bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Challenging Aspects of the Identification of a Conflict of Interests in Proceedings for Protection of Rights and Legal Interests of a Group of Persons
Authors: Ginzburg Irina V. ,   Associate Professor of the Department of Civil Law and Procedure of the National Research Ogarev Mordovia State University
Published: July 2024

The article examines the problematic aspects of identifying and preventing conflicts of interest in proceedings for protection of the rights and legitimate interests of a group of persons. Considering the peculiarity of a class action, which consists in uniting of many various interests, the conclusion is argued, that determining the circumstances indicating the presence of a conflict of interest is a task of law enforcement in group proceedings, which must be resolved by judges individually every time, depending on the specific circumstances of the case.
The Concept and the Legal Nature of Public Government in Russia
Authors: Chernyaeva Valeria A. ,   Leading Specialist of the Department of General and Special Records Management of the Prosecutor's Office of the Republic of Mordovia
Published: July 2024

In this article, the author examines the features of the legal regulation of the institution of public power in Russia, reveals its characteristic features, and examines the legal nature. The author analyzes the content of the system of public power, basing his conclusions on the conclusions of the Constitutional Court of the Russian Federation. The author reveals the features of public power before it was officially enshrined at the legislative level, analyzes the decisions of the Constitutional Court of the Russian Federation, in which the signs of public power were revealed. The analysis of the concept and signs of public power is given in the historical aspect, it is concluded that in the federal territory public power can be characterized as mixed, in which the signs of the regional level of government and local self-government bodies are intertwined, it is concluded that a new level of power has been formed in Russia — public power.
VICTIMOLOGICAL PREVENTION OF CYBER CRIMES IN THE KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA
Authors: Shestak Viktor A. ,   Professor of the Department of Criminalistics of the Moscow Academy, Tsyplakova Alyona D. ,   Lecturer of the Department of Criminal Law, Criminal Procedure and Criminology of the Moscow
Published: July 2024

The article analyzes the most famous cyber attacks on targets in Saudi Arabia and general approaches to victimological prevention of cyber crimes in this country. The Kingdom has lately been showing excellent results in cyber risk mitigation. Today, it is actively implementing plans developed within Vision 2030 and the National Cybersecurity Strategy 2020. The created mechanisms facilitate inter-sectoral cooperation and small government machinery makes it possible to implement the unified policy.
O lugar do passado no eterno país do futuro:
Authors: Dos Anjos Flávio Sacco , Velleda Caldas Nádia
Published: July 2024

O artigo propõe uma reflexão acerca do turismo cultural no Brasil a partir de documentos concebidos pelo governo federal, evidenciando a necessidade de repensar os dispositivos de valorização do patrimônio cultural. Aborda também o caso do turismo de Pelotas como expressão das distorções de uma narrativa histórica construída sobre a exaltação das glórias de uma elite escravocrata e o processo de silenciamento dos subalternos na formação da cultura regional.
Arquitetura Moderna em Joinville (SC)
Authors: Vicente Tayna , De Carvalho Lamas Nadja , Marmo Rizi Alena
Published: July 2024

Este artigo apresenta uma proposição de percurso cultural por edificações modernistas no centro histórico da cidade de Joinville (SC), como desdobramento de pesquisa. A proposta de intervenção urbana visa a valorização arquitetônica, uma vez que essas edificações estão a margem da salvaguarda patrimonial da cidade. Propõe-se um Roteiro pela Arquitetura Moderna, como possibilidade de aproximação da comunidade com esses bens, apresentando fatos históricos e arquitetônicos sobre tais edificações.
Game Performance Improvements in Sport Education and Tactical Games Models
Authors: Losee Timothy , Van Dyke Erika D. , France Thaddeus J.
Published: July 2024

The Tactical Games Model (TGM) is summarized as a physical education model where the emphasis is on developing the underlying core components of games and sports to develop the tactical and per-formance skills of participants, known as game performance (Metzler, 2011). The Sport Education Model (SEM) is a physical education model structured and sequenced in a league-based format to provide students with a realistic feeling of being part of a sports team and to gain an un-derstanding of all aspects of competitive organized sport. Evidence to support the SEM successfully developing game performance skills is lim-ited and inconsistent (Farias et al., 2015). The purpose of the study was to investigate the game performance of pre-service physical education teachers in two different instructional models, SEM and TGM, from pre-test to post-test. Forty-six male (n = 32) and female (n = 14) par-ticipants took part in either a SEM or TGM Team Handball Unit. Each unit consisted of 10 lessons planned and implemented by the instructor. The game performance components Adjust, Support, and Passing were examined by the researchers using the Game Performance Assessment Instrument (Oslin et al., 1998) through four-minute observations in a small-sided game situation at pre-test and post-test. No significant (p > .05) interaction was found between SEM and TGM instructional models over time for game performance variables. No significant (p > .05) difference was found in game performance between SEM and TGM instructional models. A statistically significant (p < .05) main effect was found for time, such that game performance scores increased from pre-test to post-test for both SEM and TGM instructional mod-els. Based on the findings of the current study, both SEM and TGM instructional models may increase game performance when instructed with fidelity. The results could be explained through understanding the connection the SEM and Situated Learning Theory (Lave & Wenger, 1991) and/or team cohesion. The results have practical implications for physical educators, and directions for future research are discussed.
The Community-Building Potential of Street Art: Ephemeral Communities Formed Around Ephemeral Art
Authors: Gralińska-Toborek Agnieszka
Published: July 2024

The article analyzes the phenomenon of street art in the context of its impact on the creation of local or global communities of both creators and audiences. It takes into consideration various forms of expression such as graffiti, community murals, or interventions by individual artists. It examines to what extent the communities formed around artistic activities are lasting and cohesive. Graffiti, as a form of art typical of the hip-hop subculture, represents expressions by groups that are closed and anonymous for the majority of society. Despite strong connections, these groups are usually temporary and may disband after the completion of specific projects. Other forms of street art are typically created by individual artists seeking to develop a unique style. Open, global networks of enthusiasts, activists, and organizations form around them, with the internet and social media serving as platforms used to maintain the connection between artists and their audience. Some street artists (e.g. JR or Swoon) are particularly sensitive to social issues and contribute to forming and sustaining local communities through their creations, even if they do not necessarily belong to them. A specific form of street art are community murals commissioned by a community to enhance its identity and cohesion. Street art and graffiti, therefore, have the ability to create communities on various levels, even despite their informal and ephemeral nature.
Tillage and Seaweed Extract Effects on Soil Physio-chemical Properties, Microbial Population and Yield of Sweet Corn (Zea mays saccharata L.) in Hills of Nagaland
Authors: Kumari Shivani , Tzudir Lanunola , Gohain T. , Singh A.P. , Nongmaithem D. , Yadav Rekha , Kikon Noyingthung , Dutta Manoj
Published: July 2024

Background: Sweet corn is a selectively crossbred variant of maize designed with the intention of enhancing its sugar content. It highly remunerative and is gaining momentum among the progressive farmers due to its extra sweetness, early maturity, nutritious green fodder at harvest which earns high market value. Methods: Field experiments were undertaken during kharif season of 2021 and 2022 at Experimental Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SAS, Nagaland University to access tillage and seaweed extract effects on soil physio-chemical properties, microbial population and yield of sweet corn. Result: The results from study revealed that yield parameters such as green cob yield, green fodder yield showed significant increase under conventional tillage and application of 10% S-SWE. Highest microbial population was exhibited under zero tilled plots, Sargassum seaweed extract (15% S-SWE) application noted significantly higher bacterial, actinomycetes and total microbial population.
Religiusitas dengan authentic happiness pada Pelajar
Authors: Rasyid Abdullah , Pandya Muhammad Fikran
Published: July 2024

This research aims to determine the relationship between religiosity and authentic happiness in MAN 2 Pasuruan students. This research uses quantitative methods by looking at the correlation between two variables. The scales used in this research are the religiosity scale (validity: 14 items, coefficient value > 0.300, reliability 0.903) and the authentic happiness scale (validity: 1 item, coefficient value > 0.300, reliability 0.961). The number of respondents was 275 MAN 2 Pasuruan students taken from classes X, XI, and XII randomly via a questionnaire. The data analysis technique in this study used product moment analysis with a correlation coefficient of 0.135 and a significance level of 0.025
El Terruño, el arado y la superación del gaucho. Estudio sobre una revista cultural uruguaya (1917-1950)
Authors: Casas Matías Emiliano
Published: July 2024

El artículo estudia la revista uruguaya El Terruño, que comenzó a editarse en 1917 y apareció de manera ininterrumpida hasta 1950. Se presentó como una «revista campera» y se asentó sobre la vacancia que había dejado el periódico criollo El Fogón. A partir de la consulta de ciento veintiocho números, se indaga sobre los redactores, sus líneas editoriales y sus vínculos con las transformaciones socio-económicas en el país. A través de la revisión de las diferentes secciones, se discute la relación de la publicación con la política partidista y con el proceso de consagración del gaucho como símbolo del Uruguay. Lejos de atender exclusivamente las páginas más relevantes de El Terruño, se realiza una lectura integral de cada número para poner de relieve la dialéctica entre sus partes y la integración al mercado editorial. Al tratarse de una revista inexplorada por la crítica especializada, se alude a los escritores, se corrobora la vigencia de la publicación en la primera mitad del siglo XX, asimismo se problematiza la relación entre «posgauchesca» y modernización. Esto permite apreciar que los discursos circulantes sobre el gaucho no solo contenían sentidos elogiosos y consagratorios, sino que estaban cargados de tensiones sobre su carácter modélico para la sociedad uruguaya.
Las independencias (revoluciones) de Iberoamérica ¿continúan en su laberinto?
Authors: Chust Calero Manuel
Published: July 2024

La historia e historiografía de los procesos revolucionarios de independencia latinoamericanos constituyeron uno de los acontecimientos más importantes de la primera mitad del siglo XIX para explicar la historia contemporánea universal. No obstante, estos se han omitido en la mayor parte de los manuales y guías docentes de las universidades del mundo occidental. Este trabajo no sólo pretende reivindicar su importancia en la historia contemporánea universal sino explicar esta omisión, sus raíces y la evolución e importancia de este tema a niveles no sólo académicos sino también ideológicos y políticos a lo largo de la segunda mitad del siglo XX.
CLARISSA Cash Plus Social Protection Intervention: An Evaluation
Authors: Howard Neil , Roelen Keetie , Ton Giel , Espinoza Mauricio , Aktar Afrin , Al Mamun Saklain
Published: July 2024

This paper presents the results of the multi-method evaluation of the CLARISSA Cash Plus pilot, which was an innovative social protection scheme for tackling social ills, including the worst forms of child labour. A universal and unconditional ‘cash plus’ programme, it combined community mobilisation, case work, and cash transfers, and was implemented across a high-density, low-income neighbourhood in Dhaka. Findings show that the intervention was impactful in reducing people’s poverty and increasing their wellbeing and resilience. Impacts on work and working conditions were present but limited, quite likely because impact pathways on this ultimate outcome are complex and overlapping. The positive synergies between cash and non-cash components were marked and strongly suggest the need to replicate and scale an intervention of this nature. Recommendations from the evidence are offered for government, donors, and civil society.
Opening the Black Box of Participatory Action Research in Response to the Worst Forms of Child Labour in Nepal and Bangladesh
Authors: Snijder Mieke , Apgar Marina , Afroze Jiniya , Arulanantham Amit , Hicks Jacqueline , Karki Shanta , Mareschal Sophie , Paul Sukanta , Uddin Forhad , Veitch Helen
Published: July 2024

How, for whom, and under what conditions does Participatory Action Research (PAR) generate innovation to tackle the drivers of the worst forms of child labour (WFCL)? This paper presents the findings of a realist evaluation that investigated how PAR groups facilitated children who work in exploitative and harmful labour and business owners in the leather industry in Bangladesh and the adult entertainment sector in Nepal to generate innovative actions. These PAR groups were facilitated over a period of 18 months to two years by non-governmental organisation professionals trained in PAR approaches.
Mental Health and Wellbeing
Authors: programme CLARISSA
Published: July 2024

As part of CLARISSA’s qualitative, thematic research agenda, Geographic Information System (GIS) journey mapping and ethnographic observation was conducted to gain insights into the daily lives, experiences, journeys, and feelings of children involved in the Adult Entertainment Sector (AES). Twenty children documented their daily activities using a mobile app, with support and accompaniment from CLARISSA researchers. Subsequently, a collaborative analysis was conducted with participants and the CLARISSA research team, culminating in the formation of a number of GIS-based Action Research Groups (ARGs) to work on predominant issues or themes. The formation of Nepal ARG 5 was prompted by recurring issues around children’s mental health and overall wellbeing that emerged through the research. The children involved are exposed to various forms of exploitation, abuse, trauma, and violence, all of which have a profound and adverse impact on their mental health. As such, this group was formed to work on the theme/issue ‘mental health and wellbeing’.
Analysis of effects of pre-chamber orifices on torch flame behaviours in lean-burn gas engines
Authors: Aoyagi Takahide , Wakasugi Takuya , Tsuru Daisuke , Tashima Hiroshi
Published: July 2024

Fuel conversion from heavy oil to natural gas is favoured as a quick remedy for GHG re-duction from industrial engines in ship propulsion and power generation fields thanks to fewer carbon contents in natural gas. In medium-speed gas engines, the ejection of torch flame from a pre-chamber is often used to promote flame propagation within a main com-bustion chamber. Although orifice specifications affect the ejection behaviour of the torch flame and the following combustion in the main chamber, the effects are difficult to fully understand. Some of the authors developed a constant-volume combustion vessel that simu-lated the combustion chamber around the top dead centre of a pre-chamber type gas engine and observed the effects of orifice specifications on the torch flame ejection and the com-bustion in the main chamber. Still, the correlation was not concluded due to the lack of physical examination. In the paper, the above measurement results were confirmed by using RANS-type CFD considering the larger scale of the target engines, and the physical back-ground of the effects of orifice specifications was successfully reproduced.
Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy and Postoperative Digestive Fistula
Authors: Araujo-Filho Irami , Menseses Rêgo Amália Cinthia
Published: July 2024

The pivotal role of neoadjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy in enhancing the management of gastrointestinal cancers is incontrovertible. However, their implications for surgical outcomes, particularly the risk of postoperative anastomotic fistulas, necessitate comprehensive analysis. This review examines the intricate relationship between neoadjuvant treatments and anastomotic fistula formation across a spectrum of gastrointestinal cancers, integrating findings from diverse clinical studies to elucidate risk factors and potential mitigation strategies. The timing and duration of neoadjuvant therapy emerge as critical considerations, with evidence suggesting that optimized intervals between therapy completion and surgical intervention may significantly influence fistula risk. Furthermore, patient-specific factors, including underlying health conditions and tumor characteristics, are highlighted as influential in determining fistula susceptibility. Through synthesizing current research, this review aims to guide clinical decision-making by providing insights into the balancing act of maximizing oncological efficacy while minimizing surgical complications. Future directions call for tailored treatment approaches, incorporating individual risk profiles and emerging therapeutic modalities to enhance patient outcomes in the neoadjuvant setting.
Princípios da cirurgia laparoscópica
Authors: Barreto Sancho Thamires , Cunha Medeiros Aldo
Published: July 2024

A introdução da laparoscopia é um exemplo de inovação cirúrgica com rápida implementação em diversas áreas da cirurgia, tendo início na cirurgia da vesícula biliar. Um grande número de estudos demonstraram que a cirurgia laparoscópica está associada aos mesmos benefícios que outros procedimentos minimamente invasivos, incluindo as vantagens de menos dor pós-operatória, recuperação mais precoce do trânsito intestinal e menor tempo de internação hospitalar, tanto na cirurgia para doenças benignas quanto malignas. Apesar das propostas iniciais sobre a segurança oncológica, os ensaios bem concluídos demonstraram que os resultados da laparoscopia e da cirurgia aberta são semelhantes. Há que se tenha parcimônia com o peumoperitôneo com CO 2 prolongado, devido aos efeitos tóxicos do gás e outras variáveis. Apresentamos aqui uma revisão da história da cirurgia laparoscópica, equipamentos, instrumentais, vantagens e vantagens, efeitos fisiológicos, complicações, fatos relacionados ao pneumoperitôneo, e conversão da cirurgia laparoscópica para cirurgia aberta. Prevenção de complicações e manejo de sangramento completaram a revisão.
THE EFFECT OF VARIATION IN THE NUMBER OF SPRAYS AND DISCHARGE ON THE TECHNOLOGY SPRAY FOR EVAPORATION
Authors: Cahyo Mei Syella Kurnia Putri , Moch Iqbal Darmawan  , Srie Muljani
Published: July 2024

Spray technology is an innovative salt production process technology that is able to increase seawater salinity and accelerate the salt production process. This study aims to determine the effect of variations in the amount of spray and discharge in spray technology on increasing seawater salinity. The experimental method was carried out by varying the spray and water discharge amount in spray technology according to the variables. This research has been successfully carried out to increase the salinity of synthetic seawater where to increase from the initial seawater salinity of 2.5 °Be to 24 °Be. It takes 16 hours taken in 3 days using the number of sprays as much as 5 sprays with a seawater flow rate of 0.2424 m³/hour in an evaporation pond of 15í—7 m. The use of the spray method proved effective in accelerating the rate of increase in salinity of synthetic seawater, which was tested to increase the salinity of synthetic seawater from 2.5 °Be to 12 °Be with an evaporation time in traditional methods of 15 days to only 11 hours. This can also happen because the temperature, humidity and wind speed were relatively stable when the research took place.
MOLECULAR DOCKING STUDY OF EPIGALLOCATECHIN GALLATE (EGCG) AS A THERAPY FOR TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS
Authors: Wijianto Bambang , Arief Ihsahnul , Yohana Vanesha
Published: July 2024

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) has an effect in reducing sugar levels in the blood by inhibiting Î±-glucosidase enzyme, which is connected explicitly by hydrogen bonds and modifies the secondary structure and micro-environment of the enzyme reversibly and non-competitive. This study looks at the activity and interaction of EGCG as Î±-glucosidase inhibitors in the form of binding affinity and compound bonding profiles with receptors, including toxicity predictions and drug-likeness results. The research was performed in silico with molecular docking on Autodock Vina that integrated through PyRx, then viewed the compound's binding profile with receptor using Discovery Studio 2021 Client, toxicity prediction using ProTox-II and determination of drug-likeness using SwissADME based on Lipinski's rule of five guidelines. The control drugs used were acarbose and miglitol. The molecular docking results obtained that the binding affinity of EGCG is -8.4 kcal/mol while acarbose and miglitol are -13.8 kcal/mol and -5.3 kcal/mol respectively. There are amino acid residues similar to the drug control with various interactions like electrostatic, hydrophobic, and hydrogen bonds; then it has an inactive target for each toxicity parameter and has a molecular weight of 458.37 g/mol; Log P value of 1.01; H-bond donor of 8; and H-bond acceptor of 11 in the determination of drug-likeness. Based on these results, EGCG has effectiveness as Î±-glucosidase inhibitors predicted to be non-toxic; however, there are violations in determining drug-likeness.
Biographies of pharmacists from the time of the German occupation of Poland in the light of the scientific legacy of Witold Włodzimierz Głowacki (1909-2001)
Authors: Magowska Anita
Published: July 2024

Artykuł porusza problem autentyczności biografii dotyczących czasów II wojny światowej, które zostały opublikowane w latach 1945-1989. Przedstawiono wątpliwości związane z zakresem działalności dywersyjnej kierowanej przez dr. Franciszka Witaszka (1908-1943) i trudności w ustaleniu jego współpracy z farmaceutami z Poznania i Mosiny. Ponadto wykazano, że wiedza o represjach i zbrodniach popełnionych przez Niemców na niewinnych ludziach podejrzewanych o współpracę z F. Witaszkiem jest niepełna. Omówiono nieopublikowane dotąd wspomnienia Wiktora Bawankiewicza (1910-1991) i Danuty Lipka-Dziewanowskiej (1920-2008), które zachowały się w spuściźnie historyka farmacji Witolda W. Głowackiego (1909-2001) i zostały przez niego dostosowane do oczekiwań władz komunistycznych. Wspomnienia te zostały zamieszczone w wersji możliwie najbardziej zbliżonej do oryginalnej. Wykazano względną wartość dokumentacyjną artykułów biograficznych i wspomnień opublikowanych w latach 1945-1989.
The role of reactive oxygen species in gastric cancer
Authors: Wang Yuqi , Xu Jingli , Fu Zhenjie , Zhang Ruolan , Zhu Weiwei , Zhao Qianyu , Wang Ping , Hu Can , Cheng Xiangdong
Published: July 2024

Gastric cancer (GC) ranks fifth in cancer incidence and fourth in cancer-related mortality worldwide. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are highly oxidative oxygen-derived products that have crucial roles in cell signaling regulation and maintaining internal balance. ROS are closely associated with the occurrence, development, and treatment of GC. This review summarizes recent findings on the sources of ROS and the bidirectional regulatory effects on GC and discusses various treatment modalities for GC that are related to ROS induction. In addition, the regulation of ROS by natural small molecule compounds with the highest potential for development and applications in anti-GC research is summarized. The aim of the review is to accelerate the clinical application of modulating ROS levels as a therapeutic strategy for GC.
Laser Metal Deposition of WC-NiCrBSi Powders on Gas Carburization Steels Used in Mining Industry
Authors: Kurapati Varun Kumar , Phani M Kalyan
Published: July 2024

The fusion of surface-modified steel with tungsten carbide (WC) and NiCrBSi powder through laser metal deposition has emerged as a formidable strategy for fortifying components against wear and corrosion in extreme operating environments. Meticulous selection of WC content, innovative pre-alloying techniques, and precise control of laser metal deposition profoundly influence the mechanical properties and microstructural evolution of WC-NiCrBSi coatings applied to surface-enriched commercial alloy steel (805M2, 832M13, and 827M40). These tailored coatings exhibit exceptional resilience, ideal for harsh industrial settings in Oil and gas drilling, petrochemical, and Mining sectors. Advanced materials testing techniques, including scanning electron microscopy, light optical microscopies, and microhardness testing, unveil the innate hardness attributes, with findings highlighting the unassailable fortitude of the Mixed matrix layer's side face. The amalgamation of these testing methodologies with laser metal deposition promises an unparalleled path to extend the operational lifespan of critical components in challenging working conditions. The research horizon for WC-NiCrBSi coatings remains broad, with the potential to enhance durability, operational efficiency, and cost-effectiveness across diverse applications.
A Novel Design of Oral Appliance for Monitoring the EMG of the Genioglossus Muscle in Wakefulness
Authors: Marghalani Thamer Y , Al-Angari Haitham M , Salamah Ruwaa M
Published: July 2024

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a prevalent source of sleep-disordered breathing, generally caused by common factors in modern life. OSA is most commonly associated with dysfunctions in the genioglossus (GG) muscles. In this study, we present the first version of a medical device that measures the electromyogram (EMG) of the GG. The prototype is composed of a (custom-made) 3D-printed mouthpiece. Impressions were taken for the lower arch and scanned with a lab scanner to be converted into digital impressions. ExoCad software was used to design the appliance. Fusion 360 software was then used to modify the design and create tubes to house the electrodes in a bilateral configuration to secure excellent and continuous contact with the GG muscle. Silver-silver chloride electrodes were incorporated within the appliance through the created tubes to record the muscle EMG. In this preliminary prototype, the EMG amplifier was placed outside the mouth, and isolated electric wires were connected to the amplifier input. Simple tests that included a group of OSA patients and a control group were done during wakefulness to check the comfort and stability of the device, understand the nature of GG EMG, and study which OSA might affect the daytime performance of the GG. The GG EMG was acquired from the participants for 60 seconds at Rest state when the participant rested his tongue without doing any activity. Then, the subject pushes his tongue against the fontal teeth with steady force while keeping the mouth closed (Active state). Several features were extracted from the acquired EMG: The results showed that mean power and standard deviation were higher in the control group than in the OSA group (p < 0.01). Regarding the wavelength during active state, the control group had a significantly longer wavelength than the OSA group (p < 0.01). Meanwhile, the mean frequency was higher in the OSA group (p < 0.01) at rest. Future research should focus on developing the device to be more user-friendly and easily used at home during wakefulness and sleep.
Enhancing and Validating a Framework to Curb Illicit Financial Flows (IFFs)
Authors: Netshisaulu Ndiimafhi Norah , van der Poll Huibrecht Margaretha , van der Poll John Andrew
Published: July 2024

This article examines illicit financial flows (IFFs) perpetuated in financial statements to develop a framework to curb IFFs. IFFs create opacity, impeding economic progress through investment deterrents and financial uncertainty. Through a comprehensive literature review and the synthesis of sets of qualitative propositions, the researchers previously developed a conceptual framework to address IFFs, and the purpose of the present article is to strengthen and validate the framework among stakeholders in the financial and audit sectors. Following a mixed inductive and deductive research approach and a qualitative methodological choice, the researchers conducted interviews among practitioners to enhance the framework, followed by a focus group to validate the framework. IFF challenges that emerged are tax evasion, for example, investments in untraceable offshore accounts, harming the economy, bitcoins not being subject to regulation everywhere in the world and being used by cryptocurrency criminals to transfer IFFs to nations with lax regulations. Internationally, IFF risks are also determined by geographical position, trade links and porous borders among countries emerged as further challenges, calling for entities to execute existing policies, improve tax enforcement methods, apply cross-border coordination, and practice financial reporting transparency aimed at combatting IFF practices. On the strength of these, the industry surveys significantly enhanced the conceptual framework.
QA-RAG: Leveraging Question and Answer-based Retrieved Chunk Re-Formatting for Improving Response Quality During Retrieval-augmented Generation
Authors: Roy Kaushik , Zi Yuxin , Shyalika Chathurangi , Prasad Renjith , Murali Sidhaarth , Palit Vedant , Sheth Amit
Published: July 2024

The use of Retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) using large language models (LLMs) has shown potential for addressing issues such as hallucinations and inadequately contextualized responses. A pivotal stage in the RAG process involves a retriever for retrieving chunks based on semantic similarity with the query. In this study, we advocate for and provide experimental evidence supporting integrating and maintaining questions and answers (QA) formatted databases to improve retrieved-context representations and response quality. Our experiments evaluate our approach on benchmark RAG datasets using standard evaluation metrics and provide comparative analyses against state-of-the-art retrieval methods, showing the potential of our approach.
Physicochemical Characterization and Antimicrobial Properties of Lanthanide Nitrates in Dilute Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Kuz’micheva Galina M , Trigub Alexander , Rogachev Alexander V. , Dorokhov Andrey , Domoroshchina Elena N
Published: July 2024

The work presents the results of studying dilute aqueous solutions of commercial Ln(NO3)3 · xH2O salts with Ln=Ce-Lu using X-ray diffraction (XRD), IR spectroscopy, X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS: EXAFS/XANES) and pH measurements. As a reference point, XRD and XAS measurements for characterized Ln(NO3)3 · xH2O microcrystalline powder samples were performed. The local structure of Ln-nitrate complexes in 20 mM Ln(NO3)3 · xH2O aqueous solution was studied under total external reflection conditions and EXAFS geometry was applied to obtain high-quality EXAFS data for solutions with low concentrations of Ln3+ ions. Results obtained by EXAFS spectroscopy showed significant contraction of the first coordination sphere during the dissolution process for metal ions located in the middle of the lanthanide series. It was established that in Ln(NO3)3 · xH2O solutions with Ln=Ce, Sm, Gd, Yb (c=134, 100, 50 and 20 mM) there are coordinated and, to a greater extent, non-coordinated nitrate groups with bidentate and predominantly monodentate bonds with Ln ions, the number of which increases upon transition from cerium to ytterbium. Cross-relationships between the concentration of solutions, pH value and antimicrobial activity with the type of Ln = Ce, Sm, Gd, Yb were established, as well as the absence of biocidal properties of solutions with a concentration of 20 mM, except for Ln = Yb. The important role of experimental conditions in obtaining and interpreting the results was noted.
24-Step Short-term Power Load Forecasting Model Utilizing KOA-BiTCN-BiGRU-Attentions
Authors: Xu Mingshen , Liu Wanli , Wang Shijie , Tian Jingjia , Wu Peng , Xie Congjiu
Published: July 2024

With the global objectives of achieving a ‘carbon peak’ and ‘carbon neutrality’, along with the implementation of carbon reduction policies, China’s industrial structure has undergone significant adjustments, resulting in constraints on high-energy consumption and high-emission industries while promoting the rapid growth of green industries. Consequently, these changes have led to an increasingly complex power system structure and presented new challenges for electricity demand forecasting. To address this issue, this study proposes a 24-step multivariate time series short-term load forecasting algorithm model based on KNN data imputation and BiTCN bidirectional temporal convolutional networks combined with BiGRU bidirectional gated recurrent units and attention mechanism. The Kepler adaptive optimization algorithm (KOA) is employed for hyperparameter optimization to effectively enhance prediction accuracy. Furthermore, using real load data from a wind farm in Xinjiang as an example, this paper predicts the electricity load from January 1st to December 30th in 2019. Experimental results demonstrate that our comprehensive short-term load forecasting model exhibits lower prediction errors and superior performance compared to traditional methods, thus holding great value for practical applications.
Enhanced Brain-to-Brain Communication Security via Adversarial Neural Network Training
Authors: Ahmadi Hossein , Kuhestani Ali , Keshavarzi MohammadReza , Mesin Luca
Published: July 2024

Brain-to-brain communication (B2B-C) is rapidly expanding, integrating communication technology and neuroscience to enable direct neural data transfer between people. Nonetheless, because neural data is susceptible to noise, interference, and hostile attacks, guaranteeing the security and resilience of B2B-C systems continues to be difficult. This work aims to use Adversarial Neural Network Training (ANNT) to improve the security of B2B-C systems by using Steady-State Visually Evoked Potentials (SSVEP) EEG data. We use two large SSVEP datasets for a thorough analysis: Lee2019_SSVEP and Nakanishi2015. We use the Fast Gradient Sign Method (FGSM) to create adversarial instances and ANNT to train the model on clean and adversarially perturbed data. The system's accuracy and resilience are significantly improved by ANNT, as seen by the up to 17% increase in adversarial accuracy and the average 0.03 point improvement in the Area Under the Curve (AUC). This work demonstrates how ANNT may strengthen B2B-C systems against advanced cyberattacks, opening the door for dependable and safe neural communication technologies.
Fractional Calculus Meets Neural Networks For Computer Vision: A Survey
Authors: Coelho C. , P. Costa M. Fernanda , L. Ferrás Luís
Published: July 2024

Traditional computer vision techniques aim to extract meaningful information from images but often depend on manual feature engineering, making it difficult to handle complex real-world scenarios. Fractional Calculus (FC), which extends derivatives to non-integer orders, provides a flexible way to model systems with memory effects and long-term dependencies, making it a powerful tool for capturing fractional rates of variation. Recently, Neural Networks (NNs) have demonstrated remarkable capabilities in learning complex patterns directly from raw data, automating computer vision tasks and enhancing performance. Therefore, the use of fractional calculus in neural network-based computer vision is a powerful method to address existing challenges by effectively capturing complex spatial and temporal relationships in images and videos. This paper presents a survey of Fractional Calculus Neural Network-based (FC NN-based) computer vision techniques for denoising, enhancement, object detection, segmentation, restoration, and NN compression. The survey compiles existing FFC NN-based approaches, elucidates underlying concepts, and identifies open questions and research directions. By leveraging FC's properties, FC NN-based approaches offer a novel way to improve the robustness and efficiency of computer vision systems.
Bias and Cyberbullying Detection and Data Generation with Transformer AI Models and top LLMs
Authors: Kumar Yulia , Huang Kuan , Perez Angelo , Yang Guohao , Li J. Jenny , Morreale Patricia , Kruger Dov , Jiang Raymond
Published: July 2024

Despite significant advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Large Language Models (LLMs), detecting and mitigating bias remains a critical challenge, particularly within social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and in addressing cyberbullying present on them. This research investigates the effectiveness of leading LLMs in generating synthetic biased and cyberbullying data and evaluates the proficiency of Transformer AI models in detecting bias and cyberbullying within both authentic and synthetic contexts. The study involves semantic analysis and feature engineering on a dataset of over 48,000 sentences related to cyberbullying collected from Twitter (before it became X). Leveraging state-of-the-art LLMs such as ChatGPT-4o, Pi AI, Claude 3 Opus, and Gemini-1.5, synthetic biased, cyberbullying, and neutral data were generated to deepen the understanding of bias in human-generated data. AI models including DeBERTa, Longformer, BigBird, HateBERT, MobileBERT, DistilBERT, BERT, RoBERTa, ELECTRA, and XLNet were initially trained to classify Twitter cyberbullying data and subsequently fine-tuned, optimized, and quantized for multilabel classification (detecting both biases and cyberbullying). The study's outcomes include a prototype of a hybrid application that combines a Bias Data Detector and a Bias Data Generator, validated through extensive testing.
Blockchain Based Federated Learning Models Methods and Applications
Authors: Sharma Rahul , Sharma Kritika , Patel Priya
Published: July 2024

This paper systematically discusses the application and development of federated learning in data privacy protection and data value sharing. With the rapid development of global information technology, especially the explosive growth of data from Internet of Things devices, data security and privacy protection are facing unprecedented challenges. This paper first analyzes the growth trend of global data volume and its importance to next generation technologies such as artificial intelligence technologies such as deep learning. Second, the paper provides an in-depth look at the impact of current data privacy regulations on data flows and value creation, particularly the EU's GDPR and China's Data Security and Personal Information Protection Law. Then, this paper introduces in detail federated learning, as a new distributed machine learning paradigm, which effectively solves the contradiction between existing data sharing and privacy protection by protecting individual data privacy and realizing global model collaborative construction. Finally, this paper discusses the combination of blockchain technology and federated learning, and proposes BeFL architecture as a new secure, decentralized and trusted federated learning system, which is expected to provide a comprehensive solution for large-scale data processing and value creation in multi-party scenarios. The research in this paper not only deepens the understanding of federation learning in theory, but also provides important reference and enlightenment for future research and application in related fields.
Enhancing the Learning of Sports Skills Through Verbal Feedback
Authors: Niźnikowski Tomasz , Arnista Paweł , Sadowski Jerzy , Mastalerz Andrzej , Romero-Ramos Oscar , Fernández-Rodríguez Emilio , Nogal Marta , Łuba-Arnista Weronika , Biegajło Michał , Różański Paweł , Niźnikowska Ewelina
Published: July 2024

Background We investigated to determine the effectiveness of verbal feedback in learning the round-off back somersault on the balance beam with stable landing. Methods: The research material consisted of female gymnasts (n = 16). They were randomly assigned to one of two groups: FKE group (n = 8) with feedback on key elements, or FAE group (n = 8) with 100% feedback on all errors made in the phase structure of the task. Results: Based on research, it was established that key elements could be identified in the preparatory, main and final phases. Mixed ANOVA showed that significant differences (p < 0.05) were noted due to the teaching method used (Group x Time factor) when performing the gymnastic routine of round-off back somersault with stable landing on the balance beam. Based on the Welch t test for independent data it was revealed that the group with feedback on the key elements obtained significantly higher mean scores from judges at the end of the experiment. Conclusions: The findings of the present study point to a possibility of offering coaches teaching methods that increase the effectiveness of learning complex motor skills and indicate a possibility of applying such solutions in groups of female gymnasts both in training and during competitions.
Interleukin-4 (IL-4), Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) or Receptor for Advanced Glycation End-Products (RAGE) in Bronchial Secretions Cannot Predict Pediatric Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia (VAP)
Authors: Ftergioti Argyro , Simitsopoulou Maria , Sdougka Maria , Kallou Styliani-Antonia , Haidich Anna-Bettina , Virgiliou Christina , Theodoridis Georgios , Roilides Emmanuel , Iosifidis Elias
Published: July 2024

Background: Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is among the most common healthcare-associated infections in Pediatric Intensive Care Units (PICUs). Because of the lack of a gold-standard diagnostic test, early diagnosis of VAP is challenging. We investigated whether bronchial biomarkers interleukin-4 (IL-4), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) and soluble receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) could contribute in early VAP diagnosis through their fluctuation in time in critically ill pediatric patients. Methods: Bronchial secretions were collected from PICU patients with VAP on days 1 and 6. PAI-1, RAGE and IL-4 levels were measured by ELISA. Protein concentrations between high and low VAP suspicion patients were compared using unpaired Student’s t or Mann–Whitney U tests. Results: Twenty PICU patients, with median age 7.75yrs (range 0.5-15.3), mechanically ventilated for ≥48hrs with increased oxygenation requirements and VAP clinical/laboratory signs were enrolled. They were divided in VAP high-suspicion (n=12) or low-suspicion (n=8) groups based on Clinical Pulmonary Infection Score (cutoff:6). ΡΑΙ-1 και RAGE levels did not differ between high- or low-VAP suspicion groups the 1st or 6th days (p-value>0.05). IL-4 was not detected in bronchial secretions. Conclusion: Bronchial concentrations of IL-4, PAI-1 and RAGE in critically ill children are not correlated with high- or low-VAP suspicion.
Inhibition of Protease Activated Receptor-2 Activation in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Quarta Santina , Sandre Michele , Ruvoletto Mariagrazia , Campagnolo Marta , Emmi Aron , Biasiolo Alessandra , Pontisso Patrizia , Antonini Angelo
Published: July 2024

In Parkinson's disease, neuroinflammation is a complex defense mechanism. Activated microglia and Proteinase-activated receptor-2 (PAR2) are key points in the regulation of neuroinflammation. 1-Piperidin Propionic Acid (1-PPA) has been recently described as a novel inhibitor of PAR2. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effect of 1-PPA in neuroinflammation and microglial activation in Parkinson's disease. Protein aggregates and PAR2 expression were analyzed by thioflavin S assay and immunofluorescence in cultured human fibroblasts from Parkinson's patients, treated or not with 1-PPA. A significant decrease of amyloid aggregates and expression of PAR2 were observed after 1-PPA treatment in all patients. A parallel decrease of PAR2 expression, that was higher in sporadic Parkinson’s patients, was also observed both at transcriptional and protein level. In addition, in mouse LPS-activated microglia, the inflammatory profile was significantly downregulated after 1-PPA treatment, with a remarkable decrease of IL-1, IL-6 and TNF-togheter with PAR2 decreased expression.In conclusion, 1-PPA determines reduced neuroglia inflammation and amyloid aggregates formation, suggesting that pharmacological inhibition of PAR2 could be proposed as a novel strategy to control neuroinflammation.
Assessing ChatGPT’s Efficacy and Potential in Conducting Psychological Counseling through Simulations in School Counseling
Authors: Ni Yang , Cao Yanzhuo
Published: July 2024

Conversational artificial intelligence (AI) has shown strong capabilities in providing low-cost and timely interventions for a wide range of people and increasing well-being. Therefore, this study examined ChatGPT’s efficacy in conducting psychological counseling and its potential for providing accessible psychological interventions, especially in school settings. This study assessed the strengths and limitations of AI to inform future research. Data were generated from ChatGPT’s responses to 80 counseling questions that college students asked during a school counseling setting. All the responses generated during these simulated counseling sessions were then analyzed using three primary metrics—warmth, empathy, and acceptance—following APA guidelines. The analysis adopted several natural language processing methodologies for emotion detection and empathy measurement to quantify ChatGPT’s high efficacy in presenting the appropriate emotions and reactions for counseling. Some responses demonstrated randomness, which is crucial for consideration regarding the use of ChatGPT or relevant technology in psychological counseling. The Discussion section also highlights future directions in the application of conversational AI to enhance students’ mental health.
How to Avoid Becoming a Risk Factor of Fecal Incontinence Due to OASIS – a Narrative Review
Authors: Horst Nikodem
Published: July 2024

Third and fourth-degree anal sphincter injuries are among the most severe traumas women can experience during childbirth, often leading to lifelong continence issues. Despite extensive research, current repair techniques are often inadequate, failing to provide long-term solutions. Women with previous severe injuries face a higher risk of recurrence in subsequent deliveries, making caesarean sections a safer option in many cases. The existing WHO classification system is outdated, as it doesn't account for injuries to muscles like the levator ani, which are crucial for continence.

Effective repairs require skilled surgeons and often involve more than just fixing the sphincter. Smaller hospitals may not have the necessary expertise and resources for these complex repairs. Delaying repairs to allow specialists to perform them can be just as effective as immediate repairs. Comprehensive care that includes thorough anatomical knowledge and surgical skill is essential. As maternal age increases and birth rates decline, it's crucial for specialized centers to handle severe perineal injuries to ensure the best outcomes and long-term care for patients.