bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect on Working Capital Management and Financial Performance In Manufacturing Companies of Basic and Chemical Industry Sector In BEI Period of 2016-2019
Authors: Rahmawati Yunita , Hady Hamdy
Published: June 2023

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengkaji pengaruh Pengaruh Terhadap Pengelolaan Modal Kerja dan Kinerja Keuangan Pada Perusahaan Manufaktur Sektor Industri Dasar dan Kimia Pada Periode BEI Tahun 2016-2019. Metodologi yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini menggunakan periodik kuantitatif (time series) dan scale ratio. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah seluruh perusahaan manufaktur dari sektor industri dasar dan kimia pada periode 2016-2019. Jumlah responden dalam penelitian ini sebanyak 27 perusahaan dalam kurun waktu penelitian 4 tahun, pengamatan penelitian berjumlah 108 orang. Hasil data diolah menggunakan Eviews Versi 9. Temuan dan kontribusi dari penelitian ini diindikasikan bahwa terdapat pengaruh simultan yang signifikan antara CCC, ACP, ITP dan APP terhadap ROA.
Тhe impаct оf the СОVID-19 pаndemic оn the strаtegies оf IТ cоmpаnies аnd hоw cоmpаnies аre respоnding
Authors: Shukurоvа A. , Наjiyevа N.
Published: June 2023

Тhe mаin gоаl оf this study is tо determine the strаtegies аdоpted by the cоmpаnies оperаting in the field оf Infоrmаtiоn Тechnоlоgies аs а result оf pressure, threаts аnd оppоrtunities in the diffucult ecоnоmic cоnditiоns creаted by the glоbаl pаndemic crisis оf 2019 СОVID 19 аnd tо evаluаte the аdоpted strаtegies. Аt the sаme time, the study exаmined whаt steps were tаken tо survive in the IТ business during the pаndemic аnd hоw it is pоssible tо get оut оf the impаct оf such crises thаt mаy аrise in the future with minimаl dаmаge.
Strengths and weaknesses of the foreign investment environment of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SWOT analysis), as well as recommendations on the promotion and attraction of foreign investments for the economic development of the Republic of Azerbaijan
Authors: Rustambeyov H. , Agayev R.
Published: June 2023

Azerbaijan's foreign investment environment is characterized by a number of strengths and weaknesses, as well as opportunities and threats. In terms of strengths, Azerbaijan has a strategic position at the intersection of Europe and Asia, a well-educated and skilled workforce, and rich natural resources. However, the country faces significant challenges, including a lack of economic diversification, limited access to finance for SMEs, and weak institutional and regulatory frameworks. A number of recommendations can be made for the promotion and attraction of foreign investments for the economic development of Azerbaijan. These include improving the business environment through regulatory and institutional reforms, increasing transparency and 7 accountability in government, and strengthening the rule of law. In addition, economic diversification and investments in infrastructure and human capital development can help attract foreign investors and promote sustainable economic growth. Overall, Azerbaijan can position itself to attract more foreign investment and achieve sustainable economic development in the coming years by building on its strengths and eliminating its weaknesses
Theoretıcal basıcs of the formatıon of ınvestments and use mechanısms ın Azerbaıjan
Authors: Mustafayeva A. , Sabirli Sh.
Published: June 2023

This article emphasizes the importance of innovation and investment policy in achieving macroeconomic stability, economic growth, and competitiveness in national economies. The article specifically focuses on Azerbaijan and how it has successfully created a favorable business and investment environment that has attracted both domestic and foreign investors. It discusses the various mechanisms for accessing investment potential such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds and emphasizes the importance of maximizing investment efficiency. The article also suggests the creation of special economic zones as a way to promote sustainable economic development in the liberated territories. In summary, the article highlights the critical role of investment in achieving long-term economic stability and growth, and the importance of creating a favorable investment environment.
Claude Lefort and Eric Santner on the Use and Abuse of the King’s Body
Authors: Flynn Bernard ,   DePaul University
Published: June 2023

This article contests in detail the use that Eric Santner makes of the writings of Claude Lefort, Merleau-Ponty and Ernest Kantorowicz. Santner conceives of modernity as being haunted by, or one might almost say, poisoned by the Royal Remnants, the body of the king circulating in society as “too muchness.” He uses Merleau-Ponty’s concept of the flesh in order to orchestrate his profoundly anti-modern position. I contend that he has grossly misinterpreted the philosophy of Merleau-Ponty, as well as the work of Claude Lefort, in order to elaborate a post-secular position which ends up being a form of an apology for the Trump administration. This is effected through his denegation of the categories of political philosophy and his substitution for them with concepts taken from marketing. My article ends by contesting the notion of messianism, with or without a messiah, which has become current in certain forms of contemporary philosophy and reflecting on the role of messianism in American political culture.
BIOREMEDIATION: A BIOTECHNOLOGICAL APPROACH TOWARD ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
Authors: Mishra S. K.
Published: June 2023

Biotechnology has emerged as an applieddiscipline of biological research with its applicationin agriculture, forestry and industry as well as inmedicine. An equally important area of globalconcern that has emerged only recently is theenvironmental Biotechnology. It is concerned bothwith the implications and applications ofBiotechnology in the wider context ofenvironment. Due to rapid industrialization,urbanization and other developments, there is aconstant threat to the environment and to thedepleting natural resources. Both these problemsare receiving constant attention ofenvironmentalists
BIODIVERSITY OF ICHNEUMONID FLIES (HYMENOPTERA : ICHNEUMONIDAE) FROM WESTERN GHATS, MAHARASHTRA
Authors: SATHE T. V.
Published: June 2023

Ichneumonids (Hymenoptera : Ichneumonidae) are very good biocontrol agents offorest insect pests. Therefore, as part of conservation and protection of flora of Western Ghats,biodiversity of Ichneumonid flies has been studied from Western Ghats, Maharashtra. In all, 35species belonging to genera Diadegma, Isotima, Goryphus, Charops, Campoletis, Enicospilus, Pimpla,Xanthopimpla, Eriborus, Netelia and Ecthromorpha have been reported parasitizing lepidopterouspests of forest trees
LAYANAN SUPERVISI KEPALA SEKOLAH DALAM MENINGKATKAN MUTU KINERJA DI SMP MUHAMMADIYAH 03 MEDAN
Authors: Mujahid Tamimi , Putri Azzahra Aliyyah , Amelia Faradhila , Hanifa Hanum Siti , Syevila Siti , Kholilah Tanjung Wardah
Published: June 2023

ABSTRAK
Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui peran layanan pengawasan kepala sekolah dalam meningkatkan kualitas kinerja guru. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode campuran, meliputi survei dan wawancara dengan guru di beberapa sekolah. Temuan menunjukkan bahwa pemberian layanan pengawasan yang efektif secara teratur oleh kepala sekolah dapat meningkatkan kualitas kinerja guru secara signifikan. Penelitian juga menyoroti pentingnya guru terbuka terhadap umpan balik dan bersedia terlibat dalam kegiatan pengembangan profesional. Secara keseluruhan, temuan menunjukkan bahwa layanan pengawasan kepala sekolah dapat memainkan peran penting dalam meningkatkan kinerja guru dan pada akhirnya kualitas pendidikan. Penelitian ini memberikan wawasan dan rekomendasi bagi pimpinan sekolah dan pembuat kebijakan untuk mengembangkan dan melaksanakan program pengawasan yang efektif.
Kata kunci: Supervisi; layanan supervise; kinerja guru
 
ABSTRACT
This research aims to determine the role of headteacher supervision services in improving the quality of teacher performance. The study used a mixed-methods approach, including surveys and interviews with teachers in several schools. The findings showed that providing regular and effective supervision services by headteachers can significantly improve the quality of teacher performance. The study also highlighted the importance of teachers being open to feedback and willing to engage in professional development activities. Overall, the findings indicate that headteacher supervision services can play a crucial role in enhancing teacher performance and ultimately the quality of education. The study provides insights and recommendations for school leaders and policymakers to develop and implement effective supervision programs.
Keywords: Supervision, supervision services, teacher performance.
Analysis of Rice Husk Pellet Combustion Test for Co-Firing in Pulverizer Coal (PC) Boilers
Authors: Susanto Ubaedi , Surjasatyo Adi
Published: June 2023

The increase of population has driven increased demand for energy, especially for transportation and electricity. Meanwhile, fossil energy production continues to decline, forcing the government to import petroleum to meet domestic needs. In order to anticipate the increasingly limited national fossil energy reserves and the increasing public energy needs, government is promoting the use of renewable energy. One of the efforts is by co-firing biomass in coal-fired power plants. At PLTU Indramayu, the selected biomass is rice husk which has undergone pelletization treatment, which is compaction and heating, in order to obtain biomass with a high density and calorific value better than the physical form of rice husk. Coal as fuel in PLTU Indramayu has an average calorific value of 4200 kCal/kg, while rice husk pellets have an average calorific value of 3400 kCal/kg. Combustion tests for co-firing need to be carried out to determine the operating performance of generating unit equipment. Co-firing tests in this study were still limited to a composition of 1% biomass and 3% biomass which required a total of 43.2 tonnes of rice husk pellets and 3196.8 tonnes of coal. Prior to the combustion test in the boiler, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) numerical simulations were also carried out to get an initial description. The results of the simulation and fuel tests show that the operating parameters are in normal limits. Equipments also shows good and normal performance. Likewise, the resulting emissions support the achievement of the quality standards required in the Minister of Environment Regulation No. 15/2019. Even so, tests still need to be carried out with a higher percentage of biomass composition in order to generate electricity from greater green energy and reduce use coal as fuel.
Analisis Penggunaan Sistem Pembayaran QRIS terhadap Perkembangan Bisnis UMKM melalui Kepuasan Nasabah sebagai Variabel Intervening (Studi Kasus Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) Kc Sibolga)
Authors: Marbun Astri Novia , Nasution Yenni Samri Juliati , Harahap Ikhsan
Published: June 2023

This study aims to examine the influence analysis of the use of the Indonesian Standard Quick Response Payment System (QRIS) on MSME business development through Customer Satisfaction as an Intervening Variable (BSI) at KC Sibolga. This research uses quantitative methods. QRIS Payment Respondents at BSI KC Sibolga 50 Merchants using nonprobability sampling. This study used Path Analysis data processing techniques assisted by the IBS SPSS Statistical 25.0 Application. The results of this study indicate that overall for each partial test it says the value α <0.05 in the path analysis test also says there is a direct and indirect effect on each variable that is linked through variable Y and also simultaneously shows that there is a variable that influences the use of QRIS and Customer Satisfaction influences the MSME Business Development. Based on the calculated f value of 9.275 with a significant value of 0.001 <0.05.
DENGESİZ PANEL VERİ İLE ATAMA YOLUYLA ELDE EDİLEN DENGELİ PANEL VERİ SONUÇLARININ KARŞILAŞTIRILMASI
Authors: KARPAT ÇATALBAŞ Gaye , OUZİNİ Amira Sharifa
Published: June 2023

Veri setindeki gözlemlerde eksiklik olması durumu olarak ifade edilen eksik veri panel verilerde de sıklıkla ortaya çıkabilmektedir. Bu durum ise geniş bir veri seti ile çalışma avantajına sahip panel veri modelleriyle çalışma avantajını kısıtlamaktadır. Panel verilerde eksik gözlemlerin olması durumunda ise dengesiz panel veri söz konusu olmaktadır. Çalışmanın amacı, eksik veriye sahip dengesiz panel veri ile atama algoritmaları ile dengeli hale getirilmiş panel veri sonuçlarını karşılaştırmaktır. Bu amaçla uygulama bölümünde 1991-2019 döneminde eksik veriye sahip 15 Akdeniz ülkesinde işsizlik oranı ile ekonomik büyümesi arasındaki ilişki incelenmek istenmiştir. Öncelikle model dengesiz panel veri analizi ile tahmin edilmiş, daha sonra çeşitli atama yöntemleri kullanılarak dengeli panel veri modeli tahmin edilmiştir. Çalışmanın sonunda, dengesiz panel veri ve atama yoluyla oluşturulan dengeli panel veri ile elde edilen sonuçlar karşılaştırılmış, AIC ve BIC kriteri bakımından en küçük değeri veren dengesiz panel veri modeli tahminleri yorumlanmıştır. Buna göre, işsizlik oranını etkileyen faktörler olarak ekonomik büyüme ve nüfus yoğunluğu belirlenmiştir. Kamu harcamalarının GSYİH’ya oranı ve enflasyon oranının işsizlik oranı üzerinde anlamlı bir etkisi bulunamamıştır.
تقييم التوافق النفسي بين طلبة المرحلة الاعدادية
Authors: AL-jubouri Salah , Iman Hussein Alwan
Published: June 2023

الأهداف: لتقييم التوافق النفسي في عينة من طلاب المرحلة الإعدادية والتعرف على العلاقة بين الاختلافات في الخصائص الديموغرافية والتوافق النفسي.
المنهجية: تم استخدام تصميم ارتباط وصفي في هذه الدراسة. استخدمت عينة عشوائية بسيطة لاختيار (٣٨١) طالبً باستخدام التقرير الذاتي لاختيار الطلاب الذين سيتم ضمهم في الدراسة للمدة من ٢٦ نوفمبر ٢٠٢١ إلى ١ ابريل ٢٠٢٢. تم اختيار مقياس معتمد في الدراسة يتكون من ٤٠ فقرة يقيس أربع اتجاهات وهي التوافق الشخصي، الاجتماعي، العائلي والعاطفي. تم تحليل البيانات من خلال تطبيق أسلوب تحليل البيانات الاحصائي الوصفي وتحليل البيانات الاحصائي الاستدلالي.
النتائج: وجد أن أكثر من نصف المشاركين (٥٢٪) كان لديهم توافق نفسي معتدل، ٤٤٪ لديهم توافق نفسي جيد، و٤٪ لديهم توافق نفسي ضعيف. هناك تأثير للخصائص الديموغرافية (العمر، مستوى تعليم الوالدين، الوضع الاجتماعي والاقتصادي) على التوافق النفسي.
الاستنتاجات: أن طلبة المرحلة الثانوية والاعدادية كان لديهم توافق نفسي متوسط بصورة عامة. ان اغلب الطلبة لديهم انعدام التوافق العاطفي بصورة خاصة ووجد تأثيراً في الخصائص الديموغرافية (العمر، مستوى التعليم للأبوين، الحالة الاجتماعية والاقتصادية) على التوافق النفسي لدى طلبة المرحلة الثانوية والإعدادية.
التوصيات: أوصت الدراسة الحالية بالتركيز على تفعيل دور الإرشاد الأسري لتوعية الجمهور وتفعيل دور المعالجين النفسيين في المدارس
Quality of Life of Children age from (8- lessthan13) years with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia Undergoing Chemotherapy at Hematology Center in Medical City
Authors: Qasim Asmahan
Published: June 2023

Objective (s): To assess the QoL of children age from (8- lessthan13) years with acute lymphocytic leukemia undergoing chemotherapy and to find out the relationship between the QoL of children with acute lymphocytic leukemia and their illness history.

Methodology:  A descriptive study included (40) children with acute lymphocytic leukemia who were ranged between (8 - less than 13 years) at the Hematology Center in Medical City for the period from 4th March 2021 to 1st September 2021. The sample was non-probability (purposive) sample of children (male and female). A questionnaire designed with 2 main parts was used. The first part focused on sociodemographic characteristic for children. The second part, which consisted of four domains, focused on the quality of children with acute lymphocytic leukemia. The data were analyzed by applying statistical methods (descriptive and inferential) that were applied by using SPSS version 20.

Results: The study's findings that children aged from 8 to less than 13 years have moderate effects on all domains of the quality of life in which 90% of them are showing a moderate level in the physical functioning domain,70% are showing a moderate level in the emotional functioning domain, in regard to the social functioning domain 52.5% are showing a moderate level and 67.5% of them are showing a moderate level in school functioning domain.

Conclusion: According to the finding of the present study, the researchers concludes that acute lymphocytic leukemia is more prevalent in males than females.  In children aged 8 to less than 13 years, all domains of quality of life are moderately affected.

Recommendations:  The study recommended that all children with ALL and their parents get counseling and education programs about leukemia, medical care, efforts to overcome side effects, and nutrition, all of which help to improve the children's quality of life.
Effectiveness of an Instructional program on patients with ulcerative colitis adherence for Medication and Diet to prevent Colorectal Cancer: case and control study
Authors: Fauze Faris
Published: June 2023

ABSTRACT:

Objectives: The study aims to know the effectiveness of the educational program in the patient’s adherence to medication and diet and to know the relationship between the effectiveness of the education program and their demographic data related to the patient’s age, gender, marital status, education level, occupation, monthly income and residence.

Methodology: A quasi -experimental design study was performed on patient who attended to Gastroenterology and Hepatology Teaching Hospital, from March 2021 to September 2021. The non-probability sampling including 50 patients for case study and 30 patients for control group. The questionnaire consists of 3 parts, part one the socio-demographic consist of 8 items. Part two    consist of 12 items related to patient adherence for medications. Part three dealing the adherence of patient for diet which include 14 items.

 Results: the study's findings revealed that 45.7% of case group was adherence with healthy diet at pretest while the percent of their adherence was improved to 62.4% at posttest, their adherence for medication was 42.2% at pretest, and their adherence for medication was improved to 78.3% at posttest.

Conclusion: The study concluded that was effective on case group patients

On their adherence for healthy diet and medication to avoid colorectal cancer

Recommendations: The study recommends increase the patient’s health awareness toward the complication of ulcerative colitis, and establishing rehabilitation units in hospitals for guiding the patient about the importance of adhering to a balanced diet and treatment.
Evaluation of Job Satisfaction among Nurses Working at Primary Health Care Centers in Samawa City
Authors: Alnaser Haneen
Published: June 2023

Objective(s): This study aimed to evaluate job satisfaction among nurses working at primary health care centers        in Samawa City.
Methodology: A Descriptive evolutional study has been carried out during the period from 1 February 2022 to 1 June 2022. A nonprobability (convenience) sample of (200) nurse were selected from different educational level. A questionnaire format is developed for the purpose of fulfilling the objectives of the study. Content validity of the questionnaire and reliability has been determined. Data are analyzed using IBM SPSS version 19 software (2010).
Results: The findings indicate that 52% of nurses are showing high level of job satisfaction while 38.5% of them are showing moderate level.
Recommendations: Further studies can be conducted on a larger sample and investing more time and attention on new nurse recruits in order to prevent them from taking an additional responsibility.
MANAGING AND DEVELOPING SUSTAINABLE MULTI-DIMENSIONAL POVERTY REDUCTION AND VOCATIONAL TRAINING MODELS FOR LOCAL ETHNIC MINORITY WOMEN IN THE CENTRAL HIGHLANDS IN THE CURRENT PERIOD: SITUATION AND PROBLEMS
Authors: Le Thi Ly Na
Published: June 2023

The research and development of effective vocational training models, associated with livelihood development and sustainable multi-dimensional poverty alleviation for local ethnic minority women in accordance with socio-cultural characteristics. The socio-culturalization of each particularly difficult commune in the Central Highlands is an important and urgent issue in the current period with profound social and humanistic meanings. This article has conducted an overview of the issue of vocational training, vocational training model and sustainable multi-dimensional poverty reduction for local ethnic minority women, thereby deeply analyzing the current situation and problems posed for the vocation training models of local ethnic minority women, continue to research and effectively implement vocational training models for rural workers in general and for ethnic minority women, especially local ethnic minority women in particular in the Central Highlands during the current period.
Local government in Albania and Kosovo: comparative overview
Authors: VELIU Sofjana , GJIKA Jonida
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this article is to file the administrative-territorial reforms, conducted by Albania Republic, in a comparative point of view with some other countries, especially with Kosovo Republic as a result of their past. Looking at the historical evolution of reforms in these countries with different local governance systems, and analysis of the latest developments will give us a deeper knowledge about the topic. This comparison would address reforms of the political bodies of local government (such as those relating to political accountability and decision-making in local government), with regard to administrative structures, because only by looking at both sides of the currency of the local government can we get a complete picture of the changes and improvements to be made. The decentralization process and reforms, as well as the territorial and administrative reform (TAR) and its effects in the country, were subject to extensive debates among experts and the media, especially during last years .Comparison aims at providing knowledge about the terminology and concepts used in the comparison of countries and characteristics of each country in connection with the territorial administrative reforms carried out, followed by a reformation of the local government. This treatment is based on the legal framework of local government, taking a look at its changes over the years, analyzing and decentralization strategy. The article offers concrete conclusions based on the performance of this multilateral process and its implementation in local units of state.
Acting as a pivot state. A new dimension for the Albanian foreign policy
Authors: LAMI Blendi , XHARO Kristaq
Published: June 2023

Recent changes in the world order have modified the behavior of small states. The current structure of international system nowadays greatly influences the foreign policy of a small country. Albania as a small state has shown the first signs of adaptation to this new context. The power vacuum in international politics as no country or group of countries has the political and economic leverage to drive an international agenda or provide global public goods is the main factor leading to some recalibration in foreign policy agenda. This essay suggests that the new format in international relations has dictated a new strategy on foreign policy. A pivot state, as referred in the study, shows flexibility not only to survive but also benefit from the current system. The results of this study show that Albania, exposed to these changes, has taken steps towards a new foreign policy agenda. Having healthy relations with the US, guiding the country towards membership in the European Union, strengthening ties with Turkey or opening the door to large investments from the UAE are creating momentum for this move towards a pivot state.
The territorial-administrative reform in Albania
Authors: Ndreu Aurora
Published: June 2023

The territorial-administrative reform determines the changes in the administration because of territorial changes. These processes aim to increase overall capacity of public sector administration, through the creation of local communities with strong autonomy, capable of having the necessary capacities and means to encourage local development in all its aspects. Every reform process must meet criteria such as the existence of the political will, without which it cannot be fulfilled, changes in legislation, discussions at the regional level as well as support from external factors. In our country, the need to apply such a reform came as a result of various factors, such as: demographic changes, large fragmentation of local government units, lack of efficiency in providing services, inequality in local revenues, etc. This paper will show the evolution of administrative-territorial reform in Albania, the history, the reasons behind a new one and the problems.
A sectoral analysis of Trade openness and Women employment in selected East African Countries
Authors:   Kenyatta University, School of Business, Economics and Tourism, Nairobi, Kenya., Muthoka Edna
Published: June 2023

Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya improved their trade openness by 26 and 8 points, respectively, between 1995 and 1998 as a percentage of these countries’ gross domestic product. percent from 1998 to 2008. East African Community employment is dominated by agriculture, which motivated this study. Generally, this study pursued an analysis of openness of trade and women employment in selected EAC countries. The study examined the impact of openness of trade on both agriculture and service sector employment of women. In particular, the purpose of this study was to investigate how trade opening affects the employment of women in the agricultural sector in some EAC counties. and explore how trade opening affects the employment of women in the service sector in some counties of the EAC. The results show that trade opening had a negative impact on women’s employment in the agricultural sector, but had a positive impact on the service sector. This implies trade openness has shifted female employment pattern from agriculture to services sector. The study was conducted using a longitudinal panel design. The study concludes that efforts should be made to retain female workers in agriculture by retraining them, while promoting their employment through trade facilitation services and support with marketing. Concerning agricultural sector, the study recommends retraining of female workers in the agricultural sector to improve their skills set as well as providing credit to enable them move from lower cadre employment in agriculture.
Announcing the GigaScience T2T Series: Closing the Gaps from Telomere-to-Telomere
Authors: Edmunds Scott
Published: June 2023

 Series Editors: Jue Ruan (Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences) and Fritz J Sedlazeck (Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine)  While the first draft of the Human Genome was announced back in June 2000 and declared complete in April 2003, it took 20 years for the publication of the first complete, gapless sequence of a human genome in March 2022.
Reviewing From Extraterrestrials to Animal Minds by Simon Conway Morris: introduction and overview
Authors: Matheson Stephen
Published: June 2023

It was the subtitle of this book (From Extraterrestrials to Animal Minds: Six Myths of Evolution by Simon Conway Morris) that reeled me in, combined with my inability to resist reading the thoughts of Conway Morris on what that subtitle advertises: "Six Myths of Evolution." I'm about halfway through the book, and through three of the six myths. It was my intention to start writing about the book when I'd finished it, but now I think it will be more fun to write about it chapter by chapter....
The equine interspinal ligaments of Ray Wilhite
Authors: Taylor Mike
Published: June 2023

Our old friend Ray Wilhite sent us this glorious photo of a horse neck that he dissected recently, with permission to post here: The big yellow sheet at the top is the nuchal ligament, which in many mammals provides axial tension for the cervical vertebrae, and which has been hypothesized (e.g. by Alexander 1985:13) to have existed and provided similar support in at least some sauropods.
Amazonian Morpho butterflies: three genomes with a twist
Authors: Zauner Hans
Published: June 2023

 Morpho butterflies are emblematic species of the Amazonian rainforest known for their metallic shades of blue and green. Despite their conspicuous looks and fascinating biology, large-scale genome sequencing efforts have somewhat neglected them – until now. 
A mystery gene in human brain development: discovering ARHGAP11b
Authors: Matheson Stephen
Published: June 2023

The human brain is often described using literally cosmic superlatives. Here is V.S. Ramachandran, a renowned neuroscientist: The human brain, it has been said, is the most complexly organised structure in...
More on the disturbing plausibility of ChatGPT
Authors: Taylor Mike
Published: June 2023

Prompted by a post on Mastodon (which, like all Mastodon posts, I can no longer find), I asked ChatGPT to tell me about my own papers. The response started out well but quickly got much worse. I will indent my comments on its response.  Q. What are some articles written by Michael P. Taylor?  A. Michael P. Taylor is a vertebrate paleontologist and open science advocate.
Cell Biology in Washington DC: GigaScience at ASCB/EMBO Cell Bio 2022
Authors: Armit Chris
Published: June 2023

The Washington DC Walter E. Washington Convention Center was the venue for the recent Cell Bio 2022 Meeting that took place on 3-7 December 2022.  Cell Bio 2022, the joint meeting of the American Society for Cell Biology (ASCB) and European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO), is the largest yearly gathering for the Cell Biology community.
An arresting image of an apatosaur vertebra
Authors: Wedel Matt
Published: June 2023

Here’s a cool photo of an apatosaur cervical in anterior view. This is from R. McNeill Alexander’s wonderful book  Bones: The Unity of Form and Function  , which was published in 1994.
Multi-dimensional data for Cooinda the dingo
Authors: Zauner Hans
Published: June 2023

 A new  GigaScience  article presents  rich multi-dimensional  data for one Alpine dingo named Cooinda  .  The high-quality genome sequence, other molecular biology data, and magnetic resonance imaging of brain tissue will serve as a point of reference for exploring the evolutionary history of dingoes. 
Two nice pneumatic Allosaurus vertebrae
Authors: Wedel Matt
Published: June 2023

I spent last week bombing around Utah and western Colorado with Dave Hone, who was over from England to visit those states for the first time in his life. We did some fieldwork out at Brachiosaur Gulch and visited quite a few museums and quarries around the Dinosaur Diamond, in a sort of mini-recapitulation of my 2016 Sauropocalypse with Mike.
The associations of PON1 and APOE polymorphisms with plasma lipid levels and the risk for late complications in type 2 diabetes patients
Authors: Klen Jasna , Goričar Katja , Dolžan Vita
Published: June 2023

Background: Besides good glycemic control, also control of lipid levels can effectively prevent or delay late type 2 diabetes (T2D) complications. As apolipoprotein E (APOE) and paraoxonase 1 (PON1) were shown to suppress atherosclerosis, we investigated the associations of common functional PON1 and APOE polymorphisms with plasma lipid levels and the risk for late complications in T2D patients. Methods: Our retrospective genetic association study included 181 T2D patients genotyped for PON1 rs622, PON1 rs854560, APOE rs429358 and APOE rs7412. Results: PON1 rs622 G allele carriers had significantly lower LDL-C (p=0.024) and lower LDL/HDL ratio (p=0.031) under recessive model. Also in the subgroup of statin treated patients, PON1 rs622 G allele carriers had significantly lower LDL-C (p=0.019), lower total cholesterol/LDL ratio (0.043) and lower LDL/HDL ratio (0.009) when compared to noncarriers. After adjustment for clinical characteristics only associations of PON1 rs622 with macrovascular complications (p=0.002) and MI (p=0.041) remained significant. PON1 rs854560 and APOE genotypes were not associated with late T2D complications. Conclusion: Although our data show some associations between PON1 polymorphisms and lipid levels in T2D patients, as well as with late T2D complications, these associations do not seem to be clinically relevant in T2D patients.
Dinámica del crecimiento de la Maralfalfa (Pennisetum sp.), en condiciones de la Amazonia Ecuatoriana
Authors: Uvidia Cabadiana Hernán Alberto , Leonard Acosta Ismael , Benítez Diocledes , Buestan David
Published: June 2023

Se utilizó, un arreglo factorial en bloques al azar con tres repeticiones, para determinar la influencia de la distancia entre surcos (0.25 m, 0.50 m y 1 m) y la cantidad de estacas plantadas por surcos (una o dos), sobre los indicadores de crecimiento del pasto Pennisetum purpureum. C.V. Maralfalfa bajo las condiciones típicas de la Amazonía ecuatoriana, en parcelas de 30 m2, en suelo inseptisol uniforme en su perfil. Semanalmente, se determinó el estado fenológico de las plantas, a los 120 días de plantación se realizó un corte de homogeneidad, a 20 cm de altura del suelo y se determinó el rendimiento de biomasa, la estructura del pasto y se determinó la composición química. La tasa de crecimiento absoluto se midió desde la semana 5 hasta la semana 12 donde declinó el crecimiento. Estos cambios se relacionan con el tratamiento aplicado deteniéndose el crecimiento antes de las 12 semanas de edad. La misma tendencia registra el crecimiento relativo, con inducción a decrecer a partir de la semana octava en donde en la semana 8 registra un crecimiento de 5.8 cm, y a partir de la semana doce momento en el que predomina la pérdida de masa seca, con una mayor acumulación de tallos y material muerto en los pastizales.
Estrategias de aprendizaje de estudiantes de Ingeniería en línea
Authors: Villalonga Pons Joana , Besalú Mireia , Samà Camí Anna , Sancho-Vinuesa Teresa
Published: June 2023

En una universidad en línea, a diferencia de la universidad tradicional presencial, el conjunto de estudiantes es mayoritariamente adulto: con puntos de partida muy variados, lidian la obtención de un título con responsabilidades profesionales y familiares. En este contexto, nos proponemos conocer el perfil de comportamiento del alumnado de un curso propedéutico de matemáticas en estudios de ingeniería en línea, a través del grado de realización de las distintas actividades propuestas, especialmente las no obligatorias, y su relación con el desempeño académico en la asignatura. Esta investigación ha sido realizada de acuerdo con un diseño no experimental, de carácter cuantitativo y enmarcado dentro de los estudios ex post facto, en 6 aulas virtuales con un total de 340 estudiantes. Mediante un análisis de clúster con el método K-means se han hallado tres grupos que, a su vez, han permitido definir tres perfiles de estudiante: eficiente, entregado y pasivo. Dichos perfiles son equiparables a los hallados en trabajos anteriores sobre la participación y patrones de comportamiento de los participantes en un MOOC, de características similares a los del presente estudio. Los resultados de este estudio validan el papel fundamental que el tiempo y el diseño de evaluación toman en las estrategias de aprendizaje del alumnado y estimulan el rediseño del curso, especialmente de las actividades orientadas a un mejor desempeño de los estudiantes pasivos.
Jane Jacobs is still here
Authors:   Delft University of Technology, Rocco Roberto
Published: June 2023

On the occasion of Jane Jacobs’ 100 anniversary, the chair of Spatial Planning and Strategy of the Delft University of Technology, together with the OTB Research Institute for the Built Environment and the Rotterdam Erasmus University College organised a two-day conference on Jane Jacob’s legacy at TU Delft on 24-25 May 2016. This event was complemented one year later by a ‘Jane Jacobs Year’ closing event. We wished to celebrate the life and accomplishments of one of the most important urban thinkers of our time, someone who has influenced generations of designers and planners and others concerned with the built environment: the great Jane Jacobs. This volume contains a number of papers presented at the celebratory conference held at TU Delft in May 2016, with six tracks coordinated by guest scholars. Track 1: Jane Jacobs, ethics, and the just city Track 2: Jane Jacobs and Street Spaces – Streets as public places Track 3: Jane Jacobs and the dynamics of neighbourhoods Track 4: Jane Jacobs and the Reshaping old urban fabrics in Chinese cities Track 5: Jane Jacobs and organised complexity Track 6: Jane Jacobs and safety in public space
Geo-Electrical Evaluation of Aquifer Characteristics and Groundwater Potential in Sango - Kulende Area, Ilorin, Nigeria
Authors:   Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekit, O AWALE , L. I NWANKWO ,   Federal University, O. I OLADIPO ,   Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti, T. O LAWAL ,   University of Ilorin
Published: June 2023

An electrical resistivity survey involving vertical electrical sounding (VES) has been carried out for groundwater exploration around Sango-Kulende area in Ilorin South Local Government Area of Kwara State, Nigeria. This was performed with a view of determining the aquifer potential and identifying suitable sites where viable boreholes could be dug for long term supply of potable water for the inhabitants of the area. The survey was carried out using a powerful campus ohmega portable resistivity meter while a total of ten (10) VES stations were completed in three evenly spaced profiles using Schlumberger electrode configuration. A maximum half electrode distance of 100m was utilized and the data acquired were analyzed and interpreted with the aid of computer iteration techniques using the Inverse lite and AGCross software. Interpretations of the resistivity data revealed the presence of three interpretable geo-electric layers and aquifer which is mainly an alluvial aquifer. The top lateritic soil has a resistivity value ranging from 150 to 1100Ωm and thickness of 2.0 to 8.0m. The weathered basement has a resistivity ranging from 9.0 to 450Ωm with thickness 10.0 to 25.0m, while the fresh basement layer has resistivities greater than 700 Ωm. The surveyed area is saturated zones and considered to be a good point for locating a groundwater drilling tube of high quality except for VES 4 among all the VES stations.
Evaluation of Mobile Phone Usage in Patient Management: The Case of Igabi Public Health Facilities, Nigeria
Authors:   Kampala International University, Umar Abdulkadir , Phelix Mbabazi Businge ,   Kampala International University, Kareyo Margaret ,   Kampala International University, Lydia Namugabo ,   Kampala International University, Immaculate Akiteng ,   Kampala International University, Taremwa Danson ,   Kampala International University
Published: June 2023

This study evaluated mobile phone usage in the health facilities in Igabi local government Nigeria. The study was guided by the following research objectives: i) to establish the usage of mobile phone applications in the health facilities in Igabi local government, Nigeria; and ii) to assess the factors hindering mobile phone application usage in the health facilities in Igabi local government, Nigeria. This study used cross-sectional survey design and a target population of 325 participants. Sample size of 179 respondents was computed using Slovene’s formula. The main research instrument was questionnaires. Data was analyzed using frequency and percentage tables. The findings showed that mobile phones were mainly used in health sector of For texting messages(83%),For making calls(66.9%),For video charting(61.5%),For taking photos of different medical related output(87.2%),,Patient Monitoring(43.5%),Medical Education and Training(42.6%),Information management(30.4%),Time management (56.1%) and ,Emailing (59.5%). The results cited the following as major challenges of using mobile devices in health sector. Anxiety(42.6%),Ignorance/lack of knowledge/training (43.9%),Expensive(60.8%),Social influence (52.7%),Poor network for smartphones(54.7%),Privacy and security issues(50.7%)No common digital format for storing patient data.(45.3%),Technical challenges(47.3%). The study recommended that the health sector since the patients are not ignorant on the use of mobile devices (34.9%), the health sector should work on the technical challenge, network for smartphones and integration of different systems.
Professional Tacit Knowledge Transfer among Librarians at Kampala International University (KIU) Uganda
Authors:   Kampala International University, E. Mayende Kiwelu Jackline , Tibenderana Prisca ,   Kampala International University, E. Ogbonna Justina ,   Kampala International University
Published: June 2023

The way knowledge is transferred determined the rate in which an institution achieve its objectives. Few studies have been done on tacit knowledge transfer in higher institutions in Uganda. Scholars are concern that there is no clear knowledge transfer procedures in universities. It was in this context the researchers were interested to study Kampala International University library. The study aims at identifying professional tacit transfer practices at Kampala International University Library and their benefits to the library. The study employed an online self-administered questionnaire on 34 librarians and registered (25) 76% response. Content analysis and observation techniques were also used. The results are: mentorship, workshops, seminars, meetings, job rotation, consortia engagements are the professional tacit knowledge transfer practices exploited by librarians at KIU. Among the practices 76% of the respondents ranked workshops, seminars and meetings as the best professional tacit knowledge transfer practices. Meanwhile motivation was a very important aspect that influenced librarians to participate in professional tacit knowledge transfer practices. Majority of librarians (68%) said tacit knowledge transfer practices benefited the library by improving performance and maintaining the library competitiveness. Lack of adequate tacit knowledge transfer infrastructure was among the challenges mentioned. The paper provides a broad overview of professional tacit knowledge transfer in the university library especially Kampala International University (KIU). The study conclude that universities have clear knowledge transfer practices though not documented and widely studied. This study is a veritable resource to any university library that is still struggling with knowledge management and transfer.
Relationship between project benefits and sustainability of activities: a comparative analysis of selected donor-funded agriculture-related projects in Tanzania
Authors:   Sokoine University of Agriculture, Jeremiah V. Mkomagi , Athman K. Ahmad ,   Sokoine University of Agriculture, Devotha B. Mosha ,   Sokoine University of Agriculture
Published: June 2023

Projects should impact sustainably the people they were created to assist. Unfortunately, experience shows projects and associated benefits gradually disappear a few years after they are withdrawn. Against this backdrop, the study examined the relationship between project-related benefits and the sustainability of project activities for donor-supported projects. Using a comparative case study design, 274 respondents were sampled proportionately and interviewed using a questionnaire. Benefits were calculated using income gains from project-initiated activities. Analysis of variance results shows that the mean incomes were statistically significant based on sustainability levels, suggesting that the level of sustainability was affected by the changes in income levels. Hence, it is determined that the sustainability of project activities was statistically related to project benefits. The practical implication of the results is that local beneficiaries consider the benefit gains when deciding to engage in project-initiated activities or not. They disengage when they consider the benefits to be low, which compromises the efficacy of exit strategies implemented and the eventual sustainability of activities and outcomes. Project practitioners are encouraged to devise projects whose activities have lucrative economic benefits and expose local beneficiaries to conditions that maximise the likelihood of getting well-paid benefits from project activities.
An assessment of religion's role in mitigating suicide among tertiary institutions’ students in delta state of Nigeria
Authors:   Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria., Anthony A. Uviekovo
Published: June 2023

Suicide is a problem that affects all nations, but low- and middle-income nations are more susceptible because of the stigma associated with it and the lack of facilities that support mental health. With about one million deaths each year, suicide is a significant cause of mortality around the globe. This article evaluates the idea of suicide from a religious viewpoint among students attending tertiary institutions across Delta State, Nigeria. The phenomenological and descriptive methodologies are employed for data collection to achieve the study's objectives. The research population comprises students from nine higher educational institutions in Delta State. The result shows that suicide is motivated by numerous variables, such as sadness, excessive pressure, pessimism, financial hardships, and academic failure; that the incidence of suicide has drastically reduced among students of higher institutions because of religion’s big impact in offering understanding, information, wisdom, and faith on human lives. It concludes that further studies should be conducted on the role of religion in preventing suicide, its contextualization in Western knowledge, aiding NGOs in discovering suicide ideations, and providing a model for future researchers.
Overview of the conceptual framework for assessing the quality of curriculum in teaching Islamic studies in Nigeria secondary schools
Authors:   Federal University Dutsin-ma, Nigeria., Torpev Terver Francis , Nasir Danzaria ,   Federal University Dutsin-ma, Nigeria., Adamu Dalhat Rabi ,   Federal University Dutsin-ma, Nigeria.
Published: June 2023

The paper is on the conceptual framework for judging quality curriculum in teaching Islamic studies in Nigeria Secondary School system. It defines curriculum, quality curriculum, objectives of Islamic studies curriculum, and the teaching process in Islamic studies which include traditionalism, progressivism, Western philosophy, and an eclectic approach that takes both traditional and progressivist perspectives on education into account. The paper also discusses quality curriculum in Islamic studies, criteria for judging curriculum quality in Islamic studies, and characteristics of a quality curriculum. The paper recommends that Islamic studies teachers should endeavor to effectively utilize the criteria for judging curriculum quality to ensure that standards are met and that multiple processes or approaches of teaching Islamic studies should be employed by the teachers in the classroom, Learning experiences that would promote the moral upbringing of learners should form the bedrock of Islamic curriculum in the school system, Islamic studies teachers should be conversant with the Islamic studies curriculum for effective assessment, quality teaching and easy assimilation by learners.