bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ocorrência e danos de Gargaphia lunulata (Mayr, 1865) (Insecta: Hemiptera: Tingidae) em duas espécies daninhas em área urbana de Sobral-CE
Authors: Carvalho Moreira Francisco José , Costa Samara Ferreira , Rocha Francisca Fabrina Alves da Rocha
Published: September 2024

Foi observada a ocorrência do percevejo-de-renda Gargaphia lunulata (Mayr, 1865) (Insecta: Hemiptera: Tingidae) em plantas daninhas de duas espécies, na área experimental do Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Ceará – IFCE – campus Sobral, em Sobral-CE, Brasil. O registro desse inseto foi feito nas espécies chanana (Turnera subulata Sm.)  (Malpighiales: Turneraceae) e em malva juta (Corchorus aestuans L.) (Malvales: Malvaceae). Em ambas as espécies o percevejo-de-renda provoca danos, de forma semelhantes nas duas espécies analisadas. A ocorrência de G. lunulata nas duas espécies é registrada pela primeira vez. Observou-se ainda a presença de G. lunulata em plantas de maracujá (Passiflora edulis), confirmando como uma praga dessa cultura. Não se observou a presença deste inseto em outras espécies de plantas espontâneas presentes na área nem em espécies cultivadas na área experimental. Portanto, estas duas espécies parecem ser hospedeiras preferencias deste inseto no ambiente estudado.
Efeito do ácido salicílico na germinação de Pityrocarpa moniliformis Benth. em meio salino
Authors: De Oliveira Teixeira Marcos Ilson , Alvez Ana Beatriz , Dias Poliana Coqueiro , Jacome Tarlei , Melo Aline Kelly , Souza Joallyson Evangelista
Published: September 2024

A Catanduva (Pityrocarpa moniliformis Benth.) por ser uma espécie endêmica do Brasil e ter um bom desenvolvimento em solos pobres e arenosos, tornou-se uma ótima opção em recuperação de áreas degradadas justamente por seu rápido crescimento. Devido à alta salinidade nos solos e na água da região semiárida o uso de atenuantes para minimizar o efeito salino é recomendado. O ácido salicílico é um hormônio vegetal responsável pela ativação de mecanismos de defesa contra estresses abióticos, sendo um atenuante aos efeitos adversos do estresse abiótico nas plantas. Assim, é importante entender o efeito do ácido salicílico na germinação de Pityrocarpa moniliformis Benth. em meio salino. O experimento foi conduzido com 3 repetições de 20 sementes cada, em esquema fatorial de 2 (meios de embebição: ácido salicílico (AS) 1,0 mM e água destilada) x 4 (condutividade elétrica da água de irrigação: 0, 4.1, 5.3, 6.3 dS m-¹) usando NaCl diluído em água destilada. As sementes foram submetidas a embebição em 100 mL de água destilada ou 100 mL de solução de ácido salicílico durante 4h. Em sequência, foram avaliados a porcentagem de germinação, velocidade de germinação, comprimento da raiz e comprimento do hipocótilo. Os tratamentos tiveram resultados semelhantes estatisticamente para os caracteres avaliados. Entretanto, o tratamento com ácido salicílico teve efeito atenuante no meio salino quanto ao crescimento radicular e a espécie apresenta alta resistência natural à salinidade.
Análise das posturas adotadas pelo vareiro durante o corte das palhas da carnaúba
Authors: Guimarães Pompeu Paes , De Sousa Lima Ana Paula , Silva Araújo Lara Laisa , Nogueira Narjara Walessa , Alves Nobrega Edyla Maria , Ferreira da Silva Juliana , Loiola da Silva Pedro Henrique
Published: September 2024

As atividades desempenhadas pelo vareiro envolvem a retirada de folhas da carnaúba para posterior secagem e trituração, com intuito de retirar o pó da carnaúba (produto principal base para a produção de cera) da bagana (subproduto). Esta pesquisa tem por objetivo analisar e classificar as principais posturas de trabalho adotadas durante o processo de corte de palhas de carnaúba, a fim de detectar se a função de vareiro está exposta a fatores de riscos biomecânicos. Para a realização da análise postural, foi utilizando o método Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), com o auxílio do software Ergolândia 8.0. Foram analisadas 100 imagens, das quais, 75% foram classificadas no nível de ação 4, exigindo a introdução de mudanças imediatamente; 22% no nível 3, exigindo investigação e introdução de mudanças; 3% no nível 2, exigindo observação, podendo ser necessário mudanças; e não foi registrado nenhuma postura aceitável para a atividade de vareiro. Ao todo, o método identificou 33 posturas distintas, sendo 19 com o pescoço em extensão para trás e 12 com os braços acima da linha do ombro. Em suma, a atividade do vareiro mostrou um predomínio significativo de posturas desconfortantes e inadequadas, evidenciando a necessidade de medidas mitigadoras aos riscos biomecânicos na atividade de vareiro, a fim de garantir a saúde e o bem-estar dos trabalhadores.
Doses de silício no rendimento produtivo da alface crespa
Authors: Tatagiba Sandro Dan , Rigo Henrique , Sarmento Emily Cristina , Dani Rinaldi Bruno José
Published: September 2024

Buscou-se neste trabalho investigar diferentes doses foliares de Si (Silício) no rendimento produtivo da alface. Para esta finalidade, plantas de alface crespa, cultivar “Vanda” foram cultivadas em vasos de 5 dm3 mantidas com o substrato próximo a capacidade de campo e submetidas a diferentes doses de silicato de potássio. Foram avaliadas as seguintes características: matéria fresca da folha, do caule, da raiz e total, a massa de água retida na planta inteira (total), na folha, no caule, além dos teores de pigmentos fotossintéticos: clorofila a, b e total. O experimento foi montado num delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com quatro repetições, em cinco níveis de doses do silicato de potássio: 0 ml/L (controle), 1,5; 3,0; 4,5 e 6,0 ml/L. Cada unidade experimental foi composta de um vaso plástico contendo uma planta. Os resultados obtidos mostraram que o fornecimento de Si beneficiou o rendimento produtivo da alface, contribuindo para aumentos significativos na matéria fresca total, da folha, caule e raiz, principalmente na dose de 6,0 ml/L de silicato de potássio. O Si promoveu maior retenção de água nos tecidos foliares, levando ao maior rendimento das plantas. Os teores de pigmentos fotossintéticos foliares não foram beneficiados pelo fornecimento das doses de silicato de potássio.
Influence of scale factor on structure and mechanical properties of nickel β-alloy produced by centrifugal SHS casting
Authors:   National University of Science and Technology MISiS, Sanin V. V. ,   JSC «Giredmet», Ageev M. I. ,   National University of Science and Technology MISiS, Martynov D. A. ,   «Center of Research, Design and Technologies» LLC, Sanin V. N. ,   Merzhanov Institute of Structural Macrokinetics and Materials Science, RAS, Levashov E. A. ,   National University of Science and Technology MISiS
Published: September 2024

The chemical and phase compositions, structure and mechanical properties of an alloy based on the NiAl—Cr—Co system (base — 2.5Mo—1.5Re—1.5Ta—0.2Ti) obtained by centrifugal SHS casting in a pilot-industrial plant have been studied. The results of the study were analyzed in comparison with similar parameters for an alloy of the same composition, but synthesized in a laboratory SHS plant and having a smaller mass: 0.8 ± 0.1 kg as compared to the mass of a large-sized ingot — 4.7 ± 0.1 kg. It is reported that a large-sized ingot with chemical and phase compositions uniform in volume was obtained, the metal of which at different distances from the center demonstrates close kinetics and heat resistance at 1150 °C (30 h). It was found that the heat resistance of the alloy decreases with increasing ingot weight: from 55 ± 3 g / m2 for the laboratory ingot to 19 ± 3 g / m2 for the large-sized one. The strength properties of the metal of the large-sized ingot during compression testing were: σвс = 1662 ± 10 MPa, σ0,2с = 1531 ± 25 MPa, during tensile testing: σв = 293 ± 10 MPa, σ0,2 = 236 ± 5 MPa, which is practically no different from the properties of the laboratory ingot. The mechanical properties of NiA—Cr—Co — based alloys of various alloying systems synthesized by the SHS method with subsequent use of special metallurgy methods are also given.
In Vivo and In Vitro Anti-Hyperglycemic and Hypolipidemic Effect of Atili (Canarium Schweinfurthii) on Streptozotocin Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Garba Abubakar Ibrahim , Kelechi Agomuo Jude , Umar Nasiru Bilkisu , Kaida Idris Zubairu Kaida , Adam Abubakar Kabir Adam , Abdullahi Maryam Gambo , Abdullahi Saifullahi
Published: September 2024

Canarium schweinfurthii is used as a traditional treatment for diabetes mellitus in Nigeria and other African countries, according to ethnobotanical records. However, scientific evidence has not yet been published. This study aimed to evaluate the antidiabetic effects of Canarium schweinfurthii fruit pulp ethanol extract in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. A type II diabetic rat model (TDRM) was established via high-fat diet and Streptozotocin induced diabetes. Diabetic rats were randomized into five different groups; the control group (n = 6) (common diet) and high-fat diet (HFD) groups fed with ethanolic extract at 100, 200, 400, and 600 mg/ml (n = 24). At these doses, the blood glucose was lowered by 57.68% to 80.17%. For hypolipidemic test, total cholesterol was lowered from 162.33 mg/dL to 70.19 mg/dL; Glyceride from 166.91 mg/dL to 68.61mg/dL. Creatinine from 6.77 mg/dL to 6.42 mg/dL. Alanine Aminotransferase was 151.3 to 53.31 µI/L in 600mg group. Aspartate Aminotransferase enzyme decrease from 130.4 µI/L to 40.81 µI/L. This study confirmed the antidiabetic effects of Canarium schweinfurthii fruit extract.
An Implementation of Autonomous Reasoning in Large Language Models through Token-Level Inner Dialogue Mechanisms
Authors: Thompson Seriyah , Hargrove William , Moreno Theodore , Duarte Matthew , Blackwell Catherine , Greyston Isabella
Published: September 2024

Autonomous reasoning systems often face limitations when addressing complex, multi-step tasks that require continuous self-assessment and adaptation. A novel framework for reasoning enhancement introduces token-level inner dialogue, allowing models to recursively evaluate and refine their outputs during the generation process. This mechanism promotes deeper logical coherence and adaptive problem-solving through iterative token interactions, leading to improved performance across reasoning tasks, including ethical decision-making, logical progression, and abstract reasoning. Extensive experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach, highlighting substantial improvements in reasoning accuracy, consistency, and task completion rates compared to baseline models. The introduction of recursive feedback loops within token generation proves instrumental in maintaining logical coherence, particularly in tasks with high levels of complexity. Challenges related to computational overhead and architectural complexity were identified, yet the benefits of deeper token-level reasoning establish this framework as a significant advancement for autonomous reasoning in artificial intelligence.
Not Yet: Large Language Models Cannot Replace Human Respondents for Psychometric Research
Authors: Wang Pengda , Zou Huiqi , Yan Zihan , Guo Feng , Sun Tianjun , Xiao Ziang , Zhang Bo
Published: September 2024

Multiple studies have claimed that artificial intelligence (AI), particularly large language models (LLMs), can simulate human-like responses on various psychological tasks such that AI may replace human respondents for social science studies. However, this claim may be premature because of limitations in the design and evaluation metrics of previous studies. The present study aimed to provide a comprehensive evaluation of this claim, focusing on LLMs, by comparing six types of LLM-generated responses and human responses to the Big Five Inventory-2 (BFI-2) and the HEXACO-100 personality inventory. While previous research has primarily highlighted similarities between LLM-generated responses and human responses at the broad personality domain level in terms of descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation), we took a closer look by first comparing descriptive statistics at the item, facet, and domain levels. Then, we performed a comprehensive psychometric analysis (e.g., model fit, factor loadings, inter-factor correlations) of LLM-generated responses to examine the degree to which LLM-generated responses produced similar results as those produced by human responses. Our findings indicated that although LLMs perform well in replicating broad-level patterns, they fall short at the item level, where subtle human differences are more accurately captured, and significant psychometric challenges remain when using LLM-generated responses. Additionally, we explore the influence of social desirability on LLM-generated responses and apply logistic regression to differentiate between LLM and human responses. We emphasize the importance of rigorous validation and adherence to psychometric principles when using LLMs for psychological research.
(Mis)Matching Expectations: The Effects of Claimant Gender Identity and Harassment Form on Perceptions of Sexual Harassment Claims
Authors: Mezzapelle Jennifer , Reiman Anna
Published: September 2024

Laypeople often assume a typical sexual harassment incident involves a cisgender man directing sexual advances toward a cisgender woman. Alternatively, when people learn that a transgender woman was sexually harassed, they tend to assume she experienced gender harassment. How are harassment claims that do not match these expectations evaluated? In two preregistered studies, participants (N = 630 and 638) read a social media post from a transgender or assumed cisgender woman who experienced unwanted sexual attention or gender harassment at work. Regardless of harassment form, transgender (vs. assumed cisgender) women were more likely to be rated as complainers and as overreacting (Studies 1-2) and elicited less empathy (Study 2). Additionally, participants in both studies were less likely to label gender harassment (vs. unwanted sexual attention) as sexual harassment. How sexual harassment claims are evaluated may have serious consequences for the (lack of) support claimants receive when speaking up about harassment.
Do Motivation for Active Aging and Personal and Social Resources Predict Change in Perceived Expectations for Active Aging?
Authors: Radoš Sonja , Pavlova Maria K. , Silbereisen Rainer K.
Published: September 2024

Perceived expectations for active aging (PEAA) regard subjective exposure to social expectations to stay active in old age (e.g., maintain good health and engage socially). Recent cross-sectional evidence suggested that subjective factors, particularly domain-specific motivation, contribute to PEAA in German adults of all ages. In the present study, we investigated the effects of motivation for active aging and personal and social resources on the change in domain-specific PEAA (health and social engagement) over one year in young-old adults (preregistered at https://osf.io/8rud5, Part I and II). To this end, we employed two waves of data (2009 and 2010) from the Jena Study on Social Change and Human Development that surveyed German adults aged 56–75. Residual-change analyses yielded few significant longitudinal effects. In the social engagement domain, generativity predicted a more positive residual change in PEAA, whereas the life goal of staying healthy predicted a more negative residual change (both effects were only marginally significant). In the health domain, perceived general social support in combination with the presence of role models for change predicted a more positive residual change in PEAA. Our findings underscore the role of motivation to age actively in PEAA and highlight the importance of domain specificity in studying PEAA.
Development of Automatic Pressure Cuff
Authors: Henry Okoroego , Olarotimi Adedayo , Abu Rahaaman
Published: September 2024

Analogue Blood Pressure (BP) monitors remain a ubiquitous tool in healthcare settings, but their imprecise and labour-intensive measurement process continues to be a major concern. The lack of automation in these devices leads to variability in measurements and increased workload for healthcare professionals, necessitating the development of improved technologies. Literature is sparse on the integration of automated inflation mechanisms in manual cuff blood pressure monitors, and their impact on measurement accuracy and efficiency. This study aims to develop an automated device to replace the manual pressure bulb of an analogue BP monitor.
The proposed system incorporates an automated inflation mechanism powered by a 12V battery and a 5V regulator for the ATmega328P microcontroller. It uses pressure sensors to accurately gauge BP readings, which are displayed on an integrated LCD screen. This design aims to combine the user-friendliness of digital BP monitors with the precision of analogue monitors, addressing the limitations of both. Additionally, the rechargeable battery system reduces the need for frequent replacements, minimizing costs and environmental impact. A comparative test with ten volunteers was conducted to evaluate the developed automatic pressure cuff against a manual sphygmomanometer.
The combined units worked, and the test results showed a strong positive correlation (r = 0.988 and 0.933) between the automated system and a reference manual sphygmomanometer for systolic and diastolic BP measurements respectively. Additionally, a t-test analysis revealed no statistically significant difference (p > 0.05) between the two methods, indicating the automated system's ability to provide accurate and consistent BP measurements. The average systolic BP reading was 122.4 mmHg, with a standard deviation of 2.1 mmHg, while the average diastolic BP reading was 78.2 mmHg, with a standard deviation of 1.8 mmHg. These findings demonstrate the system's reliability and its potential to surpass the variability often associated with manual pumping techniques.
Automating the pressure cuff system in traditional analogue blood pressure monitors improves accuracy and efficiency compared to manual methods. Thus, an automated inflation mechanism enhances blood pressure measurement and healthcare outcomes.
Keywords: Analogue BP monitor, Digital BP monitor, Automated Pressure Cuff, ATmega328P Microcontroller, Accuracy and Consistency.
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Risk of severe obesity development: Examining the role of psychological well-being related measures and sociodemographic factors in two longitudinal UK cohort studies
Authors: Putra I Gusti Ngurah Edi , Wilkinson Sam , Daly Michael , Robinson Eric
Published: September 2024

Objective: To examine the prospective association between psychological well-being related measures and severe obesity development in young and middle-aged UK adults.Design: A longitudinal analysis of two cohort studies.Methods: We used data from the National Child and Development Study (NCDS) and the British Cohort Study (BCS) to examine the association between baseline psychological well-being related measures (depressive symptoms, life satisfaction, and self-efficacy) and severe obesity development (defined as body mass index – BMI ≥35) and residualised BMI change scores at follow-up. We analysed repeated measures of baseline and follow-up pairs with 6- to 7-year follow-up on average (n = 22,390 and 23,811 observations in NCDS and BCS, respectively) using panel data analysis and controlling for sociodemographic factors. We conducted additional analyses using analytical sample sizes with longer follow-up (16-17 years). Results: Although a range of sociodemographic factors (e.g., being female, non-married) were associated with increased risk of severe obesity development, we found limited evidence that psychological well-being related measures were associated with severe obesity development across cohorts and pooled analyses. Depressive symptoms, life satisfaction, and self-efficacy were however associated with relatively small changes in continuous BMI change across analyses and this tended to be limited to participants without obesity (BMI 18.5 – <30) and not those already living with obesity (BMI 30 – <35) at baseline.Conclusions: Although poorer psychological well-being is associated with modest changes in body weight in individuals without obesity, there is limited evidence that psychological well-being related measures prospectively predict the development of severe obesity.
Limited evidence for reduced learning rate adaptation in anxious-depression, before or after treatment
Authors: Suddell Steph , Zhang lili , Lee Chi Tak , Senta Jennifer , O'Keane Veronica , Ward Tomas , Stephan Klaas Enno , Fox Celine A , Hanlon Anna , Lynch Kevin , Harty Siobhan , Gillan Claire , Richards Derek
Published: September 2024

Prior research shows that humans adjust their learning rate based on environmental volatility. This adaptation may be reduced in individuals with high levels of anxious-depression, but past studies have been cross-sectional, making it unclear whether this adaptation is responsive to treatment. In the Precision in Psychiatry study, we examined changes in learning rate adaptation following four weeks of treatment in two patient groups receiving either internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy (iCBT; n=677) or antidepressants (n=95), compared to a group of healthy participants (n=95). All groups showed increased learning rates in volatile environments at baseline, but against our prediction, learning rate adaptation was not cross-sectionally associated with individual differences in anxious-depression. There was also no evidence that learning rate adaptation changed post-treatment, despite symptom improvements. However, in the antidepressant group, symptom reductions correlated with learning rate adaptation. This finding should be interpreted cautiously due to reliability concerns. Overall, our results suggest that associations between learning rate adaptation and anxious-depression are likely modest, may not be present in treatment-seeking adults, and do not improve following treatment.
Early developmental trajectories of restricted and repetitive behaviors in infants and toddlers with and without autism
Authors: Yankowitz Lisa , Said Alex Job , Clements Caitlin C , Wilkinson Carol , Tager-Flusberg Helen , Nelson Charles A.
Published: September 2024

Restricted and repetitive behaviors (RRBs) are an early-emerging and defining feature of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This longitudinal study examined developmental trajectories of RRBs as measured by the Repetitive Behavior Scale-Revised (RBS-R) in 12-36-month-old infants (n = 207), including those with elevated likelihood of ASD due to familial history (ELSib) or early social communication concerns (ELScreen), and low-likelihood infants (LL), with observations at 12, 18, 24, and 36 months. Across these two years, the development of RRBs was non-linear, with a peak in RBS-R Overall Scores at 27 months in typically developing infants (those with no developmental concerns). The ASD group (those who received an ASD diagnosis) showed significantly faster increases in RRBs than all groups of infants not diagnosed with ASD, regardless of initial likelihood status. Among participants diagnosed with ASD, RRB trajectories were similar between ELSib-ASD and ELScreen-ASD, suggesting findings are generalizable across simplex and multiplex families. ASD infants demonstrated faster growth in RRBs than infants with non-ASD developmental delays (e.g., speech or global delays). Significant group differences in levels of RRBs did not emerge until 24-months of age, suggesting RRBs may lack specificity earlier in development. These results underscore the potential of RRBs as an early marker of ASD, as elevations compared to typically developing infants are evident by 12-months of age and increase in the following two years. However, clinicians and parents should be aware that smaller transient increases in RRBs are normative, and that early (<2 years) RRB elevations may not be specific to ASD.
Measuring affective responses to natural hazard pictures using a picture-word interference task
Authors: Pfeuffer Christina Ursula , Heckmann Tobias , Jochner-Oette Susanne , Steinhauser Marco
Published: September 2024

In this study, we investigated whether pictures of natural hazards (i.e., climate change consequences) elicit automatic (negative) affective responses using a picture-word interference task. In picture-word interference tasks, affective pictures and words are paired such that picture valence and word valence match (congruent) or mismatch (incongruent). Participants classify the valence of words (or pictures; targets) via key presses. Corresponding congruency effects in response times or error rates thus indicate that pictures (or words; distractors) interfered with target processing, that is, distractors elicited an automatic affective response. Here, we assessed how 12 natural hazard (negative) and 12 intact landscape (positive) pictures (distractors) interfered with the classification of four affective words (targets) as negative or positive. The obtained congruency effects demonstrate that natural hazard pictures (showing landslides, hail, wildfires, or droughts) elicit automatic affective responses, even though their valence can only be inferred based on scene semantics. Further, this implicit affective response measure did not correlate with self-report valence or arousal ratings for corresponding affective pictures, suggesting differences in the affective processes underlying implicit and explicit affective response measures. We conclude that picture-word interference tasks are a suitable means for determining implicit affective responses to even complex pictures, here negative affective responses to natural hazard scenes. This method thus also lends itself to investigations of affective responses in the context of climate change.
Prospective and Cross-sectional Associations between Affect, and Frequency of Alcohol Use and Binge Drinking Episodes in Rural Black Men
Authors: Delawalla Colette N
Published: September 2024

Background: Black men may be especially prone to drinking-to-cope or drinking to alleviate negative affect in early adulthood due to a unique confluence of factors that impact drinking patterns in emerging and early adulthood (e.g., Zapolski et al., 2017). The current study examined how depressive symptoms, hope for one’s future/life chances, negative life events, and socioeconomic wellbeing predicted individual differences in alcohol consumption at and across four timepoints during emerging adulthood. We hypothesized that across time, increases in depression would be associated with decreases in state hope and perceived life chances. Similarly, we anticipated changes in depression, state hope, and perceived life chances would be associated with a greater frequency of alcohol consumption and binge drinking episodes.Methods: Black men (N=504) in rural communities were assessed at four timepoints across emerging adulthood. We examined between and within subject effects across time between harmful alcohol consumption and depression, state hope, and perceived life chances, using regression and random intercept cross-lagged panel modeling (RI-CLPM; Hamaker et al., 2015)Results: Generally, depression increased while hope and perceived life chances decreased across the timepoints. Depression, hope, and perceived life chances did not prospectively predict frequency of alcohol consumption or binge drinking episodes. Conclusions: These findings suggest that despite seeing increased depressive symptoms, decreased hope, and decreased life chances over time, these mood-related factors were not associated with future drinking behaviors among this sample of rural Black men. Future research should explore alternative mechanisms that may drive consumption patterns in this marginalized population.
When The Shot Backfires: How Motivated Reasoning Leads to Beliefs That Oppose Scientific Evidence
Authors: Seetahul Yashvin , Greitemeyer Tobias
Published: September 2024

We examined how scientific research on a popular topic influences the beliefs of those most invested in the research. We focused on violent video game (VVG) research and VVG players. We tested the hypothesis that non-players would update their beliefs based on the study conclusions, whereas players would not. Participants read abstracts with either a positive effect or a null effect. Study 1 (N = 788) used real article abstracts, while Study 2 (N = 788) used standardized fictional articles. Beliefs about the effect of VVGs on aggression were measured before and after reading. Results in both studies showed that at low VVG exposure, participants in both conditions updated their beliefs to align with the research. However, at high VVG exposure, participants maintained their belief that VVGs do not increase aggression, and at very high exposure levels, positive-effect studies led participants to believe the opposite: that VVGs reduce aggression.
What’s wrong with the reference group effect in cross-cultural research?
Authors: Kusano Kodai , Jami Waleed
Published: September 2024

Cross-cultural researchers often compare mean scores across cultures using subjective Likert scales, but this approach faces several methodological challenges. One alleged challenge is the reference group effect (RGE), which posits that differing normative standards distort cultural comparisons, potentially suppressing or reversing true differences. In this study, we revisit this widely discussed yet under-examined issue and test its premise. Leveraging data from the International Social Survey Programme and the World Values Survey, we examined the relationship between subjective socio-economic status (SES) and its external criterion, national wealth (GDP). According to the RGE, respondents compare themselves to their peers within their cultural norms. This would result in individuals from wealthy countries rating themselves as less affluent and those from developing countries rating themselves as relatively more affluent. Such biased comparisons would suppress true differences, leading to a null correlation between SES and GDP across countries. However, our findings consistently revealed a strong positive correlation: respondents from wealthier countries rated themselves higher, while those from developing countries rated themselves lower. Contrary to the RGE, respondents appear to interpret numerical anchors in a single, universal, and absolute manner—“Upper class” carries the same meaning regardless of varying economic references. This consistent interpretation enables valid cross-cultural differences to emerge. Our findings challenge the validity of the RGE and encourage cross-cultural researchers to interpret observed cultural differences with greater confidence at face value when using Likert scales.
Leaving Legacies and Liabilities: The Distribution of Wealth at Death
Authors: Disslbacher Franziska , Rapp Severin
Published: September 2024

This paper leverages novel administrative data on terminal wealth in Vienna to show that Gini indices of wealth inequality at death exceed unity, with 20-30% of decedents leaving behind debt. We analyze the drivers of this distribution, finding that life-cycle effects have limited explanatory power. In contrast, bequest motives are associated with higher wealth, and a marginal increase in the share of decedents with bequest motives reduces inequality. Homeownership also correlates with higher wealth (the reverse is true for care-home residency), though housing wealth does not benefit the bottom of the distribution across districts. Finally, means-tested long-term care transfers significantly amplify terminal wealth inequality. (Stone Center on Socio-Economic Inequality Working Paper)
Poland and the Middle East Crisis 2023–2024: Reaction of Polish Political Forces
Authors:   DSc in Political Science, Head of the Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies, Institute of Scientific Information for Social Sciences of the Russian Academy of Sciences (INION RAN), EFREMENKO Dmitriy , NORBOEV Bekhzod ,   Master’s Student of St. Petersburg State University
Published: September 2024

This research presents an analysis of the reaction of Polish political forces to the acute conflict between Hamas and Israel, which began on October 7, 2023. The paper examines how this conflict has affected Polish domestic and foreign policy, especially in the context of the migration crisis and antisemitic sentiments in Europe. The authors analyse in detail the political, historical and social aspects that have shaped the positions of various Polish parties in response to Middle Eastern events. The study addresses how Polish political forces are responding to challenges related to international security and migration waves, which is particularly relevant in the light of events in the Gaza Strip. Particular attention is paid to the dynamics of the changing positions of Polish political parties, starting with sympathy for Israel and shifting to support for Palestine following the death of a Polish volunteer and a number of other developments, including the escalation between Israel and Iran. The authors draw conclusions about the complexity of Polish political responses to international conflicts, reflecting the diversity of internal and external pressures and ideologies.
Problems of Yemeni Socio-Political Regionalization
Authors:   DSc in History, Associate Professor of the Department of Regional Studies and Economics of Foreign Countries, Faculty of International Relations, Associate Professor of the Department of History of Foreign Countries and Oriental Studies, Historical Faculty, Voronezh State University, KYRCHANOFF Maksym , ANDROSOVA Jana ,   Bachelor of Regional Studies, Department of Regional Studies and Economics of Foreign Countries, Faculty of International Relations, Voronezh State University
Published: September 2024

The article examines the historical background, social factors and prospects of the regionalization process in Yemen. The study analyzes the role and place of political, social and historical factors and the main directions of regionalization processes in Yemen. It is concluded that the regionalization process in Yemen has historical grounds – in the second half of the 20 th century, two forms of statehood based on different political and ideological legitimations coexisted in the country. The authors determined that social incentives significantly influence regionalization processes, as traditional and archaic pre-modern institutions and identities coexist with modern ones in Yemen. Probable scenarios for the further development of regionalization processes in Yemen were formulated, taking into account political, social and external factors. The assumption was made that regionalization processes were a consequence of unfinished social and political modernization.
US Factor in Internal Politics of State of Israel and in Assessments of its Sovereignty
Authors:   PhD in Political Sciences, Associate Professor, Faculty of Political Science, St. Petersburg University, KOROCHKINA Victoria
Published: September 2024

The political crisis in Israel, exacerbated by the intention of the far-right religious-nationalist government led by Benjamin Netanyahu to carry out a judicial overhaul, and the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, returned discussions about the sovereignty of the Jewish state to the sociopolitical agenda. They are being conducted against the backdrop of accusations that the Joe Biden administration is involved in weekly (until October 7) mass anti-government protests in the country. In Israel, assessing the degree of its sovereignty may be related to political affiliation. The topic is not discussed in the academic and expert analytical community, which is explained by dependence on the United States. The concept of “sovereignty” is used mainly in the context of extension of Israeli law, the establishment of complete control over the occupied territories.
International Cooperation between Donetsk People’s Republic and Syrian Arab Republic: Results of 2021
Authors:   PhD in History, Associate Professor of the Department of World History, Donetsk State University, RAZUMNYI Vitalii
Published: September 2024

This article is devoted to study the history of relations between the Syrian Arab Republic and the Donetsk People’s Republic. Based on publications in news agencies and mass media, issues of interaction in the field of culture, economics and education were studied.
Iran’s Current Foreign Policy Course in the South Caucasus
Authors:   Junior Researcher of the Department of Middle and Post-Soviet East, Institute of Scientific Information for Social Sciences of the Russian Academy of Sciences (INION RAN), BASKAKOV Ilya , ERMANALIEVA Aida ,   Senior Laboratory Assistant of the Department of Middle and Post-Soviet East, Institute of Scientific Information for Social Sciences of the Russian Academy of Sciences (INION RAN)
Published: September 2024

The article is devoted to the peculiarities of Iran’s foreign policy in the South Caucasus at the present stage in the context of the degradation of Iran’s relations with Western countries and the proclaimed turn of the country to the East and Asia. The article analyzes the trends in the development of the South Caucasus as a regional subsystem of international relations, as well as logistics and energy projects promoted by various countries in the region. It is stated that for Iran, the South Caucasus is part of a complex megaregion of Southwest Asia, where Tehran’s strategic interests lie. The article examines Iran’s foreign policy course in the Transcaucasia region during the presidency of E. Raisi, especially taking into account the dynamics in the Iran-Azerbaijan-Armenia “triangle”.
Compressive Strength Characteristics of Compressed Stabilized Earth Block (CSEB) Units and Walls
Authors: Bhatt Toran Prasad
Published: September 2024

This paper is mainly focused on compressive strength behavior of Compressed Stabilized Earth Block (CSEB) units and CSEB walls. Compressed Stabilized Earth Block (CSEB) is a rectangular block used in wall construction. The ingredients of CSEB are soil, cement, fine aggregate, crusher dust, and a small amount of water. These blocks have less energy consumption and carbon emission, and they provide improved thermal insulation. In addition, they use local resources and disseminate appealing aesthetics with elegant profile and uniform size. Due to these advantages CSEB can be used as a green construction material. This research aims to study the strength characteristics of CSEB wall in compression and evaluate the suitability of CSEB walls as load bearing walls in structures. This research studies physical and mechanical characteristics of CSEB units made from red residual soil of Lele (Lalitpur) with 8% cement for stabilization. This paper discusses the compressive strength behavior of walls constructed of size 0.660m x 1.100m x 0.220m using CSEB units in cement sand mortar and stabilized mud mortar separately which were tested after 28 days. The experimental values after laboratory testing of CSEB masonry wall with height to thickness ratio 5:1 for cement sand mortar (1:6) and stabilized mud mortar (stabilized with 8% cement and 16% extra sand) separately are compared with relevant values from different codes. Results obtained from compressive strength tests of masonry walls constructed in the laboratory and those values from different codes concerning the strength of masonry unit and mortar are compared and found to be in agreement. The comparison of laboratory results with codal provisions of design of masonry walls illustrate that CSEB masonry walls can be designed in the similar way as brick masonry walls.
Evaluation of Flexible Pavement Friction Coefficients: A Case Study of East-West Highway Near Mahendranagar City, Nepal
Authors: Negi Crimsan Singh , Khadka Rabin , Pant Bhaskar
Published: September 2024

Friction is a crucial factor in highway engineering, as it affects the traction between a vehicle's wheels and the road surface. This traction significantly influences the movement, speed, and efficiency of vehicles on highways. The coefficient of friction depends on various factors, such as pavement materials, traffic volume, road age, temperature, and weather conditions. The Skid Resistance Test Method is adopted for the study, which involves using a Portable Skid Resistance Tester to measure the British Pendulum Number (BPN) and then calculating the coefficient of friction by dividing the BPN by 10. An evaluation of a 5 km stretch of the East-West highway near Mahendranagar Bazaar revealed a longitudinal coefficient of friction of 0.354 and a lateral coefficient of friction of 0.184 under both dry and wet conditions. These findings were relevant for design speeds ranging from 60 to 80 km/h and considered an Annual Average Daily Traffic (AADT) of 10,321 Passenger Car Units (PCU) during the year 2023/2024. The assessment also indicated a variance of 0.19% and a poor International Roughness Index (IRI) value of 2.05. These aggregates had specific gravities ranging from 2.6 to 2.67 and were sized at 13.2 mm. The application rate for the aggregates ranged from 12 to 15 kg per square meter. It is important to note that a higher coefficient of friction leads to reduced vehicle efficiency. Thus, it is crucial to carefully consider the coefficient of friction values and detailed specifications to ensure traffic safety and road integrity.
मुक्तक सिद्धान्त र केही प्रयोग
Authors: खतिवडा लय
Published: September 2024

कलाका दुई भदे मध्ये ललित कलाको एक शाखाका रुपमा साहित्य पर्दछ । साहित्यका पनि विभिन्न भदे मध्ये कविता विधाको छोटो छरितो र लघतु म रचनालाई मुक्तक भनिन्छ । साहित्य कला,संस्कृति समाजका प्रतिबिम्ब हुन् । समाज जे जस्तो छ त्यस्तै साहित्य सिर्जना हुन्छ । कुनै व्यक्ति, वस्तु र घटनाले सजर्क को मन र मस्तिष्कलाई तरङ्गित पार्दछ र त्यसमा अनुभव र अनुभूतिका साथै कल्पनाले रङ्गाएर साहित्य सिर्जना गरिन्छ । मुक्त अर्थात् बन्धन नभएको स्वतन्त्र रुपमा रचना गरिने कविताको संक्षिप्त स्वरुप नै मुक्तक हो । यस लेखमा मुक्तकको परिचय, परिभाषा, विशेषता, वर्गीकरणका साथै मुक्तकका विभिन्न उपभेदमध्ये रुबाइको संक्षिप्त परिचय, रदीफ, काफियाका, साथै केही रुबाई शैलीमा रचना गरिएका मुक्तकलाई प्रस्तुत गरिएको छ ।
Profile of Glaucoma Patients at a Tertiary Care Centre in Gokarneshwor, Kathmandu, Nepal
Authors: Singh Pranisha , Rizyal Aparna , Karmacharya Srijana
Published: September 2024

Glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy characterized by irreversible optic nerve damage and progressive visual field loss. It is the second leading cause of global irreversible blindness. The objective of this study was to find the prevalence, clinical profile and distribution of various types of glaucoma in patients attending a tertiary care center of Kathmandu. This was a retrospective, descriptive hospital based study conducted at glaucoma clinic at tertiary care center from March 2022 to February 2024 (24 months). Patients’ demographic profile along with comprehensive eye examination findings were reviewed from the records. Data analysis was done with SPSS version 18 and chi-square test was used for analysis. P value <0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Two hundred and four patients were diagnosed with glaucoma during 2 years period. The Mean age among glaucoma patients was 55.12 ± 16.7 years. Female was common 109 (53.4%) than male 95 (46.6%). Open angle was 185 (90.7%) and close angle was 19 (9.3%) on gonioscopy. Prevalence of glaucoma seen in this study was 0.72% of total outpatients (27,970). Among the glaucoma patients, primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) was more common 84 (41.2%) followed by glaucoma suspect 46 (22.5%), normal tension glaucoma (NTG) 26 (12.7%), primary angle closure disease 19 (9.4%), ocular hypertension (OHT) 12 (5.9%), secondary glaucoma 9 (4.4%) and juvenile open angle glaucoma (JOAG) 8 (3.9%). In primary angle closure disease, primary angle closure glaucoma (PACG) was 10 (4.9%), angle closure attack 5 (2.5%) and primary angle closure suspect (PACS) 4 (2%). The most common secondary glaucoma was pigmentary glaucoma 3 (1.5%) followed by steroid induced glaucoma 2 (1%), neovascular glaucoma 2 (1%) and inflammatory glaucoma 2 (1%). The most common type of glaucoma seen in a tertiary care center of Nepal was POAG. Glaucoma was more prevalent in female patients after forty years. The prevalence of glaucoma increases with increasing age. So, the patients above the age of 40 should be screened for glaucoma for early detection and prompt treatment. Awareness of glaucoma is needed as it is one of the leading causes of blindness.
Measurement of Anterior Maxillary Alveolar Ridge Dimension and Assessment of Sagittal Root Position by Cone Beam Computerized Tomography (CBCT)
Authors: Rajkanikar Junima , Vaidya Samriddhi , Koju Sushmit
Published: September 2024

Maxillary anterior region is the implant site that may require the most rigorous pre-operative assessment as it will have a direct influence on aesthetic outcome and stability of the dental implant. In the present study, CBCT (cone beam computerized tomography) images were used to evaluate alveolar ridge dimension in the maxillary anterior region. This observational radiographic study was done at Nepal Medical College Teaching Hospital. The width of the alveolar bone was measured from the labial cortex to the palatal cortex of the maxillary anterior teeth in mm at the alveolar crest (L1), mid-root (L2), and apical root region (L3) for each tooth. Alveolar height was also measured from the alveolar crest to the floor of the nasal fossa. The Sagittal Root Position (SRP) of the maxillary anterior teeth was also assessed. Results showed that the maximum width of the alveolar bone was seen at L3 of canine and lateral incisor showed least width of alveolar bone width at L1. Maximum alveolar bone height was seen in canines. Males were seen to have increased width of the alveolar bone as compared to the females in all anterior teeth. The most frequent sagittal root position was class I which was seen in 270 (51.4%) of the total teeth examined, which was followed by class IV observed in 210 (40%) of the teeth examined. It could be concluded that for maxillary anterior region, additional regeneration therapy maybe required since class I is the most frequent SRP observed.
Philosophical Perspective on Health: A Review Paper
Authors: Krishna Bahadur G. C.  , Ejan Rajbhandari
Published: September 2024

Theory and philosophy guide an individual along a distinct path. Furthermore, because human health includes a number of different characteristics, a single theory is not adequate to properly grasp human health on its own. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to explore philosophical views on health. This overview discusses only the biomedical, functionalist, post-structuralist (as defined by Foucault), and Marxist viewpoints on health. Every single philosopher has their own unique lines of reasoning and reasons that support their beliefs. For a more comprehensive investigation, which should also include investigation of other possibilities, we suggest doing an additional systematic review.
Development with Identity: Development Policy in a Multiethnic State Nepal
Authors: Prakash Rai
Published: September 2024

The concept of development with identity also termed ethno-development refers to development policies that are sensitive to the needs of indigenous people and ethnic minorities. It is the opposite concept of the ethnocidal strategy of development. As the then prime minister of Nepal KP. Sharma Oli proclaimed that the government would destroy the huge stone in the Saptakoshi / Koshi as it hindered the steamship on its way in a public program in Biratnagar, people from Kirati community, one of the groups of indigenous nationalities of Nepal, opposed the assertion and launched a series of protest programs since the huge stone has been supposed to be a mythically historical stone for them. This event raised the issue of ethno-development. In this article, I have argued that the Eurocentric and purely economy-centric development practices have created the condition of conflict rather than cohesion in the multiethnic country since social, civilizational, and cultural dimensions of the people are entirely ignored by this practice. Therefore, development with identity is an appropriate policy of development for a country like Nepal having diversity in terms of civilization, ethnicity, culture, and language. I have adopted in-depth interviews based on the qualitative approach in this research.