bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Love cannot be hated (attitude to Russian reality in political thought)
Authors: Slobozhnikova Valentina
Published: June 2023

The problem of attitude to the Russian reality has acquired special significance and has become a factor of socio-political life in modern Russia. Variants of a possible relationship are identified on the basis of domestic political thought. The author reveals the features of the appeal to the theoretical heritage of thinkers of the past: actualization of the theoretical heritage of what corresponds to the "malice of the day"; "snatching citation"; analysis of the heritage of the past without taking into account the context of the current state of science, in particular the developments of sociopsychology and hermeneutics. The appeal in concretization of the attitude to the Russian reality to the periods of the 30 – 40s of the XIX century and the 20 - 30s of the XX century fixes the author's attitude to them as the most difficult, from the position of defining thinkers. In more detail, the article presents a wide range of possible attitudes to reality in Russia in the 30 – 40s of the XIX century. The official authorities insisted on an unconsciously trusting understanding of patriotism. This position was opposed by humiliation/hatred of Russia (P. Ya. Chaadaev, V. S. Pecherin). The position, most pronounced, according to the author, by A. I. Herzen and V. G. Belinsky, has become widespread in the progressive environment (I love, but not animalistically, out of habit, but consciously and I hate a lot of things in Russia immensely). Analyzing the attitude to modern Russian reality, the author considers it necessary to turn to the theoretical developments of solidarity and agonism, to take into account the socio-political changes that have occurred in Russia and the modern hierarchy of contradictions in the context of globalization processes in the world and the place and role of our country in them.
The activity of Orthodox bloggers as the factor of the Orthodox religious organizations modernization
Authors: Bogatova Olga , Golovanov Sergey
Published: June 2023

The article, based on online observation data, analyzes the activities of Orthodox bloggers in modern Russian society in the conceptual framework of the theories of secularization, post-secular society and the mediatization of religion. The authors identify the main areas of activity of Orthodox bloggers, specify the forms of their interaction with official confessional mass media, assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the information policy of the Russian Orthodox Church. After the COVID-19 pandemic, information policy is being liberalized and restrictions are being lifted from the online activities of proactive Orthodox clergy looking for new approaches to the external and internal mission of Orthodoxy. There are two main directions of Orthodox blogging: catechetical and educational; the formation of public opinion in the circles of the Orthodox clergy and the affirmation of the value of social solidarity. In the first case, the modernization of the social practices of the clergy is expressed in introducing the audience of “new media” to religion and educational influence on it, in addition to the usual examples of bilateral interaction, in the second — in increasing the authority of the clergy-bloggers as media personalities and the opportunity to use near-church sites for informal public control over the activities of the church leadership. As a result of the activity of active blogger priests, a network environment of assistants, volunteers and consultants (IT specialists, psychologists, lawyers, etc.) arises around parishes, hierarchical organizations in their essence.
Participation of Soviet specialists in the creation of the Egyptian national dance school as an manifestation of cultural sensitivity phenomenon
Authors: Barsova Natalia , Podyachev Kirill
Published: June 2023

The paper presents a combination of historical and sociological research. The authors scrutinize the history of the work of Soviet choreographers, first of all related to the choreographic school of I. Moiseyev in Egypt in 1950-60s. As a result of this work, the Egyptian traditional dances, which probably originated in ancient times, including raks sharki, known worldwide as bellydance, were recorded and brought to the professional stage. The authors rely on the concept of institutionalization of culture, the essence of which is that folklore tradition in an industrial and urban society can no longer be transmitted naturally through the family, but can be preserved through fixation and institutionalization in the system of cultural institutions and supplementary education. This idea was realized in the USSR and in Egypt with the active participation of Soviet specialists. The authors conclude that the successful experience of Soviet choreographers with Egyptian cultural heritage could be interpreted as empirical evidence of the "cultural openness" (i. e., sensitivity and respect for other cultures). Finally, the example discussed in the paper shows that the Soviet experience of the institutionalization and professionalization of cultural tradition can be successfully applied in other countries and among peoples belonging to completely` different macrosocial communities. At the same time, it makes possible to preserve important elements of national identity and even local originality in urban milieu of industrial or post-industrial society.
U.S. Re-entry into the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement and Implications for the EU, Korea, China, and Japan: A CGE Approach
Authors:   IAGBT, Kitetu Geoffrey Musyoki , Ko Jong-Hwan
Published: June 2023

Purpose - With renewed greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, abatement commitments and the rejoining of the Paris Climate Agreement of 2015 by the U.S., this study assesses the impact of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions reduction, and the opportunity cost of the U.S. in implementing its nationally determined commitments (NDCs).
Design/Methodology/Approach - The study employs the GTAP-E model, an extension of the static GTAP model with CO₂ emissions trading, and GTAP DB version 10A with a base year of 2014. Model implementation includes a baseline scenario that projects the global economy from 2014 to 2030, and four policy scenarios representing the implementation of U.S. NDC targets without and with emissions trading.
Findings - Simulation results suggest that CO₂ emissions reduction with trading significantly lowers the emissions abatement cost compared to CO₂ emissions reduction with no trading. Furthermore, the study finds that CO₂ emissions reduction leads to a drop in industry output by all energy and most non-energy sectors. Simulation results illustrate that CO₂ emissions reduction by the U.S. significantly affects most of its trading partners’ real GDPs, welfare, export and import flows, and industry outputs.
Research Implications - The study provides a comprehensive impact assessment of global CO₂ emissions reduction, including U.S. contributions to addressing climate change. Moreover, the study has quantified the opportunity cost the U.S. will likely pay for meeting its NDC targets, and the likely impact of CO₂ emissions reduction by the U.S. on its major trading partners, especially the EU, Korea, Japan, and China.
Multiple User Switching Intention of Simple Payment Service (SPS): Focusing on Korean Generation Z
Authors:   IAGBT, Kim Min-Sook
Published: June 2023

Purpose - Previous research on SPS (Simple Payment Service) includes studies focusing on the intention to adopt or to continue use. Therefore, there is a limitation in explaining the motivation of multiple users among Generation Z that have already adopted SPS. This study focuses on examining the factors affecting the switching intention of multiple users among Generation Z from one SPS to another based on the PPM (push, pull and mooring) model.
Design/Methodology/Approach - This study applied the PPM model to explain the switching intention of multiple users. A total of 235 university students in their 20s with experience using two or more simple payment services were collected and analyzed.
Findings - All three factors of the PPM model were found to have a statistically significant effect on switching intention. That is, intention to switch to other SPS was high, even though the consumers habitually used it or were reluctant to change.
Research Implications - SPS providers need an effective PPM strategy to retain customers by providing benefits in terms of ease of use, versatility (online and offline payment), and price to prevent deviation from the service. It is also important to ensure the relative advantage and reliability of the service, and to implement favorable marketing tailored to the 20s.
New Trade Protectionism Response to COVID-19: An Investigation on Firm Export Performance in an Emerging Country
Authors:   IAGBT, Hoang Nguyen , Thanh Tu Phan , Moon Hee-Cheol , Do Binh
Published: June 2023

Purpose - Given the significance of concerns raised about the global shift toward protectionism under trade policy uncertainty context, and echoed by requests to contribute to issues that concern a wider variety of stakeholders, this study aims to review new trade protection measures in response to the pandemic crisis and their effects on export performance from an emerging country’s exporters.
Design/Methodology/Approach - Research data were gathered by surveying 613 export managers of different types of exporters in Vietnam from a list of exporters provided by Ministry of Industry and Trade, and then applied a regression model for analysis.
Findings - The study demonstrated a negative relationship between firm export performance and six trade protectionism measures, including industrial subsidies, public-procurement restrictions, FDI restrictions, standards protectionism, green protectionism, and regional integration. Only restrictions on migrant workers had no appreciable impact on firm export performance. Additionally, only employee number, out of the three control factors, significantly and positively affected how well firms succeed in exporting.
Research Implications - The study’s findings have significant ramifications and contributions to theory and practice in international trade for an emerging country to overcome new trade protectionism measures. To support firms in expanding export markets, the government of an emerging country should concentrate on establishing and developing policies to support exporters, especially small and medium enterprises. Firms should pursue a sustainable export strategy in light of the emergence of new trade protectionism in significant import markets.
Issues of jurisdiction of disputes to arbitration. Comparative analysis of legislation of the states of Arctic region
Authors: Gavrilenko Vladimir A.
Published: June 2023

We explore the issues of the jurisdiction of disputes to arbitration and the competence of arbitration institutions to consider certain types of disputes. The purpose of work is a complete and objective comparative analysis of legislation of the states of the Arctic region, such as the United States of America, Canada, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland. The relevance of the results is that the consideration of disputes in arbitration (referees) as a protection of the rights and interests of economic entities in the scope of the system for identifying states. We conduct a comparative analysis of the peculiarities of the legislation of the states of Arctic region, and also compare and analyze the arbitration practice of various arbitrations. The legal regulation of the issues under study is analyzed and conclusions are drawn about the main problems and shortcomings of legal acts in this area. The results of study can be implemented in law-making work on improving legislation in the field of arbitration of disputes.
The importance of a psychological portrait in unobvious crimes disclosure
Authors: Potapov Sergey A.
Published: June 2023

The relevance of work is due to the complex study of the meaning of psychological portraiture in the detection of unobvious crimes. The purpose of work is to analyze the concept and essence of the psychological portrait and determine its significance in solving problems of criminal proceedings. The implementation of the purpose is achieved by the use of laws of dialectics, formal logic and the application of general scientific and private research methods. Analysis of disclosure and investigation statistics shows that the development of an effective and acceptable methodology for profiling an unidentified criminal is an urgent task for law enforcement agencies. Existing theoretical approaches to determine the links between the traces of a crime and the personality of a criminal, in particular, forensic, program-targeted, psychiatric and psychological, are explored. Their brief description is given. The concept and main purposes of drawing up a psychological portrait and its significance in the disclosure of unobvious crimes are investigated. The history of the development of this method both abroad and in Russia is considered. A comparative analysis of the method used abroad, in particular in the FBI, and in Russia is made, the differences and features in them are determined. The informational content of the method under study and the methodology for compiling a psychological portrait of a criminal are considered. It is concluded that a psychological portrait as a non-traditional method of cognition and the result of compiling a comprehensive description of an unknown criminal has a certain significance in solving the problems of revealing and investigating unobvious, unmotivated serial crimes. At the same time, it can be used in the investigation on an equal footing and in combination with other traditional methods and means.
Surgical treatment of chest wall defects after purulent arthritis of the sternoclavicular joint
Authors: Medvedchikov-Ardiia M. A. , Korymasov E. A. , Benian A. S. , Titov A. N.
Published: June 2023

The frequency of purulent arthritis of the sternoclavicular joint is less than 1 % of all joint infections. As a rule, the cause is the hematogenous spread of a generalized infection or trauma.

Material and methods. The result of treatment of 24 patients (18 men, 6 women, mean age 38.4 years) with purulent arthritis of the sternoclavicular joints in the period from January 1, 2012 to December 30, 2022 is presented. The causes, clinical manifestations, options for surgical intervention and treatment outcome.

Results. Most patients (20 people) complained of pain and tissue swelling in the area of the affected joint. In 4 patients, the main symptom was pain and limited mobility of the arm on the side of inflammation, while no external manifestations of the infectious process were detected. The main laboratory indicators of the inflammatory process were leukocytosis (mean (12 ± 1.6)·109/l) and an increase in CRP from 4 to 86 mg/l (mean 22 ± 4.2 mg/l). 50 % of patients had type 2 diabetes. In 14 patients, in addition to the destroyed sternoclavicular joint, there was damage to the rib/ribs, sternum. In 5 patients, the infectious process was bilateral. Each patient underwent resection of the clavicle and sternum together with the sternoclavicular joint; if the ribs were affected, they were resected. Intraoperative complication was registered in 1 case – erosive bleeding from the right subclavian vein. All patients were treated in two stages. The main pathogen was Staphilococcus aureus. After cleansing the wound, it was closed with local or displaced tissues. Histological examination of removed macropreparations in 18 patients revealed signs of acute osteomyelitis. 5 patients needed intensive care, of which 4 patients died: from progressive sepsis against the background of multiple organ failure and from progressive heart failure against the background of pulmonary edema. Recurrence of the infectious process in the surgical area occurred in 1 patient.

Conclusions. Purulent arthritis of the sternoclavicular joint is not an independent disease. Hematogenous damage to this area is associated with a decrease in immunity and the development of a generalized infection. Treatment should be complex, aimed at surgical removal of pathologically altered structures and tissues, as well as intensive therapy to compensate for organ dysfunctions.
Late answers in the electroneuromyography of patients with degenerative-dystrophic spine disorders
Authors: Ippolitova E. G. , Verkhozina T. K. , Tsyslyak E. S.
Published: June 2023

We carried out electroneuromyography of 78 patients with degenerative-dystrophic cervical and lumbar spine disorders, which were treated at the neurosurgical department of the Irkutsk Scientific Centre of Surgery and Traumatology. The results of the study of late ENMG phenomena such as H-reflex, F-waves and A-reflex were obtained at different stages of the disease using “Neuromyan” neuromyoanalyzer. The predictable changes in late answers at different stages of the process were determined. For example, in patients with radiculopathy, the degree of neurological deficiency was minimal, and in patients with a combination of nerve root syndrome and stenotic changes, the neurological deficiency had the character of a pronounced bilateral pathology. The severity of changes in neurophysiological indicators depends on the degree of spinal stenosis. Determination of N-reflex and F-wave parameters allows us to identify subclinical forms of loss both at the level of peripheral nerves and of spinal cord segments, and the appearance of axon reflex is an evidence of a demyelinizing pathology and chronic process.
The fight for longevity
Authors: Shabalin V. N. , Shatokhina S. N.
Published: June 2023

It is noted that the desire to be immortal is the most important, strongest and oldest, alas, unrealizable dream of a person. A brief review of the history of the fight against human aging in different countries in different eras is given, as well as an analysis of the theoretical justifications for the causes and mechanisms of aging, the development of means and methods for combating old age. It is noted that the universal "geroprotector" is systematic work in its various physical and intellectual variants. It is shown that only the combined efforts of society, the state and the individual can optimally solve the problem of longevity of the country's population.
Modification of transsternal occlusion of the main bronchus by plastic surgery of the anterior mediastinum with a mesh implant in the surgical treatment of widespread destructive pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Tarasov R. V. , Sadovnikova S. S. , Krasnikova E. V. , Bagirov M. A.
Published: June 2023

An observation from practice is given – surgical treatment of a patient with widespread destructive pulmonary tuberculosis due to a modified technique of transsternal occlusion of the main bronchus by plastic surgery of the anterior mediastinum with a mesh implant. Patient A., 37 years old, has been suffering from pulmonary tuberculosis for 2 years. She was admitted to the clinic with complaints of shortness of breath during exercise (mrc 3), cough, back pain. On computed tomography of the chest organs: a picture of fibrous-cavernous tuberculosis of the left lung with extensive mediastinal pulmonary hernia. The patient underwent transsternal occlusion of the left main bronchus with plastic surgery of the anterior mediastinum with a polymer mesh implant. The result of the treatment was the stabilization of the process and the clinical cure of the patient.
VERTICAL MOTION OF MINIATURE WALKING ROBOTS. STATE OF THE PROBLEM REVIEW
Authors: Platov Illia , Pavlovskyi Oleksii
Published: June 2023

The article reviews the state of the art of developing miniature walking robots for vertical movement due to friction forces between limbs and surface. In particular, special attention is paid to miniature walking robots - hexapods, as they have good stability and cross-country ability compared to other types of robots, both wheeled and tracked. Unlike other types of robots, hexapods can be fully autonomous. This makes them a potentially versatile tool for solving a variety of tasks in different areas, such as: 1) rescue operations - hexapods can penetrate destroyed buildings to assess the condition under the rubble, explore underwater spaces, and generally move in places where there is not enough space for movement and complex maneuvers; 2) military use - hexapods can clear mines, be used for reconnaissance or surveying, while saving lives due to the possibility of complete autonomy; 3) industrial applications - due to their maneuverability and cross-country ability, hexapod robots can become indispensable in quarries and construction sites where there are slopes, mountainous terrain, and generally where wheeled or tracked robots cannot easily move; 4) speleology - search and exploration of minerals inside caves, mines, etc; 5) accident response, in particular, in the nuclear power industry.

Despite the long history of development and significant progress in this area, thanks to which many design solutions and modernizations are already known, the problem of vertical movement of small hexapod robots due to friction forces still remains unsolved.

Existing developments are usually aimed at moving on surfaces by imitating the limbs of biological creatures (insects, animals, etc.), which allows robots to climb upwards thanks to an adhesive substance, grip the surface with mechanical claws, etc. Magnet and suction cup designs have also been known for a long time, but this solution requires a very powerful power source and is not universal.

Therefore, one of the most promising areas of research is the vertical movement of hexapod robots due to friction forces between the limbs and the surface, since the robot remains autonomous and does not require special equipment and additional communication with a power source (compressor, etc.), and, more importantly, is able to move both on horizontal and vertical surfaces.

At the moment, there are several examples of successful use of hexapods for vertical movement, but the review of works has shown that the problem of vertical movement of miniature hexapod robots remains relevant and requires further research and development. Existing achievements in this area give us hope that in the future we will demonstrate effective solutions to this problem and the widespread use of hexapods in various industries and science.
EXPERIMENTAL EVALUATION OF THE HOMOGENEITY OF THE OUTPUT STREAMS OF OPTICAL RADIATION OF A RECTANGULAR SHAPE FOR VARIOUS VERSIONS OF THE OUTPUT SECTIONS OF THE LIGHT GUIDE NOZZLES FOR MEDICAL LASER EQUIPMENT
Authors: Komarova Olha , Kholin Volodymyr , Tereshchenko Mykola , Pavlov Sergii , Rozumenko Volodymyr , Posokhov Mykola , Ivasenko Valentin , Lapina Svitlana
Published: June 2023

The article presents the results of a study of the homogeneity of rectangular optical radiation fluxes for different versions of the initial sections of the light guide nozzles. When conducting a significant part of laser exposure in medicine, pathological areas of biological tissue or their projections located on the surface of the body are covered with light spots with contours, as a rule, in the form of flat geometric shapes.
The variability of the implementation of light spots in shape (circle, square, rectangle, triangle, rhombus, etc.) and linear dimensions of the cross section allows you to select the shape and size of the light spot, covering a specific pathological surface with minimal capture of intact tissues. At the same time, regardless of the shape and linear dimensions, the light spots should be as uniform as possible. To date, of particular interest is the provision of optical uniformity of rectangular light spots.
Firstly, similar forms of spots are widely used under the influence of laser medicine. Secondly, in the original optical stages of laser equipment and the light guides connected to them, first of all, optical fibers of a cylindrical shape with a rounded cross section of the optical flow at the output are used. The purpose of this work is to optimize the parameters of light guide nozzles of  medical laser equipment with rectangular output optical radiation fluxes by evaluating the uniformity of the power density distribution for various options for the output sections of the nozzles. In the work, optical flows at the output of three versions of the distal sections of light guides were studied. The light guides were formed by optical fibers, including the use of microlenses at the output ends, and were apertured by channel optical waveguides in the form of rectangular parallelepipeds.
The experimental results obtained at the stage of physical modeling show the promise of using spherical micro-optical elements at the initial ends of optical fibers in combination with rectangular apertures in the form of channel optical waves to obtain rectangular light spots with a high level of optical homogeneity.
Plant growth analysis and arbuscular mycorrhizal colonization in Amaranthus tricolor L.
Authors: Akhsan Akib Muh. , S Syatrawati , Prayudyaningsih Retno
Published: June 2023

Red spinach (Amaranthus tricolor L) is a horticultural vegetable that contains anthocyanins, protein, calcium, phosphorous, iron, vitamin A, vitamin C, and B vitamin. However, this plant has not become a major commodity, so it is generally grown in lands with a low level of soil fertility. Application of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi in powder dosage form can help plant growth with a positive effect. However, this dosage form has several weaknesses, so a study aimed at knowing the effectiveness of AM fungi in different dosage forms is needed in physiological studies to analyze plant growth and the level of colonization of red spinach roots in the vegetative stage. This research was carried out using the model of the Latin square design (LSD) with three treatments for AM dosage forms of fungi: tablets, sachets, and powders, and without mycorrhizal application (control). The results showed that AM fungi in sachet dosage form could colonize the roots of spinach plants with the highest percentage, although physiological studies have not given consistent results. The sachet dosage form of AM fungi is the novelty of this study. AM fungi in a sachet dosage form can are recommended as the dosage form the most attractive, efficient, and effective to be applied and mobilized to farmers' fields.
Socio-economic diagnosis of some non-timber forest products of interest in the town of Bertoua, East Cameroon
Authors: Diane Christelle Tsemo Tchuenwo , Elvis Ngueguim Chenang , Clovis Nzuta Kengne , Leocadie Inimbock Sorel , Dinayen Somnjom Edwin , Rostand Mekok Abizou , Ghislain Landry Tchouongouang Kuitche , Christian Misse Alain
Published: June 2023

In the cities of Cameroon, Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) more precisely spice plants, occupy a place of choice for the well-being of the population. NTFPs such as Irvingia gabonensis, Ricinodendron heudelotii and Tetrapleura tetraptera, which are among the most consumed in the city of Bertoua. The objective of this study was to make a socio-economic diagnosis of the state of these NTFPs. A questionnaire was administered to 500 people, including 18 collectors, 22 wholesalers, 165 retailers and 295 consumers in the sub-districts of Bertoua 1, Bertoua 2 and Mandjou. We found that the female gender was predominantly represented in all categories of actors (68-94%). Fruits/seeds represent the most used parts of these NTFPs (98-99%). The uses of these NTFPs are mainly for food and pharmacological (40-80% depending on the species). The mode of use is mainly decoction especially in soup (95-99%). The main constraints linked to the commercialization of these NTFPs are the seasonality of production for collectors, the price variation for retailers on the market, and the lack of customers for traders. The satisfaction levels of wholesalers, retailers and collectors are divided between the difficulties encountered during marketing and the speed of sale of the different species. This study confirms the importance of spice plants for the well-being of households. For a sustainable management of spice plants in Bertoua and its periphery, the integration between the actors, the economy and the preservation of natural resources should be at the centre of any forestry policy.
Evolución histórica de la resiliencia alimentaria en la región madrileña = Historical evolution of food resilience in the Madrid region
Authors: Morán Alonso Nerea
Published: June 2023

ResumenEn este estudio se analiza la resiliencia alimentaria del sistema territorial madrileño, considerando sus dimensiones biofísica, social y construida. Se pone el foco en el análisis histórico, definiendo los sucesivos estados del sistema, caracterizados por la relación entre recursos, sociedad y usos del suelo. Se identifican los factores que generan cambios en estas relaciones, y su reorganización tras cada crisis. Para cada uno de los periodos se especifica el espacio de origen de los alimentos (cuenca alimentaria), las instituciones que regulan el abastecimiento, y de una forma general la organización de la cadena alimentaria. El análisis ha permitido identificar la existencia de cuatro estados históricos: partiendo de un primer estado de autosuficiencia caracterizado por una colonización paulatina del territorio; un segundo en el que se supera la capacidad local debido al cambio funcional y simbólico de la ciudad de Madrid; un tercero de paso a la economía industrial; y el estado actual globalizado, en el que se han roto las relaciones urbano-rurales.AbstractThis study analyses the food resilience of the Madrid territorial system, considering its biophysical, social and built dimensions. It focuses on historical analysis, defining the regime shifts of the system, characterised by the relationship between resources, society and land use. The factors that generate changes in these relationships, such as their reorganisation after each crisis are identified. For each of the periods, the area of origin of the products consumed (foodshed), the institutions that regulate supply and, in general terms, how the food chain is organised, are specified. The analysis has made it possible to identify the existence of four historical states: starting from a first state of self-sufficiency characterised by a gradual colonisation of the territory; a second in which local capacity is exceeded due to the functional and symbolic change of the city of Madrid; a third of transition to the industrial economy; and a current state, defined by globalisation, in which urban-rural linkages have been broken.
A Critical Analysis of the Quantum Nonlocality Problem: On the Polemic Assessment of What Bell Did
Authors: Lambare Justo Pastor
Published: June 2023

We review John Stewart Bell's works from a historical perspective and analyze his arguments regarding nonlocality as he developed them from 1964 until his sudden and unexpected death in 1990. Although the alleged nonlocal character of quantum mechanics is inextricably related to the formulation of the Bell theorem, that relation is usually inappropriately posed and disagrees with Bell's own formulation. The departure from the clear line of reasoning that Bell tried to convey has contributed to a polarization of part of the scientific community into radical irreconcilable positions. We show how the correct appreciation of Bell's rationale calls for reformulating a widespread argument on quantum nonlocality yielding a more balanced perspective of the problem. We highlight a more formal proof of quantum mechanics' violation of local causality. Finally, we mention a few alternatives that may justify considering quantum mechanics as a local theory.
Neutral Forces, and Balancing Selection Interplay to Shape MHC Spatial-Patterns in Striped Hamster in Inner Mongolia: Suggestive of Broad Scale Local Adaptation
Authors: Liu Pengbo , Li Guichang , Zhao Ning , Song Xiuping , Wang Jun , Shi Xinfei , Wang Bin , Zhang Lu , Dong Li , Li Qingduo , Liu Qiyong , Lu Liang
Published: June 2023

Background: The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) plays a key role in the adaptive immune response to pathogens due to its extraordinary polymorphism. However, the spatial patterns of MHC variation in the striped hamster remain unclear, particularly regarding the relative contribution of balancing selection in shaping MHC population and diversity compared to neutral forces. Methods: In this study, we investigated the immunogenic variation of the striped hamster in four wild populations in Inner Mongolia, which experience heterogeneous parasitic stress. Our goal was to identify local adaptation by comparing the genetic structure at MHC with that at seven microsatellite loci, taking into account neutral processes. Results: We observed significant variation in parasite pressure among sites, with parasite burden showing a correlation with temperature and precipitation. Molecular analysis revealed a similar co-structure between MHC and microsatellite loci. We observed lower genetic differentiation at MHC loci compared to microsatellite loci, and no correlation was found between the two. Conclusions: Overall, these results suggest a complex interplay between neutral evolutionary forces and balancing selection in shaping the spatial patterns of MHC variation. Local adaptation was not detected at a small scale but may be applicable at a larger scale.
Epitranscriptome Changes in Neurodegenerative Diseases and the Potential Strategy for the Therapeutics
Authors: Suga Naoko , Ikeda Yuka , Yoshikawa Sayuri , Taniguchi Kurumi , Sawamura Haruka , Matsuda Satoru
Published: June 2023

Changes in epitranscriptome with N6‐methyladenine (m6A) modification could be involved in the development of multiple diseases, which might be a prevalent modification of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) in eukaryotes. The m6A modification might be performed through the action of methyltransferases, demethylases, and methylation-binding proteins. Importantly, the m6A methylation may be associated with various neurological disorders including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), depression, aging related diseases, and/or aging itself. In addition, the m6A methylation might functionally regulate the eukaryotic transcriptome by influencing splicing, export, subcellular localization, translation, stability, and decay of mRNAs. Neurodegenerative diseases may possess a wide variety of phenotypes depending on the neurons that degenerate at occasions. Interestingly, increasing number of evidences have indicated that m6A modification could modulate the expression of autophagy-related genes and promote autophagy in neuronal cells. Oxidative stresses such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) could stimulate the m6A RNA methylation, which may be also related to the regulation of autophagy and/or the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Both m6A modification and autophagy could also play critical roles in regulating health condition of neurons. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the m6A and autophagy relationship in human diseases may benefit in developing therapeutic strategies in the future. This paper reviews advances in the understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of m6A modification in the occurrence and development of neurodegenerative diseases and/or aging, discussing the possible therapeutic procedures related to mechanisms of m6A RNA methylation and autophagy.
Age-Friendly Approach Is a Necessary Condition to Prevent Depopulation: The Age-Friendliness Evaluation of Japanese Municipalities by Resident Architectural Designers and Constructors
Authors: Yamada Kazumasa , Murotani Kenta , Mano Makiko , Lim Youngmi , Yoshimatsu Jun
Published: June 2023

Japan has the world’s largest old population ratio, and aging is an urgent societal issue. As global trends seem to be following Japan’s social changes, there is an emphasis on municipalities becoming more age-friendly. Hence, we examine the age-friendliness of 135 Japanese municipalities, selecting 240 resident architectural designers and constructors to assess their municipalities, using the Age-Friendly Cities and Communities Questionnaire (AFCCQ). The findings indicate that Japan lacks “outdoor spaces and buildings.” Additionally, the evaluation of “housing,” “community support and health services,” and “transportation” in populated municipalities in the past five years is significantly higher than those in depopulated ones. Age-friendliness is significantly affected in the AFCCQ total score (hereafter, Score) based on “housing,” “social participation,” “community support and health services,” “transportation” and “financial situation” evaluations. High specificity (0.939) was found when the Score was treated as a marker of depopulation and, therefore, an age-friendly approach is a necessary condition to prevent depopulation. Furthermore, a lack of “communication and information” is observed in municipalities with a higher rate of single-person households aged 65 years and above. Therefore, resident architectural designers’ and constructors’ assessments, combined with the AFCCQ can be a powerful tool in evaluating the age-friendliness of municipalities.
Finite Element Analysis using Crack Strain Separation Model for Reinforced Concrete Membrane
Authors: Mitchell Jerrrey P. , Chae Seung-Un , Kim Yoo-Jae , Abaza Mohamed E.
Published: June 2023

This paper presents a finite element analysis of the bi-directional orthogonal model, which incorporates individual crack strain separation and tracking. The objective of the research is to expand the current shear friction model to manage bi-directional cracking at any angle, allowing for a more universal model that can be applied to intricate structures and non-proportional loading cases. The proposed model was initially developed as a total strain-based model, with the assumption that crack strains are equivalent to total strains, but was subsequently recalculated to improve accuracy by separating crack strains from total strains. Furthermore, a separate crack strain formulation was created to account for strains in the concrete's uncracked portions and locked-in crack strains. The article then discusses the testing of various convergence methods and loading programs to achieve high convergence. Comparative analyses of the generalized shear friction model with other models for crack orientation and loading cases similar to those of a reinforced concrete membrane are also presented. The MATLAB program successfully applied the bi-directional cracking model for one finite element under a uniform cyclical strain state, using a secant stiffness formulation.
Mapping and Verification of QTL for Grain Shape and Grain Chalkiness in Rice Using Sequencing Technology
Authors: Wang Yingying , Dan Wenhan , Shi Huan , Zhou Mingsong , Zhou Hao , Xia Duo , Zhang Qinglu , Gao Guanjun , He Yuqing
Published: June 2023

Grain shape and chalkiness are important appearance quality traits of rice, which also affect the yield and milling quality. In this study, 190 F2 families derived from the cross between Hua 5178S and Hua 611 were sequenced to construct a genetic linkage map. Combined with F2 and F2:3 generations grain shape and chalkiness phenotype, a total of 15 QTL were detected. There are 8 grain shape QTL distributed on chromosomes 2, 5, 6, 8, and 10; 7 chalkiness QTL distributed on chromosomes 2, 3, and 6. A QTL cluster affecting multiple chalkiness traits was found on chromosome 6, qWBR6.1, qWCR6 and qCR6 were selected for genetic effect verification. It was found that qWBR6.1, qWCR6 and qCR6 explained 13% and 24%, and 29% of the phenotypic variations respectively, and qWCR6 and qCR6 were co-mapped. This study laid a foundation for further cloning of rice appearance quality genes.
SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza Vaccine Hesitancy during the COVID-19 Pandemic in a Dynamic Perspective
Authors: Gerussi Valentina , Peghin Maddalena , Palese Alvisa , Martino Maria De , Graziano Elena , Chiappinotto Stefania , Fonda Federico , Bontempo Giulia , Semenzin Tosca , Martini Luca , Isola Miriam , Tascini Carlo
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this work was to longitudinally investigate the dynamic evolution of vaccine hesitancy towards both COVID-19 and influenza. We followed a cohort of 479 adult patients at Udine Hospital (Italy) having in common a medical history of SARS-CoV-2 infection in 2020, during the first and most impactful pandemic wave. Vaccine attitude was assessed through standardized telephone interviews performed at 12 and 18 months after the acute illness. The background of the survey was represented by COVID-19 vaccination campaign, started with the approval of the first vaccine in December 2020 and bolstered by the introduction of Green Pass in July 2021, in a context where anti-vaccination beliefs and mistrust in healthcare system were rising. The first interview reported the success of the 2020/21 seasonal influenza immunization with 46.8% (224/479) of the participants showing a positive attitude, especially the elderly and people with comorbidities (p< 0.001). The investigation conducted at 18 months showed a drastic drop in flu shot acceptance (30/166, 18.1%), the reluctance being justified by the feeling of protection regardless of prevention (55.8%) and by concerns regarding vaccines safety and efficacy (23.3%). In parallel, a great increase in vaccinations against SARS-CoV2 occurred after the introduction of Green Pass (72.9% vs 26.7%), although only a minority of the participants identified in the restrictions induced by the certification the leading incentive to get immunized (22.3%). Vaccine hesitancy remains a dynamic and complex phenomenon, which is difficult to overcome with incentive or obligatory strategies alone. The purpose of achieving vaccine compliance should always take into account the social and political context, as well as the role of personal opinions and emotions.
Current and Future Advances in the Detection and Surveillance of Biosecurity-Relevant Equine Bacterial Diseases Using Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (Lamp).
Authors: Knox Alexandra , Zerna Gemma , Beddoe Travis
Published: June 2023

Equines play an important role throughout the world, whether for work, culture, or leisure, providing an ever-growing significant contribution on the economy. The increase in importation and movement of horses, both nationally and internationally, has inevitably allowed for the global equine industry to grow. Subsequently however, the potential for transmission of fatal equine bacterial diseases has also escalated, and devasting outbreaks continue to occur. To prevent such events, disease surveillance and diagnosis must be heightened throughout the industry. Current common, or "gold-standard" techniques, have shown to be inadequate at times, thus requiring newer technology to impede outbreaks. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) has proven to be a reliable, rapid, and accessible tool in both diagnostics and surveillance. This review will discuss equine bacterial diseases of biosecurity relevance and their current diagnostic approaches, as well as their respective LAMP assay developments. Additionally, we will provide insight regarding newer technology and advancements associated with this technique, and their potential use for the outlined diseases.
Environmental And Technological Assessment Of Operations For Extraction And Concentration Of Metals In Electronic Waste
Authors: Dias Josinaldo , Silva Angelus Giuseppe Pereira , Holanda José Nilson França , Delatorre Fabíola Martins , Conceição Amanda Oliveira , Júnior Gilson Mendonça de Miranda , Futuro Aurora Magalhães , Pinho Silvia Cardinal
Published: June 2023

The exponential growth in the consumption of electronics, in combination with the reduction in their useful life, leads to a significant increase in the volume of electronic material discarded. Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) are modules composed of ceramic, polymer and metallic materials of high economic value and with a great potential for damage to biotic and anthropic environments when inadequately discarded. The aims of this work was to study the main environmental impacts and the efficiency of mechanical operations in the electronic waste recycling process in optimizing the concentration of metallic copper. For this, the samples obtained were characterized according to their morphology and chemical composition, and subjected to physical and mechanical treatments: dismantling, grinding, separation by granulometry, density and magnetic property. The environment impacts were estimated by the Life Cycle Assessment of the pre-treatment processes, associated with copper extraction operations in WPCBs. According to the results obtained, it is possible to infer that the NM +1mm Concentrated product presents in its metallic composition around 78% of copper, which contributes to the efficiency of the hydrometallurgical extraction processes. It is noteworthy that the Concentrated class represents about 14% of copper (wt) taking into account the amount of 3.789 kg of PCB waste input material. The potential for reinsertion of the dust in the material recovery process is highlighted, given that the chemical composition of this particulate has a significant presence of metals. In general, it was found that due to the higher concentration (wt %) of the sample being allocated in the range of - 0.15mm + 0.05mm, the elements Fe (18.30%), Si (10.73%), Ca (9.21%) and Cu (8.89%) stand out regarding the participation of the elemental composition of this fraction and also regarding the general composition of the sample. Furthermore, the generation of dust during the fragmentation process, can be associated with occupational respiratory diseases when not managed. About the Life Cycle Assessment, in seven of the nine categories evaluated, crushing and screening activities accounted for more than 90% of the recorded impact values. In general, it is estimated that in the pre-treatment phase be generated 15.4 kg CO2 eq.
Gordonia sputi as an Arising Causative Agent of Bacteremia in Immunocompromised Comorbid Dialysis Patients—A Case Report
Authors: Vergov Bozhidar , Angelova Andreana , Baldzhieva Alexandra , Kalchev Yordan , Tsochev Georgi , Murdjeva Marianna
Published: June 2023

Improvement in medical care has turned severe diseases into chronic conditions, but often their treatment and use of medical devices are related to specific complications. Here we present a clinical case of a long-term dialysis patient, who is infected with a rare opportunistic infectious agent – Gordonia sputi. In recent years the incidence of Gordonia spp. infections in immunocompromised patients with central venous catheters (CVC) appear to rise. Their isolation and identification are challenging and require modern techniques. In addition, the treatment is usually persistent and often results in CVC extraction, which is associated with further risk and costs for the patient. We also studied the alternations in the immune status of the patient caused by long-term renal replacement therapy and persistent HCV infection. Antibiotic therapy and immunostimulation with Inosine pranobex lead to successful eradication of the infection without the need for CVC replacement.