bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
2018 - 2021 State Capture Commission Hearing Transcripts
Authors: Nzimeni Sivuyile
Published: March 2024

The 2018 - 2021 State Capture Commission Hearing Transcripts is a comma-separated file containing the transcripts of 428 public hearings by The Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, Corruption and Fraud in the Public Sector, including Organs of State, also known as the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture or simply, the State Capture Commission. The file is derived from the published transcripts (available at https://www.statecapture.org.za/site/transcripts).
Work overload, organisational commitment, and emotional intelligence among public hospital nurses in South Africa.
Authors: Chamisa Shingirayi , Arnold Mdekazi Ayanda , Kolawole Aderibigbe John
Published: March 2024

The healthcare sector strives to ensure employees are more dedicated to their work and tolerate inherent pressures in official duties, assignments, and responsibilities. This study investigated the relationship between work overload (WO) and organisational commitment (OC) and the moderating effect of emotional intelligence (EI) among nurses in a public hospital. The researchers used a quantitative approach (validated questionnaire) to elicit information from 89 registered nurses. Pearson correlation analysis and a Multiple linear regression model were applied to test the stated hypotheses. The results showed that WO did not have a statistically weighty relationship with OC (r = -0.110) whereas the EI had a weak but positive relationship with OC (r = 0.210). The impact size of this association is assessed as having a modest effect. Moreover, the results indicated that EI had a marginally significant negative relationship with WO (r = -0.296). However, the multiple regression analysis produced a statistically insignificant model (F = 1.446; p = 0.235). The interaction term (β3 = 0.038; t = 0.401; p = 0.690, 95% CI [-0.149, 0.224]) does not have a discernible impact on the model, according to parameter estimations of the resulting model. The results serve to alert hospital management to focus on developing subordinates’ EI and enhancing their resilience to reduce WO and increase OC. The nurses’ use of EI as a technique to control WO was discussed in this study using the conservation of resources model, thus increasing their commitment to the organisation.
Cloud–Cloud Collision and Cluster Formation in the W5-NW Complex
Authors: Issac Namitha , Saha Anindya , Choudhary Saanika , Chaudhary Aakash , Tej Anandmayee , Liu Hong-Li , Liu Tie , Gopinathan Maheswar
Published: March 2024

We present a detailed structural and gas kinematic study of the star-forming complex W5-NW. A cloud–cloud collision scenario unravels with evidence of collision-induced star and cluster formation. Various signatures of cloud–cloud collision such as “complementary distribution” and “bridging features” are explored. At the colliding region, the two clouds have complementary morphologies, where W5-NWb has a filamentary key-like shape that fits into the U-shaped cavity in W5-NWa that behaves like a keyhole. The interaction region between the two clouds is characterized by bridging features with intermediate velocities connecting the two clouds. A skewed V-shaped bridging feature is also detected at the site of the collision. A robust picture of the molecular gas distribution highlighting the bridges is seen in the position–position–velocity diagram obtained using the SCOUSEPY algorithm. Star cluster formation with an overdensity of Class I and Class II young stellar objects is also seen towards this cloud complex, likely triggered by the cloud collision event.
Brown Dwarf Candidates in the JADES and CEERS Extragalactic Surveys
Authors: Hainline Kevin N. , Helton Jakob M. , Johnson Benjamin D. , Sun Fengwu , Topping Michael W. , Leisenring Jarron M. , Baker William M. , Eisenstein Daniel J. , Hausen Ryan , Hviding Raphael E. , Lyu Jianwei , Robertson Brant , Tacchella Sandro , Williams Christina C. , Willmer Christopher N. A. , Roellig Thomas L.
Published: March 2024

By combining the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST)/NIRCam JADES and CEERS extragalactic data sets, we have uncovered a sample of 21 T and Y brown dwarf candidates at best-fit distances between 0.1 and 4.2 kpc. These sources were selected by targeting the blue 1–2.5 μm colors and red 3–4.5 μm colors that arise from molecular absorption in the atmospheres of T
eff < 1300 K brown dwarfs. We fit these sources using multiple models of substellar atmospheres and present the resulting fluxes, sizes, effective temperatures, and other derived properties for the sample. If confirmed, these fits place the majority of the sources in the Milky Way thick disk and halo. We observe proper motions for seven of the candidate brown dwarfs, with directions in agreement with the plane of our Galaxy, providing evidence that they are not extragalactic in nature. We demonstrate how the colors of these sources differ from selected high-redshift galaxies, and explore the selection of these sources in planned large-area JWST NIRCam surveys. Deep imaging with JWST/NIRCam presents an an excellent opportunity for finding and understanding these ultracool dwarfs at kiloparsec distances.
The Polarization of the Solar Ba ii D1 Line with Partial Frequency Redistribution and Its Magnetic Sensitivity
Authors: Alsina Ballester Ernest , del Pino Alemán Tanausú , Trujillo Bueno Javier
Published: March 2024

We investigate the main physical mechanisms that shape the intensity and polarization of the Ba ii D1 line at 4934 Å via radiative transfer numerical experiments. We focus especially on the scattering linear polarization arising from the spectral structure of the anisotropic radiation in the wavelength interval spanned by the line’s hyperfine structure (HFS) components in the odd isotopes of barium. After verifying that the presence of the low-energy metastable levels only impacts the amplitude, but not the shape, of the D1 linear polarization, we relied on a two-term atomic model that neglects such metastable levels but includes HFS. The D1 fractional linear polarization shows a very small variation with the choice of atmospheric model, enhancing its suitability for solar magnetic field diagnostics. Tangled magnetic fields with strengths of tens of gauss reduce the linear polarization, and saturation is reached at roughly 300 G. Deterministic inclined magnetic fields produce a U/I profile and, if they have a significant longitudinal component, a V/I profile, whose modeling requires accounting for HFS and the Paschen–Back effect. Because of the overlap between HFS components, the magnetograph formula cannot be applied to infer the longitudinal magnetic field. Accurately modeling the D1 intensity and polarization requires an atomic system that includes the metastable levels and the HFS, the detailed spectral structure of the radiation field, the incomplete Paschen–Back regime for magnetic fields, and an accurate treatment of collisions.
The Evolution of Inclined Binary Black Holes in the Disks of Active Galactic Nuclei
Authors: Dittmann Alexander J. , Dempsey Adam M. , Li Hui
Published: March 2024

The accretion disks that fuel active galactic nuclei (AGNs) may house numerous stars and compact objects, formed in situ or captured from nearby star clusters. Embedded neutron stars and black holes may form binaries and eventually merge, emitting gravitational waves detectable by LIGO/VIRGO. AGN disks are a particularly promising environment for the production of high-mass gravitational-wave events involving black holes in the pair-instability mass gap, and may facilitate electromagnetic counterparts to black hole binary mergers. However, many orders of magnitude separate the typical length scales of binary formation and those on which gravitational waves can drive binary inspirals, making binary mergers inside the disk uncertain. Previous hydrodynamical simulations of binaries have either been restricted to two dimensions entirely, or focused on binaries aligned with the midplane of the disk. Herein we present the first three-dimensional, high-resolution, local-shearing-box, inviscid hydrodynamical simulations of disk-embedded binaries over a range of orbital inclinations. We find that retrograde binaries can shrink up to 4 times as quickly as prograde binaries, and that all binaries not perfectly aligned (or anti-aligned) with the AGN disk are driven into alignment. An important consequence of this is that initially retrograde binaries will traverse the inclinations where von Zeipel–Lidov–Kozai oscillations can drive binary eccentricities to large values, potentially facilitating mergers. We also find that interactions with the AGN disk may excite eccentricities in retrograde binaries and cause the orbits of embedded binaries to precess.
The Case of the Missing Very High-energy Gamma-Ray Bursts: A Retrospective Study of Swift Gamma-Ray Bursts with Imaging Atmospheric Cherenkov Telescopes
Authors: Ashkar H. , Sangaré A. , Fegan S. , Damascene Mbarubucyeye J. , Ruiz-Velasco E. , Zhu S. J.
Published: March 2024

Gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) are particle acceleration sites that can emit photons in the very high-energy (VHE) domain through nonthermal processes. From 2004 until 2018, the current generation of Imaging Atmospheric Cherenkov Telescopes (IACTs) did not detect any GRB in the VHE domain. However, from 2018 to 2020, five detections were reported. In this work, we try to solve the case of the missing VHE GBRs prior to 2018. We aim to identify GRBs that might have eluded VHE detection in past years by the H.E.S.S., MAGIC, and VERITAS IACTs. To do so, we study GRBs with known redshift detected by Swift from 2004 until June 2022. We first identify all GRBs that could have been observed by these IACTs since 2004, considering observation conditions and visibility constraints. We assume a relation between the X-rays and the VHE gamma rays based on the VHE GRBs detected to date and combine this with the redshift measurements, instrument response information, and observation conditions to predict the observed VHE gamma-ray flux from the Swift X-Ray Telescope measurements. We report findings on 12 bright low-redshift GRBs that we identify as most likely to have been detected in the VHE domain by current IACTs. The rate of IACT-detectable GRBs with ideal observation conditions is <1 VHE GRB per year with the current configuration. With its lower energy threshold and higher sensitivity, this rate increases to ∼4 VHE GRBs per year with the Cherenkov Telescope Array.
A Gap in the Densities of Small Planets Orbiting M Dwarfs: Rigorous Statistical Confirmation Using the Open-source Code RhoPop
Authors: Schulze J. G. , Wang 王 Ji 吉 , Johnson J. A. , Gaudi B. S. , Rodriguez Martinez R. , Unterborn C. T. , Panero W. R.
Published: March 2024

Using mass–radius composition models, small planets (R ≲ 2 R
⊕) are typically classified into three types: iron-rich, nominally Earth-like, and those with solid/liquid water and/or atmosphere. These classes are generally expected to be variations within a compositional continuum. Recently, however, Luque & Pallé observed that potentially Earth-like planets around M dwarfs are separated from a lower-density population by a density gap. Meanwhile, the results of Adibekyan et al. hint that iron-rich planets around FGK stars are also a distinct population. It therefore remains unclear whether small planets represent a continuum or multiple distinct populations. Differentiating the nature of these populations will help constrain potential formation mechanisms. We present the RhoPop software for identifying small-planet populations. RhoPop employs mixture models in a hierarchical framework and a nested sampler for parameter and evidence estimates. Using RhoPop, we confirm the two populations of Luque & Pallé with >4σ significance. The intrinsic scatter in the Earth-like subpopulation is roughly half that expected based on stellar abundance variations in local FGK stars, perhaps implying M dwarfs have a smaller spread in the major rock-building elements (Fe, Mg, Si) than FGK stars. We apply RhoPop to the Adibekyan et al. sample and find no evidence of more than one population. We estimate the sample size required to resolve a population of planets with Mercury-like compositions from those with Earth-like compositions for various mass–radius precisions. Only 16 planets are needed when

σ

M

p

=
5
%

and

σ

R

p

=
1
%

. At

σ

M

p

=
10
%

and

σ

R

p

=
2.5
%

, however, over 154 planets are needed, an order of magnitude increase.
Three Years of ACB Phase Function Observations from the Mars Science Laboratory: Interannual and Diurnal Variability and Constraints on Ice Crystal Habit
Authors: Innanen Alex C. , Cooper Brittney A. , Hayes Conor W. , Campbell Charissa L. , Kloos Jacob L. , Guzewich Scott D. , Moores John E.
Published: March 2024

We examine 3 yr of phase-function observations of water-ice clouds taken during the Aphelion Cloud Belt season by the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL). We derive lower-bound single-scattering phase functions for Mars years (MYs) 34, 35, and 36, over a range of scattering angles from 45° to 155°, expanding on the MY 34 phase function previously derived from MSL observations using the same method. We also modify the procedure used for MY 34 to make use of cloud opacity values derived from other MSL observations, often taken in conjunction with the phase-function observations. From these, we see little variability, both interannually and diurnally in the phase function at Gale Crater. We use our derived phase functions to attempt to constrain a dominant ice-crystal geometry by fitting a two-term Henyey–Greenstein function. In comparing to HG functions of Martian dust and modeled water-ice crystals, we see agreement especially with droxtal water-ice crystals, dust at Gale crater, and irregular volcanic glasses. This could be indicative of crystals composed of some irregular shape.
Pulmonary histoplasmosis on the Chinese mainland: two case reports and literature review
Authors: Chen Qi , Guo Wei , Guo Wenjia , Mu Xiangdong , Guo Jun
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Pulmonary histoplasmosis is a fungal disease that is endemic in North and Central America. It is relatively rare in China and commonly misdiagnosed as tuberculosis or cancer due to nonspecific clinical and radiographic manifestations. Rapid and accurate pathogen tests are critical for the diagnosis of pulmonary histoplasmosis.
Methodology: We report two cases of pulmonary histoplasmosis. We collected all the relevant case reports on the Chinese mainland (from 1990 to 2022) to analyze features of this disease among Chinese patients.
Results: A total of 42 articles reporting 101 cases were identified, and the two cases reported in this article were also included for analysis. Sixty-three (61.2%) patients had respiratory symptoms and 35 (34.0%) patients were asymptomatic. The most common radiographic findings were pulmonary nodules or masses (81.6%). Twenty-two (21.4%) patients were misdiagnosed as tuberculosis, and 37 (35.9%) were misdiagnosed as lung tumors before pathological findings. Metagenomic next‑generation sequencing (mNGS) testing provided a rapid diagnostic and therapeutic basis for three patients.
Conclusions: Clinical features and imaging findings of pulmonary histoplasmosis are not specific. Relevant epidemiological history and timely pathogen detection are important for diagnosis. mNGS can shorten the time required for diagnosis and allow earlier initiation of targeted antibiotic therapy.
Determination of amphotericin B antifungal susceptibility in Candida strains using an inverted microscope
Authors: Gür Vural Demet , Çetin Gülşen , Bilgin Kemal , Tanrıverdi Çaycı Yeliz , Birinci Asuman
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Invasive Candida infections have recently shown a significant increase in prevalence and are associated with high mortality rates. Initiating early antifungal treatment in patients with candidemia is vital. The aim of our study was to compare the antifungal susceptibility results of a new method called Flat Plate Method modified from reference "Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) microdilution method by us with Sensitititre Yeast One colorimetric method and the reference CLSI method.
Methodology: We tested 100 Candida isolates from blood cultures. We followed the CLSI M27-A3 (reference method for broth dilution antifungal susceptibility testing of yeasts; third edition) guidelines for testing in vitro susceptibility to amphotericin B. In the Flat Plate method, 96-well plates were used for evaluation with an inverted microscope. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values in the SYO method were measured following the manufacturer’s instructions. The MIC values obtained by all three methods were considered compatible if they were within ± 2 dilution limits.
Results: The SYO method detected C. albicans and C. glabrata with 100% essential agreement, whereas there was 96.29% essential agreement in the case of C. parapsilosis. In the Flat Plate method, the essential agreement with amphotericin B was 91.42%, for C. albicans isolates and 89.47%.for C. glabrata strains.
Conclusions: When determining early antifungal susceptibility using the Flat Plate method, the results are obtained quickly, with high accuracy, and without incurring additional costs. However, there is a need for comprehensive studies comparing different antifungals.
The use of different air diffusers on whiteleg shrimp, Penaeus vannamei in recirculating aquaculture system: effects on water quality and shrimp growth
Authors: Huynh Truong Giang , Tu Phan Thi Cam , Hai Vu Hung , Ut Vu Ngoc
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different air diffusers on the oxygen transfer rate, water quality, and growth performance of the whiteleg shrimp, Penaeus vannamei, for 60 days using a recirculating aquaculture system. The first experiment was conducted with six treatments applying two different air diffusers regarding two treatments (TRT): (i) rubber aeration tube and (ii) airstone at three different air pressures (0.025, 0.05, and 0.075 Mpa), respectively. Based on the first experiment's results, the second experiment was designed with two treatments: TRT1 - rubber aeration tube and TRT2 - airstone. Results indicated that the standard oxygen transfer rate increased as the pressure increased. The rubber aeration tube and air stone showed no significant difference at pressure levels. Therefore, the second experiment used a pressure level of 0.025 Mpa for TRT1 and TRT2. The results from the second trial showed that the dissolved oxygen in TRT1 did not differ significantly from that in TRT2. At the same time, the other parameters, such as temperature, pH, and alkalinity, remained steady throughout the culture period. The survival rate and biomass had the highest values in TRT2, but no significant differences were found in growth performance compared to TRT1. The results of this study suggest that either rubber aeration tubes or air stones are feasible and effective alternatives to improve the water quality and growth performance of P. vannamei in experimental conditions.
First mitogenomic characterization of Macromotettixoides (Orthoptera, Tetrigidae), with the descriptions of two new species
Authors: Luo Jieling , Zhang Rongjiao , Deng Weian
Published: March 2024

Classification of species is commonly based on morphological, molecular, and distribution depending on the taxa. Macromotettixoides Zheng, Wei & Jiang, 2005 and Formosatettix Tinkham, 1937 are both wingless types of Tetrigidae with extremely similar morphological characteristics, and in the current taxonomic system they are placed in two different subfamilies, Metrodorinae and Tetriginae, respectively. It is difficult to clearly identify the species of these two genera by morphological characteristics, and molecular data is often needed to assist identification. Here, the complete mitogenomes of two new species were sequenced and assembled, with that of Macromotettixoides orthomargina. Molecular data of species of Formosatettix were used to test the monophyly of Macromotettixoides and to re-assess the generic characters, and also to test whether Macromotettixoides belongs to the Asian Metrodorinae or Tetriginae. Furthermore, mitochondrial characteristics were analyzed and the phylogeny of the Tetrigidae reconstructed based on mitochondrial protein-coding genes (PCGs). The results indicated that the two new species were clustered with Macromotettixoides rather than Formosatettix, and the anterior margin of the fastigium and pronotum of the two new species usually had the humeral angle different from that of Formosatettix. Therefore, after integrating morphological and molecular data, the two new species were placed in the genus Macromotettixoides, M. maoershanensissp. nov. and M. brachycornasp. nov. Finally, a phylogenetic reconstruction supported Macromotettixoides being assigned to Tetriginae rather than Metrodorinae, in contrast to the previous classification of this genus.
Coordinate-free Lie-group-based modeling and simulation of a submersible vehicle
Authors: Fiori Simone
Published: March 2024

Submersible vehicles may be regarded as complex systems because of their complex interaction with the surrounding fluid. This paper presents a mathematical model of a submersible vehicle formulated in a coordinate-free manner through the language of Lie groups and Lie algebras. The d'Alembert virtual-work principle was applied in conjunction with the minimal-action principle for a rigid body in order to incorporate into the mathematical model external influences such as fluid-current-induced deflection and control inputs. Such a method from mathematical physics can also take into consideration how a vehicle interacts with the fluid it is immersed in under the form of added (or virtual) mass. The resulting equations of motion were given over the Lie group of three-dimensional rotations as (non-pure) Euler-Poincaré relations. A numerical simulation technique based on Lie-group integrators was also briefly recalled and deployed to simulate the behavior of such mathematical model of an existing, academic-design-type submersible vehicle.
Advancements in remote sensing: Harnessing the power of artificial intelligence for scene image classification
Authors: Khadidos Alaa O.
Published: March 2024

The Remote Sensing Scene Image Classification (RSSIC) procedure is involved in the categorization of the Remote Sensing Images (RSI) into sets of semantic classes depending upon the content and this procedure plays a vital role in extensive range of applications, like environment monitoring, urban planning, vegetation mapping, natural hazards' detection and geospatial object detection. The RSSIC procedure exploits Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology, mostly Machine Learning (ML) techniques, for automatic analysis and categorization of the content, present in these images. The purpose is to recognize and differentiate the land cover classes or features in the scene, namely crops, forests, buildings, water bodies, roads, and other natural and man-made structures. RSSIC, using Deep Learning (DL) techniques, has attracted a considerable attention and accomplished important breakthroughs, thanks to the great feature learning abilities of the Deep Neural Networks (DNNs). In this aspect, the current study presents the White Shark Optimizer with DL-driven RSSIC (WSODL-RSSIC) technique. The presented WSODL-RSSIC technique mainly focuses on detection and classification of the remote sensing images under various class labels. In the WSODL-RSSIC technique, the deep Convolutional Neural Network (CNN)-based ShuffleNet model is used to produce the feature vectors. Moreover, the Deep Multilayer Neural network (DMN) classifiers are utilized for recognition and classification of the remote sensing images. Furthermore, the WSO technique is used to optimally adjust the hyperparameters of the DMN classifier. The presented WSODL-RSSIC method was simulated for validation using the remote-sensing image databases. The experimental outcomes infer that the WSODL-RSSIC model achieved improved results in comparison with the current approaches under different evaluation metrics.
On Hermite-Hadamard type inequalities for co-ordinated convex function via conformable fractional integrals
Authors: Kiriş Mehmet Eyüp , Vivas-Cortez Miguel , Bayrak Gözde , Çınar Tuğba , Budak Hüseyin
Published: March 2024

In this study, some new Hermite-Hadamard type inequalities for co-ordinated convex functions were obtained with the help of conformable fractional integrals. We have presented some remarks to give the relation between our results and earlier obtained results. Moreover, an identity for partial differentiable functions has been established. By using this equality and concept of co-ordinated convexity, we have proven a trapezoid type inequality for conformable fractional integrals.
Reliability analysis for two populations Nadarajah-Haghighi distribution under Joint progressive type-II censoring
Authors: Hasaballah Mustafa M. , Tashkandy Yusra A. , Balogun Oluwafemi Samson , Bakr M. E.
Published: March 2024

In order to evaluate the competitive advantages and dependability of two products in a competitive environment, comparative lifespan testing becomes essential. We examine the inference problems that occur when two product lines follow the Nadarajah-Haghighighi distribution in the setting of joint type-II censoring. In the present study, we derived the maximum likelihood estimates for the Nadarajah-Haghighi population parameters. Additionally, a Fisher information matrix was constructed based on these maximum likelihood estimations. Furthermore, Bayesian estimators and their corresponding posterior risks were calculated, considering both gamma and non-informative priors under symmetric and asymmetric loss functions. To assess the performance of the overall parameter estimators, we conducted a Monte Carlo simulation using numerical methods. Lastly, a real data analysis was carried out to validate the accuracy of the models and methods discussed.
Networks, Barriers, and Trade
Authors: Baqaee David Rezza , Farhi Emmanuel
Published: March 2024

We study a flexible class of trade models with international production networks and arbitrary wedge‐like distortions like markups, tariffs, or nominal rigidities. We characterize the general equilibrium response of variables to shocks in terms of microeconomic statistics. Our results are useful for decomposing the sources of real GDP and welfare growth, and for computing counterfactuals. Using the same set of microeconomic sufficient statistics, we also characterize societal losses from increases in tariffs and iceberg trade costs and dissect the qualitative and quantitative importance of accounting for disaggregated details. Our results, which can be used to compute approximate and exact counterfactuals, provide an analytical toolbox for studying large‐scale trade models and help to bridge the gap between computation and theory.
Using the Murdoch Mysteries fandom to examine the types of content fans share online
Authors: Binnie Sarah
Published: March 2024

For many fans, much (if not all) of their fan behavior is displayed online, across a number of social media platforms through which they can interact and engage with each other and with the subjects of their fandom. This includes not only fan works such as fan fiction and fan art but also behaviors consistent with simply existing as a fan in an online space. The fandom of Murdoch Mysteries (2008–), a Canadian murder mystery TV show, demonstrates how a single fandom can manifest in multiple different ways across different platforms. Fans appear to make specific decisions about how they are willing to engage with their fandom and where.
Boys’ love in the Chinese platformization of cultural production
Authors: Zhang Lin
Published: March 2024

Boys' Love (BL), a subculture centered around same-sex male romances and eroticism, has become increasingly integrated into mainstream commercial culture in China. However, the genre explores homosexuality and pornography, which are considered taboos in China. BL has thus become situated at the intersection of the economic ambition of digital giants and the authorities' increasingly ideological control. I discuss the position of BL in Tencent's pan-entertainment ecosystem to highlight the results of platformization and the impact of the vague framework of platform governance.
The differences between author’s notes on FanFiction.net and AO3
Authors: Szczepaniak Martyna
Published: March 2024

This article presents the quantitative differences in the content of author's notes, treated as an act of communication, in Polish Harry Potter fan fiction on FanFiction.net and Archive of Our Own. It shows the influence that additional communication mediums and tagging systems have on the fan fiction, as well as on users' habits, story length, the visibility of archive tools, and rules.
Effect of edible coating containing Aloe vera extracts on the oxidative stability and quality parameters of cooked ground chicken meat
Authors: Yılmaz G. , Küçük A.İ. , Bilecen Şen D. , Kılıç B.
Published: March 2024

This study investigated the impact of incorporating Aloe vera gel (AVG) and Aloe vera leaf skin (AVLS) extracts into edible coating (EC) on retarding lipid oxidation and enhancing the quality characteristics of cooked ground chicken meat during 14 days of storage at 4 °C. The results indicated that both AVG and AVLS extracts had a similar amount of total phenolic contents. EC application resulted in a decrease in pH values, and an increase in aw values. The addition of 2% AVG or AVLS extracts into EC formulation also decreased TBARS and ORP values. Although textural properties were not affected by EC application containing AVG or AVLS extracts, this application retarded L*, a*, and b* color values. The results indicated that Aloe vera extracts may be incorporated into EC by processors to improve lipid oxidation inhibition and maintain the quality characteristics of poultry meat products during refrigerated storage.
The impact of COVID-19 pandemic isolation on the performance of track and field athletes: A comparative study of 100m sprint
Authors: Pocaan Jordan
Published: March 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated the suspension of schools and sports-related activities, leading to a disruption in athletes' engagement with sports training and subsequent negative effects on their performance. This research employs an experimental approach to investigate the influence of pandemic-induced isolation on the performance of track and field athletes in the 100m sprint. The study focuses on a sample of 60 athletes from elementary, secondary, and tertiary levels in Albay, Philippines. To assess performance, coaches provided data on the athletes' best time in the 100m sprint from 2019. Additionally, two sprint tests were conducted with the assistance of coaches to determine the current best time, with the lowest time recorded. Paired sample t-tests were employed to analyze the variation in 100m sprint times across different age groups, and sex comparing pre-pandemic and post-pandemic isolation periods. The statistical analysis revealed a significant difference between the two performance measures, as indicated by computed p-values consistently below the predetermined significance level of 0.05. To counteract this decline, the implementation of intensive and safe training environments is recommended, which would facilitate the gradual restoration of athletes' performance without compromising their health and well-being.
Physical demands and psychophysiological stress in young athletes team sports
Authors: Brandão Fernanda Martins , Duarte Thiago , Da Cunha Vinícius Figueroa , Werneck Francisco Zacaron , Bara Filho Maurício Gattás
Published: March 2024

Training monitoring is important in the development process of the athlete. The objective of the study was to characterize the psychophysiological response and physical demands of soccer, basketball, handball, and volleyball with young athletes. The sample consisted of 61 young athletes of both genders and members of team sports, 10 training sessions for each modality were monitored. The psychophysiological responses were monitored by the session rating perception of exertion (Session RPE) and training impulse (TRIMP). The physical demands were, distance covered (DC), DC by speed zone (DC_Z1, DC_Z2, DC_Z3, DC_Z4, DC_Z5), number of sprints, and duration of the session. In addition, the recovery status (TQR) was also collected. Differences were noted between duration (p<0.001), DC_Z1 (p<0.017), DC_Z2 (p<0.05), DC_Z3 (p<0.05), DC_Z4 (p<0.003), DC_Z5 (p < 0.05), sprints (p < 0.001), TRIMP (p<0.02), Session RPE (p<0.05) and TQR (p<0.007). In psychophysiological responses, handball showed more time in zones 4 and 5 than other modalities. According to physical demands, basketball, and handball had a higher number of sprints and also higher values in DP_Z5. Therefore, the simultaneous monitoring of physical demands and psychophysiological responses provides supplementary information in monitoring young athletes.
Influência dos jogos e brincadeiras ativos na cognição de crianças: uma revisão sistemática
Authors: Do Nascimento Tárcio Amancio , Ribas Juliane Camila de Oliveira , Ramos Isabela Almeida , Damasceno Vinicius de Oliveira , Costa André dos Santos
Published: March 2024

Jogos e brincadeiras são estratégias para auxiliar no desenvolvimento cognitivo do público infantil. Contudo ainda existem lacunas sobre os efeitos e associações dos jogos e brincadeiras ativos na cognição de crianças. Assim, o objetivo é sintetizar a influência dos jogos e brincadeiras ativos na cognição de crianças. As bases de dados foram: Lilacs, PsycINFO, Pubmed, Scielo e Scopus. Foram incluídos artigos com delineamento observacional ou experimental. A qualidade dos artigos foi avaliada com a RoB 2. Cinco estudos foram incluídos seguindo os critérios de elegibilidade. Todos os estudos apresentaram delineamento experimental, dois realizados de forma crônica e três de forma aguda. Três estudos apresentaram efeitos positivos dos jogos e brincadeiras na atenção, tempo de reação e funções executivas: controle inibitório, raciocínio lógico, fator verbal, fator numérico, fator espacial e inteligência geral. Quanto à qualidade metodológica dos estudos é necessário melhor descrição e utilização do processo de alocação da randomização, maior cuidado na análise de dados e evitar múltiplas avaliações para uma variável. Conclui-se que jogos e brincadeiras ativos podem gerar efeito positivo para a atenção e funções executivas de crianças. Mais estudos são necessários para compreensão da relação de parâmetros como intensidade, duração e tipos de atividades com a cognição.
Iniciação Esportiva Universal + Escola da Bola: impactos no conhecimento tático processual de escolares
Authors: Dias Araújo Nayanne , Ribas Schelyne , Da Costa Jaqueline Elizabeth , Mazzardo Tatiane , Mizoguchi Marcus Vinícius , Castro Henrique de Oliveira , Aburachid Layla Maria Campos
Published: March 2024

A capacidade tática nos jogos esportivos coletivos se baseia na relação com os conhecimentos que o praticante possui por meio de suas experiências anteriores, e a escola deve oportunizá-las, a fim de promover a formação geral dos alunos. O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar os impactos no conhecimento tático processual (CTP) de escolares em formação esportiva geral após um programa híbrido de ensino. Participaram 40 escolares (20 no grupo experimental-GE e 20 no grupo controle-GC) com idades entre 8 e 10 anos (7,85 ± 0,48), de ambos os sexos. Aplicou-se o Teste de Conhecimento Tático Processual: Orientação Esportiva para avaliação do CTP antes e após 17 sessões de aulas com um programa híbrido de ensino que utilizou conteúdos das propostas metodológicas da Iniciação Esportiva Universal (IEU) e da Escola da Bola (EB). A intervenção no GE provocou melhora significativa no CTP dos escolares para as ações em ataque e defesa com mãos e pés quando comparado ao CG com tamanho de efeito grande. Conclui-se que a utilização desse programa híbrido de ensino (IEU + EB) aplicado nas aulas de educação física (EF) foi capaz de melhorar o CTP de escolares.
Clean Mobility Systems, the way to Go
Authors: Adesina Dapo Oluwaseun
Published: March 2024

This paper aims discuss the concept of clean mobility, the energy requirements of clean mobility, challenges caused by unclean mobility as well as looking forward to the attainment of clean mobility system. The urban transport situation is as precarious as in the rural transport. Due to population growth and urban sprawl, there is rural-urban drift which has brough about an increase in the number of urban centres across the globe and coupled with the high dependence on fossil fuel, this has led to the continuous growth of air pollution and Green House Gas (GHG) emission level. Such pollution level has serious health effects and sometimes led to several death and contributes to climate change. Vehicular emissions are one of the major pollutant’s sources today with road transport as the key source of the PM2.5 pollution in large cities across the globe. This is due to several reasons including high vehicle density, old emission control technologies, fuels’ high Sulphur content, and limited public transportation options.Clean mobility will help to cut down on health cost and premature death due to air pollution, mitigate climate change actions and economic impacts of mobility. This paper will discuss issues such as stakeholder analysis on existing mobility systems and how to make it clean, policy framework and guidelines and public private partnership in the mobility sector. Therefore, the government in partnership with the private sector and multilateral agencies would have to invest in sustainable modern electric trains, Electric Mobility systems, build ports near deep rivers and create more local and international airports, and ensure people can afford to use them as well as explore the use of alternative fuel with less pollutants and reduced impact on the climate such as natural gas and hydrogen (green, blue, grey) as the case may be.
Mini-Grids: Empowering Africa’s Sustainable Energy Transition
Authors: Saleh Maryam Tijjani
Published: March 2024

The African continent is at the forefront of a transformative energy transition, driven by the urgent need for sustainable and accessible electricity solutions. The role of mini-grids emerges as a transformative solution to power rural and underserved communities. This paper delves into the role of mini-grids in catalyzing Africa's sustainable energy transition. Drawing on extensive research and case studies, this study explores Mini-grids, localized and decentralized electricity systems with immense promise for enhancing energy access, promoting renewable energy adoption, and fostering economic development across diverse African communities and the current landscape of mini-grids deployment in Africa. In this context, the paper highlights the critical importance of mini-grids in extending electricity services to remote and underserved regions, thereby empowering marginalized populations and advancing social equity. By integrating renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, into mini-grid architectures, African countries can significantly reduce carbon emissions and contribute to global climate goals. Furthermore, the paper emphasizes the socio-economic impact of mini-grids by increasing the potential for job creation, local entrepreneurship, and sustainable livelihoods. It underscores how mini-grids serve as engines of economic growth, enabling productive activities and fostering community resilience. As Africa seeks to unlock its clean energy potential, this paper underscores the significance of mini-grids in building resilient and decentralized energy systems. It explores how mini-grids complement existing energy infrastructure, enhancing grid resilience and strengthening energy security in the face of climate change and other external disruptions. This study aims to inspire robust discussions and informed actions that accelerate the integration of mini-grids into Africa's evolving energy landscape.
Physical, chemical and biological aspects of Dioscorea yams and potential value additions
Authors: Kulasinghe W. M. A. A. , Ranaweera K. K. T. N.
Published: March 2024

Dioscorea yams, which belong to the family Dioscoreaceae, have originated in African and Asian regions. At present, they are found in most of the tropical areas of the world and provide a great support to the world food production by generating a considerable amount of edible materials with minimum agricultural inputs. They have become a staple food for most of the African countries and thus numbers of value added yam products are found there. As a rich source of carbohydrates, energy, minerals, vitamins and bioactive compounds, yams have been defeating hunger and malnutrition while finding solutions for the food scarcity in African and Asian regions. Health benefits, such as anticancer properties, anti-diabetes properties, boosting retinal functions and cardiovascular disease prevention arise with yams in addition to delivering an extra value to the yams in food consumption systems of tropical regions of the world.
Wastewater treatment using attached growth microbial biofilms on coconut fiber: A short review
Authors: De Silva J. K. Anuradha , Karunaratne A. K. , Sumanasinghe V. A.
Published: March 2024

Treatment of wastewater is one of the major challenges in developing countries. Improper management of wastewater may cause serious health and environmental problems. There are many wastewater treatment methods in the world and these techniques need expertise knowledge, infrastructure facilities and high maintenance cost. In the context of developing countries, having low cost and environmental friendly wastewater treatment methods may be useful for the day today uses. Therefore, studying on the plausibility of wastewater treatment using attached growth microbial biofilms on coconut fiber may evidence for the fact that coconut fiber biofilm treatment systems could be used in the above need, as a reliable method.
Potent HPIV3-neutralizing IGHV5-51 Antibodies Identified from Multiple Individuals Show L Chain and CDRH3 Promiscuity
Authors: Abu-Shmais Alexandra A , Miller Rose J , Janke Alexis K , Wolters Rachael M , Holt Clinton M , Raju Nagarajan , Carnahan Robert H , Crowe James E , Mousa Jarrod J , Georgiev Ivelin S
Published: March 2024

Human parainfluenza virus 3 (HPIV3) is a widespread pathogen causing severe and lethal respiratory illness in at-risk populations. Effective countermeasures are in various stages of development; however, licensed therapeutic and prophylactic options are not available. The fusion glycoprotein (HPIV3 F), responsible for facilitating viral entry into host cells, is a major target of neutralizing Abs that inhibit infection. Although several neutralizing Abs against a small number of HPIV3 F epitopes have been identified to date, relatively little is known about the Ab response to HPIV3 compared with other pathogens, such as influenza virus and SARS-CoV-2. In this study, we aimed to characterize a set of HPIV3-specific Abs identified in multiple individuals for genetic signatures, epitope specificity, neutralization potential, and publicness. We identified 12 potently neutralizing Abs targeting three nonoverlapping epitopes on HPIV3 F. Among these, six Abs identified from two different individuals used Ig heavy variable gene IGHV 5-51, with five of the six Abs targeting the same epitope. However, despite the use of the same H chain variable (VH) gene, these Abs used multiple different L chain variable genes (VL) and diverse H chain CDR 3 (CDRH3) sequences. Together, these results provide further information about the genetic and functional characteristics of HPIV3-neutralizing Abs and suggest the existence of a reproducible VH-dependent Ab response associated with VL and CDRH3 promiscuity. Understanding sites of HPIV3 F vulnerability and the genetic and molecular characteristics of Abs targeting these sites will help guide efforts for effective vaccine and therapeutic development.
An Indigenous Measure of Social Desirability Across Non-Western Countries
Authors: del Carmen Domínguez-Espinosa Alejandra , He Jia , Rosabal-Coto Mariano , Harb Camelia , Benitez Baena Isabel , Acosta Tania , Estrada Catalina , Barrios Carolina , van de Vijver Fons , Wolfgang Velasco Matus Pedro
Published: March 2024

Cross-cultural differences in Social Desirability (SD) could be partly due to the nonequivalence of constructs, items, or other challenges of cross-cultural research. We tested to what extent a Mexican, indigenous scale of SD, capturing both positive and negative features of SD, would be useful in other countries. Data were collected in convenience samples in eight countries (Argentina, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Lebanon, Mexico, Nicaragua, and Spain) in order to test the psychometric accuracy and invariance of the factor structure. Values of Tucker’s factor congruence coefficients (gauging invariance) and tests of the similarity of the cross-country similarity of Cronbach’s alpha (gauging internal consistency) revealed that SD, as measured by this indigenous list, is stable and comparable across cultures. The results are interpreted in a conceptual framework in which SD is viewed as a culturally embedded communication style that people use to integrate successfully into their groups.
Socioeconomic Status, Reactions to Choice Deprivation in Group Contexts, and the Role of Perceived Restrictions on Personal Freedom
Authors: Eisen Charis , Ishii Keiko , Hitokoto Hidefumi
Published: March 2024

This research examined whether socioeconomic status (SES) predicts reactions to situations in which a group member decides for the entire group, thereby depriving other group members of personal choice. We found, as predicted, that Americans with higher subjective SES accepted choice deprivation less and demanded personal choice more than subjectively lower SES Americans. Subjective SES was a better predictor for reactions to choice deprivation than objective indicators of SES. The degree to which participants interpreted the deprivation of choice as a violation of their personal freedom partially mediated the relationship between subjective SES and reactions to choice deprivation. The results highlight the role subjective SES measurements can play and the need to consider social status and associated models of agency when interpreting behavior and motivation related to choice in American contexts.
Almost sure convergence of the
$L^4$
norm of Littlewood polynomials
Authors: Duan Yongjiang , Fang Xiang , Zhan Na
Published: March 2024

This paper concerns the
$L^4$
norm of Littlewood polynomials on the unit circle which are given by
$$ \begin{align*}q_n(z)=\sum_{k=0}^{n-1}\pm z^k;\end{align*} $$
i.e., they have random coefficients in
$\{-1,1\}$
. Let
$$ \begin{align*}||q_n||_4^4=\frac{1}{2\pi}\int_0^{2\pi}|q_n(e^{i\theta})|^4 d\theta.\end{align*} $$
We show that
$||q_n||_4/\sqrt {n}\rightarrow \sqrt [4]{2}$
almost surely as
$n\to \infty $
. This improves a result of Borwein and Lockhart (2001, Proceedings of the American Mathematical Society 129, 1463–1472), who proved the corresponding convergence in probability. Computer-generated numerical evidence for the a.s. convergence has been provided by Robinson (1997, Polynomials with plus or minus one coefficients: growth properties on the unit circle, M.Sc. thesis, Simon Fraser University). We indeed present two proofs of the main result. The second proof extends to cases where we only need to assume a fourth moment condition.