bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Exploratory Study on Resident Participation as a Performance of Disaster Management
Authors:   Crisis and Emergency Management: Theory and Praxis, Eom Young Ho , Lee Jae Young , Kim Younhee
Published: February 2023

This study aims to explore policy alternatives that consider various stakeholders and participants for disaster management from the perspective that disasters are socially embedded. In other words, the performance of disaster management can be defined by the voluntary participation of local residents, which is the process and result of disaster management, along with the existing discussions that have been understood as administrative management capabilities and output indicators. This is because voluntary and active participation of residents in disasters lead to the recovery and growth of the community. In this research, the influencing factors that make residents participate in disaster management were examined and different results from the existing administrative capabilities were derived. It was found that the direct damage experience of disasters, the perception of personal or regional risks to disasters, regional conflicts due to disasters, the rapidity of disaster information, and the political independence of disaster organizations were important to promote the voluntary and active participation in disaster management.
Consideration of Downstream Boundary Conditions When Establishing Comprehensive Maintenance Plan
Authors:   Crisis and Emergency Management: Theory and Praxis, Kim Won Kyu , Kim So Yeon , Han Se Hee
Published: February 2023

The ‘Comprehensive Maintenance Plan for Neighborhood Unit in storm and flood disaster’ is a meaningful project in that it integrates and implements all storm and flood-related maintenance plans that have been dispersed by ministries. In this paper, we examined whether the 'Comprehensive Maintenance Plan for Neighborhood Unit' can be included in the 'intensive heavy rain' in August 2022 and 'Hinnamnor' in September, and whether it can be applied appropriately in inland areas without unreasonableness. The ‘flooding by Hinnamnor in Pohang’, ‘the claim of flood damage caused by the operation of Lake Sihwa’, and ‘flooding of the Moraenae stream’ had a common cause. In order to solve this problem, 'Pohang flooding by Hinnamnor' requires a separate design that considers sea level rise due to typhoon low pressure rather than dealing with tide forecast alone. There is a need for institutional arrangements (guidelines, etc.) In addition, in the case of the 'Moraenae District', cases caused by the rise of the 'downstream boundary condition' of nearby rivers must be reflected in the design.
Significant Dose-Response Association of Physical Activity and Diet Quality With Mortality in Adults With Suspected NAFLD in a Population Study
Authors: Vilar-Gomez Eduardo , Vuppalanchi Raj , Gawrieh Samer , Pike Francis , Samala Niharika , Chalasani Naga
Published: February 2023

INTRODUCTION:

We aimed to determine whether higher levels (volume and intensity) of physical activity (PA) and diet quality (DQ) are associated with better survival rates in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

METHODS:

Using data from the 2011–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 3,548 participants with a Fatty Liver Index ≥60 were included. PA was collected using a wrist-worn triaxial accelerometer and expressed as 2 metrics using Monitor-Independent Movement Summary (MIMS) units: the average of daily MIMS, which represents volume, and peak 30-minute MIMS, which is the average of the highest 30 MIMS min/d and represents intensity. DQ was assessed by the Healthy Eating Index-2015. Mortality follow-up was recorded using the National Death Index linkage through December 31, 2019.

RESULTS:

Our analyses revealed a dose-dependent, nonlinear association of PA (volume and intensity) with all-cause mortality and a dose-dependent, linear association of DQ with all-cause mortality. The maximum protective dose of PA volume was observed at 14,300 MIMS/min (adj. HR: 0.20, 95% CI: 0.11–0.38). The maximum protective dose of PA intensity was observed at 54.25 MIMS/min (adj. HR: 0.10, 95% CI: 0.05–0.23), beyond which mortality risks flattened. The Healthy Eating Index-2015 showed its maximum protective effect at 66.17 (adj. HR: 0.54, 95% CI: 0.40–0.74). Higher PA (volume and intensity) levels were associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular-related but not cancer-related mortality. A healthier diet was linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular-specific and cancer-specific mortality. Sensitivity analyses showed that the beneficial effects of PA and DQ on survival rates remained significant across sex, racial/ethnic, and age groups as well as in participants without NAFLD.

DISCUSSION:

Our findings suggest that higher daily accumulated and peak effort PA and DQ are associated with lower all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in US adults with NAFLD
A Review on Chemical Pretreatment of Lignocellulosic Biomass for the Production of Bioproducts: Mechanisms, Challenges and Applications
Authors: Areeya Sukunya , Panakkal Elizabeth Jayex , Sriariyanun Malinee , Kangsadan Tawiwan , Tawai Atthasit , Amornraksa Suksun , Hartley Unalome Wetwattana , Yasurin Patchanee
Published: February 2023

Excessive dependence on fossil resources to supply the increased energy demands has led to unsustainable growth. Hence, there is a necessity to shift our reliance from non-renewable to renewable resources. In this scenario, lignocellulosic biorefinery gains its importance because lignocellulosic biomass can be converted into various value-added products. However, biomass pretreatment is necessary due to the recalcitrant nature of the biomass. Various pretreatment techniques are employed to convert biomass into a more amenable structure to be utilized in the further steps of biorefinery. Hence, this review concentrates on different chemical pretreatment techniques used currently on biomass along with their modes of action on the biomass. This review will provide a detailed concept of various chemical pretreatments and the recent developments in pretreatment techniques. Despite this, the limitations of the current pretreatment strategies and the difficulties in their industrial applications are also discussed, which could provide innovative ideas to overcome these issues.
Estudio de estabilidad de los controles de calidad internos almacenados en el módulo de refrigeración automatizado de Atellica Solution
Authors: Rayo Hidalga Patricia , Domingo Bautista Carlos , Fernández Bonifacio Rosa , Bedini José Luis , Rico Naira
Published: February 2023

Objetivos

Atellica Solution (AS) es una plataforma que permite incorporar módulos de bioquímica e inmunoanálisis y almacenar controles de calidad internos (CC) en su interior gracias al módulo de refrigeración (MR). El objetivo del estudio es analizar el tiempo máximo de estabilidad de los CC almacenados en su interior.

Métodos

Se analizaron 48 magnitudes mediante materiales CC: Liquid Assayed Multiqual (MQ), Liquichek Immunology (LI), Liquichek Lipids (LL), y Liquichek Urine Chemistry (UC). La variación en los resultados (Xt %) se calculó comparando el promedio del análisis realizado en cada momento (Xt) con el promedio realizado en el momento inicial del estudio (Xo), y se expresó como un cambio porcentual: (Xt%) = (Xt/Xo) × 100. La estabilidad se evaluó de acuerdo con el límite de cambio total (LCT) el cual combina la variabilidad analítica y biológica: LCT = ±√((1,65 × CVa)2 + (0,5 × CVb)2)

Resultados

Un total de 40 de las 48 magnitudes estudiadas fueron estables al finalizar el estudio. En el caso del CC MQ y el UC 32 de las 39 magnitudes fueron estables durante los 15 días del estudio, excepto fosfatasa alcalina, aspartato aminotransferasa, calcio, lactato deshidrogenasa y bilirrubina total en MQ y cloro y glucosa en UC. En los CC LI, LL 8 de las 9 magnitudes fueron estables durante los 20 días del estudio, a excepción de la transferrina en LI.

Conclusiones

El módulo de refrigeración de Atellica Solution es un sistema fiable para mantener almacenados los materiales de control de calidad.
Judging the clinical suitability of analytical performance of cardiac troponin assays
Authors: Krintus Magdalena , Panteghini Mauro
Published: February 2023

New millennium diagnostic criteria for acute myocardial infarction precipitated a revolutionary shift from an approach based primarily on electrocardiography and clinical symptoms to a strategy based on biomarkers, and preferably cardiac troponins (cTn) I and T. In the last 20 years, clinical recommendations have strengthened the role of cTn and led to the development of highly sensitive (hs-cTn) assays, which are now leading players in all current clinical practice guidelines. To optimize the clinical use of these hs-cTn assays, focus on their analytical aspects has become increasingly important, emphasizing the need for the establishment of suitable analytical performance by the definition and implementation of appropriate specifications. An accurate estimate of measurement uncertainty, together with the acquisition of the highest analytical quality when very low concentrations of hs-cTn are measured, are essential requirements and should represent a practical laboratory standard in assuring optimal clinical use. Additional goals for further improving the quality of laboratory information should be the establishment of robust data concerning biological variation of cTn and the resolution of practical challenges opposed to the harmonization of cTn I results obtained by differing commercial measuring systems.
The assessment of environmental parameter along the desalination plants in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Aljohani Naif S. , Kavil Yasar N. , Al-Farawati Radwan K. , Aljohani Nasser H. , Orif Mohammed I. , Ghandourah Mohammed A. , Bahshwan Safia Mohammed , Aloufi Fahed Ayed , Halawani Riyadh F. , Salam Mohamed Abdel
Published: February 2023

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia obtains the most desalination water from the Red Sea. In Saudi Arabia, 14 desalination plants receive water from the Red Sea, and three are located in the country’s east and rely on the Arabian Gulf. The study has observed 16 desalination plants out of 17 desalination plants in the kingdom. Most of the desalination plants in Saudi Arabia currently use the advanced technologies to produce potable water with less impact on the surrounding environment. The current study examined the variation of hydrographic parameters along all available desalination plants in Saudi Arabia. This is the first inter-annual database of hydrographic parameters in the last 4 years. The peak salinity was measured at the Duba desalination plant in 2020, and it was 67.2 ppt. During 2018, the Azizia desalination plant reported the lowest value of 36.8 ppt. The maximum temperature recorded at the Qunfudah desalination plant in 2019 was 34.6°C. In 2017, the minimum temperature was 19.1°C at the Jubail desalination plant. The level of dissolved oxygen and pH were likewise not significantly changed along the brine outflow and in the outfall, in contrast to temperature and salinity. On the basis of 4 years’ of data from observed desalination facilities, the current study sheds light on the less environmental impact with regard to hydrographic factors.
Application of fingerprint image fuzzy edge recognition algorithm in criminal technology
Authors: Lv Xinhua
Published: February 2023

In the context of the rapid development of science and technology and the modernization of the legal system, criminal activities are becoming more and more intelligent and technological, which also puts forward higher requirements for criminal technology. The current criminal technology equipment is relatively backward, and the technical level is not high enough, resulting in a low utilization rate of trace material evidence extraction, which directly affects the role of criminal technology in the investigation and solving of cases. In recent years, fingerprint recognition algorithms and image edge detection algorithms have been widely used in various fields. This work studied the application of fingerprint image fuzzy edge recognition algorithm in criminal technology, in order to improve the level of criminal technology and the utilization rate of physical evidence extraction. The criminal technology system is upgraded and optimized by combining fingerprint recognition algorithm and image edge detection algorithm. And fuzzy theory is added to ensure the feasibility of the research. The experimental results show that the fuzzy edge recognition algorithm of fingerprint image can improve the level of criminal technology and the utilization rate of material evidence to a certain extent. The utilization rate is increased by 7.04%. The recognition accuracy of the fuzzy recognition method is also 13.2% higher than that of the methods in the literature.
A comparative analysis of the effect of post production treatments and layer thickness on tensile and impact properties of additively manufactured polymers
Authors: Bolat Çağın , Ergene Berkay , Ispartalı Hasan
Published: February 2023

In recent years, additive manufacturing (AM) technologies have become greatly popular in the polymer, metal, and composite industries because of the capability for rapid prototyping, and appropriateness for the production of complex shapes. In this study, a comprehensive comparative analysis focusing on the influence of post-processing types (heat treatment and water absorption) on tensile and impact responses was carried out on 3D printed PETG, PLA, and ABS. In addition, layer thickness levels (0.2, 0.3, and 0.4 mm) were selected as a major production parameter and their effect on mechanical properties was combined with post-processing type for the first time. The results showed that both tensile and impact resistance of the printed polymers increased thanks to the heat treatment. The highest tensile strength was measured for heat-treated PLA, while the peak impact endurance level was reached for heat-treated PETG. Also, water absorption caused a mass increment in all samples and induced higher tensile elongation values. Decreasing layer thickness had a positive effect on tensile features, but impact strength values dropped. On the other hand, all samples were subjected to macro and micro failure analyses to understand the deformation mechanism. These inspections indicated that for impact samples straight crack lines converted to zigzag style separation lines after the heat treatment. As for the tensile samples, the exact location of the main damage zone altered with the production stability, the water absorption capacity of the polymer, and the thermal diffusion ability of the filament.
Covid-19 vaccination and pregnancy: a systematic review of maternal and neonatal outcomes
Authors: Kontovazainitis Christos-Georgios , Katsaras Georgios N. , Gialamprinou Dimitra , Mitsiakos Georgios
Published: February 2023

Objectives

Although the vaccination against Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS Cov-2) is considered safe during pregnancy, vaccine hesitancy among pregnant women is high. The results of published observational studies addressing the issue of Covid-19 vaccination’s efficacy and safety during pregnancy need to be summarized.

Content

This systematic review compares the incidence of major maternal and neonatal outcomes between SARS Cov-2 vaccinated and unvaccinated pregnant women. The included studies enrolled pregnant women of any age and any trimester. Medline-Pubmed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and grey literature were searched until the 28th of May 2022, and 2,947 studies were found.

Seven observational cohort studies, enrolling 67,274 pregnant women, were selected. When comparing vaccinated and unvaccinated pregnant women, SARS Cov-2 vaccines were not associated with major maternal and neonatal adverse events. The rate of SARS Cov-2 infections among vaccinated pregnant women compared to unvaccinated is significantly reduced by 43%.

Outlook

SARS Cov-2 vaccination in pregnant women is effective and safe. The results are promising, but caution is advised due to some limitations: only observational studies addressing this issue were found. Parallelly, the enrolled populations and the intervention (vaccination type and the number of doses) were not homogeneous.
Spectral tuning of Bloch Surface Wave resonances by light-controlled optical anisotropy
Authors: Marcucci Niccolò , Giordano Maria Caterina , Zambito Giorgio , Troia Adriano , Buatier de Mongeot Francesco , Descrovi Emiliano
Published: February 2023

Fostered by the recent advancements in photonic technologies, the need for all-optical dynamic control on complex photonic elements is emerging as more and more relevant, especially in integrated photonics and metasurface-based flat-optics. In this framework, optically-induced anisotropy has been proposed as powerful mean enabling tuning functionalities in several planar architectures. Here, we design and fabricate an anisotropic two-dimensional bull’s eye cavity inscribed within an optically-active polymeric film spun on a one-dimensional photonic crystal sustaining Bloch surface waves (BSW). Thanks to the cavity morphology, two surface resonant modes with substantially orthogonal polarizations can be coupled within the cavity from free-space illumination. We demonstrate that a dynamic control on the resonant mode energies can be easily operated by modulating the orientation of the optically-induced birefringence on the surface, via a polarized external laser beam. Overall, reversible blue- and red-shifts of the resonant BSWs are observed within a spectral range of about 2 nm, with a moderate laser power illumination. The polymeric structure is constituted by a novel blend of an azopolymer and a thermally-sensitive resist, which allows a precise patterning via thermal scanning probe lithography, while providing a significant structural integrity against photo-fluidization or mass-flow effects commonly occurring in irradiated azopolymers. The proposed approach based on tailored birefringence opens up new pathways to finely control the optical coupling of localized surface modes to/from free-space radiation, particularly in hybrid organic–inorganic devices.
Dynamic recrystallization behavior and nucleation mechanism of dual-scale SiCp/A356 composites processed by P/M method
Authors: Song Yahu , Wang Aiqin , Ma Douqin , Xie Jingpei , Wang Wenyan
Published: February 2023

Thermal deformation can improve the properties of aluminum matrix composites (AMCs) prepared by powder metallurgy (P/M) due to the dense and uniform microstructures. And the final microstructure of the AMCs is related to the dynamic recrystallization (DRX) behavior and nucleation mechanism in the thermal forming process. In this regard, the hot compression tests of dual-scale SiC particles reinforced A356 (SiCp/A356) composites prepared by P/M method were carried out at temperatures of 460–520°C and strain rates of 0.01–5 s−1 on a thermal simulation tester. The corresponding microstructure evolution was analyzed by electron back-scattered diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. The results indicated that the stress–strain curve was a typical DRX unimodal stress curve. The comprehensive influences of the strain rate and deformation temperature on the stress were investigated using the Zener–Hollomon parameter (Z), where the deformation activation energy was 443.204 kJ/mol. The DRX critical strain model and DRX volume fraction model were established. DRX behavior of the SiCp/A356 composites was sensitive to the deformation temperatures and strain rates. The micro and nano SiCp can promote the DRX nucleation of Al matrix due to the particle-stimulated nucleation.
Early prediction of cardiovascular disease using artificial neural network
Authors: Talukdar Jyotismita , Singh Thipendra P.
Published: February 2023

In recent years, there has been a noticeable rise in the mortality rate, and heart disease is a significant contributor to this trend. According to the California Association for Diabetes Investigation, by 2015, cardiovascular disease would be the primary cause of death in India, where 62 billion people live. Deficiencies in the heart’s ability to pump blood to and from the rest of the body are the leading cause of cardiovascular disease. The healthcare industry is a prime example of a sector poised to greatly benefit from the availability of massive amounts of data and analytical insights. Increasingly, it will be important to extract medical data to predict and treat the high fatality rate caused by heart attacks. Every day, humanity generates terabytes worth of data. Medical errors with dire effects can be avoided only with high-quality services. Hospitals can reduce the price of expensive clinical testing by using decision support systems. Hospitals in the modern-day use hospital information systems to keep track of patient records. The health care sector generates vast amounts of data, but little of it is really put to good use. It will be important to adopt a new strategy to reduce costs and make accurate predictions about heart disease. To determine which machine learning and deep learning approaches are most useful and accurate for predicting and classifying cardiac illnesses, this article reviews the existing literature on the topic and subsequently tries to detect the most probable factors leading to heart disease. This study introduces and models an artificial neural network methodology for identifying potential cardiovascular disease risk factors. In this study, we examine and present the various full and partial correlations among risk attributes. In addition, a number of risk variables are analysed to generate a predicted list of risk features most likely to result in cardiovascular disease.
Study on the uniaxial compression constitutive relationship of modified yellow mud from minority dwelling in western Sichuan, China
Authors: Hu Xiao , Xie Li , Chen Zhenlin , Lei Pengcheng , Chen Hao , Tan Tao
Published: February 2023

More than 2 billion people around the world still use raw earth architecture, in countries like Nepal, India, and Iran. In China, the proportion of people living in earthen structures rose to 36%, some of them in western Sichuan. Minority dwellings in western Sichuan, China, use local stone and yellow mud as building materials and have been used for thousands of years. Because yellow mud is a brittle material with poor mechanical properties, and because the region is prone to earthquakes, the walls are highly susceptible to damage under seismic action. To improve the mechanical properties of yellow mud, the yellow mud of Taoping Qiang Village in western Sichuan was studied and modified. Uniaxial compressive tests were conducted on the modified specimens, and the existing ontogenetic equations of raw soil-based materials were analyzed and optimized. Finally, we developed the constitutive models for yellow clay and modified yellow clay in the western Sichuan area, which can be used for different kinds of modified materials through the variation of parameters. The results show that the compressive strength of yellow clay is improved by adding the modified materials. The optimized constitutive model can better fit the test curves, which can provide a basis for theoretical calculations and seismic mitigation of minority residential structures in western Sichuan or similar structural systems.
Evaluation of a novel steel box-soft body combination for bridge protection against ship collision
Authors: Yan Hongfei , Fang Hai , Zhu Lu , Jia Enshi , Dai Zhiwei , Zhang Xinchen
Published: February 2023

Ship–bridge collision is a common type of accident in bridge engineering which could cause heavy casualties and economic losses. To ensure the safety of both the ships and bridges during collision, a novel steel box-soft body combination was proposed in this work. The time history curves of the impact force of three downscaled facility specimens were obtained through the horizontal impact test. The influence of the steel box web spacing and the existence of the anti-collision facilities on the ship collision force reduction rate was investigated. The collision failure modes of ship bow and the anti-collision facilities, as well as the energy absorption behavior of the facility were analyzed. Based on ANSYS/LS-DYNA finite element (FE) analysis software, the nonlinear numerical models of the anti-collision facilities were generated. The analysis results show that the proposed anti-collision facility can not only greatly reduce the ship impact force, but the bow damage as well. The densified steel box web can improve the anti-collision performance of the whole anti-collision facilities to a certain extent. Compared with the direct impact on the steel plate, the maximum reduction rate of peak force of the proposed facility can be achieved to be 31.07%. The anti-collision facilities deformation energy absorption accounts for more than 70% of the total energy, which shows that the facility is able to absorb most of the energy and protect the bow. The FE simulation results coincide with the experimental outcomes, indicating the acceptable accuracy of the FE models.
RAMAN STRUCTURAL AND GAMMA RADIATION SHIELDING FEATURES FOR AMORPHOUS MATERIALS: TLBLa(Nb/Ti)
Authors:   Radiological Science Department – Faculty of Applied Medical Science – King Khalid University, P. O. Box 9004, Abha, Saudi Arabia., ALMOHIY H. , SAAD M. ,   Radiological Science Department – Faculty of Applied Medical Science – King Khalid University, P. O. Box 9004, Abha, Saudi Arabia.,   Physics Department- Faculty of science –Mnasoura University, Egypt., SHAABAN E. R. ,   Physics Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Assuit, 71542, Egypt, ABOU DEIF Y. M. ,   Physics Dep., Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, P. O. Box 9004, Abha, Saudi Arabia., REBEN M. ,   Faculty of Materials Science and Ceramics, AGH – University of Science and Technology, al. Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Cracow, Poland, YOUSEF E. ,   Physics Dep., Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, P. O. Box 9004, Abha, Saudi Arabia
Published: February 2023

The gamma radiation protection parameter for the TeO2-LINbO3-BaF2-La2O3 network modified by Nb2O5/TiO2 in the present work. The following compounds have been examined: [77.53TeO2-7.31LiNbO3-4.16Nb2O5-10% BaF2-1.0La2O3, sample code TSH1), [71.69TeO2-7.31LiNbO3-10BaF2-1.0La2O3, sample TSH2] and [76.69TeO2-7.31LiNbO3- 5TiO2-10BaF2-1% La2O3 and sample code TSH3]. Within this, we specify the criteria for shielding such as mass attenuation coefficients (μm/), effective atomic numbers (Zeff), electron density (Ne), half-value layers (HVL), mean free path (MFP). The TSH3 glasses have a greater gamma-ray safety performance because of a higher value of HVL, (μm/), and MFP. The observed glasses display good gamma ray safety compared to used standard radiation-shielding materials, namely RS-360, and RS-520. Finally, the structure of these glasses investigates at wavenumber in the range 50 to 1200 cm-1 by using Raman spectra.
RAMAN CHARACTERIZATION OF CuIrSnX4 NORMAL-SPINEL SYSTEMS
Authors:   Basic Science Faculty, Catholic University of Maule, San Miguel 3605, Talca 3480112, Chile, BARAHONA P. , GALDÁMEZ A. ,   Department of Chemistry, Science Faculty, University of Chile, Las Palmeras 3425, Santiago, 7800003, Chile, VALENCIA-GALVEZ P. ,   Department of Chemistry, Science Faculty, University of Chile, Las Palmeras 3425, Santiago, 7800003, Chile, MORIS S. ,   Center of advanced investigation studies of Maule (CIEAM), Vice-rectory of research and postgraduate, Catholic University of Maule, San Miguel 3605, Talca 3480112, Chile
Published: February 2023

CuIrSnS4, CuIrSnSe4 and CuIrSnS2Se2 were synthetized by a solid-state reaction at 700 °C. Powder X-ray diffraction patterns were consistent with normal spinel-type structure. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM-EDS) images showed a uniform distribution of CuIr-Sn-S and Se atoms in the samples. Raman scattering analysis revealed A1g, Eg, and three F2g vibrational modes in spectra (cubic Fd3m space-group). Signal at ~320 cm-1 corresponded to the A1g mode, while the band at  230 cm-1 was assigned to the F2g(2) mode due to the asymmetric stretching of the Cu-X bond. Raman spectra were compared with those of the previously published thio- and selenospinels.
FORMATION OF THE GREEN STABLE α-MnS WITH METASTABLE γ-MnS NANOPARTICLES AND THIN FILMS BY HOMOGENEOUS PRECIPITATION ROUTE
Authors:   Department of Chemistry, Vaal University of Technology, P/Bag X021, Vanderbijlpark, South Africa, XABA T. , AL-SHAKBAN M. ,   Department of Physics, College of Science, University of Misan, Iraq
Published: February 2023

MnS nanoparticles and thin films were prepared via homogeneous precipitation technique and the films were deposited on glass substrates. Polyvinyl pyrrolidone and polyethylene glycol were used as capping agents. The optical properties showed blue shift when the capping agents were introduced into the nanoparticles. The band gap energies of nanoparticles and thin films were calculated from Tauc’s relationship and were found to be between 3.84-4.29 eV which was greater than the band gap of the bulk material. The XRD patterns of the synthesized MnS nanoparticles and thin film possess both cubic and hexagonal structures with lattice parameters a= b=c=5.2 Å for cubic phase and a=b=3.9 Å and c =6.4 Å for hexagonal phase which were close to the reported values. The crystallite sizes were determined using the Scherrer’s formula. The SEM images of MnS thin films clearly showed tree-like structures particles with round shaped granules.
HETEROJUNCTION p-Cu2SnS3/n-ZnO
Authors:   Voronezh State University of Engineering Technologies, 19 Revolution Av., Voronezh, Russia, BUDANOV A. V. , VLASOV YU. N. ,   Voronezh State University of Engineering Technologies, 19 Revolution Av., Voronezh, Russia, KOTOV G. I. ,   Voronezh State University of Engineering Technologies, 19 Revolution Av., Voronezh, Russia, SYNOROV YU.V. ,   Voronezh State University of Engineering Technologies, 19 Revolution Av., Voronezh, Russia, PANKOV S. YU. ,   Voronezh State Technical University, 14 Moskovsky Av., Voronezh, Russia, RUDNEV E. V. ,   Voronezh State University, 1 Universitetskaya pl., Voronezh, Russia, TERNOVAYA V. E. ,   Voronezh State University, 1 Universitetskaya pl., Voronezh, Russia, IVKOV S. A. ,   Voronezh State University, 1 Universitetskaya pl., Voronezh, Russia
Published: February 2023

Conditions for the formation of a Cu2SnS3 film uniform in phase composition upon annealing of a metal layer of copper and tin in sulfur vapor in a quasi-closed volume chamber using the methods of X-ray spectral microanalysis and X-ray phase analysis are presented. The rectifying heterojunction p-Cu2SnS3/n-ZnO was fabricated. PACS numbers: 81.20.−n, 61.10.Nz, 84.60.Jt
Immune surveillance of brain metastatic cancer cells is mediated by IFITM1
Authors: She Xiaofei , Shen Shijun , Chen Guang , Gao Yaqun , Ma Junxian , Gao Yaohui , Liu Yingdi , Gao Guoli , Zhao Yan , Wang Chunyan , Jiang Cizhong , Wang Ping , Qin Huanlong , Gao Hua
Published: February 2023

Brain metastasis, most commonly originating from lung cancer, increases cancer morbidity and mortality. Although metastatic colonization is the rate‐limiting and most complex step of the metastatic cascade, the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. Here, in vivo genome‐wide CRISPR‐Cas9 screening revealed that loss of interferon‐induced transmembrane protein 1 (IFITM1) promotes brain colonization of human lung cancer cells. Incipient brain metastatic cancer cells with high expression of IFITM1 secrete microglia‐activating complement component 3 and enhance the cytolytic activity of CD8+ T cells by increasing the expression and membrane localization of major histocompatibility complex class I. After activation, microglia (of the innate immune system) and cytotoxic CD8+ T lymphocytes (of the adaptive immune system) were found to jointly eliminate cancer cells by releasing interferon‐gamma and inducing phagocytosis and T‐cell‐mediated killing. In human cancer clinical trials, immune checkpoint blockade therapy response was significantly correlated with IFITM1 expression, and IFITM1 enhanced the brain metastasis suppression efficacy of PD‐1 blockade in mice. Our results exemplify a novel mechanism through which metastatic cancer cells overcome the innate and adaptive immune responses to colonize the brain, and suggest that a combination therapy increasing IFITM1 expression in metastatic cells with PD‐1 blockade may be a promising strategy to reduce metastasis.
Explanation of many natural phenomena by one cause
Authors: Igorevich Danilov Vladimir
Published: February 2023

This article shows how the external gravity force on the core of the planet leads to the appearance of the magnetic field (MF) of the planet. How this force provides acceptable conditions for the existence of life. Natural phenomena, which can easily be explained using the proposed mechanism of interaction of planets, such as earthquakes, mountain formation, ocean currents, tides, time jumps, changes in the duration of the day, periodic Solar activity are considered.
Specificity of the “ABS+FLEX” fitness program for overweight women
Authors: Olga Aftimichuk , Varvara Polyakova
Published: February 2023

The work deals with the problems of the second period of women mature age. There are presents the results of testing the fitness program “ABS + Flex” for reducing body weight. The program involves the power class of mixed-format, aiming at the elaboration of the abdominals and lower back, also to develop flexibility with stretching exercises. The dynamics of average group indicators of the morphofunctional state of the examined group of women with increased body weight showed a positive result of the developed methodology.
Нові спеціальні матеріали та покриття, що ефективно поглинають електромагнітне інфрачервоне та інші випромінювання
Authors: Горбик Петро Петрович
Published: February 2023

У доповіді наведено найважливіші результати фундаментальних та прикладних досліджень, проведених в Інституті хімії поверхні ім. О.О. Чуйка НАН України та спрямованих на розроблення нових перспективних спеціальних матеріалів і покриттів, що ефективно поглинають електромагнітне надвисокочастотне та інфрачервоне випромінювання, а також задовольняють певні вимоги щодо масогабаритних і кліматичних характеристик. Сфера застосування таких покриттів охоплює широке коло об’єктів різного призначення, що використовуються на суші, воді, в повітрі і навіть у космосі, а їх розроблення є актуальною проблемою, яка має важливе науково-технічне та оборонне значення.
SISTEM PERTANIAN TERPADU TANAMAN PADI DAN BEBEK PETELUR
Authors: Suproni Muhamad
Published: February 2023

ABSTRACTThe integrated farming system is an effort to take advantage of the linkages between food crops, horticulture, plantations with livestock and fisheries. One of the activities carried out by the Benteng Mikro Indonesia Sharia Cooperative is through member empowerment activities, namely rice cultivation and duck farming. Rice cultivation activities carried out on an area of 10 hectares. The yield obtained during the cultivation period was 32 tons, of the 32 tons of GKP produced as many as 27 tons of GKG. Laying duck feed is obtained from the bran produced from the grain milling process using a micro-scale milling machine. The micro-scale machine used has a capacity of 1 ton per hour to produce rice into rice, with the production of 1 ton of milled dry grain can produce 30-40% bran. The bran is used by farmers to feed laying ducks, the aim is to minimize production costs, especially feed costs. The need for bran in 100 ducks per day is 15 kg to 20 kg, so the costs incurred are Rp. 30.000/day for feed. Other feed is in the form of snails which are also obtained from rice fields cultivated by farmers. The income of duck egg farmers is Rp. 78,000,00. If it is assumed for 30 days then per month the income received by the farmer is Rp. 2,340,000,00. The role of the integrated farming system in the Indonesian Benteng Mikro Syariah Cooperative in empowering members of farmers or breeders through production cost efficiency and increasing daily income by combining rice cultivation and laying ducks..Keywords: paddy, duck
PROSES PEMBERDAYAAN EKONOMI KELUARGA MELALUI PROGRAM UMKM KERIPIK CIRENG RASAKU DI DESA CIBATU KECAMATAN CISAAT KABUPATEN SUKABUMI
Authors: Munajib Ali , Muhtadi Muhtadi
Published: February 2023

The Covid-19 pandemic has caused many people to lose their jobs, this has an impact on increasing the number of unemployment and poverty in Indonesia, and can make the national economy experienced a crisis. The Family Welfare Empowerment Group should contribute to building the national economy by optimizing the family economy through Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the community.The method used in this research is qualitative research with a descriptive research type. Data collection techniques were carried out using interviews, observations, and documentation studies. The resource persons in this study were 8 members of the Cireng Rasaku Chips MSMEs. The results of this study are the process of empowering the family economy at the Cireng Rasaku Chips MSMEs. including the awareness process, the knowledge transfer process, and the enrichment process. Then, in this study, only three of the four indicators of empowerment were achieved, namely freedom of mobility, the ability to buy small commodities as well as economic security, and contribution to the family. The driving factor in this empowerment is the existence of a partnership program and adequate quality of human resources. The inhibiting factors include limited capital, limited marketing capabilities, limited access to business information, and selfish between members.
PERAN KOMUNITAS INDONESIA PINTAR DALAM MENINGKATKAN MOTIVASI BELAJAR ANAK DI KAMPUNG PEMULUNG PONDOK LABU JAKARTA SELATAN
Authors: An’nisa Fretzelita Gatra , Rahmawati Isna
Published: February 2023

AbstrakEducation is the most important aspect for the Indonesian nation. The field of education is one component that has a large enough role to create quality human beings. In Indonesia, education is divided into two, namely formal and non-formal education. Poverty is a factor that makes many students drop out of school. The high cost of education makes people choose to work for their children instead of going to school. The Smart Indonesia Community is one of the communities that provides educational counseling to disadvantaged communities in the Pondok Labu Pemulung Village, which is under the auspices of the Creative Counseling House Foundation. The research was conducted with the aim of knowing the role of the Smart Indonesia Community in carrying out teaching and learning activities and the influence of the community on increasing children's enthusiasm and motivation to learn. The method used in this research is qualitative with a descriptive approach. The data used in the study were observation and interviews. The location used in this research is the scavenger village, Pondok Labu, South Jakarta. Based on the results of the research, it shows that the Smart Indonesia Community is able to provide educational facilities, education, collaborate with foundations in providing education and facilities, as well as providing technical skills such as package schools.
Do Occupational Stress Affect Employee Performance? The Case of Middle East Organizations
Authors:   Sur University College, Sultanate of Oman, Thomas Basil John , Khalil Tarek ,   Sur University College, Sultanate of Oman, AlDarwashi Ruqiya Jaber ,   Sur University College, Sultanate of Oman
Published: February 2023

Human resource is one of the major resources that enables an organization to sustain and grow in the present business era, which is characterized by high degree of competition and internal rivalry among the organizations. One of the major elements that has an influence and impact on the overall levels of employee performance is that of occupational stress. High levels of occupational stress has always a negative impact on the performance of employees. This research aims at making an assessment of the impact of occupational stress on employee performance in organizations in the Middle East. It also aimed to assess the overall levels of occupational stress within the factors that caused occupational stress, and the manner in which occupational stress influences employee performance. The study is also intended to put forward recommendations in order to have effective management of occupational stress. In order to address all these aims, a mixed methodology was deployed. The overall findings of the research indicated that occupational stress had a negative impact on the overall performance of the employee, where occupational stress is majorly defined by the presence of role conflict and role ambiguity as well as the lack of career development within the organization.
EVIDENCE FROM SOUTH AFRICAN CONSTRUCTION AND INDUSTRIAL TRANSPORTATION BUSINESSES ON ASSET REVALUATION
Authors:   University of KwaZulu Natal, South Africa, Mzimela Zenzele , Sibanda Mabutho ,   University of KwaZulu Natal, South Africa, Nomlala Bomi ,   University of KwaZulu Natal, South Africa, Ndlela Hlengiwe ,   University of KwaZulu Natal, South Africa
Published: February 2023

This study examines the relationship between asset revaluation and accounting and economic factors among firms listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE). It employs a quantitative model using seven explanatory variables, namely, leverage, operating cash flow, firm size, return on equity, return on assets, Tobin’s q, and common share ownership. The study covers South African companies listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) that applied asset revaluation at least once during the period 2006 to 2017. The findings of the study reveal that: (1) leverage does not have a significant impact on the revaluation decisions of the sampled firms, (2) macro-economic policy environment could significantly influence revaluation decisions, (3) the size of firms is one of the most important factors that have a significant effect on firm performance, (4) leverage has a significant impact on firm performance, while the other variables show a negative or inverse relationship with the revalued asset. The results of this study will fill a gap in understanding the variables identified by this research study which has justified with most relevant literature that motivates management of South African firms to choose the revaluation model to measure fixed assets. This study contributes to the current body of knowledge and further offers insight into the effect of the revaluation of fixed assets on firm performance, the characteristics of firms that revalue their fixed assets, and whether or not fixed asset revaluation decisions are influenced by the firm’s leverage. This study has also provided a very robust plan for future researchers.
THE INFLUENCE OF PARENTAL FINANCIAL SOCIALIZATION ON YOUNG BLACK AFRICAN ADULTS’ FINANCIAL BEHAVIOR
Authors:   University of South Africa (RSA), South Africa, Ndou Adam , Ngwenya Sam ,   University of South Africa (RSA), South Africa
Published: February 2023

Parental financial socialization is becoming increasingly important globally due to poor financial behavior amongst young adults, especially those in developing countries and rural and lowincome areas. This study makes a unique contribution to the body of knowledge by investigating the relationship between parental financial socialization and financial behavior. Using a quantitative research approach, parental financial socialization was extended through parental financial teaching, discussions, monitoring, and financial modeling. We collected a selfadministered questionnaire from young black African adults in two low-income and rural areas in South Africa (Intsika Yethu and Fetakgomo Tubatse municipalities) and showed a significant positive relationship between parental financial teaching, parental financial discussions, and financial behavior. Results revealed that parental financial discussions had a significant and positive relationship with financial behavior, while parental financial monitoring was adversely associated with financial behavior. Finally, findings demonstrated that parental financial modeling had no relationship with financial behavior. The results suggest that parents should teach and discuss financial matters with young adults to improve financial behavior. Also, financial educators should design financial education programs to assist parents in improving their financial behavior to transfer responsible financial behavior to young adults.
TRADE OPENNESS AND INCOME INEQUALITY: A CASE OF SOUTHERN AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT COMMUNITY COUNTRIES†
Authors:   University of Fort Hare, South Africa, Gonese Dorcas , Tsegaye Asrat ,   University of Fort Hare, South Africa, Kapingura Forget ,   University of Fort Hare, South Africa, Khumalo Sibanesizwe Alwyn ,   University of Fort Hare, South Africa
Published: February 2023

This research aims to address one of the SADC regional indicative strategic plans (RISDP) and one of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) objectives of reducing inequality in the face of increased trade openness. The paper uses the pooled mean group (PMG) estimation technique to examine the effect of trade openness on income inequality in 16 SADC countries from 1980 to 2019. The findings of the study reveal that trade openness worsens income inequality in the long run. Again, the findings of the results indicate that it is not only trading that matters on income inequality changes. Thus, trade openness reduces income inequality when economic growth, human capital index, and financial development are high. Yet, the mediating variable of trade openness and institutional quality has a positive and significant effect on income inequality in SADC countries. As a result, this study provides SADC policymakers and governments with some recommendations, such as investing more in high-quality education and strengthening financial institutions by reducing inequalities in the financial sector. Furthermore, effective policies to stimulate local production are needed to create jobs and improve the quality of institutions to reduce income inequality in the SADC region.
Tourist Profile as an Indicator of Perceptions of South Africa’s Political Climate Conditions
Authors:   Nelson Mandela University, South Africa, Ferreira Danie , Perks Sandra ,   Nelson Mandela University, South Africa
Published: February 2023

Tourism is seen as complexed and unpredictable. The industry does not operate in a vacuum and is sensitive to change in the environment in which it operates. The political climate of a tourist destination can influence the risk perception by tourist. The aim of this study is to explore if tourists’ variables can predict the role the political climate play in selecting South Africa (SA) as a tourist destination. A quantitative research design was utilized with 512 domestic and foreign tourists travelling within or to South Africa participating in an online survey. Multiple Analysis of Variance, Post-hoc Tukey tests and Cohen d tests were conducted to analyze the data. Of the six statistically significant mean variances, five practically statistically significant effect sizes were identified between the tourism profile variables excluding employment status. Of these practically significant effect sizes, only age seems to be an indicator of how travelers view SA’s political climate conditions. The SA government should purposefully strive to create a positive risk-free image of being a safe politically stable country. To increase travel to and within SA, marketers must apply a differentiated marketing approach for younger travelers (between 18 and 25 years) and those in the age group 56-65 years to reassure them about the absence of travel risks in the country. It is further suggested that destination marketing organizations compile specific travel packages for these two age groups to ease their travel risk fears and increase tourist demand to and within South Africa.