bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of an automated 3D metallography system and some first application examples in microstructural analysis
Authors: Lemiasheuski A. , Bajer E. , Oder G. , Göbel A. , Hesse R. , Pfennig A. , Bettge D.
Published: September 2023

Traditional metallography relies on the imaging of individual section planes. However, conclusions as to spatial shapes and microstructural arrangements can only be drawn to a limited extent. The idea to reconstruct three-dimensional microstructures from metallographic serial sections is therefore obvious and not at all new. However, the manual process of preparing a great number of individual sections and assembling them into image stacks is time-consuming and laborious and therefore constitutes an obstacle to frequent use. This is why the Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing, or BAM for short (Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung), is developing a robot-assisted 3D metallography system performing the tasks of preparation and image acquisition on a metallographic section fully automatically and repeatedly. Preparation includes grinding, polishing and optional etching of the section surface. Image acquisition is performed using a light optical microscope with autofocus at several magnification levels. The obtained image stack is then pre-processed, segmented and converted to a 3D model resembling a microtomographic image, but with a higher lateral resolution at large volumes. As opposed to tomographic techniques, it is possible to perform traditional chemical etching for contrasting. The integration of a scanning electron microscope is in the planning stages. Studies conducted so far have demonstrated the possibility of visualizing hot gas corrosion layers, gray cast irons and ceramic-based microelectronic structures (vias).
Model Testing of Rock-Socketed Piles under Combined Vertical–Lateral Loading
Authors: Singh A. P. , Rao K. Seshagiri , Ayothiraman Ramanathan
Published: September 2023

This paper presents the findings from a model experimental setup designed and fabricated for conducting single gravity (1-g) model experiments on model aluminum instrumented piles embedded in synthetic rock subjected to both independent vertical–compressive and lateral loading and combined vertical–compressive and lateral loading. Synthetic rock was prepared based on a mix design that can simulate the strength and modulus of soft rocks. Model tests were carried out on single piles of different socketing lengths (L/D ratios: 6, 9, and 12). Combined loading tests were done such that the resultant of the vertical–compressive and lateral loads was at constant inclinations (30° and 60°). Piles with smooth and rough surfaces were simulated for examining the effect of the pile–rock roughness profile. The vertical load–settlement and the lateral load–deflection response were measured from the tests. The bending behavior of piles under both independent and combined loading was also measured. The deflection profile of the rock-socketed pile was obtained by tracing the tested/failed piles after extracting them. The axial and lateral resistance of the rock-socketed piles are interpreted and discussed. It is observed that the rock-socketed piles behave in a distinctly different manner under combined loading compared with independent loading.
Developments in Group Transference-Focused Psychotherapy
Authors: Rufat María Jesús , Radcliffe Jonathan , Lee Tennyson , Martius Philipp , Fertuck Eric , Arango Iván , Lappe Heimhild , Ripoll Eulàlia , Yeomans Frank E.
Published: September 2023

Several evidence-based psychotherapies for personality disorders have been developed in recent decades, including transference-focused psychotherapy (TFP), a contemporary model of psychodynamic psychotherapy developed by Otto Kernberg. Kernberg established Group TFP (TFP-G) as an alternative or adjunct treatment to individual TFP. Although not yet manualized, TFP-G is used in publicly and privately funded mental health services, including outpatient clinics, subacute hospitals, therapeutic inpatient units, partial hospitalization services, and rehabilitation services serving people with borderline personality. Kernberg's model of TFP-G psychotherapy, its application in clinical settings, and what differentiates it from other group psychotherapy models is described as well as illustrated with some examples useful to practitioners.
Maladaptive Personality Traits of Inpatients with Self-Harm Behavior and Its Association with Suicide Intent Severity
Authors: Teck Sng Tay Andre , Teck Cheng Samuel Eng
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Inpatients with self-harm behavior utilize a high proportion of health care resources, and determining their suicide risk may be challenging. This study examines how maladaptive personality traits in people who self-harm are associated with suicide intent severity. Methods: This was a 5-month cross-sectional study. The International Personality Disorders Examination (IPDE) ICD-10 questionnaire, Beck's Suicide Intent Scale (SIS), and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS) 21 were administered. Sociodemographic and clinical data were recorded with STATA version 10.1 for statistical analyses. Results: Thirty-seven out of 40 (92.50%) inpatients participated in this study. About two-thirds (n = 24, 64.86%) were first-time self-harmers, with self-poisoning (n = 33, 89.19%) being the most common method. About two-thirds (n = 24, 64.86%) had low to moderate suicide intent. The most common diagnosis was adjustment disorder (n = 21, 56.76%). Around one-third had at least severe ratings for depressive, anxiety, and stress symptoms. All screened positive for at least one class of maladaptive personality traits, with the majority (n = 33, 89.19%) having more than one class of maladaptive personality traits. The three most prevalent classes of maladaptive personality traits were anankastic (n = 28, 75.68%), schizoid (n = 25, 67.57%), and paranoid (n = 23, 62.16%). Only dissocial traits were positively correlated with suicide intent severity (regression coefficient = 1.37, p = .017) following adjustment for the most important confounder, DASS 21. Discussion: Maladaptive personality traits were common in inpatients with self-harm behavior, with dissocial traits being positively correlated with suicide intent severity. This finding may inform suicide prevention strategies for patients who self-harm.
Electrophysiological Signatures of Visual Recognition Memory across All Layers of Mouse V1
Authors: Hayden Dustin J. , Finnie Peter S. B. , Thomazeau Aurore , Li Alyssa Y. , Cooke Samuel F. , Bear Mark F.
Published: September 2023

In mouse primary visual cortex (V1), familiar stimuli evoke significantly altered responses when compared with novel stimuli. This stimulus-selective response plasticity (SRP) was described originally as an increase in the magnitude of visual evoked potentials (VEPs) elicited in layer 4 (L4) by familiar phase-reversing grating stimuli. SRP is dependent on NMDA receptors (NMDARs) and has been hypothesized to reflect potentiation of thalamocortical (TC) synapses in L4. However, recent evidence indicates that the synaptic modifications that manifest as SRP do not occur on L4 principal cells. To shed light on where and how SRP is induced and expressed in male and female mice, the present study had three related aims: (1) to confirm that NMDAR are required specifically in glutamatergic principal neurons of V1, (2) to investigate the consequences of deleting NMDAR specifically in L6, and (3) to use translaminar electrophysiological recordings to characterize SRP expression in different layers of V1. We find that knock-out (KO) of NMDAR in L6 principal neurons disrupts SRP. Current-source density (CSD) analysis of the VEP depth profile shows augmentation of short latency current sinks in layers 3, 4, and 6 in response to phase reversals of familiar stimuli. Multiunit recordings demonstrate that increased peak firing occurs in response to phase reversals of familiar stimuli across all layers, but that activity between phase reversals is suppressed. Together, these data reveal important aspects of the underlying phenomenology of SRP and generate new hypotheses for the expression of experience-dependent plasticity in V1.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTRepeated exposure to stimuli that portend neither reward nor punishment leads to behavioral habituation, enabling organisms to dedicate attention to novel or otherwise significant features of the environment. The neural basis of this process, which is so often dysregulated in neurologic and psychiatric disorders, remains poorly understood. Learning and memory of stimulus familiarity can be studied in mouse visual cortex by measuring electrophysiological responses to simple phase-reversing grating stimuli. The current study advances knowledge of this process by documenting changes in visual evoked potentials (VEPs), neuronal spiking activity, and oscillations in the local field potentials (LFPs) across all layers of mouse visual cortex. In addition, we identify a key contribution of a specific population of neurons in layer 6 (L6) of visual cortex.
How Grammar Conveys Meaning: Language-Specific Spatial Encoding Patterns and Cross-Language Commonality in Higher-Order Neural Space
Authors: Wang Jing , Lin Hui , Cai Qing
Published: September 2023

Languages come in different forms but have shared meanings to convey. Some meanings are expressed by sentence structure and morphologic inflections rather than content words, such as indicating time frame using tense. This fMRI study investigates whether there is cross-language common representation of grammatical meanings that can be identified from neural signatures in the bilingual human brain. Based on the representations in intersentence neural similarity space, identifying grammatical construction of a sentence in one language by models trained on the other language resulted in reliable accuracy. By contrast, cross-language identification of grammatical construction by spatially matched activation patterns was only marginally accurate. Brain locations representing grammatical meaning in the two languages were interleaved in common regions bilaterally. The locations of voxels representing grammatical features in the second language were more varied across individuals than voxels representing the first language. These findings suggest grammatical meaning is represented by language-specific activation patterns, which is different from lexical semantics. Commonality of grammatical meaning is neurally reflected only in the interstimulus similarity space.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTWhether human brain encodes sentence-level meanings beyond content words in different languages similarly has been a long-standing question. We characterize the neural representations of similar grammatical meanings in different languages. Using complementary analytic approaches on fMRI data, we show that the same grammatical meaning is neurally represented as the common pattern of neural distances between sentences. The results suggest the possibility of identifying specific grammatical meaning expressed by different morphologic and syntactic implementations of different languages. The neural realization of grammatical meanings is constrained by the specific language being used, but the relationships between the neural representations of sentences are preserved across languages. These findings have some theoretical implications on a distinction between grammar and lexical meanings.
Progressive Excitability Changes in the Medial Entorhinal Cortex in the 3xTg Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease Pathology
Authors: Chen Lingxuan , Christenson Wick Zoé , Vetere Lauren M. , Vaughan Nick , Jurkowski Albert , Galas Angelina , Diego Keziah S. , Philipsberg Paul A. , Soler Ivan , Feng Yu , Cai Denise J. , Shuman Tristan
Published: September 2023

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder characterized by memory loss and progressive cognitive impairments. In mouse models of AD pathology, studies have found neuronal and synaptic deficits in hippocampus, but less is known about changes in medial entorhinal cortex (MEC), which is the primary spatial input to the hippocampus and an early site of AD pathology. Here, we measured neuronal intrinsic excitability and synaptic activity in MEC layer II (MECII) stellate cells, MECII pyramidal cells, and MEC layer III (MECIII) excitatory neurons at 3 and 10 months of age in the 3xTg mouse model of AD pathology, using male and female mice. At 3 months of age, before the onset of memory impairments, we found early hyperexcitability in intrinsic properties of MECII stellate and pyramidal cells, but this was balanced by a relative reduction in synaptic excitation (E) compared with inhibition (I; E/I ratio), suggesting intact homeostatic mechanisms regulating MECII activity. Conversely, MECIII neurons had reduced intrinsic excitability at this early time point with no change in synaptic E/I ratio. By 10 months of age, after the onset of memory deficits, neuronal excitability of MECII pyramidal cells and MECIII excitatory neurons was largely normalized in 3xTg mice. However, MECII stellate cells remained hyperexcitable, and this was further exacerbated by an increased synaptic E/I ratio. This observed combination of increased intrinsic and synaptic hyperexcitability suggests a breakdown in homeostatic mechanisms specifically in MECII stellate cells at this postsymptomatic time point, which may contribute to the emergence of memory deficits in AD.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTAD causes cognitive deficits, but the specific neural circuits that are damaged to drive changes in memory remain unknown. Using a mouse model of AD pathology that expresses both amyloid and tau transgenes, we found that neurons in the MEC have altered excitability. Before the onset of memory impairments, neurons in layer 2 of MEC had increased intrinsic excitability, but this was balanced by reduced inputs onto the cell. However, after the onset of memory impairments, stellate cells in MEC became further hyperexcitable, with increased excitability exacerbated by increased synaptic inputs. Thus, it appears that MEC stellate cells are uniquely disrupted during the progression of memory deficits and may contribute to cognitive deficits in AD.
Reductions in Coastal Salt Marsh Habitat for Wildlife From Sea-Level Rise in the United States
Authors: Krebs Samuel A. , Limburg Karin E. , Schummer Michael L.
Published: September 2023

The rate of sea-level rise (SLR) has increased due to climate change, affecting coastal salt marshes. It is uncertain if species can persist with rapid SLR compounded with other effects of climate change and human activity. SLR-induced habitat loss may lead to extirpations and decreased biodiversity. We conducted a literature review of wildlife that use salt marshes and selected 25 species of birds, mammals, and reptiles representing obligate, facultative, and generalist salt marsh users. We developed three regional case studies to quantify the percentage change in species habitat. We used the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Sea Level Rise Viewer and ImageJ to calculate areal habitat changes in Apalachicola Bay, FL; Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, MD; and Cape Cod Bay, MA. We used available literature to determine land cover types to estimate species-specific habitat changes by 2050 and 2100. The changes in habitat availability varied among species and salt marsh dependence, but by 2100, average losses were projected to range across accretion rates from 56% to 63% for birds, 44% to 53% for mammals, and 65% to 66% loss for reptiles. Mean habitat loss was greater for obligate (70%–77%) than facultative (69%–70%) and generalist (49%–56%) salt marsh users. SLR-induced habitat loss has been examined for individual species, but few multispecies assessments exist. Our results suggest ubiquitous habitat loss by 2100. Protection, restoration, and management of salt marsh habitat are necessary to conserve common and imperiled wildlife species, sustaining the ecosystem services provided by wildlife and salt marshes.
Ritual Boundaries: Magic and Differentiation in Late Antique Christianity
Authors: Sanzo Joseph E.
Published: September 2023

In Ritual Boundaries, Joseph E. Sanzo transforms our understanding of how early Christians experienced religion in lived practice through the study of magical objects, such as amulets and grimoires. Against the prevailing view of late antiquity as a time when only so-called elites were interested in religious and ritual differentiation, the evidence presented here reveals that the desire to distinguish between religious and ritual insiders and outsiders cut across diverse social strata. Sanzo’s examination of the magical also offers unique insight into early biblical reception, exposing a textual world in which scriptural reading was multisensory and multitraditional. As they addressed sickness, demonic struggle, and interpersonal conflicts, Mediterranean people thus acted in ways that challenge our conceptual boundaries between Christians and non-Christians; elites and non-elites; and words, materials, and images. Sanzo helps us rethink how early Christians imagined similarity and difference among texts, traditions, groups, and rituals as they went about their daily lives.
Survei Minat Dan Motivasi Masyarakat Dalam Aktivitas Olahraga Pada Masa Pandemi Covid-19 Di Pasar Wisata Lapangan Mataram Kota Pekalongan
Authors: Libriani Bellinda Andam , Raharjo Hermawan Pamot
Published: September 2023

Tujuan penelitian ini yaitu untuk mengetahui seberapa besar minat dan motivasi masyarakat terhadap aktivitas olahraga pada masa pandemi covid-19 di pasar wisata lapangan mataram Kota Pekalongan. Penelitian ini berupa penelitian kuantitatif yang menggunakan metode survei.Dengan populasi yang digunakan masyarakat yang melakukan aktivitas olahraga di pasar wisata lapangan mataram yang dilakukan setiap minggu yang berjumlah lebih dari 110 orang. Dengan jumlah sampel yang digunakan sebanyak 86 responden. Metode analisis dalam penelitian ini menggunakan analisis deskriptif presentase (DP).Teknik pengambilan data menggunakan angket, dokumentasi, dan observasi. bahwa minat masyarakat terhadap aktivitas olahraga pada masa pandemi covid-19 di pasar wisata lapangan mataram dikategorikan sangat tinggi yang dibuktikan dengan hasil presentase penelitian menunjukkan angka 79.68%. Sedangkan motivasi masyarakat terhadap aktivitas olahraga pada masa pandemi covid-19 di pasar wisata lapangan mataram dikategorikan tinggi yang dibuktikan dengan hasil presentase penelitian menunjukkan angka 72.52%. Simpulan nya adalah minat dan motivasi masyarakat terhadap aktivitas olahraga pada masa pandemi covid-19 di pasar wisata lapangan mataram termasuk dalam kategori sangat tinggi.
Tingkat Kemampuan Gerak Motorik Kasar Siswa Kelas IV & V Sekolah Dasar Negeri 1 Gulang Kecamatan Mejobo Kabupaten Kudus
Authors: Arizona Moch Endico Bachtiar , Rustiadi Tri
Published: September 2023

Physical growth and motor development can be influenced by several factors, internally and even externally, in physical growth it is clearly seen that there are differences in motor development as well as differences, this occurs according to the physical activities carried out by students. The problem of this research is to “How big is the gross motoric ability of the upper grade students of SD Negeri 1 Gulang, Mejobo District, Kudus Regency"?

This research design uses quantitative descriptive research with test and measurement survey methods. The population of this study was the IV and V graders of  SD Negeri 1 Gulang, Mejobo District, Kudus Regency. The IV grade students consist of 15 male students and 19 female students, in the V grade there are 13 male students and 20 female students. The method used in this study is a survey method.

Based on the results of the study, it was found that the results of the gross motor skills of grade IV and V grade students of SD Negeri 1 Gulang, Mejobo District, Kudus Regency obtained very good categories of 4%, good at 33%, moderate by 28%, less by 25%, and less once by 9%. Based on these results, it can be concluded that most of the gross motor skills of the IV and V graders of SD Negeri 1 Gulang, Mejobo District, Kudus Regency are categorized as “good”.
Kondisi Fisik dan Teknik Atlet Pencak Silat Pagar Nusa Kabupaten Temanggung
Authors: Setyawan Adi , Setiawan Ipang
Published: September 2023

Adi Setyawan. 2022. Physical and Technical Condition of Pagar Nusa Pencak Silat Athletes in Temanggung Regency. Thesis on Health & Recreation Physical Education / Health and Recreation Physical Education Study Program. Faculty of Sport Science. Semarang State University. Advisor Dr. Ipang Setiawan, S. Pd., M. Pd.

Keywords: Pencak Silat, Physical Condition, Technique

The background of this research is the Physical and Technical Condition of the Pagar Nusa Pencak Silat athletes in Temanggung Regency. pencak silat athletes who have good physical and technical skills will have a great chance of achievement. The problem in the research is how the physical conditions of strength, agility, speed, endurance, flexibility, accuracy, and agility are. Physical condition and technique are an interconnected entity because physical condition is the basis for maintaining stamina so that athletes stay focused when performing basic pencak silat techniques. The purpose of this study was to determine the physical conditions which include strength, agility, speed, endurance, flexibility, accuracy, and agility and the technical conditions of respect, stance, step patterns, punches, kicks, catch pad athletes, especially the Pagar pencak silat branch. Nusa in Temanggung Regency.

This research uses quantitative research and uses descriptive percentage method with survey technique. With survey techniques and standardized tests with a population of 54 athletes. The samples used were 25 male athletes and 23 female athletes. The sampling technique used is purposive sampling. Researchers in this case are trying to describe or provide an overview of the state of the physical condition and technique of the Pagar Nusa pencak silat athlete, Temanggung Regency.

The results of this study were the physical condition of the male pencak silat athletes from Pagar Nusa, Temanggung Regency, which had an average score of 3.25 in the medium category. The physical condition of the female pencak silat athlete in Pagar Nusa, Temanggung Regency, has an average score of 2.9 in the less category. The basic technical skills of the male pencak silat athletes, members of Pagar Nusa Pringsurat, Temanggung Regency have an overall average of 83.50% in the good category. The basic technical skills of female pencak silat athletes who are members of Pagar Nusa, Temanggung Regency have an overall average of 76.56% in the medium category.

The conclusion of the study is that the physical ability of the male pencak silat athletes of Pagar Nusa in Temanggung Regency is in the moderate category. The physical ability of female pencak silat athletes from Pagar Nusa in Temanggung Regency is in the poor category. The technical ability of the male pencak silat athletes of Pagar Nusa in Temanggung Regency is in the good category. The technical ability of the female pencak silat athlete of Pagar Nusa in Temanggung Regency is in the medium category.
Pembinaan Prestasi Cabang Olahraga Bola Voli pada Klub IVOKAB Kabupaten Pekalongan
Authors: Efiana Ariska , Soenyoto Tommy
Published: September 2023

The management of IVOKAB club pekalongan regency is still less than optimal, due to the lack of human resources (HR) of the board, infrastructure facilities are still minimal, it is due to the lack of budget funds so that it is still less than optimal in the planning of the training program. The purpose of this study is to find out the achievements, nurseries, and coaching achievements of the volleyball sport club IVOKAB Pekalongan Regency in 2021. This type of research is a qualitative naturalistic method. Data collection techniques through observation, interviews, documentation. The 12-person source consisted of 1 manager, 3 coaches and 8 athletes. The study used data and source triangulation to verify the validity of the data. Data analysis techniques used include data reduction, data presentation and verification. The results obtained are as follows: (1) The processing of ivokab clubs has been going well, because of the direct and indirect strategy, to maximize the quality of IVOKAB clubs. (2) IVOKAB club nursery is already going well, because the nursery is done networking through tests and categorized with age-appropriateness. (3) achievement is quite good, because the condition of the club is still new, for the annual event in Pekalongan Regency only regional tournaments only.
Komposisi Tubuh Member Senam Aerobik di Sanggar Se-Kecamatan Gunungpati
Authors: Sunyari Sunyari , Setiawan Ipang
Published: September 2023

The purpose of the research is that gymnastic members perform aerobic exercise activities to form a good body composition, namely Body Mass Index (BMI) and a good percentage of body fat. The purpose of this study was to determine and identify the body composition of members of aerobic exercise in a studio in the district of Gunungpati. Descriptive quantitative research method with survey techniques and research design used is a cross-sectional research design, the subjects in this study are members of the gymnastics studio in the district of Gunungpati. Collecting data using total sampling technique using survey data collection methods on body composition. Then the data analysis technique using descriptive statistics with percentages. The conclusion from this study is that the average Body Mass Index (BMI) of gymnastics members is 26.57 kg/m² and is included in the obesity category I. The average body fat percentage of gymnastic members is 26.5% and is included in the normal category (fat average). And there is a relationship between Body Mass Index (BMI) and body fat percentage of r = 0.742. Suggestions given by researchers are:1) For members, it is hoped that they can be more diligent in participating in aerobic exercise classes, because if these gymnastic activities can run continuously, it will have a positive impact on members.2) For instructors, it is hoped that they will be more active in justifying members' movements, providing direction and motivation to members
Persepsi Guru PJOK terhadap Pembelajaran Renang di Sekolah Dasar Sekitar Sungai Silugonggo di Kecamatan Juwana Tahun 2021
Authors: Amelia Ervina Rosa , Yono Supri
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this study was to describe the physical education teacher's perception of swimming lessons in elementary schools in Juwana District in 2021. This study used a qualitative research approach. The research location is an elementary school in the area around the Silugonggo River in Juwana District, which is 10 elementary schools. The target in this research is PJOK teachers who teach at schools that are research locations in Juwana District. Data collection can be done in various settings, various sources, and in various ways. Data collection techniques can be done by observation, interviews, and documentation. The results of data collection research can be concluded by the author that the perception of PJOK teachers on swimming lessons in elementary schools around the Silugonggo river in Juwana District has made swimming lessons one of the important lessons and needs to be given to elementary school students, even though there are obstacles in the field of facilities and infrastructure. In schools, swimming lessons can still be done outside the school environment. And online learning activities are also not an obstacle to providing material about swimming lessons.
Hambatan Penerapan Table Official pada Popda Cabang Bolabasket Kabupaten Purbalingga
Authors: Cholik Ridlo Al , Mulyono Aris
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this study was to find out the obstacles to the implementation of the Official Table at the Purbalingga district basketball branch. This research is a qualitative descriptive study using a narrative design with data collection techniques through observation, interviews and documentation. The subjects of this research are table officials or table officers and several match officials who are on duty and play a role in the Popda Basketball Branch event, Purbalingga Regency. Data analysis used data reduction, data display and conclusion drawing/verification. The results of this study indicate that there are several obstacles that occur in the desk clerk. The availability of tools provided by the committee is still inadequate, there are some tools that look very outdated and do not function as they are used. There are some tools that have not been included in the FIBA ​​standard, namely Shot clock. Table officials are selected based on the criteria that they already have experience and understand the match rules and understand the symbols of the referee, even though they do not yet have the legality/official license from PERBASI. Environmental conditions during matches such as spectators and weather also affect the equipment used by table officials. The availability of tools provided by the committee is still inadequate, there are some tools that look very outdated and do not function as they are used.
Analysis of Perceived Usefulness and Perceived Ease of Use in Relation to Employee Performance
Authors: Anaam Elham Abdulwahab , Haw Su Cheng , Palanichamy Naveen , Ali Aziah , Azni Syuhaidah
Published: September 2023

The adoption of electronic customer relationship management (E-CRM) is an important consideration for communication and collaboration companies. Several research efforts have focused on studying the success variables that contribute to the effectiveness of E-CRM systems. This study investigates whether enhanced Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and TAM3 can be used to understand employee adoption of E-CRM. The present study evaluates the scale on two key variables: perceived value and ease of use, are considered the main predictors of acceptability. The results show that perceived usefulness significantly affects 3.83 values out of 5.0, with a confidence interval of 839. Additionally, the employee performance rating is 0.886, which is above the acceptable limit of 0.70. The results indicate that the data fits the extended TAM model effectively. Performance measurement is heavily influenced by perceived ease of use and user satisfaction.
The Role of Blockchain Technology on Zakat Institutions, A Way Forward: Literature Review
Authors: Mohamed Mohamud Ahmed , Mohamed Mahad Abdiwali , Mohamud Omar Ahmed
Published: September 2023

Financial Technology (Fintech) is rapidly transforming the financial industry, with advanced features enhancing speed, convenience, and accessibility. Islamic Financial Institutions (IFIs) and Islamic Social Institutions must adopt FinTech to remain resilient and develop innovative products and services. This qualitative study analyzes the function of Blockchain technology in Zakat institutions and the challenges faced in adopting it. It examines recent publications, focusing on Islamic Financial Technology, the financial sector, and non-financial sectors. However, this article search was limited to scholarly works. Using the library's database, Google Scholar, and the Emerald Insight database, the search is conducted for relevant, primarily peer-reviewed articles, using the appropriate filters and keywords. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to identify the role of Blockchain technology in Zakat institutions and therefore analyze the current challenge faced by Zakat institutions when adopting Blockchain technology.  Blockchain technology, particularly in the financial sector, offers numerous opportunities for financial institutions. Smart contracts on blockchain technology offer more independent, transparent, and dependable transactions. Technology advancements impact industries, including Zakat, which is a critical concept in Islam. Zakat institutions can leverage blockchain technology to improve funding and distribution processes, overcoming challenges faced by traditional institutions. In Islamic Social Finance.
The Effect of Mobile Payment Service Characteristics on Behavioral Intention through Positive Psychological Capital
Authors: Hyeyoung Noh
Published: September 2023

The introduction of Apple Pay in Korea is bringing about changes in the mobile payment service market. Mobile payment services are rapidly growing worldwide, gaining popularity among users as a convenient and easy payment method with the proliferation of smartphones and mobile apps. The advantages of contactless payments have been highly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to an increase in usage. Additionally, the introduction of new technologies such as cryptocurrency payments, biometric authentication, and IoT payments has resulted in the emergence of diverse and innovative services. However, concerns and challenges regarding security and personal information protection still exist, and changes continue to occur from a legal and regulatory perspective. Furthermore, intense competition drives ongoing efforts to provide better services that meet user demands. The findings of this study reveal that among the characteristics of mobile payment services, security positively influences positive psychological capital, and particularly, positive psychological capital plays a significant role in behavioral intentions.
Conceptual Issues of National Security Policy-Making Under Uncertainty
Authors: Reznikova Olga , Smolianiuk Volodymyr
Published: September 2023

The article examines the nature of the uncertainty impact on the formation and implementation of national security policy. The multiplication of uncertainties and complication of the system of social relations prompt a transformation of conceptual approaches to the identification of the national security basic features and the organization of key processes in this area. It has been proven that the development of the concepts of uncertainty and resilience prompts a reconceptualization of the national security. This process is currently taking place. The implementation of new approaches to ensuring national security contributed to the initiation of a paradigm shift in national security policy. Management of uncertainty allows for reducing its influence on national security policy-making. The development of science and increasing the level of public trust in scientific information, which is taken as a basis for shaping political decisions, are of great importance for this.
Stanislavsky, A.A., Koval, A.A., Bubnov, I.N., and Brazhenko, A.I. Progress in the study of decameter-wave- length solar radio emission with Ukrainian radio telescopes. Part 2. (Invited paper)
Authors:   Institute of Radio Astronomy of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Stanislavsky A. , Koval A. ,   Astronomical Institute of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Bubnov I. ,   Institute of Radio Astronomy of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Brazhenko A. ,   Poltava Gravimetric Observatory, Subbotin Institute of Geophysics NAS of Ukraine
Published: September 2023

Subject and Purpose. This part of the paper continues presentation of results of the solar radio emission studies performed with Ukrainian radio telescopes over the past 20 years. The importance is stressed of developing adequate instruments and methods for identifying the nature of decameter-wavelength radio emissions from the Sun. Methods and Methodology. The low frequency Ukrainian radio telescopes UTR-2, GURT and URAN-2 have been used in the project along with other ground- and space based instruments in order to achieve a comprehensive understanding of physical conditions in the solar corona. Results. Special methods and tools have been developed for studying radio frequency burst emissions against the background of strong interference. Unique data have been obtained concerning sources of sporadic radio emissions from the Sun, as well as the contribution from wave propagation effects and the impact of the ionosphere on the results of observations. The most significant observational and theoretical results are presented, obtained in the study of solar low frequency emissions over the past 20 years. Solar radio emissions are shown to be efficient sounding signals not for the solar corona alone but for the Earth’s ionosphere as well, which allows identifying its impact on the results of radio astronomy observations. Conclusions. The Ukrainian radio telescopes of the meter and decameter wavebands currently are unrivalled tools for investigating the Universe in the low-frequency range of radio waves. Owing to their advanced characteristics, they make a significant contribution to the progress of world’s solar radio astronomy.
NEAR-ZONE IONOSPHERIC DISTURBANCES CAUSED BY EXPLOSIVE ERUPTION OF TONGA VOLCANO ON 15 JANUARY 2022
Authors:   V.N. Karazin Kharkiv National University, Chernogor L. , Mylovanov Yu. ,   V.N. Karazin Kharkiv National University
Published: September 2023

Subject and Purpose. The thermal energy of the Tonga volcano reached 3.9 . 1018 J, its power amounted to 9.1 . 1013 W. The energy and power of the blast waves approached (6.7...7.5) . 1013 J and 1011 W, respectively. Ionospheric effects caused by the explosive eruption of the Tonga volcano on January 15, 2022 have received due attention. It was established that the ionospheric disturbances spread over global distances, with the greatest disturbances occurring in the near zone. The aim of the present paper is to describe aperiodic and quasi-periodic disturbances started by the Tonga volcano explosion and occurring in the near ionospheric zone. Methods and Methodology. To detect ionospheric disturbances generated by the volcanic eruption, temporal variations of the total electron content (TEC) in a vertical column in the ionosphere were analyzed. The total error of the TEC estimation did not exceed 0.1 TECU. Results. The quantitative characteristics of ionospheric disturbances caused by the explosive eruption of the Tonga volcano have been obtained. It was proved that the appearance of the ionospheric "hole" was caused directly by the volcanic explosion. With dis- tance away from the volcano, the TEC deficit in absolute values decreased from ~10 to ~2.5 TECU. As that was happening, the time taken to form the ionospheric "hole" increased from ~20 to ~100 min. Three groups of disturbances were observed. One group picks out disturbances having an N-shaped profile and caused by a blast wave with a speed exceeding ~1 000 m/s. Another group includes disturbances with a propagation speed within ~340...620 m/s, which is characteristic of atmospheric gravity waves at ionospheric heights. The last group is specified by the disturbance propagation speed within ~110 to 320 m/s. The disturbances of the kind can be generated by tsunamis, Lamb waves and atmospheric gravity waves. The wave disturbance periods varied within ~ 5 to 20 min, the disturbance amplitudes were within 0.5...1.0 TECU. Conclusions. It has been proven that aperiodic and quasi-periodic ionospheric disturbances in the near zone were caused directly by the explosion of the Tonga volcano.
SELECTION OF SHF-BACKSCATTERING MODEL OF THE SEA SURFACE WITH REGARD TO SHADOWING
Authors:   O.Ya. Usikov Institute for Radiophysics and Electronics National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Bukin A. , Gutnik V. ,   Institute of Radio Astronomy of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Lohvinov Yu. ,   O.Ya. Usikov Institute for Radiophysics and Electronics National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Reznichenko N. ,   O.Ya. Usikov Institute for Radiophysics and Electronics National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine
Published: September 2023

Subject and Purpose. The article is devoted to the analysis of theoretically and experimentally obtained values of the specific effective sea-scattering surface in the region of super-high-frequencies (SHF). The study is reasoned by the need to know characteristics of the electromagnetic wave scattering from various objects at the modeling stage. The focus is on the choice of backscattering model with a methodology of specific effective scattering surface estimation that takes into account the shadowing effect of the sea surface under given conditions. Methods and Methodology. The study is based on mathematical modeling techniques and is accompanied by the comparison of the modeling results with experiment. Results. Proceeding from the simulation results with the effect of sea-surface shadowing taken into account and relying on the check of consistency with the measured data, a comparison analysis has been performed among theoretical models of specific effective sea-scattering surface calculation at low grazing angles. Conclusion. Analysis has been given to the specific effective sea-scattering surface obtained by the facet and two-scale models and to the values measured by experiment. Quantitative estimates of the specific effective scattering surface have been obtained with the shadowing effect of the sea surface taken into account. Analysis of the quantitative estimates has been carried out.
MODERNIZATION OF THE KHARKIV MICROWAVE SPECTROMETER: CURRENT STATE
Authors:   Institute of Radio Astronomy of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Alekseev E. ,   Univ. Lille, CNRS, UMR 8523 - PhLAM - Physique des Lasers, Atomes et Molécules, Ilyushin V. ,   Institute of Radio Astronomy of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Budnikov V. ,   Institute of Radio Astronomy of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Pogrebnyak M. ,   Institute of Radio Astronomy of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kniazkov L. ,   Institute of Radio Astronomy of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine
Published: September 2023

Subject and Purpose. Results are presented of the recent considerable upgrade implemented at the Kharkiv microwave spectrometer. The upgrade has been aimed at extending the operating frequency range and increasing the utmost accessible spectral resolution of the spectrometer. Methods and Methodology. In order to extend the frequency range we have designed and constructed new BWO-based oscillator units, also providing for possibility of frequency tripler application. Construction of a new absorbing cell of enlarged diameter allowed us to considerably improve the spectral resolution for Lamb-dip measurements. Results. Owing to the upgrade, the spectrometer has become able to cover the frequency range from 34 to 420 GHz, with a gap from 183 to 200 GHz. The spectral resolution in the Lamb-dip observation mode has been increased by a factor of two. In addition, the functionality of the spectrometer has been significantly improved via modernization of several of its subsystems. Conclusions. The new upgrades of the spectrometer systems have permitted extending the operational frequency range and increasing the utmost accessible resolution by means of reducing the time-of-flight line broadening in the Lamb-dip measurements. In addition, application of square-wave frequency modulation with accurately known modulation parameters, in combination with careful modeling of the distortions caused by reflections in the absorbing cell, has allowed us to significantly improve the accuracy of line frequency measurements.
The Development of the Effectiveness of Remote Work as Perceived by Employees and Managers
Authors: Wojtkowiak Grzegorz
Published: September 2023

Objective: This article discusses how the effectiveness of remote work has developed and differences in how it is assessed by employees and managers. Two research questions are asked: 1) How do employees assess the impact of remote work tools on various aspects of operation? and 2) How do managers perceive and approach employee attitudes and opinions in this area?Research Design & Methods: Computed-Assisted Web Interviews (CAWI) were conducted with 500 respondents (employees of companies with international capital). The results were then discussed (interviews) with 14 middle and senior managers.Findings: Employees believed the technology and tools available had the most significant positive impact on innovation and organisation. In contrast, aspects related to communication and relationships had the lowest impact. Although manager’s comments related to the effectiveness scores were divided, they did not contradict one another.Implications / Recommendations: Based on the research, an attempt was made to distinguish key variables for managers. They include: work programming (rules, principles, control, KPIs), ensuring autonomy (freedom in organising work and decision-making, ensuring trust), maintaining relationships (including effective communication) and one’s own skills.Contribution: It is important to understand that there are differences in how employees and managers perceive effectiveness and task performance efficiency. Managers’ awareness of their employees’ opinions is vital, as the interviews show.
Estudo preliminar do efeito da diluição do eletrólito no comportamento eletroquímico do alumínio em licor pirolenhoso de acácia negra em MILD ANODIZATION no modo galvanostático
Authors: Paim Thiago Duarte , Kunst Sandra Raquel , Soares Luana Góes , Moura Ângela Beatrice Dewes , Schneider Eduardo Luis , Oliveira Cláudia Trindade , Fuhr Luciane Taís
Published: September 2023

RESUMO O alumínio é um metal muito utilizado comercialmente e normalmente com tratamento superficial de anodização. A anodização também é um processo consolidado e difundido, principalmente uma técnica potenciostática conhecida como Mild Anodization, que utiliza ácidos orgânicos como eletrólitos com aplicação de baixos potenciais para gerar camadas de óxidos semicondutoras. Por outro lado, o licor pirolenhoso, que é um subproduto da produção de carvão vegetal, oriundo da condensação da fumaça dos fornos de pirólise como processo de controle de poluição atmosférica, é pouco conhecido nos meios tecnológicos sendo utilizado basicamente para fins agrícolas e tem principalmente ácidos orgânicos em sua composição, como o ácido acético, o alcatrão e cetonas. Por outro lado, os processos de anodização são feitos normalmente em eletrólitos que demandam tratamento de efluentes dispendiosos e descarte controlado. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo é avaliar o comportamento do licor pirolenhoso como eletrólito de anodização para alumínio 6061, em diferentes concentrações. Para tanto, foram definidos parâmetros de processo (densidade de corrente, temperatura, tempo) e três níveis de concentração do eletrólito – 10%, 25% e 50% v/v. Comparativamente, os mesmos parâmetros de processo foram utilizados para o eletrólito de ácido acético (em concentrações de 0,4%, 1% e 2% v/v). As superfícies após o tratamento eletroquímico foram avaliadas por sua morfologia, através de microscopia eletrônica de varredura, e quanto à molhabilidade, pelo método da gota séssil. Verificou-se que houve anodização do alumínio em licor pirolenhoso, enquanto que em ácido acético houve eletropolimento da superfície. No caso do licor pirolenhoso, os resultados mostraram que, nas condições de anodização propostas, o desempenho do processo foi melhor na concentração de 10% v/v.