bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impacts Of Agricultural Machine Renting on Cereal Crop Productivity and Commercialization in West Gojjam Zone, Ethiopia
Authors: Tilahun Selam , Kuma Berhanu , Bedemo Amsalu
Published: July 2024

This study investigated the impacts of agricultural machine renting on cereal crop productivity and commercialization. The study used cross-sectional data collected from 192 agricultural machine users and 208 non-users from West Gojjam zone, Northern Ethiopia. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and econometric models. The econometric model includes Trans log production function, Endogenous switch regression and propensity score matching. The result of descriptive statistics showed that the total factor productivity index of the cereal crop was 2.89, and the mean commercialization index for the sample households was .0.506. The results of Trans log production function model showed an average level of Technical Efficiency of 80.6%. The result of endogenous switching regression and propensity score matching models showed that agricultural machine renting had a positive and significant impact on the selected outcome variables, total factor productivity, technical efficiency and output commercialization index. Based on the findings, the study suggests that the government and stakeholders should focus on strengthening the provision of formal and informal education, development of infrastructures, extension service, to promote agricultural machine renting service, and enhance cereal crops productivity and commercialization.
Digital technologies and the teaching of science process skills in early childhood development classrooms of Zimbabwe
Authors: Pakombwele Agnes , Tsakeni Maria
Published: July 2024

The Fourth Industrial Revolution has prompted the use of digital technologies in the field of education. The technology offers opportunities that facilitate blended, on-line and mobile learning. In 2015, Zimbabwe introduced a competency –based curriculum for primary and secondary education which emphasizes on continuous development of 21st competencies from early childhood. Information and communication technology (ICT) literacy, as one of the 21st century skills emphasises that the use of digital technologies improves the quality of teaching and learning, efficacy and accessibility from early childhood development. In this context, the study sought to interrogate the current teachers’ practices on the implementation of digital technologies in ECD (Early Childhood Development) classrooms. The study adopted an interpretive paradigm and a multiple case study design involving three schools from three purposively selected ECD teachers. Data was gathered through semi structured interviews, observations and analysis of teacher artifacts. Though teachers were facing various challenges in implementing digital technologies, the approach is beneficial to young learners as future citizens to function effectively in digital environments. Schools require ECD educators to transition to multiple ways of using digital technologies to teach young learners through digital materials. The paper also suggests some implications and recommendations for early education practitioners, policy makers and researchers who are interested in integrating digital technology into early years.
Clinical Significance of Cycle Threshold Value of Nasopharyngeal COVID-19 PCR on Disease Outcome: An Egyptian Study
Authors: Mohammad Mai H. S. , Anani Maha M. , Amer Shaimaa A.A.M. , Hassan Adel A. , Elsamahy Mohamed A. , Attya Heba , Attia Fadia M.
Published: July 2024

Objectives: To study the correlation between the cycle threshold (CT) of reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR) test in confirmed Covid-19 patients and the clinical course outcomes of disease.
Study design: This is a retrospective cross sectional comparative study that started From August -2021 to – January 2022.
Methods: 1350 patients with COVID-19 infection subjected to real time PCR which compared according to their status (negative, weak positive and positive) regarding risk factors and clinical outcomes.
Results: Of the first 1530 patients presented to Suez Canal University isolation hospital, 224 (14.6%) died, 1275 (83.3%) were admitted to hospital and were improved, and 21(1.37%) were sent for home isolation. The most common presenting symptoms were fever (1054/1530), cough (1057/1530), and dyspnea (1073/1530). The most common baseline comorbidities included hypertension 482(31.5%), diabetes 406(26.5%), ischemic heart disease 103 (6.7%), and Cardiovascular stroke CVS 81(5.3).
Conclusion: Data suggest that lower Ct values may be associated with worse outcomes and that Ct values may be useful in predicting the clinical course and prognosis of patients with Covid-19; however, further studies are warranted to confirm its clinical value.
What is missing from the omnichannel shopping experience? Probing the drivers of loyalty in the food retail sector.
Authors: Moatshe Palesa , Tsvakirai Chiedza , Tshehla Makgopa
Published: July 2024

The adoption of the omnichannel marketing model has introduced greater options for businesses for both online and in-store interaction with customers. Previous research has shown that the convenience of online marketing has facilitated many repeat purchases, but a good in-store experience remains a key determinant of customer loyalty. This study aimed to investigate the elements of the customer experience in physical shopping that motivate customer loyalty. Using qualitative analysis, the study found consumers’ positive perceptions of the quality of service delivered had positive associations with affective motivations for loyalty, while their perceptions of the fairness of goods’ pricing appealed to cognitive motivations for loyalty. Consumers’ positive perceptions about the quality of products purchased nurtured both affective and cognitive motivations for loyalty. Other results indicated that gains in affective motivations could be eroded by shortcomings in delivering cognitive motivations. The lack of consistency in reinforcing cognitive motivations was a key missing component in customers’ experience. The study contributes to literature by providing pointers for the marketing strategies that link food retailers’ efforts to the unique motivations for loyalty.
Epithermal neutron activation dosimetry - (n,γ) reactions under boron-based filters
Authors: Radulović Vladimir , Thiollay Nicolas , Carcreff Hubert , Pungerčič Anže , Ambrožič Klemen , Destouches Christophe , Trkov Andrej
Published: July 2024

Neutron activation dosimetry is the primary method for the determination of the neutron flux or fluence, and in general, it is sensitive to the thermal and resonance energy ranges (radiative capture reactions - (n,g) reactions) and the fast energy range (threshold reactions). However, there are very few nuclear reactions which are sensitive specifically to neutrons in the intermediate - epithermal - energy region. This energy region, along with the fast energy range, will become particularly important in the development and deployment of new reactor technologies (Generation IV reactors and Small Modular Reactors - SMRs), which are currently being championed as technologies enabling a meaningful contribution to decarbonization and the fight against climate change, as well as nuclear fusion. The epithermal neutron energy range is also of particular importance for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT), a neutron-based cancer therapy, particularly effective for the treatment of head and neck cancer, malignant meningioma, melanoma and hepatocellular carcinoma. This work investigates and demonstrates the applicability of a particular set of (n,g) reactions in conjunction with boron-based neutron filters to achieve sensitivity in the epithermal energy region, and discusses avenues for future research in this context.
Perceive Stress and Betel Quid Dependence Associated with Reasons for Betel Quid Chewing: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Chiu Su-Erh , Hsu Mei-Hui , Kang Chung-Jan , Chen Shu-Ching
Published: July 2024

Aims: Social culture concerns and BQ dependence maybe the potential reasons for BQ chewing. This study’s purpose was to identify the correlates of reasons for betel quid (BQ) chewing.
Methods: We adopted a mixed-methodsdesign design. The study was conducted between October 2021 and August 2023 at a medical center of northern Taiwan. The Reasons for Betel-Quid Chewing Scale, Numeric Rating Scale, and Betel Quid Dependence Scalewere used to quantitatively assess reasons for betel quid chewing, stress, and betel quid dependence, respectively. Semi-structured questions were used to interview for qualitative data.
Results: The most common reasons for betel quid chewing were stimulation, reinforcement, and social/cultural factors. Chewers who reported more pressure to chew were more likely to be younger, have less educational level, be employed, have greater stress, and have more betel quid dependence. Content analysis of qualitative data showed three themes: physical and psychological demands, peer pressure, and perceived greater effectiveness.
Conclusion: Employment was the factor most commonly associated with reasons for betel quid chewing and with each construct. Study findings can help healthcare professionals understand reasons for betel quid chewing, thereby helping them educate chewers to cope with withdrawal symptoms and successfully quit.
Gamma Radiation Assisted Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles-Loaded (Polyacrylamide/Chitosan) Hydrogel Nanocomposites and their Using as Antifungal against Candida albicans and Anti-Cancer Modulator
Authors: Khalil Salwa A. , Awadallah-F Ahmed , Khaffaga Mervat R. , Fathy Rasha Mohammad , Kodous Ahmad S.
Published: July 2024

Silver nanoparticles-loaded hydrogel nanocomposites are employed for medicinal and pharmaceutical applications.Hydrogel nanocomposites were synthesized from acrylamide (Am), chitosan (CS) and AgNO3 using gamma irradiation. Different parameters were exploited in synthesis of silver nanoparticles-laoded hydrogel nanocomposites of (PAm/CS)-AgNPs such as effect of irradiation dose and effect of CS concentration. Diverse techniques were used to characterize hydrogel nanocomposites; Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) and scanning electron microscopy SEM. Results confirmed the formation of silver nanoparticles-loaded hydrogel nanocomposites of (PAm/CS)-AgNPs. Antifungal activity of (PAm/CS)-AgNPs hydrogel nanocomposites on viability of C. albicans was assessed. Results showed the efficient microbial inhibition activity of treatment against C. albicans comparable to control. Also, (PAm/CS)-AgNPs hydrogel nanocomposite against cervical cancer HeLa cell line was studied. Cytotoxicity of (PAm/CS)-AgNPs hydrogel nanocomposites on prior cancer cell line led to the prohibition of the cell growth evalauted by the MTT test. The HeLa cancer cell is traeted by (PAm/CS)-AgNPs for 48h showed a possible apoptotic activity by noticeable up-regulation of p53 gene expression. In addition, anticancer activity was examined by down-regulation of platelet-based growth paramater receptor beta (PDGFR-β), Bcl2, Cathepsine, and MMP-2 gene expression.
Evaluating the Clinical Utility of Cervical Cultures in Postpartum Endometritis Management
Authors: Meller Nir , Fluss Ronen , Amit Sharon
Published: July 2024

Purpose
To evaluate the utility of cervical cultures in the diagnosis and management of postpartum endometritis.
Methods
A retrospective study was conducted on 1069 cervical cultures collected from postpartum women with suspected endometritis between 2011 and 2021. Patient demographics, obstetric history, clinical parameters, and culture results were analyzed. Microorganisms were categorized into five groups based on species and virulence. Statistical analysis was performed to identify associations between risk factors, pathogens, and disease severity.
Results
The positivity rate for distinct microorganisms in cervical cultures was 33.1%. Escherichia coli (10.8%) and Group B Streptococcus (7.5%) were the most common isolates. Prolonged labor duration and prolonged rupture of membranes were associated with Enterobacterales infections. Elevated white blood cell count was linked to Enterobacterales and Beta-hemolytic Streptococci, whilst the former were also associated with higher rate of postpartum clinic visit. No significant differences in disease severity were found between other microorganism groups.
Conclusion
The study suggests that while cervical cultures can identify potential pathogens in postpartum endometritis, their clinical utility is questionable due to the polymicrobial nature of the disease and the isolation of commensal microorganisms. The lack of significant differences in disease severity across various microorganism groups raises questions regarding the contribution of distinct bacterial identification in endometritis management.
Lipid-based nanoparticles mimicking natural killer cells for triple- negative breast cancer therapy
Authors: Won Eun-Jeong , Lee Myungchul , Lee Eui-Kyung , Baek Seung-Hoon , Yoon Tae-Jong
Published: July 2024

Introduction:
Immunotherapy combined with chemicals and genetic engineering tools is emerging as a promising strategy to treat triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), which is more aggressive with poorer progress than other breast cancer subtypes. In this study, lipid-based nanoparticles (LNPs) possessed an NK cell-like function that could deliver tumor-specific therapeutics and regulate the tumor immune microenvironment.
Method
Our LNP mimicking NK cells consists of three characteristics: i) they are hydrophilic therapeutic substances so that genes can be included inside of LNP; ii) components that make up LNP themselves can exhibit therapeutic effects; and iii) specific membrane protein components of NK cells can be fabricated to the surface of LNP. These particles have both target-based delivery of HIC1 plasmid DNA and immune cell regulation functions.
Results
The drug delivery efficiency of LNP was maximized through the fusion of NK cell membrane protein, which can selectively target TNBC. We demonstrated that combining HIC1 restorations with C18-ceramide delivery can synergistically improve the treatment effect of TNBC. We confirmed that LNPs mimicking NK cells can activate immune cells and induce proinflammatory cytokines, which are known to influence antitumor immunity.
Conclusion
Delivered therapeutic genes can inhibit metastasis of TNBC and then induce apoptotic cell death while targeting macrophages to promote cytokine release. The anti-cancer effect is expected to apply to treating various difficult-to-treat cancers by LNP mimicking NK cells, which can simultaneously deliver therapeutic chemicals and genes.
Teleoperation in Robot-assisted MIS with Adaptive RCM via Admittance Control
Authors: Nasiri Ehsan , Sowrirajan Srikarran , Wang Long
Published: July 2024

This paper presents the development and assessment of a teleoperation framework for robot-assistedminimally invasive surgery (MIS). The framework leverages our novel integration of an adaptive remotecenter of motion (RCM) using admittance control. This framework operates within a redundancyresolution method specifically designed for the RCM constraint. We introduce a compact, low-cost,and modular custom-designed instrument module (IM) that ensures integration with the manipulator,featuring a force/torque sensor, a surgical instrument, and an actuation unit for driving the surgicalinstrument. The paper details the complete teleoperation framework, including the telemanipulationtrajectory mapping, kinematic modelling, control strategy, and the integrated admittance controller.Finally, the system’s capability to perform various surgical tasks was demonstrated, including passinga thread through the rings, picking and placing objects, and trajectory tracking.
Collaborative orchestration of BH3-only proteins governs Bak/Bax-dependent hepatocyte apoptosis under antiapoptotic protein-deficiency in mice
Authors: Takehara Tetsuo , Kudo Shinnosuke , Hikita Hayato , Saito Yoshinobu , Murai Kazuhiro , Kodama Takahiro , Tatsumi Tomohide
Published: July 2024

The fine-tuned balance between anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins, such as Bcl-xL and Mcl-1, and pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins, like Bak and Bax, is crucial for maintaining hepatocyte integrity. BH3-only proteins, including Bid, Bim, Puma, Noxa, Bad, Bik, Bmf and Hrk, serve as apoptosis sensors activating Bak and Bax. We previously reported that BH3-only proteins Bid and Bim contribute to hepatocyte apoptosis through Bak/Bax activation in the absence of antiapoptotic proteins, Bcl-xL and/or Mcl-1. However, the comprehensive involvement of all eight BH3-only proteins maintaining hepatocyte integrity in healthy livers remains unclear. Puma disruption suppressed hepatocyte apoptosis in hepatocyte-specific Bcl-xL or Mcl-1 knockout (Bcl-xLΔHep/ΔHep or Mcl-1ΔHep/ΔHep) mice. Disruption of Bid and Bim partially prevented lethality in Mcl-1ΔHep/+ Bcl-xLΔHep/ΔHep mice, although severe hepatocyte apoptosis persisted, which was suppressed by additional Puma disruption. However, hepatocyte apoptosis was still strongly induced compared to that in Mcl-1ΔHep/+ Bcl-xLΔHep/ΔHep BaxΔHep/ΔHep Bak−/− mice. Triple disruption of Bid, Bim and Puma did not prevent induction of hepatocyte apoptosis in tamoxifen-induced Mcl-1iΔHep/iΔHep Bcl-xLiΔHep/iΔHep mice. Primary hepatocytes, isolated from Mcl-1fl/fl Bcl-xLfl/fl Bid−/− Bim−/− Puma−/− mice and immortalized, underwent apoptosis with doxycycline-dependent Cre recombination. Among the remaining five BH3-only proteins, Bik and Hrk were not expressed in this cell line, and Noxa knockdown, but not Bad or Bmf knockdown, reduced apoptosis. Noxa disruption alleviated hepatocyte apoptosis in Mcl-1ΔHep/ΔHep mice and tamoxifen-induced Mcl-1iΔHep/iΔHep Bcl-xLiΔHep/iΔHep Bid−/− Bim−/− Puma−/− mice, prolonging survival. Apoptosis persisted in immortalized primary hepatocytes isolated from Mcl-1fl/fl Bcl-xLfl/fl Bid−/− Bim−/− Puma−/− Noxa−/− mice where doxycycline-dependent Cre recombination was induced, but was completely suppressed by Bak/Bax knockdown, while Bad or Bmf knockdown had no effect. In conclusion, among the eight BH3-only proteins, Puma and Noxa, alongside Bid and Bim, contributed to sustained Bak/Bax-dependent hepatocyte apoptosis in the absence of Mcl-1 and Bcl-xL, elucidating the orchestration of Bcl-2 family proteins in healthy livers.
Factors Affecting Consumers’ Preference for Private Electric Vehicles in Bangladesh: Policy Implications for Adoption
Authors: Nath Tapan Kumar , Nath Shibajee , Paul Alak , Baul Trait Kumar
Published: July 2024

In order to reduce emissions from the transport sector, the government of Bangladesh aims to accelerate the pace of electric vehicles (EVs) adoption. However, research on consumer perceptions of EVs in the country is limited. This study examined the factors that encourage or discourage consumers from adopting private EVs. A pre-tested structured questionnaire was distributed across the country employing purposive sampling, and 427 responses were obtained. Descriptive statistics were computed, and binary regressions were performed to understand the relationship between respondents' characteristics, factors, and adoption of EVs. For more than 80% of respondents, EVs are energy efficient, environmentally friendly, reduce the usage of fossil fuels, stylish, and elegant. About 90% of respondents cited several discouraging factors, including a lack of sufficient service stations and mechanics, a limited driving range, a higher purchase price, and a low resale value. Approximately 60% of respondents are inclined to buy an EV as their next car. Nevertheless, the probability of them embracing an EV was significantly associated with a higher income and a more comprehensive understanding of EVs. These findings could potentially support pertinent authorities in their efforts to accelerate the adoption of EVs. To be more precise, authorities give precedence to the encouragement of EVs purchase through the provision of incentives such as road tax and registration fee reductions. Furthermore, it is essential that authorities allocate resources towards the development of EV-friendly infrastructure, including charging and service stations, while concurrently augmenting public consciousness and understanding of EVs.
Transforming a CO2 Adsorbent to a RWGS Catalyst by Controlling MgO Defects with Ce Single Atoms
Authors: Centi Gabriele , Li Shiyan , Li Na , Qin Tian , Guo Zhanglong , Lv Yuan , Zhang Riguang , Liu Xi , Chen Liwei , Perathoner Siglinda , Liu Yuefeng
Published: July 2024

The reverse water gas shift reaction (RWGS) is an important industrial reaction in the value chain to convert CO2 to enable carbon circularity. MgO is a typical absorbent of CO2 that forms stable surface carbonates. We demonstrate that highly defective MgO nanocrystals (c.a. 20 nanometers) are instead an active catalyst for RWGS. Their performances can be significantly enhanced by adding atomically dispersed Ce atoms anchored at these defective MgO sites. Extensive mechanistic studies and theoretical modelling prove that CO2 catalytic conversion depends on the MgO defective sites. Ce mainly promotes their number. Even if their presence influences the rate-limiting step, the activation energy remains unchanged, with the activity increase related to the pre-exponential factor. The Ce-doped MgO nanocrystal reached the RWGS equilibrium conversion at 600°C with CO product selectivity > 99%, maintained for over 850 hours on stream. The comparison with state-of-the-art evidence of their superior performances.
Local Community Initiatives in Education for Sustainable Development: Mexican Experience
Authors: Kirillov Pavel N. ,   Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo, Koryakina Natalia I. , Ermakov Dmitry S. ,   Moscow City University,   Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia
Published: July 2024

The article shows the importance of local community initiatives in education for sustainable development in the United Mexican States. Mexico hosts a rich biodiversity but at the same time there exists a number of serious threats to its conservation (low income, poaching etc). A number of examples is given to demonstrate the role of local communities in strengthening sustainability of natural ecosystems along with social (raising quality of education) and economic effects (intensification of eco-tourism, revitalization of traditional crafts and agricultural practices) which overall aligns with the principles of sustainable development. The cases discussed are projects that have both conservation and education components: maintaining a population of American crocodiles (the town of La Manzanilla, Jalisco), community cooperation around the “Cave of the Hanging Snakes” (Kantemo, Quintana Roo). Another characteristic of those projects is the attention to study and popularization of traditional sustainable practices: meliponary, milpa (combined cultivation of corn, beans, and pumpkins), preservation of agricultural biodiversity and other. The article also presents the authors’ project to develop an international school in the immediate vicinity of Tamarindo private nature reserve where education for sustainable development will be one of the key features of the curriculum. The research is based on a comparative pedagogical approach that allows to analyze the tendencies in development of educational practices in specific countries, identify general trends and national contexts with reference to social and economic factors, as well as to identify the limitations of “transplanting” of foreign practices into the national ground.
International harmonization of professional education development in Russia and China
Authors: Liu Zhiyan Liu Zhiyan ,   Jilin Pedagogical University, Dugarova Dulma Ts. , Oidopova Arjuna M. ,   Institute for the Development of Education of the TransBaikal Territory,   Transbaikal State University
Published: July 2024

In the conditions of the modern world development, the problem of studying the international harmonization of the development of vocational education becomes relevant. The institutional analysis of the international harmonization of vocational and pedagogical education shows the changed requirements for the professional training of specialists in the context of globalization and the format of international integration of labor markets under construction. International harmonization of vocational education in the context of changed requirements for the performance of specific labor actions is carried out in accordance with the new socio-economic regulators in the training of professional personnel. The material in the work is presented by the scientific and pedagogical works of Chinese and Russian researchers on the problem of research. Comparative analysis and historical-genetic method are used as methods revealing the problem of international harmonization of vocational education in Russia and China. On the basis of comparative studies on the international harmonization of the vocational education development, the potential opportunities for the harmonization of vocational education in cross-border regions are determined. Within the framework of the historical-genetic method, the prerequisites that are conditioned by the existing state-social system are revealed. As a part of the popularization of the educational ideology of “lifelong learning”, integration into vocational pedagogical education and the development of professional pedagogical personnel is becoming one of the leading goals of education reform in many countries of the world. Through the use of professional communication between the teaching staff of both countries, it is possible to improve the quality of educational services provided, the formation of professional skills of university graduates and increase the rating of educational institutions of the Russian Federation and China on the international market. Further development and improvement of the international harmonization of professional and pedagogical education in Russia and China is the subject to further in-depth research in theory and practice in this area, and also requires solving existing problems.
Factors influencing consumers’ willingness to pay more for green convenience goods in Indonesia
Authors: Farida Oesman Ida , Sari Diana , Helmi Arief , Komaladewi Rita
Published: July 2024

Adopting a green lifestyle by living a healthy life has the consequence of purchasing more expensive green products. This study aimed to explore the factors affecting consumers’ willingness to pay more for green convenience products. This willingness can be influenced by consumers’ attitudes, green lifestyles, and purchase intention. The respondents were 225 individuals who had purchased green products from bulk stores in Bandung and Jakarta. The data were obtained through online surveys, specifically distributing G-form. The majority of respondents are women at 78.7% and 39.1% were aged between 26-35 years. Subsequently, the samples were collected using cluster random sampling, which included selecting groups or areas to be sampled, and the data were processed using SEM-LISREL. The results showed that green lifestyles influenced willingness to pay more for convenience goods, while attitudes were only indirectly influenced. The intention to make a purchase was a significant predictor of how much consumers were willing to pay more. The majority of respondents are willing to pay around 10-25% more for green products. Simultaneously, attitudes and green lifestyles had a significant influence, with purchase intention as a mediator. These results can be used to develop green convenience product marketing strategies at bulk stores in Indonesia by providing confidence in product attributes that encourage consumers to pay a premium price.
Dynamics of proton tunneling in Hydrogen-Bonded systems through Green's function formalism
Authors: Nanni Luca
Published: July 2024

This study proposes a new theoretical model based on Green's function formalism for studying proton tunneling via hydrogen bonding. This approach allows calculating the tunneling probability and the tunneling energy that proton transfer occurs along a given path inferred a priori. The method is extended to multiple protons tunneling, characterizing the behaviour of some biological molecules. Specifically, the cases of the proton transfer in the Fujicurin A molecule and the double proton tunneling in the Guanine-Cytosine base-pair are investigated. The new approach is an alternative to those present in the literature. It allows straightforwardly predicting the mechanisms of intramolecular and intermolecular proton transfers involving the rearrangement of conjugated electrons.
Edge-based graph centrality measures with spatial analytics to support vulnerability assessment and maintenance planning in sewer networks
Authors: Okwori Emmanuel Jenkeri , Viklander Maria , Hedström Annelie
Published: July 2024

In this study, the spatial relationship between critical pipes identified using edge-based centrality measures and pipes with higher failure probability-based on selected vulnerability indicators were analysed in sanitary sewer networks. By analysing two sub-networks, one residential and the other a central network, significant spatial associations between pipes with high centrality values and those exhibiting adverse conditions (poor CCTV grades, previous blockages, and low self-cleaning capabilities) were identified. Path-based centrality measures, particularly edge betweenness and K-path edge centrality were less influenced by weights when identifying critical pipes. In contrast, non-path-based measures like nearest neighbour edge centrality could identify more localised critical pipes within the sewer networks investigated. The results showed that the spatial patterns between critical pipes and pipes in adverse conditions were not random and could support proactive maintenance planning and the development of more resilient networks. Additionally, the impact of network structure, connectivity, and differences in the composition of pipe attributes could contribute to variations in the strength of observable spatial associations.
Procesos educomunicativos para la ejecución de actividades de vinculación con la sociedad en tiempos de pandemia
Authors: Vásconez Merino Galo Xavier , Murillo Naranjo Myriam , Bravo Mancero Julio , Erazo Rodríguez Miriam
Published: July 2024

La llegada de la pandemia de COVID-19 supuso la modificación del funcionamiento tradicional de las unidades educativas básicas y universidades alrededor del mundo. El Ecuador también se vio inmerso en la elaboración de nuevas estrategias pedagógicas volcadas hacia lo virtual, que debieron implementarse de inmediato para poder continuar con el desempeño formativo, lo que implicó una adaptación sobre la marcha de todas estas recientes acciones. Dentro de ello, la vinculación con la sociedad, que es una labor obligatoria que los estudiantes universitarios deben cumplir de manera directa con sectores vulnerables, también tuvo su afectación. La carrera de Comunicación de la Universidad Nacional de Chimborazo, dentro de las diligencias de dicha actividad, posee un proyecto titulado «Ilustración de leyendas riobambeñas como estrategia para el fortalecimiento de la identidad en la población infantil del cantón Riobamba», que debió suplir la presencialidad con propuestas de procesos educomunicativos virtuales. En la presente investigación se exponen los resultados de estas tareas, gestionadas en productos comunicacionales que tuvieron la finalidad de transmitir leyendas y tradiciones culturales de la ciudad de Riobamba y que fueron expuestos en talleres virtuales orientados a unidades educativas fiscales entre abril y agosto de 2021, sobre estrategias para poder educar y comunicar.
El aprendizaje significativo de la competencia intercultural a partir de la pedagogía para el encuentro
Authors: Leiva Miranda Paula Andrea , Rambao Almanza María Clara , González Arismendi Samuel
Published: July 2024

La aceptación de las diferentes culturas que coexisten dentro un aula de clases es necesaria para el desarrollo de una buena convivencia escolar, lo cual impacta directamente en el aprendizaje de los estudiantes. A partir de esta premisa, se realizó una investigación cualitativa, tipo estudio de caso, en el Liceo León de Greiff del municipio de Cereté (Córdoba), cuya muestra significativa fue de 6 docentes y 6 estudiantes de octavo Alpha, con la intención de comprender el aprendizaje significativo de la competencia intercultural según la pedagogía para el encuentro. En cuanto a las técnicas de recolección, se utilizaron la entrevista semiestructurada, grupos de discusión y observación participante, las cuales permitieron consolidar un abordaje metodológico transversal para adoptar una perspectiva holística sobre la forma de enseñar la interculturalidad. Esto dio como resultado una transformación en las prácticas educativas de los educadores, quienes manifestaron que la aceptación de la interculturalidad facilita la comprensión de la cosmovisión del otro, fortalece las relaciones interpersonales y contribuye al reconocimiento de las identidades culturales.
Atuação Institucional do Desenvolvimento do Turismo Cinematográfico
Authors: De Melo Grasiela , Fernandes Carvalho de Melo Priscila , Körössy Nathália , Antônio dos Anjos Francisco
Published: July 2024

Produções audiovisuais como filmes, séries, novelas, etc. atuam como ferramenta de divulgação da imagem de destinos e canalizador de potenciais turistas que desejam conhecer as locações e atrativos turísticos que foram utilizadas nas gravações, fazendo emergir o turismo cinematográfico. A região sul do Brasil, vem se destacando por ser palco para produções audiovisuais a nível nacional, no entanto, não há estudos que englobem quais desses destinos turísticos desenvolvem o turismo cinematográfico e como essa atividade é administrada pelas OGD. Desta forma, este artigo tem como objetivo analisar o desenvolvimento do turismo cinematográfico nos destinos que serviram de locação para produções audiovisuais nacionais na região sul do Brasil para então compreender se esta atividade movimenta a economia local. Os procedimentos metodológicos envolvem a pesquisa exploratória e descritiva contemplando a pesquisa bibliográfica com abordagem qualitativa. Como instrumento de coleta de dados foi adotado a entrevista semiestruturada com gestores do turismo. Para operacionalizar os dados coletados, foram adotadas as etapas propostas por Melo (2021) e Melo e Körössy (2022) que identifica quais estratégias e ações devem ser desempenhadas pelos destinos para desenvolver o turismo cinematográfico. Como resultado, identificou-se que mesmo sendo cenário para produções audiovisuais, as cidades pesquisadas tem outros segmentos turísticos como prioridade de sustentabilidade local. Sendo assim, para o desenvolvimento do turismo cinematográfico é essencial que as OGD, setor audiovisual, trade turístico e população local tragam o tema para o centro dos debates e trabalhem em sinergia para beneficiar todos os envolvidos.
Prospects for Legal Regulation of Quantum Communication
Authors: Minbaleev A. , Zenin S. , Evsikov K.
Published: July 2024

The leading countries across the world have entered the race to develop quantum technologies that will enable them to ensure their continued economic prosperity. Among these technologies, a special place is occupied by quantum communication, which is designed to ensure information security in an era where a quantum computer is capable of compromising a number of cryptography algorithms. In this article, this new digital technology includes quantum key distribution and encryption methods that are cryptographically resistant to a quantum computer. The study does not consider the regulation of the quantum communication sub-technology, the so-called “quantum internet,” due to the technical limitations of the existing equipment. The authors note that their predictions about the cryptographic strength of encryption algorithms are based solely on modern knowledge about the capabilities of quantum computing and do not take into account its hidden potential, for example, in terms of cryptanalysis information systems based on a machine learning model generated by a quantum computer. Currently, the only data protection system that is not subject to quantum threats is the technology of quantum key distribution. In today’s information and digital age, information security systems are an important element of critical infrastructure. Given the importance of these technologies, different states use different methods to regulate this field. This article puts forward and substantiates the hypothesis that the implementation of a combination of regulatory legal acts could have a greater positive impact on the development of quantum communication and ensure an acceptable level of information security in the post-quantum era. The analysis showed that a significant number of states and interstate associations are conducting research in this area, relying only on investment growth. This strategy has prevented any country from achieving the competencies of the People’s Republic of China. The authors also analyzed the methods of legal support used by China, Russia, and other countries in the field of quantum communication, which made it possible to identify a model of legal regulation of quantum communication that stimulates this technology’s development.
Russian Public Assembly Law: Constitutional Evolution 1993–2023
Authors: Salenko A.
Published: July 2024

The current Public Assembly Law in the Russian Federation, which regulates the implementation of the constitutional right to freedom of peaceful assembly in Russia, has been developed and formed over the course of the past three decades, following the ratification of the Russian Constitution in 1993. The Public Assembly Law can be described as an important institute of public law as well as a sub-branch of the constitutional law of Russia, which combines constitutional provisions, relevant norms of the federal and regional laws and case law of the Russian Constitutional Court regarding the implementation of the Freedom of Peaceful Assembly. The modern Public Assembly Law has high importance for the development of a democratic society and for the rule of law. The author investigates the constitutional adjudication of the Russian Constitutional Court from 1993–2023, focusing in particular on its eleven judgments concerning the implementation of Article 31 of the Russian Constitution, which defines the constitutional standards of the Freedom of Peaceful Assembly. The author also examines several prominent cases of the Russian Constitutional Court, referred to as decisions with positive content, which are crucial for obtaining a systemic overview of the current problems of the Public Assembly Law in the Russian Federation.
Launching Cost-effective Virtual Escape Rooms as a Tool for FormativeAssessment
Authors: Azhar Farah , Adnan Nooreen
Published: July 2024

:

This paper describes an innovative tool for formative assessment. This involves designing and implementing a Virtual Escape Room for students of
Master’s in Health Professions Education (MHPE) at Gulf Medical University. Escape Room is a type of game-based education where players are
constrained in a room, and they must solve a series of interconnected challenges in the form of puzzles or riddles to escape the room. Escape rooms
are proved to be innovative and engaging learning strategies, although they are resource intensive. We developed cost-effective virtual escape
room with the help of Google Workspace tools. Two cycles of escape rooms were conducted on different courses in similar fashion. Questions
were based on the learning objectives of selected courses of Master’s in Health Professions Education. These tools were interconnected and
revolved around a captivating storyline. Twelve students were grouped into teams of four and were subjected to the game. They played as teams on
a smart device for a time duration of ten minutes. Post-activity students were given feedback on their performance on questions and on team-based
skills. Students were then engaged in open discussion on their experience, and this was documented for analysis. They also gave feedback on
google forms. Analysis of feedback revealed that escape room enhanced students’ engagement and motivation towards learning. It helped foster
leadership and team-building skills along with effectively recalling the learned concepts. In addition, students learned to handle stress when faced
with challenges. Faculty, on the other hand, developed the skills to plan and execute a unique learning activity. We continue to learn from this
experience and will explore further opportunities to expose students and faculty to such engaging and unique learning activities.
In vitro and In vivo Activity of a New N-Oxide Derivative for Acne Vulgaris Treatment
Authors: Delgado Ivone Leila Lima , Scarim Caue Benito , Fernandes Felipe Hugo Alencar , Barbieri Karina Pereira , Polesi Marisa Campos , Pavan Aline Renata , Chiba Diego Eidy , Salgado Herida Regina Nunes , Carlos Iracilda Zeppone , Correa Marcos Antonio , de Andrade Cleverton Roberto , Dos Santos Jean Leandro
Published: July 2024

Introduction:

Furoxan and benzofuroxan are compounds containing an N-oxide function,
known for their diverse pharmacological properties, including antimicrobial and antiinflammatory
effects. This study aimed to investigate these activities using an in-house library of
N-oxide compounds.

Methods:

Twenty compounds were tested against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria,
including Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes), a microorganism implicated in the development of acne
vulgaris. One compound, (E)-4-(3-((2-(3-hydroxybenzoyl)hydrazone)methyl)phenoxy)-3-
(phenylsulfonyl)-1,2,5-oxadiazol-2-N-oxide (compound 15), exhibited selective antimicrobial activity
against C. acnes, with a Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) value of 2 μg/mL. Indirect
measurement of Nitric Oxide (NO) release showed that compound 15 and isosorbide dinitrate,
when treated with L-cysteine, produced nitrite levels of 20.1% and 9.95%, respectively. Using a
NO scavenger (PTIO) in combination with compound 15 in a culture of C. acnes resulted in reduced
antimicrobial activity, indicating that NO release is part of its mechanism of action. Cytotoxicity
assessments using murine macrophages showed cellular viability above 70% at concentrations
up to 0.78 μg/mL.

Results:

Measurements of Interleukin-1 beta (IL1-β) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α)
indicated that compound 15 did not reduce the levels of these pro-inflammatory cytokines. Sustained
NO production by inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase (iNOS) in macrophages or neutrophils
has been found to be involved in the inflammatory process in acne vulgaris and lead to toxicity in
surrounding tissues. Nitrite levels in the supernatant of murine macrophages were found to be decreased
at a concentration of 0.78 μg/mL of compound 15, indicating an anti-inflammatory effect.
In vivo studies were conducted using Balb/c nude mice inoculated subcutaneously with C. acnes.
Cream and gel formulations of compound 15 were applied to treat the animals, along with commercially
available anti-acne drugs, for 14 days. Animals treated with a cream base containing 5% of
compound 15 exhibited less acanthosis with mild inflammatory infiltration compared to other
groups, highlighting its anti-inflammatory properties.

Conclusion:

Similar results were observed in the benzoyl peroxide group, demonstrating that compound
15 presented comparable anti-inflammatory activity to the FDA-approved drug. These promising
results suggest that compound 15 has a dual mechanism of action, with selective antimicrobial
activity against C. acnes and notable anti-inflammatory properties, making it a potential prototype
for developing new treatments for acne vulgaris.
Using Quality by Design Tools to Study Gel Formulation from Brassica juncea Leaves and Conducting its In vitro, In vivo, Molecular Docking, and ADMET Analyses
Authors: Kanakal Mahibub Mahamadsa , Abbas Syed Atif , Khan Abdullah , Sultana Saleha , Fatima Humaira , Tabasssum Ruheena , Ahmed Mohammed Gulzar , Sultana Rokeya , Mohammed Jaffer Sadik , Salfi Roshan
Published: July 2024

Introduction:

This research aims to create a gel formulation of Brassica juncea leaf extract and assess its anti-inflammatory properties using an in silico study. The anti-inflamma-tory activity has been compared with Diclofenac molecules in PDB id: 4Z69. Further, the Ab-sorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion, and Toxicity analysis has been performed to en-sure the therapeutic potential and safety of the drug development process. The Quality by De-sign tool has been applied to optimize formulation development.

Methods:

The extracted gel is characterized by performing Fourier transformer infrared, zeta potential, particle size, Scanning Electron Microscope, and entrapment efficiency. Further, the formulation is evaluated by examining its viscosity, spreadability, and pH measurement. An In vitro study of all nine extract suspensions was conducted to determine the drug contents at 276 nm.

Results:

The optimized suspension has shown the maximum percentage of drug release (82%) in 10 hours of study. Animal study for anti-inflammatory activity was performed, and results of all five groups of animals compared the % inhibition of paw edema at three hours; gel (56.70%), standard (47.86%), and (39.72%) were found.

Conclusion:

The research could conclude that the anti-inflammatory activity of gel formulation is high compared to extract, and a molecular docking study validates the anti-inflammatory ther-apeutic effects. ADMET analysis ensures the therapeutic effects and their safety.