bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
State Implementation of Congregate Care Reforms for Children in Foster Care
Authors: Keefe Rachael J. , Cepuran Colin J. G. , Richmond Keri , Rhodes Jennifer , Laris Zach , Anderson Clare , Heaton Leanne , Chor Ka Ho Brian
Published: June 2024

OBJECTIVES

The Family First Prevention Services Act (FFPSA) allows states to use federal Title IV-E funds to provide time-limited, clinically appropriate use of congregate care, including Qualified Residential Treatment Programs (QRTPs), for youth in foster care. October 1, 2021 marked the deadline for states to begin implementing these FFPSA congregate care reforms. From June to September 2022, we conducted a mixed-methods study to obtain a baseline understanding of implementation barriers, successes, and recommendations to inform congregate care policy and practice.

METHODS

We fielded a national survey with state child welfare agency directors and conducted focus groups with youth with QRTP experiences, child welfare agency administrators, and QRTP executive leaders. We integrated a descriptive analysis of survey data with focus group themes to summarize state implementation progress.

RESULTS

A total of 47 states (90%) responded to the survey. Most states reported ongoing congregate care reforms aligned with FFPSA, reducing the use of congregate care and increasing kinship foster care. QRTPs have become the primary congregate care setting. Top implementation barriers concerned workforce resource and capacity constraints, funding, and access to therapeutic foster care models and foster families. Focus group themes converged on the lack of tailored treatment, quality staff, coordinated aftercare, and a need for QRTP outcome evidence.

CONCLUSIONS

Early implementation lessons of FFPSA congregate care reforms call for additional funding and technical assistance, oversight of congregate care, professionalization and investment in QRTP staff, youth advisory boards to promote youth-driven treatment, and performance- and outcome-based monitoring of QRTPs.
Mordovian Autonomy in the Labyrinths of Modernization
Authors: Shcherbakova Tatyana I.
Published: June 2024

Introduction. National autonomies arose during the period of nation-building as a form of overcoming the backwardness of non-Russian peoples. The article examines the features of the formation of the Mordovian autonomy, as well as the nature and results of the transformation of the region during its existence.

Materials and Methods. The tasks of the article are realized through the analysis of documents from the Central State Archive of the Republic of Mordovia.

Results. The Mordovian autonomy was formed in a decade later than the rest, in the context of a paradigm shift in the national policy of the USSR from national self-determination to centralization. The Union Center was interested in measures to support the Mordovian national culture, languages, printing, book publishing and the involvement of the Mordovian population in socialist transformations. Significant progress in the development of the region’s industry was achieved through centralized investments and was accompanied by an increase in the urban population of the republic and an increase in the importance of the Russian language.

Discussion and Conclusion. The Mordovian autonomy was formed at a time when the national periphery turned from subjects into objects of the center’s policy. Providing support for the national school, languages and culture, the center blocked the nativization of the bureaucracy and the translation of office work into Mordovian languages, trying to prevent ethnonationalism. In the second half of the 20th century, high rates of industrial development of Mordovia and universal bilingualism of the Mordovian population were ensured. Against the background of these achievements, the 1978 Constitution confirmed the status of the republic as an object of the center’s transformative activities, without forming mechanisms to realize the interests of the local population. Having played the role of the most important instrument of modernization, the Mordovian autonomy ensured the development of the republic’s productive forces, the formation of bilingualism of the Mordovian population, and the involvement of the Mordovians in the union-wide socio-political context. Since the population of the republic was considered by the authorities not as a subject, but as an object of transformation, the results of the policy were not only intensive modernization processes, but also serious social and infrastructural imbalances, causing a crisis of Soviet national policy.
The Janus legacy in Seville
Authors: Lombana Sánchez Alfonso
Published: June 2024

This paper analyzes the Janus Pannonius collections in Seville, Biblioteca Capitular y Colombina, Ms T (7-1-15) and Ms S (56-4-57), which have enriched our knowledge of Janus Pannonius' literary heritage. The study argues that Ms T and Ms S belong to the π tradition, which could explain the collections curated nearly or almost exclusively by Janus Pannonius in Hungary during the last years of his life. The paper contributes to a deeper understanding of Janus Pannonius and, thanks to the legacy of Seville, provides insights into the broader dynamics of humanist networks, manuscript transmission and book collecting during the Renaissance.
Resilience of the judicial system in the post-Covid period: The constitutionality of virtual court hearings in the light of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Chronowski Nóra , Szentgáli-Tóth Boldizsár , Bor Bettina
Published: June 2024

During the 2010s, technological development created the opportunity to hold online hearings, when the parties are physically distant from each other, when their personal appearance would entail significant threat to them, or when external circumstances would impose additional barriers for interested stakeholders to appear in the courtroom. As a consequence, amongst others, the Belgian Constitutional Court heard a case concerning the constitutionality of such trials, and rejected this new form of judicial operation due to numerous constitutional concerns. Nevertheless, the context of such controversies changed significantly during the pandemic, and in the light of the public health risks several judicial bodies decided to continue most of their operations through digital means. As a result, the holding of numerous online trials was ordered. Obviously, losing parties often submitted remedies against the incorporation of these platforms into judicial work by claiming the violation of their right to fair trial. For instance, the French Constitutional Council, the Spanish Constitutional Tribunal, as well as the Supreme Courts of Austria, Norway, Costa Rica and India assessed the constitutionality of these trials during the public health emergency, and in most of the cases, the application of online hearings was upheld. Bearing in mind this tendency in the relevant case law, one should argue that the rapidly evolving technological landscape requires the reconsideration of our attitudes towards online hearings: it should be clarified which grounds are acceptable justifications for ordering online trials during ordinary periods, and how the analysis is affected by unforeseen extra-ordinary circumstances. Online, or partly online proceedings may provide greater flexibility for both the court and the parties, and could also support the efficiency of judicial work, however, the main fair trial safeguards should be maintained. Our contribution will conceptualize this issue, and will provide a deeper understanding of the constitutional implications of remote trials.
Digital transformation and the traditional rules of civil procedure – Some remarks on the Polish example
Authors: Kaczmarek-Templin Berenika
Published: June 2024

We have seen the tremendous development of new technologies, especially in the field of electronic communications. As they are present in our daily lives, it is expected that the new technical possibilities will be used in the courts.

In Poland, the digital transformation of civil procedure began with the implementation of electronic writ proceedings. Among the electronic tools which support the trials, there is a possibility of hearing the parties and witnesses using videoconferencing, and the Electronic Case Management System, which allows authorized entities to get access to the information on the pending case.

The procedural rules are fluctuating and depend on the changes taking place in the economic and social structure. It can be assumed that as circumstances change, the rules may, and even should, be reinterpreted, and the legislator should strive to change the procedural provisions so that they will be consistent with the objectives and guidelines resulting from the procedural principles.

The analysis of the issues related to the digitization of civil cases, as an issue of paramount importance, allows us to assume that digitization does not entail modifying the model and its basic principles. The digital transformation of the civil trial emerges within the framework resulting from the provisions of the Code of Civil Procedure, as none of the procedural principles is violated. It can even be assumed that digitalisation allows for a more complete implementation of procedural principles.

In fact, this can also be an argument in favour of introducing modern technological tools to procedural regulations.
Yan and Ying Today
Authors: Kris Elaine
Published: June 2024

The author, an instructor in nutrition in the home economics department of Queens College of the City University of New York, visited China in the summer of 1980. She took advantage of the opportunity to question various kinds of people about current Chinese attitudes to the principles of Yin and Yang (the two opposing forces which, according to the Tao philosophy, must be balanced in the diet to maintain good health). The responses varied from surprise that anyone should still see any significance in an such an old-fashioned concept to assurances that it goes without saying that the balance between yin and yang must constantly be maintained. Rather bewildering. But this informal questioning took place against the background of a systematic study, conducted by means of carefully composed written questionnaires, directed at Chinese people in China, in Hong Kong and in the United States, which produced a reasonably coherent pattern. In this essay, based on a paper recently delivered to a conference on Asian studies in New York, Elaine Kris explains her findings on a subject which seems still to be fundamental to an understanding of the cuisines of China and of the overseas Chinese.
Technological Skills Demanded in Job Postings for Journalism Graduates in Spain
Authors: Gómez-Diago Gloria , Martínez-Nicolás Manuel
Published: June 2024

Due to the digitalisation of communication-related productive sectors (journalism, advertising, audiovisual creation, corporate and strategic communications, etc.), having up-to-date technological skills is crucial for joining and remaining in the labour market. In this study, the technological skills demanded from Journalism graduates in Spain by potential employers are analysed using a sample (n=433) of job postings aimed at such graduates on the specialist online platforms LinkedIn and Infojobs. The results show that the labour market available to Journalism graduates is broadly shared with graduates in other disciplines (especially Advertising and Public Relations, and Marketing). Only about 8% of the job postings analysed came from media outlets. Almost 70% were addressed to graduates in Journalism or other graduates in the field of communication and marketing, and only about 20% demanded functions connected with the production of journalistic information. Regarding the technological skills sought, about 60% of the job postings demanded knowledge of at least one specific technological tool, mainly for the tasks of graphic design, layout and image editing; data processing; web content design and management; text editing and presentations; web analytics; and social media. The results suggest that the variety of technological tools used in Journalism university programme teaching will need to be increased in order to facilitate graduate employability.
Automation and creativity in AI-driven film editing: the view from the professional documentary sector
Authors: Caballero Jorge , Sora-Domenjó Carles
Published: June 2024

This article explores the impact of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into film editing, a field that has gradually adopted semi- and fully automated techniques, marking a turning point in film narrative and montage techniques. The study undertakes a systematic literature review and conducts fifteen semi-structured interviews with professional film editors in Spain to investigate how AI might transform workflows in film editing, in general, and documentary filmmaking, in particular. AI’s potential as a complementary tool in the management and organization of large volumes of material is discussed, while growing interest is highlighted in the development of more interactive, more dynamic interfaces. Finally, the study stresses the need for future research to broaden its current scope, further exploring the practical applications of AI-driven film editing and addressing both the ethical and creative concerns associated with its use.
Seeking to define deepfakes from U.S. state laws
Authors: Meneses João-Paulo
Published: June 2024

In six years, the word deepfake has gone from a niche on Reddit to the main object of research for hundreds of researchers and to the front line of concern of many policymakers. However, this transition did not lead to a faithful definition because it is still an in-flux technology. There is one sector, however, that is incompatible with vague and equivocal concepts: legislative production. In this study, we analysed the definitions of deepfakes (or synthetic media) in the laws of five states in the United States and proposed the key concepts that characterise them: artificial intelligence, fake/false and the reference (specific or generic) to the media that can support these deepfakes.
How has COVID-19 impacted the public discourse around vaccines? A comparative analysis of Twitter
Authors: Langbecker Andrea , Catalan-Matamoros Daniel , Prada Enrique
Published: June 2024

This study examines the public discourse about vaccines on Twitter during the COVID-19 pandemic and compares it with the discourses about vaccines before the pandemic. Discourse, users’ profile, content, tone, vaccines, and sources of information were manually coded. We have identified a diversity of discourses related to vaccines. The discourse that has stood out the most during the pandemic is related to pandemic management measures. Nevertheless, both denialist and anti-denialist discourses are reduced compared to the previous period. Besides this, less polarization and more neutral discourse were identified during the pandemic. The two periods are expressly marked by tweets with content related to opinions and personal experiences regarding vaccines. Some of them are characterized, in general, by informality in how the users communicate their ideas. Interestingly, users from the medical-scientific sphere did not participate more in Twitter during the pandemic. There were fewer posts including scientific findings and more tweets about patient resources. On the other hand, the media and journalists were very active in this period by disseminating information and issuing vaccine opinions, reflecting their essential role in health crises. However, the presence of television channels, such as Fox News, can be an indication of conservative ideas on vaccines. Thus, the discourses have expressed different meanings in relation to the issue and disputed their legitimacy in this symbolic and virtual market.
BUILDING A SCALABLE DATASET FOR FRIDAY SERMONS OF AUDIO AND TEXT (SAT)
Authors: Samah A. A. , Dimah H. A. , Hassanin M. A.
Published: June 2024

Context. Today, collecting and creating datasets in various sectors has become increasingly prevalent. Despite this widespread data production, a gap still exists in specialized domains, particularly in the Islamic Friday Sermons (IFS) domain. It is rich with theological, cultural, and linguistic studies that are relevant to Arab and Muslim countries, not just religious discourses.
Objective. The goal of this research is to bridge this lack by introducing a comprehensive Sermon Audio and Text (SAT) dataset with its metadata. It seeks to provide an extensive resource for religion, linguistics, and sociology studies. Moreover, it aims to support advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI), such as Natural Language Processing and Speech Recognition technologies.
Method. The development of the SAT dataset was conducted through four distinct phases: planning, creation and processing, measurement, and deployment. The SAT dataset contains a collection of 21,253 audio and corresponding transcript files that were successfully created. Advanced audio processing techniques were used to enhance speech recognition and provide a dataset that is suitable for wide-range use.
Results. The fine-tuned SAT dataset achieved a 5.13% Word Error Rate (WER), indicating a significant improvement in accuracy compared to the baseline model of Microsoft Azure Speech. This achievement indicates the dataset’s quality and the employed processing techniques’ effectiveness. In light of this, a novel Closest Matching Phrase (CMP) algorithm was developed to enhance the high confidence of equivalent speech-to-text by adjusting lower ratio phrases.
Conclusions. This research contributes significant impact and insight into different studies, such as religion, linguistics, and sociology, providing invaluable insights and resources. In addition, it is demonstrating its potential in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and supporting its applications. In future research, we will focus on enriching this dataset expansion by adding a sign language video corpus, using advanced alignment techniques. It will support ongoing Machine Translation (MT) developments for a broader understanding of Islamic Friday Sermons across different linguistics and cultures.
DEVELOPMENT OF A PLUG-IN FOR VIZUALIZATION OG STRUCTURAL SCHEMES OF COMPUTERS BASED ON THE TEXTUAL DESCRIPTION OF ALGORITHMS OF HARMONIC TRANSFORMS
Authors: Prots’ko I. , Teslyuk V.
Published: June 2024

Context. In many areas of science and technology, the numerical solution of problems is not enough for the further development of the implementation of the obtained results. Among the existing information visualization approaches, the one that allows you to effectively reveal unstructured actionable ideas, generalize or simplify the analysis of the received data is chosen. The results of visualization of generalized structural diagrams based on the textual description of the algorithm clearly reflect the interaction of its parts, which is important at the system engineering stage of computer design.
Objective of the study is the analysis and software implementation of structure visualization using the example of discrete harmonic transformation calculators obtained as a result of the synthesis of an algorithm based on cyclic convolutions with the possibility of extending the structure visualization to other computational algorithms.
Method. The generalized scheme of the synthesis of algorithms of fast harmonic transformations in the form of a set of cyclic convolution operations on the combined sequences of input data and the coefficients of the harmonic transformation function with their visualization in the form of a generalized structural diagram of the calculator.
The results. The result of the work is a software implementation of the visualization of generalized structural diagrams for the synthesized algorithms of cosine and Hartley transformations, which visually reflect the interaction of the main blocks of the computer. The software implementation of computer structure visualization is made in TypeScript using the Phaser 3 framework.
Conclusions. The work considers and analyzes the developed software implementation of visualization of the general structure of the calculator for fast algorithms of discrete harmonic transformations in the domain of real numbers, obtained as a result of the synthesis of the algorithm based on cyclic convolutions. The results of visualization of variants of structural schemes of computers clearly and clearly reflect the interaction of its parts and allow to evaluate one or another variant of the computing algorithm in the design process.
FORMALIZATION OF THE MASTER PRODUCTION SHEDULE FORMATION TASK IN THE MRP II PLANNING SYSTEM
Authors: Novinskyi V. P. , Popenko V. D.
Published: June 2024

Context. Considered the task of forming the Master Production Shedule in the process of production management based on the MRP II standard. The object of the study is the algorithm for forming this plan for further planning of materials supply for production and the organization of production itself.
Objective. Improvement of the algorithm of Master Production Shedule formation to avoid unnecessary stages of the algorithm.
Method. It is proposed to improve the algorithm of the Master Production Shedule formation. It consists in simultaneously taking into account the requirements for timely delivery of products to customers, limitations regarding the capacities of the company’s work centers, and limitations regarding the duration of procurement cycles in the process of supplying materials. The MRP II standard envisages first planning the terms and quantity of product releases, and only at the next step checking the formed plan for admissibility with regard to the required time of operation of the equipment and the availability of the required materials quantity. In case of the calculated plan limitations violation, it is necessary to either plan and implement measures to overcome the specified limitations, i.e. organize additional shifts for work centers, use additional capacities, speed up the delivery of some materials, or reduce the sales plan. All these measures are associated with additional costs. In the proposed version of the planning process, this should be done only if the algorithm does not find an acceptable solution. The task of forming the Master Production Shedule, which is central to the MRP standard, is formulated by the authors as a linear programming task due to the linear nature of the specified restrictions on production capacities and materials. In particular, in the case of sufficiently severe restrictions on the work centers capacity, the plan for replenishing the remaining products from production is shifted to earlier planning intervals and only then rests against the restrictions. Several strategies are proposed for planning replenishments from the production of products stock.
Results. The developed algorithms are implemented in the form of Microsoft Excel templates and are available for use in order to deepen the understanding of the MRP II standard. They are also used in the educational process.
Conclusions. Approbation of the solution by the authors confirmed its workability, as well as the expediency of implementing the developed modification of the MRP II planning process into the software of leading ERP class systems suppliers. Prospects for further research may consist in a comparative analysis of the proposed options for placement of products replenishment from production, through economic evaluation of these options, as well as through simulation modeling.
OPTIMAL SYNTHESIS OF STUB MICROWAVE FILTERS
Authors: Karpukov L. M. , Voskoboynyk V. O. , Savchenko Iu. V.
Published: June 2024

Context. Microwave stub filters are widely used in radio engineering and telecommunication systems, as well as in technical information protection systems due to simplicity of design, possibility of realization in microstrip design and manufacturability in mass production. For synthesis of stub filters nowadays traditional methods based on transformation of low-frequency prototype filters on LC-elements into filtering structures on elements with distributed parameters are used. The transformations used are approximate and provide satisfactory results for narrowband stub filters. In this connection there is a necessity in development of direct synthesis methods for stub filters, excluding various approximations and providing obtaining of amplitude-frequency characteristics with optimal shape for any bandwidths.
Objective. The purpose of the study is to develop a method for direct synthesis of stub band-pass filters and low-pass filters with Chebyshev amplitude-frequency response in the passband.
Method. The procedure of direct synthesis includes the formulation of relations for filter functions of plume structures, selection of approximating functions of Chebyshev type for filter functions and formation of a system of nonlinear equations for calculation of parameters of filter elements.
Results. A method for the direct synthesis of stub bandpass and lowpass filters with Chebyshev response is developed.
Conclusions. Scientific novelty of the work consists in the development of a new method of direct synthesis of l stub filters. The method, in contrast to approximate traditional methods of synthesis of microwave filters, is exact, and the obtained solutions of synthesis problems are optimal.
The experiments confirmed the performance of the proposed method and the optimality of the obtained solutions. Prospects for further research suggest adapting the method to the synthesis of filter structures with more complex resonators compared to stubs.
Implementation of energy flow control of underground consumers in an iron ore mine
Authors: Vlasyuk V.P.
Published: June 2024

Purpose. To enhance the capabilities of the power flow control algorithm to minimize the level of electricity consumption in the electric power system of an iron ore mine, this includes underground consumers.
Methodology. The research was conducted using the following methods: fuzzy attribute reduction of a coarse set, attribute reduction by QuickReduct, K-means, and the Hadoop platform.
Findings. The article considers and describes the methodology for implementing an algorithm for minimizing the levels of electricity consumption for underground consumers of an iron ore mine. An algorithm implementation of the Kanopy algorithm using the fast calculation function has been developed and improved.
 Classification using the K-means method and its implementation in the basic Hadoop platform was carried out. An efficiently functioning and improved algorithm for source control has been built to minimize the volume of electricity consumption in underground consumers of an iron ore mine. The key advantage of this algorithm for practical application is its flexibility in operation: it provides several solution options, unlike typical mathematical methods, where only one solution option is offered to determine the sequence of solving the tasks and problems. This algorithm will allow its use with multiple methods for calculating key energy parameters, which will help reduce the excessive amount of data for calculating volumes given the uncertainty of energy consumption by underground consumers and avoid unnecessary calculation operations in a branched data structure with several solutions with a clear systematization.
Originality. The paper improves the practical implementation of the functioning algorithm, which allows increasing the accuracy and efficiency of calculations by eliminating excessive levels of power consumption by underground consumers of an iron ore mine.
Practical value. This research should be applied to the preventive assessment and analysis of the calculated volumes for reducing power consumption levels and their systematization using methods with a branched data structure for underground consumers of an iron ore mine. Two possible ways of further development and improvement of the state of energy and power equipment at mining enterprises (especially at an iron ore mine) are outlined.
Fuzzy model of compensation for aging factors of distribution transformers
Authors: Nozdrenkov V.S. , Diahovchenko I.M. , Petrovskyi M.V. , Volokhin V.V.
Published: June 2024

Purpose. This paper aims to evaluate the negative factors that affect the aging of power distribution transformers, develop a fuzzy control model for their compensation, and study the results of applying the proposed model to different modes of the electrical power network.
Methodology. The mathematical method of fuzzy logic was used to implement the control system of the power grid operating modes.
Findings. The article presents a structure based on fuzzy logic for compensating depreciation factors of distribution transformers. A tuning algorithm and measures were developed to optimize the transformer's load level and power factor. The developed model analyzes the parameters and factors affecting the normal operation of the transformer and warns of dangerous factors that threaten reliability and may lead to a malfunction. In addition, the efficiency of PV generating stations, shunt capacitor banks, and energy storage systems installed on the secondary voltage side to preserve the service life of distribution transformers was analyzed and discussed.
Originality. The paper further develops the fuzzy logic models used to optimize the operation of the power grid and compensate for the aging factors of power distribution transformers
Practical value.  The results obtained in the paper can be used to build an optimal system for controlling the operation modes of the electric power grid, which reduces the factors that accelerate the aging of power distribution transformers.
Study of unbalance voltage in three-phase networks with different neutral modes
Authors: Stepanenko Y.V.
Published: June 2024

Purpose. Determination of the influence of network parameters with different neutral modes on the zero-sequence voltage
Methodology. The research methodology is based on the general theory of electrical engineering and, in particular, on the method of symmetrical components.
Findings. A mathematical model has been developed to establish the nature of the zero-sequence voltage change for different modes of the network neutral. The value of the zero-sequence voltages and the angles between the phase voltage vector with asymmetry and the zero-sequence voltage vector depending on the capacitive asymmetry, capacitance and active resistance of the network insulation for different neutral modes are established.
Originality. Conducted studies have shown that the largest increase in the zero-sequence voltage is observed at the asymmetry capacity, which is 10...30% of the network insulation capacity. Moreover, the relative capacitive asymmetry of the insulation when changing the values of the capacitance of the network relative to the ground has the most significant effect on the value of the zero-sequence voltage in networks with a compensated neutral and is practically excluded when the neutral of the network is completely isolated relative to the ground.
Practical value. For real parameters of the network, based on the results of theoretical and experimental studies, it is possible to judge the efficiency of existing protection devices and use them in the development of new principles and protection devices.
Assessing Tropical Cyclone-induced rainfall distributions derived from the TRMM and GSMaP satellite datasets over Vietnam's mainland
Authors: Pham-Thanh Ha , Vu-Thanh Hang , Pham-Thi-Thanh Nga , Doan-Thi The , Tran-Duy Tran-Duy , Nguyen-Thi-Phuong Hao
Published: June 2024

In this study, 169 meteorological stations are used as the "ground truth" to assess the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) and Global Satellite Mapping of Precipitation (GSMaP) products in estimating tropical cyclone (T.C.)-induced rainfall over Vietnam's mainland during the 2000-2019 period. Various statistical indices compare two satellite rain datasets with rain gauge observations. In this study, the performance of satellite-based precipitation datasets was investigated for T.C.s affecting the entire Vietnam's mainland, mainly focusing on the position of surface weather stations relative to the landfall and movement directions of the T.C.s. The results indicate that both satellite rain datasets accurately provide the radial distribution of TC-induced rainfall, concentrated within 500 km from the T.C. center, and decreases as the distance from the T.C. center increases. Significantly, the verifications show the close similarity between the TRMM and GSMaP products in estimating TC-induced rainfall. In particular, the assessments considering T.C. intensities and T.C. landing sub-regions suggest that the performance of two satellite rain datasets in evaluating TC-induced rainfall over Vietnam's mainland strongly depends on the intensity of TC-induced rainfall. Light rainfall is estimated more accurately than heavy rainfall. As a result, the performance of the TRMM and GSMaP show higher errors in the coastal areas, where most TC-induced rainfall concentrates, particularly within a 200 km radius of the T.C. center. Besides, M.A.E. exhibits higher values on the left side of the T.C. track compared to those on the right side for all T.C. intensities while showing differences in T.C. landing sub-regions for both datasets.
Требования к документации и анализ существующей практики подготовки документов для создания и функционирования органа по валидации и верификации парниковых газов
Authors: Пинаев Владимир , Ухова Валерия
Published: June 2024

Учебное пособие посвящено нормативным требованиям и практике подготовки документации для создания и функционирования органа по валидации и верификации парниковых газов. В учебном пособии приведены обезличенные образцы существующих документов органов по валидации и верификации парниковых газов, аккредитованных в национальной системе аккредитации. Следует отметить, что законодательство по парниковым газам в РФ, как и во всем мире находится в процессе становления – нормативные документы изменяются. Учебное пособие адресовано студентам экологических и эколого-экономических специальностей, интересующихся количественной оценкой выбросов парниковых газов, климатическими проектами и планирующих деятельность в органах валидации и верификации парниковых газов. Учебное пособие также может быть полезно молодым специалистам, интересующимся вопросами валидации и верификации парниковых газов, органов по валидации верификации парниковых газов, аккредитации в национальной системе аккредитации. Учебное пособие может быть использовано в курсах «Валидация и верификация парниковых газов», «Климатические проекты» и подобных.
Addition of Mucoadhesive Agent to Enzymatically Polymerized Caffeic Acid-Based Nasal Vaccine Formulation Attenuates Antigen-Specific Antibody Responses in Mice
Authors: Tada Rui , Ito Hiroki , Nagai Yuzuho , Sakurai Yasuhiro , Yamanaka Daisuke , Ohno Naohito , Kunisawa Jun , Adachi Yoshiyuki , Negishi Yoichi
Published: June 2024

Mucosal vaccination is a promising strategy for combating infectious diseases caused by pathogenic microbes, as it can generate antigen-specific immune responses in both systemic and mucosal compartments. In our recent study, we developed a nasal vaccine system for Streptococcus pneumoniae infections in mice using enzymatically polymerized polyphenols such as caffeic acid. However, the efficacy of this mucosal vaccine system is approximately 70%, indicating a need for improvement. To address this issue, we hypothesized that incorporating a mucoadhesive agent that enhances mucosal absorption into a polyphenol-based mucosal vaccine system would improve vaccine efficacy. Contrary to our expectations, we found that adding a mucoadhesive agent, hydrophobically modified hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, to the vaccine system reduced the stimulation of antigen-specific antibody responses in both the mucosal (more than 90% reduction; P < 0.05) and systemic compartments (more than 80% reduction; P < 0.05). Although the addition of the mucoadhesive agent may have interfered with the interaction between the mucosal epithelium and the vaccine system, the underlying mechanism remains unclear, and further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms involved.
Insomnia in Indonesia Older Adults: The Role of Mental Health, Sociodemographic Status, and Physical Function
Authors: Handajani Yvonne Suzy , Schroeder-Butterfill Elisabeth , Hogervorst Eef , Turana Yuda , Hengky Antoninus
Published: June 2024

Background and Objective Insomnia can cause impairment in physical, mental, and social functioning, which contributes to considerable healthcare and social challenges. This study aims to investigate various potential associated factors of insomnia among older adults in Indonesia.Methods Publicly available data of the fifth wave of the Indonesia Family Life Survey (IFLS-5) was taken cross-sectionally from 2014 to 2015 with a multistage stratified sampling method. This data included 4236 Indonesian older adults aged of 60 and older from all over Indonesia. Numerous social demographic and wellbeing variables that were gathered through assessments and surveys were examined. The evaluation of despair and its contributing components was done using multivariate logistic regression.Results Older adults with low education (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.73, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.16–2.60), poor subjective economic status (AOR: 1.52, 95% CI: 1.13–2.05), having low life satisfaction (AOR: 1.46, 95% CI: 1.14–1.87), being self-perceived as unhealthy (AOR: 2.26, 95% CI: 1.80–2.84) or lonely (AOR: 1.77, 95% CI: 1.34–2.35), physically dependent measured by Activity Daily Living (AOR: 1.46, 95% CI: 1.01–1.96), having arthritis (AOR: 1.40, 95% CI: 1.04–1.85) and depression (AOR: 4.14, 95% CI: 3.21–5.33) are associated to insomnia.Conclusions Depression has the strongest association to insomnia in elderly. Involving older adults in cognitive and social activities, providing supports for lonely individuals, improving their physical function, prompt treatment of arthritis and symptomatic pain may reduce the risk for insomnia. Early detection and providing mental services including social activities to depressed older adults may also decrease the risk of insomnia.
The Impact of Sleep Problems on Rheumatoid Arthritis Disease Activity
Authors: Azzam Adel Ibrahim
Published: June 2024

Background and Objective Sleep difficulties tend to be more prevalent in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients than in the general population. Patients’ mental, physiological, and life quality are all dependent on receiving good quality sleep. In practice, RA is managed not only by rheumatologists but also by a variety of other specialists. To assess subjective sleep quality in RA patients and its relationship to disease activity, pain intensity, and psychological state.Methods Three hundred RA patients participated in a cross-sectional study in which they were evaluated clinically and underwent the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Beck Depression Inventory-II, and Disease Activity Score-28 with erythrocyte sedimentation rate (DAS28-ESR). Two groups of RA patients were created based on the PSQI score. Group 1 included RA patients with good sleep, and Group 2 included RA patients with poor sleep.Results The study included 276 females and 24 males, with a mean age of 38.5 ± 8.8 years and a disease duration of 4.3 ± 3.8 years. Sleep disturbances were found in 65.3% of our RA patients, with habitual sleep efficiency being the most commonly affected component (50%), and 91% of the patients studied did not take any sleep medication. Poor sleep was linked to increased DAS28, pain, and different degrees of depressive symptoms. All PSQI components and total PSQI scores showed a significant correlation with pain and depressive symptom severity scores. However, no correlation was found with disease duration or erosive joint changes.Conclusions Patients with RA frequently encounter sleep problems. Individuals with RA exhibiting poor sleep quality are more likely to encounter varying degrees of depressive symptoms, disease activity flares, and more intense pain. This issue, as well as its expected consequences for RA disease parameters, should be recognized.
Melatonin and Metabolic Disorders: Unraveling the Interplay With Glucose and Lipid Metabolism, Adipose Tissue, and Inflammation
Authors: Hong Seok Hyun , Kim Jinkwan
Published: June 2024

The increasing prevalence of metabolic disorders such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity, highlighted the crucial need to understand the intricate mechanisms that contribute to these health conditions. Melatonin, produced by the pineal gland in the brain, plays a crucial role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle and has been widely studied for its potential health benefits. Recognized for its pivotal involvement in the sleep-wake cycle, melatonin exhibits various physiological functions such as its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, a growing body of evidence has suggested a potential association between melatonin and metabolic disorders, particularly those related to insulin resistance, obesity, and diabetes. In this review, we clarify the influence of melatonin on insulin sensitivity and its role in glucose and lipid metabolism, highlighting its potential to address pivotal factors contributing to metabolic disorders. In addition, the complex relationship between melatonin and adipose tissue dynamics is explored to elucidate the hormone’s involvement in the conversion of white fat to beige fat and its subsequent implications for energy expenditure. We briefly summarize a comprehensive discussion of the therapeutic implications of melatonin, provide insights into potential avenues for future research, and emphasize the importance of adopting a comprehensive approach to metabolic disorders.
Validation of the Arabic Version of the Glasgow Sleep Effort Scale Among Lebanese General Population
Authors: Tantawi Sana Ahmad , Alhajj Lama Ali , Kamaleddine Atifa Nazih , Naous Sondos Mohamad , Kamaleddine Nafez Nazih , Kamaleddine Issa , Mreydem Hussein Walid
Published: June 2024

This study aimed to assess the reliability and validity of the Arabic version of the Glasgow Sleep Effort Scale (GSES) as an indicator of sleep effort within the Lebanese general population. A total of 360 members of the general population were included in this e-survey study. The sample completed the following measures: GSES, Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Dysfunctional Beliefs about Sleep-2 (DBS-2), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and a sleep diary regarding their bedtime, sleep onset time, wake-up time, desired total sleep time, and desired time in bed. The results supported the single-factor structure through confirmatory factor analysis. It also showed internal consistency with Cronbach’s alpha and omega values of 0.857 and 0.858, respectively. Further, Convergent validity was established with significant correlations between GSES, DBS-2, ISI, and PHQ-9. This suggests that GSES is valid and reliable for measuring sleep effort among the Lebanese general population.
Developing an alcohol strategy for the Northwest Territories: Evaluating global research evidence against rural and remote realities
Authors: Denning Bryany , Andrew Paul , Moffitt Pertice , Broers Barbara
Published: June 2024

Objectives

This paper outlines the engagement process that was used to develop the Northwest Territories Alcohol Strategy, based on a recommendation by the developers of the Canadian Alcohol Policy Evaluation report, and how this informed the final actions in the strategy.

Methods

A literature review, four targeted engagement activities, and iterative validation by advisory groups and community and Indigenous leadership were used to evaluate, modify, or reject the original recommendations and develop the final actions that were included in the NWT Alcohol Strategy.

Results

There are fourteen original CAPE recommendations, four of which had already been implemented in the Northwest Territories before the development of the strategy. On completion of the process, four recommendations had already been implemented in the NWT. Two recommendations were included in the strategy without changes, two were adapted for use in the strategy, and six were not included. One stand-alone alcohol policy measure was created and included.

Conclusion

Alcohol strategies are dependent on a variety of contextual factors. Developers need to take into consideration the unique geography, political climate, and cultural context of the region for which they are being developed, in order to produce a strategy that is applicable, acceptable, and feasible at the community level.
Análise de Impacto de Vizinhança: Estudo de Caso do Loteamento de Interesse Social Jardim Santa Marta no Município de Guarantã do Norte – MT
Authors: Marques Jakline , Carignani Gisele , Souza Natallia Sanches e
Published: June 2024

Este artigo objetiva analisar, sob a ótica dos conceitos do Estudo de Impacto da Vizinhança, o caso do Loteamento de Interesse Social Jardim Santa Marta, localizado no município de Guarantã do Norte, no estado de Mato Grosso. Para tanto, realizaram-se pesquisas bibliográficas, análises documentais, visitas ao local e avaliação da legislação pertinente. Foram considerados aspectos referentes ao adensamento populacional, notando-se que a implantação inicial se deu em áreas periféricas, afastadas do centro urbano. Em relação ao uso e ocupação do solo, observou-se um padrão misto, com predominância de áreas residenciais. A instauração do bairro, por diversos fatores, resultou na desvalorização das áreas adjacentes, e uma investigação mais profunda das condições de ventilação e iluminação poderia ter contribuído para aprimorar a eficiência energética das construções. Conclui-se que, mesmo diante da urgente necessidade de habitação para pessoas de baixa renda, não se pode negligenciar elementos primordiais do planejamento urbano, sob pena de não ser possível reverter as consequências no longo prazo.
EVALUATION OF PD-1 AND TIM-3 EXPRESSION LEVELS OF CD8+ T CELLS IN RENAL TRANSPLANT PATIENTS
Authors: Çerçi Alkaç Burcu , Soyöz Mustafa , Pehlivan Melek , Kılıçaslan Ayna Tülay , Tatar Erhan , Tanrısev Mehmet , Karahan Çöven Hatice İlayhan , Pirim İbrahim
Published: June 2024

Objective: After kidney transplantation, CD8+ T cells can infiltrate the kidney and cause necrosis, tubulitis, and even transplant rejection. For this reason, control of the T cell response is very important, and T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain 3 (TIM-3) and programmed death 1 (PD-1) molecules play a role in regulating the T cell response. It is thought that the levels of TIM-3 and PD-1 expressions may be guiding in determining the clinical course after transplantation. This study aimed to determine the relationship between the mRNA levels of PD-1 and TIM-3 genes in peripheral blood samples taken from kidney transplant patients and the clinical conditions of the patients.
Material and Method: 60 peripheral blood samples were collected from 30 kidney transplant patients, both pre-transplantation (pre-tx) and post-transplantation (post-tx). CD8+ T cells were separated from other lymphocytes by magnetic cell separation system (MACS) and their purity was determined by flow cytometry. Then, RNA was isolated and after cDNA conversion, the expressions of PD-1 and TIM-3 genes were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction.
Results: While it was determined that the TIM-3 gene expression level increased in patients with acute tubular necrosis, antibody-mediated rejection and cell-mediated rejection findings (p