bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From student feedback to design: Revisiting mobile courseware interfaces
Authors: Çakiroğlu Ünal , Şen Hasan
Published: January 2025

This exploratory case study investigated students' preferences for mobile courseware tailored to student tasks, presenting a new classification for the app elements utilized in education. Preferences for mobile app interface elements were assessed through an action tracking system, while an embedded evaluation form highlighted reasons behind the preferences. The results showed that students predominantly preferred the apps due to their ease of use and attractive designs, though some criticized the form elements for being difficult and time-consuming. Evaluations of the interface elements differed based on their features and the content of the activities.
INFLUENCE OF VARIANT VASCULAR ANATOMY OF THE GRAFT ON THE OUTCOMES OF KIDNEY TRANSPLANTATION
Authors:   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus, Mahiliavets E. V. , Zhuk I. G. ,   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus, Grishchenko A. N. ,   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus
Published: January 2025

The most promising method of treating patients with end-stage chronic kidney disease is kidney transplantation. Variant vascular anatomy of the graft is an important factor affecting the results of this operation. The absence of the blood flow in one or more additional renal arteries can worsen graft perfusion. The presence of additional renal vessels can lead to difficulties with intraoperative selection of the graft position, its rotation and torsion of the renal vessels. Prolonged secondary warm ischemia time can potentially complicate the course of the immediate postoperative period. The aim of the study was to analyze the results of kidney transplantation in the presence of variant vascular anatomy described in the literature as well as to assess its impact on outcomes.
ULTRASONOGRAPHY AS A MODERN DIAGNOSTIC METHOD OF "DIFFICULT AIRWAYS"
Authors:   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus, Yakubtsevich R. E. , Poludzen A. V. ,   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus
Published: January 2025

Purpose of the study. To evaluate the clinical significance of some parameters of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of "difficult airways" in patients in the perioperative period. Material and methods. The study involved adult patients (n=30). The measurements were performed using the Logiq C5 ultrasound machine (GE Healthcare, USA). The main group (n=8) included patients who had confirmed difficult intubation, reflected in the relevant medical documentation. The control group (n=22) included patients without identified "difficult airways". Results. Gender and age did not correlate with difficult intubation. Higher Mallampati and difficult intubation index scores were significantly associated with difficult intubation. The distance from the skin to the epiglottis, the distance from the skin to the hyoid bone and the thickness of the tongue, measured using an ultrasound machine, were independent predictors of difficult intubation. Conclusion. Ultrasound diagnosis of "difficult airways" is a fairly accurate and promising method.
GENE POLYMORPHISMS AND CLINICAL, DEMOGRAPHIC, ANTHROPOLOGICAL DATA IN PATIENTS WITH ISCHEMIC HEART DISEASE WHO UNDERWENT CORONARY ARTERY BYPASS GRAFTING UNDER ARTIFICIAL CIRCULATION
Authors:   Grodno Regional Clinical Cardiology Center, Grodno, Belarus, Krotkov K. O.
Published: January 2025

Objective. To identify the relationship between polymorphisms of the angiotensin type 1 receptor gene (AGT2R1 A1166C) (rs 5186), endothelin-1 gene (LYS198ASN) (rs 5370), endothelial nitric oxide synthase gene NOS3 (C786T) (rs 2070744) and clinical, demographic, anthropological data in patients with coronary heart disease who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting under artificial circulation. Material and methods. All patients (123 people) underwent intraoperative venous blood sampling from a central venous catheter. Then, using the polymerase chain reaction method, there was performed an investigation of the genotypes of the gene polymorphisms of the angiotensin-1 receptor genes (AGTR1 A1166C), endothelin-1 (EDN1 Lys 198 Asn), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (NOS3 C786T), with further processing of the obtained results using the SNPStats online service. Results. The presence of T/C, T/T genotypes of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase gene polymorphism (NOS3 C786T) (rs 2070744) was detected predominantly in male patients. The correlation was found between female gender and the presence of the C/C genotype of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase polymorphism (NOS3 C786T) (rs 2070744). No correlations were found between the polymorphisms of the angiotensin type 1 receptor gene (AGTR1 A1166C) (rs 5186), the endothelin-1 gene (LYS198Asn) (rs 5370) and clinical and demographic (body mass index) indicators in the studied patients. Conclusion. The dominant model of the correlation between the endothelial nitric oxide synthase gene polymorphism (NOS3 C786T) (rs 2070744) and gender is statistically significant. The T/C-T/T genotype of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase gene polymorphism (NOS3 C786T) (rs 2070744) is predominant in male patients, while the C/C genotype is predominant in female patients.
INFUSION-TRANSFUSION THERAPY PECULIARITIES OF ANESTHESIOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT IN THORACIC AORTA SURGERY
Authors:   Mogilev Regional Clinical Hospital, Mogilev, Belarus, Shedko N. A. , Dudko U. A. ,   Mogilev Regional Clinical Hospital, Mogilev, Belarus,   Vitebsk State Order of Peoples’ Friendship Medical University, Vitebsk, Belarus, Lipnitski A. L. ,   Mogilev Regional Clinical Hospital, Mogilev, Belarus,   Vitebsk State Order of Peoples’ Friendship Medical University, Vitebsk, Belarus, Marochkov А. V. ,   Mogilev Regional Clinical Hospital, Mogilev, Belarus,   Vitebsk State Order of Peoples’ Friendship Medical University, Vitebsk, Belarus, Kulik A. S. ,   Mogilev Regional Clinical Hospital, Mogilev, Belarus
Published: January 2025

Objective: to determine the volume of blood loss and the volume of infusion-transfusion therapy in the intraoperative and early postoperative periods during operations on the thoracic aorta. Material and methods. 38 medical records of hospital patients who were treated in healthcare institutions from 2011 to 2024 for acute dissection of the ascending aorta and aortic arch type A have been analyzed. The age of the patients was 58 (52; 65.5) years, distribution by gender: men – 20 (51%), women – 18 (49%); height – 170 (166; 176) cm, body weight – 85.0 (76; 100) kg, body mass index – 27.9 (24.3; 30.9) kg/m2. All patients underwent cardiac surgery under artificial blood circulation. The volumes of blood loss from infusion-transfusion therapy in the intraoperative and early postoperative periods have been analyzed for each patient. The hemoglobin balance method was used to assess intraoperative blood loss. Results. The volume of blood loss in patients undergoing thoracic aorta surgery, evaluated by the hemoglobin balance method, was 2530 (2540; 3180) ml. The total volume of infusion-transfusion therapy in the groups is as follows: blood loss less than 40% of the circulating blood volume (CBV) – 2000 (1300; 2395) ml (p<0.001), 40-80% of the CBV – 3360 (2590; 4330) ml, more than 80% of the CBV – 4270 (3490; 6100) ml (p<0.001). The ratio of infusion therapy to transfusion therapy with blood loss less than 40% of the CBV is 1: 0.3; more than 80% – 1: 1.6. Conclusion. The work has analyzed the volume of blood loss and infusion-transfusion therapy during anesthesia for operations on the ascending aorta. That will help in further determining the optimal tactics, which may increase the survival rate of these patients.
The problem of suicidal behavior and alcohol dependence syndrome in the Arctic zone of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia)
Authors:   Сandidate of Philosophical Sciences, Associate Professor of the Department of Neurology and Psychiatry at the Medical Institute of the Federal State Educational Institution of Higher Education named after M.K. Ammosov, Yakutsk, Dutkin M.P. , Sleptsov S.S. ,   Candidate of Biological Sciences, Associate Professor, Senior Researcher at the Laboratory of Clinical, Population and Medical and Social Research of the Yakutsk Scientific Center for Complex Medical Problems, Yakutsk, Sleptsova S.S. ,   Doctor of Medical Sciences, Associate Professor, Head of the Department of Infectious Diseases, Phthisiology and Dermatovenerology of the Medical Institute of the Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution named after M.K. Ammosov NEFU, Yakutsk
Published: January 2025

An analysis of data on suicides in the Arctic zone of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) from 2000 to 2021 is presented, as well as their relationship with the prevalence of alcoholism and mental disorders. Official data show that during this period, 8,160 people, mostly men of working age, committed suicide in Yakutia. The overall suicide rate in the region has decreased, but is still significantly higher than the Russian average. Alcohol abuse is considered a leading cause of suicide, especially among indigenous people. There is a direct correlation between the prevalence of alcohol dependence and suicide, as well as the incidence of alcoholism and mental disorders. However, the connection between these indicators and mortality from suicide in the Arctic zone has not been established. The problem is caused, among other things, by insufficient diagnosis of mental and addictive disorders due to a shortage of qualified doctors in the region. The authors of the article come to the conclusion that it is necessary to strengthen the prevention of alcoholism and suicidal behavior, as well as improve the quality and availability of psychiatric care in the Arctic zone.
Keywords: suicide, alcohol addiction, alcohol, Arctic zone, Yakutia.
Humoral aspects of brown adipose tissue thermogenesis as a physiological strategy of adaptation to cold
Authors:   Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems (YSC CMP), Yakutsk, Ru, Efremova A.V.
Published: January 2025

The review is devoted to the study of humoral factors that directly affect the processes of non-contractile thermogenesis and the activity of brown adipose tissue. The review is based on research conducted in various research laboratories.
Keywords: thermogenesis, brown adipose tissue, adaptation, cold, insulin, glucagon.
Bioethical principles and applied bioethics in the field of neurodegenerative disease research in Yakutia
Authors:   Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems (YSC CMP), Yakutsk, Ru, Kononova S.K.
Published: January 2025

Applied bioethics is a field of knowledge, the subject of which is practical moral problems. The ethical principles that form the basis for applied bioethical research related to neurodegenerative disease in Yakutia are discussed. Applying the basic four ethical principles as starting points can lead to different answers regarding specific bioethical problems, in our case the moral problems of providing medical care to patients with neurodegenerative diseases.
Keywords: bioethics, applied ethics, neurodegenerative diseases, Republic of Sakha (Yakutia)
The effect of using Chlorella vulgaris suspension on hematologic and biochemical indices of human blood
Authors:   MD, Associate Professor, Head of the Department of Human Physiology, Penza State University Medical Institute, Mikulyak N.I. , Sorokin I.A. ,   student, Penza State University Medical Institute, Sorokina L.A. ,   PhD, Head of Clinical and Diagnostic Laboratory, K.R. Evgrafov Regional Psychiatric Hospital, Poluboyarinov P.A. ,   Candidate of Agricultural Sciences, Associate Professor Department of General and Clinical Pharmacology, Penza State University Medical Institute
Published: January 2025

Studies of the effect of the use of preparations with microalgae C.vulgaris on the human body are important due to its wide distribution and the presence of a large number of biologically active substances. We investigated biochemical and hematologic indices of a group of persons after a course of microalgae suspension reception. There were immunomodulatory effects, expressed as an increase in LYM% and a decrease in ESR, cellular rejuvenation primarily among healthy men, and trends toward increased ALB and TP at younger ages. After 50 years of age, a tendency for GLU levels to decrease after the course was detected. There was an increase in CREA and UREA, which may be related to both improved availability of protein compounds and the composition of the microalgae growth medium, which requires further investigation.
Keywords: suspension, chlorella vulgaris, hematology, biochemistry, age, sex, health status.
Analysis of the modern nature of bankruptcy institution in the Russian Federation
Authors: Mostovaya L. A. , Antonov S. A.
Published: January 2025

The purposes of this article are to reasonably determine the nature of the institution of bankruptcy and assess its impact on law enforcement practice.

   The basic methods of the article are: historical review, substantive (content) analysis, causal analysis, statistical (horizontal and vertical) research of data on bankruptcy procedures, observation of consequences.

   Methodologically, the work is based on a brief description of historical milestones in the development of the institute of bankruptcy and on the analysis of the transformation of understanding the essence of the concept of insolvency in various editions of the Federal law. Then causal relationships are established, reflecting the key changes in the current Federal law No. 127 of October 26, 2002 and a hypothesis is expressed about the liquidation nature of the institution. Using open statistical data from official bodies and current research by specialists on the subject of the article, the authors reasonably confirm the initial hypothesis (quantitative characteristics are given). The work is completed with an assessment of the impact of the liquidation nature of the bankruptcy institution on the law enforcement practice and the negative consequences of this state of affairs are revealed, which necessitates (determines the expediency) an additional study of the causes. The main results of the article can be applied in the practice of teaching such disciplines as anti-crisis management, legal foundations of insolvency (bankruptcy), arbitration process. A fairly clear justification of the nature and consequences of the functioning of the modern institution of bankruptcy can be considered a contribution to science. Practical usefulness is manifested in the indication of weak points of the legislation that are applied for the purpose of unfair enrichment.
Additional sources of financing for the updated national development goals
Authors: Chmut G. A.
Published: January 2025

National development goals are the basis of public policy and combine labour and material resources to address key development issues. They are approved by the decree of the President of the Russian Federation (hereinafter referred to as RF, Russia). For the first time, the RF’s national development goals were described in the Presidential Decree No. 204 and included a development perspective until 2024. In 2020, due to the challenges associated with the spread of COVID-19, the Decree of the President of the RF No. 474 clarified the list of national goals and extended their implementation period until 2030. The national development goals set by 2030 included such key areas as population preservation, human health and well-being; opportunities for self-realisation and talent development; comfortable and safe living environment; decent, effective work and successful entrepreneurship as well as digital transformation. In May 2024, the national goals were updated again by the Presidential Decree No. 309. The main reasons were ensuring sustainable economic and social development of the RF, improving living standards and increasing the population, ensuring state and public security as well as strengthening state and economic sovereignty.

  The purposes of this article are to review the updated national development goals, objectives and identify sources of their financing. As the study results, the activity of the Government of the RF in finding the sources of financing for the updated national projects is analysed.

   The main conclusion of the article is the justification of additional sources of financing to achieve the national development goals.
Using a narrative approach in self-help groups for young people experiencing employment problems: Japanese experience
Authors: Iashin D. N.
Published: January 2025

This article examines the problem of marginalisation of young people in the post-industrial society of Japan who experience the mental state of ikizurasa, consisting of feelings of disunity, isolation, anxiety, and leading to the inability to obtain a stable and well-paid job. The socio-economic conditions for the emergence and spread of this condition among Japanese youth are described. Its socio-economic and personal-mental aspects are highlighted and disclosed. It has been established that the mental state similar to the ikizurasa is not a specifically Japanese phenomenon, as it is observed in the countries with a Western mentality, in particular in Europe. A critical analysis of the socio-political assistance programmes proposed by the Japanese government is conducted, revealing their weak effectiveness when applied to subjects experiencing the ikizurasa. A narrative approach has been proposed as an alternative to the government employment programmes. The characteristics of psychological assistance formats that use narrative methods are given. Using the example of the social practice of self-help groups, the psychotherapeutic effectiveness of the narrative approach has been identified and substantiated,consisting in the individual’s awareness of their own needs, strengthening the feelings of stability and integration of their Self, and in the emergence of an active subject position in relation to their own employment. Prospects for further research are outlined.
Screening and Design of Aqueous Zinc Battery Electrolytes Based on the Multimodal Optimization of Molecular Simulation
Authors: Feng Wei , Zhang Luyan , Cheng Yaobo , Wu Jin , Wei Chunguang , Zhang Junwei , Yu Kuang
Published: January 2025

Aqueous batteries, such as aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIB), have garnered significant attention because of their advantages in intrinsic safety, low cost, and eco-friendliness. However, aqueous electrolytes tend to freeze at low temperatures, which limits their potential industrial applications. Thus, one of the core challenges in aqueous electrolyte design is optimizing the formula to prevent freezing while maintaining good ion conductivity. However, the experimental trial-and-error approach is inefficient for this purpose, and existing simulation tools are either inaccurate or too expensive for high-throughput phase transition predictions. In this work, we employ a small amount of experimental data and differentiable simulation techniques to develop a multimodal optimization workflow. With minimal human intervention, this workflow significantly enhances the prediction power of classical force fields for electrical conductivity. Most importantly, simulated electrical conductivity can serve as an effective predictor of electrolyte freezing at low temperatures. Generally, the workflow developed in this work introduces a new paradigm for electrolyte design. This paradigm leverages both easily measurable experimental data and fast simulation techniques to predict properties that are challenging to access using either approach alone.
An extensive scaling-up oriented investigation on carbon felt flow- through and interdigitated Vanadium Flow Batteries cells
Authors: Bordignon Davide , Zatta Nicolò , Trovò Andrea
Published: January 2025

In this work, 3D multiphysics model for Vanadium flow batteries (VFBs) was formulated and validated to computationally predict battery performance. The model showed an accuracy >2 % on the cell polarization curve. The electrode permeability, conductivity and internal cell resistance were experimentally measured while electrolyte density and viscosity were identified through novel empirical formulations. An extensive comparative analysis was performed between the flow-through (FTFF) and flow-by interdigitated (IDFF) flow field configurations for a 50 cm2 cell, varying the number and width of channels for the latter. A total of 90 3D simulations were conducted, first imposing constant flow rates of 20, 50 and 80 mL min−1 and subsequently using the resulting pressure drops for the flow-trough cell as input condition. At imposed flow rates, the FTFF configuration demonstrates superior perfor- mance, achieving a peak net power up to 6 % higher than the interdigitated configuration at 50 mL min−1. Conversely, under imposed pressure drop con- ditions, the behavior is more nuanced, showing that IDFF cells can deliver higher net peak power (up to 10 %) for intermediate imposed pressure. This operating condition, rarely investigated in the literature for medium-sized cells, matches closely the working conditions of industrial-scale VFB stacks. Our work aims to provide a detailed explanation of the interplay between fluid dynamics and electrochemical phenomena for the FTFF and the IDFF flow-by configuration cells, focusing on operational aspects and providing valuable scaling-up guidelines.
A simple method to optimize the spacing and number of alchemical intermediates in expanded ensemble free energy calculations
Authors: Novack Dylan , Raddi Robert M , Zhang Si , Hurley Matthew F D , Voelz Vincent A
Published: January 2025

Alchemical free energy calculations are essential to modern structure-based drug design. Such calculations are usually performed at a series of discrete intermediates along a nonphysical thermodynamic pathway to estimate the free energy difference between two endpoints of an alchemical transformation. The efficiency and accuracy of the free energy estimate depends critically on the choice of alchemical intermediates. In this paper, we review the concept of thermodynamic length, and how it can be used as a principle to choose alchemical paths in free energy simulations. We then present an algorithm for optimizing the choice of alchemical intermediates in free energy simulations. Our method is similar to the thermodynamic trailblazing algorithm of Rizzi et al. (2020) but with several improvements for use with expanded ensemble (EE) simulations. Our method only requires a single initial round of EE simulation, and includes a method for optimizing the number of alchemical intermediates in an EE simulation, based on the predicted mixing time. We first show how the method performs in a simple toy model, and then demonstrate its use in a realistic example for an alchemical relative binding free energy calculation. We also show how our method can be used to optimize free energy estimates in other contexts, namely, calculating a score for model selection in the Bayesian Inference of Conformational Populations (BICePs) approach. We have implemented our optimization algorithm in a freely available Python package called pylambdaopt (https://github.com/vvoelz/pylambdaopt)
Formation and Evolution of Solid Electrolyte Interphase at Calcium Surfaces
Authors: Banerjee Subhadeep , Yamijala Sharma S. R. K. C.
Published: January 2025

Solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) plays a crucial role in the reversible metal-ion deposition at electrodes, impacting battery performance and lifespan. SEI formation results from the decomposition of salts/solvents at the electrode surface via redox reactions, with its growth governed by dynamic interactions between the electrode, electrolyte, and decomposed products. These interactions are difficult to capture experimentally. Here, using large-scale ab initio molecular dynamics simulations, we explored the formation and evolution of SEIs at calcium anode under varying solvent, salt, and temperature conditions over 100 picoseconds. Our simulations are inspired by several recent experiments, which show reversible calcium-ion deposition only with a few selected salts under specific experimental conditions. Our work not only deciphers these experiments but also provides detailed microscopic insights into (i) solvent decomposition, (ii) the order of salt/solvent decomposition in the cell, (iii) the impact of electrode passivation on salt’s stability, and (iv) the role of nuclear dynamics and coordination geometry in anion decomposition, and thereby influencing the reversible deposition of cations. These findings offer critical insights into the formation and evolution of SEIs at metal anodes and provide guidance for designing new electrolytes to enhance the performance and longevity of metal-anode batteries.
Isotope Engineering in Tetraphenylethylene: Aggregate-Dependent Photophysical Enhancements
Authors: Zhang Siwei , Ma Fulong , Jiang Jinhui , Kwok Ryan , Gong Junyi , Zhao Zheng , Lam Jacky , Ben Zhong Tang
Published: January 2025

Aggregation-induced emission (AIE) luminogens, exemplified by tetraphenylethylene (TPE), exhibit enhanced fluorescence in aggregated states and have promising applications in display, photodetectors, fluorescent probes, bioimaging, and biomedicine. This study investigates the influence of varying degrees of deuteration on the photophysical properties of TPE across different aggregation states. Through the synthesis of partially and fully deuterated TPE derivatives (TPE-5d, TPE-10d, TPE-20d), combined with steady-state fluorescence spectroscopy, time-resolved fluorescence measurements, transient absorption spectroscopy, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations, we elucidate the dual role of deuteration in modulating non-radiative decay pathways. In loosely packed nanoaggregates, increased deuteration enhances photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQY) and extends fluorescence lifetimes by reducing internal conversion rates. Conversely, in tightly packed crystalline states, deuteration leads to decreased PLQY and shortened lifetimes, attributable to the Duschinsky rotation effect (DRE), which enhances inter-mode coupling and internal conversion. Additionally, deuteration significantly prolongs the operational lifetime of blue organic light-emitting diode (OLED) devices, decuplicating the device lifespan in deuterated TPE-20d compared to non-deuterated TPE. This work underscores the necessity of evaluating structure-property relationships at the aggregate level, rather than solely at the molecular level, to fully comprehend and optimize AIE phenomena. These findings highlight the potential of isotope engineering in designing durable and efficient AIE luminogens for applications in optoelectronics and bioimaging.
How Local is `Local'? Deep Learning Reveals Locality of the Induced Magnetic Field of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons
Authors: Davidson Yair , Philipp Aviad , Chakraborty Sabyasachi , Bronstein Alex M. , Gershoni-Poranne Renana
Published: January 2025

We investigate the locality of magnetic response in polycyclic aromatic molecules using a novel deep-learning approach. Our method employs graph neural networks (GNNs) with a graph-of-rings representation to predict Nucleus-Independent Chemical Shifts in the space around the molecule. We train a series of models, each time reducing the size of the largest molecules used in training. The accuracy of prediction remains high (MAE < 0.5 ppm), even when training the model only on molecules with up to 4 rings, thus providing strong evidence for the locality of magnetic response. To overcome the known problem of generalization of GNNs, we implement a k-hop expansion strategy and succeed in achieving accurate predictions for molecules with up to 15 rings (almost 4 times the size of the largest training example). Our findings have implications for understanding the magnetic response in complex molecules and demonstrate a promising approach to overcoming GNN scalability limitations. Furthermore, the trained models enable rapid characterization, without the need for more expensive DFT calculations.
Progress in flow-battery shunt current investigations: a species-resolved foundational approach
Authors: Bordignon Davide , Guarnieri Massimo
Published: January 2025

Shunt currents are elusive effects occurring in stacks of flow batteries which received partial attention despite being a major cause of internal losses, directly affecting efficiency and operability. Existing studies model them with electric networks of resistors. For the first time, this paper presents a foundational analysis of the charge carriers moving in the fluid electrolytes due to the electric potential differences among homologous electrodes. Taking the vanadium chemistry as a study case, the conductive, diffusive and convective motions of ions V2+, V3+, VO2+, VO2+, H+, HSO4–, SO42– were analyzed with Navier-Stokes, Nernst-Planck and conservation equations. 3D and 2D numerical implementations allowed analyzing both steady state and transient conditions. Shunt current contributions were computed in stacks of different size and under different load, revealing that power losses ranged from 0.17% in a 5-cell stack to 6.9% in a 40-cell stack, being higher at lower load currents. The methodology allows identifies the primary factors affecting shunt currents, such as membrane permeability, electrode porosity, and flow channel design. These results shed light on the strategies to mitigate shunt currents in order to improve efficiency.
Mechanism of Cationic Peptide-Induced Assembly of Gold Nanoparticles: Modulation of Electrostatic Repulsion
Authors: Lam Benjamin , Ramji Robert , Mullooly Margaret , Closser Kristina D. , Pascal Tod A. , Jokerst Jesse V.
Published: January 2025

The aggregation of plasmonic nanoparticles can lead to new and controllable properties useful for numerous applications. We recently showed the reversible aggregation of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) via a small, cationic di-arginine peptide; however, the mechanism underlying this aggregation is not yet comprehensively understood. Here, we seek insights into the intermolecular interactions of cationic peptide-induced assembly of citrate-capped AuNPs by empirically measuring how peptide identity impacts AuNP aggregation. We examined the nanoscale interactions between the peptides and the AuNPs via UV-vis spectroscopy to determine the structure-function relationship of peptide length and charge on AuNP aggregation. Careful tuning of the sequence of the di-arginine peptide demonstrated that the mechanism of assembly is driven by a reduction in electrostatic repulsion. We show that an acetylated N-terminal and a carboxylic acid C-terminal decrease the peptide effectiveness in inducing AuNP aggregation. The increase in peptide size through addition of glycine or proline units hinders aggregation and leads to less redshift. Arginine-based peptides were also found to be more effective in assembling the AuNPs than cysteine-based peptides of equivalent length. We also illustrate that aggregation is independent of peptide stereochemistry. Finally, we demonstrate the modulation of peptide-AuNP behavior through changes to the pH, salt concentration, and temperature. Notably, histidine-based and tyrosine-based peptides could reversibly aggregate the AuNPs in response to the pH.
Rural Fish Enterprise Growth Based on Entrepreneurial Practices in Tanzania
Authors: Mashenene R. G.
Published: January 2025

Purpose: The research aimed to compare the growth of rural fish enterprises among the fish traders in the Misungwi and Magu districts. Precisely, the research fulfilled objectives are to (i) establish associations between fish traders’ innovation mindset, market orientation and risk-taking and (ii) establish if a statistical difference exists between Misungwi and Magu enterprises owned by fish traders.
Design/Methodology/Approach: This research was cross-sectional, using a sample of 297 fisher and fish traders from the Misungwi and Magu districts in the Mwanza region along Lake Victoria. The sample choice procedure was proportionate stratified sampling, given that the populations of fishers and fish traders in the Misungwi and Magu districts differed. Crosstab was performed to generate Chi-Square values to measure associations among associated variables. Further, computations of Phi coefficients were undertaken to measure the size effect of the associations established. An independent samples t-test afterwards was conducted to estimate the differential existence of rural fish enterprises between Misungwi and Magu fish traders.
Findings: The results further illustrate that statistically, the age of fish traders, experience in business, startup capital, capital invested in 2023 and number of employees at start-up were different between Misungwi and Magu fish traders and their differences using Eta Squared were estimated to be small for age of fish traders, experience in business and number of employees while that of startup capital invested and capital invested in 2023 were moderate.
Research Limitation: Due to time and financial resources, the research was restricted to Misungwi and Magu districts in the Mwanza region and adopted only quantitative data capture.
Practical Implication: The results will inform the industry's formulation of collaborative programmes for capacity building for fish traders in financial management, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
Social Implication: A flourishing Fisher enterprise will have a spillover effect on the rural community by increasing the employment rate and livelihood.
Originality/ Value: This research represents a significant advancement in understanding and developing rural fish enterprises through entrepreneurial approaches, filling a crucial gap in academic literature and practical implementation.
The demographic factors’ contribution to the High School Student’s level of psychological distress in Malang, East Java
Authors: Yuniardi M. Salis , Widyasari Dian Caesaria , Putri Aransha K. N.
Published: January 2025

Demographic factors contribute to the etiology of psychological distress in adolescents, especially as a mark in identifying the vulnerability of these adolescents to high levels of psychological distress. This study aimed to identify the effects of demographic factors, including age, gender, school origin, and parents' marital status, on the level of psychological distress in adolescents who are studying in high schools in Malang, East Java. This cross-sectional study used the Hopkins Symptoms Checklist 25 (HSCL-25) measuring instrument to measure the level of psychological distress in adolescents and data filling on age, gender, school origin (Public Senior High School/Vocational Senior High School/Islamic Senior High School), and parents' marital status (married, divorced, widow/widower). Eight schools in Malang City were randomly selected to participate in this study. 520 students from eight high schools participated in filling out the questionnaire. The crosstab analysis reports that 53.1% of subjects showed high psychological distress. Based on the results of logistic regression analysis, the gender (OR = 0.55, p = 0.002) and school origin (OR = 0.74, p = 0.027) factors contributed to the level of psychological distress in adolescents who were studying in high schools. Based on the steadiest contribution from the gender factor, female students were 0.55 times more prone to experiencing high psychological distress than males. Thus, developing promotion and prevention programs in high schools regarding mental health and gender-related issues is crucial.
New ways of working: Differences between autonomy support and flexible work arrangements and relations to employee stress
Authors: Dewi Inten Dwi Puspa , Salendu Alice
Published: January 2025

The aftermath of COVID-19 has led to the widespread adoption of flexible work arrangements that promote employee’s job satisfaction and engagement across industries and organizations worldwide. Although the implementation of flexible work arrangements is generally regarded favorable, research suggests that it can also increase adverse effects on employee job characteristics, such as increased workload and blurred lines between work and personal life. Inconsistencies in the efficacy of diverse work arrangements within industries and organizations have not improved employees' well-being, such as engagement, satisfaction, and commitment at work. Using an experimental method, this study investigates how leaders’ approaches to autonomy influence employees’ stress levels in various categories of work arrangement manipulation scenarios. This study involved 156 participants who met the sample criteria: active employees in Indonesia with a minimum of 2 years of work experience, aged 22 to 64, and familiar with both conventional and flexible work arrangements. Significant differences in work stress were found in the four work scenarios, with the highest mean in the group with a leader who controlled autonomy in traditional work arrangements (M=39.73) and the lowest mean in the group with a leader who supported autonomy in flexible work arrangements (M=30.56). These findings indicate that a leader's orientation toward supporting employee autonomy in flexible work arrangements could potentially protect employees from potential work stress in the post-pandemic period.
Exploring the impact of flexible work arrangements, social support, gender, and job category on the work-life balance of Generation Z workers
Authors: Akbar Ahmad Farhan , Amalia Ilmi
Published: January 2025

The work-life balance is the ability of individuals to effectively manage resources such as time and energy across multiple roles within the professional and personal life domain, extending beyond the confines of familial responsibilities. This balance significantly correlates with life satisfaction, job contentment, work dedication, and better mental health. This study aimed to explore the impact of Flexible Work Arrangements, Social Support, Gender, and Job Categories on Generation Z Workers. Conducting a quantitative analysis and using a non-probability sampling method, the study comprised a sample of 258 workers aged between 18 to 28 years residing in Jabodetabek. The Work/Nonwork Interference and Enhancement Scale measuring tool developed by Fisher et.al (2009) was used to evaluate the work-life balance. The evaluation of flexible work arrangements used the assessment tool developed by Hyland (2000), while the measurement of social support used the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) by Zimet et al (1988). The validity of the measuring instrument underwent scrutiny through Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), with hypothesis testing conducted via Multiple Regression Technique. The results showed that five independent variables significantly influence the work-life balance, namely the use of adaptability, the availability of flexibility, preference for resilience, family support, and gender. However, variables such as aid from friends, significant other support, and job category are not significant in this context.
Keyword: Work-life balance, generation z, flexible work
Application of a discrete approach to designing the transport component of municipal solid waste logistics
Authors: Vitvitsky E. E. , Galaktionova E. S. , Yuryeva N. I.
Published: January 2025

Introduction. The growth of the urban area has led to the need to transfer landfills for the disposal of solid municipal (household) waste (MSW) to more remote locations on new sites. Representations and approaches to cargo transportation planning are an essential factor, separate planning of individual applications does not allow determining the results of future work with sufficient accuracy, since such an approach does not allow taking into account the interaction of rolling stock from different routes with each other and loading machines. The purpose of the study is to design the transportation of MSW in regional communications based on a discrete approach and theoretical provisions of operational planning of road freight transportation.

Materials and methods. Within the framework of the conducted research, a normative approach was applied to the planning of freight transportation costs and descriptive models for describing the functioning of road transport systems of regional road freight transportation.

Results and discussion. The solution of tasks related to the design of cargo transportation, including in regional communications, is due to the need in advance, prior to experience, knowledge of the results of future activities, since it is impossible to accumulate the work of road transport and then fix it. The results of cargo transportation depend on many factors, including the availability of a design methodology that allows you to adequately reflect the processes of their implementation. The use of mathematical modeling made it possible to reliably build plans for the transportation of MSW and determine the cost of their implementation.

Conclusion. It has been revealed that possible downtime of both road trains and excavators is the reason for not fulfilling the operational transportation plan defined by separate planning. The use of the same rolling stock for customers with different transportation distances in the region will be accompanied by different costs.
Changes in the thermophysical and mechanical properties of blocked soils during compaction and the promotion
Authors: Kuznetsov I. S. , Sirotiuk V. V. , Orlov P. V. , Kuznetsova V. N.
Published: January 2025

Introduction. It is known that flooded, blocked soils prevail in the North of Russia and in the territory of its Arctic zone. Such soils have a low bearing capacity, which reduces the possibility of their use in the construction of winter roads. Compaction (crimping) of blocked soils changes their thermophysical and physico-mechanical properties by changing the modes of freezing and thawing of weak bases, as well as the bearing capacity of overland winter trucks in wetlands. The article reflects the results of experimental studies of changes in the thermophysical and physico-mechanical parameters of the blocked soil at different degrees of its compaction.

Methods and materials. Low-moisture soil with a high content of organic matter (peat) of more than 50% was used for research. It was compacted with loads, the magnitude of which is typical for sealing (crimping) operations of weak blocked bases on autosomes (0.01, 0.03 and 0.06 MPa), and frozen in a chamber to a temperature of -15 °C. Temperature control was carried out at different depths at predetermined intervals. To do this, we put together a device, the main elements of which are DS18B20 brand thermal sensors and an Arduino Nano microcontroller. The thermal conductivity of thawed and frozen soil was determined using the MIT-1 probe device. A dynamic density meter D-51 was used to determine the strength (hardness) of the samplesand the universal penetrometer PUS-3M.

Results. The properties of the studied organic soil have been clarified. The heat capacity of this soil is determined depending on its humidity, temperature and density. The influence of the degree of soil compaction on the kinetics of its freezing is estimated. The results of the study of the dependence of the conditional strength (hardness) of the soil at different temperatures and densities, as well as the results of the interpretation of the results of dynamic zonation and the modulus of elasticity for the studied blocked soil are presented.

Conclusion. Compaction (crimping) of the blocked soil increases its thermal conductivity and the rate of freezing of the upper layer of the swamp, which helps to accelerate the commissioning of the winter truck. Compaction (crimping) of the blocked soil significantly increases its strength during freezing, which determines an increase in the bearing capacity of autozymers in swamps. The most promising use for operational control of the density and strength of a frozen peat slab on autozymers is dynamic sensing methods with penetrometers of various designs. The results of determining the conditional strength index (hardness) of peat soil using probing with a dynamic density meter and a universal penetrometer are obtained.
ИСПОЛЬЗОВАНИЕ ТЕХНОЛОГИЙ ИСКУССТВЕННОГО ИНТЕЛЛЕКТА ВО ФРАНЧАЙЗИНГЕ
Authors: БЕРДИН АЛЕКСАНДР ЭДУАРДОВИЧ , БЕРДИНА МАРИНА ЮРЬЕВНА
Published: January 2025

Цель работы. Целью работы является обзор применения инструментов искусственного интеллекта, которые оптимизируют и улучшают работу франчайзинговых сетей, а также способствуют появлению нового формата бизнеса – цифрового франчайзинга. Метод или методология проведения работы. Исследование основывается на общенаучной методологии, которая предусматривает применение системного подхода к решению проблем. Основой работы являются аналитические материалы по результатам применения инструментов искусственного интеллекта во франчайзинговом бизнесе. Результаты. Цифровые технологии, которые в настоящее время активно внедряют компании потребительского сектора экономики в своей деятельности значительно выделяют из общего списка и дают им более выгодные позиции в конкурентной борьбе за “своего” потребителя. Современный потребитель “избалован” удобством инструментов, которые дает искусственный интеллект – чат-боты, голосовые помощники, приложения и пр. значительно упрощают и ускоряют получение клиентами услуг или товаров. Франчайзинговые концепции, в подавляющем большинстве “обслуживающие” потребительский сектор, тоже активно используют инструменты искусственного интеллекта в своей работе, а также способствуют появлению принципиального нового формата концепций – цифрового франчайзинга. Область применения результатов. Результаты проведенного исследования могут быть взяты на вооружению франчайзинговыми сетями, которые еще не внедряют отдельные инструменты искусственного интеллекта в своей деятельности. Выводы. Использование блокчейн-технологий, онлайн-платформ для облечения составления франчайзинговых сделок, чат-боты для общения с клиентами, цифровые франчайзинговые концепции – это все примеры успешного внедрения современных технологий искусственного интеллекта в казалось бы уже «несовременный бизнес», что подтверждает вывод о том, что результаты НТП, к которым в настоящее время относится весь искусственный интеллект, доступны и реализуемы для любого бизнеса и любого потребителя.
ОЦЕНКА КОНКУРЕНТОСПОСОБНОСТИ ТРАНСПОРТНЫХ ПРЕДПРИЯТИЙ РОССИИ В УСЛОВИЯХ СОВРЕМЕННОЙ ЭКОНОМИЧЕСКОЙ СРЕДЫ
Authors: БАТМАНОВ ЭДВАРД ЗАГИДИНОВИЧ , ОМАРОВ ЗАУР ЗУЛУМХАНОВИЧ , ПАЙТАЕВА КОМЕТА ТАХИРОВНА
Published: January 2025

Актуальность исследования обусловлена необходимостью повышения эффективности работы транспортных предприятий России, что важно для обеспечения экономической стабильности и национальной безопасности. Цель исследования – анализ факторов, влияющих на конкурентоспособность транспортных предприятий, а также разработка рекомендаций по ее улучшению. Рассмотрены ключевые аспекты транспортной инфраструктуры и их влияние на качество услуг и устойчивость компаний. Изучены методы функционального анализа и оценки производительности, применяемые для мониторинга конкурентоспособности. Раскрыты возможности повышения рентабельности и эффективности через автоматизацию и модернизацию логистических процессов. Выявлены основные индикаторы, такие как производительность активов, рентабельность, фондоотдача и социальная эффективность. В заключении предложены рекомендации по улучшению конкурентоспособности российских транспортных компаний, включая автоматизацию процессов и оптимизацию затрат.