bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Cruise Control Model based MCDM
Authors: Al-Rubaiee Mustafa
Published: January 2024

In this article Proportional Integral Derivative Acceleration (PIDA) controller has been presented with Jaya Optimization Algorithm (JOA) to improve that performance for given Cruise Control System. For made greatest performance for the proposed model to make a comparison with the conventional P-I-D controller that could being achieve such the suitable stability for resolve the execution for overall Cruise Control System, additionally to create a step response of change compared with different optimized algorithms like PSO algorithm. The Jaya Optimization Algorithm (JOA) with P-I-D-A controller is utilized for solve that efficiency work for Cruise System model for reduce overall error for controlled system. The controlled model was achieved using MATLAB-Simulink.
The Sanitation-related Quality of Life index (SanQoL-5) – validity and reliability in rural and urban settings in Ethiopia, Malawi, Mozambique, and Zambia
Authors: Akter Fouzia , Banze Neiva , Capitine Igor , Chidziwisano Kondwani , Chipungu Jenala , Cubai Catildo , Cumming Oliver , Dreibelbis Robert , Katana Patrick , Manhiça Cremildo , Panulo Mindy , Sharma Anjali , Tafesse Abiy , Tidwell James B. , Viegas Edna , White Blessings , Ross Ian
Published: January 2024

Background.
1.5 billion people globally lack access to a basic toilet. Progress on sanitation is primarily measured by types of toilets used. Quality of life (QoL) outcomes are valued by users but rarely rigorously measured. The Sanitation-related Quality of Life (SanQoL-5) index uses five simple questions to measure people’s experiences of sanitation-related disgust, disease, privacy, shame, and safety. Developed in urban Mozambique based on the capability approach to welfare economics, it is increasingly being applied in other countries and in rural areas. We aimed to evaluate the validity and reliability of the SanQoL-5 in predominantly rural sites in Ethiopia, Malawi, and Zambia, and additional urban sites in Mozambique.
Methods.
We implemented cross-sectional surveys in 3,932 households across 4 countries. Variables collected included the SanQoL-5 questions, participants’ weighting of the SanQoL-5 attributes, and fieldworker observations of toilet characteristics. We assessed construct validity by testing for hypothesised associations between SanQoL-5 index values and toilet characteristics. We assessed internal reliability using Cronbach’s alpha, as well as convergent validity and known groups validity. We used item response theory (IRT) to explore the distinctiveness of attribute levels and the extent of information provided by each attribute.
Findings.
We found good evidence for construct validity of SanQoL-5, with support (p < 0.05) for 88% of hypothesised associations. Internal reliability was also good (Cronbach’s alpha 0.83 in pooled data, range 0.73–0.92). Known groups validity was supported by people with higher levels of sanitation service tending to have higher SanQoL-5 index values. IRT analyses found that all attributes provided good information across the construct.
Conclusion.
This evidence from diverse rural and urban settings shows SanQoL-5 can be widely applied in adult populations. Achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6, which focuses on toilet characteristics, will require efficient resource allocation informed by people’s sanitation-related experiences.
Examining factors responsible for non-completion of training among apprentices in the informal motor vehicle repair in Nigeria: A capability approach
Authors: Opeyemi Olaitan Olawale , Onyedikachukwu Ike Joshua , Kingsley Udogu , Ariyo Samson Oluwatimilehin
Published: January 2024

Informal Apprenticeship training plays a key role in the preparation of skilled workforce in different trades and as a pathway into labour markets. This paper examines the factors responsible for non-completion of training among apprentices in the informal motor vehicle repair in Nigeria using the capability approach. The study employed cross-sectional descriptive survey and the instrument for data collection is focused life stories and in-depth interviews were utilized to obtain data on unofficial apprentices who were unable to complete their training (non-completion). A portion of the in-depth interview was devoted to discussing the backgrounds and demographics of the apprentices that drop out of the program while items were generated in another portion to seek reasons responsible for non-completion of training. 57 non completers selected through purposive and snowballing sampling process among the non completers in the motor vehicle mechanic trade in Nsukka, Industrial site also known as mechanic village where there is concentration of workshops. The non-completers were interviewed through telephone and personal contact .It presents new data on informal motor vehicle mechanic apprenticeship reasons for non-completion which include financial hardships, personal protective equipment not put in place, safety procedures not followed during performing some specific task, Not paying attention to occupational safety and health, poor working environment and harsh conditions, loss of interest in the trade, not been provided with adequate occupational information, being treated as cheap labourers, bullying and external labour market forces.
Feeling with the victim: Empathy for suffering as a job stressor in Internet Child Exploitation Investigation
Authors: Kleineidam Nicolai Johannes , Fischbach Andrea
Published: January 2024

Investigating internet child exploitation cases poses unique challenges for law enforcement employees, particularly investigators, who are routinely exposed to traumatic material depicting the suffering of victims. We posit that the primary source of stress in internet child exploitation investigation stems not from the exposure to the material per se, but rather from investigators' empathy for the suffering of the victims depicted in the material. Drawing from the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model, our study investigates the relationship between empathy for suffering and the experiences of burnout and posttraumatic stress disorder among investigators in internet child exploitation cases. Additionally, we explore the moderating effect of social support from colleagues on these relationships. In our online study involving 168 investigators of internet child exploitation (90 women), we sought to emphasize the role of empathy for suffering as a key factor in stress reactions. Our findings indicate that, beyond mere exposure, empathy for suffering is positively correlated with posttraumatic stress disorder and burnout (i.e., emotional exhaustion and cynicism). Furthermore, our study provides partial support for the moderating effect of social support from colleagues on investigators' stress responses to both empathy for suffering and exposure. Our findings indicate that empathy for suffering emerges as a central job stressor, while social support serves as a crucial job resource for mitigating this stress in the context of child exploitation investigation. These results carry implications for risk assessment and health promotion within the realm of internet child exploitation investigations, opening up a broad avenue for further research.
Sustained bacterial N2O reduction at acidic pH
Authors: He Guang , Chen Gao , Xie Yongchao , Swift Cynthia , Cha Gyuhyon , Konstantinidis Konstantinos , Radosevich Mark , Löffler Frank
Published: January 2024

Nitrous oxide (N2O) is a climate-active gas with emissions predicted to increase due to agricultural intensification. Microbial reduction of N2O to dinitrogen (N2) is the major consumption process and has been studied extensively at circumneutral pH; however, microbial N2O reduction under acidic conditions is thought to be limited. Many soils have pH values below 5 and soil acidification, a global process accelerated by anthropogenic practices, introduces high uncertainty into N2O emission budgets. We obtained an enrichment culture from an acidic tropical forest soil that robustly reduces N2O to N2 at pH 4.5. Consecutive transfers at pH 4.5 yielded a co-culture and temporal analyses revealed a bimodal growth pattern with a Serratia sp. growing during an initial pyruvate fermentation phase followed by growth of a novel Desulfosporosinus sp. via hydrogenotrophic N2O reduction. The Desulfosporosinus sp. produced (3.1 ± 0.11) × 108cells per mmol of N2O consumed, on par with growth yields reported for clade II N2O reducers at circumneutral pH. Genome analysis identified a clade II nos gene cluster, but an incomplete pathway for sulfate reduction, a hallmark feature of the genusDesulfosporosinus. Physiological characterization and metabolomic reconstruction revealed interspecies nutritional interactions, with the pyruvate fermenting Serratia sp. supplying amino acids as essential growth factors to the hydrogenotrophic Desulfosporosinus sp. The co-culture reduced N2O between pH 4.5 and 6 but not at or above pH 7, contradicting the notion that growth coupled microbial N2O reduction ceases under acidic pH conditions, and highlighting the N2O reduction potential of acidic soils.
Removal of sequencing adapter contamination improves microbial genome databases
Authors: Moeller Andrew , Dillard Brian , Goldman Samantha , Real Madalena , Sprockett Daniel
Published: January 2024

Advances in assembling microbial genomes have led to growth of reference genome databases, which have been transformative for applied and basic microbiome research. Here we show that published microbial genome databases from humans, mice, cows, pigs, fish, honeybees, and marine environments contain significant levels of sequencing adapter contamination that systematically reduces assembly quality. By removing the adapter-contaminated ends of contiguous sequences and reassembling, we improve the accuracy and contiguousness of genome assemblies in these databases.
Accumulation of Salicylic Acid and 12-oxo-phytodienoic Acid Acting on the Antioxidant Pathway to Keep Stability of Striped Leaves of Variegated Temple Bamboo
Authors: Chen Lingyan , Tang Yu , Tao Yun , Seerat Azra , Zhu Pengkai , He Tianyou , Zheng Yushan
Published: January 2024

Variegated temple bamboo (Sinobambusa tootsik f. luteoloalbostriata) is one of the native variegated bamboo species has some whole green (WG) and whole white (WW) leaves in addition to striped green and white ones. The life span of WW leaves is short, but the life span of striped leaves (SLs) is unaffected by the area of white mesophyll, and the SL phenotype is well maintained. To explore the mechanism of phenotypic stability of SL, we took five leaf phenotypes as study materials: WG, WW, SL, the green part of SL (SG), and the white part of SL (SW). Through the measurement of photosynthetic pigments, leaf nutrient elements, chloroplast synthesis–related hormones and their precursors in the leaves, and antioxidant system parameters, we examined the antioxidant adaptation mechanism of the white mesophyll cells of S. tootsik f. luteoloalbostriata. The results indicated that abscisic acid (ABA) levels were substantially higher in WW leaves than in SW leaves, and salicylic acid (SA) levels were significantly higher in SW leaves compared with WW leaves. Levels of 12-oxo-phytodienoic acid (OPDA), and SA were substantially higher in WW and SW than in the leaves of the other three phenotypes. Glutathione (GSH) levels were substantially higher in SW than in SG and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were significantly lower. Overall, the white mesophyll cells of S. tootsik f. luteoloalbostriata had strong antioxidant properties. SA and OPDA jointly act on the antioxidant pathway to reduce the content of ROS in leaves, thus ensuring the stability of SL.
Application of the natural radioactivity method to predict the lithological composition and filtration properties of rocks in the Oligocene aquifer
Authors:   West-Siberian Division of Trofmuk Institute of Petroleum-Gas Geology and Geophysics of the Siberian Branch of RAS, Rusakova Yuliya Olegovna
Published: January 2024

Te purpose of the study is to predict the lithological composition and fltration coefcient values of rocks of the Oligocene aquifer using the method of natural radioactivity on the basis of data from laboratory studies of rocks and geophysical logging of water wells of the Oktyabrsky and Khanty-Mansiysk deposits of drinking groundwater. Te relevance of the study lies in the need to develop new and improve existing methods for predicting the fltration properties of water-bearing rocks promising for exploration areas. Research methods include: processing of data from laboratory studies of rock samples and gamma-ray logging of water wells in order to obtain quantitative characteristics of the lithological composition and geophysical properties of rocks, correlation of the obtained parameters, evaluation of the statistical signifcance of the correlation, prediction of desired parameters based on regression equations, determination of the relative error of the forecast. Te results of the study and their application. Based on the correlation analysis of observation samples, signifcant statistical relationships and regression equations of the median particle diameter of water-bearing rocks, fltration coefcient and the value of the double diference parameter of natural radioactivity were obtained. Forecast values of the required parameters were determined with an admissible error. Te linear regression equations may be used for preliminary estimation of fltration properties of water-bearing rocks on the basis of data on their natural radioactivity during prospecting and exploration works for groundwater for drinking and technical water supply, including water intakes of oil and gas felds in Western Siberia. Conclusions. Te high degree of heterogeneity of rocks of the Oligocene aquifer of Western Siberia requires their classifcation with respect to clay content and particle size, which largely determine the fltration properties of rocks. Te obtained statistical relationships prove the possibility of their successful application for predicting the fltration properties of rocks.
Strontianite from the Korkodinskoye deposit of jewelery andradite (Middle Urals)
Authors: Kropantsev Sergey Yurʹevich
Published: January 2024

Te relevance of the work is due to the need to study the mineralogy of the Ural gems, in this case deposits of jewelry andradite (demantoid and topazolite). Te purpose of the work – description and detailed instrumental study of strontianite from paragenesis with gem topazolite, which was established at the Korkodinskoye deposit. Research methodology. Strontianite was studied at the Institute of Geology and Geochemistry named afer academician A. N. Zavaritsky, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences (Ekaterinburg), the Institute of Mineralogy of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences (Miass) and the Ural State Mining University (Ekaterinburg). For its study, the whole complex of modern research methods was used. Chemical, geochemical, X-ray and X-ray spectral studies were carried out, and the method of IR spectrometry was also used. Results and conclusions. Carbonate was found in a fssure-vein zone in association with garnet (topazolite) among tectonized serpentinites at the Korkodinskoe deposit of gem andradite. According to the chemical composition, strontianite is extremely calcium. Crystal chemical formula of the carbonate: (Sr0,48Ca0,45Ba0,04Mg0,03)1,00CO3 . In terms of chemical composition, the carbonate of the Karkodinskoe deposit is very similar to the strontianite of the Buldymsky massif; apparently, this is a typochemical feature of all strontium carbonates from ultramafc bodies. For strontianite, the results of powder difractometry and IR spectroscopy are given, which are very close to the reference data. Strontianite belongs to the post-garnet stage of mineral formation, and the source of strontium for carbonate was small bodies of quartz-plagioclase metasomatites occurring at the site. Te results obtained do not agree with the latest model of the formation of the Korkodinsky ultramafc massif proposed by A. Yu. Kisin with co-authors. Te discovery of strontianite in a fssure-vein zone with andradite (topazolite) is another evidence of the formation of demantoid-bearing bodies afer the formation of gabbro and granitoid intrusions.
On the hydrothermal nature of cherts in the Artinskian stage deposits of the Cis-Urals
Authors: KUZIN Aleksey Vasilʹevich
Published: January 2024

Relevance. The results of paleontological, geophysical, and mineragraphic studies of flints in Artinskian stage deposits in the Cis-Urals are presented. Purpose of the work. Reef organogenic structures with silicified limestones and flints, silicified sandstones and injections of flints into them have been studied. The goal is to show the hydrothermal nature of chert injections into reefs and sandstones. Research methods. Geophysical electrical prospecting studies of reef limestones with the aim of identifying areas of silicification, geological and paleontological mapping of reefs, biostromes, bioherms, sandstones, areas of accumulation of nodules and flint nodules, study of polished sections of silicified rocks, production of thin sections and their mineragraphic study. Results of the work. Paleontological mapping of the reef structure made it possible to establish the different species composition, size, and preservation of biota in the coastal, summit and outer parts of the reef. Mineragraphic studies have established the high-temperature hydrothermal nature of chert in all types of sediments. Hydrothermal injections of chert into sandstone layers occur by diffusion with the formation of siliceous nodules and Lysigang rings in sandstones. Intensive penetration of silicon hydrotherms into sandstone layers forms areas of silicification in them in the form of laccoliths tens of meters in size. Various degrees of development of flint hydrotherms by marine fauna have been established. Flints may include small specimens of small fauna, be rich in well-preserved fauna, or include layers of biota overlain by layers of flints covered with new colonies of microorganisms. Sometimes cherts contain only fragments of faunal shells caught in the hot gel of cherts. Conclusions. Hydrotherms of siliceous composition in loose marine sediments could be a condition for the development of biota and the basis for reef structures. Increased values of electrical resistivity of flints and silicified limestones allow electrical prospecting to explore the internal structure of reefs. It has been suggested that in the Carboniferous and Early Permian in the Cis-Urals there was a hydrothermal belt extending from Kungur to Sterlitamak.
Impact of enterprises of the mining and metallurgical complex of the Sverdlovsk region on the environment and directions of its reduction
Authors: MEDVEDEVA Irina Vladimirovna
Published: January 2024

Purpose of the work. A long-term intensive work of mining and metallurgical enterprises in Sverdlovsk region, caused by the presence of a large number of ore deposits, inevitably leads to the serious negative environmental impact. The purpose of this work is the analysis of this impact in recent years, measures taken by the largest enterprises for its reduction and the assessment of area and abilities of the work in this direction. Methodology. In this work, data from open sources for analysis and systematization were used – government reports on the state of the environment in Sverdlovsk region, scientific reports, official statistical data. Results and their field of application. There are data on environmental impact of the largest mining and metallurgical enterprises of Sverdlovsk region: JSC “EVRAZ Kachkanarskiy ore mining and processing combine”, JSC “Vysokogorskiy mining and processing combine”, JSC “Nizhnetagilskiy metallurgical combine”, JSC “United Company RUSAL Ural’s aluminum” and others analyzed and systematized. There are the opportunities of this negative impact reduction and required direction of actions according to the authors described: 1) development and implementation of the integrated territorial eco-technological approach that includes the elaboration of various and heterogeneous natural-technological, economic, managerial and social aspects; 2) implementation of green technologies; 3) environmental quality prediction and the use of prediction data when implementing production activity. Conclusions. A number of large enterprises of the industry show the trend of the improving of ecological performance through a variety of activities in the area of environmental protection. It should be noted that one of the factors mainly determining the degree of environmental impact, remains the volume of production. The implementation of complex and ambitious tasks related to the environmental impact of the mining and metallurgical enterprises reduction requires the introduction of serious scientific and practical developments with appropriate financial support and consistent implementation of state policy.
Multi-stage 3D Gravity Inversion Scheme for Maximum Optimization of the Subsurface Basement Model at Gebel El-Zeit Basin, Southwestern Gulf-of-Suez, Egypt
Authors: HASSAN Ahmed Gamal Mohamed , FARAG Karam Samir Ibrahim
Published: January 2024

Relevance and purpose of the work. Due to its basement fault block pattern in the sedimentary basin, the Southwestern Gulf of Suez’s Gebel El-Zeit basin is one of Egypt’s most desirable hydrocarbon concessions. However, salt diapers in sedimentary layers have hindered seismic interpretations in this area, making it challenging to build a 3D central primary basinal structure. This study uses Bouguer gravity anomalies to input basement complex lateral density model assumptions to determine the optimal three-dimensional basement depth for the study area. Research methodology. Based on the concept of sequential 3D spectral layered-earth inversion approaches, through trials with the Oldenburg and other forward models, many forward optimization strategies and parameterization sequences with variable constraint parameter assumptions were used to regulate the inversion operations within a proposed three-stage gravity inversion scheme to identify the optimal depth-density solution with a minimal computational data misfit. This study statistically analyzes the basement’s relief and complicated lateral density distribution to determine the best parameters for a 3D depth-density model solution. Zero regional gravity offset and DC-shift, which forced the mean error to be zero, helped simulate the lateral density model’s best-possible constraining assumptions. Results and conclusions. Correlating depth data from many stratigraphical-control wells drilled in the inverted 3D basement model confirmed the basement relief optimality of the study area. Correlation analysis showed a good match between the predicted and measured depths, proving the resulting optimality of the basement complex’s lateral density distribution, minimizing the computational depth error to a minimal percentage.
Constraints on physical computers in holographic spacetimes
Authors: Kubicki Aleksander M. , May Alex , Pérez-Garcia David
Published: January 2024

Within the setting of the AdS/CFT correspondence, we ask about the power of computers in the presence of gravity. We show that there are computations on nn qubits which cannot be implemented inside of black holes with entropy less than O(2^n)O(2n). To establish our claim, we argue computations happening inside the black hole must be implementable in a programmable quantum processor, so long as the inputs and description of the unitary to be run are not too large. We then prove a bound on quantum processors which shows many unitaries cannot be implemented inside the black hole, and further show some of these have short descriptions and act on small systems. These unitaries with short descriptions must be computationally forbidden from happening inside the black hole.
Cavity-induced bifurcation in classical rate theory
Authors: Kansanen Kalle Sulo Ukko , Heikkilä Tero Tapio
Published: January 2024

We show how coupling an ensemble of bistable systems to a common cavity field affects the collective stochastic behavior of this ensemble. In particular, the cavity provides an effective interaction between the systems, and parametrically modifies the transition rates between the metastable states. We predict that the cavity induces a phase transition at a critical temperature which depends linearly on the number of systems. It shows up as a spontaneous symmetry breaking where the stationary states of the bistable system bifurcate. We observe that the transition rates slow down independently of the phase transition, but the rate modification vanishes for alternating signs of the system-cavity couplings, corresponding to a disordered ensemble of dipoles. Our results are of particular relevance in polaritonic chemistry where the presence of a cavity has been suggested to affect chemical reactions.
A literacy of the relevance of Asian value sustainability reporting in Indonesia
Authors: Hardiningsih Pancawati , Nuswandari Cahyani , Srimindarti Ceacilia , Anggana Lisiantara Gregorius , Setiawati Ira
Published: January 2024

An independent institution gives appreciation to companies in Indonesia that have published their sustainability reports by ranking their sustainability reports in the Asia Sustainability Reporting Rating. This institution plays a role in facilitating and encouraging companies, organizations and other entities in Indonesia to adopt good sustainability reporting practices. This ranking factor is predicted to influence the movement of abnormal returns so that it can influence value relevance through the earnings response coefficient. The aim of this study is to reveal the relevance of value in order to obtain empirical evidence regarding the influence of sustainability reports, sustainable report ratings and earnings persistence on the earnings response coefficient. The research sample was 130 companies in Indonesia that were included in the Asia Sustainability Reporting Ranking for the period 2019 to 2022. This paper uses a quantitative multiple linear regression method to test the hypothesis. The research results show that consistent profits can be predicted from the past and make a positive contribution to future earnings response. A company transparently discloses its performance in the sustainability aspect, thereby making the profit response more positive. Companies with high sustainability ratings tend to get a more positive profit response from the market and stakeholders. This study suggests that management and company owners in Indonesia are aware of the need to pay attention to long-term sustainability through the publication of sustainability reports to become a company’s commitment to implementing sustainability and minimizing risks arising from the company’s economic, social and environmental activities.
AcknowledgmentsThe authors would like to thank the Directorate of Research, Community Service and Publications (DPPMP) of Stikubank University for supporting the funding of this research. Thanks also to fellow FEB lecturers who have helped provide the facilities needed for this research.
Wearable Sensor-Based Sleep Quality Recommendation Based on Association Rules
Authors: Santos Alexander Romanha , Silva Emely , Veroneze Rosana , Von Zuben Fernando
Published: January 2024

Frequent pattern mining and the subsequent proposition of association rules are used here to promote sleep quality from wearable data sensors. The idea is to automatically provide users with relevant and personalized information regarding possible contextual factors that impact their sleep, including physiological monitoring data. This objective was achieved by revealing existing associations between contextual factors and sleep characteristics to the user. Based on data provided by users of Samsumg Galaxy Watch4 over 21 days, the FPGrowth algorithm was used to mine frequent itemsets, followed by the generation of association rules. Due to the potentially large number of generated rules, a summarization is performed by the FPMax variant. FPMax mines the maximal frequent itemsets, thus generating a condensed version of the results capable of preserving as much information as possible. The obtained result is a set of association rules capable of disclosing the users sleep patterns, thus indicating what to improve in his/her routine to get better sleep.
Characteristics and distribution model of wind and wave in Shengsi mussel culture area under the impacts of tropical cyclones
Authors: Wu Zuli , Xiong Minsi , Shi Yongchuang , Song Yunpeng , Dai Yang , Zhang Shengmao
Published: January 2024

The primary industry in Shengsi County, Zhejiang Province, China, is the raft-based cultivation of Mytilus coruscus, which is highly sensitive to wind and wave disturbances. This study aims to understand the characteristics of tropical cyclones along Zhejiang's coast, their relation to climate change, and the impact of wind and waves on Shengsi mussel farming during cyclones. Analyzing data from 2000 to 2018, including tropical cyclone paths, wind and wave data, and mussel farming statistics, the research identifies four cyclone path types, with the peak prevalence from July to September. Annual cyclone energy fluctuates, peaking in August. In the cyclone impact zone, the average wind speed is 24.59 m/s. Type D cyclones have the most significant impact. A linear relationship exists between cyclone center distance and wind speed/wave height. Extreme wind speed and wave height follow the Gumbel joint probability distribution. Since 2000, the Shengsi mussel farming area experienced an 11.20-year return period for wind and waves from the strongest cyclone, Muifa. Given the recurrence period of Muifa intensity cyclones in 2020 and the following years, the study recommends disaster preparedness for the Shengsi mussel farming area and emphasizes the role of mutual aid insurance.
Effective Teacher and Effective Teaching Practices: Literature Perspective and Learning Experience—A Qualitative Study between Italy and Spain (Part I)
Authors: Del Pilar Alcolea Pina Maria , Formella Zbigniew
Published: January 2024

Many and diverse are authors underlining the importance and need to include the student’s voice in the study of teaching effectiveness. This would require appropriate methods and techniques for the study object. Low visibility of student perspective about effective teachers and their teaching practices is an empty space that specialized literature has increasingly highlighted. This is not trivial, given that teachers and their practices are the external factors that exert most influence on student learning, the most critical aspect of high-quality teachers is the perception of their teaching by the students. A dissected and detailed approach to this study field, requires a holistic paradigm that makes humanistic perspective relevant. This outlook is susceptible to conceive the student as a person, considering strengths and limitations, as well as both professional and personal qualities. Likewise, the study methodology and instruments must be in consonance with such paradigm and its point of view. Current research on teacher effectiveness impact would be reinforced by exposing the student learning experience.
Comparison between official methods and ultrasound spectroscopy used to determine the physicochemical features of raw milk
Authors: Karoline Amaral Sousa Anna , Leite Bernardino Victor , Raphael Ribeiro Guimarães Bruno , Correa Silva Coimbra Viviane , Cutrim Bezerra Danilo , Pinto Chaves Bezerra Nancyleni
Published: January 2024

The aim of the current study is to compare official methodologies (OM) and ultrasound spectroscopy (US) used to determine the physicochemical features of raw milk. Twenty-five (25) milk samples deriving from a rural property in Bacabeira County, Maranhão State, were assessed. Fat and protein contents, density at 15°C, cryoscopic index, total dry extract (TDE) and defatted dry extract (DDE) were determined based on official analytical techniques and ultrasound spectroscopy, in laboratory environment. Mean protein densities and contents determined through US and OM did not differ from each other (P > 0.05). Mean fat contents and mean values recorded for cryoscopic index, TDE and DDE - determined through US and OM - differed from each other (P = 0.026, P = 0.040, P < 0.001 and P = 0.014, respectively); positive correlations were observed in the analysis of these parameters (R = 0.470, R = 0.118, R = 0.087 and R = 0.315, respectively); methods’ accuracy reached 0.180, 0.058, 0.155 and 0.075, respectively. Ultrasound spectroscopy is a fast technique whose results correlate to those of official analyses. However, it is necessary adopting a specific profile by calibrating the equipment based on information deriving from official analyses. Results in the present study have suggested the need of conducting more comprehensive studies to validate its conclusions.
Industrial and Pharmaceutical Applications of Microbial Diversity of
Hypersaline Ecology from Lonar Soda Crater
Authors: Bawane Pradip , Deshpande Shirish , Yele Santosh
Published: January 2024

The unidentified geochemical and physiochemical characteristics of Soda Lakes
across the globe make it a novel reservoir and bring attention to scientific civic for its conceivable
industrial and pharmaceutical applications. In India, in the Maharashtra state, Lonar Lake is
a naturally created Soda Lake by a meteorite impact. Phylogenetic data from this lake explored a
diverse array of microorganisms like haloalkaliphilic bacteria and Archaea. Previously reported
studies postulated the major microbial communities present in this lake ecosystem are Proteobacteria,
Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, and Cyanobacteria. Furthermore, it also contains Bacteroidetes,
Nitrospirae, and Verrucomicrobia. This lake is also rich in phytoplankton, with the
predominant presence of the Spirulina plantensis. Unique microbial strains from Lonar Lake
ecosystems have fascinated consideration as a source of biological molecules with medicinal,
industrial, and biotechnological potential. Recent literature revealed the isolation of antibioticproducing
bacteria and alkaline proteases-producing alkaliphilic bacterium, as well as novel
species of rare methylotrophs, other bacterial strains involved in producing vital enzymes, and
unique actinomycetes are also reported. It indicates that the novel bacterial assemblage not
reached hitherto may exist in this modified and unique ecology. This comprehensive review
provides information about microbial diversity and its industrial and pharmaceutical interests
that exist in Lonar Lake, which could be the future source of bioactive enzymes, biosurfactants,
and biofuel and also useful in bioremediation. Furthermore, the novel species of microorganisms
isolated from Lonar Lake have applications in the biosynthesis of medicines like antibiotics,
antivirals, antifungals, anti-inflammatory agents, and precursors for synthesising valuable products.
Data consolidated in the present review will cater to the needs of emerging industrial sectors
for their commercial and therapeutic applications.
Precision Genome Editing Techniques in Gene Therapy: Current State
and Future Prospects
Authors: Singh Kuldeep , Bhushan Bharat , Kumar Sunil , Singh Supriya , Macadangdang Romulo R. , Pandey Ekta , Varma Ajit Kumar , Kumar Shivendra
Published: January 2024

Precision genome editing is a rapidly evolving field in gene therapy, allowing for the
precise modification of genetic material. The CRISPR and Cas systems, particularly the CRISPR--
Cas9 system, have revolutionized genetic research and therapeutic development by enabling precise
changes like single-nucleotide substitutions, insertions, and deletions. This technology has the
potential to correct disease-causing mutations at their source, allowing for the treatment of various
genetic diseases. Programmable nucleases like CRISPR-Cas9, transcription activator-like effector
nucleases (TALENs), and zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs) can be used to restore normal gene function,
paving the way for novel therapeutic interventions. However, challenges, such as off-target
effects, unintended modifications, and ethical concerns surrounding germline editing, require careful
consideration and mitigation strategies. Researchers are exploring innovative solutions, such as
enhanced nucleases, refined delivery methods, and improved bioinformatics tools for predicting
and minimizing off-target effects. The prospects of precision genome editing in gene therapy are
promising, with continued research and innovation expected to refine existing techniques and uncover
new therapeutic applications.
Association of COVID-19 and Arterial Stiffness Assessed using
Cardiovascular Index (CAVI)
Authors: Podzolkov Valery , Bragina Anna , Tarzimanova Aida , Vasilyeva Lyubov , Shvedov Ilya , Druzhinina Natalya , Rodionova Yulia , Ishina Tatiana , Akyol Iuliia , Maximova Valentina , Cherepanov Alexandr
Published: January 2024

Background::

COVID-19 is characterized by an acute inflammatory response with the
formation of endothelial dysfunction and may affect arterial stiffness. Studies of cardio-ankle vascular
index in COVID-19 patients with considered cardiovascular risk factors have not been conducted.

Objective::

The purpose of our study was to assess the association between cardio-ankle vascular
index and COVID-19 in hospitalized patients adjusted for known cardiovascular risk factors.

Methods::

A cross-sectional study included 174 people hospitalized with a diagnosis of moderate
COVID-19 and 94 people without COVID-19. Significant differences in the cardio-ankle vascular
index values measured by VaSera VS - 1500N between the two groups were analyzed using parametric
(Student's t-criterion) and nonparametric (Mann-Whitney) criteria. Independent association
between COVID-19 and an increased cardio-ankle vascular index ≥ 9.0 adjusted for known cardiovascular
risk factors was assessed by multivariate logistic regression.

Results::

There were significantly higher values of the right cardio-ankle vascular index 8.10
[7.00;9.40] and the left cardio-ankle vascular index 8.10 [6.95;9.65] in patients undergoing inpatient
treatment for COVID-19 than in the control group – 7.55 [6.60;8.60] and 7.60 [6.60;8.70], respectively.
A multivariate logistic regression model adjusted for age, hypertension, plasma glucose
level, glomerular filtration rate and diabetes mellitus showed a significant association between
increased cardio-ankle vascular index and COVID-19 (OR 2.41 [CI 1.09;5.30]).

Conclusion::

Hospitalized patients with COVID-19 had significantly higher cardio-ankle vascular
index values compared to the control group. An association between an increased cardio-ankle vascular
index and COVID-19 was revealed, independent of age, hypertension, plasma glucose level,
glomerular filtration rate and diabetes mellitus.
Insight into the Predictive Power of Surrogate Diagnostic Indices for
Identifying Individuals with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Hosseinkhani Shaghayegh , Forouzanfar Katayoon , Hadizadeh Nastaran , Razi Farideh , Darzi Somayeh , Bandarian Fatemeh
Published: January 2024

Background:

This study aimed to assess the diagnostic capability of insulin surrogate
measurements in identifying individuals with metabolic syndrome (MetS) and propose applicable
indices derived from fasting values, particularly in large study populations.

Methods:

Data were collected from the datasets of the Surveillance of Risk Factors of NCDs in
Iran Study (STEPS). MetS was defined based on the National Cholesterol Education Program
(NCEP) criteria. Various insulin surrogate indices, including Homeostasis Model Assessment
(HOMA), Quantitative Insulin Sensitivity Check Index (QUICKI), Fasting glucose to insulin
ratio (FGIR), Reynaud, Reciprocal insulin, McAuley, Metabolic Score for Insulin Resistance
(METS-IR), Triglyceride-glucose index (TyG), TG/ HDL-C, TG/ BMI, and TG/ WC
ratio were assessed. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves were used to assess pathologic
conditions and determine the optimal cut-off through the highest score of the Youden index.
Also, Area Under the Curve (AUC) values were established for each index totally and according
to sex, age, and BMI differences.

Results:

The study population consisted of 373 individuals (49.9% women; 75.1% middle age,
39.1% obese, and 27.3% overweight), of whom 117 (31.4%) had MetS. The METS-IR (AUC:
0.856; 95% CI: 0.817-0.895), TG/ HDL-C (AUC: 0.820; 95% CI: 0.775-0.886), TyG (AUC:
0.808; 95% CI: 0.759-0.857), and McAuley (AUC: 0.804; 95% CI: 0.757-0.852) indices provided
the greatest AUC respectively for detection of MetS. The values of AUC for all the indices
were higher in men than women. This trend was consistent after data stratification based on
BMI categories, middle age, and senile individuals.

Conclusion:

The present study indicated that indices of insulin, including METS-IR, TG/HDLC,
TyG, and McAuley, have an equal or better capacity in determining the risk of MetS than
HOMA-IR, are capable of identifying individuals with MetS and may provide a simple approach
for identifying populations at risk of insulin resistance.
Peak Penetration Force during Stabbing of Chest Wall with a Ceremonial
Sword
Authors: Desmoulin Geoffrey T. , Nolette Marc-André , Milner Theodore E.
Published: January 2024

Background:

The force required for a sword to penetrate the human chest was identified as an important issue for the defense in a case of homicide by stabbing. Previous literature
on penetration force had tested knives but not swords.

Objective:

The objective of the current study was to determine the peak force during penetration
of a surrogate for human tissue with a ceremonial sword.

Methods:

The sword was secured to an MK-10 Tensile Tester and forced to penetrate a pork rib
cut at speeds of 350 mm/min and 1100 mm/min, including both regions of rib and cartilage for
pork ribs without skin or covered with a layer of porcine skin.

Results:

In the case of the pork ribs without skin, the mean peak penetration force at a speed of
350 mm/min was 11.0 N compared to a mean of 10.5 N at a speed of 1100 mm/min. The distributions of peak penetration forces at the two speeds were not significantly different. In the case
of the pork ribs covered with porcine skin, the mean peak penetration force at a speed of 350
mm/min was 50.0 N compared to a mean of 47.6 N at a speed of 1100 mm/min. The distributions
of peak penetration forces at the two speeds were again not significantly different.

Conclusion:

Forces of less than 50 N would be required for a ceremonial sword to penetrate the
tissues of the human chest, although there is a risk of penetration for forces as low as 5 N when
the effect of the porcine skin is not considered. Furthermore, the force required for penetration
did not vary significantly over a three-fold speed of penetration.
Advancements of Lanthanide-doped Phosphors in Solid-state Lighting
Applications
Authors: Etafo Nelson Oshogwue
Published: January 2024

The challenge of energy conversion and enhancement has been a problem in the world
of lighting technologies as the population and global industrialization grow rapidly. Solid-state
lighting (SSL) has proven to be a better alternative in the illumination industry because of its environmentally friendly and high energy efficiency. Lanthanide-doped phosphors have gained
global attention in SSL because they have versatile applications with enhanced overall performance and luminescence. This review delves into the advancement in lanthanide-doped phosphors for Solid-state lighting (SSL) applications. It discusses the in-depth analysis of how to tailor the crystal lattice design, optimize the host material for emission efficiency, and minimize the
non-radiative pathways. This paper further discusses the lanthanide-doped phosphor composition, strategies to obtain desired emission spectra, and enhanced color rendering index with the
Energy transfer mechanism and the synthesis techniques. This review also addresses 3 processes
for expanding the light spectrum, current challenges, future directions, and emerging trends present in the lanthanide-doped phosphor in Solid-state lighting (SSL) applications.
Efficient management in the Montessori Educational environment for preschool children
Authors: Hien Tran Thi Thuong
Published: January 2024

This paper explores the critical role of efficient management in the Montessori educational environment for preschool children. Rooted in Maria Montessori's philosophy, the Montessori method emphasizes child-centric learning, independence, and holistic development. The paper examines management principles, their relationship with promoting independence and creativity in preschoolers, and the organization of the Montessori learning environment. It further discusses the training and development of human resources, effective management of physical resources, and challenges faced in Montessori education, offering strategic solutions. By reflecting on effective management practices, the paper highlights the significance of maintaining consistency, teacher understanding, and resource management. The conclusion underscores the challenges and opportunities in Montessori education, emphasizing the need for ongoing research, collaboration, and a commitment to the principles of this unique educational approach.
On certain aspects of standardization and operating conditions of automated systems
Authors: Efimov A. O. , Livshits I. I. , Meshcheryakov M. O. , Rogozin E. A. , Romanova V. R.
Published: January 2024

Objective. In this paper, the main aspects of the operating conditions of the AS are considered, as well as the issues of standardization of the stages of the life cycle of the AS (creation, commissioning, maintenance, etc.) at the state level. In this subject area, the technological features of building an AS based on various technical architectures are briefly considered, since both foreign processors based on x86-64 architectures and processors of domestic development based on the Advanced RISC Machine architecture are currently applicable. The use of various components of the AS requires additional study in terms of ordering the composition and configuration of specific SPI. Since each processor has a multi-level architecture, this fact objectively complicates the possibilities for full security testing and detection of all vulnerabilities. Method. In the course of the work, the threats and vulnerabilities of individual components of the AS from the point of view of intentional and unintentional threats are considered. The information on the main state standards applied to ensure the protection of information in the AS at the present time is summarized. Result. The main features of the operating conditions of the AS are considered and it is determined that the vulnerabilities of the components are due to the imperfection of the procedures for developing and covering testing of hardware and software. It is determined that in order to protect information in the AS, it is necessary to build a multi-level protection system with state accreditation. Conclusion. Proposals are presented for the application of state standardization for the protection of information in the AS, taking into account the current and prospective threat landscape, including taking into account the design features (undeclared capabilities) of the components. Overcoming threats is possible with the creation of a multi-level information protection system with state accreditation.