bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Die Landtage in Polen als Träger der Souveränität im Zeitalter der Oligarchie
Authors: Olszewski Henryk
Published: January 2024

Altpolen war auch im 17. Jahrhundert kein Kleinstaat. Die „königliche Republik” beider Nationen bildete weiterhin ein großes Staatsgebilde, welches von seiner glorreichen Tradition lebte und stolz auf seine Freiheit wie auch auf sein parlamentarisches System war. Nichtsdestotrotz wurde das Land langsam zu einem Riesen auf tönernen Füßen. Seine Wirtschaft, die gesellschaftlichen Strukturen, politische Verfassung und Kultur wurden von einer tiefen Krise betroffen. Die polnische Politik hatte es immer schwieriger, den Herausforderungen der Gegenwart zu genügen. Seit der Jahrhundertmitte wurde die Ineffizienz der zentralen Staatsinstitutionen deutlich sichtbar. Polen hatte keine Regierung, und der Sejm, welcher ein Forum für den Zusammenstoß wiederstrebender Interessen einzelner Koterien war und dazu noch durch das streng interpretierte Gesetz der Einstimmigkeit gelähmt wurde, hörte auf, gesetzgebende Funktion auszuüben. Das ineffiziente Rechtssystem konnte keine gerechte Verfassung bieten. Unter diesen Umständen richtete sich der Blick der Eliten auf die Landtage, sie wurden Garanten der Existenz des Staates, seiner Integrität, Symbol der Beständigkeit herrschender Ordnung und Synonym altpolnischer Freiheiten, weil gerade diese Freiheiten am vollkommensten den Willen und die Interessen der Magnaten ausdrückten. Die Landtage waren Sicherheitsgaranten für die Leader einzelner Koterien, die  an der Erhaltung des Machtgleichgewichts im Staat interessiert waren. Es ging darum, dass Koterien, die nicht stark genug waren, um den Anspruch auf die Macht im Staat zu erheben, wenigstens im Stande sein sollten, die Konkurrenz effektiv zu stören. Damit war die Kontrolle über die Landtage das Fundament der Oligarchieherrschaft in der Adelsrepublik beider Nationen. Die Landtage wurden dadurch einer der Faktoren dieser Herrschaft, indem sie mehrere Vorrechte des Sejms übernahmen, den Willen des Staates versuchten sich anzueignen und damit das Fundament für die territoriale Selbstverwaltung blieben. Wie ist die Herrschaft der Landtage in Polen entstanden? Wie war es möglich, dass die Landtage zu einem der bedeutendsten Träger der Herrschaftsvorrechte im Staat wurden?
Genese des liechtensteinischen Parlamentarismus im 19. Jahrhundert
Authors: Geiger Peter
Published: January 2024

Im Fürstentum Liechtenstein entstand der Parlamentarismus im Laufe des 19. Jahrhunderts. Vorläuferformen gab es seit dem Spätmittelalter, die Weiterentwicklung folgte nach dem Ersten Weltkrieg mit der bis heute gültigen Verfassung von 1921. Parlamentarismus ist hier im weiteren Sinn als System der Volksvertretung verstanden, noch nicht im engeren, eigentlichen Sinne als System der parlamentarischen Verantwortlichkeit der Regierung.
Energy-optimal control of adaptive structures
Authors: Schaller Manuel , Zeller Amelie , Böhm Michael , Sawodny Oliver , Tarín Cristina , Worthmann Karl
Published: January 2024

Adaptive structures are equipped with sensors and actuators to actively counteract external loads such as wind. This can significantly reduce resource consumption and emissions during the life cycle compared to conventional structures. A common approach for active damping is to derive a port-Hamiltonian model and to employ linear-quadratic control. However, the quadratic control penalization lacks physical interpretation and merely serves as a regularization term. Rather, we propose a controller, which achieves the goal of vibration damping while acting energy-optimal. Leveraging the port-Hamiltonian structure, we show that the optimal control is uniquely determined, even on singular arcs. Further, we prove a stable long-time behavior of optimal trajectories by means of a turnpike property. Last, the proposed controller’s efficiency is evaluated in a numerical study.
Bogomolov’s inequality and Higgs sheaves on normal varieties in positive characteristic
Authors: Langer Adrian
Published: January 2024

We prove Bogomolov’s inequality on a normal projective variety in positive characteristic and we use it to show some new restriction theorems and a new boundedness result. We also redefine Higgs sheaves on normal varieties and we prove restriction theorems and Bogomolov-type inequalities for semistable logarithmic Higgs sheaves on some normal varieties in an arbitrary characteristic.
Asphalt binder modified with recycled tyre rubber
Authors: Musa Sarah Safaaldeen , Al-Mukaram Noorance , Dakhil Ihsan Habib
Published: January 2024

In the last few decades, tyre rubber waste has been considered a risky issue to the ecosystem. A huge amount of used and deformed tyres is disposed of in landfill or recycled into other products. The main goal is to modify 60/70 bitumen grade to achieve 40/50 bitumen results. In this work, tyre rubber waste was added at different weights from 5 to 20% after cutting into small particles to use in the modification process of 60/70 asphalt binder. The modified asphalt was tested to meet the Iraqi standard specifications of roads and bridges. In the experimental work, Central Composite Design was applied to attain mathematical models that describes binder consistency by relating three operating parameters: tyre rubber ratio, mixing temperature and time. The predicted models relate to the penetration and softening point of the modified binder achieved R
2 of 97 and 99%, respectively. The obtained results indicated that the penetration and softening point improved after adding 20% recycled tyre rubber at 170°C and 20 min of mixing time.
Automated design space exploration for poultry processing systems using discrete-event simulation
Authors: Paape Nick , van Eekelen Joost A. W. M. , Reniers Michel A.
Published: January 2024

The poultry processing industry struggles to keep up with new developments in meat consumption and livestock breeding. Designing poultry processing systems is becoming increasingly more complex, and an increasing number of iterations of (re)design are required to optimize the product flow in these systems. To address this issue, this study presents a discrete-event simulation-based method for design space exploration of production systems. This method is mostly automated, greatly reducing the time and effort required in the design process. The steps that are automated are iterating on the design, model construction, performing simulation experiments, and interpreting the simulation results. An industrial case study in which a poultry processing system is redesigned is used to validate the effectiveness of the proposed method. A detailed description of this case study is given to showcase the different ways in which this design space exploration method can be used.
CT image restoration method via total variation and L
0 smoothing filter
Authors: Yin Hai , Li Xianyun , Liu Zhi , Peng Wei , Wang Chengxiang , Yu Wei
Published: January 2024

In X-ray CT imaging, there are some cases where the obtained CT images have serious ring artifacts and noise, and these degraded CT images seriously affect the quality of clinical diagnosis. Thus, developing an effective method that can simultaneously suppress ring artifacts and noise is of great importance. Total variation (TV) is a famous prior regularization for image denoising in the image processing field, however, for degraded CT images, it can suppress the noise but fail to reduce the ring artifacts. To address this issue, the

L
0

L_{0}

smoothing filter is incorporated with TV prior for CT ring artifacts and noise removal problem where the problem is transformed into several optimization sub-problems which are iteratively solved. The experiments demonstrate that the ring artifacts and noise presented in the CT image can be effectively suppressed by the proposed method and meanwhile the detailed features such as edge structure can be well preserved. As the superiority of TV and

L
0

L_{0}

smoothing filters are fully utilized, the performance of the proposed method is better than the existing methods such as the TV-based method and

L
0

L_{0}

-based method.
Prenatal diagnosis of right aortic arch: associated anomalies and fetal prognosis according to different subtypes
Authors: Dizdaroğulları Gizem Elif , Alpınar Abdullah , Demirci Oya
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Right aortic arch (RAA) is a rare anomaly with an incidence of 0.1 % in the adult population and low-risk fetuses. Our aim in this study was to evaluate associated anomalies and conditions according to subtypes.

Methods

This was a retrospective study examining consecutive pregnancies diagnosed with RAA in our hospital between 2018 and 2022. Fetuses with RAA were divided into three groups, RAA with right-sided ductus arteriosus (RAA-RDA), RAA with left-sided ductus arteriosus (RAA-LDA), and RAA with a double aortic arch (RAA-DAA).

Results

A total of 81 fetuses were diagnosed as having RAA during the study period. The rate of cardiac anomalies (82.8 %) in the RAA-RDA group was higher than in the RAA-LDA (17.6 %) and RAA-DAA (22.2 %) groups (p<0.001). No statistically significant difference was found between the groups in terms of maternal age, diagnosis week, pregnancy outcome, extracardiac anomalies, and genetic anomalies. Three (8 %) of 36 fetuses with isolated RAA who resulted in live birth developed symptoms related to the vascular ring, and one (2.7 %) newborn with RAA-DAA underwent surgery.

Conclusions

The incidence of cardiac anomalies is high in fetuses with RAA-RDA. Ultrasound examinations should be performed for cardiac anomalies and additional structural anomalies. Vascular ring formation is a rare but important complication due to compression risk to the trachea and esophagus.
Mechanical and thermal properties of short banana fiber reinforced polyoxymethylene composite materials dependent on alkali treatment
Authors: Doğan Akar , Güneş Çağdaş
Published: January 2024

The present study aimed to develop a recyclable composite material based on a natural product, namely banana fiber, instead of synthetic reinforcement elements such as glass fiber or carbon fiber in thermoplastic matrix composites employed in many aspects of daily life. Polyoxymethylene (POM) thermoplastic was used as the matrix material. 3 %, 6 %, and 9 % by weight short natural banana fiber was used as reinforcement. Furthermore, the study improved the mechanical and thermal properties of the composite material with chemical improvements based on alkali treatment of banana fiber. Banana fiber and POM was initially mixed mechanically and then extruded at temperatures between 170 and 190 °C to obtain a homogeneous mixture. The mixture obtained by extrusion was initially cooled in the cooling pool and then passed through the crusher to obtain granules. These granules were pressed in plastic injection molds to obtain standard test samples. The ratio of reinforcement material and the variations in mechanical and thermal properties of the composites induced by the alkali treatment are presented in figures and tables. Furthermore, the changes in cross-sectional material images were examined with electron microscopy scans. The tensile and flexural strength of the material improved with alkali treatment.
Effect of bonding temperature on microstructure and properties of TLP joined Q355 steel with Cu interlayer
Authors: Huang Bensheng , Tang Peng , Ju Chunyan , Chen Peng , Shen Wenzhu , Zuo Hanyang
Published: January 2024

Q355 steel with Cu interlayer was bonded by transient liquid phase diffusion bonding (TLP-DB) at different bonding temperatures, and good bonding joints were obtained. The joints were characterized by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and mechanical properties. The results show that there is a bending phenomenon caused by the difference of element diffusion at the bonding interface at the bonding temperature of 1050 °C. With the increase of the bonding temperature, the diffusion of Cu element plays a role in refining the grain, but with the increase of the bonding temperature, it will also lead to the overgrowth of the grain; At the bonding temperature of 1050 °C, there are obvious mutations in the diffusion of Cu and Fe elements, but the increase of the bonding temperature has a good effect on the interdiffusion of the elements. The mechanical properties test showed that with the increase of the bonding temperature, the hardness, shear strength, and impact toughness at the center of the joint increased first and then decreased, and all reached the maximum at 1100 °C. The electrochemical performance test showed that with the increase of temperature, the corrosion resistance of the joint also increased first and then decreased.
Frequency comb measurements for 6G terahertz nano/microphotonics and metamaterials
Authors: Kang Guseon , Lee Younggeun , Kim Jaeyoon , Yang Dongwook , Nam Han Ku , Kim Shinhyung , Baek Soojeong , Yoon Hyosang , Lee Joohyung , Kim Teun-Teun , Kim Young-Jin
Published: January 2024

Next-generation 6G communication holds the potential to revolutionize data transfer, enabling the realization of eXtended Reality (XR) with enhanced sensory experiences. To achieve this, advanced components such as high-performance intensity/phase modulators, waveguides, multiplexers, splitters, combiners, and filters operating in terahertz (THz) regime, specifically within the frequency range of 0.1–1 THz, are essential. However, existing microwave equipment and vector network analyzers designed for this frequency range suffer from limitations in resolution, stability, and accuracy when evaluating the intensity and phase responses of critical 6G THz devices. In this comprehensive review, we delve into the critical device requirements and emerging trends in next-generation 6G communication, essential performance evaluation parameters, comparisons between microwave and nano/microphotonic devices for testing, and the application of high-resolution THz sensors in 6G Internet-of-Things (IoT) scenarios. Notably, a frequency comb in the photonic regime emerges as the prime candidate for achieving precision evaluations of 6G networks and devices. Consequently, this review highlights the latest research in frequency comb measurements in the 6G THz frequency regime, with a particular emphasis on nano/microphotonic devices and metamaterials. The integration of frequency comb measurements into 6G and THz photonic devices and networks promises to accelerate the realization of high-density next-generation 6G communication.
Mobile app adoption comparison between U.S. and Chinese college students: information processing style and use frequency after download
Authors: Zhang Chenjie , Jiang Weiwei
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study examines similarities and differences in information processing of college mobile app adopters, as age peers, in China and the U.S., by using the heuristic-systematic model as the main theoretical framework.

Method

An online self-administered survey was conducted.

Findings

The results confirm that some peripheral factors affect personal factors. Some cultural orientations (power distance, indulgence, individualism, and uncertainty avoidance) influence app adopting behavior indirectly via information processing. Social norms significantly predict information processing and adopting behavior. Respondents share similar heuristic processing but show significant differences in systematic processing, which results in significantly different adopting behaviors.

Implications

Some cultural orientations affect app adopting behavior through information processing, but affect heuristic processing and systematic processing differently. Not all cultural orientations influence the decision-making process, and some orientations may be moderators instead of predictors. Social norms can create strong social motivation in app adoption. Respondents are capable of processing information so perceived behavioral control is not a significant influencer in the decision-making of app adoption. Respondents are different in systematic processing but not in heuristic processing, which calls attention to cross-cultural comparisons in terms of information processing, researchers should test at the dimensional or item level before comparing at the variable level.

Value

This study extends the heuristic-systematic model by connecting peripheral factors (national culture, social norms, and perceived behavioral control) and personal factors (information processing and behavior). This study also tests the special roles of social norms and perceived behavioral control, which originated from the theory of planned behavior, as peripheral factors, and enriches the literature on information processing of decision-making. This study introduces the possibility that respondents are more different in systematic processing than heuristic processing and cultural orientations affect heuristic processing and systematic processing in different ways, and also sheds light on technology acceptance literature in terms of non-adoption.
Study on dynamic response of cushion layer-reinforced concrete slab under rockfall impact based on smoothed particle hydrodynamics and finite-element method coupling
Authors: Mei Xuefeng , Wu Jianli , Wang Teng , Wang Ting , Liang Xiaofei , Wang Yanping , Li Bangxiang , Su Tian , Xu Lina
Published: January 2024

In the rockfall prevention and control project, the reinforced concrete (RC) slab and sand (gravel soil) soil cushion layer are commonly used to form the protection structure, thereby resisting the rockfall impact. Considering that the oversized deformation of the cushion layer under impact load using the finite element simulation cannot converge, this article establishes a numerical calculation model using smoothed particle hydrodynamics–finite-element method coupling (SPH–FEM). First, the standard Lagrange finite-element mesh is established for the whole model using ABAQUS, and then the finite-element mesh of the soil cushion layer is converted to SPH particle at the initial moment of the calculation, and finally the calculation results are solved and outputted. The results indicate that, compared with the results of the outdoor rockfall impact test, the relative errors of the rockfall impact force and the displacement of the RC slab are within 10%, which proves the rationality of the coupling algorithm; moreover, in terms of the numerical simulation, the SPH–FEM coupling algorithm is more practical than the finite element for reproducing the mobility of the rockfall impacting the sand and soil particles. In addition, at an impact speed of less than 12 m·s−1, the cushion layer is able to absorb more than 85% of the impact energy, which effectively ensures that the RC slab is in an elastic working state under small impact energy and does not undergo destructive damage under large impact energy; the peak impact force of the rockfall is approximately linear with the velocity, and the simulated value of the peak impact force is basically the same as that of the theoretical value of Hertz theory; the numerical simulation is good for reproducing the damage process of the RC slab in accordance with the actual situation. The SPH–FEM coupling algorithm is more justified than the FEM in simulating the large deformation problem, and it can provide a new calculation method for the design and calculation of the rockfall protection structure.
Wine as a “Cultural Product”? Ethnographic Notes on Work and Nationhood in the Republic of Moldova
Authors: Ana Elena-Daniela
Published: January 2024

The Republic of Moldova is one of the largest wine producers in Europe, and winemaking, both domestic and commercial, is deeply embedded in its society. State officials, wine marketing specialists, and subsistence winemakers in their discourses often tie wine and winemaking to a national framework, conceptualizing it as a “cultural product” that is typically Moldovan. The author makes use of ethnographic fieldwork to analyse how national identification becomes something salient among workers in the wine industry—if it does so at all—and what role nationhood plays in winemaking workers’ self-image. That wage work in winemaking means different things to manual workers and managers, and to subsistence winemakers. For the workers, their dependence on low remuneration and the division of the production process makes their work less a matter of national identification and “cultural production” than a purely instrumental activity.
Marx anarchikus gesztusáról – Az eredet destrukciója Reiner Schürmann: Reading Marx című könyvéről
Authors: Ilyés Zalán-György
Published: January 2024

„Az egységes eredet széttöredezik, majd cselekvő monádok sokaságává robban. Marx gesztusa tehát nem episztemológiai, hanem léttörténeti jelentőséggel bír; azon túl, hogy a modernitás destrukcióját, »széttörését« ismerhetjük fel benne, egy jóval radikálisabb gesztusnak is tanúi lehetünk általa: az eredettel való leszámolás gesztusának. Ez az a gesztus, melynek fényében az anarchia elnyerheti valódi értelmét.” Ilyés Zalán recenziója Reiner Schürmann: Reading Marx – On Transcendental Materialism című kötetéről.
Halálszignál, életjel: Simon Magda
Authors: Borbély András
Published: January 2024

Borbély András tanulmánya Simon Magda riportpoétikáját vizsgálja: folyamatábrázolás az elszigetelt pillanatképek helyett.
Egy másfajta élet értelme
Authors: Zsupos Norbert
Published: January 2024

Az alább közölt esszé a Filmszem rovat első cikksorozatának része. A szövegek egy felhívásra születtek, melyet a kortárs magyar baloldali szcéna több, filmmel és/vagy kultúrával foglalkozó szereplőjének küldtünk körbe. A megszólítottak között helyet kaptak oktatók és hallgatók, alkotók és kutatók, közéleti személyiségek és filmes szakemberek, valamint olyanok is, akik érzésünk szerint határozottan idegenkednek a filmtől.
Brechti szabotázs
Authors: András Csaba
Published: January 2024

„A Háromezer számozott darab Brecht színházi esztétikájához hű, bátor mozgalmi film. Képviselet helyett részvételben, empátia helyett reflexióban, egyének helyett társadalomban, identitás helyett viszonyokban, etika helyett politikában gondolkozik. Következetesen végigvitt kritika: az uralkodó reprezentációs rezsim ellen elkövetett látványos szabotázsakció." András Csaba kritikája a Háromezer számozott darab (Császi Ádám, 2022) című filmről.
Ragyogás a világjárvány idején
Authors: Dobrai Zsolt Levente
Published: January 2024

A kapitalista világrendszer inherens ciklikus válságainak egyik legszámottevőbb társadalmi, gazdasági, politikai kivetülése mindaz, amit a Covid-19 okozta világjárvány maga után vont. Milyen munkásmozgalmi válaszok születtek Nyugat-Európában erre a válságra, és milyen tanulsággal szolgálnak nekünk az önszerveződés tekintetében? Dobrai Zsolt recenziója, Peter Mertens könyvéről.
Association between Biological Age and Contrast-Associated Acute Kidney Injury in Patients Undergoing Coronary Angiography: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Jiang Hangpan , Chen Zhezhe , Wang Peng , Li Duanbin , Tao Yecheng , Hong Xulin , Jiao Xiaolu , Xia Shudong , Zhang Wenbin
Published: January 2024

Background: Biological age is a reliable indicator reflecting the real physiological state and aging status of individuals. This study was aimed at exploring the association between biological age and contrast-associated acute kidney injury (CA-AKI).

Methods: This retrospective study was conducted on 4078 patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) undergoing coronary angiography (CAG). Biological age was calculated according to chronological age and blood biomarkers, and the “age gap,” reflecting retardation or acceleration of biological aging, was further determined. Logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association of the biological age and age gap with CA-AKI. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis and subgroup analysis were also conducted.

Results: Among the 4078 patients (68.00 [61.00, 74.00] years, 2680 (65.7%) men), 725 CA-AKI cases were identified. Older biological age (≥79.3 vs. <79.3 years, OR [95% CI] = 3.319 [2.714 to 4.059]) and greater age gap (≥1.12 vs. <1.12, OR [95% CI] = 2.700 [2.240 to 3.256]) were independent risk factors for CA-AKI (both P <0.001). ROC analysis indicated that biological age (AUC = 0.672) and age gap (AUC = 0.672) had better predictive ability for CA-AKI than chronological age (AUC = 0.583). Subgroup analysis also indicated similar findings (all P <0.001).

Conclusion: Biological age was found to be an independent risk factor for CA-AKI after CAG, with better predictive value than chronological age.
Panama’s Path Since the US Invasion
Authors: Montero Carla Guerrón
Published: January 2024

The Panama Canal opened in 1914. Six decades later, the United States agreed to transfer its ownership of the Canal to Panama. In 1989, a US invasion ended decades of military rule. Today, Panama is a democratic country with a robust economy. Tourism and other service industries have displaced the Canal as the primary source of income. Many North American retirees now call Panama home, lured there by its relative stability, lower cost of living, and government-sponsored incentives. However, the country is still dealing with the legacy of its past in the form of social and economic inequities among segments of its population.
From scientific authority to the court jester: Shedding light on epistemic pluralism within transdisciplinary research projects
Authors: Garçon Lucile , Couix Nathalie
Published: January 2024

This paper aims to share and analyze the difficulties and discomfort that social scientists may face when conducting transdisciplinary research. Focusing on the case study of a research project that brought together farmers, farm advisors, social and biotechnical science teachers, and researchers interested in seed management and participatory plant breeding, it questions the use of science and the position of social scientists in processes of agroecological transformation. The paper provides an analytical insight into the knowledge ecology of stakeholders who want to move away from the hybrid maize varieties bought and grown by farmers in order to work with open-pollinated populations. The results shed light on discrepancies between different levels of interaction within the project, through an original method using video to intervene at the interface of farms, local groups, and meetings of the research project steering committee. The authors first explain how they used video recording and filmmaking to give voice to ways of doing that are often shifting and indeterminate in the face of evidence-based criteria. They then show how this methodological framework opened up an arena in which to scrutinize different ways of knowing and being, though only momentarily. They share their frustrations and the methodological questions they faced, drawing on the figure of the court jester to discuss the role that researchers might play within such configurations. The paper concludes with a critical perspective on the development of transdisciplinary research projects that truly reflect the principles of agroecology, pointing to the need to emphasize scientific pluralism by engaging participants in a collective exercise of epistemic clarification and dialogue.
Informe de vigilancia competitiva para el proceso de renovación de registro calificado para la maestría en arquitectura
Authors: Vargas Leal Viviana Marcela , Cervantes Díaz Martha , Idárraga-Ortiz Sergio Alejandro
Published: January 2024

En el presente informe de vigilancia se reporta un análisis de la oferta nacional maestrías en Arquitectura, se establece la capacidad nacional de investigación a través de los grupos de investigación en arquitectura, se indican referentes internacionales de universidades y programas académicos en Arquitectura, se reportan indicadores de admitidos, inscritos, matriculados, graduados para programas de Maestría en Arquitectura a nivel nacional, se determinan tasas de deserción y graduación para programas académicos en el área de ingeniería, arquitectura, urbanismo y afines y, adicionalmente, se comparten resultados de búsqueda asociados a las tendencias de investigación en Arquitectura.
Modification methods’ effects on the characteristics of carboxylated cellulose fibers: Carboxyl group introduction method versus physical properties
Authors: Wang Jian , Wang Yubo , Liu Zetan , Shao Xinyi , Lin Yuxuan , Song Wenbao , Xu Dehua , Gao Yifei , Han Jialan
Published: January 2024

Cotton fibers were modified by TEMPO oxidation, sodium periodate oxidation, and sodium chloroacetate etherification to obtain carboxylated cellulose fibers with similar carboxyl content (about 70 mmol/100 g). The characteristics of carboxylated cellulose fibers were analyzed by comparing the morphology, chemical structure, crystallinity, carboxyl content, yield, water retention value, degree of polymerization (DP), and cost. The results showed that etherification and oxidation are both important ways to introduce carboxyl groups into the molecular structure of cellulose. When the carboxyl group with similar content is introduced into cellulose, the three modification methods will encourage a certain degree of cellulose degradation. TEMPO oxidation and sodium periodate oxidation will degrade cellulose more obviously, whereas chloroacetate etherification can obtain a higher yield, DP, and lower cost.
Marine sediments from mesophotic reefs as indicators of offshore vortex in the Açu reef (Northeast, Brazil)
Authors: Eichler Patrícia Pinheiro Beck , Vital Helenice , Gomes Moab Praxedes
Published: January 2024

hallow and deep-water oceanographic influences over shelf-edge environments affect the development of benthic habitats. We investigated the influence of an offshore vortex on a narrow (6 km wide) and shallow (25-80 m water depth) outer shelf with warm waters (27-30°C) through 84 sediment samples, CTD profiles, and underwater photographs. We analysed benthic foraminiferal content, organic matter, and carbonates in the inter-reef sediments of the newly discovered Açu reef in north-eastern Brazil between 25 m and the shelf edge closer to a recently described vortex. Benthic living Buccella peruviana, Peneroplis carinatus, P. pertussis, and the planktonic Globigerina rubra is directly associated with organically enriched sediments, and carbonate production where offshore vortices are likely to occur. The sedimentation pattern is evidenced by the deposition in one side and erosion in the other side on its forecasted pathway. Therefore, local vortices in thermocline associated with upwelling of cold waters in canyon heads on the Brazilian Equatorial shelf might be responsible for maintaining remains of living coral-algal systems on mesophotic outer shelves such as the Açu reef. Here we show that foraminifer-derived signatures at the sediment-water interface could serve as a potential tool to reconstruct paleo environmental and climate changes of habitats close to very dynamic water masses pathways.
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN OF THE SPACE INDUSTRIAL PLATFORM. PROBLEM STATEMENT
Authors:   Institute of Technical Mechanics of NASU and SSAU, Alpatov A. P. , Palii O. S. ,   Institute of Technical Mechanics of NASU and SSAU, Siutkina-Doronina S. V. ,   Institute of Technical Mechanics of NASU and SSAU
Published: January 2024

The objective of thispaper is to formulate a complex problem of optimizing the design parameters of a space industrial platform at the conceptual design stage. The initial stage of space industrialization was the creation of space industrial platforms in Earth orbit. At present, there are works related to the implementation of a number of technological processes in outer space, which are being studied by scientists and developers. Implementation of unique technological processes in outer space allows forobtaining materials with qualita- tively new characteristics. The peculiarity of designing a space industrial platform is that there are practically no theoretical works related to the choice of platform parameters and the logic of its creation at the conceptual design stage. This stage is characterized by the fact that, apart from the general idea of the platform layout, the expected types of main service systems, some initial data, and the param- eters of the technological processes to be implemented on the p latform, there is little else known. The process of designing a new complex space system, such as an industrial platform, is a multi-level iterative and optimization process, during which its characteristics and mass production are determined and refined. The article analyzes the configurations of existing orbital stations as a prototype of space industrial platforms and determines the ranges of the main parameters of their modules. A set of parameters of technological processes in vacuum and zero gravity conditions that can be implemented on a space industrial platform is formed. The relationship between the technological and basic modules of the industrial platform is shown. The structure of a complex mathematical model of the space industrial plat- form functioning is developed. To ensure successful work at the conceptual design stage, a general statement of the problem of optimizing the mass of the space industrial platform is formulated. The minimum mass and dimensions of the space platform obtained as a result of the optimization are used to further refine the optimal parameters of the platform and, therefore, affect the formation of conditions for the implementation of the technological process. The algorithm of the sequence of operations for solving the problem of optimal design of a space industrial platform is shown in general.
Bridges of Peace: The Role of Symbols and Rituals in Peacebuilding
Authors: Mahmuluddin Mahmuluddin
Published: January 2024

Purpose of the Study: This article investigates how symbols and rituals contribute to conflict management in deeply divided societies. Methodology: Through qualitative library research, this study examines the impact of symbols and rituals on peace-building by analyzing theoretical frameworks and case studies. Main Findings: The study identifies that symbols and rituals play a crucial role in the peace-building process, achievable through two primary methods: the creation of new symbols and rituals that draw on inclusive narratives to foster a shared symbolic space promoting multicultural tolerance, and the creative manipulation of existing symbols and rituals to challenge and subvert historical power dynamics. Applications of this Study: The findings offer valuable insights for policymakers, peace-building practitioners, and community leaders engaged in conflict resolution and reconciliation efforts. By understanding the dual potential of symbols and rituals in peace-building, stakeholders can develop more effective strategies to address the underlying causes of division and promote enduring peace in divided societies.  Novelty/Originality of this Study: This research contributes to the field by providing a comprehensive analysis of the transformative power of symbols and rituals in peace-building. It showcases how these cultural elements can be strategically leveraged to support reconciliation and unity, marking a significant advancement in the understanding of non-traditional mechanisms of conflict resolution and peace-building efforts.
Interweaving Dreams and Rituals: The Anthropopoiesis of Communal Identity in the Festino di San Silvestro Rite
Authors: Agresta Domenico
Published: January 2024

Purpose of the Study: This research aims to investigate the intricate relationship between communal identity, rituals, and dreams within the Festino di San Silvestro rite in Troina, Sicily. It focuses on understanding how shared dreaming, facilitated by the Social Dreaming Matrix (SDM), reflects and shapes communal engagement with cultural myths and collective identity during a traditional rite of passage. Methodology: Employing a qualitative approach, the study integrates participant observation, thematic analysis of dreams collected through SDM sessions, and semi-structured interviews with participants of the rite. This methodology allows for an in-depth exploration of the symbolic and metaphorical content of dreams and their relevance to the community's cultural practices and identity. Main Findings: The research uncovers that dreams shared during the rite act as semiophores, mediating the dialogue between individual and communal psyches, thus reinforcing communal bonds and cultural heritage. The liminal phase is identified as crucial for communal transformation, wherein rituals and shared dreams catalyze the redefinition of communal identity and the reinforcement of ties to cultural and spiritual roots. Applications of This Study: The findings have broad implications for cultural anthropology, community psychology, and ritual studies, offering a novel perspective on using shared dreaming as a mechanism for community building and identity formation. This study suggests practical applications for SDM in fostering community cohesion and understanding the dynamic process of anthropopoiesis in various communal settings. Novelty/Originality of This Study: This research contributes a novel perspective by integrating SDM with rites of passage, offering fresh insights into communal uses of dreams for navigating identity and heritage. Its exploration of dreams as semiophores in a communal ritual context marks a unique contribution to the fields of cultural and psychological studies, highlighting the SDM's potential in uncovering collective unconscious processes and supporting the dynamic construction of communal identity.
Islamic Influence and Dogon Cultural Synthesis: Redefining Cultural Dynamics in Mali
Authors: Kutsenkov Petr A.
Published: January 2024

Purpose of the Study: This study aims to re-evaluate the commonly held perception that Islamization leads to the destruction of traditional African cultural symbols and practices. Focusing on the Dogon people of Mali, the research seeks to understand how Islam interacts with and influences their traditional visual culture. Methodology: This study utilizes a combination of observational and ethnographic methods to analyze visual cultural elements in Dogon Country, including sculptures, door locks, traditional buildings, and Dogon mosques, based on extensive fieldwork conducted from 2015 to 2023. Main Findings: Contrary to the notion that Islam erases indigenous visual culture, the study finds a unique form of interaction between Islam and traditional Dogon visual symbols. The Dogon people have retained their beliefs in “jinna” and continue their ritualistic practices. Notably, the influence of Islam has led to the creation of Dogon mosques, which are new architectural forms that incorporate traditional Dogon decorative motifs associated with idol or fetish worship. Applications of This Study: The findings offer significant insights for cultural preservation efforts in Mali and similar contexts. By demonstrating the capacity for harmonious coexistence of Islamic and traditional cultural elements, this research provides a framework for understanding and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Dogon people. Novelty/Originality of This Study: This study offers a unique insight into the symbiotic relationship between Islamic and traditional Dogon cultures, challenging the common narrative of cultural erasure and highlighting the possibilities of cultural adaptation and synthesis in Africa.
Nurturing Tradition and Nature through Odisha's Shraddha Rituals
Authors: Panda Taranisen , Mishra Nirlipta , Rahimuddin Shaik , Pradhan Bikram Kumar , Nayak Biraja Prasanna , Sahu Sarat Kumar
Published: January 2024

Purpose of the Study: This research investigates the use of plant species in Odisha's Shraddha rituals, aiming to highlight the interplay between cultural traditions and biodiversity conservation. It seeks to understand how these rituals contribute to the preservation of the region's botanical heritage and the broader environmental sustainability. Methodology: The study employed qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews, discussions with key informants, and direct observations, across both rural and urban areas of Odisha's coastal districts. A total of 167 informants from diverse backgrounds participated, providing comprehensive insights into the rituals and their associated flora. The research also involved collecting plant specimens and photographic documentation to enrich the understanding of these practices. Main Findings: Thirty-nine plant species across 24 families, crucial to the Shraddha rituals, were identified. Notable species like Areca catechu and Cocos nucifera emerged as symbols of the spiritual-nature bond in Odia culture. The study uncovers challenges such as overharvesting and habitat destruction, emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable harvesting practices and biodiversity conservation. Applications of this Study: The findings are instrumental for cultural preservation, environmental conservation, and sustainable resource management. They provide a framework for local communities and religious leaders to engage in sustainable practices and for conservation bodies to develop strategies that balance cultural traditions with ecological preservation. Novelty/Originality: This research is unique in its ethnobotanical approach to exploring the role of religious rituals in environmental conservation. Integrating cultural anthropology with botanical science offers new insights into how traditional practices can support biodiversity preservation. Its comprehensive analysis across both rural and urban settings in Odisha adds depth and relevance to the understanding of these rituals in contemporary society, making it a novel contribution to the field.
Grain Storage Forum ELEVATOR 2024
Authors: Group ProAgro
Published: January 2024

2 лютого 2024 року у Києві відбудеться Grain Storage Forum ELEVATOR: Smart Сушіння – головний спеціалізований форум в Україні для елеваторників, операторів зерносушарок та фахівців галузі.
Unethical Behaviour in Distance Learning: Polish Student Perspectives
Authors: Didkivska Svitlana
Published: January 2024

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, a transition occurred towards remote learning. This change posed various challenges. One critical issue was the emergence of unethical behaviour. This problem has the potential to detrimentally impact students' learning experiences.

Research objectives: The study sets out to explore the array of unethical behaviors encountered by university students in distance learning. Additionally, it seeks to understand the disparity between students’ anticipations and the actual issues they faced.

Research design and methods: The research employs a qualitative approach where data were collected from 24 students at the Krakow University of Economics through semi-structured interviews, focusing on their experiences with unethical behaviour.

Results: The study unveils that students both anticipate and are apprehensive about occurrences of unethical behaviour in distance learning, including the sharing of inappropriate content. However, their actual experiences encompass different issues, such as unwarranted distractions. These distractions have a detrimental effect on the learning process.

Conclusions: The study illuminates the incongruence between students' preconceived notions and their real-life encounters with unethical behaviour during online learning. It emphasizes the importance of promoting engagement and adhering to ethical standards. Furthermore, the study advocates for broadening the research framework to include the perspectives of educators, which is essential for a comprehensive understanding.
Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension: epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment — current state of the problem
Authors: Chernyavskiy Alexander M. , Edemskiy Alexander G. , Vasiltseva Oksana Y. , Kliver Elena N. , Grankin Denis S. , Sirota Dmitriy A. , Romanov Alexander B.
Published: January 2024

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension is group IV of pulmonary hypertension, which develops with occlusive-stenotic lesions of the pulmonary artery after a pulmonary embolism. There are no clear data on the epidemiology of this disease. At the same time, it is obvious that it is much more widespread than is commonly believed. This is due to the nonspecific clinical picture and the lack of awareness of clinicians about this disease. On the one hand, the pathogenesis of CTEPH is well studied and in many respects similar to pulmonary arterial hypertension, on the other hand, it is not clear why blood clots do not dissolve in a certain percentage of patients. Diagnosis of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension is fairly well described and should be carried out according to a special algorithm. The treatment of choice is pulmonary endarterectomy. In inoperable patients and patients with residual pulmonary hypertension after surgery, it is possible to perform balloon angioplasty of the pulmonary artery and PAH-specific therapy. In our study, the safety and efficacy of a new method for the treatment of a residual form of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension, radiofrequency denervation of the pulmonary artery, has been proven. The pathogenetic basis of this technique is the desympathization of the pulmonary circulation by radiofrequency destruction of the autonomic ganglia of the bifurcation of the pulmonary artery and the interruption of the so-called pulmo-pulmonary reflex.
A Single-Stage Population-Based Study of the Relationship between Cognitive and Somatic Health Parameters in Children of Secondary School Age
Authors: Karkashadze George A. , Kaitukova Elena V. , Gogberashvili Tinatin Y. , Konstantinidi Tatiana A. , Gordeeva Olga B. , Gazalieva Aishat M. , Soloshenko Margarita A. , Kondratova Svetlana E. , Abashidze Eka A. , Revunenkov Grigory V. , Komarova Elena V. , Ivardava Marika I. , Drapkina Oksana M. , Shepel Ruslan N. , Mezhidov Kazbek S. , Namazova-Baranova Leyla S.
Published: January 2024

Background. One of the four important components of the formation of cognitive functions is somatic health. But to date, there are no population studies that consider the relationship with cognitive functions and school performance of a large range of somatic factors, which allows us to compare the strength of their hypothetical contribution to cognitive functioning with each other. This study is the second part of a population-based study, the first part of which is presented in the previous publication "A Single-Stage Population-Based Study of the Prevalence of Mild Cognitive Impairment in Children of Secondary School Age". Aims — to determine the main patterns in the relationship between cognitive-academic and somatic factors in a cohort of Russian children, 5th grade students at school. Methods. In Russian schoolchildren of the 5th grades of municipalities representing cities of all federal districts of the Russian Federation, the links with integrative cognitive success, the number of subtests performed at the level of mild cognitive impairment, the results of individual cognitive subtests, academic performance and the leading hand factor were analyzed — the following somatic factors: the presence of skin pathology, bronchial asthma, orthopedic, ophthalmological disorders, visual acuity, body mass index, parameters of the study of the function of external respiration, electrocardiography, ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland, laboratory blood tests. Results. The results of the survey of 1036 participants, 51% of them girls, were admitted to the analysis. It has been established that iron content is directly related to integrative cognitive success and school performance, the relationship is especially strong between subgroups of iron content above and below 26.4 mmol/l. Clinical levels of erythrocytes are more strongly associated with integrative cognitive success and individual cognitive functions than other factors: in erythropenia cognitive parameters are worse. The presence of thyroid cysts directly correlates with some of the worst parameters of cognitive activity. High body mass index and low hemoglobin are associated with poorer academic performance. Conclusions. The results of the study for the first time on a cohort of Russian schoolchildren showed a connection with cognitive activity and school performance of a number of somatic factors, including iron content, which requires further in-depth study.