bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of an Active Axis Wind Turbine (AAWT) That Can Balance Centrifugal and Aerodynamic Forces to Reduce Support Infrastructure While Maintaining a Stable Flight Path
Authors: Mezaal Jawad , Whale Jonathan , Schlunke Kim , Bahri Parisa Arabzadeh , Parlevliet David
Published: October 2024

This research introduces a novel approach to improving wind energy's LCOE (Levelised Cost of Energy). Specifically, this research aims to reduce the LCOE from wind turbines by investigating a novel Active Axis Wind Turbine (AAWT) design. The turbine is neither a horizontal nor vertical axis wind turbine but has an axis of operation that can actively change during operation. The design features a rotor with a single blade capable of dynamic pitch and tilt control during a single rotor rotation. This study examines the potential to balance the centrifugal and aerodynamic lift forces acting on the rotor blade assembly, significantly reducing blade, tower, foundation and infrastructure costs in larger-scale devices and decreasing the LCOE for wind. The design of a laboratory prototype rotor assembly is optimised by varying the masses and lengths in a lumped mass model to achieve equilibrium between centrifugal and lift forces acting on the turbine's rotor assembly. The method involves an investigation of the variation of blade pitch angle to provide a balance between centrifugal and aerodynamic forces, thereby facilitating the cost advantages and opening the opportunity to improve the turbine efficiency across a range of operation conditions. The implication of this study extends to different applications of wind turbines, both onshore and offshore, introducing insight into innovation for sustainable energy and cost-effective solutions.
Advanced Imaging Integration: Multi-Modal Raman Light Sheet Microscopy Combined with Zero-Shot Learning for Denoising and Super-Resolution
Authors: KUMARI POOJA
Published: October 2024

This study presents an advanced integration of Multi-modal Raman Light Sheet Microscopy with zero-shot learning-based computational methods to significantly enhance the resolution and analysis of complex three-dimensional biological structures, such as 3D cell cultures and spheroids. The Multi-modal Raman Light Sheet Microscopy system incorporates Rayleigh scattering, Raman scattering, and fluorescence detection, enabling comprehensive, marker-free imaging of cellular architecture. These diverse modalities offer detailed spatial and molecular insights into cellular organization and interactions, critical for applications in biomedical research, drug discovery, and histological studies. To improve image quality without altering or introducing new biological information, we apply Zero-Shot Deconvolution Networks (ZS-DeconvNet), a deep learning-based method that enhances resolution in an unsupervised manner. ZS-DeconvNet significantly refines image clarity and sharpness across multiple microscopy modalities without requiring large, labeled datasets, or introducing artifacts. By combining the strengths of multi-modal light sheet microscopy and ZS-DeconvNet, we achieve improved visualization of subcellular structures, offering clearer and more detailed representations of existing data. This approach holds significant potential for advancing high-resolution imaging in biomedical research and other related fields.
Sustainable Supply Chain Mapping of Nipa Palm (Nypa Fruticans Wurmb) in Thailand
Authors: Chanklap Boontaree , Cheablam Onanong , Sudmai Nittida , Suleman Dauda , Thinnakorn Rawin
Published: October 2024

Nipa palm is a plant of great value to communities due to its social, environmental, and
economic benefits. Effective management of the supply chain for products derived from nipa palm resources is essential to provide communities with suitable channels for selling each type
of product. This study aims to map the supply chain structure of six different nipa palm products. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 100 households engaged in nipa palm cultivation. The analysis focused on the characteristics of the products, existing challenges, and the current supply chain dynamics. The findings revealed that among
the six products, palm sugar had the highest production volume. The most significant challenges identified were related to labor shortages and limited marketing channels. To achieve sustainable supply chain management, it is crucial to maintain a balance between supply and demand. The study recommends exploring appropriate marketing channels for each
product, with particular emphasis on online platforms that allow communities to sell directly to consumers.
Telomerase Inhibitors ‐ TMPyP4, BIBR 1532 and Imetelstat – Alter Adhesion Potential and Modify the Ability of Breast Cancer MCF7 and MDA‐MB‐231 Cells to form Spheroids
Authors: Kopczyński Przemysław , Rygiel Kinga , Rubiś Błażej
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Malignant neoplasms represent the most common diseases worldwide, and breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer type in the female population. One of the critical features of this cancer type is the ability to metastasize. This process is related to adhesion, migration, and invasiveness. As demonstrated, the catalytic telomerase subunit, hTERT, may control these processes. The expression and activity of telomerase in normal somatic cells are very low or absent, which makes it a universal and attractive target for cancer diagnostics and therapy; Methods: In this work, we assessed the influence of telomerase inhibitors TMPyP4, BIBR 1532, or imetelstat on the ability to form spheroids in MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Cells of both lines were treated with specific compounds in concentrations: TMPyP4 - 5, 10, 20 µM; BIBR 1532 - 1, 5, 10 µM or imetelstat 1, 5, 10 µM for 72 hours. Cells were then trypsinized and applied to 96-well low-adhesive plates at 500 cells per well, followed by observation at different time intervals, i.e., 24, 48, and 72 hours; Results: As shown, the applied telomerase inhibitors influenced the ability of MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells to form spheroids in a concentration- and incubation-time-dependent manner; Conclusions: Although the mechanism of this phenomenon has not been fully understood, it seems that the use of telomerase expression/activity inhibitors to reduce the adhesive capacity and metastatic potential of breast cancer cells may play a significant role in cancer therapy.
Disentangling the Complex Effects of Seasonal Drought, Floor Mass, and Roots on Soil Microbial Biomass in a Subtropical Moist Forest
Authors: Yang Yali , Liu Xianbin , Li Tao , Gao Jinbo , Liu Yuntong , Wang Chao
Published: October 2024

Severe seasonal droughts driven by global climate change significantly alter the cycling of carbon and nutrients in forest ecosystems through disturbing plant physiology and phenology, soil physicochemical properties, and soil microbial activity. While, the investigation into the impacts of floor mass and plant roots on soil microbial biomass within the context of recurrent seasonal droughts is still rare. To investigate the environmental determinants governing soil microbial biomass with the escalating severity of seasonal droughts, we conducted a study on soil microbial biomass in a comprehensive block experiment, which was manipulated to explore the interplay between floor mass and plant roots contributions, crossed with a factorial irrigation treatment, in a montane subtropical moist evergreen broad–leaved forest of southwestern China. Within control and watered plots, we respectively established four experimental subplots with plant roots and floor mass included (R+F+), plant roots included but floor mass excluded (R+F−), plant roots excluded but floor mass included (R−F+), and plant roots and floor mass excluded (R−F−) from June 2019 to May 2023. The study results revealed that soil microbial biomass as well as soil moisture, floor mass, and plant roots showed an apparent single–hump modal within one year. In the comparative analysis of soil microbial biomass fluctuation amplitudes across control and watered plots, a discernible disparity was observed, indicating that significant differences in microbial biomass dynamics between the respective experimental conditions. The pooled data revealed a statistically significant influence of seasonal drought, floor mass, plant roots, and their reciprocal interactions on the soil microbial biomass, highlighting these factors as pivotal determinants of microbial community dynamics. This study elucidates the interactive regulatory mechanisms by which seasonal drought, floor mass, and plant roots collectively modulate soil microbial biomass within tropical and subtropical forests, offering insights into the complex ecological processes governing microbial community dynamics. This interactive regulation might influence the trajectory of plant species and soil microbial communities, facilitating their adaptive development and evolutionary responses.
Synthesis and Properties of a Red Na5Zn2Gd1-x(MoO4)6: xEu3+ Phosphor
Authors: Gao Wa , Sha Ren , Ai Jun
Published: October 2024

The novel phosphor Eu3+ doped Na5Zn2Gd(MoO4)6 triple molybdate were prepared by the sol-gel method. The structure, morphology, and luminescent properties have been characterized by X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetry-differential thermal analysis, scanning electron microscopy, FTIR spectroscopy and Luminescence spectroscopy. The results indicated that the synthesized Na5Zn2Gd1-x(MoO4)6: xEu3+phosphor consisted of a pure phase with monoclinic structure. Under excitation at 465 nm, the Na5Zn2Gd1-x(MoO4)6: xEu3+ phosphor exhibits intensive red emission band around 610 nm corresponding to the transition of 5D0→7F2 is much higher than that 5D0→7F1 at 594 nm, which was appropriate for blue LED. According to the influence of the synthesis conditions, the phosphors show the highest emission intensity as the doping concentration of Eu3+ was 25 mol.% and the molar ratio of citric acid to metal ions was 2:1. Na5Zn2Gd0.75(MoO4)6: 0.25 Eu3+ with the color coordinates (x= 0.658, y= 0.341) is a stable red phosphor for blue-based white LEDs due to it is closer to the NTSC standard values (0.670, 0.330) comparing with the color coordinates (0.48, 0.50) of the commercial Y2O2S: Eu3+ red phosphor.
Physically and Chemically Activated Carbon from Coffee Waste in High Performance Supercapacitor Electrodes
Authors: Mukhiemer Sami , Daraghmeh Allan , Nassar Heba , Hussain Shahzad , Lim Hanyi , Han Hyobin , Kim Tae Woo , Hilal Hikmat Said
Published: October 2024

Biowaste sources, like coffee wastes (CWs), are considered for advanced materials. CW was assessed to prepare activated carbon for supercapacitor electrodes, but showed low performance compared to other counterparts. Enhanced CW activation process may help address this limitation. In this study, CW was subjected to two activation methods: physical (pyrolysis) activation and physical-chemical activation using ZnCl2, to determine the more effective approach. Both resulting materials were analyzed using SEM, TEM, BET, Raman spectroscopy and XRD. The physical-chemical activation yielded activated carbon with better characteristics, including a higher specific-surface area (SSA) of ~830 m²/g, compared to 458 m²/g from the physical activation. With its promising potential for supercapacitor electrodes, the former activated carbon was singled out for supercapacitor study. Cyclic voltammetry revealed a specific capacitance of 261 F g-1, and energy density of 18.3 Wh/kg, with power density of 360 W/kg at a current density 0.33 A/g. Charge-discharge studies showed a specific capacitance of 150 F g-1 at the same current density. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy indicated a specific capacitance of 180 F g-1, with an equivalent series resistance of 0.56 Ω at a low frequency of 0.01 Hz. The electrode exhibited exceptional characteristics, maintaining high stability over 5,000 charge-discharge cycles.
(Photo)toxicity of Partly Oxidized Docosahexaenoate and Its Effect on the Formation of Lipofuscin in Cultured Human Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells
Authors: Bakker Linda M. , Boulton Michael E. , Różanowska Małgorzata B.
Published: October 2024

Docosahexaenoate is a cytoprotective ω-3 polyunsaturated lipid which is abundant in the retina and is essential for its function. Due to its six unsaturated double bonds, docosahexaenoate is highly susceptible to oxidation and formation of products with photosensitizing properties. The aim of this study was to test on cultured human retinal pigment epithelial cells ARPE-19 the (photo)cytotoxic potential of partly oxidized docosahexaenoate and its effect on the formation of lipofuscin from phagocytosed photoreceptor outer segments (POS). The results demonstrate that the cytoprotective effects of docosahexaenoate do not counteract the deleterious effects of its oxidation products leading to the concentration-dependent loss of cell metabolic activity, which is exacerbated by concomitant exposure to visible light. Partly oxidized docosahexaenoate does not cause permeability of the cell plasma membrane but does cause apoptosis. While vitamin E can provide partial protection from the (photo)toxicity of partly oxidized docosahexaenoate, zeaxanthin undergoes rapid photodegradation and can exacerbate the (photo)toxicity. Feeding cells with POS enriched in partly oxidized docosahexaenoate results in a greater accumulation of intracellular fluorescent lipofuscin than in cells fed POS without the addition. In conclusion, partly oxidized docosahexaenoate increases the accumulation of lipofuscin-like intracellular deposits, is cytotoxic, and its toxicity increases during exposure to light.
Unsupervised Canine Emotion Recognition using Momentum Contrast
Authors: Bhave Aarya , Hafner Alina , Bhave Anushka , Gloor Peter A.
Published: October 2024

We describe a system for identifying dog emotions based on the dogs' facial expressions and body posture. Towards that goal, we built a dataset with 2184 images of ten popular dog breeds, grouped into seven similarly sized primal mammalian emotion categories defined by neuroscientist and psychobiologist Jaak Panksepp that are ‘Exploring’, ‘Sadness’, ‘Playing’, ‘Rage’, ‘Fear’, ‘Affectionate’ and ‘Lust’. We modify the Contrastive Learning framework MoCo (Momentum Contrast for Unsupervised Visual Representation Learning) to train it on our original dataset and achieve an accuracy of 43.2% on a baseline of 14%. We also trained this model on a second publicly available dataset that resulted in an accuracy of 48.46% but had a baseline of 25%. We compared our unsupervised approach with a supervised model based on a ResNet50 architecture. This model when tested on our dataset having seven Panksepp labels resulted in an accuracy of 74.32%.
Modelling the Cost-Effectiveness of PV Module Replacement Based on a Quantitative Assessment of Defect Power Loss
Authors: Lofstad-Lie Victoria , Aarseth Bjørn Lupton , Roosloot Nathan , Marstein Erik Stensrud , Skauli Torbjørn
Published: October 2024

The degradation of solar photovoltaic (PV) modules over time, aggravated by defects, significantly affects the performance of utility-scale PV parks. This study presents a quantitative assessment of the power loss from module defects, and evaluates the cost-effectiveness of replacing defective modules at various stages of degradation. A module test site was established in Norway with six different defects, and continuous thermographic monitoring, combined with light IV measurements and electroluminescence (EL) imaging, provides partial support for further calculations on the long-term effects of the defects. The cumulative module energy loss is calculated over a 25-year park lifespan under both Norwegian and Chilean environmental conditions, the latter representing higher solar irradiation levels. The energy gain from replacing the defective modules at various stages of degradation is compared to the costs of replacement, both for infant-life failures and mid-life failures. Minor infant-life defects of 1\% power loss are likely not beneficial to replace in low-irradiation regions like Norway. For Chilean conditions it can be cost-effective, but primarily if the module is replaced around mid park life, which gives a larger yield when replaced with a new module. For more severe defects of 10\% loss the replacement gain is above the replacement cost for high-irradiation locations, and replacing the 33\% power loss defect is cost-effective for both locations, even when discovered late in the park lifetime. Mid-life defects are primarily beneficial to replace in high-irradiation locations.
SGLT2 Inhibitors vs. GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in Reducing Heart Failure Hospitalizations in Type-2 Diabetes. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Asifa Fnu , Ullah Ahsan , Allam MD Parbej , Mann Govind Singh , Jha Shivangi , Panjiyar Binay Kumar
Published: October 2024

Background: Cardiovascular comparisons between glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) and Sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors in type 2 diabetes(T2D) remain an area of interest. Thus, the purpose of this meta-analysis is to compare the impact of these two drug classes on major CV outcomes, such as heart failure hospitalization(HHF), major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), CV mortality, myocardial infarction, stroke, and all-cause mortality, with an emphasis on heart failure hospitalizations. Methods: PubMed (including MEDLINE), Google Scholar, Cochrane Central Library, PLOSONE, and Science Direct databases were searched for studies that compared GLP-1 RAs and SGLT-2 inhibitors in patients with type 2 diabetes. Six cohort studies were selected for the analysis. Odds ratios (OR) with 95% CI were calculated and a random-effects model was used to estimate the hazard ratios (HR) of the studies. The quality of the studies was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS), and publication bias was assessed using funnel plots and Egger’s test. Results: Pooled analysis demonstrated a significant reduction in heart failure hospitalizations with SGLT-2 inhibitors compared to GLP-1 RAs (HR: 0.78 [0.62–0.98], I² = 87%, p < 0.01). Cardiovascular mortality was also significantly reduced by SGLT-2 inhibitors (HR: 0.74 [0.31–1.67], I² = 87%, p < 0.01), and a modest reduction was observed for all-cause mortality (HR: 0.85 [0.44–1.64], I² = 17%, p = 0.27). While SGLT-2 inhibitors appeared to slightly reduce the risk of myocardial infarction (HR: 0.83 [0.74–0.92], I² = 0%, p = 0.85), no significant difference was observed for MACE (HR: 0.91 [0.82–1.01], I² = 0%, p = 0.70) or stroke (HR: 0.88 [0.77–1.00], I² = 0%, p = 0.85). Conclusions: Compared to GLP-1 receptor agonists, SGLT-2 inhibitors were more effective in lowering heart failure hospitalizations and cardiovascular mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes. It was also found that all-cause mortality and myocardial infarction were moderately reduced using oral agents. However, the differences were not significant for MACE or stroke. These results imply that SGLT-2 inhibitors may potentially provide better cardiovascular benefits, especially with respect to heart failure and cardiovascular mortality, than GLP-1 RA. Further research should be conducted to determine the effects of the long-term use of these therapies on stroke and other cardiovascular events.
ADAM10 Expression by Ameloblasts is Essential for Proper Enamel Formation
Authors: Shahid Shifa , Hu Yuan-yuan. , Mohamed Fatma , Rizzotto Lara , Layana Michelle C , Fleming Daniel T , Papagerakis Petros , Foster Brian L , Simmer James P , Bartlett John D
Published: October 2024

ADAM10 is a multi-functional proteinase that can cleave approximately 100 different substrates. Previously, we demonstrated that ADAM10 is expressed by ameloblasts responsible for enamel formation. Here we asked if ADAM10 plays a role in enamel development. Deletion of Adam10 in mice is embryonic lethal and deletion of Adam10 from epithelia is perinatal lethal. We therefore deleted Adam10 from ameloblasts. Here, we confirm ameloblast-specific expression of the Tg(Amelx-iCre)872pap construct. We crossed these mice with Adam10 floxed mice to generate Amelx-iCre; Adam10fl/fl mice (Adam10 cKO). We show that Adam10 cKO mice have discolored teeth with softer than normal enamel. Notably, the Adam10 cKO enamel density and volume were significantly reduced in both incisors and molars. Moreover, the incisor enamel rod pattern became progressively more disorganized moving from the DEJ to the outer enamel surface and this disorganized rod structure created large gaps between and among the rods. ADAM10 cleaves proteins essential for cell signaling and for enamel formation such as RELT and COL17A1. ADAM10 also cleaves cell-cell contacts such as E- and N-cadherins that may support ameloblast movement necessary for normal rod patterns. Here, we show for the first time that ADAM10 expressed by ameloblasts is essential for proper enamel formation.
Aromatic Metal Corrosion Inhibitors
Authors: Roscher Jessica , Liu Dan , Xie Xuan , Holze Rudolf
Published: October 2024

Molecular inhibitors added to the corrosive medium attacking metallic materials are a well-established way of combating corrosion. The inhibitive action proceeds via adsorption of the inhibitor on the surface to be protected. Aromatic building blocks in the inhibitor play a major role in their protective action, further details like substituents, heteroatoms and molecular geometry contribute. An overview is provided focused on aromatic inhibitors aiming at the identification of particularly promising inhibitors and their mode of action. Directions of further research and development are pointed out in conclusion.
Multi-Camera Rig and Spherical Camera Assessment for Indoor Surveys in Complex Spaces
Authors: Perfetti Luca , Bruno Nazarena , Roncella Riccardo
Published: October 2024

This study compares the photogrammetric performance of three multi-camera systems—two spherical cameras (INSTA 360 Pro2 and MG1) and one multi-camera rig (Ant3D)—to evaluate their accuracy and precision in confined environments. These systems are particularly suited for indoor surveys, such as narrow spaces, where traditional methods face limitations. The instruments were tested for the survey of a narrow spiral staircase within Milan Cathedral and the results were analyzed based on different processing strategies, including different relative constraints between sensors, various calibration sets for distortion parameters, interior orientation (IO), and relative orientation (RO), as well as two different ground control solutions. The study also included a repeatability test. The findings showed that, with appropriate ground control, all systems achieved the target accuracy of 1 cm. In partially unconstrained scenarios, instead, the drift errors ranged between 5 and 10 cm. Performance varied depending on the processing pipelines, but the results suggest that imposing a multi-camera constraint between sensors and estimating both IO and RO parameters during the Bundle Block Adjustment yields the best outcomes. In less stable environments, it might be preferable to pre-calibrate and fix the IO parameters.
Droplet-Based Microfluidic Photobioreactor (µ-PBR) as a Growth Optimization Tool for Cyanobacteria and Microalgae
Authors: Prasetija Nadia , Schneider Steffen , Xie Ting , Cao Jialan
Published: October 2024

Microalgae and cyanobacteria are photosynthetic microorganisms with significant biotechnological potential for the production of bioactive compounds, making them a promising resource for diverse industrial applications. This study presents the development and validation of a modular, droplet-based microfluidic photobioreactor (µ-PBR) designed for high-throughput screening and cultivation under controlled light conditions. The µPBR, based on PTFE tubing and a 4-channel LED illumination system, enables precise modulation of light intensity, wavelength, and photoperiod, facilitating dose-response experiments. Synechococcus elongatus UTEX 2973 and Chlorella vulgaris were used to demonstrate the system's capacity to support photosynthetic growth under various conditions. The results indicate that continuous illumination, particularly under blue and mixed blue-red light, promotes higher autofluorescence and chlorophyll-a content in cyanobacteria Synechococcus elongatus UTEX2973, while Chlorella vulgaris achieved optimal growth under a 16:8 light-dark cycle with moderate light intensity. This µ-PBR offers not only a flexible, scalable platform for optimizing growth parameters but also investigating highly resolved dose response screenings of environmental stressors such as salinity. The findings highlight its potential for advancing microalgal biotechnology research and applications.
Digital Transformation in SMEs: Pre and Post-Covid-19 Era: A Comparative Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Petropoulou Katerina , Angelaki Erasmia , Rompogiannakis Ioannis , Passas Ioannis , Garefalakis Alexandros
Published: October 2024

This paper presents a comparative bibliometric analysis of digital transformation in small and medium enterprises, focusing on the before and after the Covid-19 pandemic. Using data from the Scopus database, the study analyzes 1,566 articles published between 2001 and 2024, focusing on pre-COVID (2001–2018) and post-COVID (2019–2024). Bibliometric tools, including VOSviewer and Biblioshiny, were employed to conduct performance analysis, scientific mapping, and co-occurrence analyses of keywords and co-authorship. The results demonstrate a substantial increase in research output post-COVID, particularly in areas such as the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, and e-commerce. These technologies have become vital for the survival and competitiveness of SMEs in the post-pandemic world. However, the study also highlights significant challenges, including limited financial resources and a lack of skilled personnel, which have hindered SMEs' ability to implement digital transformation fully. Government intervention, through financial assistance and strategic support, is identified as crucial in enabling SMEs to overcome these obstacles and successfully navigate the digital era. This analysis contributes to the growing body of literature on SMEs' digitalization, offering key insights for policymakers, researchers, and businesses aiming to adapt to the evolving digital landscape in a post-pandemic economy.
CSR and Financial Performance of Listed Firms in the Philippines
Authors: Espino Laurence C. , Mutuc Eugene Burgos
Published: October 2024

The study explores the link between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and the financial performance of listed firms in the Philippines. This research used a longitudinal approach to investigate data from the Philippine Stock Exchange Index (PSEi) from 2019 to 2022. The environmental, social, and governance (ESG) framework assessed CSR performance, while financial performance was measured using return on equity and stock return. Firm profiles such as industry type, firm size, firm age, and auditor type were used as control variables. The researchers used firms' sustainability, annual, and governance reports as the primary data sources. The regression analysis results show insufficient data to support the idea that CSR performance affects the firm’s financial performance. It shows that only governance performance is positively correlated and significant with return on equity. Other components and overall CSR performance were found insignificant with return on equity and stock return. This study provides preliminary information on the link of CSR to the financial performance of listed firms in the Philippines. It extends the current literature on CSR performance and its link to financial performance in an emerging economy setting.
Grape pomace extract and sodium selenite, key components of the OenoGrape Advanced Complex, exhibit intracellular ROS/radical scavenging and Nrf2/ARE induction activities in human hepatocytes and keratinocytes following in vitro intestinal absorption.
Authors: Furger Christophe , Le Roux Erwan , Dufour Cécile , Rigal Mylène , Gironde Camille
Published: October 2024

Oenobiol Sun Expert, a food formulation designed to enhance skin health prior to sun exposure, has been optimized by incorporating the OenoGrape Advanced Complex, which includes grape pomace extract, increased selenium content and 10% lycopene-rich tomato extract, these constituents exhibiting high antioxidant potential. To evaluate the effects of those individual ingredients and the overall formulation at the cellular level, the AOP1 cell antioxidant efficacy assay was employed to measure intracellular free radical scavenging activity, while the CAA (DCFH-DA) assay was used to assess peroxidation scavenging at the plasma membrane level. Indirect antioxidant activity was examined using stably transfected cell lines containing a luciferase reporter gene controlled by the Antioxidant Response Element (ARE), which activates the endogenous antioxidant system via the Nrf2/Keap1-ARE pathway. Our results indicate that, among the individual components, grape pomace extract and sodium selenite possess high and complementary antioxidant properties. Grape pomace extract was particularly effective in inhibiting free radicals (AOP1 EC50 = 6.80 mg/ml) and activating the ARE pathway (ARE EC50 = 231.1 mg/ml), whereas sodium selenite exerted its effects through potent ARE activation at sub-microgram levels (EC50 = 0.367 mg/ml). In contrast, the lycopene-rich tomato extract did not show a notable contribution to antioxidant effects. The antiradical activity of the OenoGrape Advanced Complex, comprising these three ingredients, was very efficient and consistent with the results obtained for the individual components (AOP1 EC50 = 15.78 µg/ml and ARE EC50 of 707.7 μg/ml). Similarly, the free radical scavenging activity still persisted in the Oenobiol Sun Expert formulation (AOP1 EC50 = 36.63 µg/ml). In addition, the direct and indirect antioxidant activities of ingredients were confirmed on both hepatocytes and keratinocytes after in vitro intestinal trans-epithelial transfer experiments, demonstrating bioavailability and bioactivity of grape pomace extract and sodium selenite. These finding suggest that the ingredients of this food supplement contribute to enhanced cytoprotection following ingestion.
Evaluation of Horizontal Shear Performance of Composite Girders using Separable Shear Connectors
Authors: Jung Dae-Sung , Park Se-Hyun , Han Jong-Wook , Kim Chul-Young
Published: October 2024

The increased volume of heavy vehicles and the use of de-icing agents on concrete bridge decks have accelerated their deterioration. Concurrently, the demand for rapid replacement of these structures and research interest in prefabricated bridges have increased. Traditionally, horizon-tal shear connections between girders and precast decks have utilized rebar stirrup shear con-nectors. Although effective for initial construction, this method complicates the dismantling of aged decks because the rebar connectors are fully embedded within the girders. The removal of concrete decks requires cutting, whereas composite decks atop girders must be demolished us-ing breakers. This process generates dust, noise, and vibrations, raising environmental concerns and causing delays in urban demolition projects due to public complaints. This study introduces an embedded separable shear connector that minimizes deck breaking and facilitates easy rein-stallation by allowing simpler separation of the deck from the girder. Horizontal shear and flexural tests on composite girders and comparisons with various design codes were conducted to evaluate this innovative connector. The results show that the proposed connector provides superior horizontal shear strength relative to traditional methods and satisfies modern ductility design criteria. Simulations confirmed that the decks could be easily separated and reassembled, maintaining shear strength under initial construction conditions.
Changing images of favorite schools after the student admission system reform in Indonesia
Authors: Arlinwibowo Janu , Martono Sri Fajar , Ulumudin Ikhya , Waruwu Hermanto , Yufridawati Yufridawati , Murdiyaningrum Yunita , Fatima Gupita Nadindra , Khang Benjamin Leong Tack
Published: October 2024

The study aims to unearth public perceptions of the label of favorite schools after the implementation of student admission reform in Indonesia, namely the zoning system, and to explore the underlying causes. Adopting a qualitative method with a phenomenological approach, this study involved participants from nine provincial education services, nine regency education services, 72 teachers, and 72 parents. Data collected through in-depth interviews and focus groups reveal three distinctive perceptions of favorite schools. The first view posits that after the implementation of the zoning system, the quality among schools is relatively similar, indicating that the new policy is effective in reducing educational disparity. The second sees that some favorite schools persist, but there is a narrowing educational disparity among schools. The third view, the majority, maintains the belief of the importance of favorite schools and maintains the idea that sending their children to these schools is important to secure a better future. Erasing the label of favorite schools is not an easy endeavor since these schools have created long-lasting positive images in the public landscape. The result of the study will add to the discussion of the impact of the new applied school zone system on public perception of favorite schools and inform policymakers regarding the impact of educational policy enacted.
Analysis of the effectiveness of the implementation of investment projects projects of the eaeu regions
Authors: Ershova I. G. , Fraymovich D. Yu. , Kolosova M. S.
Published: October 2024

Relevance. The Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) is the most important instrument of cooperation between Russia, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, as well as the most important strategic entity in the context of modern geopolitical realities. It is in such an unstable period that joint cooperation is an integral feature of the long-term development of the member states of the union. The article examines the processes of development and implementation of the largest construction projects within the EAEU, as well as examines the issues of financing these projects, and evaluates the effectiveness of their implementation for each participating country.

The purpose of the work is to identify the role of the EAEU in the development of the participating countries, their points of contact and cooperation.

Objectives: to analyze the volume of completed construction works of the EAEU member states, the number of housing squares commissioned on the territory of the EAEU; to estimate the amount of investments invested in the largest investment projects of the EAEU in the participating countries.

Methodology. The basis of the study is the database of the official portal of the Eurasian Union and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. The materials of Russian and foreign experts published in the official publication of the Eurasian Union "Bulletin of the EEA" were also used in this study. Methods of comparison, synthesis and analysis of information resources were used in the study. Results. The unified strategy for the economic development of the EAEU member states, taking into account internal and external challenges, is implemented mainly through the active development and development of the largest investment programs throughout the Union.

Conclusions. The active work of the EAEU brings tangible benefits and advantages to each member country of the union through the exchange of technologies, production experience and resources, as well as through the development of transport infrastructure. At the same time, questions remain about the sufficiency of the contribution of specific States to joint development, since some of them do not have a sufficient level of development and a sufficient amount of natural resources.
Development and activation of the innovative potential of the Russian economy: regional features, structural priorities, levels of implementation
Authors: Azjeurova K. E. , Kopteva Zh. Yu. , Shcherbakov D. B.
Published: October 2024

Relevance. The idea of developing and implementing innovative solutions in various spheres of society implies the existence of ways to find such solutions, their active use and improvement. For this reason, the essence of innovative thinking on the scale of both a single enterprise and the state as a whole requires appropriate provision.

The purpose of the research is a comprehensive analysis of the chronological cross-section of the level of innovative development of the subjects of the Russian Federation in the context of multiple global economic and political crises and the internal activation of strategic innovative trends in the formats of lawmaking and modernization.

Objectives. To achieve this goal, within the framework of this study, the current legislative situation regarding the state's innovation policy and its projected consequences were considered; the factors of growth in the level of innovative development of the regions of the Russian Federation in the context of statistical dominants were studied; the complex results of regional innovation activity and the all-Russian state of the innovative sphere of development, production, export and import of goods and services were analyzed.

Methodology. The methodological basis of this study is the method of chronological extrapolation analysis of trends with constant adjustment in conditions of the selective nature of the analytical data bank; in addition, a theoretical generalization of the indexed result and a priori trend forecasting within the observation period are used.

Results. The general principles of the innovation segment development are the same for the whole state, but their applicability in different regions depends on the degree of their convergence with border territorial entities — the basis of the innovation development strategy is the assessment of regional potential in the sum of all indicators. Nevertheless, there is always the possibility of finding a thematic statistical trend.

Conclusions. It is fundamentally important for the innovative development of the state to take into account the specifics of each individual region. With all the variety of means and methods of innovative development at all levels of management, priority is given to only a few. In this case, rating systems are an auxiliary element of management structures.
Prospects for the development of foreign economic activities of the Russia banking sector in China
Authors: Tretyakova I. N. , Korobkov I. A.
Published: October 2024

Relevance. In modern conditions of economic uncertainty and difficulties of doing business in connection with the application of sanctions, banks need to look for effective tools and ways to increase the effectiveness of mutual cooperation with other states to overcome the prevailing circumstances. During the work, the main aspects of opening and functioning of a bank branch in China were considered, as well as competitors at both the macro and micro levels were analyzed. Based on the SWOT analysis, the paper identifies the strengths and weaknesses, opportunities and threats of introducing a branch of a Russian bank into the Chinese banking market. The study identifies promising regions for the development of foreign economic activity and forms a range of banking services that contribute to the sustainable development of the branch of the Russian bank in the foreign market.

The purpose of the study is to substantiate the need to develop the foreign economic activity of a Russian commercial bank in China.

Objectives: Based on a comprehensive analysis and acceptability of the Chinese banking services market, an assessment of the current state of PJSC Expobank, an analysis of competitors in the proposed region and the specifics of a specific location, to develop a plan for opening a bank branch in China.

Methodology. The study is aimed at achieving this goal and is based on a review of scientific research by both domestic and foreign economists, as well as an analysis of a number of requirements for opening a bank branch in China.

Results. In the course of the work, the process of opening a bank branch in China for carrying out activities was analyzed, the advantages and disadvantages of expanding the boundaries of presence were identified, and promising areas for starting foreign economic activity were proposed.

Conclusions. The conducted research gives grounds to conclude that the expansion of the geographical presence in China will allow PJSC Expobank to gain access to world economic centers and expand the boundaries of its activities.
Social representations of young people about people with disabilities and disabilities in an inclusive educational environment: the experience of cross-cultural research
Authors: Nepochatykh E. P.
Published: October 2024

Relevance. Interest in the study of social representations arose due to the development of inclusion in all spheres of life. This fact has an impact on the specifics of training Russian and foreign students in this field in a medical university, the development of their inclusive competence. The study of cross-cultural features of social representations of persons with disabilities and the disabled, the identification of universal and specific phenomena in respondents will contribute to understanding social and psychological phenomena at the individual level that determine social attitudes and behavior of individuals in an inclusive modern society, taking into account its sociocultural characteristics.

The purpose of the study is to study the cross-cultural characteristics of social perceptions of people with disabilities and people with disabilities among Russian and foreign students.

Objectives: to analyze the content characteristics and approaches to the study of social representations; to develop programs of empirical research; to describe the results of the study; to formulate conclusions.

Methodology. This study is based on the provisions of the theory of social constructionism (P. Berger, T. Lukman; J.Douglas); E. Durkheim's concepts of collective representations; theories of social representations (S. Moscovici, D. Jodelet, etc.). Research methods: theoretical analysis of literature, research interview, method of verbal associations, testing, content analysis.

Results. Both similar and specific phenomena in social representations of people with disabilities and people with disabilities in the samples of Russian and foreign students were revealed. Similar is the presence of tolerant attitudes towards people with disabilities and people with disabilities in both samples. The differences relate to the social level of social perceptions, as well as the characteristics of social distance in relation to respondents to this category of citizens.

Conclusions. Along with a tolerant attitude towards people with disabilities and people with disabilities, respondents have insufficient professional awareness of this category of citizens, experience difficulties in interacting with them at the level of joint activities and professional relationships, which requires the development of additional programs and practices in the context of social, educational and volunteer activities to develop inclusive competence of students.
Creative self-realization of the individual in the educational environment of the university
Authors: Abramov A. P. , Shenyuk E. V.
Published: October 2024

Relevance. In the modern world, youth are responsible for many areas of society, including the development of culture and the search for innovative ways of functioning of society. Creative activity is not only a form of self-expression and fulfillment of personal needs, but also becomes an important factor in the development of the economy and society as a whole. Stimulating creative activity is quite relevant in modern society, since creative activity itself is a key component of the development of innovation and progress in various fields.

The purpose is theoretically substantiate and empirically determine the role of creativity in the process of personal self-realization in the educational environment of the university.

Objectives: characterize theoretical approaches to the study of personal self-realization in creative activity; reveal the main tools and methods of stimulating the creative activity of the individual in the educational environment of the university; present traditional and innovative practices of creative self-realization of the individual.

Methodology: the theoretical and methodological basis of the research is based on philosophical, sociological, psychological and pedagogical approaches that reveal the essence of creativity and its functional load.

Results. The educational environment of the university is recognized as a significant factor that stimulates the process of acquiring new knowledge and increasing the level of creative self-realization of students. Most students are aware of the importance of creative self-realization in the process of studying at a university, but are not always satisfied with the level of its implementation.

Conclusions. The comprehensive nature of the activities implemented at the university aimed at developing the creative potential of the individual ensures its effective self-realization. The creative environment created in classes and in extracurricular activities serves as a certain impetus for the development of students’ creative abilities, the transformation of their outlook on life, and helps in realizing and discovering personal potential for professional growth and self-development.
The role of state policy in shaping the culture of society: socio-philosophical ideas of the XVII ‒ XIX centuries
Authors: Malykhina R. V.
Published: October 2024

Relevance. In modern society, conflicting opinions formed about the role of state shaping Russian culture. Changes concept cultural policy problem imbalance between the actions authorities and willingness citizens them. The search solution problem boils down study works sociologists and philosophers various historical periods, where question functions state and degree interference state policy cultural development society was raised.

The purpose ‒ is to analyze scientific works XVII-XIX centuries, revealing the place and role state policy in shaping the culture of society.

Objectives: to analyze the works R. Descartes, T. Hobbes, F. Bacon, A. Smith, F. Nietzsche, A. Saint-Simon, O. Konte, E. Durkheim; to formulate functions cultural policy; to present the role state in the cultural development society.

Methodology. Research was conducted basis systematic approach within the framework structural functionalism using universal scientific methods such analysis, synthesis and generalization.

Results. The main results are presented follows: within the framework this article, a study was conducted, with the help which we formulated peculiarities views sociologists and philosophers XVII-XIX centuries need state intervention in cultural processes society development, and highlighted functions cultural policy state.

Conclusions. The socio-philosophical ideas XVII-XIX centuries evolved direction designating leading role state not only regulating cultural processes, but also educating younger generation through education and cultural development. The functions state century were largely reduced regulatory, and sometimes refusal participation government structures. Then, there was the recognition interaction society, culture state complementary elements, leading endowment state with such functions as: preservation traditions and protection from external influences, reflection interests society and education younger generation.