bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship Between Serum Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Levels and Neurological Complications in Patients with Intracranial Tumor
Authors: Fitri Fasihah Irfani , Salsabila Khansa , Nasution Irina Kemala
Published: December 2024

Background and Aim: Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) plays a vital role in neuronal survival and plasticity. Deficits in BDNF are associated with neurological disorders, including complications such as delirium and seizures in patients with intracranial tumors. This study aimed to explore the relationship between serum BDNF levels and neurological complications in intracranial tumor patients.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Adam Malik Hospital, Medan, from August to October 2024, involving patients diagnosed with intracranial tumors. Serum BDNF levels were measured, delirium was assessed using the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM), and seizures were observed clinically.
Results: Among 50 patients (58% female, mean age 50.56 years), delirium was the most common neurological complication (32%). One-Way ANOVA revealed a significant association between BDNF levels and neurological complications (p < 0.001). Post-hoc analysis showed significant differences between groups (p < 0.001), but no significant difference was found between the seizure and non-complication groups (p > 0.05).
Conclusion: Lower BDNF levels are significantly associated with delirium in intracranial tumor patients, suggesting that BDNF may serve as a potential biomarker for neurological complications in this population.
Insights into structural and magnetic properties of Lanthanum Manganite ceramic co-doped with calcium and cobalt
Authors: Sharma R. , Kumar P , Anil Anil
Published: December 2024

A polycryst alline ceramic sample of calcium and cobalt co-doped Lanthanum Manganite (LCMCO) was synthesized via the autocombustion route and subjected to comprehensive characterization using various analytical techniques, namely XRD, SEM, FTIR and VSM. The sharp peaks are observed on XRD analysis conducted at room temperature, confirming the formation of single-phase compound with orthorhombic crystal structure and Pbnm space group. The lattice parameters were calculated using the Rietveld refinement tool Fullprof and are as follows: a = 5.4989 Å, b = 5.4265 Å, and c = 7.7217 Å. The XRD data also provided information on interplanar d spacing, atomic locations and other structural factors. Further examination through FESEM affirmed the diverse shapes and sizes of the prepared samples. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy unveiled a broad peak at 615 cm-1, corroborating the presence of metal-oxygen bonds organized into MnO6 octahedral structures. Magnetic studies employing VSM disclosed the antiferromagnetic nature of the prepared samples. The AFM nature and precise lattice structure make this compound a potential candidate for magnetic refrigeration system. Moreover, the diverse morphology along with AFM nature make them suitable for magnetic sensor applications.
Analyzing Queuing-Inventory Systems with Customer Attraction-Retention andAsynchronous Vacations: The Ethio Telecom Case
Authors: Alemu Berhanu Mekonen , Thillaigovindan Natesan , Wole Getinet Alemayehu
Published: December 2024

Quality of Service (QoS) is a critical factor for businesses, directly impacting customer satisfaction and competitiveness. At Ethio Telecom in Ethiopia, effective mechanisms for attracting and retaining impatient customers are essential. Additionally , incorporating synchronous or asynchronous server vacations enhances the realism of queuing-inventory systems. Multi-server vacation models offer greater flexibility and applicability than single-server systems. This paper examines a finite-capacity, multi-server, Markovian queuing-inventory system (MQIS) with attraction-retention mechanisms for impatient customers and C-removable servers under an asynchronous vacation policy. In this model, D (0 < D < C) servers take a vacation together when no customers are waiting at a service completion epoch, while the remaining (C − D) servers either continue serving (if inventory permits) or remain idle (if inventory is depleted). Service and vacation times follow independent exponential distributions, and inventory is managed with a (0, q, Q) ordering policy, which triggers an order to replenish inventory to Q when levels drop to q (q < Q). Using Markov process theory, we develop the queuing-inventory model, derive its steady-state solutions, and compute various performance metrics. Additionally, we propose a cost-loss model to determine the optimal service rate and the optimal number of vacationing servers, applying a genetic algorithm for cost analysis. Finally, we explore how system parameters influence the optimal number of vacationing servers, inventory policy, and cost-loss value. The model is illustrated using data from Ethio Telecom?s service center in Arba Minch City, Ethiopia, with potential applications in supermarkets , telecommunication centers, and restaurants. Future research may examine queuing-inventory systems with batch services, retrial customers, and warehouse disruptions.
Lamb Performance and Meat Quality: The Impact of Chromium in High-Concentrate Diets and Its Molecular Effects on Skeletal Muscle During Finishing phase
Authors: Bezerra Helena Viel Alves , Ramírez-Zamudio German Darío , Santana Miguel Henrique Almeida , Polizel Guilherme , Oliveira Regner Ítalo Gonçalves , Rissi Guilherme Pegoraro , Filho André Ricardo Frujuelle , Poleti Mirele Daiana , Velloso Leonardo , Silva Thiago Henrique , Gallo Sarita Bonagurio , Silva Saulo da Luz e , Cônsolo Nara Regina Brandão , Leme Paulo Roberto
Published: December 2024

Chromium is an essential trace mineral in insulin-mediated glucose metabolism, potentially affecting protein synthesis and improving performance and meat quality. This study aimed to assess the impact of chromium on performance, carcass characteristics, meat quality, and the gene expression in the skeletal muscle of lambs fed a high high-concentrate diet. Sixteen just just-weaned Dorper × Santa Inês crossbred lambs, weighing 24.95 ± 1.97 kg, were allocated into a control group, basal diet without chromium in the diet supplementation (CTL) or chromium supplementation (Cr3.0), with the addition of 3.0 mg of chromium per kg of dry matter (Cr3.0DM). The animals were housed in individual pens and fed a diet comprising 6% forage and 94% concentrate for 60 days. We evaluated average daily gain (ADG), dry matter intake (DMI), feed efficiency (FE), carcass characteristics, meat quality, and muscle transcriptome. Chromium supplementation increased ADG (P = 0.048) and tended to improve FE (P = 0.08). Further, chromium supplementation increased kidney, pelvic, and heart fat (P ≤ 0.05). In meat, a reduction in cooking losses and an increase in shear force were observed in the meat of lambs treated with chromium -treated lambs (P ≤ 0.05). Transcriptome analysis revealed 21 differentially expressed genes, with 9 downregulated genes, including COX6C, TMED5, ODC1, HNRNPA1, and 12 upregulated genes, such as RPL39, RPL35A, RPS25, NSA2, RRM2, GCNT1, associated with pathways of ribosome biogenesis, protein synthesis, collagen remodeling, and fat metabolism. In conclusion, dietary chromium supplementation at 3.0 mg/kg DM can improve performance and efficiency without affecting carcass characteristics. In the meat, chromium reduced cooking losses increasing potentially its juiciness, but reduced its tenderness related to juiciness but worsens meat tenderness.
Evaluating the Efficacy of Nano-Cyclosporine A in Mice Model of Ulcerative Colitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mehreen Aqsa , Batool Faiza , Awan Uzma Azeem , Shabnam Nadia , Haider Adnan , Aslam Shaista , Ghazanfer Madiha , Ud-Din Fakhar , Siddique Muhammad Irfan , Naeem Muhammad , Saeed Rida Fatima
Published: December 2024

Background
Cyclosporine A is an immunosuppressive drug used in clinics to treat steroid-refractory ulcerative colitis (UC). However, due to its side effects, researchers are evaluating novel drug delivery-based treatment options. Nanoparticles-based cyclosporine (Nano-CSA) offers a promising option for the treatment of UC and various in-vivo studies on animals have been conducted. This meta-analysis was performed to clarify the effects of using Nano-CSA based formulations in the mouse UC model.
Methods
A systemic literature search was conducted on five different electronic databases (ScienceDirect, PubMed, Embase, PMC and Cochrane) including the timeline of 2016-2024. The search terms include “Nanoparticles”, “Ulcerative Colitis”, and “Cyclosporine A”. The primary outcomes include histological scores, and colon length. The Nano-CSA effects on UC was assessed by analyzing the difference between the treatment and control groups through the use of standardized mean difference (SMD). A fixed effect model was used to conduct this meta-analysis.
Results
The total number of included studies for this systematic review was six and a meta-analysis was performed on four studies. Four studies measured histological score and colon length, and two studies have measured other secondary outcomes (IL-6, TNF-α, and MPO (Myeloperoxidase activity)). Meta-analysis results have demonstrated that there is an increase in colon length with SMD of 3.966 and a decrease in histological score with SMD of 10.956 in Nano-CSA treated group. There was also a decrease in the MPO activity and levels of Pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α and IL-6 in the Nano-CSA treated group. Colon length, MPO activity, and TNF-α expression demonstrated heterogeneity values of 84.638, 86.113, and 51.567 respectively.
Conclusion
The results of this meta-analysis have demonstrated the potential therapeutic efficiency of Nano-CSA for the treatment of UC. Further research is required to find nanotechnology-based novel therapeutic options for the treatment of UC.
CDF2S: Improving stroke prediction with cluster-based under sampling and interpretable deep forest model
Authors: Lixueping First
Published: December 2024

Stroke is a series of symptoms caused by the occlusion or hemorrhage of blood vessels supplying the brain. Cells in the affected central area of the brain can die within minutes, leading to irreversible damage. Currently, the optimal solution is early prevention based on relevant risk factors. However, imbalances in medical data can cause the performance of predictive models to degrade. In recent years, research on imbalanced data issues has mainly focused on undersampling the majority class while neglecting the minority class. In this paper, we propose a novel stroke prediction method, CDF2S, which combines a cluster-based undersampling algorithm (CBUC) and a deep forest model. CDF2S utilizes the CBUC algorithm to cluster the minority class into K clusters and splits the samples within each cluster into training and testing sets to enhance the diversity and richness of the training samples. Based on the results of 10-fold cross-validation, CDF2S outperforms state-of-the-art methods, with core metrics of accuracy, Gmean, and AUC improving by 6, 4, and 4 percentage points, respectively. Additionally, we calculate the Gini impurity of input features using the mean decrease impurity (MDI) method and conduct an interpretability analysis of the model. Detailed data and code can be found at: https://github.com/hvskghdghsjsv/CDF2S-celebral-stroke-prediction
Contact electrification of organic liquid - metal interface induced by energy level shift
Authors: Zhao Cunlu , Jiao Kai , Xian Lei , Chen Bohao , Wang Qiuwang
Published: December 2024

Liquid-solid contact electrification (L-S CE) has become a widely researched topic in recent years, presenting innovative approaches to enhancing traditional power supply methods. However, most research on L-S CE has predominantly concentrated on electrolyte solutions interacting with solid surfaces. In this study, we systematically explored, for the first time, the L-S interface formed between non-electrolytes (organic solvents) and metals. Our experiments demonstrated that a simple system composed of two dissimilar metal electrodes and pure ethanol can achieve a maximum open-circuit voltage (VOC) of 578 mV, short-circuit current (ISC) of 744 nA, and an output power density of 62.29 nW/cm². Density Functional Theory (DFT) and Molecular Dynamics (MD) calculations revealed that the formation of the L-S interface between the organic solvent and metal induces a vacuum energy level shift, facilitating spontaneous electron transfer, which underpins the generation of electrical signals. Furthermore, by integrating DFT calculations with experimental measurements, we investigated the electron transfer characteristics of various metals and organic solvents, and measured their corresponding VOC, establishing a clear relationship between them. Finally, the metal-organic solvent system developed in this study can amplify electrical signals through straightforward series and parallel connections. This work establishes a robust foundation for further exploration of non-electrolyte applications in the field of L-S CE.
Changing water availability and demand shift global greening to regional browning
Authors: Orth Rene , Denissen Jasper , Kroll Josephin , O Sungmin , Bastos Ana , Li Wantong , Miralles Diego , Ruiz-Vasquez Melissa , Dijke Anne Hoek van , Feldman Andrew , Migliavacca Mirco , Wang-Erlandsson Lan , Stocker Benjamin , Teuling Adriaan J. , Yang Hui , Zhan Chunhui , Yu Xin
Published: December 2024

The Earth is greening in many regions due to increased temperature, higher atmospheric CO2 concentration, and land use change. However, while climate change has been accelerating, greening has not kept pace in many regions. Here, we show that decreasing water availability and increasing atmospheric water demand are regionally coinciding with browning trends over recent decades. In affected tropical regions, a regression analysis considering a comprehensive set of hydro-meteorological variables confirms that both water availability and atmospheric water demand are dominant drivers of inter-annual variability in Leaf Area Index (LAI). Earth system models mostly reproduce the observed spatial extent of browning and related coinciding water changes in the multi-model mean, while simulations from individual models differ strongly. Our results provide a new constraint for related model development and underscore the need for enhanced monitoring and consideration of observation-based water availability trends as an emerging driver of vegetation in future analyses and model development.
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 2b trial using the novel predictive genetic biomarker DGM4 for liafensine in treatment-resistant depression
Authors: Spear Matthew , Wang Gang , Aguado Mario , Alphs Larry , Chen Crystal , Huang Holly , Lu Xiao-Xiong , Doostzadeh Julie , Wu Shaohui , Wang Shikai , Patel Ashook , Nemeroff Charles , Wang Zhiqiang , Luo Wen
Published: December 2024

Prior clinical trials evaluating liafensine for treatment-resistant depression (TRD) in unselected patients did not demonstrate benefit vs controls. A novel pharmacogenomic biomarker, DGM4, was discovered as a predictor of liafensine’s efficacy and assessed in this new prospective clinical trial. In this biomarker-guided, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase 2b trial, 189 DGM4-positive TRD patients were randomized 1:1:1 to once daily oral liafensine 1 mg, 2 mg, or placebo. The Montgomery Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) total score change at Day 42 was 15.4±0.90 for liafensine vs 11.0±1.31 for placebo (p=0.0056). Statistically significant improvements were also seen in all secondary endpoints. Adverse events were tolerable with low rates of meaningful events. Liafensine was efficacious and well tolerated in DGM4-positive TRD patients with statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvements, validating DGM4 as a predictive biomarker for liafensine. This represents one of the first pharmacogenomic biomarkers validated in a randomized clinical trial in psychiatry.
Identification of Salt Tolerance and Stress Response in US Department of Agriculture Tomato Germplasm at the Seedling Stage
Authors: Alatawi Ibtisam , Xiong Haizheng , Chiwina Kenani , Alkabkabi Hanan , Luo Qun , Joshi Neelendra K. , Sun Xiaolun , Zhuang Xuan , Ling Kai-Shu , Shi Ainong
Published: December 2024

Soil salinity is a significant abiotic factor that impedes sustainable crop production in key agricultural regions worldwide. Saline cultivation adversely affects soil quality, whereas the use of saline water for irrigation disrupts the physiological and biochemical processes of plants. Continuous irrigation with high salt concentrations leads to a gradual buildup of soil salinity, thus hindering optimal plant growth and development. Consequently, there is a growing emphasis on breeding salinity-tolerant cultivars of various crops. In this study, 71 tomato accessions sourced from 20 countries and provided by the US Department of Agriculture were evaluated under controlled greenhouse conditions and subjected to saline stress (200 mM NaCl). The experiment used a split-plot design, with the salt treatment serving as the main plot and the tomato accession as the subplot, which were arranged in a completely randomized design with three replications. Results identified nine accessions (PI 109837, PI 127820, PI 270256, PI 634828, PI 636205, PI 636255, PI 647143, PI 647528, and PI 647556) as salt-tolerant. Additionally, high broad-sense heritability was observed for the leaf injury score and leaf chlorophyll content. Furthermore, positive correlations were found among parameters related to the leaf injury score and leaf chlorophyll content (soil plant analysis development value). These findings offer valuable insights for tomato breeding programs, particularly those focused on enhancing salt tolerance of elite cultivars of this crucial crop.
Comparative Effects of Superhydrophobic Sand and Plastic Mulches on Growth and Yield of Sweet Pepper (Capsicum annum L.) under Arid Environments
Authors: Odokonyero Kennedy , Mousa Magdi A.A. , ElSayed Mohamed I. , Alqurashi Adel D. , Gallo Adair , Mishra Himanshu
Published: December 2024

Superhydrophobic sand (SHS) is a plastic-free mulching technology that reduces surface evaporation of water from irrigated soils. Here, we present the results of two experimental field trials conducted in the 2019–20 and 2021–22 cropping seasons, comparing the efficacy of SHS with those of traditional plastic mulches on the growth and yield performance of sweet pepper (Capsicum annum L.) plants. The experiments were conducted at the King Abdulaziz University (KAU) agriculture research station at Hada Al-Sham (21˚48′3″N, 39˚43′25″E), Al-Jamoom, Saudi Arabia. The effects of bare soil (i.e., control treatment), 5 mm SHS thickness, and 10 mm SHS thickness, along with white and black plastic mulches (120-μm-thick polyethylene) were recorded on the plants via a randomized complete block design with three replicate plots. We found significant benefits of all of the mulches during the 2021–22 season, as evidenced by 51% (P < 0.001), 31% (P = 0.0102), and 32% (P = 0.0048) more fruits for the 10-mm SHS, white plastic, and black plastic mulches, respectively, compared with the unmulched controls. Consequently, the total fruit yield per plant increased by 112% (P = 0.000), 71% (P < 0.001), and 83% (P < 0.001), under 10 mm SHS, white plastic, and black plastic mulches, respectively. Curiously, the field trial conducted in 2019 in an adjacent field did not reveal significant benefits of SHS, which we attribute partially to erratic rain showers and field heterogeneity. Taken together, this study and our previous work show that 10-mm-thick SHS mulch is optimal for boosting irrigation efficiency in regions where water is a limiting factor. Unlike plastic mulches, SHS biodegrades in <1 year and becomes a part of the sandy soil matrix, thereby obviating landfilling. Thus, the benefits of SHS exceed those of plastic mulches in terms of closing the yield gap and carbon footprint. These findings underscore the potential of SHS as a sustainable solution for growing plants in hot and dry arid regions in Saudi Arabia and globally.
Physiological and Biochemical Responses of Plants to Rooftop and Ground-level Conditions in Urban Green Spaces
Authors: Shehzad Mehak , Younis Adnan , Mehmood Kashf , Alfagham Alanoud T. , Alamri Saud , Rais Afroz , Khan Shahbaz
Published: December 2024

An understanding of plant adaptation to rooftop environments is essential for improvising urban greening strategies; however, limited research has systematically examined the physiological and biochemical responses of plants at urban rooftops. This study addressed this gap by evaluating physiological and biochemical alterations of six herbaceous perennial species, Rosa hybrids, Murraya paniculata, Cestrum nocturnum, Pittosporum tenuifolium, Duranta, and Hibiscus rosa sinensis, cultivated in an intensive rooftop garden environment vs. optimal ground conditions. These species, acclimatized to the local climate of Pakistan, were assessed to determine the transpiration rate, photosynthetic rate, chlorophyll contents, and respiration rate using on-site measurements and standardized leaf tissue analyses. The results demonstrated significant differences in physiological and biochemical parameters between rooftop and ground-level plants. Seasonal variations and elevation profoundly influenced plant physiology and significant biochemical alterations observed in response to rooftop conditions. Photosynthetic and transpiration rates were reduced by up to 30% in winter under low light conditions, while summer conditions led to a 25% increase in transpiration rates for rooftop plants. Ground-level plants exhibited the highest respiration rates during the summer season. A leaf analysis revealed that rooftop-grown plants exhibited higher pH levels and 15% increased chlorophyll and ascorbic acid contents but 20% lower water use efficiency compared with their ground-level counterparts. Despite this, rooftop plants showed a 10% higher air pollution tolerance index. Pearson’s correlation analysis confirmed a strong positive relationship between most biochemical parameters and physiological activities with increased elevation, except for relative water content, which exhibited a negative correlation under rooftop conditions. The results indicated that those plants on rooftops exhibited reduced water use efficiency compared with that of ground-level plants undergoing distinct physiological and biochemical adaptations and showed more resilience to the pollution index in response to urban rooftop conditions. These findings provide new insights into plant adaptability in urban environments and can transform future strategies for sustainable urban greening and species selection in roof garden systems.
Evaluation of Legume Cover Crop Species for Citrus Production in Southeast Florida
Authors: Hallman Lukas M. , Fox John-Paul , Beany Audrey H. , Wright Alan L. , Rossi Lorenzo
Published: December 2024

Because of the low fertility soils native to southeast Florida and the high nutrient demand of citrus trees under citrus greening—an endemic bacterial disease impacting nutrient uptake—growers are returning to the use of cover crops to improve soil fertility. Cover crops, specifically legumes, can improve soil nitrogen (N) availability because of their ability to fix N from the atmosphere. More citrus growers in southeast Florida are growing cover crops; however, there is a lack of recent research of suitable legume species and their impact on soil N cycling. To address this gap in the literature, six different treatments consisting of five legume species monocultures and one fallow plot (control) were organized into a completely randomized design. The experiment was conducted twice under warm and cool season conditions, and each treatment was replicated five times (n = 5), for a total of 30 experimental plots. Legume species were hairy indigo (Indigofera hirsuta), sunn hemp (Crotalaria juncea), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata), alfalfa (Medicago sativa), and aeschynomene (Aeschynomene americana). Biomass production, N concentration, and nodule characteristics as well as their impact on soil N were measured over a 1-year span in both warm and cool seasons. Overall, both cowpea and hairy indigo produced more biomass and, as a result, higher tissue N compared with those of the other legumes at both 60 and 150 days after planting. However, no impact on soil N was observed. Additionally, all legumes were unable to survive in the cool season, resulting in no measurable biomass at 150 days after planting. These results are relevant for citrus growers aiming to enhance soil fertility through cover crops in southeast Florida. While several legume options are available for the warm season (e.g., cowpea, hairy indigo, and sunn hemp), suitable legume species for the cool season have yet to be identified.
Visual Evaluation of Tree Health in Belgrade’s Urban Forest: Čukarica Case Study
Authors: Mitrović Suzana Ž. , Veselinović Milorad M. , Čule Nevena M. , Stajić Snežana A. , Češljar Goran D. , Gagić-Serdar Renata P. , Milosavljević Marija D.
Published: December 2024

A visual assessment of tree conditions is essential for public safety and health because urban trees increase attractiveness and provide other benefits, including reducing global warming and air filtration. Unhealthy or damaged trees pose a concern, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive inspections to identify hazards such as decay or dead branches. The assessment of the trees within the green infrastructure of the brownfield in Belgrade, Serbia, indicated that 35.1% of the examined trees failed to satisfy the basic preservation standards, emphasizing the necessity for proactive strategies for management.
Floor Management and Amendment Applications Affected Dry-farmed Tomato Production during a 2020 Experiment in the Willamette Valley of Oregon
Authors: Davis Matthew , Gallagher Andy , Garrett Amy
Published: December 2024

‘Early Girl’ tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) was dry-farmed during 2020 to determine the effects of floor management and amendment treatments on the total and unblemished yields, average fruit weight, blossom-end rot (BER) incidence, sunscald incidence, plant size, soil water tension, predawn leaf water potential (PDLWP), and leaf and soil nutrient concentrations. Floor management treatments included leaf mulching (4 inches of semi-composted leaf mulch), dust mulching (mechanical tillage to a depth of 6 to 8 inches after rain events), and a weedy treatment (weeds were not controlled). Amendment treatments included high compost (additional 73.5 wet tons/acre), high nitrogen (N) (160 lb/acre N applied as composted chicken manure and feather meal), low N (40 lb/acre N), and gypsum (2075 lb/acre gypsum). All these treatments were compared with a clean-cultivated control fertilized at 100 lb/acre N. No floor management treatment performed better (referring to total yield, unblemished yield, fruit count, fruit weight, BER incidence, sunscald incidence, and PDLWP) than the clean-cultivated control, and the leaf mulch and weedy treatments performed significantly worse. The leaf mulch treatment decreased the average fruit weight (30%), increased the BER incidence (34%), and increased the necrotic BER incidence (88%) when compared with the control. However, the leaf mulch treatment also used soil moisture more slowly than the control did. The weedy treatment decreased total yields (65%) and unblemished yields (88%), decreased the total fruit count (53%), decreased the average fruit weight (25%), increased the BER incidence (53%) and necrotic BER incidence (82%), decreased PDLWP (suggesting that the plants were more drought-stressed) on 20 Jul (27%) and 3 Aug (44%), and resulted in smaller plants when compared with those treated with the control. No amendment treatment performed better than the control, and the high compost treatment performed significantly worse. When compared with the control, the high compost treatment decreased the average fruit weight (15%), increased the BER incidence (39%), increased the necrotic BER incidence (67%), and increased plant aboveground biomass at the end of the experiment (34%). Increasing applications of organic fertilizers increased the BER incidence, with 48% BER at 40 lb/acre N and 62% BER at 160 lb/acre N. These data suggest that excess fertilizer applications and factors that increase drought stress (e.g., weeds) induce BER in dry-farmed tomato. Dust mulching may not be necessary, and shallow cultivation can be used instead for weed management. Dry farmers in the Willamette Valley must control weeds and avoid excess soil fertility and leaf mulches because they can result in large plants with a large fruit set; however, these fruit are more susceptible to BER.
Kolaborasi Antara Orang Tua dan Guru dalam Model Pengasuhan Berbasis Pendidikan di PAUD
Authors: Afia Sariah , Malik Lina Revilla
Published: December 2024

This research discusses the collaboration between parents and teachers in an education-based parenting model in early childhood education (PAUD), which plays a crucial role in supporting the holistic development of young children. Based on the literature review, collaboration that includes communication, parental participation, and support for learning at home positively impacts children's academic and social-emotional development. Teachers, with their professional competencies, act as facilitators who can design activities according to the developmental needs of children, while parents support learning through emotional stability and educational values at home. However, challenges such as differing perceptions, time limitations, and economic backgrounds require inclusive strategies, such as family-centered education models that position families as key partners in education. This approach has proven effective in enhancing children's motivation to learn and strengthening the emotional connections between children, parents, and teachers. In conclusion, harmonious collaboration can create a holistic and sustainable ecosystem.
Penerapan Model Pembelajaran Kelompok Dalam Meningkatkan Motivasi Belajar Siswa Melalui Pendekatan Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP)
Authors: Rukiah  , Malik Lina Revilla
Published: December 2024

This study aims to: a) determine whether the application of the group learning model can increase the learning motivation of children aged 5-6 years; b) determine whether the use of the Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP) approach enhances the learning motivation of children aged 5-6 years; and c) examine how the application of the group learning model with the Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP) approach can improve learning motivation in children aged 5-6 years. This is a field study, and the data analysis technique used is qualitative descriptive. The data in this study were obtained through observation. Based on the research findings for children aged 5-6 years, the group learning model can increase students' learning motivation through the Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP) approach, where children are able to collaborate, discuss ideas, share, and take responsibility.
Examining mobile banking performance among college students in Indonesia
Authors: Simba Sembiring Muhammad , Maghfirah Rahmah Sembiring Sisi
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this study was to measure the performance of mobile banking by offering an integration from the diffusion of innovation and service convenience models among college students in Indonesia. This study uses a cross-sectional design with a survey study as a data acquisition strategy and the quantitative research type. The questionnaire was completed by 202 respondents from the University of North Sumatra, Telkom Mercubuana, Multimedia Nusantara, Bengkulu, Brawijaya, Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya, Negeri Jakarta, Tarumanagara, Trisakti, and Pembangunan Nasional Veteran, due to their active use of mobile banking. Data analysis used the partial least squares structural equation modeling approach, where the service convenience model was analyzed in the second order and the diffusion of innovation model was analyzed in the first order. The results prove that decision convenience, access convenience, transaction convenience, benefit convenience, and post-benefit convenience are the determining dimensions of service convenience and have a significant positive effect on mobile banking performance. In addition, compatibility also has a significant positive effect on mobile banking performance. However, relative advantage and complexity do not affect mobile banking performance.
Monetary policy, income inequality, and the need for flexibility: Evidence from Ukraine
Authors: Shapoval Yuliia , Bublyk Yevhen , Korablin Sergiy
Published: December 2024

The paper builds on the existing literature on monetary policy frameworks, exploring their role in balancing price stability, economic growth, and social equity. The aim is to analyze the influence of macroeconomic, in particular monetary, factors on income inequality in Ukraine. Using annual data from 1999 to 2021, the study employs multiple regression analysis to assess the impact of inflation, unemployment, monetization, and the key policy rate on income inequality. The results indicate that inflation and unemployment significantly contribute to rising inequality, while increased monetization and higher key policy rates reduce it. The findings underscore the need for a monetary policy framework that not only targets inflation but also addresses employment, as unemployment has a delayed yet substantial effect on inequality. Although the negative correlation between monetization and inequality suggests that efforts to curb inflation could inadvertently increase inequality, it also indicates that enhancing financial inclusion through increased liquidity could produce positive redistributive effects. Given the limitations of inflation targeting, including its tendency to overlook employment objectives, delayed effects on inequality, and potential contradiction with financial inclusion goals, a flexible approach to inflation targeting may be a more effective strategy for reducing income inequality in Ukraine.
The role of tourist satisfaction in mediating destination loyalty: Empirical evidence on natural dye batik in Indonesia
Authors: Wismantoro Yohan , Westri Kekalih Susilowati MG , Nur Chasanah Amalia , Sudiyatno Bambang
Published: December 2024

Tourist satisfaction shows the satisfaction that arises because visitors feel satisfied and happy after visiting a destination. This study aims to examine the role of tourist satisfaction in influencing destination image, emotional experience, and value perception towards destination loyalty of natural dye batik in Indonesia. The research uses a quantitative approach in an uncontrolled environment, with individuals as the unit of analysis. The population consisted of domestic and foreign tourist respondents aged 21 years and over who visited the natural dye batik village, Bayat, Klaten, Indonesia. Data collection was carried out using an online survey method, questionnaires were sent to selected respondents using online Google Forms. The data were collected comprehensively from 200 respondents for descriptive demographic profile analysis. The hypotheses were tested using partial least squares modelling analysis. The results of the study showed a positive influence of destination image, emotional experience, and perceived value on tourist satisfaction (Beta = .423, p < .000; Beta = .087, p < .045, Beta = .368, p < .000). Likewise, destination image, perceived value, and tourist satisfaction have a positive effect on destination loyalty (Beta = .306, p < .000; Beta = .198, p < .009, and Beta = .325, p = .000). This shows that the better the destination image and value perception, and the higher the emotional experience, the higher the tourist satisfaction, and with increasing tourist satisfaction, destination loyalty also increases.
AcknowledgmentWe would like to thank the management of natural dyed batik “Kebon Indah”, Bayat Klaten (Mrs. Dalmini and staff) who permitted and facilitated this study, especially in obtaining respondents. We would like to thank our friends at the Udinus Faculty of Economics and Business who provided input to improve the results and reporting of this study and all respondents who directly or indirectly contributed to this research. Hopefully, this study will be useful for developing science and business practice.
Impact of digital transformation on banking employee performance with self-efficacy as a mediator
Authors: Annisa Sri , Siahaan Elisabet , Lumbanraja Prihatin
Published: December 2024

In the digitalization era, banks strive to implement digital transformations; digital culture, competence, and leadership become essential factors to advance the company’s digitalization. Digital transformation is indispensable in improving employee performance amidst rapid digital advancements, helping companies stay competitive and avoid falling behind fintech and banking rivals. The study aims to examine the influence of digital transformations on banking employee performance in Indonesia, targeting state-owned banks. Primary data were gathered through questionnaires involving 100 participants. Data analysis employed partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to assess the influence of independent on dependent and mediating variables. The results demonstrate that digital culture (p < 0.05), digital competency (p < 0.05), and digital leadership (p < 0.05) positively and significantly influence employee performance. Self-efficacy does not function as a substantial mediating variable between digital culture (p > 0.05) or digital competence (p > 0.05) and employee performance. However, self-efficacy is a crucial mediating variable connecting digital leadership to employee success (p < 0.05). The study demonstrates that digital transformation in terms of culture, competence, and leadership can improve performance. Self-efficacy is able to mediate the effect of digital leadership on employee performance but fails to affect the influence of digital culture and digital capabilities on the performance of banking employees.
AcknowledgmentThe authors thank Universitas Sumatera Utara, especially the Research Institute, for their support. Acknowledgments are also expressed to the Kementerian Pendidikan dan Riset through the DRTPM program (number: 92/UN5.4.10.S/PPM/KP-DRTPM/2024), which has provided intellectual and financial assistance. The authors would also like to thank the Management Science Study Program, Universitas Sumatera Utara.
Mental Concept of Professional Identification in Youth: Part III
Authors: P'yankova Lyudmila
Published: December 2024

The Kemerovo Region is a poorly diversified subject of the Russian Federation, which needs to transform its human capital and overcome the existing managerial and technological transaction costs. The article describes the problem issues of the regional market, as well as the current measures in the sphere of education. Regional universities are ready to implement anthropological and convergent approaches in order to develop meta-professional competencies and complex industrial skills by integrating professionalization and social intentions. Internalization is an internal mechanism that supports self-identification. Personal, social, and professional identification are to go in line with the country’s development strategies through 6–8 years. They should be guided by the factors of domestic socio-economic growth to level the ideological contradictions between individualism and collectivism in Russia. The strategies are the vectors of the managerial, financial, technological, socio-economic, and cultural policy of the state in formal and informal institutions. The proposed concept is based on the transformation of personal and social worldview to motivate improving the quality of human capital and develop high-tech jobs that require digitalization skills.
Effect of Legalization of Agricultural Land Plots on Regional Budget
Authors: Gavrilenko Irina , Komarova Anastasia , Nikitina Oksana , Fedulova Elena
Published: December 2024

The Russian Federation has a great number of land plots to be used for a particular purpose, which depends on the category and type of the land. Agricultural land plots are of particular importance for the regional economy because they are subject to the local tax, established by the municipalities, i.e., land tax makes up a significant share of local budget revenues. Prompt and correct accounting of agricultural land improves the local budget. The authors determined the area of agricultural land in the Kemerovo Region and calculated the budget effect from their use. They also identified the potential income to the regional budget. The appropriate land measurement and classification proved to have a positive impact on the budget of the Kemerovo Region. The article contains an assessment of potential tax fees to the budget of the Kemerovo Region, as well as the amount of fines for irrational or improper use of agricultural lands.
Artificial Intelligence in Oral Language Development Classes with Chinese Students
Authors: Popovich Oxana
Published: December 2024

As artificial intelligence enters the education system, it opens up new opportunities. Artificial intelligence improves the quality of language acquisition, allowing Chinese students to develop their language skills in Russian. It provides tailored exercises in grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation, improves understanding of written and spoken language, and supports conversation practice through the use of authentic dialogues and language simulators. The study explored the options for using artificial intelligence to develop speech skills in Chinese learners of Russian as a foreign language. The article introduces a promt that makes it possible to create a role for the YandexGPT neural network with certain settings and restrictions. For instance, it yielded effective dialogue scenarios between a group of Chinese students and a cartoon character / an old friend. The promt improved the students’ motivation for Russian communication, thus increasing their in-class activity and involvement. The article contains some recommendations for immersive speech development classes with Chinese learners of Russian.
Soviet Concentration and Forced Labor Camps as Correctional Labor Policy
Authors: Martem'yanov Aleksandr
Published: December 2024

Concentration camps appeared in Russia as early as during World War I. The author studied concentration camps as a phenomenon of the early Soviet period of 1918–1921. They appeared during the Civil War as a measure against potentially disloyal segments of society to the new regime. This measure resulted in a system of prisons, parallel to the traditional ones. Despite the initial repressive nature of correctional labor camps, the authorities established obligatory labor service for all prisoners for the benefit of the state and its institutions. Although the authorities tried to secure their basic rights and provide them with satisfactory living conditions, the task was impossible during the severe military and political confrontation and general devastation. After the Civil War, the need for such repressive institutions gradually disappeared. Early Soviet concentration camps had a heterogeneous nature, including two main functions: tools of political struggle and means of implementing new principles of penitentiary policy.
AI-Generated Child Pornography: Legal Challenges in Digital Age
Authors: Zhevlakovich Sergey , Lukinskiy Ivan , Sumina Alina
Published: December 2024

As digital technologies penetrate all spheres of human life, scientific and technological progress becomes a global development factor. Artificial intelligence (AI) is an advanced and rapidly developing area that has already proved its efficiency in healthcare, finance, and transport. However, AI also poses significant ethical and legal challenges because it can be used to generate and distribute virtual child pornography. The article features methods of generating virtual child pornography through various AI tools, their ethical implications, and the existing legal frameworks that cover these issues. In fact, the existing international and national laws on child abuse fail to take into account AI-generated images. The authors studied cases and legal precedents to highlight the urgent need for robust regulatory legal measures to prevent the misuse of AI technologies, the potential of which should be realized for the benefit of society.
Awakening of the Self to the Interconnectedness of Things: Stewardship and Caring for Creation through Religious Lens. Review of Religious Self-Cultivation and Environmental Flourishing: A Humanist Relational Approach, by Anthony Le Duc
Authors: Nguyen Vien V.
Published: December 2024

According to the SEeB policy, we do not provide abstracts for review articles.
Mechanism of Zhengsui Wan in the Treatment of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Based on Network Pharmacology and Experimental Validation
Authors: Yang Xiangdong , Yang Fujun , Yuan Pengying , Xie Juan , Fang Lijun , Sun Weilong , Tao Xia , Li Dixuan , Fan Chenyang , Ji Ning
Published: December 2024

Background:

Zhengsui Wan (ZSW) is a commonly used traditional Chinese medicine
formula for treating Acute Lymphatic Leukemia (ALL) in our institution, and it has shown potential
efficacy. However, its mechanism of action (MoA) remains unclear. In this study, we systematically
explored the ZSW in ALL (in vitro and in vivo) using network pharmacology and molecular docking
techniques.

Methods:

Mass spectrometry was conducted to analyze possible active components in ZSW.
BALB/c mice were treated by ZSW aqueous decoction, and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were
extracted for proteomic analysis to evaluate differentially expressed proteins. Moreover, proteins
associated with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in SwissTargetPrediction and GeneCards databases
were screened, and they intersected with differentially expressed proteins to obtain potential targets
for ZSW. Protein interactions were constructed for the selected targets. Then, we performed GO and
KEGG enrichment analysis on its basis and screened the core target through K-core. We validated it
by molecular docking with the top three actives in the molecular network in degree value. Finally,
we detected the regulation of ICAM1 in MSCs by ZSW by qRT-PCR.

Results:

We detected 182 active ingredients in ZSW and identified 725 differential proteins in ZSWtreated
mice, of which 25 were potential targets. Furthermore, MMP2, ICAM1, PSEN1, SLC9A1,
and MMP14 were identified as core targets using the PPI network and K-core screening. Moreover,
ZSW significantly downregulated ICAM1 expression in MSCs. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses
showed that the results of ZSW were coordinated through immunomodulatory, inflammation-related,
and drug resistance-related genes, including the PI3K-Akt, cAMP, and Wnt signaling pathways.
Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations indicated moderate binding capacity between
the active compounds and the screened target.

Conclusion:

In this study, we successfully identified possible active ingredients and predicted potential
targets and pathways for ZSW for the treatment of ALL. We provide a new strategy for further
research on the molecular basis of ZSW biological effects in ALL. In addition, the potential active
ingredients could provide new leads for drug discovery in ALL investigations.