bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of transgenic Bt soybean (Cry1Ac) on the biological and reproductive cycle and the hervibory ability of Spodoptera cosmioides (Walker) and Spodoptera eridania (Stoll) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Lutz Alejandra Liliana , Fernandez Laura Noemí , Ruiz Verónica Eugenia , Curis María Cecilia , Buttarelli Melina Soledad , Sánchez Pablo Daniel , Favaro María Alejandra , Scotta Roberto Ricardo
Published: June 2023

The Spodoptera cosmioides (Walker) and Spodoptera eridania (Stoll) populations have increased in the central soybean crop zone of Argentina during the last years. Besides being polyphagous, these species are tolerant to the insecticidal toxin Cry1Ac, which is expressed by genetically modified Bt soybeans. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of Bt soybeans on the consumption, biological cycle and reproduction of both Spodoptera species. The Cry1Ac protein had not consequences in the biological and reproductive cycle of S. cosmioides, except in the pupal period duration. It was not observed the same response in S. eridania, which recorded a shorter duration of the larval and adult stages, total cycle and oviposition period. However, both species of Lepidoptera completed their reproductive cycle successfully and the herbivorous ability was not altered. The genetically modified soybean with the event MON89788xMON87701 that expresses the Cry1Ac protein does not control S. cosmioides and S. eridania, and farmers must appeal to chemical control with insecticides when high densities occur in the field. The results obtained in this work are very useful to understand the biology of these species, which have the potential to become important pests in Bt soybean crops in Argentina.
Altered EEG patterns in individuals with disorganized attachment: an EEG microstates study
Authors: Carbone Giuseppe Alessio , Michel Christoph M. , Farina Benedetto , Adenzato Mauro , Ardito Rita B. , Imperatori Claudio , Artoni Fiorenzo
Published: June 2023

Background: Over the past years, different studies provided preliminary evidence that Disorganized Attachment (DA) may have dysregulatory and disintegrative effects on both autonomic arousal regulation and brain connectivity. However, despite the clinical relevance of this construct, few studies have investigated the specific alterations underlying DA using electroencephalography (EEG). Thus, the main aim of the current study was to extend the scientific literature on the EEG microstates correlates of DA in a non-clinical sample (N= 50) before and after the administration of the Adult Attachment Interview (AAI).
Methods: Two EEG Resting State (RS) recordings were performed before and after the AAI. Microstates indices were then calculated using Cartool software.
Results: the Disorganized/Unrevolved (D/U) group showed a lower mean duration of map E and a higher occurrence of map F than the organized individuals. Then, an effect of time also emerged for the microstates indices. Finally, a positive and significant correlation between mean duration of map E post-AAI and coherence of mind was found as well as a negative and significant correlation with segmentation density of map F post-AAI.
Conclusion: our results showed significant differences in the EEG dynamic patterns of mean duration of map E and segmentation density of map F between groups, and a time effect reflecting disintegration mechanisms after retrieval of attachment memories.
Antecedent climate drives divergent, long-term restoration outcomes in the Western Great Plains, USA.
Authors: Barnard david , Macdonald Jacob , Green Tim , Erskine Robert , Mahood Adam
Published: June 2023

Converting croplands to grasslands can restore ecosystem functions and services. But there is uncertainty about why some restoration treatments succeed and others do not. Existing restoration strategies tailor species compositions of seed mixes according to mean conditions in hardiness zones. But individual years typically deviate from average climate norms such that restoration activities may be better informed by recent conditions than with climate averages in order to best direct management strategies. We monitored a field in eastern Colorado that was converted from wheat-fallow to native perennial grassland via seeding. The same seed mix was used to seed half the strips in 2013 (drier) and the other half in 2014 (wetter). The strips seeded in 2013 had only one native grass and shrub species from the seed mix establish, whereas in 2014 all native grasses established Higher soil moisture preceding seed application was positively associated with perennial grasses, while rhizomatous grasses, shrubs and introduced annuals were associated with other variables. We found evidence of facilitatory interactions between grasses and forbs, and antagonistic interactions between native perennial grasses and introduced annuals. These findings can assist land managers to improve upon current approaches by considering antecedent conditions during restoration planning.
Development and Evaluation of Paddy Straw and Wheat Chaff Filter Socks for Stormwater Management
Authors: Shukla Prashant , Siag Mukesh , Kaur Samanpreet , Thaman Sudhir
Published: June 2023

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of paddy straw and wheat chaff filter socks for removing suspended sediments from canal water and stormwater runoff. The filter socks of three different diameters of 15, 22.5 and 30 cm; three densities classified as low, medium and high and fixed length of 120 cm were prepared. The flow rate per unit depth of water of filter socks varied between 0.07-0.08 lps/unit head. The total suspended solids removal efficiency of filter socks was up to 65%. There was a little impact on other quality parameters of TDS, pH, EC, BOD, COD and E. coli as these values remained relatively unchanged between inlet and outlet samples. The life of filter socks ranged between 44-56 hours in case of an inlet water TSS load of less than 300 ppm, which drastically reduced to less than 14 hours when the inlet water TSS load increased beyond 700 ppm. Based on the findings, it was recommended that paddy straw filter sock of 30 cm diameter, with medium to high density range of 55.81 to 69.76 kg/m 3 , can be effectively used for reducing the suspended load from runoff. Overall, the study suggests that filter socks made from agricultural waste materials such as paddy straw and wheat chaff can be a viable and sustainable stormwater management technique. They offer low-cost alternative to traditional stormwater management practices and have the added benefit of utilizing agricultural waste that would otherwise go to waste.
Optimization of the effects of biocontrol agents on broccoli head rot using meta-analysis
Authors: Nishimura Fumihiro , Katayama Takahiro , Komobuchi Keizo , IKEDA Ken-ichi
Published: June 2023

Meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the effects of biopesticides on broccoli head rot. Three registered biopesticides, Masterpiece, Vegekeeper, and Biokeeper, were effective in preventing disease as compared to the untreated control but were less effective under conditions of high disease frequency. Masterpiece was more effective in control when the frequency of application was increased rather than the concentration. However, Vegekeeper, and Biokeeper were more effectively controlled by treatments with higher concentration ratios. In the rainfall experiment, Masterpiece and Vegekeeper were more effective than Biokeeper.
Multi-level supervised network for Lung segmentation
Authors: ma yanshan
Published: June 2023

The segmentation of lung regions in CT images is an important technique in computer-assisted medical care. While convolutional neural networks have improved the ability to segment lung areas in CT images, the accuracy of current methods is limited by challenges such as low contrast and abnormal appearance. This paper describes a new approach using a multi-level supervised lung segmentation network with a U-Net backbone and a module called MSDC to address these issues. The MSDC module incorporates multi-scale dilated convolutions to extract lung edge information and address the issue of weak contrast. Additionally, the network includes spatial attention modules to improve its focus on lung areas within CT images. Using several standard CT lung image datasets, this approach demonstrated superior performance compared to recent image segmentation methods, both qualitatively and quantitatively
Risk Factors for Lymph Node Metastasis in Hilar Cholangiocarcinoma: A SEER-based Prediction Model by Nomogram
Authors: Yang Jie , Jia Yong-Tao , Yan Zheng , Luo Jia , Su Ming-Li , Yu Xi , Mao Shu-Qi , Liu Ai-Ming , Lu Cai-De
Published: June 2023

Background: Lymph node metastasis (LNM) is an important independent factor affecting the prognosis of patients with hilar cholangiocarcinoma. The correct evaluation of lymph node status is very important in the clinic. This study aimed to investigate the risk factors for LNM in patients with hilar cholangiocarcinoma and establish a nomogram model that can effectively predict LNM.
Methods: A total of 2683 patients diagnosed with hilar cholangiocarcinoma from 2000 to 2019 in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database were retrospectively analyzed. Their clinicopathological data were extracted and randomly divided into a training cohort (n = 1879) and a validation cohort (n = 804) with a ratio of 7 : 3. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate the significant predictors of LNM. Based on the above prediction factors, a nomogram prediction model was constructed. Calibration maps, receiver operating curves (ROC), and the area under ROC curve (AUC) were used to validate the working power of the nomogram model using the two cohorts mentioned above.
Results: LNM occurred in 1244 (46.37%) Of the total 2683 patients. Univariate regression analysis showed that age, T stage, tumor size, and histological grade were associated with LNM (p < 0.05). Multivariate regression analysis showed that T stage, tumor size, and histological grade were independent risk factors for LNM (p < 0.05). The nomogram prediction model showed good predictive power for LNM. The C-indices of the training and validation cohort were 0.725 (95% CI: 0.702-0.747) and 0.711 (95% CI: 0.676-0.746), respectively. The AUC value was 0.736 (95% CI: 0.713-0.758). The calibration curve showed high consistency between the prediction of the model and the actual transition situation, which verified the accuracy and discriminative ability of the nomogram. Decision curve analysis(DCA) showed that the nomogram model could predict clinical outcomes with satisfied accuracy.
Conclusion: As predicted, T stage, tumor size, and histological grade were independent factors influencing LNM in patients with hilar cholangiocarcinoma. The visualized nomogram model can effectively predict the risk of LNM in patients with hilar cholangiocarcinoma and will help physicians make individualized treatment decisions.
Cell cycle gene expression is restored in eutopic primary stromal cells after endometriosis surgery
Authors: Invitti Adriana L , Asanuma Fernando Y , Carvalho Cristina V , Kamergorodsky Gil , Kopelman Alexander , Schor Eduardo
Published: June 2023

The role of the endometrium in the pathogenesis of endometriosis has assumed prominence. Abnormality of gene and protein expression, apoptosis and changes in cell cycle have been extensively studied in endometriosis. We evaluated the cell cycle genes expression on primary stromal endometrial cells (EC) isolated from eutopic endometrium in two different moments: before and after deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) surgical treatment. We analysed five ECs from healthy patients (group control) and 9 from women with diagnosis of DIE. Were identified 7 cell cycle genes (p53, TFDP1, TFDP2, KPNA2, RB1, RBL2, SERTAD1) differentially expressed between pre, post-operative and controls. The p53 and KPNA2 genes were downregulated 3.34 fold (p = 0.006) and 2.62, (p = 0.042), respectively, in the endometrium of DIE compared to control. Both were upregulated (p53 - Fold 2.22, p = 0.157; KPNA2 - Fold 4.36, p = 0.017) in the post-operative DIE group in comparison to pre-operative one. Also, the RB1 gene was downregulated 9.36 fold (p = 0.029) in the DIE-post group in comparison to DIE-pre group, having no difference between DIE-pre and control group (p = 0.311). The proteins coded by these genes have association between each other, indicating that the surgical treatment could change the cell cycle regulation in the endometrium of women with endometriosis and that the changes remain after the cell isolation from the tissue.
Exploring Key Parameters Influencing the Inhibitory Effect of Volume Dielectric Barrier Discharge on Phytopathogenic Fungi
Authors: Rotondo Palma Rosa , Aceto Domenico , Rotolo Caterina , Ambrico Marianna , Dilecce Giorgio , Faretra Francesco , Angelini Rita Milvia De Miccolis , Ambrico Paolo Francesco
Published: June 2023

The application of Low-Temperature Plasmas has shown great potential as an effective and alternative tool for microbial inactivation in recent years. Nevertheless, further investigations are required to fully understand the possible factors influencing these processes. The present study aims to investigate the effectiveness of square wave modulated Volume Dielectric Barrier Discharge (VDBD) on the direct inhibition of conidia germination in five different fungal species, various discharge conditions, and substrates used for conidial germination. The five different fungal species studied were Botrytis cinerea, Monilinia fructicola, Aspergillus carbonarius, Fusarium graminearum, and Alternaria alternata. On water agar, the inhibition of Botrytis cinerea was influenced by the applied voltage, which mainly reflects the uniformity of the treatment. Under the selected voltage condition, the inhibition increased with exposure time and decreased with fungal complexity. B. cinerea and M. fructicola, with unicellular conidia and similar melanin content, showed similar behaviour and sensitivity to the treatment. F. graminearum and A. alternata, both having multicellular conidia, were more resistant to the plasma treatment exhibiting different sensitivity. However, after 1 min of treatment, complete inhibition of conidial germination was achieved for all the tested species. Inhibition of A. carbonarius conidia was tested on different agarized media containing dextrose or malt extract. It was found to depend on the medium used, with potato dextrose agar hindering the plasma treatment the most. In this case, the key factor shaping the inhibition was the agarized media selected. Each medium exhibited a different electrical response studied by Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy and morphology observed by SEM images. These differences translated into a different response to the applied electrical field, influencing plasma generation and uniformity.
Dispositional mindfulness and fatigue in Chinese nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic: a possible mediating role of sleep quality
Authors: Dai Caijun , Hu Pinglang , Yan Feifan , He Xuejiao , Cheng Weizhen , Yu Lihua , Fang Achang , Meng Xiaoling , Lou Meiyang , Chen Youying , Chi Danli , Zhou Huasu , Chen Qiaoge , Fang Zhenhong , Ni Shuhong , Huang Qiqi
Published: June 2023

Purpose: During the COVID-19 epidemicin China, clinical nurses are at an elevated risk of suffering fatigue. This research sought to investigate the correlation between dispositional mindfulness and fatigue among nurses, as well as the potential mediation role of sleep quality in this relationship.
Methods: This online cross-sectional survey of nurses was performed from August to September 2022 after the re-emergence of COVID-19 in China. The Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), 14-item Fatigue Scale (FS-14), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were employed to assess the levels of dispositional mindfulness, fatigue, and sleep quality, respectively. The significance of the mediation effect was determined through a bootstrap approach with SPSS PROCESS macro.
Results: A total of 2143 nurses completed the survey. Higher levels of dispositional mindfulness were significantly negatively related to fatigue (r = -0.518, P < 0.001) and sleep disturbance (r = -0.344, P < 0.001). Besides, there was a positive relationship between insufficient sleep and fatigue (r = 0.547, P < 0.001). Analyses of mediation revealed that sleep quality partly mediated the correlation between dispositional mindfulness and fatigue (β= -0.551, 95% Confidence Interval = [-0.630, -0.474]).
Conclusions: Chinese nurses' dispositional awareness was related to the reduction of fatigue during the COVID-19 pandemic, and this relationship indirectly operates through sleep quality. Intervention strategies and measures should be adapted to improve dispositional mindfulness and sleep quality to reduce fatigue in nurses during the pandemic.
Credit Risk Evaluation Model of Supply Chain Finance Based on Deep Dimension Reduction
Authors: Liu Ying , Li SiZhe , Li Huidi , Lv Mingli , Li Ye
Published: June 2023

【Objective】A credit risk assessment model is named SAE_DE_SVM based on deep learning dimension reduction is proposed to solve the problems of multi-heterogeneous and dynamic high-dimensional characteristics in credit risk assessment of supply chain finance.
【Methods】This study obtains samples from CSMAR database, Sina Finance and Economics Network and Shenzhen Stock Exchange official website, and uses Stacked Auto-Encoder (SAE) to reduce the dimension of supply chain financial risk assessment features. Considering the imbalance between the positive and negative proportions of the evaluation samples, the Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE) oversampling technique is used to balance the samples. Finally, the differential evolution (DE) algorithm is used to optimize the support vector machine (SVM), and SAE_DE_SVM algorithm as supply chain financial credit risk evaluation model is constructed.
【Results】 The results show that the accuracy and time complexity of SAE_DE_SVM model on supply chain financial sample data are 95.83 % and 5.56 s, respectively, which is the best in the comparison model.
【Limitations】 In the process of deep learning dimension reduction, a part of the feature data and information will be lost. However, the related research on the accurate calculation and utilization of these data and information loss is still very lacking.
【Conclusion】The experimental results show that credit risk assessment model of supply chain finance based on SAE_DE_SVM has good performance in predicting the possibility of default of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).
Modulation of Multidrug Resistance Protein 1-mediated transport processes by the antiviral drug ritonavir in cultured primary astrocytes
Authors: Arend Christian , Grothaus Isabell L. , Waespy Mario , Ciacchi Lucio Colombi , Dringen Ralf
Published: June 2023

The Multidrug Resistance Protein 1 (Mrp1) is an ATP-dependent efflux transporter and a major facilitator of drug resistance in mammalian cells during cancer and HIV therapy. In brain, Mrp1-mediated GSH export from astrocytes is the first step in the supply of GSH precursors to neurons. To reveal potential mechanisms underlying the drug-induced modulation of Mrp1-mediated transport processes, we investigated the effects of the antiviral drug ritonavir on cultured rat primary astrocytes. Ritonavir strongly stimulated the Mrp1-mediated export of glutathione (GSH) by decreasing the Kmvalue from 200 nmol/mg to 28 nmol/mg. In contrast, ritonavir decreased the export of the other Mrp1 substrates glutathione disulfide (GSSG) and glutathione-bimane. To give explanation for these apparently contradictory observations, we performedin silicodocking analysis and molecular dynamics simulations using a homology model of rat Mrp1 to predict the binding modes of ritonavir, GSH and GSSG to Mrp1. The results suggest that ritonavir binds to the hydrophilic part of the bipartite binding site of Mrp1 and thereby differently affects the binding and transport of the Mrp1 substrates. These new insights into the modulation of Mrp1-mediated export processes by ritonavir provide a new model to better understand GSH-dependent detoxification processes in brain cells.
Intergenerational financial transfers of older adults in India: Evidence from Longitudinal Ageing Study in India wave-1
Authors: Nagargoje Varsha P. , Dilip T. R. , James K. S.
Published: June 2023

Intergenerational resource transfers are fabric of families. This study examined proportion of older adults' direct and indirect financial contributions through various resource transfers in the household. Using bivariate analysis total 25,201 households containing at least one older adult (60+ age) from Longitudinal Ageing Study in India wave-1 were analyzed. The highest contribution was made through work engagement (22%), followed by agriculture work (20.4%), loan-repayment (15.2%) and pension-income (12%). Contribution via business engagement was merely 2.5%. Contribution of older person via loan repayment was only 7% in urban residents, but it is more than double (19%) among rural residents. In terms of indirect financial transfer, the highest contribution was made through sharing the current residential house (62%), followed by cultivable land (34.5%), housing and commercial units (7.7%), and non-cultivable land (5.2%). Even in old-age, Indian seniors have potential to support families by sharing resources, reflecting strong intergenerational bonds and functional solidarity.
Metagenomics analysis of water samples collected from the Yamuna River of Agra city, India
Authors: Raghav Nupur , Saraswat Pooja , Kumar Sunil , Chaurasia Anurag , Ranjan Rajiv
Published: June 2023

Yamuna River water in Agra city of India is heavily contaminated with toxic pollutants, including heavy metals that cause severe damage to ecological and social aspects of life. At present, the direct use of river water for drinking purposes cause severe hazards due to anthropogenic activities and environmental pollution. The quality assessments in terms of physical, chemical, and biological attributes of water samples are essential to understand their impact on humans. In the present study, Yamuna River water samples were collected from three different sites in Agra city during the monsoon, summer, and winter seasons. Various physico-chemical parameters were estimated, and the concentration of heavy metals was measured. In the case of physico-chemical parameter characterization, the values found were mostly above the permissible limits. The results suggest that the Yamuna River water samples contain high levels of cadmium, chromium, lead, and nickel above the desirable levels in most cases. The water samples were subjected to metagenomic analysis using the Illumina platform, which revealed that Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Verrucomicrobia, Actinobacteria, and Planctobacteria were the most abundant phyla with a relative abundance of 61%, 9.34%, 5.23%, 4.64%, and 4.3%, respectively. The Comamonadaceae was the most abundant family, which consists of the genera involved in hydrogen oxidation, iron reduction, degraders of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and fermentation. Functional prediction showed the presence of genes responsible for different metabolic pathways. The study concludes the status of water contamination at three different sites in Agra and suggests the futuristic use of this research in the field of bioremediation.
Visual Question Answering: A Survey on Techniques and Common Trends in Recent Literature
Authors: Sants Claudio Filipi Goncalves dos , Bastos Felype de Castro , de Faria Ana Claudia Akemi Matsuki , Silva Jose Victor Nogueira Alves da , Uchoa Valeska de Sousa , Neto Decio Goncalves de Aguiar
Published: June 2023

Visual Question Answering (VQA) is an emerging area of interest for researches, being a recent problem in natural language processing and image prediction. In this area, an algorithm needs to answer questions about certain images. As of the writing of this survey, 25 recent studies were analyzed. Besides, 6 datasets were analyzed and provided their link to download. In this work, several recent pieces of research in this area were investigated and a deeper analysis and comparison among them were provided, including results, the state-of-the-art, common errors, and possible points of improvement for future researchers.
An automated approach for binary classification on imbalanced data
Authors: Vieira Pedro Marques , Rodrigues Fátima
Published: June 2023

Imbalanced data is present in various business areas and must be dealt with the appropriate resampling techniques and classification algorithms. However, there is a magnitude of multiple combinations of resampling and learning methods to handle imbalanced data that require specialised knowledge to be used correctly. In this paper, several approaches, ranging from more accessible and more advanced in the domains of data resampling and cost-sensitive techniques, will be considered to handle imbalanced data. The application developed delivers recommendations of the most suited combinations of techniques for a specific dataset, by extracting and comparing dataset meta-features values recorded in a knowledge base. It facilitates effortless classification and automates part of the machine learning pipeline with comparable or better results to a state-of-the-art solution and with a much smaller execution time.
Effects of central pathway and postural control technique on stroke patients: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: He Weichun , Li Ke , Li Hongyu , Xu Ning , Zhu Ning
Published: June 2023

Objective
We investigated the effects of central pathway and postural control (CPPC) technique on motor function, balance function, activities of daily living, degree of neurological deficit, nerve cytokine content and hemorheology indexes of stroke patients.
Method
78 stroke patients were randomly divided into an experimental group added the CPPC technique on the basis of routine rehabilitation therapy and a control group receiving routine rehabilitation therapy. All interventions were 1 time / day for 50 days in both groups. Outcome measures were collected at baseline and post-intervention. The primary outcome measures included the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and the Fugel-Meyer assessment scale (FMA). The secondary outcome measures included Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Tinetti Balance and Gait Analysis, Barthel Index (BI), neuronal cytokine content and hemorheological Indices.
Result
The results of this study show that NIHSS scores of the two groups decreased and FMA scores increased after treatment. Compared with before treatment, BBS score, Tinetti score and the scores of each item of BI scale of the two groups were increased, and there were significant differences between the two groups. The content of NT-3 and NGF in serum of the two groups increased and the hemorheology indexes of HBV, LBV, PV, HCT and fibrinogen decreased after treatment, and there were significant differences between the two groups.
Conclusions
The CPPC technique can alleviate limb dysfunction and motor limitation and can improve balance function, activities of daily life and blood circulation in stroke patients. The CPPC technique is a promising method for future neuropsychological research and can also be used in clinical treatment of stroke patients.
Evaluating the Ability of ChatGPT in Generating Differential Diagnosis in Clinicopathological Conferences of Neurodegenerative Disorders
Authors: Koga Shunsuke , Martin Nicholas B. , Dickson Dennis W.
Published: June 2023

This study explores the utility of the artificial intelligence model ChatGPT in predicting neuropathologic diagnoses from clinical summaries presented at clinicopathological conferences. Twenty-five cases of various neurodegenerative disorders were analyzed using ChatGPT versions 3.5 and 4. The primary neuropathological diagnoses predicted by the models aligned with the official neuropathologic diagnoses in 32% (ChatGPT-3.5) and 52% (ChatGPT-4) of cases. When considering all proposed diagnoses, accuracy increased to 76% and 84% for ChatGPT-3.5 and ChatGPT-4, respectively. These findings highlight the potential of artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT in neuropathology, suggesting they may facilitate more comprehensive discussions in clinicopathological conferences.
Investigation Toward the Adoption of Building Information Modelling in Algeria from Architects’ Perspective
Authors:   Université des Sciences et de la Technologie d’Oran Mohamed Boudiaf, USTO-MB, BP 1505, El M’naouer, Oran, ALGERIA, Tehami Mohamed , Seddiki Mohammed ,   Scott Sutherland School of Architecture and Built Environment, Robert Gordon University, Garthdee House, Garthdee Road, Aberdeen, UK
Published: June 2023

This study attempts to identify and assess the individual perceptions of building information modelling (BIM) benefits and implementation barriers in the construction industry in Algeria from architects’ perspective. An investigation was carried out through survey questionnaires distributed to Algerian architects with different profiles. A total of 100 questionnaires were used for the study. A subgroup analysis was conducted to investigate the differences in the individual perception of the different groups of architects segmented according to the respondent’s work type, organisation size, experience length and computer-aided design (CAD) and BIM knowledge. The findings of the study revealed that the most important barriers to BIM implementation were people and policy factors. The subgroup analysis revealed that the architects working for design firms were more aware and had more readiness for adopting BIM compared to those working for project owners and contractors. Moreover, there were differences in the BIM maturity level between the large and small organisations in Algeria. It was concluded that at the actual BIM maturity level, BIM implementation would not occur without the implication of local authorities and policymakers, as they have a significant impact on promoting and accelerating BIM adoption in the country.
SHAPING THE FUTURE FOR A SUSTAINABLE WORLD: PERSPECTIVES OF WOMEN LEADERS FROM COMMONWEALTH OPEN LEARNING INSTITUTIONS
Authors: Chan Josephine Ie Lyn , Amat Sapuan Dewi
Published: June 2023

Women are crucial in shaping the future of a sustainable world as they have valuable ideas, experiences, and stories on leadership and change. This qualitative study explores the perspectives of 19 women leaders from 14 Commonwealth open learning institutions regarding women's leadership and a sustainable future. The findings indicate that women leaders are aware of their crucial role and the need to encourage other women to take up leadership or decision-making positions. However, there is sometimes a disconnect between envisioning a sustainable future and translating that vision into reality. Key constructs to advance women in leadership positions are revealed as having a mentor, building powerful networks, empowering women in ICT, and championing climate change.
Implementing a Non-placement Work-Integrated-Learning Experience in a Micro-credentialed Curriculum
Authors: Mazza Anthony , Adams Andrea
Published: June 2023

COVID has continued to adversely impact the raison d’etre of a University’s value proposition - to prepare, develop and equip students with transferable critical thinking skills, improved collaboration opportunities, and useful contact capital, to enhance employment opportunities. As part of a collaborative strategy to address the multiple issues related to “universal career shock”, the implementation of an andragogical response is required to assist students with limited or no employment experience. A non-placement initiative is currently being piloted to assist student completion of internship-like projects. Created as a direct response to the Federal Workforce Development Strategy announced in November 2020, this Pilot Course was designed to include and assess the success factors of adding a non-placement Work-Integrated-Learning (WIL) opportunity within a particular curriculum employing a Differentiated Instruction design andragogy. This Pilot Course leveraged the efficacies of experiential learning, within a constructivist paradigm, promoting micro‑credentialing and persistent progressive profiling. Over a two-semester trial, student acquisition of credential and student placement results were impressive: of a 24-person total cohort: 100% received an OSHA 10 certificate (minimum infrastructure site employment requirement); 22 earned an industry-sponsored, continuing education accredited Introduction to IT & Cyber Security certificate; all students earned their FEMA Work Safety certificate; 14 students were offered external internship opportunities, while all 4 students jointly enrolled in the Practicum class earned an in-class internship experience with our corporate collaborators.
Technology-driven Hybrid Teaching Methodologies: A Lean Analysis of Student Learning and Job Seeking Courses
Authors: Adams Andrea
Published: June 2023

Software Development Times’ industry predictions call 2022 the year of Hybrid Work. If workplaces have pivoted to hybrid work, so have college and university students in their learning environment and job-seeking efforts. For students to transition to a hybrid work environment, they must seamlessly and effectively use technology tools to transition between remote and in-person domains. Studies show that students’ technological skill level may be insufficient to match the level required to navigate the streamlined methods used in revamped hybrid education/job-seeking systems (video interviewing, location, or productivity tracking). Even when technological systems provide access, they can sacrifice “equity and inclusion” requirements that protect against student vulnerabilities and hinder student success. Performance in this pandemic-restricted world may also impact how student school-to-work transition is achieved. Using a brief year-end student survey using Lean analysis this uncovered “waste” within the Pre-practicum (Problems of Practice) and Practicum courses focused on workplace skills and job-seeking processes. The resulting implementation plans 1) provide a roadmap to reduce waste, 2) increase alignment that supports equity and inclusion, and 3) integrate customer-focused on-demand elements such as career coaching, known to increase student success.
The Impact of an Online Peer Mentoring Program on Stem Students at Two Historically Black Institutions During the COVID 19 Pandemic
Authors: Wendt Jillian L.
Published: June 2023

To address the continuing disparity in the representation of women and racial and ethnically minoritized populations in STEM, an online peer mentoring program, eSTEM, was developed, implemented, and tested among undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in STEM degree programs at two historically black institutions. Using a case study design, participants’ experiences in the program were evaluated to determine the degree to which their participation impacted their STEM self-efficacy, sense of community, STEM identity, and intent to persist in STEM. Several themes were identified which demonstrate that the eSTEM program is effective in enhancing students’ feelings of self-efficacy, sense of community and belonging in STEM, STEM identity and understanding of intersecting identities, and in sustaining their intent to persist in STEM degree programs and careers.
‘The Pivot’ — Moving Studio Classes Online During a Pandemic
Authors: Hanff Jr. William A.
Published: June 2023

Due to pandemic restrictions, three semesters of coursework were moved to 100% virtual instruction using learning management systems (LMS). The opportunity for constructing rubrics that are linked to program-wide SLOs and course-level SLOs, and aligned to individual assignments and productions now exists. Even as coursework pivots back to hybrid and face-to-face/hands-on instruction, the use of aligned rubrics deployed across multiple online sections of a course would allow for much more efficient and effective data collection and analysis across multiple sections and years. This research will examine the process of creating, deploying, and using rubrics in proprietary LMS systems such as Blackboard and Google Classroom, and open-source LMS systems such as Moodle and Sakai. Beyond virtual learning, it will explore how physical productions in the field can use aligned streamlined rubrics, and how rubrics for interactions in synchronous virtual class sessions such as Zoom and Collaborate Ultra can be constructed and used to measure peer feedback. The practice of sharing data across departments and institutions will be explored, and some of the challenges and opportunities of big data analytics will be examined. The outcome is expected to be applied to periodic program reviews and QM strands for online and blended course design and construction. Potential curriculum redesign and streamlining will be explored and linked to contemporary research in higher education and industry-standard technical updates.
Using Virtual Worlds to Address Equity and Inclusion Issues in Educational Participation by University Students
Authors: Flowers Angelyn Spaulding
Published: June 2023

COVID-19 compelled students to participate in a curriculum delivery approach they did not voluntarily choose and therefore may have lacked the technological, logistical, or other capabilities to engage at the highest level. Equally as important, some students may lack comfort with their background surroundings leading to a consistent avoidance of the video option during class. Equity suggests that this should not be a deterrent to their class participation. The result however is often a faculty member teaching to a computer screen populated solely by black squares containing student names. Anecdotal evidence suggests that over time this can also lead to increased student disengagement, both deliberate and inadvertent. This article compares two virtual worlds, Second Life and Roblox, examining their potential for promoting student inclusion and compelling engagement in education. The article will highlight the differences between these worlds, as well as describe their utility as sites for a class activity. Actual curricular examples will be used to illustrate the use of these virtual worlds as a pedagogical tool. Situating a university class in a virtual world as distinct from a virtual classroom is not without its challenges. However, it offers several advantages in the universal effort to increase student engagement and participation coupled with addressing equity and inclusion issues in educational delivery.
Josephson effects between the Kitaev ladder superconductors
Authors: Kanehira Osamu , Tsuchiura Hiroki
Published: June 2023

The two-leg ladder system consisting of the Kitaev chains is known to exhibit a richer phase diagram than that of the single chain. We theoretically investigate the variety of the Josephson effects between the ladder systems. We consider the Josephson phase difference \thetaθ between these two ladder systems as well as the phase difference \phiϕ between the parallel chains in each ladder system. The total energy of the junction at T = 0T=0 is calculated by a numerical diagonalization method as functions of \thetaθ, \phiϕ, and also a transverse hopping t_{\perp}t⊥ in the ladders. We find that, by controlling t_{\perp}t⊥ and \phiϕ, the junction exhibits not only the fractional Josephson effect for the phase difference \thetaθ, but also the usual 0-junction and even \piπ-junction properties.
Field-induced local Fermi-liquid states in the underscreened Kondo model for Eu compounds
Authors: Kuniyoshi Shingo , Shiina Ryousuke
Published: June 2023

We have studied an underscreened Kondo model for the impurity spin S=7/2S=7/2 capturing the 4f4f characteristics of a nearly divalent Eu ion. By using the numerical renormalization group method, it is shown that an unusual heavy-fermion state is induced from the underscreened spin state when a weak crystal field is introduced. It is also found that the application of the magnetic field enhances the effective mass of the heavy fermions, reflecting the field-induced level crossing of the spin states. We will discuss the mechanism of these mass enhancements in terms of a realization of the two-stage Kondo effect.
EPR and SQUID interrogations of Cr(III) trimer complexes in the MIL-101(Cr) and bimetallic MIL-100(Al/Cr) MOFs
Authors: Thangavel Kavipriya , Folli Andrea , Ziese Michael , Hausdorf Steffen , Kaskel Stefan , Murphy Damien M. , Pöppl Andreas
Published: June 2023

Herein, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy at X- (9.4 GHz), Q- (34 GHz) and W-band (95 GHz), and superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) measurements on antiferromagnetically coupled metal trimers in MIL-101(Cr) and MIL-100(Al_{0.8}0.8Cr_{0.2}0.2) MOFs were investigated. At low temperatures, the Cr(III) trimers exhibit a Dzyaloshinsky-Moriya (D-M) interaction, and have a total spin state S_T = 1/2T=1/2.
Pressure-dependent structural and electronic instabilities in LaSb$_2$
Authors: Weinberger Theodore I. , de Podesta Christian K. , Chen Jiasheng , Hodgson Stephen A. , Grosche F. Malte
Published: June 2023

LaSb_22 exhibits a large, non-saturating, linear magnetoresistance at low temperatures, defying the expectations of Fermi liquid theory. This is thought to be caused by charge density wave order emerging below an abrupt, hysteretic anomaly in the resistivity at \sim∼ 355 K. We find that, under hydrostatic pressure, this anomaly becomes much more pronounced, develops strong hysteresis, and shifts rapidly towards lower temperatures. The anomaly is fully suppressed by only 6 kbar. Moreover, we observe a second transition anomaly at lower temperature, which likewise disappears under pressure. These findings are discussed in the context of a structural transition recently discovered in the sister material CeSb_22 and of density functional theory calculations, which indicate that the SmSb_22-type structure adopted by LaSb_22 at ambient conditions is unstable at moderate applied pressures.
In-plane Fermi surface mapping of ZrSiS and HfSiS by de Haas-van Alphen oscillations
Authors: Gudac Bruno , Bosnar Mihovil , Orbanić Filip , Ivšić Trpimir , Kokanović Ivan , Novak Mario
Published: June 2023

We have conducted a comprehensive experimental investigation of the in-plane de Haas van Alphen quantum oscillations in ZrSiS and HfSiS and compared the results to the ab-initio calculations. We found a moderately good agreement for a set of frequencies located between 100 T and 200 T. These could be associated with extremal orbitals of the electron pockets located around the k_z=\pm\pi/2ckz=±π/2c planes at the edge of the 1st Brillouin zone. In contrast, the experimentally detected low-frequency set of oscillations found around 20 T could not be reproduced by the calculations. Further refinement of the ab-initio calculation has to be conducted to fully capture all the observed features of the Fermi surface in ZrSiS and HfSiS.
Composition dependence of the specific heat of FeSi
Authors: Burger Carolina , Bauer Andreas , Pfleiderer Christian
Published: June 2023

Recently, a high-mobility surface conduction channel and in-gap states were identified in the correlated small-gap semiconductor FeSi using electrical transport measurements and high-resolution tunneling spectroscopy. The mobility of the charge carriers in the surface channel is quantitatively reminiscent of topological insulators, but displays a lack of sensitivity to the presence of ferromagnetic impurities as studied by means of a series of single crystals with slightly different starting compositions. Here, we report measurements of the specific heat of these crystals. At low temperatures, a shallow maximum is observed in the specific heat divided by temperature. This maximum is suppressed under magnetic field, characteristic of a Schottky anomaly associated with magnetic impurities. In comparison, the height of this maximum decreases with increasing initial iron content.
Magnetic, electronic, and structural investigation of the strongly correlated Y$_{1-x}$Sm$_{x}$Co$_5$ system
Authors: Passos Fernando , Cornejo D. , Nilsen Gøran Jan , Martelli V. , Larrea Jiménez Julio Antonio
Published: June 2023

SmCo_55 and YCo_55 are isostructural compounds both showing large magnetocrystalline anisotropy, where the former originates mainly from the crystal-electric field and magnetic interactions. We investigate the contribution of both interactions by partially substituting Y by Sm in as-cast polycrystalline Y_{1-x}1−xSm_{x}xCo_55 (with xx=0.00, 0.12, 0.18, 0.31, and 0.40) and measuring their structural, magnetic, and electrical properties through X-ray diffraction, magnetization, and electrical transport measurements. Our results suggest an interplay between microstructure strain in as-cast samples and the electronic and magnetic interactions.
AWARENESS OF CREDIT MANAGEMENT AMONG PUBLIC SERVANTS IN MALAYSIA THROUGH COUNSELING AND CREDIT MANAGEMENT AGENCY (AKPK)
Authors:   Centre for Islamic Finance Education & Research (UniSHAMS-CIFER), Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah International Islamic University (UniSHAMS), 09300, Kuala Ketil, Malaysia., Shahidah Binti Fadzin Nurul , Nazjmi bin Mohamed Fisol Wan ,   Assoc. Prof. Dr Centre for Islamic Finance Education & Research (UniSHAMS-CIFER), Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah International Islamic University (UniSHAMS), 09300, Kuala Ketil, Malaysia.
Published: June 2023

Credit Credit management is a crucial aspect in ensuring financial sustainability within society, particularly among civil servants. Therefore, it is paramount that the general public in Malaysia have a comprehensive understanding and awareness of the Credit Management program through the Credit Counselling and Management Agency (AKPK) to prevent the community from being burdened with high levels of debt, which could potentially lead to bankruptcy. As such, this article aims to analyze the behavior of public servants in the state of Kedah, involving a total of 150 individuals, in order to identify their level of awareness of the credit management program under the AKPK.This study employs quantitative methods to examine demographic factors, as well as the relationship between consumer understanding, awareness, and perception of credit management programs through the Credit Counselling and Management Agency (AKPK) among public servants in Malaysia. The results of this study can be useful in improving the quality of the Credit Management program under AKPK and raising awareness among civil servants towards credit management in Malaysia.
Dewi Kilisuci Figure; Disaster Mitigation in the Ecofeminism Perspective
Authors: Setiawati Eti , Rizal Maulfi Syaiful , Budiarti Nadhea Arnisma
Published: June 2023

The research focused on the efforts of the Mount Kelud community in disaster mitigation from the perspective of the story of Dewi Kilisuci, one of the central figures of the legend of Mount Kelud. Ecofeminism viewed that nature as a symbol of women. Mitigation efforts could be carried out through the society’s cultural wisdom by carrying out various traditional ceremonies. The ceremony would be closely related to various legendary figures that the community believes. In addition, it could also be done through symbolic efforts. The research applied a qualitative descriptive research method. Data were obtained through interviews as well as content analysis, and descriptive analysis techniques used to explain stories and disaster mitigation efforts of society’s cultural wisdom based on symbolic ecofeminism. It is found that the story of the character of Dewi Kilisuci, where there are mitigation efforts carried out symbolically by her character, which until now is believed by the people. It also explains the role, value, and position of the figure of Dewi Kilisuci as a symbol of women in relation to ecofeminism. It is hoped that the research will be able to provide an understanding of the local cultural wisdom of the community and disaster mitigation efforts and find out how natural values are related to women.