bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance Evaluation of Nano Silicon Carbide Configured Aluminium
Alloy with Titanium Nanocomposite via Semisolid Stir Cast
Authors: Venkatesh R. , Kaliyaperumal Gopal , Manivannan S. , Karthikeyan S. , Mohanavel Vinayagam , Soudagar Manzoore Elahi Mohammad , Karthikeyan N.
Published: December 2024

High-strength, lightweight aluminium-based composites show great potential for
future weight-reduction applications. The aluminium alloy (AA5052) is commonly
used in various engineering applications and serves as the primary matrix
material for this study. The objective of this research is to produce and
improve the properties of the AA5052 alloy composite by integrating titanium
(Ti) and nano silicon carbide (SiC) particles using an advanced vacuum stir
casting process. Additionally, an inert atmosphere is used to minimize voids,
porosity, and oxidation. The final developed composites include AA5052,
AA5052/3wt% Ti, AA5052/5wt% SiC, and AA5052/3wt% Ti/5wt% SiC, which were
subjected to metallographic, tensile, elongation, and hardness studies. The
mechanical evaluation is carried out following ASTM E8 and E384 standards.
Microstructural analysis revealed uniform dispersion of Ti &SiC particles
with no significant casting defects. The composite with AA5052/3wt% Ti/5wt% SiC
exhibited the highest tensile strength, elongation, and hardness, measuring
243MPa, 34%, and 93HV, respectively. The contribution of Ti and SiC with an
effective interface with the AA5052 matrix is the reason for the enhancement of
mechanical behaviour.
Study of Natural Fiber Incorporated Polypropylene Composite Laminate
for Lightweight Applications
Authors: Venkatesh R. , Aravindan N. , Manivannan S. , Karthikeyan S. , Mohanavel Vinayagam , Soudagar Manzoore Elahi Mohammad , Karthikeyan N.
Published: December 2024

Biodegradable natural fiber-embedded polymer composites offer distinct mechanical
properties and are utilized for lightweight applications. However, composites
made with untreated natural fibers lack adhesive behaviour, and increased
moisture absorption leads to reduced mechanical qualities. To address this, hemp
fibers are treated with a 5% sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution to enhance
adhesive strength. The treated fibers are then used to fabricate polypropylene
composites through a hand layup process involving compression force. The
synthesized composite samples contain 0%, 10%, 20%, and 30% weight (wt%) of hemp
fiber and undergo X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, as well as tensile,
flexural, and impact strength studies. XRD analysis shows a short peak for the
hemp fiber and a large peak for the polypropylene matrix. Experimental results
indicate that the polypropylene composite with 30 wt% NaOH-treated hemp fiber
exhibits increased tensile strength (53 MPa), improved flexural strength (61
MPa), and enhanced impact strength (6 kJ/m2).
Characteristics of Magnesium Composite Reinforced with Silicon
Carbide and Boron Nitride via Liquid Stir Processing
Authors: Venkatesh R. , Kaliyaperumal Gopal , Manivannan S. , Karthikeyan S. , Mohanavel Vinayagam , Soudagar Manzoore Elahi Mohammad , Karthikeyan N.
Published: December 2024

The present aim of the investigation is to prepare and evaluate the excellence of
boron nitride (BN) and silicon carbide nanoparticles on characteristics of
magnesium alloy (AZ91D) hybrid nanocomposite. This constitution of AZ91D alloy
hybrid nanocomposite is made through the liquid state processing route, which
helps to improve the spread of particles in the AZ91D matrix. The impact of BN
and SiC on microstructural and mechanical properties like tensile strength,
hardness, and impact strength of AZ91D alloy composites are studied, and its
investigational results are compared. Besides, microstructural studies have
revealed that the structure of composite is found to have better BN and SiC
particle dispersion and uniformity. The 5 percentage in weight (wt%) of BN and 5
wt% of SiC facilitated better tensile strength (183 MPa), hardness (85HV), and
impact strength (21.4J/mm2) behaviour, which are 26, 30, and 35%
better than the monolithic AZ91D alloy. This AZ91D/5wt% BN and 5wt% SiC hybrid
composite is involved in automotive top roof frame applications.
Assessment of Emission Reductions in a Diesel Engine using Graphene
Oxide Nanoparticle-Muskmelon Waste Seed Biodiesel Blends
Authors: Jayabal Ravikumar , Madhu S.
Published: December 2024

This research investigates the potential of muskmelon waste seed biodiesel (MWSB)
enhanced with graphene oxide (GO) nanoparticles as an alternative fuel for
diesel engines. The study focuses on transesterifying waste seed oil from
muskmelon fruits to produce biodiesel suitable for common rail direct injection
(CRDI) diesel engines. The addition of GO nanoparticles serves as a combustion
enhancer, aiming to improve engine performance and reduce emissions. The test
fuels included pure diesel, MWSB, and MWSB blends with 10 ppm and 20 ppm of GO
nanoparticles. The results demonstrated a significant reduction in emissions
when GO nanoparticles were added to the MWSB. Specifically, the MWSB+GO20 ppm
blend achieved reductions in smoke, hydrocarbon (HC), and carbon monoxide (CO)
emissions by 16.66%, 26.19%, and 45.33%, respectively, compared to diesel at
maximum brake power (5.5 kW). However, this blend also resulted in a 7.4%
increase in oxides of nitrogen (NOx) emissions at maximum brake power. The study
highlights the role of GO's extensive surface area and oxygenated functional
groups in enhancing combustion efficiency, which contributes to the reduction of
incomplete combustion byproducts such as CO and HC. Despite the increase in NOx
emissions, the overall findings suggest that incorporating GO nanoparticles into
MWSB can significantly reduce harmful emissions, offering a promising
alternative for diesel engines. This work opens up intriguing possibilities for
the use of GO nanoparticles in enhancing biodiesel mixtures, potentially leading
to more sustainable and environmentally friendly fuel options for diesel
engines.
Describing and Evaluating the Truck Driver's Viewing Environment
Authors:   Truck and Bus Human Factors Committee
Published: December 2024

This SAE Recommended Practice establishes three alternate methods for describing and evaluating the truck driver's viewing environment: the Target Evaluation, the Polar Plot and the Horizontal Planar Projection. The Target Evaluation describes the field of view volume around a vehicle, allowing for ray projections, or other geometrically accurate simulations, that demonstrate areas visible or non-visible to the driver. The Target Evaluation method may also be conducted manually, with appropriate physical layouts, in lieu of CAD methods. The Polar Plot presents the entire available field of view in an angular format, onto which items of interest may be plotted, whereas the Horizontal Planar Projection presents the field of view at a given elevation chosen for evaluation.

These methods are based on the Three Dimensional Reference System described in SAE J182a. This document relates to the driver's exterior visibility environment and was developed for the heavy truck industry (Class B vehicles, class 6, 7, 8 vehicles) although the projection principles presented in this document can be applied to any class of motor vehicles.

This document is intended to complement SAE J1050a and provides a visual format that can describe the driver's entire viewing environment. This environment can then be analyzed to determine what the driver is capable of seeing. It should be noted that one of the most important factors affecting the driver's field of view and the ability to make valid vehicle/design comparisons is the location of the driver's eyepoint. SAE J941 defines the Eyellipse which forms the basis for eyepoints chosen as the origin for Polar Plots and Horizontal Planar Projections. The Target Evaluation, Horizontal Planar Projection and Polar Plot create monocular evaluations. Projections/plots of multiple eyepoints must be overlaid to create binocular or ambinocular evaluations.

Analytical methods for creating Target Evaluations, Polar Plots and Horizontal Planar Projections for direct and indirect vision (planar and spherical convex mirrors) are presented. Note that it is possible to create plots and projections for other mirror surfaces and vision devices if the equations for determining reflection points are provided.
Leak Detection: Stability and Compatibility Criteria of Fluorescent Refrigerant Leak Detection Dyes for Mobile Air-Conditioning Systems
Authors:   Interior Climate Control Fluids Committee
Published: December 2024

This SAE Standard applies to dyes intended to be introduced into a mobile air-conditioning system refrigerant circuit for the purpose of allowing the application of ultraviolet leak detection. In order to label any product(s), they shall meet SAE J2297, the certification process as described in SAE J2911 must be followed, and the documentation described in Appendix A shall be submitted to SAE.
Records in Contexts jako model związków encji
Authors: Stencel Krzysztof
Published: December 2024

W niniejszym artykule omówiono Records in Contexts (RiC), czyli model pojęciowy stworzony przez Międzynarodową Radę Archiwów do opisu zasobów archiwalnych. Model ten sformułowano za pomocą powszechnie stosowanej w informatyce metody modelowania związków encji. W artykule zawarto wprowadzenie do tej metodyki dla archiwistów. Następnie omówiono i zanalizowano zasadnicze elementy RiC. Zainicjowano także proces przekładu RiC na język polski poprzez staranne przetłumaczenie nazw encji tego modelu przy wydatnej pomocy archiwistów z Naczelnej Dyrekcji Archiwów Państwowych (NDAP).
Continuous Domains for Function Spaces Using Spectral Compactification
Authors: Farjudian Amin , Jung Achim
Published: December 2024

We introduce a continuous domain for function spaces over topological spaces which are not core-compact. Notable examples of such topological spaces include the real line with the upper limit topology, which is used in solution of initial value problems with temporal discretization, and various infinite dimensional Banach spaces which are ubiquitous in functional analysis and solution of partial differential equations. If a topological space $\mathbb{X}$ is not core-compact and $\mathbb{D}$ is a non-singleton bounded-complete domain, the function space $[\mathbb{X} \to \mathbb{D}]$ is not a continuous domain. To construct a continuous domain, we consider a spectral compactification $\mathbb{Y}$ of $\mathbb{X}$ and relate $[\mathbb{X} \to \mathbb{D}]$ with the continuous domain $[\mathbb{Y} \to \mathbb{D}]$ via a Galois connection. This allows us to perform computations in the native structure $[\mathbb{X} \to \mathbb{D}]$ while computable analysis is performed in the continuous domain $[\mathbb{Y} \to \mathbb{D}]$, with the left and right adjoints used for moving between the two function spaces.

Comment: 19 pages, 1 figure, Mathematical Foundations of Programming Semantics (MFPS) 2024
How Digital Cats Tame Ideology: the Cat Content of Soviet Nostalgia as an Ideological Mediator
Authors: Tikhonova Sophia V.
Published: December 2024

The article deals with the mechanics of broadcasting ideology through online user content, dedicated to domestic cats. The author believes that digital culture is changing the logic of the relationship between written and oral, long and short genres of objectification of ideology in mass consciousness. It ensures the presence of complex long ideological genres of Modernity in the media space, reinforcing it with a wide “protective belt” of microformats characteristic of entertainment content. The most typical type of the latter is cat content, which is understood as a form of social reflection that sets a cliched reaction to a media message through the image of a digital cat. The purpose of the article is to analyze the use of political ideologies in the context of Soviet nostalgia. The author examines the polar versions of the visualization of Soviet nostalgia in the context using the example of Vasya Lozhkin’s cats and the VK public “Cats for Communism”. The semantic multilayering of Vasya Lozhkin’s paintings is ensured by the fluidity and interchangeability of zoo- and anthropomorphic features of the characters and the ease of their ethical (de)evolution. The transition of cats to the red side is shown as a rather late phenomenon of digital culture, inscribed in the period of the last five years. Digital cats dearchaize communist ideology by associating it with digital fashion. In general, digital cats disassemble ideological narratives into micro-rhythms and creolize them, performing the function of a mediator forwarding the actualized old ideologies into the digital media space.
Let’s Practice Better... on Cats: Description and Visualisation of Artistic Images in Generative AI Models
Authors: Khandogin Ruslan , Proner Nina S.
Published: December 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) plays an increasingly prominent role in various spheres of life in today’s world, including generation of a variety of visual content from selfie stream processing to creating works of digital art. The present paper raises the question of whether AI is capable of creating real art or it just imitates its external form. The paper examines the specificity of prompts: from concrete named ones to interpretive descriptive queries in linguistic, artistic and socio-cultural contexts. The article dwells upon some important aspects of evaluating the quality of keyword extraction algorithms and their relation to artistic practice. The authors rely on semiotic analysis to uncover encoded meanings and imports in the text. The article emphasises that the literary text is at the top of the hierarchy of cultural texts; it is characterised by intentionality and coherence and represents a complex semantic field where key words and images interact with the explicit and implicit contexts. The study examines and analyses the visualised images of Cheshire Cat, Cat Behemoth and Tomcat Murr created by the authors with the use of three generative neural networks: Stable Diffusion, Dall‑E and Kandinsky. Understanding and visualising the literary text by generative systems and models realising specific algorithms requires the ability to reveal its multilayered semantics and connection with the cultural context, which ultimately helps to understand the in-depth meanings of the work and its place in culture. Consideration of the operational quality of algorithms for keyword system extraction and image generation is deemed possible from the point of view of their structural organisation. Generative algorithms create an imitative reality, while the immanence of the artistic value determines the uniqueness and meanings of the created figurative world. The article can be useful to anyone interested in the substance and specificity of digital art, the relationship between technological innovations and socio-cultural context, the creation and visualisation of artistic images in generative AI models, their conceptualisation and interpretation.
Saving Pets: A Study of Online Mutual Aid Among Marginal Group During the China COVID-19 Quarantine Period
Authors: Shi Yu
Published: December 2024

Under the forced and high-pressure situation of the epidemic lockdown, how did marginal groups use digital media to gather, expand and help each other? How do humans, animals and media work together? From the perspective of translation theory, this study examined the emergence and development of online pets mutual aid group in Guangzhou, China during the lockdown period of COVID‑19. This study found that digital media are not only translating other actors to become the organizational force of online pets mutual aid group but also translating themselves to promote the long-term development of the group. These two translations strengthen the resilience of the groups. Even if external pressures disappear, the spirit of mutual assistance and innovative mode of operation will continue because of continuous translation. Online pets mutual aid group challenge anthropocentrism. The group was a manifestation of the vitality of human, non-human or animal co‑interpretation and an extension of human tolerance and identification of non-human species.
“My Little Penguin Has Come Back to Life”: Chinese Nitizens’ Digital Memory and Narrative Practice of Tencent Pets Game
Authors: Wei Tao
Published: December 2024

As the world’s largest online virtual pet community, Tencent pets had accompanied numerous Chinese netizens, particularly the younger generations. It was not only their earliest “Internet memories”, but also became an integrated part of their personal life experiences, even influencing their understanding of social life. Through textual statistics, thematic analysis, and discourse analysis of 7,623 posts from Chinese BBS, this study identifies three narrative paths of memory—“mourning”, “nostalgia”, and “resistance”—which have formed around Tencent pets. People do not perceive Tencent pets merely as a “technical object”, but rather as a form of real “life”. Writing memories about Tencent pets also serves as a form of resistance against the passage of time and the fading of one’s own life course. This study contributes to a further understanding of China’s digital gaming culture, as well as enriches research on media memory and Internet history.
“Sculpting from Time”: Attempts at Philosophical Reconstruction of A. Tarkovsky’s Legacy
Authors: Kucherova Anastasia V.
Published: December 2024

The article analyzes the work of film director Andrei Tarkovsky through an appeal to modern scientific versions of the interpretation of his films. The problematic of the study is related to the fact that despite the significant corpus of works devoted to A. Tarkovsky, not all of them realize the possible potential of a philosophical examination of his legacy. They often traditionally either join the pathetic admiration for his films or pay primary attention to their biographical and production aspects. The article attempts to turn to some modern theoretical studies, the authors of which offer versions of philosophical reflection of A. Tarkovsky’s works. It seems that this will allow us to identify possible relevant approaches to the analysis of A. Tarkovsky’s films. In this regard, the article describes some aspects of the explanations of A. Tarkovsky’s films, firstly, in the theological plane, which reveals their potential in the realization of a number of theological motives and religious practices, primarily prayer and contemplation. The article also describes possible psychoanalytic meanings of his work. In addition, the article reveals the anti-realistic aspects of the cinema of A. Tarkovsky, in whose films phantasmagoric elements become a way of expanding the boundaries of reality and constructing a special aesthetic environment.
The Argument from Catastrophe in Climate Change – The Need to Go Beyond a (Catastrophic) Precautionary Principle
Authors: Steigleder Klaus , Graf Keyserlingk Johannes , Richter Philipp
Published: December 2024

The problem of climate change arguably constitutes the greatest challenge to humankind. However, climate ethics has so far been better on the side of the diagnosis rather than of the solution or therapy of that problem. We attempt to show why this is the case and we outline what is needed for helpful ethical contributions to overcoming the climate problem. For this we focus on what may be called the argument from catastrophe in climate ethics, assessing the standard use of a catastrophic precautionary principle by Henry Shue and the non-standard use of the principle by Eugen Pissarskoi. That argument focuses on the single catastrophe of climate change and treats the problem of taking the necessary means to avoid the catastrophe mainly as a motivation problem. What is overlooked is that the solutions are not at hand, that fighting climate change involves intricate normative conflicts of goals, and that potential measures may themselves be riddled with (catastrophic) risks.
Factores psicosociales que influyen en la satisfacción laboral del personal de Contact center de la empresa Gestiona en la ciudad de Quito
Authors: Guañuna Chiguano Vanessa Mishell , Espinosa Tigre Rodolfo Moisés
Published: December 2024

En el dinámico y demandante entorno de los Contact Center, el personal se enfrenta a una serie de desafíos que pueden afectar significativamente su bienestar y satisfacción laboral, entendiendo que la satisfacción laboral está influenciada por una combinación de factores psicosociales como la carga de trabajo, el apoyo social en el entorno laboral, y el liderazgo ejercido por los supervisores. Este estudio de tipo descriptivo - correlacional tiene como objetivo identificar y evaluar los factores psicosociales que afectan la satisfacción laboral del personal de Contact Center de la empresa Gestiona, para ello se aplicó una encuesta de elaboración propia a 66 personas del área de Contact center, misma que evalúa las variables que influyen en la satisfacción laboral, los datos recopilados indican que el 30.30% de los encuestados se encuentran satisfechos laboralmente, mientras que el 37.88% no se encuentran satisfechos y el 31.82% no se sienten satisfechos ni insatisfechos, después del tratamiento de los datos se dedujo que el tipo de liderazgo y apoyo social condicionan considerablemente la satisfacción de los colaboradores.
СЪЗЕРЦАВАНЕТО НА ХУДОЖЕСТВЕНИЯ ТЕКСТ В УРОКА ПО ЛИТЕРАТУРА
Authors:   Konstantin Preslavsky University of Shumen, Диловски Владимир
Published: December 2024

The article discusses the problem of contemplation as a method of reading
and understanding the literary text and as an educational approach in studying literary texts at
school. It opposes the hectic way of life today, in which "reading in solitude" (N. Carr) for
pleasure is no longer possible. The thesis that is stated is that contemplation as a meditative and
"inspired immersion" (A. Kyosev) in the text is studied and it helps to better analyze and
understand the read work.
A Comprehensive Review of Main Methods in Autonomous Driving Behavior Decision-making
Authors:   Harbin Institute of Technology, School of Transportation Science and Engineering, 70 Huanghe Road, Harbin, China, Cui Jianxun , Gao Huidong ,   Harbin Institute of Technology, School of Transportation Science and Engineering, 70 Huanghe Road, Harbin, China, Perić Staniša ,   University of Niš, Faculty of Electronic Engineering, Department of Control Systems, Niš, Serbia, Milojković Marko ,   University of Niš, Faculty of Electronic Engineering, Department of Control Systems, Niš, Serbia, Milovanović Miroslav ,   University of Niš, Faculty of Electronic Engineering, Department of Control Systems, Niš, Serbia
Published: December 2024

This paper reviews the core component of autonomous driving technology—the main methods of decision-making and planning. Special emphasis is placed on decision-making and planning as the key bridge connecting perception and control, and the development of behavior decision-making systems is thoroughly discussed. The article first introduces rule-based decision-making methods, including the three structures of finite state machines and their advantages and disadvantages. It then shifts to learning-based behavior decision-making methods, discussing in detail two strategies: imitation learning and reinforcement learning, including their advantages and limitations. Finally, the paper explores large model-based behavior decision-making methods, which leverage the general knowledge understanding and reasoning capabilities of large language models to provide decision support in the form of natural language.
Orthogonal Functions Based Model Predictive Control of Magnetic Levitation System
Authors:   University of Niš, Faculty of Electronic Engineering, Department of Control Systems, Niš, Serbia, Spasić Miodrag , Li Xiaolei ,   Harbin Institute of Technology, School of Transportation Science and Engineering, 70 Huanghe Road, Harbin, China, Antić Dragan ,   University of Niš, Faculty of Electronic Engineering, Department of Control Systems, Niš, Serbia, Danković Nikola ,   University of Niš, Faculty of Electronic Engineering, Department of Control Systems, Niš, Serbia, Dimitrijević Jelena ,   University of Niš, Faculty of Electronic Engineering, Department of Control Systems, Niš, Serbia, Jotović Nebojša ,   University of Niš, Faculty of Electronic Engineering, Department of Control Systems, Niš, Serbia
Published: December 2024

Magnetic levitation systems (MLS) enable contactless, frictionless motion through electromagnetic fields and find applications across various engineering domains. Numerous control strategies have been developed to enhance MLS performance. Model predictive control (MPC) is particularly suitable for MLS, as it effectively incorporates state and input constraints while achieving high tracking performance through receding horizon optimization. Although substantial research has focused on MPC design for MLS, these approaches rely on accurate plant models to ensure predictive accuracy and control effectiveness. To address these challenges, this paper presents an orthogonal functions-based MPC for controlling the position of a levitating ferromagnetic ball, a nonlinear and open-loop unstable system. By integrating discrete orthogonal basis functions, the proposed method reformulates the predictive control problem, simplifying the solution process, enhancing tuning flexibility, and enabling an extended control horizon without requiring additional parameters. Simulation results are provided to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed controller.
¿Emprendedor o empleado? Preferencias y percepciones de estudiantes universitarios en el contexto de la economía creativa en Monterrey, México
Authors: Alvarado Lagunas Elías
Published: December 2024

Este artículo analiza las preferencias y percepciones de estudiantes de ciencias administrativas y negocios en Monterrey, México, en el contexto de la economía creativa. A través de 385 encuestas realizadas en la Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL) y la Universidad de Monterrey (UDEM) durante el primer semestre de 2024, se compararon las inclinaciones hacia el emprendimiento y el empleo tradicional. Los hallazgos muestran que los estudiantes de la UDEM tienen un espíritu emprendedor más fuerte, mientras que los de la UANL prefieren el empleo tradicional. Se utilizaron técnicas de Text Mining, análisis de sentimientos, redes de co-ocurrencia y una matriz importancia/valoración para identificar patrones y diferencias en las percepciones. Los resultados destacan que el acceso a recursos y la preparación profesional son determinantes clave en las decisiones de los estudiantes, influyendo directamente en su capacidad para contribuir al desarrollo de la economía creativa en Monterrey.
Finite element analysis of stress concentration singularities in orthotropic/isotropic hole plates on an aircraft wing
Authors: Berkane Ishak , Labed Zohra
Published: December 2024

The cutouts in the ribs of aircraft wings create stress concentrations. Stress concentrations in an elastic body are very important in structural design and are mainly caused by two mechanisms: the concentration of force acting on a body and geometric discontinuities in the object, such as holes or sudden changes in the geometry of the object's surface. To obtain equivalent stresses and strains for a wing rib without a cutout and with a circular cutout, we considered a perforated plate as the test piece. We studied the stress concentration factor (SCF), around a circular central hole in isotropic and orthotropic rectangular plates subjected to tensile loading using the finite element model, and validated it by comparing the constitutive analytical equations of Heywood and Howland for orthotropic and infinite isotropic plates and with the Matlab program. Next,  we analyzed the overall and net stress concentration factor around the hole as a function of different variables: the plate diameter-width ratio (d/W), the effect of the fiber orientation angle (θ°),and  the effect of the length/width ratio (L/W). Abaqus was used as design software to extract stress concentration factors for materials such as Al 2024-T3, Glass/Epoxy, and Carbon/Epoxy. These results were then compared with the analytical formula using Matlab as the programming software, the statistics showed that there was good agreement between the stress concentration factor around the hole using Abaqus and the Matlab program formula. It can be concluded that the application of Matlab software for SCF estimation is faster than Abaqus software.
Clinical Update on Osteoporosis
Authors: Koh L K H
Published: December 2024

Osteoporosis and fractures are an increasing problem in many countries. Continued research into the genetics and molecular pathophysiology of osteoporosis improve our understanding of this disease, and may provide insights into novel strategies or therapeutics which might be developed. Increased awareness of the epidemiology of osteoporosis, risk factors, and the availability of methods to quantify skeletal integrity such as bone densitometry, allow the condition to be anticipated and diagnosed before fractures occur, and facilitate measured decisions about further evaluation and appropriate management. As with most chronic diseases, healthy lifestyle measures are recommended. In addition, pharmaceutical options which have been shown to be effective in reducing fracture rates among those with or without fractures are increasingly available. The decision to institute therapy and choice of drug should ideally be rational and individualised.
Hepatolithiasis —A Case Series
Authors: Heng C T , Lau K H , Ho C K , Chan C Y , Wong M , Chew S P
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Hepatolithiasis is an uncommon entity in Singapore. We reviewed the cases presented to our institution (a 1200-bedded restructured hospital) over a 5-year period.

Materials and Methods: Twelve cases of hepatolithiasis were treated between December 1995 and July 2000 representing 0.77% of gallstone disease operated on in the same period. The clinical presentation, investigations, treatment and subsequent progress are presented.

Results: The patients’ ages ranged from 28 to 82 years. There was a male to female ratio of 5:7. All patients had upper abdominal pain at presentation; 10 patients had clinical evidence of cholangitis. Ultrasound was the commonest first line investigation but additional investigations, such as computed tomographic (CT) scan and various forms of cholangiography, were frequently necessary for complete delineation of the biliary disease. The intrahepatic stones were located predominantly in the left lobe of the liver. Parenchymal atrophy was seen in 83% of patients. Two patients underwent a biliary bypass operation only, 5 had a hepatic resection only, and 5 had combined procedures. Follow-up ranged from 4 to 50 months. Postoperative recovery was generally unremarkable. Complications included subphrenic abscess (1 patient), recurrent stricture (1 patient) and recurrent stones (1 patient). One patient had an elevated serum CA 19-9 preoperatively; a small villous adenoma was noted at the biliary stricture in the resected left lateral segment of the liver. There was no operative mortality.

Conclusion: Hepatolithiasis is uncommon in Singapore. Complete diagnosis requires a combination of imaging modalities. Surgery remains the mainstay of definitive treatment. With adequate treatment, good outcome is possible.
Molecular and genetic characteristics from phylogenetic analysis of Russian and foreign variants of measles virus 2020–2024
Authors: Chernyaeva E. N. , Morozov K. V. , Matsvay A. D. , Guskova M. S. , Nekrasov A. Y. , Stetsenko I. F. , Nosova A. O. , Kurskaya O. G. , Shestopalov A. M. , Shipulin G. A.
Published: December 2024

Introduction. Over the past two years, there has been an increase in measles morbidity in Russia and other countries. In order to assess the heterogeneity of clinically significant strains of Measles morbillivirus to reveal the sources of infection and transmission routes strains, a molecular genetic study thus becomes an urgent task. In this paper, a genetic identification of clinical strains of measles virus detected in 2023–2024 is compared with global variants as well as Russian strains detected in previous years.

Materials and methods. Forty measles virus genome sequences isolated from nasopharyngeal swab samples obtained in Moscow and Novosibirsk in 2023–2024 were included in the study. The data were then compared with strains collected in Russia in May 2023 and deposited at the Central Research Institute of Epidemiology, as well as strains collected in 2020 and 2021 in Moscow.

Results. The nucleotide sequences of studied Measles morbillivirus strains were categorized into different phylogenetic groups within genotype D8. For samples of genotype B3 collected in 2020 and 2023, a comparative analysis was performed to identify the region of origin. Phylogenetic analysis of Russian and foreign variants of measles virus suggests that strains currently circulating in Russia may be a variety of strains that had previously circulated in other countries and independently spread to Russia in 2023. After analyzing the most frequent nucleotide substitutions in various measles virus genes, the most variable genes were identified to provide a basis for the extension of phylogenetic analysis.

Conclusions. The proposed approach to molecular genetic testing of complete and partial genome sequences of clinical isolate of measles virus detected in 2023–2024 in Moscow and Novosibirsk made it possible to identify strain subgroups that differ in origin. The comparison of the Measles morbillivirus strains sequenced in the present research with global sequences allowed us to detect similar sequences identified both in 2023 and in previous years in various countries of the world. The analysis of epidemiologically significant strains of Measles morbillivirus shows that N gene can be used to reliably determine the main genotype; however, this approach is not sufficient for studying the transmission pathways of the virus.
Retrospective biodosimetry: Conversion of frequency of chromosomal translocations into organ doses
Authors: Tolstykh E. I. , Akhmadullina Y. R. , Sharagin P. A. , Shishkina E. A. , Akleyev A. V.
Published: December 2024

Introduction. One of the techniques used in retrospective biodosimetry according to the fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) method involves the estimation of stable chromosome aberrations (translocations) in human peripheral blood T-lymphocytes. In the case of uniform external and internal exposure, the interpretation of FISH data does not pose any problem, since the dose to T-lymphocytes that effects the translocation frequency can be simply interpreted as the dose to other organs and tissues. However, when the internal exposure is non-uniform and the doses to the organs differ by an order of magnitude, conversion from frequency of translocation to dose estimates becomes a complicated task.

Objective. To review the main parameters necessary for the retrospective assessment of doses using the FISH method in the case of internal uneven and prolonged β-irradiation.

Findings. The present analytical review considers problems associated with determining the following parameters: (1) Frequency of radiation-induced and background translocations; (2) Conversion factors from the frequency of radiation-induced translocations to the dose to T-lymphocytes (α); (3) Conversion factors from the dose to T-lymphocytes (cytogenetic dose) to the dose to critical organs and tissues (Borg ), which depend on age at the time of exposure. General approaches and estimates of (α) based on the construction of in vivo and in vitro calibration curves for external and internal exposure were analyzed. The dose-accumulation features in different T-cell populations from prolonged internal non-uniform exposure (using 90Sr as an example) were considered in terms of the applicability of the model approach to assessing accumulated doses. Uncertainties of dose estimates in retrospective biodosimetry are discussed and further research directions proposed.

Conclusions. In the case of non-uniform internal exposure with a low dose rate, converting translocation frequency to dose estimates becomes a complex task. The α and Borg conversion coefficients, which are derived from independent data sets, can be based on various approaches, including modelling. Currently, approaches to assessing their uncertainties, as well as the uncertainties of the dose obtained using the FISH method, remain undeveloped. Therefore, these coefficients require further studies.
. Pesticides: current trends in the use and epidemiology of acute poisoning (literature review)
Authors: Rozhkov P. G. , Gasimova Z. M. , Bukharin Yu. Y. , Sokolova T. A. , Severtsev V. V. , Lezhenina N. F.
Published: December 2024

Introduction. The widespread use of pesticides, which ensures the sustainable development of agriculture and global economic growth, necessitates the constant monitoring of their harmful effects on human health and the environment.

Objective. To analyze and systemically review scientific publications on the prevalence of acute pesticide poisoning and trends in their use in order to identify the causes and structure of acute pesticide poisoning at the present time.

Materials and methods. A search of the scientific literature is carried out in electronic bibliographic databases in the Russian (eLibrary, CyberLeninka) and English (Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library) languages.

Results. The risks of pesticide poisoning remain high in many countries of the world among both adults and children. In the structure of acute pesticide poisoning, household and suicidal poisoning with organophosphate and halogenated insecticides, anticoagulant rodenticides and pyrethroids are prevalent. Poisonings that occur at mass-, group- and family levels often have fatal outcomes, whether among agricultural workers or urban residents. The problem of acute poisoning with extremely dangerous limited-use substances based on aluminum or zinc phosphide is relevant not only in industrial agriculture, but also under domestic conditions and when working in personal subsidiary farms.

Conclusions. Strengthening controls and ensuring strict compliance with sanitary and hygienic standards of individual and public safety in the storage, use and disposal of pesticides, as well as combating their illegal trafficking, will minimize the risks of acute poisoning involving pesticides under industrial and domestic conditions.
The Relevance of Contemporary Citizenship with Derek Heater's Philosophical Thinking
Authors:   Yogyakarta State University, Yogyakarta, Indonesia, Rismi.K Annisya , Arpannudin Iqbal ,   Yogyakarta State University, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Published: December 2024

The concept of citizenship is important in the study of political science and will continue to develop along with world developments. Derek Heater in his work entitled "What is Citizenship" explains two concepts of citizenship that are commonly known to the public, namely including liberal and republican ideology plus 1 concept related to dual citizenship. The relevance of existing concepts of citizenship to contemporary issues is currently the focus of research. Every concept and its application in countries in the world is driven by critical thinking and great turmoil in the process of comparison and consideration of how to use this understanding for a long time. The research method used is qualitative research with a literature study approach. The literature study was carried out by reducing primary data, namely the work of Derek Heater entitled "What is Citizenship" which was juxtaposed and strengthened by secondary data according to the study topic, namely the concept of citizenship studies. Different concepts of citizenship influence views on the relationship between the individual and the state, as well as political and social rights within the ideals of statehood.
The Effect of Core Stability, Wall Sit, and Squat Training Programs on Balance and Keumgang Makki Performance of Taekwondo Uny Athletes
Authors:   Masters Program in Sport Coaching Education, Yogyakarta State University, Yogyakarta Indonesia, Cahyaningsih Luzy , .. Fauzi ,   Masters Program in Sport Coaching Education, Yogyakarta State University, Yogyakarta Indonesia, ... Tomoliyus ,   Masters Program in Sport Coaching Education, Yogyakarta State University, Yogyakarta Indonesia, Sukamti Endang Rini ,   Masters Program in Sport Coaching Education, Yogyakarta State University, Yogyakarta Indonesia
Published: December 2024

This research aims (1) to determine the effect of the core stability, wall sit, and squat training program towards the balance of UNY (Yogyakarta State University) taekwondo athletes, (2) to determine the effect of the core stability, wall sit, and squat training program towards the performance of keumgang makki of UNY taekwondo athletes. This research was an experimental study. The research design was "One Groups Pretest-Posttest Design". The research population was UNY taekwondo athletes. The sampling technique used purposive sampling, with the criteria: (1) taekwondo athletes who were still actively participating in UKM UNY (University Taekwondo Club) training, (2) Poomsae athletes with an age range of 18-22 years old, (3) Poomsae athletes who had learned keumgang moves. Based on the criteria, there were 7 athletes who met the requirements. The balance instrument used the Standing Stork Test and the keumgang makki performance used an assessment from the judge. The data analysis used the t test. The results of the research show that (1) There is a significant effect of the core stability, wall sit, and squat training program towards the balance of Taekwondo athletes at UNY, with t count at 5.490 > t table 2.447, and p-value 0.002 < 0.05. The amount of improvement in balance after being given core stability exercises, wall sits and squats is at 17.90%. (2) There is a significant effect of the core stability, wall sit, and squat training program towards the keumgang makki performance of UNY Taekwondo athletes, with t count at 9.212 > t table 2.447, and p-value 0.000 < 0.05. The magnitude of the increase in keumgang performance after being given core stability, wall sit, and squat training is at 28.46%.
The Influence of Leadership and Self-Efficacy on Employee Performance with Work Motivation as a Mediating Variable (Study on Taksu Clinical Laboratory)
Authors:   Magister of Management, Universitas Mahasaraswati Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia, Wijana I Made Dauh , Purbasani Krisnaqi ,   Magister of Management, Universitas Mahasaraswati Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
Published: December 2024

Taksu Laboratorium Klinik is a health service facility located in Kediri District, Tabanan Regency. The decline in Employee Performance of Taksu Laboratorium Klinik during 2023 can be seen in the Customer Satisfaction Indicator, Failure to achieve company targets, and late attendance exceeding the provisions of Taksu Laboratorium Klinik. This study aims to analyze the role of work motivation in mediating the influence of leadership and self-efficacy -efficacy on employee performance at Taksu Laboratorium Klinik. This study uses a quantitative method research design to test the models and instruments that have been developed by previous researchers through inferential statistics using the Structural Equation Model (SEM) with SMARTPLS 4.0 software. The number of samples involved in this study was 58 people using saturated samples. Data collection was carried out using the questionnaire method. The results of the study show that: (1) Leadership has a positive and significant effect on employee performance; (2) Self-Efficacy has a positive and significant effect on employee performance; (3) Leadership has a positive and significant effect on work motivation; (4) Self-Efficacy has a positive and significant effect on work motivation; (5) Work motivation has a positive and significant effect on employee performance; (6) Work motivation is able to mediate the influence of leadership on employee performance; (7) Work motivation is able to mediate the influence of self-efficacy on employee performance at the Taksu Clinical Laboratory Health Service Facility.
Impact of STEM on Primary School Students' 21st Century Skills, NOS, and Learning Experiences
Authors: Yıldız Mesut , Ecevit Tuğba
Published: December 2024

This study examines the influence of STEM activities on fourth-grade students’ 21st-century skills, their understanding of the nature of science (NOS), and their overall learning experiences. The research was conducted during the autumn term of the 2021–2022 academic year at a public primary school with a relatively low socioeconomic status. Over six weeks, STEM activities were integrated into the “Earth’s Crust and the Movements of Our Earth” unit in the Science curriculum. A mixed-method approach was employed, encompassing a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest control group design for the quantitative phase and a case study approach for the qualitative phase. The sample included 35 fourth-grade students. Data were obtained using the “21st Century Learning and Innovation Skills Scale,” the “Ideas About the Nature of Science Scale,” and unstructured observation notes. The findings indicated statistically significant improvements in the experimental group’s 21st-century skills, particularly creativity, innovation, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Moreover, the activities fostered enhanced cooperation and communication skills. Based on post-test results, the student’s understanding of the NOS also improved significantly. Qualitative analysis of teacher observation notes supported these outcomes, showing heightened student engagement, enjoyment, and active participation. Students produced more creative and reflective responses to scientific concepts, while their collaborative and communicative competencies were notably strengthened. In sum, STEM activities embedded within the 5E teaching model enriched the learning process by promoting scientific curiosity, critical thinking, and sustained motivation. Students’ requests for similar activities in other courses further underscored these interventions' positive impact and enduring appeal.
Perlindungan Hukum Terhadap Anak Sebagai Pelaku Tindak Pidana Mucikari Prostitusi Online
Authors: Adyatama Bagus Prayoga Anggun , Surahman Surahman
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Child legal protection analyzed from the object of study, namely Law Number 11 of 2012 concerning the Juvenile Criminal Justice System. 
Purposes of the Research: Revealing the juvenile justice procedures in dealing with criminal cases of online prostitution pimping by minors based on the judge's considerations in deciding the case by imposing prison sanctions on children in Decision Number 4/Pid.Sus-Anak/2023/PN Tgt.  
Methods of the Research: This research is normative legal research with document study data collection techniques that examine various documents related to the research object. The data used in this research are primary legal material sources and secondary legal material sources.
Results Originality of the Research: The research results found that in the provisions of Judge's Decision No. 4/Pid.Sus- Anak/2023/PN Tgt., there are several provisions related to juvenile justice that are not in accordance with the Juvenile Criminal Justice System Law and Islamic Law. In decision making, there are still several things that are not appropriate, especially in prison sentences imposed on child perpetrators. Judges need to review several aspects in issuing decisions regarding this matter so that it does not cause negative impacts in the future.