bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strategic Planning For Application of IFBA Innovation Policy on the Jequié-Bahia Campus
Authors: Bastos Grazielle Lomanto , Ribeiro Núbia Moura , Silva Daliane Teixeira , Silva Marcelo Santana
Published: February 2025

Objective: To present a proposal for a Strategic Plan for the implementation of the Innovation Policy of the Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Bahia (IFBA), Jequié Campus.
 
Theoretical Framework: Within the scope of Public Administration, Strategic Planning aims to support the improvement of government activities towards defined objectives, considering standards, values, control devices and impacts of activities, products and services on labor, human and environmental conditions, demonstrating the demands of society and relating the public sector with stakeholders (citizens/clients, suppliers, employees and government).
 
Method: The research has a qualitative approach, exploratory nature evolving to descriptive, and was carried out through bibliographic and documentary research procedures, focus group interviews and analytical-descriptive research using Strategic Planning modeling, based on the Balanced Scorecard.Gov.
 
Results and Discussion: The results pointed out some potentialities of the Campus (variety of courses and good infrastructure) and critical factors (need to stimulate the culture of entrepreneurship and innovation). A tool was developed as a management support device, suggesting an itinerary for carrying out actions that contribute to the development of research, entrepreneurship and innovation.
 
Research Implications: The implications include the development of a tool as a management support device for the IFBA Campus Jequié.
 
Originality/Value: The research contributes to assisting in the development of the Campus in the areas of research, entrepreneurship and innovation, in addition to initiating an environment conducive to innovation with technological solutions in products, processes and services, aiming at interactions between universities, governments and companies.
Integrated Evaluation of Thyroid Nodules: Correlation of Ultrasound Features with Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology Using the Bethesda System
Authors: Hamid Shireen , Ali Rabia , Ahmad Warda , Rubab Nayyar , Afzal Muhammad , Rehman Khalid
Published: February 2025

Objectives: This study aimed at correlation of ultrasound findings with fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) results using the Bethesda system, providing insights into thyroid nodule pathology.
Material and Methods: A retrospective analysis involving 104 patients was performed at Punjab Institute of Nuclear Medicine (PINUM) between July 5, 2023, and July 1, 2024. The study encompassed patients of all ages and genders diagnosed with cold thyroid nodules (solitary and with multinodular goiter) through thyroid nuclear scans. The exclusion criteria included diffuse goiter, hot nodules, recurrent thyroid cancers, and metastases. Ultrasound evaluations included the assessment of nodule composition and FNAC outcomes were classified according to the Bethesda system. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 24, with a significance threshold set at a P-value of less than 0.05.
Results: The majority of patients were female (94%); and the right side being the most frequently affected (57%). Benign cases dominated in all nodule categories. Solid single nodules demonstrated an increased risk of follicular neoplasm and malignancy. Spongiform nodules were primarily benign. Ultrasound findings demonstrated an 80% correlation with fine needle aspiration cytology outcomes.
Conclusion: Ultrasound, in conjunction with FNAC as reported on the Bethesda system, is highly useful in discriminating benign and malignant thyroid nodules, and it is suggested as a primary screening method for patients with thyroid nodules.
Keywords: Ultrasound (US), Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC), Thyroid Nodule (TN).
Kajian Data Mining untuk Klasifikasi Gender Menggunakan Data Wajah dengan Algoritma Naive Bayes dan K Nearest Neighbor (KNN)
Authors: Fathah Adittia , Juliane Christina
Published: February 2025

Identifikasi gender saat ini lebih sulit dilakukan. Penyebabnya antara lain banyaknya klasifikasi gender, penggunaan identitas palsu di media sosial dan semakin maraknya foto palsu. Peristiwa nyata yang terjadi adalah banyaknya klasifikasi di negara Thailand yang memiliki 18 gender. Peristiwa lainnya adalah penambahan gender “X” pada aplikasi permohonan passport di Amerika dan beredarnya foto palsu yang diedit dengan aplikasi FaceApp. Kejadian tersebut menyebabkan perlunya membuat model yang bisa melakukan klasifikasi gender agar gender asli dari seseorang bisa diketahui. Penelitian dilakukan dengan mencari model yang bisa mengklasifikasikan gender. Caranya adalah dengan membandingkan hasil akurasi dua algoritma yaitu Naïve Bayes dan KNN (K Nearest Neighbor). Metode yang digunakan mengikuti tahapan dalam KDD (Knowledge Discovery in Database). Atribut yang dipakai adalah bagian-bagian pada wajah yaitu lebar dahi, lebar hidung, panjang hidung, bibir dan jarak hidung ke bibir. Akurasi kedua algoritma diuji dengan metode Cross Validation dan Confusion Matrix. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah memastikan apakah atribut wajah dapat digunakan untuk klasifikasi gender serta menentukan model yang lebih baik antara Naïve Bayes atau KNN. Hasil pengujian menunjukkan, kedua algoritma memiliki akurasi yang sangat baik. Namun algoritma Naïve Bayes memiliki nillai AUC yang lebih tinggi yaitu 0,996 dibanding algoritma KNN yang memiliki nilai AUC sebesar 0,992. Berdasarkan nilai tersebut, atribut bagian-bagian pada wajah yaitu lebar dahi, lebar hidung, panjang hidung, bibir dan jarak hidung ke bibir dapat digunakan untuk klasifiikasi gender, karena bisa menghasilkan akurasi yang baik. Namun, model Naïve Bayes lebih direkomendasikan karena nilai akurasinya lebih tinggi dan stabil.
ВПЛИВ СУБЛЕТАЛЬНИХ КОНЦЕНТРАЦІЙ ІОНІВ КОБАЛЬТУ (ІІ) НА ГЕМАТОЛОГІЧНІ ПОКАЗНИКИ В ОРГАНІЗМІ ПРІСНОВОДНИХ РИБ
Authors: Vovchek N. O.
Published: February 2025

The study examined changes in selected biochemical indicators (glucose, lactate, pyruvate levels, and lactate dehydrogenase activity) in the blood of crucian carp (Carassius gibelio Bloch) and pike (Esox lucius L.) exposed to 0.1 and 0.25 mg/dm³ of Co²⁺ ions in water. The results demonstrated that changes in the hematological parameters of fish are species-specific and depend on the concentration of metal ions in the aquatic environment.
Despite exposure to sublethal concentrations of cobalt ions, the metal content in the blood of both fish species remained unchanged; however, in crucian carp, it was an order of magnitude lower than in pike. An increase in glucose concentration was observed in both species at both cobalt concentrations. Lactate levels in crucian carp increased under 0.1 mg/dm³ exposure, whereas in pike, they rose at 0.25 mg/dm³. Pyruvate concentration in crucian carp increased at 0.25 mg/dm³, whereas in pike, it decreased proportionally to the cobalt concentration in water.
A positive correlation was observed between the lactate/pyruvate ratio and lactate dehydrogenase activity in the blood of both species at elevated cobalt concentrations. These findings suggest that in pike, at higher cobalt concentrations (0.25 mg/dm³), glycolytic processes play an increased role in the organism’s energy supply.
Dissecting the Frog: How a Meme Explains the Westlaw/Lexis and Generational Divide
Authors: Williams Sam
Published: February 2025

One of the most controversial elements of the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris was a drag show during the opening ceremony that allegedly parodied Christianity by recreating Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper. A legal meme emerged showing both images side by side, labeling da Vinci’s painting “Westlaw” and the drag show “Lexis.” In this article, I explain why this meme is funny by showing how the differences between Westlaw and Lexis+, and legal minds’ attitudes towards those differences, offer fascinating parallels to this controversy. Westlaw’s print-focused, grid-oriented organization and aesthetic might appeal to the trained legal mind, but Lexis’s emphasis on discrete information and keyword searching might make the database more appealing to new attorneys and law students who are increasingly unfamiliar with print resources. By embracing the beauty of something new and unfamiliar, attorneys of any age can improve themselves and their profession.
DEVELOPMENT OF A LATERAL FLOW APTASENSOR FOR RAPID ANALYSIS OF THE CARDIAC MARKER TROPONIN I
Authors:   Institute of Biophysics SB RAS, Krasnoyarsk, Morozova E.P. ,   Siberian Federal University, Krasnoyarsk, Krasitskaya V.V. , Frank L.A.
Published: February 2025

This work demonstrated the fundamental possibility of using aptamers as an alternative to antibodies for performing lateral
flow analysis of the cardiac marker Troponin I. Detection of Troponin I in a buffer was carried out using two test systems containing
aptamers and antibodies.
THE INFLUENCE OF BIOLOGICALLY ACTIVE SUBSTANCES OF PLANT ORIGIN ON THE METABOLIC STATUS OF PIGLETS
Authors:   Federal Research Center for Animal Husbandry named after Academy Member L.K. Ernst, Dubrovitsy, Nikanova L.A. , Maksimov V.I. , Berezova K.A. ,   Moscow State Academy of Veterinary Medicine and Biotechnology — MVA by K.I. Skryabin
Published: February 2025

The article presents the results of studies conducted on two groups of weaned piglets before fattening. The duration of the experiment is 70 days. The control group of piglets received the main diet consisting of complete feed; the experimental group received
larch bark extract at a dosage of 25 mg/kg live weight per day and Lavitol 75 mg/kg live weight per day (consisting of 75 % arabinogalactan + 25 % dihydroquercetin). The introduction of feed additives into the diet of piglets had a positive effect on the metabolic
processes of the body, as a result of which their genetically determined productivity potential was more fully manifested, the clinical
condition of the body and the safety of the livestock improved.
MODERN TECHNOLOGIES FOR THE EXTRACTION OF BIOLOGICALLY ACTIVE SUBSTANCES FROM PLANT RAW MATERIALS
Authors:   Kemerovo State University, Petrova A.A. , Salishcheva A.V.
Published: February 2025

Modern methods of extracting biologically active substances from various raw materials are focused on the efficiency and environmental friendliness of the process. The brief description of biologically active substances, advantages and disadvantages of extraction
methods and their characteristics were described.
Determinan Kecurangan Laporan Keuangan Menggunakan Teori Fraud Pentagon Dengan Komite Audit Sebagai Variabel Moderasi
Authors: Suganda Nurdiyanti
Published: February 2025

Riset ini bertujuan untuk menguji dan menganalisis determinan kecurangan laporan keuangan menggunakan teori fraud pentagon dengan komite audit sebagai variabel moderasi. Sampel penelitian sebanyak 26 perusahaan dengan waktu pengamatan 5 tahun, sehingga jumlah sampel yang dapat digunakan sebanyak 130 perusahaan. Teknik analisis data model regresi data panel menggunakan software WarpPLS 7. Hasil riset ini menyatakan bahwa peluang dan rasionalisasi berpengaruh terhadap kecurangan laporan keuangan. Tekanan, kemampuan, dan arogansi tidak berpengaruh terhadap kecurangan laporan keuangan. Komite audit mampu memoderasi pengaruh peluang terhadap kecurangan laporan keuangan. Pengaruh tekanan, rasionalisasi, kemampuan dan arogansi tidak dapat dimoderasi dengan komite audit terhadap kecurangan laporan keuangan.
Intellectual Capital Thrives, Tax Audit Drives? The Moderating Role of Information and Technology on Tax Audit Quality
Authors: Yusrifalda Amalia , Firmansyah Amrie
Published: February 2025

Research aims: This study examines the influence of intellectual capital on tax audit quality at the Directorate General of Taxes and explores the potential moderating role of information technology in the relationship between intellectual capital and tax audit quality.
Design/Methodology/Approach: Focusing on public human capital (PHC), public structural capital (PSC), and public relational capital (PRC), the study employs PLS-SEM analysis on primary data obtained from 35 Tax Auditors (FPP) in the DKI Jakarta region.
Research findings:  The results show that PRC has a positive effect on tax audit quality, while PHC and PSC do not have a significant impact on tax audit quality. Furthermore, no moderating effect of information technology was found on the relationship between PHC, PSC, or PRC and tax audit quality.
Theoretical contribution/Originality: This study findings highlight the importance of building strong relationships to enhance tax audit quality, while human and structural capital plays no significant role in this context.
Practitioner/Policy implication: The study recommends integrating technology and optimizing business processes by the Directorate General of Taxes to achieve high-quality tax audits. Additionally, the findings can enrich policymakers' insights to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the policies implemented and foster further discussion on managing intellectual capital to achieve sustainable public sector goals in Indonesia.
Determinants of Dividend Policy and Their Implications for Firm Value Using the Signaling Model
Authors: Putri Nadia Ayuni , Hitten Akhmad , Heniwati Elok
Published: February 2025

Research aims: This study aims to analyze the effect of profitability, capital structure,      and free cash flow on company value, with dividend policy as an intervening variable in banking companies.
Design/Methodology/Approach: The research uses secondary data obtained from banking companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the period 2014-2020. A total of 45 companies constituted the population, and purposive sampling was used to select 19 companies that met the criteria for testing. Data analysis was conducted using the Partial Least Square (PLS) method with the SmartPLS version 3.2.8 software.
Research findings: The results revealed that profitability has a significant positive effect on dividend policy, while capital structure has no effect on dividend policy. Free cash flow, on the other hand, shows a significant positive effect on dividend policy. Furthermore, profitability has a significant positive effect on company value, and capital structure also positively and significantly affects company value. However, free cash flow has no effect on company value, and dividend policy does not influence company value.  
Theoretical contribution/Originality: This research contributes to the understanding of the dynamics between profitability, capital structure, free cash flow, dividend policy, and company value, particularly within the context of the banking sector.
Practitioner/Policy implication: The findings provide insights for practitioners and policymakers in banking companies to better align profitability and dividend policy to enhance company value.
Research limitation/Implication: The study is limited to banking companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange during 2014-2020 and may not generalize to other sectors or time periods.
Microfluidic Sensors for the Detection of Motile Plant Zoospores
Authors: Zhang Peikai , Williams David , Stephens Logan , Helps Robert , Pushparajah Shamini , Travas-Sejdic Jadranka , Wood Marion
Published: February 2025

Plant pathogen zoospores play a vital role in the transmission of several significant plant diseases, with their early detection being important for effective pathogen management. Current methods for pathogen detection involve labour-intensive specimen collection and laboratory testing, lacking real-time feedback capabilities. Methods that can be deployed in the field and remotely addressed are required. In this proof-of-concept study, we have developed an innovative zoospore-sensing device by combining a microfluidic system that interfaced a flow stream with a microfluidic cytometer, whilst incorporating a chemotactic response as a means to selectively detect motile spores. Spores of Phytophthora cactorum were captured in eddies in a stub at a right-angle bend in a flow channel from which they were able to swim up a detection channel following a gradient of attractant. They were then detected by a transient change in impedance, as measured with a single-chip lock-in amplifier, when they passed between a pair of electrodes. Such a sensing system has a great potential to be further developed into a portable, remotely addressable, low-cost sensing system, offering an important tool for field pathogen real-time detection applications.
Zero-field NMR and millitesla-SLIC spectra for > 200 molecules from density functional theory and spin dynamics
Authors: Mandzhieva Iuliia , Theiss Franziska , He Xingtao , Ortmeier Adam , Koirala Anuja , McBride Stephen , DeVience Stephen , Rosen Matthew , Blum Volker , Theis Thomas
Published: February 2025

NMR is usually performed at magnetic fields of 1 T and above to obtain sufficient sensitivity and spectral dispersion to identify chemicals based on chemical shifts and J couplings. At lower fields, the advent of hyperpolarization technologies and sensitive low-field detectors can address sensitivity concerns. However, it remains disputed whether spectral signatures at low fields are sufficient for chemical identification. Here, we report an all–electron DFT batch production of J coupling NMR spectra at zero field and 6.5 mT for over 200 small molecules. We found that ultra-low-field NMR can be used for unique chemical identification. In the developed computational tool chain, we first used the all-electron FHI-aims code to calculate the molecular J couplings and chemical shifts. We then fed the calculated NMR parameters into the NMR simulation package SPINACH to simulate both heteronuclear J coupling spectra at zero-field, and spin-lock induced crossing (SLIC) spectra at 6.5 mT. The resulting spectra demonstrate that ultra-low-field NMR spectra can represent unique identifiers of chemical structure for small molecules.
A near-infrared-II molecular probe for early diagnosis of acute kidney injury induced by diverse etiologies
Authors: Zhu Yiqi , Yan Dingyuan , Zhu Jun , Xu Hongbo , Zhang Weijie , Hou Jianquan , Wang Dong , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: February 2025

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a clinical syndrome characterized by complex etiologies and usually lacks obvious clinical manifestations at the early stage. Compared with traditional imaging methods, optical imaging is broadly considered to be a promising technique for diagnosis of kidney dysfunction own to the merits of noninvasiveness, high sensitivity and fast feedback speed. Herein, we report a water-soluble fluorophore, PEG-TBSe, for in vivo imaging across diverse AKI models in the second near-infrared (NIR-II, 1000–1700 nm) window. Notably, PEG-TBSe possesses an ultrasmall size (~5.5 nm) that is suitable for renal clearance, allowing for comprehensive assessment of AKI severity in pre-renal, renal and post-renal models. In addition, the real-time imaging capacities of PEG-TBSe are sensitive to early changes in AKI, enabling the noninvasive identification of renal lesions earlier than common clinical assays. Overall, this study demonstrates the first NIR-II small molecular probe for the early diagnosis and evaluation of the severity of kidney dysfunction in different AKI models.
Hemp proteins conjugated with green tea polyphenol extract form de novo plant-sourced emulsifiers suitable for nanodelivery systems bearing lipophilic psychopharmaceuticals
Authors: Hosie William Charles , Egbuta Mary Augustina , Razmkhah Kasra , Bolandi Behzad , Dehvari Khalilalrahman , Homon Anton , Kappadakunnel Aleena , Simone Jonathan J. , Banerjee Abhinandan , Trant John Frederick
Published: February 2025

Nanoformulation is often used to improve the solubility and uptake of bioactives; however, it also protects sensitive bioactives from chemical decomposition. We report a class of biocompatible emulsifiers created by conjugating hemp protein with green tea polyphenols. A simple pH-assisted coupling protocol was employed to synthesize covalent and non-covalent conjugates, which were then used to produce 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) enriched hemp oil nanoemulsions in water with an average droplet sizes of ca. 200 nm and ζ potential values of ca. -40 mV. Our de novo emulsifiers protected the sensitive drug under conditions of simulated oxidative stress, an indication that the antioxidant properties of polyphenols are retained. These emulsions were resistant to a wide variety of emulsion-breaking stressors and demonstrated remarkable colloidal stability over a period of 4 weeks with no evidence of phase separation. Fluorescence and confocal imaging confirmed cellular uptake of the formulation, while in vitro cytotoxicity assays showed acceptable cell viability with drug-loaded nanoemulsions. This represents an ingestible 5-MeO-DMT formulation; the sensitivity of this molecule mandates some form of formulation for reasonable bioavailability and reproducible dosages.
Tuning Magnetic Anisotropy and Luminescence Thermometry in a Series of Dysprosium Complexes containing β-diimine Ligand
Authors: Bagchi Sukanya , Mehta Sakshi , Kamilya Sujit , Rouzières Mathieu , Herchel Radovan , Kiskin Mikhail , Ghosh Subrata , Mondal Abhishake
Published: February 2025

Understanding spin dynamics in molecular systems is critical for developing advanced quantum materials, where optimizing structural parameters plays a pivotal role. Although significant progress has been made in studying the spin dynamics of β-diketone-Dysprosium(III) complexes with α-diimine bidentate ligands, the exploration of β-diimine-based ligands to elucidate the structure-property relationship in spin dynamics remains limited. Here, we report three Dysprosium complexes containing -diimine based bidentate ligands, [Dy(dbm)3(bik-Et)] (1), [Dy(dbm)3(bik-Me)] (2), and [Dy(acac)3(bik-Et)] (3) (dbm = 1,3-diphenyl-1,3-propanedione, acac = acetylacetonate, bik-Et = bis(1-ethyl-1H-imidazol-2-yl)methanone), and bik-Me = bis(1-methyl-1H-imidazol-2-yl)methanone)), which were synthesized and characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis, spectroscopic, magnetic and theoretical investigations. Structural investigations showed a distorted square antiprism geometry in 1 and 3 and a trigonal bipyramidal geometry in 2 in a DyO6N2 environment. Magnetic studies reveal slow magnetic relaxation behaviour under a zero-applied DC field for all three complexes. Theoretical calculations at the DFT and CASSCF level of theory were carried out to find a better correlation between the electronic structure and magnetism of the reported complexes. Moreover, the variable temperature photoluminescence study of the complexes reveals these complexes performed significantly well in the application of luminescent thermometry.
Migration of Seismicity from the Mantle to the Upper Crust Beneath Harrat Lunayyir Volcanic Field, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Blanchette Alexander , Klemperer Simon , Mooney Walter , Sehli Turki
Published: February 2025

Harrat Lunayyir is a volcanic field in Saudi Arabia that experienced a Mw~5.4 earthquake driven by an upper-crustal dike intrusion in May 2009. This volcanic field has exhibited numerous forms of volcanic seismicity both prior to and since the 2009 dike intrusion. Significantly, earthquakes within the lithospheric mantle and, rarely, the lower crust are present in the two-decade long seismicity catalog of Harrat Lunayyir. Here we analyze 24 years of volcanic seismicity at Harrat Lunayyir from 1998 to 2022. We find that: 1) precursory seismicity began at least eight years prior to the 2009 event, with a particularly notable seismic episode one year prior; 2) lithospheric mantle seismicity is highly localized in space and in time, largely occurring in discrete sequences lasting on the order of a few hours to a few days; 3) one seismic sequence clearly migrates upward from the lithospheric mantle to the upper crust, including seismicity within the nominally ductile lower crust; 4) crustal seismicity has been slowly declining over time; and 5) lithospheric-mantle seismicity does not show any apparent decline with time. From these observations we infer that the seismicity is driven by magmatic fluids or volatiles, and seismic monitoring of this volcanic field should continue into the future.
Political Obligation and Political Recognition
Authors: Khokhar Dan
Published: February 2025

The problem of political obligation may roughly be characterized as the philosophical challenge of establishing that there is a general obligation to obey the law as such. In this paper, I defend the recognitional account of political obligation, which consists of the following three claims: (i) citizens of a liberal polity have obligations to recognize one another as free and equal moral members of their own political community and communicate this recognition; (ii) under certain conditions, having respect for the law of one’s own state is a crucially important way of affording and communicating such recognition, and so we are obliged as citizens to have such respect under those conditions; and (iii) being obligated to have respect for the law entails having a general obligation to obey it. Taken jointly, these claims show how the following three concepts—political recognition, respect for law, and political obligation—are united in a normative nexus that yields a demanding but deeply attractive interpersonal ideal for political life. I then characterize some forms of “meta-skepticism” about political obligation that question the concept’s importance for political philosophy. I conclude by arguing that one virtue of the recognitional account is that it justifies a philosophical interest in political obligation even if these meta-skeptical views are true.
Factors of financial stability of Ukrainian banks: impact and trends
Authors: Doroshenko N. , Shynkarenko V.
Published: February 2025

The financial stability of banks is critically important for ensuring the stability of the financial system and economic development. This study analyzes the influence of various factors on the financial stability of banks, such as liquidity, profitability, monetary policy, political situation, technological development and human factors. The purpose of this study is to identify and analyze factors that affect the financial stability of banks using a structural approach. Tasks include studying the influence of indicators of banking activity on their financial stability. The study identifies key factors such as capital levels, asset quality, liquidity, yield, profitability and monetary policy and analyzes their interactions. The study based on data from Ukraine made the following conclusions: Liquidity is a key aspect of financial stability, determining the bank's ability to meet its financial obligations on time. Profitability and profitability play an important role in ensuring financial stability, allowing banks to cover possible losses and perform their functions effectively. The monetary policy of the central bank significantly affects the conditions of operation of banks, determining interest rates and the amount of money in the system. The political situation in the country can also have a great impact on the financial stability of banks due to the effect of instability and risks associated with changes in legislation and regulation. Technological development plays an increasingly important role in the financial sector, contributing to the efficiency and competitiveness of banks. However, the growing cyber threat requires banks to focus on cyber security and innovation. Finally, the human factor, such as the qualifications and work ethics of employees, plays a key role in ensuring effective risk management and financial stability. All these factors are of great importance for the financial stability of banks, and their effective management is essential to ensure the stability of the financial system as a whole. The results of this study can serve as a basis for developing risk management strategies and improving the financial stability of banks in modern economic conditions. The findings show that successful management of risks and the impact of these factors is key to ensuring the stability of the financial system as a whole.
The place and significance of the ecosystem of decentralized financial instruments in the international financial market
Authors: Khriashchova D.
Published: February 2025

Introduction. This article explores the emerging role and importance of decentralized finance (DeFi) within the global financial landscape. It analyzes how blockchain-based financial instruments are reshaping traditional financial services and creating new opportunities for inventors and users worldwide. Summary of the main results of the study. The study begins by examining the core principles of DeFi, including its decentralized nature, transparency, and programmability. It then delves into the various components of the DeFi ecosystem, such as decentralized exchanges, lending platforms, and yield farming protocols, explaining their functions and potential benefits. The author investigates the growth trajectory of DeFi is addressing inefficiencies in traditional finance, particularly in areas like cross-border transactions, access to credit, and financial inclusion for the unbanked population. Furthermore, the article also critically assesses the challenges facing DeFi, including regulatory uncertainties, smart contract vulnerabilities, and scalability issues. It explores potential solutions and ongoing developments aimed at overcoming these obstacles. This the research analyzes the impact of DeFi on established financial institutions and markets. It considers how traditional banks and investment firms are responding to the DeFi phenomenon, either by adapting their services or by integrating DeFi elements into their existing operations. The study concludes by projecting the future role of DeFi in the international financial market. It discusses potential scenarios for the coexistence or convergence of centralized and decentralized financial systems, and the implications for global economic stability and financial inclusion. Conclusion. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights into the transformative potential of decentralized finance and its growing significance within the broader context of the international financial market.
Hepatitis C virus seroprevalence in defined populations in New Zealand: data from a general practice–based screening programme
Authors: Tuan Tiong Ho , Upton Arlo , Lockie Angelle , Moore Kirsty , Stedman Catherine
Published: February 2025

aim: To assess the hepatitis C virus (HCV) seroprevalence data for defined regions in New Zealand.
methods: Email or mobile phone text invitations were sent out to adults enrolled with three participating general practices in different
parts of New Zealand. Patients who provided informed consent were instructed to self-present for HCV blood tests. Patients with positive
HCV antibodies had reflex testing of HCV antigen and ribonucleic acid (RNA) viral load.
results: In total, 26,247 invitations were issued. Of these, 1,368 (5.2%) people gave informed consent and 1,021 patients (3.9%) had
HCV blood tests. Ten out of 1,021 (0.98%; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.51–1.82%) tested positive for HCV antibodies, of whom two
(0.2%; 95% CI <0.01–0.76%) had positive antigen and elevated RNA viral load. The proportion of NZ Māori and Pacific people was low,
at 3.8% and 0.4%, respectively. Volunteers with a high deprivation index were under-represented (3% from New Zealand Index of
Deprivation deciles 9 and 10).
conclusions: The HCV viraemia prevalence in this general practice–based screening programme is 0.2%, which is lower than
previous estimates. This may have implications for appropriate resource allocations and the determination of the best strategies to
find new HCV infections. Participation rates of people with high deprivation indexes or who were NZ Māori and Pacific people were low,
suggesting that a tailored screening approach is needed.
A descriptive observational study of B12 testing during pregnancy and infancy in New Zealand and suggested guidance for testing and treatment
Authors: Henry Asher , Heather Natasha , Kyle Campbell , Gudex Teresa , Webster Dianne , Wilson Callum
Published: February 2025

aims: Severe B12 deficiency is harmful to infants. This study describes the recent detection and treatment rates of antenatal and infant
B12 deficiency in the Auckland–Northland region.
method: Regional laboratory data on serum B12 levels were analysed. B12 deficient infants and pregnant women were identified and
paired with their corresponding mother or infant, followed by a review of electronic health records.
results: Testing incidence was low in infants (5 per 1,000 infants per year). Among 529 infants tested over 5 years, 6% exhibited
B12 deficiency (<148pmol/L). Antenatal B12 deficiency was found in 16% of 6,365 pregnant women tested over 1 year, with high-risk
deficiency (<100pmol/L) found in 2%. Both infants and mothers with B12 deficiency had suboptimal rates of adequate treatment.
Among infants of high-risk B12 deficient pregnancies, only 1% had serum B12 tested despite being at high risk of infant B12 deficiency.
conclusion: Current guidelines and testing practices in Auckland–Northland inadequately detect and treat B12 deficiency in
pregnancy and infancy. A risk-based screening approach is best suited to detect infants at risk of severe deficiency. Antenatal and postnatal
recommendations for B12 testing and treatment of mothers and infants are made, along with nutritional advice in pregnancy
and infancy.
Consequences of COVID-19 protection measures on children’s respiratory health in Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: O’Loughlin Claire , Uia Tali , Grant Cameron , Smiler Kirsten , Churchward Marianna , Tu’akalau Catherine , Ellison-Lupena Rochelle , Jeffreys Mona
Published: February 2025

aim: To explore the impact of COVID-19 protection measures on children’s respiratory health in Aotearoa New Zealand.
method: Annual hospitalisation rates (2017/2018 to 2022/2023) for specific respiratory illnesses in children under age 15 years were
calculated. Comparisons were made across time and age/sex/ethnicity groups.
results: Hospitalisation rates for respiratory illnesses were lower for all children in the years when COVID-19 protection measures
were strictly enforced, followed by an increase in rates in subsequent years. There was an excess of hospitalisations for tamariki Māori
and for Pacific children compared with non-Māori, non-Pacific children. Inequities in influenza that were present before the pandemic
re-emerged rapidly following the relaxation of COVID-19 protection measures.
conclusion: Reducing the burden of respiratory illness in children is a key challenge for health delivery in Aotearoa New Zealand. The
re-appearance of inequities across outcomes and age groups following the relaxation or removal of COVID-19 protection measures
indicates the need for an effective strategy that embeds learnings from our pandemic response.
EFFECT OF GnRH INJECTION ON FERTILITY PARAMETERS IN MORKARAMAN SHEEP IN THE BREEDING SEASON
Authors: Kaya Semra , Koçak Gökhan , Atalay Ali İhsan , Kaya İnan , Demir Murat Can , Kaçar Cihan , Demir Merve Sena
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to investigate the effect of GnRH injection on the first synchronization day on lambing performance and fertility in a short-term progesterone-based synchronization protocol in Morkaraman sheep during the breeding season. The study material consisted of 76 Morkaraman sheep in the breeding season. Clinically healthy and non-lactating ewes with an average age of 2-3 years, a BCS of 3.16±0.04, a weight of 63.98±0.79 kg, and five healthy fertile rams of adult age were included in the study. The rams were separated from the herd one month before the study started. The sheep were divided into two groups without intravaginal sponge placement. Intravaginal sponges (20 mg flugestone acetate, Chronogest®, France) were placed in all sheep to remain in the vagina for 6 days, and 1.5 mL PGF2α (5 mg, Dinoprost, Enzaprost®, France) was injected intramuscularly 1 day before (day 5) and on the day the sponge (day 6) was removed. In the first group of sheep (n=39), 2 mL of GnRH (0.004 mg buserelin, Receptal®, Germany) was injected intramuscularly immediately after the sponge was placed in the vagina (Day 0). Unlike the first group, sheep in Group II (n=37) were injected with physiological saline (2 mL, i.m.) after the sponge was placed intravaginally. Immediately after the sponge was removed (day 6), all sheep were injected with 600 IU of eCG (Chrono-gest/PMSG, Germany), and the rams joined the herd. After mating the ram, the oestrus was monitored for 5 days. Pregnancy examinations were performed transrectally on the 30th day following mating. It was determined that the vaginal sponge was lost in two sheep each in Groups I and II, and these sheep were excluded from the study. It was determined that 54.05% of the ewes in Group I and 48.57% of the ewes in Group II were pregnant. Lambing was observed in all pregnant ewes. The multiple pregnancy rate was found to be less in Group I (45%) than in Group II (52.94%). A total of 32 lambs were obtained in Group I, and 26 lambs were obtained in Group II. Average lamb weights were found to be similar in both groups. As a result, GnRH injection combined with intravaginal sponge application may contribute to fertility success by numerically increasing the rate of estrus, pregnancy, and litter size.
Regulamin Sejmu jako szczególny akt prawny w Polsce
Authors: Miecznik Albert
Published: February 2025

Artykuł porusza problematykę regulaminu Sejmu jako części porządku prawnego w Polsce. Celem niniejszego artykułu jest ocena prawidłowości stanowienia i stosowania tego regulaminu oraz jego miejsca w hierarchii źródeł prawaw Polsce. Autor rozważania zaczyna od analizy historycznej regulaminu Sejmu. Następnie przechodzi do przedstawienia zasady autonomii parlamentu dającej mu prawo do decydowania o swoich sprawach, zaś regulamin Sejmu jest tu traktowany jako przejaw tej zasady. W dalszej części rozważono zagadnienie miejsca regulaminu Sejmu w hierarchii źródeł prawa i podjęto próbę sklasyfikowania tego aktu prawnego w jednej z dwóch kategorii – prawa powszechnie lub wewnętrznie obowiązującego. Artykuł kończy się omówieniem kontroli konstytucyjności regulaminu Sejmu. Rozważania w artykule zostały oparte na orzecznictwie, doktrynie, ustawodawstwie i ustrojodawstwie.
Building Village Financial Accountability in the perspective of New Public Governance
Authors: Suwuh Adrian Hendrik William , Wardiyanto Bintoro
Published: February 2025

This study looks at the implementation of the Village Financial System (SISKEUDES), developed by the Financial and Development Supervisory Agency (BPKP), as a strategic step in efforts to foster accountability and transparency of village finances in the perspective of New Public Governance (NPG). SISKEUDES assists village governments in financial management from planning to reporting. Even though this system has helped improve village financial governance, there are still some issues that need to be addressed. These include limited access to technology, lack of digital knowledge, and low community participation. In the context of NPG, active community participation and collaboration with various responsible parties are considered essential to create inclusive, transparent, and accountable public governance. This research uses a qualitative approach based on library research. The results show that the implementation of SISKEUDES should be supported by increased capacity of village officials, wider access to technology, and more active community participation in sustainable village development.
“CHINA: THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS”. RETHINKING CHINESE CULTURAL SIGNS
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Prigarina Irina A.
Published: February 2025

Art and fashion exert a significant influence on the formation and
perception of society, acting as a mirror that reflects the intricate symbiosis
of historical, cultural, and social aspects among diverse ethnic groups and national communities. In the context of globalization and cultural interactions,
the issue of representing the cultural “Other” in fashion becomes particularly
pertinent, sparking extensive debates. As a platform for discussing this matter,
this article analyzes the exhibition “China: Through the Looking Glass” held at
the Metropolitan Museum, where China was presented as the muse of Western
fashion, and also profounds motivations and consequences of such representation. Using the exhibition as a case study, the analysis scrutinizes the dynamics
of cultural relations between the West, especially the United States, and the
East, notably China, shedding light on the contradictions associated with these
interactions, emphasizing the distorted transmission of cultural codes, the perpetual reproduction of stereotypes, and the creation of the cultural “Other”
within the context of Western fashion. Special attention is devoted to the
works of Chinese-origin designers who seamlessly blend traditional motifs with
contemporary fashion trends. In conclusion, the article asserts the necessity of
developing a more profound approach to the representation of cultural symbols
and elements, aiming to overcome superficial handling of these cultural facets.
“TEARS WERE DRIPPING”: IMAGINARY AND REAL WORLDS OF A SAD FAIRY TALE BY GEORGY DANELIA
Authors:   State Institute for Art Studies, Evallyo Violetta D.
Published: February 2025

The article analyzes the structure of the spatial solution of Georgy Danelia’s film “Tears were dripping”; the three most clearly defined worlds
are emerged: this is fairy-tale, real and imaginary areas. Danelia builds the
dramaturgy on the subtle interweaving of these realities, on the blurring and
permeability of their boundaries. The fairy-tale world passes through the film
narrative as counterpoint, creating the effect of high tragedy and “lingering”
rock gravitating over the hero. The category of “low” and ordinary is embodied
in the everyday reality in which the main character exists. The space of the
“real”, as well as the fluctuations in the level of the “sublime”, do not provide
for relaxation with laughter – on the contrary, the tension grows, the hero and
his world move extensively from misfortune to even greater misfortune. Gradually, in the course of the development of visual dramaturgy, the shell of the
“imaginary” world first cracks, and more and more intensively breaks up into
fragments, exposing the unfriendly and gray “real” world of the era of stagnation. The director presents this world of the Late Soviet era with general plans
or, on the contrary, with extremely large urban spaces that prevent identification. This paradoxical crowding, tightness of objects in the frame is given in the
context of emptiness and / or darkness (evening and night shots), which forms
the effect of a tense oppressive atmosphere, a brewing catastrophe.
Akarsu Ortalama Akımlarının Çeşitli Makine Öğrenme Algoritmaları Kullanılarak Tahmini: Köprüçay Örneği
Authors: Kaya Yunus Ziya
Published: February 2025

Akarsu ortalama akımları havzanın su kaynaklarının yeterliliği hakkında önemli ipuçları barındırmaktadır. İklim değişikliği ile birlikte yağış ve sıcaklık gibi akarsu akımlarını doğrudan ilgilendiren parametrelerde bölgesel değişimler yaşanmaktadır. Yaşanan bu değişimler ortalama akımlarda da bölgesel farklılıklar görülmesine neden olmaktadır. Bu çalışmada Elektrik İdaresinin kayıtlarını paylaştığı Antalya ili Serik İlçesi Beşkonak Bucağında yer alan Köprüçay istasyonuna ait ortalama akımlar incelenmiştir. İstasyona ait 1957-2011 yılları arasındaki ortalama akımlar Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP), Destek Vektör Makinaları (DVM) ve Random Forest (RF) makine öğrenme algoritmaları ile modellenmiştir. Çalışma iki kısımdan oluşmaktadır. İlk kısımda 1957-2011 yılları arasındaki veriler hem eğitim hem test kümesi olarak kullanılmış en uygun algoritmaya bu şekilde karar verilmiştir. İkinci kısımda algoritma seçiminden sonra kayıtları mevcut olmayan 2012-2022 yılları arasındaki ortalama akımlar tahmin edilmiştir. Modellemelerde ülkemize ait yıllık ortalama maksimum, minimum, ortalama sıcaklık ve ortalama yağış verileri girdi olarak kullanılmıştır. Sonuç olarak Köprüçay özelinde ortalama akım tahmininde en uygun algoritmanın RF olacağı görülmüştür.
Alümina (Al2O3) Takviyeli Petek Çekirdekli Sandviç Panellerin Yüksek Hızlı Darbe Tepkisi: Sayısal Analiz Çalışması
Authors: Türkdönmez İsmail , İç Yusuf Tansel
Published: February 2025

Balistik koruyucu tasarımında, çok sayıda faktörün yanı sıra, sağlamlık ve hafiflik iki temel ve vazgeçilmez unsur olarak öne çıkmaktadır. Özellikle savunma sanayine yönelik araçlarda, dış tehditlere karşı koruma sağlamak amacıyla geliştirilen zırh tasarımlarında bu iki faktörün önemi daha da artmaktadır. Hareketli ve dinamik yapılarda olduğu kadar, statik yapıların tasarımında da zırh özelliklerinin dikkate alınması büyük bir gerekliliktir. Farklı modellerde, kalınlıklarda ve geometrilerde üretilen bu sandviç paneller, performans ve etkinlik açısından geniş bir araştırma konusu oluşturmuş, literatürde bu konuda çok sayıda detaylı çalışma yapılmıştır. Sandviç panellerin sunduğu çözümler, yalnızca mekanik dayanıklılığı artırmakla kalmaz, aynı zamanda yapıların ağırlık yükünü minimize ederek enerji verimliliğine ve kullanım ömrüne de önemli katkılarda bulunur. Bu nedenle, zırh sistemlerinde kullanılan sandviç panellerin optimizasyonu, mühendislikte hem teorik, hem de pratik açıdan yenilikçi bir çalışma alanı olarak kabul edilmektedir. Bu makalede, 304 paslanmaz çelik yüzey tabakaları ile 304 paslanmaz çelik ve Alüminyum Alaşım (AA 3003) çekirdeklerden oluşan balpeteği sandviç panellerin yüksek hızlı penetratör çarpmasına karşı mekanik davranışları incelenmiştir. Ayrıca, farklı çekirdek malzemelerinin performansa etkisi vurgulanmıştır.
YOUTH AND POLITICS – A THEORETICAL AND HISTORICAL STUDY
Authors: R. Girija
Published: February 2025

This paper discusses the theories on youth and the history of youth politics. Generation categories are explained here. They are Revolutionary youth, Bohemian youth, Activist youth, Conformist youth, Reactionary youth, and Delinquent youth. Revolutionary youth are highly active politically, although only in limited ways. Their ideology states that progressive social changes can only be achieved through a radical social transformation. Bohemian youth generally share the revolutionaries' attempts for the social institutions of the dominant society, but they are suspicious of the solutions offered by the revolutionaries. Activist youth consequently work largely within accepted political channels, often concentrating their efforts on one particular issue or limiting their activities to political campaign periods. Conformist youth are politically withdrawn due to apathy, indifference, or satisfaction with the status quo. The reactionaries have many things in common with the revolutionaries. Delinquent youth admire strength and power and reject the existing authority figures. The socialization theory emphasizes the family as being the most important mechanism in political value socialization. Generation unit theory argues that youthful activism is age-linked. In the historical part contains student and youth politics in the U.S.A, Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Scandinavian countries and Japan. It also deals with student politics in socialist countries and India.
ECONOMICS OF CLIMATE CHANGE: COST OF INACTION VS. MITIGATION
Authors: D.Janaki  , Gnanakkan J.Moses , Brindha T.Jackuline
Published: February 2025

Climate change poses significant economic challenges, threatening global ecosystems, human health, and economic stability. This paper examines the economic costs of inaction on climate change, such as rising disaster recovery expenditures, loss of productivity, and health costs, versus the investments required for mitigation strategies like renewable energy, carbon capture, and climate adaptation measures. Using global and regional data, this study evaluates the long-term benefits of mitigation against the growing financial burden of inaction. Findings suggest that while mitigation requires substantial upfront investment, the long-term savings and avoided damages far outweigh the costs.