bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La Validación de dos programas de intervención para el aprendizaje del deporte alternativo “la Rosquilla”
Authors: Calle Olga , Antúnez Medina Antonio , Ibáñez Godoy Sergio José , Feu Molina Sebastián
Published: April 2024

The validation of didactic programs according to a pedagogical model is essential to guarantee the quality of the tasks and their suitability to the methodological approach proposed. The aim of the study was to validate two intervention programmes, corresponding to two didactic units elaborated based on two different methodologies: Game-Centred Model and Hybrid Model of the Game-Centred Model and Sports Education Model, for the learning of an alternative invasion team sport called “the Rosquilla”. Two similar intervention programs were created, which had the same number of sessions, tasks, objectives, contents, and game phases. Nine expert judges participated in the validation process. Content validity was obtained through Aiken's V coefficient and its confidence intervals. Cronbach's α coefficient was used to calculate internal consistency. Eleven and twelve tasks were eliminated from the 60 tasks that made up the intervention programs, Game-Centred Model and Hybrid Model respectively, because they did not exceed the exact critical value (V ≥ .73). The internal consistency achieved by the tasks was excellent (α = .99). Therefore, both intervention programmes are considered valid and reliable for the learning of this alternative invasion sport, “the Rosquilla”. They can be used to compare the effects of both methodologies on students.
An Innovative Runway Landing Path Detection using UAV Implementation of the K-Means Clustering Algorithm
Authors:   Faculty, Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, Velammal College of Engineering and Technology, Madurai, 625 009, Tamil Nadu, India, Nagarajan Nagarani , Jothiraj Sivasankari
Published: April 2024

Objective: To provide a novel approach for automatic Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) runway detection, leveraging remote sensing data and advanced image processing techniques. Methods: The methodology encompasses Gaussian filter-based despeckling and histogram equalization for preprocessing, followed by Independent Component Analysis (ICA) for feature extraction and segmentation using the K-means clustering algorithm. Findings: The research demonstrates successful UAV runway detection, even with unlabeled datasets, underscoring the efficacy of the proposed methods. Notably, the study contributes to automatic target recognition, specifically in Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) data analysis, where K-means clustering outperforms Korn B and morphological algorithms. Novelty : The K-means algorithms works by clustering the datasets obtained by integrating all the data collected from various sensors that are placed at specific positions in the runway. This work holds significance in facilitating immediate runway identification during emergencies and finds applications in military operations, surveillance, and remote sensing domains. Keywords: Runway detection, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle, Histogram Equalization, Gaussian filtering, Independent Component Analysis, K-means clustering based segmentation
Propagation of Elastic Waves along a Cylindrical Rod of Micropolar Elastic Solid with Stretch under Impedance Boundary Conditions
Authors:   Department of Mathematics, Kakatiya University, Warangal, 506009, Telangana, India, Rajkumar G , Somaiah K , Narasimharao K , Venkateswararao B
Published: April 2024

Objective: The objective of this article is to derive the dispersion relations of elastic waves along a cylindrical rod of homogeneous, isotropic micropolar elastic solid with stretch under impedance boundary conditions. Method: The basic equations and constitutive relations are converted into cylindrical coordinates and solved by adopting the method of plane harmonic solution. Findings: Displacements, micro rotations, and micro stretch relations are derived analytically. The dispersion relations pertaining to elastic waves with using impedance boundary conditions also derived analytically and these relations are compared with the results of Tomar. Novelty: With the use of the MATLAB program, the effects of impedance parameters, micropolarity and stretch are discussed for a particular model. The speed of the elastic wave is proportional to the ratio of the impedance parameter in microstretch elastic solids, but there is no significant effect of the impedance ratio in micropolar elastic solids. Keywords: Elastic Waves, Cylindrical rod, Micropolarity, Micro stretch, Impedance Boundary Conditions
An Empirical Analysis of Language Detection in Dravidian Languages
Authors:   Department of Computer Applications, Madras Christian College, Tambaram, Chennai, 600059, Tamil Nadu, India, Shimi G , Mahibha C Jerin , Thenmozhi Durairaj
Published: April 2024

Objectives: Language detection is the process of identifying a language associated with a text. The proposed system aims to detect the Dravidian language that is associated with the given text using different machine learning and deep learning algorithms. The paper presents an empirical analysis of the results obtained using the different models. It also aims to evaluate the performance of a language agnostic model for the purpose of language detection. Method: An empirical analysis of Dravidian language identification in social media text using machine learning and deep learning approaches with k-fold cross validation has been implemented. The identification of Dravidian languages, including Tamil, Malayalam, Tamil Code Mix, and Malayalam Code Mix, is performed using both machine learning (ML) and deep learning algorithms. The machine learning algorithms used for language detection are Naive Bayes (NB), Multinomial Logistic Regression (MLR), Support Vector Machine (SVM), and Random Forest (RF). The supervised Deep Learning (DL) models used include BERT, mBERT and language agnostic models. Findings: The language agnostic model outperform all other models considering the task of language detection in Dravidian languages. The results of both the ML and DL models are analyzed empirically with performance measures like accuracy, precision, recall, and f1-score. The accuracy associated with different machine learning algorithms varies from 85% to 89%. It is evident from the experimental result that the deep learning model outperformed with an accuracy of 98%. Novelty: The proposed system emphasizes on the use of the language agnostic model to implement the process of detecting Dravidian languages associated with the given text which provides a promising result of 98% accuracy which is higher than the existing methodologies. Keywords: Language, Machine learning, Deep learning, Transformer model, Encoder, Decoder
Effectiveness of virtual teaching programme regarding palliative care on knowledge, self-efficacy and attitude of Nursing Personnel in North India
Authors:   Maharishi Markandeshwar, Guleria Alka , Rai Kanika ,   Chitkara University, Kumar Yogesh ,   Teerthankar Mahavir University, Sarin Jyoti ,   Maharishi Markandeshwar
Published: April 2024

Objective. To evaluate the effectiveness of Virtual Teaching (VT) Programme regarding palliative care on knowledge, self-efficacy and attitude among Nursing Personnel working in selected hospitals of North India. Methods. A quasi-experimental study with non-equivalent control group pre-test-post-test design was conducted on 121 Nursing Personnel, selected by convenient sampling technique. Knowledge, self-efficacy and attitude were assessed using structured knowledge questionnaire, Palliative Care Self-efficacy Scale, and Frommelt Attitudes toward care of dying scale respectively. Nursing personnel in experimental group received Virtual Teaching Programme regarding palliative care whereas those in comparison group received conventional teaching (CT). The study included a pre-test followed by the teaching (virtual/ conventional) on day one. The post-test was conducted on 15th day after the intervention. Results. The results showed that there was a significant difference in mean post-test knowledge (VT group: 17.11 to CT group: 25.05; t=9.25, p<0.001), self-efficacy (VT group: 39.27 to CT group: 43.38; t=6.39, p<0.001) and attitude (VT group: 108.86 to CT group: 133.23; t=9.27, p<0.001) scores between virtual teaching group and conventional teaching group. ANCOVA test revealed statistically significant differences in the mean scores of knowledge [F (1.11) = 86.61, p<0.001], self-efficacy [F (1.11) = 841.75, p<0.001] and attitude [F (1.11) = 82.92, p<0.001] between the groups, with higher means obtained in the CT group.
Educational interventions to prevent urinary infections in institutionalized elderly people. Quasi-experimental Study
Authors:   Universidade   Estadual   de   Santa   Cruz, Almeida da Silva João Luis , Ribeiro da Silva Myria ,   Universidade   Estadual   de   Santa   Cruz, Ramos da Cruz Almeida Talita Hevilyn ,   Universidade   Estadual   de   Santa   Cruz, Aparecida Barbosa Dulce ,   Universidade   Federal   de   São   Paulo
Published: April 2024

Objective. To analyze the effectiveness of an educational intervention among nursing professionals and caregivers to prevent urinary tract infections in institutionalized elderly people. Methods. this is a quasi-experimental study carried out with 20 people (7 nurses and 13 formal caregivers). A questionnaire was applied during the pre-intervention stage, then professional training was carried out and finally, the questionnaire was reapplied 6 months after the intervention. The prevalence profile and factors associated with urinary infections in 116 elderly people was evaluated before and after the educational interventions. Statistical analysis was performed using association and correlation tests, logistic regression model comparison and prevalence rates. Results. The average number of correct answers by the nursing professionals and caregivers after the educational intervention increased from the pre to the post-test by 52% regarding signs of urinary infection, 32% regarding its symptoms, 72.5% regarding its treatment, 40% regarding personal/behavioral and morbidity-related risk factors, 59% regarding conditional factors and 43.8% regarding its preventive measures. The team of caregivers showed a greater gain in knowledge compared to the nursing team in almost every question (p<0.05). The length of time working in elderly care showed no positive correlation with any variable (R<1; p>0.05). The prevalence of urinary tract infection in the pre-intervention period was 33.62%, and 20% in the post-intervention period. Conclusion. The educational intervention was effective in preventing urinary tract infections in the elderly. The increased knowledge acquired by nurses and caregivers was associated with a reduction in the infection rate and an improvement in the most prevalent modifiable factors for the development of this type of pathology.
Patient Repositioning during Hospitalization and Prevention of Pressure Ulcers: a Narrative Review
Authors:   Fundación Cardioinfantil, Cortés Olga , Vásquez Skarlet ,   Universidad    Autónoma    de    Bucaramanga
Published: April 2024

Objective. This article presents a literature review to explore and analyze the current situation of pressure ulcers or lesions or decubitus ulcers, pathophysiological, epidemiological aspects, and risk factors. The progress in evidence of the effectiveness of preventive repositioning in the appearance of these lesions in vulnerable hospitalized patients is also evaluated. Methods. Databases were reviewed in non-systematic manner, including the Cochrane Wounds Specialized Register; Medline, Scopus, PubMed, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials; MEDLINE (Ovid); EMBASE (Ovid), Web of Science, SciELO, and Lilacs. The general search terms included [pressure ulcers or pressure lesions or decubitus ulcers] and [prevention or preventive] and [repositioning or positioning or position changes or postural change] and [patient at risk or vulnerable] and [hospitalized or ICU or intensive care]. Systematic literature reviews, randomized clinical trials, observational studies, cost-effectiveness and qualitative studies in English or Spanish were included. Results. Although globally, the incidence, prevalence, and years of disability associated to these lesions has diminished between 1990 and 2019, the high impact on health persists. Evidence found on the effectiveness of repositioning in preventing pressure ulcers and health associated costs has been evaluated with certainty between low and very low, as a result of conducting research with serious methodological limitations that report results with high inaccuracy. Conclusion. The findings reported present that these lesions persist at hospital level and continue being a global social and health problem with high impact on health budgets. Likewise, there is a need to develop greater quality research on prevention strategies, such as repositioning, which validate their effectiveness, and justify their use.
Ethnic composition of the population of the district centers of Eastern Podillia: Mohyliv and Tulchyn (based on the 1926 census)
Authors:   Maksym Rylsky Institute of Art History, Folklore and Ethnology of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Masnenko Nazarii
Published: April 2024

One the base on the statistical materials of the 1926 census author prepaid tables containing information on the number, ethnic composition and territorial location of the population of Mohyliv and Tulchyn districts as a whole and district centers of Mohyliv and Tulchyn. It has been proven that the Ukrainians composed the absolute majority among the total population of Mohyliv and Tulchyn district and a relative majority among the entire population of Mohyliv and Tulchyn. It was established that the absolute majority of the entire population, Ukrainians and ethnic minorities lived in districts outside the district centers, and the level of urbanization of the population remained rather insignificant. Therefore, the ethnic composition of the population of both of these districts could be quite significant differ from the ethnic composition of the population of both district centers. It was determined that the average of the entire population of Mohyliv and Tulchyn, the level of the share of Jews who mostly lived in cities, and the level of the share of other ethnic minorities was insignificant. Among the rural population of both of these districts, the absolute majority was Ukrainians, and the level territorial representation of ethnic minorities was minimal. That is, they were observed there are noticeable differences in the ethnic composition of the population of the district centers and districts of the East Podillia: Mohylivska and Tulchynska districts. This makes it possible to emphasize the fact that ethnic composition and territorial location of the population in the districts of Eastern Podillia quite noticeably differed in the urban and agrarian settlement environment. After all, the absolute majority of Ukrainians in rural areas among the entire population in rural areas changed to a relative majority among the entire population of urban environment. Instead, the opposite trends were observed in relation to ethnic groups minorities. Their share among the entire population in the agrarian environment was insignificant, however, among the total population in the urban environment, ethnic minorities constituted a much larger share compared to rural areas, where only dispersed residents lived individual representatives of ethnic minorities.
Experience of the Center for cystic fibrosis in the Omsk Region
Authors: Pavlinova E. B. , Safonova T. I. , Kirshina I. A. , Medvedeva D. A. , Korneeva T. Yu. , Basyukova N. A. , Shevlyakova A. A.
Published: April 2024

Cystic fibrosis is an autosomal recessive disease caused by pathogenic variants in the nucleotide sequence of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. As the disease affects multiple organs, an integrated approach to the treatment is essential. The most effective model of providing medical care to patients with cystic fibrosis is the organization of specialized centers.

Aim. To assess the effectiveness of specialized medical care for patients with cystic fibrosis in the Children’s Center for Cystic Fibrosis from 2011 to 2023.

Methods. A comparative analysis of the Center’s activities was carried out using the National Register of Cystic Fibrosis Patients for 2011 and the medical records of patients registered for follow-up in 2023.

Results. The average age of the children followed at the Center increased from 7.1 to 10.4 years (Mann – Whitney; p = 0.004). In 2023, cystic fibrosis was diagnosed primarily through newborn screening (Fisher; p = 0.000). The most common clinical picture was the mixed form of cystic fibrosis. 100% of pathological alleles were identified, the frequency of the F508del allele was 57.8 – 58.9%. A predominance of “severe” genotypes was noted. The incidence of chronic infection with P. aeruginosa decreased significantly (Fisher; p = 0.002) due to the optimization of antibacterial treatment regimens, strict adherence to the sanitary and epidemiological regulations, and the use of hospitalreplacement technologies. CFTR modulators have been used in patient care since 2021. The greatest clinical efficacy was observed with the use of elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor + ivacaftor. By the 180th day of use in children, forced expiratory volume in 1 second improved from 63.3% to 84.2% (Wilcoxon; p = 0.001), and sweat chlorides decreased by 33 mmol/l (Wilcoxon; p = 0.0001). The results of the Center’s work in 2011 – 2023 are a consequence of improved approaches to specialized medical care for cystic fibrosis.

Conclusion. The creation of a multidisciplinary team for the treatment of patients with cystic fibrosis can significantly increase the level of care and improve the quality of life of patients.
The Effect of English Songs on Chinese Students’ Acquisition of Word Stress in a Rural Junior High School
Authors: Deng Xiuqi , Wu Zhangxin , Chen Aishu
Published: April 2024

Few studies have examined how teaching English songs to junior high school students in rural areas affects students’ English pronunciation. To fill this gap, we taught English songs to 39 rural junior high school students and tested their perception and production of English words with different stress patterns before and after the session of learning English songs. Students were asked to identify the position of word stress for a list of disyllabic words, and they were asked to read the disyllabic words with different stress placements. Teachers evaluated the students’ pre-test and post-test performance, and acoustic measures were taken to compare their pronunciation in two sessions. After two weeks, the production test revealed an improvement in the students’ ability to produce English stress. In the post-test, students could more effectively use the duration cue to distinguish between stressed and unstressed syllables. However, students’ perception improvement was not attested. The findings generally indicated that English songs have a beneficial impact on junior high school students in rural areas who are learning English word stress.
Optimizing Mechanical Properties in Biodegradable Composites: Polypropylene and Corn Stalk Powder Fibers
Authors: Sedyono Joko , Anggono Agus Dwi , Hariyanto Agus , Masyrukan Masyrukan , Warseno Bayu , Sulistyo Rifky
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate the microstructure and characteristics of biodegradable composites made from corn stalk powder fiber material and a polypropylene plastic matrix, using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) analysis. The issue of environmental pollution caused by plastic waste is a growing concern, with plastic waste accounting for an average of 10% of total waste production, and less than 1% of plastic waste being effectively decomposed due to the synthetic polymers used in their production. Developing biodegradable plastic materials, such as bioplastics, is one way to address this problem. In this study, different compositions of the composite materials were tested using SEM and microphotography. The composite materials consisted of a polypropylene plastic matrix with varying amounts of corn stalk powder fibers (5%, 10%, and 15%). The SEM results showed that the composition of 85% polypropylene plastic and 15% corn stalk powder had a more significant impact on the mechanical properties of the composites, due to a stronger bond between the plastic and polypropylene. Overall, this study provides important insights into the development of biodegradable plastic materials that can help mitigate the environmental impact of plastic waste.
General evaluation of the distribution and commercialization cycle of bananas at the main fairs in Boa Vista - RR
Authors: Viana Maraschin Enzo , Timoni Buchdid Camargo Neves Leandro , Tonny Nascimento Gomes Tony , Silva de Andrade Wismith , Caroline Prill Gomes Sara , De Lima Coutinho Ozimar , Pietro de Andrade Guimarães Hestarlem
Published: April 2024

In Roraima, banana cultivation is a significant socio-economic activity aimed at catering to both the domestic and regional markets. The banana-producing region (Musa spp) is concentrated in the southern part of the state, encompassing the municipalities of Caroebe, São João da Baliza, and Rorainópolis. Thus, the objective was to assess fruit damage and investigate severity and causes. The cultivars selected for the study were ‘Pacovan’, ‘Prata’, and ‘Missouri’. Five markets were visited for the study, with eleven points of sale sampled at each market. At each sampling point, newly arrived batche (bunches) was collected at three distinct times. The variable studied was the incidence of fruit damage at different ripening stages (type 2 and type 7). Data collected visually were subjected to Likert analysis and descriptive statistics. The results showed that mature bananas exposed directly on tarpaulin exhibited severe mechanical damage, such as abrasions and cuts due to direct contact with the rough surface of the tarpaulin and stacking during transport. Mature fruits transported in cardboard boxes had a lower incidence of damage and also served as a display for marketing. Mature green fruits were also affected during transport, with greater impact when in plastic bags or plastic boxes due to irregular and pointed surfaces. In the case of green-mature fruit, the damage incurred was less severe compared to mature fruit.
A családszociológia sokszínűsége
Authors: Gábris Erika
Published: April 2024

Ivett Szalma – Judit Takács (2022): Családszociológiai mozaik. Szociológiai Tudástár (13). Debrecen, Debreceni Egyetemi Kiadó, Debrecen University Press, p, 209
Bolygótudat, bioszferikus kormányzás, klímaigazságosság
Authors: Beke Ottó , Kis Anna
Published: April 2024

Kim Stanley Robinson’s The Ministry for the Future was published in 2020. The novel is the sequel to the New York 2140 science fiction dystopian novel. The conceptual continuation presents a vision of unsustainable capitalism that functions via endless expansion. The Ministry for the Future brings into focus the outcome of externalities of capitalism: climate change and its effects on societies and individuals. The study emphasis on critique of capitalism, of mass production and mass consumption, at the same time it points at the techno-optimism in The Ministry for the Future by Kim Stanley Robinson. The analysis of appearance of climate change in the novel is interdisciplinary, the study’s approach is scientific and empirical.
Peer-group ties and a prison sentence: a chance to enhance successful re-entry
Authors: Albert Fruzsina , Biró Emese
Published: April 2024

Interpersonal relationships of prisoners are of key importance from the aspect of their reintegration. We focus our attention on non-kin, primarily friendship ties on a sample of young Hungarian males convicted for the first time, for a relatively short period of up to 3 years. In our longitudinal qualitative research, 80 offenders from eight penal institutions were interviewed while serving their sentence and 31 of them could also be reached 6 months after they left the prison. We analyse what significance prisoners attribute to their friendship ties, how these change during the prison sentence, which factors influence their sustainment or dissolution, weakening or strengthening.
A kiközösített gyerekek integrálása élménypedagógiai játékokkal
Authors: Vaszi Emőke
Published: April 2024

The study focuses on children who have been verbally, physically and/or socially bullying by their peers. In the last three decades, the investigation of the phenomenon of school bullying has become an increasingly researched field, one of the main causes of which is the significant increase in the number of child suicides. As a result, the development and application of numerous prevention and intervention programs became a priority, the aim of which is to reduce this deviant phenomenon in educational institutions. The existence of these programs and initiatives helps to create communities in which hurtful behavior occurs in low numbers. In the course of this research, I chose experiential pedagogic games. In the center of the reform pedagogy method I have chosen, the promotion of the creation of social relations and the strengthening of the existing ones becomes the priority. During experiential pedagogic games, children can experience flow, the positive benefits of interdependence, and the new knowledge they get when leaving their comfort zone. The obtained results will be presented and interpreted in the experimental part of the study. As a research tool, I chose sociometry, which demonstrates the relationship network of the given class. During the pre-survey, two children (a girl and a boy) did not have a mutual relationship, and then, through the consciously guided experiential pedagogic game, the result of the post-survey was that these children managed to establish a mutual relationship.
A szociális területen tanuló felsőoktatási hallgatók életpálya tervei egy kelet-magyarországi pilotkutatás tükrében
Authors: Mohácsi Márta , Fényes Hajnalka
Published: April 2024

Our paper explores the family and career plans of social sciences students at Hungary’s second largest university based on a questionnaire-based pilot study. Nowadays, careers include more than the traditional vertical promotion within an organisation, as seen from the emergence of the self-directed “protean” career type, which prompts organisations to adapt to individuals’ values, attitudes, and own career definitions. In addition, the Kaleidoscope Career Model sets out that individuals adapt their career goals to their life stages. Thus, students’ career and family plans matter to prospective employers. Our results show that a modern self-directed career type has emerged among students, for whom it is a priority to meet their own expectations. In several cases, starting a family is preceded by career goals. Furthermore, despite the “feminine” nature of social sciences, our pilot study shows that male students in the field still tend to conform to traditional gender roles regarding the importance of family and career. Our research implies that prospective employers need to adapt their HR strategies to young people’s family and career plans. Moreover, organisations should support students in gaining relevant work experience and in achieving their subsequent career plans.
Experimental Study of the Process of Cleaning Flue Gases from Harmful Components Using Granulated Blast-furnace Slag
Authors: Ezhov V.S. , Semicheva N.E. , Burtsev A.P. , Perepelicza N.S.
Published: April 2024

An experimental study of the adsorption process of carbon and nitrogen oxides was carried out at various flue gas flow rates and concentrations of harmful components. The optimal conditions for the adsorption process were determined at various flue gas flow rates. It has been demonstrated that the efficiency of adsorption of carbon and nitrogen oxides depends on the flue gas flow rate, the concentration of these components and the process temperature. A design has been developed for an environmentally friendly nozzle for a chimney using granulated blast furnace slag as an adsorbent, which allows achieving a degree of gas purification of 50–55% or higher under optimal operating conditions.
Extraction of Valuable Components in the Process of Recycling of Technogenic Materials of Alumina Production
Authors: Pilyaeva O.V. , Shepelev I.I. , Zhukov E.I. , Sakhachev A.Yu. , Golovnykh N.V.
Published: April 2024

In the process of recycling man-made resource-saving additives into alumina raw materials, waste fireclay refractory bricks used for lining rotating furnaces and other thermal units were tested. A sufficiently high level of aluminum oxide extraction from fireclay lining has been experimentally confirmed. It has been established that when more than 95 000 tons of stored refractory fireclay brick waste is involved in the technological process, savings on a natural raw material resource are achieved: about 56 700 tons of nepheline ore.
Selection of Fuel Mixture for a New Generation Membraneless Fuel Cell
Authors: Tarantseva K.R. , Gonopolsky A.M. , Tarantsev K.V. , Marynova M.A. , Korosteleva A.V.
Published: April 2024

Membraneless fuel cells running on ethanol have been proposed as a clean energy source for a new generation. The use of two conducting immiscible liquids is shown, the phase boundary of which acts as a virtual membrane. The advantages of this development over membrane fuel cells and membraneless flow fuel cells are noted. The main reactions occurring in the fuel cell are considered, a rationale is presented, and the choice of fuel mixture is made.
Study of the Hydrological Mode of the Volga-Akhtuba Canal Depending on the Hydrograph of the Volzhskaya HPP Operation
Authors: Istomin A.P. , Istomin S.A.
Published: April 2024

The flow rates and water flow rates in the Volga-Akhtuba Canal, which is of critical importance in the watering of Akhtuba river and Volga-Akhtuba bottom land territory, have been determined in various hydrologic phases. Relationships between discharge flows through the Volgograd hydroelectric unit and flows through the Volga-Akhtuba Canal have been established. Graphs of the relationship between the water level in the lower canal pound and water flows through the Volgograd hydroelectric unit in various years are constructed. Recommendations are given for additional watering of the Volga-Akhtuba bottom land.
Assessment of the Impact of Unauthorized Landfills of Solid Municipal Waste Located in the Arctic Zone of the Russian Federation on the Components of the Natural Environment
Authors: Pichughin E.A. , Diakov M.S.
Published: April 2024

The natural, climatic and socio-economic conditions of the Arctic zone of the Russian Federation (AZRF) are considered. Factors of anthropogenic negative impact on the components of the natural environment are noted. It has been established that unauthorized municipal solid waste (MSW) dumps located in the Russian Arctic have a significant impact on the ecosystem. Contamination of soil, surface and groundwater near MSW dumps with substances of hazard classes I–IV has been recorded. It was revealed that the maximum content of pollutants in the components of the natural environment exceeds the established MPC/APC standards by 17 times.
Systematization of the Sustainable Development Concept of Territorial Socio-economic Systems in the Context of Prospects for the Use of Renewable Energy
Authors: Brazovskaia V.V. , Gutman S.S.
Published: April 2024

The issue of monitoring the achievement of the goals of sustainable development of territories is considered in relation to the modernization of the RF energy sector and commissioning of capacities based on renewable energy sources. A system of balanced indicators is recommended, which allows the formation of a transparent structure for implementation of the development strategy of a separate territory. A strategic map is proposed, on the basis of which the goals and corresponding indicators of the directions of its blocks were determined for the state and regional levels. The proper definition of sustainable development of territorial socio-economic systems (TSES) in the context of the prospects for the use of renewable energy is formulated. Future directions of research are mentioned, which include conducting econometric modeling to determine the impact of selected indicators on the sustainable development of TSES.
Mastering the Field: A Critical Analysis of 'Entrepreneurial Finance' by Leach and Melicher
Authors: Anuradha Niluka
Published: April 2024

About The Book
Book Name: Entrepreneurial Finance, 7th Edition, 2020
Authors Name: J. Chris Leach, and Ronald W. Melicher,
Publisher: Cengage Learning Publishing,
Identifiers: ISBN 0357130731, 9780357130735
About The Authors
J. Chris Leach is a distinguished academic and Professor at the Leeds School of Business, University of Colorado at Boulder. He is known for his exceptional teaching abilities, entrepreneurial background, and research in finance. Leach has received awards for teaching and has played an active role in startups since the 1970s. He is also a faculty advisor and mentor for the Deming Center Venture Fund.
Ronald W. Melicher is a distinguished Professor of Finance at the same university. He is celebrated for his teaching abilities and has held key positions in the Finance Division. Ronald's expertise spans various finance topics and has taught at prestigious institutions globally. He is also recognized as an expert in financial management and firm valuation, offering consultancy services and conducting research in critical areas of finance.
Work Stress, Work Environment, And Teacher Performance In Islamic High Schools
Authors: Kholis Nur , Rohma Hardina , Maesaroh Imas
Published: April 2024

This study investigates the effects of demographic factors, workplace stress, and the work environment on teachers' performance. Employing quantitative methodologies, it analyzes responses from teachers (Men = 51.7%, Women = 48.3%) at three Islamic Higher Schools or Madrasah Aliyah in Indonesia. Data was gathered through questionnaires directly handed out to respondents. The questionnaires included some demographic details of the participants, such as their gender, age, level of education, duration of employment, and monthly income. A Likert scale was employed to record respondents’ opinions on work stress, work environment, and teacher performance. Data was tested for normality, heteroskedasticity, and multicollinearity before finally being analyzed using multiple linear regression. Findings indicate a marginal performance advantage for married teachers over their single counterparts (B = .234, p = .063), meaning that married teachers perform slightly better than nonmarried teachers. Workplace stress was found to have a negligible effect on teacher performance (B = .160, p = .187), suggesting that teachers' performance did not depend on their being stressed or unstressed. Furthermore, the work environment significantly influences teacher performance (B = .345, p = .006), meaning a conducive work environment leads to better teacher performance. These results highlight the importance of creating a supportive and conducive workplace to enhance teacher productivity, suggesting that educational institutions should prioritize improvements in the work environment to foster optimal teacher performance.
Teachers’ Perceived Level of Professional Development and Competencies in Handling Kindergarten Pupils: The Case of Public and Private Schools of Ozamis City Division
Authors: Bacus Lizel V. , Macalisang Dr. Denmark S.
Published: April 2024

Despite the critical role of early childhood education and the unique challenges faced by kindergarten teachers, there exists a noticeable need for more specific professional development needs and competencies required for effective teaching. This study employed a descriptive-survey research method to determine the professional development needs and competencies of kindergarten teachers in public and private schools of the Ozamiz City Division. Findings revealed that the kindergarten teachers expressed a high level of perceived professional development needs and demonstrated a high level of competence in handling kindergarten classes. This emphasizes the dedication of teachers to ongoing growth and improvement within their field. However, there exist a significant differences on the perceived professional development needs and competencies in terms of gender. These indicated the necessity for professional development to enhance the skills of kindergarten teachers, particularly in addressing the differing competency needs of male and female pupils. Thus, continuous professional development is essential, especially for early childhood education, as teachers must effectively meet the needs of their students and provide quality education.
LICITAÇÕES PÚBLICAS E A MODALIDADE PREGÃO NA VERSÃO DO NOVO MARCO NORMATIVO
Authors: Santos Marcelo Pereira dos , Lacerda Luis Marcelo Lopes de
Published: April 2024

O artigo tem por objetivo analisar a possibilidade de emprego da modalidade pregão para aquisição de bens e serviços comuns, por empresas estatais, após a entrada em vigor da nova lei de licitações. A metodologia empregada é de natureza dialético-descritiva e o método utilizado tem caráter dedutivo, tomando como referência os conceitos de Marçal Justen Filho, além de terminologias usadas pelo legislador brasileiro e expressas em decisões judiciais publicadas no sítio do Supremo Tribunal Federal. Trata-se de um estudo de perfil qualitativo, amparado em concepções teóricas já consagradas nas ciências sociais aplicadas. A problemática está relacionada com a revogação da norma jurídica que dispõe sobre o pregão, por força da Lei n. 14.133/2021, e, consequentemente, derrogação de estatutos estaduais e municipais que regem a matéria em torno das empresas públicas e sociedades de economia mista. A hipótese refere-se à inadmissibilidade da aplicação subsidiária da lei geral de licitações sobre as contratações pretendidas por empresas estatais, na forma da Lei n. 13.303/2016, conforme entendimento fixado pelo Tribunal de Contas da União, no acórdão 739/2020. O resultado preliminar deste estudo revela que a lacuna normativa aberta pela nova lei de licitações e contratos inviabilizaria a utilização da modalidade pregão nas estatais.
Food quality and safety - policy implication
Authors:   African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development, Oniang'o Ruth
Published: April 2024

Urbanization is affecting food habits in a way that requires government facilitation if the food we eat is going to be of high quality, nutritious and safe. The poor carry a double burden of disease and malnutrition as they tend to develop obesity, diabetes and cardiac problems occasioned by poor eating habits (food high in refined carbohydrates, fats, and salt) and at the same time, could develop malnutrition and get exposed to communicable diseases due to a bad environment such as use of contaminated water.
The never-ending story of Africa's hunger tragedy: where lies food safety?
Authors:   African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development, Oniang'o Ruth
Published: April 2024

A January 9,2009 story in the local press reports that Kenya shilling 83million (equivalent 8 million US dollars) worth of maize was ordered destroyed by a local court. The maize totalling about 32,000 90kg bags was tested and found positive for unacceptable levels of aflatoxin; the maize was unfit for human consumption.The destruction of the maize comes at a time when rains have failed and nearly 10 million Kenyans in a population of 36 million face starvation.There is a major shortage of maize, the main staple in the country. The story in the newspaper was small, mixed up with other corruption stories but the headline was big.The National Cereals and Produce Board of Kenya (NCPB), supposedly the gate keeper of Kenya’s food grain systems had to wait to be taken to court before they could decide what to do with grain which clearly was now poison to Kenyans.
AJFAND and the 4th ANEC welcomes delegates and participants to Kenya!
Authors:   African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development, Oniang'o Ruth
Published: April 2024

Issue 38 is here to welcome participants of the 4th ANEC (Africa Nutritional Epidemiology Conference) to Nairobi, the Green City in the Sun. The conference is coming at a time that most Kenyans are feeling fairly up-beat about their own country. On August 4, 2010, Kenyans voted overwhelmingly (nearly 70% turnout) for a new constitution, which took more than 20 years to complete. So, Kenya is like a new baby to Kenyans and one we intend to nurture the way a loving mother would nurture her own child. It has been a difficult 47 years from the time the country attained independence in 1963, from the British. On December 12 in 1963, a flag was hoisted on the topmost tip of Mt Kenya to mark the birth of a new nation. We set out on an ambitious mission to rid Kenya of poverty, ignorance and disease. I left Kenya in 1968 to go and study in the USA. By the time we were attaining independence, I was 17 years old and had an idea that poor child feeding could affect the health of a child. As I proceeded for studies, I was determined to address that very issue. The University of Nairobi was offering Domestic Science ( Home Science), which my High School would not let me take because I was a science student, taking Physics, Mathematics, Botany, Zoology and, of course, Chemistry.
Food safety and the environment: Consumer issues
Authors:   University of Botswana, Allote Joseph
Published: April 2024

Food safety is a scientific discipline describing handling, preparation and storage of food in ways that prevent food-borne illness. This includes a number of routines that should be followed to avoid potentially severe hazards. Food can transmit disease from person to person and food poisoning from microorganisms (bacteria and fungus) can cause many disorders in the body or general ill health. Food is a vital necessity for life and any food commodity is liable to contamination by various agents of bio-deterioration namely, microorganisms, insects, mites and so on. In many parts of Africa, the trend towards global urbanization causes a number of problems, which do not only include overcrowding, reduced sanitation, increased air and water pollution, but also an increase in both communicable and insect-borne diseases. For example, cockroaches are commonly found in households of varying socio-economic brackets. Insects are commonly found in the African tropics and some of them are vectors, transmitting micro-organisms, which are sometimes pathogenic to man through their interaction with his/her food and many unpleasant materials like excrement and filth from different sources. Places such as bus stops, train stations, public gatherings such as sport occasions or exhibitory venues, which are popular to food vendors, are equally popular to some insects. The street food vendors will take their food business to where people are available regardless of the conditions of the surrounding area or environment. The surrounding areas might be a breeding place for insects, which transmit disease causing microorganisms to the food by their feet, body and mouth parts, through regurgitation of their vomit and through ingestion and deposition of fecal matter [1, 2].
Our Children Need to be Saved from HUNGER!!
Authors:   African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development, Oniang'o Ruth
Published: April 2024

What can I say? This is a special issue, dedicated to the nutritional needs of mothers and children, one of two, sponsored by GAIN (Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition) under their Programme on Infant and Young Child Nutrition. The pictures below tell only a small bit of the story, but quite a bit. The Horn of Africa (Kenya, Ethiopia and Somalia), and beyond (countries in yellow) is facing its worst famine in 60 years, with over 10.5 million people facing starvation. From information available to us locally, there already have been deaths of vulnerable groups (children and old people). It is difficult to get accurate data as officials are too embarrassed to admit that millions of their citizens are actually facing starvation, and that millions of children are going hungry, as many die.
Starvation in the 21st Century? It is not right!
Authors:   African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development, Oniang'o Ruth
Published: April 2024

Meetings and conferences will not rid the world of this scourge called hunger. In my last editorial for issue 45, I described the effects of the drought currently ravaging the Horn of Africa on human beings and especially on children. Who is to blame for the recurrence of the drought, of the famine? Should anyone be blamed? Should anyone take responsibility? United Nations estimated nearly 14 million people being affected. Has this famine attracted as much attention and support like previous famines of similar magnitude? It is doubtful, given the economic hardships donor countries are going through, and other threats to human peace that are taking centre stage.
Prevalence of Vitamin B12 deficiency in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus on Metformin therapy at a single centre in Johannesburg, South Africa
Authors: Kondlo Bafo , Cassimjee Zaheera , Olivier Courtney , Bayat Zaheer
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Metformin is a first-line oral hypoglycaemic agent for treating patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Studies suggest that metformin use is associated with B12 deficiency. There is a paucity of data regarding this association in South Africa. The current study aimed to determine the prevalence of B12 deficiency in a South African cohort of T2DM patients on metformin therapy.

Methods: The study was a retrospective clinical audit of patients recruited from a medical outpatient setting. A consecutive sampling technique was employed; T2DM patients who were 40 years or older and on metformin for a minimum of 6 months were recruited. B12 deficiency was defined as severe (<150 pmol/L), moderate (150–169 pmol/L) or mild (170–200 pmol/L).

Results: One hundred and one (n = 101) patients were enrolled, most of whom were females (65%). The prevalence of B12 deficiency was 14.9%, with most patients in the mild category. The majority of B12 deficient patients were female (67%), elderly (70.2 ±10.7 years) and of Coloured race (67%). The median duration of metformin use in B12 deficient and non-deficient patients was 10.9 (6–13) and 7 (3–12) years respectively (p =0.179). The median metformin dosage was 1700 mg. Older age (Adjusted odd ratio (AOR) 6.67 (1.16–38.3), p = 0.033) and Coloured race (AOR 7.8(1.78–34.2) p = 0.006) were associated with vitamin B12 deficiency.

Conclusion: In our setting, vitamin B12 deficiency is prevalent amongst T2DM patients on metformin therapy. Older age and the novel finding of Coloured race were associated with B12 deficiency. We recommend screening for B12 deficiency amongst T2DM patients on metformin therapy.
Los caminos Wari entre Moquegua y Majes en el sur del Perú
Authors: Williams Patrick Ryan
Published: April 2024

Con su capital en la sierra de Ayacucho, Perú, el Imperio Wari extendió su influencia por más de 1300 kilómetros, desde Cajamarca en el norte hasta Cuzco y Moquegua en el sur. A lo largo de su periferia sur, la presencia Wari ha sido mejor documentada entre los 1000 y 3000 metros sobre el nivel del mar en valles como Ocoña, Majes, Sihuas, Vitor, Chili y Moquegua, la mayoría de ellos prospectados arqueológicamente. En este artículo, examino las evidencias de un camino Wari sureño y un conjunto de sitios arqueológicos que conectaron el extremo sur del Perú con regiones más septentrionales y, eventualmente, con la capital ayacuchana. Argumento que el nicho ecológico quichua fue el foco principal de los paisajes culturales Wari y dictaminó la ubicación de la red vial principal de esta tradición. Asimismo, examino la organización de los asentamientos localizados a lo largo del camino real propuesto, así como los componentes simbólicos y demográficos de la ruta. Por último, investigo el rol del camino Wari en la promulgación de una economía política imperial en el extremo sur del Perú.