bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glioependymal cyst in the medulla oblongata – A case report
Authors: Abdulateef Awfa Aktham , Morita Shuhei , Hoz Samer S. , Atallah Oday , Numazawa Shinichi , Ito Yasunobu , Watanabe Sadayoshi , Mori Kentaro
Published: December 2023

Background:

Glioependymal cysts (GECs) are rare benign lesions that can be found anywhere along the neuroaxis, with most of the reports denoting supratentorial location. Here, we introduce a rare case of successfully treated glioependymal cysts lying in an uncommon location, namely medulla oblongata.

Case Description:

A 69-year-old lady presented with progressive unsteadiness and swallowing disturbances, and brain magnetic resonance imaging showed a dorsally located lesion within the medulla oblongata; based on the presentation and radiological features, surgical intervention was deemed mandatory. The suboccipital midline approach was used to perform marsupialization of the cyst with shunting through a syringosubarachnoid shunt to prevent future recurrence, and the patient outcome was improved.

Conclusion:

Medulla Oblongata’s location for glioependymal cysts proposed unique diagnostic and operative challenges that may require highlighting for practicing neurosurgeons.
Water Quality and Pollution Status using Principal Component Analysis of Lake Nsezi in Richards Bay, Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa
Authors: Cimanga Lukusa , Pullabhotla VSR Rajasekhar , Ntsako Dellas Baloyi , Nel Amina
Published: December 2023

The water quality of Lake Nsezi in Richards Bay, South Africa was investigated for the possible influence of anthropogenic activities around the lake. Lake water was sampled for a period of one year from May 2014 to May 2015. Physicochemical and bacteriological analysis were compared to regulations of WHO, USEPA and DWAF WQG for aquatic environment and domestic use. Physicochemical parameters measured were within the recommended specifications as per WHO, USEPA and DWAF guidelines for aquatic environment and domestic use at the exception of TDS, Cl and few heavy metals such as Al, Cd, Cu, Fe and Mn. The average content levels for these parameters were: 530±167 mg/L (TDS), 135±92 mg/L (Cl), 0.079±0.11 mg/L (Al), 0.171±0.66 mg/L(Cd), 0.38 ± 0.50 mg/L (Fe), 13.6±15.33 mg/L (Pb). Principal component biplots positively showed some strong and moderate metal loadings of 0.564 (Fe), 0.552 (Pb), 0.928 (Na), 0.893 (Mg), 0645 (Sr) and 0.772 (K) at a variety of sites. Bacteriological parameters content investigated were all above the WHO, USEPA and DWAF guidelines for domestic use for E. coli, heterotrophic plate counts and total coliform counts.
Green synthesis of Zinc Oxide nanoparticles, antibacterial studies and investigation as catalyst for the conversion of pumpkin oil into biodiesel
Authors: Rudreshappa G.E. , Sreenivasa S. , Uma K. , Manjunatha S. , Aruna Kumar D.B.
Published: December 2023

Zinc oxide nanoparticles were synthesized by employing solution combustion method using environmental friendly Cellophyllum innophyllum seed powder as fuel. Phase purity, crystallite size were determined from X-ray diffraction (XRD). Organic species attached to the surface of the nanoparticle were identified using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Morphological studies were performed using TEM and SEM. Bandgap increased with decreasing particle size as confirmed from the diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) white light luminescence capabilities of ZnO NPs were studied using photoluminescence spectroscopy. In vitro antibacterial activity studies and catalytic property for the conversion of pumpkin seed oil into biodiesel were performed.
Diluted Sulphuric Acid Hydrolysis of Destarched Sago Fibre assisted with Selected Pre-treatments for Glucose and Xylose Production
Authors: Barji Isfaniza , Awang Adeni Dayang Salwani
Published: December 2023

In Sarawak, Malaysia, approximately 7 t of sago fibre waste is produced daily from a single sago starch processing mill and it is currently disposed of either directly into a river nearby or in open spaces. On a dry basis, sago fibre contains 58% starch, 23% cellulose, 9.2% hemicellulose and 4% lignin. Our previous study used the trapped starch of sago fibre as a substrate for producing glucose through an enzymatic hydrolysis process in which the destarched fibre (DSF) remained unused. This study represents an attempt to utilise destarched sago fibre (DSF) as a raw material for glucose and xylose production. The DSF initially underwent a pre-treatment process via dilute sulphuric acid hydrolysis to liberate xylose for which four parameters were studied: the solid-to-liquid ratio (5:100-40:100), the dilute sulphuric acid concentration (0% (v/v) - 9% (v/v)), reaction time (30, 60 and 90 minutes) and the effects of steaming and microwave pre-treatment. Steaming pre-treatment led to the highest xylose (28.19 ± 0.78 g/L) and glucose (78.63 g/L ± 0.22 g/L) production, for which the dilute sulphuric acid concentration was set at 2% (v/v), reaction time was set at 60 minutes. The solid-to-liquid ratio was 30:100. Overall, this work indicates that the optimal pre-treatment of DSF can yield glucose and xylose which can be used to produce bioethanol and xylitol. The study also suggests that DSF can be an alternative raw material for xylitol production.
A brief overview of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy characterization of thin films
Authors: Ho Soonmin , Jacob A.G.
Published: December 2023

Preparation and characterization of nanostructured thin films have been reported by many researchers. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) method has been used over few decades in different fields such as superconductor, semiconductor, metallurgy and catalysis. In this work, elemental oxidation state, electronic state, chemical structure and chemical composition were investigated for metal sulfide, metal selenide, metal oxide and metal telluride films. Evaluation of binding energy for the obtained samples was reported. XPS spectra showed that annealing treatment has a very strong effect on the composition of the films. The elemental oxidation state and electronic state were strongly dependent on the specific experimental conditions.
Novel triazolo pyridine derivatives and their anti cancer activity
Authors: Kumara Swamy M. , Bhaskar K.
Published: December 2023

A series of novel triazole functionalized trifluoromethyl pyridine derivatives was prepared starting from pyridine 1. Compound 1 on reaction with sulphuric acid gave compound 2 which on chlorination followed by hydrazine hydrate and obtained compound 3 and 4. Compound 4 on reaction with diverse substituted aliphatic and aromatic acid chlorides produced amide derivatives 4a-h and 5a-h. All the final compounds were evaluated for anti cancer activity against four human cancer cell lines such as HeLa - Cervical cancer (CCL-2); COLO 205- Colon cancer (CCL-222); HepG2- Liver cancer (HB-8065); MCF7 - Breast cancer (HTB-22). Promising compounds 4f and 4g were identified.
Design and in silico evaluation of oxadiazole linked chromone derivatives as anti-depressant agents
Authors: Gupta Dheeraj Rajesh , Murugeshwari Vidya , Kumar Pankaj , Kumar Abhishek
Published: December 2023

Depression is a common CNS disorder due to disturbances in the serotonin and dopamine level within the brain. In this study, different derivatives (C1-C32) of oxadiazole-linked chromone were designed and in silico studies were performed to investigate its anti-depressant activities. Compounds were docked with 5HT1 receptors to do so and MMGBSA and ADMET properties were evaluated. Further, compounds pharmacophore modeling and antidepressant activity were calculated using the phase and PASS tools. Among 32 designed compounds, C15, C29 and C31 showed the highest docking scores of -7.617, -7.269 and -7.325 kcal/mol and exhibited significant interaction with 5HT1 receptors compared to the standard drug imipramine. Compound C15 showed the highest binding efficiency with a binding energy of -77.79; the expected common is having a binding energy of -47.20. ADME properties show that all the designed compounds followed the rule of five. Further ligand-receptor complex potential interactions were evaluated using pharmacophore modeling, indicating that the compound has steric and electronic features to ensure the interaction with the selected receptor. Further, the antidepressant activity was predicted. Compounds C15 and C21 have the highest possibility of being antidepressant molecules with 0.827 and 0.833 pa values.
Oxidation of benzyl alcohols by molecular oxygen catalyzed by cobalt ferrite
Authors: Changwal R. , Ameta R. , Ameta S.C.
Published: December 2023

Oxidation of alcohols to aldehydes/ketones/carboxylic acids is a crucial step in organic synthesis. Normally, strong oxidants oxidize alcohol to carboxylic acid and this reaction may or may not stop at the intermediate steps to form aldehyde and ketone. Some mild oxidants are required to stop it here at this stage. Here, molecular oxygen can help in achieving this objective, but there is a disadvantage to use molecular oxygen as an oxidant as it has a slow rate of oxidation. Hence, such a reaction may be catalyzed by metal ferrites. These metal ferrites are easy to separate by using an external magnet and can be recycled. Cobalt ferrite has been used for the oxidation of benzyl alcohols to corresponding benzaldehydes.
METABOLIT SEKUNDER DARI FRAKSI AKTIF AKAR PANDAN (Pandanus amaryllifolius roxb.) YANG BERSIFAT ANTIFEEDANT TERHADAP Epilachna sparsa (SECONDARY METABOLITES OF THE ACTIVE FRACTION OF PANDAN ROOT (Pandanus amaryllifolius roxb.) AS ANTIFEEDANT AGAINST Epilachna sparsa)
Authors: Widiyantoro Ari , Harlia Harlia , Putri Annisa Dyah Astari
Published: December 2023

Pandan wangi (Pandanus amaryllifolius Roxb.) contains flavonoids, terpenoids, steroids, saponins, alkaloids and tannins which can be used as antifeedant compounds. This study aims to determine the antifeedant activity and to identify of secondary metabolites from pandan roots extract against Epilachna sparsa. The antifeedant activity test was carried out on the methanol extract and the partition yeild fraction. The research was carried out by maceration of pandan root which had been mashed into powder with methanol solution to obtain a methanol extract of 86.51 g. The extract was then separated by partitioning to obtain methanol fraction, ethyl acetate fraction, dichloromethane fraction and n-hexane fraction. The methanol extract and fraction from partition results were then tested for antifeedant activity against Epilachna sparsa. The results showed that at a concentration of 6% the methanol extract had an antifeedant activity of 59.37 ± 2.11 % against Epilachna sparsa. The fractions resulting from the partition included methanol, ethyl acetate, dichloromethane and n-hexane fractions at a concentration of 6% respectively showing antifeedant activity of 81.25 ± 3.56 %; 75.00 ± 2.99 %; 37.50 ± 3.77 % and 21.18 ±1.23 %. Based on the antifeedant activity test results, the methanol fraction showed the best activity. Furthermore, the methanol fraction was separated and purified by chromatographic techniques. The isolate obtained was 53.11 mg in the form of white needle crystals and had a melting point of 135-138oC. The isolate based on the phytochemical test showed positive for flavonoid
The Roles of Export of Coffee Commodity and Macroeconomics Factors on Unemployment in Indonesia
Authors: Hendrasto Nur , Ibrahim Muhammad Yusuf , Novianti Tanti
Published: December 2023

Coffee as the second largest agricultural commodity export has contributed to the economies of various countries, including Indonesia. In addition to looking at the role of coffee commodity exports, an analysis of macroeconomic factors' impact on Indonesia's unemployment rate is also analyzed. Because it is known that the unemployment rate is not only caused by one sector but some things influence it, including macroeconomic factors. This study analyzes the role of coffee commodity exports and macroeconomic factors, including GDP, inflation, and interest rates, on Indonesia's unemployment rate. The data used in this study is interpolated secondary data for the period 2000 to 2021. The estimation method used in this study is Robust Least Square (ROBUSTLS) which will then be estimated again using the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) method as a robustness test.  The estimation results using the ROBUSTLS method prove that coffee commodity exports and macroeconomic factors significantly affect Indonesia's unemployment rate in aggregate. This form of influence is negative for coffee commodity exports (ExpCof), gross domestic product (GDP), and interest rate (IR). While inflation (Inf) has a positive impact on the unemployment rate (Ump). These findings are reinforced by the estimation results using the ARDL method with the result that ExpCof, GDP, and Inf have a significant relationship to Ump, while Inf is not as significant as the findings from the estimation results using the ROBUSTLS method.
Analysis of Factors Influencing the Decision of Cooked Food Vendors on KNUST Campus to Practice Book Keeping
Authors: Nimoh Fred , Tham-Agyekum Enoch Kwame , Dankwah Gabriel , Amoakwa Kofi Takyi , Sakye Edwin
Published: December 2023

Proper bookkeeping practices are essential for business performance and sustainability. Unfortunately, most small and medium-scale businesses, including food vending businesses, do not practice proper bookkeeping and, thus, suffer in making financing and investment decisions regarding their operations. Using cross-sectional data from a sample of 70 vendors randomly selected from a population of 200 cooked food vendors on the KNUST campus, the research investigated the factors influencing the vendor's decision to practice proper bookkeeping in their business operations. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. About 76% of the food vendors were aware of bookkeeping practices and acknowledged the value of bookkeeping as a tool to monitor their financial performance and identify strategies to enhance profitability. Two-thirds of the vendors practiced bookkeeping, with 56% keeping financial records and a third keeping inventory records. Among the various factors examined, age, educational level, awareness, startup capital, profitability, access to credit, and experience were identified as the significant factors affecting the decision of a cooked food vendor to practice bookkeeping. The study recommends the need for food vendors to consider bookkeeping as a priority activity to enhance their financial accountability, business growth, and informed decisions about their operations, and thus the overall performance and sustainability of food vending businesses.
Factors Influencing Public Decision-Making in Oil Palm Replanting Program in Sekadau District
Authors: Hutajulu Josua Parulian
Published: December 2023

Considering that oil palm plants are no longer productive, replanting needs to be carried out immediately by Sekadau district farmers. For oil palm plantation farmers in Sekadau Regency, there is a dilemma in deciding to participate in this program. This research aims to find out what factors influence oil palm farmers in Sekadau Regency to carry out replanting using a quantitative descriptive approach to see the community's response to the technology provided by the government for replanting oil palm. The number of samples used in this research was 100 respondents determined by purposive sampling. The data analysis method used is logistic regression analysis. The results of this research show that the variables of land area, farmer's income level, availability of rock from the government, and age of the oil palm have a significance value of less than 0.05, which means that these variables have a strong influence on farmers' attitudes in making decisions to carry out oil palm rejuvenation activities. The percentage of decisions made by oil palm farmers to carry out replanting activities is 62.8%, where on average farmers agree to rejuvenate oil palm even though many requirements must be met.
Sensitive thermochromic behavior of InSeI, a highly anisotropic and tubular 1D van der Waals Crystal
Authors: Cordova Dmitri Leo , Zhou Yinong , Milligan Griffin , Cheng Leo , Kerr Tyler , Ziller Joseph , Wu Ruqian , Arguilla Maxx
Published: December 2023

Thermochromism, the change in color of a material with temperature, is the fundamental basis of optical thermometry. A longstanding challenge in realizing sensitive optical thermometers for widespread use is identifying materials with pronounced thermometric optical performance in the visible range. To this end, we demonstrate that single crystals of indium selenium iodide (InSeI), a 1D van der Waals (vdW) solid consisting of weakly-bound helical chains, exhibit considerable visible range thermochromism. We show a strong temperature-dependent optical band edge absorption ranging from 450 to 530 nm (2.8 to 2.3 eV) over a 380 K temperature range with an experimental (dEg/dT)max value extracted to be 1.26 × 10-3 eV K-1. This value appreciably lies above most dense conventional semiconductors in the visible range and is comparable to soft lattice solids. We further sought to understand the origin of this unusually sensitive thermochromic behavior and found that it arises from strong electron-phonon interactions and anharmonic phonons that significantly broaden band edges and lower the Eg with increasing temperature. Our identification of structural signatures resulting to sensitive thermochromism in exfoliable 1D vdW crystals opens avenues in discovering low-dimensional solids with strong temperature-dependent optical response across broad spectral windows, dimensionalities, and nanoscale size regimes.
Bioelectrorefinery of furfural to furfuryl alcohol in aqueous media
Authors: Wolfsgruber Maria , Bischof Robert , Paulik Christian , Slabon Adam , Rodrigues Bruno
Published: December 2023

Electrocatalytic hydrogenation of furfural to furfuryl alcohol represents a sustainable approach to utilizing renewable energy for producing bio-based platform chemicals. However, low Faraday efficiencies (FEs) and the use of organic solvents with high environmental impacts often render the process less sustainable than classical catalytic hydrogenation. In this study, a two-compartment and three-electrode setup at ambient temperature and atmospheric pressure, featuring various electrodes (Ag, Au, CP, Cu, Pt, Sn, and a gold-coated silver wire (AucAg)), and biomass-derived electrolytes (acetic acid, levulinic acid, and sodium acetate), was tested. AucAg, serving as an electrocatalyst with 1 M sodium acetate as electrolyte, exhibited the best combination of FE and furfuryl alcohol yield with 82% and 37%, respectively. The optimum conditions were achieved at 100 rpm and −0.8 V vs. RHE. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analyzes indicated no significant influence of the substances on the working electrode during the reaction. Since the identity of the cation of the electrolyte influences the electrode-electrolyte microenvironment, multiple alkali metals were trialed. Sodium ion as the counter ion emerged on top, surpassing potassium, and cesium ions for the electroreduction of furfural to furfuryl alcohol. This preference could be attributed to the competing hydrogen evolution reaction favored by Cs over K and Na. In this perspective, the highlights of a bioelectrorefinery concept for creating a bio-derived platform chemical in a sustainable solvent with green electrons are demonstrated and optimized.
Non-enzymatic degradation of aliphatic Brassicaceae isothiocyanates during aqueous heat treatment
Authors: Andernach Lars , Schury Carolina , Nickel Marie , Böttger Jana , Kaufmann Martin , Rohn Sascha , Granvogl Michael , Hanschen Franziska S.
Published: December 2023

Glucosinolate-derived isothiocyanates are valuable for human health as they exert health promoting effects. Here, the stability and reactivity of 12 different isothiocyanates during aqueous heating at 100 °C and pH 5 to pH 8 were investigated. The formation of their corresponding amines and N,N’-dialk(en)yl thioureas was quantified. Further, the potential to form odor active compounds was investigated using a HRGC-MS-olfactometry approach. A strong structure-reactivity relationship was found for the isothiocyanates: shorter side chains and electron withdrawing groups increase the reactivity of the isothiocyanate and 3-(methylsulfonyl)propyl isothiocyanate was least stable. The main degradation product was found to be the corresponding amine (up to 69% recovery after 4 h of heating at pH 5) and formation of N,N’-dialk(en)yl thioureas is only relevant at neutral to basic pH values. Apart from allyl isothiocyanate also 3-(methylthio)propyl isothiocyanate is precursor to many sulfur containing odor active compounds that will contribute to the boiled cabbage flavor.
Bulk Depolymerization of PMMA via Pendent Group Activation
Authors: Sumerlin Brent , Hughes Rhys , Lott Megan , Zastrow Isabella , Young James , Maity Tanmoy
Published: December 2023

In this study, we present an efficient approach for the depolymerization of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) copolymers synthesized via conventional radical polymerization. By incorporating low mol% phthalimide ester-containing monomers during the polymerization process, colorless and transparent polymers closely resembling unfunctionalized PMMA are obtained which can achieve >95% reversion to methyl methacrylate (MMA). Notably, our catalyst-free bulk depolymerization method exhibits exceptional efficiency, even for high molecular weight polymers, including ultra-high molecular weight (10^6–10^7 g/mol) PMMA, where near quantitative depolymerization is achieved. Moreover, this approach yields polymer by-products of significantly lower molecular weight, distinguishing it from depolymerization methods initiated from chain ends. Furthermore, we extend our investigation to polymethacrylate networks, demonstrating high extents of depolymerization. This innovative depolymerization strategy offers promising opportunities for the development of sustainable and high-performance polymethacrylate materials, holding great potential for various applications in polymer science.
Combining Cationic and Anionic Polymerizations using a Universal Mediator: Enabling Access to Two- and Three-Mechanism Block Copolymers
Authors: Hosford Brandon , Ramos William , Lamb Jessica
Published: December 2023

The combination of multiple polymerization mechanisms and monomer classes to make block copolymers is an ongoing challenge. In particular, the combination of cationic and anionic polymerization mechanisms commonly requires extra compatibilization steps or the use of multi-functional initiators. Herein, we report the use of thiocarbonyl thio compounds (TCTs) as universal mediators to sequentially polymerize ethyl vinyl ether via photocontrolled cationic polymerization (photo-CP) and the thiirane phenoxy propylene sulfide via thioacyl anionic group transfer polymerization (TAGT). Thermal analyses of the resulting block copolymers provide evidence of microphase separation of the blocks. The resulting diblocks can be further chain extended using photoinduced electron/energy transfer reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer polymerization (PET-RAFT) of N-isopropylacrylamide to make a triblock terpolymer from three different monomer classes incorporated via three different mechanisms without any end group modification steps. The development of this simple, sequential synthesis using a universal mediator opens up new possibilities by providing facile access to diverse block copolymers of vinyl ethers, thiiranes, and acrylamides.
Chemical Micromotors Move Faster at Oil-Water Interfaces
Authors: Liu Jiayu , Yang Zhou , Yan Zuyao , Duan Shifang , Chen Xiaowen , Cui Donghao , Cao Dezhou , Kuang Ting , Ma Xing , Wang Wei
Published: December 2023

Many real-world scenarios involve interfaces, particularly liquid-liquid interfaces, that can fundamentally al-ter the dynamics of colloids. This is poorly understood for chemically active colloids that release chemicals into their environment. We report here the surprising discovery that micromotors—colloids that convert chemical fuels into self-propulsion—move significantly faster at an oil-water interface than on a glass substrate. Typical speed increases ranged from 3-6 times up to an order of magnitude, and were observed for different types of chemical motors or oils. Such speed increases are likely caused by faster chemical reactions at an oil-water interface than a glass-water interface, but the exact mechanism remains unknown. Our results provide valuable insights into the complex interactions between chemical micromotors and their environments, which are important for applications in the human body or in the removal of organic pollutants from water. In addi-tion, this study also suggests that chemical reactions occur faster at an oil-water interface, and that micromo-tors can serve as a probe for such an effect.
Populizm historyczny: Konceptualizacja ramy analitycznej
Authors: Markowska-Marczak Barbara
Published: December 2023

Artykuł poświęcony jest zbudowaniu ramy analitycznej i konceptualizacji populizmu historycznego, jako formy kształtowania przekazów odnoszących się do przeszłości historycznej. W tym celu połączona zostanie argumentacja płynąca z badań nad populizmem, jako formą narracji, z badaniami nad dyskursem w polityce pamięci [Lipiński 2020; Riedel 2022] oraz z teorią dyskursu Ernesta Laclaua [2009; 2010], który łączy poststrukturalistyczną perspektywę z psychoanalityczną teorią więzi społecznych opracowaną przez Sigmunda Freuda [2012]. Przeprowadzona konceptualizacja wskaże na znaczenie obrazów przeszłości w budowaniu silnych afektów, które przekładają się na skuteczne budowanie tożsamości zbiorowych. Konstruowanie narracji populistycznych opartych na fantazmatycznej formule Ludu-w-Narodzie – jak zostanie pokazane – stanowi jedną z form oporu wobec globalnego kapitalizmu, a jednocześnie jest efektem formy życia, narzucanej przez kapitalizm afektywny.
The Study of the Pre-Revolutionary History of Siberia in Great Britain in the 20th – Early 21st Century: Institutional Aspect
Authors:   Institute of History SB RAS, Anan’ev D. A.
Published: December 2023

The article analyzes the institutional aspect of the Siberian studies in Great Britain in the 20th–21st centuries. It is shown that the period under study was marked by the establishment of research centers for Russian and Siberian studies; publication of specialized periodical editions; organizing thematic conferences; creation of scientific schools and university courses on the history of Northern Asia etc.
An investigation of the challenges constraining the performances of Nigeria institute of international relation
Authors: Modu Lawan Gana  , Hadiza Mali Bukar  , Maryam Mala
Published: December 2023

The research focus on the examination of the roles of Nigeria Institute of International Relation in promoting Nigeria diplomatic relation. The study is approach on qualitative approach designed on phenomenological research. The empirical data was collected through in-depth interviews involving face to face method. Ten (10) respondents were engaged in the study. The primary source which contain an open-ended question administered to the respondents was triangulated with data from secondary source such as journals, articles, textbooks. and media. The research finds out that Nigeria Institute of International affairs have a positive role on the policy formulation processes of Nigeria. However, it revealed that the institution was bedeviled with several challenges such as financial, Administrative, infrastructural and political. While it concludes that the role of the Institute is inevitable for the promotion of Nigeria foreign policy interest, it recommends that the Institute should strive to expand its in-house revenue to manage its affaire. It also recommends the need for strong legislation that stipulate the areas of jurisdiction between and among the Institute and other related agencies and the ministry.
Utilization of strategies for ensuring effective security of data in government parastatals in Abia state
Authors: Faith Chukwudi Nwaukwa  , Anioke  , Peggy Onyefuruchi
Published: December 2023

The need to protect data of government parastatals from unauthorized access and breaches necessitated this study. The study ascertained the utilization of strategies for ensuring the security of data in government parastatals in Abia State. One research question and one null hypothesis guided the study. The study adopted survey research design, with a population of 351 data managers in government parastatals studied without sampling. A-14 item structured questionnaire was used to collect data for the study. The face and content validity of the instrument was determined using four experts while the reliability was established using pilot-test and data obtained calculated using Cronbach Alpha formula which yielded correlation coefficient of .87. Descriptive mean and standard deviation were used to answer the research question while ANOVA was used to test the null hypothesis at .05 significant level. Findings revealed that office employees in government parastatals in Abia State utilize network control strategy to a low extent in ensuring security of data. Years of working experience of data managers did not significantly influence their mean responses in this regard. Hence, the researchers concluded that more training/re-training of office staff is needed on how to utilize network control strategy to ensure effective security of data in government parastatals in Abia State. It was recommended among others that; management of government parastatals in Abia State should organize regular data security training workshops for all their office staff to enable them up-data their skills and competencies in utilizing network control strategy for security of organizations’ data.
A large database towards user-friendly SSVEP-based BCI
Authors: Dong Yue , Tian Sen
Published: December 2023

Background:

Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) have gained considerable attention for their potential in assisting individuals who have motor impairments with communication and rehabilitation. Among BCIs, steady-state visual evoked potential (SSVEP)-based systems have demonstrated high efficiency in interactive applications. However, ergonomic design challenges have limited their practical implementation in industrial settings. Issues such as visual and mental fatigue caused by flickering stimuli and the time-consuming preparation process hinder user adoption of such systems.

Methods:

To evaluate these BCI solutions, we introduced an open database comprising Electroencephalogram (EEG) data collected from 59 healthy volunteers using ergonomically designed semi-dry electrodes and grid stimuli. The database was acquired without electromagnetic shielding, and the preparation time for each participant was <5 min. A 40-target SSVEP speller system with cues was used in the experiment.

Results:

We validate the database by temporal and spectral analyzing methods. To further investigate the database, filter bank canonical correlation analysis (FBCCA), ensemble task-related component analysis (e-TRCA) and multi-stimulus task-related component analysis (msTRCA) were used for classification. The database can be downloaded from the following link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1TXuxU863nZoniZRgNWZy0PRuL8lhBuP4?usp=sharing .

Conclusions:

This research contributes to enhancing the use of SSVEP-based BCIs in practical settings by addressing user experience and system design challenges. The proposed user-friendly visual stimuli and ergonomic electrode design improve comfort and usability. The open dataset serves as a valuable resource for future studies, enabling the development of robust and efficient SSVEP- BCI systems suitable for industrial applications.
Educaciones propias y luchas por la autonomía:
Authors: Torres Puentes Wilson Javier
Published: December 2023

El presente artículo es resultado de un estudio doctoral que abordó tres comunidades indígenas de México, Colombia y Chile: los zapatistas, los nasa y los mapuche, junto con sus organizaciones políticas (Ejército Zapatista de Liberación Nacional, Consejo Regional Indígena del Cauca y Coordinadora de Comunidades en Conflicto Arauco-Malleco). Su abordaje se realizó, metodológicamente, a la luz de la experimentación denominada epistemología situada, una convergencia cualitativa y teórico - analítica estructurada sobre tres ejes críticoanalíticos: la traducción, el presente expandido y la ampliación de la mirada. El artículo centra su atención en dos procesos convergentes y que forman parte de las luchas constantes de estas comunidades indígenas: la lucha por la autonomía, que se traduce en autodeterminación y autogobierno, y ejercer soberanía territorial, que se traduce en ejercicios de educación propia. Este tipo de educación no se refiere únicamente a educación bilingüe (español-lenguas indígenas); es fundamentalmente un proceso de liberación-recuperación al recobrar lo perdido desde el inicio de la invasión de 1492 hasta el presente.
Educación inclusiva
Authors: Romero-Coronel Karla Fabiola , Álvarez-Mora María del Carmen , Andino-Sosa Ivonne Augusta
Published: December 2023

La educación inclusiva es un tema de gran relevancia en la actualidad. Debido a que la diversidad se presenta en la realidad académica, la aplicabilidad de este tipo de educación permite respetar los derechos de los ciudadanos, de tal manera que se han generado estrategias para el ingreso y la permanencia de estudiantes con discapacidad a fin de permitir su desarrollo integral. El objetivo de la presente investigación es conocer los avances que ha habido en materia de educación inclusiva en el nivel inicial. Para ello, se ha partido de un enfoque cualitativo de nivel descriptivo y tipo bibliográfico. La información se recopiló a partir de portales como Redalyc, Scielo, Dialnet y Google Académico, así como de páginas oficiales. Como conclusión, se evidencia que, si bien se han eliminado algunas barreras en el contexto educativo, es preciso acrecentar la práctica de valores, disciplinas y compromisos familiares, sociales y profesionales para fomentar la equidad de oportunidades.
ОСОБЛИВОСТІ ПЛАНУВАННЯ ТА ДИНАМІКА ТРЕНУВАЛЬНИХ НАВАНТАЖЕНЬ В ЖІНОЧІЙ ТА ЧОЛОВІЧІЙ ГРУПОВІЙ АКРОБАТИЦІ НА РІЗНИХ ЕТАПАХ БАГАТОРІЧНОГО ВДОСКОНАЛЕННЯ
Authors: Бачинська Н. В. , Саричев В. І.
Published: December 2023

Представлено результати впровадження в навчально-тренувальний процес оптимального розподілу навантажень за ключовими параметрами, згідно авторської концепції (Бачинська Н.В., 2023), для жіночих та чоловічих акробатичних груп в цілому та з урахуванням їх амплуа. В дослідженнях брали участь спортсмени, представники жіночої групової акробатики (n=48, середній вік: амплуа верхні 13,86±1,08 років; амплуа ті, що посередині та внизу – 19,38±2,88 років) та чоловічих акробатичних груп (n=44: амплуа ті, що вгорі середній вік 14,94±2,34 років; амплуа ті, що посередині та внизу, 22,38±2,96 років). Рівень спортивної майстерності акробатів – новачки, субеліта та елітні атлети. Динаміка середньостатистичних навантажень річному циклі підготовки (кількість елементів) на етапах багаторічної підготовки у жіночих групових вправах (амплуа ті, що вгорі/амплуа ті, що посередині та внизу (М±SD): 1) навчально-тренувальні групи 1–2-й рр.: 350,87±18,85/398,54±20,89 елеменів; 2) навчально-тренувальні групи 3–5-й рр.: 410,97±21,94/468,87±19,53; 3) групи спортивного вдосконалення 1-й рік: 467,45±22,75/502,76±21,85; 4) групи спортивного вдосконалення 2–3-й рр.: 505,45±20,43/538,62±23,45; 5) групи вищої спортивної майстерності: 542,45±22,75/575,85±25,85. При розробці модельних характеристик авторської концепції було проаналізовано низку тренувальних навантажень централізованих зборів, змагальних мікроциклів, а також різнорідні показники ступеню та специфічності стомлення акробатів, на етапах багаторічного вдосконалення в групові жіночій та чоловічій акробатиці. Враховано індивідуальні та статеві особливостей акробатів, специфічні особливості побудови у різноманітних структурних утвореннях тренувального процесу.
КОНЦЕПЦІЯ «IAAF KIDS' ATHLETICS» ТА ЇЇ ВПЛИВ НА СПОРТИВНИЙ ВІДБІР ДО ЗАНЯТЬ ЛЕГКОЮ АТЛЕТИКОЮ
Authors: Долбишева Н. Г. , Мустяца С. Є. , Бондаренко І. Г.
Published: December 2023

Мета дослідження: визначити перспективи впровадження концепції «IAAF Kids' Athletics» та її вплив на спортивний відбір до занять легкою атлетикою. Методи дослідження: аналіз та узагальнення літературних джерел та програмно-нормативних документів, соціологічні методи дослідження, узагальнення та систематизація результатів. Організація дослідження. Дослідження проводилось на базі комунального позашкільного закладу спеціалізованої дитячо-юнацької спортивної школи олімпійського резерву № 3 з легкої атлетики Дніпровської Міської Ради міста Дніпро. У досліджені брали участь тренери-викладачі з легкої атлетики, які стали респондентами наукової роботи. Результати дослідження. В ході дослідження було встановлено, що розроблена Міжнародною асоціацією легкоатлетичних федерацій (IAAF), нині World Athletics, концепція «IAAF Kids’ Athletics» є повністю модернізованою системою новітніх поглядів, щодо використання спортивних засобів в легкій атлетиці для дітей віком від 4 років. В концепції для її реалізації розроблено ряд методичного забезпечення, а саме: програма «IAAF Kids’ Athletics», картки навичок, буклет (паспорт) для відстежування результатів прогресу, різні методичні посібники, фільми та промо-матеріали і інше, що є у відкритих джерелах World Athletics. Дана концепція спрямована на заклади загальної освіти, але з можливим використанням і інших закладів, що не суперечать меті і завданням концепції. Проведене соціологічне дослідження виявило, що повна, або часткова обізнаність тренерів- викладачів відносно впровадженої концепції склала 66,6%. Не зважаючи на висвітлені показники, лише 9,5% респондентів організовують навчально- тренувальний процес в межах запропонованої концепції і 28,6% опитуваних частково використовують її. Більшість тренерів-викладачів відають перевагу залученню дітей відповідно до концепції, враховуючи бажання дитини займатися спортом, відходячи від загальноприйнятої системи відбору на етапі початкової підготовки. При цьому 81,0% респондентів заперечують залучення дітей раннього віку і введення їх в раню спеціалізацію.
POLÍTICA DE NANOTECNOLOGIA NO OCIDENTE: COMPARAÇÃO ENTRE ESTADOS UNIDOS, MÉXICO, BRASIL E ARGENTINA
Authors: Editorial Equipe
Published: December 2023

A Revista de Direito Brasileira recebeu correspondência enviada pelo professor mexicano Gian Delgado alegando que o artigo Política de nanotecnologia no ocidente: comparação entre Estados Unidos, México, Brasil e Argentina (RDB, n. 31, vol. 12), submetido por Daniel Francisco Nagao Menezes (autor único do artigo), tratava-se de plágio de seu artigo Sociología política de la nanotecnología en el hemisferio occidental: el caso de Estados Unidos, México, Brasil y Argentina, publicado na Revista de Estudios Sociales v. 27, 2007, pp. 164-181. Depois de proceder a minuciosa análise, a comissão designada para apurar tal fato concluiu pela existência de “flagrante plágio de todo o conteúdo do artigo”. Note-se que todos os autores comprometem-se quanto à originalidade dos trabalhos submetidos à RDB. Apesar de todo esforço da equipe editorial e dos pareceristas ad hoc, tornou-se virtualmente impossível detectar todos os casos de plágio na profusão de veículos científicos existentes. Seguindo as práticas e diretrizes do COPE (Committee on Publication Ethics), acreditamos ser dever deste periódico informar seus leitores que o referido artigo foi, retirado do número (withdraw) e que os envolvidos, suas instituições e a Revista de Estudios Sociales foram devidamente informados desta decisão. Todas as medidas estão sendo tomadas para que essa prática seja sempre coibida na RDB. A colaboração dos leitores, denunciando eventuais casos, é essencial para que isso não se repita.
TÉCNICAS DE ARGUMENTAÇÃO JURÍDICA NO ESTADO DEMOCRÁTICO DE DIREITO E SUA RELAÇÃO COM PRINCÍPIOS CONSTITUCIONAIS
Authors: Andrade Domingos Pedro Luiz de , Velten Paulo
Published: December 2023

Qual é a importância de princípios e regras constitucionais durante a atividade de interpretação do direito? Por que decisões públicas devem pressupor racionalidade, coerência e serem internamente justificáveis? Neste trabalho, passaremos a expor os conceitos que diferenciam os princípios das regras jurídicas e de que modo os trabalhos de Ronald Dworkin e de Robert Alexy podem influenciar a atividade decisória judicial e a formação da norma ao caso concreto, com enfoque sobre os limites impostos ao julgador - em um Estado Democrático Constitucional, para o julgamento com base em princípios durante a colisão de direitos fundamentais ou em casos difíceis.
LE CONSEGUENZE DEI VIZI DI FORMA E PROCEDURA NEI LICENZIAMENTI INDIVIDUALI E COLLETTIVI
Authors: Mocella Marco
Published: December 2023

La presente ricerca esplora le riforme del lavoro italiane del 2012 e del 2015, concentrandosi sulle implicazioni di tali cambiamenti nei licenziamenti individuali e collettivi. Il problema centrale affrontato è la possibile indebolimento delle protezioni legali per i lavoratori di fronte alle modifiche legislative. L'obiettivo della ricerca è analizzare l'impatto delle riforme, in particolare per quanto riguarda i difetti di forma e procedura nei licenziamenti. Il metodo impiegato coinvolge un approccio analitico alle modifiche legislative, evidenziando l'ampliamento della tutela reintegrativa e le nuove sanzioni per la mancata comunicazione dei motivi del licenziamento. I risultati indicano una riduzione della tutela reintegrativa nei licenziamenti collettivi, mantenendo l'importanza delle procedure adeguate. Le modifiche nei trattamenti disciplinari e nei licenziamenti per giusta causa sono evidenziate, con la violazione che non invalida più il licenziamento, ma comporta indennizzi ridotti. La conclusione sottolinea l'attenzione necessaria da parte dei giudici di fronte a questa situazione, indicando un possibile indebolimento delle protezioni legali per i lavoratori, specialmente nella fase di selezione per i licenziamenti.
PSICOMOTRICIDADE AQUÁTICA E A PESSOA IDOSA: PRINCÍPIOS E ABORDAGENS DA PRÁTICA
Authors: Oliveira Cleisson Barbosa da Silva , Lussac Ricardo Martins Porto
Published: December 2023

O envelhecimento é um fator comum aos seres humanos. Este processo implica em alterações de ordem física, mental e social que repercutem na saúde dos indivíduos, tornando-os cada vez menos autônomos. No âmbito nacional, o envelhecimento populacional tende a provocar grandes alterações demográficas, trazendo a necessidade da elaboração de programas e políticas públicas que contemplem esta população, sendo o professor de Educação Física capaz de desempenhar um papel fundamental neste processo, atuando na educação e na atenção primária à saúde. No que tange à psicomotricidade, a mesma abarca as mudanças decorrentes do envelhecimento através do fenômeno da retrogênese psicomotora e oferece uma série de alternativas para mitigar esse processo, seja em solo como no meio aquático. Neste último, o baixo impacto articular é fator preponderante para que idosos sejam instruídos a procurá-lo. Desta forma, o objetivo deste trabalho consistiu em investigar os princípios e características mais importantes em abordagens psicomotoras realizadas com idosos no meio aquático. Para isso, realizou-se uma pesquisa de caráter exploratório, que através de uma pesquisa bibliográfica delimitou os alicerces teóricos do estudo. Apesar da pouca bibliografia produzida acerca da temática, a literatura mostra que estas atividades são capazes de proporcionar efeitos positivos neste público, com seu conteúdo sendo marcado por atividades em grupo, explorando dinâmicas lúdicas ou modalidades de conhecimento popular, inserindo conceitos psicomotores na execução destes protocolos. Portanto, esta pesquisa constatou que essas abordagens psicomotoras aquáticas contribuem de forma considerável no retardamento dos efeitos da retrogênese, sendo recomendável para idosos, principalmente aqueles com maior fragilidade.
PREFERENCIAS DE LOS JÓVENES EN EL CONSUMO DE LAS PLATAFORMAS DE STREAMING: ‘SCOPING REVIEW’
Authors:   UNIVERSIDAD CATOLICA DE SANTA MARIA, AREQUIPA-PERU, ONTIVEROS APARICIO WILDO
Published: December 2023

Durante la pandemia, el aumento del uso de Internet y la necesidad de adaptación a actividades en línea han impulsado el crecimiento de las plataformas de streaming en comparación con la televisión tradicional. Estas plataformas ofrecen contenido personalizado de alta calidad y permiten la interacción con los usuarios. Un enfoque de investigación importante se centra en el papel de estas plataformas en la vida de los jóvenes, analizando cómo influyen en la experiencia de consumo y la interacción con el contenido. Este trabajo utiliza una técnica de revisión exploratoria (scoping review) para examinar los artículos publicados sobre plataformas de streaming entre 2017 y 2022. El estudio, titulado "Preferencias de los jóvenes universitarios en el consumo que ofrecen las plataformas de streaming", resalta la importancia de estas plataformas como canales de interacción con las audiencias y su capacidad para involucrar a nuevos públicos. También se reconoce el desafío de los profesionales para mejorar la comunicación a través de estos canales y crear contenido de calidad. En resumen, esta investigación busca comprender a fondo las plataformas de streaming y su impacto en la vida de los jóvenes, identificando tendencias de investigación, desafíos y preocupaciones relevantes. Este enfoque contribuirá a una comprensión más completa de este fenómeno en constante evolución y proporcionará información valiosa para mejorar la comunicación y la creación de contenidos atractivos en el entorno digital en constante cambio. Palabras clave: streaming, jóvenes universitarios, preferencias, contenido, plataformas, factores.
Orchid bees enhance seed set production of an understory herb in the Western Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Brito Thaline , Silva Daniel , Contrera Felipe , Maués Márcia , Morato Elder
Published: December 2023

Bee pollination is an important ecosystem service related to the maintenance of many flowering plants. We evaluated the relationship between orchid bee foraging time and the density of flowering plants and whether visitation varied according to the sex and size class of bees, using Calathea mansonis as a model species. We monitored 10 plots between December 2009 and November 2010 in a forest fragment in Senador Guiomard, Acre, Brazil. We counted the number of flowering plants and flowers per plant and the behaviour of the observed bees. Additionally, we compared the bagged and exposed inflorescences for self-compatibility analysis. We sampled 173 orchid bees from 13 species, with Eulaema cingulata as the most abundant visitor. Eulaema (large bees) were more effective pollinators than Euglossa (small bees). We also found Eulaema polyzona individuals feeding on a Marantaceae species for the first time. The time spent by the bees visiting flowers did not differ with the density of flowering plants or the number of flowers per plant. However, flowers exposed to visitors produced 35% more seeds and 15% heavier seeds than bagged flowers. Considering plant–bee interactions, orchid bees may increase gene flow and compensate for the clonal reproduction of this herb.