bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Artikel über “Piratensender” von 1934 (!)
Authors: Gehring Robert A.
Published: December 2023

Auf der Website der Zeitschrift Modern Mechanix findet sich ein Faksimile des Artikels “OUTLAWS MAY USE SUPER-STATIONS at Sea” von 1934. In dem Artikel geht es um “Piratensender”, das heißt um Radiosender ohne Lizenz in den USA. Diese Sender stellen die Vorläufer der modernen Privatsender dar: Sie finanzierten ihre Sendungen ohne staatliche Unterstützung, rein aus Werbeeinnahmen.
Mussolini und die Geburtsstunde der IFPI
Authors: Gehring Robert A.
Published: December 2023

Der internationale Verband der Tonträgerhersteller, die IFPI, wird in diesem Jahr 75 Jahre alt. Nun ist das für viele Internetnutzer nicht unbedingt ein Grund zum Feiern. Für einen Blick in die Geschichte der Organisation bietet so ein Jubiläum dennoch Anlaß, zum Beispiel für Telepolis (und einen Tag später auch für die TAZ). Die grundlegenden Informationen für die Artikel lieferte ein schwedischer Artikel vom 7. April bzw.
Es ist erschienen! Das iRights.info-Buch “Urheberrecht im Alltag. Kopieren, bearbeiten, selber machen”
Authors: Spielkamp Matthias
Published: December 2023

Endlich ist es da: Das Buch der iRights.info-Redaktion. Erschienen bei der Bundeszentrale für Politische Bildung; dort auch zu bestellen für schlappe 2 Euro. Selten konnte man so billig schlauer werden. ;-)  Update: Hier auch als PDF (17 MB)  The post Es ist erschienen! Das iRights.info-Buch “Urheberrecht im Alltag. Kopieren, bearbeiten, selber machen” appeared first on iRights.info.
Zurück in die Gegenwart – Gala der prekären Perspektiven
Authors: Otto Philipp
Published: December 2023

Am nächsten Wochenende geht es bei der “Gala der prekären Perspektiven” um prekäre Arbeit in der Filmbranche. Dazu heißt es von den Veranstaltern: “Von den Kassierern bei Cinemaxx, die von 6 Euro 50 die Stunde leben, den Praktikanten der Berlinale, denen die Hoffnung auf einen Job Lohn genug sein soll, bis zu den selbstständigen Filmschaffenden, denen nach jedem Projekt der Absturz auf Hartz IV droht.
Kanadische Online-Musikbibliothek geschlossen
Authors: Gehring Robert A.
Published: December 2023

Der österreichische Musikverlag Universal Edition AG hat per Abmahnung die Schließung der kanadischen Initiative „International Music Score Library Project“ (IMSLP) erzwungen. Universal Edition wirft dem IMSLP vor, mit der Veröffentlichung von Noten lang verstorbener Komponisten die Rechte des Verlages verletzt zu haben. Das IMSLP ist ein wiki-basiertes Projekt, auf dem Freiwillige Noten von gemeinfreien Musikstücken veröffentlichen.
USA: Schwurgericht verhängt Rekordstrafe wegen Filesharing
Authors: Otto Philipp
Published: December 2023

Eine Nutzerin der Tauschbörse KaZaA ist von der Jury eines Gerichts im US-Bundesstaat Minnesota zu einer Rekordstrafe in Höhe von 220.000 Dollar verurteilt worden. Ihr wurde vorgeworfen 24 Songs zum Download bereitgestellt zu haben. Schon die Bereitstellung der Musikdateien sei ein Verstoß gegen die US-Copyright-Gesetze.
Aerosmith 2.0
Authors: Gehring Robert A.
Published: December 2023

In der USAToday vom 14. Februar 2008 erschien ein interessanter Artikel über das Computerspiel  Guitar Hero Aerosmith  , in dem die Altrocker von — nomen est omen — Aerosmith eine Hauptrolle übernommen haben. Die Spieler können in die Rolle von Musikern der Band schlüpfen und deren Hits nachspielen. Was ist daran so spannend?
Bundestag beschließt „Gesetz zur Verbesserung der Durchsetzung von Rechten des geistigen Eigentums”
Authors: Gehring Robert A.
Published: December 2023

Internetprovider müssen jetzt Rechteinhabern Auskunft zu Nutzern erteilen, die „in gewerblichem Ausmaß” Urheber-, Patent-, Gebrauchsmuster- und Markenrechte verletzt haben sollen. Mit der EU-Richtlinie zur „Durchsetzung der Rechte des geistigen Eigentums“ (2004/48/EG) soll es den Inhabern von Urheber-, Patent-, Gebrauchsmuster- und Markenrechten erleichtert werden, ihre Ansprüche gegenüber mutmaßlichen Rechtsverletzern EU-weit durchzusetzen.
WATER QUALITY, COMPOSITION AND ABUNDANCE OF PHYTOPLANKTON IN RELATION TO WATER HYACINTH IN THE NORTHEASTERN PART OF LAKE TANA, ETHIOPIA
Authors: Zelalem Wonde , Kifle Demeke , Mengistou Seyoum , Wondie Ayalew
Published: December 2023

Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes (Mart) Solms), a perennial and stoloniferous aquatic herb, is non-indigenous to Lake Tana. Its presence in the lake was recognized during the last three to four years and it has become a threat to the lake ecosystem. To assess the lake water quality, composition and abundance of phytoplankton, samples were collected from three weed-infested and three non-infested sites from September 2012 to May 2013. Sampling was carried out four times (once in each four seasons). In this investigation, the effect of water hyacinth on physico-chemical characteristics of the lake water was not significant. However, its effect on some parameters such as TDS, temperature, specific conductance, total hardness, Secchi depth, PO4-P, NO3-N and NH3-N were manifested. A total of 68 phytoplankton species were identified. The phytoplankton community was dominated by Chlorophyceae (mainly Chlamydomonas sp.) in the weed-infested sites and Bacillariophyceae in the non-infested sites. Small density difference was observed between the two sites. However, significant variations of Shannon’s index (H') and species evenness (j) of phytoplankton were observed between the two sites with higher mean value in the non-infested sites than weed-infested sites. Short infestation time and control intervention through physical removal contributed to minimize its effect. However, environmental conditions are currently favorable for its optimum growth and further proliferation might be going on and even spreading to new areas which were not infested before. This may exacerbate the effect of water hyacinth in future and therefore, continuous follow up and designing sustainable management strategies including biological agents, regulation of agricultural and urban wastes and even removal of the weed through utilization should get due attention.
ԱՐՁԱՆԱԳՐԱՅԻՆ-ԱՐԱՐՈՂԱԿԱՐԳԱՅԻՆ ԳՈՐԾԸՆԹԱՑՆԵՐԻ ԻՐԱՎԱԿԱՆ ԱՌԱՆՁՆԱՀԱՏԿՈՒԹՅՈՒՆՆԵՐԸ ՊԵՏՈՒԹՅԱՆ ՖԻՆԱՆՍԱԿԱՆ ԳՈՐԾՈՒՆԵՈՒԹՅԱՆ ՈԼՈՐՏՈՒՄ / LEGAL FEATURES OF PROTOCOL-PROCEDURAL PROCESSES IN THE SPHERE OF STATE FINANCIAL ACTIVITY
Authors: Sukiasyan Nazeli
Published: December 2023

In the article, for the first time in the Armenian jurisprudence, an attempt was made to distinguish between the sectoral features of the processes of implementing State coercion applied by law enforcement and State agencies in relation to violations and offenses.
The article distinguishes between the terms “proceeding”, “process”, and “procedure”, which are used in practice to regulate both violations and offenses.
In this scientific publication, particular attention is paid to financial coercion, as a feature, applied to violations of financial discipline observed in various areas of financial activity of the State, especially in the field of management of the financial activities. Legal conclusions regarding the types and methods of financial coercion are covered in some research papers and textbooks of the author, which are summarized in the author’s monograph titled “Financial and Legal Responsibility” that also refers to financial, banking, customs and tax sectors.
Revolusi Budaya Ngopi: Cafe Modern Sebagai Sarana Pengembalian Cara Ngopi Zaman Dulu
Authors: Nazala Zaikumar Elfa Rizqi  , Destri Aulia Wulandari  , Dinda Putri Maharani
Published: December 2023

This research discusses how to restore the coffee culture of ancient people and its relationship with modern cafes that exist today. In ancient times, people drank coffee by producing the ingredients themselves, from growing the coffee to the brewing process. However, as time progressed, instant coffee emerged which made people start consuming instant coffee because the manufacturing process was practical, the price was relatively cheap and the taste had many innovations. This research uses a systems theory perspective by Walter Buckley and is reinforced by Niklas Luhmann's General Systems Theory. According to him, this systems theory focuses on the relationship of various processes in a social system. The research method used is a qualitative research method with an ethnographic approach. The research results show that many cafes that have been established today have brought back the coffee culture of ancient people. This can be proven by making coffee starting from the coffee beans to the blooming process or brewing the coffee using a coffee maker.
Adversarial interaction in Prime Minister’s Questions in the UK
Authors: Bull Peter , Waddle Maurice
Published: December 2023

Politeness is a social norm but so too in certain contexts is impoliteness. One such situation is that of Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) in the UK House of Commons. The event is notorious for its adversarial discourse, especially for the gladiatorial encounters between Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition. Their encounters form the focus of this paper, in which, through the reporting of previous studies, we explore five distinctive features of PMQs discourse: face-threats, personal attacks, the rhetorical use of quotations, equivocation, and traditional forms of address; in a sixth study, we also discuss the potential political functions of adversarial opposition. Adversarial questioning is the norm of PMQs; it is the expected role of opposition leaders to scrutinise government policies and actions, and to call the government to account. Thereby, PMQs adversarialism can be seen to reflect the underlying social norms and evaluations of this highly distinctive social setting.
Experiencia gamificadora “Salvar la Tierra”
Authors: Vega Peralta Miriam , Guijarro Cordobés Olga
Published: December 2023

En el presente trabajo entran en juego las TIC y el medio ambiente. Este recoge una propuesta alternativa donde se realizan actividades relacionadas con el cuidado del medio ambiente. Para ello, se ha utilizado la metodología de la gamificación con sus correspondientes niveles, en este caso, reciclaje, animales en extinción y océano. Los niveles irán acompañados de diferentes misiones que el alumnado tendrá que superar obteniendo una recompensa a cambio. Para la evaluación de dicha experiencia gamificadora se ha realizado un juego donde hay diferentes casillas y en cada una de ellas tienen que realizar algo distinto (contestar a preguntas, escribir, pintar y deletrear).
Blended Learning Assisted Learning as an Effort to Increase Students' Learning Motivation in the New Normal Era
Authors: Salma Salma , Hasan Hasan , Herlina Herlina , Misnah Misnah
Published: December 2023

Learning motivation is an important aspect, because low learning motivation has an impact on student learning outcomes. Therefore, learning motivation needs attention and studies are carried out so that teachers can determine the right solution to problems that arise in student learning outcomes. This study aims to determine student motivation during the new normal period in assisted learning with the blended learning model. Covid-19, which has had an impact on the education system, has forced teachers to apply distance learning both offline and online. Entering the new normal era, learning can be done face to face. Therefore, the application of a learning model that combines distance and face-to-face learning can be done proportionally. It is important to understand how student learning motivation is affected by changes in learning from non-face-to-face learning to blended learning. This research was conducted in class V SDN Inpres Silae, Palu City, Central Sulawesi. Using a qualitative approach with a phenomenological design, with a focus on data collection on three things, namely observation, interviews and document study. Data analysis was carried out through three stages, namely data reduction, data presentation, drawing conclusion. The results showed that increasing student motivation in social studies subjects in Class V SDN Inpres Silae, namely evaluators, class managers, mediators and facilitators, and demonstrators. Increasing student motivation in social studies subjects with the help of a blended learning model in class V SD Inpres Silae includes persistence in learning, tenacity in facing difficulties, keen interest and attention in learning, achievement in learning and independence in learning. These findings have been implied to be important in designing learning strategies that are appropriate to the new normal context. Teachers and educational institutions need to pay attention to developing bold and interesting learning experiences, increasing social interaction in face-to-face learning, and providing continuous support to maintain students' learning motivation. In addition, it is also necessary to pay attention to the flexibility of space and time in learning so that students can take full advantage of their potential.
Impact of Government Investment and Chinese Investment on Economic Growth of Pakistan.
Authors: Asad Haseeb Khan  , Wazir Arif Hussain
Published: December 2023

The research aims to evaluate the impact of government development expenditure and Chinese foreign direct investment on Pakistan's economic growth from 1980 to 2020. The data sample used in the study was sourced from the World Bank database and the Pakistan Board of Investment Publications. The dependent variable was GDP growth, while the independent variables were Chinese foreign direct investment, CFDI government development expenditure, and Gross Domestic Product (GDE). The study used various tests, including Unit root test, Autoregressive Distributed Lag, Error Correction Model, White test, lag selection criterion, Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), and Granger Causality Test. The study found that Chinese investment and GDE have a positive impact on Pakistan's economic growth in the short run, while negatively affecting it in the long run. The positive relationship between CFDI government development expenditure and GDP growth is present in both the short and long run, as government fiscal policies in favor of Chinese investment aim to increase investment inflow. GDE stimulates CFDI, resulting in a positive impact on GDP growth.

The study was divided into two sub-period groups to analyze the relationship before and after the sharp decline of CFDI in pre-2007 and post-2007 sub-periods. In pre-2007, CFDI and GDE helped in economic growth with a negative relationship between CFDI and GDE. After the dramatic decline in 2007, the relationship changed, with GDE having a positive effect while CFDI negatively affected economic growth with a negative relationship in CFDI*GDE.

These findings are valuable for policymakers and the government to formulate effective economic policies for Pakistan's economic development and are insightful for foreign investors to understand the trend.
The Optical Properties Characterization of Hydrogenated Silicon by Spectroscopic Ellipsometry for Solar Cell Applications
Authors: Mungchamnankit Araya , Limnonthakul Puenisara
Published: December 2023

Amorphous and microcrystalline silicon play a critical role as layers in solar cell design, specifically in the absorption process layer which is crucial for the efficiency of sunlight conversion. This study explores the creation of hydrogenated amorphous silicon films (a-Si:H) via very high-frequency plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (VHF-PECVD) and analyzes their optical properties and crystal structure. We determine the optical band gap of amorphous silicon using a Tauc plot and Spectroscopic Ellipsometry (SE) analysis of transmittance results. By comparing the data, we gain insights into the material's optical properties, aiding our understanding of the findings and enabling a swift evaluation of its optical band gap. Furthermore, we characterize the film's crystal structure using grazing X-ray diffraction. Our results reveal that a-Si:H on glass, produced by VHF-PECVD at a substrate temperature of 200°C with various hydrogen dilutions (RH=H2/SiH4) ranging from 1.0 to 5.0, remains in the amorphous phase. The SE modeling provides the optical band gap of the a-Si:H film, with the lowest and highest optical band gap values occurring at RH 1.0 (1.79 eV) and RH 3.0 (1.84 eV), respectively. We employed the Tauc-Lorentz model with five fitting parameters to extract optical properties and the band gap of amorphous silicon, including the real part of the dielectric function. This model incorporates three layers: the interface layer between the glass substrate and a-Si:H, the a-Si:H film, and surface roughness, yielding the most accurate model. This comprehensive analysis unveils the exact optical properties of the fabricated films, offering valuable insights for solar cell design and manufacturing. This research confirms that Spectroscopic Ellipsometry, a rapid and non-destructive method for measuring the optical band gap, can significantly benefit the solar cell fabrication industry.
Production of Kaeng Liang Soup (Thai Style Spicy Mixed Vegetable Soup) Powder Using Foam-mat Drying
Authors: Munlum Satitpong , Junsi Marasri
Published: December 2023

Kaeng Liang is an ancient local Thai soup that has been reported to have many benefits along with the popularity of powdered food seasonings having increased significantly in Thailand. The aim of this study was to investigate the factors affecting the foam-mat drying of Kaeng Liang soup powder. The physical, chemical, microbiological, nutritional, and sensory properties of the sample were studied. Three Kaeng Liang soup recipes were selected to study sensory acceptability. The best formula was selected to produce Kaeng Liang soup powder by foam-mat drying. Then, the optimum level of egg white protein (EWP) at three levels namely 2%, 4%, and 6% for use in foam-mat drying was studied. The best level condition of egg white power was selected to study drying at 60°C, 70°C, and 80°C further. It was shown that using 6% EWP and drying at a temperature of 80°C for 480 min meant that the water activity content was in accordance with the standards set forth in the instant community product standards, including the water solubility index and water reabsorption index. Moreover, the microbiological qualities are in accordance with the community product standards. As for the nutritional value of Kaeng Liang soup powder, it contains carbohydrates, proteins, fats, phosphorus, and calcium respectively. The acceptance of the product by 100 consumers was established by the high sensory score in the range of extremely liked as a score of 3.82-3.91 (1-dislike extremely to 5-like extremely). Therefore, the application of foam-mat drying can be used to produce Kaeng Liang soup powder.
Compressive Force Upregulates Notch Target Genes and NOTCH2 mRNA in Human Dental Pulp Cells
Authors: Charoenpong Hataichanok , Kamoltham Khitparat , Limsiriwong Suchada , Insawak Rutapakon , Veerawattanatigul Apichart , Lertchatripong Sirawish
Published: December 2023

Dental pulp cells encounter compressive force in various situations. While mechanical force can produce various effects on dental pulp cells, the mechanisms underlying their response remain unclear. In this study, we examined the mRNA expression of Notch target genes and Notch receptors in human dental pulp cells (HDPCs) under mechanical compressive force. We utilized two in vitro compressive force application models, direct compression and hydrostatic compression. The results showed that there was an upregulation of Notch target gene, HES1, in HDPCs subjected to the compressive force generated by both models for 2 hours. Hydrostatic compression also upregulated HES1 and HEY1 mRNA expression following 6 hours of force application. NOTCH2 was the only Notch receptor found to be upregulated in HDPCs following compressive force application, in which the upregulation was observed at 6 hours after hydrostatic compression. In conclusion, both hydrostatic and direct compressive forces can upregulate the mRNA expression of Notch target gene, HES1, in HDPCs. However, the hydrostatic compression model produced more prolonged activation of HES1 and it also stimulated the upregulation of HEY1 as well as NOTCH2.
Comparison Study of Phagocytosis Activity among Live Candida albicans, Live and Heat-treated Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Chobchuenchom Wimol
Published: December 2023

Fungi and yeast can stimulate neutrophil activity through phagocytosis mechanism that can cause inflammation and pathogenesis. The activation of neutrophil phagocytosis by baker’s yeast that was heated at baking temperature has not yet been clearly defined. This study aimed to compare the phagocytosis activity among live Candida albicans (CL), live Saccharomyces cerevisiae (SL) and Saccharomyces cerevisiae that was heated at baking temperature (SH). Phagocytosis activity was assessed by mixing whole blood from 30 healthy volunteers with normal white blood cells and absolute neutrophil counts with a yeast suspension adjusted to an absorbance of 600 nm at 5. The phagocytosis percentage and phagocytosis indexes were determined at 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 minutes of incubation. At 25 minutes of incubation, it was found that the median [interquartile range] of phagocytosis percentage against CL, SL and SH were 90.0 [85.0-97.0] %, 84.0 [78.0-91.0]% and 43.0 [28.0-74.5]%, respectively. The median [interquartile range] of phagocytosis index against CL, SL and SH were 2.62 [1.83-3.26], 1.90 [1.46-2.14] and 0.57 [0.40-1.48], respectively. The phagocytosis percentage and index between CL versus SL, CL versus SH and SL versus SH were significantly difference (p-value < 0.05). This suggested that Saccharomyces cerevisiae with heat-treated at baking temperature was still capable to stimulate phagocytosis, although the phagocytosis percentage and phagocytosis index of both of these live yeast cells were significantly higher.
Effects of Anaerobic Germination and Enzymatic Saccharification on Chemical Compositions of Functional Drink from Riceberry Rice
Authors: Pothinuch Pitchaya , Jongrattanavit Kankanit , Leelajaluwan Kingamol , Prichapan Nattapong
Published: December 2023

Anaerobic germination and enzymatic saccharification significantly affected the chemical compositions of riceberry rice-based functional drink. Anaerobic germination significantly affected the moisture and carbohydrate contents in germinated riceberry rice (GRR), whereas the contents of crude protein, crude fat, ash and crude fiber were not changed significantly. During anaerobic germination, production of ATP was limited; therefore, the enzyme activity in the seed could be delayed in order to conserve the nutrients. With increasing germination time, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) increased, reaching a maximum percentage of 58.6% in 96-hour GRR but total phenolics and total anthocyanins significantly decreased with a loss percentage of 26.5% and 44.4%, respectively. Enzymatic saccharification using a-amylase and a-glucoamylase significantly increased sugar (total sugar, reducing sugar and glucose) contents in GRR extract, depending on incubation duration of both enzymes. The 0.5 hour-incubation with a-amylase in combination with the 12 hours-incubation with a-glucoamylase was the condition under which the extract contained the highest amount of reducing sugar (22.5 g/L), glucose (11.1 g/L) and total phenolics (22.5 g gallic acid equivalent/L). As the result, anaerobic germination in combination with enzymatic saccharification might be applied as a green process for the production of a functional drink from riceberry rice.
Decision-Making Experiences to use Medicinal Cannabis: Perspectives from Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis and Their Care Providers.
Authors: Sena Wijitra , Kessomboon Pattapong , Pisutthigoson Malinee , Poolpoem Wongjan , Thaenkham Thanamet , Seevathee Khachornsak
Published: December 2023

This study investigated the experience of making a decision to use medicinal cannabis among patients with knee osteoarthritis and their care providers. This qualitative research used a phenomenological approach to collect information by purposive sampling. Informants included 7 patients with knee osteoarthritis and 18 care providers in Khon Kaen municipality. Data were collected from June until December 2021using in-depth interviews, field records and participatory observation. After 6 months of data collection, the modified Colaizzi’s seven-step method was used for data analysis. The results show that the content from all informants can be categorized into 7 distinct themes about their decision-making on using medicinal cannabis (MC): 1) The needs for MC: Recognizing the painful nature of osteoarthritic pain and the limited treatment options available 2) Beliefs and attitudes towards MC with two sub-themes identified as 2.1) Belief in the MC’s efficacy that denotes informants’ positive perception and 2.2) Attitudes towards MC that show doubt, hesitation, or lack of confidence in MC’s effectiveness 3) Evidence on efficacy and safety of MC products: Considering cannabis as a viable treatment option 4) Trustworthiness of information and communication about MC. 5) Influence of other people: Three key influencers in the decision-making process including 5.1) Patients themselves 5.2) Friends and peers 5.3) Doctors and healthcare professionals 6) Legitimacy status of MC and 7) Product designs regarding forms of therapeutic use. The findings yielded 7 distinct themes concerning the decision to use medicinal cannabis (MC). The most important component is the need for pain relief among knee osteoarthritis patients. They clearly need MC for relieving their symptoms. Evidence on efficacy and legalization status of MC are also the main factors, while other 4 components are less important or not the vital factors for making decision on MC’s utilization. Policies on MC need to address these factors.
The Prevalence of Visual Impairment of the Elderly at University Eye Clinic
Authors: Jenchitr Watanee , Yokkampon Patchapicha , Ploysit Patcharin , Ausayakhun Somsanguan
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this study is to determine the prevalence and causes of visual impairment of the elderly who came to Rangsit University Eye Clinic for eye services in 2020-2021. Medical charts of elderly patients aged 60 years and older were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic data collected included age, gender, and underlying diseases. Data on refraction by optometrists and eye examination by ophthalmologists were collected. The Visual impairment was categorized using WHO definitions. The study included 1,452 patients aged 60 years and older with a mean age of 69.6 ± 8.09 years (range 60 to 110 years). Visual impairment was classified using presenting visual acuity (PVA) and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA). The prevalence of bilateral blindness and bilateral moderate and severe visual impairment (MSVI) using PVA were 6.20% and 69.56% respectively. When using BCVA, bilateral blindness, and bilateral MSVI were 0.69% and 11.02% respectively. Bilateral blindness did not increase with aging (p =0.125) and no gender difference (p=0.521) when using PVA. If using BCVA, bilateral MSVI did not increase with aging (p=0.920) and no gender difference (p=0.242) For eye diseases causing MSVI, were cataract, glaucoma, retinal detachment, epiretinal membrane, diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration, branch retinal vein occlusion. The emerging cause of bilateral blindness and bilateral MSVI were myopic macular degeneration. In conclusion, this study investigated the prevalence of visual impairment in the elderly population at the University Eye Clinic. Since visual impairment from these diseases can be prevented or treated, planning for eye health promotion and prevention, with the involvement of appropriate eye personnel for screening, is therefore necessary to prevent avoidable visual impairment.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Presentation of Colorectal Cancer in the Puerto Rican Population
Authors: Schoene Ruiz Alexandra , Martinez-Valcárcel Maralexa , Castañer Colberg Sebastián , Henriquez Sebastián
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Colorectal Cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and the second malignancy with the highest mortality rate in the United States. Regular screenings with colonoscopies are useful studies used to detect and diagnose CRC. However, amid the Coronavirus 19 pandemic, regular screening was postponed resulting in delayed diagnosis and treatment for patients with CRC. Objective: The aim of this retrospective study was to analyze and compare the impact of the pre-COVID and COVID periods in the presentation of colorectal cancer. Methods: This retrospective study included 85 patients, whose information was obtained from medical records, 32 in the pre-COVID group and 53 in COVID group. Results: When comparing colonoscopies, more than half of the patients presenting in the COVID period presented with no colonoscopies as opposed to the pre-COVID patients where most presented with recent colonoscopies. Pathology reports showed a double and a triple increase of advanced stages of CRC, III and IV respectively, the COVID period as compared to pre-COVID cohort. Discussion: Moreover, the number of patients presenting with metastasis in the pandemic period showed a ‘borderline’ significance (OR 0.105, 95% CI 0.01-1.1, p=0.053). There was no significant difference in patient demographics. Conclusion: A future study should include a larger population with data from more clinics in order to validate or refute the actual significance of such findings.
Estimating the Impact of Limited English Language Proficiency on Mental Health Services for Spanish Speakers in the United States
Authors: M. Roller Karen , Snow William , Grapa Jackie , Hernández Martha , Consolí Andrés , Pineda Blanca , Andrade Edson
Published: December 2023

The United States Latine/x population is now over 62 million and comprises nearly 19% of the population [1]. Over 42 million speak Spanish and comprise the second-largest language group in the United States [2]. As the largest non- English language group, Spanish speakers pose the greatest need for language-concordant mental health services. Providing language-concordant and culturally responsive services is critical to ensure meaningful access and improve treatment outcomes [3]. The current authors use the pan-ethnic terms Latine or Latinx as encompassing the terms Hispanic (derived from Spain plus the entire Spanish colonized empire), Latino/a (gendered, for those with ties to Latin America specifically), and Chicano/a (a racist slur reclaimed as a symbol of pride for Mexican Americans specifically) [4]. Latine/x includes widely varied acculturation, language, and immigration statuses, all of which impact an individual’s ability and willingness to enter the United States mental health system and seek services [5,6]. Indigenous individuals from Latin America likely do not align with this term, and may or may not speak Spanish, however, are likely placed in the above monolithic categories in the databases referenced herein.
Climate Justice in the Barrios: A Chronically Neglected Topic for the Most Climate-Vulnerable Communities in the U.S.
Authors: Martinez Fernandez Tanya , Carmenza Mejia Maria , Arcia Rosibell , A. Sanchez-Lara Pedro
Published: December 2023

Climate justice is a critical concept that focuses on efforts addressing the disproportionate impacts of climate change on systematically disadvantaged populations. In this review, we provide an overview of current national climate justice topics important to the Hispanic community. Key aspects include disproportionate environmental burdens, vulnerability to extreme weather events, economic and labor inequalities, limited access to resources, engagement and representation, and the inequitable transition to a sustainable and low-carbon economy. Current US federal public legislation, policies and initiatives in the United States aimed at addressing climate justice in Hispanic communities are discussed. These policies serve as examples of efforts to address climate justice in the Hispanic community, but it is acknowledged that policies may have evolved since this publication. The review seeks to highlight the need to further policies and best practices that specifically address unique challenges faced by Hispanic communities in relation to climate change. Recommendations include expanding climate justice initiatives, targeting clean energy infrastructure and investments in disproportionately affected communities, increasing community engagement and participation in decision-making processes as well as developing equitable climate adaptation and resilience strategies. In addition, funding allocation should be appropriate for short and long-term research and monitoring, promoting green workforce development and job opportunities, ensuring equitable access to clean energy, and enhancing climate education and awareness. Overall, this review underscores the importance of incorporating climate justice principles into health care policies to achieve equitable and just outcomes that target Hispanic communities disproportionately affected by climate change.
Tổng hợp và thiết lập chất chuẩn cholin fenofibrat
Authors: Nguyễn Văn Giang  , Lê Huy Cường  , Nguyễn Thị Kiều Anh  , Nguyễn Thị Mỹ Linh  , Nguyễn Thị Hằng
Published: December 2023

Fenofibrat là một dẫn xuất của acid fenofibric được sử dụng để điều trị một số tình trạng rối loạn lipid máu. Tuy nhiên, do độ tan trong nước kém, sự hấp thu fenofibrat qua đường tiêu hóa không ổn định và thường phụ thuộc thức ăn. Cholin fenofibrat, một dẫn xuất khác của acid fenofibric, cho thấy độ tan trong nước tốt, hấp thu qua đường tiêu hóa cao và không phụ thuộc thức ăn. Cholin fenofibrat hiện chưa có mặt trên thị trường dược phẩm Việt Nam. Chất chuẩn cholin fenofibrat phải được mua từ nước ngoài với giá thành cao. Vì vậy, mục tiêu của nghiên cứu này là tổng hợp và thiết lập chất chuẩn cholin fenofibrat nhằm phục vụ cho các nghiên cứu sau này.
Increase digital health literacy with the practical implementation of an e-learning system according to WCAG compliance standards
Authors: Blazeska-Tabakovska Natasha , Savoska Snezana , Bocevska Andrijana , Jolevski Ilija , Ristevski Blagoj , Trajkovik Vladimir
Published: December 2023

Individuals with cognitive difficulties (CD) have very limited access to appropriate learning resources. Their unique individual needs and requirements prevent them from accessing traditional online formal and informal learning methods, and resources are usually inadequate. We develop an e-learning platform with health content as an opportunity for all to increase digital health literacy, including people with cognitive disabilities. The paper aims to present some feature's settings important for people with a wide range of cognitive disabilities.
CAPEC ontology
Authors: Dimitrov Vladimir
Published: December 2023

CAPEC is an effort coordinated by MITRE Corporation. Its aim is attack pattern database structured in taxonomies. CAPEC is available as XML document from its project site. CAPEC structure and content are under permanent change and development. It is still not mature database but may be never will.CAPEC, CWE, and CVE are databases devoted to attacks, weaknesses, and vulnerabilities. They refer each other forming a knowledge ecosystem in cybersecurity area.Traditional approach for knowledge presentation as information does not work well with conceptualizations under dynamics of this ecosystem and particularly of CAPEC. In this paper an alternative approach to CAPEC knowledge presentation is proposed, as ontology. First, CAPEC structure and content are discussed and then ontology structure is introduced. CAPEC as ontology opens doors to ``open world'' concept that is more adequate to ecosystem dynamics.
Modeling and clinical data exchange in registration of infectious disease cases
Authors: Abanos Simeon , Krastev Evgeniy , Kovachev Petko , Tcharaktchiev Dimitar
Published: December 2023

The registration of communicable disease cases aims to limit their prevalence. The Ordinance on the Procedure for Registration, Notification and Reporting on Communicable Diseases, issued by the Ministry of Health, determines the rules for the implementation of the registration procedure in Bulgaria. Currently, this information is communicated by phone, email or on paper, and then the data is manually re-entered. This significantly complicates the exchange of information between health care participants. In addition, valuable information to produce reports noting disease prevalence levels is lost or fragmented. This paper aims to resolve these problems by the means of information technologies and ensure efficient storage, processing and management of data registration for patients with communicable diseases. The business process for the implementation has been studied in detail. The main roles, resources and sequence of activities at each stage of the application of the regulation have been determined. A relational database model is created for centralized storage, processing and management of data for registered patients and their contacts. An algorithm is developed and implemented for the automated determination of cases based on the symptoms of each disease specified in the regulation. ICD-10 is used, thus, creating the possibility of exchanging the collected data with international centers for tracking the spread of the disease. A three-tier application is created where web services perform the activities of registration, communication and reporting of communicable cases. The obtained results were tested with real data, consulted with experts from the health inspections and demonstrate the advantages of the developed software for fulfilling the requirements of the provisions in national legislation.
Certification of standard reference material® 1595a tripalmitin
Authors: Nelson Michael A , Mulloor Jerome, , Lang Brian , Toman Blaza , Possolo Antonio , Perry William , Lyle Alicia
Published: December 2023

Standard Reference Material (SRM) 1595a Tripalmitin is a high purity
chemical substance having a certified value for purity, expressed as a mass
fraction. It is intended for use in preparing calibrants for measurement of total
glycerides in clinical samples. A unit of SRM 1595a consists of one bottle
containing 2 g of tripalmitin powder. This publication documents the production,
analytical methods, and computations involved in characterizing this
product.
Recycling Practices and Value Chain Performance in the Food and Beverage Industry in Kenya.
Authors: Dacha Venessa Whitney , Omwenga Jane Queen , Namusonge Eric
Published: December 2023

Value chains have been increasingly facing various challenges such as poor performance, less competitiveness, inefficient value chain management, scarce resources, waste accumulation, high material cost, disposal and lack of sustainability. Recycling practices have been identified as one of the techniques that can be used to optimize these value chains. The main objective of this study was to establish the role of recycling practices on value chain performance in the food and beverage industry in Kenya. The study adopted a descriptive research design and the target population was 291 companies in the food and beverage industry. The sample population involved 74 companies in the food and beverage industry. Self-administered structured questionnaires were used to collect primary data. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The study found that value chain performance was influenced positively and significantly by recycling practices and most of the food and beverage firms in the industry that are implementing recycling practices are doing so as a way of reducing the operational costs and optimizing value chain performance. This research was based on recycling practices and value chain performance in the food and beverage industry in Kenya and there is a need to undertake similar studies in retail or commercial sectors and in other countries to uncover the underlying relationships between recycling practices and value chain performance and the findings may identify interesting comparisons. This study adds to existing research on the subject of recycling practices and value chain performance as it reveals that recycling practices are necessary to promote optimization of the performance of the value chains. Based on the current Literature, studies focusing on the implementation of the recycling practices are limited. There is no study that is linking recycling practices and value chain performance of the food and beverage industry. Therefore, this is a pioneering study in both content and context.
Dengue outbreak in Pakistan: Impact on global mass gathering events?
Authors: Farahat Ramadan Abdelmoez , Khan Sheharyar Hassan , Memish Ziad A.
Published: December 2023

None.
Espécies vegetais exóticas do Parque Natural Municipal da Taquara, Duque de Caxias, RJ
Authors: Mattos Cilene Mara Jordão de , Santos Giselle da Silva , Matos Wellington Rodrigues de
Published: December 2023

A introdução de espécies exóticas é uma das principais causas de extinção. O presente estudo teve como objetivo analisar a ocorrência de espécies exóticas no Parque Natural Municipal da Taquara e no seu entorno. O levantamento de espécies exóticas no parque foi realizado por meio de visitas regulares. Foram encontradas 12 espécies distribuídas em 11 gêneros e nove famílias. Destas, a maioria é originária do continente Asiático. O continente Africano é representado por três espécies e apenas duas são nativas das Américas. Das espécies encontradas as mais abundantes no parque foram Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam., Impatiens walleriana Hook., Tradescantia zebrina Heynh. ex Bosse, Panicum maximum Jacq., Mangifera indica L. e Pachira aquatica. Estas apresentam ampla distribuição no Brasil, com citações de ocorrência em mais de 10 estados brasileiros. A origem Ásio-Africana da maior parte destas espécies pode estar relacionada com a colonização.
The Influence of Leadership and Work Discipline on Employee Performance Mediated By The Organization's Commitment To PT Nusantara Power Engineering Medan
Authors: Marwazi  , Mesra B.  , Muhammad Isa Indrawan
Published: December 2023

This study aims to determine the Influence of Leadership and Work Discipline on Employee Performance Mediated by Organizational Commitment at PT Nusantara Power Engineering Medan. The research method used in the study is quantitative method, in this study there are one 2 independent variables, 1 intervening variable, and 1 dependent variable. The population in this study was 47 yarn employees of PT Nusantara Power Engineering Medan. The sampling technique in this study is saturated samples. The data withdrawal technique used was a questionnaire with Likert scale. The data analysis technique to answer this research hypothesis is the Structural Equation Model (SEM). The results showed that leadership variables had no effect on employee performance, leadership variables did not affect organizational commitment, work discipline variables had an effect on employee performance, work discipline variables had no effect on organizational commitment, and organizational commitment variables had an effect on employee performance.
An Efficient Optimal Solution Method for Neutrosophic Transport Models: Analysis, Improvements, and Examples
Authors: Jdid Maissam , Smarandache Florentin
Published: December 2023

Transport issues aim to determine the number of units that will be transferred from the production centers to consumption areas so that the cost of transportation is as low as possible, taking into account the conditions of supply and demand. Due to the great importance of these issues and to obtain more accurate results that take into account all circumstances, we conducted two research studies. In the first research, we presented a formulation of neutrosophic transport issues, and in the second research, we presented some ways to find a preliminary solution to these issues, but we do not know whether the preliminary solution is optimal or not, so we will present in this research a study whose purpose is to shed light on some important methods used to improve the optimal solution to transportation issues and then reformulating them using the concepts of neutrosophic science, a science that leaves nothing to chance or circumstances but rather provides solutions with neutrosophic values. Unspecified values take into account the best and worst conditions.
Age-Related Hearing Loss and Prevention Strategies
Authors: Raghuwanshi Neha
Published: December 2023

With increasing life expectancy and percentage of older population, USA is experiencing a rise in the diseases of old age. One such disease is presbycusis, or hearing loss in elderly. In 2023, approximately two-thirds of Americans aged 70 or above are affected by this disease (1). Many of these cases often go undiagnosed and untreated. In this article, we provide an overview of presbycusis and discuss strategies to prevent hearing loss and review treatment options when impacted.
Factors Affecting Small & Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Startup and Growth in Tanzania
Authors: Anderson Wineaster Anderson
Published: December 2023

This study analyzes factors that are affecting the start-up and growth of SMEs in Tanzania. The interviews involved the institutions providing business support services to SMEs and a total of 150 randomly selected SMEs from the countryâ€™s commercial city of Dar es Salaam. The study examined seven factors, which were categorized into three broad groups: business environment (political, legal and regulatory environment & socio-economic environment); institutional support (resources and finance; management and know-how & appropriate infrastructure & technology) and individual attributes and knowledge (entrepreneurial tendencies & innovation, vision and exposure to external knowledge). The context description for qualitative data and the multiple linear regressions show that factors range from inborn individual attributes to complex relationships between often changing business environments. The competitive activities and location, inadequate finance, human and social resources, and technical and management skills play a crucial role in the start-up. Also the regulatory framework leads to excessively complex registration and licensing requirements. Inadequate technology and physical infrastructure have resulted in a shortage of premises and even the few premises available are well beyond the financial ability of most SMEs. Unreliable electricity negatively affects their growth. The study provides managerial and policy implications.
Characterization of the Role of Adhesive Bonding on Piezoelectric Actuation of Beams
Authors: Dhage Shivdas , Gupta Vijay Kumar , Seshu P. , Mujumdar P.M. , Seth B.
Published: December 2023

Piezoelectric actuators are one of the smart/intelligent materials which can be used as "Induced Strain Actuators" for structural members like beams, plates and shells. These piezoelectric actuators (PZT) can be bonded or embedded in the structure. The adhesive bonding between the piezoceramics and the substrate could significantly affect the strain transfer from the actuator to the substrate. The present work is an effort in experimental characterization of piezoelectric actuation of beams. A cantilever beam with surface bonded piezoelectric actuators is considered. In order to observe the effect of adhesive properties, three different adhesives viz. cyano-acrylate, epoxy resin and a structural film adhesive are used. Experiments are performed on these specimens with piezo patches in series as well as in parallel configurations, over complete cycles of the applied field. The experimental findings are compared with an existing two-dimensional Finite Element model. It is observed that cyano-acrylate bonding is the closest to the perfect bonding case. It is also observed that piezoelectric actuation exhibits significant hysterisis.