bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Build-Up of Bimetallic Transition Metal Clusters
Authors: Raithby Paul R.
Published: February 2024

The synthesis and reaction chemistry of high nuclearity transilion metal carbonyl clusters is briefly reviewed, and new synthetic strategies leading to the “rational” synthesis of bimetallic clusters containing metal cores of over 1 nm in dimension are described. The solid
state structures of a number of osmium/mercury, osmium/gold and ruthenium/copper bimetallic clusters are discussed with regard to the nature of their formation, and of their bonding and redox properties. Suggestions are made as to how the synthetic strategies can be adapted to prepare bimetallic
clusters of industrially useful combinations of metals. Recent work showing that bimetallic nanoparticles prepared from clusters are catalytically active when anchored inside mesoporous silica is also discussed.
Palladium Catalyst for the Production of Pure Margarine
Authors: Savchenko V. I. , Makaryan I. A.
Published: February 2024

The production of the fatty base for edible margarines by the hydrogénation of vegetable oils is carried out at high temperatures and has serious disadvantages, among them the toxicity of the nickel catalysts and a fire-hazardous filtration stage. Here, a novel reactor and a
new, active and selective, low-loaded palladium catalyst are described which allow vegetable oil hydrogénation to take place at lower temperatures producing high quality, pure hydrogenated fat, free of catalyst. Under these milder conditions, the thermal decomposition of oils and fats
does not form secondary products, and heavy metals from the catalyst do not enter the final product. In addition, even lower hydrogénation températures can be used with the palladium catalyst, resulting in fat with a low trans-isomer content. The catalyst has been tested successfully
in full-scale production. Using an inertial separator in a new reactor, catalyst loss has been eliminated.
Seventy-fifth Anniversary of the Discovery of the Platiniferous Merensky Reef
Authors: Cawthorn R. Grant
Published: February 2024

The Merensky Reef is a thin layer of igneous rock in the Bushveld Complex in South Africa, which, with an underlying layer, the Upper Group 2 chromitite, contains 75 per cent of the world’s known platinum resources. It was discovered in September 1924 by Hans Merensky, and by
early 1926 had been traced for about 150 km. However, large-scale mining of the reef did not develop until a proliferation of uses for the platinum group metals in the 1950s increased demand and price. Successful extraction of metal from the Upper Group 2 chromitite had to wait until the 1970s
for metallurgical developments.
Understanding the eco-friendly decision-making process of meal kit consumers based on the value-belief-norm (VBN) model: The mediating role of anticipated guilt and pride
Authors:   The Tourism Sciences Society Of Korea, Baek Kyuri
Published: February 2024

With the significant growth of the meal kit market, environmental pollution problems caused by meal kit packaging materials are also emerging. Meal kit companies are pressured by society to use more eco-friendly packaging materials. However, doing so would only increase the production costs and sales prices, if consumers turn a blind eye to it. Therefore, for meal kit companies, it is necessary to understand the antecedents to consumers' eco-friendly behavior intentions and react accordingly. For this reason, this study used the VBN model to examine the decision-making process of meal kit consumers that leads from value beliefs and personal norms to eco-friendly behavioral intentions. In addition, the mediating roles of emotional factors (predicted guilt and pride) in the process were considered. To address the research objectives, a survey was conducted amongst adult men and women who purchased meal kits and plan to purchase them in the future. A total of 300 responses were collected from July 11 to 13, 2023. Among them, 249 (83.0%) suitable responses were analyzed. Descriptive statistics analysis and structural equation modeling analysis were performed using SPSS and AMOS programs. The analysis results are as follows. First, the values of meal kit consumers had significant effects on outcome perception, responsibility attribution, individual norms, and purchase intentions. Second, there were significant mediating effects of anticipated guilt and pride in the relationship between personal norms and the intentions to purchase eco-friendly meal kits. The analysis results emphasized the importance of values, beliefs, personal norms, and anticipated emotions in strengthening the eco-friendly behavioral intentions of meal kit consumers. It is suggested that meal kit companies should invest in monitoring and managing consumers' ecological values, personal norms, and emotional factors at the marketing level.
The Role of Public Policy in King v De Jager (CCT 315/18) [2021] ZACC 4 (19 February 2021)
Authors: Van Zyl Rika
Published: February 2024

In King v De Jager (CCT 315/18) [2021] ZACC 4 (19 February 2021), the Constitutional Court considered whether a discriminatory out-and-out disinheritance clause in a private will could be declared unenforceable in terms of public policy. This opened private wills with disinheritance clauses to the scrutinising evaluation of public values despite freedom of testation. Although public policy has always been an elusive concept, South African public policy is infused with constitutional values to give more clarity on the content of public policy. In King a conflation emerged between constitutional rights, legislative violations and public policy values, however. The court grappled with the question of whether to apply the Constitution directly based on a violation in terms of section 9(4) or whether the section 8 of the Equality Act should be applied directly through the subsidiarity principle, or whether the discriminatory clause should be evaluated through the public policy lens. Where the conflicting values were weighed up there seem to be hints of subjective views to tip the scales in favour of one value over another. This is a concern when public policy is used to advance a subjective view of what the community values more, especially when it involves the disruption of the devolvement of a deceased's estate. This underlines the difficult application of public policy values, even in a constitutional democracy, when competing values are at play.
STC-1 Passaging and PD Associated Microbe Stimulation Protocol v1
Authors: G Tansey Malu
Published: February 2024

STC-1 Passaging and PD Associated Microbe Stimulation Protocol
Purification ofGST-LC3B v1
Authors: Adriaenssens Elias
Published: February 2024

This protocol describes the purification of GST-LC3B.
Procedure for Aflatoxin M1 and B1 in Liver by HPLC-Fluorescence Detection with Pre-column Derivatization v1
Authors: not provided duey
Published: February 2024

The current procedure is for quantitative determination of aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) and B1(AFB1) in animal liver by HPLC-fluorescence detection at concentrations 0.2-10 ng/g (ppb). Note, sensitivity of the method greatly depends on sensitivity of the fluorescent detector. The method requires 1g of liver. Quantitation is based on matrix-matched calibration curve. Analytes (AfB1 and AfM1) are extracted, derivatized, cleaned up using Octadecyl (C18) material, injected into HPLC and chromatographed on C18 column for fluorescence detection. Validation data (in-house and via collaborative studies such as Blinded Method Tests) are available in the following publications: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27638844/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30736868/
Preparation of Cells for Volume Electron Microscopy using Focused Ion Beam Scanning Electron Microscopy (FIB-SEM) v1
Authors: C Danne Jillian
Published: February 2024

Volume Electron Microscopy (vEM) allows for the three-dimensional imaging of biological matter and to observe cellular structures at the nanometer scale. This protocol details the preparation of cellular specimens for Focused Ion Beam Scanning Electron Microscopy (FIB-SEM). FIB-SEM gives the highest resolution in z direction compared to other vEM techniques. Images are obtained by stepwise slicing of a specimen using the ion beam while imaging successive surfaces by scanning electron microscopy. Good structural preservation and electron contrast are essential, and this protocol details the required preparatory steps for this up to (but not including) the slice and view imaging in the FIB-SEM.
Electrophysiology with iPSC-derived neurons v1
Authors: Choi Minee-Liane
Published: February 2024

This protocol describes the method to perform patch-clamp recordings of iPSC-derived neurons.
Live-cell imaging; cell death assay v1
Authors: Choi Minee-Liane
Published: February 2024

This protocol contains instructions for examining cell death in live-cell imaging.
Solid phase binding assay - Clusterin binding to Very Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor (VLDLR) v1
Authors: Yuste-Checa Patricia
Published: February 2024

This protocol details how to monitor Clusterin binding to the Very Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor (VLDLR) by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) adapted from Leeb et al. (2014).
“Para a boa segurança daquela fronteira”:
Authors: Ramos Silva Leonardo Augusto
Published: February 2024

Este artigo volta-se para a organização e mobilização de soldados, da tropa paga, na capitania de São José do Rio Negro, durante o reinado de D. José I. A demarcação de limites, a vigilância das áreas de fronteiras externas e a manutenção da ordem interna implicaram no processo de ocupação e defesa da “fronteira ocidental” do Estado do Grão-Pará e Maranhão, o qual foi caracterizada pelo envio de homens, armas e outros apetrechos de guerra. Com o contingente militar destacado para esta fronteira, criou-se a “guarnição do Rio Negro” em 1754, da qual tornou-se a mais importante medida de defesa para a região durante o ministério de Sebastião José Carvalho de Melo. O trabalho busca compreender como estes homens foram organizados e para quais locais da capitania do Rio Negro foram destinados. Através desta abordagem, vislumbramos os significados que foram atribuídos à defesa dos sertões amazônicos no território da capitania do Rio Negro. Essa questão é possível por meio da análise histórico-documental de correspondências entre autoridades coloniais da capitania do Rio Negro e do Estado do Grão-Pará e Maranhão, as quais estão contidas no Arquivo Histórico Ultramarino e no Arquivo Público do Estado do Pará.
La acción social colectiva queer durante el posacuerdo de paz en Colombia
Authors: Acevedo-Tarazona Álvaro , Correa-Lugos Andrés
Published: February 2024

Between 2020 and 2021, Colombia went through several protests, a product of widespread discontent with the government of Iván Duque, which had three particularities: they happened during the health emergency caused by COVID-19; They showed outrage over a new tax reform and the Government’s lack of commitment to the continuity of the peace process; and new actors and groups calling themselves queer participated. Therefore, the objective of this article was to analyze the appearance of these participation spaces in the 21st century in which gender identities were protagonists. Methodologically, information hosted in the media, internet blogs and web pages regarding queer collective social action within the mobilizations was tracked. The results show that the repression of the public force towards queer groups, rather than discouraging protest, evidenced a tension between hegemonic masculinities and their rebellious projects.
Gauging Ambient Environmental Carbon Dioxide Concentration Solely Using Biometric Observations: A Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Lary David
Published: February 2024

Human body interacts with the environment in various ways among which breathing is an essential part for our body to function. Atmo- spheric gases that are inhaled during respiration have various physio- logical as well as cognitive effects. The biometrics of a person and the environmental variables can be measured using various sensors which can be used to understand the interaction between them. This work extends the study done previously in estimating and understanding the effects of particulate matter on physiological and cognitive re- sponses by now considering CO 2 . The biometric variables of a partic- ipant riding a bicycle are measured of which 329 variables have been considered while an electric vehicle following the participant measures the environmental CO 2 among other environmental variables. After the data have been collected, machine learning models are used to understand the interactions between the body and the environment.
Multi-objective optimization of a biomass microCHP-ORC system under supercritical conditions
Authors: KLADISIOS Panagiotis , SAGIA Athina
Published: February 2024

ORC cycle is one of the most efficient technologies for the utilization of low-grade heat. ORC systems cover a wide range of heat sources and power outputs. Apart from increasing the overall efficiency, CHP systems contribute to the decentralization of energy production, the conservation of primary fuel, the reduction of the emission of greenhouse gasses and the re-duction of the cost to the final consumer. This justifies the research activity around CHP-ORC
systems. In the present paper, a steady-state thermodynamic model for a 50 kWel biomass microCHP-ORC was developed and four candidate fluids were selected: R124, isobutane, R245fa and isopentane. The multi-objective optimization under supercritical conditions was performed using the genetic algorithm. The thermal efficiency, the exergy efficiency and the total heat exchanger surface were selected as single objectives. The evaporation temperature and pressure and the pinch point temperature differences at the heat exchangers were selected as decision variables. Careful examination of the optimal results revealed a systematic ten-dency for high evaporation temperatures and pressures and low recuperator pinch point tem-perature differences. Recuperation was found beneficial in many aspects, especially at higher evaporation temperatures. Also, the use of cogeneration leads to overall system efficiencies that surpass 90%, while simultaneously saving at least 20% fuel. Lastly, isopentane was found to be the best-performing fluid.
Overview: flexible and versatile approach of quality by design & process analytical technology in industries
Authors: Kutty Razia , Nikam Machindra , Chaudhari Sakshi , Shinde Chetana , Gadakh Priya , Niphade Pooja , Kakad Amit
Published: February 2024

Quality by Design (QbD) is crucial to the creation of contemporary in pharmaceuticals, microbiology, biotechnology, product management etc. In order to build proactive, scientific, and risk-based processes and products, QbD helps and supports both the industry and the FDA. Instead of waiting until the final quality check of the finished product, it is founded on the idea of establishing quality from the very beginning of the process. A successful plan that lowers batch failures and recalls is finally provided by an efficient QbD approach, which offers insights and crucial upstream information throughout the development process. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the implementation of Quality by Design (QbD), its tools, elements, and techniques, the relevancy with various guidelines, and the use in present-day pharmaceutical. The IQ Consortium provides information on the current situation of process analytical technology (PAT) as it relates to the creation of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) in branded pharmaceutical firms. The article gives concrete examples of why and how the pharmaceutical industry uses PAT tools in API development by using an API process pipeline. PAT can reduce personnel risks involved with sampling dangerous compounds for in-process testing and increase R&D efficiency. Although not all chemical processes or stages are easily suited to applying the features of the PAT toolbox, PAT permits accurate and speedy (real or near time) evaluations of processes that might involve compounds that are highly dangerous, transitory, or heterogeneous when necessary. The major regulatory agencies and the biotech sector have worked hard to assist the application of the ideas of Quality by Design (QbD) and Process Analytical Technology (PAT) over the past ten years, with varying degrees of success. Despite the fact that just one biotech therapy has received approval under the QbD paradigm thus far, the tools and methods associated with these two ideas are deeply ingrained in the work procedures of the majority of international pharmaceutical firms. This overview is mainly focused on the QbD and PAT's development in the first place. Second, give an overview of QbD and PAT implementation and point out any places where more contributions are possible.
Risks associated with the technological adoption of industrial symbiosis: A study of its implementation by geographic regions
Authors: Diaz Jaime Segura , Escandon-Barbosa Diana , Salas-Paramo Jairo
Published: February 2024

This research investigates the factors influencing the adoption of industrial symbiosis practices, focusing on their relevance in geographical contexts within developing countries associated with the European Economic Community. The study employs geographical weighting analysis as its primary methodology, allowing for a nuanced examination of variable impacts within specific geographic regions. Data is gathered through surveys distributed to companies operating in various high-energy consumption sectors that have previously engaged in industrial symbiosis activities to varying extents. The study’s findings emphasize the crucial role that financial and performance-related risks played in influencing the decision-making process surrounding the implementation of industrial symbiosis. Furthermore, the research highlights the significance of regional dynamics in influencing waste disposal practices and the overall success of industrial symbiosis initiatives. Additionally, the study underscores the impact of social media and networks in disseminating vital information that is instrumental in advancing innovative industrial symbiosis processes. These findings hold practical implications for stakeholders, including policymakers, businesses, and organizations aiming to foster sustainable economic practices. Understanding the influence of risk factors and regional intricacies enables tailoring strategies that can promote industrial symbiosis adoption. Moreover, recognizing the pivotal role of social media and networks in knowledge dissemination can accelerate the adoption of novel practices, facilitating the transition towards greener economies in developed and developing regions associated with the European Economic Community.
Restructuring the Software Architecture: A Case Study of the CoolBiz Core Banking Platform
Authors: Júnior Jackson , Coutinho Pedro
Published: February 2024

As the structural engineering underpins the resilience of a city built on an active geological fault, software architecture becomes crucial in an increasingly digital society. This paper investigates the challenges of rigid, low cohesion software structures through a detailed case study of the CoolBiz Platform, an integrated Core Banking solution. The platform currently faces significant issues in its service support framework, including low flexibility, unsatisfactory cohesion, non-adherence to SOLID principles, absence of unit tests, and lack of documentation. This study aims to describe the planning and implementation of a new event-driven architecture for the CoolBiz Platform. This architecture is expected to not only resolve current technical challenges but also bring significant business benefits, such as the implementation of language agnosticism, a strategy aimed at facilitating talent recruitment and retention by not limiting recruitment to expertise in a specific programming language.
Gradient Boosting in Motor Insurance Claim Frequency Modelling
Authors: Clemente Carina , Guerreiro Gracinda , Bravo Jorge
Published: February 2024

Modelling claim frequency and claim severity are topics of great interest in property-casualty insurance for supporting underwriting, ratemaking, and reserving actuarial decisions. This paper investigates the predictive performance of Gradient Boosting with Decision Trees as base learners to model the claim frequency in motor insurance using a private cross-country large insurance dataset. The Gradient Boosting algorithm combines many weak base learners to tackle conceptual uncertainty in empirical research. The findings show that the Gradient Boosting model is superior to the standard Generalised Linear Model in the sense that it provides closer predictions in the claim frequency model. The finding also shows that Gradient Boosting can capture the nonlinear relation between the claim counts and feature variables and their complex interactions being, thus, a valuable tool for feature engineering and the development of a data-driven approach to risk management.
Exploring Natural Language Processing and Sentence Embeddings for Sentiment Analysis of Online Restaurant Reviews
Authors: Carrasco Paulo , Dias Sandra
Published: February 2024

This paper explores the application of Natural Language Processing (NLP) methods in sentiment analysis of restaurant reviews available online, for a sample of restaurants in the Algarve region. The primary objective was to develop an automated method that could efficiently extract and categorize relevant sentiments relating to five key attributes of customer satisfaction, namely food quality, service, ambient, price and restaurant’s location. Using the F1 Score the proposed method was compared against human classification benchmarks. The results showed that Universal Sentence Encoding (USE) was a suitable method for implementation due to its acceptable F1 score performance, ease of accessibility and reduced cost. The use of semantic embeddings can provide valuable insights from online reviews that could benefit the restaurant management and in general the data-driven decision-making processes businesses in the gastronomic sector.
Technology to Increase Carbon Mineralization Potential of Crop Residues under Cotton-Maize-Pulse Cropping System
Authors: Kumar R. Mugesh , Sekaran N. Chandra , Selvi D. , Kalaiselvi T. , Surendrakumar A.
Published: February 2024

Background: Cotton, maize and pulses are widely grown crops in the western zone of Tamil Nadu, resulting in a significant accumulation of crop residues throughout the year. The persistence of these crop residues after harvest can cause problems for farmers and the soil system. Therefore, the goal of the current study is to investigate the carbon mineralization process in these residues to enrich the soil’s nutrient content, turning waste into a valuable resource. Methods: The incubation experiment comprised 13 treatments, each with three replicates. These included a control, surface residue addition, buried residue addition and various combinations of soil, residue, microbial consortia, urea and jaggery, both on the soil surface (S) and incorporated into the soil (I). Result: The incorporation of crop residues into the soil, along with the addition of 1% microbial consortia, 2.0% jaggery and 1% urea, significantly enhanced carbon mineralization. Among the three crop residues, cowpea exhibited the highest performance, followed by cotton and maize, with values of 692, 564 and 522 µg C g-1 soil, respectively. This trend was further supported by the Michaelis-Menten model (V = 951.72 * x/22.13 + x), with a high goodness-of-fit represented by an R2 value of 0.95 for cowpea. The maximum Vmax (951.72 µmol/min) further substantiates the efficient carbon mineralization achieved by utilizing allocated resources in cowpea-incorporated crop residues (CWFI).
The Public Value of E-government: A Qualitative Study from the Perspective of Private-Sector Professionals in Morocco
Authors: Chaimaa Idaomar , Khalid Chafik
Published: February 2024

This paper focuses on assessing the public value of e-government in Morocco, using Delone and Mclean's (2016) Information Systems (IS) success model as a reference framework. The methodology is based on a qualitative exploratory study involving 13 companies, including law firms, architecture firms, and real estate developers firms. An interview guide was designed to collect data, which were analyzed using Nvivo Qsr 12 software. The analysis identified six variables, namely: "Human Capital, Telecommunication Infrastructure, Willingness to Use, State Strategy, Continuous Education, and Culture," which were added to the seven predetermined variables of the Delone and Mclean (2016) IS Success Model. This research outlines practical implications that are essential for the long-term success of e-government initiatives in Morocco. These include investing in skills development, effectively communicating the benefits of e-government, promoting collaboration between the public and private sectors, recognizing organizational culture, putting mechanisms in place to measure performance and user satisfaction, as well as making adjustments to organizational processes and rigorously managing data security. On a political level, these adjustments underline the importance of a coherent government strategy, which focuses on strengthening human capital and telecommunications infrastructures, in order to promote a successful digital transformation and achieve the objectives of trust, transparency, and efficiency in public services.
Resolving Tax Disputes: Market Vendors and Local Councils in Malawi
Authors: Msiska Tizgowere , Thawe Masauko
Published: February 2024

In local markets in Malawi, there are frequent tensions between market traders and the local councils who are responsible for the markets. This sometimes results in the traders refusing to pay market taxes. That in turn causes councils to refuse to provide services, to the markets themselves or to local populations more broadly. This paper reports on research into the circumstances in which these disputes are successfully resolved. The research covered eight local councils where such disputes have taken place. Some disputes were resolved; others were not. Information was obtained through 123 interviews and 12 focus group discussions with top council officials, council employees directly working with vendors, vendors, vendors’ committees, councillors, mayors, and leaders of civil society working in local governance.
Ideología y derechos humanos
Authors: Fernández García Eusebio
Published: February 2024

En nuestra época asistimos a una auténtica proliferación de derechos. No hay conflicto ni problema humano que no desemboque en un debate acerca de los derechos que tenemos y cuya protección exigimos. Un panorama así estructurado da lugar a la irrupción de múltiples desafíos para una teoría de los derechoshumanos. Estos pueden ser tanto teóricos como prácticos. En este trabajo se señala un reto teórico peculiar: el de la necesidad de clarificar y determinar muy bien el alcance de cualquier ideología política que contenga una teoría de los derechos humanos. Se ha elegido, en la actualidad, la teoría de lo Común con el fin de compararla con las consecuencias políticas de dos teorías que, de alguna manera, la han precedido históricamente: la voluntad general de J. J. Rousseauy la propuesta de un ser genérico elaborada por C. Marx.
Kevin Fredy Hinterberger, Regularisations of Irregularly Staying Migrants in the EU. A comparative Legal Analysis of Austria, Germany and Spain
Authors: Vacas Fernández Félix
Published: February 2024

Este artículo reseña: Kevin Fredy HINTERBERGER, Regularisations of Irregularly Staying Migrants in the EU.A comparative Legal Analysis of Austria, Germany and Spain, Hart Publishing/Nomos, Baden-Baden (Germany), 2023, 398 pp.
Medicina da Adolescência em Medicina Geral e Familiar: Ponto de Situação e Propostas de Melhoria
Authors: Rocha Leonor
Published: February 2024

N/D.
Study on Enzyme Activities and Nutrient Availability in Calcareous Soil as Influence by Phytase and FYM Levels under Soybean Cultivation
Authors: Jadhav Anand Baburao , Taggu Barbie , Suradhkar Rahul , Patil A. V. , Khire J. M.
Published: February 2024

Study on Enzyme Activities and Nutrient Availability in Calcareous Soil as Influence by Phytase and FYM Levels under Soybean Cultivation” was conducted during Kharif 2016 at Division of Soil Science, College of Agriculture, Pune. The treatment consisted of four levels of each phytase (0, 1200, 2400 and 3600 IU) and FYM (0, 2.5, 5, 7.5 t ha-1) replicated thrice in factorial randomized block design. Enzyme activities and nutrient availability in soil was assessed and 50 % flowering and harvest of soybean. Application of phytase @ 3600 IU or 7.5 t ha-1 FYM recorded significantly higher acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase and dehydrogenase activity at 50 % flowering and harvest of soybean. Significant increase in soil available phosphorus in calcareous soil at both the growth stages of soybean over initial was observed with the application of phytase and FYM in all the treatments. Application of 3600 IU phytase and 7.5 t ha-1 FYM recorded higher soil available nitrogen (245.65 and 180.08 kg ha-1) and phosphorus (16.08 and 13.34 kg ha-1) at 50 % flowering and at harvest. However, phytase application @ 2400 IU (252.62 and 243.36 kg ha-1) and FYM application either @ 7.5 or 5 t ha-1 (253.96 and 239.72 kg ha-1) were found effective for soil available potassium at both growth stages. Application of phytase @ 3600 IU recorded reduction magnitude from 13.31 to 12.43 % at 50 % flowering and from 12.29 to 10.93 % at harvest was obtained with the amendment of phytase. Similar trend was also recorded for 7.5 t ha-1 FYM. The magnitude of reduction in CaCO3 content was noticed very less in no phytase and no FYM at 50% flowering 14.06 per cent and at harvest 12.60 per cent.
Evaluation of Ground Pressure, Bearing Capacity, and Sinkage in Rigid-Flexible Tracked Vehicles on Characterized Terrain in Laboratory Conditions
Authors: Rauf Omer , Yang Ning , Ming Chen , Haoxiang Ma
Published: February 2024

In the field of engineering, tracked vehicles play a significant role in accessing challenging terrains. Maintaining trafficability is of the utmost importance when it comes to tracked vehicles traversing rugged terrains; it provides stability, traction, and adaptability for a wide range of applications, including deep-sea exploration. The terrain characteristics pertain to the interactions that determine the mobility of tracked vehicles. Traditional Terramechanics models are in-adequate in depicting the correlation between tracks and soil. An important issue is the lack of consideration for the moisture content in the soil and the rate at which sinking occurs in these models. Examining sinkage speed helps describe the ability of tracked vehicles to move at high speeds. The focus is on the critical factors influencing the mobility of tracked vehicles, precisely the sinkage speed and its relationship with pressure. Experimental tests in a soil bin, utilizing Bentonite/Diatom sediment soil, aim to measure these terrain factors. The study introduces a rubber-tracked vehicle, pressure, and moisture sensors to monitor pressure sinkage and moisture, evaluating cohesive soils (Bentonite/Diatom) in combination with sand and gravel mixtures. Findings reveal that higher moisture content in Bentonite soil leads to increased track slippage and sinkage compared to Diatom soil. Regarding soil behavior, diatom soil exhibited notable compaction and sinkage characteristics in contrast to bentonite soil. The distinct behaviors of these soils underscore the complexity of terrains, emphasizing the need for a meticulous understanding of soil properties before applying them in natural environments. Furthermore, this study contributes precision in assessing natural terrains, enhancing tracked vehicle design, and advancing terrain mechanics comprehension for off-road exploration. This knowledge contributes to better vehicle design and a deeper comprehension of terrain mechanics.
Binding versus Catalysis in De Novo Enzyme Design
Authors: Sanchez-Ruiz Jose
Published: February 2024

The catalytic parameters describing enzyme catalysis are discussed in the context of the design of de novo enzymes. It is shown that high values of the catalytic efficiency may in some cases reflect tight substrate binding and lead to an immediate levelling-off of rates to reach a low plateau, an undesirable scenario for many industrial applications. It is argued that increasing the catalytic rate constant should be a main target in de novo enzyme engineering.
Nanoframes as a Resilient Candidate for the Solution of Broader Spectra of Catalysis Challenges
Authors: Ahmad Fawad , Ain Qurat ul , Zahid Shafaq , Akitsu Takashiro
Published: February 2024

Metal nanoframes have gained tremendous attention in the domain of modern research and development due to their distinctive 3D spatial structure, efficient physiochemical properties, and comparatively good activity. Different strategies have been implicated by the researchers to design nano frame of varying chemical nature and shapes. Most of the synthetic protocols being adopted to design a nano framee, mainly consist of two main steps, nucleation and growth of solid particles and secondly excavation of the interiors. In this context, many synthetic methods are overviewed. To show their unprecedented performance or activity, a few applications in catalytic, biomedical, theranostic, SERS, sensing of different materials, reduction of CO2, etc are also discussed.
Solvability Criterion for a System Arising from Monge-Amp`ere Equations with Two Parameters
Authors: Wang Liangyu , Li Hongyu
Published: February 2024

Monge-Ampere equations have important research significance in many fields such as geometry, convex geometry and mathematical physics. In this paper, under some superlinear and sublinear conditions, the existence of nontrivial solutions for a system arising from Monge-Ampere equations with two parameters is investigated based on Guo-Krasnosel'skii fixed point theorem. In the end, two examples are given to illustrate our main results.
Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Communication Sciences and Disorders: A Bibliometric and Visualization Analysis
Authors: Zhang Minyue , Tang Enze , Ding Hongwei , Zhang Yang
Published: February 2024

As artificial intelligence takes an increasingly prominent role in healthcare, a growing body of research is being dedicated to its application in the investigation of communication sciences and disorders (CSD). This study conducts a bibliometric analysis of AI-based research in the field of CSD published up to December 2023. Utilizing the Web of Science and Scopus databases, we identified 15,035 publications, with 4,375 meeting our inclusion criteria. From 1985 onwards, there has been a consistent annual increase in publications, averaging at 16.51%, notably surging from 2012 to 2023. The primary communication disorders studied include autism, dysarthria, dementia, Parkinson’s, and aphasia. Noteworthy AI techniques employed in CSD research encompass machine learning, automatic speech recognition, support vector machine, and deep learning. Our analysis provides a comprehensive overview, serving as a valuable resource for researchers, developers, and professionals seeking to comprehend the evolving landscape of AI in CSD research. Moving forward, collaborative efforts need to prioritize addressing ethical concerns, ensuring data privacy, enhancing methodological enhancements, and considering ecological validity in the application of AI in studies related to communication disorders.
The role of responsibility accounting in activating corporate governance - an analytical study of the opinions of a sample of employees of some private banks listed on the Iraq Stock Exchange
Authors: Hassan Mohammed Ali , Abdulabass Ahmed Abdulkadhum , Salman Rafid mohammed , Jaffar Zaid Abdulzahra
Published: February 2024

The study aims to ascertain the significance of responsibility accounting in activating corporate governance in some private banks listed on the Iraq Stock Exchange (Ashur Investment Bank, Zain Iraq Islamic Bank, Asia Iraq Islamic Bank, Sumer Commercial Bank, Nour Iraq Islamic Bank). The approach was used (Descriptive-analytical) to analyze the nature of the relationship between the variables of the study. The questionnaire was used as a main tool for collecting data. (280) questionnaires were distributed to a random sample of (auditors working in the control and internal audit departments) in some private banks listed on the Iraqi Stock Exchange. The number of questionnaires retrieved was (272), of which (256) were valid for statistical analysis. The researcher employed many statistical tools and methodologies, including the arithmetic mean, standard deviation, correlation coefficient, and basic regression approach, to analyse the practical element of the study. The data was analysed using complex statistical software programmes, namely AMOS.V (.24), SPSS v.26, and Excel (2007). Theoretical findings indicate the presence of a knowledge gap about the function of responsibility accounting in promoting corporate governance, both in a general context and specifically within certain private banks listed on the Iraqi Stock Exchange. The study's practical findings indicate a moral correlation and a moral impact association between responsibility accounting and its dimensions, and corporate governance. The survey yielded several conclusions indicating a strong interest and enthusiasm among staff of certain private banks in prioritising corporate governance.
Educación e investigación cualitativa
Authors: Valderrama Maguiña Igor , Pease Dreibelbis María Elena
Published: February 2024

This essay reflects on the relationship between qualitative research and the study of educational practice. Based on a review and analysis of scientific literature, it is argued that the need to study social practices, especially subaltern ones, is the context of legitimation of qualitative research in the social sciences and this allows us to identify a series of epistemological motives that constitute this approach. Educational practices are problematized from the notion of field proposed by Bourdieu. As central conclusions, the theoretical and epistemological implications of approaching the practices of educational agents from a qualitative approach are argued. The need to strengthen the epistemological, theoretical and ethical-political discussion of research on educational practices is emphasized, and a set of questions that could guide the study of teachers’ reality are problematized.
El filtro burbuja y el derecho a la información en la web
Authors: Lopez Julca Ronald Regan , Julca Guerrero Félix , Nivin Vargas Laura , Allauca Castillo Wendy , Robles Trejo Luis , Robles Blacido Elmer
Published: February 2024

El presente trabajo aborda el estudio del filtro burbuja y la información web. El objetivo principal fue analizar cómo el filtro burbuja, en su propósito de gestionar algorítmicamente los contenidos, permite garantizar la diversidad de fuentes de información en los usuarios de Internet. Para dicho fin, se realizó una investigación descriptiva con alcance de explicación e interpretación basada en la revisión sistemática de la literatura especializada en las bases de datos Scopus, Web of Science y SciELO, principalmente. Para la recolección de información, se optó por la técnica de revisión documental utilizando el instrumento de fichas de análisis documental. Se concluye que el filtro burbuja impacta en el derecho a la información, pues afecta la percepción completa de la realidad y la comprensión del mundo. Ello obedece a que la entrega de la información y el ocultamiento de la información que es administrada por este algoritmo resultan ser una espiral de ideologías, gustos, preferencias registradas y almacenadas en las navegaciones del usuario, que evitan el conocimiento de posiciones contrarias o alternas.
Parque Comunitario Ambiental en la Loma de Amancaes: caso AA.HH. Horacio Zevallos, en el distrito de Rímac, 2021: principio de multifuncionalidad de la infraestructura verde como contribución a la reducción de la vulnerabilidad de barrios urbanos marginal
Authors:   , Carranza Ucañan Alexandra Mirella
Published: February 2024

A lo largo de estos años, el crecimiento urbano informal y la falta de planificación urbana ha perjudicado no solo a los ecosistemas frágiles con las invasiones, sino también a los pobladores que viven en condiciones vulnerables. La presente investigación tiene como objetivo determinar cómo puede influir el principio de multifuncionalidad de infraestructura verde en la disminución de la vulnerabilidad físico-espacial, socioeconómica y socioambiental de los barrios urbanos marginales en Lima, específicamente en el asentamiento humano Horacio Zevallos, distrito de Rímac. Esta investigación cuenta con un enfoque mixto y el diseño es descriptivo correlacional. La información fue recolectada mediante fichas de observación y encuestas. Los resultados indican que las viviendas presentan alta vulnerabilidad física a los deslizamientos. Asimismo, el 98% de las vías se encuentran en mal estado, limitando la accesibilidad en el lugar ante un desastre o emergencia. Por otro lado, el bajo nivel socioeconómico de los residentes se refleja en sus ocupaciones y en la poca formación educativa que han tenido. Por si fuera poco, el 90% de vecinos bota su basura en la calle y/o la queman en la zona de lomas, siendo evidente el bajo nivel de educación ambiental en este asentamiento. Ante estos niveles de vulnerabilidad, se plantea como propuesta urbana un parque comunitario que funcione como límite entre la zona urbana y el ecosistema frágil de lomas, el cual ayude a mejorar los aspectos sociales, ambientales y económicos de los pobladores mediante espacios públicos y equipamientos afines a sus necesidades. Asimismo, el diseño de la propuesta contempla la participación de los pobladores, fortaleciendo el sentido de pertenencia en estos barrios urbanos marginales, así como, el cuidado y preservación de las lomas.
Patient and Public Perceptions in Canada about Decentralized and Hybrid Clinical Trials: “It’s about time we bring trials to people”
Authors: Richards Dawn P. , Queenan John , Aasen-Johnston Linnea , Douglas Heather , Hawrysh Terry , Lapenna Michael , Lillie Donna , McIntosh Emily , Shea Jenna , Smith Maureen , Marlin Susan
Published: February 2024

Background
Little is known about patient and the public perspectives on decentralized and hybrid clinical trials in Canada.
Methods
We conducted an online survey (English and French) promoted on social media to understand perspectives of people in Canada about decentralized and hybrid clinical trials. The survey had two sections. We co-produced this project entirely with patient, caregiver, and family partners.
Results
The survey had 284 (14 French) individuals who started or completed section 1, and 180 (16 French) individuals who started or completed section 2. People prefer to have options to participate in clinical trials where aspects are decentralized or hybridized. Seventy-nine percent of respondents preferred to have options related to study visits. There were concerns about handling adverse events or potential complications in decentralized trials, however, communication options such as a dedicated contact person for participants was deemed helpful. Most respondents were amenable to informed consent being done at a satellite site closer to home or via technology and were split on privacy concerns about this. Most preferred travel to a site within an hour, depending on what the trial was for or its impact on quality of life. Due to the response rate, we were unable to explore associations with gender, age, health status, geography, ethnicity, and prior clinical trial participation.
Conclusion
Our findings indicate an openness in Canada to participating in trials that decentralize or hybridize some aspects. These trials are perceived to provide benefits to participants and ways to increase equity and accessibility for participants.
REG1A may be a new biological marker for diagnosing sepsis
Authors: Li Yang , Guo Wentao , Chen Wenhao , Wang Chenglin , Li Shilin , Shen Yuzhou , Chen Muhu
Published: February 2024

Objective
The aim of this study was to analyze the proteomic mass spectrometry of sepsis patients as well as normal subjects, and then to explore the characteristic proteins related to the pathogenesis of sepsis, and then to provide the basis for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of sepsis.
METHODS
Peripheral blood specimens from sepsis patients (n = 17) and normal subjects (n = 8) were analyzed by proteomic mass spectrometry sequencing, and the R-based Integrated Differential Expression and Pathway Analysis (iDEP) (http://bioinformatics.sdstate.edu/idep/) web tool was used to screen and analyze differentially expressed genes (iDEPs) and low-expressed genes (iDEPs). Screening analysis finalized the differentially expressed genes (DEGs, log2FC ≥ 1, P value ≤ 0.05). Differential proteins were screened for potential core proteins by enrichment analysis and combined with the subjects' work characterization curves (ROC curves), and finally the analysis results were verified by ELISA experiments.
RESULTS
Differential proteins were finally screened by the analysis, and the results were validated by ELISA to clarify that REG1A has a guiding significance in the diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and prognosis of sepsis disease.
CONCLUSION
Bioinformatics analysis of protein expression profiles in this study identified that the protein REG1A may represent a molecular mechanism for the onset, progression, and risk prediction of sepsis.
Effect of dietary supplementation of wild leek (Allium tricoccum) and garlic ( Allium sativum) leaves on production, egg quality, serum lipid profile, intestinal morphology and digestibility of laying quails
Authors: Abdulkareem Zana Azeez
Published: February 2024

In this study, the effects of adding dried wild leek and garlic leaves to the diet of laying quails on egg quality, production performance, intestinal histomorphology, digestibility, and serum biochemical traits were evaluated. 168 − 30 weeks aged- laying quails were randomly arranged into 7 treatments (control group and three different levels (0.5%, 1%, and 1.5%) of wild leek or garlic leaves), 6 replicates, and 4 quails per pen. According to the study, the highest hen-day production was achieved by adding 0.5% garlic leaves, and the egg weight was higher with 1% garlic leaves and 0.5% wild leek compared to the control group (P < 0.05). In addition, adding garlic leaves decreased the average daily feed intake and increased high-density lipoprotein concentration. However, adding both herbs did not influence yolk height, albumin height, shell thickness, and Haugh unit (P > 0.05). All supplemented treatments significantly increased the Rouch index compared to the control. Quails fed with 1% garlic leaves experienced serum cholesterol, very low-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, and uric acid. Moreover, three levels of garlic leaves decreased Triglyceride concentration. Adding 0.5% and 1% garlic leaves to the diet could increase the digestibility of ash, crude protein, jejunal, and ileal villus height-to-crypt depth ratio. Furthermore, 1% and 1.5% garlic leaves supplementation elevated organic matter digestibility. In conclusion, supplementing 1% garlic leaves to the quail's diet could improve egg weight, intestinal morphology, and nutrient digestibility, improving lipid profiles and reducing uric acid concentration in the serum. However, both plants were rich pigment sources, increasing the rouch index.