bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of bottom meso-scale dynamics in contourite formation in the Argentine Basin
Authors: Kreps Gastón , Schwenk Tilmann , Romero Silvia , Quesada Agustín , Gruetzner Jens , Spiess Volkhard , Keil Hanno , Kantner Ruben , Lembke-Jene Lester , Ferrari Ramiro , Lamy Frank , Miramontes Elda
Published: July 2024

The Argentine Basin is a deep-sea basin located in the South Atlantic Ocean that contains sedimentary deposits derived from different provenances. It is characterized by complex ocean dynamics encompassing diverse spatial and temporal dimensions. The northward subantarctic Malvinas Current and southward subtropical Brazil Current converge at the western margin of the Argentine Basin, resulting in the formation of the Brazil–Malvinas Confluence region. Bottom currents, particularly currents flowing alongslope and horizontal eddies, are crucial in shaping the seafloor and in the formation of sedimentary features (e.g., contourites). The poorly understood strength and variability of bottom currents leave the processes that control sedimentation in deep environments unclear. High-resolution (1/12°) reanalysis was used to analyze near-bottom flows and bottom dynamics were compared with seafloor sedimentary characteristics obtained from geophysical datasets and sediment cores. High speeds, up to 3.5 m/s at the surface and up to 1.4 m/s at the bottom, reveal the presence of intense flows in this area. The Zapiola Drift, an ∼ 1,200 m high sedimentary deposit located in the central part of the Argentine Basin, is bounded by a zone of high bottom eddy kinetic energy (EKE) that resulted in the erosion of the seafloor and in the accumulation of sandy mud. The Malvinas Current is distinguished by strong and constant currents flowing northwards along the continental slope and by minimal EKE at the bottom. The area of the continental slope along which the Malvinas Current flows corresponds to a contourite terrace, a relatively flat surface composed almost entirely of sandy sediments and with abundant erosional features. The regions of highest EKE activity in the bottom layer is the overshoot of the Brazil Current and the abyssal plain. Our study highlights the impact of bottom-current dynamics on contouritic sedimentation. In certain regions, the process of sedimentation is subject to the influence of sporadic events that occur between periods of intense and weak flow. These events are regarded as intermittent processes. While sedimentation in other areas is controlled by constant flows. A better understanding of the strength and variability of bottom currents will improve paleoceanographic reconstructions based on the sedimentary record.
WITHDRAWN: Using Ground Magnetic Data for Edge Basic Dykes Detection, Their Structures and Tectonics, in North Ras Millan Area, Southern Sinai, Egypt
Authors: Youssef Mohamed A. S. , Ata Ahmed S. A. Abu El
Published: July 2024

The full text of this preprint has been withdrawn by the authors as it was submitted and made public without the full consent of all the authors. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as a reference. Questions should be directed to the corresponding author.
Relationship between angiogenesis and hypoxia-inducible factor-1α and erythropoietin in superficial esophageal carcinoma
Authors: Yamamoto Eisuke , Kumagai Youichi , Tachikawa Tetsuhiko , Higashi Morihiro , Oka Masashi , Ishida Hideyuki
Published: July 2024

Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF-1α) is the initial switch in angiogenesis; however, its expression in superficial esophageal carcinoma is unclear. We determined the timing of the hypoxia-induced angiogenesis switch by investigating the expression of HIF-1α and the erythropoietin (Epo) it activates in superficial esophageal carcinoma. We used 53 lesions of superficial esophageal carcinoma and conducted immunohistochemistry of HIF-1α and Epo. Cases were divided into three groups: T1a-EP/LPM (22 lesions), T1a-MM/T1b-SM1 (15 lesions), and T1b-SM2,3 (16 lesions). We compared HIF-1α and Epo expression in the deepest area and examined the correlation between HIF-1α and Epo scores. In 24 cases of T1a-MM or deeper carcinomas with intraepithelial spread, we compared HIF-1α and Epo scores in the intraepithelial spread and deepest areas in the same cases. Both HIF-1α and Epo were most strongly expressed in T1a-EP/LPM, with significant attenuation at T1a-MM and deeper. Both HIF-1α and Epo had significantly higher scores in the T1a-EP/LPM group than in the T1a-MM/T1b-SM1 and T1b-SM2,3 groups. HIF-1α and Epo were strongly correlated, and were significantly higher in intraepithelial spread areas than in invaded areas. HIF-1α and Epo are strongly expressed from an early stage of esophageal carcinoma; as the carcinoma invades the muscularis mucosae and deeper, expression decreases.
Decoding the RNA interactome by UltraGen
Authors: Zhang Yaqing , Wang Hui , Chen Zhaoming , Lin Wenjun , Jiang Yuan , Zhang Jingye , Huang Wenhao , Kuster David , Jäschke Andres , Ye Qiwei
Published: July 2024

We introduce UltraGen, an RNA language model to capture RNA binding properties. Utilizing fine-grained self-learning, UltraGen identifies RNA aptamers for a wide range of target sizes, including small molecules, proteins, cells, and tissue. Additionally, UltraGen discerns tissue specificity for millions RNA species across 22 human organs based on their 3’-UTR sequences, predicts the tropism of human-pathogenic RNA viruses, and characterizes SARS-CoV-2 replicase RNA binding at single-base resolution.
Heterogeneous effects of inflation targeting in emerging markets and developing economies
Authors: Zonda Joe Maganga , Chiwaula Levison Stanely , Chang Ming-Jen
Published: July 2024

Over the last three decades, several emerging markets and developing economies (EMDEs) have adopted inflation targeting (IT) as their modus operandi of monetary policy. This does not seem to square particularly well with numerous expert warnings regarding institutional inefficiencies in the EMDEs, which in turn threatens the efficacy of the policy in these economies. In this study, we assess the growth effects of IT regime in a worldwide sample of EMDEs over the 1978–2019 window. We circumvent an often-cited econometric problem of “self-selection” bias by exploiting the synthetic control method (SCM) to impute reliable counterfactuals. Our results suggest that, on average, IT regime has spurred macroeconomic performance, as proxied by real GDP per capita, in the targeting EMDEs. Importantly, this finding reinforces the hypothesis that IT regime behaves procyclically in EMDEs. In essence, these results also highlight the fact that concerns over institutional immaturities in EMDEs are inflated and are to a greater extent unsubstantiated. Our analysis has also unearthed substantial heterogeneities in the distribution of IT-induced dividends across geographical regions. In particular, we show that IT adoption has unambiguously positive and higher per capita income effects in Asian and European economies, and to a lesser extent in the Latin America and the Caribbean economies. Meanwhile, of the three IT adopters in Africa, we find that only Ghana realized (robustly) positive growth effects from the regime.
JEL classification: C21, C33, E52, O47
The Impact of the Key Structural Shifts on Euro-area’s Endogeneity formation
Authors: KIM Wi-Dae
Published: July 2024

This article tests the change in OCA Endogeneity, respectively before and after the Euro launch and Fiscal crisis, to assess how much improvement has been achieved after those structural shifts. Improving upon the existing literature, the test methodology presented here proffers a new standardized tool. The launch of the euro has generally improved Endogeneity more compared to the Fiscal crisis; but, especially in the southern European countries, the result was quite the opposite. Surprisingly, Germany, which has the most efficient and competitive economy in the Euro area, shows the lowest Endogeneity improvement rankings especially after 2010. This German case might tell us about the ‘original root’ of the current economic downturn after reopening from the Covid era. Therefore, it could be inferred that the Endogeneity formation was irregular and disproportionate around two periods. This imbalance has provided a structural background limiting self-sustaining resilience in the area's economy until now.
JEL Classification Numbers: C01; E44; F15; F45; J30
Trends and Patterns of Anemia Among Women of Reproductive Age in Ethiopia: Uncovering its Determinants and Implications for Health Promotion
Authors: Jilo Amanuel Tura , Bekalo Daniel Biftu
Published: July 2024

Background. Anemia burden is a global public health challenge. It is common among women of reproductive age. Anemia has far-reaching consequences for women of reproductive age and their children for generations unless its risk factors are identified, and appropriate interventions are implemented.
Objectives. This study aimed to examine the trends and patterns of anemia in Ethiopia over 12 years, evaluate its trends and patterns against global nutrition targets, determine its determinants among women of reproductive age, and discuss its health implications.
Materials and Methods. Three rounds of comprehensive and nationally representative data from the Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey collected in 2005, 2011, and 2016 were used in this study. Descriptive and ordinal logistic regression were employed to analyze the data.
Results. Household wealth index, education level of women and their partners, body mass index, number of children ever born, and age were significantly associated with anemia. Although anemia among the WRA decreased from 2005 to 2011, it increased from 2011 to 2016. The Somali and Afar regions had the highest burden of anemia among women of reproductive age in the three cycles of the survey.
Conclusions. The prevalence of anemia is moderate in Ethiopia, but its trend seems to increase, and its distribution widely differs from region to region. Unless strong interventions tailored to the most affected women of reproductive age are implemented, Ethiopia may not attain the goal of reducing anemia by 50% by 2025.
Perioperative outcomes and survival of indocyanine green guided minimally esophagectomy in patients with esophageal cancer: a retrospective comparison study
Authors: Shen Xiaokang , Chen TianMing , Xu Zhiyun , Xu Yi-Fan , Yu Pengcheng , Bhatti Muhammad Zunair , Deng Wenjie , Zhan Chuanfei , Ma Zhifei , Yin WenDa , Su Chi , Wang Zhongqiu , Chen Shilin , Zheng Lin , Feng Dongjie , Huang Bin
Published: July 2024

Background
With the expansion of clinical investigations on intraoperative fluorescence imaging in esophageal cancer, the advantages of this technique in precise lymph node identification and dissection have been demonstrated. However, certain issues remain unaddressed. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and feasibility of indocyanine green (ICG)-guided lymph node dissection in radical esophagectomy for patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and assess its long-term outcomes, thereby providing a theoretical basis for further research.
Results
A total of 176 patients were included in the statistical analysis. The two groups were comparable in terms of basic characteristics. The mean number of Dissected lymph nodes by pathologist in the ICG Group was significantly higher than that in the Non-ICG Group (27.7 ± 2.1 vs. 20.5 ± 1.4, P < 0.001), The number of positive lymph node station(metastasis mediastinal lymph nodes) in ICG group was higher than that in non-ICG Group. There was no significant difference in results of postoperative complications between the two groups (P > 0.05).The non-ICG group exhibited higher event rates and poorer survival outcomes in both DFS and OS compared to the ICG group, with statistically significant differences observed(P < 0.005).
Conclusions
ICG-guided lymph node dissection during minimally invasive esophageal cancer surgery can significantly improve patient survival outcomes without increasing the rate of relevant postoperative complications.
Evisceration with Four Elongated Anterior Scleral Incisions and Circumferential Cogwheel-like Posterior Sclerotomies for Moderate to Severe Phthisis Bulbi
Authors: Lee Hyunkyu , Bae So Hyeon , Baek Sehyun , Lee Hwa
Published: July 2024

Purpose
To describe a modified evisceration technique that enables the use of a large orbital implant and reduces postoperative complications in moderate to severe phthisis bulbi.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective, interventional study on eviscerations with four elongated anterior scleral incisions and circumferential cogwheel-like posterior sclerotomies behind the equator at approximately 330 degrees and placement of a porous polyethylene spherical implant. These procedures were performed between March 2018 and March 2023 by a single surgeon. Patient age, sex, causative diagnosis, axial length, orbital implant size, follow-up duration, and complications were recorded.
Results
A total of 25 cases underwent the modified evisceration. The mean age was 56.0 years, and the mean implant size was 19.46 mm. During the follow-up period (mean: 36.7 months, range: 12 to 72 months), there were no cases of implant exposure or anophthalmic enophthalmic syndrome. In some cases, mild discharge, ptosis, and conjunctival cysts developed.
Conclusions
Evisceration with scleral modification is a straightforward and effective technique that enables the placement of appropriately sized (18–22 mm) orbital implant in a severely contracted globe. The surgery yielded excellent results with few complications.
Effects of virtual reality interventions on weight loss: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Afrash Mohammad reza , Rafsanjani Heliya , Enayati Hadis , Pour Reihaneh Shahmoradi , Moulaei Reza , Sabet Babak , Moulaei Khadijeh
Published: July 2024

Background
Obesity, a significant public health challenge linked to diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular issues, often resists traditional weight loss methods due to adherence and effectiveness problems. Virtual reality (VR) offers innovative potential by providing controlled environments for practicing healthy behaviors, receiving real-time feedback, and improving self-regulation. This study aims to systematically review and conduct a meta-analysis on the effects of VR interventions on weight loss.
Method
We searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science from their inception. Both researchers selected articles and extracted data systematically using a designated form. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) assessed the risk of bias, while publication bias was evaluated with funnel plots and Egger's and Begg's tests. We calculated standardized mean differences (Hedges's g) between treatment and control groups and estimated heterogeneity using the Q test and I² statistic. The analysis was performed with Stata 17.0.
Results
Among the 7,364 articles retrieved, 9 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in the analysis. VR interventions were found to potentially induce weight loss in individuals (Hedges's g = 0.15, 95% CI: -0.28, 0.59; p-value < 0.001). The sample size emerged as a notable moderator of heterogeneity between studies (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
This study demonstrates that VR interventions hold promise in inducing weight loss. These findings underscore VR's potential as a valuable tool in combating obesity, prompting further exploration and optimization of its role in weight management strategies.
Beyond the Screen: Exploring the Impact of Social Media on the Psychological Well-Being of Young Adults in Cameroon
Authors: Zefack Jude Tsafack , Dora Mbonjo Bitsie , Yankam Brenda Mbouamba , Fotindong Esua Alphonsius , Nkume Vanessa , Tony Nyeke James , Agbornyenty Ashu Martha , Manka Suh Colette , Favour Onyinye , Mbotoako Rose Nwenyoh , Abamukong Abigail N. N , Njoh Sally Tabe
Published: July 2024

Many young people globally are utilizing digital gadgets and social media, with many teenagers aged 13-17 accessing smartphones and engaging with social media platforms. This digital landscape enhances their everyday lives, enabling them to form friendships, negotiate autonomy, and publicly express their identities. This study examined the relationship between social media use and the psychological health of young adults in Cameroon by investigating sociodemographic variables, social media habits, and coping strategies to improve mental health outcomes. In this study, 43.05% of respondents were males, and 56.95% were females. The age group most represented was 26-30 (40.39%), and most respondents resided in the Littoral region. WhatsApp was the most used social media platform, followed by Facebook and TikTok. Most respondents spent over 5 hours daily on social media, posting content either Occasionally or Rarely. Some respondents felt anxious or stressed while using social media, and some reported their mental health to have improved or worsened since starting to use social media. Social support received through social media was moderate, with cultural factors influencing the impact. Offline activities, face-to-face interactions, and hobbies moderated the effect of social media on mental health. This study highlights the complex interactions between sociodemographic traits, social media usage patterns, and coping mechanisms in shaping mental health outcomes among young people in Cameroon.
Development and Testing of an Interactive Evaluation Tool: The Evaluating QUality and ImPlementation (EQUIP) Tool
Authors: McAlpine Laura , Ramjohn Candace , Faught Erin L. , Popeski Naomi , Keogh Eileen , Zimmermann Gabrielle L.
Published: July 2024

Background: This article describes the development of an interactive online tool that helps people build robust evaluations. Evaluating implementation outcomes is gaining momentum in health service delivery organizations. Teams are recognizing the importance of capturing and learning from their implementation efforts, and implementation scientists have published extensively on implementation outcomes. However, quality improvement approaches and tools are better known and routinely used in healthcare to improve processes and outcomes.
An example of a widespread quality improvement tool is the Alberta Quality Matrix for Health, a planning and evaluation framework that guides most healthcare-related evaluations in Alberta, Canada. This matrix is missing measures of implementation, which are essential to produce robust evaluations of change initiatives. Despite requests to integrate implementation science and quality improvement concepts, there is a dearth of tools and training opportunities. This lack of integration limits improvement and implementation in the health system.
Methods: This work aimed to co-design a product that helps users integrate quality and implementation outcomes and strengthen existing evaluation processes. Rapid, iterative co-design sessions and usability testing were used to develop an interactive evaluation tool. Feedback collected and analyzed from usability testing in the seven-month testing period refined the digital prototype into a comprehensive online product.
Results: The result is the EQUIP (Evaluating QUality and ImPlementation) Tool. This online, interactive tool integrates quality measures from the Alberta Quality Matrix for Health and implementation measures from a commonly used outcomes framework developed by Proctor and colleagues. It allows users to explore implementation outcomes and quality dimensions from different perspectives and select questions and indicators relevant to their project.
Conclusion: The EQUIP tool was co-designed and refined with end users to create an accessible and useful online tool. This work is an example of integrating quality and implementation science in ways that strengthen overall healthcare quality improvements.
ADTnorm: Robust Integration of Single-cell Protein Measurement across CITE-seq Datasets
Authors: Gottardo Raphael , Zheng Ye , Caron Daniel , Kim Ju , Jun Seong , Tian Yuan , Mair Florian , Stuart Kenneth , Sims Peter
Published: July 2024

CITE-seq enables paired measurement of surface protein and mRNA expression in single cells using antibodies conjugated to oligonucleotide tags. Due to the high copy number of surface protein molecules, sequencing antibody-derived tags (ADTs) allows for robust protein detection, improving cell-type identification. However, variability in antibody staining leads to batch effects in the ADT expression, obscuring biological variation, reducing interpretability, and obstructing cross-study analyses. Here, we present ADTnorm (https://github.com/yezhengSTAT/ADTnorm), a normalization and integration method designed explicitly for ADT abundance. Benchmarking against 14 existing scaling and normalization methods, we show that ADTnorm accurately aligns populations with negative- and positive-expression of surface protein markers across 13 public datasets, effectively removing technical variation across batches and improving cell-type separation. ADTnorm enables efficient integration of public CITE-seq datasets, each with unique experimental designs, paving the way for atlas-level analyses. Beyond normalization, ADTnorm includes built-in utilities to aid in automated threshold-gating as well as assessment of antibody staining quality for titration optimization and antibody panel selection. Applying ADTnorm to a published COVID-19 CITE-seq dataset allowed for identifying previously undetected disease-associated markers, illustrating a broad utility in biological applications.
Understanding medical students’ intercalation decisions to preserve the clinical academic pipeline: a mixed-method survey
Authors: Lim Jun Jie , Roberts Chris , Graham Olivia , Coady Sophie , Topliss Jack , Staton Carolyn
Published: July 2024

Introduction:
Clinical academics are pivotal in advancing innovations by integrating clinical practice with education and research. The clinical academic workforce in the UK has struggled with a persistent shortage, now reaching a critical point. A recent nationwide decline in medical students opting for intercalated degrees, which provide early research exposure during undergraduate medical education, significantly contributed to the workforce crisis. However, the underlying factors for this recent decline in intercalation remain unclear. This study investigates the factors influencing medical students' decisions to intercalate, focusing on personal motivations, and perceived value in the context of rising living costs and changing national policies.
Methods:
We utilised a mixed-methods survey to explore the factors influencing medical students' decisions regarding intercalation. Quantitative data from closed-ended questions were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to identify associations between variables. Thematic analysis of qualitative data from open-ended questions was conducted using Vroom's expectancy theory as an interpretive lens.
Results:
A total of 50 students completed the questionnaire. The chi-square test demonstrated a significant association (p = 0.001) between the cost-of-living crisis and the decision to intercalate. The thematic analysis of non-intercalators highlighted the theme of financial burden, including reduced student loans, increased debt, and family financial stress. Conversely, we developed the theme of effective financial strategies and support systems from intercalators. The perception of career benefits significantly influenced intercalation decisions (p < 0.001). Furthermore, a change in policy to remove extra consideration for intercalated degree holders in UK foundation applications significantly affected decisions (p = 0.014). Thematic analysis of non-intercalators identified the lack of perceived career advantage, including a loss of extrinsic motivation and perceived unrecognition. Intercalators cited long-term career benefits, research skills and confidence, portfolio building and networking as their primary motivators.
Conclusions:
Our study provided new insights into the socioeconomic, policy-related, and motivational differences among students that influence intercalation decisions. Financial constraints and the removal of extra consideration for intercalated degrees in physician training selection were major deterrents, particularly for students from diverse backgrounds. Future research should focus on developing targeted interventions to mitigate challenges and support a diverse and equitable clinical academic workforce.
Monetary Policy and Racial Differentials in Labor Market Outcomes
Authors: Weise Charles , Petkov Tsvetomir
Published: July 2024

This paper examines the empirical relationship between monetary policy and racial and ethnic labor market outcomes. Estimating structural vector autoregressions with external instruments, we find a much larger response of labor outcome gaps than has been documented in previous literature. These differential outcomes persist for Black workers of both sexes even within the same age group and level of educational attainment, while Hispanic and white responses are similar within such groupings. Estimates based on individual-level data show that differences in demographic characteristics account for a large portion of the response of Hispanic-white employment gaps to economic downturns, but not of Black-white employment gaps. Our results suggest that monetary policy contractions may have a substantially disparate effect on Black and Hispanic workers.
JEL classifications: E52, J15
Improved Skin Cancer Detection with 3D Total Body Photography: Integrating AI Algorithms for Precise Diagnosis
Authors: Syed Sadia , Albalawi Eid Mohammad
Published: July 2024

Skin cancer remains a formidable global health challenge, necessitating precise and timely diagnostic methodologies. This study focuses on advancing the field through the development and evaluation of deep learning algorithms tailored for skin cancer detection using 3D Total Body Photography (3D-TBP). Leveraging the ISIC 2024 dataset, comprising a diverse array of high-resolution skin lesion images, our approach integrates rigorous data preprocessing, sophisticated model architecture design, and meticulous performance evaluation.
The dataset underwent meticulous curation and augmentation to bolster model robustness and generalizability. A specialized convolutional neural network (CNN) architecture was crafted, specifically optimized for analysing single-lesion crops extracted from 3D-TBP images. This CNN framework leverages transfer learning, combining efficient feature extraction with finely tuned classification layers to maximize diagnostic accuracy.
Training was conducted on a high-performance computing platform, employing advanced techniques such as batch normalization and dropout regularization to mitigate overfitting and enhance model generalization. Hyperparameter tuning and cross-validation protocols were rigorously implemented to ensure optimal model configuration and validation.
Evaluation metrics were cantered on the partial area under the ROC curve (pAUC) with a focus on achieving an 80% true positive rate (TPR), aligning closely with competition benchmarks and clinical diagnostic requirements. Our developed CNN model demonstrated robust performance during validation, surpassing an impressive pAUC of 85% on the test dataset. Notably, the model exhibited superior discriminatory abilities across various skin types and lesion morphologies, effectively distinguishing between malignant and benign lesions.
In conclusion, this study presents a cutting-edge AI-driven approach for skin cancer detection using 3D-TBP, showcasing substantial advancements in automated dermatological diagnosis. The findings underscore the potential of AI technologies to revolutionize clinical practice, offering enhanced diagnostic precision and efficiency. This research paves the way for further exploration and deployment of AI-driven solutions in dermatology, aiming to improve patient outcomes and streamline healthcare delivery.
Business Strategies and Market Adaptation: A Cross-Economic Perspective
Authors: Daodu Ladi , Bhaumik Prof Amiya
Published: July 2024

Business strategies vary across different economies and the dynamics of business environments lead to diverse approaches to strategy development and implementation. Responding to changing environments, customer preferences, and competitive pressures determines how well and sustainable markets or firms adapt. This paper provides an overview of the business strategies and market adaptation across high and low economies with case studies on the export of information and communication technology goods and foreign direct investment in both economies. The finding reveals a significant difference in information and communication technology export and foreign direct investment in different economies. Also, businesses in lower economies can compete in markets and attract foreign investors. Markets in developed economies lean toward standardization compared to their counterpart, while taking advantage of high population, innovation and diverse culture in low economies would ensure market sustainability. However, adopting mitigation strategies in both economies would help navigate bottlenecks in business establishment.
JEL: I10, M10, 032
Detoxification and democratisation of DNA gel electrophoresis
Authors: Hu I Ian
Published: July 2024

Classic DNA electrophoresis systems such as TAE and TBE have been known for being inferior and not fit for purpose and superseded by dedicated systems such as sodium borate and lithium acetate. Lithium and borate have disadvantages of price and toxicity to the environment respectively. With the popularisation of 3D printed gel tanks, the author proposes a gel system composed of common household items, namely monosodium Glutamate and cream of Tartar. The GT gel system is shown to have sufficient resolving power, speed, utility, and cost structure for any starting molecular biology lab or home lab.
Ranking the Importance of Marketing Strategies in Building Client Loyalty
Authors: Linh Huynh Quang
Published: July 2024

The current article reviews the opinions and counterarguments within the scientific argument on the causal linkage between the components of marketing strategy and client loyalty. The systematization of the literary sources demonstrated that the causal connections from the components of marketing strategy to client loyalty are different. However, nearly none of the research projects have rated and compared the differences among the components of marketing strategies in improving client loyalty. Therefore, the key purpose of this article is to weigh the relative importance of the components of marketing strategy to client loyalty. The current research developed research hypotheses based on experiential learning theory, resource dependency theory, and social exchange theory. Vietnam was chosen as a case study because it is one of the fastest emerging economies. The research data were gathered by employing a structured questionnaire. For this research, responses from 210 enterprises were collected using the simple random sampling method from 1128 firms publicly listed on the main stock exchanges in Vietnam. Finally, this research yielded 222 suitable replies with satisfactory compulsory information. Then, this project employed the procedures of the analytic hierarchy to assess the comparative importance of the components of Product, Price, Place and Promotion of marketing strategy to client loyalty. The results show that Price strategy is first, Pricing is second, Sales promotion is third, Advertising is fourth, Allowances is fifth, Discounts is sixth, Public relations is seventh, Channels is eighth, Direct marketing is ninth, Payment terms are tenth, Features are eleventh, Quality is twelfth, Market coverage is thirteenth,Assortment is fourteenth, Branding is fifteenth, Packaging is sixteenth, Location is seventeenth, Inventory is eighteenth,Sercies is nineteenth, Warranties is twentieth, and Transport is the last in improving client loyalty. This research is expected to provide researchers with a better understanding of the comparative significance among the components of marketing strategy for client loyalty. The results of the current research can also support business executives by helping them make better decisions on suitably planning the components of Product, Price, Place and Promotion of marketing strategy in business so that they can gain the best possible efficiency.
Factors influencing young consumers’ purchasing behavior toward Saudi coffee product: An application of the extended Theory of Planned Behavior model
Authors: Mohammed Abdulalem
Published: July 2024

Drawing on the Theory of Planned Behavior, this study aims to investigate the factors that influence consumers’ purchasing behavior towards Saudi coffee product. Additionally, it seeks to examine the moderating role of consumer ethnocentrism on the relationship between purchase intention and actual purchasing behavior of young consumers. The target population consisted of young consumers in Saudi Arabia who had previously consumed Saudi coffee product. Data were collected through an online survey using Google Forms in February 2024. The sample size comprised 386 respondents, 18-34 years old (with 52.8% of males and 47.2% of females). To assess the hypothesized model, the collected data underwent an analysis using Partial Least Squares Modeling approach. The results indicated that social media marketing activities depict high effect on intention of young consumers to purchase Saudi coffee product. Additionally, subjective norms, attitude, hedonic value, perceived behavioral control, and utilitarian value demonstrate a significant effect on customers’ intention to purchase Saudi coffee product. Furthermore, the results confirmed the moderating role of consumer ethnocentrism in the relationship between young consumers’ purchase intentions and their actual purchasing behavior toward Saudi coffee product.
AcknowledgmentThis research was funded by the “Saudi coffee grants” program offered by the Saudi Ministry of Culture. All opinions expressed herein belong to the researchers and do not necessarily reflect those of the Ministry of Culture.
Preferred techniques for forest mushrooms cooking by residents of contaminated areas of the Bryansk region in the remote period after the Chernobyl accident
Authors: Varfolomeeva K. V. , Zelentsova S. A. , Repin V. S.
Published: July 2024

The  article  presents  results  of  the  analysis  of  questionnaire  survey  data  on  preferences  in  the  choice  of  cooking methods of different types of forest mushrooms by residents of the most contaminated south-western  districts  of  the  Bryansk  region  in  the  remote  period  after  the  Chernobyl  accident.  In  the  period  from  2019  to 2022, the employees of Federal Budgetary Institution of Science «Saint-Petersburg Research Institute of  Radiation Hygiene after Professor P.V. Ramzaev» conducted a face-to-face questionnaire survey of the adult  population.  In  addition  to  general  questions  about  the  respondent,  the  questionnaires  included  questions  about the species composition of the mushroom basket, the volume and proportion of consumption of each type  of mushroom by the respondent and his family members (both in the current and last year), as well as methods  of culinary processing of the mushrooms consumed. Based on the analysis of individual survey data, a group  of 1 311 respondents, whose diet included various types of mushrooms, was selected. Analysis of the survey  results showes that respondents prefer to process a large proportion of freshly picked forest mushrooms (59%)  for  long-term  storage  (pickling,  freezing,  drying,  salting,  etc.);  41%  of  mushrooms  are  consumed  immediately. The most popular pretreatments of freshly picked mushrooms are washing and boiling (34 and 26%,  respectively). When freezing, pickling and pickling up to 97% of respondents carry out pre-treatment (rinsing,  soaking and / or boiling) of freshly picked mushrooms. Less popular methods of the mushroom preparation  (from 2 to 4%) are pickling, drying and frying of fresh mushrooms with their subsequent preservation. Thus,  the majority of respondents actively use various types of culinary processing with the use of preliminary stages  of technological processing in the form of rinsing, soaking and (or) boiling. The use of the above methods of  pre-cooking of freshly harvested mushrooms leads to a decrease in the  137Cs content in the consumed product.
About the necessary thickness of stationary shield in X-ray dental rooms
Authors: Golikov V. Yu.
Published: July 2024

In the paper, based on the analysis of scientific information regarding the parameters and characteris-tics of radiation fields for three dental X-ray procedures (intraoral radiographs, panoramic radiographs on orthopantomographs and computed tomography), the required thickness of stationary shields for rooms with different X-ray equipment is calculated. It has been shown that in most cases, in rooms where intraoral and panoramic radiographs are taken, conventional 20 mm thick plasterboard interior room partitions provide the necessary protection to comply with the dose limit for the population in the adjacent room. For the rooms where dental examinations are carried out using computed tomographs additional lead shield up to 1.5 mm thick is required depending on the conditions and the category of protected persons in the adjacent room.
Práticas ambientais da pecuária em propriedades rurais em Nova Marilândia/MT - Brasil
Authors: Prates Lima Jonatas , Silva Juscelia Victor Garcia , Grzebieluckas Cleci
Published: July 2024

O aumento gradativo da população exige que a produção de alimentos acompanhe sua evolução, contudo, de maneira sustentável e em equilíbrio com o meio ambiente. A pesquisa tem como objetivo identificar as práticas ambientais da pecuária em propriedades do Município de Nova Marilândia – Mato Grosso/Brasil. A pesquisa se caracteriza do tipo descritiva, abordagem qualitativa, e usou da estratégia estudo de caso. Os instrumentos de coleta foram formulários semiestruturados, entrevistas e observação in loco. Participaram da pesquisa quatro produtores que têm como atividade a pecuária. Inicialmente, foram identificadas quais práticas ambientais são utilizadas no manejo da pecuária. Os resultados revelaram que  a maioria das propriedades não utilizam práticas ambientais sustentáveis, porém, realizam algumas ações de forma parcial e que atendem a legislação ambiental.
Governança colaborativa: Análise da transparência ativa nos consórcios públicos de saúde no estado do Ceará / Brasil
Authors: De Oliveira Antônio Rafael Valério , Chagas Milton Jarbas Rodrigues , Da Silva Luan Gomes , Da Silva Maria Valéria Alves , De Alencar Mairla Santos
Published: July 2024

Os consórcios públicos intermunicipais possibilitam colaboração entre municípios e estados, sendo premente que sua estrutura de governança colaborativa fomente o acesso à informação e promova a transparência. O objetivo geral foi verificar o nível de transparência dos consórcios de saúde do Ceará, acompanhado pela elaboração de ranking dos mais transparentes. A metodologia abrange abordagens quantitativas, caracterizando-se como pesquisa descritiva. A coleta de dados ocorreu nos websites dos 21 consórcios intermunicipais, identificados usando o Banco de Dados da Confederação Nacional dos Municípios. Foi realizada uma análise geral das características dos consórcios, a análise descritiva das variáveis, análises de cluster e organização do ranking. Os resultados revelam uma divulgação incompleta, com uma média de 9,6, indicando deficiências na transparência fiscal, especialmente relacionados ao Relatório de Gestão Fiscal (RGF) e ao Relatório Resumido da Execução Orçamentária (RREO). Apesar da divulgação em tempo real satisfatória, a transparência geral possui uma média de 75%, necessitando de melhorias na implementação de respostas a perguntas mais frequentes. A maioria dos consórcios apresenta transparência média baixa, e nenhum atende a todos os critérios, destacando-se CPSMCAM, CPSMI e CPSRCAS como os mais transparentes. Os resultados evidenciam que os consórcios de saúde no Ceará não divulgam completamente todos os critérios analisados, revelando uma baixa transparência, especialmente em relação a dados financeiros como orçamento e demonstrações contábeis. A pesquisa contribui para a literatura ao destacar a importância da transparência para a melhoria dos serviços públicos, introduzindo o índice de disclosure dos consórcios públicos como uma métrica relevante nesse contexto.
“Afinal, restos são restos?” Análise dos restos a pagar (RAPs) cancelados em uma Universidade Federal entre os anos de 2007-2022
Authors: Campos Marinez de Carvalho , Corrêa Alexandre de Souza , Batista Airson
Published: July 2024

Este artigo é uma análise dos restos a pagar não processados cancelados da Fundação Universidade da Grande Dourados (UFGD) entre os anos de 2007 a 2022. Buscou-se evidenciar a natureza de despesa orçamentária desdobrada em seis e oito dígitos para que fosse possível a verificação do “item mais cancelamento”, como também o valor máximo cancelado em cada ano. Para tanto, foi gerado um relatório no sistema do Tesouro Gerencial com filtros de itens de informação que pudessem promover a pesquisa em questão. Os dados obtidos foram tratados em planilhas do Microsoft Excel e no programa de análise Minitab Statistical Software. Na perquisição dos motivos do cancelamento desses saldos em restos a pagar não processados, foram consultados os processos virtuais no Sistema Integrado de Patrimônio, Administração e Contratos (SIPAC/UFGD). Notou-se que, o que mais se destacou nos desdobramentos de seis dígitos foram: material de consumo; outros serviços de terceiros pessoa física; e auxílio financeiro a estudantes. Contudo, foram analisados o desdobramento em oito dígitos, em que sobressaiu, nos anos de 2018 e 2019: material para divulgação, totalizando 98 notas de empenhos canceladas. Por fim, o estudo sugeriu uma ferramenta de inteligência de negócios, Power BI, para que os gestores possam gerir os recursos orçamentários e os prazos dos restos a pagar de forma mais eficiente.
History of the Emergence and Development of Russian Criminal Legislation on Liability for Failure to Fulfill of a Court Verdict, Court Decision or Other Judicial Act
Authors: Kosobrodov N. V. ,   Moscow International University
Published: July 2024

Understanding the legal value of justice as a type of state activity, during which the function of social control is carried out and the proper degree of uniform behavior of citizens is ensured, was achieved only during the evolutionary development of society in the process of improving the legislative mechanism and increasing the value of normative regulation of relations in the field of administration of justice. At the same time, an important guarantee of the effective implementation of judicial power is the principle of universally binding judicial acts. This principle ensures the ordering of social relations through the enforcement of legal norms. In this regard, the current law provides for criminal liability for non-execution of judicial acts (sentences, decisions, etc.). This criminal law prohibition is not an arbitrary act of the legislator; its formation and development are directly related to the process of formation of social relations. At the same time, criminal legal ensured the protection of a judicial act from non-execution means not at all stages of the historical development of society. The emergence of this norm is due to a number of interrelated and interdependent factors, among which the most important are, firstly, the level of organization of the mechanism of state power, and secondly, the complication of the system of state bodies and the separation of justice bodies in it. It is through the prism of these factors that an analysis of legislation on criminal liability for non-execution of judicial acts is necessary. The subject of research within the framework of this article is the historical background of the process of formation and development in the pre-Soviet and Soviet periods of criminal legislation, providing for liability for failure to comply with a court verdict, court decision or other judicial act. It is concluded that the criminal legal protection of relations arising in the sphere of execution of judicial acts largely depended on the mechanism for the implementation of judicial power and the models of execution of court decisions determined by this mechanism. In the process of historical development of Russian statehood and legislation, the nature and methods of exercising judicial and executive (administrative) power underwent changes, the established procedure for the execution of judicial acts in civil and criminal cases, as well as the criminal law mechanism for its (procedure) protection, underwent corresponding changes.
About Some Aspects of Judicial Protection of Public Rights in Russia.
Authors: Mikhailova E. V. ,   Institute of State and Law of the Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: July 2024

The article deals with the problem of procedural features of consideration by courts of cases of a public law nature. The author proceeds from the fact that the state, its subjects, municipalities represented by the relevant bodies and authorized officials are the obligatory party of the public law relationship. At the same time, in a public legal relationship, its subjects are in a relationship of power and subordination. The specificity of public law is due to its belonging to an unlimited circle of persons, which naturally produces the impossibility of disposing of it by a specific, individual subject, including in the procedural sphere. Because of this, procedural administrative rights (refusal of a claim, recognition of a claim, the right to conclude a settlement agreement) in proceedings on cases arising from public legal relations (administrative proceedings) should be limited, and judicial control in their commission should be strengthened. The author differentiates cases subject to consideration according to the rules of administrative proceedings into administrative and public law cases, arguing that in public law cases, the mandatory participation of the prosecutor should be fixed, with a positive conclusion of which the parties have the opportunity to perform administrative procedural actions. It is noted that the state, its subjects and bodies can become participants in civil law relations, disputes from which are resolved in civil and arbitration proceedings, claims proceedings, the rules of which should also be modified taking into account this circumstance. Thus, it is proposed to fix the mandatory participation of the prosecutor in lawsuits, if one of the parties to the legal conflict is a public authority.
A 2D numerical model for simulating landslide dam failure and induced morphological changes considering multi-layer and non-uniform sediments
Authors: Yang Jiangtao , Soares-Frazao Sandra , Shi Zhenming , Shen Danyi
Published: July 2024

Landslide dams are formed by the blockage of rivers with landslides or any debris flows. Such dams are prone to failure and therefore, simulation of their failure and induced morphological changes is of great importance for hazard mitigation. Multi-layer and non-uniform sediments are usually observed in landslide dam materials, but these are rarely considered in simulations. In this paper, a two-dimensional numerical model considering multi-layered and non-uniform sediments is proposed. The model solves the shallow water equations, the Exner equation considering the different size fractions and Hirano's active layer equation based on a finite volume scheme in a weakly coupled approach. Two experimental tests are used to assess the applicability and accuracy of the model. The results show that it can well simulate the flow and morphological changes, as well as the surface coarsening and fining phenomena related to multi-layer and non-uniform sediments. The numerical results of dam failure process and morphological changes are in overall good agreement with the experiments, but the peak discharge and bed elevation tend to be underestimated when finer material is considered. Finally, the influence of sediments fractions and active layer depth on numerical results, as well as the limitations of the model are discussed.