bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding Smallholder Dairy Farming in Tanzania: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Farmer Demographics and Management Constraints
Authors: Ngou Athanas , Laven Richard , Parkinson Timothy , Kashoma Isaac , Donaghy Danny
Published: February 2025

There has been a significant shift in the population of smallholder dairy cattle farmers in Tanzania, yet we lack current demographic data and information on key productivity constraints. This cross-sectional survey of 301 smallholder dairy cattle farmers across six regions aimed to gather demographic data and identify key farming constraints. Of the 301 households surveyed, 74% were headed by men, but in Njombe there was an equal number of women and men. Most respondents had primary education but had gone no further (55%); however, in Morogoro, 68% of farmers had been in secondary/university education. Across four regions (Njombe, Mbeya, Kilimanjaro and Arusha), herd size of 3–4 animals was most common (32–50%); however, in Morogoro and Tanga most herds had ˃4 animals (66% and 78%, respectively). Zero-grazing was the most common grazing system (75%), but tethering was predominant (68%) in Mbeya. Cash purchase was the most common means of obtaining the first cattle beast (66%), although a gift from a relative/friend (49%) was the most common source in Mbeya. High input costs (93%), unavailability of feed (71%), lack of land (68%) and diseases (62%) were the key identified constraints, while high breeding costs (96%), poor oestrus detection (89%), cows not displaying oestrus (79%) and lack of AI services (51%) were the key constraints to successful breeding. Despite the shared commonalities, demographic differences among regions call for fitting development strategies that address the specific needs of farmers in each region, rather than applying uniform solutions across Tanzania.
Real-Space Imaging of the Band Topology of Transition Metal Dichalcogenides
Authors: Pasupathy Abhay , Holbrook Madisen , Ingham Julian , Kaplan Daniel , Holtzman Luke , Bierman Brenna , Olsen Nicholas , Nashabeh Luca , Li Yiliu , Liu Song , Zhu Xiaoyang , Rhodes Daniel , Barmak Katayun , Hone James , Queiroz Raquel
Published: February 2025

The topological properties of Bloch bands are intimately tied to the structure of their electronic wavefunctions within the unit cell of a crystal. Here, we show that scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy (STM/S) measurements on the prototypical transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) semiconductor WSe2 can be used to unambiguously determine the location of the Wannier center of the valence band. Using site-specific substitutional doping, we first determine the position of the atomic sites within STM images, establishing that the maximum electronic density of states at the K-point lies between the atoms. In contrast, the maximum density of states at the point is at the atomic sites. This signifies that WSe2 is a topologically obstructed atomic insulator that cannot be adiabatically transformed to a trivial atomic limit, providing the first direct experimental evidence of this phase.
Clinical application of tumour whole genome sequencing in routine molecular diagnostics for solid cancer patients
Authors: Cuppen E. , Putten Jeffrey van , Snaebjornsson Petur , Bosch Linda , Koster Roelof , Roepman Paul , Boelens Mirjam , Wezel Tom van , Rosenberg Efraim , Marchetti Serena , Vollebergh Marieke , Lambregts Doenja , Kolk Lizet van der , Nienhuis Hilde , Monkhorst Kim
Published: February 2025

Molecular testing is increasingly relevant for enabling precision medicine for cancer patients. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) provides a tumour-agnostic solution for the growing complexity of DNA-based biomarker detection, with promising results demonstrated in various studies. Here, we present real-world data of 888 patients to demonstrate the clinical value of routine use of paired tumour-normal WGS-based diagnostics for solid tumours in a comprehensive cancer center setting.
WGS was successful in 89% of cases with a median turnaround time of 6 working days. Potentially actionable biomarkers were identified in 74% of patients, including biomarkers for reimbursed and experimental targeted therapies in 30% and 64% of patients, respectively. Importantly, 38% and 24% of these patients did start biomarker-guided therapy within one year. For cancers of unknown primary (n=123), WGS aided in solving diagnosis or identified reimbursed treatment options in 68% of cases, with 70% starting a tumour type-specific treatment after WGS. Finally, clinically relevant pathogenic germline variants were identified in 6.5% of all patients.
Together, routine WGS-based diagnostics outperformed previous study results and had clinical consequences in 42% of all patients tested. WGS thus provides a versatile and future-proof test approach for supporting clinical care for patients with solid cancers.
Black yeasts are efficient heterologous hosts of a wide range of fungal polyketides
Authors: Cruz-Morales Pablo , Gadar-Lopez Adrian , de Carvalho Ana Calheiros , Li Xiaowei , Rago Daniela , Ahonen Linda , Gotfredsen Charlotte , Lukassen Marie , Cano-Prieto Carolina , Chen Ling , Jayachandran Sidharth , Brogaard Jeppe , von Bargen Miriam , Bhagavan Laasya , Strucko Tomas , Frey Adrian , Arsovska Dushica , Carr Erin , Jensen Sheila , Harris Steven , Mortensen Uffe , Kiesling Jay
Published: February 2025

Fungal natural products, including polyketides, are a rich source of bioactive molecules. Their biosynthetic enzymes are encoded within biosynthetic gene clusters, which are often activated by specific environmental conditions. As a result, many natural products are not produced under standard laboratory conditions. Heterologous expression bypasses native regulation, enabling a systematic approach for polyketide discovery. The most widely used fungal hosts for natural product production are Saccharomycetales yeasts, and filamentous Eurotiomycetes. Yeasts are highly tractable but have a narrow product scope due to their limited secondary metabolism, while filamentous Eurotiomycetes have a richer secondary metabolism but are more difficult to engineer.
In this work, we established two yeasts of the genera Exophiala and Knufia as novel heterologous hosts for a broad range of polyketides. These hosts combine the genetic tractability of yeast with the metabolic robustness of filamentous fungi. We developed genetic engineering tools for precise gene integration and genome editing, allowing us to heterologously express five fungal polyketide synthases with different domain architectures, including one involved in the biosynthesis of a previously undescribed 2-pyridone. Our findings demonstrate that these novel yeast hosts can efficiently produce complex polyketides, paving the way for systematic polyketide synthase expression and engineering.
Breaking Barriers: Exploring the Impact of the Glass Ceiling Index on Female Representation in the Judiciary
Authors: Kaya Yasin Caglar , Kaya Hasret , Kayar Abdullah
Published: February 2025

This study seeks to answer the question of whether there are barriers to women in the judiciary and to examine the relationship between the glass ceiling index and representation rates of female judges with a view to revealing whether the barriers observed in the judiciary are sector-specific. The study examines the glass ceiling index scores published in ‘The Economist’ for OECD countries between 2010- 2020 and the representation rates of female judges in courts for the same years. The panel data method was used to reveal this relationship. The glass ceiling index had a negative coefficient and was statistically significant at a significance level of 1 percent for first instance courts. The probability values obtained from the models applied to test the relationship between the glass ceiling index and the representation rates of female judges in courts of second instance and supreme courts showed no statistically significant relationship between the variables. This study differs from the literature in that it establishes a relationship between the barriers to women in the public and private sectors and the barriers to women in the judiciary across countries, thus seeking an answer to the question of whether or not the barriers in the judiciary are sector-specific.
Enhancing Chemistry Learning Through The Effective Utilization Of The Periodic Table As Content And A Tool: A Mixed-Methods Study of Teachers and Learners' Engagement in Conceptual Change
Authors: Mhlongo Thabo
Published: February 2025

The periodic table is a fundamental concept in chemistry, yet its potential as both content and a tool for conceptual understanding is often underutilized. This mixed-methods study explored how teachers and learners in a South African township school engaged with the periodic table to enhance their understanding of chemical bonding and reactions. The findings indicate that teachers' perceptions of the periodic table—whether as static content or a dynamic tool—shaped their instructional practices and influenced learners’ conceptual development. Similarly, learners who viewed the periodic table as a framework for understanding chemical properties performed better than those who saw it as mere information to memorize. The study underscores the need for professional development to enhance teachers' pedagogical strategies and improve chemistry instruction. These insights contribute to refining chemistry teaching practices and fostering meaningful conceptual change in learners.
Biogas Production and Nutrient Dynamics in Digestate from Co-Digestion of Food Waste and Banana Stems
Authors: Debele Wagene Hailu , Keche Demissie Dawana , Wachemo Akiber Chufo , Wanore Tesfaye Doboch , Legesse Henok Akililu
Published: February 2025

Purpose:
Biogas production offers a sustainable approach to converting organic waste into renewable energy while generating nutrient-rich digestate for use as fertilizer. This study investigates the biogas potential and nutrient composition of digestate derived from the anaerobic co-digestion of food waste (FW) and banana stems (BS). The research aims to optimize the co-digestion process by evaluating biogas yields and nutrient retention in digestate.
Methods:
Anaerobic co-digestion experiments were conducted in 1L sealed reactors at 37±1°C for 45 days, with biogas volume measured using the water displacement method. The feedstocks were characterized by their biochemical composition, with FW containing 50.72% carbohydrates and 9.81% protein, while BS had 29.03% cellulose and 8.53% lignin. Co-digestion was assessed for its effect on the carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N) ratio and methanogenesis efficiency.
Results:
Biogas yields were recorded as 304.91 mL/gVS for FW, 216.60 mL/gVS for BS, and 330.18 mL/gVS for a 1:1 co-digestion, showing an improvement of 25.49% and 14.58% compared to FW and BS alone, respectively. Retention times varied from 25 days (FW) to 41 days (BS). Digestate analysis indicated phosphorus levels between 16.47–19.95 mg/L, potassium between 25.0–36.0 mg/L, and sodium between 12.0–18.0 mg/L, with FW-rich reactors exhibiting the highest nutrient concentrations.
Conclusion:
The study highlights the dual benefits of anaerobic co-digestion in enhancing biogas production and generating nutrient-rich digestate. These findings provide valuable insights into optimizing waste valorization processes for sustainable energy production and agricultural applications.
Deep learning for aircraft emergency landing identification: A New Moroccan Terrain Dataset Case Study
Authors: Khadija Bouzaachane , Mahdi EL Guarmah EL
Published: February 2025

In the aviation industry, forced landings are undesirable occurrences that may occur to an aircraft while it is in flight. They may result from unanticipated circumstances, or engine failures. One approach that could be used to find prospective emergency landing locations for airplanes is image segmentation. Accurate segmentation should enhance aviation safety procedures generally by improving the efficient identification of safe landing zones. The accurate identification of safe landing places is crucial to aviation safety in emergency situations. Using a pixel-wise labeled dataset, this paper introduces a deep learning framework for semantic segmentation with the goal of identifying emergency landing zones in Morocco [1]. With an emphasis on terrain features like surface type, slope, and obstructions, the study assesses cutting-edge architectures such as DeepLabV3+, SegFormer, Faster R-CNN, and U-Net. To improve model generalization, a strong preparation pipeline that uses data augmentation approaches is used. Metrics like F1-score, recall, precision, and Dice coefficients show how effective the model is, and experimental findings show notable gains in segmentation accuracy. Critical gaps in the literature have prompted our investigation, especially with regard to aircraft and emergency runways, which have received relatively little attention. Since the urgent landing objective is a point rather than a piste, the majority of the work that has been published thus far is specifically for UAVs, ([2]-[7]). The results highlight the possibility of incorporating these techniques for safer emergency landings into autonomous aircraft systems. Hybrid models will be investigated in future studies, and the application will be expanded to include more varied datasets.
Non-destructive Detection of Spotted Wing Drosophila Infestation in Blueberries Using Hyperspectral Imaging
Authors: Mu Xinyang , Lu Yuzhen
Published: February 2025

Spotted Wing Drosophila (SWD) infestation in blueberries presents a significant threat to blueberry industries due to significant yield loss and quality/safety issues during postharvest process where there is zero-tolerance for infested fruit. Current detection methods require destructive sampling and are time-consuming and labor-intensive and thus not suitable for high-volume inspection of individual products during postharvest handling. This study presents an innovative hyperspectral imaging-based approach to detecting SWD infestation in highbush blueberry fruit. Two benchtop hyperspectral imaging systems in reflectance mode, operating in the visible-near-infrared (Vis-NIR, 400-1000 nm) and short-wavelength infrared (SWIR, 900-1700 nm) ranges respectively, were in-house assembled for acquiring images of 945 (including 706 healthy and 235 infested) blueberry samples hand-picked from orchards. Hyperspectral imagery was processed to segment blueberries and extract mean spectra from individual samples. Infested blueberries showed lower spectral reflectance in the region of 750 – 1350 nm than normal samples. Baseline models were built using six different classifiers for sample classification, and the models based on partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) yielded the best overall accuracy of 90.2% and 92.5% for the Vis-NIR and SWIR systems, respectively, with the corresponding recall rates of 74.2% and 80.6% for infested fruit. Three alternative model pipelines were proposed by implementing oversampling of the minority (infested) fruit class and waveband selection, through an exhaustive search for optimal methods, resulting in improved detection performance. Oversampling was generally more effective than waveband selection for enhancing model performance, and their combination (oversampling followed by waveband selection) yielded the best classification, with PLS-DA remaining the best classifier. The Vis-NIR and SWIR systems achieved the best overall accuracies of 93.7% and 97.2%, respectively, with the corresponding recall rates of 85.9% and 95.7% for infested fruit. This research showed that hyperspectral imaging, especially in the SWIR range, is useful for rapid, non-destructive detection of SWD infestation in blueberry fruit.
Ambiente Macroeconômico e Persistência das Informações Contábeis de Empresas Listadas nas Bolsa de Valores Internacionais
Authors: Morais Henrique Carvalho Bezerra , Souza Paulo Vitor Souza de , Ferreira Jonathas da Silva
Published: February 2025

Este estudo tem como objetivo verificar a relação entre medidas macroeconômicas e persistência de informações contábeis em empresas listadas em bolsas de valores à nível internacional. Para isso, foi composta uma amostra com 37.852 empresas, com dados de companhias de capital aberto ativas em bolsas de valores de 42 países, no período de 2008 a 2021, que totalizou 432.290 observações. Para a mensuração da persistência do lucro, do fluxo de caixa e dos accruals foram utilizados os modelos propostos por Sloan (1996), Dechow e Schrand (2004) e Dechow et al. (2010). Para representar o ambiente macroeconômico foram utilizadas as seguintes medidas: inflação, PIB, taxa de juros, taxa de câmbio, desemprego e dívida pública, cujos dados foram coletados da plataforma do The World Bank. Os resultados obtidos neste estudo evidenciaram que a persistência das informações contábeis se relaciona negativamente com a inflação, taxa de câmbio e taxa de desemprego, e se relaciona positivamente com a dívida pública e o PIB, e que não sofre impacto da taxa de juros. É destacado, portanto, que as informações contábeis das companhias podem sofrer influência do ambiente macroeconômico onde estão inseridas, ou seja, o cenário econômico do país tende a afetar significativamente a qualidade das informações reportadas por suas empresas. Sendo assim, os achados contribuem com a literatura e ainda possibilitam a compreensão de como a qualidade das informações contábeis se comporta frente aos mais diversos cenários macroeconômicos sob a perspectiva da persistência, medida considerada útil aos usuários de informações contábeis e que representa a volatilidade dos números contábeis auferidos com o passar do tempo.
Avaliação de Fatores que Influenciam na Implantação de Programas de Gestão de Riscos e de Integridade da Marinha do Brasil
Authors: Sabá Cavalcante Karen Fernanda , Neves dos Santos João Alberto , Von Raschendorfer Érica , Lyrio Eduardo Felicíssimo
Published: February 2025

Este estudo teve por objetivo avaliar os fatores que mais influenciam a implantação de Programas de Gestão de Riscos (PGR) e de Integridade (PGI) com vistas a identificar os principais obstáculos e as estratégias para enfrentar a resistência às mudanças. Para isso, foi conduzida  uma Revisão Sistemática de Literatura, seguida de análise de conteúdo e categorização, o que possibilitou o desenvolvimento e aplicação do questionário com 39 assertivas sobre a implantação dos Programas, sendo obtidas 74 respostas válidas. Devido às diferenças identificadas na aplicação do Teste Qui-quadrado nas respostas dos três grupos de respondentes, o estudo quantitativo, por meio o Teste t, foi feito utilizando as 48 respostas válidas dos membros que trabalham na operação do PGR. Apesar do pequeno tamanho da amostra, a análise dos resultados sugere que a Marinha do Brasil esteja na fase inicial da implantação dos PGI e PGR. Os resultados sugerem que a Capacitação é um obstáculo à implantação do PGR, o que pode dificultar a governança do Programa. Os resultados também indicam a dependência do PGI em relação à implantação do PGR. Além disso, os fatores relacionados à atuação das lideranças para apoiar a integridade, para reduzir as falhas na comunicação interna e as barreiras à transparência e reduzir as falhas na identificação, análise e execução das respostas aos riscos sugerem que esses fatores estejam ainda pouco consolidados, talvez devido a características próprias do ambiente militar onde é fundamental o sigilo e a segurança. A pesquisa confirmou ainda que as estratégias para reduzir a resistência às mudanças relacionadas a ter uma comunicação clara e constante, ao envolvimento e participação dos militares e civis, a praticar reconhecimento e recompensa e, principalmente, a contar com uma liderança que dá o exemplo são essenciais para implementar mudanças com base no PGR e PGI.
Development of a 2D hydrodynamic model for flood assessment and alert system for the lower Narmada basin, Gujarat (India)
Authors: Bhargav Anurag , Suresh R. , Tiwari Mukesh K. , Trambadia Nevil K. , Chandra Ravish , Nirala Sanjay Kumar
Published: February 2025

The study develops a 2D hydrodynamic model using HEC-RAS to assess flood hazards and generate inundation maps for the lower Narmada basin in Gujarat, India. The model effectively simulates flood dynamics by integrating data, i.e. digital elevation models, stream gauge data, and land use and land cover information. Results indicate strong model performance, with R² and RMSE values of 0.92 and 0.12 for calibration and 0.77 and 0.08 for validation. Approximately 326.45 km² of the basin is severely inundated during major flood events, with agriculture being most affected. The model's outputs, including depth maps, velocity maps, and water arrival time predictions, provide critical insights for flood management. Floodwaters take 110 h to reach nearby areas and 361 h to reach validation points from upstream dam releases, offering an 8-h window to alert residents of potential overflow conditions. This information is vital for early warning systems and evacuation planning.
Correlation of oxidative stress enzymes and histological alteration in the gastrointestinal tract of Clarias gariepinus induced with alpha olefin sulfonate
Authors: Ikpesu Thomas , Odagwe Alexander Amechi
Published: February 2025

This study examined antioxidant system responses and gastrointestinal pathological changes related to alpha olefin sulfonate (α-OS) toxicity in generated oxidative stress. Clarias gariepinus, self-bred fish, including the control, were exposed to α-OS concentrations observed in the field (0.05, 0.10, 0.15, and 0.20 mg/l) for 30 days. Sigma-Aldrich test kits were used to assess reduced glutathione S-transferase (GST) spectrophotometrically, while abnormal changes or damage in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) were examined under a microscope. In plasma, α-OS exposure increased GST activities by 73%, varying with dose and duration. Glutathione (GSH) activity decreased by 26% but had few impacts. Increasing α-OS concentration and exposure duration led to histopathologic damage in the GIT, while the control fish had a normal GIT architecture. Fish absorb surfactants easily through their skin and gills, and blood circulates them to their organs. Fish contamination lowers human resistance by altering numerous enzymes through the food chain. When other contaminants are present in high amounts, the combined toxicity damages biota more than either pollutant alone. Any detergent contamination in coastal waters should be addressed seriously because the organisms that are low on the food chain and other sensitive ones will be eliminated even at low concentrations.
A method for classifying objects with a heterogeneous set of information features based on the generation of graph-chromatic maps
Authors:   Penza State University, S. Bozhday Aleksandr , N. Gorshenin Lev ,   Penza State University
Published: February 2025

Background. In the modern world, large volumes of data are continuously processed. One type of data processing is classification. A classification task is often complicated by the need to classify objects with a heterogeneous set of features. One of the main ways to solve such problems is to reduce heterogeneous features of an object to one type. This work outlines our own original approach to solving such problems. Materials and methods. The proposed method is based on transformation objects to a universal raster representation of grapho-chromatic maps, and has a number of features that distinguish it for the better from similar methods. The possibility of using already existing convolutional neural networks as a classifier of created grapho-chromatic maps is considered. Results and conclusions. A block diagram of a system for classifying objects using the proposed method has been developed. Each element of the system is described in detail. An algorithm for generating a grapho-chromatic map is proposed. Conclusions are drawn about the potential capabilities and advantages of the proposed approach.
Ustification of the parameters for setting up operations of through-pass centerless grinding
Authors:   Kamyshin Technological Institute, V. Malinin Pavel , Yu. Bochkarev Petr ,   Kamyshin Technological Institute, I. Artemov Igor' ,   Penza State University, O. Goncharov Mikhail ,   Saratov State University of Genetics, Biotechnology and Engineering named after N.I. Vavilov
Published: February 2025

Background. The insufficiently widespread use of centerless grinding methods, characterized by high productivity and the quality of the treated surfaces, in modern production is due to insufficient scientific study of certain issues of setting up technological operations. In this regard, it is urgent to develop the scientific base created by domestic scientists and specialists. Materials and methods. The results of a survey of advanced enterprises in the Volga region on issues related to the implementation of procedures for setting up centerless grinding equipment are presented and systematized. Models and an algorithm for determining the adjustment parameters are presented, taking into account the actual dimensional characteristics of grinding and driving wheels, and the sizes of workpieces. The adjustment parameters are proposed, which can be regulated using the working bodies of the equipment, which increases the objectivity of the quality of work and reduces the complexity of the equipment adjustment procedure. Results. The results of the experiments confirmed the relationship between the real dimensional characteristics of the elements of the technological system and their influence on the purpose of the adjustment parameters. Conclusions. The developed methods make it possible to eliminate the subjective factor of the process of equipment setup and implementation management, which makes it possible to increase the efficiency of through-pass centerless grinding operations.
Automated system for regulating output voltages of electrical substations of the radial power supply system
Authors:   Penza State University, N. Ashanin Vasily , A. Dospekhov Aleksey ,   Design bureau “Grazhdanproekt”, A. Kozhevnikov Mikhail ,   PJSC “Rosseti Volga” – “Penzaenergo”
Published: February 2025

Background. In accordance with the requirements of regulatory documents, one of the most important requirements for the quality of electrical energy is a constant voltage level at the output of transformer substations when loads change throughout the day. Regulating the transformation ratio of one of the substations can lead to a change in voltages on the high side of other substations that are part of a single power supply system. Therefore, the procedure for regulating transformation ratios of substations must be considered in its entirety. The purpose of the work is to develop an automated system for regulating the output voltages of substations of the power supply system in various operating modes, taking into account the interaction between substations from the condition of obtaining voltage values on the consumer side that meet the requirements of the electrical installation rules and GOST 32144-2013. Materials and methods. An analysis of the voltage distribution along the radial power supply system at various rated voltages of transmission lines and the regulation of system parameters using the methodology for calculating the transformation ratios of power transformers from the condition of ensuring voltages on the substation buses in accordance with the requirements of the electrical installation rules and GOST 32144-2013 are presented. The developed model was analyzed in the MatCad system. Results. The computer experiment data showed full compliance of the output voltage levels of the substation transformers with the requirements of the electrical installation rules and GOST 32144-2013. Conclusions. The developed algorithm and program for calculating transformation ratios of power transformers can be used for both radial and more complex configurations of power supply systems.
Nested piecewise linear regression models with continuous components
Authors:   Irkutsk State Transport University, I. Noskov Sergey , S. Popov Egor ,   Irkutsk State Transport University
Published: February 2025

Background. An approach is proposed to increase the flexibility of nested piecewise linear regression models proposed earlier by one of the authors due to the possibility of including continuous functions in them. It is noted that such an extension of the class of nested constructions is very relevant, since the wider the arsenal of forms of communication (types of approximating functions) between independent variables that is at the disposal of the researcher, the more adequate the analyzed object model he will eventually build. It is indicated that in the described models only the first nesting order is formalized, although it can also be the second, third, etc. In addition, multiplicative and additive nested piecewise linear regression models of the first and second types can be built. Results. It is shown that with the linearity of continuous functions included in embedded piecewise linear regression models and using as a loss function the sum of the modules of the differences between the calculated and actual values of the dependent variable, the problem of estimating model parameters is reduced to the problem of linear Boolean programming of a dimension acceptable for real situations. Effective software tools can be used to solve it, for example, the lpSolve program, which is freely available on the Internet. Conclusions. The proposed approach not only provides the possibility of calculating the values of unknown parameters of nested piecewise linear regression models with continuous components, but also allows us to identify the observation numbers on which the external and internal minima in the models worked.
Emotional agents in modeling the functioning of complex organizational and technical systems (Part I)
Authors:   Research and Production Enterprise “Rubin”, Yu. Babich Mikhail , E. Kuznetsov Vyacheslav ,   Research and Production Enterprise “Rubin”, A. Chigirev Mikhail ,   Research and Production Enterprise “Rubin”, M. Babich Andrey ,   Research and Production Enterprise “Rubin”
Published: February 2025

Background. Complex organizational and technical specialized systems that are in competition are considered. It is more convenient to consider models of such systems as multi-agent. The consequences of incompleteness and inaccuracy of information received for processing in the control subsystem are problems of modeling their functioning. In addition, in the presence of competition, irrational actions are possible, both of agents implementing control action, and of agents managing processes occurring in the systems under consideration. It is necessary to level out the problems that have arisen for acceptable control actions of officials at the control point. Materials and methods. To overcome the problems, it is proposed to include in the models of functioning the imitation of emotional states of agents, since a person in similar situations is able to make rational decisions due to the emotions that arise. The generalized algorithm of the influence of emotions and the possibility of imitation of emotional states are analyzed; proposals for the use of emotional agents in models are developed. Results. Based on the generalized algorithm of the influence of emotions on the functioning of the systems under consideration, the simulation processes related to changes in the emotional state of agents are determined. It is proposed to use the simulation of emotional states in models of a certain group. Conclusions. Research devoted to the imitation of achieving the purpose of emotional agents allows us to bring the models of the systems under consideration closer to real situations. A generalized algorithm for changing the emotional states of agents makes it possible to determine imitation processes in system models and simulate them.
Method and algorithm for predicting emergency operating modes of complex thermal power facilities
Authors:   Penza State University, V. Artamonov Dmitry , M. Myskin Vladislav ,   Penza State University, D. Semenov Anatoliy ,   Penza State University
Published: February 2025

Background. The relevance of this work is due to the need to improve the lowefficiency traditional methods of monitoring emergency situations at industrial facilities. In the course of the study, a case of an electric arc in the brush traverse of an electric generator is considered, which led to a violation of the thermal balance and an emergency catastrophic increase in temperature, not timely detected by the existing tolerance control system. Materials and methods. According to the method of data sliding sample on the experimental trend of generator temperature growth, an assessment of the parameters of the heat balance equation was carried out, which showed that the violation of the thermal balance led to the occurrence of a type A1 disaster. Results. It was assumed that the catastrophic increase in temperature was caused by the reflection of part of the thermal energy by the generator housing into this housing. Assuming that the amount of energy emitted by the housing obeys the Stefan-Boltzmann law, a heat balance equation was obtained taking into account the internal reflection of thermal energy, which showed that the occurrence of elementary Arnold disasters of types A1-A4 is theoretically possible. A forecasting method is proposed, using which the disaster detection time is reduced by 200 minutes, compared to the time of emergency detection by a traditional monitoring system. Conclusions. It is proven that the process of accident development in an electric generator is caused by excessive heat inflow and the presence of a heat-reflecting screen (generator housing). The presence of such screen disrupts the natural process of heat exchange and if we assume that the amount of energy emitted by the screen will obey the Stefan-Boltzmann law, then in accordance with the classification of disasters, the occurrence of elementary disasters of the type is theoretically possible: A0 - non-singular point; A1 - local extremum (stable minimum or unstable maximum); A2 - fold; A3 - assembly. Parametric identification of the nonlinear heat balance equation was performed using the sliding sample method. The maximum error in calculating the emergency mode temperature using this equation does not exceed 30 C. With sufficient accuracy for practice, the heat balance equation corresponds to the classification of elementary disasters by Thom, which can lead to the occurrence of a type A1 disaster.
Simulation of motion in a cycloidal gear. Part I. Unloaded gear
Authors:   Penza State University, A. Tchufistov Evgeniy , E. Tchufistov Oleg ,   Penza State Technological University, Blagojević Mirko ,   University of Kragujevac, Vasic Milan ,   Academy of Applied Tecnical Studies Belgrade
Published: February 2025

Background. The article considers the motion in a planetary-pinion (cycloidal) gear made according to the k-h-v scheme. In the first part, various motion models in an unloaded gear are considered, which are necessary to estimate the rotation inaccuracy of the output element in a loaded gear. The purpose of the study is to use techniques, models and algorithms to establish the law of rotation of the driven element. Materials and methods. In this work, using the methods of toothing theory and analytical geometry, models of the movement of elements in an unloaded, planetary-pinion gear, which has a modification of the satellite tooth profiles and an inaccuracy in the location of the satellite ring gear, are constructed. The analysis of rotation inaccuracies is performed using single-pair contact curves. Computer modeling in the Mathcad system is used to obtain quantitative characteristics. Results. Mathematical models, algorithms and programs for calculating inaccuracies in the angle of rotation of the output element of gear with modification of the profile of the teeth of the satellite and the eccentricity of the satellite have been created. Calculations is performed using various models and the results is compared. The influence of these factors on the accuracy of rotation in the gear is shown. Conclusions. The proposed solution allows us to take into account the combined effect of uniform modification of tooth profiles and satellite eccentricity on the inaccuracy of the angle of rotation of the output gear element. Research shows that eccentricity changes the law of rotation of the output element and can significantly increase the rotation inaccuracy.
Evaluation of the force closure condition during setup of centerless grinding operations
Authors:   Kamyshin Technological Institute (branch) Volgograd State Technical University, V. Malinin Pavel , Yu. Bochkarev Petr ,   Kamyshin Technological Institute (branch) Volgograd State Technical University, I. Artemov Igor ,   Penza State University
Published: February 2025

Background. One of the most promising methods of surface treatment of the type of bodies of rotation in terms of increasing productivity and ensuring the stability of the specified characteristics is centerless grinding. However, its technological support is largely subjective in nature. Materials and methods. It is proposed to use the developed dependencies analyzing the contact points of the treated surface with the elements of the technological system when evaluating the quality of the design procedure for assigning equipment setup parameters. Results. The validity of accepting the requirement of a power circuit as one of the most important parameters of the quality of work is proved. The obtained dependencies and the results of industrial tests confirmed the need to analyze the fulfillment of this requirement, taking into account the real state of the technological system. Conclusions. The obtained results of theoretical research, the developed algorithms and software develop the scientific and methodological basis for creating a computer-aided design system for operations performed on centerless grinding machines.
Ensino de língua portuguesa por meio da análise de design e de elementos discursivos em fake news políticas: proposta de cartilha para identificação de notícias falsas
Authors:   , Nascimento Isadora Oliveira do
Published: February 2025

A Era da Pós-verdade é considerada uma época em que os fatos objetivos possuem menos poder de moldar a opinião pública do que opiniões pessoais (OXFORD LANGUAGES, c2020). Como subproduto da pós-verdade, surgem as fake news, que, por sua vez, são fortalecidas pelos fenômenos das bolhas-filtradas, criadas a partir da ação de algoritmos que visam captar as preferências dos usuários. Considerando esse contexto, a presente pesquisa tem o objetivo de propor procedimentos de checagem de informações que circulam em sites de plataformas digitais para alunos de Ensino Médio, através de uma cartilha, considerando diferentes designs de fake news políticas e sua discretização em componentes discursivos. Desse modo uma suposição de trabalho que queremos investigar é a de que as fake news são dotadas de elementos verbo-imagéticos e discursivos que podem permitir sua identificação, mesmo que postadas em plataformas digitais diferentes e que tal sistematização não é realizada nas escolas. A base teórica a qual nos aliamos procede de New London Group (1996), Cope e Kalantzis (2000; 2015) para as concepções de multiletramentos; acerca da criticidade, empregamos Janks (2016); acerca da Desordem da Informação, pautamo-nos em Wardle (2017; 2018); para Fake News, nos utilizamos de Tobias (2018), Seserig e Máximo (2017); Monteiro et. al ([2018]). Para as noções de bolhas, nos amparamos em Pariser (2012). Sobre Pós-verdade, nos guiamos pelos estudos de Santaella (2018), Oxford Languages (c2020), Coelho (2018) e D’ancona (2018). Em atendimento aos objetivos traçados, realizou-se uma pesquisa qualitativa de natureza descritiva, na qual construímos um corpus de seis boatos gerados em torno de Adélio Bispo após as eleições de 2018, nas plataformas digitais Facebook, Youtube, Twitter e whatsapp, já desmistificados em sites de checagem. Após a análise, fomos capazes de captar as categorias presentes nesse tipo de corpus e, posteriormente, classificá-los em critérios de expressão e conteúdo. Os resultados apontam que as fake news, não obstante a rede social em que são publicadas, possuem um padrão de elementos que permitem sua identificação, sendo, alguns deles perceptíveis através dos elementos de design que a compõem (elementos de expressão) e, outros, mediante a análise da composição textual/imagética através da checagem mais aprofundada (elementos de conteúdo), que foram organizadas numa cartilha informativa para professores e alunos do Ensino Médio
O ensino de história e o período de redemocratização em uma perspectiva imagética
Authors:   , Medeiros Risalva Ferreira Nunes de
Published: February 2025

Essa dissertação problematiza como a Redemocratização do Brasil é abordada imageticamente nos livros didáticos de História. A pesquisa em livros didáticos é um estudo complexo por averiguar todas as dimensões que o compõem, como os programas nacionais e leis que envolvem a sua produção, dentre outras. Portanto, o estudo é uma possibilidade de contribuir para o campo das Ciências Humanas e Sociais, por meio da investigação sobre os teores e a influência do campo visual para efetivação de uma aprendizagem dinâmica, múltipla, voltada à sensibilidade e à percepção dos novos campos de pesquisa educacional. Consequentemente objetiva identificar igualmente o uso e os desusos das imagens como fonte de ensino na área de História. Na sequência, busca evidenciar como o PNLD 2018 sugere trabalhar didaticamente o uso das imagens no Ensino de História e, por fim, faz uma descrição analítica acerca das imagens do período de Redemocratização do Brasil apresentadas em três coleções didáticas, as quais participaram do Programa Nacional do Livro Didático do Ensino Médio (PNLD/EM). Metodologicamente, esta pesquisa se dá pela análise documental do Edital de Convocação para o processo de inscrição e avaliação de obras didáticas para o PNLD 2018 do Ensino Médio, do Manual do Professor e da seleção dos registros imagéticos que compõem as referidas coleções. Em relação à análise das imagens, está centrada nas categorias de representações iconográficas pensadas por Joly e Santaella. Como resultado, infere que as imagens acerca do Período de Redemocratização presentes nos livros didáticos de História reforçam os conteúdos escritos dos capítulos, faltando capacitação dos professores para a leitura iconográfica
Dermal Melanocytes Detectability for Distinguishing In Situ and Early Invasive Melanoma: A Narrative Review
Authors: Kuźbicki Łukasz
Published: February 2025

The melanoma incidence has been increasing over the past three decades,
with a disproportionately high fraction of in situ tumors. The diagnosis of melanoma at
its earliest stages can be challenging. The detectability of tumor melanocytes in the dermis
is of key importance for distinguishing in situ from invasive melanomas. In this review,
a total of 475 melanomas diagnosed as in situ tumors by hematoxylin and eosin
staining were analyzed. This diagnosis was confirmed for 68% of cases, but 15% of in
situ melanomas were reassessed as invasive lesions using immunohistochemistry. The
cases were upstaged by Melan-A/Mart-1, S-100, and SOX-10 with frequencies of
14.6%, 11.7%, and 10.8%, respectively. Whereas, the diagnosis of in situ melanoma
was confirmed by SOX-10, Melan-A/Mart-1, and S-100 in 81.4%, 63.8%, and 59.1% of
cases, respectively. Moreover, the analysis of immunohistochemical detectability of melanocyte
markers in different types of dermal cells was carried out for 574 various skin
lesions. The stainings of S-100, SOX-10, MITF, and PRAME in fibroblasts and histiocytes,
as well as Melan-A/Mart-1, HMB-45, and MITF in melanophages, were noted.
The diagnosis of in situ melanoma based on hematoxylin and eosin staining is confirmed
by immunohistochemistry in most cases. However, some in situ tumors become
reassessed as invasive malignancies. Although none of the currently used melanocyte
markers is absolutely specific, simultaneous analysis of nuclear SOX-10 and cytoplasmic
Melan-A/Mart-1 stainings can support the diagnosis. However, immunohistochemistry
remains an auxiliary tool, and the results should be analyzed in association with the
cytomorphological features.
Beneficial and Detrimental Effects of Uric Acid on Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Tovchiga O.V. , Inkielewicz-Stepniak I.
Published: February 2025

The interconnection between brain function and hyperuricemia remains controversial
since the available evidence indicates both the potent neuroprotective role of uric and its negative
cardiovascular and metabolic effects, possible prooxidant activity. A mixed (protective and risk)
effect of uric acid on neurological disorders was assumed. Among the neurodegenerative diseases,
Alzheimer’s disease remains the most prevalent, causes disability, and lacks highly effective treatments.
Therefore, this review aims to delineate the beneficial and detrimental effects of uric acid on
Alzheimer’s disease. This can not only facilitate estimating the benefits and risks of urate-lowering
or urate-increasing interventions in different conditions but also can enhance understanding of the
molecular pathways associated with the protective role of uric acid, leading to the identification of
new therapeutic targets for neuroprotection. Firstly, we addressed interconnections between UA and
AD in different patients and population subgroups. Secondly, we analysed which differences can arise
at the level of uric acid transport to the brain, its influence on BBB, and its presence in brain tissue and
cerebrospinal fluid. Such aspects as xanthine oxidase interrelationship with the risk of cognitive impairment
was elucidated, as well as the unexpected interconnection between uric acid exchange and the
cholinergic system. Finally, an analysis was done of the beneficial and detrimental effects of uric acid
on such targets of Alzheimer’s disease pathogenesis as the amyloid-β pathway, proinflammatory markers,
peroxynitrite scavenging, and other aspects of prooxidant-antioxidant status.
Direct Antiviral Effects of Baicalin and Baicalein against SARS-COV-2: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ahmadi Mehdi , Shahbahrami Ramin , Esfehani Mohammad Amin Nooranian , Hosseini Seyede Marzieh , Khajeh Fatemeh , Raziabad Reza Hazrati , Nezhadi Javad , Ghanati Kiandokht
Published: February 2025

Background:

The search for effective antiviral therapies against the Coronaviridae
family, particularly SARS-CoV-2, remains a critical priority. Baicalin and baicalein, natural flavonoid
compounds, have shown promising antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 in various
experimental studies.

Methods:

This systematic review, encompassing 25 total articles, analyzed the direct antiviral
effects of these compounds against SARS-CoV-2, focusing on their inhibitory activity against
key viral proteins.

Results:

Baicalin and baicalein exhibit antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2, primarily by targeting
the main protease (3CLpro) and, to a lesser extent, other viral proteins like RdRp, PLpro,
and the spike protein. Baicalein consistently demonstrates superior inhibitory activity with lower
IC50 values and higher selectivity indices compared to baicalin. While the article highlights
promising antiviral activity, it also notes that baicalein might be a promiscuous Mpro inhibitor
and its efficacy may be influenced by the presence of reducing agents like DDT. While baicalein
shows potential as a promising antiviral agent, further research is necessary to confirm its
in-vivo efficacy, optimize its pharmacokinetic properties, and fully understand its mechanisms
of action.

Conclusion:

Further investigation into the potential for off-target effects, particularly the observed
renal toxicity, is also warranted.