bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beyond the average: embracing speaker individuality in the dynamic modeling of the acoustic-articulatory relationship
Authors: Lins Machado Carolina , He Lei
Published: February 2024

This paper explores the acoustic-articulatory relationship while considering individual differences in speech production. We aimed to determine whether there is a causal relationship between tongue movements and the contours of the first and second formant frequencies (F 1 and F 2) employing a hierarchical Bayesian continuous-time dynamic model, which allows for a more direct connection between the acoustic and articulatory measured variables and theories involving dynamicity. The results show predictive tendencies for both formants, where the anteroposterior and vertical tongue movements may predict changes in F 1, with rising predicting an increase and retraction a decrease; and with tongue fronting and tongue height inversely predicting F 2. Further, the modeled individual differences showed similar global tendencies, except for the rate of change of F 2. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the relationship between tongue articulatory variables and formant contours, while accounting for between-speaker variability.
The results show predictive tendencies for both formants, where the anteroposterior and vertical tongue movements may predict changes in f1, with rising predicting an increase and retraction a decrease; and with tongue fronting and tongue height inversely predicting f2. Further, the modeled individual differences showed similar global tendencies, however with larger error estimates. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the relationship between tongue articulatory variables and formant contours, while accounting for between-speaker variability.
Approches critiques des technologies en éducation et implications didactiques
Authors: Collin Simon
Published: February 2024

Située à la croisée des approches critiques en didactique des langues et de celles des technologies en éducation, l’étude des technologies en didactique des langues (voir, par exemple, Warschauer, 1998 ; Ollivier, 2019) dispose d’assises critiques complémentaires pour assurer son développement, si tant est qu’une masse suffisante de chercheur.ses travaillent à les structurer davantage. Dans le cadre de ce texte, nous proposons de nous focaliser sur les approches critiques des technologies en éducation, en tant qu’approches contributives de l’étude critique des technologies en didactique des langues. Pour ce faire, nous commençons par poser quelques balises des approches critiques en général. Nous les mobilisons ensuite pour le cas des technologies en éducation, en les posant comme des voies de dépassement de deux conceptions courantes de la relation "technologies – éducation" : les conceptions instrumentalistes et technodéterministes. Pour en donner une vue plus tangible, nous présentons finalement un appareillage théorique parmi d’autres (voir Collin, 2022), qui appréhende l’innovation technopédagogique au croisement des approches critiques de la technique et des études du Social Shaping of Technology (SST).
Conceptualisation de l'espace numérique dans l'enseignement-apprentissage des langues
Authors: Lafleur France
Published: February 2024

Dans cet article sur la conceptualisation de l'espace numérique dans l'enseignement-apprentissage des langues, notre contribution à "L'architecture des processus de production et de réception" du langage (François & Nespoulous, 2014), consiste en l'identification des constantes didactiques interlinguistiques de l'enseignement-apprentissage des langues étrangères et en leur intégration dans un modèle pédagonumérique tridimensionnel intégrant les composantes structurales stratifiées de leur apprentissage profond (deep learning). Il s'agit d'une modélisation expérimentale, mais immédiatement applicable dans l'enseignement-apprentissage-évaluation des langues, qui expose donc l'un des aboutissements de nos actuelles recherches-actions en formation à distance (FAD).En introduction, nous amorçons notre propos par l'exposé des paramètres abondants de la place du numérique dans l'enseignement-apprentissage-évaluation des langues. Notre méthodologie est celle d'une recherche analytique et conceptualisante portant sur l'enseignement-apprentissage-évaluation des langues. Nos analyses sont réalisées à partir de documents fondateurs de la Communauté européenne (CE), notamment le Cadre européen commun de référence pour les langues, CECR (Conseil de l'Europe, 2001, 2018, 2021). Notre objectif est de couvrir un maximum des composantes du langage et des compétences requises pour les actualiser dans le cadre de l'approche actionnelle préconisée par la CE. Notre discussion porte sur les conditions technologiques d'application de ce modèle et notre conclusion sur les perspectives, déjà à nos portes, de l'intégration organique de l'intelligence artificielle des langues à l'humain.
Enjeux et limites de la notion de citoyenneté numérique en didactique des langues au regard du contexte des formations obligatoires dans le cadre du contrat d'intégration républicaine
Authors: Chen Yuchen , Venaille Caroline , Dupouy Myriam
Published: February 2024

Dans le cadre de l'Office Français de l'Immigration et de l'Intégration (désormais OFII), les formations civique et linguistique sont présentées comme des leviers préalables et nécessaires à l'intégration dans le cadre du contrat d'intégration républicaine (désormais CIR) pour les signataires adultes désigné·es comme "extra européen·nes". Face à ce lien étroit entre politiques migratoires et linguistiques, de nombreux travaux critiquent une logique de formation normée, asymétrique, d'une intégration pensée "pour" et non "avec" (tribune FLIC, 2011, Vadot, 2023). Or, à notre connaissance, les travaux s'intéressant à ce que serait "le" numérique (Cappellini, 2021) dans le cadre du CIR sont peu nombreux. Partant du constat d'une évolution des projets et contextes des étudiant·es inscrit·es dans les parcours de formation en didactique des langues, cette recherche exploratoire propose d'interroger le transfert de la notion d'éducation à la citoyenneté numérique dans le champ de l'enseignement-apprentissage des langues, et plus particulièrement dans le cadre de la formation destinée à un public adulte et en lien avec des enjeux de politiques migratoires. L'étude explore cette mise au singulier de "citoyenneté", "numérique" et "langue", termes associés à une logique potentiellement réductrice au regard des pratiques diverses, complexes et dynamiques. Cette contribution invite à penser la connotation politique du terme polysémique de citoyenneté à l'ère du numérique et les limites du transfert de l'éducation à la citoyenneté numérique dans le champ de l'enseignement-apprentissage des langues, et plus particulièrement dans le cadre spécifique du CIR.
La retorica online. Interventi per un'educazione linguistica digitale democratica
Authors: Ciccarelli Rossana
Published: February 2024

The transfer of public debate to private platforms, the transformation of citizens into users and their exposure to public issues without intermediaries have caught the institutions in charge of educating citizens unprepared. Although in Italy since 2019 a civic education law has made it compulsory to deal with the issues arising from digital citizenship, there is great disorientation among teachers in the management of this teaching assignment. An analysis of teaching practices and a comparison of teachers from several Italian schools highlighted the need for the activation of a training course dedicated to rhetoric, discourse analysis and the most frequent strategies of information manipulation, in order to promote an active and responsible digital citizenship among students.
Libération conditionnelle : questions de remords, correctionnalisation et conformité
Authors: Vacheret Marion , Leclerc Chloé , Quirouette Marianne
Published: February 2024

Permettant une sortie de détention encadrée et soutenue avant la fin de la sentence, la libération conditionnelle est au cœur de l’exécution de la peine privative de liberté. Notre recherche propose de se pencher sur les représentations et les attentes des acteurs intervenant dans son processus de recommandation et d’octroi face aux personnes qui sollicitent une telle mesure. Elle se base sur un travail de terrain – entrevues, observations, analyses de décisions et de recommandations – mené entre 2017 et 2020, au sein de trois organisations pénales québécoises - Services correctionnels, Commission des libérations conditionnelles et Services de réhabilitation sociale. Les différentes études menées à ce jour sur les critères d’octroi des mesures de libération conditionnelle montrent que la décision prend en compte de nombreux facteurs (délit, sentence, âge, antécédents, score aux échelles actuarielles d’évaluation du risque et des besoins, plan de sortie ou suivi de programmes en détention, etc.). Il ressort de notre recherche qu’au-delà de ces critères, les acteurs amenés à recommander et octroyer une telle mesure ont des attentes spécifiques en termes de reconnaissance des actes commis, de mobilisation face aux besoins dits criminogènes estimés et de capacité de conformisme social. Nous montrons ainsi que seuls vont être reconnus comme admissibles à une libération anticipée les personnes exprimant un remords sincère, s’impliquant dans une forme de correctionnalisation de leurs comportements et s’identifiant aux critères sociaux normatifs dominants. Nous questionnons alors le fait que non seulement ces représentations se heurtent à la réalité sociale et carcérale des personnes judiciarisées, mais encore qu’elles limitent l’accès à cette mesure aux personnes socialement, culturellement, personnellement les mieux adaptées ou les plus conformistes. Selon nous, cette perspective montre un glissement de cette mesure qui, en sélectionnant des personnes qui ont peu de probabilité d’échouer, au lieu d’être centrée sur l’aide et le soutien à la réinsertion sociale des sortants de prison, se centre aujourd’hui avant tout sur sa propre réussite.
De la complexification de la frontière externe/interne pour penser l’organisation : influence des politiques sociétales sur les politiques éthiques
Authors: Loneux Catherine
Published: February 2024

Nowadays, managerial ideologies and symbolics that are conveyed in deontological recommandations documents do not have to be understood as institutional strategies intended to an external audience, such as a State, or a regulatory instance, as it has often been the case in corporate communication campaigns in the eighties. These discursives strategies of normalisation by ethics codes are more and more destined for an intern audience.
Simplificações tributárias e a importância da COFINS para o orçamento da seguridade social no Brasil: uma análise para o período 2010 a 2019
Authors: Gregório Silva Ramon , Santolin Roberto
Published: February 2024

Objetivo: Na década de 2010, diferentes propostas de reforma tributária emergiram no Congresso Nacional com intuito de simplificar tributos sobre o consumo por meio da criação de um imposto único - Imposto sobre Bens e Serviços (IBS). Tal resolução, porém, pode impactar de sobremaneira os impostos vinculados aos gastos da seguridade social, como a COFINS.

Método: A partir de um modelo de Vetores Autorregressivos (VAR) o presente trabalho avaliou como os gastos relativos ao Orçamento da Seguridade Social (OSS) responderam às variações dos impostos vinculados com enfoque na CONFINS.

Originalidade/Relevância: A partir das estimativas do modelo VAR, entre janeiro de 2010 a novembro de 2019, o presente estudo contribui ao avaliar a resposta do OSS à uma redução permanente da COFINS.

Resultados: Observou-se que as despesas de saúde e assistência social são as que mais dependem dos tributos vinculados. Mais especificamente, a perda da CONFINS, sem que se estabeleça novas vinculações, pode ocasionar um grave processo de redução da proteção social pública no Brasil.

Contribuições teóricas/metodológicas/práticas: Diante de uma desvinculação da COFINS, no limite, as ações do OSS seriam severamente reduzidas, ou mesmo, extintas.
Uso de metodologias ativas e sua relação com o ciclo de vida docente na pós-graduação em Ciências Contábeis no Brasil
Authors: Oliveira Wyse Maria Nazaré , Gularte Quintana Cristiane , Quintana Alexandre Costa
Published: February 2024

Objetivo: identificar e analisar a relação entre o uso de metodologias ativas e o ciclo de vida docente no ensino de Pós-graduação em Ciências Contábeis.
Método: o estudo foi realizado por meio de um levantamento utilizando-se como estratégia de pesquisa a aplicação de um questionário. Para o tratamento dos dados realizou-se uma análise descritiva e de variância (ANOVA).
Originalidade/Relevância: o curso de Ciências Contábeis vem se consolidando nos últimos anos, na busca de absorver os reflexos das alterações ocorridas no ensino universitário, seja pela expansão do ensino superior, ou pela necessidade de adequação do futuro profissional contábil. Nesse sentido, os docentes da Pós-graduação apresentam maior propensão ao uso de modelos mais contemporâneos de ensino, como as metodologias ativas, visto seu avanço na carreira docente, tornando-se relevante estudar essas metodologias no contexto da pós-graduação.
Resultados: Quanto ao uso de metodologias ativas, foi possível constatar que no ensino da Pósgraduação os professores buscam desenvolver nos estudantes habilidades, conhecimentos e atitudes a fim de torná-los pensadores–críticos, pois os docentes proporcionam a troca de saberes entre as partes envolvidas no processo de ensino-aprendizagem por meio dessas metodologias. Por outro lado, não foi possível observar relação entre o uso de metodologias ativas e o ciclo de vida docente, mas foi possível identificar docentes de Pós-graduação em Ciências Contábeis em todas as fases do ciclo de vida, sendo que a maioria dos pesquisados se encontra na terceira fase do ciclo de vida docente.
Contribuições teóricas/metodológicas/práticas: o presente estudo contribui para constatação de que a prática docente na Pós-graduação da área Contábil se dá principalmente por esses métodos ativos de aprendizagem, como os pertencentes às categorias baseadas em exposição, problematização e dinâmicas, em função de que o uso dessas estratégias é maior do que o uso de aula expositiva tradicional.
Frame Dependence e premissa da continuidade operacional: seria o julgamento dos preparadores da informação dependente da forma?
Authors: Santos Diego Silva , Prazeres Rodrigo Vicente dos , Soeiro Tiago de Moura
Published: February 2024

Objetivo: Analisar a influência do viés da dependência da forma sobre o julgamento dos preparadores da informação contábil sob a perspectiva da continuidade operacional.
Método: Foi aplicado um questionário com profissionais da área de contabilidade, e posteriormente os dados foram analisados por meio das técnicas de regressão logística e de testes de diferença entre grupos.
Resultados: Foi possível verificar que a idade e a formação acadêmica são negativamente relacionadas ao viés da dependência da forma.
Contribuições: Foram observados indícios de que há uma maior há uma maior propensão de menor incorrência do viés da dependência da forma por parte de elaboradores com maior idade e formação acadêmica, indicando que estes indivíduos reúnem um conjunto de atributos particulares de conhecimento das normas, hábitos e características pessoais que contribuem para uma maior capacidade de calibração de seus julgamentos acerca dos eventos econômicos para a elaboração das informações contábeis.
O efeito do enquadramento de ênfase das narrativas na propensão de investimento
Authors: Da Rosa Matheus Vinicius , Schnorrenberger Darci , Rengel Rodrigo
Published: February 2024

Obejtivo: Este estudo tem o objetivo de analisar o efeito do enquadramento de ênfase das narrativas contábeis na propensão de investimento do usuário.

Método: Realizou-se um experimento com 247 estudantes de duas Instituições de Ensino Superior do Sul do Brasil. Foram aplicadas 5 versões espelhadas do questionário, modificando-se apenas as narrativas contábeis ao realizar o enquadramento de ênfase ou a utilização de informações gráficas. Para análise dos dados, utilizou-se estatística descritiva e quatro regressões Tobit.

Originalidade/Relevância: A adição de cenários com representação gráfica como forma de comunicar e verificar a propensão de investimentos pode ser melhor compreendida pelo usuário se comparado com elementos textuais, o que não é tratado em estudos similares encontrados. A pesquisa torna-se relevante também por verificar aspectos comportamentais e sua influência nas preferências e escolhas de investimentos das pessoas.

Resultados: Os resultados apontam que tanto a adoção de narrativa quanto informações gráficas reforçam a decisão inicial do decisor, seja ela a propensão de investir ou não em determinada empresa.

Contribuições teóricas/metodológicas/práticas: O estudo contribui por demonstrar as formas e as diferenças de influência que o enquadramento de ênfase tem sobre a propensão de investimento. Contribui também ao alertar tanto os preparadores quanto os usuários das informações sobre o potencial de influência nos resultados, por meio dos tipos de enquadramento de ênfase.
The Effect of Fibre Content on Mechanical Properties, Water Absorption and Morphology of Corn Husk Fibre Reinforced HDPE/POE Biocomposites
Authors: Wan Mohamed Wan Zarina , Zulkifli Muhamad Ezlan , Tuan Daud Tuan Azmar , Mohd Taib Rahmad , Latif Shahida Abd. , Baharum Azizah , Zakaria Nurzam Ezdiani
Published: February 2024

In this work, composition ratios of high-density polyethylene and polyolefin elastomer (HDPE/POE) for 60:40 and 40:60 were prepared with 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40% of corn husk fibre (CHF) by using an internal mixer. The effects of CHF content on mechanical properties, water absorption and morphology on the biocomposites were investigated. The tensile strength for the biocomposites 60:40 ratio displayed optimum at 20% of fibre content; while the biocomposites 40:60 ratio has decreasing tensile strength from 10% to 30% of fibre content. The more fibre is needed to hold the matrix in place for biocomposites with POE dominance. At all compositions, the tensile modulus for the biocomposites 60:40 and 40:60 HDPE/POE ratios exhibited increasing patterns. However, the results of impact strength and elongation at break for the 60:40 and 40:60 ratios showed declining trends. The results demonstrate the addition of CHF increases the stiffness of the HDPE/POE matrix while decreasing the composites' flexibility. The water absorption biocomposites 60:40 ratio was higher than 40:60 ratio at all compositions due to a better surface interaction in composition HDPE/POE with 40:60 compared to 60:40 ratio, and also revealed by morphological studies on fracture surface biocomposites by using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM).
Microstructure and Tribological Behavior of Plasma Sprayed (Ti,Cr)C-Ni Composite Coatings
Authors: Storozhenko Maryna , Umanskyi Oleksandr , Melnyk Oleksiy , Terentyev Oleksandr , Chevychelova Tatiana , Varchenko Viktor , Koval Oleksandr , Brazhevsky Valera , Chernyshov Oleksandr
Published: February 2024

Thermally sprayed cermet coatings are widely used in many engineering applications to protect against wear and corrosion. In this study, three kinds of (Ti,Cr)C-based powders with 18, 25, 33 wt.% content of Ni binder were deposited onto stainless steel substrates by plasma spraying technique. The microstructure and dry sliding wear resistance of the (Ti,Cr)C-Ni coatings were investigated. The (Ti,Cr)C-Ni coatings have a heterogeneous structure composed of (Ti,Cr)C particles and Ni binder. Fracture and partial dissolution of the (Ti,Cr)C particles were found to occur during the plasma spray process. Among all the tested coatings, (Ti,Cr)C-33wt.%Ni coating exhibits lower wear rates and friction coefficients under all conditions. Worn surfaces of the coatings were analyzed using SEM to investigate the wear mechanism. With the increase in Ni content from 18 up to 33wt.%Ni wear mechanism of the (Ti,Cr)C-Ni coatings changes from abrasive to tribo-oxidation.
Hollow Cobalt Carbide Cubes / Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposite via Cyanide Coordination Polymer for Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Aboelazm Eslam Atef Abdelaziz , Khe Cheng Seong , Shukur Muhammad Fadhlullah  Abd , Saheed Mohamed Shuaib Mohamed , Ali Gomaa Abdelgawad Mohammed , Chong Kwok Feng
Published: February 2024

Coordination polymers, a broad class of porous hybrid materials resulting from the connection of metal ions with organic ligands, showcase enduring porosity, well-organised crystalline structures, and open metal active sites that augment their metal ions' redox activity. This investigation focuses on examining a nanocomposite composed of cobalt carbide/reduced graphene oxide (Co3C/rGO) prepared through the copolymer method, serving as an electrode material for supercapacitor devices. The nanocomposite's structure and hollow cubic morphology were confirmed through X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) analysis. Electrochemical properties were thoroughly assessed using cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and galvanostatic charge/discharge in 6M KOH with a voltage window of 0 V to 0.5 V. The Co3C/rGO electrode exhibited notable electrochemical performance, displaying a specific capacitance of 486.6 F g-1 at 1 mV s-1 and a low internal resistance of 0.58 Ω, surpassing existing literature due to its porous morphology. Additionally, to evaluate the nanocomposite's cycling stability, 5000 charge/discharge cycles were conducted, revealing a capacitive retention of 82% of its original capacitance after 5000 cycles. This underscores its excellent long-term durability as a high-performance material for supercapacitor applications.
The Influence of Plasma Spraying Parameters on Microstructure and Porosity of Bronze-Polyester Coatings for Plain Bearings Applications
Authors: Góral Marek , Kubaszek Tadeusz , Kościelniak Barbara , Stawarz Dorota
Published: February 2024

The plasma sprayed bronze coatings are widely used for repairing of plain bearing used in different applications. This type of coating was not deeply analyzed in state-of-art publications. In presented article we fill this gap in the case of plasma spraying process. The influence of power current (300/500/700A) and hydrogen flow (0/4/8 NLPM) on microstructure and thickness of aluminium bronze-polyester coating was investigated. The Thermico A60 plasma torch was used for thermal spray process of coating on flat carbon steel samples (grade S355). The Metco 604NS was sprayed with 20g/min powder feed rate. The obtained results showed the presence of local large pores formed by burning of polyester in plasma plume. This gap makes role of oil pockets in bearings. The obtained coatings were characterized by large deviation in thickness in range 200-350 micrometers. It might be concluded that in requires additional milling process after deposition.
Emerging Behaviour of Alloy Steel Microstructure in Hydrogen Sulphide Environment - A Review
Authors: Lawal Sunday Lukeman , Afolalu Sunday  Adeniran , Jen Tien Chien , Akinlabi Esther Titilayo
Published: February 2024

Alloy steel is known to be different from carbon steel due to the presence of the alloying element in varying compositions which is usually done for the purpose of modifying and improving the performance of the steel. However, a major problem with the alloy steel is that it usually exhibits different behavior in terms of the microstructures and the mechanical properties, especially, in sulphide environment. Thus, this study focused on the different microstructure of alloy steel and their performance in different environment with strong emphasis in sulphide environment. It was established in the study that a major problem of alloy steel in hydrogen sulphide environment is the sulphide stress cracking which is attributed to the presence of hydrogen and its absorption by the alloy steel. Hence, this study provides a potential guide and information on the capacity of the grades of alloy steel that can thrive in sulphide environment.
Strength and Crack Resistance Structural Criteria of Composite Coatings Produced by the Method of Multi-Chamber Detonation Spraying
Authors: Korzhyk Volodymyr , Berdnikova Olena M. , Stukhliak Petro , Kushnarova Olga , Zhao Jun Jun , Skachkov Ihor
Published: February 2024

The essential task of modern industry is to increase the reliability and durability of products. One of the promising ways to increase the products operational durability is the ceramics and cermets powders functional coatings application to the working surfaces by the method of high-speed multi-chamber detonation spraying. The objective of the given paper is to determine the regularities of the influence of structural-phase features in the formed material of functional cermets coatings of metal parts on their strength characteristics and crack resistance, while taking into account structural criteria that will provide the required set of strength and crack resistance properties. The method for deep and detailed analysis of the structure features, morphology and distribution of phase particles, their stoichiometric composition, substructure parameters, dislocation density in the coating material obtained due to multi-chamber detonation spraying has been developed in this paper. The research of detonation coating material was carried out using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) on JEM-200CX instrument (produced by JEOL company) with the accelerating voltage of up to 200 kV. The prospects of using the method of multi-chamber detonation spraying on various materials (steel, copper, aluminum, titanium) and alloys are shown on the basis of the research results. A number of composite coatings made of aluminum and zirconium ceramics; chromium, tungsten carbides have been obtained. It has been defined that changes occur in the ratio of the following parameters: microhardness, pore volume fraction, phase composition, distribution of dispersed phases, grain, subgrain, dislocation structures, etc, under different processing modes in the surface layers and corresponding change in the modes of detonation spraying.
The Effect of Leaching Duration and Solid/Liquid Ratio on Lithium Extraction from Mica Schist Used Hydrochloric Acid Process
Authors: Natasha Nadia Chrisayu , Lalasari Latifa Hanum , Soedarsono Johny Wahyuadi
Published: February 2024

Lithium demand has increased rapidly in the last few years because lithium is a metal that is important in technology, like electronic equipment and electric vehicles. One of the primary lithium resources is lithium ore, which contains minerals such as spodumene and lepidolite. Mica schist is one of the lithium ore sources that is indicated to contain lithium. The mica schist used in this research was from Kebumen, Central Java, Indonesia. This raw material indicates a lithium mineral called lepidolite. The aims of this research were to find out the potential of local Indonesian minerals as raw materials for lithium extraction processes in lithium-ion battery (LiB) applications, with the effect of leaching time and solid/liquid ratio. The leaching agent used in this research was 2 M chloride acid (HCl). Variables of this research were-100 mesh for particle size of raw material, 1:5, 1:10, 1:15, and 1:20 (g/ml) for solid/liquid ratio, 30, 60, 90, and 120 minutes for leaching time, and 70 °C for leaching temperature. Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP-OES) analysis was done on this research to determine the mica-schist composition. The optimum lithium percentage that was obtained in this research was 40.65% on a solid/liquid ratio of 1:5 (g/ml) and a leaching time of 120 minutes.
Structural and Tribology Properties of Ti-Al-C Coatings Deposited by Vacuum Arc Method
Authors: Podhurska Viktoriya , Kuprin Oleksandr , Bortnitskaya Margarita , Ostash Orest , Prikhna Tetiana , Chepil Roman , Sverdun Volodymyr , Kolodiy Igor , Belous Vitaliy
Published: February 2024

The composition, structure, and tribological characteristics at 20 °C and 500 °C of coatings obtained by the vacuum arc deposition method using a MAX phase Ti2AlC based cathode were investigated. These characteristics were compared to those of titanium nitride coating. It was shown that at a potential of -50 V, a composite coating of TiC and Ti3AlC phases forms. Meanwhile, at a potential of -100 V, a composite consisting of TiC and α-Ti is formed. At 20 °C, the friction coefficient and specific wear rate of these coatings in contact with a ball made of ShKh15 steel under a load of 2 N are comparable to those of TiN coating. At 500 °C, the wear resistance of the composite (TiC+α-Ti) coating is twice as high as that of TiN coatings. There was no clear correlation between microhardness and the tribological characteristics of the coatings.
Role of Inhibin B, AMH, GnRHa Test and HCG Stimulation Test to Distinguish Isolated Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism (IHH) from Constitutional Delay in Growth and Puberty (CDGP)
Authors: Sahoo Bijay K. , Ravi Kumar Padala , Pattanaik Sudhi Ranjan , Dash Deepak Kumar , Patro Debasish , Telagareddy Radhakrishna
Published: February 2024

Background:

This study aimed to distinguish isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) from constitutional delay in growth and puberty (CDGP) by various hormonal tests in both sexes.

Methods:

Boys with testicular volume (TV) <4 ml (14–18 years) and girls with breast B1 stage (13–18 years) were enrolled in this study. A detailed history, clinical examination and hormonal analysis including basal luteinising hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), inhibin B, anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), testosterone (boys), oestradiol (girls), triptorelin stimulation test and 3-day human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) stimulation test (boys) were performed. All patients were followed for 1.5 years or till 18 years of age. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to determine the optimal cut-offs with sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) for various hormones to distinguish IHH from CDGP.

Results:

Of 34 children (male: 22 and female: 12), CDGP and IHH were diagnosed in 21 and 13 children, respectively. 4 hours post-triptorelin LH had the highest sensitivity (100%) and specificity (100%) for identifying IHH in both sexes. Basal inhibin B had good sensitivity (male: 85.7% and female: 83.8%) and specificity (male: 93.3% and female: 100%) for diagnosing IHH. 24 hours post-triptorelin testosterone (<34.5 ng/dl), day 4 post-HCG testosterone (<99.7 ng/dl) and 24 hours post-triptorelin oestradiol (<31.63 pg/ml) had reasonable sensitivity and specificity for identifying IHH. Basal LH, FSH and AMH were poor discriminators for IHH in both sexes.

Conclusion:

The best indicator was post-triptorelin 4-hour LH followed by inhibin B, which had a reasonable diagnostic utility to distinguish IHH from CDGP in both boys and girls.
Ruelle–Taylor resonances of Anosov actions
Authors: Guedes Bonthonneau Yannick , Guillarmou Colin , Hilgert Joachim , Weich Tobias
Published: February 2024

Combining microlocal methods and a cohomological theory developed by J. Taylor, we define for Anosov

\mathbb{R}^{\kappa}

-actions a notion of joint Ruelle resonance spectrum. We prove that these Ruelle–Taylor resonances fit into a Fredholm theory, are intrinsic and form a discrete subset of

\mathbb{C}^{\kappa}

, with

\lambda=0

being always a leading resonance. The joint resonant states at

0

give rise to some new measures of SRB type and the mixing properties of these measures are related to the existence of purely imaginary resonances. The spectral theory developed in this article applies in particular to the case of Weyl chamber flows and provides a new way to study such flows.
Prevalence of extracorporeal blood purification techniques in critically ill patients before and during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Mohammed Aya O , Rady Hanaa I.
Published: February 2024

Background: Extracorporeal blood-purification techniques are frequently needed in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), yet data on their clinical application are lacking. This study aims to review the indications, rate of application, clinical characteristics, complications, and outcomes of patients undergoing extracorporeal blood purification (i.e., by continuous renal replacement therapy [CRRT] or therapeutic plasma exchange [TPE]) in our PICU, including before the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in 2019 and during the pandemic from 2020–2022. Methods: This study included children admitted for extracorporeal blood-purification therapy in the PICU. The indications for TPE were analyzed and compared to the American Society for Apheresis categories. Results: In 82 children, 380 TPE sessions and 37 CRRT sessions were carried out children, with 65 patients (79%) receiving TPE, 17 (20.7%) receiving CRRT, and four (4.8%) receiving both therapies. The most common indications for TPE were neurological diseases (39/82, 47.5%), followed by hematological diseases (18/82, 21.9%). CRRT was mainly performed for patients suffering from acute kidney injury. Patients with neurological diseases received the greatest number of TPE sessions (295, 77.6%). Also, the year 2022 contained the greatest number of patients receiving extracorporeal blood-purification therapy (either CRRT or TPE).Conclusions: The use of extracorporeal blood-purification techniques increased from 2019 through 2022 due to mainly autoimmune dysregulation among affected patients. TPE can be safely used in an experienced PICU. No serious adverse events were observed in the patients that received TPE, and overall survival over the 4 years was 86.5%.
Effects of panicle position on seed viability and vigor in some selected castor seed accessions
Authors: H. Abubakar  , R.A. Sami  , M. Usman
Published: February 2024

Castor bean is widely cultivated around the world because of the commercial importance for its oil. The fruits of castor are set on a panicle-like structure called raceme. The racemes are classified into the primary, secondary and tertiary racemes as a result of their different time of initiation on the mother plant. The possibility that the raceme initiation points could affect seed viability attributes through its association with time to seed set exists. This study, therefore, determines variation in seed viability and vigor of seeds originating from different racemes positions on the same mother plant. The germination study was conducted in a screen house with 7 castor accessions using sand as a substratum. They were planted in the field under rain-fed conditions in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The castor seeds were planted in 3 rows plot with intra- and inter-row spacing of 1 m. Three seeds from each accession were sown per hole. The racemes were found to be statistically similar in terms of germination ability. However, secondary racemes had the highest mean (64.4%) for the germination percentage and germination rate index (GI) of 5.9. Accession NKAN had the higher germination ability with mean germination percentage of 68.9 and germination rate index (GI) of 6.4. In conclusion, the seed viability and vigor of castor seeds are not significantly affected by raceme positions on the mother plant.
Investigating the use of snags and downed logs by wild animals in Federal College of Wildlife Management, New-Bussa, Nigeria
Authors: U.I. Fingesi
Published: February 2024

This study examined the uses of snags and downed logs in the Federal College of Wildlife Management, New Bussa. The research aimed to identify the kinds of trees that produce snags and deadwood logs in the study region as well as the ways that wild animals utilize these snags and deadwood logs in the study area. The methodology employed involves the use of plot sampling method. Field observation of plant species that have turned into dead trees was carried out. The data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics (tables and charts). The results showed that a significant number of plant species were identified as snags and down logs; the finding indicates that Terminelia glaucocens having (12.5%) occurrence and Pterocarpus erinaceus (10.71) was the predominant species in the study area. These dead trees species are used by wild animals in a variety of ways; for instance, 50% of wild animals use the snags and down logs for perching, 17.44% use them as foraging sites, and 4.65% use them as nesting sites. The most common users are squirrels, accounting for 13.95% of the total, followed by francolins birds (11.63%) and hawks (1.16%). Since many wildlife species rely on these trees to survive, it is imperative to protect these tree species inside the college estate to stop the extinction of wild animals. It is not advisable to remove snags.
Characterization and classification of soils of a paddy field in Badeggi, Niger State, Nigeria
Authors: A.A. Panti  , Musa Audu  , M. Yakubu  , M. Bappah  , A.K. Ibrahim  , M. Sulaiman
Published: February 2024

This study was conducted with the aim of characterizing and classifying the soils of a paddy field in Badeggi Katcha local Government Area of Niger State. Two pedons were dug representing upper and lower slopes of the field and were designated as Badeggi 1 and 2 (BDG1 and BDG2) respectively. The pedons were described on the field following the FAO guidelines for soil description. Soil samples were collected from each identified natural horizons and taken to the laboratory for analysis. Results revealed that BDG1 had greyish brown (10YR 5/2) at the topmost horizon and light brownish grey (10YR 6/2) at the subsoil, while BDG2 had light brownish grey (10YR 6/2) overlying light grey (10YR 7/2) at subsoil. Sand content ranged from 840 to 860 g/kg in BDG 1 and 690 to 830 g/kg in BDG 2, silt ranged from 50 to 70 g/kg in BDG 1 and 90 to 210 g/kg in BDG 2 and clay ranged from 90 to 100 g/kg in BDG 1 and 80 to 100 g/kg in BDG 2. Soils from the two pedons were moderately to slightly acidic, low in organic carbon and available phosphorus, while total nitrogen was rated low to medium and irregularly distributed down the two profiles, but exchangeable Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium and Sodium were high across the study area. Using the USDA soil taxonomy system, the soils were classified as Plinthic Petraquepts (BDG 1) and Fluvaquentic Endoaquepts (BDG 2) which corresponded to Petric Plinthosols (Abruptic) and Fluvic Cambisols (Eutric) respectively, under World Reference Base for Soil Classification (WRB). The study has revealed that BDG1 is moderately well-drained while BDG2 is imperfectly drained. The soils are moderate to slightly acid with low inherent fertility as evidenced by low organic carbon, total nitrogen and available phosphorous. The soils were classified as Inceptisols at Soil Order level.
Soil quality dynamics and degradation potentials as influenced by land use systems in humid tropical soil of Southeastern, Nigeria
Authors: F.U. Nwogu  , B. Nwajiobi  , A.N. Ogbonna  , E.A. Ubuoh
Published: February 2024

An assessment of the effects of land use systems on soil quality dynamics and soil degradation potentials in Umuahia, Southeastern Nigeria was done in this study. Samples of soil were taken between 0 and 15 and between 15 and 30 cm. from coconut plantation (SSP1), palm plantation (SSP2), pineapple orchard (SSP3) and waste dump site (SSP4).  The result revealed sand to be the dominant soil fraction in decreasing abundance: Waste dumpsite (WD)≥ Pineapple Orchard (PO) ≥ Coconut Plantation (CP)≥ Oil Palm Plantation (OPP), followed by silt :WD  ≥ CP≥ PO ≥ OPP and clay: OPP≥CP≥PO≥WD. Land use systems recorded serious negative effects on soil physicochemical properties, with soil pH ranging  between 3.43-7.20, waste dumpsite having neutral and others having less than 6.5-8.5 as  the critical limit. The mean values of potentially toxic elements in soils as regard land use systems: Ni, Mn, Fe, Cr, Zn, Pb and Cu were all above the critical limits rendering the soil polluted. The effects of Land-use systems on biochemical indicators of soil degradation ranged from None to slightly (1) -Very highly degraded soils (4), with organic matter (OM) as biological indicator dominating the index. The effect of land use systems on soil degradation was in decreasing trend: WD > CP >OPP> PO constituting 32.5%, 26.7%, 20.8% and 20% respectively. Integrated waste management (IWM) and smart farming techniques should be encouraged for soil quality improvement.
Challenges faced by paddy smallholder farmers in Ayamelum Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria
Authors: Z.A. Elum  , C.O. Enemali
Published: February 2024

Rice is a major cereal crop produced and consumed across the globe. In Nigeria, it is a staple food consumed in various forms. However, present-day domestic supply is unable to meet local demand due to various forms of challenges confronting rice producers, many of whom are smallholder farmers. The study combined an in-depth review of literature and empirical analysis framework to identify challenges in rice production among smallholder paddy farmers in Ayamelum Local Government Area of Anambra State. Specifically, the study identified the farmers’ socioeconomic characteristics, ascertained the distribution of improved technology usage among them and identified the challenges facing the farmers. Data were collected through multistage sampling technique from 90 paddy farmers and were analysed by descriptive statistics. Results showed an equal proportion of men and women engaged in the survey with majority of them being married. The farmers were in their active middle-ages and on average, had been farming for 12 years. Main findings included:  rice cultivation in the area was dependent on fertilizers, extension services were rarely available and improved seeds and needed machineries were not readily available due to their high costs. The study highlighted the need to increase access to required farm inputs through various means including government agencies and farmers’ associations to help paddy smallholder farmers sustain their productions and livelihoods.
Improving Telemedicine Practice in Nigeria
Authors: Sadoh W.E. , Omuemu V.O.
Published: February 2024

No Abstract
Ulcerative Colitis diagnosed for the First Time in a 93 year old Nigerian Woman: A Case Report
Authors: Odeghe E.A. , Ezuduemoih D.E. , Oyeleke G.K. , Adeniyi O.F. , Adetona A.
Published: February 2024

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic and life-long disease characterized by gastrointestinal tract inflammation caused by the  interplay of the host’s genetic predisposition, immune responses, and various environmental factors. It is characterized by chronic  diarrhea, among other symptoms. Its spectrum comprises Crohn’s disease (CD), Ulcerative Colitis (UC), and indeterminate colitis (IC). Inflammatory bowel disease occurs in two peaks, the first at 15-25 years, and the second at 40-60 years. It is rarely reported in the  extremes of age. Here we report the case of a 93-year-old woman with previously undiagnosed ulcerative colitis presenting as large  bowel obstruction.
Effect of a probiotic blend in broiler chicken diets and its effect on growth performance, carcass traits, and haematological profile
Authors: Mousapoor M. , Losacco C. , Seidavi A. , Nosrati M. , De Araujo W.A.G. , Albino L.F.T. , Laudadio V. , Tufarelli V. , De Marzo D.
Published: February 2024

The study aimed to assess the effect of  different dietary levels of a probiotic blend  (Probio Enzyme®) during the first 14 days of  age (DOA) or up to 42 DOA, on growth  performance, carcass and digestive tract traits, and haematological profiles of broiler chicks. A total of  540, one-day-old broiler chicks were randomized assigned to nine treatments: four dietary probiotic blend levels (250, 500, 750, and 1,000  g/ton) within two feeding periods (0–14 and 0–42 d, respectively), whereas the ninth treatment was a control diet without any dietary  probiotic supplementation. The feed intake (FI) was found to be higher in broilers fed 1,000 g/ton of probiotic blend when fed during the  first 14 d; however, BW gain and feed efficiency were not influenced by the treatments. Carcasses (deplumed and full) from broilers fed  250 g/ton of probiotic blend (0–14 DOA) were heavier than the other groups; the same was observed for leg portions. Broiler duodenum,  jejunum and ileum weights, and ileum percentage were greater when fed diets without any supplementation. The haematological profile  of broilers was not affected by the dietary treatments.
Effect of combination magnetic technology and encapsulated probiotics in the drinking water on blood profile and immunity of laying hens
Authors: Natsir M.H. , Sjofjan O. , Nuningtyas Y.F , Mutaqin A. , Marwi F.
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to determine the health status of laying hens using a combination of magnetic technology and probiotics in drinking  water. A total of two hundred and eighty-eight (288), 57-week-old ISA Brown laying hens were assigned to six treatments with nine  replicates in drinking water. Statistical data analysis followed a completely randomized design with treatments including water as control, magnetic technology (MT), 0.6% probiotic (PRO), 0.6% probiotic and magnetic technology (PRO+MT), 0.6% encapsulated probiotic (EPRO),  and 0.6% encapsulated probiotic and magnetic technology (EPRO+MT). The laying hens received treatments for six weeks (42 d).  The encapsulated probiotic was used to improve probiotic durability from intestinal damage. The health status consisted of blood and immunity profiles, including leukocytes, erythrocytes, haemoglobin, and haematocrit, CD8+, CD4+, malondialdehyde, and B cells. The  water quality was improved by the use of magnetic technology. Magnetic technology effectively decreased the CD8+ , CD4+ ,  malondialdehyde, and B cells in the blood of laying hens compared to treatments without magnetic technology. The combination of  magnetic and encapsulation technology showed maximum results in improving blood profile and immune response.
Carcass traits and meat quality of steers fed palm kernel cake as a replacement for grain sorghum
Authors: Lisboa M.M. , Silva F.F. , Carvalho G.G.P. , Silva J.W.D. , Silva A.P.G. , Carvalho V.M. , Santos L.V. , Santos M.C. , Lima Junior D.M. , Silva R.R.
Published: February 2024

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of replacing grain sorghum (GS) with palm kernel cake (PKC) on the performance,  carcass traits and meat quality of feedlot steers fed highgrain diets. Forty male ½ Holstein × ½ Nellore steers with an initial weight of  331.1 ± 36.2 kg, at 24 ± 2 months of age, were housed in group stalls (10 cattle/stall) where they received diets containing 0, 80, 160, or  240 g/kg PKC on a dietary dry matter basis. After 126 days, the animals were slaughtered and their carcass and meat evaluated. The  replacement of GS with PKC did not influence empty body weight, carcass weight, carcass length, or carcass yield. However, the thickness  of subcutaneous fat in the carcass decreased with the replacement of GS with PKC. The meat pH increased linearly, whereas there were  no changes in cooking loss, shear force, lightness (L*), and fat or cholesterol contents in the meat of the steers. Partial replacement  (41,57%) of GS with PKC is recommended, with an inclusion of up to 240 g/kg PKC in high-grain diets for steers.