bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INFLUENCE OF TEAK (Tectona grandis) LINN ON SOIL NUTRIENTS STATUS IN AKANGA TEAK PLANTATION, NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Dachung G. , Amonum J. I. , Kigbu A. D.
Published: March 2023

Teak species have been found to have effects on soil properties different from those of indigenous natural forests in terms of organic matter accumulation and soil properties on the forest floor. This research aims at evaluating the physico-chemical properties of soil under Teak plantations in Akanga Teak plantations, Nigeria. Soils were sampled and analyzed based on procedures described by Bouyoucos, Day, and Reeuwijk. Based on the results, soil particle size from the plantation had the highest percent of sand (74.5±1.1). There was a fluctuation of soil pH between the age series, 1981 age series had the highest pH (6.2±0.0) in both seasons. The nitrogen content had a steady declined as the plant age increased, while the organic matter and phosphorus content increased with the age of the plant species in the area. There was a decline in soil nutrients during the wet season, which also coincided with the active growth period of forest trees. Thus, it is evident from this study that monoculture plantation of exotic species may lead to an initial reduction of soil organic content and nutrient elements in the soil; then a gradual buildup of soil organic matter and exchangeable cations with age.
CONSUMER PREFERENCE ANALYSIS AND DEMAND FOR MEAT IN KANO METROPOLIS: A HEDONIC MODEL APPROACH
Authors: Lawal A. T. , Dambazau S. A. , Musa S. A , Mohammed A. B. , Umar J. , Adomi A. A. , Gaya A. Y. , Hamisu K.
Published: March 2023

This study examined consumer preference and demand analysis for meat in Kano metropolis. Primary data were collected through a well-structured questionnaire, a total of one hundred and fifty 158 member of household was selected for this study. It was revealed that majority (72.2%) of consumers earns monthly income of N15, 000-N55, 000. Hedonic regression for meat attributes affecting Price shows that meat flavour (Good) was the reference group while meat with bad flavour was entered as dummy variables and the result shows that meat with good flavour was statistically significant at (P< 0.05) with positive coefficient implying that for any unit increase in these variables, buyers would be willing to pay premium because they showed higher significant buyer preference level, results also shows that meat with good taste was statistically significant at (P< 0.05) with positive coefficient this implying that meat with good taste are point of interest for the consumers and they are ready to pay high premium to buy the commodities with this attributes. It was revealed that amount of fat (high ) was found to be statistically significant  with a negative coefficient, implying that meat with low fat is more preferable and are selling at higher prices in the study area.  Low income of consumer was the highest constraints associated with meat consumption in the study area, with a mean rank of 3.01, followed by high selling price with the mean rank of 3.63 and food safety with 4.20.
EFFECT OF COMPOST PRODUCED WITH COW DUNG ON THE EARLY GROWTH OF Adansonia Digitata L.
Authors: Dachung G. , Amonum J. I. , Isaac J.
Published: March 2023

This experiment was carried out to determine the effect of different levels of compost produced with Cow dung on the early growth performance of Adansonia digitata. A. digitata seeds were planted in a seed box and transplanted into poly pots after germination with the application of compost produced with Cow dung at a rate of 1kg, 2kg and 3kg per treatment and a control experiment. This experiment was carried out in a Completely Randomized Block Design. Data on plant height, number of leaves, leave area, leave width and collar diameter were recorded. The data were collected weekly for eleven weeks starting from the second week after planting. The data collected were subjected to statistical analysis using ANOVA. Result of the experiment revealed the highest mean height (137.63±19.46) was obtained in the control experiment, highest number of leaves (17.67±2.52) was recorded at treatment 4 (3kg), The widest leaf area was recorded at treatment 3 (2kg) (77.98±2.45) and the highest mean collar diameter was recorded is obtained in the control experiment (7.25±2.05). It is deduced that, the compost from cow-dung indicates no significant improvement in the early growth performance of A. digitata; also, different rates of application have different influence on the growth of the plant. In order to obtain optimum growth and yield of A. digitata, proper soil management techniques (such as application of organic manure) should be adopted and to maintain stable soil fertility; application of compost is advisable.
APPLICATION OF MULTITEMPORAL LANDSAT DATA IN MAPPING OF SALINE SOIL IN KANO RIVER IRRIGATION SCHEME (KRIS)
Authors: Mohammed Dahiru , Maina M. M. , Audu I. , Tudunwada I. Y. , Nasiru N. K. , Nasidi N. M. , Umar S. E.
Published: March 2023

Soil salinization is becoming a more serious issue threatening agricultural production and the sustainable use of land resources. Crop roots are unable to absorb water from the soil when exposed to saline conditions. This study explored the potential of Landsat imagery in detecting and mapping saline soil in the Kano River Irrigation Scheme (KRIS).  Samples of soil were collected from thirty-nine (39) sectors of the KRIS for ground truthing on 20th – 25th April, 2020. Electrical Conductivity (EC) of field samples were correlated with band values of satellite images and salinity indices in order to determine their relationship and assess their effectiveness in predicting soil salinity. Using a geospatial approach, the data was analyzed and maps of salt-affected areas were generated. ArcGIS 10.6 was used as the primary package for modeling and running functions. The result has shown that the EC values over the entire study area are greater than 1.3 dS/m. However, the mean value of EC is approximately 1.91 dS/m. The implication is that, most of the vegetables such as Onion, Carrot, and Beans grown in the KRIS will experience yield reduction without appropriate management practice as their threshold value has been exceeded.
TECHNICAL EFFICIENCY OF SOYBEAN PRODUCTION IN NIGER STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Mairabo A. , Jibrin S. , Audu H. , Salihu M. Y. , Elisha Y.
Published: March 2023

The efficiency with which farmers use resources and technologies available to them are imperative in boosting production. However, activities of armed bandits, conflict between farmers and pastoralists, rising prices amid decreasing consumer purchasing power and diminishing household incomes are some factors that impede agricultural production. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the technical efficiency of soybean production among small holder farmers in Niger State. A three stage sampling technique was used to select 150 respondents for the study. Primary data collected with the aid of structured questionnaires were analyzed using stochastic frontier Cobb-Douglas production function model. Results showed that the mean technical efficiency level of the respondents was 0.89 which implies that a typical soybean farmer in the study area could increase output by 11% using the same input bundle. Also, the efficiency model shows that coefficients of farm size, seed quantity and labour were positively significant which indicates that that increase in these variables will lead to increase in technical efficiency. The inefficiency model reveals that coefficients of credit and extension visit were positively significant while those of age and farming experience were negatively significant. This means that as credit and extension visit increases, technical efficiency decreases; while increase in age and farming experience will increase technical efficiency. The study recommended that extension services should be streamlined so that farmers do not receive conflicting information as this could hinder efficiency in production. Also, credit given to farmers should be monitored to ensure effective utilization.
THE EFFECT OF DIFFERENT PRE-SOWING TREATMENTS ON BREAKING SEED DORMANCY IN BAOBAB (Adansonia digitata L.) PLANT
Authors: DALHA ABUBAKAR KABIRU , Musa D. D. , Garba N. H. , Mubarak I. A.
Published: March 2023

Seed germination of baobab has necessitated with quiescence and hard seed coat impermeable to water and gases. It faces a high risk of extinction due to lack of regeneration. An experiment was carried out to investigate the effect of pre-sowing treatment techniques on seed germination of Baobab. Pot trials were conducted during 2021 dry season at Biological garden, Department of Plant Science and Biotechnology, Faculty of Life Science, Federal University Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State using completely randomized design (CRD). Seeds were subjected to four different concentrations of sulphuric acid, hot water, cold water, physical treatment and untreated seed as control and were analyzed independently to obtain the best treatment periods. Total of nine hundred and sixty (960) viable seeds were surface sterilized in 1.0% Sodium-hypochlorite (NaOCl) for 1 minute and rinsed three (3) times in sterile distilled water. 20 viable seeds were sown for each polypot. Physical pre-sowing treatment with full-sided scarification and treatment with hot water for 10 minutes produces the highest germination percentage (95.00%) and early seedling emergence (7th day after sowing). Seeds soaked in cold water for 8.00 hours gave the least mean days of seedling emergence (6th day after sowing) when compared to other treatments. These results suggested that full side scarification, soaking seed in hot water for 10 minutes and  cold water for 8.00 hours were optimum in breaking seed dormancy in Baobab and the techniques could be apply prior to planting to improve germination performance.
SYNTHESIS, CHARACTERIZATION AND ANTIMICROBIAL STUDIES OF Cu (II), and Ni (II) COMPLEXES DERIVED FROM 2-HYDROXYBENZALDEHYDE AND 2 AMINOPYRIDINE
Authors: Sani Ibrahim , Hussaini Sunusi Y. , Kutama Ibrahim U.
Published: March 2023

Schiff base ligand derived from condensation of 2-hydroxybenzaldehyde and 2-aminopyridine have been prepared and used to synthesized Cu (II) and Ni (II) complexes, characterized by spectroscopic method (IR spectra). Conductivity, solubility test were determined. On the basis of the infrared studies, appearing of new band around 721 -762 cm-1 and 553- 443   indicate formation of v ( M- N ) and v (M –O ) confirming a coordination of  ligand to the metal ion through oxygen and nitrogen  atoms. The antimicrobial activities of the complexes was studied against the Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Candida albican. The cupper complex showed higher activity than the Nickel complex and the ligand.
OPTIMIZATION OF ADSORPTION OF CONGO RED DYE FROM AQUEOUS SOLUTION WITH ACTIVATED CARBON FROM CASTOR SEED SHELL USING CENTRAL COMPOSITE DESIGN
Authors: Ohikere Hussaina Ize , Yashim Z. I. , Nwokem N. C.
Published: March 2023

The present research highlighted the efficacy of activated carbon from castor seed (ACCS) for the removal of Congo red dye from aqueous solution through batch study. Central–Composite Design (CCD) by response surface methodology was used to optimize the adsorption process. Based on CCD design, the quadratic models were developed co-relating the adsorption variables to the removal efficiency. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was incorporated to judge the adequacy of the model. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analysis was carried out on ACCS to reveal the functional groups which aided the adsorption of Congo red dye. The model predicted the optimized conditions as follows: initial concentration (100.0 mg/L), adsorption dose (1.2 g), contact time (45.0 mins) and pH (4.0) which resulted to a 99.97% removal efficiency of Congo red dye. Therefore, the present results demonstrate that ACCS is a low-cost alternative for the removal of Congo red dye from aqueous solution.
REGULASI EMOSI DAN FORGIVENESS PADA REMAJA KORBAN CYBERBULLYING
Authors: Malik Nabila , Suminar Dewi Retno
Published: March 2023

ABSTRACT: EMOTION REGULATION AND FORGIVENESS IN CYBERBULLYING ADOLESCENCE VICTIM Forgiveness is related to the ability to control oneself and negative emotions in the form of hatred and desire to take revenge on those who have hurt. Emotion regulation needs to be done to eliminate negative emotions and replace them with positive emotions. This study aims to determine the relationship between emotion regulation and forgiveness in adolescent victims of cyberbullying. Participants in this study were 201 cyberbullying victims aged 11-22 years old. The method used is a survey through a questionnaire, using the Emotion Regulation Scale and Transgression-related Interpersonal Motivations Inventory (TRIM-18). Data analysis was done through Spearman Rank correlation test. The results of the study indicates that there is a relationship between emotion regulation and forgiveness in adolescent victims of cyberbullying. Keywords: Adolescence, Emotion Regulation, Cyberbullying, Forgiveness  Forgiveness berkaitan dengan kemampuan mengendalikan diri dan emosi negatif berupa kebencian maupun keinginan untuk melakukan balas dendam pada pihak yang telah menyakiti. Regulasi emosi perlu dilakukan untuk menghilangkan emosi negatif dan menggantinya dengan emosi positif. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui hubungan antara regulasi emosi dengan forgiveness pada remaja korban cyberbullying. Partisipan dalam penelitian ini adalah 201 remaja korban cyberbullying yang berusia 11-22 tahun. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah survey melalui kuesioner, menggunakan Skala Regulasi Emosi dan Transgression-related Interpersonal Motivations Inventory (TRIM-18). Analisis data yang digunakan adalah uji korelasi Spearman Rank. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan terdapat hubungan antara regulasi emosi dengan forgiveness pada remaja korban cyberbullying. Kata Kunci: Remaja, Regulasi Emosi, Cyberbullying, Forgiveness
THE STATE AND PROSPECTS OF DEVELOPMENT OF PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP IN THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION IN CONDITIONS OF LIMITED FINANCIAL RESOURCES OF THE STATE
Authors:   Kadyrov Chechen State University, Alklychev Alklych M.
Published: March 2023

The problem of the development of forms of interaction between the state and business is scientifically debatable and relevant in modern economic literature. In our opinion, the development and improvement of interaction between the state and business is certainly expedient and effective, first of all, to solve national tasks, increase the level of business activity, create new jobs, and replenish budgets at all levels.
МЕТОД ОЦІНКИ УЗАГАЛЬНЕНОГО РИЗИКУ ВИНИКНЕННЯ АВАРІЙНИХ МОРСЬКИХ ПОДІЙ У СИСТЕМІ УПРАВЛІННЯ БЕЗПЕКОЮ СУДНОПЛАВСТВА
Authors: Калініченко Євгеній Володимирович , Бойко Анна Дмитрівна , Постников Євген Євгенович
Published: March 2023

В статті розглянуто метод оцінки узагальненого ризику виникнення аварійних морських подій у системі управління безпекою судноплавства, який враховує найскладнішікласи аварійних морських подій (дуже серйозні аварії, серйозні аварії), типи чинників, що впливають на безпеку судноплавства. У методі визначаються прийнятні та неприйнятні ризики для кожної аварійної морської події з використанням криволінійної трапеції прийнятного ризику. За допомогою такої трапеції можливо підвищити точність оцінки узагальненого ризику виникнення аварійних морських подій з використанням морського та річкового транспорту. При цьому обґрунтована гіпотеза про розподіл аварійних морських подій за законом Пуассона на статистичних даних щодо дуже серйозних морських аварій, серйозних аварій, морських інцидентів та інцидентів для морського та річкового транспорту за період з 2006 по 2021 роки. Аналіз показав, що для водного транспорту для дуже серйозних та серйозних аварій немає підстави відкинути нульову гіпотезу про розподіл генеральної сукупності за законом Пуассона. Виконано формальне представлення ризику виникнення аварійних морських подій з урахуванням чинників, що впливають на безпеку судноплавства, та очікуваного середнього збитку. Ризики, що використовуються в роботі, для кожного водного транспорту (морського, річкового) розглядаються як за класами аварійних морських подій (дуже серйозні аварії, серйозні аварії), так і за типами чинників, що впливають на безпеку самого судна, людини, навколишньогосередовища і вантажу.Ключові слова: метод, ризик, аварійна морська подія, морський та річковий транспорт, ризик, збиток, ймовірність, чинник, система управління безпекою судноплавства.
Vigotski e a educação em ciências: uma revisão integrativa da literatura
Authors: Arantes Shirley de Lima Ferreira
Published: March 2023

Investiga-se como a teoria histórico-cultural de Vigotski vem sendo explorada em pesquisas focadas no ensino de ciências na educação básica no Brasil. Realizou-se revisão integrativa dos artigos publicados entre 2010 e 2020 na biblioteca SciELO, resultantes da busca por meio da combinação terciária das palavras-chave: “Vigotski”; “Ensino”; “Ciências” e o operador booleano and. Identificou-se o total de 16 artigos, dos quais cinco atenderam aos critérios de inclusão. Os trabalhos utilizam aportes da teoria histórico-cultural como fundamentação teórico-metodológica, o que contribui para a qualidade crítica e reflexiva da educação em ciências, por meio da abertura à emergência de tensões e contradições em sala de aula, cujas sínteses dialéticas geram conhecimentos qualitativamente novos. Porém, a maioria não explicita desdobramentos de classe, raça, gênero e deficiência na análise semiótica. Esses resultados sinalizam a apropriação parcial da teoria e a importância da inclusão de mediações que considerem as condições de vida dos alunos.
Ação de profissionais na entrevista à família para doação de órgãos
Authors: Santos da Silva Glaucia Jaine , Vestena Zillmer Juliana Graciela , Díaz-Medina Blanca Alejandra , Griebeler Oliveira Stefanie , Cordeiro Franciele Roberta
Published: March 2023

Compreender os modos de agir dos profissionais da comissão intra-hospitalar de doação de órgãos e tecidos durante a entrevista à família para a doação. Pesquisa qualitativa a partir da Teoria da Ação Comunicativa de Jürgen Habermas, desenvolvida de abril à agosto de 2018 por meio de entrevista semiestruturada e observação não participante entre profissionais da comissão intra-hospitalar de doação de órgãos e tecidos, em quatro hospitais na Região Sul, selecionados mediante amostragem intencional e Snowball. Utilizou-se o programa Ethnograph V6 para o gerenciamento dos dados e como análise a hermenêutica-dialética. Os 21 participantes utlizaram uma abordagem/ação comunicativa e estratégica. No agir comunicativo buscaram no entendimento uns com outros e em contato com a família, estabelecer empatia, fornecer apoio, e compartilhar conhecimento. Na abordagem estratégica, foi buscado o consentimento familiar com intenções pré definidas para resolução dos problemas.
DETEKSI OBJEK DENGAN METODE COLOR FILTERING HSV DAN BLOB DETECTION PADA ROBOT VERTICAL TAKE OFF AND LANDING
Authors: Yusuf Arifin Yusuf
Published: March 2023

Pada Kontes Robot Terbang Indonesia 2018, divisi VTOL, setiap tim memiliki misi mengirimkan LOG (Logistik) dan MP (Muatan PICK) Survival Kits berupa objek berwarna orange dan berbentuk lingkaran ke Lokasi-lokasi yang telah ditentukan. Terbatasnya sumber tenaga yang mampu diangkat oleh wahana membuat wahana memiliki batas waktu yang tidak lama ketika berada di udara. Selain itu, kebutuhan pemrosesan citra secara realtime mengharuskan wahana dapat mendeteksi objek dengan cepat dan tepat. Masalah lain adalah kondisi lingkungan yang tidak bisa dipredisksi. Salah satu metode yang populer digunakan untuk mendeteksi objek adalah learning. Metode learning akan menciptakan algoritma yang dapat mendeteksi objek berdasarkan sampel yang diberikan saat proses learning sehingga metode ini memiliki tingkat akurasi yang tinggi, namun memiliki beban kerja yang berat. Selain learning, color filtering juga dapat digunakan untuk mendeteksi objek, namun metode ini memiliki kelemahan karena hanya melakukan sekali filter sehingga belum mampu sepenuhnya mengeliminasi noise jika ada objek lain yang memiliki warna serupa dengan objek deteksi. Karena itu digunakanlah Blob detection setelah dilakukan filter warna. Blob detection mendeteksi kumpulan pixel yang memiliki perbedaan warna (lebih terang atau lebih gelap). Dari hasil pengujian didapatkan bahwa metode ini mampu mendeteksi objek hingga jarak x meter. Selain itu, metode ini juga mampu mengeliminasi noise dari objek lain dengan warna serupa maupun noise getaran.
Working Principles Of Constant Current Regulator (CCR) As Charge With Constant Flow At The Airport International Jendral Ahmad Yani Semarang
Authors:   Universitas Singaperbangsa Karawang Indonesia, Haqi Fariza , Saragih Yuliarman ,   Universitas Singaperbangsa Karawang Indonesia, Hidayat Rahmat ,   Universitas Singaperbangsa Karawang Indonesia
Published: March 2023

The Airfield Lightning System (ALS) is an important part of this airport operations. Without the help of these lights, landings and flight departures can be very dangerous. It can be said to be Airfield Lightning System (ALS) is the key in handling the safety of the operating authority aviation services. The Airfield Lightning System (ALS) really requires intensity fixed and unchanging light so that the pilot can see the lights that clearly. Given a very vital function in aviation services required a power supply that supports the operation of the Airfield Lightning System (ALS). The required power supply system must of course meet Airfield's criteria Lightning System (ALS). Because a constant current is needed, then di use the Constant Current Regulator (CCR). The supporting components are also involved designed so that Runaway Lightning operations can take place continuously maximum, and can support flight safety.
Studi Analisis Kualitas Air Lau Borus (Outlet Danau Lau Kawar), Pasca Erupsi Gunung Sinabung Di Kecamatan Naman Teran, Kabupaten Karo, Provinsi Sumatera Utara
Authors:   Universitas Sumatera Utara Indonesia, Muzambiq Said , Nurfahasdi Meutia ,   Universitas Sumatera Utara Indonesia, Amida Sarah Fatalosa Manalu Tavi Ni ,   Universitas Sumatera Utara Indonesia
Published: March 2023

Lau borus is an outlet located on Lau Kawar Lake. The location of lau borus is located at the foot of mount sinabung where this mountain has experienced quite high eruptive activity for several years. Determination of the status of water quality in these waters using the Pollution Index Method following the Regulation of the Minister of the Environment number 115 of 2003 and the Regulation of the Minister of Health Number 32 of 2017. The parameters that will be tested in this study are TDS, pH, Fe, SO4, COD, BOD, Cu, Cl, Pb, NH3, Total Coliform. The study was conducted at 3 sample points taken by purposive sampling. The average results of the calculation of the Lau Borus Waters Pollution Index method Outlet Lau Kawar Lightly Polluted Lake (scores from 1.86 to 2.19). While the results of Permenkes number 32 of 2017 the total coliform results show that this value has exceeded the average value. These results indicate that the quality status is influenced by pollutants from Iron (Fe) and Total Coliform which are above the quality standard. The relationship between the eruption activity of Mount Sinabung and the quality of Lau Borus during sampling did not cause a significant pollution impact from volcanic ash pollutants. The cause of Lau Borus pollution is from the wind direction. The percentage results from the eruption wind direction towards Lake Lau Kawar. the direction of the lake with the opposite direction is 1: 8. The eruption towards the Lau Borus Outlet, Lake Lau Kawar, is relatively small compared to the opposite direction.
Analisis Teknologi Manajemen Energi Pada Kendaraan Listrik Hibrida Berbasis Tinjauan Pustaka
Authors:   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya Indonesia, Pandin Theophilus Ezra Nugroho , Santoso Bryan Hulio ,   Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya Indonesia
Published: March 2023

The application of hybrid electric vehicle technology has grown rapidly in recent years. This article aims to describe and discuss energy management strategies in hybrid electric vehicles. The research method is qualitative with a systematic literature review based on database searches on IEEE, Garuda SINTA, ArXiv, Preprints. The results obtained 13 articles from the IEEE database by describing the results of the energy management strategy of each article. The conclusion is that the technology used for energy management strategies includes algorithm settings, namely reinforcement learning and Q-learning combined with several control systems, namely predictive control models, Equivalent Consumption Minimization Strategy, and Dynamic Programming.
Types of Hole-Meadow and Wetlands Vegetation in Oil-contaminated Soils Siyazan District (Azerbaijan)
Authors: Kurbanov E. , Aslanova S. , Ibragimov Sh.
Published: March 2023

Considering the very important role of the environment and ecology in ensuring the health and food security of the population, Azerbaijan is implementing a consistent and effective state policy towards protecting the ecological balance. Improvement and protection of the ecological situation and the desire to minimize environmental pollution are the main directions of the policy of our state in this direction. Phytoecological studies and studies on oil-contaminated soils are today one of the most urgent environmental problems in Azerbaijan. Therefore, when sampling soil at the Siyazanneft mines in the Siyazan district, the species composition of phytocenoses in contaminated areas was determined. In the conducted research work, the species composition and structure of the primal-meadow and wetland vegetation common in the selected samples and areas (around oil wells) were studied. The results of phytoecological studies were used in the “Classification of Vegetation”. Thus, the vegetation found on the oil-contaminated lands of Siyazanneft was classified into 2 types of vegetation and 4 associations belonging to 2 formation groups. In the presented article, a research work was carried out on the phytoecological characteristics of the spring-meadow and wetland type of vegetation in the oil-contaminated territory “Siyazanneft”.
Structural and Functional State of Leukocytes During Long-term Adaptation of Experimental Animals to the Climatic and Geographical Conditions of High Mountains
Authors: Bekturganova A. , Makhmudova Zh. , Taalaibekova M.
Published: March 2023

This study presents the results of studies of the structural and functional state of leukocytes during long-term adaptation of experimental animals to high altitude conditions, obtained using the electron microscopic method of morphometry. It has been shown that under the influence of extreme factors of high altitude in the process of adaptation in experimental animals there is a statistically significant increase in the volume density of mitochondria and ribosomes in neutrophils, lymphocytes, eosinophils, monocytes, which can be regarded as an indicator of activation of the synthesis of nucleic acids and proteins, activation of the biosynthesis of mitochondrial structures and increase energy production in white blood cells. The volumetric value of specific granules also increased. The volume density of vacuoles in all white blood cells by the 30th day of stay at altitude was statistically significantly reduced, however, in neutrophils, eosinophils and lymphocytes, this indicator did not reach the values of animals in the control group. Thus, adaptation to high mountains has a certain training effect, the state of white blood cells under these conditions is a kind of marker of adaptive processes occurring in the body during the stay of humans and animals in high mountains.
Modeling of the Intake of Cadmium, Lead, Mercury and Arsenic Into the Body of Ruminants With a Ration and the Transition to Animal Products
Authors: Epimakhov V.
Published: March 2023

The task of establishing the regularities of accumulation and transition to animal products of heavy metals for the development of scientifically based standards for the content of heavy metals in feeding diets is urgent. Based on modeling the effects of cadmium on the body of ruminants, in order to normalize the intake of heavy metals: Cd, Pb, Hg and As with the diet, accumulation in the body, and transition to livestock products, a simulation model for cattle and sheep has been developed. A conceptual scheme is presented that reflects the structure and functioning of the model. Its description is given. To calculate the maximum permissible levels of cadmium, lead, mercury and arsenic in the diet of cattle and sheep, a list of input parameters has been established. The studied indicator is the maximum permissible level of Cd, Pb, Hg and As content in feeding diets, the excess of which, it is expected, will lead to a violation of heavy metals standards in animal products (milk and meat). The model has been verified. The degree of similarity of empirical data and modeling results indicates the legitimacy of using the model and the conclusions drawn with its help are applicable to the real system under study and can be considered correct and reliable at an acceptable level. The implementation of the model, the establishment of the values of the maximum permissible levels of cadmium, lead, mercury and arsenic in the diets of animals, depending on the species, age group, physiological state, productivity level and other factors will allow to make changes and improve the technology of keeping and feeding in the conditions of the current technogenic situation and guarantee the receipt of environmentally safe livestock products.
The Use of The Epic of Manas Within the Frames of Pedagogical Disciplines at University
Authors: Baitova F.
Published: March 2023

The article is devoted to the analysis of the experience of using the educational ideas of The Epic of Manas with the goal of improving the content of pedagogical disciplines of universities. The issues on developing meaningful borders of such certain topics like teaching as a profession; initiation and progression of pedagogics as a science; purpose, content and methods of education were analyzed within the frames of The Epic of Manas. The selection of certain fragments of the epic, in the context of preparing future instructors to pedagogical work, was made in accordance with principles like professional focus, scientific quality, representativeness, potential of forming ideals, historical and socio-cultural context. The results of the experiment showed that the enrichment of the content of the above-mentioned disciplines through the values of The Epic of Manas improves not only the ethno-pedagogical competence of future teachers, but also significantly increases the value of the course as an academic discipline.
Material and Social Support for Government and Municipal Employees
Authors: Arapova M. , Tultemirova G. , Sadykova R.
Published: March 2023

Social and material security of civil servants of the Kyrgyz Republic is provided for by Chapter 7 of the Basic Law as follows. Civil service is professional activity of the Kyrgyz Republic citizens as government bodies. Determination of the conditions of material and social support for government and municipal employees. Research materials and methods: the law of the Kyrgyz Republic on government and municipal employees. Research results: the civil service includes the civil service, military service, law enforcement service and the diplomatic service. Conclusions: a unified system of salary payment of civil servants is determined in accordance with the Kyrgyz Republic Law “On the maximum staffing level and on the conditions for remuneration of labor of government and municipal employees of the Kyrgyz Republic”.
Damage detection on steel-reinforced concrete produced by corrosion via YOLOv3: A detailed guide
Authors: Guzmán-Torres J. A. , Domínguez-Mota F. J. , Martínez-Molina W. , Naser M. Z. , Tinoco-Guerrero G. , Tinoco-Ruíz J. G.
Published: March 2023

Damage assessment applied to reinforced concrete elements is one of the main activities of infrastructure maintenance tasks. Among these elements, the problem of corrosion in reinforced concrete is particularly critical and requires careful consideration. Annually, governments invest a large amount of economic resources in this activity. However, most methodologies for damage assessment rely on visual inspection, which may be subjectively interpreted, producing inconsistent results and requiring a considerable amount of time and resources. This study evaluates the performance of real-time object detection using You Only Look Once, version 3, for detecting corrosion damage in concrete structures. The architecture of YOLOv3 is based on a complex, but efficient, convolutional neural network fed by a dataset proposed and labeled by the authors. Two training stages were established to improve the model precision, using transfer learning with medium- and high-resolution training images. The test results show satisfactory concrete-corrosion detection through validation photographs and videos demonstrating the capabilities of explainable artificial intelligence and its applications in civil engineering.
Salmonella enhances osteogenic differentiation in adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Mohamad-Fauzi Nuradilla , Shaw Claire , Foutouhi Soraya H. , Hess Matthias , Kong Nguyet , Kol Amir , Storey Dylan Bobby , Desai Prerak T. , Shah Jigna , Borjesson Dori , Murray James D. , Weimer Bart C.
Published: March 2023

The potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for tissue repair and regeneration has garnered great attention. While MSCs are likely to interact with microbes at sites of tissue damage and inflammation, like in the gastrointestinal system, the consequences of pathogenic association on MSC activities have yet to be elucidated. This study investigated the effects of pathogenic interaction on MSC trilineage differentiation paths and mechanisms using model intracellular pathogen Salmonella enterica ssp enterica serotype Typhimurium. The examination of key markers of differentiation, apoptosis, and immunomodulation demonstrated that Salmonella altered osteogenic and chondrogenic differentiation pathways in human and goat adipose-derived MSCs. Anti-apoptotic and pro-proliferative responses were also significantly upregulated (p < 0.05) in MSCs during Salmonella challenge. These results together indicate that Salmonella, and potentially other pathogenic bacteria, can induce pathways that influence both apoptotic response and functional differentiation trajectories in MSCs, highlighting that microbes have a potentially significant role as influencers of MSC physiology and immune activity.
Large animal models for cardiac remuscularization studies: A methodological review
Authors: Yu Yuexin , Tham Seng Kong , Roslan Fatin Fazrina , Shaharuddin Bakiah , Yong Yoke Keong , Guo Zhikun , Tan Jun Jie
Published: March 2023

Myocardial infarction is the most common cause of heart failure, one of the most fatal non-communicable diseases worldwide. The disease could potentially be treated if the dead, ischemic heart tissues are regenerated and replaced with viable and functional cardiomyocytes. Pluripotent stem cells have proven the ability to derive specific and functional cardiomyocytes in large quantities for therapy. To test the remuscularization hypothesis, the strategy to model the disease in animals must resemble the pathophysiological conditions of myocardial infarction as in humans, to enable thorough testing of the safety and efficacy of the cardiomyocyte therapy before embarking on human trials. Rigorous experiments andin vivofindings using large mammals are increasingly important to simulate clinical reality and increase translatability into clinical practice. Hence, this review focus on large animal models which have been used in cardiac remuscularization studies using cardiomyocytes derived from human pluripotent stem cells. The commonly used methodologies in developing the myocardial infarction model, the choice of animal species, the pre-operative antiarrhythmics prophylaxis, the choice of perioperative sedative, anaesthesia and analgesia, the immunosuppressive strategies in allowing xenotransplantation, the source of cells, number and delivery method are discussed.
A multiscale computational framework to evaluate flow alterations during mechanical thrombectomy for treatment of ischaemic stroke
Authors: Benemerito Ivan , Mustafa Ahmed , Wang Ning , Narata Ana Paula , Narracott Andrew , Marzo Alberto
Published: March 2023

The treatment of ischaemic stroke increasingly relies upon endovascular procedures known as mechanical thrombectomy (MT), which consists in capturing and removing the clot with a catheter-guided stent while at the same time applying external aspiration with the aim of reducing haemodynamic loads during retrieval. However, uniform consensus on procedural parameters such as the use of balloon guide catheters (BGC) to provide proximal flow control, or the position of the aspiration catheter is still lacking. Ultimately the decision is left to the clinician performing the operation, and it is difficult to predict how these treatment options might influence clinical outcome. In this study we present a multiscale computational framework to simulate MT procedures. The developed framework can provide quantitative assessment of clinically relevant quantities such as flow in the retrieval path and can be used to find the optimal procedural parameters that are most likely to result in a favorable clinical outcome. The results show the advantage of using BGC during MT and indicate small differences between positioning the aspiration catheter in proximal or distal locations. The framework has significant potential for future expansions and applications to other surgical treatments.
DSP c.6310delA p.(Thr2104Glnfs*12) associates with arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy, increased trabeculation, curly hair, and palmoplantar keratoderma
Authors: Heliö Krista , Brandt Eveliina , Vaara Satu , Weckström Sini , Harjama Liisa , Kandolin Riina , Järviö Johanna , Hannula-Jouppi Katariina , Heliö Tiina , Holmström Miia , Koskenvuo Juha W.
Published: March 2023

Background

Pathogenic variants in DSP associate with cardiac and cutaneous manifestations including arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy, dilated cardiomyopathy, curly or wavy hair, and palmoplantar keratoderma (PPK). Episodes of myocardial inflammation associated with DSP cardiomyopathy might be confused in clinical work with myocarditis of other etiologies such as viral. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) may help in differential diagnosis.

Methods and results

This study comprised 49 Finnish patients: 34 participants from families with suspected DSP cardiomyopathy (9 index patients and 25 family members) and 15 patients with myocarditis. All 34 participants underwent genetic testing and cardiac evaluation, and 29 of them also underwent CMR. Participants with the DSP variant, numbering 22, were dermatologically examined. The 15 patients with myocarditis underwent CMR and were evaluated during their hospitalization.

A heterozygous truncating DSP c.6310delA p.(Thr2104Glnfs*12) variant was confirmed in 29 participants. Only participants with the DSP variant had pacemakers and life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. Of the participants with the DSP variant, 24% fulfilled cardiomyopathy criteria, and the median age at diagnosis was 53. Upon CMR, myocardial edema was found to be more common in patients with myocarditis. Both groups had a substantial percentage of late gadolinium enhancement (LGE). A ring-like LGE and increased trabeculation were observed only in participants with the DSP variant. All the studied participants with the DSP variant had PPK and curly or wavy hair. Hyperkeratosis developed before the age of 20 in most patients.

Conclusions

The DSP c.6310delA p.(Thr2104Glnfs*12) variant associates with curly hair, PPK, and arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy with increased trabeculation. Cutaneous symptoms developing in childhood and adolescence might help recognize these patients at an earlier stage. CMR, together with dermatologic characteristics, may help in diagnosis.
Roles of histone acetylation sites in cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure
Authors: Funamoto Masafumi , Imanishi Masaki , Tsuchiya Koichiro , Ikeda Yasumasa
Published: March 2023

Heart failure results from various physiological and pathological stimuli that lead to cardiac hypertrophy. This pathological process is common in several cardiovascular diseases and ultimately leads to heart failure. The development of cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure involves reprogramming of gene expression, a process that is highly dependent on epigenetic regulation. Histone acetylation is dynamically regulated by cardiac stress. Histone acetyltransferases play an important role in epigenetic remodeling in cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. The regulation of histone acetyltransferases serves as a bridge between signal transduction and downstream gene reprogramming. Investigating the changes in histone acetyltransferases and histone modification sites in cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure will provide new therapeutic strategies to treat these diseases. This review summarizes the association of histone acetylation sites and histone acetylases with cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure, with emphasis on histone acetylation sites.
Older adults' experience with virtual conversational agents for health data collection
Authors: Wilczewski Hattie , Soni Hiral , Ivanova Julia , Ong Triton , Barrera Janelle F. , Bunnell Brian E. , Welch Brandon M.
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Virtual conversational agents (i.e., chatbots) are an intuitive form of data collection. Understanding older adults' experiences with chatbots could help identify their usability needs. This quality improvement study evaluated older adults' experiences with a chatbot for health data collection. A secondary goal was to understand how perceptions differed based on length of chatbot forms.

Methods

After a demographic survey, participants (≥60 years) completed either a short (21 questions), moderate (30 questions), or long (66 questions) chatbot form. Perceived ease-of-use, usefulness, usability, likelihood to recommend, and cognitive load were measured post-test. Qualitative and quantitative analyses were used.

Results

A total of 260 participants reported on usability and satisfaction metrics including perceived ease-of-use (5.8/7), usefulness (4.7/7), usability (5.4/7), and likelihood to recommend (Net Promoter Score = 0). Cognitive load (12.3/100) was low. There was a statistically significant difference in perceived usefulness between groups, with a significantly higher mean perceived usefulness for Group 1 than Group 3. No other group differences were observed. The chatbot was perceived as quick, easy, and pleasant with concerns about technical issues, privacy, and security. Participants provided suggestions to enhance progress tracking, edit responses, improve readability, and have options to ask questions.

Discussion

Older adults found the chatbot to be easy, useful, and usable. The chatbot required low cognitive load demonstrating it could be an enjoyable health data collection tool for older adults. These results will inform the development of a health data collection chatbot technology.
Witnessing well-being in action: Observing teacher well-being during field experiences predicts student teacher well-being
Authors: Dreer Benjamin
Published: March 2023

Social cognitive theory posits that observing others’ behavior can influence our thinking, behavior, and learning. The present study examines whether this principle also applies to teacher well-being. It investigates whether student teachers’ well-being is linked to the well-being of in-service teachers they closely observe during field experiences. For that purpose, 222 student teachers were assigned to conduct three classroom observations of three different teachers using a dedicated observation tool that focused on in-service teachers’ positive emotions and positive student interactions. Longitudinal data from 666 classroom observations and student teachers’ well-being data were analyzed. It was hypothesized that the mean scores from all three independent classroom observations are most predictive of student teacher well-being. The results revealed significant associations between seven indicators of student teacher well-being and the observed well-being of in-service teachers. Interestingly, it was not the mean of all three observation scores but only the score of the third and final observation that contributed significantly to student teacher well-being. This brief research report seeks to inspire discourse about the benefits and challenges of observational learning in teachers’ well-being education.
A real-time automated bone age assessment system based on the RUS-CHN method
Authors: Yang Chen , Dai Wei , Qin Bin , He Xiangqian , Zhao Wenlong
Published: March 2023

Background

Bone age is the age of skeletal development and is a direct indicator of physical growth and development in children. Most bone age assessment (BAA) systems use direct regression with the entire hand bone map or first segmenting the region of interest (ROI) using the clinical a priori method and then deriving the bone age based on the characteristics of the ROI, which takes more time and requires more computation.

Materials and methods

Key bone grades and locations were determined using three real-time target detection models and Key Bone Search (KBS) post-processing using the RUS-CHN approach, and then the age of the bones was predicted using a Lightgbm regression model. Intersection over Union (IOU) was used to evaluate the precision of the key bone locations, while the mean absolute error (MAE), the root mean square error (RMSE), and the root mean squared percentage error (RMSPE) were used to evaluate the discrepancy between predicted and true bone age. The model was finally transformed into an Open Neural Network Exchange (ONNX) model and tested for inference speed on the GPU (RTX 3060).

Results

The three real-time models achieved good results with an average (IOU) of no less than 0.9 in all key bones. The most accurate outcomes for the inference results utilizing KBS were a MAE of 0.35 years, a RMSE of 0.46 years, and a RMSPE of 0.11. Using the GPU RTX3060 for inference, the critical bone level and position inference time was 26 ms. The bone age inference time was 2 ms.

Conclusions

We developed an automated end-to-end BAA system that is based on real-time target detection, obtaining key bone developmental grade and location in a single pass with the aid of KBS, and using Lightgbm to obtain bone age, capable of outputting results in real-time with good accuracy and stability, and able to be used without hand-shaped segmentation. The BAA system automatically implements the entire process of the RUS-CHN method and outputs information on the location and developmental grade of the 13 key bones of the RUS-CHN method along with the bone age to assist the physician in making judgments, making full use of clinical a priori knowledge.
Epigenetics of methylation modifications in diabetic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Hao Jing , Liu Yao
Published: March 2023

Type 2 diabetes is one of the most common metabolic diseases with complications including diabetic cardiomyopathy and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Recently, a growing body of research has revealed that the complex interplay between epigenetic changes and the environmental factors may significantly contribute to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular complications secondary to diabetes. Methylation modifications, including DNA methylation and histone methylation among others, are important in developing diabetic cardiomyopathy. Here we summarized the literatures of studies focusing on the role of DNA methylation, and histone modifications in microvascular complications of diabetes and discussed the mechanism underlying these disorders, to provide the guidance for future research toward an integrated pathophysiology and novel therapeutic strategies to treat or prevent this frequent pathological condition.