Gustavious Paul , Miller A. Woodrull , Sowby Robert B.
Published: July 2024

During 2021 and 2022 summers, we measured the total and dissolved (< 0.45 mm) concentration of 25 elements in Utah Lake using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). Utah regulates twelve of these elements. ICP-OES sensitivity is at the ppb-level but is not the approved regulatory method. All regulations are for dissolved concentrations; except aluminum (Al) and phosphorus (P) which are for total recovery. We found total Al concentrations above allowable, but dissolved concentrations were well below allowable concentrations. We attribute high total concentrations to suspended clays. Dissolved copper (Cu) concentrations were below regulatory levels in 2021, but some samples were above regulatory levels in 2022. This could be related to the use of Cu-based algaecide treatments, or from other sources. Lead (Pb) data were inconclusive; dissolved Pb concentrations were well below the acute (1-hour average) limit, but the chronic concentration limit (4-hour average) is below the ICP-OES minimal detection limit. Arsenic (As) concentrations exhibit a seasonal trend that we attribute to groundwater inflows. This ppb-level study provides insight into regulated elements in Utah Lake previously not available due to the high sensitivity of the method and measurements of both total and dissolved concentrations.
Candidiasis in Choloepus sp. – a Review of New Advances on the Disease
Authors: Benarrós Marina Sette Camara , Salvarani Felipe Masiero
Published: July 2024

Candidiasis is a significant fungal infection caused by various species of the genus Candida, posing health challenges to a wide range of animals, including Choloepus species (two-toed sloths). This review article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of candidiasis in Choloepus sp., highlighting the etiology, epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies.The article begins by examining the causative agents, primarily focusing on Candida albicans, which is the most commonly implicated species in candidiasis. The epidemiological aspects are discussed, emphasizing the prevalence of candidiasis in wild and captive Choloepus populations and identifying predisposing factors such as immunosuppression, stress, poor nutrition, and environmental conditions. Pathogenesis is explored, detailing the mechanisms through which Candida species invade host tissues and evade immune responses. Clinical manifestations in Choloepus sp. are described, including oral thrush, cutaneous lesions, and gastrointestinal infections, and their impact on the health and behavior of affected individuals. Diagnostic methods, including culture techniques, histopathology, and molecular assays, are reviewed to highlight their roles in accurately identifying Candida infections. The article also covers treatment options, focusing on antifungal therapies and supportive care tailored to the unique physiology of Choloepus sp. Finally, prevention and management strategies are discussed, emphasizing the importance of maintaining optimal husbandry practices, regular health monitoring, and early intervention to reduce the incidence and impact of candidiasis in Choloepus populations. This review underscores the need for further research to enhance our understanding of candidiasis and improve health outcomes for these unique and vulnerable animals.
Evaluating the Efficiency of zk-SNARK, zk-STARK, and Bulletproof in Real-World Scenarios: A Benchmark Study
Authors: El-Hajj Mohammed , Oude Roelink Bjorn
Published: July 2024

This study builds on our previous Systematic Literature Review (SLR) that assessed the applications and performance of zk-SNARK, zk-STARK, and Bulletproof Non-Interactive Zero-Knowledge Proof (NIZKP) protocols. To address identified research gaps, we designed and implemented a benchmark comparing these three protocols using a dynamic MiMC hash application. We evaluated performance across four general-purpose programming libraries and two programming languages. Our results show that zk-SNARK produced the smallest proofs, while zk-STARK generated the largest. In terms of proof generation and verification times, zk-STARK was the fastest, and Bulletproof the slowest. Interestingly, zk-SNARK proofs verified marginally faster than zk-STARK, contrary to other findings. These insights enhance our understanding of the functionality, security, and performance of NIZKP protocols, providing valuable guidance for selecting the most suitable protocol for specific applications.
Phase separation of SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein with TDP-43 is dependant on C-terminus domains
Authors: Strong Michael J , McLellan Crystal , Kalpanis Brianna , Droppelmann Cristian A , Junop Murray
Published: July 2024

The SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein (N protein) is critical to viral replication by undergoing liquid-liquid phase separation to seed the formation of a ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complex to drive viral genomic RNA (gRNA) translation and in also suppressing both stress granules and processing bodies which is postulated to increase uncoated gRNA availability. The N protein can also form biomolecular condensates with a broad range of host endogenous proteins including RNA binding proteins (RBPs). Amongst these RBPs are proteins that are associated with pathological neuronal and glial cytoplasmic inclusions across several adult-onset neurodegenerative disorders, including TAR DNA binding protein 43 kDa (TDP-43) which forms pathological inclusions in over 95% of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis cases. In this study, we demonstrate that the N protein can form biomolecular condensates with TDP-43 and that this is dependant on the N protein C-terminus domain (N-CTD) and the intrinsically disordered C-terminus domain of TDP-43. This process is markedly accelerated in the presence of RNA. In silico modelling suggests that the biomolecular condensate that formed in the presence of RNA is composed of a N protein quadriplex in which the intrinsically disordered TDP-43 C terminus domain is incorporated.
Additively Manufactured Flexible EGaIn Sensor for Dynamic Detection and Sensing on Ultracurved Surfaces
Authors: Cao Yang , Yi Hongyu , Zhan Limeng , Gao Yifan , Ge Kongyu , Ji Hongjun , Li Mingyu , Feng Huanhuan
Published: July 2024

Electronic skin is widely employed in multiple applications such as health monitoring, robot tactile perception, and bionic prosthetics. In this study, we fabricated millimeter-scale electronic skin featuring compact sensing units using Boston Micro Fabrication S130 (a high-precision additive manufacturing device) and the template removal method. We used a gallium-based liquid metal and achieved an inner channel diameter of 0.1 mm. The size of the sensing unit was 3 × 3 mm². This unit exhibited a wide linear sensing range (10–22000 Pa) and high pressure resolution (10 Pa) even on an ultracurved surface (radius of curvature was 6 mm). Sliding was successfully detected at speeds of 8–54 mm/s. An artificial nose with nine sensing units was fabricated, and it exhibited excellent multitouch and sliding trajectory recognition capabilities. This confirmed that the electronic skin functioned normally even on an ultracurved surface.
Homoeologs in Allopolyploids: Navigating Redundancy as Both an Evolutionary Opportunity and a Technical Challenge - A Transcriptomics Perspective
Authors: Aufiero Gaetano , Fruggiero Carmine , D’Angelo Davide , D’Agostino Nunzio
Published: July 2024

Allopolyploidy in plants involves the merging of two or more distinct parental genomes into a single nucleus, a significant evolutionary process in the plant kingdom. Transcriptomic analysis provides valuable insights into the fate of duplicated genes, evolutionary novelties, and environmental adaptations exhibited by allopolyploid plants. However, transcriptome profiling is challenging due to genomic redundancy, which is further complicated by the presence of multiple chromosomes sets and the variations among homoeologs and allelic genes. Prior to transcriptome analysis, sub-genome phasing and homoeology inference are essential for obtaining a comprehensive view of gene expression. This review aims to clarify the terminology in this field, identify the most challenging aspects of transcriptome analysis, explain their inherent difficulties, and suggest reliable analytic strategies. Furthermore, bulk RNA-seq is highlighted as a primary method for studying allopolyploid expression, with an emphasis on the critical steps of read mapping and normalization in differential gene expression analysis.
Objective Refraction Status Before and After Cycloplegia: From Childhood to Young Adulthood
Authors: Panke Karola
Published: July 2024

To accurately determine the refractive error of the eye, sufficient relaxation of eye accommodation is essential, either through the fogging technique or pharmacological cycloplegia. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical information revealed after cycloplegia and assess how age and non-cycloplegic refractive status influence the classification of eye refractive error. We analyzed the records of 472 non-population-based subjects aged 3–28 years (mean ± SD: 9.1 ± 4.6) who attended a private ophthalmology practice from January 2018 to December 2020. Cycloplegia was induced with one drop of cyclopentolate 1% in each eye, and refraction was measured 30 ± 5 min later using an objective autorefractometer. The average spherical equivalent (SE) difference (mean ± SD) induced by cycloplegia was 0.72 ± 0.73 D, with the highest difference observed in the 3-5 years age group (1.18 ± 0.85 D). Gender had no significant effect on the SE values before or after cycloplegia (p > 0.05). Cycloplegia caused a hyperopic refractive shift in 83% of participants, no shift in 12%, and a myopic refractive shift in 6%. This study highlights the importance of cycloplegia use in children and young adults.
Endoscopic Management of Strictures in Crohn’s Disease: An Unsolved Case
Authors: Coppola Gaetano , Principessa Chiara , Di Vincenzo Federica , Puca Pierluigi , Del Gaudio Angelo , Capobianco Ivan , Bartocci Bianca , Papa Alfredo , Cammarota Giovanni , Lopetuso Loris Riccardo , Scaldaferri Franco
Published: July 2024

Crohn’s disease (CD) is a chronic inflammatory disease associated with a significant
burden in terms of quality of life and health care costs and is frequently associated with several
complications, including the development of intestinal strictures.
Stricturing CD requires a careful multidisciplinary approach involving medical therapy and surgery,
still posing a continuous management challenge; in this context, endoscopic treatment represents
a valuable, in-between opportunity as a minimally invasive strategy, endorsed by extensive yet
heterogeneous evidence and evolving research and techniques. This review summarizes current
knowledge on the role of therapeutic endoscopy in stricturing CD, focusing on evidence gaps,
recent updates, and novel techniques intended for optimizing efficacy, safety, and tailoring of this
approach in the view of precision endoscopy.
Twenty-First Century Competencies; About Competencies For Industry 5.0 And The Opportunities For Emerging Economies
Authors: Uzoamaka Ikenga Godwin , van der Sijde Peter
Published: July 2024

The philosophy of Industry 5.0 recognizes the transformative power of the industrial sector to add value to society and employees. Industry 5.0, distinct from its predecessors, relies on a tripod of sustainability, human-centric, and resilience. These three thematic principles aim to improve work safety, research and innovation, and strengthen industrial resilience and competitiveness. The potential for positive change is immense. However, a perfect storm is brewing for the future of work, brought about by the concerning trends of displacement and low skill levels of work-ers' competencies in handling the new technologies of Industry 5.0 in emerging economies. This paper will discuss Industry 5.0 and provide historical insights on the importance of acquiring the desired twenty-first-century competencies needed in the workforce for Industry 5.0. Two research questions guided the study in identifying these twenty-first-century competencies, how these com-petencies can be cultivated and taught in the education curriculum and policies of emerging economies, and the crucial im-portance of adapting Industry 5.0 to these emerging economies. The study concluded that emerging economies must play an active role in shaping the future, by creating policies that will advance social stability, resource preservation, and climate objec-tives, which will enable more productive production processes with lower waste and energy usage.
A Homogeneous Gravitational Collapse Model With Λ Parametrization
Authors: PANDEY ANJALI , SRIVASTAVA SUDHIR KUMAR
Published: July 2024

The present work deals with the study of the gravitational collapsing phenomenon of spherically symmetric massive stars with a Λ parameterization A collapsing model with a cosmological constant of the form Λ=β(θ ̇/3+θ^2/9) has been considered. In this model, exact solutions of the Einstein field equations (EFEs) are obtained using the $\Lambda$ parametrization and the junction conditions. All the physical and geometrical quantities are calculated in terms of the Schwarzschild mass M and areal radius R of spherically symmetric stars. Consequently, we have approximated the masses and radii of different stars to estimate the value of the model parameter β. We discuss the collapsing process and singularity formation for these stars and observe that all the physical and geometrical parameters of the model heavily depend on the model parameter β. We further discuss spacetime singularity through the development of apparent horizons.