bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Yabancı Dil Olarak Türkçe Öğrenenlerin Sesletim Kaygı Düzeyleri
Authors: ÇALIŞKAN Emre
Published: October 2023

Yabancı dil öğretiminde etkili bir iletişim için özellikle konuşma ve dinleme becerileri için tamamlayıcı özelliğe sahip bir diğer dil becerisi de sesletim (telaffuz) becerisidir. Yabancı dil öğrenme ve öğretme sürecinde hedef dilde sesletim bilgisinde yetkinlik, hedef dilin ses ve ritimlerini uygun kullanmaya ve dolayısıyla daha etkili bir iletişim kurulmasına yardımcı olur. Son zamanlarda yapılan çalışmalar yabancı dil öğrenenlerin konuşma ve sesletim bağlamlarında birtakım kaygılar yaşadığı ve bu kaygıların da dil öğrenme sürecine etki ettiğini öne sürmüşlerdir. İlgili alanyazın incelendiğinde yabancı dil olarak İngilizce öğrenenler için bu kaygı düzeyleri üzerine bazı çalışmaların yapıldığı görülmektedir. Ancak yabancı dil olarak Türkçe öğretiminde bu araştırma alanına pek odaklanılmadığı görülmüştür. Buradan hareketle, bu çalışma yabancı dil olarak Türkçe öğrenen bireylerin Türkçe telaffuz kaygısı yaşayıp yaşamadıklarını ve bunun derecesinin ne düzeyde olduğunu araştırmayı amaçlamıştır. Nicel araştırma yöntemlerinden keşfedici durum çalışması deseninde tasarlanan bu çalışmanın katılımcıları farklı nedenlerle Türkiye’ye göç etmiş ve ikinci dil olarak Türkçe öğrenen 98 kişiden oluşmaktadır. Araştırmacı tarafından çevrilen telaffuz kaygı ölçeği ile verileri toplanan bu çalışmanın bulguları katılımcıların çok büyük çoğunluğunun telaffuz kaygısı yaşadığını ancak düzeyinin yüksek olmadığı belirlenmiştir. Bu bakımdan Türkçe eğitimi veren kurumlar açısından değerlendirildiğinde Türkçe sesletim üzerine kapsayıcı eğitimlerin verilmesi öğrencilerin sesletim kaygısını azaltmada yardımcı olmasının mümkün olduğu düşünülmektedir.
Development of game-based learning media to encourage students’ computational thinking
Authors: Lathifah Afra , Asrowi Asrowi , Efendi Agus
Published: October 2023

Technological developments in the 21st century require educators to teach computational thinking (CT) to their students. Educators must have creative ideas in the learning process, one of which is utilizing learning media. Game-based learning (GBL) media is one of the most popular. In this research, we developed a GBL media which is part of this type of research development. The participants used were junior high school students with a total of 118 students. After testing the effectiveness, it is known that the GBL media developed can be an alternative media that supports students' better CT learning outcomes. This positive response is supported because the games provided have been adapted to the needs of students. Although this research has contributed to the theory of CT and GBL, this research still has some limitations. In the future, other researchers can deepen by differentiating the subjects, the level of participants, or the type of media used.
Keywords: Computational thinking; game-based learning; junior high school; research and development.
Uncovering digital competencies among language teachers: A case study of pre-service English teachers in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al Khateeb Ahmed
Published: October 2023

The role of technology as a catalyst for change and development has become irrefutable in various language learning settings. However, not all language teachers are mindful about using technology in their language teaching practices, owing to their lack of adequate digital competencies. The purpose of this research is to promote digital competencies and related components among the study participants. This investigation applies the 2019 Framework of Competency Profile for digital teachers. The results were obtained by quantitative analysis, using data collected from a sample of 151 language learners, all enrolled in BA English language programs across 8 universities in Saudi Arabia. The findings demonstrated participants’ highest and lowest digital competencies, leading the researcher to identify practical implications, particularly regarding how to conduct training to compensate for low competencies. The findings also revealed that there is no correlation between levels of study and digital competencies. There was also no influence of gender on digital competencies.
Keywords: Digital competence; language teachers; pre-service teachers; skills; training programs.
SpanishDict: A Tribute to learners of Spanish from curiosity media
Authors: Topal Ibrahim Halil
Published: October 2023

Spanish is the second most spoken native and the third most spoken foreign language. Despite the wide currency it enjoys, Spanish might sometimes pose problems to its learners concerning grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. However, technological advancements have proposed workable solutions and fostered learning through products tailored to specific learner needs. In this respect, this review sought to evaluate SpanishDict following Kohnke & Moorhouse’s recommendations. It demonstrated that the application's most potentially powerful aspect was the interactive grammar instruction practice supported by contextualized videos that fostered an immersive language learning experience. It also found that the situational, thematic, and visually endorsed drills might encourage vocabulary learning. It was further discovered that the audiovisual input supplied through captioned pronunciation videos in Castilian and Latin American, which are the two mainstream varieties of Spanish, might foster prospective learners’ phonological awareness.
Keywords: Bilingual dictionary; digital learning; educational YouTube; online resource; SpanishDict
Effects of mobile learning games on students’ self-regulated learning
Authors: Nurdin Alla' Junia Nurdin , Rejekiningsih Triana , Sumaryati Sri
Published: October 2023

This paper investigates the impact of using a mobile learning game on students’ self-regulated learning (SRL). This research study uses a research and development approach by adapting the 4D model (defined, designed, developed, and disseminated). Data analysis was carried out using descriptive statistics. This study explored 120 students from 2 schools in Surakarta, Indonesia. Data collection was carried out using questionnaires and interviews to see the effectiveness of the mobile learning game on SRL. This research shows that the application of the mobile learning game is quite effective as a learning medium and supports distance learning. The results indicate that the mobile learning game positively promotes SRL and has a significant increase in each indicator of SRL. The game provides a different atmosphere in learning so that students are enthusiastic when participating in learning with games. This study contributes to the concept of self-regulated studying with games.
Keywords: Games; game-based learning; mobile learning game; self-regulated learning.
РОЛЬ МИКРОЭЛЕМЕНТОВ В ЭТИОПАТОГЕНЕЗЕ ИШЕМИЧЕСКОГО ИНСУЛЬТА: ЛИТЕРАТУРНЫЙ ОБЗОР
Authors:   Учреждение Российской академии наук Институт химической физики им. Н.Н. Семенова РАН, Клименко Л.Л. , Скальный А.В. ,   Российский университет дружбы народов, Мазилина А.Н. ,   КБ № 123 ФМБА России
Published: October 2023

В обзоре литературы проанализированы результаты исследований роли макро- и микроэлементов в этиопатогенезе ишемического инсульта. Семейство нейроспецифических белков VEGF является фактором роста сосудов, отвечает за ангиогенез и нейрогенез и обладает нейропротекторными свойствами. Линейка белков VEGF разделяет эту роль с неорганическим фактором – металлолигандным гомеостазом. Изменение макро- и микроэлементного баланса является предвестником нарастающей неоптимальности работы ЦНС и маркером нейротрофических дисфункций задолго до их клинических проявлений. Магний участвует в синтезе нейропептидов в головном мозге. Низкая концентрация магния в периферической крови является фактором риска возникновения инсульта, то есть маркером-предвестником. Селен защищает нейроны от гипоксического/ишемического повреждения за счет уменьшения окислительного стресса. Медь принимает участие в ангиогенезе, дефицит меди приводит к уменьшению неоваскуляризации. Цинк необходим для формирования когнитивной функции и нормальной работы ЦНС, однако повышенная ферментативная активность Cu-Zn-СОД сопровождает ишемическое повреждение мозга. Марганец играет важную роль в предупреждении апоптоза посредством Mn-зависимых эндонуклеаз и регуляции Mn-СОД. Магний предотвращает риск развития ишемического инсульта. Селен является компонентом антиоксидантного фермента глутатионпероксидазы; селен индуцирует ангиогенез и улучшает функцию эндотелия за счет увеличения экспрессии VEGF. Медь ведет себя как обязательный сопутствующий фактор во всех ангиогенных сигнальных каскадах, настолько, что дефицит меди приводит к уменьшению неоваскуляризации. Цинк входит в состав нейропилина при VEGF-опосредованном ангиогенезе. Взаимодействие макро- и микроэлементов с нейроспецифическим белком VEGF определяет эндогенез ишемического инсульта.
ЭЛЕМЕНТНЫЙ СОСТАВ КАШТАНА КОНСКОГО (AESCULUS HIPPOCASTANUM L.) ЦВЕТКОВ, ПРОИЗРАСТАЮЩЕГО В ВОРОНЕЖСКОЙ ОБЛАСТИ
Authors:   ФГБОУ ВО «Воронежский государственный университет», Дунилин А.Д. , Тринеева О.В. ,   ФГБОУ ВО «Воронежский государственный университет», Чистякова А.С. ,   ФГБОУ ВО «Воронежский государственный университет», Гудкова А.А. ,   ФГБОУ ВО «Воронежский государственный университет»
Published: October 2023

Изучение химических элементов лекарственного растительного сырья (ЛРС) позволяет решать важные проблемы современной медицины, связанные с дефицитом нутриентов в питании человека. Каштан конский (Aesculus hippocastanum L.) широко известен своим специфическим (венотропным) действием на организм человека. Анализ литературных данных показал, что на данный момент элементный комплекс цветков конского каштана изучен недостаточно. Цель исследования – изучение элементного состава цветков каштана конского, произрастающего в Воронежской области. Материалы и методы. Объект исследования –высушенные цветки конского каштана, собранные в Воронежской области в период цветения (май 2021 г.), а также почва с места произрастания растения. Минеральный состав исследуемых объектов изучали методом хромато-масс-спектроскопии с индуктивно-связанной плазмой. Зольность общую и золу, нерастворимую в 10%-ной соляной кислоте, определяли по методике Государственной фармакопеи РФ, XIV изд. Результаты. Исследуемые образцы цветков соответствовали требованиям нормативной документации по общей зольности сырья. В цветках конского каштана содержание элементов находилось в пределах 0,001–15114,44 мг/кг. Среди макроэлементов преобладают кальций (15114,44 мкг/г) и калий (13020,18 мкг/г); в меньшей степени цветки содержат натрий (195,24 мкг/г). Микроэлементы составляют всего 1,16% всего минерального комплекса. Содержание токсичных нормируемых элементов в исследованных образцах ЛРС находилось в пределах допустимого содержания и не превышало в сумме 1,532 мг/кг. Установлено, что цветки конского каштана обладают достаточно высокой способностью к накоплению макроэлементов. Среди токсичных нормируемых элементов в цветках в наибольшей степени накапливается свинец (коэффициент накопления 0,08), однако все они относятся к элементам слабого захвата. Цветки каштана не являются концентраторами токсичных и потенциально токсичных элементов. Выводы. Полученные данные являются актуальными с позиции дальнейших перспектив исследования цветков каштана конского, как нового источника ЛРС для внедрения его в Государственную фармакопею РФ и получения на его основе отечественных безопасных и эффективных ЛРП и БАД венотонизирующего, антиоксидатного и противовоспалительного действия.
The effect of voluntary exercise on light cycle stress-induced metabolic resistance
Authors: Moon Hyo Youl , Jeong In Cheol
Published: October 2023

[Purpose] Disruption of circadian genes affects metabolic homeostasis. Regular exercise programs prevent metabolic dysfunction and alter circadian gene expression In this study, we investigated whether exercise affects light stress-induced circadian rhythm derangement and metabolic resistance.[Methods] A circadian rhythm derangement mouse model was designed by extending the light exposure by two hours (14 L/10 D) for three weeks. Nine-weekold male mice were single-caged and divided into four groups: sedentary groups with or without light stress, and voluntary wheel-trained groups with or without light stress. In addition, differentiated myotubes were cultured in the presence of dexamethasone with or without 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide-1-beta-4-ribofuranoside (AICAR). The comprehensive laboratory animal monitoring system was used to analyze the metabolic changes in mice. Moreover, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used to quantify the mRNA expression levels of circadian genes in animal and cell culture models.[Results] Three weeks of light stress reduced the running distance and increased the weight of mice. In addition, VO2 consumption and heat production were increased during the night cycle under non-stress conditions but not under stress conditions. PCR analysis revealed that exercise and stress altered the expression levels of circadian genes in the hypothalamus and quadriceps muscles. mRNA expression levels of period circadian regulator 1 were downregulated in the quadriceps muscles of the stressed sedentary group compared to that in muscles of the non-stressed sedentary group. Furthermore, differentiated myotube cells cultured in the presence of dexamethasone, with or without AICAR, showed distinct oscillation patterns at various time points.[Conclusion] Our study demonstrates that exercise partially prevents metabolic disruption by regulating the circadian gene expression in skeletal muscles.
Vitamin C and glutathione supplementation: a review of their additive effects on exercise performance
Authors: Lee Eunjoo , Park Hun-Young , Kim Sung-Woo , Kim Jisu , Lim Kiwon
Published: October 2023

[Purpose] This review aimed to investigate the effects of vitamin C and glutathione supplementation on exercise performance.[Methods] We conducted a literature search across the PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science databases using the keywords vitamin C, glutathione, antioxidants, exercise, and oxidative stress.[Results] The effects of vitamin C supplementation on exercise performance and oxidative stress levels are inconsistent. Glutathione, with its diverse forms of supplementation and methods, presents mixed outcomes. Vitamin C and glutathione have deeply interconnected antioxidant functions and are mutualy essential to each other. Research investigating the combined intake of these two substances, which are intricately linked biochemically, and their effects on exercise performance remain largely unexplored.[Conclusion] Studies on the effects of vitamin C and glutathione intake on exercise have been conducted using diverse approaches; however, the results have not been consistent. Although an additive effect is anticipated with the combined intake of vitamin C and glutathione, research on this topic is currently insufficient, and further studies are required.
Determination of SPF Value and Total Tannin in Ethyl Acetate Fraction of Peronema canescens Jack
Authors: Khairunnisa Amalia , Fadlilaturrahmah Fadlilaturrahmah , Septiany Septiany
Published: October 2023

Daun Sungkai (Peronema canescens Jack) mengandung metabolit sekunder antara lain tannin, alkaloid, terpenoid, steroid, dan flavonoid. P. canescens merupakan tanaman asli Kalimantan Selatan yang berpotensi sebagai perawatan kulit alami berdasarkarkan kandungan tannin yang memiliki aktivitas antioksidan sehingga dapat dikembangkan sebagai produk tabir surya. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menentukan nilai SPF dan tannin total fraksi etil asetat daun Sungkai (P. canescens) menggunakan spektrofotometri UV-Vis. Metode ekstraksi dilakukan dengan maserasi menggunakan etanol 96% dan penggunaan fraksi n-heksana dan etil asetat. Penentuan tanin total menggunakan standar katekin dengan konsentrasi 40,60, 80, 100 dan 120 ppm. Hasil kadar tannin total sebesar 0,5586% ±0.01516 ekivalen katekin dan nilai SPF sebesar 5.703±0.021. Dengan demikian dapat disimpulkan daun Sungkai (Peronema canescens Jack) dapat dikembangkan sebagai tabir surya alami.  Kata Kunci: Daun Sungkai, Tabir Surya, Tannin Total, UV-Vis, SPF  Sungkai leaves (Peronema canescens Jack). contains secondary metabolites i.e tannins, alkaloids, terpenoids, steroids, and flavonoids. P. canescens, natural plant from South Kalimantan, has potential benefits as natural skincare based on tannin which contains antioxidant activity that can be developed as a sunscreen product. This study aimed to determine the sun protection factor (SPF) and total tannin ethyl acetate fraction of sungkai leaves (P. canescens) using UV-vis spectrophotometry. The extraction method was maceration with 96% ethanol and the fraction used n-hexane and ethyl acetate. The determination of total tannin with catechin standards concentration 40,60,80, 100 and 120 ppm. The result of total tannin was 0.5586% ±0.01516 catechin equivalents and the SPF value was 5.703±0.021. The conclusion of the research is that Peronema canescens Jack can be developed into natural sunscreen.
Effect of background colors on oviposition site preference by Anopheles gambiae s.s.: an experimental proof
Authors: Lowassari Norah , Baraka Germana T. , Jayombo Grace , Munishi Castory , Kweka Eliningaya J.
Published: October 2023

Background: Insecticide resistance and vector-feeding behavior changes have recently challenged malaria vector control. All this causes the vectors to forfeit the benefits of insecticide-based control tools. Searching for other control tools for immediate and future use is important. This study evaluated the gravid Anopheles gambiae s.s. response to habitat water with a background of different colors. Methods: Green, black, red, and blue were selected as background colors based on previous literature searches. The experiments were set up in a Latin square with drops out of colors and fewer eggs. Fresh habitat water was used on each experimental day. The egg count was done for two consecutive days. Results: The results of this study showed that the position of the oviposition substrate had no influence on gravid mosquito response. The highest number of eggs was laid on the green background in all stages of the experiments. The interaction of experimental days, position, and the number of eggs laid had no statistical significance. Conclusion: The findings of this study have shown that the habitat water coupled with a green-colored background influences most oviposition site selection by gravid An. gambiae. This shows that green-colored background can be integrated into the gravid mosquito traps for efficiency increase.
Self-Interactions, Self-Energy and the Electromagnetic Contribution to the Anomalous g-Factor
Authors: Georgiev Miroslav
Published: October 2023

The present paper reports an exact approach quantifying the electromagnetic contribution to the anomalous magnetic moment occurring in isolated system comprised of non-composite particle carrying elementary electric charge. Essential averaging procedure and regularization of the electromagnetic field potentials necessary when quantifying the electromagnetic self-interactions and when deriving equations of motion without singularities and obeying the conservation laws are thoroughly discussed. The study shows that the dynamics of the considered system is associated to unique classical transcendental equations of motion satisfied by the particle's velocity and the electromagnetic contribution to the anomalous $g$-factor known from the quantum electrodynamics. The equations of motion lead to an exact analytical expression for the anomalous $g$-factor that provides more accurate result than that calculated with the aid of quantum electrodynamics. It matches the experimentally measured value reported in the literature to a one part per trillion. We obtain a_e=0.00115965218000(65) thus reveling the potential of non-perturbative, non-probability methods in predicting the electron's anomalous g-factor.
Thermal Non-destructive Testing and Evaluation for Inspection of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymers
Authors: Arora Vanita , Mulaveesala Ravibabu , Dua Geetika , Sharma Sameeha , Singh Ishant , Das Priyanka , Bhambhu Suresh Kumar , Sharma Anshul
Published: October 2023

Thermal Non-destructive Testing and Evaluation (NDT&E) is crucial in ensuring the quality and safety of industrial materials, components, and structures. It serves as a key tool for assessing their operational reliability, thus enhancing safety in a wide range of industries. There is a growing demand for dependable, swift, remote, and secure inspection and assessment techniques to detect hidden flaws, especially for sustainable solutions prompts adjustments in design and manufacturing standards. Hidden defects often emerge during the service life of these materials and structures due to various stress factors, potentially resulting in catastrophic failures. This study delves into the optimal and dependable experimental method for conducting fast, remote, and secure inspections and assessments of carbon fiber reinforced polymer materials using Infrared Imaging (IRI) as part of Thermal Non-Destructive Testing and Evaluation (TNDT&E). Additionally, it examines the post-processing approach associated with this technique. This perspective also sheds light on the current state-of-the-art infrared imaging methods employed in TNDT&E, emphasizing their strengths and weaknesses about their ability to detect subsurface defects present within the material Most of the methods discussed in previous research primarily focus on the thermal differences in specific areas of a sample using processed thermal images, even though these images come from analyzing a series of images captured over time. This study highlights the latest research in thermal/infrared non-destructive testing and evaluation, along with the related post-processing techniques. It aims to not only show hidden subsurface defects through thermal differences also provides information about how these defects change over time.
Influence of Laser Marking Parameters in The DMC Code Quality on the PBT/Glass Fibre Composite Surface Using SEM
Authors: Sales-Contini Rita , Costa João , Silva Francisco , Pinto Arnaldo , Campilho Raul , Martinho Rui , Pinto Isabel , Sousa Vitor
Published: October 2023

Laser marking on polymer composite surfaces can be difficult to contrast and cause readability problems for electronic decoding equipment on production lines due to poor interaction between the laser and the fibres used to reinforce these materials. This problem can be solved with the right choice of marking parameters, resulting in savings for companies by avoiding production problems such as rejection, scrap and customer complaints. The present work uses the PBT/glass fibre composite used in the manufacture of instrument panels for motorcycles. The tests were carried out with different laser marking parameters using a Nd: YAG laser. Subsequently, the laser-marked DMC codes were analysed using a Verifier to evaluate the quality according to the ISO/IEC 29158:2020 standard. A detailed analysis of these surfaces was also carried out to observe some physical and chemical changes using SEM microscopy and EDS spectroscopy. The optical analysis showed that the lower the radiation power and pulse frequency and the higher the marking speed, the weaker the laser marking and therefore the poorer the DMC code quality, which was confirmed by the SEM. EDS spectroscopy showed that the laser marking process did not affect the chemical changes on the sample surface.
Can Peri-Surgical Electroacupuncture Relieve Immunity Suppression? A Pilot Study in Dogs
Authors: Rabbogliatti Vanessa , Brioschi Federica Alessandra , Pecile Alessandro , Bronzo Valerio , Martini Valeria , Dall' Ara Paola , Ravasio Giuliano , Groppetti Debora
Published: October 2023

General anesthesia and surgical stress can suppress the immunological response by acting both directly on the immune system and indirectly on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and the sympathetic nervous system. Disturbance of the immune system during the perioperative period can lead to complications such as wound-healing disorders and infections up to sepsis. Effective-ness of acupuncture in regulating the immune function by increasing leukocyte numbers and in-hibiting inflammatory response has been proven.
The aim of this study was to explore the impact of electroacupuncture (EAP) on the dynamic bal-ance of the immune system and immune cell populations in dogs undergoing surgery. For this purpose, twelve healthy bitches scheduled for elective ovariectomy were divided into two groups according to whether (EAP, n=6) or not (CTR, n=6) a peri-operative electroacupuncture treatment was performed. Levels of leukocytes (neutrophils, monocytes, T- and B-cells) and immunoglobu-lins M (IgM) and A (IgA) were measured in blood samples collected before (T0), 1 hour (T1) and 2.5 hours (T2) after anesthesia induction. Leukocytes count decreased from T0 to T1 in both groups and restored within 1.5 hours in EAP group whereas remained significantly lower in CTR group (P<0.02). In particular, neutrophils and monocytes increased in dogs receiving EAP (P<0.01) while T-cells decreased in CTR group (P<0.04) at T2. B-cells and cytotoxic T-cells de-creased in EAP dogs (P<0.04) at T2. No differences in helper T-cells, IgM and IgA levels were recorded between groups and over time. Our results suggest a modulatory effect of EAP on the immune system which is early expressed on neutrophils, monocytes and T-cells.
Estimating Reliable Water Budget at a Basin Scale: A Comparison Between the Geostatistical and Traditional Methods (Foro River Basin, Central Italy)
Authors: Di Giovanni Alessia , Di Curzio Diego , Pantanella Davide , Picchi Cristiana , Rusi Sergio
Published: October 2023

In the last years, new numerical methods have been applied to weather data for water budget es-timation. Geostatistics is one of the most powerful approaches, when it comes to studying spatially relevant natural phenomena, as it takes into account the spatial correlation among measurements over a specific study area and increases the reliability of the estimation by providing the associate uncertainty. In this study, we tested the feasibility of using a geostatistical method called Ordinary Kriging to provide a reliable estimation of the water budget of the Foro river basin (Periadriatic area, Central Italy), by comparing the obtained results with a more traditional yet robust approach based on the Thiessen polygon spatialization method, considered here as a reference. The spatial estimation with the selected geostatistical and traditional approaches was performed on the av-erage monthly rainfall and temperatures derived from 33-year-long time series measured at the weather station of the regional monitoring network. To transform the spatial variables quantities of both rainfall and air temperature into actual runoff estimates that ideally represent the river dis-charge, we used both the Turc and Thornthwaite methods, considering variable Potential Infiltra-tion Coefficients according to the hydrogeological complexes’ distribution. For the geostatistical method, the same procedure was applied to the 95% confidence interval limits, to quantitatively assess the possible impact of the spatial uncertainty on the estimation of the river discharge. The results obtained by both methods, subsequently converted into monthly discharges, were com-pared to the average monthly discharges related to 33-year-long time series measured at different locations along the Foro river. The results obtained with the geostatistical approach proved to be in line with the ones from the traditional method. Additionally, using the rainfall and temperature values obtained with the Ordinary Kriging and the corresponding confidence interval limits, it was possible to quantify the uncertainty associated with the discharge values, making the estimates more reliable than the ones obtained with the traditional approach. However, the yearly distribu-tion of river discharge obtained by both the geostatistical and traditional methods appeared to be dissimilar to the measured ones. In such anthropized and groundwater-dependent river basins, the surface water use as well as the regulatory effect of the alluvial aquifer regime may affect the river discharge variability over the year and then can account for similar discrepancies between the in-flow and outflow water volumes.
Predictive Biomarkers of Treatment Response in Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Stolz Louise A. , Kohn Jordan N. , Smith Sydney E. , Benster Lindsay L. , Appelbaum Lawrence G.
Published: October 2023

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a highly prevalent, debilitating disorder with a high rate of treatment resistance. One strategy to improve treatment outcomes is to identify patient-specific, pre-intervention factors that can predict treatment success. Neurophysiological measures such as electroencephalography (EEG), which measures the brain’s electrical activity from sensors on the scalp, offer one promising approach for predicting treatment response for psychiatric illnesses, including MDD. In this study, a secondary data analysis was conducted on the publicly available Two Decades-Brainclinics Research Archive for Insights in Neurophysiology (TDBRAIN) database. Specifically, hierarchical regression modeling was used to predict treatment response from baseline demographics, symptom severity, and resting-state EEG features in 119 MDD patients receiving repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). Across models, both age and baseline symptom severity, assessed by the Beck’s Depression Inventory, were significant predictors of rTMS treatment response, with older individuals and more severe depression scores associated with decreased odds of a positive treatment response. EEG measures contributed predictive power to these models; however, these improvements in outcome predictability only trended towards statistical significance (p~0.07 in multiple models). These findings provide confirmation of previous demographic and clinical predictors, while pointing to EEG metrics that may provide predictive information in future studies.
Transcriptome Analysis of Gill Tissues from Neptunea cumingii in Different Seasons
Authors: Zhang Yifan , Zhang Dandan , Tian Ying , Mao Junxia , Liu Yang , Hao Zhenlin
Published: October 2023

Neptunea cumingii is an economically important marine shellfish found in the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea areas of China. However, due to environmental factors, such as global warming, Neptunea cumingii resources are in decline along the coast of China. In this study, samples of Neptunea cumingii were collected in Zhangzidao and Yantai during spring, summer， autumn, and winter to clarify the gene expression patterns and regulatory mechanisms in the gills in different seasons. Transcriptome analysis was conducted using Neptunea cumingii gill tissues and genes with significantly different expression levels were extracted for functional verification. The most genes with differences in expression（DEGs） were found in comparisons of the winter and summer samples. Gene enrichment analysis based on Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes terms showed that these DEGs were mainly involved in immune and metabolic pathways, and they had significant effects on oxidative stress, body metabolism, and protein synthesis in Neptunea cumingii. Further screening of DEGs identified 34 genes related to temperature regulation comprising 13 genes with roles in innate immunity in shellfish, 12 genes related to oxidative stress, and nine genes related to protein synthesis and energy metabolism. Eleven DEGs were randomly selected for qPCR verification and the results were consistent with the transcriptome analysis results. In summary, the transcriptome results differed significantly between seasons in the gill tissues of Neptunea cumingii. The expression levels of immune regulatory genes could be promoted in Neptunea cumingii during the high temperature season, whereas the expression of these genes may be inhibited in the low temperature season. The results obtained in this study provide insights into the molecular defense mechanisms that might allow Neptunea cumingii to adapt to climate change.
Factors Affecting Response Variables with Emphasis on Drug Release and Loading for Optimization of Drug-Loaded Liposomes
Authors: Pande Shantanu
Published: October 2023

Drug delivery through Liposomes has shown tremendous potential in terms of the therapeutic application of nanoparticles. There are several drug-loaded liposomal formulations approved for clinical use that help mitigate harmful effects of life-threatening diseases. Developments in the field of liposomal formulations and drug delivery have made it possible for clinicians and researchers to find therapeutic solutions for complicated medical conditions. A key aspect in the development of drug-loaded liposomes is a careful review of optimization techniques to improve the overall formulation stability and efficacy. Optimization studies help in improving/modulating the various properties of drug-loaded liposomes and are vital for the development of this class of delivery systems. A comprehensive overview of the various process variables and factors involved in the optimization of drug-loaded liposomes is presented in this review. The influence of different independent variables on drug release and loading properties with the application of a statistical experimental design is also explained in this article.
Prognostic Indicators of Autoimmune Inner Ear Disease in a Case Series
Authors: Lee Hsun-Hua , Yueh Hann-Ziong , Yeh Tu-Hsueh , Hu Chaur-Jong , Lee Fei-Peng , Yang Cheng-Chang , Lin Kent , Chang Han-Sheng , Lin Che-Hsuan
Published: October 2023

Background: Autoimmune inner ear disease (AIED) is a rare autoimmune condition characterized by progressive sensorineural hearing loss with hearing fluctuations over weeks to months, presenting significant challenges in both diagnosis and treatment. Due to its rarity, treatment responses and prognosis in AIED remain poorly understood. Methods: This study reviewed medical records from Taipei Medical University Hospital documented between August 2016 and August 2021. Among 67 patients experiencing fluctuating hearing loss, 11 met the diagnostic criteria for AIED and underwent regular follow-up assessments within a 5-year timeframe. ROC curve was used to discriminate the power of these prognostic parameters. Results: In this study, several factors including younger age, milder initial hearing loss, meeting criteria for bilateral Meniere's disease (MD), having an ascending audiogram pattern, longer time interval between hearing impairment attacks in contralateral ears and responding well to steroids were associated with better prognosis. ROC curve demonstrated the diagnostic value of specific parameters such as the presence of bilateral MD (AUC 0.825, 95% CI 0.640–1.000), pretreatment HI ≤ 45 dB HL (AUC 0.808, 95% CI 0.610–1.000), response to steroids (AUC 0.800, 95% CI 0.595–1.000), and ascending audiogram (AUC 0.858, 95% CI 0.683–0.858). Conclusions: This study identified key prognostic factors for AIED, providing valuable insights for predicting AIED prognosis and facilitating personalized patient management.
Microwave and Radiofrequency Ablation: A Comparative Study between Technologies in Ex-Vivo Tissues
Authors: Lobascio Fabio , Fiore Marco , Di Modugno Nicola , Bruno Cristian , De Nicolo Thomas , Di Modugno Rocco , Barberis Rossella Veronica , Cabiale Karine , Radoiu Marilena
Published: October 2023

In this paper we report on the use of an in-house developed solid-state hybrid microwave and radiofrequency generator operating at frequencies of 2.45 GHz and/or 480 kHz for cancer ablation in various tissues. The generator has demonstrated increased accuracy due to its custom-designed hardware, which incorporates the latest technologies and algorithms to control the emitted power versus temperature profile of the treated sample. In particular, the hybrid generator incorporates control systems based on impedance or reflected power measurements that allow controlled ablation without causing unwanted carbonisation and without including areas where tissue damage is not desired.
Tests performed ex-vivo on chicken breast and bovine liver show that radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is very effective for performing controlled ablations with minimally invasive probes, such as cardiac pathologies, small lesions, tissues with particular composition, while microwave ablation (MWA) is optimal for performing large ablations in highly vascularised tissues, such as liver cancer, where it is necessary to achieve higher temperatures.
Effectiveness of Customer-centric Marketing Strategies: Finding a Way to Increase Bangladeshi National Revenue
Authors: Hossain Sheikh Murad
Published: October 2023

Tax compliance is a problem in Bangladesh, despite the tax system’s importance to economic growth. This research aims to identify the causes of tax compliance behav- ior issues and design customer-centric marketing techniques to increase compliance. The two-fold research strategy began with exploratory and descriptive analysis of primary survey data. The findings revealed a knowledge gap, particularly among younger populations, and showed that public acknowledgment and gamification can improve compliance. Next, experimental and causal research was used. Direct com- munication with 1,000 people and Phase 1 outcomes-based treatments were imple- mented. The results were promising: 95.74% had never experienced tax-related edu- cational programs, and 87% lacked tax calculation knowledge. When offered incen- tives like a 2% tax decrease, 73% were willing to pay taxes immediately. This study shows customer-focused marketing methods can solve Bangladesh’s tax compliance problem. Bridging the information gap and implementing motivating mechanisms can make our nation more obedient and financially stable.
A Chatbot that Learns One’s Preferences as the Next Step in Human Digital Twins: A Pilot Study using HyperCLOVA X, a Large Language Model
Authors: Yun Joseph , Lee Joshua , Yun Yohan , Yoon Stanley , Park Sang-Hoon , Yun Sijung
Published: October 2023

A digital twin is a virtual representation that serves as the real-time digital counterpart of a physical object or system. Recent advancements have extended the concept of digital twins to humans, incorporating complex biological data such as DNA (Predictiv Care, Inc.) and immune system profiles. These sophisticated models go beyond mere pictorial representations, offering a more holistic digital reflection. However, a significant gap remains. The current human digital twin models are not capable of learning one’s preferences. In this pilot study, we introduce Diginality, a chatbot powered by HyperCLOVA X, a Large Language Model (LLM) developed by NAVER, Inc. Diginality, learns one’s preferences with custom training from data collected by interview-style questions on the user’s topic of interest. Our findings demonstrate that Diginality successfully answers one’s preferences, thereby adding a new dimension to the concept of human digital twins. This work represents a pioneering step towards creating a more comprehensive and psychologically nuanced human digital twin.
Photon-counting Detector CT in Vascular Imaging
Authors: Zanon Chiara , Cademartiri Filippo , Toniolo Alessandro , Bini Costanza , Clemente Alberto , Colacchio Elda Chiara , Cabrelle Giulio , Mastro Florinda , Antonello Michele , Quaia Emilio , Pepe Alessia
Published: October 2023

Photon-counting Computed Tomography (PCCT) is a promising cardiovascular-imaging technique. Using detectors that count the number and energy of photons in multiple bins, PCCT offers several advantages over conventional CT, including a higher image quality, reduced contrast agent volume, radiation doses, and artifacts. Although PCCT is well established for cardiac imaging in assessing coronary artery disease, its application in vascular imaging remains limited. This review summarizes the available literature and provides an overview of the current use of PCCT for the diagnosis of vascular conditions. Of the 13 records selected in the initial search, 7 articles were included in the present review: 6 cohort studies and 1 case report. This review synthesized the available literature on PCCT in vascular imaging, focusing mainly on endoleaks detection and characterization after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), contrast dose volume, and radiation exposure reduction, particularly in patients with chronic kidney disease and in those requiring follow-up CT.
Monothetic Genera are the Cast-Iron Building Blocks of Evolution
Authors: Zander Richard
Published: October 2023

Detailed evaluation is provided for the likelihood statistics intrinsic to interlocking Sequential Bayes analysis, which allows estimation of evidential support for dendrograms charting the macroevolution of taxa. It involves complexity functions, such as fractal evolution, to generate well-supported evolutionary trees. Required are data on trait changes from ancestral species to descendant species, which is facilitated by reduction of large genera to monothetic groups (one ancestral species each), most conveniently named as separate genera. Assigning each species one Shannon informational bit per new trait, then adding the traits as sequential Bayesian analysis (each posterior probability used as the prior for the next iteration of Bayes Formula), then interpretation with an odds chart, provides a posterior probability that the ancestor-descendant order is correct, that is, entirely follows evolutionary theory involving adaptation and rarity of total trait reversals. The key fact is that the most recently acquired traits of the ancestral species are selectively inviolate and passed on without change to each descendant species. The details of sequential Bayesian analysis were clarified by calculation of likelihood ratios and Bayes factors that compare optimal models with the next most likely model. Such analysis demonstrated that the optimum arrangement of ancestor and descendant species leads to high support values for fitting evolutionary theory, comparable to statistical support levels reported for molecular evolutionary trees. The fact that phylogenetic analysis does not offer an ancestor-descendant model in is found to be conducive of precision at the expense of accuracy, and leads to wrong ancestor-free models with likelihoods explaining data at high credible levels. The number of advanced traits in the outgroup as a Bayesian prior greatly enhances posterior probability. The method is simple, free of special computer analysis, and well-suited to standard taxonomic practice.
Understanding Mould Wear Mechanisms and Optimising Performance through Nico Coating: An In-Depth Analysis
Authors: Jiang Xionghua , Zeng Xiangbin , Kong Fengyu
Published: October 2023

This research investigates the wear mechanism of moulds and examines the worn areas using high power microscopes and SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy). In addition, EDS (Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy) and XRF (X-ray fluorescence) techniques are used to compare the worn areas with the normal areas. The results indicate that the wear mechanism of the moulds is similar to adhesive wear. To address the issue of die wear, the application of Nico coating to the copper substrate surface is investigated. Two sample preparation methods, namely DC power supply and dual pulse power supply, are employed. SEM analysis shows that the sample group prepared using the dual pulse power supply has a relatively dense surface coating. The samples with a 60:40 weight ratio of Nico exhibit the highest average hardness and thickness, with minimal dispersion as indicated by the low standard deviation. The samples also show minimal roughness. Repeat tests under the same conditions confirm that the coating surface remains dense and uniform with a hardness of 467.628hv, a thickness of 43.0665um and a roughness of 4.331nm. Nanoindenter test results show that the coating has improved wear resistance (-28.7 gpa) compared to the original mould (-142.4 gpa), an increase of 80%.
Experimental Measurement of Thermal Conductivity of Fused Deposition Modelling Materials with Conductivity Meter DTC-25
Authors: Rodriguez Antonio , Fuertes Juan Pablo , Oval Añaterve , Pérez-Artieda Gurutze
Published: October 2023

This article addresses the need to know the thermal conductivity in different filaments that this FDM technology uses. Because there are multiple applications that these additive manufacturing products play in the field of thermal insulation. For the study of thermal conductivity, the DTC-25 commercial conductivity measurement bench is used, where the tests will be carried out on a set of seven different materials with 100% fabrication density. From base materials such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or polylactic acid (PLA), materials of high mechanical and thermal resistance, polyether ether ketone (PEEK) and high-performance polyetherimide thermoplastic (ULTEM), to materials with metal inclusions (aluminum 6061) that would later be subjected to thermal aftertreatments. The study shows how the parts manufactured with aluminum inclusion have a higher thermal conductivity, 0.40 ±0.05 W/m·K, compared to another material, such as TPU, of high mechanical and thermal resistance, with a conductivity of 0.26 ±0.05 W/m·K.
Glacier dammed lake outburst flood in cold season in the Tien Shan, China and Kyrgyzstan
Authors: Liu Jingshi , Li Zhongqin , Liu Yuting
Published: October 2023

Flood records of the Kunmalik River in Chinese Tien Shan mountains have showed that glacier- dammed lake outburst floods (GLOF) had occurred almost every year since 1956 from the glaci-er-dammed Lake Merzbacher. However, GLOF in cold season is seldomly studied. The defense and management of the flood need further observation and study. The maximum peak discharge of 825 m3/s occurred on 5th December 1996 with the maximum flood volume of 2.875×108 m3, which was 18 times larger than that of the mean daily discharge in winter over the past six decades. The drainage of the Merzbacher lake is not a mechanical breaking up of the glacier dam, but the release of pressurized water along a subglacial tunnel triggered by quickly surge of the Northern Glacier, the subglacial tunnels are enlarged by both ice melting and frictional heat in the flooding water and heat under the glaciated dam and the lake in winter. There is no correlation between the GLOF size and air temperature of cold season. The floods in cold season have become bigger since 1996 than that before, and the flood duration has been extended from winter to spring. Once the cold GLOF starts, its discharge can be forecasted day by day to extrapolate the monitoring hydrograph as a linear curve.