bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feasibility and preliminary evidence of the immediate effect on balance, functionality, and cognition in adults over 50 through postural sway-meter training
Authors: Suttanon Plaiwan , Khanphed Wanadchapon , Saadprai Sairag , Apibantaweesakul Sudarat
Published: December 2024

An accelerometer-based device (postural sway-meter) is increasingly used for balance assessment, training, and fall prevention. However, limited information exists regarding its immediate effect on physical and cognitive performance, especially among middle-aged and older adults. This study aims to investigate the immediate effects of a balance training program using a postural sway-meter on balance, functional, and cognitive performance in adults over 50 years. This experimental study involved 72 participants aged 50 years and over, randomly assigned to either the intervention or control group. The intervention group underwent a 30-minute balance training session using the sway-meter with sound feedback (set at 75% of the stability limits at baseline). The control group participated in a 30-minute fall prevention knowledge session. The sway-meter measured balance during quiet stance and leaning. Functional performance was assessed using the multi-dimensional reach test (MDRT). Cognitive performance was evaluated through Trail Making Tests (TMT) A & B, as well as hand/foot reaction time assessments. Between-group comparisons at post-intervention showed no significant differences in balance, functional, and cognitive performance outcomes. Within-group analysis revealed a significant decrease in maximum reaching distance in the forward direction (MDRT) (p = 0.032, d = 0.31, 95% CI [-0.15, 0.78]) and the time to complete TMT-B (p = 0.036, d = 0.24, 95% CI [-0.22, 0.71]) in the intervention group. The control group showed a significant increase in COM angle sway excursion (lateral direction) (p = 0.011, d = 0.27, 95% CI [-0.19, 0.74]) and a decrease in TMT-A time (p = 0.031, d = 0.38, 95% CI [-0.09, 0.85]). Both groups significantly reduced hand reaction time (intervention: p = 0.036, d = 0.24, 95% CI [-0.22, 0.70]; control: p = 0.034, d = 0.20, 95% CI [-0.26, 0.66]) at post-intervention assessment. The findings of this study suggest that a single 30-minute balance training session using a postural sway-meter, delivered by a physiotherapist, is not only feasible and safe for community-dwelling older adults but also has the potential to significantly improve balance and cognitive outcomes. Enhancing the training program by increasing the amount of leaning and duration could further amplify these benefits, underscoring the need for a more robust training regimen.
A long-term assessment of the multidisciplinary degree of multidisciplinary journals
Authors: Redondo-Gómez Daniel , Arroyo-Machado Wenceslao , Torres-Salinas Daniel , Margalida Antoni , Moleón Marcos
Published: December 2024

Are multidisciplinary journals truly multidisciplinary, and, how has the multidisciplinary character of these journals evolved over the long term? Here, we assess these questions by analyzing data from the Journal Citation Reports. We examined 983,246 articles and reviews published between 1980 and 2021 in 127 journals categorized under ‘Multidisciplinary Sciences’. We found that the representation of the main branches of knowledge in multidisciplinary journals was uneven and, in general, not proportional to the global research effort dedicated to each branch. Similarly, the distribution of publications across specific research areas was uneven, with “Biochemistry & Molecular Biology” strongly overrepresented. However, we detected a decreasing trend in the percentage of publications that multidisciplinary journals dedicate to this and other top areas, especially over the last decade. The multidisciplinary degree of multidisciplinary journals, as measured by the Gini index, was generally low but showed a gradual increase over time. The impact factor of multidisciplinary journals was positively related to the percentage of publications in the area “Biochemistry & Molecular Biology”. Compared to other multidisciplinary journals, Nature, Science, and PNAS emphasized this area even more strongly, though the difference between the first-ranked area and the other top areas consistently decreased since 1980. In conclusion, while a strong bias remains in favor of highly citable areas, multidisciplinary journals are progressively increasing their degree of multidisciplinarity in recent years. Thus, we encourage authors to carefully consider this polarization when selecting journals for their studies, and we suggest that scientific agencies keep it in mind when evaluating researchers.
Adaptive connectivity control in networked multi-agent systems: A distributed approach
Authors: Križmančić Marko , Bogdan Stjepan
Published: December 2024

Effective communication is crucial for the performance and collaboration within cooperative networked multi-agent systems. However, existing literature lacks comprehensive solutions for dynamically monitoring and adjusting communication topologies to balance connectivity and energy efficiency. This study addresses this gap by proposing a distributed approach for estimating and controlling system connectivity over time. We introduce a modified consensus protocol where agents exchange local assessments of communication link quality, enabling the estimation of a global weighted adjacency matrix without requiring centralized information. The system’s connectivity is measured using the second smallest eigenvalue of the communication graph Laplacian, commonly referred to as algebraic connectivity. Additionally, we enhance the consensus protocol with an adaptive mechanism to expedite convergence, irrespective of system size or structure. Furthermore, we present an analytical method for connectivity control based on the Fiedler vector approximation, facilitating the addition or removal of communication links. This method adjusts control parameters to accommodate minor variations in link quality while reconfiguring the network in response to significant changes. Notably, it identifies and eliminates energy-consuming yet non-contributory links, improving long-term connectivity efficiency. Simulation experiments across diverse scenarios and the number of agents validate the efficacy of our proposed algebraic connectivity estimation and tracking strategy. Results demonstrate robust connectivity maintenance against external disturbances and agent failures, underscoring the practical utility of our approach for real-world multi-agent systems.
Assessing food consumed away from home in low-and middle-income countries by developing specific modules for household surveys: Experimental evidence from Vietnam and Burkina Faso
Authors: Landais Edwige , Pelloquin Raphaël , Maître d’Hôtel Elodie , Truong Tuyet Mai , Hoang Thu Nga , Bui Thi Thao Yen , Do Thi Phuong Ha , Thu Trang Tran Thi , Somé Jérôme , Béné Christophe , Verger Eric O.
Published: December 2024

In a world rapidly transitioning, food consumption away from home is rising, therefore representing an increasing share of individual’s diet. Food consumed away from home negatively impacts diet, nutritional status and consequently has detrimental effects on health. In some contexts, where individual level dietary intake surveys are not regularly conducted, this behavior is not well documented leading to a gap of knowledge. The aim of the present study was to develop and validate in Burkina Faso and Vietnam specific modules that could be added to Household Consumption and Expenditure Surveys that are usually regularly conducted worldwide, in order to document the economic and nutritional importance of food consumption away from home. In each country, two survey modules, one long (100 food items) and one short (30 food items) were developed, to measure individual-level food consumption away from home over the last 7 days. The modules were relatively validated in comparison with data from three non-consecutive 24-hour dietary recalls conducted over the same 7-days period. The validation was conducted in different settings (urban, peri-urban and rural) in Burkina Faso (n = 924) and Vietnam (n = 918). In both countries, a good concordance between the 24-hour dietary recalls and the modules in their ability to identify a person as having consumed food away from home (>77%) was found. However, in both countries, both modules underestimate the mean energy intake coming from foods consumed away from home (from 122 to 408 kcal) while they overestimate the budget allocated to it (from -0.07 to -0.29 USD/day). None of developed food away from home modules were considered as valid. There is a need for the international community to continue to work on developing and validating tools capable to estimate nutritional intakes related to food consumption away from home and that could be added to regular national household-level surveys.
Fashion, beauty and media
Authors: Kaiser Susan B. , Smelik Anneke
Published: December 2024

This introduction considers how the four research articles in this issue address the relation of fashion and/or beauty with media: specifically, the ‘older’ media of journalism and film, and ‘new’ media such as video blogs and TikTok. All of these venues have the capacity to communicate various visual and verbal concepts, with different relations to their audiences. The emergence of newer, digital platforms has disrupted the extent to which media can dictate visual codes and narratives, opening up fragmented and decentralized spaces where multiple, often conflicting, discourses of fashion and beauty coexist. These platforms also potentially articulate alternative beauty ideals and subcultural fashion trends that challenge the hegemonic standards of older media. At the same time, the responsibility of older media to foster ethical journalistic standards and social justice awareness to their audiences becomes intensified. The articles in this volume represent these potentialities for both older and newer media.
Blind and partially sighted women’s make-up: A narrative of practice, perseverance and empowerment
Authors: Daniels Gabriela , Khadaroo Ameerah
Published: December 2024

Social disabilities such as visual impairment hinder full participation in daily activities and society. This study uses a qualitative analysis of YouTube make-up tutorials to examine the practices and motivations of blind and partially sighted (BPS) vloggers. Although make-up has been used over centuries specifically to support personal and social goals, its usage has grown in strength with the advent of social media influencers. Thematic analysis reveals that for BPS vloggers, make-up application involves iterative learning through product familiarization, routines and practice. The experience brings them enjoyment, fun and increased confidence. Their motivation to engage with make-up and share vlogs appears at least partially driven by the desire to support others with similar disabilities and to challenge public misconceptions about disability. Amidst rising aesthetic standards and omnipresent social media, the BPS make-up vloggers’ presence signifies their agency as influencers, whilst also pointing to the equally powerful shadow of social disability still present today.
Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses, curated by Cloé Pitiot and Louise Curtis, Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Paris, 29 November 2023–28 April 2024
Authors: Smelik Anneke
Published: December 2024

Review of: Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses, curated by Cloé Pitiot and Louise Curtis, Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Paris, 29 November 2023–28 April 2024
Food & Fashion, curated by Melissa Marra-Alvarez and Elizabeth Way, The Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), New York, 13 September–26 November 2023
Authors: Ibsen Katherine
Published: December 2024

Review of: Food & Fashion, curated by Melissa Marra-Alvarez and Elizabeth Way, The Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), New York, 13 September–26 November 2023
Ensino de Astronomia para professores pedagogos:
Authors: Mometti Carlos
Published: November 2024

Trabalhos recentes acerca do ensino de Astronomia, considerando o contexto brasileiro, têm apontado problemas que impossibilitam sua aprendizagem por parte dos alunos. Dentre aqueles destaca-se, sobremaneira, a área da formação de professores e suas reais dificuldades em desenvolver o ensino da Astronomia para crianças. Diante deste cenário, busca-se com o presente artigo apresentar um modelo para a formação continuada de professores pedagogos, direcionado para o ensino de Astronomia nos Anos Iniciais do Ensino Fundamental. Para tanto, parte-se de uma breve discussão acerca da formação docente no Brasil para, em seguida, discorrer acerca dos pressupostos teórico-metodológicos que permitiram a construção do referido modelo, o qual resultou de uma pesquisa realizada sobre o ensino da Astronomia para crianças, em uma instituição de ensino em São Paulo, Brasil. Como aproximações, o presente trabalho leva a uma proposta de desenvolvimento de formação básica para o ensino da Astronomia direcionada para professores pedagogos, bem como a possibilidade do ensino de conceitos basilares para crianças dos Anos Iniciais do Ensino Fundamental.
A global minimum wage formula as a proactive measure for climate migration
Authors: Lough Derek
Published: November 2024

On February 14, 2023, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres spoke to a global audience, stating, "The world will witness a mass exodus of entire populations on a biblical scale."
Purpose: This paper proposes a global minimum wage formula tied to local rent prices as a proactive measure to strategically incentivize populations to migrate away from coastal areas threatened by climate change.
Methodology: The author employs a theoretical approach, utilizing economic principles and financial literacy practices to develop a scaffolded, multi-year plan for implementing a global minimum wage formula. As this is a theoretical paper, there are no experiments or empirical results to evaluate.
Results: The proposed global minimum wage formula, based on a 'Recent and Relevant Rent Price Index' (3RPI), is designed to anchor wages to a rent-price index, allowing laborers to afford housing on 30% of their wages. This formula is expected to incentivize migration inland, spur entrepreneurism, and increase local tax bases.
Theoretical contribution: This paper contributes to climate change adaptation by proposing an economic solution to manage the anticipated mass migration due to rising sea levels and coastal erosion. It highlights the potential of market-driven measures to mitigate the economic shocks associated with climate change-induced migration.
Practical implications: Implementing the proposed global minimum wage formula could help governments proactively manage climate change-induced migration's economic and social impacts. It may also contribute to funding the annual $2.4 trillion gap for addressing climate change, as described by the United Nations, by temporarily increasing discretionary funds and tax bases.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities; SDG 13: Climate Action; SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities; SDG 1: No Poverty
A importância do Orgasmo na perspectiva teórica de Wilhelm Reich
Authors: Melo Antônio Marlos Duarte de , Landim José Marcondes Macêdo , Amorim Samuel Ilo Fernandes de
Published: December 2024

O presente estudo comenta, à luz da literatura, sobre a importância do orgasmo, dentro da perspectiva teórica de Wilhelm Reich. Suas contribuições à teoria psicanalítica de Freud, levaram em conta a identificação da função do orgasmo sexual, associada a uma possível liberação de tensões, promotora da saúde mental. O autor pensou na possibilidade do orgasmo possuir a função de libertar, a energia sexual reprimida, restaurando dessa forma a saúde emocional. Concluiu ser o orgasmo uma fonte de bem-estar e de vitalidade.
Autonomous Underwater Vehicle Design and Development: Methodology and Performance Evaluation
Authors: Bogrekci Ismail , Demircioglu Pinar , Ozer Goktug
Published: December 2024

This study focused on the development of an autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) across four key domains: Mechanical Design, Software, Electronics, and Security. The Mechanical Design phase involved utilizing computer-aided drawing programs to create the AUV model. Important design considerations encompassed manufacturability, cost, power, weight, and durability. Comparisons with nominal values of existing market products validated the precision of the produced designs. Particular emphasis was placed on optimizing the weight of the models, ensuring the AUV's efficiency, lightness, and exceptional maneuverability in underwater environments. The Software stage entailed the development of AUV software to enable sensitive and effective vehicle operations. Seamless functioning, devoid of errors or complications, was imperative to ensure optimal autonomous driving, running, and operational capabilities. Image processing algorithms were incorporated into the software to maintain high accuracy and provide dimensional and geometric information of targeted areas. Furthermore, the software phase involved the development of an image processing algorithm based on color analysis, further augmenting accuracy. The selection of electronic components for the AUV was also a vital consideration, alongside ensuring safety measures at every stage of the UAV's development.
Thermal properties of porous sodium polyacrylate/silica nanocomposites
Authors: Korobeinyk Alina , Yurchenko Gabriella , Matkovsky Alexander , Tertykh Valentin
Published: December 2024

Porous silica/sodium polyacrylate nanocomposites were obtained in a one-stage sol-gel process. The process involved acid hydrolysis of tetramethoxysilane (TMOS) in the presence of sodium salt of poly(acrylic acid) (SPA) in the molar ratio of TMOS/SPA from 2:1 to 8:1. The physical and thermal properties of the obtained nanocomposites were characterized by FTIR, SEM, TGA and adsorption analysis (BET, BJH). The mechanical and chemical treatment of the composite after the synthesis increased its surface area without significantly changing its thermal properties. The process enables pore size control.
Foreword
Authors: Schilling Pedro
Published: November 2024

Foreword
The role of Doppler ultrasonography in the detection and management of nutcracker syndrome
Authors: Kim Seung Hyup
Published: December 2024

Nutcracker syndrome is caused by the compression of the left renal vein between the abdominal aorta and the superior mesenteric artery. The use of Doppler ultrasonography to diagnose this condition is challenging due to the dynamic nature of the nutcracker phenomenon and the variability of its symptoms, which can fluctuate with changes in patient posture and respiration. This review emphasizes the critical role of Doppler ultrasonography in identifying and managing nutcracker syndrome. It also explores the various subtypes of the nutcracker phenomenon and discusses how Doppler ultrasonography can improve patient outcomes by enabling management strategies that are informed by dynamic assessments of left renal vein compression.
Notes from the Editors, December 2024
Authors: The Editors -
Published: December 2024

buy this issueAs the atrocities visited by Israel upon the Palestinian people continue to multiply, this month's "Notes from the Editors is a forceful condemnation of not only the Zionist entity, but the entire U.S.-led neoliberal world order. Israel's relentless pursuit of genocide in Palestine "has destroyed any pretense of a commitment to universal human rights on the part of the West," undeniably revealing "imperialism and settler colonialism in their most brutal forms" as the entire world watches.
From Promoting Harmony to Spreading Threats: the Languages of Digital Security of Indonesian Cyber Police to Create Political Stability
Authors: Sardini Nur Hidayat , Wijayanto Wijayanto , Elsitra Gita Nindya
Published: November 2024

Recently, the Indonesian police has increased its security activities on social media. Not only taking action against digital crimes, they are also pro-active in monitoring social media by finding a new body namely a virtual police. They conduct socialization on what considered appropriate activities on the twitter. Furthermore, they also implement surveillance to the netizen’s activities on twitter and release early warning to those who are considered as violating the law. In the twitter, this function was conducted using their account namely @siberpolri which means Indonesian cyber police. Based on the digital ethnography on the twitter account of the Indonesian cyber police, this study tries to analyze the language used by the Indonesian police to create digital security. This research found that the Indonesian police use the following languages in their posts: first, promoting social harmony in digital public spaces; second, using jokes to divert the discussion away from the political problems to trivial things; third, encouraging the citizens not to criticize the power holders; fourth, creating a narrative of threats to netizens. This study argues that behind the language used, there is an underlying interest of the Indonesian police to create of political stability very much needed to support economic development. In this regards, the languages of digital security will be understood in the context of the ideology of neo developmentalism which is being carried out by President Joko Widodo. It is the ideology which was once used during the New Order era under authoritarian Suharto.
Physiological parameters dictate bearing pattern in different mango cultivars: Study from Sub-tropical India
Authors: Tiwari Dhiru Kumar , Patel Vishwa Bandhu , Barman Kalyan , Verma Raj Bhuwan , Pandey Avnish Kumar
Published: November 2024

The bearing habit of mango has long been a subject of interest for pomologists. The difference in bearing pattern among various mango cultivars is attributed to complex physiological interaction. Despite multiple studies on mango bearing, detailed investigations in this area remain limited. This study aims to explore the interrelationship between the bearing patterns and the associated physiological changes in different mango cultivars. The physiological parameters were examined at various growth stages in Baramasi (a perennial bearer), Amrapali (a regular bearer) and Langra and Alphonso (irregular bearer) of mango (Mangifera indica L.). Significant variations were observed in chlorophyll content, internal carbon dioxide concentration, photosynthetic rate and flowering intensity. An increase in internal carbon dioxide concentration led to reduced carbon dioxide uptake, which impacted net photosynthesis production. A direct correlation between flowering intensity and photosynthetic rate was identified, while a nonlinear relationship between photosynthetic rate and total carbohydrate content was also noted. The study suggests that variations in the photosynthetic rate and the subsequent source-sink relationship may contribute to the differences in bearing patterns across mango cultivars. While further studies are needed for more conclusive results, this research can be valuable for pomologists, physiologists and breeders working with mango.
Behavior of TE and TM propagation modes in nanomaterial graphene using asymmetric slab waveguide
Authors: Alwan Saib Thiab , Al-Bawee Abbas , Alrubaiy Ahmed AAG
Published: December 2024

In this article, the conduction of transverse electric/transverse magnetic (TE/TM) propagation modes in nanomaterial graphene utilization of asymmetric dielectric slab waveguide was studied in terms of their applicability in optical fiber communication. Nano-graphene film was deposited on silica substrate and air cladding. Three layers were exposed to electromagnetic waves with a 1.55 µm wavelength and 1 µm thick nanographene film, silica, and air covering to study the performance and optical properties of graphene nanomaterials. The models were influenced by factors such as attenuation wavenumbers, cut-off frequency, mode number, propagation wavenumbers, skin depth, and angles of total internal reflection. The impact of these parameters was assessed through numerical analysis, revealing significant correlations. The modes generated ten numbers of TE and nine numbers of TM mode dependent upon the structure of nanographene, with low loss propagation wavenumber. As the TE/TM modes increase, the decay wavenumbers of the cladding and substrate parameters diminish. This indicates that the magnetic and electric fields undergo extremely rapid decay beyond the film region, which leads to the skin depth for higher TE/TM modes traveling longer distances in the cladding and substrate than do lower-order modes. Therefore, nanographene exhibits good optical properties due to its low absorption loss. The angles of internal reflection are greater in magnitude than the substrate and cladding key angles. Still, in the tenth TE mode, the internal reflection angles are extremely close to the critical angle as a result of the small substrate decay parameter and the near operating frequency. The tenth TE mode is weakly characterized. The characteristics of TE/TM modes in an asymmetric three-layer slab waveguide structure are realized for various mode orders and various parameters of nanographene material. The field profiles of the TE/TM modes are submitted to comprehend these characteristics.
Incidence and awareness of dysphoric milk ejection reflex (DMER)
Authors: Solmonovich Rachel L. , Kouba Insaf , Bailey Christine , Andria Wendi , Demertzis Kristen , Blitz Matthew J. , Muscat Jolene
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To determine Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex (DMER) incidence. Secondary objectives were to describe the symptom profiles and patient characteristics of DMER and assess DMER familiarity.

Methods

A prospective observational study of people who initiated breastfeeding after delivery between December 2022 and May 2023 at two hospitals in New York. Participants filled out an Initial Survey, assessing prior DMER familiarity, and recurring DMER Symptoms Surveys, assessing symptom presence, severity, and transiency. Medical records were reviewed for patient demographics and clinical history. Descriptive and basic inferential statistics were performed. A p<0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Based on the DMER definition utilized, incidence was 26.9 % (n=21), and symptom severity was mostly very mild to moderate. Those with DMER had similar baseline characteristics to those without, apart from a significantly higher rate of having delivered via cesarean section (71.4.0 vs. 33.3 %, p<0.01). Among the 55 patients who completed the initial survey, 61.8 % were unfamiliar with the condition.

Conclusions

DMER is described as brief, abrupt, negative emotions experienced by breastfeeding individuals prior to milk letdown. We found that more than 1 in 4 participants screened positive. Future research could better define, quantify, qualify, and publicize this condition to inform clinical practices and facilitate successful breastfeeding relationships.
The interaction of irrealis markers and blocking effects in counterfactual conditionals: theoretical implications
Authors: Olguín Martínez Jesus
Published: December 2024

There are languages in which the irrealis domain is split up into situations that may potentially occur and counterfactual situations. In these languages, one marker is only used for expressing potential situations (weak irrealis) and another marker is only used for expressing counterfactual situations (strong irrealis). Moreover, there are languages that only have either weak or strong irrealis markers. For languages containing both weak and strong irrealis markers, it has been demonstrated that the use of weak irrealis markers in counterfactual conditionals is blocked by strong irrealis markers. Based on a sample of 51 languages, the present study lends support to this theoretical claim. However, it is also shown that there are other blocking effects. First, there are languages in which the use of strong irrealis markers in counterfactual conditionals is blocked by specialized clause-linking devices (e.g., devices only used for expressing counterfactual conditional relations). Second, for languages that only contain weak irrealis markers, it is shown that the use of weak irrealis markers in counterfactual conditionals is blocked by a specialized clause-linking device. The paper further investigates whether the results obtained for counterfactual conditionals can be generalized to other counterfactual constructions.
Clinical diagnosis of the monogenic Ehlers-Danlos syndromes
Authors: van Dijk Fleur S. , Angwin Chloe , Demirdas Serwet , Ghali Neeti , Zschocke Johannes
Published: December 2024

Monogenic Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) are a group of inherited connective tissue conditions that are clinically characterised by joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility and/or fragility, and generalised tissue fragility. Gene panel testing with massively parallel sequencing is currently gold standard to confirm diagnoses of the monogenic EDS types.

We aim to report on the (combination of) clinical features of the monogenic EDS types through text and photographs, to aid clinical diagnosis as despite the significant progress in genetic testing possibilities, a thorough clinical assessment which includes medical history, family history and physical examination remains important in the diagnostic process.

In addition, in those cases where no molecular diagnosis is possible, a clinical diagnosis can still guide management and surveillance.
Screening for creatine transporter deficiency in autism spectrum disorder: a pilot study
Authors: Arslan Mutluay , Yildiz Yılmaz , Olgaç Asburçe , Hekim Özlem , Yücel Çiğdem , Sertoğlu Erdim
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Investigation of inherited metabolic disorders in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a matter of debate. X-linked creatine transporter deficiency is among the metabolic disorders which may present predominantly with features of ASD and intellectual disability. Here, we aimed to screen for creatine transporter deficiency in boys with ASD at a university hospital in Turkey.

Methods

Random urine samples were collected from males with ASD (age 3–18 years); urine creatinine, creatine and guanidinoacetate levels were determined by liquid chromatography – tandem mass spectrometry. Demographic and clinical data were obtained via history and physical examination. The primary outcome was the diagnosis of creatine transporter deficiency (elevated urinary creatine:creatinine ratio). The diagnosis of guanidinoacetate methyltransferase deficiency and the parameters associated with the creatine metabolites were secondary outcomes.

Results

Forty seven boys were enrolled, 21.3 and 19.1 % of whom had gross motor delay or paroxysmal abnormalities. 55.3 and 51.1 % patients had low urine creatine and guanidinoacetate levels, respectively, and no cases of creatine transporter deficiency or guanidinoacetate methyltransferase deficiency were identified. Age at ASD diagnosis, age at speech onset, otic or ocular dysmorphic features and psychotropic medications were weakly associated with creatine metabolites.

Conclusions

We found no evidence to support routine screening of boys with ASD for creatine transporter deficiency, but the small number of participants is a limitation. Associates of urinary creatine metabolites were not considered to be clinically significant. High proportion of patients with low creatine and guanidinoacetate levels may be due to nutritional issues, and requires further study.
Finland in world trade. Factors of integration and globalization
Authors:   Institute of Europe of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Plyusnin Roman
Published: November 2024

The monograph is devoted to the problems of Finland’s participation in European integration. The theoretical views on the changes that should occur in the country when joining the integration grouping are considered. The main focus of the author’s analysis of these changes is on the transformations of the geographical and commodity structure of foreign trade. The shifts in Finland’s foreign trade were quantified using special indices and taking into account exogenous shocks. The changes that took place were also considered in the light of the active process of globalization, which continued in the world economy until the beginning of the XXI century, and modern processes of deglobalization. Using the example of Finland, an idea is given about the impact of integration on a small open economy.
Ethnicity, migration and electoral processes in contemporary Europe
Authors:   Institute of Europe, Russian Academy of Sciences, Babynina Liudmila , Bazarkina Darya ,   Institute of Europe, Russian Academy of Sciences, Bisson Lyubov ,   Institute of Europe, Russian Academy of Sciences, Domanov Alexey ,   Institute of Europe, Russian Academy of Sciences, Kandel Pavel ,   Institute of Europe, Russian Academy of Sciences, Krishtal Mikhail ,   I. Kant Baltic Federal University, Maslova Elena ,   Institute of Europe, Russian Academy of Sciences, Matiushkin Sergey ,   MGIMO University, Potemkina Olga ,   Institute of Europe, Russian Academy of Sciences, Sergeev Egor ,   MGIMO University, Shogunts Anna ,   Ministry of economic development of the Russian Federation, Turov Nikita ,   Institute of Scientific Information on Social Sciences, RAS, Voynikov Vadim ,   I. Kant Baltic Federal University, Zhirnova Lidia ,   MGIMO University
Published: December 2024

The monograph examines the combination of ethnopolitical, migration and electoral processes in contemporary European countries. The authors use both qualitative and quantitative research methods within the framework of a political science approach. The paper analyzes the attempts of European Union institutions and member-states to address various challenges associated with the continuously growing influx of ethnically diverse migrants, implement reforms in migration and asylum policy. The role of ethnicity in electoral processes, the influence of migration on them, the activities and discursive practices of ethnoregional and nationalist parties in European countries are also studied, as well as an attempt to classify them. The formation of ethnic enclaves, changes in the ethno-confessional balance, and the threat of irredentism in certain regions of Europe are also within the authors’ scope of study. Special attention is paid to the problem of extremist and terrorist organizations using artificial intelligence and efforts to combat these phenomena.
Regulation of Sleep Amount by CRTC1 via Transcription ofCrhin Mice
Authors: Liu Zhihao , Guo Zhiyong , Xu Junjie , Zhou Rui , Shi Bihan , Chen Lin , Wu Chongyang , Wang Haiyan , Wang Xia , Wang Fengchao , Li Qi , Liu Qinghua
Published: December 2024

The cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) is required for regulation of daily sleep amount, whereas gain of function of CREB-regulated transcription coactivator 1 (CRTC1) causes severe insomnia in mice. However, the physiological functions of CRTCs and their downstream target genes in the regulation of sleep amount remain unclear. Here, we use an adult brain chimeric (ABC)-expression/knock-out platform for somatic genetic analysis of sleep in adult male mice. ABC expression of constitutively active mutant CRTC1/2CAin the mouse brain neurons significantly reduces the amount of non-rapid eye movement sleep (NREMS) and/or rapid eye movement sleep (REMS). Consistent with the fact that SIK3 phosphorylates and inhibits CRTCs, ABC expression of CRTC1/2/3CArescues the hypersomnia phenotype ofSleepy(Sik3Slp) mice. While ABC-Crtc2KOorCrtc3KOcauses no sleep phenotype, ABC-Crtc1KOor ABC expression of dominant-negative CRTC (dnCRTC) results in a modest reduction of NREMS amount accompanied with elevated NREMS delta power. Moreover, ABC expression of CRTC1CAor dnCRTC in the excitatory neurons causes bidirectional changes of NREMS/REMS amount and/or NREMS delta power. The ability of CRTC1CAto regulate sleep requires its transactivation domain and CREB-binding domain and is dependent on CREB. Furthermore, we showed that inducible ABC expression of corticotropin-releasing hormone (Crh) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (Bdnf)—two target genes of CRTCs—significantly reduces daily sleep amount. Notably, ABC-CrhKO, but notBdnfKO, rescues the insomnia phenotype of ABC-CRTC1CAmice. Taken together, these results indicate that the CREB-CRTC1 complex regulates daily sleep amount by modulating the transcription ofCrhin the mouse brain neurons.
The Role of Auditor Independence, Professionalism, Skepticism, and Organizational Culture on Auditor Performance
Authors: Fauzi Achmad , Lucyanda Jurica , Permana Fadil , Margaretha Tifani , Novita Mila
Published: December 2024

Purposes: This study aims to examine the role of internal and external factors in auditor performance. This study uses auditor independence, professionalism, and skepticism as internal factors and organizational culture as external factors.
Methods: Drawing on the attribution theory to develop and test the hypotheses, this study conducts a survey method using an electronic questionnaire to collect data. The respondents are auditors working in the Big Four public accounting firms. Data are analyzed using multiple linear regression models.
Findings: The results show that auditor independence, professionalism, skepticism, and organizational culture positively influence auditor performance. These findings confirmed the attribution theory that dispositional attribution and situational attribution play a key role in individual attributions, namely auditor performance.
Novelty:  This study contributes to behavioral management accounting research, specifically the performance of auditors. Limited research still uses organizational culture as an external factor that may affect auditor performance.  The attribution theory complements previous studies investigating the determinants influencing auditor performance, from internal (dispositional attributions) to external (situational attributions) factors.
Lie group analysis and its invariants for the class of multidimensional nonlinear wave equations
Authors: Hussain Akhtar , Usman Muhammad , Zaman Fiazuddin , M. Zidan Ahmed M.
Published: November 2024

We systematically classify Lie symmetries of a class of (2 + 1)-dimensional nonlinear wave equations. Our methodology proposes a symmetry classification for Lie generators applicable to four distinct cases inherent within this equation. For each identified category, we comprehensively analyze symmetry reduction and delineate the invariant solutions. Furthermore, we extend our Lie symmetry analysis to encompass reduced 1 + 1 partial differential equations (PDEs). Through our investigations, we establish local conservation laws corresponding to each conserved vector, employing the formal Lagrangian approach. Significantly, this classification constitutes a novel contribution to the scientific discourse, as it remains absent from extant literature to date.
THE PRACTICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF THE EXICTING INFRASTRUCTURE OF THE SCIENTIFIC AND EXPERIMENTAL COMPLEX IN VODERN PROCESSES OF REFORMING THE ENERGY INDUSTRY OF UKRAINE
Authors:   Thermal Energy Technology Institute of NAS of Ukraine, Andriivska Str., 19, Kyiv, Ukraine, 04070, Dunayevska N.I. , Yevtukhov V.Ya. ,   Thermal Energy Technology Institute of NAS of Ukraine, Andriivska Str., 19, Kyiv, Ukraine, 04070
Published: December 2024

This article reviews scientific and practical role and context of experimental magnetic-hydrodynamic (MHD) generator K-1 (Kyiv-1) in its past fundamental power research causes. Here we describe: hi-temperature MHD conversion features; basic elements and intersections of K-1 unit; structure and special tecchnological supplies of MHD generator. We assume contemporary actuality, perspective and practical value of MHD K-1 scientific research facility infrastructure which is currently available for purposes of innovative reforming of Ukrainian energy production. Strategy to make use of facility infrastructure is proposed: in a form of scientific hub for new energy projects development in cooperation of research, educational and commercial entities interested in research and practical solutions in the energy domain. Ref. 12, fig. 3.
Plasmons in graphene: overview and perspectives of use
Authors:   Chuiko Institute of Surface Chemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Semchuk O. Yu. , Havrylyuk O.O. ,   Chuiko Institute of Surface Chemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Biliuk A.I. ,   Vinnytsia National Agrarian University, Biliuk A.A. ,   Chuiko Institute of Surface Chemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine
Published: November 2024

Due to its excellent electrical, mechanical, thermal and optical properties, graphene has attracted much interest since it was discovered in 2004. Its two-dimensional nature and other remarkable properties meet the needs of surface plasmons and have greatly enriched the field of plasmonics. The paper will review recent advances and applications of graphene in plasmonic, including theoretical mechanisms, experimental observations, and meaningful applications. Due to its flexibility and good tunability, graphene can be a promising plasmonic material as an alternative to noble metals. Optical conversion, plasmonic metamaterials, light harvesting, etc. have already been realized in graphene-based devices, which are useful for applications in electronics, optics, energy storage, THz technology, etc. In addition, the excellent biocompatibility of graphene makes it a very good candidate for applications in biotechnology and medical science. Surface plasmons in graphene offer a compelling route to many useful photonic technologies. As a plasmonic material, graphene offers several intriguing properties, such as excellent electro-optic tunability, crystal stability, large optical nonlinearity, and extremely high electromagnetic field concentration. Thus, recent demonstrations of surface plasmon excitation in graphene using near-infrared light scattering] have attracted great interest. Here we present an all-optical plasmonic coupling scheme that takes advantage of the intrinsic nonlinear optical response of graphene. To generate plasmons, pulses of visible light in a free in-plane graphene sheet are used using difference frequency mixing of the waves to match both the wave vector and the energy of the surface wave. By carefully controlling the phase with matching conditions, we show that it is possible to excite surface plasmons with a defined wave vector and direction in a wide frequency range with high photon efficiency. Prospects for the practical use of graphene in plasmonics are discussed.
Influence of pretreatment and flotation separation on the physico-chemical and morphometric characteristics of synthetic diamond powders
Authors:   V.N. Bakul Institute for Superhard Materials National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Oliinyk N.O. , Ilnitska G.D. ,   V.N. Bakul Institute for Superhard Materials National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Petasyuk G.A. ,   V.N. Bakul Institute for Superhard Materials National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Bazaliy G.A. ,   V.N. Bakul Institute for Superhard Materials National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Zabolotnyi S. D. ,   V.N. Bakul Institute for Superhard Materials National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine
Published: November 2024

High-quality homogeneous synthetic diamond powders are necessary for the production of modern abrasive tools. The properties of the powder are formed in the process of synthesis, extraction and sorting by various methods. The process of flotation separation of powder is based on differences in the energy state of the surface of the particles. The energy state of the powder surface is influenced by the physico-chemical, physico-mechanical, and morphometric characteristics of the original powder. The purpose of this study is to study at a quantitative level the influence of pretreatment and flotation separation on the physicochemical and morphometric characteristics of synthetic diamond powders. Diamond powders of the AC20 brand with a grain size of 100/80 (Ni-Mn-C system), chemical processing products, separation products (foam and chamber) were studied. The characteristics were determined: strength of the powder under static compression, specific magnetic susceptibility, specific electrical resistance, content of impurities, hydrophilicity of the powder (by the value of the free energy of water saturation). Using the DiaInspect.OSM device, morphometric characteristics were determined, primarily, the indicator of the external specific surface of the powder and the topography of the surface. The obtained results showed that the application of pretreatment of the powder leads to a decrease by an order of magnitude in the specific magnetic susceptibility and specific electrical resistance, a three-fold decrease in the content of impurities, and a 1.4-fold decrease in the hydrophilicity of the original powder. This is reflected in the improvement of the quality of the powders obtained from the foam product. the specific magnetic susceptibility of cis powders is reduced by an order of magnitude; 1.4 times - the content of impurities; 1.25 times - the hydrophilicity of the powder.
On curve based ruled affine submanifolds
Authors: Shugailo Olena
Published: December 2024

In this paper we consider affine ruled submanifolds of arbitrary dimension and codimension in the classical sense, i.e. curve based ones. For such a submanifold we define the natural parameterization and the natural transversal distribution. We calculate all the affine characteristics for such an affine immersion. We find conditions on the base curve and the directions of the rectilinear generators such that the induced connection is flat and the natural transversal distribution is equiaffine.
Adaptação transcultural do instrumento Karnofsky Performance Status para o português do Brasil
Authors: FERREIRA PATRÍCIA CRISTINA DOS SANTOS , MOREIRA MIRIAN NUNES , LOURENÇO ROBERTO ALVES
Published: December 2024

RESUMO Introdução: O Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS) é um dos instrumentos mais utilizados para avaliação do prognóstico do paciente oncológico proporcionando a estimativa de eficiência do tratamento e sobrevida. Apesar disso, é comumente utilizado em traduções livres e sem validação. O objetivo do presente estudo foi realizar a adaptação transcultural do instrumento KPS para o português do Brasil (KPS-BR) em suas etapas de equivalências de conceito, semântica, operacional, mensuração e funcional. Métodos: Para avaliação da consistência utilizamos os coeficientes alfa de Cronbach e kappa. Foi realizado o teste Qui-quadrado para avaliar a associação das pontuações e o número de óbitos. A relação com o tempo de sobrevida e a mortalidade foi explorada com curvas de Kaplan-Meier. Resultados: Um total de 316 pacientes participaram do estudo. A análise de consistência interna resultou em coeficiente de confiabilidade alfa de Cronbach de 0,9265. Para análise inter-aferidor, o coeficiente de correlação foi de 1, assim como o coeficiente kappa, indicando uma concordância perfeita entre os observadores. O coeficiente de correlação entre a escala KPS-BR no teste-reteste foi de 0,8631. Observamos uma taxa de 100% de óbitos na pontuação 20 da escala KPS-BR e uma diminuição gradual à medida que a pontuação da escala KPS-BR aumenta até KPS-BR 40 (p<0,0001). A estimativa da sobrevida pelo método Kaplan-Meier mostrou uma associação entre as pontuações da escala KPS-BR e a sobrevida (p<0,0001). Conclusão: A escala KPS-BR apresentou confiabilidade e validade para a avaliação prognóstica de pacientes com câncer, mostrando associação com a sobrevida.