bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
„…Kiedy biją dzwony niebieskie na Alleluja”. Apoteoza męczeństwa ks. prałata Konstantego Budkiewicza na obrazie Władysława Barwickiego
Authors: Wodzianowska Irena , Ziółek Ewa
Published: June 2024

Pokazowy proces abpa Jana Cieplaka i 14 księży, który miał miejsce w marcu 1923 r. w Moskwie, odbił się szerokim echem w Polsce i na całym świecie. W wyniku wyroku zapadłego na tym procesie został rozstrzelany ks. prałat Konstanty Budkiewicz. Opinia publiczna uznała go za męczennika bolszewizmu, co skutkowało licznymi upamiętnieniami jego osoby. Jednym z takich upamiętnień był obraz lubelskiego malarza Władysława Barwickiego. Jest to wielowarstwowa alegoria męczeństwa księdza oraz duchowieństwa katolickiego i prawosławnego w bolszewickiej Rosji. Jest to też alegoria zderzenia cywilizacji łacińskiej z ideą Rosji jako cywilizacji barbarzyńskiej.
Combination ability of new dihaploid corn lines in the conditions of the Right Bank of the Saratov region
Authors:   Saratov State University, Gutorova Olga V. , Zaitsev Sergey A. ,   Russian Research Institute for Sorghum and Maize «Rossorgo», Shahgeldyan Elada S. ,   Saratov State University
Published: June 2024

Dihaploid lines, or lines obtained on the basis of doubled haploids, are a valuable material for the creation of high-heterosis corn hybrids. The most effective method of evaluating the starting material when selecting parental couples for obtaining hybrids is diallell analysis. The article presents the results of the analysis of indicators of 6 dihaploid corn lines and 30 simple corn hybrids of the dialle scheme. The combinative ability of lines along the stem length, the cob attachment height, and the panicle length was studied. The effects of the GCA and SCA dispersion, as well as the components of genetic dispersion for the above characteristics were revealed. Lines with high GCA and SCA rates were identified. The variation of the indicators of combinative ability during the years of the study indicates that the degree of strength of the effects of GCA and the dispersion of SCA morphometric parameters in certain lines varies to some extent under the influence of growing conditions. The analysis of the components of genetic dispersion showed that, depending on the growing conditions, the formation of stem length was influenced by 1 to 3, cob height by 1 to 3, and panicle length by 1 to 2 genes or groups of genes. A pattern has been revealed: in more favorable conditions in 2021 and 2023, the number of genes that control the manifestation of the stem length and the panicle length traits increases. A significant impact of dominance components (H1, H2) has been established. Dominance in stem length, ear height and panicle length is directed towards the parental forms with greater expression of the trait.
Optimization of phage display technology for obtaining antibodies specific to tetracycline
Authors:   Saratov State University, Martynenko Anzhelika V. , Karavaeva Olga A. ,   Institute of Biochemistry and Physiology of Plants and Microorganisms, Saratov Federal Scientific Centre of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Fomin Alexander S. ,   Institute of Biochemistry and Physiology of Plants and Microorganisms, Saratov Federal Scientific Centre of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Guliy Olga I. ,   Institute of Biochemistry and Physiology of Plants and Microorganisms, Saratov Federal Scientific Centre of the Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: June 2024

Large-scale production and use of antimicrobials in human, veterinary and agricultural applications has led to antibiotic contamination of water resources. Therefore, it is relevant to develop methods for monitoring the content of antibiotics, especially in water resources. Biosensor methods are successful for the analysis of antibiotics. One of the main elements of a biosensor system is the selection of a recognition element. An alternative tool for selecting a sensitive element (recognition element) is phage display of antibodies, which makes it possible to obtain antibodies to low molecular weight antigens. The purpose of the work was to conduct research to develop and optimize the methodology for obtaining antibodies specific to tetracycline by using phage display technology, and to evaluate the possibility of their use for the indication of tetracycline. The work included studies of optimization of conditions for the production of phage antibodies specific to tetracycline, as well as the preservation of their activity during storage. The promise of using phage display technology for the production of anti-tetracycline antibodies has been shown. Using the dot immunoassay method, the possibility of using the obtained phage antibodies for tetracycline detection was shown.
Transformation of Local Self-Government in Russia: From Dawn to...
Authors:   Professor of the Department of Constitutional Law of the Ural State Law University Named after V.F. Yakovlev, Professor of the Department of Constitutional and International Law of the Ural State University of Economics, LL.D., Professor, Kozhevnikov Oleg A.
Published: June 2024

The recent history of our state has been accompanied for a long time by a constant search for the place and role of local selfgovernment in the system of both public administration and the formation of a full-fledged civil society in Russia. This search is accompanied by the transformation of not only the legislative framework of local self-government, its basic provisions and institutions, but also a serious change in the constitutional and legal interpretation of the regulations on local self-government by the Constitutional Court of the Russian Federation, which subsequently contributed to the appearance in 2020 of amendments to Chapter 8 of the Constitution of the Russian Federation and the subsequent integration of local self-government bodies into a unified system of public authority, in many ways, forming a counterbalance to the constitutional guarantees of the independence of local self-government and its separation from the system of state power. The author's brief historical and legal analysis shows that the federal legislator has an incomplete understanding of the concept of local self-government, its substantive, organizational, economic and other foundations, which can be a serious obstacle to the implementation of the “updated” text of the norms of Chapter 8, which in their absolute number are now tied to the will of the federal legislator.
The Economic Basis of Local Self-Government in Argentina: Some Approaches towards the Legal Regulation
Authors:   Deputy Director for Research of the Law Institute of the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, Associate Professor of the Department of Municipal Law of the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, Associate Professor of the Department of Public Law of the Higher School of Economics, PhD (Law), Komlev Evgeny Yu.
Published: June 2024

The author analyzes the legislation of some provinces of Argentina in terms of regulating the economic foundations of the organization of municipal authorities. The article touches upon property aspects and approaches to the delimitation of public and private property of municipalities (public and private domains), some requirements for concession agreements, and forms of public participation in decision-making by local governments in the economic sphere.
Financial Support of Initiative Budgeting Projects
Authors:   Professor of the Department of Law Theory, Civil and Legal Disciplines of the Volgograd Institute of Management, Branch of the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, LL.D., Associate Professor, Mironova Svetlana M.
Published: June 2024

In the Russian Federation, various practice of initiative budgeting have been implemented for a long time. Financing of such projects is carried out both at the expense of regional and local budgets, and at the expense of citizens and organizations. The article examines the features of each type of financing, their relationship with each other, problems arising in practice, and also draws attention to the economic effect of citizen participation in proactive budgeting projects and improving the financial culture of the population as a whole.
Pay Cannot Be Used: Where Are Municipalities to Put a Comma in the Matter of Charging a Fee for the Actual Use of Municipal Land Plots?
Authors:   Expert of the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, PhD (Law), Kabanova Irina E.
Published: June 2024

The article discusses the issues of collecting fees for the use of municipal land plots, including the use of land plots with limited turnover, which cause the greatest difficulties in practice.
Factors Affecting the Development of Regional Practices of Initiative Budgeting
Authors:   Professor of the Department of Finance and Management of the Tula State University, Doctor of Economics, Levina Vera V.
Published: June 2024

The article examines regional practices of initiative budgeting. The main factors influencing the development of these practices have been identified. Their classification has been formed, including groups of economic, institutional, sociocultural and behavioral factors. Using the example of several regions of Central Russia, the impact of these factors on the implementation and transformation of proactive budgeting practices is analyzed. It has been established that the impact of economic and institutional factors has been studied in more detail and is taken into account when making decisions in the field of participatory budgeting. The influence of behavioral and sociocultural factors has been less studied, but their further study and application in proactive budgeting practices has great potential, as it allows expanding the involvement of residents in the budget process, creating conditions for taking initiative and participating in the preparation of initiative projects and the distribution of budget funds.
Case report of surgical removal of nasopharyngeal fibrolipoma in newborn
Authors:   Vladimirsky Moscow Regional Research and Clinical Institute, Moscow, 129110, Russia, Egorov V. I. , Mustafaev D. M. ,   Vladimirsky Moscow Regional Research and Clinical Institute, Moscow, 129110, Russia, Kochneva A. O. ,   Vladimirsky Moscow Regional Research and Clinical Institute, Moscow, 129110, Russia
Published: June 2024

Fibrolipomas are a subtype of lipomas consisting of adipocytes with a connective tissue component. In the international literature, only a few cases of fibrolipomas in the nasopharynx have been recorded, and most of them are found in adults. The article describes a rare clinical observation: our experience in the diagnosis and successful removal of nasopharyngeal fibrolipoma in a newborn baby.
Effective and safe therapy of acute inflammatory diseases of ent organs in children with combination drug Ibuclin Junior
Authors:   Vladimirsky Moscow Regional Research Clinical Institute, Moscow, 129110, Russia, Egorov V. I. , Mustafaev D. M. ,   Vladimirsky Moscow Regional Research Clinical Institute, Moscow, 129110, Russia
Published: June 2024

This publication discusses the diagnostic criteria for pain syndrome in acute inflammatory diseases of the upper respiratory tract and ear. The relevance of prescribing drugs with an analgesic effect in acute inflammation has been determined. Data on the effectiveness and safety of the drug Ibuclin Junior are presented, and the feasibility of its use in acute inflammatory diseases of the ENT organs is substantiated.
Interconexões entre a Economia Ecológica, as agendas globais de desenvolvimento e as políticas públicas para o desenvolvimento local sustentável
Authors: Silva Luiz Henrique Vieira da , Silva Filho Cândido Ferreira da , Conti Diego de Melo , De Benedicto Samuel Carvalho
Published: June 2024

Nos últimos anos, a emergência climática e seus desdobramentos socioeconômicos têm despertado a atenção da administração pública, das empresas, das organizações da sociedade civil e da academia. Entretanto, a compreensão das consequências das pressões antrópicas impostas aos ecossistemas tem seu surgimento atribuído à segunda metade do Século XX, período de ascensão de pautas que contestaram o modelo dominante de produção, consumo e relações humanas, como o ambientalismo e o ecodesenvolvimento. A partir disso, o presente artigo explorou como a Economia Ecológica e as agendas globais pelo desenvolvimento sustentável, como a Agenda 2030, promulgada pelos países-membros da Organização das Nações Unidas, em 2015, podem influir na reorientação das políticas públicas em nível subnacional. O pressuposto é de que ações localizadas podem proporcionar uma transformação global. Para tanto, optou-se por uma pesquisa bibliográfica, de caráter qualitativo e descritivo. O debate foi permeado pela contradição entre o crescimento tendente ao infinito, possível somente no ideário neoclássico da economia, e os limites biofísicos da Terra. Os resultados apontam para a tendência de que os conceitos provenientes dos novos paradigmas de desenvolvimento sustentável já estão sendo internalizados no âmbito local, sobretudo aqueles originários na Economia Ecológica e de correntes a ela relacionadas, viabilizando diretamente a melhoria na qualidade de vida das pessoas, ao passo que o meio ambiente é respeitado.
Рathomorphological features of recurrent meningiomas
Authors: Ushanov V. V. , Kukanov K. K. , Paltsev A. A. , Tsyndyaykina A. S. , Zayachkovsky N. A. , Pryanikov M. V. , Zabrodskaya Yu. M.
Published: June 2024

Background. Meningiomas are common tumors of the central nervous system, most of which are benign. Anaplastic and atypical meningiomas, which together account for 25 % of all meningiomas, have a high recurrence rate even after gross total resection and radiotherapy, which determines a significantly worse prognosis. The mechanisms of recurrence remain poorly understood.

Purpose. To assess the significance of arachnoid granulations in the recurrence of meningiomas; to present our own clinical case; to make the review of the literature on this topic.

Materials and methods. We searched for publications in the Pubmed, EMBASE, Cohrane Library, and eLibrary databases published between the beginning of database management to February 2023 on the issue of the role of arachnoid granulation in meningioma reccurence. The materials of the desease history and results of histological examination of 71-year-old with intracranial meningioma who were treated in Almazov National Medical Research Center are used in this work.

Results. The clinical case of intracranial meningioma surgery is described. Histological examination of the tumor revealed papillary meningioma, grade 3. Tumor growth of meningioma was found in the granulations of the arachnoid. According to the review the clinical case shows the importance of the arachnoid granulations in determining the clinical management for this group of patients.

Conclusion. The presented clinical case and analysis of literature data demonstrates the importance of considering the structure of arachnoid granulations in patients with intracranial meningiomas, especially in the recurrent type of the disease. The role of granulations of the arachnoid membrane is currently “forgotten”, but the study of these important structures within the boundaries of the tumor field can provide new information and mechanisms of oncogenesis, malignancy, and recurrence of meningiomas, which may serve as the basis for inclusion in the standards for making a final pathomorphological diagnosis in this groups of patients.
Rare causes of cryptogenic stroke
Authors: Dreshina S. A. , Yanishevskiy S. N.
Published: June 2024

Stroke is one of the leading causes of mortality and disability in the world, which is why it is considered a key medical and social problem of modern medicine. According to international multicenter studies, ischemic stroke is the most frequent type of this condition. According to research, the pathogenetic subtype of ischemic stroke cannot be identified in a third of cases. Based on the TOAST classification, cryptogenic stroke requires exclusion of criteria for other pathogenetic subtypes. However, in clinical practice, the reasons for making this diagnosis are as follows: incomplete examination of the patient, negative test results, and identification of two or more causes. The high incidence and risk of recurrent ischemic events determines the need for a thorough diagnostic search in order to exclude rare causes and conduct reasonable secondary prophylaxis.
Features of the course of hydrocephalus in children after removal of a tumor of the posterior cranial fossa in the near and long term
Authors: Fedorov E. V. , Shmeleva O. O. , Stepanenko A. V. , Kim A. V.
Published: June 2024

The article presents the results of a study of the dynamics of the development of persistent hydrocephalus in children after surgical removal of a tumor of the posterior cranial fossa in the early and late postoperative period. The analysis of the incidence of neuropsychological syndromes: cerebellar cognitive-affective syndrome and cerebellar mutism syndrome in children of this group was carried out. Retrospective analysis included 30 patients under 18 years of age with a diagnosis tumor of the posterior cranial fossa complicated by occlusive hydrocephalus. All patients were operated on in the conditions of the Department of Neurosurgery for Children No. 7 of the Almazov National Medical Research Centre. As a result of the study, the risk groups for maintaining hydrocephalus after removal of the tumor of the posterior cranial fossa were determined, and the frequency of occurrence of neuropsychological syndromes in the postoperative period was determined.
Molecular mechanisms of thrombotic complications in glial tumors
Authors: Savelyeva A. V. , Zhilenkova Yu. I. , Simakova M. A. , Sirotkina O. V.
Published: June 2024

Cancer patients are at increased risk of venous thromboembolic complications (VTE), which are the second leading cause of death in these patients. Moreover, the maximum incidence of VTE occurs in tumors of the central nervous system [1]. Research is being conducted to identify laboratory biomarkers of increased risk of VTE, but to date data on their role are ambiguous. Patients with a mutation in the isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) gene are at lower risk of VTE, and the IDH mutation is associated with suppression of the production of tissue factor (TF) and podoplanin, the most studied molecules responsible for the occurrence of thromboembolic complications [2]. The main specific markers of VTE are based on immunohistochemical methods, which are possible only with histological examination of the tumor material. Therefore, it is important to find noninvasive biomarkers that could be used to assess the risk of venous thromboembolic complications. In this review, we will focus on highlighting the accumulated knowledge on this theme.
Foramen magnum stenosis in patients with mucopolysaccharidoses: diagnosis and surgical treatment. Review of literature
Authors: Stepanenko A. V. , Denisova K. A. , Stepanenko V. V. , Shapovalov A. S. , Sysoev K. V. , Kim A. V.
Published: June 2024

Cervico-medullary compression and atlantoaxial dislocation syndromes are the dominant clinical manifestations of mucopolysaccharidoses at the craniovertebral level. The review provides an analysis of international literary sources concerning modern aspects of diagnosis and neurosurgical correction of the foramen magnum stenosis in patients with different types of mucopolysaccharidoses. The existing surgical approaches to determining the indications and choosing the method of surgical treatment and some aspects of the use of enzyme replacement therapy and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation are presented. A variety of options for surgical correction of pathology at the craniovertebral level have been demonstrated in patients with different types of mucopolysaccharidosis, however the described recommendations can be considered from the point of view of traditions of the hospitals or personal experience of surgeons, but not as recognized standards of treatment this pathology. Further accumulation of individual observations or clinical series is required to conduct a comparative analysis of the effectiveness of various approaches on a sufficiently large and homogeneous material to determine standards for the diagnosis and treatment of craniovertebral junction pathology in patients with mucopolysaccharidoses.
Referendum ogólnokrajowe jako forma rozstrzygania spraw związanych z aborcją
Authors: Rytel-Warzocha Anna , Gajda Agnieszka
Published: June 2024

Przedmiotem niniejszego artykułu są rozważania na temat możliwości wykorzystania instytucji referendum ogólnokrajowego w Polsce w celu podjęcia decyzji w kwestiach dotyczących zakresu prawnej regulacji aborcji.
Na gruncie przepisów Konstytucji z 1997 r. nie ma przeszkód prawnych, aby przeprowadzić referendum w przedmiocie aborcji. Inną kwestią jest natomiast ocena, czy referendum jako forma bezpośredniego podejmowania decyzji przez obywateli jest właściwą formą decydowania o sprawach ściśle związanych z fundamentalnymi prawami człowieka – prawem do ochrony życia i zdrowia, prawem do ochrony prywatności i życia rodzinnego, wolnością od dyskryminacji, wolnością od tortur i okrutnego traktowania. I tak jak decydowanie o istnieniu lub nieistnieniu prawa człowieka nie powinno być przedmiotem głosowania ani kompromisem podejmowanym przez większość, tak już zakres ochrony praw człowieka jest kwestią umowną, podlegającą debacie i mogącą znaleźć swoje rozstrzygnięcie w drodze referendum.
Pozycja ustrojowa Publicznego Obrońcy Praw Człowieka Republiki Czeskiej
Authors: Domańska Aldona
Published: June 2024

Artykuł omawia instytucję Publicznego Obrońcy Praw Człowieka w Republice Czeskiej.
Ombudsman w Republice Czeskiej  jest niezależny i samodzielny w wykonywaniu swoich obowiązków. Do gwarancji owej niezależności Pełnomocnika należą m.in.: zakaz pełnienia określonych funkcji czy prowadzenia działalności oraz zasada apolityczności, a także immunitet. Pozycja ustrojowa Publicznego Obrońcy Praw Człowieka Republiki Czeskiej jest uregulowana na poziomie ustawy. Brak odpowiedniej regulacji konstytucyjnej dotyczącej ombudsmana, wprawdzie krytykowany w literaturze czeskiej, nie został uzupełniony mimo ponad dwudziestu lat funkcjonowania instytucji.
Viazanosť rôznych orgánov verejnej moci právom
Authors: Bárány Eduard
Published: June 2024

Tento príspevok bol spracovaný v rámci projektu APVV-19-0090 „Právna metodológia pre dobu právneho pluralizmu.”
Synthesis of C-Dots Based on Bitter Melon Peel using the Bottom UP Method
Authors: Septiyanto Rahmat Firman , Qothrunnada Qothrunnada , Saefullah Asep , Affifah Isriyanti
Published: June 2024

There is an increasing demand for creative ways to turn garbage into useful resources as environmental sustainability becomes more and more of a global concern. Carbon dots can be synthesized using organic materials, one of which is bitter melon skin. The goal of this research is to create an economical and environmentally friendly process for creating carbon dots from organic waste. The bitter melon peel synthesis process uses a bottom-up method with microwave techniques. Furthermore, c-dots were characterized using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer to determine the absorbance value and wavelength and FTIR (Fourier Transform Infra-Red) to determine the functional groups contained in the sample. The UV-Vis spectrophotometer characterization results obtained an absorbance value of 3.311 and a wavelength of 206 nm. FTIR results show the presence of O-H and C=C functional group bonds indicating that this synthesis process has been successfully carried out.Keyword: Carbon Dots, Bitter Melon Peel, Bottom-up
TEACHERS’ INSIGHTS ON THE JAPAN-AUSTRALIA PRIMARY SCHOOL VIRTUAL EXCHANGE PROJECT
Authors:   Faculty of Information and Communications, Bunkyo University, Kanagawa, Japan, Okumura Shinji
Published: June 2024

Research Objectives In 2022, an intercultural virtual exchange (VE) project between Japanese and Australian primary schools was conducted. Students engaged in activities such as exchanging self-introduction video clips and commenting on counterparts’ clips through Padlet. This study aimed to evaluate teachers’ perspectives on the VE project, uncovering successful aspects and pedagogical issues from the viewpoints of language teachers. The research highlights the transformative potential of technology in promoting intercultural education and underscores the need for teacher collaboration in educational practices. Methodology The study utilized a qualitative approach, conducting semi-structured interviews with two teachers who participated in the intercultural VE project. The interviews focused on the successful aspects and challenges of the project. The collected data were manually analyzed using a comparative analysis approach to identify key themes and pedagogical challenges. Findings The findings revealed several similarities: Both teachers expressed high satisfaction with the project, emphasized the importance of ongoing interactions, acknowledged initial challenges, and found the experience rewarding. Identified issues included difficulties in aligning school schedules, managing the time-consuming video production process, and obtaining parental consent for using VE platforms. Varying levels of ICT proficiency among teachers also hindered smooth operation, highlighting the need for comprehensive planning and technological skills in VE. Research Outcomes The project’s success was attributed to the dedication and collaboration of educators who integrated technology into their teaching, enhancing students’ linguistic skills and cultural appreciation. Despite challenges, the project provided valuable professional development and emphasized the importance of planning and technological skills. Future Scope Future projects should focus on improving schedule coordination, streamlining the video production process, enhancing ICT training for educators, and developing efficient methods for obtaining parental consent. These steps will ensure smoother implementation and maximize the educational benefits of VE.
Multiphase manganese-based layered oxide for sodium-ion batteries: structural change and phase transition
Authors: Liu Zhaomeng , Song Yingying , Fu Shizheng , An Pengyan , Dong Mohan , Wang Shuran , Lai Qingsong , Gao Xuan-Wen , Luo Wen-Bin
Published: June 2024

Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) are recognized as a leading option for energy storage systems, attributed to their environmental friendliness, natural abundance of sodium, and uncomplicated design. Cathode materials are crucial in defining the structural integrity and functional efficacy of SIBs. Recent studies have extensively focused on manganese (Mn)-based layered oxides, primarily due to their substantial specific capacity, cost-effectiveness, non-toxic nature, and ecological compatibility. Additionally, these materials offer a versatile voltage range and diverse configurational possibilities. However, the complex phase transition during a circular process affects its electrochemical performance. Herein, we set the multiphase Mn-based layered oxides as the research target and take the relationship between the structure and phase transition of these materials as the starting point, aiming to clarify the mechanism between the microstructure and phase transition of multiphase layered oxides. Meanwhile, the structure-activity relationship between structural changes and electrochemical performance of Mn-based layered oxides is revealed. Various modification methods for multiphase Mn-based layered oxides are summarized. As a result, a reasonable structural design is proposed for producing high-performance SIBs based on these oxides.
Vaccine Hesitancy: Balancing Public Health and Political Realities
Authors: Otorkpa Oche
Published: June 2024

This letter to the editor addresses the pressing issue of Vaccine Hesitancy and the delicate balance between Public Health and Political Realities. As a concise and direct communication, it focuses instead on delivering its message effectively within the confines of the format provided. However, should the editors require it in a specific format I am available to review same and submit it.
Caught in the spider’s web: The collateral consequences of the criminal record on higher education, professional registration, and employment opportunities
Authors: Mdakane Mbongiseni , Nkambule Bongani , Ngubane Sindile
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Although significant research has already been conducted on the intricacies of the criminal record in South Africa and internationally, literature points to a disjuncture between research and policy, especially around topics relating to access to higher education (HE) and admission to professional registration councils by formerly incarcerated students (FIS) with a criminal record. This qualitative case study incorporated a discourse analysis approach to determine the tone of 23 policy documents. In addition, twelve participants were purposefully sampled to share their lived experiences regarding the regulation and reintegration of FIS when applying for admission to HE and professional registration councils and potential employment upon completion of their studies. The findings indicate that the construction of legal documents and application forms allows higher education institutions and professional registration councils to access students' personal data, such as their criminal records. This leads to implementing measures that exclude certain individuals, which in turn obstructs the effective social reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals into the workforce. The study recommends the implementation of a South African research-based HE policy aimed at addressing the systemic injustices that regulate the simultaneous admission and rejection of FIS when applying to access HE and admission to professional registration councils.
Keywords: higher education, professional registration councils, criminal record checks, offender reintegration, South Africa.
Effects of working capital management on the profitability of South African construction companies listed on the JSE
Authors: Sejake Letshaba , Beneke John , Maseko Johannes G , Ismaila Bouba
Published: June 2024

This study examines the correlation between inventory and accounts payable management and the profitability of construction companies listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE). The annual financial statements of all 13 listed construction businesses from 2009 to 2019, including statements of financial position and financial performance, were obtained from an external database for statistical analysis. The study employed multiple linear regression to assess the impact of working capital management on the financial performance of construction companies listed on the JSE. Additionally, a correlation model was utilised to investigate any potential relationships among the variables being examined. The study's findings indicate that the management of working capital has a notable impact on the profitability of construction companies listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) in South Africa. Despite contradicting findings from other studies that support the opposite conclusion, this study demonstrates that effective management of working capital does not necessarily lead to a positive relationship with financial performance for financial managers of construction companies. Therefore, it is crucial to consider other aspects of management in addition to working capital.
Effect of Orange Fruit Peel Extract Concentration on the Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Tizazu Getachew , Wondimu Emebet
Published: June 2024

In this investigation, the impact of reducing agent concentration on the synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles was examined. During the synthesis, an assessment of ionic conductivity was carried out, revealing a significant increase in conductivity prior to the introduction of the reducing agent, followed by a sharp decrease upon its addition. Characterization of the ZnO NPs involved UV-visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier Infrared Spectroscopy, and X-Ray Diffraction analysis. The outcomes suggest that the characteristics of the ZnO NPs are influenced by the concentration of the reducing agent during the synthesis process. Notably, the ZnO NPs synthesized with a higher concentration of reducing agent exhibited a narrower optical band gap and increased surface energy. Furthermore, employing a concentration of 0.5 v/v resulted in the rapid production of nanoparticles with relatively uniform sizes. Conversely, concentrations below 0.5 v/v lead to slow formation, while concentrations exceeding 0.5 v/v yielded non-uniform nanoparticles.
An Analysis of the Eco-Efficiency of the Agricultural Industry in the Brazilian Amazon Biome
Authors: Saiki Gabriela Mayumi , Serrano André Luiz Marques , Rodrigues Gabriel Arquelau Pimenta , Rosano-Peña Carlos , Pompermayer Fabiano Mezadre , Albuquerque Pedro Henrique Melo , Pensado-Leglise Mario Del Roble
Published: June 2024

The exponential growth of the agricultural industry in the Amazon region has brought about notable economic advancements. However, this growth has substantially cost the region’s ecosystems, manifesting in increased deforestation and biodiversity degradation within the Amazon forest. This article is dedicated to assessing the eco-efficiency of agricultural production in Amazon biome municipalities. It places particular emphasis on identifying critical determinants through the utilization of the classic Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) model for efficiency computation, super-efficiency models for distinctive characterization, bootstrap computational techniques for robust resampling, and the Malmquist index for calculating annual eco-efficiency indices of each Decision-Making Unit (DMU). An exploration of the correlation between efficiency and meteorological attributes of the municipalities is conducted. The findings of this study reveal several significant points: 1) Eco-efficient municipalities within the Amazon Biome can serve as benchmarks for other DMUs striving to attain optimal input-output levels. 2) Most municipalities in the Amazon Biome operate closely to the productive frontier due to the prevalent technology employed in their agricultural activities. 2) The nature of the technological frontier’s return suggests that small and large DMUs possess eco-efficiency potential. 4) The current dataset does not yield conclusive evidence regarding a direct correlation between the variables. Leveraging this information, strategic pathways can be formulated to drive economic development in tandem with the sustainability of Amazon Biome municipalities. These strategies promise to foster social, economic, and environmental benefits for the populace while providing valuable insights to inform future research within this thematic domain.
Damage Identification in a Helicopter Rotor Blade Root in Realistic Load Conditions With Neural Network-Based Algorithms
Authors: Ballarin Pietro , Sala Giuseppe , Macchi Marco , Roda Irene , Baldi Andrea , Airoldi Alessandro
Published: June 2024

Monitoring the integrity of aeronautical structures is fundamental for safety. Structural Health Monitoring Systems (SHMS) perform real-time monitoring functions, but their performances must be carefully assessed. In this work the damage detection performances of a strain-based SHMS, were evaluated on a composite helicopter rotor blade root. The SHMS monitored the bonding between the central core and the surrounding antitorsional layer. A damage detection algorithm was trained through Finite Element analyses performed on the component. The effects of the loads variability and of damages were decoupled by including a load recognition step in the algorithm. Load recognition was accomplished in different ways: version#1 adopted an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) trained on blades in pristine condition; version#2 was trained also on damaged blades; version#3 adopted a calibration matrix method. Anomaly detection, damage assessment, and localization were performed by using an ANN. Results showed a higher load identification and anomaly detection accuracy for version#1 and version#2 compared to version#3. Gaussian noise reduced anomaly detection and damage assessment performances, and reduced damage localization accuracy for bigger damages. The damage detection performance were obtained for a fibre optic based-SHMS, including the trade-off between probability of detection and false alarm rate for different damage sizes.
Effect of an Oral Probiotic Mixture on Clinical Evolution, Gut and Skin Microbiome in Patients with Alopecia Areata: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Navarro-Belmonte María Rogelia , Aguado-García Ángel , Sánchez-Pellicer Pedro , Núñez-Delegido Eva , Martínez-Villaescusa María , Navarro-Moratalla Laura , García-Navarro Alejandro , Navarro-López Vicente
Published: June 2024

(1) Background: Considering the autoimmune nature with genetic predisposition of alopecia areata, and the immunomodulatory properties of some probiotics, the present study was conducted in patients with alopecia areata. (2) Method: A 24-weeks randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of an oral probiotic intake in severity of alopecia areata and the effect on skin and gut microbiota. 3) Results: The number of alopecia areata plaques decresed in 56% of patients in the probiotic group vs. 30% in the placebo group. Patients with improvement on the affected skin surface area, showed a results of 45% and 20% in probiotic and placebo groups, respectively. For "activity", "inactivity” and "regrowth", an improvement in 55%, 67% and 55% of patients was respectively observed in the probiotic group, compared to 50%, 40% and 30% in the placebo group. No changes were observed in the gut microbiota during the intervention period. Regarding skin microbiota, changes were detected in the probiotic group, with reductions in characteristic genera during the study. (4) Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the first clinical trial assessing the efficacy of a probiotic in patients with alopecia areata. This probiotic mixture improves the course and modify the skin microbiota of these patients.
The Guidance of Public Value over China’s Historic Environment: Research on the Regeneration Strategies Taking Taiyuan Bell Tower Street as an Example
Authors: Zhang Ruijie , Casanovas Miquel Martí , González Montserrat Bosch , Li Haoran
Published: June 2024

When profit-driven renewal is difficult to implement, many historic districts are “frozen protected” in China. In the social context of “building cities for the people” in recent years, the public value-oriented renewal of urban historic areas plays an important role in the transformation of cities. This study investigates the strategies of historic district regeneration in China by integrating spatial form, urban governance, and public value. We propose a novel framework to analyze the regeneration of historic districts, using Taiyuan Bell Tower Street as a case study. The framework distinguishes between two dimensions: spatial and economic-social. In the spatial dimension, we focus on the transformation of spatial form to regenerate public value, emphasizing the attribute of "publicness" as central to urban regeneration efforts. This involves a tiered approach of excavating and upgrading historic districts at macro, meso, and micro levels. In the economic-social dimension, we explore urban governance to strengthen public value, involving government, market, and societal actors in a collaborative renewal process. The analysis highlights that a public value-oriented approach to heritage regeneration offers greater sustainability and could serve as a model for other cities seeking similar outcomes.
Rice Yellow Mottle Virus (RYMV): A Review
Authors: Abrokwah Linda Appianimaa , Torkpo Stephen Kwame , Pereira Guilherme da Silva , Oppong Allen , Eleblu John , Offei Samuel Kwame
Published: June 2024

Rice (Oryza spp.) is mostly grown directly from seed and sown on wet or dry seed beds or usually used as transplants on nursery bed. With all the economically important viral diseases in the world, Rice yellow mottle virus (RYMV), is only prevalent in rice-growing countries in Africa. RYMV had turned out to be the main rice production constraint in Africa, throughout the last 20–25 years, causing yield loss of 10 to 100%, depending on age of the plant at the time of infection, degree of varietal susceptibility and the exiting climatic conditions. Good agricultural practices and utilization of biotechnological tools in the development of improved resistant cultivars have been extensively active in controlling the disease. This review focused on RYMV, its epidemiology, serological and molecular typing, disease management and the way forward for sustainable rice production.
Grains in a Modern Time; A Comprehensive Review on Compositions and Understanding their Role in Type 2 Diabetes and Cancer
Authors: Khan Jabir , Gul Palwasha , Liu Kunlun
Published: June 2024

Globally, Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and Cancer are the major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide and is considered to be one of the most significant public health concerns of the 21st century. Over the next two decades, the global burden is expected to increase by approximately 60%. Several observational studies as well as clinical trials have demonstrated the health benefits of consuming whole grains and lower the risk of several chronic non communicable diseases including T2D and cancer. Cereals grains are the primary source of energy in the human diet. The most widely consumed pseudo cereals include (quinoa, amaranth and buckwheat) and cereals (wheat, rice and corn). From a nutritional perspective, both pseudo cereals and cereals are recognized for their complete protein, essential amino acids, dietary fibres and phenolic acids. The bran layer of the seed contains the majority of these components. Greater intake of whole grains than refined grains has been consistently linked to a lower risk of T2D and cancer. Due to their superior nutritional compositions, whole grains make them a preferred choice over refined grains. The modulatory effects of whole grains on T2D and cancer are also likely to be influenced by several mechanisms, some of these effects may be direct; while others involve altering the composition of gut microbiota, increasing the abundance of beneficial bacteria, and lowering harmful bacteria, increasing insulin sensitivity, lowering solubility of free bile acids, protein broken down into peptides and amino acids, producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and other beneficial metabolites that promote the proliferation in the colon which modulate the anti-diabetic and anti-cancer pathway. Thus the present review are two folded; first summarizes the recent knowledge about the nutritional composition and bioactive acids in pseudo cereals (quinoa, amaranth and buckwheat) and cereals (wheat, rice and corn); the second section summarizes and discusses the progress in recent human studies, such as observational (cross-sectional studies, case-control studies and cohort studies) and intervention studies in understanding their role in T2D and cancer including the potential mechanism. Overall according to the scientific data, whole grain consumption may reduce the incidence of T2D and cancer. Future studies should carry out randomized controlled trials to validate observational results and establish causality; in addition the current manuscript encourages to investigate the specific mechanisms by which whole grains exert their beneficial effects on health by examining the effects of different types of specific protein, dietary fibres and phenolic acids that might help to prevent or treat T2D and cancer.
Development of a New IoT Device to Acquire and Analyze Gait Information of Horses in Training
Authors: Tanaka Akane , Ohshima Hideki , Tanezaki Tomoki , Muko Ryo , Oikawa Masaaki , Matsuda Hiroshi
Published: June 2024

Techniques have been developed to determine whether a horse is in resting or running mode by measuring at least one of the following: the horse's body temperature, heart rate, oxygen saturation, and exercise level. However, the existing technology has not reached a level where a trainer can accurately assess a horse's running conditions, such as speed, acceleration, stride, limb rotation, ground impact, and frontal balance, during the training of racehorses. In addition, data is needed to quickly detect abnormalities during training and provide a basis for changing the intensity of training or deciding to give a rest to the horse. Devices that detect abnormalities in equine gait with high sensitivity will contribute to animal welfare and increase the athletic longevity of horses. This paper reports the development results of a new IoT device that acquires, processes, and analyzes information such as heart rate, position, speed, acceleration, pitch, stride, and ground contact during a training of racehorses. The purpose of this development is to provide an information on a novel processing system, device, method, and program that can analyze training condition of racehorses from multiple angles.
Adjustment of the Nonlinear Schumacher and Hall Model in Mixed Form for Volume Estimation in Dense Ombrophilous Forest, Amazon, Brazil
Authors: Abreu Jadson Coelho de , Santos Maricélia Moreira dos , Silva Wegliane Campelo , Costa Verena Holanda da , Rabelo Fernando Galvão , Aparício Perseu da Silva
Published: June 2024

Volumetric models are a crucial tool for forest management. The study aimed to adjust the mixed model by Schumacher and Hall for estimating commercial volume in a dense ombrophilous forest situated in Ferreira Gomes, Amapá, Brazil. Cubage data from 100 sample trees of 5 species were used to adjust the Schumacher and Hall model in fixed and mixed non-linear forms with the diameter class as a random effect. In addition, the same model was also adjusted for each class to verify whether good equations will be generated by stratifying by diameter class. After analysis, it was found that most of the equations by diameter class do not present all significant parameters. On the other hand, the mixed models using class as a random effect showed good results. Finally, it can be seen that mixed models are a much better alternative than stratification by diameter class for volume estimation.
A Comprehensive Review of HER2 in Cancer Biology and Therapeutics
Authors: Cheng Xiaoqing
Published: June 2024

Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), a targetable transmembrane glycoprotein receptor of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) family, plays a crucial role in cell proliferation, survival, and differentiation. Aberrant HER2 signaling is implicated in various cancers, particularly breast and Gastric cancer, where HER2 overexpression or amplification correlates with aggressive tumor behavior and poor prognosis. Her2 activating mutations contribute to accelerated tumorigenesis and metastasis. This review provides an overview of HER2 biology, signaling pathways, mechanisms of dysregulation, diagnostic approaches, and therapeutic strategies targeting HER2 in cancer. Understanding the intricate details of HER2 regulation is essential for developing effective targeted therapies and improving patient outcomes.