bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
One kilometer balanced analog photonic link based on a single multicore fiber
Authors: Nickel Daniel V , Maize Ian M. , Singley Joseph M.
Published: May 2023

A one kilometer balanced microwave photonic link based on a single four core multicore optical fiber is demonstrated for the first time, to the best of our knowledge. The radio frequency gains and differential phase stabilities over temperature were measured and compared to a conventional balanced link based on two spans of single mode fiber. Both the multicore fiber link and the single mode fiber balanced link exhibited differential phase fluctuations of |Δφ|≤13° at 25 GHz (corresponding to a differential delay or skew, |Δt|, of ≤1.4ps) under identical periodic temperature oscillations of ±13°C over a 60 min period. In contrast, previous studies have shown that two single mode fiber spans should have exhibited up to an order of magnitude greater Δφs compared to the multicore fiber. Our different results can be attributed to how the fibers are arranged; the previous works kept the two single mode fiber spans separate, on different spools, whereas in this work the two single mode fiber spans were co-located as close as possible together by spooling them ‘side-by-side’ onto a single mandrel, more representative of a balanced link in application. In addition, the radio-frequency crosstalk between the multicore fiber’s cores were measured, exhibiting acceptable levels at least 60 dB below the signal for all core combinations. The crosstalk is shown to be dominated by occurrences at localized points, e.g. at the multiplexers (fan-in/fan-outs) and splices, rather than during propagation. Regardless of the single mode fiber link’s performance, the measurements here demonstrate that multicore fiber-based balanced links are a viable single fiber alternative to conventional dual single mode fiber-based balanced links.
Contrasting current and future surface melt rates on the ice sheets of Greenland and Antarctica: Lessons from in situ observations and climate models
Authors: van den Broeke Michiel R. , Kuipers Munneke Peter , Noël Brice , Reijmer Carleen , Smeets Paul , van de Berg Willem Jan , van Wessem J. Melchior
Published: May 2023

Surface meltwater production impacts the mass balance of the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets in several ways, both directly (e.g., through runoff in Greenland) and indirectly (e.g., through cryo-hydrologic warming and frontal melt of marine-terminating glaciers in Greenland and hydrofracturing of ice shelves in Antarctica). Despite its importance, the spatial and temporal patterns in melt rates on both ice sheets are still relatively poorly understood. In this contribution we review and contrast surface melt ‘weather ‘(i.e., short term, intra- and interdiurnal variability) and surface melt ‘climate’ (i.e., longer term, interannual variability and future melt) of both ice sheets. We find that in situ observations using suitably equipped (automatic or staffed) weather stations are invaluable for a complete understanding of the melt process, which represents the complex transport of energy by radiation, turbulence, and molecular conduction between the lower atmosphere, the ice/snow surface, and the subsurface ice/snow layers. We provide example time series of ice sheet melt ‘weather’ for the marginal Greenland ice sheet, where warm and humid air masses tend to increase surface melt rate, and for coastal East Antarctica, where the opposite happens. Apart from process understanding, these in situ observations, which especially in Antarctica are scarce in space and time, are also invaluable to validate, evaluate and calibrate satellite- and model-based estimates of ice sheet surface melt rate. We provide examples of modelled melt maps for both ice sheets, and melt projections for a high-warming, fossil-fuelled development scenario. Although important milestones in melt observations (both in-situ and remotely sensed) and melt models (both global and regional) have recently been reached, we identify multiple outstanding research questions pertaining to current and future ice sheet surface melt rates.
Hopes, joys and fears: Meaning and perceptions of viral load testing and low-level viraemia among people on antiretroviral therapy in Uganda: A qualitative study
Authors: Nanyeenya Nicholus , Siu Godfrey , Kiwanuka Noah , Makumbi Fredrick , Nasuuna Esther , Nakanjako Damalie , Nakigozi Gertrude , Nabadda Susan , Kiyaga Charles , Kibira Simon P. S.
Published: May 2023

Uganda applies the World Health Organization threshold of 1,000 copies/ml to determine HIV viral non-suppression. While there is an emerging concern of low-level viraemia (≥50 to <1,000 copies/ml), there is limited understanding of how people on antiretroviral therapy perceive viral load testing and low-level viremia in resource-limited settings. This qualitative study used the health belief model to explore the meaning that people living with HIV attach to viral load testing and low-level viraemia in Uganda. We used stratified purposive sampling to select people on antiretroviral therapy from eight high volume health facilities from the Central, Eastern, Northern and Western regions of Uganda. We used an interview guide, based on the health belief model, to conduct 32 in-depth interviews, which were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis technique was used to analyze the data with the help of ATLAS.ti 6. The descriptions of viral load testing used by the participants nearly matched the medical meaning, and many people living with HIV understood what viral load testing was. Perceived benefits for viral load testing were the ability to show; the amount of HIV in the body, how the people living with HIV take their drugs, whether the drugs are working, and also guide the next treatments steps for the patients. Participants reported HIV stigma, lack of transport, lack of awareness for viral load testing, delayed and missing viral load results and few health workers as the main barriers to viral load testing. On the contrary, most participants did not know what low-level viraemia meant, while several perceived it as having a reduced viral load that is suppressed. Many people living with HIV are unaware about low-level viraemia, and hence do not understand its associated risks. Likewise, some people living with HIV are still not aware about viral load testing. Lack of transport, HIV stigma and delayed viral load results are major barriers to viral load testing. Hence, there is an imminent need to institute more strategies to create awareness about both low-level viraemia and viral load testing, manage HIV related stigma, and improve turnaround time for viral load results.
Behaviour change interventions for the control and elimination of schistosomiasis: A systematic review of evidence from low- and middle-income countries
Authors: Torres-Vitolas Carlos A. , Trienekens Suzan C. M. , Zaadnoordijk Willemijn , Gouvras Anouk N.
Published: May 2023

Background

For the last two decades, schistosomiasis control efforts have focussed on preventive treatment. The disease, however, still affects over 200 million people worldwide. Behaviour change (BC) interventions can strengthen control by interrupting transmission through modifying exposure behaviour (water contact) or transmission practices (open urination/defaecation); or through fostering treatment seeking or acceptance. This review examines these interventions to assess their effectiveness in modifying risk practices and affecting epidemiological trends.

Methodology/Principal findings

A systematic multi-database literature search (PROSPERO CRD42021252368) was conducted for peer-reviewed publications released at any time before June 2021 assessing BC interventions for schistosomiasis control in low- and middle-income countries. 2,593 unique abstracts were identified, 66 were assigned to full text review, and 32 met all inclusion criteria.

A typology of intervention models was outlined according to their use of behaviour change techniques and overarching rationale: health education (HEIs), social-environmental (SEIs), physical-environmental (PEIs), and incentives-centred interventions (ICIs). Available evidence does not allow to identify which BC approach is most effective in controlling risk behaviour to prevent schistosomiasis transmission. HEIs’ impacts were observed to be limited by structural considerations, like infrastructure underdevelopment, economic obligations, socio-cultural traditions, and the natural environment. SEIs may address those challenges through participatory planning and implementation activities, which enable social structures, like governance and norms, to support BC. Their effects, however, appear context-sensitive. The importance of infrastructure investments was highlighted by intervention models. To adequately support BC, however, they require users’ inputs and complementary services. Whilst ICIs reported positive impacts on treatment uptake, there are cost-effectiveness and sustainability concerns. Evaluation studies yielded limited evidence of independent epidemiological impacts from BC, due to limited use of suitable indicators and comparators. There was indicative evidence, however, that BC projects could sustain gains through treatment campaigns.

Conclusions/Significance

There is a need for integrated interventions combining information provision, community-based planning, and infrastructure investments to support BC for schistosomiasis control. Programmes should carefully assess local conditions before implementation and consider that long-term support is likely needed. Available evidence indicates that BC interventions may contribute towards schistosomiasis control when accompanied by treatment activities. Further methodologically robust evidence is needed to ascertain the direct epidemiological benefits of BC.
Prevalence of anemia in diabetes mellitus in South Asia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Mazumder Hoimonty , Islam Kazi Faria , Rahman Farzana , Gain Easter Protiva , Saha Nobonita , Eva Irfath Sharmin , Shimul Md Monir Hossain , Das Jyoti , Hossain M. Mahbub
Published: May 2023

Objective

Anemia and Diabetes Mellitus (DM) are amongst major clinical and public health challenges in South Asia that influence the progression of chronic health problems in this population. Despite a growing body of research on these problems, there is a lack synthesized evidence on the burden of anemia among people with DM in this region. This meta-analytic review was conducted to estimate the prevalence of anemia among people with DM in South Asia.

Methods

A systematic search of the literature was conducted in five primary databases and additional sources up to July 29, 2022, that reported the prevalence of anemia among DM patients in any of the eight South Asian countries. Observational studies that met pre-determined eligibility criteria according to the protocol registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022348433) were included in this meta-analysis. Random effect models were used to estimate pooled prevalence.

Results

Of the 40 eligible studies, 38 underwent meta-analysis representing 14,194 participants with DM. The pooled prevalence of anemia was 45% (95% CI: 37.0–54.0,I2= 99.28%, p = 0.00) among diabetic people in South Asia. In sub-group analysis, the pooled prevalence of anemia was higher in females (48%, 95% CI: 37.0–60.0,I2= 98.86%, p = 0.00) compared to males (39%, 95% CI: 29.0–48.0,I2= 98.18%, p = 0.00). Diabetic patients with older age (≥ 50 years) reported higher pooled estimates of anemia (48%, 95% CI: 38.0–58.0,I2= 99.07%) than younger age group (< 50 years) (34%, 95% CI: 21.0–47.0,I2= 98.83%). In addition, we found variation in pooled prevalence estimates of anemia considering the type of DM, such as type 1 reported 2% (95% CI: 0.00–4.00), type-2 reported 48% (95% CI: 40.0–56.0,I2= 98.94%), and Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) reported 6% (95% CI: 3.00–12.0).

Conclusion

High pooled estimates of anemia among diabetic patients in South Asia, including publication bias, warrants further clinical and public health research following standard research methods to understand the more context-specific epidemiological insights and evidence.
Evaluating the impact of Trichoderma biofertilizer and planting dates on mustard yield performance using the InfoCrop growth model
Authors: Islam Shams Shaila , Billah A.T.M. Masum , Hasan Ahmed Khairul , Karim Rashed , Khomphet Thanet
Published: May 2023

A crop simulation model is adopted to calculate the potential yield in a certain location. The data sets generated in each scenario (2021–2022) were used to evaluate the InfoCrop model. A field experiment using a randomized complete block design was conducted at the Agronomy Department’s research field, Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University. The following two factors: 1) factor A: sowing dates (Planting date 1: PD1 = 5th November and Planting date 2: PD2 = 15th November 2021) and 2) factor B: Trichoderma biofertilizers (T1 = control, T2 = 50% chemical fertilizer + 2,000 kg ha-1 Trichoderma biofertlizer, T3 = fully chemical fertilizer; and T4 = fully 3,000 kg ha-1 Trichoderma biofertilizer). Three BARI (Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute) released varieties (V1 = BARI Sarisa-14, V2 = BARI Sarisa-16, and V3 = BARI Sarisa-17) used for the completion of the experiment. The Trichoderma biofertilizer and planting dates had a significant influence on yield and yield attributes of mustard. Results showed that plant height, leaf width, leaves per plant, pods per plant, harvest index, maturity date, and yield were significantly affected by Trichoderma biofertilizer treatments, two different conditions, and varieties. The regression analysis indicated a significant linear relationship between two different growing conditions especially for harvest index PD2>PD1 (0.88>0.83), grain yield (0.94>0.90), flowering date (0.95>0.91) and maturity date (0.95>0.90). It was found that the model significantly overestimated all the parameters with an acceptable error range (<15%) while growth and yield characteristics including flowering and maturity dates and yield were simulated and results were compared to observed data. BARI Sarisa 16 had the highest simulated yield of 2.5 t ha-1 and showed a high yielding variety among the used varieties in the experiment. As a result, it can be concluded that if the InfoCrop growth model is carefully calibrated, it will be an excellent tool for evaluating and identifying the best yielding variety.
Affordability of household water services across the United States
Authors: Patterson Lauren A. , Bryson Sophia A. , Doyle Martin W.
Published: May 2023

Households that cannot be able to afford their water bills may lose access to drinking water and wastewater services. This study seeks to quantify how many households may struggle to pay for water services across 787 of the largest drinking water providers located within each state of the United States. Household water affordability is the ability for a household to pay for basic water services without undue hardship. Here, we select 6,000 gallons per month (22.7 m3/mo) as sufficient to meet basic needs and define undue hardship as spending more than 4.6% of household income (one day of labor each month) to pay for water services. Monthly bills are combined with census income data based on service area boundaries to determine how many households are spending more than 4.6% of their income on water services. We find that basic water services are unaffordable for 17% of the households (28.3 million persons) in this study. The median, or representative community, has one in seven households spending more than 4.6% of their income paying for water services. We developed a data visualization tool to allow users to explore how affordability challenges change across different volumes of water usage and levels of financial hardship (https://nicholasinstitute.duke.edu/water-affordability/water-affordability-united-states). This research shows that household water unaffordability is not a localized problem but rather is a challenge experienced by households in communities across the nation.
Valoración de la incidencia de PRM/RNM en pacientes tratados con anticoagulantes orales y evaluación de la intervención farmacéutica en farmacia comunitaria
Authors: Martínez de Morentin de Benito Laura María , Treceño Lobato Carlos , Valles Martín Elena
Published: May 2023

En los últimos años se ha incrementado el consumo de anticoagulantes orales debido a la alta incidencia de enfermedades cardiovasculares y al desarrollo de nuevos medicamentos. Estos fármacos están relacionados con un elevado índice de problemas de salud relacionados con PRM/RNM.

Se realizó un estudio observacional y transversal en una farmacia comunitaria urbana de Valladolid para evaluar la seguridad de los ACOD en comparación con los AVK en función de la identificación de PRM/RNM en pacientes ambulatorios.

El número de PRM/RNM por paciente en la muestra fue de 10,15, que implicaba 5,45 intervenciones potenciales. Los pacientes tratados con ACOD presentaron 2,3 PRM/RNM más que los tratados con AVK, lo que deriva en 1,3 intervenciones potenciales más. Sin embargo, cuando tenemos en cuenta sólo los PRM/RNM derivados de la terapia anticoagulante, los AVK producen 3,0 PRM/RNM frente a 1,4 PRM/RNM derivados del consumo de ACOD. Además, los pacientes tratados con AVK tienen 1,20 PRM/RNM moderados o graves más que los pacientes tratados con ACOD.

Estos datos demuestran que este tipo de pacientes debe ser un objetivo proactivo en los programas de atención farmacéutica.
Distribución de picaduras de garrapatas retiradas a personas durante la pandemia del COVID-19 en Castilla y León
Authors: Rivas Carlos , Vieira Carmen , Muro Antonio
Published: May 2023

Las garrapatas son ectoparásitos hematófagos de gran importancia a nivel mundial debido a su capacidad de transmitir agentes patógenos. En 2020, se produjo una pandemia mundial de SARS-CoV-2 que alteró el comportamiento humano y los ecosistemas de las garrapatas. El objetivo principal del trabajo es el estudio de la distribución de las garrapatas extraídas a personas en Castilla y León durante la pandemia de SARS-CoV-2 y su comparación con el año anterior y posterior. Se recibieron 5010 garrapatas extraídas a personas en los servicios de salud de la comunidad durante 2019, 2020 y 2021. En el laboratorio se procedió a su identificación y recogida de datos epidemiológicos del paciente picado para la posterior elaboración de una base de datos. Se realizó un análisis descriptivo de la comparación entre los periodos prepandemia, pandemia y postpandemia según variables divididas en tres clases: grupos poblacionales, especie de garrapata y distribución geográfica y temporal. De los resultados obtenidos en esta comparación se puede concluir que, mientras algunas variables se mantuvieron estables, la pandemia provocó alteraciones en el número de picaduras reportadas, en su distribución temporal y de especie y en la distribución de las picaduras en algunos grupos poblacionales.
Influence of Demographic Factors on Clinical Outcomes in Adults With Chronic Idiopathic Constipation Treated With Plecanatide
Authors: Rao Satish S.C. , Laitman Adam P. , Miner Philip B.
Published: May 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) is a common condition that affects some patient groups more often. Demographic/clinical characteristics can differ in presentation and therapeutic response. The impact of these characteristics on plecanatide efficacy/safety was examined.

METHODS:

Data from 2 identically designed, randomized, phase 3 trials of adults with CIC receiving 3 mg of plecanatide, 6 mg of plecanatide, or placebo for 12 weeks were analyzed. Subgroups were baseline age, body mass index (BMI), race/ethnicity, and sex/gender. Endpoints included durable overall complete spontaneous bowel movement (CSBM) responder rate, weekly CSBMs and spontaneous bowel movements (SBMs), and adverse events.

RESULTS:

Overall (N = 2,639; 3 mg of plecanatide [n = 877]; 6 mg of plecanatide [n = 877]; and placebo [n = 885]), CSBM responder rates were significantly greater with 3 mg of plecanatide and 6 mg of plecanatide vs placebo in subgroups with those younger than 65 years (P < 0.001), females (P < 0.001), White individuals (P < 0.001), and BMI <25 kg/m2 (P ≤ 0.004) and 25–30 kg/m2 (P < 0.001); as well, for 3 mg: 65 years or older (P = 0.03), non-White individuals (P < 0.001), and BMI ≥30 kg/m2 (P = 0.02). Improvement from baseline in weekly CSBM and SBM frequency occurred in all subgroups for both plecanatide doses vs placebo (P ≤ 0.02) at week 12, except those aged 65 years or older for 6 mg of plecanatide. The most common adverse event was diarrhea (3 mg [4.9%]; 6 mg [5.4%]; and placebo [1.3%]).

DISCUSSION:

Pooled data from identically designed CIC trials strengthened the ability to identify meaningful subgroup comparisons regarding plecanatide efficacy and safety.
Student colectivos in the USSR during the Cold War 1960s: shaping Cuba’s ‘New Man’ from abroad
Authors: Pedemonte Rafael
Published: May 2023

As Cuban–Soviet relations strengthened throughout the 1960s, Havana sent a significant number of becarios (scholarship holders) to the USSR. This was intended to improve Cuba’s technical advancement, but it was also part of a broader attempt to build, through education, what Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevara coined as ‘Cuban New Man’. To ensure the students’ adherence to socialism and avoid dissatisfaction with the revolution, Cuban leaders asked the students to organise themselves in colectivos, which assembled all students enrolled in the same Soviet institution. Although these organisations were constantly monitored by a state officials, many Cubans eagerly assumed a leading position within colectivos, guaranteeing the observance of strict discipline and contributing to strengthening the bond between the students and the revolution, ultimately reinforcing Cuban socialism’s New Man.
Biofertilizer and reduction of water losses in soil cultivated with tomato irrigated with moderately saline water
Authors: Vasconcelos Rossana Carla Montenegro de , Cavalcante Lourival Ferreira , Souto Antônio Gustavo de Luna , Diniz Adriana Araújo , Lima Neto Antonio João de , Dantas Tony Andresson Guedes
Published: May 2023

In semi-arid regions, agricultural production is often limited due to scarcity and rainfall irregularities, and, therefore, the production system depends on irrigation. In this direction, the research aimed to evaluate the influence of the reduction of water losses in the soil through the coating of the lateral faces of the planting furrows with plastic film, by lateral infiltration of water and bovine biofertilizers for growth in height, production, and chlorophyll responses of tomato cv. Fascínio F1 irrigated with moderately saline water. The experiment was carried out in randomized blocks, in a 2 × 3 factorial scheme, with 4 replicates and 21 plants per plot. Different conditions were used and compared with each other: the furrow had side coating or not, and the soil received a common biofertilizer (fresh lactating bovine manure), chemically enriched fertilizer (common biofertilizer, milk, molasses, and gypsum), or no fertilizer at all. The variables evaluated were soil moisture, plant height, a, b, and total chlorophyll content, number and average fruit mass, tomato production, and productivity. The enriched bovine biofertilizer associated with the lateral furrow coating increased the synthesis of chlorophyll pigments, the number of fruits per plant, and the productivity of tomato cv. Fascínio F1. Protecting the faces of the furrows against water losses from the root environment of plants keeps the soil moist, stimulates the synthesis of chlorophyll, and increases the average mass of the fruits. The common bovine biofertilizer promotes greater growth in plant height, and the chemically enriched biofertilizer increases the average weight of tomato fruits.
Physiological quality of Capsicum chinense 'Adjuma' seeds during development
Authors: Cavasin Pedro Yuri , Pereira Wilson Vicente Souza , Santos Heloisa Oliveira dos
Published: May 2023

Once “bode” pepper plants (Capsicum) have continuous development and fructification, it is not possible to determine a specific season for seed physiologic maturation and harvest. This research aimed to evaluate physiological quality of “bode” pepper (Capsicum chinense 'Adjuma’) during fruit development and enzymes expression on seed germination. Manually extracted seeds were submitted to physiological tests being evaluated germination at first count (FC), final (G), and germination speed index (GSI), additionally, enzymatic analyses were carried. The lowest values for the physiological tests were observed for initial development stages. The greatest for FC, G and IVG were observed for seeds from fruits 70 days after anthesis (DAA). Superoxide dismutase enzyme has the highest values on seeds harvested at 49 DAA while malate dehydrogenase has more expression at 70 DAA. Catalase, alcohol dehydrogenase, and esterase have the higher expression at 63 DAA. The maturation stage influences bode pepper seed physiological quality, being seeds harvested at 70 DAA those with the better results on the evaluated parameters, thus, considered physiologically mature and the indicated time for harvest.
Chemical composition and antifungal activity of Morinda Citrifolia fruit extract
Authors: Susilawati Susilawati , Anwar Chairil , Saleh Masagus Irsan , Salni Salni , Hermansyah Hermansyah , Oktiarni Dwita
Published: May 2023

Noni (Morinda citrifolia) fruit is a well-known plant used as a traditional medicine for preventing some diseases because of its abundance in chemical compounds. This research aimed to determine the phytochemical concentration, chemical composition, and antifungal activity of M. citrifolia fruit extract. M. citrifolia fruit was extracted with methanol and then distilled water for the partition extract. Subsequently, the extract was fractionated using various nonpolar to polar solutions, such as; chloroform, ethyl acetate, water, 2-propanol, and methanol fractions. Each fraction was evaporated until the dry extract was released. Additionally, the photochemical concentration of the M. citrifolia fruit extract was quantitatively determined using a UV-visible spectrophotometer. The chemical composition of the M. citrifolia fruit extract of each fraction was identified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Then, the antifungal activity of M.citrifolia fruit extract against C. albicans and C. krusei was determined using the disc diffusion method. The results showed that the phytochemical concentration of the M. citrifolia fruit extract was 1970.25 ppm flavonoids, 35.61 ppm tannins, and 148.62 ppm steroids.  2-Fluorobenzoic acid, eucalyptol, 2-chloroaniline-5-sulfonic acid, hexa-decamethyl octasiloxane, and tetra-propyl stannane were found to be the major components of M. citrifolia fruit extract. According to the research, M. citrifolia fruit extract showed antifungal activity against C. albicans and C. krusei in all tested fractions. The maximum inhibition zone of C. albicans was 14.0 ± 1.00 mm in the 2-propanol fraction, while that of C. krusei was 11.7 ± 0.58 mm in the methanol fraction.
Jindřich Marek, Ivo Pejčoch, Jiří Plachý, Tomáš Jakl: Padli na barikádách. Padlí a zemřelí ve dnech Pražského povstání 5.–9. května 1945
Authors: Wohlmuth Petr
Published: May 2023

A review of the book by Jindřich Marek, Ivo Pejčoch, Jiří Plachý and Tomáš Jakl.
The Victimity of Subjects of Criminal Processes and the Prevention of Criminal Offenses against Them
Authors: Mykhailo Huzela , Oleksandr Kolb , Mykola Turkot , Igor Vasyliuk
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this article is to enhance the measures to prevent criminal offenses against participants in criminal proceedings by clarifying the determinants of victimhood, highlighting the relevant typical features of victims. It was found that the victimhood of participants in criminal proceedings is characterized by a combination of personal behavioral qualities and special status, which interact with external factors and may be manifested simultaneously in a complex fashion and with different interpretations. Victim-forming factors of participants in criminal proceedings are singled out—a set of socio-psychological and biophysiologicalproperties, behavioral attitudes and personal characteristics, and external conditions. To develop effectiveprevention measures, the main types of victims—participants in criminal proceedings—are identified: victimsinvolved in criminal proceedings (witness, victim, suspect (accused), defense counsel, legal representative, expert, specialist, etc.) and victims—professional participants in criminal proceedings (investigator, coroner,prosecutor, judge, expert). The essence of professional victimhood is determined, which can be characterized by the absence of provocative manifestations, and the identification of the participants in criminal proceedings by the authorities, which causes in a certain category of persons the desire to come into conflict with them.The factors that cause increased victimization are highlighted.
Reforming the system of administrative and territorial organization in Ukraine and the Polish Republic
Authors: Gudz Tetyana , Shatilo Volodymyr , Marchuk Mykola , Kudin Serhii , Yarova Ruslana
Published: May 2023

The historical principles of the constitutional and legal reform of the administrative and territorial organizationin Ukraine and the Republic of Poland are studied, analyzing the constitutional legislation of both countries, the implementation of the reforms, and the existing scientific approaches. The possibilities of applying the Polish experience of constitutional modelling of the territorial organization in Ukraine are determined. Attention is paid to the main directions of reform the system of administrative and territorial organization in Ukraine and Poland at different stages of their historical development. It is noted that each period of reform to the administrative and territorial organization of these states is characterized by a different attitude towards local self-government. This allowed to outline the models of the system of administrative and territorial organization in Ukraine and Poland and to clarify their common and specific features.
Key aspects of the production of modern armaments and military equipment systems
Authors: Krakhmalyov Oleksandr , Zinchenko Olena , Brusentsev Vitalii , Razarenov Leonid , Shelestova Anna
Published: May 2023

The relevance of scientific research on the production of modern armaments and military equipment systems obeys to the prevalence of high geopolitical tensions in several zones of the globe, often leading to armed conflicts and thereby increasing the use of armaments and military equipment. The purpose of this article is to examine key aspects of the production, use, and operational reliability of armaments and military equipment used in real-world combat situations. The methodological approach is a combination of a systemic analysis of the current state of the military and industrial complex in a range of countries around the world with ananalytical study of the specifics of using weapons and military equipment in actual combat and the related trends in the development of the military and industrial complex. The results highlight various aspects of the practical use of armaments and military equipment in the defense strategy of individual states and the role of armaments and military equipment in today’s global social and economic system. These results are of significant practical importance to the employees of the military and industrial complex, whose direct responsibilities include the design and development of the latest weapons and military equipment, to the members of the various branches of the military who operate such equipment, and to the representatives of the military and industrial complex of individual states, whose direct tasks include bidding in international markets for armaments and military equipment.
Playing on the Expectations: Seth’s It’s a Good Life, If You Don’t Weaken (1993–1996) as Graphic Autofiction
Authors: Stupak Svitlana
Published: May 2023

The article revises the well-established reading of the Canadian author and artist Seth’s first graphic novel It’s a Good Life, If You Don’t Weaken (1993–1996) as autofiction, employing a more recent theorization on autofiction and the autofictional (that is, autofictional pact and strategies of counterfactuality). Seth consciously constructs his narrative identity, exploiting generic conventions and respective social expectations, which arise at the turn of the twenty-first century in light of the rising popularity of confessional writing in American alternative comics. Within the scope of this article, I touch upon the pragmatic of authorial self-articulation, that is, manipulation of architextual relations by means of his pseudonym, professional label, and genre elements, as well as the functional analysis of the binary system of characters. The study suggests the importance of differentiating between the fictional and referential in autofiction in order to preserve the autofictional equilibrium of establishment and subversion of authenticity.
Higher integrability for anisotropic parabolic systems of p-Laplace type
Authors: Mons Leon
Published: May 2023

In this article, we consider anisotropic parabolic systems of

p

p

-Laplace type. The model case is the parabolic

p

i

{p}_{i}

-Laplace system

u

t

−

∑

i
=
1

n

∂

∂

x

i

(

∣

D

i

u

∣

p

i

−
2

D

i

u

)

=
0

{u}_{t}-\mathop{\sum }\limits_{i=1}^{n}\frac{\partial }{\partial {x}_{i}}({| {D}_{i}u| }^{{p}_{i}-2}{D}_{i}u)=0

with exponents

p

i

≥
2

{p}_{i}\ge 2

. Under the assumption that the exponents are not too far apart, i.e., the difference

p

max

−

p

min

{p}_{\max }-{p}_{\min }

is sufficiently small, we establish a higher integrability result for weak solutions. This extends a result, which was only known for the elliptic setting, to the parabolic setting.
Role of monolignol glucosides in supramolecular assembly of cell wall components in ginkgo xylem formation
Authors: Terashima Noritsugu , Matsushita Yasuyuki , Yagami Sachie , Nishimura Hiroshi , Yoshida Masato , Fukushima Kazuhiko
Published: May 2023

The physical, chemical and biological properties of wood depend on the supramolecular assembly of cellulose microfibrils (CMFs), hemicelluloses (HCs) and lignin in the growing cell walls. Based on the 13C-tracer studies of ginkgo xylem formation, a hypothetical scenario for the role of monolignol glucosides (MLGs) in the assembly is proposed as follows: (1) Both moieties, aglycone monolignols and glycone d-glucose (d-Glc), play essential roles in a cooperative manner in delivery of hydrophobic and highly reactive p-hydroxycinnamyl- (H), coniferyl- (G) alcohols to the hydrophilic site of lignin deposition. (2) The d-Glc liberated at lignification site is converted into essential HCs mainly via Golgi apparatus under the influence of diurnally changing turgor pressure, and partly converted in the apoplast. (3) At cell corner middle lamella, a pressure-resistant layer of HG-lignin-HCs-CMFs is formed, and allows expansion of new cells in cambium region by elevation of turgor pressure. The deformable G-lignin-HCs-CMFs layer at secondary wall shrinks by dehydration of the swollen gel of HCs-CMFs during differentiation, and contributes posture control of standing tree. On-demand quick supply of a large amount of monolignols and HCs can be achieved by the large storage and delivery of MLGs in the growing ginkgo xylem.
Exact correction factor for estimating the OR in the presence of sparse data with a zero cell in 2 × 2 tables
Authors: Babu Malavika , Mani Thenmozhi , Sappani Marimuthu , George Sebastian , Bangdiwala Shrikant I. , Jeyaseelan Lakshmanan
Published: May 2023

In case-control studies, odds ratios (OR) are calculated from 2 × 2 tables and in some instances, we observe small cell counts or zero counts in one of the cells. The corrections to calculate the ORs in the presence of empty cells are available in literature. Some of these include Yates continuity correction and Agresti and Coull correction. However, the available methods provided different corrections and the situations where each could be applied are not very apparent. Therefore, the current research proposes an iterative algorithm of estimating an exact (optimum) correction factor for the respective sample size. This was evaluated by simulating data with varying proportions and sample sizes. The estimated correction factor was considered after obtaining the bias, standard error of odds ratio, root mean square error and the coverage probability. Also, we have presented a linear function to identify the exact correction factor using sample size and proportion.
The care of the magic of life before and after its beginning
Authors: Martínez Jorge César
Published: May 2023

The Journal of Perinatal Medicine helps me a lot to understand how impacted in my work as Neonatologist the crucial importance of permanently think on prenatal development and postnatal experiences of the newborn we are caring, and how the parents live the moment. We should produce High Technology but at the same time seriously consider High Prenatal life Advances. Possibly no other field of medicine has undergone such dramatic progress in reducing mortality and morbidity as the care of preterm newborns. In recent years, remarkable advances in the care of pregnant women and their babies have led to an increase in infant survival. However, advances in neonatal care need to be accompanied by mechanisms that help us deliver care safely to this most vulnerable population. Great progress has been made in perinatal care, but the health-care system must do much more. The health-care system faces a great challenge, the era of reflection between real progress and innovations. It means: Seriously consider what we are really doing and what we should really do.
Compatibility of the method of brackets with classical integration rules
Authors: Bradshaw Zachary , Gonzalez Ivan , Jiu Lin , Moll Victor Hugo , Vignat Christophe
Published: May 2023

The method of brackets is a symbolic approach to the computation of integrals over

R

n

{{\mathbb{R}}}^{n}

based on a deep result by Ramanujan. Its usefulness to obtain new and difficult integrals has been demonstrated many times in the last few years. This article shows that this method is consistent with most classical rules for the computation of integrals, such as the fundamental theorem of calculus, the Laplace transform, the reduction formula for the integration of functions with spherical symmetry, the Cauchy-Schlömilch transformation, and explicit evaluations for multivariate integrals of product of Bessel functions as obtained by Exton and Srivastava. This work is part of a program dedicated to the derivation of solid theoretical grounds for the use of this attractive integration method.
Rotating axis measurement based on rotational Doppler effect of spliced superposed optical vortex
Authors: Zhu Xiangyang , Qiu Song , Liu Tong , Ding You , Tang Ruoyu , Liu Zhengliang , Chen Xiaocen , Ren Yuan
Published: May 2023

In most rotational Doppler effect (RDE) measurements, the optical axis and the rotating axis of the object are required to be aligned. However, the condition is very difficult to achieve in practical applications of rotation detection, which seriously affects the received signal. Moreover, it is necessary to focus the beam on the rotating axis of a rotating surface in applications ranging from manufacturing to physical experiments. For example, the manufacture of diffraction optical elements requires aligning the beam to the rotating axis of the spindle. Therefore, how to determine the azimuth of the rotating axis has become an urgent problem to be solved. Based on a new type of superposed vortex beam with multiple topological charges (TCs), we report a new scheme for determining the position of rotating axis by only single RDE measurement, which greatly improves the measurement efficiency. According to the mode decomposition and conservation of angular momentum and energy, we reveal the RDE mechanism of the new structured beam named spliced superposed optical vortex (SSOV) and explain why the SSOV with asymmetrical defect is sensitive to the rotating axis of the object. In addition, in order to prove the effectiveness of the method, a proof-of-concept experiment is conducted to detect the position of object’s rotating axis in eight azimuth ranges, i.e., [iπ/4, (i + 1)π/4](i = 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7). The idea of breaking the symmetry of the optical vortex (OV) and adding additional parameters in this study may have great potential for applications in optical manipulation and communication. Finally, considering that the orbital angular momentum (OAM) mode purity and quality of the incomplete OV and the SSOV will decrease during the far-field propagation, a new method for pre-correction of SSOV is proposed in this research, which overcomes the effects caused by Gouy phase shift and diffraction to some extent. Combined with inertial navigation, these methods above can also be applied to remote sensing, manufacturing, and physics experiments.
Indonesian rice farmers’ perceptions of different sources of information and their effect on farmer capability
Authors: Mardiharini Maesti , Jamal Erizal , Rohaeni Eni Siti , Indrawanto Chandra , Indraningsih Kurnia Suci , Gunawan Endro , Ramadhan Rizky Prayogo , Fahmid Imam Mujahidin , Wardana Ï Putu , Ariningsih Ening
Published: May 2023

The diverse sources of agricultural extension information do not guarantee increased farmers’ capabilities to adopt agricultural innovations. Consequently, efforts to accelerate the adoption of agricultural innovations should pay particular attention to farmers’ compatibility with different information sources. This study aims to analyze farmers’ perceptions of various information sources about rice commodity innovations and determine the information sources influencing farmers’ capabilities in adopting rice innovations. The study was conducted from June to December 2019 through a structured survey approach with 270 rice farmers in Subang, West Java and Boyolali, Central Java, Indonesia, by using structural equation model analysis. The results showed that rice farmers had positive perceptions of government, private, and self-subsistent extension. The capability level of rice farmers showed that all indicators were significantly different. Farmers could improve their capabilities and sustainability of rice farming by adopting agricultural innovations. Information from government and private extension providers had a positive effect on the capacity and capability of rice farmers. The role of self-subsistent extension was more of a facilitator and did not directly affect the capacity and capability of farmers. Participatory extension activities are recommended as a form of intervention that can improve rice farmers’ capacity and capability in terms of technology adoption processes. The extension activities should be provided as a series, rather than one-off events, so that farmer knowledge accumulates over time through a style and pace to match their skills and level of education.
Control of chirality inversion kinetics of triple-helical metallocryptands
Authors: Akine Shigehisa
Published: May 2023

Dynamic helical molecules, which can undergo a reversible chirality inversion between the P and M forms, are useful as a platform for switchable chiral functional molecules. The chirality inversion of these molecules has been extensively studied. However, it has mostly been discussed from the viewpoint of the equilibrated P/M ratios before and after the inversion; control of the response speeds or kinetic profiles has rarely been explored. In order to construct helical structures with controllable kinetic profiles, triple-helical metallocryptands, LM3, have been designed and synthesized. These molecules can undergo a relatively slow dynamic P/M chirality inversion (helicity inversion) to produce an equilibrated mixture. The P/M equilibration was accelerated or decelerated based on the following two strategies. One is based on the guest binding in the cryptand cavity. The P/M racemization kinetics of LNi3 was significantly decelerated by recognition of guanidinium ion in the cavity. The other strategy is based on the ligand exchange reactions at the octahedral cobalt(III) centers in LCo3(amine)6. The P/M chirality inversion speeds were controlled by changing the initial and entering amine ligands. In addition, a unique transient chirality inversion behavior was observed when chiral amine ligands were removed from the metallocryptand by the ligand exchange reaction with piperidine.
COVID bell – A smart doorbell solution for prevention of COVID-19
Authors: Gudipalli Abhishek , Kejriwal Vaibhav , Patel Vaishnavi , Gupta Riddhi , Dixit Utkarsh
Published: May 2023

The article introduces a novel strategy for efficiently mitigating COVID-19 distribution at the local level due to contact with any surfaces. Our project aims to be a critical safety shield for the general people in the fight against the epidemic. An ultrasonic sensor is integrated with the automated doorbell system to ring the doorbell with a hand motion. A temperature sensor Mlx90614 is also included in the system, which records the temperature of the person standing in front of the door. The device also includes a camera module that captures the image of the person standing at the front entrance. The captured image is processed through an ML model which runs at over 30 fps to detect whether or not the person is wearing a mask. The image and the temperature of the person standing outside are sent to the owner through the configured iOS application. If the person outside is wearing a mask, one can open the door through the app itself and permit the entry of the person standing outside thereby integrating the edge device with an app for a better user experience. The system helps in reducing physical contact, and the results obtained are at par with the already existing solutions and provide a few advantages over them.
On the Marionette Theater by Heinrich von Kleist. In Other Words: The Impossibility of Man’s Salvation through Technology
Authors: Puppo Federico
Published: May 2023

The aim of this paper is to present some thought on Heinrich von Kleist’s Marionettentheatre-Essay, a very strange dialogue in which the German author reflects on grace and the destiny of mankind. After a brief introduction, I will discuss Kleist’s philosophical background by mentioning influences by Rousseau and Kant in order to show why he lost hope and faith and why, at a certain point, he changed his mind in favor of nihilism. The dilemmatic situation presented in his Marionettentheatre-Essay is the result of this evolution of thought, in which man is depicted with his desire to search for Heaven but damned to live his life by knowing that it is impossible to gain grace again. We exist in a place between the earth and the sky, where a purely material world or God, or even technology cannot save us.