bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Constitutive Nature of Gender Mainstreaming Discourse: Uzbekistan Context
Authors: Ismoil kizi Guli Ergasheva , Shukurovna Kodirova Fazilat , Bakhronova Dilrabo
Published: June 2024

The emergence of the anthropocentric paradigm and theory responds to the necessity of reevaluating evolving realities, where traditional methods for investigating social phenomena diminish in significance. This signifies a profound shift in science, introducing innovative research approaches. This study aims to view gender terminology and methodology as cognitive structures facilitating effective communication within human rights discourse. Contemporary Gender Studies demand a societal dynamic transformation, notably through Gender Mainstreaming (GM), which predominantly addresses marginalized groups. The study posits that gender language warrants careful examination. Analyzing gender terminology within GM reveals intricate, intriguing, and occasionally contentious aspects. Notably, the USA and UK have transitioned from importing to exporting GM discourse, impacting translation and terminology industries, especially in non-English-speaking nations. This article delves into the context of Gender Mainstreaming in Uzbekistan through the lens of "Own and Alien culture," providing insights into its localization within the country's cultural framework. The study emphasizes the importance of scrutinizing gender terminology within GM discourse, highlighting its evolving dynamics across diverse cultural settings.
Navigating the Truth: Advanced Deep Learning Strategies Against the Spread of Digital Misinformation
Authors: S Gnana Sanga Mithra , S Bhavana
Published: June 2024

This research presents a comprehensive secondary analysis on the utilization of deep learning technologies for the detection and mitigation of fake news. With the burgeoning challenge of digital misinformation compromising public discourse and trust, the study delves into an array of deep learning methodologies including Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs), and Transformer-based models like BERT and GPT for fake news detection. The analysis synthesizes existing methodologies, evaluates their effectiveness across various contexts, and critically assesses the ethical implications of automated detection, emphasizing the importance of privacy, bias, and censorship considerations. Key findings indicate that while deep learning models exhibit promise in identifying and mitigating fake news, continuous refinement and adaptation to evolving misinformation tactics are essential. The paper also underscores the role of secondary analysis in identifying research gaps, such as the need for multilingual detection capabilities and the integration of interdisciplinary approaches to enhance detection methodologies.
Investigating the Nexus of Intrinsic Motivation, Learner Engagement, and Satisfaction in the Completion of MOOC Courses
Authors: Nagpal Dr. Pooja , M Dr. RameshKumar
Published: June 2024

This study looks at how learner engagement, intrinsic motivation, and satisfaction interact dynamically within the context of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs). It looks at how learner engagement and intrinsic motivation interact and how that affects MOOC completion and satisfaction rates. The review highlights the critical role that intrinsic motivation plays in sparking learners' interest and maintaining their engagement throughout MOOC participation through a thorough study of the body of available research. It explores a number of motivating elements, including personal interests, self-efficacy beliefs, and perceived relevance, clarifying how each influences learners' desire to actively engage in MOOC activities. Furthermore, the review delves into the multifaceted aspects of learner engagement, which include behavioral, cognitive, emotional, and social dimensions. It also highlights the noteworthy impact of these characteristics on the prediction of MOOC completion rates and satisfaction levels. This study provides insightful information about the intricate relationships between intrinsic motivation, learner engagement, and MOOC outcomes by combining empirical data and theoretical frameworks. To guide the creation of more efficient and interesting MOOC experiences for a varied student base, the implications of these discoveries for instructional design, learner support tactics, and future research prospects are explored.
NAVIGATING TEACHERS' ADOPTION OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN ENGLISH FOREIGN LANGUAGE: UNCOVERING INHIBITORS AND DRIVERS
Authors: Nagpal Dr. Pooja , M Dr. RameshKumar
Published: June 2024

This study looks at how Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies are affecting English as a Foreign Language (EFL) instruction in Indian Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Though there has been clear improvement, educators continue to have reservations about the incorporation of AI-powered tools into their teaching practices. The goal of the study is to uncover the inhibitors and drivers that prevent and motivate the EFL teachers from implementing. According to the study, policy makers and academic institutions should prioritize addressing technological constraints and providing faculty and staff with adequate institutional support. They should also consider implementing programs that encourage self-motivation and continuous learning, as well as enhancing motivation through rewards and recognition, which can foster adaptability. The scope for future research is to use quantitative techniques to validate the inhibitors and drivers of AI in EFL.
Benefits of Open-Source Software and Scaffolded Model for ESL Students' Writing Skills
Authors: S Shruthi , B R Aravind
Published: June 2024

The present study aims to determine the student's enhancement of writing skills. In both the pre-test and post-test. The research adopted the qualitative method, and from that the results were derived. This study focused on 66 Bachelor of Technology students, who learn English as their second language. The results from the pre-test show that most of the students made mistakes in sentence structure, punctuation, and clarity. After the pre-test, the scaffolded model was used to improve the writing skills of students through Open-source software. In the post-test, the writing skills were enhanced with beneficial of having practice with open-source software and scaffolded models. In addition, it is recommended many methods are useful for enhancing writing skills which will help student enhance their writing skills and speaking skills which will be useful for teachers to teach on how to write.
Anti-Racism in the Criminal Justice System, A Brief Literature GAP: Review
Authors: Clingan Phillip
Published: June 2024

Racism in the criminal justice system is one of the most significant challenges in the United States. The minorities, especially the blacks and Hispanics, have been punitively punished and targeted in a more aggressive approach over similar crimes committed by their white counterparts. Law enforcement's racist approach can largely be blamed for the vile racism in the criminal justice system. Rampant racial profiling is a common approach within the criminal justice system that propagates injustice against minorities. Besides, overt racism occurs through legal setups that are set to impose retrogressive rulings on the minority groups and fail to cater to such people's unique needs. The citizens play a central role in making criminal justice systems anti-racists. The citizens can forge community-oriented policing strategies to ensure the interactions between the racial minorities and the police in their neighbourhoods complies with existing professional guidelines to deter unbiased racial profiling. Another step that can be taken by the citizens is collaborating with law enforcement agencies to explore alternative strategic plans and guidelines that promote the amicable handling of minority offenders and finding viable alternatives to detention and incarceration. Racism in the criminal justice system is a complex problem, but with the adoption of pragmatic approaches and tactics, the vice can be eliminated. One of the primary steps towards achieving such a goal is acknowledging the system's racial disparities' cumulative nature. The paper proposes future studies to focus on leveraging decision points to develop more stringent anti-racism measures in the criminal justice system.
Enhancing Malware Detection Efficiency through CNN-Based Image Classification in a User-Friendly Web Portal
Authors: Peroumal Vijayakumar , Bishoyi Aum Shiva Rama
Published: June 2024

The proposed CNN-based malware detection web portal classifies images on a unique, self-made dataset to identify malware files as input. There are many different types of malware out there, but no method can detect them all. An anti-virus programme could be created that enforces malware image classification for the aforementioned scenarios as opposed to the traditional signature-based methods used by the majority of anti-virus programmes currently available in the market, which are time-consuming and ineffective because they rely just on signatures of previous malware attacks and need to be updated regularly. The fact that some malware is encrypted and requires a significant amount of computing power to decrypt makes this strategy ineffective for identifying all malware that accesses the network. As a result, fresh malware cannot be detected because this method simulates the behavior of malware samples and matches it to new programs. An online portal with a candid user interface will be used to deploy the proposed Deep-learning based malware detection algorithm. The file to be tested or classified will be uploaded onto the website
Rapid Embedded Systems Prototyping Redefined: TARS Plug and Play Electronics for Industry, Scientific, and Education
Authors: S Anjana , Mohan Hari , Thakur Srinesh
Published: June 2024

This article marks the inception of the TARS Electronic board series, addressing the challenges inherent in Internet of Things (IoT) and embedded systems development. Traditional approaches often consume significant human-hours in addressing issues like breadboard errors, coding, and soldering during prototype realization. TARS plug-and-play electronic modules emerge as a transformative solution, minimizing time and effort while offering an ideal platform for micro and small-scale enterprises, students, and researchers. Featuring the capability to integrate over fifty sensors and various electronic components, including HDMI, Bluetooth, ZigBee, and IEEE 802.11 Wi-Fi, this board transforms into a cluster of IoT systems, streamlining development processes and fostering innovation. Additionally, it serves as an excellent platform for skill development of the electronics engineering workforce, enhancing proficiency and expertise in emerging technologies.
Predictive analysis for Alzheimer's diagnosis through data mining techniques
Authors: Coscarella Stefano , Ruga Tommaso , Zumpano Ester , Vocaturo Eugenio
Published: June 2024

Alzheimer's disease represents one of the most significant challenges for contemporary healthcare, as there is still no effective cure for it. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) techniques have contributed to the diagnosis and prediction of its progression, but they require time and specialized skills for image analysis. Therefore, the use of deep learning techniques is crucial in analyzing large amounts of MRI images with high accuracy for early detection and prediction of the disease progression. In the following work, we focused on feature extraction from multiple sources and their integration to improve the accuracy of Alzheimer's diagnosis. Three distinctive methodologies have been developed. The first one utilizes a Feed Forward Neural Network (FFNN) with features extracted from models like ResNet50 and DenseNet201 with and without the application of Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The second methodology combines features from both models, with and without the application of PCA. Finally, the third methodology combines features from the models with those extracted from manual techniques like Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT), Local Binary Pattern (LBP), and Gray Level Co-occurrence Matrix (GLCM) by applying PCA before or after feature combination.
Breast Cancer classification via Deep Learning approaches
Authors: Gagliardi Marco , Ruga Tommaso , Zumpano Ester , Vocaturo Eugenio
Published: June 2024

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women worldwide. In 2023, there were 2.296.840 (23,8% of all women with cancer) new diagnoses. Early diagnosis is a key factor in reducing the mortality rate of breast cancer. One of the screening methods used to prevent breast cancer is breast ultrasound. In this paper, a new model is proposed that starts from a resnet101 and increases the classification capacity of a normal resnet101. Experimental studies show how deep learning models can successfully classify breast ultrasound images. The proposed model achieves 91% accuracy with convergence in less than 30 epochs. This study shows that deep learning models are effective in classifying ultrasound images and could be used by a radiologist to increase the accuracy of diagnoses.
Biophysics
Authors: Akyuz Enes
Published: June 2024

Biophysics is one of the most difficult and complex fields of Basic Medical Sciences. Biophysics subjects can only be understood by knowing the basic knowledge of both Physics and Biology at a good level. Biophysics, which is quite chaotic for students at universities, becomes more understandable with a good literature review before the course. In this respect, the main purpose of the book is to be a basic resource in terms of Biophysics for all undergraduate and graduate students.
خطة مقترحة لتطوير دور وسائل الإعلام في تعزيز الاتجاهات الإيجابية نحو خريجي التعليم المهني بمحافظات فلسطين الجنوبية
Authors: الزعيم محمد , أبو رحمة محمد
Published: June 2024

هدفت الدراسة إلى تعرف واقع دور وسائل الإعلام في تعزيز الاتجاهات الإيجابية نحو خريجي التعليم المهني بمحافظات غزة، كما هدفت لوضع خطة مقترحة لتعزيز هذه الاتجاهات، ولتحقيق أهداف الدراسة قام الباحثان باستخدام المنهج الوصفي التحليلي، وتكونت عينة الدراسة من محاضري ورؤساء أقسام التعليم المهني في الكليات التقنية والبالغ عددهم (55) معلماً ومعلمة، وهي نسبة مناسبة لإجراء المعالجات الاحصائية عليها.
وقد استخدم الباحثان الاستبانة كأداة رئيسة للدراسة، وقد خلصت الدراسة إلى عدد من النتائج ومن أهمها: أن الدرجة الكلية لواقع دور وسائل الإعلام في تعزيز الاتجاهات الإيجابية نحو خريجي التعليم المهني بمحافظات غزة ظهرت بوزن نسبي(56.22) بدرجة تقدير متوسطة. لا توجد فروق ذات دلالة إحصائية تعزى لمتغيرات الجنس وجهة العمل وسنوات الخدمة والوظيفة الحالية بين متوسطات عينات الدراسة ويوصي الباحثان بما يلي: ضرورة وجود خطة إعلامية استراتيجية تُعنى بدعم وتعزيز الاتجاهات الإيجابية نحو خريجي التعليم التقني والمهني بالتعاون مع أقسام العلاقات العامة في مؤسسات التعليم المهني والتقني وبالتنسيق مع الإدارة العامة للتعليم التقني والمهني بوزارة التربية والتعليم العالي من خلال عقد ورش عمل تخرج بالتوصيات والخطة التنفيذية لتطبيقها على أرض الواقع. ضرورة إعداد كوادر إعلامية متخصصة تحمل على عاتقها نشر ثقافة تقدير خريجي التعليم التقني والمهني، ومدربة تدريباً جيداً على حسن صياغة العبارات والمضامين التعريفية بالتعليم التقني والمهني ومحاولة دمجها في الأشكال والمواد الإعلامية التي تبث وتذاع في المجتمع الفلسطيني.
الممارسات الإشرافية لدى مشرفي اللغة الانجليزية في ضوء متطلبات التعلم الذكي (الواقع والتحديات)
Authors: أبو رحمة محمد , أبو ليلة حسين , العبادلة سمر
Published: June 2024

الممارسات الإشرافية لدى مشرفي اللغة الانجليزية في ضوء متطلبات التعلم الذكي (الواقع والتحديات) ، هدفت الدراسة إلى تعرف واقع الممارسات الإشرافية لدى مشرفي اللغة الانجليزية في ضوء متطلبات التعلم الذكي ، ولتحقيق أهداف الدراسة قام الباحثون باستخدام المنهج الوصفي التحليلي، وتكونت عينة الدراسة من (92) معلماً ومعلمة للغة الإنجليزية في المرحلة الثانوية.
وقد استخدم الباحثون الاستبانة كأداة رئيسة للدراسة، و من أهم النتائج أن الدرجة الكلية لواقع الممارسات الإشرافية لدى مشرفي اللغة الانجليزية في ضوء متطلبات التعلم الذكي  ظهرت بوزن نسبي(51.69) بدرجة تقدير قليلة. وقد حصل المجال الأول "استخدام وسائل التواصل الذكي " على المرتبة الأولى، بوزن نسبي (60.8 ) وحصل المجال الثاني  " تطوير الممارسات التعليمية باستخدام التعلم الذكي " على المرتبة الثانية بوزن نسبي (44.9) كما أظهرت النتائج أنه لا توجد فروق ذات دلالة إحصائية تعزى لمتغير الجنس والمؤهل العلمي ومتغير سنوات الخدمة بين متوسطات عينات الدراسة. ويوصي الباحثون بعقد دورات تدريبية للمشرفين التربويين للتعامل مع التكنولوجيا، وتوظيفها في العملية التعليمية بالشكل المناسب وتطوير معايير اختيار المشرفين التربويين بفلسطين على أساس الفهم الكافي بالتقنية وتطبيقاتها، وتوفير البنية التحتية اللازمة للمختبرات والأدوات والأجهزة اللازمة للمشرفين لتوظيف التعلم الذكي في تدريس اللغة الإنجليزية.
Factors Affecting the Adoption of Recommended Fertilizer Doses by Wheat Farmers in the Casablanca-Settat Region of Morocco
Authors: El Azhari Mohamed , El Hamadi Youssef , Boughlala Mohamed , Hattab Samia
Published: June 2024

Despite the economic advantages of introducing new agricultural technologies into the production system, their rate of adoption in Morocco remains relatively low. The objective of this article is to study the factors that hinder the adoption of these new technologies. We address the case of the recommended fertilizer doses (RFD). The study employs a probit model with a stratified random sampling approach.The data were collected from 297 farmers in the Casablanca-Settat region using a face-to-face interview method and analyzed through R software. The results of the study show that the main barriers are related to access to information and bank credit, government incentive, production orientation, distance to the market as well as age, and level of education.
Increasing or Decreasing Scale? The Pros and Cons of Farm Size for Financial Sustainability
Authors: Georgieva Vanya
Published: June 2024

The article focuses on the question of optimal farm size in the context of contemporary agricultural challenges such as rapid population growth, climate change, and limited natural resources. The analysis shows that farm economic size can have a significant impact on financial performance indicators including productivity, profitability, liquidity, solvency, and sustainability. The article provides a detailed overview of the pros and cons of different farm economic sizes and their impact on financial sustainability, drawing on academic literature, available data, and statistical methods. The results indicate that larger farms have lower factor productivity but higher solvency. Smaller farms on the other hand have higher profitability and productivity. Medium-sized farms are characterized by high liquidity and financial autonomy.
Practical use of Agriculture 4.0 digital technologies to meet the EU's strategic goals in Czech agriculture
Authors: Kubata Karel , Galba Alexander , Šilerová Edita , Očenášek Vladimír , Cihelka Petr
Published: June 2024

The implementation of precision technology procedures is declared in EU documents, including the implementation of these technologies in all areas of production, production, trade, including all areas of everyday life of the population. The article deals with the use of IT technologies in activities dealing with land management: i.e. crop production including landscape maintenance. In this context, precision technologies are used in agriculture, crop and livestock production, horticulture, forestry and comprehensive maintenance of the agricultural landscape. With remote sensing, all land areas are monitored, data is stored, and the whole process takes place continuously. The data is displayed in information maps that perfectly map the properties of the monitored area. Today, the development of the information society and specialized internet services of the state administration would not be possible without precise technologies and information portals. These are portals for the public needs of citizens or a specific professional community, and these must be user-friendly, clear, intuitive, visually interesting, trustworthy and complete in content. The article deals with a detailed analysis of the Czech Farmer's Portal from multiple angles, including state-of-the-art tools such as the AMS system (AMS, 2023). This is a new way of monitoring agricultural areas using a satellite system. On the basis of the analysed services, deficiencies are identified and suggestions for improvement are presented.
Analysing Household Food Consumption in Turkey Using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Oztornaci Burak , Ata Baris , Kartal Serkan
Published: June 2024

The fluctuations in food prices have highlighted the significance of analysing the factors influencing household food consumption. Recent advancements in data analysis have opened new avenues for investigating this subject. While studies have employed novel data analysis methods to examine the factors impacting household food consumption, the effect of the chosen analysis method on the research outcome remains unexplored. In this study, we aimed to investigate household food consumption in Turkey between 2012-2019 using various data analysis techniques (Linear Regression, Support Vector Machine, Random Forest, eXtreme Gradient Boosting, and Multi-Layer Perception). Our findings reveal that income emerged as the most influential factor in household food consumption across all methods. However, the impact of other factors varied depending on the method employed. This suggests that the method chosen to analyse factors other than income in studies of this nature can significantly impact the results. Researchers should exercise caution when selecting their analysis method.
The Role of Social Media on Green Food Consumption Intention in Hanoi, Vietnam
Authors: Phuong Nguyen Van , Mai Nguyen Thi Ngoc , Mergenthaler Marcus , Cuc Ly Thu , Quynh Pham Ngoc Huong
Published: June 2024

This study aims to discuss the role of social media in shaping consumer attitudes in the Vietnamese context. The research examines the impact of green attitude, green customer value, and social media on environmental concerns, subjective norms, and perceived green value concerning green consumers' food purchase intention. The study utilizes data from a survey conducted among 483 consumers in Hanoi, Vietnam, and adopts the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) as the initial framework for studying green food purchase intention. We modify and extend the TPB model by incorporating cultural, social, and personal psychological factors relevant to green food consumption. The findings of this study contribute to the understanding of the factors influencing consumer purchase intention in Hanoi, Vietnam. The results demonstrated the influence of social media on subjective norms, environmental concerns, and perceived green value, which in turn affect green food purchase intention among Vietnamese consumers. These results imply that to increase green food preferences among consumers, governments should also consider social media-based education programs to build an understanding of green food and sustainable consumption and emphasize the outstanding benefits of green products for the environment and society. In addition, marketers should pay attention to providing complete information and advertisements about green food products on social media.
Fish-NET: Advancing Aquaculture Management through AI-Enhanced Fish Monitoring and Tracking
Authors: Salako Joshua , Ojo Foluso , Awe Olushina Olawale
Published: June 2024

This study seeks to enhance aquaculture and fishery management using artificial intelligence, focusing on Nigerian catfish farming. The methodology encompasses a sequence of steps from data collection to validation. A dataset, primarily composed of aerial imagery from catfish ponds and supplemented with additional data from the internet, formed the foundation of this research. By leveraging computer vision and deep learning techniques, the data were processed to assess the potential of the three distinct cutting-edge object detection models. Based on various evaluation metrics to gauge their effectiveness in fish detection tasks, the Faster R-CNN emerged as the optimal model, boasting a superior balance of precision and recall. This model was subsequently integrated with an object-tracking model and deployed as an application, yielding promising results in terms of fish detection and tracking. The findings in this study suggest that AI-driven tools can automate monitoring processes, significantly increasing accuracy and efficiency in resource utilization.
The use of low-level lasers in the treatment of oral lichen planus (OLP) – a review of the literature
Authors: Zdziebło Piotr , Machała-Ćwikła Ewelina , Łapińska Urszula , Machała Kamila , Machała Dominika , Ćwikła Piotr
Published: June 2024

A laser is a device that emits radiation in the visible light, ultraviolet or infrared range, using the phenomenon of forced emission. The name is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. The main characteristics of a laser beam include: monochromaticity, coherence, parallelism and intensity. By power, we can divide lasers into 2 groups: high-energy (hard) lasers with emission power above 1 W and low-energy (<1 W) lasers. Lasers are used in medicine, industry, military technology, telecommunications, surveying and construction, among other fields. Lichen planus is a chronic disease of the mucous membranes and skin with a fairly common occurrence, characteristic clinical picture and unclear etiology. The therapy of lichen planus of the mucous membranes, especially its oral form (OLP), is still a major problem despite continuous medical advances. To date, a fully effective treatment regimen has not been developed. Current methods are mainly based on pharmacotherapy. With advances in technology, the search for alternative forms of treatment has begun. In recent years, an increasing number of reports have suggested the validity of using Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) to treat oral lichen planus. The use of this treatment may reduce the incidence of side effects observed with traditional corticosteroid (CS) therapy, sulfones or immunosuppressants.
Repressive nature of the application of administrative sanction provided by part 1 of article 20.25 of the CAO RF (failure to pay an administrative fine within the term provided by the CAO RF) and the need to take into account circumstances mitigating administrative punishment
Authors: Barkova Alina Vasil'evna , Chernyshenko Ilya Gennad'evich
Published: June 2024

In this article the authors have investigated the issue of the peculiarities of application of the sanction of article 20.25 of the CAO RF, presented statistical data indicating the dynamics of bringing to administrative responsibility under article 20.25 of the CAO RF for the last few years. In the course of writing this article the authors used universal dialectical, logical, statistical, formal-legal, hermeneutical methods of research. On the example of judicial practice the unfair and punitive nature of the sanction under consideration is shown. The authors present the positions of scientists regarding the goals of the legislator and law enforcer on the establishment and implementation of this administrative punishment, including: S.M. Zyryanov, P.P. Serkov, Z.I. Magomedova, A.V. Zhiltsov, F.K. Batenov and others. As a result of the study, the authors concluded that it is advisable to apply other (similar) legal means of influence on the offender who has not paid the fine on time, except for imposing a double fine. The present article is also a warning to legislators and law enforcers against potential injustice in the part of imposing a double fine. The authors' proposals contribute to the development of more balanced and fair mechanisms to influence the offender. The authors hope that their study will serve as a basis for reform in this area of law enforcement, contributing to the improvement of administrative legislation and judicial practice in favour of preventive over punitive policies.
Functional and Matrix Approximation of Numerical Solution of Haar Wavelet
Authors: Mert Oya , Bakır Yasemin
Published: June 2024

In this article, a uniform Haar wavelet approach is devised to numerically solve the differential equations. The uniform Haar wavelet coefficients are generated by employing collocation points. The generalized approach for function and matrix approximation using Haar wavelets is proposed. This study aims to decide which method is more useful by reflecting on the differences between the two methods. Also, the application of Haar wavelets to the solution of a first and second-order ODE is described in this research. To assess its applicability and efficiency, two test problems are used. The findings obtained are compared to those obtained using the function and matrix approximation methods. For numerically solving first and second-order ODEs, the Haar wavelet methodology gives a more reliable and exact method. By estimating error norms for various problems, the performance and accuracy of the method have been shown.
On Coverings by Minkowski Balls in the Plane and a Duality
Authors: Glazunov Nikolaj
Published: June 2024

Lattice coverings in the real plane by Minkowski balls are studied. We exploit the duality of admissible lattices of Minkowski balls and inscribed convex symmetric hexagons of these balls. An explicit moduli space of the areas of these hexagons is constructed, giving the values of the determinants of corresponding covering lattices. Low and upper bounds for covering constants of Minkowski balls are given. The best known value of covering density of Minkowski ball is obtained. One conjecture and one problem are formulated.
Influence of the Content of Ni as Minority Alloying Element on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Amorphous and Ultrafine Crystalline Al-Cu-Mg-Ni Alloys
Authors: Dyakova Vanya , Cherneva Sabina , Mourdjeva Yana , Kostova Yoanna
Published: June 2024

The effect of nickel as a minority alloying element (1--3) at.% on the structure and mechanical properties of amorphous and ultrafine crystalline Al75Cu15Mg9Ni, Al75Cu15Mg8Ni2 and Al73Cu15Mg9Ni3 alloys was investigated. Rapidly solidified ribbons of the three alloys were produced by chill block melt spinning (CBMS) method. It was proven that the rapid solidification produced amorphous structure in all alloys. Detailed HRTEM observations revealed zones of chemical inhomogeneity in the X-ray amorphous matrix which were identified as zones containing clusters of different atoms. A part of the ribbons was annealed until complete crystallization. The indentation hardness HIT and indentation modulus EIT of the amorphous and ultrafine crystalline Al-Cu-Mg-Ni alloys were investigated and compared using nanoindentation tests. The obtained results showed an increase of HIT and EIT with increasing Ni content in both amorphous and ultrafine crystalline samples. All ultrafine crystalline samples had higher HIT and EIT than the amorphous ones.
The Influence of Microcystin-LR and Microcystin-LR-Producing Trichormus variabilis (Cyanobacteria) on Green Microalgae in Laboratory Conditions
Authors: Petronijevic Tamara , Milosevic Djuradj , Kokic Ivana , Piperac Milica , Stankovic Nikola
Published: June 2024

The most studied cyanobacterial toxins are microcystins (MCs), of which microcystin-LR (MC-LR) is the most common, with the most experimentally documented toxicity to aquatic species. The aim of the present study is to examine the influence of an ecologically relevant MC-LR concentration (10 µg L-1) on green microalgae (Chlorella sp., Scenedesmus sp., Coelastrum sp.) by determining the concentration of chlorophyll a. In addition, the influence of the Trichormus variabilis was monitored, characterized as MC-LR producer, on the growth of green microalgae, using the co-cultivation method. MC-LR was detected, quantified, and identified in the methanolic extract of T. variabilis using the high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The study revealed that MC-LR significantly impacted green microalgae growth causing stimulation. In contrast, T. variabilis in co-culture exhibited only an inhibitory effect on the growth. The study revealed the allelopathic effect of environmentally relevant microcystin-LR concentration on green microalgae.
Assessment of Regional Factors for Sustainable Development of Agrocenoses Based on GIS and Remote Sensing
Authors: Ibrahimova Leyla , Zeynalov Javanshir , Asadov Haydar
Published: June 2024

As the population grows, so does the demand for agricultural products. Ensuring sustainable agricultural product and agrocenoses development is essential at this time. In this regard, we are researching the present issue. Our research area covers the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, which has favourable conditions for the sustainable development of agrocenoses. In the article, the sustainable development of agrocenoses existing here and the ways to ensure it was analyzed, geographical conditions were studied, and their role in the sustainable development of agrocenoses was analyzed. Modern methods were used in the research. The natural conditions in the area underwent analysis and mapping via satellite image processing. The researchers drew up a regional map of agrocenoses in the study area and divided it into different regions. The data processing from Landsat 5, 8, and 9 satellites in the ArcGIS program enables comparison with the previous situation. Based on the research conducted, it has been determined that agrocenoses develop more intensively in low to medium-mountainous areas and along river banks.
Validation of Ionization Model CORSIMA Applied for Multiply Charged Anomalous Cosmic Rays
Authors: Velinov Peter , Asenovski Simeon , Mateev Lachezar
Published: June 2024

During the acceleration of anomalous cosmic rays (ACRs) some singly-charged ions are stripped of additional electrons. The resulting multiply-charged (MC) ions are accelerated more efficiently, and most ACRs with ≥ 30 MeV/nuc are multiply-charged. This paper considers some implications of multiply-charged ACRs, including their penetration and ionization in the system ionosphere-middle atmosphere.
The influence of Multiply Charged Anomalous Cosmic Rays (MCACRs) on ionization in the boundary of the ionosphere-middle atmosphere system (40—50 km) is investigated, taking into account the spectra, intensity, geomagnetic, and atmospheric cut-offs. The MCACR spectra and intensity in the middle atmosphere are determined using the CORSIMA (COsmic Ray Spectra and Intensity in Middle Atmosphere) model. MCACR spectra are presented for various atmospheric altitudes within the range of 40—50 km, with the lower boundary of the ionosphere at approximately 50 km. Experimental satellite measurements are utilized for the main MCACR constituents, including Hydrogen (protons), Helium and Oxygen nuclei. It is found that the influence of MCACRs extends to the polar cap regions above 65°–70° geomagnetic latitude, and certain MCACR ionization rate values in these regions are comparable to Galactic Cosmic Ray (GCR) ionization rates.
Research on Improving Seals to Suppress Vibration of Rotary Machines
Authors: Lu Congxiang , Shevchenko Serhii , Geichuk Volodymyr , Korchak Mykola , Topalov Andrii
Published: June 2024

There is a constant demand for higher equipment parameters, such as pressure of a sealing medium and shaft rotation speed. However, as the parameters rise it becomes more difficult to ensure hermetization efficiency. Moreover, sealing systems affect the overall operational safety of the equipment, especially vibratory. Non-contact seals are considered  hydrostatodynamic supports that can effectively damp rotor oscillations. Models of an impulse and a groove seals, models of rotor-seals system and rotor-auto-unloading system, models of a shaftless pump are studied to evaluate the effect of these sealing systems on oscillatory characteristics of rotor. Analytical dependencies for computation the dynamic characteristics of impulse seals, hydromechanical systems rotor-seals and rotor-auto-unloading, as well as shaftless pumps are obtained. These dependencies describe the radial-angular vibrations of a centrifugal machine rotor in seals-supports. Equations for computation the amplitude-frequency characteristics are given. The directions of improving the  environmental safety of critical pumping equipment by purposefully increasing the rigidity of non-contact seals that leads to higher rotor vibration stability have been determined.
Diagnostic Value of Point Shear Wave Elastography (pSWE) of the Spleen for Assessment of Liver Fibrosis in Patients with Chronic Viral Hepatitis
Authors: Doykova Katia , Doykov Daniel , Tsvetkova Silvia , Andonov Vladimir
Published: June 2024

In recent years spleen stiffness (SS), assessed by point shear wave elastography (pSWE) has been a topic of interest as a more accurate indicator for the diagnosis of liver fibrosis in chronic viral hepatitis. For the first time in Bulgaria, a comprehensive research on the stiffness of the liver and spleen has been performed by pSWE in patients with chronic viral hepatitis, as well as evaluation of their correlation with the histological assessment of liver fibrosis. The aim of the research is to establish spleen and liver stiffness in patients with chronic viral hepatitis and their correlation with intermediate stages of liver fibrosis diagnosed histologically after biopsy. For the period 2018–2020, ninety patients with chronic viral hepatitis B and C (mean age 46.20±14.55) from the department of Gastroenterology, University hospital Kaspela, Plovdiv, Bulgaria, have been examined, by abdominal ultrasound, pSWE of the liver and spleen, histological evaluation of liver fibrosis, data study on the presence of  esophageal varices and ascites. The liver stiffness (LS) value distinguishing between F1 and F2 was 1.86 m/s (rs=0.769, 95% CI: 0.652–0.850, p<0.001). The spleen stiffness (SS) value distinguishing between F1 and F2 was 2.95 m/s (rs=0.838, 95% CI: 0.749–0.898, p<0.001). Liver stiffness is significantly affected by BMI, which reduces its diagnostic potential in obese patients. Spleen stiffness measured by pSWE can be used in the diagnosis of intermediate stages of liver fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis B and C.
First Report of Phytophthora nicotianae on Salvia fruticosa and Reactions of Some Varieties
Authors: Ünal Filiz
Published: June 2024

Wilting and dieback symptoms were observed in Salvia fruticosa Mill (Anatolian sage) in commercial production fields in Antalya province in Türkiye in 2021. When the infected areas were examined, symptoms of root and crown root rot, yellowing, wilting, curling of the leaves, besides complete wilting and dieback of plants in severe infections were observed. Isolations were performed from root and crown root of infected plants using selective mediums, and were identified based on cultural and morphological features and rDNA sequences of ITS region. As a result of isolations and identification studies, it was determined that the causative agent of the disease was Phytophthora nicotianae. Pathogenicity of P. nicotianae was tested by soil inoculation on Salvia fruticosa seedlings. Two months after inoculation, yellowing of leaves, general wilting, shortening of hairy roots, serious reductions in root density and death of some plants were detected in plants in this study. As a result of variety reaction studies, significant root density and weight loss were observed in Turgut and Karik varieties. Root density and weight loss were less in Uysal than in the other varieties. This study is the first record that P. nicotianae causes disease in Salvia fruticosa.
A Multifunction Heterojunction Formed Between Pentacene and a Single‐Crystal Silicon Nanomembrane
Authors: Seo Jung‐Hun , Oh Tae‐Yeon , Park Jungho , Zhou Weidong , Ju Byeong‐Kwon , Ma Zhenqiang
Published: February 2013

A mesh patterned n‐type single‐crystalline silicon nanomembrane (SiNM) created from a silicon‐on‐insulator (SOI) wafer is complementally combined with a p‐type pentacene layer to form a heterogeneous p‐n junction on a flexible plastic substrate. Excellent rectifying characteristics are obtained from the heterogeneous p‐n diode. The diode also exhibits photosensitivity at visible wavelengths with a photo‐to‐dark current ratio exceeding four orders, a responsivity of 0.7 A/W, and an external quantum efficiency of 21.9% at 633 nm. Over 60% average transmittance in the visible spectrum is measured from the heterogeneous multilayer junction on a plastic substrate. Outstanding mechanical bending characteristics are observed with up to 1.08% of strain applied to the diode. These results suggest that organic‐inorganic heterogeneous integration may be a viable strategy to build flexible organic‐inorganic heterojunction devices and thus enable a number of novel multifunctional applications.
Self‐Supporting Graphene Hydrogel Film as an Experimental Platform to Evaluate the Potential of Graphene for Bone Regeneration
Authors: Lu Jiayu , He Yu‐Shi , Cheng Chi , Wang Yi , Qiu Ling , Li Dan , Zou Derong
Published: February 2013

Graphene, a two dimensional carbonaceous material possessing a range of extraordinary properties, is considered promising for biomedical applications. Here, a simple form of graphene‐based bulk material–self‐supporting graphene hydrogel (SGH) film is used as a suitable platform to study the intrinsic properties of graphene both in vitro and in vivo. The free‐standing film show good cell adhesion, spreading, and proliferation. Films are implanted into subcutaneous sites of rats, and produce minimal fibrous capsule formation, and mild host tissue response in vivo. New blood vessel formation is also seen. The films swell and cracked in vivo, indicating the beginning of degradation. Of particular interest is that the film alone is found to be able to stimulate osteogenic differentiation of stem cells, without additional inducer, both in vitro and in vivo. Thus, this SGH film appears to be highly biocompatible and osteoinductive, demonstrating graphene's potential for bone regenerative medicine.
Integration of Scaffolds into Full‐Thickness Skin Wounds: The Connexin Response
Authors: Gilmartin Daniel J. , Alexaline Maia M. , Thrasivoulou Chris , Phillips Anthony R. J. , Jayasinghe Suwan N. , Becker David L.
Published: February 2013

Scaffolds have been reported to promote healing of hard‐to‐heal wounds such as burns and chronic ulcers. However, there has been little investigation into the cell biology of wound edge tissues in response to the scaffolds. Here, we assess the impact of collagen scaffolds on mouse full‐thickness wound re‐epithelialisation during the first 5 days of healing. We find that scaffolds impede wound re‐epithelialisation, inducing a bulbous thickening of the wound edge epidermis as opposed to the thin tongue of migratory keratinocytes seen in normal wound healing. Scaffolds also increase the inflammatory response and the numbers of neutrophils in and around the wound. These effects were also produced by scaffolds made of alginate in the form of fibers and microspheres, but not as an alginate hydrogel. In addition, we find the gap junction protein connexin 43, which normally down‐regulates at the wound edge during re‐epithelialisation, to be up‐regulated in the bulbous epidermal wound edge. Incorporation of connexin 43 antisense oligodeoxynucleotides into the scaffold can be performed to reduce inflammation whilst promoting scaffold biocompatibility.
Apoptosis in chronic myeloid leukemia cells transiently treated with imatinib or dasatinib is caused by residual BCR–ABL kinase inhibition
Authors: Simara Pavel , Stejskal Stanislav , Koutna Irena , Potesil David , Tesarova Lenka , Potesilova Michaela , Zdrahal Zbynek , Mayer Jiri
Published: February 2013

Transient, potent BCR–ABL inhibition with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) was recently demonstrated to be sufficient to commit chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) cells to apoptosis irreversibly. This mechanism explains the clinical efficacy of once‐daily dasatinib treatment, despite the rapid clearance of the drug from the plasma. However, our in vitro data suggest that apoptosis induction after transient TKI treatment, observed in the BCR–ABL‐positive cell lines K562, KYO‐1, and LAMA‐84 and progenitor cells from chronic phase CML patients, is instead caused by a residual kinase inhibition that persists in the cells as a consequence of intracellular drug retention. High intracellular concentrations of imatinib and dasatinib residues were measured in transiently treated cells. Furthermore, the apoptosis induced by residual imatinib or dasatinib from transient treatment could be rescued by washing out the intracellularly retained drugs. The residual kinase inhibition was also undetectable by the phospho‐CRKL assay. These findings confirm that continuous target inhibition is required for the optimal efficacy of kinase inhibitors. Am. J. Hematol. 88:385–393, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Adult human nasal mesenchymal stem cells have an unexpected broad anatomic distribution
Authors: Goldstein Bradley J. , Hare Joshua M. , Lieberman Seth , Casiano Roy
Published: February 2013

Background

The olfactory epithelium is a self‐renewing tissue, able to produce new neurons as needed from stem and progenitor cells in its basal layers. In addition, there exists a mesenchymal‐like stem cell (MSC) located within the underlying lamina propria. Little is known about the function of this nasal MSC, or its relationship to the olfactory lineage, but there is considerable interest in using the nasal MSC for cell‐based therapies. We sought to further explore the biology of the nasal MSC by establishing neurosphere cultures from adult human nasal biopsies, and to examine the anatomic distribution of nasal MSCs.

Methods

Nasal biopsies from human patients (n = 5) were obtained from superior, middle, and inferior turbinates or septum. Tissue was cultured to obtain nasal MSCs. Cultures were analyzed by immunocytochemistry and flow cytometry, as well as for differentiation capacity.

Results

Although olfactory sensory neuroepithelium is restricted to superior regions in the nasal cavity, neurosphere‐forming MSC cultures were, surprisingly, obtained from olfactory as well as non‐olfactory regions. These MSC cultures exhibit characteristic robust neurosphere formation and express CD90, CD105, STRO‐1, and nestin. Nasal MSCs were found to give rise to neuronal‐like cells under differentiation conditions.

Conclusion

The unanticipated broad anatomic distribution of nasal MSCs has implications for cell‐based therapy research.
A facile, green, versatile protocol to prepare polypropylene‐g‐poly(methyl methacrylate) copolymer by water‐solid phase suspension grafting polymerization using the surface of reactor granule technology polypropylene granules as reaction loci
Authors: Li Zhuo , Ma Yuhong , Yang Wantai
Published: February 2013

A facile and environment friendly process, called water‐solid phase suspension grafting polymerization, was developed to prepare polypropylene‐g‐poly(methyl methacrylate) (PP‐g‐PMMA) copolymer with a submicrometer microdomain. In this approach, graft polymerization was elaborately regulated to occur within micropores of polypropylene particles prepared by reactor granule technology. FTIR spectra of the samples after extraction demonstrated that PMMA was successfully grafted onto the PP. The results showed grafting percentage (GP) of PMMA increased with the increasing monomer ratios to PP and that could reach 13.6%. Whereas the grafting efficiency decreased as the monomer ratio increased. The addition of second monomer styrene improved GP up to 24.5%. Differential Scanning Calorimetry tests showed that the grafting of PMMA have a slight effect on the melting point and the relative crystallinity of PP. TEM micrographs demonstrated PMMA domains distributed in PP matrix with sizes ranging from about 100 to 300 nm. In addition, Shear viscosity increased with the growing GP indicated by rheological measurement. The preliminary evaluation showed PP‐g‐PMMA was effective in improving the compatibility of PP/acrylonitrile‐styrene‐acrylate blends. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013