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Eye tracking provides direct, temporally and spatially sensitive measures of eye gaze. It can capture visual attention patterns from infancy through adulthood. However, commonly used screen-based eye tracking (SET) paradigms are limited in their depiction of how individuals process information as they interact with the environment in real life. Mobile eye tracking (MET) records participant-perspective gaze in the context of active behavior. Recent technological developments in MET hardware enable researchers to capture egocentric vision as early as infancy and across the lifespan. However, challenges remain in MET data collection, processing, and analysis. The present paper aims to provide an introduction and practical guide to starting researchers in the field to facilitate the use of MET in psychological research with a wide range of age groups. First, we provide a general introduction to MET. Next, we briefly review MET studies in adults and children that provide new insights into attention and its roles in cognitive and socioemotional functioning. We then discuss technical issues relating to MET data collection and provide guidelines for data quality inspection, gaze annotations, data visualization, and statistical analyses. Lastly, we conclude by discussing the future directions of MET implementation. Open-source programs for MET data quality inspection, data visualization, and analysis are shared publicly.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the agreement and cost of two recall methods for estimating childrens minimum dietary diversity (MDD). DESIGN: We assessed childs dietary intake on two consecutive days: an observation on day one, followed by two recall methods (list-based recall and multiple-pass recall) administered in random order by different enumerators at two different times on day two. We compared the estimated MDD prevalence using survey-weighted linear probability models following a two one-sided test equivalence testing approach. We also estimated the cost-effectiveness of the two methods. SETTING: Cambodia (Kampong Thom, Siem Reap, Battambang, and Pursat provinces) and Zambia (Chipata, Katete, Lundazi, Nyimba, and Petauke districts). PARTICIPANTS: Children aged 6-23 months: 636 in Cambodia and 608 in Zambia. RESULTS: MDD estimations from both recall methods were equivalent to the observation in Cambodia but not in Zambia. Both methods were equivalent to the observation in capturing most food groups. Both methods were highly sensitive although the multiple-pass method accurately classified a higher proportion of children meeting MDD than the list-based method in both countries. Both methods were highly specific in Cambodia but moderately so in Zambia. Cost-effectiveness was better for the list-based recall method in both countries. CONCLUSION: The two recall methods estimated MDD and most other infant and young child feeding indicators equivalently in Cambodia but not in Zambia, compared to the observation. The list-based method produced slightly more accurate estimates of MDD at the population level, took less time to administer and was less costly to implement.

Background: Process evaluations are increasingly integrated into randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of complex interventions to document their delivery and interactions with local systems and dynamics, helping understand observed health outcomes. Yet process evaluations often struggle to assess relevant contextual determinants, leaving much of the important role of "context" in shaping an intervention's mechanisms opaque in many studies. A lack of easily adapted data collection methods to help define and operationalise indicators of context likely contributes to this. Methods: We present a method to help structure measures of context in process evaluations and describe its use in two very different settings. The "Context Tracker" is an innovative tool for use within trials and quasi-experiments to more systematically capture and understand key dimensions of context. It was developed in Zimbabwe as part of a cluster randomised controlled trial and then adapted for a quasi-experimental evaluation in the UK. Both studies provided harm reduction and health services for marginalised and hard-to-reach populations. Results: We developed the Context Tracker to be both standardised (i.e. formatted and applied in the same way across study sites) and flexible enough to allow unique features to be explored in greater detail. Drawing on the Context and Implementation of Complex Interventions (CICI) and Risk Environments frameworks, we mapped 5 domains across micro, meso and macro levels in a simple table and used existing evidence and experience to predict factors likely to affect delivery of and participation in intervention components. We tracked these over time across study sites using routine programme statistics, observation and qualitative methods. The Context Tracker enables identification and comparison of facilitators and barriers to implementation, variations in engagement with interventions, and how mechanisms of action are (or are not) triggered in different settings. Conclusions: The Context Tracker is one example of how evidence-based contextual determinants can be used to guide data collection and analysis within process evaluations. It is relevant in low- and high-income settings and applicable to both qualitative and quantitative analyses. While perhaps most useful to process evaluations of complex interventions targeting marginalised communities, the broader approach would benefit a more general research audience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many species use chemical messengers to communicate a remarkable range of information. Mice appear to make particular use of chemical messengers, including effects on estrous cycling and initiation, pregnancy, aggression, stress and of course attraction. Behavioral studies have helped identify several candidate messengers, or pheromones, that mediate attraction in mice. One question is whether attractive chemical messengers induced a physical vaginal secretory response. The preparation hypothesis posits that increased vaginal secretion would lubricate and protect the vagina in response to the prospect of imminent coitus, but this has been difficult to assess experimentally, particularly in mice. We developed a rapid, sensitive, minimally invasive method of quantifying vaginal moisture in mice and used this model to test vaginal secretory responses to male bedding. We report that female mice experience an increase in vaginal moisture after exposure to male, but not female, bedding. This response is induced by either physical or airborne exposure to male urine, to preputial gland extract, and to the preputial gland-derived pheromone alpha/beta farnesenes. This vaginal response is diurnally regulated, seen only during their active phase. The response is sensitive to the estrous phase, with a clear response during estrus but not during metestrus. We conclude that mice may serve as a model for aspects of vaginal function and that this assay will be readily applicable to other small animals. The identification of a pheromone-mediated vaginal secretory response offers a window into the regulation of the vaginal environment and the neurobiology of sexual responses in mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The risk of liquid agitation in pump-driven tanks within integrated tanks has significantly escalated due to the growing demands for tank integration in new- energy vehicles. In order to solve the problem of liquid sloshing in integrated tanks, this paper presents the design of a baffle structure aimed at reducing waves in integrated water tanks. The numerical simulation method of combining the level-set function with the volume of fluid (CLSVOF) has been employed, significantly enhancing the accuracy of numerical calculations related to a two- phase flow field inside an integrated tank. A comparison was made by analyzing different factors, notably baffle length (L), baffle depth (H), and baffle angle (θ), to investigate their influences in suppressing liquid agitation within the integrated water tank. Numerical computations were conducted utilizing design points acquired by the Latin hypercube sampling technique. The Kriging approximation modelling method was employed to hold down computing time. The Pareto solution was obtained by means of the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II, while the optimal solution set was evaluated and ranked using the multi-criteria decision-making algorithm (MCDM). The results show that increasing the baffle depth within a certain range can effectively suppress the wave height in the tank. When the baffle depth is increased to a certain value, the effect on wave-height suppression in the water tank is limited. When the baffle length and angle of the baffle exceed a certain value, it will also have the effect of suppressing the wave height in the tank. After comparing various factors of the baffle, it was ultimately found that the wave suppression effect is maximal when the length of the baffle is 13 millimeters, the depth of the baffle is 49 millimeters, and the angle of the baffle is -20 degrees. The main contribution of this study is the proposed wave-suppressing baffle structure, which provides new insights for the future structural design of integrated water tanks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to discuss the possibility of conceiving the current science of religious education as a practical metaphysics without excluding its objectives. Contemporary science of religious education is a religious pedagogy in terms of the conditions that brought it into existence and its characteristics. Therefore, religious education activities are implemented following the religious knowledge constructed by the science of religious education within the limitations of pedagogy. And pedagogy, on the other hand, depends on the paradigm of existence, human being and behavior that finds its meaning in natural sciences such as physics and biology, human sciences, especially psychology, and educational sciences, which have been established depending on the natural state in which modernity is formed. A pedagogical approach to religion is necessarily anthropological due to the discursive characteristics of pedagogy. While it considers a specific religion and its tradition, it derives its principles from a spectrum of sciences, ranging from natural sciences to educational sciences. Religious education activities are therefore bound to a paradigm of the human being whose capabilities are determined. But, as a newly established discipline, religious education as religious pedagogy naturally does not possess a thoroughly developed theoretical framework (nazariyat), its principles, purposes, methods and outcomes of religious education activities have not been critically analysed. However, education is the process of becoming human, and by taking various differences in meaning into account, it means becoming a social reality, historicizing, and becoming a subject. Religious education as a practical metaphysics which is proposed to replace religous pedagogy, maintains its critical perspective and since it deals with subjectivity and the historicization of subjectivity, pedagogy can be articulated to other discourses and institutions taking into account the criteria of verification. Religious education as practical metaphysics is not obliged to derive its foundational principles from any specific science, as it's founded on existence (fitrah) itself. Instead, it demands the reconsideration of the sciences in the view of potential forms of subjectivity and promotes the establishment of new scientific disciplines. The basic framework and concepts used in this study have been taken from Platonic philosophy and Foucault's analyses. Because the contemporary educational paradigm is part of a tradition that extends from Aristotle to modern science. Besides, traditional religious thought represented by the sciences of the explication (bayān) has established strong links with Aristotelian thought via kalām. Plato's philosophy, on the other hand, presents a third theoretical (nazari) alternative to Aristotelian philosophy and the discipline of kalām. Plato's allegory of the cave, which coincides with the verses that the worldly life is play and amusement finds its theoratical grounding in Foucault's analyses on subjectivation, encompassing processes of socialization and historicization. The analysis of subjectivity enables us to perceive the human being in a holistic manner, which is reduced in the Aristotelian thought system and fragmented in the discipline of kalām, as it reveals the human existence in its most general characteristics. Religiosity in terms of identity (huwiya) is the primary characteristic of subjectivity. Religiosity in the sense of identity is the primordial attribute and the most general characteristics of subjectivity - in addition to this meaning, religiosity also signifies religious attachment. The analysis of subjectivity allows us to see the human being in a holistic manner, revealing human existence in its most general characteristics, unlike in the Aristotelian thought where it is reduced, or in the discipline of kalām where it is fragmented. The study consists of three parts in which the subject, aims and methods of religious education as a practical metaphysics have been expounded. The subject of religious education as a practical metaphysics is the most general form of human existence in the world, which is subjectivity. Its purpose is to demonstrate the process of subjectification integrated with pedagogy by scrutinizing the conditions for the formation of subjectivity. Thus, pedagogy can be conducted in harmony with the general principles of subjectification. Practical metaphysics employs the dialectical method in terms of human relation to truth, archaeology and genealogy for the analysis of subjectivity and forms of subjectivation, and any proper method for its pedagogical dimension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In view of the necessity of measuring the air content in oil in two-phase flows in the context of general industry, a review of the most popular methods of measuring the air content in oil was carried out. This review includes an assessment of their advantages and disadvantages and of whether they meet criteria such as the degree of filling, the size and number of bubbles, verification, the absence of additional pressure drops, simplicity, and repeatability. In the review, the following methods were examined: the classic trapping method, a modified trapping method, a trapping method using hydrostatic pressure loss, the pressure loss due to frictional flow resistance, the pressure loss with a rapid increase in diameter, the pressure drop in a Venturi tube, the pressure drop in an orifice, a method using the Coriolis effect, the electrical resistance method, the electrical conductivity method, the electromagnetic method, the electrical capacitance method, the thermal anemometry method, the liquid–solid contact electrification method, the photographic method, holography, light scattering, sound dispersion, the ultrasonic transit-time method, X-ray radiation, gamma radiation, neutron radiation, and fiber-optic methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article substantiates the possibility of solving a difficult task to offer a reliable estimate of the residual resource of the power plant of a hybrid car, which is exposed during operation to the influence of a complex set of external factors. This task is solved by monitoring the time change of diagnostic parameters and controlling the load–speed mode of the hybrid power plant, as well as using physical and chemical processes that cause the degradation of the traction battery. Methodological principles for assessing the resource of a hybrid power plant of a car have been developed, which are based on the disclosure of cause-and-effect relationships between realized and nominal quality indicators, operating conditions, and indicators of technical condition. The choice of rational solutions for the operation of a hybrid car is given, and the external conditions are determined, under which the residual life of the hybrid power plant will change. The scientific result of the study is a theoretical generalization of the scientific provisions of forecasting the resource of the hybrid power plant of a car. This ensures the efficient use of hybrid vehicles and reduces maintenance costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to test the performance of a silver wire modified version of the coded telemetric heart rate monitor Polar Vantage NV™ (PVNV) and to measure heart rate (HR) in a group of captive reindeer calves during different behaviour. The technical performance of PVNV HR monitors was tested in cold conditions (-30°C) using a pulse generator and the correlation between generated pulse and PVNV values was high (r = 0.9957). The accuracy was tested by comparing the HR obtained with the PVNV monitor with the standard ECG, and the correlation was significant (r = 0.9965). Both circadian HR and HR related to behavioural pattern were recorded. A circadian rhythm was observed in the HR in reindeer with a minimum during night and early morning hours and maximum at noon and during the afternoon, the average HR of the reindeer calves studied being 42.5 beats/min in February. The behaviour was recorded by focal individual observations and the data was synchronized with the output of the HR monitors. Running differed from all other behavioural categories in HR. Inter-individual differences were seen expressing individual responses to external and internal stimuli. The silver wire modified Polar Vantage NV™ provides a suitable and reliable tool for measuring heart rate in reindeer, also in natural conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Systematic reviews (SRs) are time-consuming and labor-intensive to perform. With the growing number of scientific publications, the SR development process becomes even more laborious. This is problematic because timely SR evidence is essential for decision-making in evidence-based healthcare and policymaking. Numerous methods and tools that accelerate SR development have recently emerged. To date, no scoping review has been conducted to provide a comprehensive summary of methods and ready-to-use tools to improve efficiency in SR production. Objective: To present an overview of primary studies that evaluated the use of ready-to-use applications of tools or review methods to improve efficiency in the review process. Methods: We conducted a scoping review. An information specialist performed a systematic literature search in four databases, supplemented with citation-based and grey literature searching. We included studies reporting the performance of methods and ready-to-use tools for improving efficiency when producing or updating a SR in the health field. We performed dual, independent title and abstract screening, full-text selection, and data extraction. The results were analyzed descriptively and presented narratively. Results: We included 103 studies: 51 studies reported on methods, 54 studies on tools, and 2 studies reported on both methods and tools to make SR production more efficient. A total of 72 studies evaluated the validity (n = 69) or usability (n = 3) of one method (n = 33) or tool (n = 39), and 31 studies performed comparative analyses of different methods (n = 15) or tools (n = 16). 20 studies conducted prospective evaluations in real-time workflows. Most studies evaluated methods or tools that aimed at screening titles and abstracts (n = 42) and literature searching (n = 24), while for other steps of the SR process, only a few studies were found. Regarding the outcomes included, most studies reported on validity outcomes (n = 84), while outcomes such as impact on results (n = 23), time-saving (n = 24), usability (n = 13), and cost-saving (n = 3) were less often evaluated. Conclusion: For title and abstract screening and literature searching, various evaluated methods and tools are available that aim at improving the efficiency of SR production. However, only few studies have addressed the influence of these methods and tools in real-world workflows. Few studies exist that evaluate methods or tools supporting the remaining tasks. Additionally, while validity outcomes are frequently reported, there is a lack of evaluation regarding other outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transmembrane nitrate reductase (Nar) is the first enzyme in the dissimilatory alternate anaerobic nitrate respiratory chain in denitrifying bacteria. To date, there has been no real-time method to determine its specific activity embedded in its native membrane; here, we describe such a new method, which is useful with the inside-out membranes of Paracoccus denitrificans and other denitrifying bacteria. This new method takes advantage of the native coupling of the endogenous NADH dehydrogenase or Complex I with the reduction of nitrate by Nar through the quinone pool of the inner membranes of P. denitrificans. This is achieved under previously reached anaerobic conditions. Inner controls confirming the specific Nar activity determined by this new method were made by the total inhibition of the Nar enzyme by sodium azide and cyanide, well-known Nar inhibitors. The estimation of the Michaelis–Menten affinity of Nar for NO3− using this so-called Nar-JJ assay gave a Km of 70.4 μM, similar to previously determined values. This new Nar-JJ assay is a suitable, low-cost, and reproducible method to determine in real-time the endogenous Nar activity not only in P. denitrificans, but in other denitrifying bacteria such as Brucella canis, and potentially in other entero-pathogenic bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The unіque specіfіcіty of enzymes makes bіocatalytіc processes more technologіcally advanced compared to chemіcal ones. Hydrolytіc enzymes are the most wіdely used. Currently, enzyme preparatіons (EP) based on hydrolytіc enzymes are іncreasіngly used іn pharmaceutіcal productіon, medіcіne, food and chemіcal іndustrіes. The practіcal use of proteolytіc enzymes іs varіed, the most sіgnіfіcant іs theіr use іn surgery for the treatment of wound surfaces of varіous etіologіes, whіch іs due to the localіty of actіon: the rapіd rejectіon of non-vіable tіssue, wіthout affectіng healthy areas. The goal of the work іs to develop stabіlіzed forms of hydrolytіc enzymes that can be used for technіcal and pharmaceutіcal purposes, as well as to evaluate theіr effectіveness based on the analysіs of theіr kіnetіc and thermodynamіc parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is one of the leading causes of disability and death among adults worldwide. In recent years, significant advancements have been made in the diagnosis and treatment of AIS, driven by a deeper understanding of its pathophysiological mechanisms and innovations in therapeutic methods. These advancements range from multimodal imaging to the applications of biomarkers, from intravenous thrombolysis to mechanical thrombectomy, from immunomodulation to neuroprotective strategies, and from stem cell therapy to nanomedicine. The field has evolved from drug treatments alone to comprehensive therapeutic models that combine medication with mechanical thrombectomy. The management of AIS is increasingly moving towards individualized, precise, effective, and holistic approaches. Through applying diverse and advanced diagnostic and therapeutic techniques, the early diagnosis level and treatment efficacy of AIS can be enhanced, and ultimately the patients’ outcomes can be improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To design user-centered services, it is essential to build empathy toward users. It is hence strategic to trigger empathy for users among professionals concerned with shaping service user experiences. There is, however, a lack of quantitative tools to measure empathy in design. Through two studies, we report on the development and validation of the Empathy in Design Scale (EMPA-D). The tool aims to measure service employees' empathy toward users. Grounded in theories from psychology and design, we first generated and tested a pool of items through expert inspection and cognitive interviews. In Study 1, we administered 16 items to 406 full-time service employees from various industries, including employees in customer-facing positions. In Study 2, we iterated on additional items and administered a revised scale to 305 service employees. The selected model consists of 11 items and has a three-factor structure (Emotional interest/Perspective-taking , Personal experience and Self-awareness) , which showed an adequate model fit and good internal consistency. Evidence of convergent validity was provided by moderate correlations of the EMPA-D scale with empathy measures in psychology (SITES, Empathy Quotient, Interpersonal Reactivity Index), whereas discriminant validity was demonstrated by low correlations with the narcissism measure Narcissistic Personal Inventory. We outline how this self-reported empathy measure can support organizations in enhancing their services and discuss potential limitations of quantitatively measuring empathy in service teams. Research Highlights We present the development and validation of the Empathy in Design Scale (EMPA-D), a self-report measure of employees' empathy toward users of a service. We report on two validation studies and document the psychometric properties of the scale. The selected model consists of 11 items and a three-factor structure (Emotional interest/Perspective-taking, Personal experience and Self-awareness). The resulting EMPA-D scale contributes to filling the gap in metrics to assess empathy in the service design context. In industry, measuring employees' empathy support the selection of appropriate empathic interventions to foster the service user-centeredness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most important functions of law is the resolution of disputes. However, legal means of dispute resolution, such as judicial settlement and arbitration, are often not chosen by the parties involved in international disputes. This can be explained by several reasons. In legal doctrine, it is a common view that parties avoid legal means due to the binding nature of the decisions rendered, yet this is far from the only reason why parties refuse these methods. In particular, one of the main reasons they avoid legal means is the uncertainty regarding whether the decision based on law will be equitable. There are many grounds for this, as legal norms contained in international legal documents, adopted several decades ago, may not correspond to modern realities. Therefore, the application of such norms can quite reasonably raise concerns among the parties about the potential for an inequitable decision based on them. In such cases, the method of ex aequo et bono may prove to be a practical tool for excluding the possibility of an inequitable decision based on legal norms. Contrary to popular misconception, the use of the ex aequo et bono method does not imply a complete rejection of legal norms. When applying this method, basic legal norms are often used to provide a legal foundation for decisions and to enhance their overall objectivity. However, in the application of the method ex aequo et bono, those legal norms that may lead to an inequitable decision are not applied. In this case, an equitable decision is often determined based on an analysis of the goals and principles of legal documents regulating the relevant issues, including an analysis of the document containing the legal norm whose application could have led to an inequitable decision. Thus, the ex aequo et bono method is a rather flexible peaceful means, combining valuable features of both equity and law. There is a deficit of information regarding the ex aequo et bono method in international legal documents. In particular, the lack of a clear definition, conditions, and rules for applying the ex aequo et bono method presents a significant obstacle to its extensive use in international practice. Therefore, appropriate lawmaking work should be undertaken in this area to fill legal gaps. The goal of the scientific article is to study the legal aspects of the ex aequo et bono method and identify the main problems negatively affecting the practice of its application. The results of the research showed the high practical value of the ex aequo et bono method in dispute resolution, especially in modern conditions when the use of flexible means is becoming increasingly relevant. The article aimed to condense, specify and expand legal knowledge about the ex aequo et bono method and may present significant scientific value for lawyers interested in judicial and arbitration practices; legal scholars; practicing judges and arbitrators; parties with unresolved disputes; as well as philosophers researching the relationship between equity and law. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is responsible for nearly 250,000 deaths annually and poses a significant health threat in developing areas. The unclear pathogenesis of RHD makes the development of cost-effective treatments challenging, particularly as current surgical options are expensive and technologically demanding, exacerbating the economic and quality-of-life burdens for patients. Given the risks associated with direct human experimentation due to the uncertain pathogenesis, using a rat model infected with Group A Streptococcus (GAS) has become a crucial experimental strategy for RHD research. The development of an RHD rat model, refined over 23 years, now stands as a pivotal approach in studies aiming to understand the disease’s pathogenesis. This review summarizes the evolution, characteristics, advantages, and limitations of the RHD rat model, offering insights into potential areas for improvement. It aims to provide researchers with a comprehensive understanding of the model, supporting the advancement of research methodologies and the discovery of innovative treatments for RHD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article deploys servicisation as a case study to discuss economists' methods and the confirmation bias issue. Data show the average pattern of structural transformation in developing countries has since the early 1990s been servicisation, and the faster the growth, the greater the servicisation. Data also show that servicisation has been an extremely under-researched topic compared with industrialisation. This is an example of confirmation bias—weak links between theory and facts—that erodes the plausibility of policy advice. The paper analyses methods and their policing, and points to issues to address to reduce risks of confirmation bias by strengthening 'the power of facts'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Many species use chemical messengers to communicate a remarkable range of information. Mice appear to make particular use of chemical messengers, including effects on estrous cycling and initiation, pregnancy, aggression, stress and of course attraction. Behavioral studies have helped identify several candidate messengers, or pheromones, that mediate attraction in mice. One question is whether attractive chemical messengers induced a physical vaginal secretory response. The preparation hypothesis posits that increased vaginal secretion would lubricate and protect the vagina in response to the prospect of imminent coitus, but this has been difficult to assess experimentally, particularly in mice. We developed a rapid, sensitive, minimally invasive method of quantifying vaginal moisture in mice and used this model to test vaginal secretory responses to male bedding. We report that female mice experience an increase in vaginal moisture after exposure to male, but not female, bedding. This response is induced by either physical or airborne exposure to male urine, to preputial gland extract, and to the preputial gland-derived pheromone alpha/beta farnesenes. This vaginal response is diurnally regulated, seen only during their active phase. The response is sensitive to the estrous phase, with a clear response during estrus but not during metestrus. We conclude that mice may serve as a model for aspects of vaginal function and that this assay will be readily applicable to other small animals. The identification of a pheromone-mediated vaginal secretory response offers a window into the regulation of the vaginal environment and the neurobiology of sexual responses in mice.

This article explores models of information use for activity, highlighting the role of information in typical activities. It proposes that altering activity is the primary mechanism through which information is used. Three types of models are presented as essential for researching these alterations: Models of information delivery: These models address questions about the message delivered, the information added to the state of a specific activity, and the nature of the information itself; Models of changes in activity: These models focus on understanding what changes occur as a result of information received, how these changes manifest, and the reasons behind them; Models of changed activity fulfillment: These models address questions about how changes in activity are realized and how the results of the altered activity align with evolving demands. Examples of such models are provided, including diagrammatic, algebraic, and measure-theoretic models. These models are expected to pave the way for future research, potentially leading to the development of a contemporary theory of information application for activity, with implications for various fields, including business informatics, applied informatics, cybernetics, and organizational theory.

Abstract Although DNA extraction is a crucial step before polymerase chain reaction (PCR), attempts to perform PCR without DNA isolation have been ongoing since the 1990s. While partial success has been achieved with direct conventional PCR, the DNA isolation step has remained indispensable for real-time PCR. Here, we developed a method that does not require complete DNA isolation by lysing EDTA-treated whole blood samples through the application of osmotic pressure and heat, followed by centrifugation to get a clear lysate. Blood samples were mixed with distilled water, incubated at 95 °C for 20 min before centrifugation at 14,000 rpm for 5 min. The resulting lysates were used as templates for real-time PCR. Real-time PCRs were performed under identical conditions with lysates and DNA samples using 9 different primer sets. Target genes were successfully amplified using 1:10 and 1:5 diluted blood lysates both at 60 °C and 61 °C. The PCR efficiency for ACTB and PIK3CA differed by 20% and 14%, respectively, between the DNA samples and blood lysates. We successfully amplified all selected genes using “GG-RT PCR”, greater temperature, greater speed method, without the need for additional enzymes or buffers. GG-RT PCR presents a cost effective option for applications such as SNP analysis and deletion detection if appropriate primer designs are made.

This study compares the neo-institutional studies published by researchers in North American institutions in leading management and organization journals based in North America with those published by researchers in European institutions in leading management and organization journals based in Europe. The comparison is based on methodological preferences employed in studies that reveal differences in researchers' approaches to organizational analysis in the two geographic regions and tendencies to reference prominent European thinkers, referred to as "European-ness." The findings confirm significant differences in methodological approaches and referencing of prominent thinkers in the neo-institutional studies conducted by academics in both geographic regions. The findings indicate that dominant research traditions in those geographies shape theories adopted in different geographies.

Abstract Background Systematic reviews (SRs) are time-consuming and labor-intensive to perform. With the growing number of scientific publications, the SR development process becomes even more laborious. This is problematic because timely SR evidence is essential for decision-making in evidence-based healthcare and policymaking. Numerous methods and tools that accelerate SR development have recently emerged. To date, no scoping review has been conducted to provide a comprehensive summary of methods and ready-to-use tools to improve efficiency in SR production. Objective To present an overview of primary studies that evaluated the use of ready-to-use applications of tools or review methods to improve efficiency in the review process. Methods We conducted a scoping review. An information specialist performed a systematic literature search in four databases, supplemented with citation-based and grey literature searching. We included studies reporting the performance of methods and ready-to-use tools for improving efficiency when producing or updating a SR in the health field. We performed dual, independent title and abstract screening, full-text selection, and data extraction. The results were analyzed descriptively and presented narratively. Results We included 103 studies: 51 studies reported on methods, 54 studies on tools, and 2 studies reported on both methods and tools to make SR production more efficient. A total of 72 studies evaluated the validity (n = 69) or usability (n = 3) of one method (n = 33) or tool (n = 39), and 31 studies performed comparative analyses of different methods (n = 15) or tools (n = 16). 20 studies conducted prospective evaluations in real-time workflows. Most studies evaluated methods or tools that aimed at screening titles and abstracts (n = 42) and literature searching (n = 24), while for other steps of the SR process, only a few studies were found. Regarding the outcomes included, most studies reported on validity outcomes (n = 84), while outcomes such as impact on results (n = 23), time-saving (n = 24), usability (n = 13), and cost-saving (n = 3) were less often evaluated. Conclusion For title and abstract screening and literature searching, various evaluated methods and tools are available that aim at improving the efficiency of SR production. However, only few studies have addressed the influence of these methods and tools in real-world workflows. Few studies exist that evaluate methods or tools supporting the remaining tasks. Additionally, while validity outcomes are frequently reported, there is a lack of evaluation regarding other outcomes.

The study examined Undergraduates’ awareness of the use of technological tools for information collection and analysis. Specifically, the study is focused on: (i) examining how often final-year undergraduates have heard about the different methods used to collect information about a respondent or participants (ii) investigating how commonly final-year undergraduates believe technological tools are used to collect information (iii) examining how frequently final-year undergraduates have heard about technological tools used to analyze information collected. The sample of the study comprised 100 undergraduates selected using Krejcie and Morgan sample size determination table. The results revealed that the respondents are aware of the common methods (questionnaire, experiment, and interview) used to collect information, except for focused group discussion, which is occasionally used as a method to collect information. Also, it was revealed that the use of computer-assisted tools, social media, and audio-visual tools are common technological tools used to collect information, with low awareness of the use of Google Forms and email. The use of SPSS and Microsoft Excel for information analysis is common amongst undergraduates, which showed high awareness whereas, the use of ACTIVITY INSIGHT, STATA, and NVIVO is not frequent, which showed low awareness. Awareness and practical teachings be organized for undergraduates on the different methods as well as technological tools that can be to collect and analyze information respectively.

Previous studies have evaluated method performance for quantifying and characterizing microplastics in clean water, but little is known about the efficacy of procedures used to extract microplastics from complex matrices. Here we provided 15 laboratories with samples representing four matrices (i.e., drinking water, fish tissue, sediment, and surface water) each spiked with a known number of microplastic particles spanning a variety of polymers, morphologies, colors, and sizes. Percent recovery (i.e., accuracy) in complex matrices was particle size dependent, with ∼60-70% recovery for particles >212 μm, but as little as 2% recovery for particles

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Abstract Background Occipital nerve blocks are essential in diagnosing and treating headache disorders such as migraine, cervicogenic headache, occipital neuralgia, and cluster headache. In this study, we aimed to investigate the potential compression points of the greater occipital nerve (GON), third occipital nerve (TON), and lesser occipital nerve (LON) which are targeted to block in occipital nerve blocks and to develop a method to detect these points easily. Methods To identify potential compression points of the GON, TON, and LON, we dissected 43, 41, and 26 cadavers, respectively. A rigid, transparent tool divided into 1 × 1 cm sections was placed on the external occipital protuberance to measure the determined points. The cadaveric head was viewed from above, vertically, and the coordinates corresponding to each point were noted separately. Results Six, four, and one potential entrapment points were detected for the GON, TON, and LON, respectively. The distances of the point where the GON arose from the lower border of the obliquus capitis inferior muscle and the emerging point of the TON from the C2-C3 vertebrae to the posterior midline were statistically significant in terms of the sides (p = 0.040). Similarly, there was a statistical significance between genders for the distance of the point where the LON arose from the posterior edge of the sternocleidomastoid muscle to the posterior midline (p = 0.002). Conclusions We believe that with the method developed, the GON, TON, and LON compression points can be easily localized and blocked in diagnosing and treating patients experiencing headaches such as migraines, cervicogenic headaches, occipital neuralgia, and cluster headache.

Abstract Microplastics accumulate in the environment but methods to extract particles from sediment for quantification and identification often lack accuracy and reproducibility. Existing methods vary greatly and many do not achieve adequate microplastic separation. During method development for extraction procedures, spike-recovery experiments (positive controls) are essential to ensure accurate and reproducible results from each sample matrix. Furthermore, the large variability in grain size and organic matter can affect the extraction of microplastics from the matrix. Scientists have used density separation to separate microplastics from matrices for decades, but apparatuses are often made of plastic, need to be custom made, and require multiple sample transfers from one apparatus to another. This study presents an affordable, easily accessible, and simple to use Density Separation Device (DSD) to remove plastics from deep-sea sediments. Eight polymers were spiked into replicates of environmental sediment, including six fragments: high density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polystyrene (PS), nylon (PA6), and crumb rubber (CR) and two fibers: cellulose acetate (CA) and polyester (PEST). Two size classes of polymers were used: 100 μm to 300 μm and > 300 μm. Using a sodium polytungstate solution at a density of 1.9 g/mL and reflectance FTIR microscopy for particle identification, mean recoveries of all fragments exceeded 78% (CR: 92.7% ± 30.8%, PP: 78.4% ± 34.0%, HDPE: 93.8% ± 13.5%, PS: 86.9% ± 25.7%, PA6: 98.4% ± 63.2%, PVC: 100.0% ± 12.4%). Fiber recovery was much lower (PEST: 28.1% ± 28.1% and CA: 25.9% ± 17.3%) because they aggregated, passed through sieves vertically, or were obscured under other particles. The fragment recovery success, accessibility (available online, all parts under $200) and ease of use of this DSD should facilitate widespread use, thus helping to standardize sample preparation methods for microplastic metrology.

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine a current approach to en bloc para-aortic lymphadenectomy and to compare the results of this new approach performed by way of laparotomy and endoscopically. Methods: This study was conducted on 191 patients with endometrial cancer (EC) who had undergone para-aortic lymph node (PaLN) dissection with the current method (en. bloc paraaortic lymphadenectomy; protect inferior mesenteric artery and superior hypogastric plexus) between January 2015 and September 2019. A description of the paraaortic lymphadenectomy technique was made in this study. Harvested lymph node counts, operational information, pathological features, postoperative complications, recurrence were presented. Results: A total of 191 EC patients were analyzed in two separate groups with regard to surgical approach. Open and minimally invasive surgery was composed of 141 and 50 patients, respectively. There was no difference between the groups in respect of age, body mass index, menopausal status, anesthesia time, chylous ascites, the presence of recurrence. We found in open surgery group that pre-operative CA125 level, amount of intraoperative bleeding, erythrocyte suspension transfusion, number of PaLNs, metastatic PaLN counts, and early postoperative complications were significantly higher than the other group. Conclusion: The current method has some advantages such as protecting normal body structures, resulting in the same lymph node counts with published articles by other authors previously, and having lower recurrence rates. Two approaches of the current technique are feasible, easy to perform and effective.

Few studies have examined how to strengthen the muscles around the pelvis after trauma and none mention the trunk. This narrative review focuses on rehabilitation after pelvic trauma and discusses it from the perspective of muscle strengthening. The literature was searched to identify methods for strengthening muscles around the pelvis (i.e., the trunk to the lower extremities). We also examined the reference lists of the papers captured by our literature search to identify additional potentially relevant research. Our review proposes methods for strengthening each muscle around the pelvis. At present, it is not possible to establish a clear strengthening method for the diaphragm and pelvic floor muscles. We recommend exercise within the bodyweight range starting immediately after pelvic fracture surgery. Muscle strengthening exercises should be started after about 12 weeks when the sutured muscles have fused.

The problem at Madrasah Aliyah Negeri 2 Langkat is that there are still many students who consider learning Arabic to be a boring and monotonous lesson, resulting in students lacking mastery of the material, especially in vocabulary mastery. Researchers try to solve this problem by using the Index Card Match learning model. This study aims to determine the application of Index Card Match learning in students' mastery of Arabic vocabulary. This study uses a descriptive qualitative approach, this study method includes classroom observation, documentation and interviews with teachers and students. The Index Card Match method in class XI MAN 2 Langkat allows students to play an active role in group learning by competing with each other in finding the right card pair. The results of the study show that the application of the Index Card Match method can have a positive impact on students' active learning of Arabic vocabulary and also increase from before. Students are more active in asking the teacher about their own ideas and other people's ideas and answering questions, more enthusiastic about paying attention to the teacher when explaining the lesson, listening to the description, enthusiastic and responsive in looking for pairs of question cards and answers.

The mechanism of criminal activity consists of various elements that require a thorough study in the process of understanding the event of a criminal offence, i.e. during the pre-trial investigation. It consists of a large number of elements that are determined by the type of criminal offence and the specifics of the criminal activity of a particular person or group of persons. An obligatory element that requires a thorough study during theoretical research and in the course of cognitive activity of an investigator, detective or coroner is the method of committing a criminal offence. The method is an independent and compulsory element of the forensic characterisation of any type of criminal offence, and the need to cognise it is due to the need to present the information model of the illegal activity (actions) of a raider or a group of raiders, on the basis of which other elements of certain forensic techniques will be built. Given that the method embodies the objective side of a criminal offence, the complexity of its establishment and proof in the cognitive activity of an investigator, detective, coroner, therefore, in the context of cognition of raiding, it is subject to a thorough study. Based on the textual analysis of criminal law provisions, generalisation of theoretical developments, statistical data and law enforcement practice, the article establishes that criminal offences related to raiding are numerous, and the methods of their commission are mostly two-component and include actions related to preparation and direct commission. The mandatory features of each of the criminal offences under study are: 1) the use of pseudo-legal mechanisms, which may include the use of forged documents, seals, stamps, conclusion of fictitious transactions, etc.; 2) the focus, which is not on the simple acquisition of objects or certain assets of a business entity, but on the rights to an enterprise, institution, organisation with its production facilities, etc. The peculiarities of preparation for a raider seizure, peculiarities of preventive activities of this type of illegal activity are determined, and the role of the Office for Combating Raiding in this area is defined. Prospects for further research within the framework of the studied issues are outlined.

Background. Development of a creative personality is considered among the priority tasks for the modern education system of the Russian Federation. The article presents a critique of the education system imposed on Russia, which can be represented in the image of “up the stairs leading down”. The author emphasizes the relevance of providing the rationale for the essential factors in the educational process in order to ensure the development of students' creative abilities, which should not be reduced only to the development of their intelligence. Objective. Identification and justification of the dominant factors in the educational process aimed at developing the students’ creative abilities. Study Participants. Children (from older preschoolers to school graduates), university students, and specialists of various occupations took part in the long-term research. The studies were carried out in Moscow and the Moscow region, as well as in other regions of the Russian Federation and abroad. Method. The author's method “Creative Field” was implemented in a number of relevant techniques taking into account the age characteristics of the subjects. The techniques are based on different materials, which made it possible to conduct cross-sectional experimental studies on a large sample of subjects of different ages and professions, as well as a number of longitudinal studies lasting from 10 to 54 years. Results. The analysis of experimental studies shows that creativity as the ability to develop activity on one’s own initiative is possible only if there is a unity of the level of intelligence development corresponding to the task and the dominance of cognitive motivation in the personality structure. The integration of these factors determines the mechanism of creativity. The author has substantiated the dominant factors of the educational process aimed at developing the students’ creative abilities. Conclusions. The development of intelligence increases the possibility of mastering complex activities, and the dominance of cognitive needs gives rise to the ability to be creative. The decisive role in the development of a student as a creative personality is the teacher’s position as of researcher and the value of knowledge.

The investigation into the foundations of social critique has increasingly gained importance in the tradition known as Critical Theory. In this context, I will analyze Lukács’ work, particularly History and Class Consciousness, to comprehend the foundation he provides for social critique, rooted in the adoption of Marxism as a method. I posit that the escalating disjunction between the critique of the object and the critique of theory is attributable to the deepening social fragmentation engendered by capitalist structures. This inherent characteristic underscores the imperative for a cohesive amalgamation of epistemic and socio-ontological critique. To elucidate Lukács’ model of critique, I will give particular attention to the chapter “What Is Orthodox Marxism?”. By doing this, I aim to elucidate Lukács’ assertion that the Marxist method facilitates a harmonious integration between the epistemic and socio-ontological dimensions of life, once it incorporates crucial categories such as historicity, totality, reciprocal action, and mediation. Furthermore, his method underscores the symbiotic relationship between some elements of the political economy and the German philosophical tradition, which shapes Lukács’ conceptualization of critique.

The article deals with translation strategies implemented in English-Ukrainian rendering of dualnumber quantifiers ‘both,’ ‘either,’ ‘neither’ that occur in modern fantasy fiction. The study aims to identify local and global translation strategies and methods of their adequate rendering at the post-translation stage of generalizing the translator’s experience. The research objectives are: 1) to compile a complete register of the lexemes under investigation based on J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban” and its authorized Ukrainian translation produced by V. Morozov.; 2) to determine their semantic and functional characteristics and direct translation equivalents; 3) to identify their semantic roles and syntactic functions in the source text; 4) to specify the types of grammatical shifts and methods of their rendering into Ukrainian; 5) to identify and analyze the translation strategies applied by the translator to reach equivalence and adequacy of translation. The research material comprises 96 dual-number quantifiers used in the original text and their translations in the corresponding Ukrainian text fragments. In the course of the study, the following methods were employed: 1) entire sampling to compile a register of the lexemes and accomplish the source and target text levelling; 2) dictionary entries’ analysis to establish the lexical-semantic and functional properties of the quantifiers and their direct Ukrainian translation equivalents; 3) contextual analysis and immediate constituents’ analysis to identify their semantic roles and syntactic functions in the source text; 4) comparative-contrastive translation transformational analysis to specify the translation methods and types of grammatical shifts applied in their rendering; 5) to identify and analyze the translation strategies implemented by the translator; 6) quantity calculations to determine the frequencies of the analyzed phenomena. As a result, based on dictionary entries’ analysis, the main functional-semantic classes of the quantifiers have been found to be the determiner, pronoun, conjunction and pronominal adverb. By means of immediate constituents’ and contextual analysis, 17 pure and blended semantic roles of the lexemes’ referents in ‘state of affairs’ situations have been identified, the most frequent being the agent (36.4%), locative (14.6%) and experiencer (11.4%). By way of sentence parsing, 19 combinations of the semantic roles and syntactic functions have been established, the most frequent one being the agent subject (37.5%), the others showing frequencies around 10%. With the aid of translation transformational analysis, the most common methods of rendering the dual-number quantifiers into Ukrainian have been found to be omission (62.5%), equivalent (literal) translation (21.9%) and lexical substitution (15.6%). Correspondingly, the main translation strategies, including ST-oriented and TToriented ones, have been proved to be 1) communicative translation (68.8%) by omission with emphasis decrease, related and unrelated-word paraphrase, clause/sentence structure change and explicitness decrease, and by equivalent with emphasis change and clause/sentence structure change and/or addition; 2) literal translation (15.6%) including direct translation (4.2%) by pure equivalent and oblique translation (11.4%) by blended equivalent. i.e. with emphasis change and/or clause/sentence change; 3) semantic translation (15.6%) involving synonymy, emphasis change, phrase structure change, modulation, clause/ sentence structure change and explicitness decrease, 4) domestication (100%) incorporated in the above three strategies, all applied to ensure equivalence and adequacy of the translation.

The article deals with literary riddles and their role in the educational process. Currently, in the teaching methodology, the questions of working on a folk riddle are most fully developed, while the methodology of working on a literary riddle is studied only in separate works. Therefore, the main attention in our work is devoted to the study of literary riddles, their types and methods of correct solving. The use of various types of literary riddles in the educational process, along with folk riddles, allows to build a consistent system of working on riddles in elementary school. We have attempted to reproduce a generalized classification of Lezghin literary riddles, including a methodological aspect. The proposed classification, in combination with the thematic classification, expands the teacher's opportunities in preparing for work with the puzzle in lessons and extracurricular activities. It has been proven that the use of all types of riddles, especially riddles with comparison and metaphorical riddles, contributes to the development of imagery and metaphorical speech of younger schoolchildren, allows to consciously introduce literary examples, figurative expressions into children's speech, to inculcate the habit of using metaphors in speech. It is indicated that guessing riddles is an important stage in the development of a child.

Background: Occipital nerve blocks are essential in diagnosing and treating headache disorders such as migraine, cervicogenic headache, occipital neuralgia, and cluster headache. In this study, we aimed to investigate the potential compression points of the greater occipital nerve (GON), third occipital nerve (TON), and lesser occipital nerve (LON) which are targeted to block in occipital nerve blocks and to develop a method to detect these points easily. Methods: To identify potential compression points of the GON, TON, and LON, we dissected 43, 41, and 26 cadavers, respectively. A rigid, transparent tool divided into 1 × 1 cm sections was placed on the external occipital protuberance to measure the determined points. The cadaveric head was viewed from above, vertically, and the coordinates corresponding to each point were noted separately. Results: Six, four, and one potential entrapment points were detected for the GON, TON, and LON, respectively. The distances of the point where the GON arose from the lower border of the obliquus capitis inferior muscle and the emerging point of the TON from the C2-C3 vertebrae to the posterior midline were statistically significant in terms of the sides (p = 0.040). Similarly, there was a statistical significance between genders for the distance of the point where the LON arose from the posterior edge of the sternocleidomastoid muscle to the posterior midline (p = 0.002). Conclusions: We believe that with the method developed, the GON, TON, and LON compression points can be easily localized and blocked in diagnosing and treating patients experiencing headaches such as migraines, cervicogenic headaches, occipital neuralgia, and cluster headache. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Spiders play crucial roles in ecosystems as predators, prey, and indicators of environmental health, yet they have not been well-studied. This study compared different methods for surveying spider populations to understand their effectiveness and biases. A new vibration-based method, using an idling diesel tractor to attract spiders, was compared with the traditional methods of pitfall trapping and hand collection of spiders at night. Night collections yielded the highest species richness and diversity compared to the other methods. Pitfall traps were biased towards ground-dwelling species, while night collections targeted spiders in different vegetative strata. The study highlighted the importance of combining survey methods to accurately determine diversity in spider populations and emphasized the need for further research to better understand spider ecology. As the night collection and vibration-based methods were similar in labor required and material costs, we recommended a combination of these methods be used as there were species of spiders captured using the vibration-based method that were not captured in night collections. Further research is needed to refine the vibration-based method to better understand the underlying mechanism of how vibration attracts spiders and to improve the portability of the vibration source. Spiders have important ecological roles as generalist predators, are a significant source of food for many other species, and are bioindicators of environmental health. However, spiders are poorly studied. Given their importance, a comparison of spider survey methods used to determine differences in spider diversity and abundance is required to understand their limitations and biases. A new survey method to attract spiders, based on vibration from an idling diesel tractor, was tested and compared to the traditional methods of pitfall trapping and hand collection of spiders at night. Across the three survey methods, there were, in total, 2294 spiders in 34 families, 138 genera, and 226 species identified. Spider species diversity and richness were significantly greater for spiders collected at night than from the other two methods (spiders collected in pitfall traps and attracted to vibration). The collection of spiders using the night collection and vibration-based methods were very similar in terms of labor required and material costs. Of all spider species identified, 80% were captured during hand collection, 30% through pitfall trapping, and 30% from vibration-based collection. Most species of spiders caught in pitfall traps were species known to be primarily ground-dwelling, whereas both arboreal and ground-dwelling spiders were collected at night and as a result of being attracted and collected using the vibration-based method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to develop a high-quality database and utilize them in AI engineering, this study utilizes a range of technologies and protocols. When assembling a repository with excellent examples, it is necessary to analyze the example requirements to ensure the effectiveness and utility of the repository. This was followed by a selective collection and screening of examples to ensure those that were typically representative. Furthermore, detailed labeling and review of the examples were conducted to ensure its accuracy and reliability. To maintain the currency and lasting relevance of the repository, continuous management and updating are required. Reviewing the procedures outlined, this survey highlights the need for concise approaches and centralized supervision of the accumulation and management of repositories to ensure the creation of a rich database of high-quality examples to support AI engineering projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics accumulate in the environment but methods to extract particles from sediment for quantification and identification often lack accuracy and reproducibility. Existing methods vary greatly and many do not achieve adequate microplastic separation. During method development for extraction procedures, spike-recovery experiments (positive controls) are essential to ensure accurate and reproducible results from each sample matrix. Furthermore, the large variability in grain size and organic matter can affect the extraction of microplastics from the matrix. Scientists have used density separation to separate microplastics from matrices for decades, but apparatuses are often made of plastic, need to be custom made, and require multiple sample transfers from one apparatus to another. This study presents an affordable, easily accessible, and simple to use Density Separation Device (DSD) to remove plastics from deep-sea sediments. Eight polymers were spiked into replicates of environmental sediment, including six fragments: high density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polystyrene (PS), nylon (PA6), and crumb rubber (CR) and two fibers: cellulose acetate (CA) and polyester (PEST). Two size classes of polymers were used: 100 μm to 300 μm and > 300 μm. Using a sodium polytungstate solution at a density of 1.9 g/mL and reflectance FTIR microscopy for particle identification, mean recoveries of all fragments exceeded 78% (CR: 92.7% ± 30.8%, PP: 78.4% ± 34.0%, HDPE: 93.8% ± 13.5%, PS: 86.9% ± 25.7%, PA6: 98.4% ± 63.2%, PVC: 100.0% ± 12.4%). Fiber recovery was much lower (PEST: 28.1% ± 28.1% and CA: 25.9% ± 17.3%) because they aggregated, passed through sieves vertically, or were obscured under other particles. The fragment recovery success, accessibility (available online, all parts under $200) and ease of use of this DSD should facilitate widespread use, thus helping to standardize sample preparation methods for microplastic metrology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mussels (Mytilus spp.) are abundant in the North Atlantic, sessile, and sensitive to environmental change, and suitable as sentinels of environment and climate change of costal ecosystems. We aimed to determine the baseline for the Northeast Atlantic (58–70°N) Mytilus species complex, and to show the present distribution to surveys conducted 60 years ago. Baseline was obtained by investigating a total of 509 stations in the intertidal zone, in four regions comprising the environmental gradient from head of fjord to coast, and distributed over the latitudinal gradient from 58 to 70°N. The baseline shows a range in continuous abundance of mussels from 12% to 36%, patchy abundance from 26% to 57% and no or very limited mussel abundance from 26% to 46% between the four regions. The presence of mussels in the southeast and west region was visualized to previous surveys conducted 60 years ago. The data points to similar past and present presence of mussels in both regions, yet past major mussel fields in the inner section of region southeast was not detected in this study. The baseline of Mytilus spp. in the Northeast Atlantic (58–70°N) is now available for future reference. The baseline, plotted to surveys conducted 60 years ago, points to awareness of the population situated in the southeast section of the investigated region. Continued monitoring and modeling are needed to clarify drivers of temporal and spatial variation in the mussel populations along the Northeastern Atlantic coast. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Teología is the property of Pontificia Universidad Catolica Argentina and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The work proposed here is an automated pre and post-processor integrated to PanAir that is is a high-order aerodynamic panel method-based software for flow analysis developed in 70s but still in active use especially for preliminary aircraft design. With the integrated environment proposed in this work, manipulation of input and output data to and from PanAir is bypassed successfully that is otherwise requires manual manipulations and use of third party software. The integrated environment is validated over a Cessna 210 aircraft with a modified NLF (1)-0414 airfoil. The flow around the aircraft is analyzed using PanAir together with the integrated environment and results show that pre and post processing times reduced and ease in PanAir use is increased significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article examines the ambiguous role of memory in Peter Ramus’ reform of logic and in sixteenth-century French encyclopedic Ramism. In particular, it shows how, in Ramus’ writings on dialectics, the art of memory loses its identity as an autonomous discipline and is entirely absorbed by the doctrine of method. Such an identification of memory and method presupposes a conception of knowledge as an objectification of structures and mental operations that is inadequate to the setup of an encyclopedic project aimed at guaranteeing the objective and extra-mental contents of the disciplines, as the one that asserted itself among the first generation of the regius professor’s scholars. It is precisely in this context that, also thanks to the revival of Lullist instances, memory is charged with classificatory and unifying functions regarded as necessary and preliminary to the application to all arts and sciences of Ramus’ unique method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on Tabatabai's theory and the method of logical analysis, the present research has dealt with the methodology of defining conventional concepts and presented fifteen methodological rules. The method of defining these concepts is the method of conceptual analysis, and some of the presented rules are dedicated to the basics of definition, some to its types, and some to methods for discovering the conceptual components of conventional concepts. According to these methods, it is possible to discover the components of these concepts and use these components in the definition using the method of conceptual analysis. Of course, it should be noted that the most important component of a conventional concept is its purpose, which must be used in any definition. The use of other components in the definition may vary according to each concept. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the very broad field of Platonic scholarship, we note that the most respected scholars have views that sometimes are completely different. On the one hand, it results from the richness and complexity of these works, on the other, it is also a consequence of different methods that the scholars use in approaching the Dialogues. In the light of that, a natural question emerges: How should we read the Dialogues? However, analyzing the different approaches used, we can see that the answers to a previous question often determines, even if tacitly, the answers to how to read the Dialogues and the approach used in practice. This previous question is the question about the main function of the Dialogues, which tends to be similar to the question about what are the Dialogues. For example, scholars that tend to focuse in the theses and arguments (instead of the literary elements) assume that they are dealing with “philosophical” works, which therefore should fullfil “philosophical” tasks, such as (according to certain conception often presupposed of philosophy) to define a concept, to answer a theoretical question with rational arguments and so on. On the other hand, scholars that tend to focuse in the dramatic and literary aspects assume that they are interpreting literary works which therefore do not need to accomplish philosophical tasks. Thus, I would like to challenge one of these hypothesis often used (even if implicitly) about the function of the Dialogues: the idea that these works or at least some of them are a defense of Socrates against the accusation that put him to death. Comparing the charge with some passages of the Dialogues, I intend to show that we should leave this hypothesis aside while reading the Dialogues. The exegetical benefits that might result from this are considerable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A sensitive, easy, and low-cost method used in the determination of pure forms of losartan and mebeverine hydrochloride, also in pharmaceutical preparations with derivative spectrometry using UV-Vis technology. This method depends on measuring the first derivative of the spectrum using zero cross, peak to base line, and peak area. The linear range of concentrations used was equal to 2–14 ppm for losartan, whereas for mebeverine hydrochloride it was equal to 2–16 ppm in a mixture. For losartan, in the presence of mebeverine hydrochloride, 12 ppm by utilizing peak to baseline correlation coefficients 0.9984, 0.9994, and peak area 0.9972, whereas for mebeverine hydrochloride in the presence of losartan, 12 ppm by utilizing peak to fundamental correlation coefficients 0.9952, 0.9966, 0.9957, and peak area 0.9970, 0.9971, 0.9968, 0.9971. The limit of detection for each drug, losartan and mebeverine hydrochloride, is equal to 0.0113 ppm. The accuracy and precision of the method were estimated by calculating relative standard deviation (%RSD) values less than 3% while maintaining a recovery percentage of acceptable value. The proposed method proved effective and efficient at estimating both losartan and mebeverine hydrochloride, in the presence of the other in a mixture of the two without interference, despite the closeness of their spectral absorption peaks. There are no other more accurate methods for estimating the two in a mixture than the proposed method. The proposed method is considered one of the most direct and economical methods that do not require reagents or additional materials for conducting reactions and studying the optimal conditions for those interactions. Thus, it is considered one of the green chemistry techniques that reduce the use of chemicals and reagents in the process of estimating these drugs in a mixture and in a shorter period of time. The proposed method can be used to estimate the different properties in a mixture of the two compounds whose absorption spectra are close. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine a current approach to en bloc para-aortic lymphadenectomy and to compare the results of this new approach performed by way of laparotomy and endoscopically. Methods: This study was conducted on 191 patients with endometrial cancer (EC) who had undergone para-aortic lymph node (PaLN) dissection with the current method (en. bloc paraaortic lymphadenectomy; protect inferior mesenteric artery and superior hypogastric plexus) between January 2015 and September 2019. A description of the paraaortic lymphadenectomy technique was made in this study. Harvested lymph node counts, operational information, pathological features, postoperative complications, recurrence were presented. Results: A total of 191 EC patients were analyzed in two separate groups with regard to surgical approach. Open and minimally invasive surgery was composed of 141 and 50 patients, respectively. There was no difference between the groups in respect of age, body mass index, menopausal status, anesthesia time, chylous ascites, the presence of recurrence. We found in open surgery group that pre-operative CA125 level, amount of intraoperative bleeding, erythrocyte suspension transfusion, number of PaLNs, metastatic PaLN counts, and early postoperative complications were significantly higher than the other group. Conclusion: The current method has some advantages such as protecting normal body structures, resulting in the same lymph node counts with published articles by other authors previously, and having lower recurrence rates. Two approaches of the current technique are feasible, easy to perform and effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Masnavi Manavi written by Jalaleddin Mohammad Balkhi (Rumi) is one of the most prominent mystical works in Persian literature. This book has been and is influential; consequently, the readers' needs have been and are subject to many descriptions in different languages. Purpose: Assessing and analyzing the method and the content of descriptions of Masnavi are considered the most important study subjects in searching the works of MowlaviAnalyzing the affectivity of the available descriptions would demonstrate the significance and stance of such works in the field of writing description. The description of Mostafa Ibn Shaban Soruri on the subject here is considered one the most complete and the oldest in Asia Minor in Persian. Regarding the antiquity and the description language of Soruri, it is essential to specify the rate of its affectivity in the process of writing a description. The objective here is to find the extent of the oldest Persian descriptions of Masnavi by comparing Soruri's description with Javaherolasrar and Zavaherolanvar by Kharazmi. Results: The results of this comprehension indicate that the description of Soruri has been affected by Javaherolasrar in terms of structure and content. An important part of Kharazmi's description is included in Soruri's description without any reference, while Soruri, in his foreword claimed that he perceived this work by discovering the spirit of Mowlavi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biowall is one of the several innovative strategies people use to build a comfortable interior atmosphere with living plants. This research attempts to trace the gaps in the previous analysis as a 'state of the art' with a literature review method by focusing on the biowall method, area ratio and types of plants. Biowall performance is mainly related to the influence of thermal, visual, audial, and respiratory comfort. It is an essential topic used to induce atmospheric interiors, such as temperature, humidity, light intensity, sound insulation and absorption, CO2, HCHO, VOC, and particulate levels. The results showed that the empirical methods used were actual scale-up and down experiments, laboratories in test chambers, simulation with specific software, and case research on in-situ biowall. The comparison between the biowall and room size varied significantly due to the absence of a legal basis and reasons. Ferns and succulents were the most widely used species to induce atmospheric comfort. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct further research on biowall physical comfort based on multisensory simultaneously and determine its standard dimension and digital integration. Subsequent researchers must further discuss home-scale biowall acceleration and utilization of food-medicinal plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The analysis of scientific sources provides grounds to assert that legal regulation is the regulation of social relations carried out through law and the entire set of legal means. The concept of «regulation» (from Latin regulo - rule) implies organization, adjustment, and bringing something into conformity with something else. In our view, to regulate means to define the behavior of individuals and their collectives, to direct their functioning and development, to provide certain limits, and to organize them purposefully. Alongside this, some scholars relate the term «regulation» solely to law as a system of norms and some other specific legal phenomena (legal relations, acts of law implementation). They disagree with the existing understanding of the regulation of social relations as the rigid and authoritative norming by the state and law, as, in their opinion, the category of «regulation» is not synonymous with coercion, rigid, and authoritative prescription. The legal norm establishes only a model of relations in which social interests must be correlated with the interests of society members, and alongside this, law widely uses such means of influencing people’s behavior as stimulation, encouragement, granting rights, etc. It is argued that to transition to the definition of legal regulation, it is necessary to refer to the theory of law, which provides explanations for the concepts of «legal influence» and «legal regulation». Legal influence is considered a broader concept, as it includes the normative-organizational influence on social relations not only through a system of special legal means (those that directly regulate these relations - legal norms, legal relations, acts of implementation and application of law), but also through other legal phenomena – legal consciousness, legal culture, legal principles, law-making process, etc. A proposed definition states that legal regulation is the authoritative influence on social relations carried out by the state through all legal means for the purpose of their organization, establishment, protection, and development. Besides such (regulatory) influence, law also exerts a spiritual-ideological influence on individual and social consciousness (both in the process of legal regulation and beyond). «Restrictions» and «prohibitions» as legal categories have been analyzed. The etymology of the words «restriction» and «prohibition,» their relationship to each other and to adjacent and synonymous concepts, have been explored, and an original interpretation of the content and essence of these concepts has been proposed. A number of features characterizing restrictions and prohibitions as legal categories have been identified (defined in normative legal acts; established to prevent potential abuses of law; associated with a «narrowing» of an individual’s legal status; presuppose a specific model of behavior, specifically restrictions entail active behavior, meaning to do only what is defined within limits; prohibitions entail passive behavior, meaning to refrain from doing prohibited actions; they perform a protective function in social relations; non-compliance with them is accompanied by a negative response from the state. The concept, characteristics, classification, and a systematic analysis of restrictions and prohibitions as means of legal regulation have been defined. Based on the analysis of dictionary, reference, encyclopedic literature, as well as specialized legal sources, the article formulates original definitions of «restriction». The specificity of these particular restrictions and prohibitions lies in their special area of application (they apply to individuals when exercising their powers within the civil service); they apply to specific subjects (directly to individuals who have the legal status of civil servants); their application is determined by a special purpose; they are characterized by specific, comprehensive normative legal regulation; their application is ensured by state coercion. Distinctive features inherent to restrictions and prohibitions in the field of legal regulation have been identified: individual character; preventive nature; limiting aspect; coercive nature; the presence of a special subject; connection to professional activity; relation to delict norms, and their essence has been explained. The normative basis for defining and applying restrictions and prohibitions as means of legal regulation has been characterized (substantive legislation, procedural legislation, sub-legislative normative legal acts). A classification of restrictions and prohibitions has been conducted, and it is proposed to conditionally divide them into three groups (personal, property, and mixed). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]