bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On Research Integrity within Science Training
Authors: Almeida Maria Strecht , Almeida Maria Rosário
Published: February 2025

Here we report a teaching practice exploring integrity issues related to the use of images in scientific and/or academic writing or, more broadly, in communication. The practice is intended to raise students’ awareness of the need of complying with research integrity principles/norms. It is targeted at undergraduate students in the molecular biosciences, more specifically, to students enrolled in a First Degree in Biochemistry course. It has been implemented in the context of a course unit in which the students perform laboratory work – within a small project – usually originating data that is reported as graphs or as pictures in their laboratory reports. These visual representations are also normally used in articles published in scientific peer-reviewed journals. We implemented a group assignment based on the analysis of guidelines of different journals regarding the preparation of figures, including acceptable image processing and manipulation, as well as on the application of these guidelines on both written and oral reports. We could observe that the students performed the proposed activity with commitment and interest in the aspects explored. Moreover, the exercise improved their critical thinking ability as demonstrated through in-class discussions. In the present work, we discuss challenges of including illustrations in scientific texts in view of science teaching.
Dossiê - Educação e Diversidade: o olhar sobre as comunidades ciganas
Authors: Nunes Iran de Maria Leitão , Goldfarb Maria Patrícia Lopes , Batista Mércia Rejane Rangel
Published: February 2025

Dossiê – Educação e Diversidade: o olhar sobre as comunidades ciganas: apresentação.
Roman Kurkiewicz jako felietonista
Authors: Mielżyńska Agnieszka
Published: February 2025

The article is devoted to the Roman Kurkiewicz essays. He is a philosopher, but is also a well-known newspaper, radio and television journalist. The publication “Klapsy polskie” contains selected essays printed in “Przekrój” (2006-2009). They are alphabetically arranged and concern many issues important for Poles at the time. Political, economic, sporting and cultural events are the starting point for general discussions on the human and the world. Kurkiewicz writes about difficult and controversial topics. The article describes selected examples of different kinds of essay titles. The author refers to the literature, press and TV movies. Selected examples demonstrate the richness of the author’s ideas.
O Erotykach Franciszka Dionizego Kniaźnina
Authors: Rogala Anna
Published: February 2025

The article presents four erotic poems by Franciszek Dionizy Kniaźnin: Spocznienie, Z Anakreonta, Ognie młodości and Pasterka, together with an editorial compilation. All poems come from the first book of Erotics published in 1779 and the goal underlying their selection was to present the variety of motifs intertwining in this anthology. The book has its direct addressee, namely the mythological Roman goddess of love, and a considerable part of Kniaźnin‘s erotics are dedicated to this emotion in which Cupid, Venus and Nymphs get people entangled. The first book also includes poems translated from Anacreon, Horace, Claudian, Durini or Sappho. These are paraphrases whose prevailing theme is Bacchic. Several poems reflect on the irreversibly passing human existence that cannot be prevented or stopped, or the ideal realm of shepherds governed by the natural impulse of the heart. The poems discussed herein show richness of forms and motifs introduced on the pages of Erotics by Franciszek Dionizy Kniaźnin, scantily discussed before.
Grandcamp w skali mikro. O Na skałach Calvados Antoniego Sygietyńskiego
Authors: Janiak-Staszek Agnieszka
Published: February 2025

This study contains the micrological quest for proposals of new interpretation of the novel by Antoni Sygietyński entitled "Na skałach Calvados". The starting point for the discussion is the love for detail instilled in Sygietyński by Gustave Flaubert. The details, which have been omitted by the literature researchers so far, seem to be the key to decoding the characters‘ conduct, one which is consciously and consistently used. It is the space of the home that is the centre of these signs. A significant role in the novel is also played by the red colour. These trails lead to discovering the secrets of Sygietyński's writing technique.
Twórczość Romana Jaworskiego początkiem nurtu parodystyczno-groteskowego w literaturze polskiej
Authors: Zwierzchowska Katarzyna
Published: February 2025

Many researchers on the 20th century literature and art locate Roman Jaworski‘s artistic work on the border of grotesque achievements. The author of Historia maniaków, as the only writer of the Young Poland, with full awareness created and materialised his own theory of this category. In the work of writers preceding his artistic work one can see features of the grotesque, which was expressed in every epoch. However, it was not enriched before the 20th century. Even today it is difficult to define it clearly.
The author of Historia maniaków remained for many years in the shadow of the future lucky ones of grotesque. Undoubtedly Jaworski did not influence the grotesque in such a radical way as Witkacy, Gombrowicz or Mrożek. However, because of the pioneering nature of his interest in the grotesque and the full awareness in referring to its attributes, one should acknowledge the author of Hamlet wtórny as the greatest authors of this genre. Roman Jaworski‘s novel Wesele hrabiego Orgaza initiated the trend of catastrophic literature which in later years had many followers.
Pisarska podróż Ryszarda Krynickiego
Authors: Morawiec Arkadiusz
Published: February 2025

The metaphor of a journey arranges and explains the literary work by Ryszard Krynicki, its evolution, the presented world, and idea. The journey is one of the most important key words and motifs of Krynicki‘s poetry, and a metaphor of human destiny. The term "artistic journey", related to this work, is more than a trite metaphor. Krynicki‘s road leads from nothingness, the world without norms, values, the world of illusory existence, towards Nothingness, The Absolute. The writer should be seen as a seeker that completed a fascinating, complicated journey in pursuit of excellence, artistic, moral, and spiritual, as a man responsible for the word. Ryszard Krynicki‘s literary journey leads from chaos to cosmos, from logorea to Logos, from the fall to prospective redemption.
Marco Aguilar, visto por el crítico Alberto Cañas
Authors: Cañas Alberto
Published: February 2025

Este artículo corresponde a un juicio de gran relevancia, pues fue emitido por el prominente crítico literario Alberto Cañas en Chisporroteos, su columna semanal del diario La República. Apareció en agosto de 1996, para celebrar la aparición del libro de sonetos El tránsito del sol, y en el que destaca la calidad poética de Marco Aguilar, sobre todo como escritor de extraordinarios sonetos, modalidad que este revitalizó con gran donaire.
La profecía poética de Marco Aguilar
Authors: Vargas Acuña Gabriel
Published: February 2025

En este artículo, el crítico literario Gabriel Vargas realiza un recorrido, según su secuencia histórica, por cada uno de los seis poemarios de Marco Aguilar, para así entender mejor la génesis y la evolución de su técnica poética, así como para develar sus principales motivaciones e inquietudes existenciales como escritor.
Reducing Stress in Health Care Workers Using Mindfulness: A Systematic Review
Authors: Esplin Kristine , Nies Mary A. , Zappia Amy , Mondragon Megan
Published: February 2025

Background:Evidence shows that health care workers (HCWs) experience high levels of stress, heightened in recent years by the pandemic. Finding ways to alleviate this stress has become an important objective for health care systems. Mindfulness has been shown to reduce stress levels in HCWs.Objective:This systematic review aims to review efficient and feasible ways to deliver mindfulness to HCWs to reduce stress.Methods:Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses method, the literature was searched using Google Scholar, CINAHL, and PubMed for relevant articles. Inclusion and exclusion criteria include the following: intervention was a mindfulness program, population must include nurses in subject pool, must have full text, no dissertations, newer than 2019, and in English language. The results were synthesized and presented by themes of how efficient and feasible mindfulness programs were created.Results:A total number of 25 studies were used in the review, with 1,099 participants in total. Identified themes related to program efficiency and feasibility included the types of mindfulness, feasibility, delivery methods, measurement of stress, and mindful awareness.Conclusions:A feasible program can be implemented for low to no cost using a mobile application device and daily consistent mindfulness.Implications for Nursing:Reducing stress in this fashion is both accessible for busy HCWs in their day-to-day work routine as well as a cost-efficient solution for health care systems.
Fear of Childbirth/Tokophobia: Implications for Childbirth Educators
Authors: Bowles Betty Carlson , Gibson Marty
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACT

Most women experience childbirth with a positive outlook. However, some women have perceptions of trauma, invasive exams, loss of control, and violation of privacy in childbirth, leading to disgust, aversion, and fear. Severe fear of childbirth (FOC) is calledtokophobia, which can profoundly affect the experience and outcomes of pregnancy, childbirth, and mothering. This article will raise awareness of FOC/tokophobia by reviewing its presentation and predisposing characteristics, recognizing its impacts and outcomes, and encouraging referrals to medical/psychological caregivers for early diagnosis and treatment. It will review ways childbirth educators can support those women with this condition, give realistic expectations of childbirth, and promote a safe and secure atmosphere to allay fear and support them through this stressful experience.
The Impact of a Learning Analytics Based Feedback System on Students’ Academic Achievement and Self-Regulated Learning in a Flipped Classroom
Authors: Cabı Emine , Türkoğlu Hacer
Published: February 2025

Recent advancements in educational technology have enabled teachers to use learning analytics (LA) and flipped classrooms. The present study investigated the impact of a LA-based feedback system on students’ academic achievement and self-regulated learning (SRL) in a flipped learning (FL) environment. The study used a pretest-posttest control group quasi-experimental design with 71 pre-service teachers in the experimental group and 56 pre-service teachers in the control group, both enrolled in an information technology course. The experimental group received LA-based feedback during a 4-week training program in the FL classroom, while the control group did not receive this feedback. Data were collected using an achievement test, an online SRL questionnaire, and a student opinion form. The study found that the students’ SRL and academic achievement were not significantly affected by the LA-based feedback system in FL classrooms. In contrast, according to the qualitative research findings, students claimed the LA-based feedback helped them learn because it allowed them to monitor their learning processes.
Impact of Simulation-Based Learning on Learning Loss Among Nursing Students: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Alshammari Alkadi , Innab Adnan , Nahari Ahmed , Alanazi Homoud , Alanazi Raeed , Almukhaini Ghada
Published: February 2025

Nursing students faced learning losses during the COVID-19 pandemic due to the transition to virtual classes, inadequate communication, and reliance on virtual clinical training as a prerequisite for clinical practice. This study aimed to investigate the extent of learning loss experienced by nursing students and examine the impact of simulation-based learning (SBL) on mitigating this learning loss and on students’ confidence, satisfaction, and performance before and after the SBL program. This quasi-experimental study used a within- and between-subjects design. Data were collected from January 2022 to May 2023 from 177 nursing students before and after the SBL program. The Learning Loss scale and Simulation Training Evaluation Questionnaire were used. Substantial learning losses were observed in nurses’ knowledge, professional attitude, and skills before the intervention. The intervention group had significantly higher knowledge, professional attitude, and professional skills than the control group. The intervention significantly improved nursing students’ confidence, expectations/satisfaction, and performance. The regression model revealed that age and weeks in internship were significant predictors of learning loss. Prior distance education experience did not show any significant association with learning loss. Thus, SBL is useful in crisis situations; it enhances nursing students’ knowledge, professional attitudes, and professional skills. Course designers should consider integrating SBL into nursing curricula as an innovative teaching strategy to compensate for possible learning losses. This approach will help prepare graduates to enter the workforce with the ability to quickly adapt and practice confidently in clinical settings to ensure patient safety.
Manuscript Selection in a Literature Review: “Free-Full-Text-or-Next” as a New Criterion
Authors: Galli Fabio
Published: February 2025

Literature inclusion and exclusion (E/I) criteria are a fundamental selection methodology in different applications. Mainly, the E/I criteria are identified and chosen with respect to the question for which the manuscript itself is produced, thus allowing the selection of the literature. This procedure is not always related to the economic availability of independent subjects (e.g., researchers, authors, students) or even institutions in low-income areas or with little willingness to cover the use of paid materials. The proposed criterion (free-full-text-or-next) aims to support independent subjects (without affiliations) or subjects belonging to economically disadvantaged areas.
Ampliando a transparência e a colaboração na pesquisa científica
Authors: Marques Luana Farias Sales , Sayão Luís Fernando
Published: February 2025

Introdução: A ciência aberta é um movimento mundial que objetiva transformar a ciência contemporânea em um empreendimento mais colaborativo, inclusivo e transparente, tendo o propósito de acelerar o progresso científico. Historicamente centrada no acesso a publicações, o conceito de ciência aberta se expande para incluir todo o ciclo de pesquisa e a totalidade dos seus processos e produtos, e se expande para outros segmentos sociais envolvendo uma pluralidade de atores. Neste contexto complexo, o desafio que se coloca é como equacionar os diversos parâmetros, visões e discursos envolvidos na elaboração de políticas, planos e estratégias. Objetivo: O presente ensaio discute as visões e promessas da ciência aberta e as infraestruturas tecnológicas, administrativas e de sustentabilidade necessárias à sua implementação. Metodologia: A partir de uma pesquisa exploratória e de cunho qualitativo, as bases técnicas e políticas do modelo foram extraídas de relatórios de organismos internacionais envolvidos e de autores que discutem o tema. Resultado: Como resultado é apresentada uma proposta de modelo matricial que apoia a construção de planos de ações e estratégias para consecução de práticas de ciência aberta. Conclusão: Conclui-se que apesar de se argumentar que a ciência é essencialmente aberta, grande parte dos produtos de pesquisa permanecem inacessíveis e ininterpretáveis devido a diversas restrições, destacando a necessidade de estratégias sustentáveis que promovam a abertura e acessibilidade desses dados enquanto respeitam suas particularidades e restrições.
Competência crítica em informação às pessoas com deficiência
Authors: Righetto Guilherme Goulart
Published: February 2025

Introdução: a partir da observação que a competência em informação, historicamente, privilegia uma perspectiva técnica, voltada para ambientes acadêmicos, problematizamos que essa competência carece de um desenvolvimento mais inclusivo e crítico. Objetivo: o artigo busca, de forma ensaística, discutir, refletir e propor concatenações necessárias sobre a competência crítica em informação – movimento surgido no início dos anos 2000 em contraposição à visão “clássica”, oligárquica e estaduniense da information literacy – no contexto das pessoas com deficiência, trazendo como base um recorte teórico-conceitual das temáticas vinculadas. Metodologia: a abordagem metodológica é teórica e qualitativa, com foco em conceitos como acessibilidade, capacitismo e justiça social para entender o acesso desigual à informação entre grupos marginalizados. O estudo observa que a competência em informação, historicamente, privilegia uma perspectiva técnica, voltada para ambientes acadêmicos, e carece de uma dimensão realmente inclusiva e crítica. Resultados: entre os principais resultados, destaca-se que tal abordagem clássica não aborda adequadamente as barreiras que as pessoas com deficiência e outros grupos vulneráveis enfrentam em termos de acesso e uso da informação. A competência crítica em informação, em contraste, propõe um modelo que incorpora questões necessárias à discussão, alertando para o risco de se formar uma “elite da informação”. Conclusão: conclui-se que, para garantir uma equidade informacional, é necessário desenvolver políticas e práticas que promovam a inclusão como uma premissa de justiça social, e não como mera benevolência, viabilizando a participação com e para o protagonismo dos grupos marginalizados.
Up-conversion effect boosted NIR-driven photocatalytic solar fuel generation of NaYF4: Yb, Er decorated ZnIn2S4 flowers with rich Zn vacancies
Authors: Li Xuejing , Wu Haiyue , Yin Shengyan , Yu Chenhao , Shao Yongzhi , Zhou Donglei , She Ping
Published: February 2025

Photocatalytic CO2 reduction for solar fuel generation is a promising approach to alleviating the environmental and energy crisis. Herein, a flower-like composite was obtained by assembling Zn vacancy-rich ZnIn2S4 (VZn-ZIS) with up-conversion nanoparticles (UCNPs, NaYF4: Yb, Er). Specifically, the optimized UCNPs@VZn-ZIS demonstrates superior CO generation of 32.57 μmol/g in the near-infrared (NIR)-driven photocatalytic CO2 reduction process within 8 h. Fortunately, the performance of photocatalytic CO2 reduction based on optimized UCNPs@VZn-ZIS is superior to most reported photocatalysts under NIR irradiation. The enhanced photocatalytic CO2 reduction activity is attributed to the extended light absorption, enhanced charge separation, and improved CO2 activation of the surface vacancy. The work presented here provides a facile approach to developing novel broad spectral responsive photocatalytic CO2 reduction photocatalysts, which hold great potential for solar fuel generation in future applications.
Non-destructive prediction of apple SSC/TAC and firmness based on multilayer autoencoder and multilayer perceptron
Authors: Tian Xu , Huang Lyuwen , Zhai Mengqun , Zhang Mengyi , Hu Pengju , Li Mingjun , Ren Liehong
Published: February 2025

The physical and biochemical indices of apple fruit serve as crucial phenotypic parameters in genomic cultivation. Among them, the soluble solids content (SSC), titratable acid content (TAC), and firmness are the three most paramount parameters that directly reflect the inner quality of apples. To achieve a more accurate prediction of the internal physicochemical indicators, a novel non-destructive detection approach fused with nonlinear and multi-features using a multilayer autoencoder (MAE) was proposed. For non-destructive detection of internal physicochemical indicators, a dielectric spectrum device was employed to gather the electrical parameters of 300 Fuji genomic sample apples. These measurements were taken at nine distinct frequencies, spanning from 0.158 to 3,980 kHz. For the normal control group for validation, to precisely detect its physical and biochemical parameters, special physicochemical analysis apparatuses were utilized to collect data on firmness, SSCs, and TACs. To predict key genomic parameters such as firmness and SSC/TAC, three classical regression models were implemented and subject to comprehensive analysis. The experimental results reveal that the nonlinear feature variable selection based on MAE and multilayer perceptron (MLP) achieved the best prediction performance. Specifically, the correlation coefficients (R 2) for predicting firmness and SSC/TAC reached up to 0.88 and 0.82, respectively, with root mean square errors (RMSEs) of 0.66 and 2.08. Regarding state-of-the-art dimensionality reduction, MAE can be validated as a nonlinear feature extraction methodology for complex electrical parameters. It demonstrates robust applicability in predicting a diverse array of other genomic parameters.
Harnessing migration for sustainable development in Africa: challenges and opportunities
Authors: Madondo Elvis , Dhobha Hummerly
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the intricate dynamics of migration in Africa, emphasising its implications for sustainable development. The background highlights that Africa faces significant migration pressures driven by socio-economic challenges, political instability, and environmental changes, particularly high unemployment rates among youth and the adverse effects of climate change. Despite the continent's potential to harness migration for development, a notable gap exists in comprehensive migration policies that adequately protect migrants' rights and leverage their contributions to economic growth. The aim of this study is to explore the complex dynamics of migration in Africa, focusing on identifying both the challenges and opportunities that migration presents for sustainable development. A desktop study approach was employed, synthesising existing literature, policy reports, and secondary data to identify critical themes. Findings reveal that economic motivations are the predominant drivers of migration, while remittances play a crucial role in stabilising local economies and alleviating poverty. The research underscores the importance of regional cooperation in managing migration effectively and addressing shared challenges. The study recommends the development of rights-based migration policies that foster safe migration pathways, investment in local economies to create job opportunities, and initiatives to promote the productive use of remittances. Enhanced collaboration among African nations is essential for optimising the benefits of migration and addressing common challenges. Furthermore, ongoing research is necessary to adapt to the evolving landscape of migration trends in the region.
Project-based learning for promotion of entrepreneurial education among first level science students
Authors: Pearce Rene , Zitha Innocent , Mokganya Georgina , Molaudzi Vhutshilo , Nekhubvi Vhutshilo , Matsilele Osca
Published: February 2025

The educational institutions in South Africa face challenges in integrating crucial 21st-century skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation into their academic programs. Project-based learning (PBL) has emerged as a valuable approach to enhancing entrepreneurial education by developing these essential competencies through real-world applications. PBL effectively bridges the gap between theoretical concepts and practical problem-solving in real-life situations by involving students in practical, hands-on learning. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of Project-Based Learning (PBL) in fostering entrepreneurial skills among first-year science students at a rural university. Using a mixed-methods approach, participants created and presented organic soaps, simulating authentic business processes. The study used purposive sampling, and student performance was evaluated by a panel based on specific criteria. Data analysis included descriptive statistics and One-Way ANOVA, with data visualisation using Python's Matplotlib. The paper investigated whether the implementation of PBL significantly enhances students' entrepreneurial skills compared to traditional teaching methods. The study revealed that 210 students, mainly from schools with limited resources, faced challenges in practical chemistry despite prior instruction in Physical Sciences. The implementation of project-based learning proved to be an effective method for nurturing entrepreneurial skills, highlighting the importance of experiential learning. It is essential for higher education institutions to integrate entrepreneurship into their curricula, collaborate with industry, improve group dynamics, and prioritise quality control. These strategies have the potential to foster innovation and better prepare students for self-employment opportunities.
International Financial Reporting Standards for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises and the quality of financial reporting: South African Perspective
Authors: Sirembe Ndivhuwo , Moyo Vusani , Oseifuah Emmanuel Kojo
Published: February 2025

Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) are essential to the South African economy.  The corporations Act of South Africa (71 of 2008) mandates that corporations adhere to either complete International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) or IFRS for Small and Medium-sized Entities (SMEs).  The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) established IFRS for SMEs in 2009 as an alternative framework for qualifying firms, providing an option in lieu of the comprehensive IFRS standards.  Notwithstanding its deployment, the impact of IFRS for SMEs on financial reporting quality (FRQ) in South Africa has not been extensively examined.  The research involved a sample of twenty accounting firms, with five businesses chosen from each municipality to manage Annual Financial Statements (AFS) for five SMEs each, culminating in a total of 100 SMEs.  Due to the absence of a universally accepted metric for evaluating FRQ, the study utilised three previously established measures together with an aggregate measure.  The research employed Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) Regression analysis to investigate trends in FRQ over two time periods: 2010-2014 and 2015-2019.  Findings demonstrate no substantial enhancement in FRQ among Vhembe SMEs over time.  Discretionary accruals exhibited stability, indicating consistent reporting quality.  The results underscore the significance of accrual accounting and standardised methodologies, enhancing the quality and dependability of financial data for stakeholders.  This research offers essential insights for accountants, business proprietors, investors, and regulatory entities, highlighting the beneficial effects of IFRS for SMEs on the quality of financial reporting among South African SMEs.
Investigating factors that encumber old mutual protect covers in South Africa
Authors: Ndwamai Reginald M. , Sirembe Ndivhuwo , Tshikovhi Ambani
Published: February 2025

This study examines the obstacles to the adoption of Old Mutual Protect Covers in South Africa through a quantitative methodology.  The study seeks to ascertain critical variables—namely income level, education level, and faith in insurance companies—that affect the probability of acquiring certain insurance products.  Data was gathered via a structured survey of 500 South African people and analysed utilising SPSS version 29.0, focussing on Pearson correlation and regression analysis.  The results indicate substantial favourable correlations among income level, education level, and faith in insurance firms with the use of Old Mutual Protect Covers.  These findings indicate that socio-economic considerations and customer confidence are pivotal in the acquisition of insurance.  The report continues with recommendations for Old Mutual to improve awareness and trust among lower-income and less-educated demographics to boost the adoption of their Protect Covers.  The study's limitations and recommendations for future research are also addressed.
Biomass energy as a catalyst for achieving global sustainability goals: technological advancements and policy implications
Authors: Mensah Philip , Yankson Eric
Published: February 2025

Biomass energy has emerged as a vital renewable energy source in the global transition towards sustainable development, aligning with the United Nations sustainable development goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy) and SDG 13 (climate action). This study evaluates biomass energy’s contributions by integrating real SI-unit-based data on energy usage in China, India, Denmark, Germany, Brazil, Namibia, and Ghana. An interpretative review was employed, incorporating primarily qualitative analysis and supplemented by the quantitative analysis of biomass energy deployment, cost assessments, and policy evaluations. The findings reveal that biomass contributes 8% to China’s renewable energy mix (500 TWh), 12% in India (370 TWh), 20% in Denmark (43 TWh), and 27% in Brazil (160 TWh), yet its expansion faces economic, technological, and policy challenges. This study integrates cutting-edge catalysts (e.g., ZnO, TiO2, Ni) and nanotechnology applications (e.g., nanocatalysts, nanomembranes) to enhance biomass energy efficiency. A comparative technical analysis of combustion, anaerobic digestion, pyrolysis, and gasification highlights gasification as the most efficient process (70–85%), with the lowest carbon emissions (30–50 kg CO2/GJ) but requiring higher capital investment (USD 0.07–0.14/kWh). This study concludes with policy recommendations, emphasizing targeted subsidies, international collaboration, and infrastructure investments to improve biomass energy adoption globally.
Impact of graphene functionalization on CuO cluster behavior: insights from molecular dynamics
Authors: Roldán-Matilla Miriam , Cerpa-Naranjo Arisbel , Lado-Touriño Isabel
Published: February 2025

This study explores how small clusters of copper oxide (CuO) interact with different graphene-based materials using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The research primarily aims to understand how graphene oxidation and the modification of the graphene surface with polyethylene glycol (PEG) chains influence the strength and dynamics of these interactions. Molecular models used include pristine graphene (PG), low-oxidized graphene oxide (GOL), high-oxidized graphene oxide (GOH), and PEGylated graphene oxide (GOH-PEG). Simulations reveal that cluster diffusion behavior varies with the surface characteristics of each graphene material. Specifically, clusters on PG surfaces exhibit higher mobility, whereas functionalized surfaces, especially PEGylated GO, significantly restrict cluster mobility due to stronger interactions. These findings correlate with calculated interaction energies, showing that increased cluster dynamics are associated with lower interaction energies. The analysis of the mean squared displacement (MSD) over time reinforces these conclusions, revealing that the cluster exhibits subdiffusive behavior, a hallmark of movement in environments that constrain particle displacement. This study offers valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms influencing metal nanocluster interactions and dynamic behavior on graphene-based materials, which is essential for advancing efficient new materials in biomedical applications.
Human milk oligosaccharides: basic mechanisms of functional effects and potential for disease prevention in children
Authors:   Tyumen State Medical University, Tyumen, Russian Federation, Shaitarova A.V. , Dogotar O.S. ,   Nestlé Russia LLC, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: February 2025

In recent years, interest in human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) has increased significantly due to their positive effects on different aspects of infant health. HMOs are known to participate in a variety of physiological functions, including developing and maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, developing the immune system and modulating inflammatory responses, strengthening the gastrointestinal barrier, and stimulating neuronal development and cognitive functions. Understanding the mechanisms of functional effects of HMOs may underlie the prevention of various diseases and conditions in children and adults.
Key words: human milk oligosaccharides, 2′-fucosyllactose, lacto-N-tetraose, difucosyllactose, 3′-sialyllactose, 6′-sialyllactose
Characteristics of individual parameters of physical development of newborns
Authors:   Saint Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Moiseeva K.E. , Ivanov D.O. ,   Saint Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Yuryev V.K. ,   Saint Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Berezkina E.N. ,   Saint Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Alekseeva A.V. ,   Saint Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Kharbediya Sh.D. ,   Saint Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Shevtsova K.G. ,   Saint Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Zastupova A.A. ,   Saint Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Taits A.N. ,   Saint Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Glushchenko V.A. ,   Saint Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation
Published: February 2025

In the context of demographic problems, when the decline in the birth rate becomes a matter of state security, the struggle for the life and health of each child becomes especially significant. Given the peculiarities of the distribution of children by birth weight and the overall contribution of Saint Petersburg to the birth rate of the Northwestern Federal District as a whole, a comparative assessment of the physical development of sick and healthy newborns is an important area for research.
Objective. To conduct a comparative assessment of individual parameters of the physical development of children born sick and diseased and healthy newborns.
Patients and methods. The study was performed by random sampling based on copying data from primary medical records of 973 newborns. The bases of the study were the departments of pathology of newborns and premature babies of the perinatal center and children's hospital (study group) and 2 children's polyclinic departments (control group) in Saint Petersburg.
Results. The analysis of birth weight and length of sick and healthy children, considering their gestational age, showed that these parameters differed statistically significantly in each age group. Among sick children, 42.6% of newborns had a birth отдеweight of less than 2500 g. The mean birth weight of children born sick and diseased differed statistically significantly from that of healthy newborns (2543.14 ± 11.06 g vs. 3485.26 ± 30.59 g (t = 85.79; p < 0.01). Comparative assessment of length parameters in newborns also revealed significant differences (45.97 ± 28.35 cm versus 51.45 ± 73.60 cm (t = 61 .13; p < 0.01).
Conclusion. A comparative assessment of individual parameters of the physical development of newborns showed that sick children had lower birth weight and length than healthy newborns.
Key words: children born sick and diseased, healthy newborns, birth weight, birth length, physical development
Performance of Bali Cattle by the Implementation of Quadruple Helix Participatory-Based Breeding Programs in Optimizing the Potential of Smallholder Cattle Farms
Authors: Zulkharnaim Zulkharnaim , Baba Syahdar , Hatta Muhammad , Ali Hikmah M.
Published: February 2025

Objective: This study aims to determine the impact of implementing a participatory-based breeding program on productivity as represented by cattle morphometric measures, technical coefficients and supporting factors among smallholder farmers in Barru District, South Sulawesi Province.

Methods: The research method used 1,040 cattle recordings from 2017 to 2022 in Barru district, South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia, with the following sub-districts being included: Tanete Riaja, Tanete Rilau, Balusu, Barru, and Mallusetasi. The study employed descriptive analysis, a paired-sample T test, and an analysis of the interaction between breeding variables using the general linear model.

Results: The results showed that the morphometric size of participatory-based breeding programs (PBBP) had higher CG values (p<0.01) than non-participatory breeding programs (NPBBP).. The NI PBBP value was found to be in the low category (33.82%), while the NPBBP value was found to be 6.94%. A further impact was observed, whereby male and female calves exhibited distinct differences in WH, BL and CG each year between 2020-2022, with statistical significance (p<0.01).

Conclusions: This study showed that factor breeding program models (PBBP and NPBBP) significantly influenced the morphometric size (p < 0.01). The implementation of the PBBP scheme has had a positive impact, as evidenced by the application of the Quadruple Helix model.
Double-Sided Processing оf Low-Hardness Lenses
Authors: Kozeruk A. S. , Safonov V. V. , Filonova M. I. , Kuznechik V. O. , Yurinok V. I.
Published: February 2025

The scheme of a device for processing lenses with convex-concave spherical surfaces of the negative meniscus type of average diameter, which allows flexible and wide control over the process of simultaneous bilateral abrasive shaping of the noted optical parts, is considered in the paper. Mathematical modeling of the processing of spherical surfaces using the free grinding method using a tool in the form of a mushroom and a cup was carried out. An analytical expression is obtained for calculating cutting paths, which, according to F. Preston’s formula, are proportional to the amount of material removed from the work-piece being processed. The calculation of cutting paths in the diametrical sections of the processed spherical surfaces was carried out. The calculation was performed for various values of such parameters of processing modes as the amplitude of the reciprocating rotational movement of the tools and the number of their double strokes per minute, as well as the rotation speed of the lens. In this case, the section with the greatest divergence of sliding paths was considered and the relative value of these paths was determined, which is proportional to the processing accuracy. Research has been carried out to establish that when correcting macro-errors on the actuating surface of the lens, it is most effective to change the amplitude of the reciprocating rotational movement of the tools, and these changes should be made within the range from the minimum value of this amplitude, determined by the design features of the specific basic technological equipment, to its value 0.65 of the diameter of the work-piece. In this case, to minimize local errors of the latter, it is advisable to set its rotation speed to 60–70 rpm.
Grinding of Natural Stone Balls with Planetary Movement of the Tool
Authors: Lugovoi V. P. , Popov R. A.
Published: February 2025

The article presents a diagram of a modernized machine with planetary movement of the tool for grinding balls of colored stone and test results when processing serpentinite. There are various methods and devices for processing metal balls using abrasive methods used in the production of bearings. These devices simulate the operation of a thrust bearing. One of the tools contains a V-shaped groove, in which the workpieces being processed receive predominantly biaxial rotation. Quantitative criteria for evaluating the ball processing process are productivity, dimensional accuracy, spherical shape and surface roughness. Currently, balls made of non-metallic materials are also used: ceramics, glass, glass ceramics and stones, which differ from steel ones in their physical and mechanical properties, primarily such as fragility and lower strength. This is especially noticeable when processing minerals used in the jewelry industry, which differ in structure, the presence of layering,   internal defects, etc. All this makes it necessary to process such materials under conditions different from the conditions for processing steel balls (lower pressure forces, speeds). However, insufficient attention has been paid to issues devoted to methods of processing balls made of fragile materials, including jewelry stones. In many cases, the necessary methods and conditions for processing such materials are determined throughout practice by trial and error. The increasing volume of production of beads for making jewelry from natural stone necessitates comprehensive research and generalization of the results of these studies in order to develop recommendations for their practical use. In this work, we propose a method for processing balls in a device that ensures planetary motion of the balls due to the fact that the disk-shaped tool receives periodic rotation from the friction force that occurs when its side surface touches a table performing planetary motion. As a result, the balls located in the conical sockets of the disk receive accelerated motion and roll along a cycloid trajectory. The additional path that the balls travel in the same time, as well as the change in the ratio of the angles of rotation of the balls around their three axes, create conditions for increasing the productivity and accuracy of processing.  The experiments were carried out on a pilot plant when processing workpieces made of serpentinite, which belongs to the group of soft stones. The results of the work showed that the batch processing time for each part grinding ope-ration until dimensional stabilization is achieved does not exceed 30 minutes. The amount of allowance removal and the degree to which the required ball dimensional accuracy and roughness are achieved are determined by the size of the abrasive grain.
Resource Design of Structural Concrete Berthing Structures Based on Tribo-Fatigue Methods
Authors: Leonovich S. N.
Published: February 2025

An increase in one or another damaging factor leads to a decrease in strength or wear resistance. The interaction of damaging phenomena turns out to be complex. If contact load (friction and wear) is added to cyclic loading or cyclic Abstract. An increase in one or another damaging factor leads to a decrease in strength or wear resistance. The interaction of damaging phenomena turns out to be complex. If contact load (friction and wear) is added to cyclic loading or cyclic freeze-thaw (mechanical fatigue), then the reliability and durability of the system receiving them can either decrease, increase, or remain at the same level. The results depend on the conditions of interaction of damaging phenomena. At the intersection of tribology and mechanics of fatigue fracture in the mid-1980s, thanks to the research of Professor Sosnovsky L.A., tribo-fatigue arose – a science that studies not the mutual influence of individual damaging factors, but a complex combination of various damaging phenomena.  As a result of this interaction, a special type of degradation of structural concrete of berthing structures is revealed – complex wear-fatigue damage. The conditions and patterns of such damage to berthing structures are studied by tribo-fatigue. Design of reinforced concrete structures based on limit states is a traditional method. For critical structures of berth structures, resource-based design is advisable. Technical resource is an indicator of durability. This is the operating time of an object, in this case reinforced concrete berth structures, from the start of operation until the onset of the limit state. Sea port facilities on the coast of the Far Eastern seas, a distinctive feature of their operation being the climatic conditions of Sakhalin Island, have been studied. The structures of port facilities are affected by waves. In winter, when the temperature drops to below zero, structures become icy in variable water levels and are affected by floating ice.
Prevalencia de lesiones cervicales precancerosas y cáncer de cérvix en mujeres menores de 18 a 29 años del CMI Buenos Aires de Villa periodo 2019-2023
Authors:   , Sosa Guerra Gary
Published: February 2025

Este proyecto de tesis tiene como objetivo determinar la prevalencia de lesiones cervicales precancerosas y cáncer de cérvix en mujeres de 18 a 29 años que asisten al Centro Médico Integral (CMI) Buenos Aires de Villa. Se trata de un estudio observacional transversal retrospectivo que utilizará datos de registros médicos de los últimos cinco años.
Se recopilarán datos sobre la edad de las pacientes, resultado de la biopsia, edad de inicio de relaciones sexuales, número de parejas sexuales y estado civil. Se utilizarán pruebas estadísticas como la prueba de chi-cuadrado y el análisis de regresión logística para analizar la asociación entre las variables independientes y la prevalencia de lesiones cervicales precancerosas y cáncer de cérvix.
Los resultados del estudio permitirán determinar la prevalencia de estas patologías en la población de mujeres de 18 a 29 años del CMI Buenos Aires de Villa, identificar factores de riesgo asociados y contribuir a la implementación de estrategias de prevención y control.
Este proyecto busca contribuir a la comprensión de la prevalencia del cáncer de cérvix en mujeres de 18 a 29 años, con el objetivo de mejorar los programas de detección temprana y atención médica en la población.
Gastropatía nodular y su asociación con la infección por Helicobacter pylori y la metaplasia intestinal en pacientes del servicio de gastroenterología del Hospital Nacional Daniel Alcides Carrión del año 2015 al 2019
Authors:   , Laura Cardenas Nikole Alexandra , Sanchez Ramos Maria del Carmen
Published: February 2025

La gastropatía nodular (GN) es considerada actualmente como un hallazgo endoscópico relacionado a la infección por Helicobacter pylori (Hp), siendo este un factor de riesgo potencial para el desarrollo de lesiones premalignas como la metaplasia intestinal la cual podría ser una lesión precursora del cáncer gástrico. Objetivo: Determinar la asociación de la gastropatía nodular con la infección por Helicobacter pylori y la metaplasia intestinal en pacientes mayores de 18 años del servicio de gastroenterología en el Hospital Nacional Daniel Alcides Carrión (HNDAC) del 2015 al 2019. Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional, analítico y transversal. Análisis secundario de base de datos de pacientes mayores de 18 años con registro de endoscopía digestiva alta y resultado anatomopatológico de biopsia de mucosa gástrica. Resultados: En este estudio participaron 1360 pacientes de los cuales el 37,9% presentaron GN, mientras que el 61.2% y 17.9% presentaron infección por Hp y metaplasia intestinal respectivamente. En relación con la variable sexo se encontró una asociación estadísticamente significativa, los resultados de este estudio indican que los hombres tienen 0.71 veces la probabilidad de desarrollar GN frente a las mujeres (RPa: 0.71; IC 95%: 0.60 – 0.83), en cuanto a la infección por Hp se puede observar que aquellos pacientes que tuvieron la infección mencionada tienen 1.71 veces la probabilidad de desarrollar GN frente a aquellos sin la infección (RPa: 1.71; IC 95%: 1.46 – 2.01), mientras que no existió una asociación significativa en relación con la variable metaplasia intestinal. Conclusión: La edad, el sexo y la infección por Hp están asociadas significativamente con la presencia de GN. Estos resultados podrían ser de ayuda para generar diversas estrategias para la prevención y promoción de la salud en poblaciones específicas frente a esta patología.