bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Poverty, gambling, and law in the digital economy
Authors: Prasertsiwaporn Mingkwan , Chomtohsuwan Thoedsak
Published: September 2023

The dark side of the underground economy has advanced alongside the bright side of economic progress through improved communications during this digital age (Kraiwanit, 2016). Poverty and inequality are issues that all countries must address (Rachman et al., 2021). This study investigates the level of poverty and gambling along with the relationship between poverty and gambling in the digital economy and explains the law and regulations governing poverty and gambling in the digital economy. A mixed methodology approach was utilised. For the quantitative aspect, closed-ended questionnaires were administered to 400 respondents, and the resulting data were analysed using a logit model. As for the qualitative component, the documentary method was employed, and the qualitative data were analysed using content analysis. The study reveals the significant roles played by poverty, gambling, and legislation in the digital economy. It is essential for the government and relevant agencies to implement control measures to mitigate the risks associated with problem gambling. Establishing laws such as social welfare programmes, employment regulations, and consumer protection measures can alleviate the impact of poverty and gambling. These legal frameworks ensure equitable access to essential resources and opportunities for financial betterment.
Technostress impact on the intention to adopt blockchain technology in auditing companies
Authors: Al Shbail Mohannad Obeid , Bani-Khalid Tareq O. , Ananzeh Husam , Al-Hazaima Huthaifa , Al Shbail Awn
Published: September 2023

For many professionals, blockchain technology is important. However, the adoption of blockchain technology has not been effectively prepared for by auditors. Blockchain can disturb the accounting profession due to inappropriate integration, leading employees to encounter “technostress” (Smith, 2018; Fischer & Riedl, 2017). This study aims to examine how technostress affects auditors’ plans to adopt blockchain technology. The technology acceptance model (TAM) and technostress are combined in a proposed model. Accordingly, the study developed hypotheses suggesting that: technostress negatively affects the ease of use and perceived utility of the blockchain; perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness have a positive effect on favorable attitudes towards the use of the blockchain; a favorable attitude towards technology adoption impacts positively on the behavioral intention to adopt blockchain. A group of auditors (142) from Big Four (Big 4) and non-Big 4 audit firms provided information via questionnaires that were already administrated and validated. The findings support the hypotheses that technostress affects the perceived usefulness and ease of use of blockchain technology. Attitude toward adoption decision is significantly predicted by perceived usefulness and ease of use, whereas attitude toward adoption decision significantly predicts the behavioral intention to adopt blockchain technology. Overall, the findings can benefit accountants, auditors, and managers of audit firms.
Dendrite-free lithium metal anodes enabled by an ordered conductive Ni-based catecholate interlayer for solid-state lithium batteries
Authors: Wang Tianyuan , Mao Yuezhen , Wang Jianbing , Sun Chunwen
Published: September 2023

Uncontrolled Li dendrite growth hinder the large-scale commercial
application of Li metal batteries. Most of present interfacial
engineering strategies in lithium metal batteries can only prolong the
nucleation time of lithium dendrites and cannot prevent the growth of
lithium dendrites in three-dimensional space. In this work, a nickel
based catecholate (Ni-CAT) conductive interlayer capable of guiding the
orderly migration of lithium ions and inhibiting the disordered
deposition of lithium dendrites was successfully constructed between the
solid electrolyte and lithium metal by rational design. The experimental
analysis proves that the Ni-CAT nanorod arrays with unique vertical
structure are closely connected with the solid electrolyte, which can
reduce the charge transfer resistance at the interface and guide the
lithium ions to be preferentially deposited on the surface of the Ni-CAT
interlayer through the conductive gradient, which effectively avoids the
phenomenon of apical growth during lithium deposition. Moreover, the
abundant pores and inherent nanochannels of Ni-CAT itself acts as an
“ion sieve”, successfully inducing the uniform deposition of lithium
metal, which drastically reduces the probability that lithium might lose
its electrical contact during cycling, leading to the appearance of dead
lithium. This strategy holds great promise for solving the lithium
dendrite problem.
Architectures, Opportunities, and Challenges in Emerging Technologies of 6G
Authors: D Krishna Jadhav
Published: September 2023

The 6G era is expected to bring a new level of advancement to
communication networks with the development of technologies such as
mobile-edge-computing, AI-at-the-edge, CML, MCL, and distributed and
federated AI. These technologies aim to provide high-speed, low-latency,
and reliable connectivity to meet the growing demand for advanced
communication solutions. Mobile-edge computing and AI at the edge will
play a key role in reducing latency and improving the efficiency of 6G
networks by enabling data processing at the network’s edge. CML and MCL
will integrate ML into communication networks, improving their
performance and reliability. Distributed and federated AI will
revolutionize how data is processed and shared, allowing organizations
to pool their resources and expertise to develop more accurate and
efficient ML models.
However, these exciting opportunities also
come with challenges, such as ensuring the reliability and security of
AI algorithms, developing new standards and protocols to support the
complex networks and use cases of 6G, and making the technology
accessible and affordable for all users. Despite these challenges, the
growth of the digital economy and the increasing demand for advanced
communication technologies will continue to drive the development of 6G
technologies, leading to the creation of more efficient, secure, and
reliable communication networks. In conclusion, 6G is set to bring a new
level of innovation to the field of communication networks, enabling a
more connected, efficient, and secure world.
Recovery of Independent Ambulation After Complete Spinal Cord Transection in The Presence of The Neuroprotectant Polyethylene Glycol in Monkeys
Authors: Zhang Weihua , Ren Shuai , Liu Zehan , Zhang Mingzhe , Guan Xiangchen , Xu Junfeng , Liu Yiwen , Ning Yuance , Canavero Sergio , Ren Xiaoping
Published: September 2023

Despite the conventional belief that motor function and sensation distal
to the site of a complete spinal cord transection are irretrievable, our
research has demonstrated significant motor recovery in mice, rats, and
dogs by applying polyethylene glycol (PEG) directly onto the transection
site of the spinal cord. However, before implementing this technology in
human subjects, validating PEG’s efficacy and enduring impact through
experimentation on non-human primates is imperative. Two 4-year-old
female Macaca fascicularis monkeys underwent complete dorsal cord
transection at T10. Postoperative behavioral assessment,
electrophysiologic monitoring, and neuroimaging examinations were
recorded, and tissues were obtained for histological examination at the
end of study. The monkey whose spinal cord had been fully transected in
the presence of PEG developed useful recovery already at 3 months and
near-complete recovery of motor function in the hind-limbs at 18 months.
The control animal without PEG remained paralyzed. Cortical
somatosensory evoked potentials recovered postoperatively only in
PEG-treated monkey vs none in the control. Diffusion tensor imaging
showed re-establishment of continuity of the white matter in PEG-treated
monkey, but not in the control. Moreover, histology revealed intact
neuronal bodies, axons, and myelin tissue at the spinal cord transection
site in PEG-treated monkey only. This report suggests that in primates,
an acutely transected spinal cord can be re-fused in the presence of PEG
with restoration of neural continuity and functional recovery of motor
activity distal to the site of transection.
GUEST EDITORIAL – SPECIAL ISSUE: Land Use Changes, Degradation and Impact on Ecosystem Services in Asia and Southeast Asia
Authors: Vadrevu Krishna , Gutman Garik , Tsuneo Matsunaga , Justice Chris
Published: September 2023

Several Asian countries are undergoing rapid economic development driven
by diverse factors. This development is leading to continuous land use
changes, including deforestation, urbanization, and agricultural
conversion. Such transformations threaten essential ecosystem functions
and services, like food provision, climate regulation, and cultural
benefits. Land-use changes, influenced by economic activities and
policies, carry extensive consequences, impacting ecosystem
productivity, water resources, and climate stability. Remote sensing
technology significantly aids in monitoring and quantifying these
changes, offering valuable insights for land management and policy
decisions. The NASA Land-Cover and Land-Use Change (LCLUC) Program
within NASA’s Earth Science Division program aims to establish global
assessments of land changes using space-based methods
(https://lcluc.umd.edu/). The South/Southeast Asia Research Initiative
(SARI), funded by NASA LCLUC, focuses on advancing LCLUC science in the
region and fostering collaborations between US and Asian researchers.
Utilizing geospatial data from remote sensing and models, SARI employs a
comprehensive approach, considering biophysical and socioeconomic
aspects of land systems and their interactions. SARI has been enhancing
LCLUC science through science projects, partnerships, training,
workshops, and capacity building exchanges since 2015. This Special
Issue, stemming from SARI meetings in the Philippines and Malaysia in
2018 and 2019, gathers articles focusing on LCLUC, degradation, and
ecosystem services in Asia. Of over 90 submissions, 30 have been
accepted, providing insights into these issues and their regional
impacts. The articles are summarized into various sub-themes below.
Surgical removal and autologous skin grafting as a successful treatment of primary cutaneous hemangiosarcoma in a horse.
Authors: Donard Lou-Anne , Vinardell Tatiana , Boussauw Bernard
Published: September 2023

This report describes the successful treatment of a cutaneous
hemangiosarcoma of a 12 years old horse presented for evaluation of a
cutaneous mass on the left gluteal region. Hemangiosarcoma is a rare
life-threatening neoplasia that can be successfully managed when
diagnosed and treated at early stages. Unfortunately, they are often
diagnosed at later stages, leading to a poor outcome and low survival
rates. In this report, the horse has been treated with a complete large
surgical excision of the neoplastic tissue. A good cosmetic outcome as
well as a short recovery time has been achieved with an autologous skin
grafting split thickness modified meek technique. A long-term follow-up
of the patient showed no reoccurrence of the hemangiosarcoma, and
successful return to athletic performance. In the authors knowledge,
this is the first equine primary cutaneous hemangiosarcoma treated with
complete excision and subsequently autologous skin grafting with a
long-term follow-up and good outcome despite the poor prognosis.
Surface Plasmon Resonance-Mediated Optical Tunability and Photocatalytic Activity in Ag-Decorated Cd 0.5 Zn 0.5 S Photocatalysts
Authors: Hamid Mohammed Alfatih Salah Hamza , Zengin Yasar , Boz Ismail
Published: September 2023

The present study explores the synthesis of Ag-doped Cd
Zn S crystals via the solvothermal
approach. The photocatalysts revealed a homogenous dispersion of Ag
nanoparticles, thus triggering the Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR)
effect. This effect is observed by specific nanoparticles intensifying
the light’s electric field, which results in boosted absorption. The
incorporation of Ag nanoparticles has resulted in a noteworthy
enhancement in the photoresponse of the Cd Zn
S crystals, thus broadening their applicability
across the visible light region. Under the influence of visible light,
the Cd Zn S photocatalyst doped
with 1 wt.% Ag showed a remarkable H evolution
performance, achieving a high rate of 2458 µmol/g .h.
The improvement in the photocatalytic efficacy can be linked to the dual
function of Ag nanoparticles. Firstly, the SPR effect generated by the
Ag nanoparticles enhances light absorption. Secondly, the effective Ag
loading promotes efficient electron transfer from the Cd
Zn S conduction band to Ag
nanoparticles. Interestingly, Ag’s superior electron-trapping capacity,
as compared to Ni nanoparticles, inevitably leads to an augmented
photocatalytic activity in Ag-modified photocatalysts. These insights
emphasize the crucial role of optimal Ag loading and the SPR effect in
elevating the performance of photocatalysts.
Delivery Determinants of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction and Pelvic Floor Muscle Strength among Post-Partum Women in an NHS Trust in The North of England: A Cross-sectional Retrospective Observational Study.
Authors: Gonzalez-Aquines Alejandro , Attew Jenna , Doxford-Hook Elizabeth
Published: September 2023

Objective: To identify what delivery determinants are
associated with higher risks of Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) among
early post-partum women receiving Pelvic Health Physiotherapy (PHP) care
for PFD at a National Health Service (NHS) Trust in the North of
England. Design: Quantitative non-experimental retrospective
observational design. Setting: PHP Urogynaecology Unit at Leeds
Teaching Hospital. Population: Women under six months
post-partum referred to PHP with symptoms of PFD between 1st June 2021
and 1st June 2022. Methods: Data on the type of delivery, the
number of subjectively reported PFD symptoms and pelvic floor muscle
(PFM) strength, graded using the modified Oxford scale, on initial
physiotherapy consultation collected from physiotherapy records. Data on
risk factors for PFD not related to the mode of delivery were also
collected. Main Outcome Measures: Number of PFD symptoms and
PFM strength (modified Oxford score) documented on assessment.
Results: 166 post-partum physiotherapy records were included.
Forceps delivery was identified as the type of delivery most associated
with PFD symptoms (2.45 ± 0.884 vs 1.85 ± 0.813; p=<0.001; CI
0.92-0.28) and PFM weakness (2.15 ± 0.731 vs 2.5 ± 0.914; p=0.02; CI
0.04-0.66) compared to spontaneous vaginal delivery. Age 35 years or
above was the only factor with a statistically significant association
of PFD (OR 1.079; CI 95% 1.011 - 1.15). Conclusions: Forceps
delivery increases PFD and PFM weakness, while age above 35 a major risk
factor to develop PFD. Improvements to reduce the use of forceps and
increase awareness of PFD and physiotherapy among women 35 years or
above are needed.
Usefulness of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment in Older Adults With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Choe James , Kudrna Rachel , Fonseca Luciana Mascarenhas , Chaytor Naomi S.
Published: September 2023

Objective

Older adults with type 1 diabetes are at high risk for cognitive impairment, yet the usefulness of common cognitive screening instruments has not been evaluated in this population.

Methods

A total of 201 adults ≥60 years of age with type 1 diabetes completed a battery of neuropsychological measures and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and Youden indices were used to evaluate overall screening test performance and to select an optimal MoCA cutoff score for detecting low cognitive performance, as defined as two or more neuropsychological test performances ≥1.5 SD below demographically corrected normative data.

Results

The ROC area under the curve (AUC) was 0.745 (P < 0.001). The publisher-recommended cutoff score of <26 resulted in sensitivity of 60.4% and specificity of 71.4%, whereas a cutoff score of <27 resulted in sensitivity of 75.0% and specificity of 61.0%. The Youden indices for these cutoff scores were 0.318 and 0.360, respectively. Minimally acceptable sensitivity (i.e., >0.80) was obtained when using a cutoff score of <28, whereas >0.80 specificity was obtained with a cutoff score of <25.

Conclusions

The MoCA has modest overall performance (AUC 0.745) as a cognitive screening instrument in older adults with type 1 diabetes. The standard cutoff score of <26/30 may not adequately detect individuals with neuropsychological testing–defined abnormal cognition. The optimal MoCA cutoff score (based on the Youden index) was <27/30. A score of <28 resulted in acceptable sensitivity but was accompanied by low specificity (42%). Future studies with a more diverse population are needed to confirm these findings.
Using Community Engagement Methods to Guide Study Protocol Decisions for School-Aged Children With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Abadula Fayo , Jordan Lori C. , LeStourgeon Lauren , Jaser Sarah S.
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Many challenges exist in developing multisite protocols for newly diagnosed children with type 1 diabetes. Our research team engaged community members to increase the likelihood of study success during a planning grant for a longitudinal study aimed at understanding risk and protective factors for neurocognitive function in school-aged children newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.

Methods

Two methods were used to obtain caregiver input into study protocol decisions. The first was a survey given to caregivers of children with diabetes (n = 21) about which aspects of the study protocol would make families more or less likely to participate. The second was a Community Engagement (CE) Studio to obtain recommendations from a diverse group of caregivers of children with diabetes (n = 7) on key aspects of recruitment and enrollment.

Results

Results from both the survey and the CE Studio indicated that caregivers were interested and willing to participate in a longitudinal study of this nature. Both methods resulted in similar preferences for the type and amount of compensation, convenient study visits, flexible scheduling options, and receipt of neurocognitive test results. Recommendations from the CE Studio included additional strategies to minimize participant burden and enhance communication around study participation.

Conclusion

Both the feasibility survey and the CE Studio were useful mechanisms to obtain caregiver input during the study’s planning and design phase. Uniquely, the CE Studio approach offers researchers the ability to gain valuable community member input with minimal staff effort.
Strength Performance Evaluations of Vehicle Cylindrical LPG Tanks
Authors: Kaptan Arslan , Kişioğlu Yasin
Published: September 2023

This study aims to examine and compare the strength performances of vehicle cylindrical liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanks produced and used in Turkey, taking into account European and Turkish Standards. The LPG tanks were subjected to burst and fatigue tests to explore their burst pressures and fatigue performances using both experimental and computer aided techniques. To investigate the strength of the tanks, a universal test bench was developed and calibrated for use in both burst and fatigue tests. The obtained experimental results in terms of burst and fatigue failure locations for each brand of tank are compared with the results obtained using finite element based simulations. Visual solid models in 3D were drawn in SolidWorks and then ANSYS software was used to perform Finite Element Analysis (FEA) simulations on those LPG cylinders to obtain the results, such as stresses, deformations, burst and fatigue failure locations. As a result of this comparison, it has been observed that some brands of cylindrical LPG tanks are more durable and safe for use in vehicles. Since the same standard requirements and the same commercial material are used in LPG tank production, it is revealed that some companies need to reconsider their design, manufacturing and especially welding processes. The results of this independent and objective study can also be used as a warning for LPG tank manufacturers and as a guide for their customers in choosing a safe product.
Bioactive Peptides: An Advanced Version of Antiviral and Immunomodulatory Therapeutics
Authors: N Singh
Published: September 2023

Bioactive peptides are short chains of amino acids with certain amino acid sequences that have various therapeutic effects. These peptides emerged as new class of therapeutics as they combine special qualities including high binding affinity, superior target specificity, low toxicity, and a relatively tiny mass etc. Some bioactive peptide possess antiviral activity by targeting viral envelop and by inhibiting viral entry into the host cells. They are advantageous as they don’t exhibit viral resistance like other conventional antiviral drugs. On the other hand, some bioactive peptides have immunomodulatory effects by reducing the expression of proinflammatory molecules such as IL-6, TNF-α, and COX-2. Bioactive peptides show promise as a potential substitute for or addition to conventional antiviral and immunomodulatory medications.
Involvement and use of European Metrology Programme for Innovation and Research EMPIR in the Czech Metrology Institute – a positive example of the use of European cooperation
Authors: Tesar Jiri , Safarikova Pstroszova Marketa , Weberova Karolina , Mucha Jaroslav
Published: September 2023

The Czech Metrology Institute (CMI) has been the national metrology institute of the Czech Republic since 1993. The significant development of the CMI's fundamental metrology departments and the gradual growth of the CMI's scientific and research capacities are linked to its successful participation in the European Metrology Research Programme (EMRP) and the European Metrology Programme for Innovation and Research (EMPIR). In total, 28 countries have participated in the EMPIR Programme, with Switzerland, Norway, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Turkey and the UK in addition to the EU Member States. The necessary organisational and administrative background for the realisation of the EMPIR Programme was provided by EURAMET e.V., a European Regional Metrology Organisation operated as a non-profit association under German law. The most important benefit of the Programme for the CMI and the Czech Republic is the successful implementation of the research results of individual EMPIR projects. Within the framework of this implementation of the EMPIR results in the CMI, 6 new state measurement standards of the Czech Republic have already been established and another 4 are in the stage of preparation for announcement. Furthermore, 23 new or significantly modified measurement methods have been developed based on the results within the CMI and are now provided as a service by the CMI. Finally, participation in the EMPIR projects has been used to train 42 new CMI scientists in various fields of measurement. If to add to this the use of the results of the former EMRP Programme, it can be concluded that the development of metrology at the CMI over the last 10 years has been strongly conditioned by successful participation in European Metrology Programmes and the ability of the CMI to subsequently apply the results of individual projects to its laboratory practice.
Development of the methodology of energy and environmental safety of Ukraine based on own geothermics
Authors: Starodub Y.P. , Karpenko V.M. , Havrys A.P. , Behen D.A.
Published: September 2023

The article presents an idea of the project that defines the development of a geothermal power plant methodology based on a single isolated well. It is planned to develop a technical and economic rationale and geological and geophysical aspects of the development of geothermal energy and to obtain data on deposits of geothermal water in the deep.

Extraction of heat from hot rocks at the pits is to be carried out using a special energy carrier, construction of the operating column, and circulation mode.

To create a model in the project, a well is needed with a depth of 4,702 m, temperature at the bottom of 130 °С, an unperforated casing string with a diameter of 245 mm to a depth of 4,500 m, and no formation fluids.

The transfer and transformation of the energy carrier by the working body into electric and hydrogen energy is maintained by ORC (Organic Rankine Cycle).

The development of the methodology includes two stages:

The first stage of the project involves legal preparation at the local and state levels for the use of the land plot and technical means of the drilled well and obtaining licenses and permits for the implementation of the project. It is planned to develop a technical and economic feasibility study for the construction of a geothermal electric station that will generate electricity and hydrogen energy for consumers.

The second stage of the project involves the technical preparation of the well for its use as part of a geothermal power station. Remediation of the well to a depth of 4,500 m is foreseen, as well as the implementation of industrial geophysical studies of the technical condition of the unperforated casing string; conducting preliminary geothermal studies on the stability and thermal productivity of hot rocks.

The authors intend to use results in the oil-and-gas industry, which has deep wells that have completed their purpose for hydrocarbon extraction, as well as in the nuclear, metallurgical, chemical, and many other fields.
The effect of methanol flow rate and repeated use on amberlyst catalyst characteristics in palm fatty acid distillate (PFAD) esterification reaction
Authors: Wardana Dian , Eddiyanto Eddiyanto , Nurfajriani Nurfajriani , Gea Saharman
Published: September 2023

Palm fatty acid distillate (PFAD) is a waste from cooking oil which is rich in free fatty acids (FFA). The high FFA content in PFAD allows PFAD to be processed into a renewable and economically valuable energy source, namely biodiesel through an esterification process using methanol with the help of an amberlyst catalyst. This study aims to see how the effect of variations in flow rates on the conversion of PFAD to biodiesel which takes place in a continuous reactor and to see the effect of repeated use of catalysts at optimum conditions on the conversion rate. The results showed that the optimum conditions were obtained with a methanol flow rate of 2 ml/minute. The flow rate of methanol above 2 ml/minute actually inhibits the reaction process. The repeated use of the catalyst reduces the availability of active sites and increases the presence of impurities and reduces the thermal stability of the catalyst at high temperatures.
21st Century chemistry teacher: Analysis of TPACK of pre-service chemistry teachers in teachers college
Authors: Juliana Purba Friska , Sinaga Kelly , Sitinjak Debora , Y. Tahya Candra
Published: September 2023

This research is aimed to analyze chemistry pre-service teachers' profile of the TPACK (Technology Pedagogy and Content Knowledge) competencies in Teachers College. The method used in this study was a mixed method using TPACK’s questionnaire and interview. This study revealed that Content Knowledge (CK), Technology Knowledge (TK), Pedagogy Knowledge (PK), Pedagogy Content Knowledge (PCK), and Technology Pedagogy Knowledge (TPK) components of TPACK of pre-service teachers are excellent. The Technology Content Knowledge (TCK) component needs to be improved throughout training courses that enabled the pre-service teacher to utilize, design, and apply various chemistry-based computer applications. The component of TPACK will continue to develop with the support of institutions and teaching experience. Strengthening the components of TPACK is important for a chemistry teacher to embrace 21st century learning.
La emancipación de la universidad: Contribución al estudio de un nuevo régimen de enseñanza pública superior en la Argentina
Authors: González Julio V.
Published: September 2023

El estudio de la enseñanza profesional, la investigación científica, la creación artística, la extensión cultural y la transferencia de conocimientos y tecnología a la sociedad que llevan adelante las universidades públicas argentinas, así como sobre su organización institucional y de gobierno, resultó una preocupación intelectual permanente de los integrantes de la comunidad académica entre los siglos XIX y XX, que persiste aún en el siglo XXI. Esta inquietud constituye una tradición del pensamiento universitario argentino. En esta obra, Julio V. González produjo una investigación que retomaba la voluntad de los reformistas por realizar una nueva transformación del sistema universitario. Con su reconstrucción del desenvolvimiento histórico de la Universidad de Buenos Aires a lo largo de un siglo, su reforma educativa atribuía a las universidades la expedición de diplomas académicos, cuya habilitación para el ejercicio social de las “profesiones liberales” quedara bajo potestad del Estado. Éste garantizaría así la provisión de profesionales de acuerdo a las demandas sociales, en tanto la universidad, emancipada de la función del profesionalismo, desplegaría sus posibilidades de creación científica y cultural. De este modo, esas universidades cumplirían por fin el papel de dirección intelectual de la sociedad que para González y el movimiento reformista debían desempeñar.
Estimating IgG concentration directly by radial immunodiffusion or indirectly by refractometry measure of serum total protein lack precision
Authors: Thompson Alexis C. , Smith David R.
Published: September 2023

OBJECTIVE

To establish and compare the precision of serum total protein (STP) measured by an optical refractometer to the precision of IgG concentrations measured using radial immunodiffusion (RID), the reference test for quantifying IgG in neonatal calves.

SAMPLE

6 sera with previously measured IgG concentration using RID from neonatal beef calves were selected from 3 stratum: low-serum IgG stratum between >5.0 and <15.0g/L(n = 4); moderate-serum IgG stratum between 35.0–45.0g/L(n = 1); high-serum IgG stratum between 60.0–70.0g/L(n = 1).

METHODS

STP was measured 13 times with an optical refractometer. IgG concentrations were measured 28 times with a commercial bovine IgG RID for each sera. The homogeneity of variance within the tests was evaluated with the Levene test (α = 0.10). Unrestricted random sampling bootstrapping (5,000 repetitions) was used to calculate the coefficient of variation (CV) for each serum and test. The homogeneity of variance between simulated test CVs by serum was evaluated (α = 0.10). Differences between simulated test CV by serum were assessed with the Kruskal-Wallis test (α = 0.05).

RESULTS

No difference was observed in the variance for STP between sera (P = .39). The average CV for STP was 4.2%, 10.1% for the low IgG stratum, and 15.5% for the moderate/high IgG stratum. Variance differed in serum IgG concentration (P < .0001). Serum with higher IgG concentrations had more variance. Simulated CV for STP and IgG had homogeneity of variance for only 1 sera (P = .31). STP had a smaller CV compared to IgG for every serum (P < .0001).

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Estimating IgG concentration directly by RID or indirectly by STP lacks the precision that might affect diagnostic interpretation regarding a calf’s absorption of maternal antibodies.
Effect of time of harvest at different moisture contents on physiological and storability attributes of pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan)
Authors: OLUFELO Joseph , Sharon Sharon , Ifechi Metu , Ukabiala Madu
Published: September 2023

The physical quality and physiological performance of seeds can be influenced by numerous factors, including the moisture content at harvest and drying temperature. This study evaluated the effect of time of harvest at different moisture contents on physiological attributes and storability potential of pigeon pea in the tropics. The ten pigeon pea genotypes used for the experiment were sourced from International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. The field experiment was a Randomized Completely Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. The seeds were harvested at maturity on the field at 12, 15 and 17 % moisture content. Harvested seeds from each treatment were divided into three seed lots of 400g each with three (3) replicate each. Packaged seed lots of each treatment were stored under ambient environment. The temperature and relative humidity of the seed stores were monitored and maintained daily using hygrometers. Seed samples were taken from each packaged seed lot for evaluation at 30-days interval for a period of 240 days. The following physiological attributes were evaluated-;Standard germination, Seedling Vigor Index, Acceleration ageing and mean Germination index. Data collected from the above experiment on different characters were subjected to analysis of variance. The study concludes that the anticipation of harvest and drying seed at moisture content above 12 and 15 % in pigeon pea on the field resulted in low and poor physiological performance. Also, pigeon pea harvested with higher moisture (17%) are more susceptible to damage which cause lower viability and seedling vigour with corresponding higher mean germination time. The study showed that, best results across the evaluated attributes during the time of storage were associated with genotypes with the lowest and moderate percentage of moisture at harvest. Therefore, for better physiological performance, optimal harvest timing for pigeon pea seeds should be at 12 to 15% range of moisture content but preferably, 15% in other to reduce the rate of seed scattering and wastages through pod dehiscence.
Technology for creating knowledge-based systems for studying the dynamics of the state of technical objects
Authors: Берман А.Ф. , Дородных Н.О. , Николайчук О.А. , Юрин А.Ю.
Published: September 2023

Целью данной работы является описание технологии создания систем, основанных на знаниях, для решения задач исследования динамики их технического состояния с использованием модельно-ориентированного подхода и онтологического моделирования. Под исследованием динамики технического состояния авторы понимают решение задач генезиса, идентификации и прогнозирования. Предлагаемая технология реализует подход MDA (model-driven architecture). Новизной технологии является проблемно-ориентированная специализация и обеспечение в ее рамках возможности использования различных моделей представления знаний и методов их обработки в зависимости от имеющихся в распоряжении исследователя данных и знаний. Апробация подхода выполнена для решения задач экспертизы промышленной безопасности и поддержки принятия решений при диагностировании систем самолета

The paper addresses the descripton of technology for the creation of knowledge-based systems. The systems are aimed at studying the dynamics of technical conditions with the help of a modeldriven approach and ontological modelling. The technology is intended for end users who are experts in a particular subject domain. While studying the dynamics of the technical condition, the authors understand the problems of its genesis, identification, and forecasting. The technology is based on the principles of model-driven architecture (MDA), which defines the process of creating software and its components as a sequence of stages for building certain models and their transformation. The proposed technology implements the MDA approach for creating knowledge-based systems. The novelty of the technology is its problem-oriented specialization and ability to use various models for knowledge representation and methods of their processing, depending on the data and knowledge available to the researcher. The technology includes the following stages: the construction of problem-oriented domain models, in particular the ontology of the object under investigation, the task, and the methodology of its solution; the construction of platform-independent models — the description of rules, cases, decision tables and algorithms for solving the problem; the construction of platform-dependent models — within this stage, the end user must clarify the rule models, cases, and decision tables, taking into account the features of a certain knowledge representation/programming language. The technology is implemented in the form of a set of software tools integrated “by data”. The approbation of the approach was carried out in the cases of industrial safety inspection and decision support when diagnosing aircraft systems
Trimethyllysine reader proteins exhibit widespread charge-agnostic binding via different mechanisms to cationic and neutral ligands
Authors: Travis Christopher , Kean Kelsey , Albanese Katherine , Henriksen Hanne , Treacy Joseph , Chao Elaine , Houk Kendall , Waters Marcey
Published: September 2023

In the last 40 years, cation−π interactions have become part of the lexicon of noncovalent forces that drive protein binding. Indeed, tetraalkylammoniums are universally bound by aromatic cages in proteins, suggesting that cation−π interactions are a privileged mechanism for binding these ligands. A prominent example is the recognition of histone trimethyllysine (Kme3) by the conserved aromatic cage of reader proteins, dictating gene expression. However, two proteins have recently been sug-gested as possible exceptions to conventional understanding of tetraalkylammonium recognition. To broadly interrogate the role of cation−π interactions in protein binding interactions, we report the first large-scale comparative evaluation of reader proteins for a neutral Kme3 isostere, experimental and computational mechanistic studies, and structural analysis. We find unexpected widespread binding of readers to a neutral isostere, with no single factor dictating charge selectivity, demonstrat-ing the challenge to predict such interactions. Further, readers that bind both cationic and neutral ligands display an unprece-dented change in mechanism: binding Kme3 via cation−π interactions and the neutral isostere through the hydrophobic effect in the same aromatic cage. This discovery challenges traditional understanding of molecular recognition of tetraalkylammo-niums by aromatic cages in myriad protein-ligand interactions and establishes a new framework for selective inhibitor design by exploiting differences in charge-dependence.
Fate of ZnS:Mn quantum dots in Seine River water and seawater. Ecotoxicological effects on Chlorella Vulgaris microalgae
Authors: Deng Bingbing , Maaloul Rania , Nowak Sophie , Sivry Yann , Yéprémian Claude , Ammar Souad , Mammeri Fayna , Brayner Roberta
Published: September 2023

The release of engineered materials into the environment can have detrimental effects on living organisms in ground, rivers, and oceans. Despite the increasing use of nanomaterials, little research is conducted on their degradation. Understanding the biology and environmental consequences of manufactured materials is crucial for preserving the environment and developing more respectful chemistry protocols. Physicochemical studies are essential to understand material behavior and their uptake and distribution within microorganisms. II-VI semiconducting nanocrystals, like ZnS nanoparticles, have emerged due to their quantum confinement, allowing for customization of electronic and optical properties. To assess the toxicity of ZnS QDs doped with Mn2+ and perform ecotoxicological tests, a suitable natural environment and an aquatic model are needed. Microalgae, like Chlorella Vulgaris, offer advantages in ecotoxicology, including environmental relevance, sensitivity, experimental feasibility, ethical considerations, and comparative studies. This paper presents the synthesis of ZnS:Mn NPs with varying concentrations of Mn2+. These NPs induce an antioxidant defense system in algal cells, which may be toxic to Chlorella vulgaris via an oxidative stress mechanism. The toxicity of manganese-doped ZnS nanoparticles does exist but is lower than that induced by a Mn2+ ion concentration of 100 mg L-1.
Spin Orbit Coupling Effects on The Excitonic Properties of Twisted Moiré Transition Metal Dichalcogenides
Authors: Jha Gautam , Li Wei , Brumme Thomas , Heine Thomas
Published: September 2023

Spin-Orbit coupling (SOC) is quite crucial in understanding the electronic and optoelectronic properties of the Transition Metal Dichalcogenides (TMDCs). The excitonic properties and dynamics of twisted TMDC bilayers have a strong dependence on the twist angle as well as on the material composition. Here, we have studied the effects of SOC on the exciton dynamics 2 domains in terms of spin-valley locking and subsequent influence on intralayer and interlayer electronic transitions in homo-bilayer and hetero-bilayer TMDCs twisted close to R or H stacking. Our study paves the path in understanding the twist angle dependence of spin-valley locking in the twisted TMDCs which will be quite beneficial in understanding valley dependent optical selection rules which in turn are crucial for exotic optoelectronic applications of such systems.
A Simplified Method for Theoretical Sum Frequency Generation Spectroscopy Calculation and Interpretation: the “pop model”
Authors: Chen Wanlin , Louaas Dorian , Siro Brigiano Flavio , Pezzotti Simone , Gaigeot Marie-Pierre
Published: September 2023

Sum Frequency Generation (SFG) spectroscopy is a powerful tool to probe molecular environments of oth- erwise nearly inaccessible buried interfaces. Theoretical spectroscopy is required to reveal the structure- spectroscopy relationship. Existing methods to compute theoretical spectra are restricted to the use of time- correlation functions evaluated from accurate atomistic molecular dynamics simulations, often at the ab-initio level. The interpretation of the computed spectra requires additional steps to deconvolve the spectroscopic contributions from local water and surface structural populations at the interface. The lack of a standard procedure to do this often hampers rationalization. To overcome these challenges, we rewrite the equations for spectra calculation into a sum of partial contributions from interfacial populations, weighted by their abundance at the interface. We show that SFG signatures from each population can be parameterized into a minimum dataset of reference partial spectra. Accurate spectra can then be predicted by just evaluating the statistics of interfacial populations, which can be done even with force field simulations as well as with analytic models. This approach broadens the range of simulation techniques from which theoretical spectra can be calculated, opening toward non-atomistic and Monte Carlo simulation approaches. Most notably, it allows constructing accurate theoretical spectra for interfacial conditions that can not even be simulated, as we demonstrate for the pH-dependent SFG spectra of silica/water interfaces.
In situ gelation in confined flow controls intermittent dynamics
Authors: Smith Barrett , Hashmi Sara
Published: September 2023

Polymer flows through pores, nozzles and other small channels govern both engineered and naturally occurring dynamics in many processes, from 3D printing to oil recovery in the earth's subsurface to a wide variety of biological flows. The crosslinking of polymers can change their material properties dramatically. In engineered flows, polymer crosslinking is often a situation to be avoided. For instance, in 3D printing it is greatly preferred for crosslinking to occur upon impact with a substrate rather than prior to exiting a nozzle. In blood flow, on the other hand, polymer crosslinking can either be advantageous, as in wound healing, or pathological, as in thromboembolism formation. In either of these situations, and in others, it is advantageous to know a priori whether or not crosslinking polymers will lead to clogged channels or cessation of flow. In this study, we investigate the flow of a common biopolymer, alginate, while it undergoes crosslinking by the addition of a crosslinker, calcium, driven through a microfluidic channel at constant flow rate. In addition to quantifying the limits on flowability and clogging in situ in this crosslinking polymer system, we observe a remarkable phenomenon in which the crosslinked polymer intermittently clogs the channel. We observe a pattern of deposition and removal of a crosslinked gel that is simultaneously highly reproducible, long-lasting and controllable by a variety of parameters. We map this behavior as a function of flow rate, polymer concentration, and crosslinker concentration. Our results pave the way for future investigations of the phase diagram controlling intermittent flows in crosslinking polymer systems. Furthermore, the dynamics of the deposition and ablation process suggests an intriguing possibility that the route to clogging failure exhibits signatures of chaotic dynamics.
FEATURES OF THE EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE OF ADOLESCENTS: THE IMPACT OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Лежнина Л.В. , Пиркина В.Г.
Published: September 2023

Выявлены особенности эмоционального интеллекта у подростков до и во время пандемии вируса COVID-19. Было проведено эмпирическое исследование на базе школ Республики Марий Эл и Кировской области для изучения эмоционального интеллекта (выборка исследования до пандемии (2020 год) – 793 подростка, в пандемию (2021 год) – 667 обучающихся). Сбор данных проводился с помощью «Опросника эмоционального интеллекта ЭмИн» Д.В. Люсина. В результате исследования установлено, что в период пандемии у подростков достоверно снизился уровень межличностного эмоционального интеллекта и понимания эмоций, но повысились показатели внутриличностного и общего эмоционального интеллекта. Установлены половые особенности развития эмоционального интеллекта: в спокойной ситуации (до пандемии) мальчики имели достоверно более высокие показатели отдельных шкал эмоционального интеллекта; в кризисной ситуации (в пандемию) девочки показали динамику значений по этим шкалам, а мальчики – достоверное снижение.

The article reveals the features of emotional intelligence in adolescents before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. An empirical study was conducted on the basis of schools in the Republic of Mari El and the Kirov region to study emotional intelligence (sampling of the study before the pandemic (2020) – 793 teenagers, during the pandemic (2021) – 667 students). Data collection was carried out using the «Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire EmIn» by D.V. Lucina. As a result of the study, it was found that during the pandemic, adolescents had a significant decrease in the level of interpersonal emotional intelligence and understanding of emotions, but the indicators of intrapersonal and general emotional intelligence of adolescents increased. Sexual characteristics of the development of emotional intelligence were established: in a calm situation (before the pandemic), boys had significantly higher rates of individual scales of emotional intelligence; in a crisis situation (during a pandemic), girls showed the dynamics of values on these scales, and boys showed a significant decrease.