bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the efficacy of cinnamon compounds against H. pylori through molecular docking, MD Simulations and ADMET analyses
Authors: Sarwar Muhammad Farhan , Zahra Afnan , Awan Mudassar Fareed , Ali Sajed , Shafiq Muhammad , Muzammil Khursheed
Published: March 2024

Antibiotics are the drugs that are used for the management of microbial diseases. However, these conventional synthetic drugs can harmfully affect the human health. Since phytochemicals are extracted from natural sources and, are hence relatively safer for human health, they are the enticing alternatives in this regard. Cinnamon is also one of those plants which is being employed as herbal medication for centuries against certain microbial infections due its significant therapeutic effectiveness. A well-known pathogenic bacterium called H. pylori causes a wide range of illnesses in human body. This pathogen’s pathogenicity is determined by certain virulent proteins. In this study, some of such proteins, which included virB4, virB8, and virB9 were selected to evaluate the therapeutic efficiency of cinnamon compounds. These proteins were identified in different isolates of H. pylori. The structural modelling of all these proteins were performed initially in order to proceed them for molecular docking analysis. While, the docking studies illustrated that one of the cinnamon compounds, cinnamyl acetate, showed significant binding interactions with virB4 and virB9. However, benzyl benzoate which is another cinnamon compound, docked well with virB8. Afterwards, the MD simulations were incorporated to explore the interaction motions and structural stability of all the docked complexes. In this regard, the resultant maps of Bfactor, eigenvalues and elastic network model, among other factors ensured the structural stabilities of all the respective complexes. After these crucial estimations, benzyl benzoate and cinnamyl acetate underwent the ADMET investigation to assess their pharmacokinetic characteristics. SwissADME and ADMETLab 2.0 server were employed for this investigation. The compiled findings these servers revealed that both, benzyl benzoate and cinnamyl acetate, exhibited a significant level of pharmacokinetic and drug-likeness conformity.
Trustworthy deep learning framework for the detection of abnormalities in X-ray shoulder images
Authors: Alzubaidi Laith , Salhi Asma , A.Fadhel Mohammed , Bai Jinshuai , Hollman Freek , Italia Kristine , Pareyon Roberto , Albahri A. S. , Ouyang Chun , Santamaría Jose , Cutbush Kenneth , Gupta Ashish , Abbosh Amin , Gu Yuantong
Published: March 2024

Musculoskeletal conditions affect an estimated 1.7 billion people worldwide, causing intense pain and disability. These conditions lead to 30 million emergency room visits yearly, and the numbers are only increasing. However, diagnosing musculoskeletal issues can be challenging, especially in emergencies where quick decisions are necessary. Deep learning (DL) has shown promise in various medical applications. However, previous methods had poor performance and a lack of transparency in detecting shoulder abnormalities on X-ray images due to a lack of training data and better representation of features. This often resulted in overfitting, poor generalisation, and potential bias in decision-making. To address these issues, a new trustworthy DL framework has been proposed to detect shoulder abnormalities (such as fractures, deformities, and arthritis) using X-ray images. The framework consists of two parts: same-domain transfer learning (TL) to mitigate imageNet mismatch and feature fusion to reduce error rates and improve trust in the final result. Same-domain TL involves training pre-trained models on a large number of labelled X-ray images from various body parts and fine-tuning them on the target dataset of shoulder X-ray images. Feature fusion combines the extracted features with seven DL models to train several ML classifiers. The proposed framework achieved an excellent accuracy rate of 99.2%, F1Score of 99.2%, and Cohen’s kappa of 98.5%. Furthermore, the accuracy of the results was validated using three visualisation tools, including gradient-based class activation heat map (Grad CAM), activation visualisation, and locally interpretable model-independent explanations (LIME). The proposed framework outperformed previous DL methods and three orthopaedic surgeons invited to classify the test set, who obtained an average accuracy of 79.1%. The proposed framework has proven effective and robust, improving generalisation and increasing trust in the final results.
An overview of systematic reviews on predictors of smoking cessation among young people
Authors: Kundu Anasua , Sultana Nahid , Felsky Daniel , Moraes Theo J. , Selby Peter , Chaiton Michael
Published: March 2024

Understanding the factors that influence smoking cessation among young people is crucial for planning targeted cessation approaches. The objective of this review was to comprehensively summarize evidence for predictors of different smoking cessation related behaviors among young people from currently available systematic reviews. We searched six databases and reference lists of the included articles for studies published up to October 20, 2023. All systematic reviews summarizing predictors of intention to quit smoking, quit attempts, or smoking abstinence among people aged 10–35 years were included. We excluded reviews on effectiveness of smoking cessation intervention; smoking prevention and other smoking behaviors; cessation of other tobacco products use, dual use, and polysubstance use. We categorized the identified predictors into 5 different categories for 3 overlapping age groups. JBI critical appraisal tool and GRADE-CERqual approach were used for quality and certainty assessment respectively. A total of 11 systematic reviews were included in this study; all summarized predictors of smoking abstinence/quit attempts and two also identified predictors of intention to quit smoking. Seven reviews had satisfactory critical appraisal score and there was minimal overlapping between the reviews. We found 4 ‘possible’ predictors of intention to quit smoking and 119 predictors of smoking abstinence/quit attempts. Most of these 119 predictors were applicable for ~10–29 years age group. We had moderate confidence on the ‘probable’, ‘possible’, ‘insufficient evidence’, and ‘inconsistent direction’ predictors and low confidence on the ‘probably unrelated’ factors. The ‘probable’ predictors include a wide variety of socio-demographic factors, nicotine dependence, mental health, attitudes, behavioral and psychological factors, peer and family related factors, and jurisdictional policies. These predictors can guide improvement of existing smoking cessation interventions or planning of new targeted intervention programs. Other predictors as well as predictors of intention to quit smoking need to be further investigated among adolescents and young adults separately.
Electromagnetic exposure analysis of the subway passenger under the civil communication system radiation
Authors: Zhou Wen-Ying , Zhang Xi-Yu , Lu Mai
Published: March 2024

In order to assess the electromagnetic exposure safety of passengers under the civil communication system of the subway, the radio-frequency (RF) electromagnetic environment of subway carriage is established by using COMSOL Multiphysics software, it includes a 1-1/4 " leaky coaxial cable (LCX1) and a 1-5/8" leaky coaxial cable (LCX2), which are designed to be the exposure sources, and twelve passengers at different position. The electromagnetic environment model has been verified through field measurement. The exposure dose distribution of twelve passengers is compared and analyzed, when LCX1 and LCX2 works respectively. The simulated results show that, to compare with LCX2, the electromagnetic dose absorbed by the passengers is reduced by 9.19% and 22.50% at 2100 MHz and 2600 MHz respectively. The specific absorption rate (SAR) of passengers obtains the maximum value of 1.91×10−4 W/Kg and the temperature rise to 0.214 K when the LCX1 works at 3400 MHz. By comparing with the public exposure limitation of the International Commission of Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP), it demonstrates the electromagnetic exposure safety of the passengers under the civil communication system. More importantly, the proposed LCX1 not only could add the 5G signal cover but also lower the SAR absorbed by the passengers, which indicates that the public electromagnetic exposure dose could be reduced by adjusting the radiation performances of exposure source, which provide a new way for electromagnetic protecting.
How to measure Entrepreneurial Ecosystems? Current debate and
challenges for the Brazilian case
Authors: Santos Guilherme de Oliveira , Monteiro Caio José das Chagas , Ribeiro Leonardo Santos , Araújo Yasmin Ventura
Published: March 2024

Objective: The paper reviews and systematizes the metrics proposed in the literature for
measuring the different elements of entrepreneurship ecosystems and discuss the challenges
of measuring ecosystems at the regional level and in the Brazilian case. Method: Bibliographic
review of the metrics proposed for Entrepreneurship Ecosystems and descriptive statistics
to systematize the indicators found in the literature. Results: There is still no uniformity
in the proposal of metrics. Most of them have a national approach and are related to the
dimensions of public policy and regulation, culture, and resources. The effort to apply theory
to the Brazilian case is still incipient, and it is necessary to construct adequate metrics for
the national reality. Theoretical/methodological contributions: The article contributes to
the debate on the measurement of entrepreneurship ecosystems by showing the diversity
of proposed methodologies and indicators, existing gaps, the need to think about indicators
for the subnational level, and the implications for the Brazilian case. Relevance/Originality:
Despite its potential as a tool for public policies, the concept of EE and its measurement
methods are still underexplored by the Brazilian academic community. The article aims to fill
this gap and demonstrate that this line of academic research is promising.
‘Q’ DE QUILOMBOLA? NEGAÇÃO SIMBÓLICA NA ESCOLA DOS REMANESCENTES DO QUILOMBO MORRO ALTO (RS)?
Authors: Machado dos Santos Ana Rita , Schefer Maria Cristina
Published: March 2024

Nesta pesquisa, buscou-se compreender o motivo pelo qual o termo quilombola não está destacado na fachada do prédio e nos documentos pedagógicos de uma escola aquilombada, em 2014, no Litoral Norte do Rio Grande do Sul. Tratou-se de um estudo de caso único, em que conversas informais e entrevistas foram utilizadas na produção de dados. Os participantes foram membros da comunidade escolar e anciões quilombolas. As análises contaram com as contribuições teóricas de Bourdieu (2006), Bauman (2008) Sodré (2023), dentre outros e evidenciaram que: a) práticas simbólicas e pedagógicas têm operado para que não haja destaque à pertença afro étnica da maioria dos moradores do lugar; b) está em jogo a disputa territorial entre os descendentes de escravizados e os descendentes de posseiros no território; c) a instituição escolar tem sido um receptáculo do conflito entre os que  reconhecem e os que não reconhecem os direitos dos remanescentes de quilombos no lugar, incluindo profissionais da educação. Desse modo, verificou-se, além do descumprimento legal dos princípios que tipificam uma escola como quilombola, também a edificação de um não-lugar-escolar.
EDUCAÇÃO FÍSICA E GÊNERO
Authors: Rios Vandelma Silva Oliveira , Macedo Christiane Garcia , Silva Bruno de Oliveira e
Published: March 2024

A partir da década de 1980, e marcadamente na década de 1990, a produção científica denuncia e analisa as desigualdades de gênero existentes na educação física escolar e nas práticas corporais. Embora já tenhamos um campo científico consolidado, na escola ainda persistem algumas práticas que separam meninos e meninas e os/as tratam de forma desigual. Tentando contribuir para as discussões na infância, o objetivo desse artigo é analisar como as relações de gênero têm interferido nas aulas de Educação Física. Optamos por uma abordagem etnográfica nesse componente curricular em uma escola dos anos iniciais de uma cidade pequena na região metropolitana de Salvador no estado da Bahia. A partir da análise de discurso apontamos permanências e complexidades das relações, já que existem crianças que não reforçam tanto a diferença entre meninos e meninas e entendem a importância de aulas para todos/as/es juntos/as/es.
O PAPEL DA PSICOLOGIA NO PROCESSO TRANSEXUALIZADOR DO SUS
Authors: Fagundes Pereira Diogo , Ferreira Simas Lais
Published: March 2024

Mesmo com grandes avanços em políticas públicas, ainda existe muito preconceito acerca da transexualidade, seja no campo da saúde como na sociedade em geral. Esse artigo objetivou compreender o Processo Transexualizador do SUS apontando as contribuições da psicologia a esse processo. A metodologia utilizada foi a revisão integrativa, sendo as bases de dados: Google Acadêmico, Scientific Electronic Library Online (Scielo Brasil) a partir dos descritores: “processo transexualizador “and “SUS”; “psicologia” and “processo transexualizador”. Sustentamos as análises a partir de autores brasileiros e de dois filósofos: a estadunidense Judith Butler e o espanhol Paul B. Preciado, assim como de materiais produzidos pelo Conselho Federal de Psicologia (CFP). Concluiu-se limitações do Processo Transexualizador e a necessidade de um aprimoramento, cabendo à psicologia uma atuação efetiva na desconstrução da lógica patologizante da qual as identidades trans estão sujeitas, e na aplicação de práticas que contemplem o sofrimento relativo às violências sociais e estruturais.
CORPO, GÊNERO E AGÊNCIA
Authors: Oliveira Feijão Galvão Letícia
Published: March 2024

Neste trabalho, busco investigar como a prática do surfe e do skate para jovens mulheres, na cidade de Aracaju, pode ser vista como um recurso de reivindicação política do espaço público e de consolidação das agências acionadas por essas mulheres. O objetivo principal da pesquisa que culminou no presente artigo foi verificar como a ação coletiva se tornou um recurso essencial nesse sentido. Os métodos utilizados foram a observação direta de ambientes onde são praticados ambos os esportes e a realização de entrevistas semiestruturadas com skatistas e surfistas aracajuanas. Foi possível inferir que a vinculação ao skate, ao surfe e aos estilos de vida associados a eles, proporciona às mulheres que os praticam um sentido de agência diante das suas respectivas realidades, na medida em que são tensionadas normas de gênero pré-instituídas para a conduta das mulheres.
SURFACE BIOCOMPATIBILITY OF POROUS TITANIUM STRUCTURES WITH STEM CELLS
Authors: Trebuňová Marianna , Demeterová Jana , Bačenková Darina , Rajťuková Viktória , Živčák Jozef
Published: March 2024

Successful tissue regeneration requires scaffolds with mechanical stability or biodegradability, surface roughness, and porosity to provide a suitable microenvironment for sufficient cell interaction, migration, cell proliferation, and differentiation. This study features the design, fabrication, and biocompatibility testing of Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy scaffolds. Cylindrical titanium samples were tested, where each sample had a porous structure with pore sizes of 0.4 mm, 0.8 mm, and 1.0 mm respectively, which were seeded with chorionic-derived mesenchymal stem cells (CMSCs). The viability of the seeded CMSCs was evaluated using the MTT test. The aim of the study was to evaluate the cytotoxic effect and biocompatibility of porous titanium scaffolds. CMSCs showed the highest viability, adhesion to surfaces, and good proliferation on samples with 0.4 mm pore size, on the other hand, the pore size of 1.0 mm showed relatively lowest compatibility with cells and their proliferation. However, the viability of cells on all tested sizes of porous titanium scaffolds showed sufficient viability for future use in regenerative medicine.
Estructura poblacional de Mauritia flexuosa L. f. en la altillanura colombiana, Puerto Gaitán, Meta
Authors: Cano-Calderón Yinny Marcela , Rodriguez-Hurtado Juan David , Vásquez-Ramos Jesús Manuel , Quiñones Méndez Luz Mila , Castillo-Monroy Edgar Fernando , Serrano-Gómez Marlon , Torres-Mora Marco Aurelio
Published: March 2024

La palma Mauritia flexuosa, dominante en los morichales, ofrece diversos servicios ecosistémicos que benefician a las comunidades humanas y la vida silvestre. Sin embargo, los impactos antrópicos afectan su integridad y, dada su potencialidad y uso como producto no maderable, se hace necesario el conocimiento de aspectos poblacionales para su conservación. Por tanto, se evaluó la estructura poblacional de M. flexuosa en un morichal conservado de la altillanura colombiana. Para ello, se establecieron seis transectos (20 x 50 m) en los que se midieron todos los individuos de la especie. Como resultado, se registraron 434 individuos, clasificados en cuatro clases de tamaño: plántulas (4 %), juveniles I (25 %), juveniles II (3 %) y adultos (68 %). Estos individuos presentaron una distribución espacial agregada y densidades entre 630 y 32 palmas/ha. La población refleja una tendencia hacia una baja regeneración natural y una disminución de las clases juveniles a medida que disminuye el nivel de saturación del suelo y aumenta el cierre del dosel.
Modelos de altura dominante para Gmelina arborea Roxb. en Colombia
Authors: Collazos Julio Cesar , Barrios Trilleras Alonso , Diaz Sierra Daniel Ronaldo
Published: March 2024

El concepto de productividad forestal es biológicamente complejo. En masas forestales, se estima indirectamente mediante modelos de crecimiento en altura dominante e índice de sitio. El objetivo de este estudio fue desarrollar un modelo de altura dominante para Gmelina arborea con datos provenientes de 129 parcelas de monitoreo. Se generaron 9 ecuaciones dinámicas de altura dominante a partir de los modelos teóricos de Hossfeld y Bertalanffy-Richards, ajustadas individualmente y sujetas a validación cruzada. De los modelos evaluados, sobresalió el modelo polimórfico de Bertalanffy-Richards (parámetro c). Este modelo presentó una tendencia biológica realista, con curvas polimórficas y una única asíntota. El modelo seleccionado es una herramienta importante para el manejo de plantaciones forestales de G. arborea en zonas que presenten características de sitio semejantes a las de este estudio.
Regionaler Klimaschutz in Zeiten der Krise? Eine vergleichende Untersuchung von zehn Landkreisen in vier Bundesländern
Authors: Zeigermann Ulrike , Böcher Michael , Benz Julia
Published: March 2024

The amended German Climate Protection Act of 2021 is seen as an essential step towards fulfilment national climate protection targets and as a sign of mainstreaming climate protection in German politics. However, at the regional level, where many climate protection measures are implemented, there is a strong fragmentation in terms of priorities, policy instruments, actor constellations and resources. Moreover, the implementation of climate protection measures is under increasing pressure in the face of crises, such as the management of the Covid 19 pandemic or the energy crisis. We therefore ask: Under what conditions does regional climate protection succeed in times of crisis? Drawing on the regional governance concept and a comparative analysis of ten German counties, we explain differences in subnational climate governance. For our study, very different, but always rural districts were selected, as the importance of rural regions is often neglected in the study of local climate policy. Based on a qualitative document analysis in combination with observations and interviews with climate protection managers, we identify factors for the success of climate protection activities in times of multiple crises. We argue that structural factors are central to the success of regional climate protection measures in times of crisis, as they provide the framework conditions for the actions of actors.
LACANCI PSİKANALİZ VE QUEER TEORİ KESİŞİMSELLİĞİNDE BEDEN: MARİNA ABRAMOVİC'İN PERFORMANS SANATI VE "RHYTHM 0" ÖRNEĞİ
Authors: YORULMAZ Atakan
Published: March 2024

Performans sanatçısı Marina Abramovic, bedene yönelik kendisine has olan metoduyla sanat, kültürel çalışmalar ve psikoloji başta olmak üzere birçok disiplinin ilgi odağı olmuştur. “Body Art” akımının önemli bir temsilcisi olan Abramovic, birçok ülkede sergilediği sayısız performanslarıyla, hem kendisinin ve katılımcıların zihin ve beden sınırlarını zorlamış, beden üzerinde yeni bir deneyim alanının yaratılmasına olanak sağlamıştır. Lacancı psikanaliz ve queer teorinin kesişimselliğinde yer alan en önemli kavramlardan birisi olan “beden” kavramı, Abramovic metodu ile birlikte düşünüldüğünde, varoluş-beden-sınır birlikteliğinin deneyimsel ve kavramsal ilişkisi üzerine yeni çalışmaların yapılmasına imkân yaratmıştır. İnsan bedeninin kendisine yabancı olduğunu ve başkaları tarafından gösterenlere maruz bırakılarak organize edildiğini belirten Fransız psikanalist Jacques Lacan, bedenin ancak zevk (jouissance) üzerinden gösteren statüsünde cisimleştiğini ifade edip Simgesel alanda sahneleştirildiğini vurgulamıştır. Queer teorinin önde gelen kuramcılarından olan Judith Butler ve Sara Ahmed ise bedenin bir neden değil, sonuç olduğunu ve bedeni belirleyen durumların başında söylemsel inşa süreçleri ve gösterenler bulunduğunu belirtmiştir. Marina Abramovic’in 1974 yılında sergilediği “Rhythm 0” başlıklı performansı da hem Lacan’ın hem de Butler’ın beden hakkındaki düşünceleriyle ilgili önemli bir örnek teşkil etmektedir. 72 objenin kullanıldığı performansta, katılımcıların Abramovic’in bedeni üzerinde yaptıkları manipülatif eylemler, bedenin ister performans sanatı içerisinde ister gündelik hayatta bir sahneleme aracı olarak kullanılmasını ve beden-sınır ilişkisinin ihlalini açıkça göstermektir. Abramovic’in “Rhythm 0” performansına ilişkin kullandığı “Ben nesneyim, Bu süreçte sorumluluk tamamen bana ait” ifadeleri ise, beden-zihin-sınır ilişkilenmesinde öznel ve kolektif arzuların ve kurguların, performatif bir şekilde beden üzerinde yeni bir deneyim alanı yaratılmasına zemin hazırladığını göstermektedir. Bu çalışmada da, bedenin ve sınırın öznel ve kolektif kullanımı ile Marina Abramovic’in “Rhythm 0” performansı, Lacancı psikanaliz ve queer teori kesişimselliğinde yer alan beden, sınır ve arzu kavramlarıyla birlikte aktarılması ve tartışmaya açılması amaçlanmaktadır.
Sliding methods for dual fractional nonlinear divergence type parabolic equations and the Gibbons’ conjecture
Authors: Guo Yahong , Ma Lingwei , Zhang Zhenqiu
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we consider the general dual fractional parabolic problem∂tαu(x,t)+Lu(x,t)=f(t,u(x,t))inRn×R.${\partial }_{t}^{\alpha }u\left(x,t\right)+\mathcal{L}u\left(x,t\right)=f\left(t,u\left(x,t\right)\right) \text{in} {\mathbb{R}}^{n}{\times}\mathbb{R}.$We show that the bounded entire solutionusatisfying certain one-direction asymptotic assumptions must be monotone increasing and one-dimensional symmetric along that direction under an appropriate decreasing condition onf. Our result here actually solves a well-known problem known as Gibbons’ conjecture in the setting of the dual fractional parabolic equations. To overcome the difficulties caused by the nonlocal divergence type operatorL$\mathcal{L}$and the Marchaud time derivative∂tα${\partial }_{t}^{\alpha }$, we introduce several new ideas. First, we derive a general weighted average inequality corresponding to the nonlocal operatorL$\mathcal{L}$, which plays a fundamental bridging role in proving maximum principles in unbounded domains. Then we combine these two essential ingredients to carry out the sliding method to establish the Gibbons’ conjecture. It is worth noting that our results are novel even for a special case ofL$\mathcal{L}$, the fractional Laplacian (−Δ)s, and the approach developed in this paper will be adapted to a broad range of nonlocal parabolic equations involving more general Marchaud time derivatives and more general non-local elliptic operators.
Die Corona-Proteste in Österreich. Reflexionen zu den Nachwehen einer autoritären Revolte
Authors: Knasmüller Florian , Brunner Markus , Daniel Antje
Published: March 2024

Die Massenproteste gegen die Corona-Maßnahmen sind spätestens seit dem deklarierten Ende der Pandemie kaum mehr öffentlich sichtbar – und doch hallen sie nach. Durch das breitflächige Aufbegehren gegen die Schutzmaßnahmen und gegen staatliche Institutionen als solche sowie die allgegenwärtigen Verschwörungstheorien wurde schnell die Frage nach dem antidemokratischen Charakter der Proteste aufgeworfen. Wir charakterisieren in diesem Beitrag die Proteste in Österreich und diskutieren anhand von Protestsurveys und vor dem Hintergrund von aktuellen Beiträgen aus der Autoritarismusforschung ihr rechtsautoritäres Potential: Nicht zuletzt fragen wir, welche Lehren aus den Mobilisierungserfolgen für kommende Krise gezogen werden können.
Fragmente antirassistischer Geschichten in Deutschland 1918 bis 2021
Authors: Bababoutilabo Vincent
Published: March 2024

Der vorliegende Text wirft Schlaglichter auf Konjunkturen antirassistischer Kämpfe in Deutschland. Versammelt werden einzelne Fragmente von Bewegungsgeschichten im Kontext ihrer jeweiligen gesellschaftlichen Bedingungen. Beleuchtet wird das Verschwinden Schwarzer Organisierungen nach der Weimarer Republik sowie die Einflüsse von Kolonialismus und der völkischen Bewegung auf den Rassismus der damaligen Zeit. Die Bürgerrechtsbewegung der Sinti und Roma nach dem Nationalsozialismus wird ebenso thematisiert wie Migration und Antirassismus in der DDR. Abschließend werden Bleiberechtskämpfe der 1990er Jahre und das Archivprojekt „Versammeln antirassistischer Kämpfe“ nach dem Sommer der Migration 2015 vorgestellt.
Synthesis of hydrophobic biopolyesters from depolymerized Pinus radiata bark suberin
Authors: Quilter Helena C. , Risani Regis , Gallagher Suzanne , Robertson Michael , Thumm Armin , Thomas Hayden P. , Abbel Robert
Published: March 2024

The bark of Pinus radiata offers an underutilized source of high-value renewable chemicals such as extractable polyphenols and lipophilic compounds (waxes and suberin). Here, the depolymerization and extraction of suberin from P. radiata bark and its repolymerization to form novel polyesters are reported. Three different strategies were evaluated for repolymerization of the suberin monomers, with starting materials and products characterized using chemical and thermal analysis techniques. The inclusion of comonomer (1,12-dodecanediol) to provide stoichiometric balance improved the conversion, product yield, solubility and increased molecular weight. Enzymatic polymerization conditions gave the highest yield, while the highest molecular weight was achieved using titanium butoxide, demonstrating that polymerization conditions could be varied to target desired product properties. Products were hydrophobic, as shown by contact angles, ϴ ≥ 90° after 30 s. This work highlights opportunities for utilizing suberin to add value to a P. radiata bark biorefinery concept. Potential future applications include its use as a starting material for novel bio-based polymers that can serve as water-repellent surfaces and coatings, replacing established products derived from fossil resources.
On the dynamic thermal conductivity and diffusivity observed in heat pulse experiments
Authors: Fehér Anna , Kovács Róbert
Published: March 2024

Determining the thermal properties of materials with complex structures is still a major engineering challenge today. The well-known heat pulse experiment can be used to determine the thermal diffusivity by measuring the temperature history as a thermal response for a fast excitation. However, the evaluation of the measurements can be challenging, especially when dealing with non-homogeneous samples. The thermal behavior of such heterogeneous materials may exhibit a response including two-time scales. Therefore, the Fourier equation is not necessarily applicable. The simplest possible alternatives are the 2-temperature models the Guyer–Krumhansl and Jeffreys heat equations. In the present paper, we focus on the interpretation of the Jeffreys heat equation; studying its analytical solution, we present a fitting method for determining the unknown parameters. We also discuss its relation with the other two heat equations, and we offer an interpretation of how to characterize the transient response of heterogeneous materials.
The effect of misalignment on the coupling optics involving laser diode and single-mode triangular index fiber with an upside down tapered hyperbolic microlens on its tip
Authors: Maity Mithun , Majumdar Angshuman , Rakshit Ramkrishna , Gangopadhyay Sankar
Published: March 2024

This article contains theoretical investigation of the performance of the coupler comprising laser diode and mono-mode circular core triangular index fiber (TIF), which contains on its tip an upside down tapered hyperbolic microlens (UDTHM). Here, we take care of probable angular and transverse mismatches. In our derivation, we use the refractive index distribution in the tapering area, the ray equation, and the relation involving refraction by hyperbolic microlens. We report analytical formulation of coupling efficiencies in the presence of specified types of misalignments using a relevant ABCD refraction matrix for a UDTHM in the vertical plane. In the fields of lasers and fibers, we use Gaussian field distribution in our analysis. Our research is based on two widely employed wavelengths, 1.3 µm and 1.5 µm. In this study, we used three TIF with V numbers of 4.380, 3.511, and 1.924, respectively. Little computation is required to execute the prescribed formulations. This study surfaces the sensitivity of the coupler in presence of the aforementioned types of offsets. The found results will prove valuable to manufacturers working in the domain of UDTHM.
A multimodal translation analysis of online app advertisements: the case of Careem as a Taxi-sharing app in Iraq
Authors: Qadoury Abed Ahmed , Jarjees Wadia Sura
Published: March 2024

This research presents a multimodal translation analysis of 20 online advertisements (Ads) for Careem App from Arabic into English. It tries to examine what effects the multimodal elements have on the translation of these Ads; this can be done by shedding light on the similarities and differences of the verbal and visual contents on the one hand, and the consequent effects in rendering from Arabic into English, on the other. The analysis has shown that some mismatching was done by the translator in neglecting the message of the Ads by changing the linguistic content, without taking into consideration the relationship between the textual and visual contents. Examples of mismatching idioms, expressions, and collocations related to the Iraqi culture were found. Also, some Ads were identical in their visual elements, but the verbal content of the translated ones failed to convey the meaning of the source Ads due to cultural differences. The study has also found that the textual-visual relationship is not realized in most of the translated Ads on the word, and above word level. This, in turn, has a direct influence on the textual level; and has consequently led to instances of mismatching in rendering the whole meaning of the target message.
Enabling participation in joint drumming within organizational workshops
Authors: Karvonen Ulla , Nissi Riikka
Published: March 2024

Art-based interventions are increasingly employed in workplace settings for the purposes of organizational training and development. In this article, we examine the implementation of a workshop where hand drumming is used in two client organizations. Through the detailed analysis of the trainers’ actions, the article shows how the trainers use the combination of verbal and embodied means in order to instruct and encourage participation in joint drumming. In particular, the article demonstrates how the trainers’ instructive practice change across the instructional phases of the workshop and form a trajectory from pre-planned rhythm patterns to free collective improvisation in the pre-designed service product.
Development of Dy3+ doped lithium magnesium borate glass system for thermoluminescence based neutron dosimetry applications
Authors: Sen Meghnath , Shukla Rakesh , Mishra Raman K. , Pathak Nimai , Sathian Vilippalil , Chaudhury Probal
Published: March 2024

The manuscript reports the synthesis of Dy3+ incorporated lithium magnesium borate glass by melt quenching technique. FTIR study revealed the presence of both BO3 as well as tetrahedral BO4 units through their characteristic frequencies. Photoluminescence (PL) study of unirradiated samples confirmed the presence of Dy dopant in the ‘+3’ oxidation states from the characteristic emissions at 482, 578, 666 and 716 nm corresponding to 4F9/2 → 6H15/2, 4F9/2 → 6H13/2 and 4F9/2 → 6H11/2, 4F9/2 → 6H9/2 transitions, respectively. Thermal neutron and gamma irradiated PL emission and lifetime characteristics were discussed in details based on the different defect centers. Thermal neutron irradiated TL study showed that the material has a broad and single dosimetry glow peak at about 450 K which showed high fading due to low temperature peak. TL based neutron sensitivity of LMB: Dy3+ was found to be about 37.4 times less than that of standard TLD-100 (LiF: Mg, Ti) powder. The net TL response from about 3 to 83 mSv of neutron dose was found to be linear (Adj. R2 = 0.9994) which is one of the most desirable properties for dosimetry applications. In addition, the TL trap parameters were evaluated using both deconvolution of TL glow curve and peak shape method as suggested by Chen which were found to be matching with each other.
Cement-based composites with ZIF-8@TiO2-coated activated carbon fiber for efficient removal of formaldehyde
Authors: Liu Ruina , Mei Junshuai , Ren Lipei , Wu Jing , Zhang Chenggen , Li Zheng , Lu Yanhong , Wang Shujun
Published: March 2024

Formaldehyde is one of the most common indoor air pollutants that seriously damage human health. It is of significant importance to effectively remove indoor formaldehyde. In this work, a novel cement-based composite with ZIF-8@TiO2-coated activated carbon fibers (TiO2-ACFs) was prepared and shown to remove the indoor formaldehyde effectively. TiO2 was coated on ACFs via atomic layer deposition, and then ZIF-8 was grown on the surface of TiO2-ACFs. The ZIF-8@TiO2-ACFs were then mixed with cement slurry and thus formed a cement-based composite, which exhibited excellent formaldehyde removal performance. In particular, if assisted with UV light, the removal efficiency for formaldehyde by the cement-based composite showed an obvious increase.
Amidoxime functionalized mesoporous silica nanoparticles for pH-responsive delivery of anticancer drug
Authors: Santhamoorthy Madhappan , Suresh Ranganathan , Ramkumar Vanaraj , Guganathan Loganathan , Thirupathi Kokila , Periyasami Govindasami , Mohan Anandhu , Kim Seong-Cheol
Published: March 2024

In recent decades, nanomedicine has attracted much attention at the forefront of nanotechnology, gaining great expectations in the biomedical sectors. Among various nanomaterials, silica nanoparticles-based drug delivery is considered effective owing to their physicochemical stability and biological compatibility. Surface grafting and chemical conversion techniques were used to create an amphoteric functional ligand known as amidoxime ligand (AL) modified mesoporous silica material (MS-AL NPs). With this technique, amidoxime ligand groups can be introduced in greater concentration to the silica surface without compromising its structure. The active surface allows for surface functionalization and integration of medicinal substances. They are widely employed in the bio-medical industry for diagnostics, target administration of drugs, bio-sensing, cellular absorption, and so on. The function of the produced MS-AL NPs as a regulated drug delivery system was studied utilizing doxorubicin (Dox) as a model anticancer drug. Using the MCF-7 cell line, the biocompatibility and cellular uptake characteristics were investigated. Considering all factors, the MS-AL NPs may be used as pH-responsive drug carriers in cancer treatment applications.
Synergistic enhancement of electrochemical supercapacitor efficiency via Co3O4/GO composite electrode
Authors: Chinnuraj Indira Priyadharsini , Ganesan Marimuthu , Palanisamy Govindasamy , Anbarasan Ponnusamy Munusamy , Kim Ikhyun , Hasan Imran , Paramasivam Sivaprakash
Published: March 2024

In recent times, the convergence of metal oxide adorned graphene oxide (GO) composites has ignited substantial notice, driven by their potential to revolutionize electrochemical energy storage applications, particularly in the realm of supercapacitors. This surge in attention is attributable to the harmonious amalgamation of metal oxide nanoparticles with the versatile GO sheets, resulting in intricately nanostructured materials. The present investigation the synthesis of hybrid done by hydrothermal route, yielding nanostructured Co3O4/GO. Extensive electrochemical assessment reveals a pinnacle specific capacitance of 786.69 F/g at 1 mA/cm2 current density within a 3 mol L−1 KOH aqueous medium, accompanied by commendable rate-handling capabilities.
CONSTRUÇÃO DE UM SITE PARA ASSSISTÊNCIA A IDOSOS USANDO TECNOLOGIAS WEB
Authors: Da Costa Flávia Balbino , Costa Basílio José Ricardo , Dias da Silva Antônio José , Mourão Alves Antônio Alan
Published: March 2024

O envelhecimento da população é uma realidade cada vez mais evidente em todo o mundo. Com o aumento da expectativa de vida, surge a necessidade de atender às demandas dos idosos, especialmente quando se trata de suas tarefas diárias. Pensando nisso, o projeto “Amigo da melhor idade” tem por objetivo fornecer assistência e suporte a idosos em seu cotidiano, visando melhorar sua qualidade de vida e promover bem-estar. Através do uso de tecnologias web e da Internet foi possível implementar uma aplicação simples e pertinente, que possa auxiliar pessoas com idade avançada e mobilidade reduzida. Reconhecendo os desafios que os idosos enfrentam em realizar tarefas do dia a dia, devido a limitações físicas ou cognitivas, o trabalho busca oferecer soluções práticas e inovadoras.
A comparative analysis of vaccine lists, prices, and candidates, and the national immunization program between China and the United States
Authors: Luo Xingxian , Liu Jingwen , Du Xin , Yang Jingshu , Jiang Xiaomeng , Li Zhuangqi , Wu Yifan , Yang Yue
Published: March 2024

Vaccines have an essential role in preventing infectious diseases and reducing the burden of disease. The differences in vaccine lists and prices, and the National Immunization Program (NIP) and vaccine development between China and the United States (US) in conjunction with epidemiologic data on infectious diseases were systematically compared. The epidemiologic data of infectious diseases in 2019 were extracted from the China National Health Commission and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The vaccine list was identified from the China National Medical Products Administration and US Food and Drug Administration databases. Vaccine prices were obtained via the China government procurement platform and the US CDC. The NIP vaccines for China and the US were obtained from the China and US CDCs. Vaccine candidates investigated in 2015-2022 were identified from the China Clinical Trial Registry Platform and the US clinicaltrials.gov database. Differences in the incidence of infectious diseases between China and the US were detected with both countries facing a lack of available vaccines for prevention of many diseases. The number of listed vaccines and preventable diseases in China was 59 and 36, respectively, which was higher than the US (45 and 31, respectively). The median price of NIP vaccines in China was significantly lower than the price in the US (median: $3.8 vs. $20; P<0.001); however, there was no significant difference in the price of non-NIP vaccines (median: $68 vs. $86; P=0.498). Vaccines developed by local manufacturers were less expensive than imported products despite the absence of significant differences (median: $16 vs. $31; P=0.180). The number and types of NIP vaccines used to prevent infectious diseases in China were lower than the US. The majority of vaccine candidates in China were not novel compared to the US. Vaccines marketed in China for infectious diseases were comparable to the US. Our findings suggest that China should further expand NIP vaccines and incentive research and development on novel vaccines to improve accessibility based on infectious disease epidemiology.
Transnational DREAMer Narratives
Authors: Martínez Rafael A.
Published: March 2024

I trace transnational movement of the term DREAMer as it travels alongside deported and self-returned undocumented youths to Mexico, where the DREAMER narrative serves a neoliberal agenda. In the 2000s, the DREAMer narrative gained momentum as a popular trope in political and activist discourse across the United States, utilized as a tool to justify the inclusion of some (but not all) undocumented youths. As an UndocuScholar—a scholar researching and writing about the immigrant experience from an undocumented perspective—I join a growing number of current and former undocumented scholars who interrogate the DREAMer narrative for prioritizing a singular idea, based on neoliberal ideologies, that excludes the diverse experiences of immigrant communities. I use original testimonials captured in Los Otros Dreamers, edited by Jill Anderson, to document the experiences of deported and self-returned undocumented youths and application of the term DREAMer in Mexico. In so doing, I show how the unique routes and choices of immigrant communities are shaped by political discourse, notions of cultural belonging, and opportunities.
Demonstration Exam in the Modern System of Assessment Funds at the Pedagogical University
Authors:   Voronezh State Pedagogical University, Fetisov Alexander S. , Gorbunova Natalia V. ,   Crimean Federal University named after V. I. Vernadsky, Kudinova Yulia V. ,   Voronezh State Pedagogical University
Published: March 2024

Introduction. The problem of the study involves the need to find effective procedures for assessing the competence and level of readiness for professional activities of future specialists, their readiness to work in conditions of uncertainty. The aim of the study is to identify the possibilities of using the demonstration exam to improve the quality of implementation of educational programs of higher education and to ensure the effectiveness of the assessment procedure. Methods: analysis and synthesis of analytical data, dissertation researches, regulatory and legislative framework. Outcomes. It is revealed that one of the options for improving the assessment procedure in the structure of final certification in pedagogical education is a demonstration exam. The content of the tasks, regardless of the training profile of future teachers, is based on the provisions of professional standards, which determines their form – situational tasks, problem tasks or cases. Tasks can be based on the main subject type of activity, or include a general pedagogical situation and be included in the fund of assessment tools. The created funds of assessment tools, provided for by the requirements of exemplary educational programs, are a system for assessing the level of competence formation. Conclusion. The practice-oriented, objective and visual nature of the demo exam makes it possible to identify the level of formed competencies and assess possible gaps for further refinement of the graduateʼs professional qualities in the educational process. The authorʼs innovation consists in the use of a demonstration exam for internal independent assessment of the quality of education, external assessment of determining the level of training of teachers by the university, final and intermediate assessments.
Supra-Professional Competencies as a Basis for Training Future Employees of the Territorial Bodies of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia for Professional Activity
Authors:   Voronezh Institute of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, Sabirova Irina A. , Nekazakov Sergey S. ,   Voronezh Institute of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, Fedorov Vladislav V. ,   Voronezh Institute of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia
Published: March 2024

Introduction. The article examines the problem of formation of supra-professional competencies of cadets of educational organizations of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation as a strategic task aimed at reducing the process of adaptation of young specialists to the conditions and requirements of future professional activity. The purpose of the article is to determine the level of formation of abilities for self-development and self-education, critical thinking of cadets of educational organizations of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, as the basic basis of supra-professional competencies. Methodology. The methodological basis of the study was the systematic and aspect-based approaches to the problem under study, since the process of forming supra-professional competencies cannot be fully understood and comprehended without a comprehensive analysis. To achieve the research goal, the authors used theoretical (analysis, synthesis, generalization and systematization of scientific publications) and empirical (questionnaire) methods. Statistical data processing was carried out using generally accepted methods of mathematical statistics. The study was conducted with the involvement of cadets of 3–4 courses of educational organizations of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia (n = 156). The study uses the generally accepted method of M. P. Lukashevich (assessment of abilities for self-development and self-education), assessment of the level of critical thinking (method of determining the level of critical thinking by Yu. F. Gushchin, N. V. Smirnova). Results. It was revealed that the cadets have a low level of proficiency in analysis and evaluation skills when solving a problem against the background of low indicators of logic thinking. Conclusion. The opinion is expressed that the traditional organization of the educational process of future employees of the territorial bodies of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, in some cases, does not ensure the formation of supra-professional competencies in the educational space of the university. The importance of developing a model and technology for organizing and managing the process of independent work of cadets of educational organizations of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, based on the development and application of a digital resource, is expressed.