bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on failure modes and calculation method of the cast steel joint with branches in treelike structure
Authors: Chen Feng , Sun Yun , Sun Shuxuan , Song Da , Liu Yangbing
Published: March 2024

The treelike structure links members and transfers loads via its solitary cast steel joint with branches. Therefore, the joint’s bearing capacity significantly affects the treelike structure’s stability, security, and economics. This paper utilized experimental verification and numerical modeling to examine the mechanical behavior of cast-steel joints with branches in the treelike structure under various loading conditions. Then, researchers investigated the failure process and mechanism of joints, and the three most common failure modes were outlined. Furthermore, the researchers proposed the bearing capacity calculation formula based on the common failure modes. The results show that the three common failure modes of the cast-steel joints with branches under different loading conditions are the failure in the joint core area under the axial load, the failure in the main pipe compression side under eccentric load, and the failure in the compression side of the single branch pipe root when the single branch pipe is under the uneven load. The suggested empirical calculation method can serve as a reference point for similar engineering practices design.
Design optimization of obstacle avoidance of intelligent building the steel bar by integrating reinforcement learning and BIM technology
Authors: Chai Hong , Guo Junchao
Published: March 2024

In promoting the construction of prefabricated residential buildings in Yunnan villages and towns, the use of precast concrete elements is unstoppable. Due to the dense arrangement of steel bars at the joints of precast concrete elements, collisions are prone to occur, which can affect the stress of the components and even pose certain safety hazards for the entire construction project. Because the commonly used the steel bar obstacle avoidance method based on building information modeling has low adaptation rate and cannot change the trajectory of the steel bar to avoid collision, a multi-agent reinforcement learning-based model integrating building information modeling is proposed to solve the steel bar collision in reinforced concrete frame. The experimental results show that the probability of obstacle avoidance of the proposed model in three typical beam-column joints is 98.45%, 98.62% and 98.39% respectively, which is 5.16%, 12.81% and 17.50% higher than that of the building information modeling. In the collision-free path design of the same object, the research on the path design of different types of precast concrete elements takes about 3–4 minutes, which is far less than the time spent by experienced structural engineers on collision-free path modeling. The experimental results indicate that the model constructed by the research institute has good performance and has certain reference significance.
The Floquet-Lyapunov transformation for fractional discrete-time linear systems with periodic parameters
Authors: Kaczorek Tadeusz , Ruszewski Andrzej
Published: March 2024

The Floquet-Lyapunov transformation is extended to fractional discrete-time linear systems with periodic parameters. A procedure for computation of the transformation is proposed and illustrated by a numerical example.
Digital technology-enabled non-heritage spatial landscape design in the context of rural revitalization
Authors: Xu Min
Published: March 2024

The development of digital technology provides new impetus and methods for rural revitalization in terms of spatial landscape design for intangible cultural heritage (ICH). Digital technology can effectively preserve and transmit cultural heritage and promote the sustainable development of local culture and economy by enhancing its experiential and interactive nature. As an essential carrier of non-heritage culture, rural areas face contradictions between tradition and modernity, conservation and development. In-depth study is needed to understand how to use digital technology to promote rural revitalization while protecting NRLs. This study explores how digital technology can assist non-heritage spatial landscape design in rural revitalization to promote cultural inheritance and regional development. This paper analyzes the landscape design of 18 digitized non-heritage spaces with local characteristics quantitatively and qualitatively. The integration of NRL spaces increased by 30% on average, while visitor satisfaction increased by 25%. At the same time, the inheritance and promotion of local culture were enhanced by 40%. Through the application of digital technology, the recognition, guidance, culture, and diversity of the NRM space have significantly improved. Digital technology enhances the design quality and experience of non-heritage spaces and promotes the development of cultural tourism and economic revitalization in rural areas. The study provides new perspectives and practical paths for protecting and utilizing non-heritage in the context of rural revitalization.
Research on the Language Value of College Students’ Ideological and Political Education in the Internet Era
Authors: Zha Sang
Published: March 2024

In the digital landscape, the language of ideological and political education for college students acquires new dimensions and faces unique challenges. Through the analysis of survey data from 1,025 college students, employing the K-prototype clustering algorithm and an enhancement of the Apriori algorithm, this study explores the significant influence of language on students’ emotional and cognitive responses. A striking 90% of participants displayed a strong affinity for media promoting patriotic themes, while over 52% regularly engaged in political discourse, highlighting the language’s potent effect on shaping civic attitudes. Nevertheless, the findings also suggest a pressing need to refine the linguistic approach regarding style and substance to maximize educational outcomes. By examining the contemporary role of language in shaping ideological and political perspectives among students, this paper sheds light on avenues for optimizing educational strategies in the Internet era.
Optimization of Cultivation Path of English Translation Talents in Colleges and Universities Based on ADDIE Model
Authors: Zhang Bing , Tu Hong
Published: March 2024

The integration of technology, practice, and theory in training English translation talent in higher education presents a significant challenge. This study applies the ADDIE model to refine this training pathway, aligning with contemporary developmental needs. Using AHP and CRITIC methods, we established a robust evaluation index for training English translation talent. A comprehensive survey involving students and faculty evaluated the training’s effectiveness using the TOPSIS method. Results indicated a notable increase in student satisfaction post-optimization, particularly among seniors, and intermediate-level faculty provided higher ratings. Graduates from 2022 reported an increase in average salary compared to their 2021 counterparts, with over 50% earning between 10k-15k, underscoring the enhanced quality and marketability of the training approach.
Dilemma and Countermeasures of Antitrust Regulation in the Field of Internet Platform Economy
Authors: Guo Xiaoling
Published: March 2024

This study addresses the issue of monopolies in the Internet platform economy by analyzing their causes and evaluating effective antitrust measures to maintain market fairness and encourage economic prosperity. Focusing on monopoly dynamics, including the network effect, capital influence, and market dominance, we apply evolutionary game theory and empirical analyses to devise a game theoretical model. This model helps simulate monopoly evolution and the potency of antitrust strategies. Our findings illustrate a direct correlation between monopoly growth and factors such as user base size, capital consolidation, and market control, with platforms frequently adopting monopolistic tactics for revenue maximization. Following antitrust regulatory actions, industry concentration shows a notable decrease, with metrics of total assets and net sales concentration dropping by 0.059 and 0.069, respectively. The study outlines critical regulatory strategies for enhancing market regulation, competition facilitation, and encouraging innovation. Effective antitrust enforcement is vital for optimizing market structures, spurring industry innovation, ensuring consumer welfare, and supporting the healthy progression of the Internet platform economy.
Size and Shape Differences in Fore Wings of Honey Bee (Apis Mellifera) Queens, Workers and Drones
Authors: Tofilski Adam , Kaur Hardeep , Łopuch Sylwia
Published: March 2024

The three honey bee phenotypes - queens, workers, and drones differ in the size and shape of body parts. We used a large dataset to describe how the three phenotypes differed with regard to fore wings and applied the methodology of geometric morphometrics to measure the wings using the coordinates of nineteen landmarks. On average, queens had wings larger than workers, but the two castes had a broad overlap. Drones, on the other hand, had distinctly larger wings. Wing shape differed markedly among queens, workers and drones and can be used to reliably differentiate them from one other. Surprisingly, the fore wing shape of workers was more similar to that of drones than to that of queens. Small queens were not more similar to workers than large queens, and large workers were not more similar to queens than small workers. Because wing size, unlike body mass, does not change over the life of the queen, it can be used to evaluate the quality of a queen throughout its life and not only during a short period after emergence. We provide a large number of wing images of queens and drones, which can be used as a reference in future studies.
Haplotype Affiliation of Varroa Destructor in Selected Locations From Poland and Ukraine
Authors: Dziechciarz Piotr , Domaciuk Marcin , Iller Maria , Kerek Stefan , Borsuk Grzegorz
Published: March 2024

The virulence patterns observed in viruses transmitted by Varroa destructor implied a potential association of these honey bee pests in Poland with the Korean haplotype. Nevertheless, it is noteworthy that this hypothesis lacked direct verification. Therefore, the aim of the study was to determine the haplotype affiliation of V. destructor mites infesting bees in Poland and Ukraine. Adult females were collected from drone brood from honey bee colonies maintained in the apiary at the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland, and the apiary in Synevyr National Park in Ukraine. The haplotype affiliation was determined through the sequencing of the cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene (CO I; 929 bp) fragment. Based on the phylogenetic comparison with 84% bootstrap support, the V. destructor females from both locations were confirmed to represent three haplotypes: Korean 1 (AmK1-1), Korean 2 (AmK1-2), and Chinese 4 (AmK1-4). They are the most virulent types of this parasite worldwide and in Poland. Concurrently, the present study confirms that the Synevyr National Park in Ukraine is isolated from alien bee subspecies, but is not free from alien parasites.
Young Children, Growing Children – How Does Their Presence in the Family Affect Time Allocation Decisions for Men and Women?
Authors: Garsztka Przemysław
Published: March 2024

Objective

This paper attempts to examine the influence of selected characteristics of household members on how they manage their time as an economic resource.

Methodology

In order to account for the interpenetration of different spheres of people’s activity and preferences regarding their choice, a multiple-equation model, in the form of structural equations, was used.

Findings

Among the potential determinants of individuals’ time allocation, the following were identified: gender, age, labor force participation, wage rates, the presence of children, education level, and the structure of the household itself, including the presence of a partner. The conclusions, formulated on the basis of the findings, focus on gender inequalities in terms of the time devoted to work and the role of children in shaping the daily activity of adults.

Value Added

While the presence of a young child primarily results in a decrease in paid-work time and an increase in household work for women, older children tend to help with housework, which mainly results in a reduction in housework for men. It was also observed that taking care of a child by a single person, irrespective of gender, is associated with a significantly greater increase in total domestic work time compared to the situation in households formed by two adults.

Recommendations

The traditional version of the neoclassical theory describes the demand for market goods and services separately. The new household theory breaks with this dichotomy and shows that consumption decisions cannot be interpreted without also considering the supply of labor, or the time allocation of individuals in general. Work on time allocation is important not only in the context of understanding the determinants of non-market activity and leisure time, but also in research on the valuation of working time. Time use databases combined with monetary budget data are used in analyses of the economics of human resource use and in new methods for estimating consumption among household members. Research on Polish households in this area is the next stage of research work that will be undertaken in the near future.
Positive emotions influencing consumer shopping behavior on e-commerce platforms
Authors: Cuong Dam Tri
Published: March 2024

E-commerce has become an integral part of people's daily lives due to the extensive use of the Internet. Moreover, customers' positive emotions are the good feelings that a person has because of their mood or good circumstances. These can include happiness, love, liking, pleasure, or joy. This study proposes to provide an analytical framework that includes factors (sales promotion, hedonic shopping motivation, and personalization) that affect positive emotions, which in turn affects the customers' intentions to make purchases and their actual behavior within the context of e-commerce platforms. This study used the cognitive emotion theory and emotion-action tendency connection as a theoretical framework. Convenience sampling was used in an online survey to collect data from 294 clients. The findings discovered that consumers' positive emotions in e-commerce platforms in Vietnam were affected favorably by key factors such as sales promotion (β = 0.502), hedonic shopping motivation (β = 0.217), and personalization (β = 0.207). Out of these factors, sales promotion (β = 0.502) was found to have the most favorable impact on customers' pleasant feelings. In the same way, customers' pleasant emotions (β = 0.758) had a strong positive influence on their inclination to shop. Furthermore, their shopping intention (β = 0.822) also had a considerable positive influence on their behavior. The study's results may help online retailers fully understand the determinants that affect customers' pleasant feelings, shopping intentions, and behavior. With this knowledge, online stores will be able to improve how they sell products.
Managing big data and blockchain for enterprise internationalization process: Mediating role of dynamic accounting system capability
Authors: Pham Huy Quang , Vu Phuc Kien
Published: March 2024

This study develops and confirms a model that examines the relationship between Big Data Analytics Capabilities (BDAC), Blockchain Technology (BT), and Internationalization Process (IP). It also requires various efforts to explore how Dynamic Accounting Information System Capability (DAISC) mediates the interconnections between BDAC, BT, and IP. This study focuses on small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Vietnam, which are widely recognized as crucial to the Vietnamese economy. The current research utilized the hypothetico-deductive method. The proposed model's hypothesized linkages were based on a comprehensive evaluation of relevant literature and investigations. The statistics database was created using a paper-and-pencil survey distributed to 612 accountants in SMEs in southern Vietnam utilizing the convenient and snowball sampling technique. A covariance-based structural equation modelling approach was used to assess the measurement and structural models in this research due to its ability to offer a strong foundation for analyzing intricate linkages within a research framework. The outcome confirmed the significant and positive relationships between BDAC, BT, and IP. Concurrently, these relationships were partially influenced by DAISC. The practitioners would greatly benefit from detailed insights on the findings, as they would provide guidance on how to identify and take advantage of the growth opportunities afforded by digital technology. Moreover, the observations could provide policymakers with new insights on necessary policy measures to support the application of digital technologies and encourage the implementation of a dynamic accounting information system, which could result in significant benefits in the future.
Roll Prediction and Parameter Identification of Marine Vessels Under Unknown Ocean Disturbances
Authors: Lee Sang-Do , Kim Hwan-Seong , You Sam-Sang , Yeon Jeong-Hum , Phuc Bui Duc Hong
Published: March 2024

This paper deals with two topics: roll predictions of marine vessels with machine-learning methods and parameter estimation of unknown ocean disturbances when the amplitude, frequency, offset, and phase are difficult to estimate. This paper aims to prevent the risky roll motions of marine vessels exposed to harsh circumstances. First of all, this study demonstrates complex dynamic phenomena by utilising a bifurcation diagram, Lyapunov exponents, and a Poincare section. Without any observers, an adaptive identification applies these four parameters to the globally exponential convergence using linear second-order filters and parameter estimation errors. Then, a backstepping controller is employed to make an exponential convergence of the state variables to zero. Finally, this work presents the prediction of roll motion using reservoir computing (RC). As a result, the RC process shows good performance for chaotic time series prediction in future states. Thus, the poor predictability of Lyapunov exponents may be overcome to a certain extent, with the help of machine learning. Numerical simulations validate the dynamic behaviour and the efficacy of the proposed scheme.
Study of the Hydrodynamic Characteristics of Anti-Heave Devices of Wind Turbine Platforms at Different Water Depths
Authors: Xu Hongyuan , Wang Wei , Xie Yonghe
Published: March 2024

This paper focuses on the effect of water depth on the hydrodynamics of floating offshore wind turbines with open-hole anti-heave devices. The three-floating-body wind turbine platform is used as the primary research object in this paper. The effect of water depth on the reduction of the heave motion of a floating platform with anti-heave devices is systematically investigated through a series of experiments and numerical simulations. The results show high agreement between the test results and simulations, with larger values of heave motion in deep water. A wind turbine platform with anti-heave devices can effectively reduce the lifting and sinking motions when the wave period is large.
Universal Sea/Fem Based Method for Estimation of Vibroacoustic Coupling Loss Factors in Realistic Ship Structures
Authors: Drężek Michał , Augustyniak Marek
Published: March 2024

Despite the fact that there is an existing body of literature addressing the computation of Coupling Loss Factors (CLFs) via the Finite Element Method (FEM), no publications have sufficiently taken into account real structural joints in their approach. Previous research has focused on academic cases of trivial connections, rarely involving more than two steel plates. To enable Statistical Energy Analysis (SEA) on a real ship, a methodology for determining CLFs for non-trivial systems is proposed, considering realistic boundary conditions and irregularities that can occur in marine structures. Based on the method, a library of CLFs is created by selecting the tested connections to enable modelling of about 90% of the acoustic paths on an existing jack-up vessel. Boundary conditions were set by introducing spring elements with a stiffness calibrated to the type of connection and taking the adjacent structure into account. In previous works, CLFs were determined for basic connections of rectangular plates. The lack of scantling variations, ignoring discontinuities and only defining parallel edges in the considered models, lead to the overestimation of energy transmission in real structures. To consider the influence of the above, random deviations from the initial stiffness of the springs at individual edges and point restraints at random points are introduced in this paper.
Investigating Fuel Injection Strategies to Enhance Ship Energy Efficiency in Wave Conditions
Authors: Ghaemi Hossein , Zeraatgar Hamid , Barjasteh Mojtaba
Published: March 2024

The prediction of fuel consumption and resulting transportation costs is a crucial stage in ship design, particularly for conditions involving motion in waves. This study investigates the real-time fuel consumption of a container ship when sailing in waves. The overall ship performance is evaluated using a novel non-linear coupled hull-engine-propeller interaction model. A series of towing tank experiments for hull resistance in waves and propeller performance are conducted. The ship engine is mathematically modelled by a quasi-steady-state model equipped with a linear Proportional-Integrator (PI) governor. Various scenarios of shipping transportation are studied, and the resulting instantaneous fuel consumptions and their correlation to other dynamic particulars are demonstrated. Additionally, daily fuel consumption and fuel cost per voyage distance are presented. It is also shown that the controller can effectively adjust the fuel rate, resulting in minimum fuel consumption. The study concludes that there is no correlation between fuel consumption and the frequency of fuel rates. The present framework and mathematical model can also be employed for ship design and existing ships to predict the total required energy per voyage.
Practical Finite-Time Event-Triggered Control of Underactuated Surface Vessels in Presence of False Data Injection Attacks
Authors: Chen Liping , Sun Minghua , Wang Li
Published: March 2024

The results of studies on a trajectory-tracking problem affected by false data injection attacks (FDIAs) and internal and external uncertainties are presented in this paper. In view of the FDIAs experienced by the system, we compensate for the serious navigation deviation caused by malicious attacks by designing an online approximator. Next, we study the internal and external uncertainties introduced by environmental factors, system parameter fluctuations, or sensor errors, and we design adaptive laws for these uncertainties to approximate their upper bounds. To further enhance the response velocity and stability of the system, we introduce finite-time technology to ensure that the unmanned underactuated surface vessels (USVs) reach the predetermined trajectory-tracking target within finite time. To further reduce the update frequency of the controller, we introduced event-triggered control (ETC) technology. This saves the system’s communication resources and optimizes the system. Through Lyapunov stability theory, a strict and complete stability analysis is provided for the control scheme. Finally, the effectiveness of the control scheme is verified using two sets of simulations.
Marks on Arrowheads from Sites of the Piany Bor Culture
Authors:   Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University. Kremlyovskaya St., 18, Kazan, 420000, the Republic of Tatarstan, Russian Federation, Sattarov Ruzil R. ,   Institute of Archaeology named after A.Kh. Khalikov, Tatarstan Academy of Sciences. Butlerov St., 30, Kazan, 420012, the Republic of Tatarstan, Russian Federation, Krasnopeorov Alexander A. ,   Udmurt Institute of History, Language and Literature, Udmurt Federal Research Center, Ural Branch of RAS, Lomonosov St., 4, Izhevsk, 426004, Udmurt Republic, Russian Federation, Kamaleev Elvir V. ,   Federal State Institution of Science Institute of Ethnological Studies of R.G. Kuzeev. Karl Marx St., 6, Ufa, 450077, Russian Federation
Published: March 2024

The article deals with arrowheads from sites of the Piany Bor culture with various marks applied to the items in the process of manufacture and use. In the course of work with museum collections, we managed to identify 38 arrowheads with marks, which come from 15 burials of Piany Bor burial grounds and one settlement monument. The purpose of markings can be different: from casual to purposeful. The analysis has shown that some of the marks are only traces of marking of the material during the manufacture of the item, the other part can be specially applied signs in the process of manufacture or while using. There is no reason to consider the marks as elements of writing systems. Chronologically the considered finds correspond to the I century BC – II century AD. The spread of marks on arrowheads from Piany Bor sites is probably an epochal phenomenon characteristic of the Middle Sarmatian time. The marks are not a direct copying and exact borrowing, but a reworking of the idea of marking of objects, using their own traditions of inscription of marks.
Reconstruction of the Technology for Manufacturing Slate Knives Based on the Results of Studying Materials from Sites of Ancient and Historical Eskimos
Authors:   Institute for the History of Material Culture, Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya emb., 18, St.-Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation, Skakun Natalia N. , Terekhina Vera V. ,   Institute for the History of Material Culture, Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya emb., 18, St.-Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation, Heredia Jose ,   Independent researcher. Granada, Spain, Agakhanova Vitaliya A. ,   Institute of General Physics named A. M. Prokhorov RAS, Vavilova st., 38, Moscow, 119991, Russian Federation
Published: March 2024

The article deals with reconstruction of the technology for making slate knives of the Eskimos of Chukotka and Russian America, obtained during archaeological excavations and ethnographic collections. To achieve this goal, a comprehensive methodology for studying artifacts was used. First of all, a traceological analysis was carried out, which made it possible to record in detail traces of processing on the surfaces of knives, such as percussion, picketing, grinding and drilling. In addition, archaeological finds of abrasive stones and bow drills, which could be used for grinding knives and drilling through holes when fastening them in handles, were studied. The recorded uniformity of most technological features on both archaeological and ethnographic artifacts indisputably indicates the commonality of their manufacturing techniques. These data formed the basis for experimental modeling. The specific purpose of the experiments was to clarify the features of slate processing and methods for making replicas of women's and men's knives from it, similar to the original Eskimo products. The slate raw materials for the experimental replicas were selected based on the results of petrographic analysis of tools found at the ancient Eskimo settlement of Ekwen. The fastening of the handles was reconstructed on the basis of archaeological and ethnographic data on the use of binding material and adhesive composition. Technological traces identified and interpreted using a complex methodology on the surfaces of archaeological and ethnographic artifacts made it possible not only to characterize the methods of making these products, but also to prove the identity of their production, which is important evidence of the long existence of production traditions that have been preserved in Chukotka since the existence of the ancient Bering Sea culture of the 1st millennium n. e. until the time of ethnographic observations made in the 19th–20thcenturies.
Strategies Supporting the Enhancement of Adherence to Procurement Standards by the Kwa-Zulu Natal Department of Health
Authors: Mkhize Sithembile Gadiosa , Dorasamy Nirmala
Published: March 2024

Purpose: Regardless of the reforms and the employment of Supply Chain Management (SCM) as a strategic tool, South Africa still faces immense challenges in its procurement practices. Non-compliance with public procurement guidelines cannot be ignored because it has a significant cost to the government and the public as taxpayers.
 
Methods: Mixed methods of data collection were employed in this paper to gather information from the relevant decision-makers and officials in finance and the SCM component. She found that unavailability of SCM staffing norms, shortage of staff, lack of supervision, shortage of skills, unavailability of an E-procurement system, and negligence are major determinants for non-compliance.
 
Results and Conclusion: These findings have relevance for the Kwa-Zulu Natal Department of Health and also for the South African Public Sector as it strives to achieve a clean audit on procurement and contract management.
 
Research implications: The Auditor General’s reports for the financial year 2017/2018 and 2018/2019 confirmed that this Department had received qualified audit opinions for two consecutive years for incurring irregular expenditure on procurement and contract management following non-compliance with procurement guidelines.
 
Originality/value: This paper examined the possible actions to improve the Kwa-Zulu Natal Department of Health's adherence to procurement standards.
Establishment of Workers’ Representative Organizations Under the Current Laws of Viet Nam
Authors: Hoi Dao Xuan , Khoa Le Dang , Tan Pham Van
Published: March 2024

Purpose: The purpose of the article research the theoretical issues and practical establishment of workers’ representative organizations at grassroots level, based on which the author proposes some recommendations regarding the establishment of workers’ representative organizations at grassroots level in Viet Nam.
 
Theoretical framework: The research employs theories about the establishment of workers’ representative organizations in Vietnam, regulations on the establishment of workers’ representative organizations, and mechanisms that apply to the establishment of workers’ representative organizations in Vietnam.
 
Design/methodology/approach: The research employs three common methods in legal science research: (1) Legal analysis method; (2) Legal efficiency evaluation method; and (3) Comparative legal method. The above research methods help compare and contrast theories of the establishment of workers’ representative organizations in Vietnam and bring out some essential findings.
 
Findings: Some valuable findings have been revealed such as the formulation and development of the establishment of workers’ representative organizations in Vietnam, some theoretical issues, and limitations on regulations on the establishment of workers’ representative organizations in Vietnam.
 
Research practical and social implications: The article proposes some tasks remaining undone, and further tasks will be fulfilled in the future. The article may support many developments in future research in Vietnam.
 
Originality/value: The research on the establishment of workers’ representative organizations in Vietnam become more and more urgent and very important in Vietnam.
Virtual Based Principal Leadership Model in Increasing Performance and Quality of Middle Education
Authors: Halik Abdul , Das St. Wardah Hanaf e , Naim Muhammad , Rafiuddin  , Safri  , Ridwan  , Umasagi Hamzah , Poli Muh.
Published: March 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to introduce a new analytical lens for examining the role of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) in the construction of the human body and motherhood from a post-humanistic perspective.
 
Method: Employing a qualitative methodology, this study conducted in-depth interviews, observations, and analysis of ART laboratory practices, utilizing samples drawn from infertility patients and ART laboratory work. The investigation delved into the spatial dynamics of ART operations within clinical settings, elucidating how technology influences the construction of the human body and the concept of motherhood.
 
Results and conclusion: The findings reveal that ART functions not merely as a corrective measure for physical infertility but as a techno-space that reconfigures the human body to facilitate reproduction and the construction of motherhood. The spatiality enacted by ART disrupts conventional notions of human nature, engendering what is termed as techno-maternity, wherein the ontological understanding of motherhood transcends biological constraints and assumes a technological dimension.
 
Research implications: This study underscores the imperative of adopting a post-humanistic perspective in examining the societal implications of ART. By elucidating the spatial and technological dimensions of ART's influence on human embodiment and motherhood, this research offers insights into broader socio-cultural transformations within current ages.
 
Originality/value: This research contributes to the academic discourse by presenting a novel analytical framework that illuminates the intricate interplay between technology, embodiment, and societal constructions of motherhood. By delineating the techno-spatial dynamics of ART, this study expands the understanding of how technological interventions shape human experiences and identities in the context of reproductive health.
Involvement of Total Antioxidant Activity and eNOS Gene rs1799983/ rs2070744 Polymorphisms in Breast Carcinogenesis
Authors: Hade Istikrar M. , Al-Khafaji Ahmed S. K. , Lafta Fadhel M.
Published: March 2024

Globally, breast cancer is the common malignancy affecting women and understanding its associated molecular events could help in disease prevention and management strategies. The present study was set to investigate an association between total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) polymorphisms with breast cancer. For this purpose, 100 subjects were participated in this work, including 50 female patients diagnosed with breast cancer recruited from Oncology hospital, Baghdad - Iraq and 50 healthy women as a control group. The concentration of antioxidants was measured in the serums collected from blood samples of breast cancer patients and healthy controls. While eNOS SNPs (rs1799983, G894T and rs2070744, T 786C) were assessed using TaqMan SNP genotyping and utilising genomic DNA extracted from the participants. The results showed that the antioxidants levels were significantly (P˂0.0001) reduced in blood samples of breast cancer patients in comparison to that of that healthy controls (0.144± 0.097 and 0.587±0.239 respectively). Additionally, the homozygous GG genotype G894T (rs1799983) could retain beneficial impact for the protection from breast cancer potential. While SNP genotyping results showed that both of the homozygous CC and heterozygous TC genotypes (rs2070744 T >C SNP) seem to contribute to the susceptibility of breast cancer development in the investigated set of patients. Overall, the present study findings suggest an association between reduced antioxidant capacity and eNOS gene polymorphisms in breast carcinogenesis.
Applications of q-Difference Equation and q-Operator _r Φ_s (θ) in q-Polynomials
Authors: Reshem Faiz A. , Saad Husam L.
Published: March 2024

We provide a q-operator form solution to a generalized q-difference equation involving (r+s+2)-variables. We introduce a q-polynomials Ψ_n^((A,B)) (x,y,c|q). The generating function, two Rogers formulas, and two types of Srivastava-Agarwal generating functions for the polynomials Ψ_n^((A,B)) (x,y,c|q) are established using the q-difference equation technique.
A Mathematical Modeling of the Vaccination Effect on the SARS-CoV-2 Transmission: Analysis and Simulation
Authors: Saadi Rami Raad , Al-Husseiny Hassan F.
Published: March 2024

Several illustrative studies on the mathematical modeling and analysis of the Coronavirus have been carried out in a short period of time. There is not enough work that accounts for the vaccination campaign's two stages. In this work, a mathematical model is created to show the impact of the recent two-stage vaccination treatment on the Coronavirus. In the proposed model, five compartments are constructed, namely the susceptible individuals , the first dose of vaccination  , the second dose of vaccination , infected  and recovered population . The uniqueness, boundedness and existence of the solutions of this model have been discussed. All potential model equilibrium points are determined. The local as well as global stability of the system in terms of the basic reproduction number is investigated. Numerical simulation is also carried out to investigate the influence of parameters affecting the dynamics of the model and to support the gathered analytical findings of the model.
Kinematic Properties of the Gaseous Stellar Dynamics Using the Tully-Fisher Relation in the Different Types of Spiral Galaxies
Authors: J. Rabab M. , Al Najm M. N
Published: March 2024

The goal of this paper is to show the kinematic characteristics of gaseous stellar dynamics using scaling coefficient relationships (such as Tully-Fisher) in different spiral galaxies. We selected a sample of types of spiral morphology  (116 early, 150 intermediate, and 146 late) from previous literature work, and used statistical software (statistic-win-program) to find out the associations of multiple factors under investigation, such as the main kinematic properties of the gaseous-stellar (mass, luminosity, rotational speed, and baryons) in different types of spiral galaxies. We concluded that there is a robust positive connection between Log Vrot.max.) and Log Mstar(B-V), as well as between Log Vrot.max. and Log Mbar (B-V)  in  three types of spiral galaxies (early, intermediate, and late), with a sharply negative relationship found between  and Log MB in addition to the relationship between Log Mbar (B-V)  and Log MB, with the partial correlation coefficient (R ≈ - 0.85) in all the different types of spiral galaxies. Our results indicated that for early and intermediate kinds of spiral galaxies, the baryonic disk mass and the maximum rotational speed fit best with the formula Mbar (B-V) ≈ 60V4rot.max., but this relationship seems to be stronger in late-type spiral galaxies with Mbar (B-V) ~ 60 V5rot.max .  Whenever the observable stars and atomic hydrogen gas were taken into account, several scientific facts show that additional extremely massive baryon stores are virtually probably present in late spiral galaxies.
Characterizing microstructures with representative tortuosities
Authors: Chaniot Johan , Moreaud Maxime , Sorbier Loïc , Marquet Pierre , Becker Jean-Marie , Fournel Thierry
Published: March 2024

This paper addresses the numerical characterization of microstructures by the concept of tortuosity. After a brief review of geometric tortuosities, some definitions are considered for a benchmarking analysis. The focus is on the M-tortuosity definition, which is revised by expliciting the link to percolation theory, among other things. This operator fits with the analysis of real samples of materials whatever their complexity. A contribution of this paper is a new formulation of the M-tortuosity, making it generic to many situations. Additionally, the comparison of the various tortuosimetric descriptors, state-of-the-art definitions and M-tortuosity, is proposed by considering several scenarios thanks to stochastic multi-scale models of complex materials. The relationships with porosity, morphological heterogeneity and structural anisotropy are investigated. The results highlight the similarities and differences between the descriptors while attesting that the M-tortuosity is equivalent to the state-of-the-art definitions, for a potential use in diffusion and conductivity analyses. Moreover, the M-tortuosity handles correctly situations where state-of the-art algorithms fail. The anisotropic case highlights some limitations of the state-of-the-art definitions behaving differently according to the given propagation direction. In the case of unknown propagation and irregular piece of materials, the M-tortuosity provides a unique tortuosity value representative of the whole microstructure while detecting the anisotropy. These operators are freely available within the plug im! platform.
Os cantos Xakriabá e a retomada da língua akwe᷉
Authors: Rodrigues Ana Paula Santos , Silva Manoel Antônio de Oliveira
Published: March 2024

O território xakriabá está localizado no município de São João das Missões, norte do estado de Minas Gerais. Essa região sofreu, desde o fim do século dezessete, com uma forte presença missionária e colonização da terra, que ensejaram uma longa perseguição à cultura xakriabá e à sua língua originária, o akwe᷉, do tronco linguístico macro-jê. Este trabalho discute as estratégias de retomada do akwe᷉ xakriabá, com foco nos cantos, que são o lócus de maior vitalidade desta língua. Na primeira seção, abordamos a história do povo Xakriabá e a perseguição da língua originária; posteriormente, apresentamos as estratégias de revitalização adotadas, seguidas da transcrição de vinte cantos em akwe᷉. Refletimos, por fim, sobre o papel dos cantos e da espiritualidade nas retomadas de línguas indígenas. Este ensaio é fruto de uma articulação de nossos estudos, realizados a partir do método etnográfico, o que inclui participação em atividades no território xakriabá, realização de entrevistas e pesquisa bibliográfica.
Airway risk associated with patients in halo fixation
Authors: Azurdia Adrienne R. , Walters Jarvis , Mellon Chris R. , Lettieri Salvatore C. , Kopelman Tammy R. , Pieri Paola , Feiz-Erfan Iman
Published: March 2024

Background:

The halo fixation device introduces a significant obstacle for clinicians attempting to secure a definitive airway in trauma patients with cervical spine injuries. The authors sought to determine the airway-related mortality rate of adult trauma patients in halo fixation requiring endotracheal intubation.

Methods:

This study was a retrospective chart review of patients identified between 2007 and 2012. Only adult trauma patients who were intubated while in halo fixation were included in the study.

Results:

A total of 46 patients underwent 60 intubations while in halo. On five occasions, (8.3%) patients were unable to be intubated and required an emergent surgical airway. Two (4.4%) of the patients out of our study population died specifically due to airway complications. Elective intubations had a failure rate of 5.8% but had no related permanent morbidity or mortality. In contrast to that, 25% of non-elective intubations failed and resulted in the deaths of two patients. The association between mortality and non-elective intubations was statistically highly significant (P = 0.0003).

Conclusion:

The failed intubation and airway-related mortality rates of patients in halo fixation were substantial in this study. This finding suggests that the halo device itself may present a major obstacle in airway management. Therefore, heightened vigilance is appropriate for intubations of patients in halo fixation.
Seroprevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Newcastle Disease in Backyard Chicken Production System in Selected Districts of Ilubabor Zone, Southwestern Ethiopia
Authors:   School of Veterinary Medicine, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia, Giragn Firomsa , Begna Feyissa ,   School of Veterinary Medicine, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia, Tolosa Tadele ,   School of Veterinary Medicine, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia, Desa Garoma ,   National Institute for the Control and Eradication of Tsetse Fly and Trypanosomosis, AkakiKaliti Sub-City P.O. Box 19917, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Gezahegn Eshetu ,   Bedele Regional Veterinary Laboratory, Bedele, Ethiopia, Merdasa Desalegn ,   Bedele Regional Veterinary Laboratory, Bedele, Ethiopia, Jaleta Dinke ,   Bedele Regional Veterinary Laboratory, Bedele, Ethiopia
Published: March 2024

A cross-sectional study was conducted from February 2020 to December 2020 to determine the seroprevalence and associated risk factors of Newcastle disease in selected districts of Illubabor Zone, South-western Ethiopia. Districts were selected by convenient sampling method and PAs were selected randomly. A total of 384 serum samples were collected from chicken of greater than 3 weeks of age and a serological test was conducted using Indirect ELISA. The Indirect ELISA test identified the overall seroprevalence of avian paramyxovirus serotype-1 (APMV-1) 16.93% (65) (95% CI: 13.2-20.7%). This study estimated 12% (95% CI: 5.6-18.4%), 16.8% (95% CI: 10.1-23.5%), and 20% (13.9- 26.1%) seroprevalence of Newcastle disease in Hurumu, BiloNopa, and Metu districts respectively. Among the individual chicken risk factors assessed; sex (OR: 2.93, 95% CI: 1.35-6.38, P=0.007) and from flock level risk factors, flock size (OR=1.23, 95% CI=1.006-1.27, P=0.039) and disposal of dead chickens (OR: 11.67, 95% CI: 3.58-38.02, P<0.001) were significantly associated with seroprevalence of Newcastle disease. The results of the present study revealed higher seroprevalence of Newcastle disease in the study area and deserved the implementation of appropriate preventive and control measures and further studies should be undertaken to identify types of strains circulating in this area.
Condensing Molecular Docking CNNs via Knowledge Distillation
Authors: McNutt Andrew , Li Yanjing , Francoeur Paul , Koes David
Published: March 2024

Knowledge of the bound protein-ligand structure is critical to many drug discovery tasks. One tool for in silico bound structure elucidation is molecular docking, which samples and scores ligand binding conformations. Recent work has demonstrated that convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for protein-ligand pose scoring outperform conventional scoring functions. Scoring performance can be further increased by taking the average of multiple CNN models, termed ensembles. However, ensembles of large parameter models require significant computational resources and therefore are difficult to apply to high-throughput molecular docking for virtual screening. We investigate knowledge distillation as a framework to condense the knowledge of large, powerful CNN model ensembles into a single reduced CNN model for a significant reduction in computational cost. Ensemble KD produces single models that outperform non-KD trained single models.
Computational Predictive and Electrochemical Detection of Metabolites (CP-EDM) of Piperine
Authors: Asra Ridho , P.R. Povinelli Ana , Zazeri Gabriel , M. Jones Alan
Published: March 2024

In this article we introduce a proof of concept strategy: Computational Predictive and Electrochemical Detection of Metabolites (CP-EDM) to expedite the discovery of drug metabolites. The use of a bioactive natural product, piperine, that has a well curated metabolite profile but has an unpredictable computational metabolism (Biotransformer v3.0) was selected. We developed an electrochemical reaction to oxidise piperine into a range of metabolites, which were detected by LC-MS. In turn, a series of chemically plausible metabolites were predicted based on ion-fragmentation patterns. These metabolites were docked into the active site of CYP3A4 using Autodock4.2 From the clustered low-energy profile of piperine in the active site it can be inferred that the most likely metabolic position of piperine (based on intermolecular distances to the Fe-oxo active site) is the benzo[d][1,3]dioxole motif. The metabolic profile was confirmed by literature comparison and the electrochemical reaction delivered plausible metabolites vide infra. Thus, demonstrating the power of the hyphenated technique of tandem electrochemical detection and computational evaluation of binding poses. Taken together, we outline a novel approach where diverse data sources are combined to predict and confirm a metabolic outcome for a bioactive structure.