bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methanotroph biotransformation for nutrient recovery: a review of current strategies and future opportunities
Authors: Zheng Xin , Liu Qianru , Khademi Sahar , Khoshnevisan Benyamin , Xu Mingyi , Zhang Yifeng , Lou Yu , Liu Hongbin , Duan Na
Published: June 2024

The escalating global demand for protein and the imperative to meet sustainable development goals have driven the emergence of biotransformation platforms, with methanotrophs showing significant potential in this field. In this paper, the metabolism, nutritional requirements, cultivation strategies, and bioreactors of methanotrophs are reviewed. Integrating upstream and downstream technologies is also advocated to advance the development of methanotroph biotransformation platforms toward a circular economy model. The advancements in utilizing biogas as a viable carbon source and wastewater as a nitrogen source are discussed, emphasizing the need for detailed quality control and safety assessments to ensure the suitability of single-cell protein as animal feed. In general, by integrating advanced nutrient recovery technologies to define new process routes, methanotroph biotransformation platforms can bring better environmental benefits by reducing carbon emissions and saving resources. Shifting to renewable energy is crucial for achieving environmental sustainability. By using renewable energy to power microbial fermentation, biomass dehydration, and waste recycling, the platform can offset high energy consumption and attain significant market competitiveness with traditional protein sources.
Boosting plant oil yields: the role of genetic engineering in industrial applications
Authors: Hajinajaf Nima , Fayyazbakhsh Ahmad , Kamal Shahsavar Sara , Sanjarian Forough , Rahnama Hassan
Published: June 2024

As climate change intensifies and the need to reduce human-caused emissions becomes more urgent, transitioning to a bio-based economy is essential. This paper explores the diverse industrial applications of plant oils as sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based products, including their use in food, polymers, lubricants, surfactants, pesticides, emollients, and biofuels. This review delves into biosynthetic pathways, detailing the key enzymes and processes involved in the synthesis of triacylglycerol. It thoroughly discusses how genetic and metabolic engineering can not only increase oil yields but also modify fatty acid compositions to better meet industrial requirements. By understanding genetics and utilizing advanced biotechnologies, the oil content and quality of plant sources can be significantly enhanced, aligning with both sustainability goals and industrial demands. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the current uses and genetic engineering of plant oil production, proposing innovative strategies such as utilizing oils from biomass or cultivating non-edible oil crops. These approaches aim to establish a sustainable industrial system, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and promote the growth of an environmentally responsible bio-based economy. Additionally, the review highlights future directions, examining the economic implications and environmental benefits of adopting plant oils across various sectors and positioning them as pivotal to achieving an eco-friendly, bio-based economy.
Innovating Community-Based Drinking Water Treatment: A Mobile Device in Barangay Lupa, Compostela, Cebu
Authors: Plarisan Jamaica , Conde Kyle , Almaden Giles , Sarsalejos Rosegen , Arsolon Clorie Mae , Cabiging Angelique , Arioja Gilliana Eve , Acaso Kyla Shenna , Narte Dreian , Ulgasan Renz , Tan Jestoni , Lalican Donald
Published: June 2024

In response to the significant issue of insufficient access to safe drinking water in the mountainous barangay of Lupa, Compostela, Cebu, this study provides a customized mobile water treatment device that seeks to address current drinking water issues, providing mitigation to the community. The treated water undergoes rigorous laboratory testing to determine the device's treatment performance on deep-well water sources in the barangay. This study evaluated the device's acceptability level, performance, and potential weaknesses using weighted mean calculations, microbial contamination calculations, and Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA). The results reveal a significant level of acceptance among respondents toward adopting the mobile water treatment device. Moreover, the device’s treated water effectively meets the 2017 Philippine National Drinking Water Standards, making it safe for drinking. However, observation highlights device vulnerabilities, particularly the water pump's tendency to overheat and the UV sterilizer's sensitivity, emphasizing the importance of consistent monitoring and maintenance practices.
Influence of Vertical Diversification on Sustainable Organizational Performance of Chartered Private Universities in Kenya
Authors: Mueni Mutinda Agnes , Juma Okello Dennis , Otinga Hesbon , Kitonga Daniel
Published: June 2024

The worldwide higher education sector has been revolutionized by globalization, adverse economic circumstances, intense industrial rivalry, and the changing demands of the contemporary customer. Private universities are compelled to reconsider their tactics. The present research investigates the implementation of vertical diversification as a crucial approach that private universities might use to achieve sustained organizational performance. The research used a cross-sectional survey approach, including the whole population of 21 private institutions in Kenya. The study used primary data collection via the use of structured research questionnaires. The acquired data was quantified and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics via the use of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The research used Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to determine the connection between the variables, while correlation and regression analyses were utilized to examine hypotheses and the associations among the variables. The inferential analysis demonstrated a clear and direct correlation between horizontal diversification and the sustainable performance of private institutions in Kenya. Moreover, the research confirmed a statistically significant and beneficial impact of implementing a horizontal diversification strategy on the sustainable performance of private institutions in Kenya. The study recommended that policymakers should consider formulating and implementing policies that encourage and support vertical diversification in chartered private universities in Kenya. Private universities should strategically embrace vertical diversification practices to enhance sustainable organizational performance. This involves continuous efforts to upgrade existing programs, diversify academic offerings, and establish programs that meet the evolving needs of industries.
Evaluation de l’adoption et pratique de l’allaitement exclusif et de l’alimentation de complement, des meres allaitantes et des meres enceintes dans la commune rurale de Dissihn au Burkina Faso
Authors:   Institut de Recherche en Sciences Appliquées et Technologies, Farma OL , Hama-Ba F ,   Institut de Recherche en Sciences Appliquées et Technologies, Bougma S ,   Institut de Recherche en Sciences Appliquées et Technologies, Savadogo A ,   Université Joseph KI-ZERBO
Published: June 2024

Malgré les efforts du gouvernement burkinabè et ses partenaires dans la lutte contre la malnutrition, celle-ci demeure un problème majeur de santé publique. En 2020, deux enfants sur cinq de moins de six mois ne sont pas nourris exclusivement au sein et trois enfants sur cinq de moins de deux ans ont une alimentation non diversifiée. La présente étude transversale et descriptive décrit les connaissances, les attitudes et les pratiques sur l’allaitement exclusif pendant les six premiers mois de vie et l’alimentation de complément, des couples mères allaitantes-enfants et des mères enceintes. Elle s’est déroulée de mai à juin 2020 dans huit villages de la Commune rurale de Dissihn dans la région du Sud-Ouest du Burkina Faso. Les interviews ont concerné 242 mères dont 152 mères allaitantes primipares ou non et 90 mères enceintes à travers une enquête directe. Les mères étaient majoritairement jeunes et l’âge moyen était de 27 ans et près de 57% (n=138) n’étaient pas scolarisées. L’étude a montré que seulement, 38.2% (n=58) et 36.2% (n=33) respectivement des mères allaitantes et des mères enceintes avaient un bon niveau de connaissance sur l’importance de l’allaitement exclusif. Les analyses ont montré que l’âge de la mère (p=0,024), son accès à l’information sur l’allaitement exclusif (p=0,033), sa participation aux séances d’éducation nutritionnelle (p=0,006) et aux séances des Groupes d’Apprentissage et de Suivi de Pratiques (GASPA) d’Alimentation et de Nourrisson du Jeune Enfant (ANJE) (p=0,004) influençaient positivement son niveau de connaissance de l’allaitement exclusif. En pratique, 30.4% (n=46) des mères affirmaient avoir allaité exclusivement leur enfant pendant les six premiers mois de vie. Enfin, 5.2% (n=8) d’entre elles ont diversifié l’alimentation de leurs enfants âgés de 6 à 23 mois. Les obstacles évoqués par les femmes qui empêchent la pratique optimale d’ANJE étaient d’ordre socioculturel. Les mères enquêtées 81.7% (n=198) trouvaient que certaines pratiques traditionnelles locales rendaient difficile voire impossible l’allaitement exclusif. A cela s’ajoute une faible disponibilité alimentaire, citée comme étant la principale cause d’une alimentation moins diversifiée chez les enfants de 6 à 23 mois. La pratique alimentaire adaptée à l’âge est faible dans notre zone d’étude. Ainsi l’éducation nutritionnelle serait-elle encouragée afin de réduire la malnutrition. Mots clés: Allaitement exclusif, alimentation, rural, connaissances, pratiques, mères, nutrition, jeune enfant
Yam value chain analysis among smallholder farmers in south-south Nigeria
Authors:   University of Calabar, Agbachom EE , Ettah OI ,   University of Calabar, Effiong JB ,   University of Calabar, Iyam MA ,   University of Calabar, Okeme I ,   University of Calabar, Uwah ED ,   University of Calabar, Edet OG ,   University of Calabar, Abanyam VA ,   University of Calabar, Ajah EA ,   University of Calabar
Published: June 2024

The study analyzed yam value chain among small holder farmers in South South Nigeria, with specific objectives of estimating the profit margin and examining the factors that affect the profit margin of the yam value chain actors. Gross and marketing margins, marketing efficiency and multiple regression analyses were used to realize the objectives. Data from eighty, fifty and sixty yam producers, processors and marketers, respectively were collected with the use of questionnaires. Results of analyses showed that the gross margin of yam producers was ₦554,133.3/ha and 35% of which went into operating expenses. That of processors was ₦154, 877.58 with 47% operating expenses and ₦96,0752.68 with 66% operating expenses for marketers respectively. Marketing margin of yam processors was estimated to be 0.332 (33.2%) and a marketing efficiency of 58.65%, which meant that the yam processors gained ₦58.65 kobo for every naira spent on processed yam. The marketing margin of yam marketers was estimated as 42.1% and a marketing efficiency of 54% meaning that yam marketers gained ₦0.546 (54.6 kobo) for every naira spent on marketing yam in the area. Factors that affected the profit margin of the yam producers were age, household size, education, farm size and access to credit. Age, level of education and processing experience influenced the profit margin of yam processors, while household size, level of education, marketing experience and membership of association influenced the profit margin of yam marketers. Nonetheless, the yam value chain actors made appreciable profit. Following the results, the following are recommended: because of the good profit margins of the actors, more people should be encouraged to become actors in the yam value chain and education of yam value actors should be encouraged to give them more capacity to use innovation in their business. Key words: value chain, yam producers, yam marketers, marketing margin, marketing efficiency
Relationship between body mass index and fat mass percentage among adolescents from Constantine (Algeria)
Authors:   Constantine 1 Mentouri Brothers University, Bahchachi N , Mezdoud A ,   Constantine 1 Mentouri Brothers University, Benabdelmalek YK ,   Constantine 1 Mentouri Brothers University, Djeghim F ,   Constantine 1 Mentouri Brothers University, Nezzal L ,   Constantine 3 Rabah Bitat University
Published: June 2024

Several references based on body mass index (BMI) have been used in Algeria to define adolescent obesity. No studies have been published to assess the diagnostic accuracy of these references. This study aimed to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of the International Obesity Task Force (IOTF) and Algerian national data based on BMI to detect excess fat in adolescents. A cross sectional study of 257 adolescents aged 16-19 was conducted in Constantine, Algeria. The BMI was calculated from weight and height measurements. The body fat percentage (BF%) was estimated by impedancemetry (BIA). The IOTF and Algerian national data were evaluated for their sensitivity and specificity to detect excess body fat. The BF% thresholds used to define true positives were 25% for boys and 30% for girls. Body mass index was significantly associated with BF% in the whole population (r=0.759). Obesity is more common in girls (p<0.01), regardless of the reference used. The percentage of obesity among adolescents according to the IOTF, Algerian data and BF% was 5.84%, 5.45% and 20.62%, respectively. The obesity rate estimated by BF% was significantly higher (p<0.00001). Sensitivity of the evaluated criteria, IOTF and Algerian data, was high for males (83.3% and 100%, respectively) and low for females (19.2% for both IOTF and Algerian data). Specificity of the two criteria was high for both sexes (100%). Specificity was higher than sensitivity; therefore, the ability of BMI to detect non-obese adolescents was higher than its ability to identify obese adolescents. As BMI is an index of body weight rather than body fat, it can be a source of error. Local data and international references gave the same percentages of obesity. Body mass index is a very specific but less sensitive method to assess increased body adiposity in adolescents. It fails to identify excessive adiposity in a significant percentage of female teenagers. It seems necessary to measure body fat in addition to BMI in adolescent girls. Therefore, it is important to consider body fat mass when determining obesity in order to predict the consequences of obesity, which are mainly due to an increase in fat mass in the body. Key words: Adolescent, Obesity, BMI, Fat mass rate, IOTF, Impedancemetry, Algeria
Fish biodiversity in modified ecosystems: a case study of Nigeria's Challawa and Tiga dams in the Challawa and Kano rivers
Authors:   Bayero University, Abdul-Azeez H , Jere WWL ,   University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Abdussamad AM ,   Bayero University, Kassam D ,   University of Agriculture and Natural Resources
Published: June 2024

River impoundment is usually accompanied with consequences of alteration in the hydrological system and change in the biodiversity composition of the ecosystem. This study investigated the impact of the dams built on Challawa (that is, Challawa George-Dam) and Kano (that is, Tiga Dam) on the fish biodiversity of the reservoir and below-dam sections of the two rivers. Fish sampling was done using long lines, Malian traps, cast and gill nets from stations on the reservoir and below-dam sections of the rivers. Ten fish species were identified from the reservoir and the below-dam sections of Challawa River belonging to nine families and four orders. Fish communities of the reservoir and below-dam sections of Kano River consisted of 28 species belonging to 12 families and 7 orders. Results of the Shannon diversity index (H^') indicated that the two reservoirs have relatively higher fish species diversity measures (that is, Challawa=1.948 & Kano=2.294) than the below-dam parts (that is, Challawa=1.833 & Kano=2.247) of their respective rivers. Non-metric Multidimensional Scaling (NMDS) analysis produced two-dimensional maps with stress values of 0.0554 and 0.0537, an indication that the model provided good representation of the original data in reduced-dimensional space. The ordination map indicated wide dissimilarities between fish communities of the impounded and below-dam sections. Furthermore, a one-way analysis of similarity indicated significant difference (P=0.0001) and high dissimilarities (R=0.643) between fish communities in the two sections of Challawa River and also in Kano River (P=0.001, R=0.929). Analysis of Similarity Percentage indicated 74.45% of the dissmilarities between fish communities in the two sections were cummulatively contributed by four species in Challawa River and 72.18% by five species in Kano River. The distinct differences in fish abundance and richness between the two sections is ascribed to increased ecosytem productivity often associated with the inundated portion of dammed river. It is recommended that more water flow across the dams should be encouraged as a mitigating measure to boost basin sizes of the rivers at the below-dam sections. Key words: Diversity, dam, impound, reservoir, community, freshwater and fish species
Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) of body segment composition as an obesity assessment tool among Jordanians
Authors:   Mutah University, Herzallah SM , Alkhalaileh N ,   Mutah University, Sundookah A ,   Applied Science Private University, Dabbour I ,   Mutah University, Abu-Samak M ,   Applied Science Private University, Olaimat A ,   The Hashemite University, Al-Dmoor H ,   Al-Balqa Applied University, Majali M ,   Mutah University, Abu-Hanak Y ,   Mutah University, Holley R ,   Manitoba University
Published: June 2024

Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) is a body composition assessing technique for estimating body components; fat, and muscle mass, and body water (BW) by measuring the electrical resistance in ohm (Ω) of those components with response to the flow of a small electrical current through the body. Bioelectrical impedance analysis was used to investigate the relationships between segmental body composition, obesity and body mass index (BMI). The analysis in this study involved the use of InBody 370S equipment to conduct the body composition study of 48 adult participants (30 females and 18 males) at the Applied Science Private University (ASU) School of Pharmacy, Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, between October, 2019 and January, 2020, Jordan. Anthropometric parameters such as weight, height, body mass index (BMI), and waist-to-hip (W/H) ratio for each individual were measured. The values indicated that BMI of 26.5 for males and 25.42 for females and body composition such as body fat mass (BFM), protein, and visceral fat level (VFL) of females of BMI > 30 was 39.82 compared to 32.60 for males of the same category. The VFL for female individuals was higher than males (13.0 and 17.5) of the same BMI category. The results of BIA analysis, lean body mass, and body muscle mass were found to be significantly (p <0.05 ) correlated in obese adult females but not in obese males, where the body fat mass (BFM) of females with BMI > 30 was 39.82±4.35 compared to 32.6±3.67 for males of the same group. Additionally, the BFM (−3.86**), segmental muscle mass (SMM) was 0.784**, and total body water (TBW) of −0.658** were all indirectly correlated at (p <0.01) with the BIA impedance evaluated as Z(Ω) at 250 kHz. However, the lean mass of the left arm ( −0.662**) and left leg muscle (− 0.514**) were found to be significantly correlated (p < 0.01) and lower in identified obese females compared to non-obese individuals. The findings demonstrate the strong correlation between lean and fat segmental analysis values, and the level of obesity and segmental analysis for male and female individuals can be taken into consideration in obesity and disease prevention. Key words: BIA, obesity, segmental analysis, body composition, BMI, WHR, VFL
Knowledge on oral health and periodontal status among type II diabetes mellitus (DM) patients in Libya
Authors:   University of Benghazi, Elhassy G , Al Ghazal L ,   University of Benghazi
Published: June 2024

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the common diseases in the world. Its dramatic increase annually is considered a global issue to the people, in which raising awareness about the disease and its complication is crucial. It has been well documented by the literature that smoking and DM are two major risk factors for periodontal disease. Knowledge of oral health is vital for type II DM patients and is a key factor in the treatment and prevention of periodontal disease. A cross-sectional study was conducted among three hundred diabetic patients in a Benghazi diabetic treatment center. The participants were 40.3% (n = 121) male and 59.7% (n = 179) female adults whose ages ranged from 16 to 80 years. Inclusion criteria included Libyan citizens diagnosed with type II DM. The participants were questioned through a structured questionnaire and followed by the examination of their oral status. Periodontal examination was performed by two periodontists using the following indices: plaque index (PI) and periodontal disease index (PDI). Knowledge about oral health and periodontal status for Libyan patients with type II DM was tested through eight core questions using a structured questionnaire. The results showed about half of the sample had poor knowledge regarding the condition and its detrimental effect on oral and general health. Only 31% of participants provided good knowledge about type II DM and its relationship to oral health and periodontal status. The P-value showed a significant relationship between the knowledge and PI and PDI indices. Participants with poor knowledge showed higher scores in both indices. A significant relation was found between PI, PDI and knowledge. As knowledge was fair, the lower the PI and PDI scores. To lessen diabetic complications and their deleterious effects on oral and general health, raising knowledge and awareness could be a solution. Multidisciplinary cooperation between the medical and dental staff could be implemented to increase public knowledge. Key words: Oral health, Periodontal, Patients, Diabetes mellitus, Libya, Health awareness, Dentistry
Poverty and Wellbeing in Zambia: Pandemic Update
Authors: Diwakar Vidya , Bwalya Richard
Published: June 2024

This study attempts to provide a descriptive assessment of the reasons behind the increase in poverty witnessed in Zambia between 2015 and 2022. Although poverty in Zambia is more pronounced in rural than urban areas, the increase in poverty was much higher in urban areas. This increase may be at least partly explained by a confluence of factors, including load shedding, the Covid-19 pandemic, which considerably negatively affected businesses and employment, and the effect of rising prices, which also put pressure on households’ purchasing power. There were also dramatic increases in certain provinces (Lusaka, Southern, and Copperbelt) in the share of household heads who were not working due to pandemic-induced business closures in 2020, which is likely to have put a strain on pathways out of poverty, given the positive relationship between non-farm enterprises and resilience before the pandemic.
Children and Armed Conflict: Effects and Interventions
Authors: Idris Iffat
Published: June 2024

This review investigates the profound and enduring impacts of armed conflict on children, examining interventions aimed at mitigating these effects. Despite a robust international framework, implementation gaps persist, hindering effective protection and support for conflict-affected children. Key interventions include access to education, support for children associated with armed forces/groups (CAAFAG), and mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS). However, evidence of their impact remains limited, primarily derived from case studies rather than critical and intensive reviews. This rapid evidence review underscores the critical need for contextually relevant and well-resourced interventions to safeguard the well-being and rights of children amidst armed conflict.
La formation des cadres des industries forestières et du bois dans les territoires d'Outre-Mer
Authors: Blais R.
Published: June 2024

L'École Supérieure du Bois, qui a vocation à animer la filière bois en France et dans l'Union Française d'Outre-Mer, se déroule sur deux ans. Les bois tropicaux occupent une place importante dans le cursus de la deuxième année qui est également ouverte aux élèves non inscrits désireux d'approfondir leurs connaissances techniques du métier et de se familiariser avec les derniers progrès industriels.
Re-engineering local economic development through SMMEs post-COVID-19 in rural municipalities
Authors: Shava Elvin
Published: June 2024

Small Micro, Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) are the most strategic mechanisms rural municipalities in South Africa advocate for to generate employment and increase household income. The Citizen Empowerment Theory was utilised to understand how Local Economic Development (LED) can be re-engineered by SMMEs post-COVID-19 in South African rural municipalities. To arrive at a meaningful conclusion, the paper adopted a document analysis which draws from pre-COVID-19 narratives on SMMEs and examines government documents and peer-reviewed articles that inform SMME development post-COVID-19 in South Africa. Revelations emanating from the document analysis indicate the severe damage COVID-19 did to both formal and informal SMMEs. To grow and reposition themselves in the dynamic entrepreneurship landscape post-COVID-19, SMMEs in South Africa require strategic business approaches that enable them to draw funding from external sources instead of relying on government funding which in most cases has red tape and other bureaucratic complexities tied to it. Further analysis of documents indicates the need for rural SMMEs to embrace digital entrepreneurship where product marketing is done online including most of the business transactions. By doing this, evidence from the document review affirms that SMMEs become competitive by tapping into external markets in the process linking themselves to stakeholders who may have an impact on the growth and sustainability of SMMEs towards employment regeneration and improved LED in rural municipalities. To have an integrative LED that promotes citizen participation post-COVID-19, the paper recommends rural municipalities foster close ties with local SMMEs which is critical for enhancing their networking strategies while SMMEs diversify their portfolios to generate income as well as withstanding shocks that may be triggered by unpredictable external environments.
Exploring the relationship between inflation and unemployment in South Africa
Authors: Azunna Chigozie , Botes Lucius
Published: June 2024

The paper investigates the relationship between inflation and unemployment in the South African setting, encompassing a comprehensive analysis of historical, theoretical, and empirical evidence. Existing literature surveys demonstrate that several studies have been conducted in multiple countries to ascertain the correlation between inflation and unemployment. The review incorporated the postulations of many economic schools of thought as they are applied to South Africa. The Phillips Curve was examined in accordance with the research purpose. The process involves gathering secondary data from reputable sources such as Statistics South Africa, the South African Reserve Bank, and other reliable secondary sources to analyse this relationship. The findings are presented using linear regression, tables, and figures. The study utilised annual inflation and unemployment data in South Africa spanning from 2000 to 2022 to elucidate the correlation between inflation and unemployment. The study discovered that the link was nonlinear and did not exhibit any meaningful association or correlation.
Repositioning the concept of Xenophobia in the African context: Why do we allow ourselves to be defined by others?
Authors: Maseng Jonathan
Published: June 2024

The main goal of this work is to reposition the concept of xenophobia in the African context. This is to reflect on Thabo Mbeki’s narrative on Xenophobia. Africa continues to remain a pawn due to the Eurocentric ideas that have been forced on the Africans also brought about a foreign concept of xenophobia as if Africans are not brothers in the name of brotherhood. It is incontestable that brothers are, in some cases engage in fight, but there was a laid down rules and norms of resolving such misunderstanding. With the employment of qualitative research methods, complex interdependence theory garnished with Anglo-American conspiracy theory; we argue that, Anglo-American imperialist managed to spread and enforce the usage of English through imposing the concept xenophobia in the continent while failing to capture the essence of sibling fights or fights amongst African brothers and sisters conceptualised by the Batswana speaking people as maragana teng a bana motho. Through acknowledging Mbeki’s narrative and some sampled African languages, we argue that, while there is a word for foreigner in these sampled African languages, there is no direct or indirect translation of xenophobia in African languages. We conclude that the concept xenophobia has its etymological foundations in Greek and is therefore foreign in any of the African and South African indigenous languages.
The influence of society’s perception, social networking and social impact measurement on access to finance of social enterprises: Perspective of eThekwini Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
Authors: Akoh Emmanuel
Published: June 2024

The aim of this paper is to explore the influence of society’s perception, social networking and social impact measurement on access to finance for social enterprises’ activities. It broadens the theoretical understanding from the perspective of resource dependence theory. The study tested hypotheses to asertain the impact of society’s perception, social networking and social impact measurement on access to finance that enhances social enterprises’ activities.  A quantitative research approach was adopted, using a snowball sampling technique to identify 90 owners/managers of social enterprises from three communities in the KwaZulu-Natal province. The data was examined with Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modeling. The study revealed that social impact measurement has a positive, but statistically insignificant impact on access to finance; there is a positive and statistically significant impact of social networking on access to finance; also, society’s perception has a positive and statistically significant impact on access to finance. The result does not support the moderation effect of society’s perception on social networking and access to finance. Therefore, this study recommends that government educate the society on the importance of social entreprise activities in KZN communities, which will enhance members of the societys’ willingness to provide financial assistance. In addition, there should be great emphasis on social networking among social enterprises as it provides crucial platforms to share relevant information on access to finance, which is essential in addressing sociatal challenges.
Enacting caring presence in a conflicting environment: the case of state patients
Authors: Oukouomi Noutchie Suares Clovis
Published: June 2024

In today’s fast-paced and often chaotic world, healthcare providers face numerous challenges in providing care and support to patients, particularly in settings where conflicts arise. One such complex scenario is the care of state patients, individuals who are mentally ill and have come into contact with the criminal justice system. In these situations, enacting a caring presence becomes crucial for promoting healing, understanding, and positive outcomes for both patients and society. The article delves into the exploration, review, and discussion of various techniques for enacting a caring presence in such situations, to transform the care and well-being of state patients. It highlights the multifaceted challenges healthcare providers encounter while caring for this vulnerable population, emphasizing the importance of empathy, compassion, and understanding in their treatment. The article analyzes strategies like trauma-informed care, cultural sensitivity, and interdisciplinary collaboration, while stressing the significance of providing a safe and non-judgmental environment. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to prioritize their own well-being to avoid burnout. Ultimately, the article advocates for a more compassionate and understanding approach to mental health within the criminal justice system, envisioning positive changes in patients’ lives and society at large.
The impact of corporate social responsibility on corporate performance in different industries evidence from Taiwan
Authors: Chen Po-Jung , Chang Wu-Hua , Yang Chih-Yu
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this study is to analyze whether there are differences in the impact of corporate social responsibility on its financial performance and stock performance in different industries. The research period is from 2016 to 2018. The samples are selected from the corporate social responsibility award-winning companies selected by Commonwealth Magazine and Vision Magazine, and the financial information comes from Taiwan Economic News (TEJ). The empirical results show that traditional heavy industries have been established for a long time and the equipment is relatively old, so it needs to pay a relatively high cost to improve. Therefore, in this type of industry, corporate social responsibility has a negative impact on its financial impact, and even if it is a reputation It has won the evaluation of the public, but its stock characteristics are not easy to fluctuate, so the impact on its stock performance is not significant. On the contrary, in the other two industries, corporate social responsibility will not burden its financial performance, but will positively help its stock performance. Among them, in the electronics industry, corporate social responsibility will positively help its financial performance. It may be that this type of industry has a relatively high bargaining power for products and relatively advanced technology, so it can transfer the cost of corporate responsibility invested to the selling price of the product.
A birchbark anthropomorphic article from the Early Iron Age Novotroitskoye necropolis in the Upper Ob
Authors: Golovchenko N.N. , Pilipenko S.A.
Published: June 2024

This paper discusses a burial doll discovered within the Early Iron Age necropolis of Novotriotskoye-1 during field research by the expedition of Barnaul State Pedagogical Institute under the direction of A.P. Umanskii in the Talmensky District of Altai Krai. The object found in a woman's burial is an anthropomorphic image with wing-shaped arms and schematically indicated facial features, namely prominent eyes, eyebrows, nose and gouged mouth. The purpose of this work is to publish the Novotriotskoye idol in high quality, since in various publications by A.P. Umanskii and co-authors it was presented only in schematic drawings. Cleaning the object from field dirt, undertaken by the authors, made it possible to better observe the stylistic features of the artifact. Furthermore, the authors made an attempt to create experimental stylistic replicas of the analysed article. Three scenarios of its production have been implemented, and the details are presented in this publication. The authors suggest that the schematic exterior of the Novotriotskoye object allows considering it as a peculiar burial doll. The iconography of the Novotriotskoye anthropomorphic image has been characterized in the context of connections of the Upper Ob River region population of the second half of the 1st mil. AD with the cultures of Northern Asia (Tashtyk, Kokel, “Bulan-Koby”). A wide range of archaeological and ethnographic parallels to the discussed anthropomorphic ob-ject has been analyzed. The authors conclude that the routine production of anthropomorphic images and masks was deeply rooted in the Ob River region, and it appeared in the Early Iron Age. Earlier, we came across an opin-ion, that its origins need to be searched for among the cultures of Southern Siberia — mainly Khakass-Munusinsk Basin and Eastern Siberia. The discovery of the studied birchbark image in the Novotriotskoye necropolis in-cludes the Upper Ob River region into the potential areas of formation of this tradition.
Kurgans of Gazanbulag
Authors: Najafov Sh.N. , Kirichenko D.A. , Аsadov V.А.
Published: June 2024

This article presents the results of rescue archaeological excavations carried out in November 2015 — January 2016 (following the program of archaeological research in new building sites, within the framework of the South Caucasus Pipeline Expansion project) near the Gazanbulag River, in the Borsunli kurgan cemetery, and the samples of material culture of the ancient Azerbaijan population identified within the site. The surveyed area is located about one kilometer north from the village of Veyisli, on the right side of the highway leading to the district center — the city of Goranboy (Goranboy district, the Republic of Azerbaijan), at an altitude of 219 m.a.s.l. During the archaeological exploration work carried out in 2013, about 30 burial mounds were discovered on the territory of the Borsunlu “Camp” and near the Gazanbulag River. In 2015–2016, nine burial mounds were excavated at the “Camp” site. All these mounds had a covering consisting of medium and large stones. The space between the stone rows of mounds was filled with earth. Burial chambers were found in all of them except for kurgans 3 and 8. Despite the fact that mounds 7 and 9 had chambers and equipment, they did not contain human remains. In some mounds (Nos. 6, 7, 9) the burial chambers were located in the center of the mound covering, while in others (Nos. 1, 2, 4, and 5) on its slopes. In the burials, representative archaeological materials were revealed, which shed light on the study of religious beliefs, social status and life of ancient inhabitants of the analysed area of Azerbaijan. Samples of ceramic vessels found in the mounds are characteristic to the Khojaly-Gadabay archaeological culture in their shape and content. Apart from pottery, numerous bronze items of jewellery were found in the graves: bracelets, rings, earrings, diadems, flat buttons, headbands, beads. The discovered iron products are represented by knife blades and iron rod. It can be assumed that persons with a special high social status were interred in the Gazanbulag kurgan cemetery. Based on the type, structure, grave goods recovered, as well as the results of the radiocarbon analysis, the analysed burial mounds are mainly dated to the end of the Bronze Age and the begin-ning of the Early Iron Age, precisely to the 10th–9th c. BC.
An Improved Blended Numerical Root-Solver for Nonlinear Equations
Authors: Asad Ali Chandio  , Asif Ali Shaikh  , Qureshi Sania , Abdul Rehman Soomroo
Published: June 2024

This study presents a novel three-step iterative approach for solving nonlinear equations inthe domains of science and engineering. It represents a notable change from traditional methodslike Halley by eliminating the need for second derivatives. The suggested method exhibits asixth order of convergence and only requires five function evaluations, showcasing its efficiencywith an index of roughly 1.430969. The suggested method effectively solves nonlinear problemsinvolving equations with algebraic and transcendental terms. Comparative analysis againstexisting root-solving algorithms demonstrates their superior performance. The results not onlyconfirm the strength and effectiveness of the three-step iterative approach but also highlight itspotential for wide-ranging use in many scientific and technical situations.
Guest Editorial: The Unavoidable Truth: The World's Growing Need for Oil
Authors: Ferrari Adam
Published: June 2024

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In a world populated by over 8 billion people and counting, the demand for energy has never been higher. Despite the push from the green energy movement advocating for renewable sources like wind and solar, the harsh reality is that these alternatives alone cannot sustain the world's voracious appetite for power—not currently or in the foreseeable future.

The truth is that oil remains an indispensable and irreplaceable part of the global energy mix. According to Statista, more than 100 million bbl of oil are needed daily to meet the world's steadily rising energy requirements. From transportation and manufacturing to heating, electricity generation, and countless other vital applications, oil is the lifeblood that keeps modern civilization running smoothly.

As convenient, efficient, and highly energy-dense sources, natural gas and oil are simply unmatched by any currently available alternatives. This fundamental reality is what drives me to explore and drill for new oil reserves to help secure the energy supplies that will power human progress.

America’s Rising Importance in the Global Oil Equation

In the global quest to locate and extract new, viable oil supplies to meet escalating demand, the US has emerged as an increasingly vital player. With its well-developed infrastructure, business-friendly policies, and decades of industry experience, America provides an attractive environment for bringing new barrels of oil online more rapidly than many other regions around the world.

However, despite these advantages and increasing calls for greater domestic production, US oil companies have shown surprising restraint in substantially ramping up output, even with oil prices averaging around $90/bbl as of April 2024 before it "settled at $84/bbl on 2 May." There appears to be a concerning lack of investment and growth in American oil production at a time when the world is desperate for more supply.

The Relentless Pursuit of New Oil Reserves

As the CEO of an oil exploration and production company, I firmly believe that boldly pursuing new oil reserves is crucial to meeting the world's growing energy needs. It is this conviction that drives me and the rest of my team to uncover the next sources of oil to power human progress.

Through strategic exploration initiatives guided by the latest geologic data, cutting-edge drilling technologies, and an unwavering determination, we are seeking out untapped oil reserves. Our goal is not only to increase production levels but also to make a meaningful contribution to US oil output and global energy security.

While some industry voices chase fleeting trends or pander to mainstream narratives, our approach remains resolutely aligned with energy pioneers like Doug Sheridan, managing director and founder of EnergyPoint Research based in Houston, and Chris Wright, CEO and chairman of the board of Liberty Energy.
A New Magazine for a New Era: JPT and the Global Petroleum Landscape in 1949
Authors: Carpenter Chris
Published: June 2024

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In January of 1949, a new publication jostled for its place amidst the sudden abundance of titles devoted to technical professional associations. The publishing marketplace, like every other, was evolving daily in a world that hoped technological leaps never before imagined would not only leave behind recent global tragedy but also make its recurrence impossible.

Volume 1, Number 1 of the Journal of Petroleum Technology—then the official publication of the Petroleum Branch of the AIME—wore an efficient but striking clover-green-and-cream cover, its 92 pages containing sections devoted to editorials, AIME-wide developments, upcoming meetings, feature articles, and technical papers (including, famously, a paper on a new technique that author J.B. Clark dubbed “Hydrafrac”).

The teaser text for Branch Chair I.W. Alcorn’s inaugural Editorial Comment framed the new magazine as “the kingpin of a broadened branch program and a real force in strengthening the profession if members will but use it to carry opinion and incite action.”

As JPT celebrates its 75th anniversary, a brief review of the global petroleum landscape during its first year of publication casts new light on the magazine itself—and the lofty expectations attached to the industry it supported.

Europe: The Wall and the Well

Before a rebuilt world could be fueled by petroleum, the conditions of its peace had to be defined, and thus its eyes were on Europe in 1949. The Marshall Plan had enabled a major uptick in European oil production, such that Western Europe produced just over 11 million bbl in 1949 in countries such as the Netherlands, France, and the just-established Federal Republic of Germany.

More than a decade distant were offshore discoveries that would revolutionize Europe’s role in global petroleum, but at the time of JPT’s launch, Europe remained a potential trigger for a war that all were desperate to avoid—indeed, in the UK, wartime rationing had not yet ended, and in the year of JPT’s debut, the petrol ration was increased to allow a generous 180 miles per month.

While the globe remained in upheaval as anticolonial rebellions were launched—mostly against European empires—and attempts were made to fill power vacuums, the showdown between the West and the Soviet Bloc had solidified into a dangerous reality that cast a shadow over every nation. The North Atlantic Treaty Organization was ratified in April, and the following month, the blockade of Berlin came to an end in what was seen as a major symbolic victory for the West, evident proof that its reliance upon technology could safeguard humanity.