bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
UBUIngenio: extracurricular enrichment programme for the improvement of high ability students’ creative thinking
Authors:   Departamento de Ciencias de la Educación, Universidad de Burgos, Spain, Orozco Gómez Martha Lucía , Bogdan Toma Radu ,   Departamento de Didácticas Específicas, Universidad de Burgos, Spain, Cuesta Gómez José Luis ,   Departamento de Ciencias de la Educación, Universidad de Burgos, Spain, Merino Martínez María ,   Asociación Autismo Burgos, Spain
Published: October 2023

Background: High-ability students require effective educational strategies. This study introduces and evaluates a curriculum enrichment programme aimed at enhancing creativity. The programme is based on a competency framework and was implemented using variations of Project-Based Learning (PBL) strategies. Method: A quasi-experimental design compared two interventions using pre-test and post-test groups. The first intervention (N = 38) involved a 12-week PBL unit focused on designing a video game using block-based programming through Scratch. The second intervention (N = 51), also lasting 12 weeks, comprised three separate projects involving vectorial design and programming of an Arduino-based robot. Both interventions used strategies for creative-thinking development. The sample included high-ability students from 8 to 12 years of age. Results: Both interventions significantly increased creativity, with no statistical differences between them. This suggests that both types of PBL interventions effectively improved participants’ creativity. Conclusions: This study suggests that PBL-based curricular enrichment programmes are effective in fostering creativity among high-ability students.
Evaluation of the Changes and Achievements Perceived in Graduate Tourism Education On the Basis of Transformative Learning Theory
Authors: Komşu Ufuk Cem
Published: October 2023

Abstract

It is seen that postgraduate education gains importance to have new information, skills and experiments in a constantly changing and transforming the world. Postgraduate education in a field that shows a need for high-quality labor, such as the tourism industry, is expected to comply with this structure and create a transforming effect on the learners. This study aims to evaluate the personal changes, skills and learning outcomes that the students studying in postgraduate programs in the field of tourism can perceive as a result of the educational process on the basis of Transformative Learning Theory, and has been built according to the qualitative research model. As the data collection technique, the interview technique was employed to the study group which consists of 34 people who were designated through a purposeful sampling method. From the data obtained, totally eleven main codes and six groups of themes derived. The study findings showed that postgraduate tourism education generally provides the expected academic and vocational gains; however, they are not at a level that is effective in causing a transformation in individuals. On the other hand, it was detected that some transformations occurred in a small part of the study group in compliance with the transformative learning theory. Critical thinking, self-expression and showing empathy are remarkable among the new knowledge and skills defined as an achievement. Interrogative manner, acting self-confident, and being kind to different thoughts and cultures became prominent as the new personality traits. It will be beneficial for the researchers in the future to focus on the methods to improve the quality of education through program development in postgraduate tourism education. Furthermore, it can be suggested to implement such research periodically as long-term projects and to design them in mixed patterns.
Verification, implementation and harmonization of automated chemiluminescent immunoassays for MPO- and PR3-ANCA detection
Authors: Ogrič Manca , Švec Tinka , Poljšak Katjuša Mrak , Žigon Polona , Hočevar Alojzija , Čučnik Saša
Published: October 2023

Objectives

Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) testing assists clinicians diagnose ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV). We aimed to verify and harmonize chemiluminescent immunoassays for the detection of myeloperoxidase (MPO)- and proteinase 3 (PR3)-ANCA.

Methods

An in-house ELISA, a capture ELISA, and a chemiluminescent assay QUANTA Flash on a BIO-FLASH analyzer were used to detect MPO- and PR3-ANCA in sera from 39 patients with AAV, 55 patients with various non-AAV, and 66 patients with connective tissue diseases. The results of the assays were evaluated, and their clinical performance was assessed. The precision and linearity of the QUANTA Flash assays were determined, and likelihood ratios (LRs) for AAV at diagnosis were calculated.

Results

The precision and linearity of the QUANTA Flash assays were confirmed. Overall agreement between 97.5 and 98.8 % and Cohen’s kappa coefficients between 0.861 and 0.947 were observed for the results of the QUANTA Flash assays and ELISAs. The diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, and ROC analysis of the assays for AAV were statistically similar (in-house ELISA 89.7 %, 95.0 %, and 0.937; capture ELISA 92.3 %, 98.3 %, and 0.939; and QUANTA Flash 89.7 %, 95.9 %, and 0.972). For the QUANTA Flash assay results, the interval-specific LRs for AAV at diagnosis were: 0–8 CU had LR 0.08, 8–29 CU had LR 1.03, 29–121 CU had LR 7.76, 121–191 CU had LR 12.4, and >191 CU had LR ∞.

Conclusions

The QUANTA Flash MPO and PR3 assays provide precise and consistent results and have comparable clinical utility for AAV. The calculated LRs were consistent with published LRs, confirming the utility of LRs for harmonization of ANCA results.
Re-evaluation of local anesthesia transtympanic electrical auditory brainstem response in cochlear implant candidacy
Authors: Polterauer Daniel , Mandruzzato Giacomo , Neuling Maike , Polak Marek , Müller Joachim , Hempel John Martin
Published: October 2023

Introduction: The trans-tympanic electrically evoked auditory brainstem response measurement in local anesthesia (= LA-TT-EABR) has been shown as a useful tool in doubtful CI candidacy to objectively evaluate the excitability of the auditory pathway up to the brainstem. Previous studies in this matter were of relatively low subjects number. To update the knowledge of the reliability of LA-TTEABR, we re-evaluated the latest results from a bigger subjects dataset from our clinic and follow up regarding hearing sensation post-operatively. Methods: LA-TT-EABR was performed, as described in previous publications, with a trans-tympanic golf-club electrode in the round window niche for pre-operative stimulation in local anesthesia and with an evoked potential device for EABR recording. Hearing sensations were monitored in the implanted CI subjects. Results: 39 of 40 planned subjects were included in this study. In 22 subjects, a positive LA-TT-EABR was recorded. In 11 subjects, the response was insecure. In 6 subjects, no response was recorded. One subject was excluded because of pain during the paracentesis. Among them, 19 were implanted with a CI, and 18 had hearing sensations with a hearing prosthesis post-operative. The sensitivity and specificity of LA-TTEABR in estimating the excitability of the auditory nerve preoperatively are both 100%. Conclusion: LA-TT-EABR was shown as a reliable pre-operative test to objectively evaluate the auditory brainstem response. In addition to LA-TT-EABR, an analysis of the auditory cortex using LA-TT-EALR may provide correlation and confirmation of LA-TT-EABR results and additional information about cortical reorganization after long deafness.
The integrality conjecture and the cohomology of preprojective stacks
Authors: Davison Ben
Published: October 2023

We study the Borel–Moore homology of stacks of representations of preprojective algebras

Π
Q

\Pi_{Q}

, via the study of the DT theory of the undeformed 3-Calabi–Yau completion

Π
Q

⁢

[
x
]

\Pi_{Q}[x]

.
Via a result on the supports of the BPS sheaves for

Π
Q

⁢

[
x
]

⁢
-mod

\Pi_{Q}[x]\textup{-mod}

, we prove purity of the BPS cohomology for the stack of

Π
Q

⁢

[
x
]

\Pi_{Q}[x]

-modules and define BPS sheaves for stacks of

Π
Q

\Pi_{Q}

-modules.
These are mixed Hodge modules on the coarse moduli space of

Π
Q

\Pi_{Q}

-modules that control the Borel–Moore homology and geometric representation theory associated to these stacks.
We show that the hypercohomology of these objects is pure and thus that the Borel–Moore homology of stacks of

Π
Q

\Pi_{Q}

-modules is also pure.
We transport the cohomological wall-crossing and integrality theorems from DT theory to the category of

Π
Q

\Pi_{Q}

-modules.
We use our results to prove positivity of a number of “restricted” Kac polynomials, determine the critical cohomology of

Hilb
n

⁡

(

A
3

)

\operatorname{Hilb}_{n}(\mathbb{A}^{3})

, and the Borel–Moore homology of genus one character stacks, as well as providing various applications to the cohomological Hall algebras associated to Borel–Moore homology of stacks of modules over preprojective algebras, including the PBW theorem, and torsion-freeness.
Conversion of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic particles in a microwave-assisted heating reactor
Authors: Liu Yifan , Cui Longfei , Liu Hui , Zhao Wenke , Zhang Yaning
Published: October 2023

With the rapid economic development, PET (polyethylene terephthalate) plastic is widely used in various fields, i.e., clothing, food, housing and transportation. However, PET has a very strong chemical inertia, which makes it difficult to be degraded by microorganisms, thereby occupying a lot of space. Therefore, the recycling of waste PET has become one of the most important topics of environmental protection. Glycolysis requires the most mild and safe reaction environment among chemical recycling methods, and the ethylene glycol used in the reaction can be reused. Using glycolysis to recycle PET undoubtedly conforms to the green and sustainable concept, and glycolysis recycling is undoubtedly a low-cost, low-consumption and low-harm path for PET recycling. The heating and glycolysis characteristics of microwave-assisted PET glycolysis, and the energy analysis of glycolysis were studied. The aim was to produce BHET (bis(2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalate) as the target product from PET waste. In this study, the effects of reaction temperature, reaction time, and PET particle size on the performances of PET conversion rate, oligomeric BHET yield, and BHET yield were examined, and the energy efficiency and recovery efficiency also were presented. The results showed that the optimal conditions for microwave-assisted PET glycolysis were reaction temperature of 180 °C, reaction time of 30 min, and PET particle size of 75 μm, and the maximum PET conversion rate was 66.71 ± 9.71 wt%, the maximum yield of BHET was 48.08 ± 0.68 wt% and the maximum BHET yield was 19.83 ± 5.40 wt%. The energy efficiency and recovery efficiency were 11.88 % and 17.89 %, respectively.
A BiLSTM-attention-based point-of-interest recommendation algorithm
Authors: Li Aichuan , Liu Fuzhi
Published: October 2023

Aiming at the problem that users’ check-in interest preferences in social networks have complex time dependences, which leads to inaccurate point-of-interest (POI) recommendations, a location-based POI recommendation model using deep learning for social network big data is proposed. First, the original data are fed into an embedding layer of the model for dense vector representation and to obtain the user’s check-in sequence (UCS) and space-time interval information. Then, the UCS and spatiotemporal interval information are sent into a bidirectional long-term memory model for detailed analysis, where the UCS and location sequence representation are updated using a self-attention mechanism. Finally, candidate POIs are compared with the user’s preferences, and a POI sequence with three consecutive recommended locations is generated. The experimental analysis shows that the model performs best when the Huber loss function is used and the number of training iterations is set to 200. In the Foursquare dataset, Recall@20 and NDCG@20 reach 0.418 and 0.143, and in the Gowalla dataset, the corresponding values are 0.387 and 0.148.
A weight Monte Carlo estimation of fluctuations in branching processes
Authors: Uchaikin Vladimir , Kozhemiakina Elena
Published: October 2023

It is well known that shortened modeling of particle trajectories with the use multiplicative statistical weights, as a rule, increases the efficiency of the program (in terms of accuracy/time ratio).
This trick is often used in non-branching schemes simulating transfer processes without multiplication (for example, the transfer of X-ray radiation), in which it is sufficient to confine ourselves to studying only the average values of the field characteristics.
With an increase in energy, however, multiplication processes begin to play a significant role (the production of electron-photon pairs by gamma quanta with energies above 1.022 MeV, etc.), when the resulting trajectory is not just a broken curve in the phase space, but a branched tree.
This technique is also applicable to this process, but only if the study of statistical fluctuations and correlations is not the purpose of the calculation.
The present review contains the basic concepts of the Monte Carlo method as applied to the theory of particle transport, demonstration of the weighting method in non-branching processes, and ends with a discussion of unbiased estimates of the second moment and covariance of additive functionals.
Existence and uniqueness of solutions for perturbed stochastic differential equations with reflected boundary
Authors: Bahaj Faiz , Hiderah Kamal
Published: October 2023

In this paper, under some suitable conditions, we prove existence of a strong solution and uniqueness for the perturbed stochastic differential equations with reflected boundary (PSDERB), that is,

{

x
⁢

(
t
)

=

x
⁢

(
0
)

+

∫
0
t

σ
⁢

(
s
,

x
⁢

(
s
)

)

⁢

d
B

⁢

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)

+

∫
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t

b
⁢

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s
,

x
⁢

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)

)

⁢

d
s

+

α
⁢

(
t
)

⁢
H
⁢

(

max

0
≤
u
≤
t

⁡
x

⁢

(
u
)

)

+

β
⁢

(
t
)

⁢

L
t
0

⁢

(
x
)

,

x
⁢

(
t
)

≥
0

for all
⁢
t

≥
0

,

\left\{\begin{aligned} {}x(t)&=x(0)+\int_{0}^{t}\sigma(s,x(s))\,dB(s)+\int_{0}^{t}b(s,x(s))\,ds+\alpha(t)H\bigl{(}\max_{0\leq u\leq t}x(u)\bigr{)}+\beta(t)L_{t}^{0}(x),\\
x(t)&\geq 0\quad\text{for all}\ t\geq 0,\end{aligned}\right.

where 𝐻 is a continuous R-valued function,

σ
,
b
,
α

\sigma,b,\alpha

and 𝛽 are measurable functions,

L
t
0

L_{t}^{0}

denotes a local time at point zero for the time of the semi-martingale 𝑥.
ORF3c is expressed in SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected cells and inhibits innate sensing by targeting MAVS
Authors: Müller Martin , Herrmann Alexandra , Fujita Shigeru , Uriu Keiya , Kruth Carolin , Strange Adam , Kolberg Jan E , Schneider Markus , Ito Jumpei , Müller Marcel A , Drosten Christian , Ensser Armin ,   The Genotype to Phenotype Japan (G2P‐Japan) Consortium, Sato Kei , Sauter Daniel
Published: October 2023

Most SARS‐CoV‐2 proteins are translated from subgenomic RNAs (sgRNAs). While the majority of these sgRNAs are monocistronic, some viral mRNAs encode more than one protein. One example is the ORF3a sgRNA that also encodes ORF3c, an enigmatic 41‐amino‐acid peptide. Here, we show that ORF3c is expressed in SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected cells and suppresses RIG‐I‐ and MDA5‐mediated IFN‐β induction. ORF3c interacts with the signaling adaptor MAVS, induces its C‐terminal cleavage, and inhibits the interaction of RIG‐I with MAVS. The immunosuppressive activity of ORF3c is conserved among members of the subgenus sarbecovirus, including SARS‐CoV and coronaviruses isolated from bats. Notably, however, the SARS‐CoV‐2 delta and kappa variants harbor premature stop codons in ORF3c, demonstrating that this reading frame is not essential for efficient viral replication in vivo and is likely compensated by other viral proteins. In agreement with this, disruption of ORF3c does not significantly affect SARS‐CoV‐2 replication in CaCo‐2, CaLu‐3, or Rhinolophus alcyone cells. In summary, we here identify ORF3c as an immune evasion factor of SARS‐CoV‐2 that suppresses innate sensing in infected cells.
Machine learning models and methods for human gait recognition
Authors: Lobachev Mykhaylo V. , Purish Sergiy V.
Published: October 2023

The paper explores the challenge of human identification through gait recognition within biometric identification systems. Itoutlines the essential criteria for human biometric features, discusses primary biometric characteristics, and their application in biometric identification systems. The paper also examines the feasibility of utilizing gait as a biometric identifier, emphasizing its advantages, such as not requiring the upfront provision of personal biometric information and specialized equipment.The authors conduct an analysis of existing scientific literature in the field of gait recognition, categorizing gait recognition methodsinto template-based and non-template-based approaches. Throughout their research, they identify the key issues and challenges that researchers face in this domain, along with the prevailing trends in human gait recognition within biometric identification systems.Additionally, the paper introduces a method for person identification based on gait, utilizing the Histogram of Oriented Gradients and the Sum Variance Haralick texture features. It involves transforming input video into a series of images depicting the gait silhouette, creating a Gait Energy Image (GEI) by combining these gait silhouettes throughout a gait cycle, and translating the GEI into the Gait Gradient Magnitude Image (GGMI). The subsequent step involves extracting recommended gait characteristics from the GGMIs of participants included in a dataset.To preprocess the collected characteristics, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) is applied, reducing the dimensions that may negatively impact classification robustness, thereby enhancing overall performance. In the final step, a K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN) classifier is employed to categorize the characteristics obtained from a specific dataset.The proposed novel feature vector in the paper demonstrates increased reliability and effectively captures spatial variations in gait patterns. Notably, it reduces the dimensionality of the feature vector from 3780×1 to 63×1, resulting in decreased computational complexity in the gait recognition system. Experimental evaluations on the CASIA A and CASIA B datasets reveal that the proposed approach outperforms other HOG-based methods in most scenarios, with the exception of situations involving frontal images.
PROTOCOL EFFICIENCY USING MULTIPLE LEVEL ENCODING IN QUANTUM SECURE DIRECT COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL
Authors: Mohamad Rodzi Nur Syuhada , Azahari Nur Shahirah , Harun Nur Ziadah
Published: October 2023

One of the objectives of information security is to maintain the confidentiality and integrity of the information by ensuring that information is transferred in a way that is secure from any listener or attacker. There was no comparison experiment conducted in earlier studies regarding different level encoding performance towards multiphoton technique. Multiphoton technique in the earlier study is particular to transmission time for data transfer encoding and extra time for polarizers to change polarisation angles, both of which contribute to longer transmission times. With four different size of qubits, the three simulation experiments are carried out using Python coding with 2,4 and 8 levels of encoding. Experiment results demonstrate that the most efficient average photon transmission derived from 18 qubit size ranges from 98.71% to 98.73% depending on encoding level. With 18 qubit size, the four-level encoding result has the highest average efficiency, followed by the eight-level and two-level encodings, respectively. 4-level encoding exhibits the highest average photon efficiency between 2 and 8 level encoding.
Historical and Cultural Prerequisites for the Formation of the Modern Image of an Educational Counselor
Authors:   Novosibirsk State Pedagogical University, Romm Tatyana Alexandrovna
Published: October 2023

Introduction to the problem. The uncertainty of the professional position of the position of educational counselor is associated with insufficient theoretical and methodological substantiation of the content and functions of the activity. It becomes relevant to turn to the historical and pedagogical analysis of socio-cultural conditions mediating the practice of realization of the educational activity of a teacher. The aim of the article: to show the historical and cultural origins in the activity of the educational counselor, to determine the possible conditions for the formation of a positive image of the counselor in modern conditions. The methodological basis of the study is formed by the provisions of systemic (V. G. Afanasiev, M. S. Kagan, etc.) and sociocultural (A. G. Asmolov, A. S. Akhiezer, etc.) approaches, theoretical provisions of the concept of constructing social reality (P. Berger, T. Lukman, etc.). Berger, T. Lukman, A. Schütz, etc.), including in the form of images of pedagogical reality (T. A. Romm), the idea of polysubjectivity of education (D. V. Grigoriev, N. L. Selivanova, etc.). Research Findings. The position of an educational counselor can be interpreted in different senses, which set different images of his/her activity. For the formation of a positive image of the educational counselor it is important to comprehend the channels of influence on its perception by the public and professional consciousness, taking into account the existing historical experience. The formation of perceptions of the modern image of the educational adviser is connected with the existence in the national pedagogical tradition of the role of the counselor - an adult leader in children’s social organization (“vozhatsky image”) and the educational component of class leadership (“educational image”). Conclusion. Addressing the problem of forming the image of the educational counselor becomes an important task of education, because it expands ideas about the essence and functions of counselors (information function); promotes the inclusion of educational counselors in the everyday social and educational reality (integration function); promotes consolidation and identification of the bearers of this role among other social and pedagogical subjects (identification role).
Phenomenological Analysis of School Curriculum
Authors:   Institute for Education Development Strategy, Sukhanova Tatyana V.
Published: October 2023

The article considers school curricula as a pedagogical phenomenon, which is understood as a general reflection of theoretical ideas about the content of education, fixed in a normative document and maintaining relative stability over a long period of time. The purpose of the article is to describe the main characteristics of curricula that determine the features of the school curriculum as a pedagogical phenomenon. The main research method is phenomenological analysis, auxiliary methods are historical and pedagogical analysis and expert analysis of documents. The analysis of curricula created over 100 years in Soviet and Russian schools is carried out in the logic of a systematic approach. As a result of the study, the author identified a set of qualitative characteristics of curricula: focus on achieving learning outcomes, objectivity, integrativity, consistency, variability, stability (sustainability), richness, flexibility, cultural conformity. Among them, a “core” of permanent characteristics has been singled out, which have been characteristic of curricula for decades in an almost unchanged form and which ensure the functionality of this type of pedagogical documentation. In addition, the author additionally highlights additional qualities that, in different periods of the development of the education system, are manifested in curricula to varying degrees, from the minimum to the maximum possible. The identified complex of characteristics reveals the value-semantic basis of curricula and their deep non-linear connections with the content of education.
Brain-affecting technologies, personal identity and authenticity
Authors: Alonso Marcos
Published: October 2023

One of the recurring debates surrounding«human enhancement» is how newtechnologies affect our personal identity.Certain technologies also raise questionsregarding authenticity. This paperanalyses the impact of brain-affectingtechnologies on personal identity andauthenticity. Using as a reference DeepBrain Stimulation (DBS), a techniquedeveloped in recent years to treat disorderssuch as Parkinson´s disease, andBrain-Machine Interfaces (BMI), I willconsider whether brain-affecting technologiescould threaten or, at least, lead tomorally relevant changes in the identityor authenticity of the treated persons.
Humberto Maturana. Ciencia, educación y democracia desde la biología del amor
Authors: Nogueroles Jové Marta
Published: October 2023

El 6 de mayo de 2021 falleció HumbertoMaturana, un científico-filósoforevolucionario, que hizo importantesaportaciones a la ciencia y a las humanidadesy se atrevió a pronunciar en sudiscurso palabras como sentir, emocióny amor. Posiblemente estas palabras, tanpoco habituales en el ámbito científico yacadémico, hayan sido una de las causasde que el pensamiento de Maturana nohaya tenido el impacto que se merece,por lo menos en España, donde no es unautor muy conocido. El artículo pretendehacer un homenaje a su figura. Paraello haremos un recorrido por las quehan sido sus principales aportaciones,centrándonos en su concepción de laeducación y de la democracia.
Ethical-Attitudinal Profile of Future Peruvian Educators in New Normality
Authors: Barturén Francisco Felizardo Reluz , Lescano Nelly Dioses , Huamán Humberto Iván Morales , Angulo Doris Díaz De , Otoya Fiorela Anaí Fernández , Montaño Luisín Antonelli Taboada
Published: October 2023

To determine the ethical-attitudinal profile of university students in the education career during the pandemic with a tendency towards a new normality. University students of the education career were surveyed online, in an ethical key (axiological attitude, moral attitude and attitude towards new normality). The research was descriptive of univariate hypothesis, with non-probabilistic snowball sampling, reaching a sample of 480 participants. The Ethical-Attitudinal Profile Scale (EPEA) was designed, whose reliability was 0.93 in Lawshe's formula and 0.89 in Cronbach's Alpha. In the axiological attitude, values were obtained more frequently: respect with 79%, sincerity with 73%, prudence with 72%. In the moral attitude, a polar result is contrasted between laxity (67%) and kindness (45%); while, in the attitude towards new normality, there was no spike in frequencies, being distributed more homogeneously between indicators, with a low resilience index. There is an adequate evaluative profile of the university students of the education career despite the context of the pandemic and the trend towards a new normality; having a moral attitude of laxity inferred by the circumstances of uncertainty that are experienced in adverse contexts.
Thirst for Knowledge: Exploring Dubai's Water Quality through a Public Health Lens
Authors: Foteih Yassen Al , Karkain Rashed , Jaber Zelal , Abdulla Salimbabu
Published: October 2023

The current study aimed to evaluate the biochemical quality of both bottled water and tap water in the Emirate of Dubai. A total of sixty samples were collected (6 Brand x 10 samples each), while an additional 10 samples were taken from the tap water source. The analysis results were then compared to international standards established by IBWA, FDA, USEPA, WHO, and Abu Dhabi's specific standards. The objective was to identify any potential risks or hazards to public health arising from chemical or biological contaminants in the water. The study assessed various parameters, including total alkalinity, total hardness, and heavy metals, all of which were found to fall within international limits. Microbial content was also analyzed and compared to various standards. The results of this analysis demonstrated that the water's composition met the international norms for safe drinking water. To investigate the impact of different sodium concentrations on blood tonicity, a qualitative microscopic assessment was employed. The results revealed that sodium concentrations exceeding 3mg/L rendered the cells hypertonic. Any further increase in sodium concentration beyond this level directly correlated with increased cell hypertonicity. However, further research is required to delve into other critical aspects of water consumption in the UAE, such as public attitudes toward water and the influence of water pricing on residents' purchasing choices. Public awareness campaigns are essential to rectify misconceptions about both tap water quantity and bottled water quality.
A Review: Factors Affecting RFID Adoption on E-Commerce Supply Chain of Bangladesh
Authors: Aslam S.M. Tanzil , Wahid Rosni Binti Abdul
Published: October 2023

In Bangladesh e-commerce is getting more popular with the technological development like RFID. RFID is not a new technology but still Bangladesh can’t utilize of this technology and even RFID based distribution system. RFID technology could make business value in different levels of supply chain management. Many world-famous brands established their production house in Bangladesh mainly readymade garments, leather goods, textile, and energy-related companies, for the low production and low labor cost.  Bangladesh is a late candidate in the e-commerce industry, and it is getting tremendous popularity within a short period. Bangladesh is a growing technological nation and trying to implement innovative technology in every sector. RFID technology has an excellent opportunity to explore Bangladesh's business industry, especially for e-commerce based supply chain networks. All this literature examined the structure of RFID and its related factors. I this chapter, exiting literature associated with the factors affecting RFID adoption in e-commerce supply chain management in Bangladesh has been presented. Key elements such as technological, organizational, and environmental factors that influence RFID adoption are highlighted. The benefits and advantages of this technology implementation in the supply chain network in Bangladesh are also explained.
Design of Tactical Multipurpose All–Terrain Mobile Robot
Authors: Ranjan Rahul , Lee Seungjae , Kye Joongeup
Published: October 2023

Robotic systems that can assist soldiers in dangerous operations are essential technologies that improve safety and efficiency. This paper presents the development of mobile robots that can assist soldiers with target acquisition and surveillance on the battlefield. We have built a prototype that incorporates a firearm system that can perform shooting tasks. Our aim is to design and develop mobile robots that can cope with challenging scenarios such as terrorist attacks and rescue missions. Our robots can transmit photographic images or live streaming via a spy camera, and based on the visual information, soldiers can fire at their target with a gun mounted on the robot. We discussed the key technologies needed to design and manufacture such combat robots. Existing high-specification combat robots are expensive and inaccessible to students and researchers interested in the field. This paper reveals the technologies to develop a low-cost combat robot. This system can be used for real-time applications at an affordable price by using more advanced technology to improve its accuracy.
Revitalizing Real Estate Professionalism: Assessing the Impact of RERA on Channel Partners in India
Authors: Patra Ratan Kumar , Patro Y Soma Shekhar
Published: October 2023

In the dynamic landscape of the 21st-century real estate market, factors such as the paradox of choice and technological advancements significantly influence consumer behavior. To extend their services to a broader customer base, developers, builders, and marketing partners in the real estate sector are establishing intermediaries and efficient channels. For an extended period, the Indian real estate market operated without regulations, exposing buyers to unfair dealings, malpractices, and biased transactions facilitated by channel partners. The Real Estate Regulatory Act (RERA) was enacted in 2016, introducing robust guidelines to protect the interests of real estate buyers. This study delves into the transformative impact of RERA on channel management within the Indian real estate sector and its implications for real estate transactions. Drawing insights from a survey of 200 respondents who have purchased houses, the findings underscore the positive influence of RERA on the professionalism of channel partners. This impact manifests in heightened transparency, accountability, and ethical practices in real estate transactions. The research reveals an increased confidence among buyers in engaging with channel partners for real estate transactions. In contributing to the existing body of literature on RERA, this research emphasizes the pivotal role of professionalism and ethical practices among channel partners in ensuring the sustainable growth of the real estate industry in India.
Effcetiveness of CBT and Sex Therapy on Marital Adjustment and Sexual Function among Patient with Premature Ejaculation
Authors: Khandelwal Mahi , Rathore Sudha
Published: October 2023

The satisfaction of a good sexual interaction between spouses is one of the most crucial elements in a happy marriage. The research’s purpose was to ascertain the effectiveness combination of CBT and sex therapy (Master & Johnson, 1970) on marital adjustment (MA) and Sexual Function (SF) among patient with Premature ejaculation (PE). good loving attitude toward each other in relationships, and decreases interpersonal discontent. In this view, Author proposed a combination therapy of sex therapy and CBT for sexual dysfunction, such as PE. The tools used were Brief Sexual Function Inventory (self devised) and Marital adjustment scale (MAS) (Locke & Wallace, 1959). Statistical tools used were Descriptive Statistics, Paired sample t test, Analysis of Variance and Post-Hoc Tukey HSD. The pre-intervention mean score of 4 groups was insignificant on MAS and SES. The results of the paired samples t-test were used to assess pre and posttest scores for all the 3 interventions groups. The post-intervention means score of all 4 groups was significantly different over MAS and SF. The post hoc analysis revealed that the mean score differences were most significant in combined therapy of ST and CBT as compared to ST and CBT individually. This paper utilizes psychological therapy and sex therapy can have larger implication on maintaining sexual intimacy among couples and in turn having a long-lasting effect on marital adjustment.
Determinants Influencing Consumers' Intent to Purchase Agricultural Products Online in Thailand
Authors: Potjanajaruwit Pisit
Published: October 2023

This research aims to: 1. Study the factors that influence the intention to purchase agricultural products online among Gen X and Y consumers, and 2. Examine the impact of purchasing intentions on the online agricultural product buying behavior of Gen X and Y consumers in Thailand. For this study, a sample of 400 online consumers aged 19 to 54 years was selected. Data was gathered through an online questionnaire and analyzed using multiple regression, with further validation to ensure model consistency. The study revealed that the intention to buy agricultural products online correlates with the actual online purchasing behavior, with a predictive efficiency of 36.7% (R2=0.367). For consumers in the Gen X and Gen Y demographics, their purchasing intentions are shaped by factors related to technology acceptance, perceived benefits from technology, ease of use, attitudes, and elements of the marketing mix such as price and sales promotions. However, aspects of the marketing mix like product and process did not influence the intention to purchase agricultural products online.
Metadata as a tool of the semantic analysis of the complex contents of the big data. The images
Authors:   Institute of Software Systems NAS of Ukraine, Zakharova O.V.
Published: October 2023

The purpose of the research is to specify effective approaches for improving the semantic analysis of graphic contents of big data. This article considers images or video scenes as examples of such complex contents. Proposed approach takes into account the special features of these contents and create a hybrid annotation model that extends the text annotation model with more specific elements. For the visual data, these are characteristics of visualization. Determining the similarity of information contents is a critical problem for solving big data tasks. It is the basis for the big data categorization and enables the composition of the documents, conversion of an unstructured contents to relevant knowledge structures and the visualization of the information. Semantic analysis of information contents is usually based on their metadata, which form the basis of semantic annotations. Also, they are elements of a structured semantic description of the content and the basis for its automated processing. The approach is based on using ontologies to define semantic annotations. Ontologies provide various sources of knowledge to measure semantic similarity, contain a lot of information about the interpretation of concepts and other semantic relationships with a hierarchical structure based on hyponymy relations. But, in recent years, there is the rapid growth of the number of images and video resources. And, at this time, we can note a significant enrichment of available visual information. From a visual point of view, it is easier to understand whether two concepts are similar. Therefore, the integration of semantic and visual information of the image ensures the optimization of the ontological methods for similarity estimation and allows to obtain similarity metrics that are more consistent with human perception. De facto, such assessments of the complex semantic similarity of concepts are defined by the composition of two functions, the first of which, in fact, is an ontological measure of similarity, and the second is built on the basis of a complex facilities vector. It is a concatenation of semantic and visual characteristics with an established weight balance between these two types of features. The combination of visualization features with semantic and ontological characteristics of the contents in the similarity metrics is the central idea of this study.
Зменшення рекомбінаційних втрат у дифузійних приповерхневих емітерних шарах фоточутливих кремнієвих структур n+-p-p+
Authors: Kostylyov V.P. , Sachenko A.V. , Slusar T.V. , Chernenko V.V.
Published: October 2023

Встановлено, що пiсля проведення операцiї дифузiї при створеннi n+-емiтера фоточутливих структур типу n+-p-p+ його приповерхневий шар має значнi структурнi пошкодження з пiдвищеними рекомбiнацiйними втратами. Проведено дослiдження впливу додаткових обробок у виглядi циклiв стравлювання-вирощування шару двоокису кремнiю на поверхнi емiтера при виготовленнi таких фоточутливих кремнiєвих структур на їхнi фотоелектричнi i рекомбiнацiйнi характеристики. Показано, що застосування таких додаткових обробок у процесi виготовлення фоточутливих кремнiєвих структур дозволяє ефективно зменшити рекомбiнацiйнi втрати i, тим самим, значно покращити фотоелектричнi параметри таких структур, в тому числi i їхню спектральну та порогову фоточутливiсть.
COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy Among Parents: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Honcoop Aubree , Roberts James R. , Davis Boyd , Pope Charlene , Dawley Erin , McCulloh Russell J. , Garza Maryam Y. , Greer Melody L. , Snowden Jessica , Fu Linda Y. , Young Heather , Dehority Walter , Enlow Paul T. , Watts Delma-Jean , Queen Katie , Costello Lisa M. , Alamarat Zain , Darden Paul M.
Published: October 2023

OBJECTIVES

Addressing parental/caregivers’ coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine hesitancy is critical to improving vaccine uptake in children. Common concerns have been previously reported through online surveys, but qualitative data from KII and focus groups may add much-needed context. Our objective was to examine factors impacting pediatric COVID-19 vaccine decision-making in Black, Spanish-speaking, and rural white parents/caregivers to inform the content design of a mobile application to improve pediatric COVID-19 vaccine uptake.

METHODS

Parents/caregivers of children aged 2 to 17 years from groups disproportionately affected by COVID-19–related vaccine hesitancy (rural-dwelling persons of any race/ethnicity, urban Black persons, and Spanish-speaking persons) were included on the basis of their self-reported vaccine hesitancy and stratified by race/ethnicity. Those expressing vaccine acceptance or refusal participated in KII, and those expressing hesitancy in focus groups. Deidentified transcripts underwent discourse analysis and thematic analysis, both individually and as a collection. Themes were revised until coders reached consensus.

RESULTS

Overall, 36 participants completed the study: 4 vaccine acceptors and 4 refusers via KIIs, and the remaining 28 participated in focus groups. Participants from all focus groups expressed that they would listen to their doctor for information about COVID-19 vaccines. Infertility was a common concern, along with general concerns about vaccines. Vaccine decision-making was informed by the amount of information available to parents/caregivers, including scientific research; possible positive and negative long-term effects; and potential impacts of vaccination on preexisting medical conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

Parents/caregivers report numerous addressable vaccine concerns. Our results will inform specific, targeted interventions for improving COVID-19 vaccine confidence.
Representações sociais de universitários sobre a não maternidade
Authors: Valongo de Souza Ihailana Luize , De Alencar Pereira Camila , Lima Leite Eldo
Published: October 2023

A maternidade sempre foi socialmente protegida por contribuir com a continuidade da organização familiar. Entretanto, devido a ascensão feminina no mercado de trabalho mulheres estão escolhendo não ter filhos ou adiar a maternidade. Dessa forma, este estudo teve como objetivo identificar as representações sociais de universitários sobre a não maternidade. Participaram 180 estudantes universitários com média de idade de 28 anos (DP= 9,22); sendo 78,9% do sexo feminino e 21,1% do sexo masculino. Os dados foram coletados por meio de questionários. Estes foram analisados por meio dos Softwares SPSS e IRAMUTEQ, respectivamente. Identificamos, que as representações sociais da não maternidade estão apoiadas nos aspectos biológicos da mulher e na construção sociocultural de gênero. No entanto, o conhecimento social dos direitos femininos, justificam tal decisão. Mas, a imposição da maternidade ainda é socialmente uma condição feminina.
Efficacy of ClinproTMXT Varnish surrounding brackets on the enamel surface of white spot lesion.
Authors: Bergamo Ana Zilda Nazar , Miguel Lucas Portilho , Delgado Renata Zoraida Rizental , Palma-Dibb Regina Guenka , Faraoni Juliana Jendiroba , Gatón-Hernández Patricia , Silva Raquel Assed Bezerra da , Silva Léa Assed Bezerra da , Nelson-Filho Paulo
Published: October 2023

Abstract Orthodontics patients usual develop demineralization and present cavity caries lesions after six months. Minimally invasive procedures have been the goal in modern dental practice. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of ClinproTMXT Varnish, on the enamel surface roughness and severity of white spot lesions. Twenty premolars were submitted to bond brackets and experimental induction of demineralization and randomly divided into 2 groups: GI - fluoride varnish (Colgate Duraphat®); GII - Ionomeric Sealant (ClinproTMXT Varnish). The treatment was applied around the brackets. The surface roughness of specimens was analyzed, before treatment and 12 weeks after treatment by laser confocal microscopy, and the severity of the white spot lesion was by laser fluorescence device. The data were analyzed by non-parametric Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney Test, at 5% significance, roughness percentage reduction was performed. The severity of demineralization decreased in both, GI (p = 0.005) and GII (p = 0.019). Enamel superficial roughness levels decreased in GI and GII. As well as the roughness percentage, being more expressive in the ClinproTMXT Varnish group (85,09%). Colgate Duraphat® or Clinpro™ XT Varnish reduced the severity of the demineralization and decreased the superficial roughness on the enamel. The Clinpro™ XT Varnish was superior to superficial roughness on enamel.
Fracture resistance and bonding performance after antioxidants pre-treatment in non-vital and bleached teeth
Authors: Silva Aryvelto Miranda , Zaniboni Joissi Ferrari , Alencar Cristiane de Melo , Campos Edson Alves de , Dantas Andrea Abi Rached , Kuga Milton Carlos
Published: October 2023

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the effect of antioxidant solutions on fracture strength and bonding performance in non-vital and bleached (38% hydrogen peroxide) teeth. One hundred and eighty dentin specimens were obtained, 60 for each test: fracture strength, hybrid layer thickness, and bond strength. The groups (n=10) were randomly composed according to post-bleaching protocol: REST - restoration, without bleaching; BL - bleaching + restoration; SA - bleaching, 10% sodium ascorbate solution, and restoration; AT - bleaching, 10% α-tocopherol solution, and restoration; CRAN - bleaching, 5% cranberry solution, and restoration; CAP - bleaching, 0.0025% capsaicin solution, and restoration. Data were analyzed with ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis, Dunn, and Qui-Square tests (α=0.05). The highest fracture strength values were observed in REST (1508.96 ±148.15 N), without significant difference for the bleached groups (p>0.05), regardless of the antioxidant use. The hybrid layer thickness in the group that was not subjected to bleaching (REST) was significantly higher than in any other group. The bond strength in the bleached and antioxidants-treated groups (SA, AT, CRAN, CAP) has no differences with the bleached group without antioxidants (BL). Adhesive failures were predominant in the groups that did not receive the antioxidant application. In conclusion, the evaluated antioxidants did not show an effect on the fracture strength, hybrid layer thickness, or bond strength of dentin bleached after endodontic treatment. The application of 10% sodium ascorbate, 10% alpha-tocopherol, 5% cranberry, or 0.0025% capsaicin solutions is not an effective step and should not be considered for the restorative protocols after non-vital bleaching.