bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COVID-19 PANDEMIC AND CHANGES IN THE SIZE AND STRUCTURE OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION IN POLAND
Authors: Kozak Sylwester
Published: December 2023

The aim of the article is to present the changes that have occurred in agricultural production during the COVID-19 pandemic. The subject of the research were the changes in household expenses, food exports and imports, purchases and the volume of agricultural production. The study covers the years 2017-2021, of which the years 2020-2021 constitute the period of the COVID-19 pandemic. Data on GDP, the size and structure of household consumption, exports and imports of food, purchase of agricultural products and agricultural production, as well as prices of food products come from the Central Statistical Office. The study analyzed the structure and dynamics of selected values characterizing households and the agri-food sector. The results obtained indicate that changes in the functioning of the economy, as well as sanitary and administrative restrictions imposed on society during the COVID-19 pandemic may have contributed to an increase in the volume and value of agricultural production and to a change in its product structure. The greater beneficiary of this crisis situation was plant production, where the level of demand from households was relatively consistent with the intensity of the pandemic. However, a negative effect of the pandemic was an increase in the risk of conducting agricultural activities. Changes in consumer preferences related to changes in the severity of the effects of the pandemic and sanitary restrictions on the trade in food products have reduced the level of stability in running farms and exposed them to potential losses resulting from, among others, the inability to sell the produced production.
In Vitro Evaluation of Push-Out Bond Strength in Three Different Post Systems
Authors:   B.D.S, M.Sc. Candidate of KHCMS, Khanzad Training Center for Oral Health, Bajlan Tara Kamal Talib , Salman Raid Fahim ,   B.D.S, M.Sc., Ph.D., Assist. Professor, College of Dentistry/ Hawler Medical University, Conservative Department. Khanzad Training Center for Oral Health (Erbil training center)
Published: December 2023

Background and objectives: Intimate adaptation to the canal walls is accomplished by custom-made posts which leave an even thickness of cement layer. Therefore, this study has been conducted for assessing the strength of push-out bond among prefabricated fiber posts, relined fiberglass posts, and zirconium posts using resin cement of self-adhesive and adhesive. The mode of failure was also assessed. Materials and Methods: Sixty uniradicular teeth were endodontically treated. According to the kind of post system and cement utilized (n=10), the specimens were separated randomly into six groups. Zirconium oxide post, customized glass fiber post, and glass fiber post were used. The roots were divided into three discs: apical, middle, and cervical sections. After that, the discs were put through a push-out test, and the fracture mode was examined using a stereomicroscopic loupe. Results: The highest push-out value was recorded for the relined post (8±2.83 MPa), and the lowest was registered with no significant differences for the prefabricated post (7.27±3.76 MPa). There were no significant differences in strength bond across the various posts and root regions (P?.05). Adhesive failure at the dentin-cement interfaces for the prefabricated and relined post was (60, 57) % respectively, and zirconium oxide post was (22%). Conclusions: Relined posts may be a suitable clinical situation as a post material selection with reduced clinical steps. When posts are joined using self-adhesive and adhesive resin cement, the root region has no important influence on the strength of the bond.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Erectile Dysfunction in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Erbil-Iraq
Authors:   F.K.B.M.S (Int. Med), M.B.Ch.B. Lecturer, Department of Internal medicine, College of Medicine, Hawler Medical University, MohammedAli Yahya Kamal , Ahmed Yousif Baha'addin ,   M.B.Ch.B, MSc., Ph.D. Ass. Prof, Department of Internal medicine, College of Medicine, Hawler Medical University
Published: December 2023

Background and Objectives: Erectile dysfunction is a highly prevalent disease. It affects multiple aspects of health and can have a serious adverse effect on both the patients and their partners. Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder associated with many chronic complications including erectile dysfunction. The aim of this study was to find out the prevalence and risk factors of erectile dysfunction in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Patients and Methods: A cross-sectional study had been done on 100 adult male patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, attending endocrinology outpatient at Erbil Teaching Hospital between June and December 2021, and another 50 age-matched non-diabetic controls. Each one of them underwent detailed history taking, clinical examination, and relevant biochemical study. Results: Sixty-three diabetic patients (63%) had erectile dysfunction compared to 6 nondiabetic subjects (12%). Mild, mild-to-moderate, moderate, and severe erectile dysfunction among these patients were 17 (27%), 21 (33.3%), 16 (25.4%), and 9 (14.3%), respectively. Among diabetics, erectile dysfunction was significantly associated with age, obesity, glycated hemoglobin level, duration of diabetes, presence of hypertension, dyslipidemia, and neuropathy (p= 0.001, 0.005, <0.001, 0.038, 0.02, 0.017 and 0.025 respectively) Conclusion: Erectile dysfunction was significantly more prevalent in patients with type 2 diabetes than in non-diabetic patients. Being older than 50 years old, obesity, glycated hemoglobin level higher than 9, diabetes more than 10 years duration, presence of hypertension, dyslipidemia, and neuropathy were significantly in favor of a higher prevalence of erectile dysfunction in this group.
Homology based selection of cell surface markers for the purification of goatbone marrow derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: TYAGI VAISHALI , FIRDAUSI NASERA , HAKIM BILAL AHMAD , JAIN ANKITA , SINGH DEEPENDRA , VYAS AKANKSHA , MISHRA RAJNIKANT , KUMARI ARTI , VISHWAKARMA ACHCHHELAL , KHARCHE SURESH DINKAR , SACHDEV MONIKA
Published: December 2023

Adult stem cells are self-renewing cells and sustain for long period. Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) has been studied in a variety of species till date, however, there is limited information available for goats’ MSC surface markers. Hence, as per the developmental scenario of mammals, homology of MSCs surface markers across the species can be explored for the enrichment of goat BM-MSCs. Accordingly, in present study a pure population of goat MSCs was isolated, while using diverse antibodies against MSC surface markers from other species including human, rat and mouse. Goat bone marrow was aspirated from the iliac crest, and cultured in DMEM. Further, MSCs were enriched using human CD90 antibodies through Magnetic-Activated Cell Sorting (MACS). Once, thesecells exhibited fibroblast-like morphology, the expression of stem cell markers was analysed through FACS and Immunofluorescence. Pure MSCs were observed to be highly positive for CD90 and CD29 by 98-99% and turned out to be almost negative for CD45 and CD31, while using rat antibodies, hence proving the purity of this stem cell population. These goat bone marrow-derived MSCs are used for intra-ovarian transplantation, which seems to be crucial to restoring female fertility in aged infertile goats.
РЕТРОСПЕКТИВНЫЙ АНАЛИЗ РОЖДЕНИЯ НОВОРОЖДЕННЫХ С ВРОЖДЕННЫМИ ПОРОКАМИ СЕРДЦА В ПЕРИОД ПАНДЕМИИ COVID-19
Authors: Гулноз Юлдашева , Шохида Хикматова , Дилором Бадиева
Published: December 2023

Аннотация: В данной статье представлены результаты ретроспективного анализа амбулаторных карт 60 детей, рожденных с ВПС за период пандемии. Установлены частота встречаемости и особенности клинического течения врожденных пороков сердца. Цель исследования: Изучение частоты встречаемости и особенности клинического течения ВПС у детей в период пандемии. Задачи исследования: 1. Изучение частоты встречаемости ВПС у детей в период пандемии.  2. Анализировать особенности клинического течения ВПС в период пандемии. Материалы и методы. Работа выполнена на кафедре педиатрии БухГМИ и Бухарском городском родильном комплексе. При ретроспективном изучении истории развития новорожденных за период 2019–2020 гг. выявлено  33 случаев рождения новорожденных с ВПС. Новорожденным с ВПС были проведены следующие методы исследования: общий клинический осмотр, клинико-лабораторные (общий анализ крови с развёрнутой лийкоформулой, свёртываемость крови, маркеры воспаления — СРБ, прокальцитонин, интерлейкин-1 и 6, Ig м и G на sARs-Cov-2), инструментальные (обзорный рентген грудной клетки, ЭКГ, ЭхоКГ) исследования. Результаты и их обсуждение. Анализ истории развития новорожденных по гестации показали, что роды  в сроке 22-37 недель составили 38%, в сроке 38-42 недель-50,0%, в сроке 42 и более недель- 12% случаев. Из 33 новорожденных с ВПС у 18 (52,9 %) детей выявлен дефект межжелудочковой перегородки. Дефект межпредсердной перегородки диагностирован у 8 детей (23,5 %), открытый артериальный проток,  у 6 детей (17,6 %), сочетание дефекта межжелудочковой перегородки с открытым артериальным протоком — у 1 детей (2,9 %), наименьший удельный вес среди выявленных пороков составили: дефект межпредсердной перегородки в сочетании со стенозом легочной артерии, изолированный стеноз легочной артерии, тетрада Фалло и стеноз аортального клапана, которые встречались в равном процентном соотношении — 0,3 %. Выводы: Среди детей с врождёнными пороками сердца после перенесения матерей во время беременности CovID-19 отмечается высокая степень развития острого кардита и педиатрического воспалительного мультисистемного синдромом ассоциированного с CovID-19.
Stand Structure and Composition and Model for Estimating Stand Volume Potential at the Citragaluh Sustainable Community Forest Management Unit, Subang Regency, West Java
Authors: Medhavi Wilhelmus , Lastini Tien , Hernawan Endang
Published: December 2023

In general, community forest management is still limited to the management of individual farmers so that it affects diversity, especially in the form of stands. This study aimed to explore the stand structure and composition characteristics and develop a model for estimating the potential stand volume at the Citragaluh community forest management unit with 55 observation plots based on a combination of slope and density classes. The data taken includes slope; plant species; plant coordinates; planting pattern and spacing; tree diameter, tree height, and canopy density. The results of plot observations showed that the cropping pattern of Citragaluh Community Forest Management Unit (CFMU) consisted of monoculture (10.9%), mixed stands (20%), agroforestry (29%), dry fields (27.27%), wet fields (9%), bamboo stands (1.8%) and built-up area (1.8%). The trees species found were Jeungjing, Mahogany, Teak, Tisuk, Sobsi, Akasia, and Puspa. Based on the results of stratification, diameter distribution, and stand volume, mixed gardens were the best cropping pattern. This research proves the role of community forest as a transition between plantation forest and natural forest based on the stand form and composition. The stand volume potential estimator model chosen was linear with the equation Y = 0.074X1 + 2.924 X2 - 1.679 where X1 = slope and X2 = Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). The values of R2 models are 51.3%. The average potential for the Citragaluh is 119,835 m3/ha, which tends to be higher than other community forest studies.
Faith x Healing: The relationship between religion and improved prognosis in palliative care patients
Authors: Hellen Soares Alves Alicy , Dos Santos Nascimento Gilmar
Published: December 2023

It is well known that coping with chronic illness has a direct impact on the patient's psychological state. In this way, faith, whether religious or not, is an ally in improving the negative symptoms caused by the patient's vulnerable condition. Studies show that such positivity works as a source of strength for patients, giving them hope that the proposed treatment can be effective. To this end, this work seeks to relate the improvement in the healing of physical problems with spiritual help, proposing a discussion between religion and science. The topic will be approached through reviews of existing literature, as well as films, documentaries and popular beliefs. This work aims to understand the relationship between belief and the physical and psychological improvement of patients in a palliative state.
Disease Detection using Region-Based Convolutional Neural Network and ResNet
Authors: Sushma Sri V. , Hima Sailu V. , Pradeepthi U. , Manogyna Sai P. , Kavitha M.
Published: December 2023

In recent times, various techniques have been employed in agriculture to address different aspects. These techniques encompass strategies to enhance crop yield, identify hidden pests, and implement effective pest reduction methods, among others. Presented in this study a novel strategy which focuses on identification of plant leaf infections in agricultural fields using drones. By employing cameras on drones with high resolution, we take precise pictures of plant leaves, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the entire area. These images serve as datasets for Deep Learning algorithms, including Convolutional Neural Networks(CNN), Resnet, ReLu enabling the early detection of infections. The deep learning models leverage the captured images to identify and classify infections at their initial stages. The usage of R-CNN and ResNet technology in agriculture field has brought the tremendous change when we detect the disease in earlier stage of crop. Thus the farmer can take the pest preventive measures in the beginning stage to avoid crop failure
Counterpoint Battles in the 18th Century Naples: an Attempt of Historical Reconstruction
Authors:   Gnesin Russian Academy of Music, Maslova Anastasia I.
Published: December 2023

The article examines an underscrutinised polyphonic tradition formed in the 18th century Naples. This period is often associated with the heyday of Naples opera. Its development was driven by the opening of four conservatories, which produced highly qualified composers and singers. The 18th century opera of Italian composers stands high on the research agenda in the history of music, however, the unique counterpoint tradition formed within the Neapolitan conservatories is still in oblivion. The mid-18th century witnessed the emergence of two irreconcilable parties: the Leists (followers of Leonardo Leo) and the Durantists (followers of Francesco Durante). References to the century-long struggle of two educational schools are found in a range of Italian and European sources. However, they either say nothing about the origins of the conflict or report controversial information. The study of the origins of the conflict that evolved from simple competi- tion to theoretical controversy shows that the main reason for the discord between the Leists and the Durantists was counterpoint—the discipline that completed the course of studying composition in the Neapolitan conservatories. Two different approaches to teaching not only testify to the birth of a unique polyphonic tradition in southern Italy, but also become an expression of a stylistic change in the mid-18th century European music.
Wilhelm Friedemann Bach’s Clavier Fantasies: a Creative Dialogue With the Father
Authors:   Gnesin Russian Academy of Music, Ivanov Arseny I.
Published: December 2023

W.F. Bach was greatly influenced by the personality and style of his great father Johann Sebastian Bach. As the first teacher of clavier and composition, his father remained Friedemann’s main mentor throughout his life. For him, his father’s music was the highest artistic reference point.W.F. Bach’s woks have numerous quotations and allusions to J. S. Bach’s compositions. These borrowings did not go unnoticed by the composers’ contemporaries. According to the musicologist T. Frumkis, the composer was following his father’s footsteps as a slave. At the same time, an 18th century music theorist F.W. Marpurg in his Legende Einiger Musikheiligen reported on Friedemann’s cases of plagiarism. However, it seems that in most cases such quotes in Friedman's music do not indicate the lack of one's own imagination or attempts of blind copying. They are more about an original creative reinterpretation of the borrowed material. The article explores the series ofW. F. Bach’s polyaffective (the term by Y. S. Bocharov) clavier fantasies: F. 16,F. 18, F. 19 and F. 21. They are marked by the biggest number of citations fromJ. S. Bach’s music. These compositions, to some extent, can be considered as free “fantasia on themes” originally written by Sebastian Bach. The borrowings manifest themselves in motifs, phrases, textured drawings, development techniques, and even compositional principles. At the same time, the quotations are surrounded by W. F. Bach’s original compositional material and placed in new structural conditions. This creates the conditions for creative dialogues with J. S. Bach. They are of different quality and emotional mood and range from a heart-to-heart talk to a heated debate.
Haydn, Mozart and Pleyel: Rivalry And Interinfluences
Authors:   Gnesin Russian Academy of Music, Nagina Dana A.
Published: December 2023

Ignaz Pleyel was one of the talented and extraordinarily popular composers of his time. At least twice in his life he could instill a sense of rivalry in his eminent contemporaries—Joseph Haydn and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. This gave birth to several most interesting instrumental works of the 18th century, i.e., the “Haydn” Quartets by Mozart and the Sinfonia Concertante in B flat major by Haydn. Mark Evan Bonds has convincingly shown that the “forefather” of the genre was not the only person involved in the three out of six Mozart’s quartets dedicated to Haydn. When composing his works, Mozart made himself familiar with Pleyel’s Quartets Oр. 1 written according to the model of Haydn’s works. Mozart, to all appearances, decided to surpass Pleyel. Haydn’s Sinfonia Concertante in B flat major was composed during the creative competition with Pleyel in London. It was organized by rival impresarios Johann Peter Salomon and Wilhelm Kramer. The composition was Haydn’s answer to similar works by his ex-pupil Pleyel—Sinfonia Concertante in F major and Sinfonia Concertante in A major. However, where Mozart was an absolute winner leaving behind not entirely independent quartet experiments of his rival, the competition between Haydn and Pleyel ended in a “draw”. The London concert symphonies of both composers are marked by the maturity of style, beautiful melodism, compositional creativity as well as the harmonic balance of virtuosic solo parts and orchestral monumentalism. Pleyel was instrumental in the very existence of certain works by Mozart and Haydn. However, both of them also influenced his style. This is especially true of Pleyel’s interpretation of the sonata form. In the first quartets he relied on Haydn’s model with the variant transformation of the main theme, then, however, he resorts to Mozart’s model with its thematic plurality, combinatorics, and thematic and structural parallels with the Italian opera arias. Pleyel's symphonies concertante are the extreme of similarity to Mozart's form.
Research in the Gnessins Russian Academy of Music: Priority 2030 Program. Interview with A.S. Ryzhinsky and T.I. Naumenko
Authors:   Gnesin Russian Academy of Music, Ryzhinsky Alexander S. , Naumenko Tatiana I. ,   Gnesin Russian Academy of Music, Nagina Dana A. ,   Gnesin Russian Academy of Music
Published: December 2023

The article discusses the results of the interviews with Alexander S. Ryzhinsky, Rector of the Gnessins Russian Academy of Music, and Tatiana I. Naumenko, the Academy’s Vice Rector for Research. The questions were related to the program “Priority 2030”. The year 2021 was named the Year of Science and Technology in Russia. In this regard, “Priority”, described as an “academic leadership program”, is one of the key initiatives of the Russian Government. The program aims “to form a large group of universities that will become the leaders in creating new scientific knowledge, technology, and developments for introduction into the economy and social sphere in Russia”. The program will provide 106 Russian universities with solid funding to conduct large-scale research including international projects. The program funds may be allocated to enhance research and laboratory facilities or to implement new research programs. The Gnessins Russian Academy of Music is one of the winners of the “Priority 2030” program. In his interview, Professor A.S. Ryzhinsky, Doctor of Art Studies, Rector of the Academy, spoke about the participation in the program. In particular, he focused on the following: the original idea to join the program, the team that designed the Gnessins Academy development program, the Academy’s policies and strategies as part of the “Priority” program. Professor T.I. Naumenko, Doctor of Art Studies, Vice Rector for Research, spoke about further development of research and the support provided to the Academy’s current initiatives and new projects that became possible due to the participation in the “Priority” program.
Variations on an Old Russian Chant: Nostalgia for Imperial Russia in the Vladimir Dukelsky’s Oeuvre
Authors:   Petrozavodsk State Glazunov Conservatory, Maksimova Antonina S.
Published: December 2023

The article explores Variations on an Old Russian Chant for Oboe and Strings by Vladimir Dukelsky (1955) as an example of the “Russian theme” (using the term by M. Druskin) which is not typical for Dukelsky’s late works. Variations is one of the few classical compositions by Duke recorded during his lifetime. As is shown in the table, the Russian theme had been a high priority in Dukelsky’s oeuvre till the late 1930s, while during the next decade (after taking the US citizenship) the composer almost gave it up. Variations appeared in the time of historical changes. This work marked Duke’s nostalgia for the “imperial” period of Russian history. That year Duke published his first book—memoirs Passport to Paris. At the same time, he entered into the longlasting collaboration with the Radio Liberty. As a musical text and a historical document, Variations correlate with the question put by Prof. Richard Taruskin: Is There a “Russia Abroad” in Music? Variations are modal by nature and formulaic in structure. The composer made a very flexible use of the formulaic principle in his series of variations where the initial theme changed beyond recognition. The analysis of historical documents suggests that in his late works Dukelsky sought to give his own perspective on the historical mission of the first-wave émigré.
Improving Retention of Underrepresented Groups in the Geosciences through an Intensive First-Year Experience at the University of South Carolina
Authors:   University of South Carolina, Benitez-Nelson Claudia , McNeal Karen , Jones William
Published: December 2023

There have been many efforts to broaden participation and diversity in the geosciences with varying degrees of success. The goal of the National Science Foundation-funded GeoScholar Program in the School of the Earth, Ocean & Environment (SEOE) at the University of South Carolina was to increase geoscience exposure and the number of geoscience undergraduate majors (environmental, geological, and marine sciences) from low-income, minority, and first-generation college backgrounds.
Actions and Challenges Toward Building Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Arctic Marine Science: The Case of the Canadian Research Icebreaker CCGS Amundsen
Authors:   Amundsen Science, Desmarais Amélie , Forest Alexandre , Merzouk Anissa , Rochefort Véronique , Dhifallah Fatma
Published: December 2023

As the organization managing the scientific mandate of the Canadian research icebreaker CCGS Amundsen, Amundsen Science aims to create a safe and respectful research environment for every expedition participant aboard the vessel and to improve our relations with stake- and rightsholders of the Canadian North. Our current focus is on two primary equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) objectives specific to Arctic oceanographic expeditions: (1) to make the confined and remote workplace of the ship a mentally, emotionally, and physically secure environment, and (2) to integrate Indigenous-led research and to bring awareness of local (Inuit) culture during the expeditions.
Excluded Identity Retention in STEM: A Roadmap for Inclusive Undergraduate Research Symposia
Authors:   University of California, Santa Barbara, Heard Madison , Nordheim Caitlin , McKinley Cheyenne , Zilz Zoe , Jones Victoria , Vincent Bridget , Caves Eleanor
Published: December 2023

Undergraduates make up a critical portion of STEM research workers at universities. However, undergraduate researchers coming from racial, cultural, socioeconomic, gender, or other groups that are historically underrepresented in STEM (i.e., excluded identity [EI]; Bhatti, 2021) often have difficulty accessing professional development opportunities that might encourage them to pursue a career in a STEM field (Barber et al., 2020). To support EI students and increase retention in STEM beyond the undergraduate level, opportunities to build scientific skills should have a low barrier to entry and provide ample training.
Salton Sea Environmental Work and the Importance of Community Science
Authors: Centeno Diego , Arzeno-Soltero Isabella , Delgado Andrea , Freilich Mara , Marquez Cruz , Montgomery Quinn , Palomino Aydee , Penalber Gwen , Sinclair Ryan , Taboada Juliana
Published: December 2023

In the Southern California desert, the Salton Sea is the cause of a local socioenvironmental crisis reflective of various environmental injustices. Today’s Salton Sea is fed primarily through agricultural water run-off and effluent discharge. Over 23% of the Latinx and Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indian identifying residents live below the poverty line in the two zip codes north of the sea (US Census Bureau, 2021). Persistent droughts and inequitable policies have accelerated the sea’s evaporation, exacerbating environmental health problems such as poor air quality and respiratory illnesses like asthma (Farzan et al., 2019). Since 2010, nonprofit organizations such as Alianza Coachella Valley (hereafter referred to as Alianza) have been addressing these issues and campaigning for economic and environmental justice in the Eastern Coachella Valley (ECV). Prior to this work, no reliable and continuous source of water quality information was easily accessible to local communities. Most recently, Alianza championed a community science initiative with the goal of establishing ongoing environmental monitoring, research, and advocacy. Through this initiative, community members formed the Salton Sea Environmental Time Series (SSET) in 2021 with support from the American Geophysical Union’s (AGU’s) Thriving Earth Exchange program. This collaboration, along with a variety of other institutions, has fostered diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within scientific academia for underrepresented ECV scholars and can serve as a blueprint for future initiatives.
Advancing Diversity and Inclusivity in Ocean Sciences by Re-Envisioning Overlooked Barriers in Scientific Diving Training
Authors:   Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Barber Paul , Barber-Choi Jeannie , Betancourt Austin , Cuker Benjamin , Davis Alexandra , Fong Caitlin , Fong Peggy , Gibson Deidre , Smith Tyler
Published: December 2023

Self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (scuba) is an essential tool in some marine science fields. However, financial costs and racial disparities in swimming participation can be a barrier to entry for many aspiring marine scientists of color. Scientific diving programs could improve access to scientific diving training by offering training as part of their standard undergraduate curriculum and by maintaining a stock of scuba gear for use during courses. Similarly, the American Academy of Underwater Scientists (AAUS) could make training more accessible by re-envisioning components of the swim test and by building water safety skills into AAUS training—​all without compromising safety. Combined, these two actions would expand pathways for students of color to careers in marine science, adding much needed diversity to the field.
Introduction to the Special Issue on Building Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Ocean Sciences
Authors:   Geosciences Professional Services Inc., Kappel Ellen , Cuker Benjamin , Garza Corey , Gibson Deidre , Martinez Catalina , Todd Wendy , Xu Cassie
Published: December 2023

In his inaugural “The Oceanography Classroom” column for Oceanography in 2000, Dean McManus noted: “A particular challenge for higher education is to include more members of underrepresented groups in the study of the ocean. Fifteen years from now, 40% of the traditional undergraduate-​​age population will consist of these underrepresented groups, but today the ocean sciences have the lowest participation by underrepresented groups of any science” (McManus, 2000). Why should we care about this lack of diversity in the ocean sciences? As a recent US National Science Foundation report puts it, “A diverse workforce provides the potential for innovation by leveraging different backgrounds, experiences, and points of view. Innovation and creativity, along with technical skills relying on expertise in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), contribute to a robust STEM enterprise” (NSF, 2023a). To put it more succinctly, “diversity is not distinct from enhancing overall quality—it is integral to achieving it” (Gibbs, 2014). Having a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workforce is not only a valuable objective and moral imperative, it is essential for fulfilling future workforce needs.
The Antimicrobial Resistant Gram-negative Bacteria Originated from Canines, Felines, Environments, and Humans in South Korea
Authors:   The Korean Society for Veterinary Nursing, Hong Jun Sung , Bae Il kwon
Published: December 2023

The report of distribution and antimicrobial resistance rates in clinical hospitals in South Korea has been well-documented. However, the description of prevalence and antimicrobial resistance rate in veterinary hospitals is relatively rare. The aims of this study were to describe the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance rate for gram-negative bacteria originated from canines, felines, environments, and humans in South Korea. We collected bacteria from the rectal swabs of companion animals (dogs and cats), stool samples of humans (pet owners and medical staffs), and swabs of veterinary hospital surfaced in 16 veterinary hospitals. The isolates for antimicrobial susceptibility were performed by the agar disk diffusion method. Third- and fourth-generation extended-spectrum cephalosporin (ESC) resistance genes were identified by PCR and sequencing. A total of 740 Escherichia coli , 133 Klebsiella pneumoniae, 132 Acinetobacter baumannii , and 100 Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates were recovered on MacConkey agar from companion animals, humans, and veterinary hospital environment samples for 2019 - 2020. The ESC resistant rates showed 36.3%, 40.6%, 18.2%, and 0% in E. coli , K. pneumoniae , A. baumannii , and P. aeruginosa, respectively. The most of the ESC resistance genes were blaCMY-2, blaDHA-1, and blaCTX-M-type. Our results indicate that the antimicrobial resistance rate including ESC was similar to that in the clinical field except carbapenem. In addition, the genus, species, and an timicrobial resistance determinants of gram-negative bacteria collected from samples were similar between the clinical and veterinary fields.
Twin Production by Fertilized Egg Transfer in Korean Cattle
Authors:   The Korean Society for Veterinary Nursing, Lee Jun Young , Jung Yun Gil , Seo Byoung Boo
Published: December 2023

This study investigated two blastocyst fertilized eggs of Korean native cattle (Hanwoo) developed in vitro for 3 years in 18 farm houses. The fertilized eggs were transferred into 208 cattle recipients in 7~8 days of estrous cycle. Then, their pregnancy rate, delivery rate, calf crop rate, twin crop rate and miscarriage / stillbirth rate were investigated. As a result of transferring Hanwoo blastocyst fertilized eggs developed in vitro to 208 cattle recipients, the pregnancy rate was found 53.8% (112/208); and delivery rate, 92.9% (104/112), showing no significant yearly variation. Twin delivery rate in 1st and 2nd years was 45.2% (14/31) and 47.9% (23/48), respectively, significantly higher than the 3rd-year rate of 8.0% (2/25) (P< .05). The average twin delivery rate was 37.5% (39/104). Calves produced based on pregnancy accounted for 108.1% (121/112). In the 1st year and 2nd year, the rate was 115.2% (38/33) and 114.0% (57/50), respectively, significantly higher than the 3rd year rate of 96.3% (27/26) (P< .05). The average twin calf production after Hanwoo embryo transfer was 32.2% (39/121), recording 36.8% (14/38) in the 1st year and 40.4% (23/57) in the 2nd year. In the 3rd year, 26 calves were produced including 2 twins, accounting for 7.7%. This number in 3rd year is significantly lower than the 1st and 2nd-year results (P< .05). Among the 31 calves delivered in the 1st year, 4 were stillbirths; and 4, miscarriage. The male-female cattle ratio was 10:28. Female calves accounted for 26.3%. Among the 48 calves produced in the 2nd year, 10 were miscarriage; and 4, stillbirth. A cow produced triplets. Male-female cattle ratio was 21:36. Female cattle accounted for as high as 36.8%. Among the 25 calves produced in the 3rd year, 2 were stillbirth. Male-female cattle ratio was 12:14. Female cattle accounted for 46.2%, representing good improvement result. In all of the years, the male-female ratio was 43:78. Female cattle accounted for as high as 35.5%. Miscarriage/stillbirth ratio was as high as 21.4% (24/112).
The results above showed no remarkable difference in pregnancy rate and delivery rate after embryo transfer to 208 cattle recipients for 3 years. This study also found higher miscarriage/stillbirth rate than those of other studies. With respect to twin production, the 1st and 2nd-year Hanwoo embryo transfer showed significantly higher results of twin production than that in the 3rd year (P< .05). Regarding male-female ratio, female caves were found to account for larger part with time. Based on the findings, it is deemed necessary to establish improvement foundation earlier as a way to homogenize Hanwoo genetic traits and secure fattening cattle for quality meat production. Moreover, for higher income of farm houses, embryo transfer-based twin production technology will need to be developed through continued research.
Changes in ECPKA Levels Following Vincristine Administration in a Transmissible Venereal Tumor Dog
Authors:   The Korean Society for Veterinary Nursing, Han Sei-Myoung
Published: December 2023

A spayed male, Pomeranian, 10-year-old, presented to the veterinary hospital with swelling of the bulbus gland and exudate from the genitals. After general examinations such as complete blood counts, serum chemistry, X-rays and abdominal ultrasounds, fine needle aspiration tests for genital masses were performed. It was diagnosed with infectious genital tumor [Transmissible Venereal Tumor (TVT)] from the test results, vincristine was administered intravenously at a dose of 0.7 mg/m2 at intervals of 1 week and 3 times as a chemotherapy.
During chemotherapy, genital masses decreased to normal, and the level of ECPKA(Extracellular cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase A) before chemotherapy was 1015.08 UI, but one week after the third administration of vincristine, the level decreased significantly to 260.94 UI.
ECPKA is very low in normal conditions, but its usefulness in the early detection of tumors in dogs has been suggested in the fact that it can be elevated in tumor tissue. Evaluation of the termination of chemotherapy while proceeding with treatment by checking blood levels such as ECPKA makes it possible to judge tumor remission, and it can be used before and after chemotherapy in various tumors other than TVT.
Kinetic Gait Analysis in a Dog with Congenital Shoulder Luxation: A Case Report
Authors:   The Korean Society for Veterinary Nursing, Jung Eun-Gyeom , Jang Jin-Wook , Cha Yu-Ri , Lee Shin-Ho
Published: December 2023

In dogs, the shoulder joint is stabilized by the joint capsule, ligament, and rotational muscles as a diarthrodial joint. The lameness of the forelimb is often caused by a medial luxation of the shoulder joint. A 5-year-old, 5 kg castrated poodle dog with a body condition index of 4 to 5 was presented with the lameness of the right forelimb. Restrictions in the range of joint motion and lameness were confirmed on physical examination. Kinetic gait analysis was confirmed that the maximal vertical force was increased by 9% in the right forelimb compared to the left forelimb. The stance phase of the right forelimb was shorter than the left. The study was confirmed the double stance phase and a bias of the center of pressure towards the right. This study analyzes the gait of a dog with shoulder luxation using kinetic measurements, aiding in clinical trials for animal health.
Evidence for student-centered teaching: A process evaluation of MTB-MLE classroom instruction
Authors: Narvacan Cristian
Published: December 2023

Over a decade into the implementation of Mother Tongue-Based Multilingual Education (MTB-MLE) in the Philippines, program implementers continue to encounter challenges, especially in terms of student-centered instruction (SCI). To ensure a student-centered program, the Department of Education crafted guiding principles to which MTB-MLE teaching and learning should be anchored. However, numerous implementation challenges could potentially affect the application of SCI in the classroom. Utilizing process evaluation adopted from Stufflebeam's (2000) CIPP model, this study investigated the extent to which MTB-MLE teachers carry out SCI in a public elementary school. This paper also examined teachers' challenges and coping strategies in relation to classroom instruction. Results revealed that SCI was strongly implemented in the MTB-MLE classes. Further, the following SCI-related challenges emerged: (1) learners' unruly behavior during activities; (2) difficulty in the use of mother tongue; and (3) lack of cooperation among students. To address these concerns, the teachers employed coping strategies, such as setting clear classroom rules, using translation and code-switching, and providing varied activities to match learners' interests. The findings of this paper may aid policymakers, curriculum designers, and school administrators in developing appropriate programs and activities aimed at enhancing teachers’ competence to implement a student-centered MTB-MLE education.
Experimental evaluation of the treadmill speed and incline effects on the ankle kinematics in healthy subjects
Authors:   Department of Applied Mechanics, Faculty of Mechanics, University of Craiova, Romania, TARNITA DANIELA , PETCU ALIN ,   Department of Applied Mechanics, Faculty of Mechanics, University of Craiova, Romania, MARINACHE GABRIELA ,   Department of Applied Mechanics, Faculty of Mechanics, University of Craiova, Romania, MARGHITU DAN ,   Department of Mechanical engineering, Auburn University, USA
Published: December 2023

This paper presents the results obtained in the experimental evaluation of flexion–extension angles of the ankle joints during 10 tests of walking on horizontal and inclined treadmill. The tests were performed at two different speeds, 5 km/h and 10 km/h, and five different incline angles: 0, 3, 7, 11 and 15 degrees by a sample of 11 healthy subjects. The medium cycles are determined and plotted for all subjects and for the sample, for all experimental tests. The medium cycle was calculated for each test, for each subject, and for the entire sample. A comparison is made between the average cycles of each test obtained for the sample. Increasing the TM inclination leads to an increase in the maximum value of the flex-ext angle. The influence of increasing the TM inclination angle on the variation of the flex-ext angle is stronger than that of increasing the walking speed.
Best operation strategies for piezoelectric vibration energy harvesters. I. Theory
Authors:   Candida Oancea Institute, Polytechnic University of Bucharest, Spl. Independentei 313, Bucharest 060042, Romania, BADESCU VIOREL
Published: December 2023

This paper is the first part of a three-part series. A general scheme of controlling the operation of piezoelectric vibration energy harvesters is proposed. It covers schemes proposed in literature as particular cases. The focus is on base-excited vibration energy harvesters.
Passing the systems among levels of quantum reality
Authors:   ASTR – Technical Sciences Academy of Romania, Calea Victoriei, 118, Bucharest, Romania, CUNCEV IOAN
Published: December 2023

The visible reality at a given moment is a result of the modification of the quantum states of the observables of some systems from another level of quantum reality. The projection towards the new reality is done by collapsing some states described by simple wave functions or resulting from quantum superpositions. Collapses are also achieved through measurements of observables, influencing quantum phenomena, bringing some phenomena to another level of reality. These can pass from a higher level of quantum reality to another level, effectively measuring certain observables, but also through discoveries, studies, identifying the dynamics of the supply-demand balance from the "cloud" of the market's equilibrium points, the realization of new products or services, etc. That is, the still invisible objects will become visible by extracting them from the original quantum reality with the help of projectors, through collapses. The quantum state of the systems also changes through decoherence, through the interaction with the surrounding environment. In the following, some directions are suggested for the development of models for unitary treatment of objects from different levels of reality.
The Influence of Service Quality, Credit Procedures, and Interest Rates on Customer Decisions : Study at Bank Mandiri, Timor - Leste
Authors: Marcos  , Khalid  , Lucio
Published: December 2023

The aim of this research is to find out and analyze service quality, credit procedures and interest rates which influence customers' decisions to take credit at Bank Mandiri Timor-Leste. This research method is causative research. Causative research focuses on proving research hypotheses and understanding through various tests. Causative research more often seeks to measure a concept (variable), so that it is easier to understand statistically. The results of the research show that Service Quality has a positive and significant effect on Customer Decisions in taking credit, credit procedures have a positive and significant effect on customers' decisions in taking credit, interest rates have a positive and significant effect on customers' decisions in taking credit, and service quality, credit procedures and interest rates have a positive and significant effect on customers' decisions in taking out credit.
Transforming Teaching of Foundational Nursing Skills to Enhance Clinical Reasoning Development: A Proposed Simulation Based Learning Activity
Authors: ANDERSON ALLISON K. , HILL ALLISON N.
Published: December 2023

Over the past decade nurse educators have been called to transform nursing academia in order to better prepare our future nurses for the tremendous changes in the healthcare environment. The advancing medical technology, aging population, nursing shortages and recent COVID pandemic have provided unique challenges that require complex decision-making abilities. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) has made significant changes in their licensure examination to accommodate the need to assess vital clinical judgment and decision-making skills in entry level graduate nurses. A model to measure clinical judgment was developed by NCSBN in 2019 to assist faculty in evaluating students beyond textbook nursing knowledge to actively perform and evaluate safe, effective clinical decisions. In order for students to fully grasp the clinical judgment process, faculty need to create active learning opportunities that provide patient context so students can cultivate clinical decision-making skills parallel to clinical knowledge. In nursing curricula, students learn fundamental skills in the first year of their education that provide them with a strong foundation to assess and care for thousands of patients. Transforming how these vital nursing skills are taught from solely performing the psychomotor learning domain to incorporating patient specific scenarios can foster development of clinical reasoning and sound clinical judgment in practice. This article outlines the transformation and redesign of teaching clinical skills to first semester nursing students to enhance clinical reasoning development and a proposed future study of assessing student outcomes using a simulation-based approach.
AVALIAÇÃO DA INFLUÊNCIA DA INSERÇÃO DA GERAÇÃO DISTRIBUÍDA EM SISTEMAS DE DISTRIBUIÇÃO DE ENERGIA ELÉTRICA
Authors: Sales Daniel Pereira de , Decanini José Guilherme Magalini Santos , Carniato Leonardo Ataide , Pereira Fernando da Cruz
Published: December 2023

This paper seeks to evaluate the impacts arising from the insertion of distributed generation (DG) in electrical power distribution systems. In this circumstance, using the OpenDSS computational tool, simulations of four different scenarios were carried out, varying the DG penetration levels as a function of the total feeder load, considering a specific point of operation. Finally, the same feeder was simulated with photovoltaic generating sources distributed in bars next to the loads, in order to analyze the temporal characteristic of solar generation as a function of demand. Through the simulations, it was possible to analyze, interpret and highlight the impacts that the insertion of DG produces in the electrical power distribution systems. It was evident that the increase in DG penetration led to an improvement in the feeder voltage profile, power flow inversion and reduction of electrical losses in the feeder. It should be noted that the insertion of DG from renewable sources is a Brazilian reality and a path to be followed, since the diversification of the energy matrix in line with the use of new technologies, such as smart grids, will provide electrical power systems with greater safety, operational efficiency and quality in the product delivered to consumers.
Normenkollisionen als Erweiterung des konzeptionellen Werkzeugkastens der Normenforschung
Authors: Gholiagha Sassan
Published: December 2023

Normenforschung beschäftigt sich seit einigen Jahren intensiver mit Beziehungen zwischen Normen. Vor diesem Hintergrund argumentiert der Beitrag, dass das Konzept der Normenkollision eine sinnvolle wie auch notwendige Erweiterung des konzeptionellen Werkzeugkastens der Normenforschung ist. Hierzu wird zunächst Normenkollision als Konzept vorgestellt. Darauf aufbauend präsentiert der Beitrag zentrale empirische Ergebnisse der Forschung zu Normenkollisionen und stellt ein methodisches Vorgehen zur Analyse von Normenkollisionen vor. Darüber hinaus wird auf methodische Herausforderungen solcher Analysen eingegangen. Der vierte Abschnitt zeigt den analytischen Mehrwert des Konzepts Normenkollisionen für die Normenforschung auf und macht deutlich, wie in der Polykrise Normenkollisionen als Konzept ein besseres Verständnis globaler Politik bieten.