bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards Designing and Learning Piecewise Space-Filling Curves
Authors: Li Jiangneng , Wang Zheng , Cong Gao , Long Cheng , Kiah Han Mao , Cui Bin
Published: July 2023

To index multi-dimensional data, space-filling curves (SFCs) have been used to map the data to one dimension, and then a one-dimensional indexing method such as the B-tree is used to index the mapped data. The existing SFCs all adopt a single mapping scheme for the whole data space. However, a single mapping scheme often does not perform well on all the data space. In this paper, we propose a new type of SFC called piecewise SFCs, which adopts different mapping schemes for different data subspaces. Specifically, we propose a data structure called Bit Merging tree (BMTree), which can generate data subspaces and their SFCs simultaneously and achieve desirable properties of the SFC for the whole data space. Furthermore, we develop a reinforcement learning based solution to build the BMTree, aiming to achieve excellent query performance. Extensive experiments show that our proposed method outperforms existing SFCs in terms of query performance.
DILI: A Distribution-Driven Learned Index
Authors: Li Pengfei , Lu Hua , Zhu Rong , Ding Bolin , Yang Long , Pan Gang
Published: July 2023

Targeting in-memory one-dimensional search keys, we propose a novel DIstribution-driven Learned Index tree (DILI), where a concise and computation-efficient linear regression model is used for each node. An internal node's key range is equally divided by its child nodes such that a key search enjoys perfect model prediction accuracy to find the relevant leaf node. A leaf node uses machine learning models to generate searchable data layout and thus accurately predicts the data record position for a key. To construct DILI, we first build a bottom-up tree with linear regression models according to global and local key distributions. Using the bottom-up tree, we build DILI in a top-down manner, individualizing the fanouts for internal nodes according to local distributions. DILI strikes a good balance between the number of leaf nodes and the height of the tree, two critical factors of key search time. Moreover, we design flexible algorithms for DILI to efficiently insert and delete keys and automatically adjust the tree structure when necessary. Extensive experimental results show that DILI outperforms the state-of-the-art alternatives on different kinds of workloads.
Opportunities for Quantum Acceleration of Databases: Optimization of Queries and Transaction Schedules
Authors: Çalikyilmaz Umut , Groppe Sven , Groppe Jinghua , Winker Tobias , Prestel Stefan , Shagieva Farida , Arya Daanish , Preis Florian , Gruenwald Le
Published: July 2023

The capabilities of quantum computers, such as the number of supported qubits and maximum circuit depth, have grown exponentially in recent years. Commercially relevant applications that take advantage of quantum computing are expected to be available soon. In this paper, we shed light on the possibilities of accelerating database tasks using quantum computing with examples of optimizing queries and transaction schedules and present some open challenges for future studies in the field.
SDPipe: A Semi-Decentralized Framework for Heterogeneity-Aware Pipeline-parallel Training
Authors: Miao Xupeng , Shi Yining , Yang Zhi , Cui Bin , Jia Zhihao
Published: July 2023

The increasing size of both deep learning models and training data necessitates the ability to scale out model training through pipeline-parallel training, which combines pipelined model parallelism and data parallelism. However, most of them assume an ideal homogeneous dedicated cluster. As for real cloud clusters, these approaches suffer from the intensive model synchronization overheads due to the dynamic environment heterogeneity. Such a huge challenge leaves the design in a dilemma: either the performance bottleneck of the central parameter server (PS) or severe performance degradation caused by stragglers for decentralized synchronization (like All-Reduce). This approach presents SDPipe, a new
semi-decentralized
framework to get the best of both worlds, achieving both high heterogeneity tolerance and convergence efficiency in pipeline-parallel training. To provide high performance, we decentralize the communication model synchronization, which accounts for the largest proportion of synchronization overhead. In contrast, we centralize the process of group scheduling, which is lightweight but needs a global view for better performance and convergence speed against heterogeneity. We show via a prototype implementation the significant advantage of SDPipe on performance and scalability, facing different environments.
LRU-C: Parallelizing Database I/Os for Flash SSDs
Authors: Lee Bohyun , An Mijin , Lee Sang-Won
Published: July 2023

The conventional database buffer managers have two inherent sources of I/O serialization: read stall and mutex conflict. The serialized I/O makes storage and CPU under-utilized, limiting transaction throughput and latency. Such harm stands out on flash SSDs with asymmetric read-write speed and abundant I/O parallelism. To make database I/Os parallel and thus leverage the parallelism in flash SSDs, we propose a novel approach to database buffering, the
LRU-C
method. It introduces the LRU-C pointer that points to the
least-recently-used-clean
page in the LRU list. Upon a page miss, LRU-C selects the current LRU-clean page as a victim and adjusts the pointer to the next LRU-clean one in the LRU list. This way, LRU-C can avoid the I/O serialization of read stalls. The LRU-C pointer enables two further optimizations for higher I/O throughput:
dynamic-batch-write
and
parallel LRU-list manipulation.
The former allows the background flusher to write more dirty pages at a time, while the latter mitigates mutex-induced I/O serializations. Experiment results from running OLTP workloads using MySQL-based LRU-C prototype on flash SSDs show that it improves transaction throughput compared to the Vanilla MySQL and the state-of-the-art WAR solution by 3x and 1.52x, respectively, and also cuts the tail latency drastically. Though LRU-C might compromise the hit ratio slightly, its increased I/O throughput far offsets the reduced hit ratio.
Comparative evaluation of glomerular morphometric techniques reveals differential technical artifacts between focal segmental glomerulosclerosis and normal glomeruli
Authors: Reghuvaran Anand C. , Lin Qisheng , Basgen John M. , Banu Khadija , Shi Hongmei , Vashist Anushree , Pell John , Perinchery Sudhir , He John C. , Moledina Dennis , Wilson F. Perry , Menon Madhav C.
Published: July 2023

Morphometric estimates of mean or individual glomerular volume (MGV, IGV) have biological implications, over and above qualitative histologic data. However, morphometry is time‐consuming and requires expertise limiting its utility in clinical cases. We evaluated MGV and IGV using plastic‐ and paraffin‐embedded tissue from 10 control and 10 focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) mice (aging and 5/6th nephrectomy models) using the gold standard Cavalieri (Cav) method versus the 2‐profile and Weibel–Gomez (WG) methods and a novel 3‐profile method. We compared accuracy, bias and precision, and quantified results obtained when sampling differing numbers of glomeruli. In both FSGS and controls, we identified an acceptable precision for MGV of 10‐glomerular sampling versus 20‐glomerular sampling using the Cav method, while 5‐glomerular sampling was less precise. In plastic tissue, 2‐ or 3‐profile MGVs showed greater concordance with MGV when using Cav, versus MGV with WG. IGV comparisons using the same glomeruli reported a consistent underestimation bias with both 2‐ or 3‐profile methods versus the Cav method. FSGS glomeruli showed wider variations in bias estimation than controls. Our 3‐profile method offered incremental benefit to the 2‐profile method in both IGV and MGV estimation (improved correlation coefficient, Lin's concordance and reduced bias). In our control animals, we quantified a shrinkage artifact of 52% from tissue processed for paraffin‐embedded versus plastic‐embedded tissue. FSGS glomeruli showed overall reduced shrinkage albeit with variable artifact signifying periglomerular/glomerular fibrosis. A novel 3‐profile method offers slightly improved concordance with reduced bias versus 2‐profile. Our findings have implications for future studies using glomerular morphometry.
Poor subjective sleep reported by people living with HIV is associated with impaired working memory
Authors: Zahr Natalie M. , Sullivan Edith V. , Pfefferbaum Adolf
Published: July 2023

Poor sleep can undermine health and may be especially disruptive to those with chronic conditions including HIV infection. Here, clinically well-described people living with HIV [PLWH] (74 men, 35 women) and healthy control (38 men, 35 women) participants were administered the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), a validated measure of subjective sleep with a global score ≥5 able to distinguish good from poor sleepers. In addition, participants completed a battery of neuropsychological tests. PLWH (6.8 ± 3.7) had higher global PSQI scores than healthy controls (4.1 ± 2.8): 39.7 % of uninfected controls and 68.8 % of PLWH had a PSQI≥5 indicative of poor sleep. There were no relations between the global PSQI score and any evaluated variables among uninfected individuals or with demographic or HIV-related variables in PLWH. Instead, a higher global PSQI score among PLWH was associated with worse “Quality of Life” scores [Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF, p=0.0007), Medical Outcomes Study survey (21-item short form, SF-21, p<0.0001), and Activities of Daily Living-Instrumental (ADL-I, p=0.0041)] and higher Beck Depression Index (BDI, p<0.0001) depressive symptoms. Further, in PLWH, higher global PSQI scores were associated with poor performance on a working memory task, the digit backward span (p=0.0036). In PLWH, the 5 variables together explained 32.3 % of the global PSQI score variance; only 3 variables – the SF-21, BDI, and digit backward scores – explained 30.6 % of the variance. To the extent that poor subjective sleep contributes to impaired working memory in HIV, we speculate that this impairment may be ameliorated by improved sleep health.
Székelyföldi barlangok értékelése turisztikai hasznosíthatóságuk szemszögéből
Authors:   Babeș-Bolyai University, Faculty of Geography, Gheorgheni University Extension, Molnár Csaba , Magyari-Sáska Zsolt ,   Babeș-Bolyai University, Faculty of Geography, Gheorgheni University Extension
Published: July 2023

Speleology and caving are becoming increasingly popular activities these days, with a high number of visitors flocking to these mysterious but breathtaking natural wonders. However, cave exploration and research is not as popular and the number of people interested in such researches seems to be decreasing. The aim of the research was to evaluate the touristic potential of ten selected caves in Szeklerland. The caves were studied based on several criteria, using quantitative SWOT analysis, to find out which caves could be developed for tourism and included in the tourism circuit, and which ones had a low appeal as a natural resource and were not worth investing time and energy into their touristic development.
Pasitikėjimu grįstas viešasis valdymas: Skandinavijos regiono modelio dekonstrukcija
Authors: Stonkė Eglė
Published: July 2023

Straipsnyje nagrinėjama pasitikėjimo, kaip sudėtingos tarpdisciplininės ir daugiamatės koncepcijos, svarba bei reikšmė valstybės ir jos visuomenės raidai. Keliamas klausimas, kaip pasitikėjimas formuojamas ir egzistuoja valstybės kontekste: „iš apačios į viršų“ (kaip visuomenės projektuojamų bendrųjų vertybių, kultūros elementų ir lūkesčių valstybei visuma) ar „iš viršaus į apačią“ (kaip valstybės institucijų ir politinio sluoksnio formuojamos nuostatos, lemiančios visuomenės viešojo gyvenimo sampratą bei valstybės raidos kryptį). Straipsnyje apžvelgiama pasitikėjimo apibrėžties problematika, nustatomi pasitikėjimo elementai, leidžiantys formuoti pasitikėjimu grįsto viešojo valdymo modelio kūrimo prielaidas. Remiantis Skandinavijos regiono valstybių pavyzdžiu, siekiama išskirti svarbiausius pasitikėjimo valstybe ir jos valdžios institucijomis aspektus bei šiaurietiškojo pasitikėjimu grįsto viešojo valdymo modelio taikymo kitose šalyse ar regionuose galimybes.
An Analysis of the Level of Parental Demand for a Preschool Facility with a Special Focus on the Inclusion of Artistically Gifted Children and the Adequacy of its Marketability
Authors: Vavrúšová Mária
Published: July 2023

The aim of this paper is to analyse the level of awareness and interest of parents and other relevant subjects in a new form of educational preparation for the inclusion of specially talented children, and the adequacy of its introduction to the market, through the analysis of demographic development at selected locations. The research in this area is very underdeveloped, because the focus is shifted towards the other end of the spectrum, and that is why we would like to draw attention to this problem via our article. In the introduction, the paper deals with the theoretical definition of social inclusion of gifted children and social entrepreneurship and its conditions in the Slovak Republic. In a separate chapter, the paper describes the methodology, data collection procedure, and sources and methods used, such as abstraction, comparison, and basic statistical and mathematical methods. Then exponential smoothing was used for prediction. We analysed through a survey the interest of parents and other relevant subjects, and the data collected was then synthesised. The last chapter presents the results of our work together with its limitations, and recommendations for future research. The whole idea of our preschool facility could be summarised in four words based on our results, namely, adequate, necessary, desirable and original. The paper serves to clarify and support the solution of our chosen research problem: education and the inclusion of above-average gifted children through social entrepreneurship.
Remdesivir: the first FDA-approved anti-COVID-19 Treatment for Young Children
Authors:   Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Chera Alexandra , Tanca Antoanela ,   Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania,   Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest, Romania
Published: July 2023

Following the emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, finding efficient forms of treatment is seen as a priority for both adults and children. On April 25, 2022, remdesivir has become the first United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved COVID-19 treatment for young children, specifically ≥28-days-old children, weighing ≥3 kilograms, who are either hospitalized or nonhospitalized, showing a high risk for progression to severe COVID-19 (prone to hospitalization or death). This new approval, which expands its already FDA-approved use in adults to young children, is supported by the CARAVAN study (a phase 2/3 single-arm, open-label study to evaluate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and efficacy of remdesivir (GS-5734™) in participants, from birth to < 18 years of age, with COVID-19). This study is in progress, with an estimated primary completion in February 2023. While positive effects of remdesivir have been ascertained through various studies, controversy has surrounded remdesivir since its initial FDA approval in 2020 due to the contradictory results obtained by various studies. However, many case reports state its positive effects on the outcome of the patients, encouraging an optimistic vision for the future.
Increased cannabis use in pregnant women during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors:   Tirana University of Medicine, Albania, Agolli Arjola , Agolli Olsi ,   Tirana University of Medicine, Albania, Chowdhury Selia ,   Dhaka Medical College, Bangladesh, Shet Vallabh ,   Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute, Karnataka, India, Benitez Johanna S. Canenguez ,   University of El Salvador, El Salvador, Bheemisetty Niharika ,   Kurnool medical college, Andhra Pradesh, India, Waleed Madeeha Subhan ,   Ayub Medical College, Pakistan
Published: July 2023

Almost one in every 20 pregnant women self-reports marijuana use during pregnancy. During the COVID-19 pandemic, this number has risen to 1 in 6 pregnant women. Some of the main factors associated with cannabis use during pregnancy and lactation are management of chronic conditions, sensation-seeking, dealing with stress, and other conditions related to pregnancy. The action of cannabis on endocannabinoid receptors might cause poor blastocyst implantation, inhibition of decidualization, compromised placentation, miscarriage and poor embryo development. The children born to mothers who used cannabis during pregnancy manifested higher aggression, anxiety, hyperactivity, and higher levels of the hormone cortisol, compared to children of noncannabis users. In this review we summarize the effects of cannabis use on fetal development during the COVID-19 pandemic based on the existing published peerreviewed scientific literature. The COVID-19 pandemic has served as an additional stimulus that has increased cannabis use among pregnant women. Prenatal cannabis use is associated with health risks for the mother and child. Cannabis use in pregnant mothers is associated with low infant birth weight and potential negative neurodevelopmental effects in the offspring. It remains unclear how long these changes will persist in the affected children. It is essential that clinicians educate pregnant women about the harm of prenatal cannabis use, improve strategies to support women at risk, and create new intervention strategies to help them stop using cannabis.
O TEMPO DA ALFABETIZAÇÃO EM TEMPOS DE PANDEMIA
Authors: Veloso Geisa Magela , Velloso Maria Jacy Maia , Costa Ihan Rodrigo Batista , Da Silva Ane Caroline Pereira
Published: July 2023

O estudo analisa processos de ordenação do tempo escolar, discutindo o modo como foi reconfigurado na organização das práticas de alfabetização no ensino remoto emergencial. A pesquisa é qualitativa, sendo entrevistados professores de escolas públicas do norte de Minas Gerais. Constatou-se o desafio para reconfigurar o tempo e a cultura de alfabetização e identificaram-se dois modos de organização. De um lado, o tempo assíncrono estruturado com atividades impressas realizadas pelas crianças com a mediação das famílias e; de outro lado, o tempo síncrono via uso de tecnologias digitais na alfabetização criando novas relações professor-aluno.
APRESENTAÇÃO
Authors: Macedo Maria do Socorro Alencar Nunes , Porto Gilceane Caetano
Published: July 2023

Apresentação do Dossiê Alfabetização e docência em tempos de pandemia por Maria do Socorro Alencar Nunes Macedo e Gilceane Caetano Porto.
Local coordination of mRNA storage and degradation near mitochondria modulates C. elegans ageing
Authors: Daskalaki Ioanna , Markaki Maria , Gkikas Ilias , Tavernarakis Nektarios
Published: July 2023

Mitochondria are central regulators of healthspan and lifespan, yet the intricate choreography of multiple, tightly controlled steps regulating mitochondrial biogenesis remains poorly understood. Here, we uncover a pivotal role for specific elements of the 5′‐3′ mRNA degradation pathway in the regulation of mitochondrial abundance and function. We find that the mRNA degradation and the poly‐A tail deadenylase CCR4‐NOT complexes form distinct foci in somatic Caenorhabditis elegans cells that physically and functionally associate with mitochondria. Components of these two multi‐subunit complexes bind transcripts of nuclear‐encoded mitochondria‐targeted proteins to regulate mitochondrial biogenesis during ageing in an opposite manner. In addition, we show that balanced degradation and storage of mitochondria‐targeted protein mRNAs are critical for mitochondrial homeostasis, stress resistance and longevity. Our findings reveal a multifaceted role of mRNA metabolism in mitochondrial biogenesis and show that fine‐tuning of mRNA turnover and local translation control mitochondrial abundance and promote longevity in response to stress and during ageing.
RNA polymerase II CTD is dispensable for transcription and required for termination in human cells
Authors: Yahia Yousra , Pigeot Alexia , El Aabidine Amal Zine , Shah Nilay , Karasu Nezih , Forné Ignasi , Krebs Stefan , Blum Helmut , Esnault Cyril , Sexton Tom , Imhof Axel , Eick Dirk , Andrau Jean‐Christophe
Published: July 2023

The largest subunit of RNA polymerase (Pol) II harbors an evolutionarily conserved C‐terminal domain (CTD), composed of heptapeptide repeats, central to the transcriptional process. Here, we analyze the transcriptional phenotypes of a CTD‐Δ5 mutant that carries a large CTD truncation in human cells. Our data show that this mutant can transcribe genes in living cells but displays a pervasive phenotype with impaired termination, similar to but more severe than previously characterized mutations of CTD tyrosine residues. The CTD‐Δ5 mutant does not interact with the Mediator and Integrator complexes involved in the activation of transcription and processing of RNAs. Examination of long‐distance interactions and CTCF‐binding patterns in CTD‐Δ5 mutant cells reveals no changes in TAD domains or borders. Our data demonstrate that the CTD is largely dispensable for the act of transcription in living cells. We propose a model in which CTD‐depleted Pol II has a lower entry rate onto DNA but becomes pervasive once engaged in transcription, resulting in a defect in termination.
Two structurally defined Aβ polymorphs promote different pathological changes in susceptible mice
Authors: Gomez‐Gutierrez Ruben , Ghosh Ujjayini , Yau Wai‐Ming , Gamez Nazaret , Do Katherine , Kramm Carlos , Shirani Hamid , Vegas‐Gomez Laura , Schulz Jonathan , Moreno‐Gonzalez Ines , Gutierrez Antonia , Nilsson K Peter R , Tycko Robert , Soto Claudio , Morales Rodrigo
Published: July 2023

Misfolded Aβ is involved in the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the role of its polymorphic variants or conformational strains in AD pathogenesis is not fully understood. Here, we study the seeding properties of two structurally defined synthetic misfolded Aβ strains (termed 2F and 3F) using in vitro and in vivo assays. We show that 2F and 3F strains differ in their biochemical properties, including resistance to proteolysis, binding to strain‐specific dyes, and in vitro seeding. Injection of these strains into a transgenic mouse model produces different pathological features, namely different rates of aggregation, formation of different plaque types, tropism to specific brain regions, differential recruitment of Aβ40/Aβ42 peptides, and induction of microglial and astroglial responses. Importantly, the aggregates induced by 2F and 3F are structurally different as determined by ssNMR. Our study analyzes the biological properties of purified Aβ polymorphs that have been characterized at the atomic resolution level and provides relevant information on the pathological significance of misfolded Aβ strains.
Modified method of deformation analysis according to the Munich approach
Authors: Savšek Simona , Ambrožič Tomaž
Published: July 2023

Despite the technical progress monitoring the stability of engineering structures remains one of the most difficult tasks in engineering geodesy. This article presents the deformation analysis according to the Munich approach of W. M. Welsch. The method deals with the testing of the geodetic network's congruence, the affinity of selected triangles, and the testing of other kinematic parameters in 2D geodetic networks. Deformation analysis using the Munich approach can be performed using the X-method, which is based on the comparison of the coordinates of identical points in the geodetic network between two sets of measurements that depend on the geodetic datum, or using the L-method, which determines changes in the values of lengths and angles which are quantities independent of the geodetic datum. In the modified method, we propose to determine the congruence of all lengths and all angles in the network between two sets of measurements and to determine the congruence of all triangles between points in the network, not only selected ones, as it is common in the classical approach of deformation analysis based on the Munich approach. The proposed improvements are tested on the example of a known hexagon, and an analysis is made of the success of detecting stable points in the network using the classical Munich approach. In the present case, the results of the proposed method did not differ from the results of other deformation analysis methods.
Performance evaluation of single and double-frequency low-cost GNSS receivers in static relative mode
Authors: Bojorquez-Pacheco Naccieli , Romero-Andrade Rosendo , Trejo-Soto Manuel Edwiges , Hernández-Andrade Daniel , Nayak Karan , Vidal-Vega Ana Isela , Arana-Medina Aníbal Israel , Sharma Gopal , Acosta-Gonzalez Luis Enrique , Serrano-Agila Richard
Published: July 2023

The advancement of low-cost GNSS receivers with modern built-up characteristics has opened a new window to investigate the performance of various low-cost receivers with an outlook on their performance and suitability for varied geodetic purposes. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the positioning performance of single and double-frequency GNSS receivers in combination with geodetic antennas in static relative mode regarding Mexican regulations. The recorded observations were processed by a static relative method including the CORS station from the National Institute of Statistics and Geography in Mexico (INEGI). The results of the survey conducted at a distance of 4 and 33 km from CORS station show similar accuracy for all low-cost receivers. For low-cost GNSS receivers NEO-M8T, NEO-6T, and ZED-F9P the solutions that were obtained reached mm in horizontal precision using a geodetic grade antenna. Similarly, the ZED-F9P model was proved at a long distance from the CORS station and presents high precision. Regarding the vertical component, in all cases where the GGM10 model was included, the vertical component is not allowed to use for topography or geodetic works, however, the horizontal component where mm precision was achieved is allowed for different highly precision survey works.
ВИКОРИСТАННЯ ШТУЧНОГО ІНТЕЛЕКТУ В МАРЕНТИНГУ: ПЕРСПЕКТИВИ, ПЕРЕВАГИ ТА НЕДОЛІКИ
Authors: Bilyk I.I. , Lavryk K.R.
Published: July 2023

У статті розглянуто вплив штучного інтелекту на розвиток маркетингу, а саме зміни, які він приносить, та як допомагає підвищити ефективність маркетингових процесів. Описано переваги використання штучного інтелекту для покращення маркетингових стратегій. Серед яких, найбільш важливою перевагою є те, що розумні технології дозволяють швидко аналізувати великі об'єми даних та забезпечувати точні результати. Аналізуються останні дослідження та публікації в даній темі, щоб дати читачам ясніше уявлення про перспективи розвитку маркетингу з використанням штучного інтелекту. У підсумку виявлено, що використання і потенціал штучного інтелекту може значно полегшити та покращити роботу маркетологів в таких напрямах, як: автоматизація маркетингових процесів, персоналізація комунікації з клієнтами, оптимізація рекламних кампаній, прогнозування попиту та результатів маркетингових заходів, детальний аналіз цільової аудиторії, її потреб та попереднього досвіду, розподіл бюджету між різними каналами, створення контенту тощо. Велика увага зосереджена саме на персоналізованому маркетингу, який сьогодні є дуже важливим для сучасних вибагливих споживачів. Штучний інтелект стає надзвичайно важливим для досягнення успіху та дозволяє компаніям застосовувати індивідуальний підхід до клієнтів та взаємодіяти з ними на основі аналізу їхньої поведінки. Крім цього, в статті розглянуто потенційні виклики та ризики використання штучного інтелекту. Вказано на можливість помилок у роботі алгоритмів розумних технологій та недостатньо етичні аспекти використання даних, які пов’язані з конфіденційністю та приватністю споживачів. Важливо розуміти ці виклики та розробляти відповідні стратегії для їхнього врегулювання та мінімізації негативного впливу. В цілому, застосування розумних технологій дозволяє маркетологам зосередитись на стратегічних завданнях та досягати кращих результатів з меншими зусиллями та витратами. А впровадження штучного інтелекту в маркетингові стратегії є невід'ємною умовою для підприємств, що прагнуть зберігати свою конкурентоспроможність.
ВАГОМІСТЬ ВПЛИВУ НЕМАТЕРІАЛЬНИХ ЧИННИКІВ НА МОТИВАЦІЮ ПЕРСОНАЛУ ПІДПРИЄМСТВА
Authors: Romaniuk M.D. , Romaniuk T.M.
Published: July 2023

Інтеграція української економіки до ЄС та в інші міжнародні структури вимагає кардинальних змін у мотивації трудового та ін­телектуального потенціалу персоналу підпри­ємств.  Мета мотивації - це одержання найвищої віддачі від використання наявного працересурсного потенціалу, що дозволяє підвищити загальну ефективність і прибутковість діяльності підприємств з ефективним застосуванням матеріальних і нематеріальних чинників. У статті розглянуто вплив нематеріальних чинників на мотивацію персоналу підприємства. Визначено, що ефективність системи мотивації за нинішніх умов передбачає присутність не лише матеріальних чинників, таких як високий дохід, але і нематеріальних, що пов'язані з стабільністю місця роботи, з досягненням власних цілей, бажанням проявляти ініціативу і відповідальність. Це пов'язано з тим, мотиваційні стимули включають лише матеріальну складову, залишаючи поза увагою нематеріальну, а тому запропоновано формування такого мотиваційного механізму, який має враховувати як матеріальну мотивацію, так і виявлення та реалізацію нематеріальних чинників мотивації праці персоналу підприємства. З’ясовано  та охарактеризовано, що до основних нематеріальних чинників які спонукають персонал до більш ефективної роботи належать: належні умови праці; соціально-психологічний клімат; особистий приклад керівника.; індивідуальний підхід до працівника; термін виконання поставлених завдань; врахування інтересів та можливостей працівника; підтримка працівників у безперервному навчанні,підвищенні кваліфікації а також можливості саморозвитку та самовираження працівників. Обґрунтовано, що до нетрадиційних методів мотивування персоналу відносяться моральні стимули, патерналізинг, організаційні стимули участь в управлінні, кар’єра і розвиток, участь у прибутку та капіталі. Запропоновано широко застосовувати нетрадиційні види нематеріальної мотивації і, зокрема,: інструментальний, професійний, патріотичний, господарський.
Growing local:
Authors: Music Janet , Mullins Lisa , Charlebois Sylvain , Large Charlotte
Published: July 2023

Home food gardening has seen a resurgence since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. This article presents the preliminary findings from the first 6 months of a 22-month home food gardening study in Nova Scotia, Canada. Participant home food gardeners were asked to log their weekly gardening activities and their household food expenses. Diary entries show how their home food production fostered community connections, occasioned new social interactions, and fed households. Diaries show that participants enjoyed growing food and felt a sense of accomplishment in their gardening. Growing food from seed is not an easy endeavour, especially in Nova Scotia: it is time consuming and often involves manual labour in addition to having expertise. Home food gardening presents an opportunity to impact household and community food security, albeit in specific ways. This is timely research, as the COVID-19 pandemic has brought household food supply into renewed focus for many Canadians.
Opportunities for wood plastic composite products in the U.S. highway construction sector
Authors: Thompson Derek W. , Hansen Eric N. , Knowles Chris , Muszynski Lech
Published: July 2023

The aim of this research is to examine the market potential for wood plastic composite (WPC) products in the highway construction sector in place of non-renewable materials (e.g. virgin plastic and steel) and preservative-based products (treated wood). State-level transportation officials indicate that the majority of highway construction purchases are conducted by highway construction contractors. Results from a mail survey of highway contractors in eight western U.S. states indicate that a substantial volume of highway construction material may be suitable for substitution with WPCs. Overall, respondents were not familiar with WPC as a material, but compared it favorably with other materials commonly used in the sector. When making purchase decisions, respondents were most concerned with products meeting regulatory specifications, cost, availability, and trust in quality. Attributes related to sustainability, location of manufacture, and content of recycled material were viewed as less important.
Novel use of waste keratin and cotton linter fibers for prototype tissue papers and their evaluation
Authors: Shi Bo , Shannon Tom G. , Pelky Ellen
Published: July 2023

Corporate environmental sustainability calls for sustainable product manufacturing with less creation of waste material or increased reuse of waste materials. One example is the use of keratin fiber from the poultry industry and cotton linter from the textile industry for paper and tissue manufacturing. In this paper, the feasibility of using these waste fibers to make paper was demonstrated in handsheets. The properties of these handsheets were compared to the properties of handsheets made with standard bleached eucalyptus tropical hardwood fibers. A blend of cotton linter and keratin fibers at 80/20 and 60/40 ratios showed a 59% and 73% improvement in sheet bulk, respectively, compared to eucalyptus handsheets. Similarly, air permeability of the cotton / keratin fiber handsheets improved 414% and 336%, respectively, versus the eucalyptus. However, the tensile index of the cotton and keratin fiber blends was lower than the eucalyptus sheets. There was no remarkable difference in water absorbency up to 20% keratin fiber. Above 20% of keratin fibers the water absorbency started to decrease, which is likely attributable to the hydrophobic nature of the protein-based keratin fiber.
Research concerning the use of beechwood prehydrolysates to grow yeasts
Authors: Stanciu Constantin
Published: July 2023

This paper reports results concerning characterization and improvement of biological quality of beechwood prehydrolysate in order to adapt the Candida Scottii yeast to this nutritive medium. Some difficult aspects caused by the presence of lignin compounds in the prehydrolysate are mentioned. Studies carried out also made it possible to evaluate yeasts as regards the chemical composition and their nutritive value, tested in case of a mixed fodder used for chicken breeding.
One and two stage autohydrolysis pretreatments for enzyme hydrolysis of coastal Bermuda grass to produce fermentable sugars
Authors: Lee Jung Myoung , Jameel Hasan , Venditti Richard A.
Published: July 2023

Coastal Bermuda grass (CBG) is an agricultural residue with considerable potential as a feedstock for lignocellulosic-based ethanol. The treatment of biomass with water at high temperature, termed autohydrolysis, can be used to recover sugars in the filtrate and to improve enzyme digestibility of the pretreated solids. The effect of a two- stage autohydrolysis process with respect to total sugar recovery relative to a one stage process was investigated. CBG was subjected to lab scale one-stage (150, 160, and 170 °C) and two-stage (150/170 °C and 160/170 °C) isothermal autohydrolysis processes followed by enzyme hydrolysis on the residual solids with different loadings (5 to 30 FPU/g). Two-stage autohydrolysis (160/170 °C) solubilized 94.2% of the hemicellulose based on the original CBG material but only 17.7% of the cellulose and 30.4% of the lignin. Increases in the severity factor (a combination of time and temperature) of autohydrolysis pretreatments decreased the recoverable carbohydrates and total solids. Two-stage autohydrolysis enhanced enzyme digestibility of the cellulose in pretreated solids relative to one-stage autohydrolysis, especially at higher values of FPU/g. The overall total theoretical sugar recovery achievable by the two stage process was 57.8% and for the one stage process only 51.6% with 30 FPU/g. This marginal increase would have to be considered relative to increased complexity of operations when deciding whether to implement one or two stage autohydrolysis.
Specific resistance and specific intensity of belt sanding of wood
Authors: Porankiewicz Bolesław , Banski Adrián , Wieloch Grzegorz
Published: July 2023

This paper estimates and discusses the specific belt sanding resistance K (N·cm-2) and specific belt sanding intensity SI (g·cm-2·min-1), for wood of Pinus sylvestris L., Picea abies L., Quercus robra L., Acer pseudoplatanus L., Alnus glutinosa Gaertn., and Populus Nigra L., by different sanding pressure pS, different sanding grit NG number, and different wood grain angles Phi(v).
Influence of steam pressure on the physico-chemical properties of degraded hemicelluloses obtained from steam-exploded Lespedeza stalks
Authors: Wang Kun , Jiang Jian-Xin , Xu Feng , Sun Run-Cang , Baird Mark S.
Published: July 2023

Steam explosion pretreatment was used to release hemicelluloses from the stalks of Lespedeza crytobotrya, a potential woody biomass crop. Hemicelluloses from Lespedeza crytobotrya subjected to five different pretreatment severities were extracted with 60% aqueous ethanol solution containing 1% NaOH, characterized by component analysis, gel permeation chromatography (GPC), FT-IR, NMR spectroscopy, and thermal analysis, and compared with hemicelluloses obtained from untreated stalks. It was found that the hemicellulosic fractions mainly consisted of arabinoxylans and β-glucans or xyloglucans. Steam explosion pretreatment yielded noticeable degradation and debranching reactions, illustrated by a linear decrease of molecular weight and Ara/Xyl ratio with increasing severity. For further high-value utilization of the hemicellulosic polymers, steam explosion at 20 or 22.5 kg/m2 for 4 min is promising because of improved extraction efficiency and avoidance of over-drastic degradation of the polymers.
Effect of positional density on DC conductivity of bamboo fibre
Authors: Chand Navin , Sharma Janu , Bapat M. N. , Nigrawal Archana
Published: July 2023

In the present communication, the effect of positional density on the DC electrical conductivity of bamboo fibres was studied. A comparative study was made between the DC conductivity behavior of bamboo fibres taken from upper and lower portions of bamboo. Four samples from each portion going from centre to periphery were taken. Bamboo fibers taken from the upper portion were less dense, hence showing lower values of DC conductivity. In spite of the lower portion of bamboo being more dense, it showed higher values of DC conductivity, which is attributed to moisture content. Bamboo fibres from centre to periphery were taken from the strips cut at 2 mm distance from centre. The DC conductivity increased from centre to periphery. A theoretical model was developed and verified with the experimental results. It was also found that experimentally determined σdc values of bamboo fibres taken from different radial locations from center to periphery were in agreement with those values obtained from the proposed equation.
Nanocomposites of poly(lactic acid) reinforced with cellulose nanofibrils
Authors: Qu Ping , Gao Yuan , Wu Guo-feng , Zhang Li-ping
Published: July 2023

A chemo-mechanical method was used to prepare cellulose nanofibrils dispersed uniformly in an organic solvent. Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG 1000) was added to the matrix as a compatibilizer to improve the interfacial interaction between the hydrophobic poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and the hydrophilic cellulose nanofibrils. obtained by solvent casting methods from N,N-Dimethylacetamide (DMAc) were characterized by tensile testing machine, atomic force microscope (AFM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The tensile test results indicated that, by adding PEG to the PLA and the cellulose nanofibrils matrix, the tensile strength and the elongation rate increased by 56.7% and 60%, respectively, compared with the PLA/cellulose nanofibrils composites. The FT-IR analysis successfully showed that PEG improved the intermolecular interaction, which is based on the existence of inter-molecular hydrogen bonding among PLA, PEG, and cellulose nanofibrils.
Utilization of olive mill sludge in the manufacture of fiberboard
Authors: Ayrilmis Nadir , Buyuksari Umit
Published: July 2023

The objective of this research was to investigate the utilization of olive mill sludge (OMS) as an alternative to wood in the manufacture of the medium density fiberboard (MDF). The MDF panels were manufactured using standardized procedures that simulated industrial production at the laboratory. Six panel types were made from various mixtures of hardwood fiber/dried OMS flour, 100/0, 90/10, 80/20, 70/30, 60/40, and 50/50 (by weight) percents, respectively. With increasing OMS flour content, the flexural properties of the panels, modulus of rupture and modulus of elasticity, decreased by 31.0% and 29.2% as compared to panels without OMS flour, respectively. However, the water resistance was improved by the addition of the OMS flour up to 20 wt % content. For example, the thickness swelling and water absorption values of the panels containing 20% OMS flour were 17.3% and 59.5%, while they were found for the panels without OMS flour as 21.5% and 75.6%, respectively. The findings obtained in the study showed that the OMS was capable of serving as lignocellulosic raw material in the manufacture of the MDF.
Historical landmarks of diagnostic and therapeutic laparoscopy in general surgery in Romania
Authors: Nicolau Alexandru Eugen
Published: July 2023

-It is a historical performance of Romanian surgery that should be known.
The management of Clostridioides difficile infection: from empirism to evidence
Authors: Deac Ioana Ș. , Ofrim Adriana M. , Fărcaș Radu A. , Grad Simona , Popa Ștefan Lucian , Dumitrașcu Dan L
Published: July 2023

Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) in clinical practice represents a challenge for its management and also prevention of recurrence. Even though there are updated guidelines for infection prevention, control and treatment, CDI remains a leading cause of healthcare acquired diarrhea with increasing incidence in the community. We present here a synthesis of the most recent international guidelines on the management of CDI.

In 2021 updated guidelines on the treatment of CDI in adults were published by the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) and the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA), American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) and the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ESCMID). These guidelines focused on CDI management in adults, including new data on the clinical efficacy of Fidaxomicin (FDX) and Bezlotoxumab. The 2017 publication of IDSA and SHEA - Clinical Practice Guidelines for Clostridium difficile infection also included pediatric treatment recommendations that are not a part of the 2021 update. Vancomycin (VAN) treatment for an initial CDI episode remains an acceptable alternative to FDX, considering the monetary and logistical challenge of acquiring FDX.

There is growing literature on fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) and the 2021 guidelines describe its role in severe complicated refractory CDI cases and for which surgical management is not feasible. Moreover, there are new data on the secondary prophylaxis with VAN in refractory CDI in patients with risk factors who receive broad spectrum antibiotics.
Current aspects in biobanking for personalised oncology investigations and treatments
Authors: Policiuc Liliana , Nutu Andreea , Zanoaga Oana , Mehterov Nikolay , Braicu Cornelia , Berindan-Neagoe Ioana
Published: July 2023

Background/Aim. A biobank is an organization that gathers, refines, preserves and provides access to biospecimens along with relevant clinical data that can be used in applied or clinical research. Biobanking is a critical component of the scientific foundation for personalized medicine; this implies the accessibility of high-quality human biospecimens, such as blood, tissue, and other body fluids, along with the patient clinical data that goes with them.

Methods. This paper summarizes the function of biobanks in oncology and the requirements for biobank development in translational and clinical research.

Results. Biobanks raise numerous ethical issues that government agencies address by enacting particular laws. To develop personalized medicine, biobanks are crucial, given that the availability of an extensive collection of patient samples with thoroughly annotated clinical and pathological data is an essential necessity. Also, data related to biobanking raises complex ethical, legal, and social issues, particularly concerning the protection of donor privacy and the appropriate use of collected samples. International standards have been developed to address these issues to ensure biobanking practices’ quality, safety, and integrity.

Conclusions. Biobanking is vital in advancing biomedical research, supporting clinical applications, and enhancing our understanding of human health and disease. Using real-world data and biobanking can accelerate medical research, support personalized medicine initiatives, and improve patient care.
THE IMAGE OF SHAKESPEARE AND SHAKESPEAREAN THEATRE IN SIGIZMUND KRZHIZHANOVSKY’S WORKS
Authors: Zhatkin Dmitry , Serdechnaia Vera V
Published: July 2023

The authors analyze the corpus of Shakespearean and theater studies by a Russian writer and thinker Sigizmund Krzhizhanovsky (1887–1950), who wrote about Shakespeare since the 1920s. The purpose of the work was to review and streamline the principles of analysis of the image of Shakespeare and Shakespeare’s theater, Shakespeare’s dramaturgy in Krzhizhanovsky’s heritage, taking into account the newly discovered archival documents. The authors explore the works of Krzhizhanovsky as a kind of metatext, representing a look at Shakespeare from the standpoint of a figure of the Silver Age. Krzhizhanovsky, who did not follow the path of academic literary criticism or art criticism, in his essayistic studies evaluates the path of Shakespeare’s creativity and theater as a salvation from the temptation of metaphysical philosophy; he analyzes the nature of Shakespeare’s theater based on the concepts of time, ways of perception, gives a number of brilliant genre definitions for tragedy and comedy, explores the structure of Shakespeare’s play; he does all this in the context of his own time. At the same time, the authors detect certain dynamics: Krzhizhanovsky reasons about Shakespeare with global philosophical generalizations, where Shakespeare is a synonym for theater and theatricality; in the finale, in the 1940s, he goes deeper and focuses on private moments of creativity, such as Shakespeare’s “songs,” images of children in his plays, and so on.
Condition absolute stability of system with nano piezoactuator for astrophysics research
Authors: SM Afonin
Published: July 2023

For the nano piezoactuator with hysteresis in control system its set of equilibrium positions is the segment of line. By applying Yakubovich criterion for system with the nano piezoactuator the condition absolute stability of system is evaluated.