bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Artificial intelligence identifies spatial fingerprints of kidney-resident macrophages and brain microglia
Authors: Kurts Christian , Yin Junping , Klaus Daniela , Eichler Melanie , Lukacs-Kornek Veronika , Ludwig-Portugall Isis , Li Jian , Mei Qi , Paust Hans-Joachim , Song Ning , Zhao Yu , Krebs Christian , Panzer Ulf , Hua Yijun , Qin Jie , Cheng Weiting , Weisheit Christina , von Vietinghoff Sibylle , Klughammer Johanna
Published: April 2024

The isolation of immune cells from tissues for single cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) loses spatial information. Here we employed machine learning methods to identify transcriptomic fingerprints containing such information. We used murine kidney and brain as organs with macroscopically distinguishable regions and generated separate scRNA-seq datasets of immune cells from distinct areas. Several machine learning algorithms were utilized to identify highly variable genes harboring spatial information. Multilayer perceptron (MLP) performed best at predicting the position of kidney-resident macrophages with an accuracy of >75%. No algorithm allowed predicting the position of motile immune cells like monocyte-derived macrophages or lymphocytes. Also kidney dendritic cell positions were not predictable, presumably because these were found to mostly belong to a recently described subset with monocyte lineage (DC3). The macrophage spatial fingerprints were enriched in pathways involved in microenvironmental responses and cellular adaptation, and they showed a gender bias. In an experimental crescentic glomerulonephritis, macrophage positioning was predicted with an accuracy of 69-71%. Also in a human dataset, our algorithm operated with comparable efficiency. Applying our strategy to brain datasets predicted microglia positions with 74% accuracy. Our approach to predict the location of tissue-resident macrophages may be applicable to organs other than kidney and brain.
Feasibility, satisfaction and effectiveness of a smartphone application-based voice and speech training program for Parkinson’s disease.
Authors: Kim Han-Joon , Lee Sol-Hee , Kim Jiae
Published: April 2024

As Parkinson’s disease (PD) progresses, individuals often experience voice and speech difficulties. However, physical limitations can make in-person speech therapy challenging.
These accessibility issues can be addressed by an mHealth application. We developed an Android-based speech therapy application and verified its feasibility, satisfaction, and effectiveness. Thirty PD patients with mean age of 68.04 ± 7.81 years who reported voice and speech problems and had no difficulty using a mobile phone were recruited. Two patients withdrew, 25 completed the use of the app and three discontinued midway. Among 25 patients, twenty showed an adherence rate of over 90% and four showed 70-90%. After using the app, 75% reported satisfaction and 58% noted an improvement in their voice. Significant improvements were observed in all acoustic measures and auditory-perceptual assessments after app use.
This indicates that the mobile health application we developed is not only suitable for older people with PD but also highly satisfactory.
Sub-Nanometer Line Edge Roughness in Helium-ion Lithography
Authors: Cheng Xing , Zhuang Xin , Deng Yunsheng , Zhang Yue , Wang Kaimin , Chen Yulong , Gao Shiyang , Xu Jingfu , WANG Liqiu
Published: April 2024

In semiconductor manufacturing, precise control of line edge roughness (LER) below 0.5 nm is essential, yet challenged by extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography limitations. Accurately characterizing EUV resist is pivotal for reaching the upper limits of manufacturing precision. However, a strategy for achieving sub-nanometer accuracy in characterizing EUV resist remains elusive, impeding the iterative development of EUV resist. This study introduces a strategy for extracting the line edge of patterned EUV resist with near-atomic resolution. By using a scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) to characterize patterned resist on a suspended thin film, we significantly reduce charge accumulation during the characterization process. This technique allows for the extraction of resist line edges with markedly reduced background noise and enhances the traceability of the exposure process. Utilizing this characterization method, we identified a process window for fabricating nanostructures with sub-nanometer roughness and achieved the smoothest nanostructure with an LER value of 0.2 nm.
The Effects of Disturbance on Woody Species Composition, Structure and Regeneration Status in the Ura Natural Forest, Guangua district, Awi Zone, Ethiopia
Authors: Anteneh Achamyeleh , Fikir Dagim , Assefa Dessie
Published: April 2024

Ethiopia Province has diverse forest resources. However, it has decreased over time, leaving the country’s forest with only remnant patches. Therefore, the present study was conducted to examine the species composition, structure and regeneration status of woody plant species along disturbance gradients. To collect the data, the forests were first stratified into low disturbed (LD), moderately disturbed (MD) and heavily disturbed (HD) groups based on information from reconnaissance site visits and consultations with key informants. The three transect lines were laid systematically 200 m apart, and rectangular plots 10 m*20 m (200 m2) in length were laid at 50 m intervals along each transect, for a total of 27 plots. The DBH and height of all woody individuals with ≥ 5 cm and ≥ 2 m were measured. Seedling and sapling data were recorded in four subplots of 2 m*5 m (10 m2) in the opposite corner of the main plot. Woody species density, richness, evenness, diversity, frequency and IVI were determined for each disturbance class, and one-way ANOVA and mean comparison tests were used to examine significant differences among disturbance classes. A total of 37 woody species and 27 families were recorded. Based on structural analysis, only Croton macrostachyus exhibited an inverted J shape. It is concluded that woody species composition was affected by human disturbance. Therefore, a concentrated form of forest conservation should be established to protect against excessive human disturbance.
Incidence and Determinants of Typhoid Intestinal Perforation in Surgical Patients: A Regional Perspective from Western Ugandan Hospital
Authors: Quealee Charles G. , Demoz Abraha , Kabuye Umaru , Kiswezi Ahmed , Ibe Usman M.
Published: April 2024

Background: Typhoid intestinal perforations are a serious complication of typhoid fever that continues to be a problem in developing countries such as Uganda, where more than 80% of districts are affected. Despite advancements in medical treatment, outcomes in resource-limited settings remain poor. The purpose of this study was to investigate the incidence, outcomes, and factors associated with typhoid intestinal perforations.
Methods: This was a prospective cohort study conducted at Hoima Regional Referral Hospital between March and November 2023, focusing on individuals with typhoid intestinal perforations. Data was carefully entered into Microsoft Excel 2019 and analyzed using IBM SPSS 27.0.
Results: We examined 85 patients; constituting 16.89% of typhoid fever cases seen, 70 of them had typhoid perforations by biopsy. The average age was 38.40 years (SD±14.6), with 69.4% being male (n=59) and 30.6% female (n=26). Majority were married (58.8%, n=50), and 45.9% (n=39) lacked formal education. All participants (100%) reported abdominal pain and fever, with 83.5% (n=71) experiencing symptoms for less than seven days.
Leucocytosis was observed in 78.8% (n=67) of patients and was significantly linked to intestinal perforation. Additionally, chest x-rays identified pneumoperitoneum in 90.6% (n=77) of cases. The ileum had the highest perforation rate (84.7%, n=72), while the colon had the lowest (2.4%, n=2). The majority of patients had single perforations (87%, n=74). Primary repairs were performed in 54.1% (n=46) of cases, while 11.8% (n=10) underwent distal primary repair with proximal loop ileostomy. Complications, including mortality (35%, n=11), surgical site infections (52%, n=16), and reoperations (13%, n=4), were observed in 44.3% (n=31) of patients. Those who experienced complications had longer hospital stays (>7 days) compared to those without complications.
Conclusion: According to our study, it is clear that typhoid intestinal perforation remains a major contributor to morbidity and mortality rates, with an incidence rate of 13.3%, which surpasses the global average. Our research also uncovered that a shorter duration of symptoms (less than 7 days) and the presence of leucocytosis were linked to typhoid intestinal perforation.
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Recommendation: We recommend aggressive community case-finding and information campaigns in affected communities and among local healthcare providers to increase awareness on the need for early and appropriate treatment.
We encourage communities to adapt early healthcare seeking behavior. The incorporation of typhoid vaccines in the national immunization program cannot be overemphasized.
Calculation of macroinvertebrate MMI for water bodies in central China based on land use classification and topographic grouping
Authors: Zheng Biao , Tian Shuang , Sun Bingjiao , Gao Xin , Han Wennuo , Wu Bin , Hu Sheng , Li Zhao , Ding Seng
Published: April 2024

The Multi-Metric Index (MMI) is a comprehensive assessment index that has gained popularity in aquatic ecological assessment due to its integrated consideration of various factors such as community composition, diversity and function. However, when applied over large spatial areas, the MMI may not be effective in discriminating the level of human disturbance due to the influence of natural variability. To reduce the impact of natural variability on the assessment results, we collected macroinvertebrate community data from the water bodies in central China in 2023. We then grouped the data according to different topographies and constructed separate MMIs. We used the Catchment Disturbance Index (CDI) to categorise human disturbances into low-disturbance and strong-disturbance groups. In order to eliminate the influence of subjective factors on the selection of indicators, when the correlation of indicators was greater than 0.75, we considered all possible combinations of indicators and finally selected the best performance as the final MMI. The results showed that the point classification based on the Catchment Disturbance Index (CDI) could accurately reflect the changes of communities under different levels of human disturbance. The gradient of human disturbance levels in the mountain group was small, and the final MMI was not significantly correlated with the CDI. In contrast, the MMI results for the plains and hills were better than those for the entire catchment area where MMI was not grouped.
Research on the drag reduction and vibration attenuation performances of the fish’s surface mucus film
Authors: Zeng Qihang , Duan Zhengyong , Zhang Fubing , Chen Qing
Published: April 2024

This study is the inaugural investigation into the drag reduction and vibration attenuation performance of mucus films naturally present on fish surfaces, leveraging nanomechanical systems for a comprehensive understanding. The mucus was collected from healthy Asian carps. Four testing groups were the fish scale surfaces adsorbed musus for 1 min, 5 min, 10 min and 30 min, respectively. Bare scale was used as a control. The mechanical and lubrication properties of the mucus film were tested using a nano scratch/indentation tester. And the vibration attenuation performance of the film was examined by a self-developed vibration excitation device. Results show that the mucus film and the surface of fish scales combine through electrostatic interactions, ultimately forming a smooth inner layer. As the adsorption time progresses, additional proteins gradually accumulate, forming a thicker outer layer. Notably, the inner layer possesses a significant lubrication effect, effectively preventing friction and wear caused by underwater sand and gravel. Furthermore, the outer layer exhibits an excellent vibration attenuation effect, assisting Asian carp in overcoming the resistance caused by turbulence and enhancing swimming speed.
Shallow Strata Expressions of Leakage and Seepage Structures Associated With Hydrocarbon Migration: a Seismic Analysis on Offshore Barreirinhas Basin, Brazilian Equatorial Margin
Authors: Delabrida Guilherme Martins , Gomes Moab Praxedes , de Castro David Lopes , Goulart José Paulo de Melo , de Oliveira Diógenes Custódio
Published: April 2024

The Brazilian Equatorial Margin (BEM) is an oblique-transform segment with counterparts in the Gulf of Guinea on the West Africa Margin, inherited from the Pangea breakup and Atlantic Ocean opening. These areas are exploratory frontiers where recently petroleum systems were found in deep- and ultra-deep waters. The strike-slip Barreirinhas Basin, at the central portion of the BEM, is conjugated with the oil and gas producers Ivory Coast and Tano basins, whereas the Barreirinhas Basin has currently no relevant discovered petroleum reservoirs. This present study aimed to identify and map distribution patterns of leakage and seepage features in shallow strata, indicating potential hydrocarbon migration and accumulation along the offshore Barreirinhas Basin. The investigation used conventional 2D seismic reflection data with additional application of seismic attributes, including RMS amplitude, instantaneous amplitude, instantaneous frequency, and chaos. Diverse hydrocarbon leakage and seepage structures were identified, including faults, gas chimneys, pockmarks, hydrocarbon-derived diagenetic zones, bottom simulating reflectors, and mounds. Regional morphological and stratigraphic structures constrain the zones of fluid leakage and seepage, which indicate potential hydrocarbon migration pathways. In the eastern lower continental slope and continental rise, regional faults and gas chimneys control seep formation. On the central to northern sectors of the continental rise and abyssal plain, several deep-water mounds are linked by large gas chimneys and faults. There are gravitational gliding systems on the western and central portions of the basin, where the extensional domain is characterized by listric faults, negative flower structures, and gas chimneys that produce cold seeps on the outer shelf and upper slope. These structural controls are related to the compressional domain of the lower continental slope and continental rise, where the decollement zone and a series of faults and folds are correlated to pockmarks and deep-water mounds. Near the western compressional domain, igneous intrusions control the development of leaking faults, gas chimneys, bright spots, and pockmarks. These hydrocarbon-derived structures, seeps, and pathways of fluid migration in deep-water indicate potential petroleum systems in the Albian to Turonian-Oligocene tectono-sedimentary sequences in the central sector of the Brazilian Equatorial Margin.
Evidence for hybrid interpolymeric complexes existence
Authors: Prosanov Igor
Published: April 2024

The concept of hybrid interpolymeric complexes (HICs) has been put forward earlier [1]. It implies that inorganic compounds in form of linear chain polymers can form complexes with complexing organic polymers like polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) (-CH2-CHOH-)n. Such complexation stabilizes unusual polymeric structure of inorganic component. HICs are hybrid analogs of well known organic interpolymeric complexes [2]. Two PVA based HICs were known before: 1) iodine complex [3] and 2) complex of PVA with copper hydroxide [4]. There is the problem with PVA based HICs’ structure identification due to their noncrystallinity. The chain polymeric structure of copper hydroxide Cu(OH)2 in a complex with PVA was proved by magnetic measurements. This complex has characteristic green color which differs from blue color of copper hydroxide solution. Blue complex formation is observed at iodine-PVA interaction. Blue coloring is regarded as a strong evidence of polyiodine chains formation.
“Wait Short Time” as a Simple and Resource-rational Boost: Theoretical and Empirical Approaches in the Contexts of Speed-accuracy Trade-off
Authors: Shirasuna Masaru , Kagawa Rina , Honda Hidehito
Published: April 2024

Many workers today engage in simple judgment tasks (e.g., on crowdsourcing platforms). This has led to a growing need for interventions to boost their judgment accuracy. We proposed the “wait short time” as a simple and resource-rational intervention: Inserting a short waiting time before presenting alternatives without any instructions. The speed-accuracy trade-off posits that longer thinking typically improves accuracy, whereas resource rationality emphasizes the cognitive costs associated with prolonged thinking (e.g., irritation, cognitive conflict) because of humans limited cognitive resources. Therefore, there should be an appropriately short thinking time to achieve workers’ higher accuracy with minimal workload. We investigated the effectiveness of the proposed intervention both theoretically and empirically. The computer simulations demonstrated that, under assumptions of limited cognitive resources, there was an optimal time point at the early stages of trials for maximizing total benefits. The results of behavioral experiments were consistent with the theoretical findings: Providing a waiting time (1s or 2.5s) improved judgment accuracy, but cognitive conflicts between the alternatives increased over time and an unnecessarily long time (2.5s) induced more subjective irritation. Consequently, an appropriate time (1s) could enhance judgment accuracy with less workload. We discuss the implications and limitations of the proposed intervention.
Electrochemically active via f-MWCNTs for finding caffeine in beverages
Authors: Chen Zhiyan , Ye Xiangzhen , A Dhamodharan , K Perumal , Gao Yajun
Published: April 2024

In several industries, such as food, pharmaceuticals, and environmental protection, the identification of analytes at extremely low concentrations is essential. In the food standardization field, electrochemical sensors are one of the key technologies for determining food quality and making medical diagnoses. Sensor design is dependent on electrochemically active characteristics of the selected material to alter the electrode. For rapid and accurate detection of caffeine (CAF), we technologically built an electrochemical sensor based on functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (f-MWCNTs/GCE). The functionalized material was characterized by XRD, Raman, FT-IR, FE-SEM, HR-TEM, EDX and the mapping of elements. The component’s natural virtue and cooperative connection demonstrate enhanced electrocatalytic activity, as evidenced by the component’s decreased overpotential, increased electron transfer, improved sensing and selectivity, broad linear range, and low detection limit toward the selected analyte. CAF was found to have broad linear ranges of concentrations 5.3 to 166 µM, with detection limits of 0.043 µM. 9.13 µA. µm− 1 is the designed electrode's sensitivity. High selectivity, stability, repeatability and reproducibility were also demonstrated by the electrode. Crucially, the investigation was effective in identifying and measuring the aforementioned element in authentic specimens. In addition, the sensor demonstrated efficacy in detecting CAF in drinks, yielding good recoveries ranging from 96.4–102.4%. This suggests that the sensor holds desirable potential for identifying CAF real substances.
Immediate Effectiveness of Condoliase Chemonucleolysis in Patients with Lumbar Disc Herniation who were Nonambulatory due to Leg Pain
Authors: Hagizawa Hiroki , Kamatani Takashi , Kitaguchi Kazuma , Kashii Masafumi
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Surgery is often the treatment of choice for Lumbar disc herniation (LDH) with severe leg pain. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of Condoliase chemonucleolysis (CC) in patients who were nonambulatory because of severe leg pain.
Methods: A total of 58 patients who underwent CC for conservative treatment-resistant LDH were included in this study. Changes in the leg and lower back pain evaluated using the numeric rating scale (NRS) were retrospectively assessed at three time points (1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after treatment). Patients were divided into the ambulatory group (group A) and nonambulatory group (group N) based on their ambulatory status. The clinical and radiological findings including magnetic resonance images were compared between the two groups.
Results: Of the 58 patients, 16 (28%) who could not walk independently because of severe leg pain were included in group N. Group N showed significantly higher mean NRS score for leg pain (NRS-LP) before treatment than group A (group N, 7.9; group A, 6.8; p = 0.009). Changes in the mean NRS-LP from pretreatment to 1 week were significantly higher in group N (group N, 5.2; group A, 3.4; p = 0.02). In group N, the mean NRS-LP decreased significantly over time, and 69% of the patients were ambulatory after 1 week, 88% after 1 month, and 94% after 3 months.
Conclusions: CC provides early pain relief and can be an immediate treatment option for patients who cannot walk independently because of severe leg pain.
Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using Pterorhachis zenkeri: Characterization and evaluation of antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and androgenic properties in TM3 Leydig cells exposed to cyclophosphamide
Authors: Deeh Patrick Brice Defo , Natesh Nagabhishek Sirpu , Alagarsamy Karthik , Arumugam Madan Kumar , Dasnamoorthy Ramachandran , Sivaji Tharunkumar , Vishwakarma Vinita
Published: April 2024

We fabricated silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Pterorhachis zenkeri, characterized by Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and determined their antioxidant potentials in vitro. Results confirmed the fabrication of AgNPs by using P. zenkeri as a bioreducing agent for the first time. AgNPs possessed potent antioxidant activity in vitro. Furthermore, the TM3 cells were treated for 24 h with AgNPs, vitamin E and cyclophosphamide (CP) at different concentrations (25, 50, 100, 250 and 500 µg/ml). The cells morphology, apoptosis, mitochondrial membrane depolarisation (MMD), Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), caspase 3/9, oxidative stress-related enzymes, testosterone, and the mRNAexpression of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) were measured. Results revealed that AgNPs, vitamin E and CP decreased the cell viability in a dose-dependent manner, but did not affect the TM3 cells morphology after treatment. The cytotoxicity of CP in TM3 cells was alleviated after AgNPs application. For instance, AgNPs significantly (p<0.001-0.05) reduced the MMD, ROS production, and caspase 3/9 activities, but increased the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase in the TM3 cells. Moreover, AgNPs improved testosterone production by activating StAR machineries. These results indicate that AgNPs/P. zenkeri could be a potential alternative drug in the management of oxidative stress and androgen deficit associated with CP chemotherapy.
The Financial Well-Being and Quality of Life of Older Adults in Nigeria
Authors: Oni-Eseleh Ohiro D. , Badaiki Afesimi D.
Published: April 2024

Nigeria’s pension system has historically been fraught with problems, including fraud, incompetence, and poor implementation. Consequently, older adults are often not adequately served by the system, resulting in a high degree of poverty within that population. However, very little attention has been given by scholars to the economic and social plight of older adults in the country. Using a snowball sampling procedure, we conducted face-to-face and telephone interviews of 45 retired adults residing in 10 states spanning all of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. The findings revealed some differences in the experiences, financial well-being and quality of life of people who retired under the pension system that existed before the Pension Reform Act of 2014 and those who retired after that. The findings also indicate that pension amounts are inadequate for the basic needs of older adults, resulting in difficulties such as the inability to feed properly and pay for medical care. It is necessary for Nigeria’s leaders to develop policies to address financial insecurity and enhance the quality of life of older adults and provide them with supportive safety nets.
Unveiling Deceptive Tactics: Exploring Fraudulent Online Ratings in the Restaurant Industry and Their Impact on Consumer Choice
Authors: Mandavalli Satish
Published: April 2024

This study delves into the phenomenon of fraudulent online ratings, particularly those fabricated by restaurants targeting their competitors. Given the widespread use of online ratings by consumers in deciding where to dine—restaurants are tempted to deploy deceptive tactics such as posting fake negative reviews on rival establishments. This unethical behavior not only undermines the trustworthiness of genuine ratings but also detrimentally affects consumer welfare. Therefore, our study aims to understand the drivers behind such deceptive practices and their implications on consumer choice. To investigate the prevalence of cheating, we leverage a notable disparity between two prominent online rating platforms—TripAdvisor and OpenTable. By analyzing data from these platforms, we assess various dimensions of competition faced by restaurants, including proximity, price range, and culinary offerings. Our findings reveal a significant correlation between the intensity of competition and instances of cheating among restaurants. Specifically, establishments tend to engage in deceptive practices more frequently when faced with a higher number of competitors operating in the same price range or holding similar rankings. This underscores the influence of economic incentives in shaping the decision-making process regarding cheating behaviors. The study also sheds light on the complex interplay between competition dynamics and fraudulent activities in the realm of online restaurant ratings. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for devising effective strategies to curb deceptive practices and uphold the integrity of online rating systems.
Estimation of pulpwood balance yield under accelerated growth of pine and spruce wood in the Leningrad Region
Authors: Тюрин Д.С. , Данилов Д.А. , Ковалева О.П. , Зайцев Д.А.
Published: April 2024

Проведено исследование качественных характеристик древесины сосны и ели, выращиваемой по интенсивной технологии в плантационных культурах в Ленинградской области. Количественные и качественные характеристики объемов древесины сосны и ели при короткоротационном интенсивном лесовыращивании позволяют получить сырье для целлюлозно-бумажного производства. Экспериментальные варки показали принципиальную возможность применения данной древесины для производства целлюлозы пригодной для изготовления картона и технических видов бумаги. На основании проведенного анализа расчетов балансовой продуктивности плантаций сосны и ели, выращиваемых по короткоротационной схеме, возможно определить оптимальный режим выращивания для данных насаждений с точки зрения получения максимального объема товарной небеленой целлюлозы. При выращивании на балансовую древесину для целлюлозно-бумажной промышленности сосновых насаждений оптимальным по густоте и запасу является вариант с густотой 1200 деревьев к возрасту рубки 40 лет. Для плантаций ели оптимальными по своим показателям выхода небеленой целлюлозы явились варианты насаждений с запасом и густотой в диапазоне 1100–1600 штук на га. При интенсивном лесовыращивании данные режимы регулирования густоты для плантаций сосны и ели являются оптимальными для получения максимального количества сырья для получения целлюлозы.

The study of qualitative characteristics of pine and spruce wood grown under intensive technology in plantation crops in the Leningrad region has been carried out. Quantitative and qualitative characteristics of pine and spruce wood volumes under short-rotation intensive forest growing allow obtaining raw materials for pulp and paper production. Experimental pulping has shown the principal possibility of using this wood for pulp production suitable for cardboard and technical paper production. On the basis of the analysis of calculations of the balance productivity of pine and spruce plantations grown under the short-rotation scheme, it is possible to determine the optimal growing regime for these plantations from the point of view of obtaining the maximum volume of marketable unbleached pulp. When growing pine plantations for balance wood for pulp and paper industry, the optimum density and stock is the variant with the density of 1200 trees by the cutting age of 40 years. For spruce plantations the optimums in terms of non-white pulp yield were plantations with stock and density in the range of 1100-1600 trees per hectare. At intensive forest growing these regimes of density control for pine and spruce plantations are optimal for obtaining the maximum amount of raw material for pulp production.
Photogrammetric survey by UAV and 3D-modelling for determining of roundwood stacks volume
Authors: Филатов А.А. , Алексеев А.С. , Гурьянов М.О. , Голубев А.С. , Митченко А.П.
Published: April 2024

Проведено исследование точности группового учета круглых лесоматериалов в штабелях по специально разработанной методике, основанной на применении беспилотных летательных аппаратов (БПЛА) с последующим 3D-моделированием. Сравнение данных, полученных по предлагаемой инновационной методике, с результатами непосредственного обмера штабелей показало отсутствие существенных расхождений в них. При этом с помощью методики, основанной на применении БПЛА, становится возможным снижение трудозатрат на обмер штабелей вместе с повышением точности получаемых результатов за счет учета особенностей рельефа и их укладки, а также измерения труднодоступных для непосредственного обследования участков. Применение БПЛА при групповом учете лесоматериалов имеет большую перспективу и представляет значительный практический интерес.

An accuracy of mass stocktaking in roundwood stacks with use of innovative method, based on 3D-modelling of results of UAV survey. Comparison of parameters, obtained by the innovative method with total measurements has shown the absence of any significant differences. At the same time, the methodology, based on UAV survey use, allows to reduce labor costs for stacks measurements, to take into account the terrain shape and folding gaps, to measure hard-to-reach areas, also getting actual proofable data on stacks geometry. The use of UAV in mass stocktaking of roundwood stacks is promising and is of great interest for practice.
Måleegenskaper ved den norske versjonen av Beck Depression Inventory 2. utgave (BDI II)
Authors: Siqveland Johan , Kornør Hege
Published: April 2024

Beskrivelse: Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI II) er en selvvurderingsskala med 21 ledd som måler grad av depresjon hos ungdom over 13 år og voksne. BDI II ble utgitt i 1996 og er en revidert utgave av det opprinnelige Beck Depression Inventory fra 1961. Norsk utgave kom i 2005 og rettighetshaver for den norske versjonen er Pearson Assessment. Hvert ledd i skalaen beskriver et symptom på depresjon, og respondenten blir bedt om å velge hvilket av fire utsagn som best beskriver i hvilken grad han/hun har opplevd det aktuelle symptomet de siste to ukene. Skjemaet fylles ut av deltageren selv og tar mindre enn 30 minutter å fylle ut. Skårene fra kartleggingen tolkes av lege eller psykolog.
Litteratursøk: Søket resulterte i 221 referanser, hvorav 67 abstracts virket relevante og ble bestilt i fulltekst. Vi inkluderte én artikkel, én hovedoppgave, samt manualen til BDI II. Utvalgene besto utelukkende av voksne.
Psykometri: Indre konsistens og test-retest reliabilitet var adekvat, validitet sammenlignet med andre selvrapporteringsskjema var også adekvat. Validitet sammenlignet med diagnostisk intervju var ikke undersøkt.
Konklusjon: Den norske versjonen av BDI II har gode grunnleggende psykometriske egenskaper i voksenpopulasjonen. Måleegenskapene for ungdomspopulasjonen er ikke dokumentert. Hvor egnet skårer fra BDI II er til å skille personer med en behandlingstrengende depresjon fra de som ikke har det, samt skille mellom ulike alvorlighetsgrader av depresjon, er ikke undersøkt. De viktigste egenskapene for klinisk anvendelse av BDI II er dermed ikke undersøkt for den norske utgaven og tolkning av skårer må gjøres med forsiktighet.
Effects of green HRM practices on circular economy-based performance of banking organizations in an emerging nation
Authors: Bin Amin Mohammad , Oláh Judit
Published: April 2024

The concept of circular economy-based performance has gained significant interest within the highly competitive business arena and environment-concerned stakeholders. This study assumes that environment oriented HRM practices have significant effects on circular economy-based performance. This study aims to investigate the contributory effect of five selected components of green HRM on the circular economy-based performance of environment-concerned banking organizations. A total of 418 managers of commercial banks are the unit of analysis, and data were derived using a structured questionnaire from the respondents who are working in managerial positions in banking organizations in Bangladesh. The gathered data has been encoded by SPSS and analyzed through PLS-SEM 4. The results of this study reveal that all components of green HRM, i.e., green employment design, planning, staffing, training, and benefits significantly contribute to the circular economy-based performance of the banking sector. Thus, green HRM effectively promotes the circular performance of banks to provide a distinctive perspective for adding value to the environmental concerns in an emerging economy.
AcknowledgmentThe authors appreciate the support in preparing the article provided by the University of Debrecen Program for Scientific Publication.
Mediating Role of Organizational Change Readiness on Knowledge Management and Entrepreneurial Orientation for Innovation
Authors: Sudhartio Lily , Peranginangin Pulung , Hamsal Mohammad , Ganiarsa Kasandika
Published: April 2024

The research aimed to explore factors that could help schools enhance their innovation which is challenging due to their  institution nature. Three variables were investigated as the antecedents of innovations: entrepreneurial orientation, knowledge management, and organizational change readiness. In education, entrepreneurial orientation was gauged  through five dimensions: innovativeness, proactiveness, risk-taking, autonomy, and competitive aggressiveness. The knowledge management process involved three dimensions: knowledge creation, knowledge sharing, and knowledge utilization. The relationship between knowledge management variables was formative, as no single dimension fully captured the entire process; each contributes uniquely. Organizational change readiness dimensions included changing commitment and change efficacy. Dependent variable innovation was assessed through technical, administrative, and managerial innovation. The empirical research was quantitative by design, and data were collected from 110 private secondary schools across Indonesia. The research model was tested using partial least squares – structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) with the extended repeated indicator approach. The research finds that entrepreneurial orientation does not directly affect innovation, but it is fully mediated by organizational change readiness. Additionally, while knowledge management has a significant direct effect on innovation, organizational change readiness partially mediates the relationship. The research also highlights the importance of organizational change readiness, which has rarely been discussed in entrepreneurial orientation and knowledge management literature.
A Semi-Automated Molecularly Imprinted Polymer Solid-Phase Extraction Method for Catechin Analysis from Jaboticaba (Plinia sp.) Peel Extract Samples by UHPLC-DAD
Authors: Cardoso Alessandra , Martins Rafael , Machado Lucas , Kato Lucília , Simas Rosineide , Cardoso Carmen Lúcia , Chaves Andréa
Published: April 2024

Jaboticaba (Plinia sp.), a nutritionally significant Brazilian fruit, is rich in phenolic compounds, such as catechin, known for its biological and pharmaceutical properties. Extracting and studying these compounds is an economic and environmental strategy to fully explore the great potential that these chemical compounds have. Therefore, this study focuses on developing a semi-automated solid-phase extraction method using molecularly imprinted polymer for catechin analysis in jaboticaba peel extracts, coupled with an ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with a diode array detector. The reported polymer demonstrated superior extractor capacity compared to the non-imprinted polymer. Different extraction parameters were optimized, and the method exhibited a linear range of 10 to 100 µg mL-1 for catechin. The obtained precision with the coefficient of variation was below 7.3%, and the limits of quantification and detection were 12.4 and 4.1 µg mL-1 , respectively. The developed sorbent maintained analytical performance through approximately 40 injections. Results suggest that the reported method could efficiently extract catechin from jaboticaba peels in less than 10 min, providing a promising tool for the rapid investigation of natural products. This selective and sustainable approach demonstrated here contributes to the economic and environmental aspects of catechin extraction and analysis in jaboticaba fruit.
IDENTIFYING THE PHYSIOTHERAPY REQUIREMENTS OF PATIENTS IN PALLIATIVE CARE
Authors: Uğur Işılay , Atlı Ayşegül , Güven Zeynep , Yıldız Kabak Vesile , Özcan Ulaş , Atasavun Uysal Songul , Akdoğan Doğan , Kahveci Kadriye , Düger Tülin
Published: April 2024

Purpose: Palliative care has an important role in the late stages of diseases. Patients deal with many symptoms. Physiotherapy approaches are an essential part of palliative care in symptom control. This study was planned to investigate the level of independence of the patients, their performance status, symptoms, rehabilitation needs, and caregivers’ expectations.
Methods: The study was designed as cross-sectional and descriptive. Ninety individuals aged between 18 and 65 years were included. Care needs during palliative care were assessed with the Palliative Performance Scale. Independence level was assessed by the Barthel Index. The severity of the symptoms that the patients frequently experienced was investigated. Caregivers reported their primary expectations from physiotherapy.
Results: The most common diagnosis was found to be cerebrovascular accidents. The mean age of the patients was 64±20 years. The mean age of the caregivers was 49±13 years. The mean the Palliative Performance Scale score was 31±17. Most of the patients were totally dependent according to the Barthel Index. Most of the patients faced symptoms, such as reduced muscle strength (94.44%), atrophy (93.33%) and swallowing problems (82.22%). Improved physical functions was the most reported expectation among caregivers.
Conclusion: Over 90% of the patients were totally dependent and they had to deal with many symptoms. This result highlights the importance of physiotherapy. Caregivers expected the patient to be able to meet their own needs independently. This is very important for the caregiver, and the patient and caregiver should be in cooperation with the physiotherapist.
TURKISH RELIABILITY AND VALIDITY OF POSTURAL AWARENESS SCALE IN OFFICE WORKERS
Authors: Dursun Ömer , Önen Cihan
Published: April 2024

Purpose: The aim of this study was to perform the Turkish cross-cultural adaptation of the Postural Awareness Scale and test its reliability and validity on office workers.
Methods: The study was conducted at Bitlis Eren University, and 180 office workers were included in the study. The average age of the participants was 39.05±8.44, and 74.4% were male. As a first step, forward and backward translations of the scale were performed. Then, the final version of the scale was developed and introduced to all the participants by face-to-face interviews. The internal consistency and construct validity of the scale was assessed with internal consistency analysis, explanatory and confirmatory analyses.
Results: The Turkish version of the Postural Awareness Scale, consisting of eleven items, had satisfactory reliability (total α score = .854, factor 1 score = .886, factor 2 score = .777). The reliability of the scale was confirmed by the test-retest analysis performed with a two-week interval as well (r = .831). In explanatory factor analysis, twelfth item was loaded on both factors. In confirmatory factor analysis, factor load of the 12th item was low (0.21). For these reasons, the 12th item was removed from the scale.
Conclusion: The Turkish version of the Postural Awareness Scale, consisting of eleven items, is a reliable and valid scale for the assessment of postural awareness in office workers.
Strategi Komunikasi Politik Legislator Lokal Dalam Mempertahankan Elektabilitas di Kota Semarang
Authors: Dimara Damarjati , . Mubarok , Kurdaningsih Dian Marhaeni
Published: April 2024

This research is a case study of the success of the political communication strategy of a local legislator named Kadarlusman in the city of Semarang in maintaining his political electability. The paradigm used in this research is the constructivism paradigm. Data collection techniques in this research are interviews and observation to obtain primary data as well as documentation and literature study to obtain secondary data. The theory used in this research is the social exchange theory of John Thibaut and Harold Kelley which highlights the exchange of messages, responses and rewards between individuals and dyadic groups in social interactions. The results of this research show the success of a local legislator named Kadarlusman as Chair of the Semarang City DPRD in maintaining his political electability in the City of Semarang through a Political Communication Strategy, especially in the Electoral District 5 area. The series of Political Communication activities carried out was the City DPRD Chairperson Cup E-Sports Mobile Legends Tournament. Semarang, Kopimi Outlet UMKM Bazaar, Wonosari Village, Cultural Carnival in the framework of the KH Haul. Syafi'I Piyoronegoro, and Pak Pilus' interactions with residents of RW 10. The results of this research were analyzed to determine the social exchanges that occurred in the context of interpersonal communication and it can be concluded that his political communication strategy was successful. Kadarlusman has received the most votes in Semarang City in legislative elections since 2014, 2019 and 2024.
Influencer Credibility And Instagram Users' Purchase Interest
Authors: Prabowo Ayudita Farrahsasti Kusuma Putri , Kriyantono Rachmat , Kasim Azahar
Published: April 2024

This research aims to determine the level of relationship between beauty influencer Tasya Farasya’s credibility, as well as its three indicators: trustworthiness, expertiseness, and attractiveness, with her follower’s purchase interest on the Instagram social media account @tasyafarasya for Somethinc’s skincare products. The population in this study is 6.3 million followers of the @tasyafarasya account, from which a sample of 135 respondents was then taken using slovin formula. The data in this research was obtained through a survey method by distributing questionnaires via Google Form, then the data was analyzed using the Pearson’s Correlation Product Moment test. The research results show that there is a significant and strong level of the correlation between Beauty Influencer Tasya Farasya’s credibility and her follower’s purchase interest on the Instagram account @tasyafarasya for Somethinc skincare products, which is proven by the Sig. value is 0,000 (p < 0,05) and the correlation coefficient is 0,73 (0,60 – 0,79: Strong correlation; high). This research contributes to proving that the use of influencers is a significant strategy in marketing products in digital media, as is true in conventional media
Frailty increases incidence risk of infection in the elderly: A population-based cohort study (Preprint)
Authors: Yang Ya , Che Kechun , Deng Jiayan , Tang Xinming , Jing Wenyuan , He Xiuping , Yang Jiacheng , Zhang Wenya , Yin Mingjuan , Pan Congcong , Huang Xiaoling , Zhang Zewu , Ni Jindong
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Background:Infectious diseases are among the leading causes of death and disability. As the population ages, it faces an enormous challenge with frailty.Nevertheless, there are only few prospective assessments on the association between frailty with infectious disease. Hence, research on frailty and infection is urgently needed.

OBJECTIVE

Objective: we aimed to examine the associations of frailty and infection disease.

METHODS

Methods: We conducted a prospective follow-up study of 11,930 elderly Chinese, dividing them into frail and healthy groups at baseline. Incidence data for infectious diseases were collected through the Chinese Disease Control and Prevention Information System – Infectious Disease Monitoring and Public Health Emergency Monitoring System. A questionnaire survey was used to assess frailty status. We compared the incidence rate ratio (IRR) of each disease stratified by age and sex. Cox proportional hazards regression was conducted to identify the effect of demographic factors and frailty on the risk of infectious diseases, with estimations of the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).

RESULTS

Results: A total of 235 cases of 12 infectious diseases were reported during the study period, with an incidence of 906.21/100,000 person-years in the frailty group. In the same age group, the risk of infection was higher in men than women. Frail elderly had an HR for infectious diseases of 1.50 (95% CI: 1.14–1.97) compared with healthy elderly. We obtained the same result after sensitivity analyses. For respiratory tract transmitted diseases (IRR: 1.97, 95% CI: 1.44–2.71) and gastrointestinal tract transmitted diseases (IRR: 3.67, 95% CI: 1.39–10.74), frail elderly are at risk. Whereas no significant association was found for blood-borne, sexually transmitted and contact- transmitted diseases(IRR:o.76, 95%CI: 0.37-1.45).

CONCLUSIONS

Conclusion: our study provides additional evidence that frailty components are significantly associated with infection disease.Health care prfessional should pay more attention to frailty in infectious disease prevention and control.
How Does it Feel to be a Problem? Inclusion and Exclusion and Quebec’s Bill 21
Authors: Narain Vrinda
Published: April 2024

This paper seeks to analyze Bill 21 through the frameworks of minority rights and reasonable accommodation. It problematizes the “problem” of the veil, arguing that legislative deveiling, notably Bill 21, is a symptom of a larger crisis, namely the triumph of majoritarian politics over the constitutional protection of minority rights. Worse, while such laws are the result of popular discomfort with difference, their enactment further entrenches the binaries and assumptions that fuel such populist discomfort. As such, Bill 21 provides a useful case study of the role of law in responding to popular anxieties and in shaping perceptions of difference and equality in the first place.
The Legal Status of LGBTQ+ in China: A Law and Politics Perspective
Authors: Cheng Jie
Published: April 2024

This short article analyzes the rights and status of LGBTQ+ individuals in China from the perspective of the relationship between law and politics. More specifically, it aims to further the discussion surrounding the legal status of LGBTQ+ individuals by examining the power dynamics and interplay among the government, society, and business interests that have collectively shaped laws and policies affecting LGBTQ+ communities alongside culture and ideology.