bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BUYUK IPAK YO‘LI XALQLARI ADABIYOTIDA OT BILAN BOG‘LIQ URF VA UDUMLAR
Authors: Ibodullayev Mannob Maxmatmurodovich
Published: February 2025

Ushbu maqolada insonning tabiat bilan uygʻun ekanligi, xususan, ot bilan bogʻliq turmush tarzi, urf-odatlari haqida ayrim maʼlumotlar keltirilgan. Buyuk Ipak yoʻli xalqlarining adabiyotida ot bilan bogʻliq anʼanalar, marosimlar, baʼzida esa unutilayotgan urflar haqida qiziqarli maʼlumotlar, badiiy asarlardan parchalar keltirilgan.
MAKTABGACHA YOSHDAGI BOLALARNING IJTIMOIY ODOBINI SHAKLLANTIRISH YUZASIDAN XORIJIY TAJRIBALAR TAHLILI
Authors: Mamirova Maxzunaxon Azamjon qizi
Published: February 2025

Ushbu maqolada maktabgacha yoshdagi bolalarning ijtimoiy odobini shakllantirish bo‘yicha xorijiy tajribalar tahlil qilinadi. Tadqiqotda turli mamlakatlarning yondashuvlari, jumladan, Finlandiya, Yaponiya, AQSh va Germaniyada qo‘llanilayotgan samarali pedagogik amaliyotlar ko‘rib chiqiladi. Tabiiy o‘yinlar, muloqot va hamkorlikka asoslangan metodlar, shuningdek, oilaviy hamkorlikka yo‘naltirilgan dasturlar alohida tahlil qilinadi. Ushbu tadqiqot natijalari maktabgacha ta’lim muassasalarida bolalarning ijtimoiy ko‘nikmalarini rivojlantirish uchun foydali yo‘nalishlarni belgilashda amaliy yordam beradi. Mazkur maqola maktabgacha yoshdagi bolalarning ijtimoiy odobini shakllantirishda xorijiy tajribalardan foydalanish imkoniyatlarini o‘rganishga qaratilgan bo‘lib, bu borada milliy ta’lim tizimimiz uchun qimmatli tavsiyalarni taklif etadi.
SHAHAR AGLOMERATSIYALARI MOHIYATI HAMDA SHAKLLANISHI VA RIVOJLANISH BOSQICHLARI
Authors: MURODOV Xamid
Published: February 2025

Maqolada shahar aglomeratsiyalarining mazmun-mohiyati va o’ziga xos xususiyatlai tadqiq etilgan. Shuningdek, ularning shakllanish va rivojlanish bosqichlari o’rganilgan. Shahar aglomeratsiyalarini rivojlantirish bo’yicha ilmiy xulosa va amaliy takliflar keltirilgan.
AXBOROT XAVFSIZLIGI: ZAMONAVIY MUAMMOLAR VA ULARNING YECHIMLARI
Authors: Xudoyorov Shaxriyor Baxtiyor o‘g‘li
Published: February 2025

Ushbu maqolada zamonaviy axborot xavfsizligining dolzarb muammolari, asosiy tahdidlari va ularni oldini olish usullari tahlil qilinadi. Kiberhujumlar, ichki xatarlar, ma’lumotlarning yo‘qolishi va ijtimoiy muhandislik usullarining xavflari yoritilib, ularning oldini olish choralari, jumladan, kuchli autentifikatsiya, shifrlash, dasturiy ta’minotni yangilash va xodimlarni o‘qitish kabi yo‘nalishlar muhokama etiladi. Shuningdek, kelajakda axborot xavfsizligining qanday rivojlanishi va sun’iy intellektning bu sohadagi roli haqida fikr yuritiladi. Mazkur maqola axborot xavfsizligi bo‘yicha umumiy tushunchaga ega bo‘lish va zamonaviy tahdidlardan himoyalanish strategiyalarini o‘rganish uchun foydalidir.
Immigration, economic hardship and populism in 2018 electoral outcome in Italy. Was Group Threat Theory right?
Authors: Ruiu Gabriele , Mazzette Pietro
Published: February 2025

According to Group Threat Theory, when the relative size of the immigrant population increases compared to natives, immigrants are increasingly perceived as a menace. This paper argues that right-wing populist parties have effectively exploited threat mechanisms to achieve considerable success in the 2018 Italian National Electoral Competition. The study uses a dataset at the electoral district level obtained by combining data from the Ministry of Interior data and the Italian National Institute of Statistics. In particular, the incidence of foreigners in the total population and socio-economic indicators are examined in relation to the 2018 electoral outcome of right-wing populist parties. We use spatial autoregressive models to account for spatial dependencies and spatial heterogeneity in the data. We find that the higher the share of foreigners and the lower the employment rate, the greater the electoral preference for the platform proposed by right-wing populist parties.
Living conditions, lifestyles and self-rated health in Italy
Authors: Delle Fratte Clodia , Gerosa Stefano , Lariccia Francesca , Lo Castro Daniela
Published: February 2025

We study the association between living conditions, lifestyles and self-rated health in Italy, using the module on lifestyles and health difficulties included in the 2022 edition of the European Survey on Income and Living Conditions (EU-SILC). In particular, we use logistic regression to estimate the association between three EU-SILC indicators of poverty or social exclusion (risk of poverty, material deprivation and severe housing deprivation), covering different aspects of socio-economic disadvantage, and self-rated health, controlling for a full set of individual covariates and for many lifestyle risk factors (body mass index, smoking, alcohol consumption, healthy diet, physical activity and social participation). We document the existence of a strong association between socio-economic deprivation and the risk of poor self-rated health. Moreover, we find a significant impact of lifestyles on this association, showing how observed inequalities in subjective health depend on the complex interactions between socio-economic deprivation and the adoption of healthy habits.
Analyzing health inequalities in Italian metropolitan cities: a multidimensional approach
Authors: Vacca Daniela , Martina Lucia , Tronu Debora
Published: February 2025

This study aims to verify whether, as with other previously investigated demographic and socio-economic phenomena (Cangialosi et al., 2023; Istat, 2023), in Italian metropolitan cities, the relationships between the capital city and other surrounding territorial aggregates, divided based on geographical proximity, can explain health inequalities among the population. Health, defined as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being (WHO, 1948), is influenced by various determinants, including individual, social, economic, and environmental factors. It is plausible to hypothesize the existence of a territorial health gradient among municipalities with high availability of health infrastructures, low out-of-region hospital mobility, and favorable socio-economic conditions, compared to those with less accessibility to such services and less advantageous socio-economic conditions. Capitals (and sometimes municipalities in the first urban belt) often exhibit these advantageous conditions and play a central role in the organization of the territory (Logan et al., 2002). Furthermore, the geographical positioning of territories is a significant factor in the proposed analysis, traditionally highlighting an increasing North-South discrepancy (Istat, 2024). A cluster analysis carried out on representative indicators of health conditions, health supply and economic situation facilitated the identification of homogeneous territorial groups and the description of their characteristics.
How Mobile Phone Calls Influence the Marital Satisfaction among Couples in MCK Nkubu Synod, Meru
Authors: Mutua Catherine Kagwiria , Wachira Rebecca , Mwiti Peter
Published: February 2025

Married Christian couples are expected to have sustainable marital satisfaction. However, marital satisfaction is threatened by the use of mobile phone device which has suppressed cordial communication, affection and companionship, and other interpersonal interactions. This study examines the influence of mobile phone calls on marital satisfaction among couples in MCK Nkubu Synod, Kenya. The family system theory was used in this study. The study adopted explanatory research design. Six superintendent ministers, six clergy members, and 4003 married couples were the target population. Simple random sampling and stratified sampling techniques were used to choose the 369 respondents for the study. Members of clergy participated in focused group discussions, while superintendent ministers were interviewed. A questionnaire was distributed to married people. To address the validity and reliability of the research instruments, a pre-test was conducted. Thematic analysis was used in qualitative data, while inferential and descriptive statistics were used in analysis of quantitative data. The study revealed that mobile phone calls had detrimental effect on marital satisfaction in married couples. The study discovered misuse of personal cellphones among couples, causing discomfort during family time. Dissension, malice, mistrust, conjecture, feelings of abandonment, ignored, lonely, belittled, and insecure resulted from extended phone calls during family time. The study recommended that MCK Nkubu Synod should develop comprehensive counselling church training program with the purpose of teaching and training couples on broad topics such as how to regulate phone calls during family time and the value of doing so. The findings of this study have implications on marriage counselling services in local churches.
Nurses’ Experiences on Work-Family Conflict during COVID-19 Pandemic Period in Selected Healthcare Facilities within Nairobi Metropolitan Area, Kenya
Authors: Mudave Mary , Wagoro Miriam , Muasya Gladys
Published: February 2025

Globally, nurses experience work-family conflict. However, with COVID-19, it was assumed that nurses experienced high level of work-family conflict due to the anxiety and fear among them because of the infectious nature of the disease. Nonetheless, nurses play a critical role in achieving one of the four goals of Vision 2030, that of having a healthy and stable population; and they thus require to work in a more conducive work environment. The main goal of this paper was to investigate nurses’ level of experiences with work-family conflict in hospitals within Nairobi metropolitan area in Kenya during COVID-19 pandemic period. The three objectives included: to investigate nurses’ experience of the working environment and fear of infecting the family; to establish nurses’ experience on the effects of nurses’ work schedule on work-family conflict; and lastly, to analyze nurses experience on the support factors that moderate work-family conflict during COVID-19 pandemic. The study is located within an interpretivist paradigm, and exploratory design was used. The hospital facilities were purposefully chosen, while 273 nurses were selected using stratified random sampling. The nurses filled open and closed ended questionnaires, while eight director of nursing services were interviewed. Data was coded and categorized according to the study objectives. Content analysis was used to analyse the data. Findings showed that hospital facilities play a big role in providing a conducive environment for the nurses, especially on supplies and provision of protective gears, staffing and moral support to reduce work-family conflict. The study concluded that nurses experienced more work-family conflict during COVID-19. Additionally, nurses required more organizational support as frontline care providers in the health care system. The study recommends increased organizational and family support as it will enable nurses achieve positive work outcomes at work and family domains.
Vaccine Cold Chain Management Factors Associated with Measles Outbreak among Children below 5 Years in Oltepesi Location, Kajiado County, Kenya
Authors: Sawani Eileen , Masinde Lily
Published: February 2025

The management of cold chain is crucial in the maintenance of efficacy of immunizations by way of keeping vaccines safe and effective from the manufacturer, to delivery and finally, to the recipients. Integrity in cold chain management is therefore central in the maintenance of a quality immunization programme. According to Kenya Health Information System (KHIS), the coverage of measles immunization in Kajiado County was above 80%, but there were frequent measles outbreaks in the county. This investigation aimed to establish the cold chain management factors that led to frequent measles outbreaks in the study area despite the relatively high immunization coverage. The study investigated cold chain management gaps in transportation, storage, and in the health worker’s competence. Data was obtained from two dispensaries that conduct immunization in Kajiado North Sub County. A descriptive-analysis was used to identify factors affecting vaccine cold chain management regarding measles outbreak. Purposive sampling was used to identify facilities within the affected and non-affected areas within the location of the study. Results of the study indicated that vaccine cold chain maintenance in health facilities was deficient with the main gaps being lack of power back-up, old and poorly maintained fridges, poor storage of vaccine diluent, poor temperature monitoring, incomplete vaccine carriers and insufficient knowledge on cold chain management. Kajiado County Government should implement a range of changes to improve the quality of immunization against measles so as to reduce wastage and make savings in the health budget. Specifically, there is need to upgrade the storage fridges and transportation carrier kits; provide standby automatic power backup generators, consistently monitor vaccine storage temperatures, and invest in education and training of the health care professionals on the importance of cold chain integrity in the maintenance of a quality immunisation programme.
Social Media Use and the Level of Marital Satisfaction among Couples in MCK Nkubu Synod, Meru County in Kenya
Authors: Mutua Catherine Kagwiria , Wachira Rebecca , Mwiti Peter
Published: February 2025

Marital satisfaction is an indicator of the health and quality of a marriage. Communication is expected to enhance cohesion among married couples. The use of technology, such as social media, is expected to enhance communication among married couples and contribute to marital satisfaction. Notably, the use of mobile devices in accessing social networking sites has enabled increased social interactions with people worldwide. However, excessive use of social media has been associated with adverse effects such as disengagement and distress in marriages. The purpose of the study was to assess how mobile device use affects couples' marital satisfaction levels in MCK Nkubu Synod. The specific objective of the study was to examine the influence of social media use on marital satisfaction among couples in MCK Nkubu Synod, Meru County, in Kenya. The study adopted the explanatory research design. Participants were 369 couples, six superintendent ministers and six clergy members. They were selected using simple random and stratified sampling techniques. Validated interviews, questionnaires and focused group discussions were utilized in collecting data. Percentages and means were computed using SPSS. Correlations analysis was used to test the relationship, while themes were noted from qualitative data. Marital dissatisfaction was evident among married couples in MCK Nkubu Synod. The use of social media use was high among married couples and was significantly influencing the level of marital satisfaction. Among other things, it was affecting cohesion, communication and quality of time married couples were spending together, hence, causing spousal distress. The study recommended the need for pastors to establish professional marriage counselling programs for married couples. The training curriculum for married couples should include social media use owing to its adverse effects on marital satisfaction.
Early Warning System and Preventive Diplomacy in Land-Based Conflicts among Pastoralist Communities in Samburu County
Authors: Kamau Carolyne , Kinyua Festus Riungu , Karuga Zipporah
Published: February 2025

The use of preventive diplomacy in conflict prevention can be traced back to various human civilizations where treaties were concluded, alliances formed, inter-ethnic marriages solemnized and various forms of traditional and scientific knowledge employed to prevent inter-state and intra-state conflicts. However, localizing this strategy at community level remains a challenge due to lack of institutional structures and resources to advance capacity of preventive diplomacy in land-based conflicts. The study examines the influence of early warning system on land-based conflicts among the pastoralist communities in Samburu County. The study was guided by conflict prevention theory, and the target population comprised 424 individuals from different institutions involved in peace and security discourses in Samburu County, Kenya. Using Yamane formula to calculate the sample size, stratified random sampling technique was applied to select 206 respondents. Primary data was collected using a questionnaire, and it was processed using descriptive, inferential, and thematic content analysis techniques. Analyzed data was presented using tables, figures, and narratives. Findings indicated that early warning system is used by both the state and the non-state actors to predict trends of violent conflicts from open source information, inter alia, NDMA which publishes early warning system in a monthly bulletin; smart-phone applications that monitor rangeland conditions, and disseminating threats alerts. Complementing scientific methods with traditional knowledge to forecast the future is indispensable, and so are the District Task Forces which work closely with Samburu district peace committees to monitor livestock migratory routes and conduct night watch on herders to prevent them from rearming. The study concluded that the early warning system tool has been applied to predict trends on land-based conflicts in Samburu, but there is need to increase resources in order to increase its capacity. Synergy between multiple actors is recommended to avoid a confused response.
Influence of Teacher Planning on Students’ Academic Performance in Kwale County, Kenya
Authors: Mboko Caleb Were , Kithinji Winfred , Mutunga Stephen Laititi
Published: February 2025

This research examined the influence of teacher planning using professional documents on teachers’ time management and secondary school students’ academic performance in Kwale County, Kenya. Pareto theory was used in the study. The target population comprised of 98 principals, 960 teachers and 6,540 form four students from public secondary schools in Kwale County. Krejcie and Morgan's formula was used to calculate the sample size, and a sample of 274 instructors, 364 form four students, and 29 principals was established. Utilizing a standardized questionnaire, data were gathered. Quantitative data was analyzed descriptively and presented as percentages and regression analysis. Validity of the research instrument was established after being examined for logical content by university supervisors who were specialists in the area. Internal reliability was estimated through Cronbach’s alpha in which a reliability coefficient of α= .83 was established. The study established a statistical significance p = 0.000 (<0.05, α=0.05), of teacher planning on students’ academic performance. Regression results indicated that teacher planning using professional documents accounted for 36.3% (R2=.363) of students’ academic performance. The study found that proper planning was essential for a successful teaching and learning process. This paper makes the case for the value of lesson planning and schemes of work in instruction.
How Teachers' Satisfaction with Dispute Resolutions and Negotiations Relate with Teachers’ Trade Union Membership in Public Secondary Schools in Embu County, Kenya
Authors: Mugambi Mary M. , Kibaara Tarsilla , Kaberia Isaac
Published: February 2025

Teachers are expected to work harmoniously with their employers, and contribute to effective management of schools. Embu County is in record for having posted poor Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) results since 2017. This is an indicator of unharmonious working relationship between teachers and their employer. The study assessed teachers trade unions ability to resolve disputes among school stakeholders and how these dispute resolutions impact on management of public secondary schools in Embu county.In particular, the study investigated the relationship between trade union membership and teachers' satisfaction with negations and dispute resolution in public secondary schools in Embu County.  A quantitative approach was used in this study, and a descriptive survey research design adopted. A target population of 2400 teachers, 205 principals was considered; where 10% was applied to get a sample of 240 teachers and 21 principals. The study used questionnaires for both the teachers and the principals. Descriptive statistics such as percentage, mean and standard deviation, and simple linear regression were performed. The findings revealed that teachers were satisfied with unions guaranteeing job security for teachers, mediating between the employee and the employer, negotiating for better conditions, promoting fairness, reduction of workload and giving good representation for both teachers and principals. There was a positive relationship between trade union membership and teachers' satisfaction with disputes resolutions. Therefore, unionization results showed that resolving disputes in public secondary schools increased satisfaction for both teachers and principals; hence, enhanced school management. The study recommended that the government takes part in public campaigns to encourage teachers to join unions for increased solidarity and satisfaction. It also recommended that teachers trade unions together with school management, as well as TSC should ensure disputes are resolved before any industrial action is taken so as to promote good performance in secondary schools in Kenya.
Trainees Employability Skills and Students’ Decisions in Selecting Public TVET Institutions in Nairobi County, Kenya
Authors: Mutungi Glory K. , Kibaara Tarsilla , Mwirichia Severina
Published: February 2025

Career choices among youth is essential since it determines their future prospects. As such, careful consideration ought to be undertaken at career selection stage to enable students make rightful decisions for both the course and the TVET institute to undertake training. Subsequently, TVET institutions have adopted measures to ensure that students make informed career education decisions, and also acquire employable skills needed in the job market. Regular revision of curricula to fit employers’ needs, integration of technologies in training, deployment of modern equipment, and partnership with industries and secondary schools are critical. Nevertheless, TVET institutions have continued to experience issues in enrolment even as complaints on employable skills gaps continue to be cited by many employers. This study aimed to assess the influence of trainees’ employability skills on students’ decision in selecting public TVET institutions in Nairobi County, Kenya. It adopted descriptive survey research design. The target population of 3505 participants comprised officers in charge of admission, principals and module three trainees. Purposive sampling and stratified random sampling techniques were used in drawing a sample size of 361 respondents, which comprised of 6 principals, 6 admission officers and 349 module three trainees. Data was collected by means of questionnaires and interviews. The validity and reliability of research instruments was ascertained accordingly. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS, then, computed descriptive and inferential statistics. The qualitative data was analyzed thematically. The findings of the study indicated that TVET institutions produced competitive graduates who are equipped with employable skills required for employment. The study concluded that there was a significant relationship between trainees’ employability skills and students’ decision in selecting public TVET institutions. Consequently, TVET Authority and National Industrial Training Authority should collaborate with public TVET management for effective enforcement and establishment of follow-up mechanisms to ensure industry linkages during the training.
ОЁКОҒИТМА КЎЛИ ШИМОЛИЙ КИРҒОҒИНИНГ ПАЛЕОЛИТ ДАВРИ ТОПИЛМАЛАРИ
Authors: Имомов Азиз
Published: February 2025

Оёқоғитма ботиғи ҳудудида дастлабки археологик-қидирув ишлари ХХ асрнинг 60-йилларида A. В. Виноградов бошчилигидаги экспедиция томонидан амалга оширилган бўлиб, бу ердан ўрта палеолит даврига оид бир нечта топилмажойлар аниқланган. Ўзбекистон мустақилликка эришгандан кейин Оёқоғитма ботиғида Ўзбекистон–Польша (1995 йилдан) ҳамда Ўзбекистон-Франция (2009 йилдан) халқаро ҳамкор экспедициялари интенсив тадқиқотлар олиб борган. Бу ерда неолит даврига оид мухит илмий натижаларни берган Оёқоғитма макони очиб ўрганилди. Ҳудудда тадқиқотлар икки йўналишда: неолит ва палеолит даври ёдгорликларини топиб ўрганиш бўйича олиб борилди. Натижада, 2012 йилда Оёқоғитма кўли атрофидаги 11 та пунктдан сўнгги палеолит даврига оид тош буюмлар йиғиб олинди.2021 йилнинг ёзида Самарқанд Aрхеология институти ва Самарқанд Давлат Университети мутахассисларидан таркиб топган гуруҳ Оёқоғитма ботиғининг шимолий қирғоғида археологик дала-қидирув ишларини амалга оширди. Натижада, Оёқоғитма 2 дан неолит макони топилди ҳамда унинг ҳудудидан ва атрофидан 15 дан ортиқ палеолит даврига тегишли тош буюмлар йиғиб олинди. Улар орасида кремнийдан ишланган учиринди ва пластиналар мавжуд бўлиб, қалин ташқи патина билан қопланган.Бу жойдаги неолит макони битта маданий қатламини сақлаб қолган. Аммо, палеолитга оид тош буюмлар бу жойга юқорироқдан, кўлнинг қадимги бортининг табиий таъсирлар сабаб бузилиши оқибатида тушиб қолган. Ушбу топилмаларни сақланиш даражаси ва ишланиш техникасига кўра, ўрта палеолит даври билан саналаш мумкин. Ушбу мақола юқорида таъкидланган тош буюмларнинг техник-типологик тадқиқотига бағишланади.
TIMBER AND FLORA FROM KAFIR-KALA IN SAMARKAND: UNVEILING SPECIES AND PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
Authors: Tomomi Murakami , Watanabe Yoko , Begmatov Alisher , Berdimurodov Amridin , Bogomolov Gennadiy , Sandiboev Alisher , Teramura Hirofumi , Uno Takao
Published: February 2025

This article primarily focuses on the identification of types and practical utilizations of wooden and plantremains discovered in the pre-Islamic layers during the excavations of the monumental complex at the citadelof Kafir-kala by the Uzbek-Japanese expedition. The current study reveals the presence of five different typesof timber: poplar (populus; salicaceae), willow (salix; salicaceae), ash (fraxinus; oleaceae), sumac (rhus;anacardiaceae), as well as diffusely porous wood (rosaceae?) and various other plant species. Notably, poplar(populus; salicaceae) stands out as the predominant variety. The application of poplar is further evident in thecrafting of wooden panels, which portray the goddess Nana and a congregation of Sogdians venerating herfrom the central room (15/16) of the citadel. Various tree and plant remains along with unique artifacts foundin the groove — the seam between the main part of the central sufa and the lower step — prompt speculationregarding the room’s function as an altar-chapel presumably dedicated to the goddess Nana. This leads us toconsider a nexus between the citadel complex and ritual ceremonies, potentially involving prayers and festivalsdedicated to this deity. Other gatherings encompassing political and various events may have also taken placewithin this monumental complex.
ТЕХНИЧЕСКОЕ И ТИПОЛОГИЧЕСКОЕ СВОЕОБРАЗИЕ НЕКОТОРЫХ МЕТАЛЛИЧЕСКИХ ИЗДЕЛИЙ ЮЖНОЙ ФЕРГАНЫ В ЭПОХУ РАННЕГО МЕТАЛЛА
Authors: Рузанов Владимир
Published: February 2025

В статье рассматриваются землеобрабатывающие орудия (кельты-лопаты) и механическаядрель, найденные в Южной Киргизии. Датируются предметы концом, возможно, второй поло-виной III – первыми столетиями II тыс. до н.э. Серия кельтов-лопат энеолитического време-ни малочисленна: всего 2 экз. Из них одно орудие обнаружено в могильнике древневосточноготипа Шагым, второе – случайная находка в с. Базар-Курган. Позднее ареал распространениякельтов-лопат расширяется и охватывает Западный Китай (Синьцзян), Северный Узбекистан,Северную Киргизию, Юго-Восточный Казахстан. В южных культурно-исторических областяхна Древнем Востоке такие орудия отсутствуют. В эпоху раннего металла местные земледель-цы проводили обработку земли с помощью тяпки-теши. Механическая дрель из могильникаШагым – единственная находка в Средней Азии. Ее открытие расширяет ассортимент инстру-ментов, которыми пользовались мастера в эпоху раннего металла, позволяет воссоздать про-цесс изготовления рукояти для ножей и шильев, делавших орудия эффективными, удобнымии безопасными в употреблении. Как мы полагаем, дрель использовалась также в изготовлениидревка для стрел и ручек копий. В качестве сырья в областях с богатой растительностью масте-ра использовали дерево, а в районах с обедненной растительностью, кроме импортного дерева,применялись трубчатые кости животных.
ECONOMETRIC TESTING OF THE BENOIT HYPOTHESIS INAZERBAIJAN, KAZAKHSTAN, AND KYRGYZSTAN
Authors: Nigar HUSEYNLI  , Bahman HUSEYNLI
Published: February 2025

The aim of this study is to examine the effect of defence expenditures on economic growth in Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan and to test the validity of the Benoit hypothesis. In this context, the existence of the relationship between defence expenditures and economic growth in the economy of selected Turkic states was investigated by obtaining data on an annual basis for the 2005-2020 periods. The relationship between the variables was examined with the help of Granger Causality Analysis. The results obtained revealed the existence of a positive relationship between the variables for the Azerbaijan economy and the existence of a one-way causality relationship from economic growth to defense expenditures. The fact that economic growth causes an increase in defense expenditures andthis relationship is not reversed is since economic growth in Azerbaijan is an effective tool for the objectives of increasing military expenditures. These results: In the context of the Boneit Hypothesis, it is an expected situation for Azerbaijan in developing countries. As a result, the findings confirm the Benoit Hypothesis for the Azerbaijan economy. However, asa result of the analysis for Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, the Boneit hypothesis was not found in these countries.
OVERCOMING THE CHALLENGES OF DIGITALIZATION:THE ESTONIAN EXPERIENCE
Authors: Afraim MAMMADOV
Published: February 2025

Digitalization is a key driver of economic growth and development in the 21st century.However, digitalization also presents challenges for countries like Azerbaijan. This article discusses the specific challenges that Azerbaijan faces in the digital age, and it compares and contrasts these challenges with those faced by Estonia. The article also analyzes the factors that have contributed to Estonia's success in digitalization, and it offers recommendations for how Azerbaijan can overcome its challenges. The article argues that Azerbaijan needs to invest in its digital infrastructure, improve its digital skills, create a more supportive regulatory environment, and strengthen its cybersecurity defenses. If Azerbaijan can overcome these challenges, it could become a major player in the global digital economy.
CSR PRACTICE OF SMES IN DEVELOPING ECONOMIES:THE CASE OF AZERBAIJAN
Authors: Shahla GAHRAMANOVA
Published: February 2025

At the beginning of the 21st century overwhelming majority [if not all] of companies and organizations in post-soviet countries including Azerbaijan were not fully aware of the essence of corporate social responsibility (CSR) - one of the most important factors required for the sustainable development and successfulness of modern business activity. However, for several years, the question of social responsibility of businesses became crucial in this geography and the concept of CSR has been increasingly moved to the forefront. The main purpose of this research work is to study the current state of CSR practice in modern Azerbaijan with a particular focus on the CSR activity of small and medium-sized enterprises. In this study, we tried to shed light on the current CSR practice of SMEs in Azerbaijan against the backdrop of their constantly growing importance for the country by highlighting the way SMEs use CSR strategy and policy and the shortcomings in this field. The article also highlights government support for sustainable development, the way government can influence and encourage businesses to become more socially responsible.The benefits of CSR and its close interrelation with long-term success and sustainability are also among the issues discussed in this research paper.
PLACE AND ROLE OF RETAIL AND WHOLESALE TRADE IN THEFORMATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE CONSUMER MARKET
Authors: Saidahmad ZUBAYDOV
Published: February 2025

This article explores the place and role of retail and wholesale trade in the formation and development of the consumer market. It was revealed that retail trade plays an important role in bringing goods to a specific consumer in the republic, and a common type is stationary trade, which includes all types of shops, stalls, tents and kiosks. The analysis shows that in the country and its territorial entities, there are significant changes in the total volume, structure and growth rates of retail trade, the level per capita, the degree of satisfaction of the effective demand of residents for food and non-food products.
A within-host infection model to explore tolerance and resistance
Authors: Duneau David , Lafont Pierre DM , Lauzeral Christine , Parthuisot Nathalie , Faucher Christian , Jin Xuerong , Buchon Nicolas , Ferdy Jean-Baptiste
Published: February 2025

How are some individuals surviving infections while others die? The answer lies in how infected individuals invest into controlling pathogen proliferation and mitigating damage, two strategies respectively called resistance and disease tolerance. Pathogen within-host dynamics (WHD), influenced by resistance, and its connection to host survival, determined by tolerance, decide the infection outcome. To grasp these intricate effects of resistance and tolerance, we used a deterministic theoretical model where pathogens interact with the immune system of a host. The model describes the positive and negative regulation of the immune response, consider the way damage accumulate during the infection and predicts WHD. When chronic, infections stabilize at a Set-Point Pathogen Load (SPPL). Our model predicts that this situation can be transient, the SPPL being then a predictor of life span which depends on initial condition (e.g. inoculum). When stable, the SPPL is rather diagnostic of non lethal chronic infections. In lethal infections, hosts die at a Pathogen Load Upon Death (PLUD) which is almost independent from the initial conditions. As the SPPL, the PLUD is affected by both resistance and tolerance but we demonstrate that it can be used in conjunction with mortality measurement to distinguish the effect of disease tolerance from that of resistance. We validate empirically this new approach, using Drosophila melanogaster and the pathogen Providencia rettgeri. We found that, as predicted by the model, hosts that were wounded or deficient of key antimicrobial peptides had a higher PLUD, while Catalase mutant hosts, likely to have a default in disease tolerance, had a lower PLUD.
A stochastic explanation for observed local-to-global foraging states in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Margolis Andrew , Gordus Andrew
Published: February 2025

Abrupt changes in behavior can often be associated with changes in underlying behavioral states. When placed off food, the foraging behavior of
C. elegans
can be described as a change between an initial local-search behavior characterized by a high rate of reorientations, followed by a global-search behavior characterized by sparse reorientations. This is commonly observed in individual worms, but when numerous worms are characterized, only about half appear to exhibit this behavior. We propose an alternative model that predicts both abrupt and continuous changes to reorientation that does not rely on behavioral states. This model is inspired by molecular dynamics modeling that defines the foraging reorientation rate as a decaying parameter. By stochastically sampling from the probability distribution defined by this rate, both abrupt and gradual changes to reorientation rates can occur, matching experimentally observed results. Crucially, this model does not depend on behavioral states or information accumulation. Even though abrupt behavioral changes do occur, they are not necessarily indicative of abrupt changes in behavioral states, especially when abrupt changes are not universally observed in the population.
Association between visceral fat and bone mineral density in perimenopausal women
Authors: Tang Xu , Tang Ling , Li Xiaolin , Cao Jiejing , Wang Huanhuan , Liu Shujiao , Yi Yufang , Zhang Zhiyong
Published: February 2025

Background

The effects of visceral fat and body fat on osteoporosis (OP) have long been controversial. This study investigated the correlation between visceral fat and bone mineral density (BMD) in perimenopausal women aged 40–60. The goal was to evaluate the current state of BMD and its influencing factors, with the specific objective of establishing a foundation for preventing and treating osteoporosis in this demographic.

Methods

This case-control study included female participants (n = 330), aged 40–60 years, from the Health Management Center of Guilin Medical College Affiliated Hospital, China, between January 2020 to August 2023. Their BMD was assessed using an ultrasound bone mineral density meter, and the visceral fat area was determined utilizing a body composition analyzer. Furthermore, past medical history, dietary habits, and lifestyle factors were collected through a telephonic questionnaire survey. Additionally, we analyzed the baseline characteristics of the population, bone status and visceral fat status, and the relationship between these variables.

Results

Among perimenopausal women with varying bone mineral density statuses, there was no significant difference regarding body fat percentage (p = 0.359). In contrast, a statistically significant difference was observed regarding visceral fat area (p < 0.001) and vitamin D (p < 0.001). The visceral fat area exhibited an inverse correlation with bone density (r = –0.313, p < 0.001). Additionally, mediation analysis outcomes did not support the hypothesis that visceral fat affects bone density through its influence on vitamin D levels (p = 0.92).

Conclusions

Among perimenopausal women, visceral fat is negatively associated with bone density, suggesting that the distribution of body fat rather than the total amount plays a pivotal role in the development of osteoporosis. These findings suggest the significance of regular physical exercise and the abdominal fat distribution for perimenopausal women.
Unilateral Obturator Hernia in an Elderly Male: A Case Report
Authors: Sharma Praveen K , Christina P Evangeline , Sharmeela S , Diwakar Amogh
Published: February 2025

Obturator Hernia (OH) is a rare type of pelvic hernia in which abdominal contents protrude through the obturator canal. This condition can lead to bowel obstruction, gangrene, or ischaemia, all of which pose significant risks and can be life-threatening. OH predominantly affects elderly, thin females and often remains asymptomatic until there is compression of the obturator nerve. As a result, OH should be considered in the differential diagnosis of intestinal blockages of unknown origin. For preoperative diagnosis, Computed Tomography (CT) is regarded as the optimal imaging modality. However, Ultrasonography (USG) may sometimes misidentify it as a femoral or inguinal hernia. Due to its non specific symptoms and clinical presentations, early preoperative identification of OH can be challenging. Hereby, the authors present a case of OH in an 80-year-old male patient with biopsy-proven prostate carcinoma who reported burning sensations and difficulty in micturition over the past month. His medical history included insulin-managed diabetes and extensive alcohol consumption. Physical examination revealed a non tender swelling on the medial aspect of the right upper thigh, prompting imaging studies that included a Kidney, Ureter, and Bladder (KUB) radiograph and a CT-KUB. The radiograph showed a radiolucent area in the right obturator canal, while the CT confirmed the diagnosis, revealing a herniated sac within the obturator externus muscle, measuring 61×109×89 mm, with associated bone remodelling of the pubic symphysis and mild prostatomegaly. Despite understanding the risks, the patient has not yet undergone surgery due to his age and co-morbidities. The present case underscores the need for heightened awareness of OH in elderly males, especially those with significant medical histories, as early recognition and intervention are crucial to preventing serious complications.
Malunited Distal End Radius with Garden Spade Deformity and Distal Radioulnar Synostosis: A Case Report of a Quirky Wrist
Authors: Sugumaran Aswin , Naidu Dilip Kumar , Lakshmikanthan Sabari Vaasan , Raju Madhan , Dhas Kevin
Published: February 2025

Distal end radius fractures are the most common type of wrist fracture and a significant complication associated with these injuries is malunion, which can lead to deformities that adversely affect the normal biomechanics of the wrist joint. Failing to address this malunion may result in chronic pain, a reduced range of motion and early-onset arthritis of the wrist joint. Therefore, it is essential to correct this malunion surgically, as doing so can greatly enhance functional outcomes for patients and improve their overall quality of life. Hereby authors report a rare case of a malunited distal end radius fracture with garden spade deformity and distal radioulnar synostosis. Upon presentation, the patient had a fixed wrist flexion deformity of 40° and a fixed pronation deformity of 20°. The patient was managed with corrective osteotomy of the malunited distal end radius, distal ulna excision and resection of the distal radioulnar synostosis. The preoperative measured volar tilt angle of 49.3° was corrected to 18.6°. At one year follow-up, the patient’s QUICK DASH score improved from 50% (severe disability) to 11.4% (minimal disability) and the modified Mayo wrist score improved from a score of 35 (poor) to 80 (good).
Nutraceutical Potential of Balanites aegyptiaca L. Delile Fruits (Zygophyllaceae): Safety and Androgenic Property
Authors: Guiama Valentin Désiré , Hzounda Jean Baptiste , Vedekoi Jeweldai , Enone Bertin Sone , Anjiituo Boris Amboka , Etame-Loé Gisèle Marie-Marguerite , Sokeng-Dongmo Selestin , Koube Juliette
Published: February 2025

Balanites aegyptiaca is a plant of arid lands producing edible fruits called desert date. This study has undertaken to evaluate nutraceutical potential of Balanites aegyptiaca fruits towards its androgenic effect. The bio-guided phytochemical screening of the mesocarp of B. aegyptiaca fruits revealed the presence of secondary metabolites including saponins, tannins, coumarins, sterols, polyphenols and reducing sugars. The aqueous extract of B. aegyptiaca fruits is devoid of acute oral toxicity, median lethal dose > 5 g/kg/BW. The results have proven that the administration of the B. aegyptiaca fruits aqueous extract was able to enhance testicular function, expressed by the increase in muscle mass, physical strength, testicular total cholesterol, testosterone and fructose, as well as mobility and sperm count rats compared to control group (p<0.05). The mesocarp of B. aegyptiaca fruits has an androgenic activity, and its claimed aphrodisiac virtues depend on it. These results might suggest that mesocarp of the fruits of B. aegyptiaca can be used in the treatment of male sexual dysfunction. Desert dates is nutraceutical with androgenic proprieties.
Assessing Vegetation Decline and Soil Conservation Strategies in Kitui County, Kenya: Implications for Sustainable Land Management
Authors: A.A. Amboka, , C. Gachene, , L. Olaka,
Published: February 2025

Aims: This study examines the impact of climate change on vegetation resilience in Kitui County, Kenya, with a focus on the decline of Melia volkensii. It also evaluates the effectiveness of traditional soil conservation techniques in mitigating land degradation and sustaining agricultural productivity in arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs).
Study Design: A multi-temporal analysis of vegetation cover changes was conducted using remote sensing data, supplemented by field surveys and qualitative assessments of traditional conservation practices.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Kitui County, Kenya, between June 2019 and May 2020.
Methodology: Landsat images from 1990, 2000, 2010, and 2020 were analyzed using ERDAS Imagine 2015 and ArcGIS Pro 2.5. Ground truthing validated classifications, while structured interviews identified common soil conservation methods, including terracing, contour farming, mulching, and agroforestry.
Results: Forest cover declined from 27% (18,649 ha) in 1990 to 10% (7,073 ha) in 2020, while farmland expanded from 8% (5,564 ha) to 51% (35,760 ha). Despite soil conservation benefits, adoption was hindered by resource constraints.
Conclusion: Integrating indigenous knowledge with modern conservation strategies is essential. Policy interventions, financial support, and community involvement are critical for enhancing vegetation resilience and ensuring sustainable land management in ASALs.
Moiré Engineering of Spin–Orbit Torque by Twisted WS2 Homobilayers
Authors: Liang Xiaorong , Lv Penghao , Xiong Yunhai , Chen Xi , Fu Di , Feng Yiping , Wang Xusheng , Chen Xiang , Xu Guizhou , Kan Erjun , Xu Feng , Zeng Haibo
Published: June 2024

Artificial moiré superlattices created by stacking 2D crystals have emerged as a powerful platform with unprecedented material‐engineering capabilities. While moiré superlattices are reported to host a number of novel quantum states, their potential for spintronic applications remains largely unexplored. Here, the effective manipulation of spin–orbit torque (SOT) is demonstrated using moiré superlattices in ferromagnetic devices comprised of twisted WS2/WS2 homobilayer (t‐WS2) and CoFe/Pt thin films by altering twisting angle (θ) and gate voltage. Notably, a substantial enhancement of up to 44.5% is observed in SOT conductivity at θ ≈ 8.3°. Furthermore, compared to the WS2 monolayer and untwisted WS2/WS2 bilayers, the moiré superlattices in t‐WS2 enable a greater gate‐voltage tunability of SOT conductivity. These results are related to the generation of the interfacial moiré magnetic field by the real‐space Berry phase in moiré superlattices, which modulates the absorption of the spin‐Hall current arising from Pt through the magnetic proximity effect. This study highlights the moiré physics as a new building block for designing enhanced spintronic devices.
A Review of Polyolefin‐Insulation Materials in High Voltage Transmission; From Electronic Structures to Final Products
Authors: Bjurström Anton , Edin Hans , Hillborg Henrik , Nilsson Fritjof , Olsson Richard T. , Pierre Max , Unge Mikael , Hedenqvist Mikael S.
Published: June 2024

This review focuses on the use of polyolefins in high‐voltage direct‐current (HVDC) cables and capacitors. A short description of the latest evolution and current use of HVDC cables and capacitors is first provided, followed by the basics of electric insulation and capacitor functions. Methods to determine dielectric properties are described, including charge transport, space charges, resistivity, dielectric loss, and breakdown strength. The semicrystalline structure of polyethylene and isotactic polypropylene is described, and the way it relates to the dielectric properties is discussed. A significant part of the review is devoted to describing the state of art of the modeling and prediction of electric or dielectric properties of polyolefins with consideration of both atomistic and continuum approaches. Furthermore, the effects of the purity of the materials and the presence of nanoparticles are presented, and the review ends with the sustainability aspects of these materials. In summary, the effective use of modeling in combination with experimental work is described as an important route toward understanding and designing the next generations of materials for electrical insulation in high‐voltage transmission.