bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Water pollution remediation in Kazakhstan: evaluating bacterial consortiums for organic pollutant decomposition
Authors: Sarmurzina Zinigul , Bissenova Gulmira , Temirkhanov Aslan , Tekebayeva Zhanar , Zakarya Kunsulu 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Wastewater treatment is one of the key problems that has to be solved by environmental biotechnology. Wastewater bioremediation is one of the most efficient and safest methods to replenish water resources. The aim of this study is to investigate the potential of using bacterial consortiums for reducing the organic load in wastewater, specifically focusing on water samples collected from three water bodies in central and northern Kazakhstan, which are known for their high levels of organic pollution. This study utilized bacterial strains from a microorganism collection to create consortiums. These consortiums were used to treat wastewater from polluted water bodies in Kazakhstan, focusing on parameters like COD, BOD5, ammonia, and phosphate. The methodology involved culturing strains, collecting water samples, and analyzing various parameters. Statistical analysis was performed to assess the results. The study found that two bacterial consortiums, 7BLB and 7BLPA, were the most effective in reducing COD, ammonia, and ammonia nitrogen in wastewater. The consortium 6BLP was highly effective at reducing phosphate levels, surpassing acceptable standards. Hydrogen levels met regulatory requirements in all cases. The study recommends further investigation of these consortiums’ impact on other water quality indicators and suggests conducting field experiments in natural water ponds.
Pilihan Layanan Multikanal Wajib Pajak
Authors: Safitra Dhian Adhetiya , Muamarah Hanik Susilawati , Nugroho Rahadi 
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACTThe current tax service channel allows taxpayers to access online services. However, online services are not always the taxpayer's choice. This study aims to determine the preferences of the tax service channel selection. Qualitative research was conducted through interviews with 7 (seven) informants. The results show that there are several preference groups for service channels [1] click (online) channel is preferred for basic information search, [2] conversation application for information on procedure/rule changes, and [3] counter for application troubleshooting information. All taxpayers choose the call channel as their last preference. DJP can optimize the role of the community as a partner in providing tax-related information through community coalition action. The community can be a complement to tax officers in providing correct information about taxes. The channels that can be used are click and counter. However, a gradual tax education mechanism is needed for community members, so that the information they convey is precise and accurate.Keywords: click,call, counter, multichannel, services, taxABSTRAKKanal layanan pajak saat ini, dirancang agar wajib pajak mengakses layanan online. Namun layanan online tidak selalu menjadi pilihan wajib pajak. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui preferensi pemilihan kanal layanan pajak. Penelitian kualitatif dilakukan melalui wawancara kepada 7 (tujuh) informan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan terdapat beberapa kelompok preferensi kanal layanan yaitu [1] kanal click (online) lebih dipilih untuk pencarian informasi dasar, [2] aplikasi percakapan untuk informasi perubahan prosedur/aturan, dan [3] counter untuk informasi pemecahan masalah aplikasi. Seluruh wajib pajak memilih kanal call sebagai preferensi terakhir. DJP dapat mengoptimalkan peran komunitas sebagai mitra untuk memberikan informasi terkait pajak melalui community coalition action. Komunitas dapat menjadi pelengkap petugas pajak dalam memberikan informasi yang tepat mengenai pajak. Kanal yang dapat digunakan adalah click dan counter. Namun, perlu mekanisme edukasi pajak secara bertahap terhadap anggota komunitas, agar informasi yang mereka sampaikan tepat dan akurat.Kata Kunci: Click, Call, Counter, Layanan Multikanal, Pajak
Efficacy of an Internet-Delivered Intervention for Improving Insomnia Severity and Functioning in Veterans: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Nazem Sarra , Barnes Sean M , Forster Jeri E , Hostetter Trisha A , Monteith Lindsey L , Kramer Emily B , Gaeddert Laurel A , Brenner Lisa A 
Published: October 2023

Background
Despite a growing evidence base that internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (iCBT-I) is associated with decreased insomnia severity, its efficacy has been minimally examined in veterans.

Objective
The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of an unguided iCBT-I (Sleep Healthy Using the Internet [SHUTi]) among veterans.

Methods
We conducted a single-blind, randomized controlled trial in Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation New Dawn veterans eligible for Veterans Health Administration care. Participants were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive SHUTi (a self-guided and interactive program) or an Insomnia Education Website (IEW) that provided nontailored and fixed insomnia information. Web-based assessments were administered at baseline, postintervention, 6 months postintervention, and 1 year postintervention. The primary outcome was self-reported insomnia severity (Insomnia Severity Index [ISI]). Secondary outcomes were self-reported mental and physical health functioning (Veterans RAND 36-item Health Survey). Exploratory outcomes comprised sleep diary parameters.

Results
Of the 231 randomized participants (mean age 39.3, SD 7.8 years; 170/231, 73.5% male sex; 26/231, 11.3% Black; 172/231, 74.5% White; 10/231, 4.3% multiracial; and 17/231, 7.4% other; 36/231, 15.6% Hispanic) randomized between April 2018 and January 2019, a total of 116 (50.2%) were randomly assigned to SHUTi and 115 (49.8%) to the IEW. In intent-to-treat analyses, SHUTi participants experienced significantly larger ISI decreases compared with IEW participants at all time points (generalized η2 values of 0.13, 0.12, and 0.10, respectively; all P<.0001). These corresponded to estimated larger differences in changes of –3.47 (95% CI –4.78 to –2.16), –3.80 (95% CI –5.34 to –2.27), and –3.42 (95% CI –4.97 to 1.88) points on the ISI for the SHUTi group. SHUTi participants experienced significant improvements in physical (6-month generalized η2=0.04; P=.004) and mental health functioning (6-month and 1-year generalized η2=0.04; P=.009 and P=.005, respectively). Significant sleep parameter improvements were noted for SHUTi (all P<.05), though the pattern and magnitude of these reductions varied by parameter. No adverse events were reported.

Conclusions
Self-administered iCBT-I was associated with immediate and long-term improvements in insomnia severity. Findings suggest that leveraging technology to meet insomnia treatment demands among veterans may be a promising approach.

Trial Registration
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03366870; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03366870
A technique for assessing pulmonary perfusion in patients with previously treated COVID-19 pneumonia: clinical controlled non-randomized study
Authors: Zakharova A. V. , Gvozdetskiy A. N. , Pozdnyakov A. V. , Pozdnyakova O. F. 
Published: October 2023

INTRODUCTION: Evaluating pulmonary lung perfusion in patients with previously treated COVID-19 infection may lead to a better understanding of long-term consequences of the disease, as well as may identify the changes determined by their symptoms. Further research is required for optimization of lung perfusion’s design parameters’ methods in order to implement those in clinical practice.OBJECTIVE: To determine the possibilities of an alternative method for evaluation of relative lung perfusion using three-dimensional ultrafast contrast-enhanced MRI on patients with previously treated COVID-19 pneumonia.MATERIALS AND METHODS: We examined 100 patients (28 male and 72 female, aged 22 to 70) who had laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 infection. The research was conducted using the three-dimensional ultrafast dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI based on 3D T1-weighted images. During the postprocessing, we received the values of rPBF (relative pulmonary blood flow), rPBV (relative pulmonary blood volume), and rMTT (relative mean transit time).Statistics. For non-linear dependence modelling we used natural spline transformation for time and interaction effect with a group. Intergroup comparison on integral measures was based on Kruskall-Wallis test (χ2), pair comparisons were based on Conover’s test (Δ). For multiple hypothesis testing correction, we used the false discovery rate (FDR). Comparisons were determined as statistically significant when p<0.05.RESULTS: The differences in obtained values of lung perfusion among patient groups were confirmed both quantitatively (by rMTT, rPBV, rPBF) and qualitatively (by building the curves of contrast agent accumulation). Patients with previously treated COVID-19 demonstrate slower contrast agent transit and increased relative lung blood volume. Their accumulation curves have qualitative differences as well.DISCUSSION: We suggest a new method of evaluation of lung perfusion indicators in patients with previously treated COVID-19. We conducted an intergroup analysis based on the degree of lung damage during the acute phase of COVID-19 (with no infiltrativechanges, with minor lung damage, and major lung damage). The intergroup differences found are more significant for patients with lung damage (both minor and major) than for patients with no infiltrative lung changes during the acute phase of COVID-19.CONCLUSION: This method of evaluation of pulmonary perfusion is able to adequately characterize the functional lung conditions in patients with previously treated COVID-19 pneumonia. The chosen model is the most optimal.
Тератогенез в архитектуре
Authors: Ткачёв Валентин 
Published: October 2023

Термин «тератогенез» («рождение чудовищ» – греч.) возник в медицине и биологии как необходимость осмысления и обобщения широкого круга явлений органической аномалии живых существ, в том числе и человека, известных с древнейших времён и вызывающих суеверный страх, отвращение, чувства мистического ужаса.Генетические или приобретённые уродства людей воспринимались как опасность и ассоциировались с образами хищныхживотных и насекомых. Одновременно они вызывали склонность к патологическим зрелищам. Увечные люди емонстриро-вались на ярмарках и в бродячих цирках, для многих из них это было единственным средством поддержания жизни, а дляих содержателей – коммерцией. Образы монстров, усиленные фантазией, использовались для устрашения врагов и людейслабой психики, породив целую индустрию криминального дизайна, отображённого в произведениях писателей, художников. В искусстве время от времени, совпадая с периодами социального декаданса, возникали волны интереса к мистической образности, разработке сюжетов, настоянных на сакральном ужасе. В числе других атрибутов для усиления выразительности тератогенез использовался в архитектуре в стилизованных образах химер, львов, атлантов. Сегодня архитектура вполне обходится без устрашающего бестиария, опираясь в поисках выразительности на символику, имманентную самим замыслам – в тектонике, антропных аналогах, зрительных иллюзиях. В статье прослеживается историческая последовательность метаморфоз тератогенеза как средства рискованной гармонии архитектуры.
Contribuições da teoria da objetivação para a análise do planejamento de tarefas de um professor de matemática envolvendo alunos com transtorno do espectro autista
Authors: Takinaga Sofia Seixas , Manrique Ana Lucia 
Published: October 2023

O presente artigo tem por objetivo compreender aspectos do planejamento do professor que potencializam a possibilidade do encontro do aluno com Transtorno do Espectro Autista (TEA) com o saber matemático. Trata-se de uma pesquisa de cunho qualitativo, tendo a entrevista semiestruturada e o planejamento de tarefas documentado por um professor como principais instrumentos de coleta de dados. A partir da análise do planejamento do professor, sujeito da pesquisa, discute-se a contribuição do referencial teórico, a Teoria da Objetivação, idealizada por Luis Radford, que fornece fundamentos que norteiam o componente delineamento da tarefa, o qual se traduz como o projeto didático do professor. São três as categorias: considerações gerais, considerações sobre os problemas matemáticos e considerações sobre as formas de colaboração humana. Como conclusão, as categoriais de análise emergentes dos elementos do componente delineamento da tarefa permitiram identificar aspectos do planejamento do professor que potencializam a possibilidade do encontro do aluno com TEA com o saber matemático, tais como: considerar conhecimentos prévios que emergem de situações vivenciadas em seu cotidiano; explorar contextos que permitam o encontro do aluno com o saber matemático de forma utilitarista; e explorar diferentes ambientes físicos, propiciando a convivência com regras e comportamentos adequados e a generalização de saberes escolares.
Grid-characteristic method using superimposed grids in the problem of seismic exploration of fractured geological media
Authors: Mitkovets I. A. , Khokhlov N. I. 
Published: October 2023

Introduction.Seismic exploration in conditions of heterogeneity of the environment is an urgent topic for the oil and gas industry. Consequently, the development of numerical methods for solving the direct problem of seismic exploration remains relevant as a necessary link in the development and improvement of methods for solving the inverse problem. The Schonberg thin crack model has performed well in the numerical solution of problems requiring explicit consideration of geological inhomogeneities.Materials and Methods. In this paper, we consider a modification of the grid-characteristic method using superimposed grids. The presented approach makes it possible to conduct computational experiments, explicitly taking into account fractured inhomogeneities with arbitrary spatial orientation. For this, in addition to the basic regular computational grid, there is the concept of superimposed grids. Inhomogeneities, such as cracks, are described within the framework of the superimposed grid and, in turn, have no restrictions associated with the main grid. Thus, by performing an interpolation operation between the superimposed main grids, we can bypass the requirement of alignment of cracks and edges of the main grid.Results. The proposed approach made it possible to study the dependence of the anisotropy of the seismic response of a fractured cluster on the dispersion of the angles of inclination of the cracks.Discussion and Conclusions. A modification of the grid-characteristic method using superimposed grids is proposed to explicitly account for fractured inhomogeneities in a heterogeneous geological environment.
Formulation and Evaluation of Gastroretentive In Situ Gelling System of Ketoprofen
Authors: Shabaraya AR. , T Ashwini T. , Vineetha K. 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
A revolutionary concept for achieving long-term medication release is the gastroretentive in situ gelling system. The goal of this research was to formulate and test a gastroretentive in situ gel for ketoprofen delivery to targeted site to increase the residence and delivery time. Ketoprofen gastroretentive in situ gels were synthesized using a cation-driven gelation approach using various combinations and concentrations of polymers such as gellan gum, sodium alginate, and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) K100M. Visual appearance, pH, viscosity, in vitro gelation, in vitro buoyancy, drug content, density measurement, gel strength measurement, water uptake, and in vitro drug release were all evaluated. The total floating time was more than 12 h, with a floating lag time of less than 2 min. The formulations showed pH ranging from 6.89 to 7.61 and drug content ranging from 82.01% to 95.53%. For 11 h, the percent cumulative drug release of formulations F5 and F14, which contained a greater concentration of polymer sodium alginate (1.5%) and a combination of gellan gum and HPMC K100M (0.175% and 0.2%), was 84.10% and 85.49%, respectively. In vitro dissolution experiments and stability investigations both revealed no significant changes in drug content. The findings revealed that the formulated in situ gels aided in extending gastric residence duration, allowing the drug to be released in the stomach.
Top management team diversity impact on financial performance: Evidence from VW Group affiliated firms
Authors: Velinov Emil 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Diversity within top management teams (TMTs) has significant implications for firm financial performance, particularly in dynamic industries like the automotive sector. This paper analyzes the relationship between TMT diversity and financial outcomes in companies associated with the Volkswagen Group, operating in an intensely competitive market marked by technological advancements. This comprehensive paper synthesizes studies investigating the correlation between TMT diversity and financial performance within the automotive domain. Employing quantitative approaches, these studies assess demographic factors such as gender, age, ethnicity, and educational background. The analysis unveils distinct patterns of impact. Gender diversity within TMTs exhibits a positive influence on financial performance, with heightened profitability and increased market value being notable outcomes. Age diversity shows a nuanced trend, with moderate levels enhancing strategic decision-making capabilities and fostering innovation. Increased ethnic diversity within TMTs is associated with elevated innovation and overall firm performance. Furthermore, educational diversity within TMTs is found to bolster firm performance, underscoring its pivotal role in strategic decision-making and innovation. By offering a comprehensive synthesis of TMT diversity’s connection to financial performance within the Volkswagen Group’s context, this paper contributes novel perspectives. The study emphasizes the methodologies utilized, outlines key findings, and underscores the original contributions made by existing research. This study illuminates the profound influence of TMT diversity on shaping strategic decisions and fostering innovation in the automotive sector. Importantly, it highlights the crucial role of TMT diversity in driving positive financial outcomes.
Arid Rangeland Degradation and Its Driving Forces in Southern Hodna, Algeria
Authors: Sahnouni Razika , Abdesselam Salah 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
The Algerian steppes frequently experience droughts and significant anthropogenic activities than harm its natural resources, endangering the fragile arid ecosystem’s balance. Hence, an analysis of steppe degradation can be instrumental in initiating remedial measures in the region. This study aims to assess the level of rangeland degradation in the southern Hodna region, a crucial component of the steppe landscape, and analyse the factors driving this degradation. The methodology employed a supervised classification technique, using multi-temporal remote sensing imagery from 1987 to 2016 to analyse land cover distribution. Furthermore, land cover dynamics were combined with carefully selected climatic and anthropogenic data, which were then subjected to canonical correspondece analysis to identify the primary drivers of rangeland degradation. The results reveal a sustained change in land cover dynamics, with a no table 48.65 % reduction in the rangeland class. Simultaneously, there has been a continuous expansion in sand dunes, rangeland degradation, and agriculture classes. It is worth noting that canonical correspondence analysis reveals stronger associations between rangeland degradation and anthropogenic factors than climatic factors. Finally, the study offers crucial insights into rangeland degradation in southern Hodna, aiding policymakers and land managers in developing sustainable development strategies for the region.
In memory of Stanislav Martinát (1976–2023)
Authors: Frantál Bohumil , Bartke Stephan , Chodkowska-Miszczuk Justyna , Golubchikov Oleg , Greer-Wootten Bryn , Klapka Pavel , Klusáček Petr , Krzysztofik Robert , Kulla Marián , Ondráčková Miroslava , Pasqualetti Martin J. , Horst Dan Van Der 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
On Sunday, August 13, 2023, Stanislav Martinát – a respected Czech geographer and member of the Editorial Board of Moravian Geographical Reports journal – died after a short serious illness at the age of 47. Despite his relatively young age, Stanislav Martinát was one of the most productive and the most cited Czech geographers. He is the author or coauthor of over 100 peer-reviewed articles, of which more than 70 were published in journals indexed in the Web of Science database. This article is a collection of personal memories from people from different workplaces from several countries who had the opportunity to work with Stanislav (Standa) and to share a part of their life stage with him.
Photomultiplier tube signal conditioning for high-temperature applications
Authors: Zezuliński Kacper , Broslawski Andrzej , Slipukhin Ivan , Guzik Zbigniew , Krakowski Tomasz , Burakowski Szymon , Kaźmierczak Łukasz , Łubian Grzegorz , Milewski Piotr , Saworska Gabriela , Trela Krystian 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Ionizing radiation detection in harsh environment conditions often requires additional signal processing to match the requirements of the commercial data readout systems. The subject of this paper is the design of the high-temperature (HT) signal conditioning module that ensures the applicability of scintillation detectors that utilize photomultiplier tubes (PMT) with moderate sampling rate instrumentation. The design was developed for the operation in HT environments (up to 120°C). In order to achieve the optimal signal shape, the module combines a charge amplifier and a low-pass filtering circuitry. An embedded power supply section makes it a complete, standalone unit requiring a single 12 V supplying line. A comprehensive analysis of the developed device, named “PreAmp Shape”, was conducted in order to prove the intended functionality over the different working conditions.
Impact of remittances on exports and economic growth: a cross country analysis
Authors: Shah Imtiyaz Ahmad 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
We present robust results on the impact of remittances on exports and economic growth for panel data sets of 38 high-income and 50 middle-income countries for 2000-2020. First, we estimate the impact of remittances on exports after controlling economic growth. By panel dynamic panel estimation, when regressing remittances on exports, remittances show an inverse U-shaped relationship with a threshold value of ln(12.63) for high-income and ln(15.66) middle-income countries above which exports begin to rise. Economic growth is showing a positive and significant impact on exports. Second, we estimate the impact of remittances and exports on economic growth after controlling various macro determinants of economic growth. On economic growth, remittances present a U-shaped relationship with threshold value ln (12.63) for higher income and ln(15.66) for lower-income countries above which economic growth starts to decline. Exports are showing a positive and significant effect on economic growth. A 100% increase in exports leads to a 15% and 12% increase in exports of high-income and middle-income countries. The other variables like physical capital per labour and human capital are showing a positive and significant impact on economic growth. Government expenditure has a negative coefficient, thus, it deteriorates economic growth.