bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alzheimer’s disease: a continuum with visual involvements
Authors: Elvira-Hurtado Lorena , López-Cuenca Inés , de Hoz Rosa , Salas Mario , Sánchez-Puebla Lidia , Ramírez-Toraño Federico , Matamoros José A. , Fernández-Albarral José A. , Rojas Pilar , Alfonsín Soraya , Delgado-Losada María Luisa , Ramírez Ana I. , Salazar Juan J. , Maestu Fernando , Gil Pedro , Ramírez José M. , Salobrar-García Elena
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia affecting the central nervous system, and alteration of several visual structures has been reported. Structural retinal changes are usually accompanied by changes in visual function in this disease. The aim of this study was to analyse the differences in visual function at different stages of the pathology (family history group (FH+), mild cognitive impairment (MCI), mild AD and moderate AD) in comparison with a control group of subjects with no cognitive decline and no family history of AD.

Methods

We included 53 controls, 13 subjects with FH+, 23 patients with MCI, 25 patients with mild AD and, 21 patients with moderate AD. All were ophthalmologically healthy. Visual acuity (VA), contrast sensitivity (CS), colour perception, visual integration, and fundus examination were performed.

Results

The analysis showed a statistically significant decrease in VA, CS and visual integration score between the MCI, mild AD and moderate AD groups compared to the control group. In the CS higher frequencies and in the colour perception test (total errors number), statistically significant differences were also observed in the MCI, mild AD and moderate AD groups with respect to the FH+ group and also between the control and AD groups. The FH+ group showed no statistically significant difference in visual functions compared to the control group. All the test correlated with the Mini Mental State Examination score and showed good predictive value when memory decline was present, with better values when AD was at a more advanced stage.

Conclusion

Alterations in visual function appear in subjects with MCI and evolve when AD is established, being stable in the initial stages of the disease (mild AD and moderate AD). Therefore, visual psychophysical tests are a useful, simple and complementary tool to neuropsychological tests to facilitate diagnosis in the preclinical and early stages of AD.
Romanian Inventory of Depression and Anxiety Symptoms (IDAS-II)
Authors: Petre Ligiana Mihaela , Gheorghe Delia Alexandra , Watson David , Mitrofan Laurentiu
Published: July 2023

Background

The Inventory of Depression and Anxiety Symptoms (IDAS-II) is a self-report measure comprising 99 items divided into 18 non-overlapping scales that allows for a dimensional assessment of depression, anxiety, and bipolar symptoms. The IDAS-II is currently available in English, Turkish, Spanish, German, and Swedish. This study’s major goal was to adapt and validate the IDAS-II to the Romanian population.

Method

Participants from a community sample (N = 1,072) completed the IDAS-II (Romanian version) and additional measures assessing depression and anxiety disorders.

Results

Item-level factor analyses validated the unidimensionality of the scales, and internal consistency results indicated that most symptom scales had satisfactory alpha coefficient values. Based on previous structural analyses, a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) on the IDAS-II scales confirmed a three-component model of “Distress,” “Obsessions/Fear,” and “Positive Mood.” Convergent and discriminant validity were established by correlational analyses with other symptom measures.

Limitations

This study was conducted using a sample from the general population and several of the employed measures have limitations. Specifically, the current study was unable to employ Romanian versions of the gold-standard instruments that assess well-being, obsessive–compulsive disorder, and claustrophobia.

Conclusion

The IDAS-II (Romanian version) is the first clinical measure to assess internalizing dimensions of the Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology (HiTOP) model that is available for the Romanian population.
Growth of preference for solitude in urban and rural Chinese adolescents
Authors: Chen Xi , Sun Xinxin , Wu Xuan , Liu Junsheng , Li Dan , Chen Xinyin
Published: July 2023

Introduction

As individuals enter adolescence, their preference for solitude (PFS) increases with age, which may be a result of balancing the need for social affiliation and the need for autonomy and independence. These needs are shaped by the social-cultural contexts, and thus the growth rate of PFS may differ across social-cultural contexts.This study examined to what extent the developmental trajectory of PFS differed between urban and rural Chinese adolescents.

Methods

Adolescents in urban (n = 326,168 boys, Mage =12.00 years, SD = 0.61) and rural (n = 449, 198 boys, Mage =11.82 years, SD = 0.58) regions in China reported their PFS and shyness each year from Grade 6 to Grade 8. Longitudinal measurement invariance of PFS was established between the urban and rural samples. Location and gender differences in the intercept and the slope of PFS were examined using a latent growth model, while controlling for shyness at each time point.

Results

The analyses revealed that adolescents in both urban and rural regions showed an increasing trajectory of PFS. Although urban and rural adolescents did not differ in the initial level of PFS at Grade 6, urban adolescents’ PFS increased faster than that of the rural adolescents. The urban-rural difference in the slope of PFS remained significant after controlling for the associations between the intercept and the slope of PFS and shyness at each time point. In addition, in the rural region, boys showed a faster increase of PFS than girls, yet gender differences in the initial level of PFS and the developmental trajectory in the urban region were nonsignificant.

Discussion

The findings reveal a normative increasing trend of PFS during early adolescence and faster increase for urban than rural adolescents. To promote adolescents’ psychological well-being, parents, teachers and practitioners need to help adolescents establish a good balance between social interaction and solitude. When deciding what is a good balance, it is important to consider the social-cultural context.
Cigarette smoking in childhood and risk of all-cause and cause-specific mortality in adulthood
Authors: Liu Xue , Sun Jiahong , Zhao Min , Bovet Pascal , Xi Bo
Published: July 2023

Background

This study was aimed to examine the association between cigarette smoking in childhood and mortality in adulthood, and the impact of non-smoking duration among smokers who subsequently quit smoking.

Methods

We used data from 472,887 adults aged 18–85 years examined once in the US National Health Interview Survey in 1997–2014, which was linked to mortality data from the National Death Index up to 31 December 2015. Cigarette smoking status in childhood (age 6 to 17 years) and adulthood (age 18 to 85 years) was self-reported using a standard questionnaire at the time of participation in the survey. The vital status of participants due all-causes, cardiovascular disease (CVD), cancer and chronic lower respiratory diseases was obtained using mortality data from the National Death Index.

Results

During the mean follow-up of 8.75 years, compared with never smoking in childhood and adulthood, the risk of all-cause mortality among current adult smokers decreased slightly according to increasing age at smoking initiation: hazard ratios (HRs; 95% confidence intervals, CIs) were 2.54 (2.24–2.88) at age of 6–9 years, 2.44 (2.31–2.57) at age of 10–14 years, and 2.21 (2.12–2.31) at age of 15–17 years. Smoking cessation before the age of 30 years was not associated with increased risk of all-cause and cause-specific mortality (all p > 0.05) compared to never smoking.

Conclusion

Mortality risk was higher in individuals who started smoking at an earlier age in childhood. Inversely, smoking cessation before the age of 30 years was not associated with an increased risk of mortality compared to never smoking.
The effects of COVID-19 on Central Florida’s community gardens: lessons for promoting food security and overall community wellbeing
Authors: Schanbacher William D. , Cavendish James C.
Published: July 2023

For quite some time, food systems scholars, public health workers, and food justice activists have recognized structural problems in the global food system that can cause food insecurity and inequitable access to nutritious foods. The COVID-19 pandemic and the accompanying disruption in food supply chains (FSCs) exposed these problems and raised questions about how community gardening and urban agriculture might offer some solutions. In this article, we examine the effects of the pandemic on the operations of community gardens in Central Florida and the attempts of these gardens to address the disruption in food supplies in their local communities. We do so by using data drawn from two research strategies employed by the members of University of South Florida’s Urban Food Sovereignty Group: (1) a survey conducted in 2021 of 45 leaders of community gardens throughout the Central Florida region; and (2) participation in the meetings and activities of a coalition of community gardens based in Tampa, Florida, from 2019 to 2022. Results reveal that although most community gardens in Central Florida were forced to change their routines in various ways (e.g., limiting the number of workers or volunteers who could work at the garden at the same time, or delivering workshops and education programs online instead of in-person), some gardens were able to maintain their regular operations and even reported increases in their membership or participation during the pandemic. Many community garden leaders also recognized the positive effect that community gardening seemed to have on their gardeners’ mental health, noting that their gardens became places of refuge for gardeners who sought safe, outdoor spaces, to relieve stress and interact with their neighbors. These same leaders also observed the effect of the pandemic on residents’ access to quality food, and intensified their efforts to provide more fresh food to pantries and traditional emergency food outlets. Survey respondents also shared important lessons they learned from the pandemic by suggesting that community gardens establish clear emergency protocols, use existing resources more efficiently, continue their educational programs, and strengthen their communications and cooperation with other gardens and actors in local food supply chains in order to ensure food security. We conclude by suggesting that one of the best ways that local communities can avert future food crises and strengthen their resilience is to root themselves more firmly in the principles of food sovereignty so they can sustain themselves when commercial FSCs are disrupted.
Intergenerational caregiving on mental health of middle-aged and older adults in China: empirical insights
Authors: Yan Xueling , Wu Wenjing , Chen Xiaoqin , Xu Guangming , Yu Shule , Li Shen
Published: July 2023

Introduction

The impact of intergenerational caregiving on the mental health of providers remains a controversial topic, especially in countries like China where it is prevalent. Given the country’s aging population and recent liberalization of the two-child policy, understanding the effects of intergenerational caregiving on the mental health of middle-aged and older adult(s) individuals is crucial. This study aimed to explore the impact of intergenerational caregiving on mental health among middle-aged and older adult(s) individuals.

Methods

We analyzed data from the China Health and Aging Tracking Survey (CHARLS) 2013, consisting of 6602 participants finally. Personal information, family structure, financial support, health status, and physical measurements were selected for analysis. Correlation and regression analyses were used for relationships among variables controlling for potential confounding variables. Mental health status was evaluated using the depression self-rating scale.

Results

There is a significant positive effect of intergenerational care on the mental health of middle-aged and older adult(s) people. Additionally, we re-profiled intergenerational care variables by considering the number and length of intergenerational caregivers, and found that the effects remained significant. Furthermore, the effects of intergenerational care vary across subgroups based on gender, age, nature of usual residence, marital status, and physical health status. Finally, we identified two mechanisms through which intergenerational caregiving positively affects mental health: intergenerational financial support and intergenerational spiritual support.

Discussion

These findings have important implications for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and family members in promoting the mental health of middle-aged and older adult(s) individuals in China.
Shoulder pain, health-related quality of life and physical function in community-dwelling older adults
Authors: Davis Derik L. , Almardawi Ranyah , Beamer Brock A. , Ryan Alice S. , Terrin Michael L.
Published: July 2023

The impact of shoulder pain on health-related quality of life and physical function among community-dwelling older adults (>60 years) not seeking medical care is not well understood. Forty-four community-dwelling older adult volunteers with low comorbidity were stratified into two groups by the presence (n = 18) or absence (n = 26) of shoulder pain. Participants completed the 36-Item Short Form and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon surveys and received shoulder range of motion and magnetic resonance imaging testing. Participants with shoulder pain perceived more difficulty accomplishing usual tasks secondary to their physical and emotion health and displayed inferior shoulder function, relative to participants without shoulder pain. This study suggests that shoulder pain reduces quality of life and physical function in the population of community-dwelling older adults not seeking medical evaluation for their symptoms.
Emerging risk of Dirofilaria spp. infection in shelter dogs in southern Italy
Authors: Ciuca Lavinia , Caruso Valeria , Illiano Sergio , Bosco Antonio , Maurelli Maria Paola , Rinaldi Laura
Published: July 2023

In southern Italy, the number of autochthonous cases of Dirofilaria immitis in dogs has increased considerably. This also occurs in the Campania region, particularly in coastal areas, where infections with D. immitis and Dirofilaria repens have been reported more frequently. Therefore the aim of the present study was to better investigate the occurrence of Dirofilaria spp. in a local dog shelter in Castel Volturno (Campania region, southern Italy). Briefly, a total of 260 blood samples were analysed for identification of microfilariae (mff) and detection of Dirofilaria immitis antigen. Dogs were classified according to their age (1–3  years; 4–6  years; 7–11  years; > 11  years) and length of stay in the shelter at the time of sampling (dogs that entered in the shelter in the last 4  months; dogs housed in the shelter for more than 4 months up to 2  years; dogs housed for more than 2  years). The modified Knott’s test revealed that 195 dogs (75.0%) were positive for circulating mff of Dirofilaria spp. Specifically, 104/260 (40.0%) dogs were positive for D. immitis and 91/260 (35.0%) were positive for D. repens. In addition, 72/260 (27.7%) dogs had both D. immitis and D. repens mff. Antigen testing revealed that 78/260 (30.0%) dogs were positive for D. immitis. However, 26/104 (25.0%) of the dogs with D. immitis mff were antigen-negative. The overall k concordance between the modified Knott’s test and the antigenic test was ≤0.2 (poor) (p = 0.000). The results of the logistic regression model showed a significant association between Dirofilaria exposure and the period of time the dogs had spent in the shelter at the time of sampling. Dogs housed in the shelter for 4 months (group 1) and between 4 months and 2 years (group 2) had higher Dirofilaria positivity than dogs in group 3 (housed for more than 2 years) (80.4% vs. 79.6% vs. 62.4%, respectively). Moreover, male dogs and older dogs (between 7 and 11 years of age) were more likely to be infected with Dirofilaria spp.
Performance Analysis of Segmentation and Classification of CT-Scanned Ovarian Tumours Using U-Net and Deep Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Kodipalli Ashwini , Fernandes Steven L. , Gururaj Vaishnavi , Varada Rameshbabu Shriya , Dasar Santosh
Published: July 2023

Difficulty in detecting tumours in early stages is the major cause of mortalities in patients, despite the advancements in treatment and research regarding ovarian cancer. Deep learning algorithms were applied to serve the purpose as a diagnostic tool and applied to CT scan images of the ovarian region. The images went through a series of pre-processing techniques and, further, the tumour was segmented using the UNet model. The instances were then classified into two categories—benign and malignant tumours. Classification was performed using deep learning models like CNN, ResNet, DenseNet, Inception-ResNet, VGG16 and Xception, along with machine learning models such as Random Forest, Gradient Boosting, AdaBoosting and XGBoosting. DenseNet 121 emerges as the best model on this dataset after applying optimization on the machine learning models by obtaining an accuracy of 95.7%. The current work demonstrates the comparison of multiple CNN architectures with common machine learning algorithms, with and without optimization techniques applied.
Oxidases as Oxygen Scavengers in Hypoxic Conditions: A Kinetic Model
Authors: Bazzoli Paolo , Iametti Stefania , Fessas Dimitrios , Bonomi Francesco , Schiraldi Alberto
Published: July 2023

A simple kinetic model allowed for the description of the observed decay of the oxygen content in hypoxic aqueous samples with and without headspace, in the presence of glucose oxidase (Glucox) or laccase and their substrates (glucose for Glucox and ABTS for Laccase). The experimental tests involved both the direct measurement of the oxygen content with a fluorescence-based probe and the indirect stopped-flow spectroscopic detection of colored compounds generated from suitable chromogenic reagents. The complete depletion of dissolved oxygen occurred in the no-headspace samples, whereas some residual oxygen remained in a steady state in the samples with headspace. Simple pseudo-first-order kinetics was adequate to describe the behavior of the system, as long as oxygen was the rate-limiting compound, i.e., in the presence of excess substrates. The values of the kinetic constants drawn from best-fit routines of the data from both experimental approaches were quite comparable. The oxygen residues in the samples with headspace seemed related to the low solubility of O2 in the aqueous phase, especially if compared with the large amount of oxygen in the headspace. The extent of such residue decreased by increasing the concentration of the enzyme. The kinetic model proposed in this paper can be of help in assembling suitable sensors to be used for food safety and quality control.
The Anti-Arthritic Activity of Diclofenac Lipid-Core Nanocapsules: Stereological Analysis Showing More Protection of Deep Joint Components
Authors: Ureña Nathalie Marte , de Oliveira Catiúscia Padilha , Guterres Silvia Stanisçuaski , Pohlmann Adriana Raffin , da Costa Oscar Tadeu Ferreira , Boechat Antonio Luiz
Published: July 2023

Diclofenac is the most prescribed nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug worldwide and is used to relieve pain and inflammation in inflammatory arthritis. Diclofenac is associated with serious adverse effects, even in regular-dose regimens. Drug delivery systems can overcome this issue by reducing adverse effects and optimizing their efficacy. This study evaluated the activity of lipid-core nanocapsules loaded with diclofenac (DIC-LNCs) in an experimental model of adjuvant-induced arthritis. The diclofenac nanoformulation was obtained via self-assembly. A stereological analysis approach was applied for the morphological quantification of the volume, density, and cellular profile count of the metatarsophalangeal joints of rats. Proinflammatory cytokines and biochemical profiles were also obtained. Our results showed that the diclofenac nanocapsule DIC-LNCs were able to reduce arthritis compared with the control group and the DIC group. DIC-LNCs efficiently reduced proinflammatory cytokines, C-reactive protein, and xanthine oxidase levels. Additionally, DIC-LNCs reduced the loss of synoviocytes and chondrocytes compared with the DIC (p < 0.05) and control groups (p < 0.05). These data suggest that DIC-LNCs have anti-arthritic activity and preserve joint components, making them promising for clinical use.
Development of a Green Microwell Spectrofluorimetric Assay with High Analytical Throughput for the Determination of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms and Plasma
Authors: Alzoman Nourah Z. , Darwish Ibrahim A.
Published: July 2023

In this study, a new green microwell spectrofluorimetric assay (MW-SFA) with high throughput was developed and validated, for the first time, for the determination of three selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in pharmaceutical dosage forms and plasma. These SSRIs were fluoxetine (FLX), fluvoxamine (FXM), and paroxetine (PXT), which are commonly prescribed drugs for depression treatment. The MW-SFA is based on the condensation reaction of SSRIs with 4-chloro-7-nitrobenzo-2-oxa-1,3-diazole (NBD-Cl) in alkaline media to form highly fluorescent derivatives. The MW-SFA procedures were conducted in 96-microwell white opaque assay plates with a flat bottom and the fluorescence signals were measured using a microplate reader at their maximum excitation and emission wavelengths. The calibration curves were generated with good correlation coefficients (0.9992–0.9995) between the relative fluorescence intensity (RFI) and the SSRI concentrations in the range of 35–800 ng/mL. The limits of detection were in the range of 11–25 ng/mL, and the precision and accuracy were satisfactory. The proposed MW-SFA was successfully applied to the analysis of the SSRIs in their pharmaceutical dosage forms. The statistical analysis for the comparison between the MW-SFA assay results and those of pharmacopeial assays showed no significant differences between the assays in terms of their accuracy and precision. The application of the proposed MW-SFA was extended to successfully analyze SSRIs in plasma samples. The greenness of the assay was confirmed using three different metric tools. The assay was characterized with high throughput properties, enabling the sensitive simultaneous analysis of many samples in a short time. This assay is valuable for rapid routine applications in pharmaceutical quality control units and clinical laboratories for the determination of SSRIs.
Arylcyanomethylenequinone Oximes: An Overview of Synthesis, Chemical Transformations, and Biological Activity
Authors: Kula Karolina , Nagatsky Roman , Sadowski Mikołaj , Siumka Yevheniia , Demchuk Oleg M.
Published: July 2023

Quinone methides are a class of biologically active compounds that can be used in medicine as antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory agents. In addition, quinone methides have the potential to be used as pesticides, dyes, and additives for rubber and plastics. In this paper, we discuss a subclass of quinone methides: methylenequinone oximes. Although the first representatives of the subgroup were synthesized in the distant past, they still need to be additionally studied, while their chemistry, biological properties, and perspective of practical applications require to be comprehensively summarised. Based on the analysis of the literature, it can be concluded that methylenequinone oximes exhibit a diversified profile of properties and outstanding potential as new drug candidates and reagents in organic synthesis, both of electrophilic and nucleophilic nature, worthy of wide-ranging further research.
The Synthesis and Evaluation of Porous Carbon Material from Corozo Fruit (Bactris guineensis) for Efficient Propranolol Hydrochloride Adsorption
Authors: Franco Dison Stracke Pfingsten , Georgin Jordana , Ramos Claudete Gindri , Eljaiek Salma Martinez , Badillo Daniel Romero , de Oliveira Anelise Hoch Paschoalin , Allasia Daniel , Meili Lucas
Published: July 2023

This study explores the potential of the corozo fruit (Bactris guineensis) palm tree in the Colombian Caribbean as a source for porous carbon material. Its specific surface area, pore volume, and average pore size were obtained using N2 adsorption/desorption isotherms. The images of the precursor and adsorbent surface were obtained using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra were obtained to detect the main functional groups present and an X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) was performed in order to analyze the structural organization of the materials. By carbonizing the fruit stone with zinc chloride, a porous carbon material was achieved with a substantial specific surface area (1125 m2 g⁻1) and pore volume (3.241 × 10−1 cm3 g⁻1). The material was tested for its adsorption capabilities of the drug propranolol. The optimal adsorption occurred under basic conditions and at a dosage of 0.7 g L⁻1. The Langmuir homogeneous surface model effectively described the equilibrium data and, as the temperature increased, the adsorption capacity improved, reaching a maximum of 134.7 mg g⁻1 at 328.15 K. The model constant was favorable to the temperature increase, increasing from 1.556 × 10−1 to 2.299 × 10−1 L mg−1. Thermodynamically, the adsorption of propranolol was found to be spontaneous and benefited from higher temperatures, indicating an endothermic nature (12.39 kJ mol⁻1). The negative ΔG0 values decreased from −26.28 to −29.99 kJ mol−1, with the more negative value occurring at 328 K. The adsorbent material exhibited rapid kinetics, with equilibrium times ranging from 30 to 120 min, depending on the initial concentration. The kinetics data were well-represented by the general order and linear driving force models. The rate constant of the general order model diminished from 1.124 × 10−3 to 9.458 × 10−14 with an increasing concentration. In summary, the leftover stone from the Bactris guineensis plant can be utilized to develop activated carbon, particularly when activated using zinc chloride. This material shows promise for efficiently adsorbing propranolol and potentially other emerging pollutants.
Happiness and Being Human: The Tension between Immanence and Transcendence in Religion/Spirituality
Authors: Bentley Wessel
Published: July 2023

What is the happiness that we strive for and what does it mean for our understanding of being human? As we pursue happiness, we find that happiness is complex, in many ways subjective to the experiences and contexts of individuals or groups. Happiness also can be found in attaining greater self-awareness and a sense of meaning/purpose. This article argues that religion/spirituality has a role to play in facilitating well-being/happiness in terms of the tension held in their understanding of immanence and transcendence. This will be done, using a science and religion discourse.
Correction: Hani et al. Sensitivity Analysis for Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis Framework for Site Selection of Aquifer Recharge with Reclaimed Water. Sustainability 2023, 15, 5399
Authors: Hani Heba Mohamed , Nour El Din Mohamed M. , Khalifa Abdelkawi , Elalfy Ezzat
Published: July 2023

The authors would like to make the following corrections to their published paper [...]
Formation of a situational internal control system in agribusiness organizations using artificial intelligence
Authors:   Russian Timiryazev State Agrarian University, Moscow, Russia, Khoruzhy L. I. , Katkov Yu. N. ,   Russian Timiryazev State Agrarian University, Moscow, Russia, Dzhikiya M. K. ,   Russian Timiryazev State Agrarian University, Moscow, Russia, Minaeva V. M. ,   Russian Timiryazev State Agrarian University, Moscow, Russia, Tikunova A. S. ,   Russian Timiryazev State Agrarian University, Moscow, Russia
Published: July 2023

The formation of a situational internal control system at agricultural enterprises is an important tool for improving the efficiency and sustainability of business in conditions of uncertainty and risk. An important quality of the situational internal control system is the timely analysis and adaptability of such a system to external changes. For the effective operation of the situational internal control system, it is necessary to have qualified personnel and use modern information technologies, including artificial intelligence. In this paper, a model of the situational internal control system was developed using automated systems and systems based on artificial intelligence, and a table with indicators for evaluating the implementation of such a control system was developed. The results of the study can be used in the practical work of agricultural enterprises to improve the effectiveness of risk management and ensure business sustainability.
State-of-the-art government cash management model
Authors: Zhantimirov P.
Published: July 2023

The article considers the necessity and possibility of using the government cash management model for the purposes of making reasonable management decisions as regards the performance of operations with budget funds, the elements of the model, and also the interconnection of the elements of the model. The main conclusions representing the scientific novelty of the study include: 1) the list and content of tasks of government cash management are transformed in connection with the transformation of the goal of government cash management; 2) the performance of operations to manage government cash using tools to manage budget funds in order to achieve the goal should comply with the general principles of economic feasibility and efficiency and the specific principles of government cash management; 3) the tasks of developing forecasts of cash receipts and disposals, raising funds, placing temporarily free funds, and financial risk management are closely related to each other, which should be taken into account when using instruments; 4) the model developed by us can be used to analyze the applicability of government cash management tools depending on the nature of tasks performed and the conditions affecting the general principles of economic feasibility and efficiency.
Analysis and evaluation of the principles, directions and tools of the mechanism for digital transformation of public administration at the federal level in the Russian Federation
Authors: Eremin S.
Published: July 2023

The article provides an analytical review of the principles, directions and tools of the mechanism for digital transformation of public administration at the federal level in the Russian Federation. The author argues the relevance and significance of the research topic. The terminological apparatus of digitalization and digital transformation of public administration is clarified, the latter is characterized as a modern stage in the development of public management in the Russian Federation. An assessment and analysis of the results of digital transformation as one of the national goals of the Russian Federation until 2030 based on the results of 2022 is carried out. The position is proved that one of the most important results in the context of the “development” of digitalization areas has become a clearer orientation of the public management vector towards priority principles digital transformation of public administration. In turn, the commissioning of the state platform "GovTech" is, according to the author, a tool for the transition to a new stage in the development of the domestic model of public administration, and at the same time, it provides an opportunity for the promising use of new directions and tools for the mechanism of digital transformation of public administration at the federal level. level in the Russian Federation. It is clarified that for the purposes of further (successful) digitalization of processes and mechanisms of public administration, attention should be focused on analytical tools for analyzing the effectiveness and efficiency of the introduction of these new areas and tools of the mechanism for digital transformation of public administration at the federal level in the Russian Federation, namely, on the management of large data.
Mutual influence of health care spending and Russia’s GDP (2000–2021)
Authors: Karaev A. , Ponkratov V. , Pozdnyaev A.
Published: July 2023

The purpose of the study is to study and analyze the mutual influence of public spending on health care and the gross domestic product (GDP) of Russia for the period from 2000 to 2021.

To identify the possible influence of the analyzed variables, we used correlation analysis (correlation estimates and lead-lag relationships) based on discrete and continuous wavelet transforms of variables, which allows you to identify correlations between the analyzed variables that change over time and at different investment horizons, taking into account also direction of influence.

The results of the study indicate a significant positive mutual influence of healthcare spending and Russia’s GDP on all time scales from 1 to 20 years: an increase in healthcare spending leads to an increase in Russia’s GDP and vice versa, an increase in Russia’s GDP leads to an increase in healthcare spending. In addition, it is shown that, on short time cycles from 0 to 5 years, throughout the time range (2000-2021), GDP growth leads to an increase in health care spending, and on longer time cycles from 15 to 20 years, there is an inverse relationship: an increase in healthcare spending leads to an increase in Russia’s GDP.

The paper demonstrates the necessity and effectiveness of applying wavelet transformations when conducting correlation analysis, in cases where the economic relations between the analyzed variables follow different patterns on different investment horizons, and it is wavelet analysis that makes it possible to reveal the most interesting characteristics of the relationship of variables, which otherwise would remain hidden.

The practical significance of the results of the work is determined by the fact that it is shown that spending on health care, aimed at improving the health of the nation, increases human potential and labor productivity, thereby increasing the economic activity and welfare of the country.
ENHANCING STUDENTS’ PRONUNCIATION THROUGH YOUTUBE CHANNEL: PRONUNCIATION WITH EMMA
Authors: Pratiwi Sinta Julia , Wibowo Hanafi
Published: July 2023

The utilize of YouTube for teaching and learning English in this era is needed toimplement. This research aims to investigated YouTube Channel: Pronunciation withEmma able to enhance students’ pronunciation at SMK Bina Mandiri Bekasi. The designof this research is Classroom Action Research (CAR) and uses a quantitative descriptivemethod. Participants in this research were 36 students from XI TKJ F at SMK Bina MandiriBekasi. The result showed that teaching and learning English using YouTube Channel:Pronunciation with Emma as media able to enhance students’ pronunciation.There were significant enhancements both researcher and the student overall performancewithin the classroom. Researcher can make the class more active, and students have gottop notch motivation to learn good pronunciation. Based on data, there is a significantenhance in students’ mean score. In the pre-test, students’ mean score is 71 there were10 students who reached the Minimum Completeness Criteria (KKM) with the percentage27% and 26 students with the percentage 73% failed. Then, in post-test 1 score is 82 therewere 24 students who reached the KKM with the percentage 66% and 12 students with thepercentage 34% failed. In post-test 2 score is 86 there were 34 students who reached theKKM with the percentage 94% and 2 students with the percentage 6% failed. Based onthe result of the mean score cycle 1 and cycle 2, there is enhancement of student’spronunciation that are 82 to 86. It can be concluded that the use of YouTube Channel:Pronunciation with Emma is believed to be successful and able to enhance students’pronunciation.
LEARNING STYLES AND VOCABULARY ACHIEVEMENT
Authors: Minda Sri , Perdana Purnama Rika
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACT

This study aims to determine whether there is an influence of learning styles on the acquisition of English vocabulary. This study investigates whether there is an effect of visual, auditory and kinesthetic learning style on English vocabulary. This type of research is correlation research. The population of this study were second grade students of SMA Negeri 1 Padangsidimpuan. The number of samples in this study were 50 students who were randomly selected. To collect data, the researcher used a questionnaire and a vocabulary test. Questionnaires are given with the aim of knowing student learning styles. The researcher made observations in class when there was an English subject. The data obtained was tested by t-test to find out whether the learning style is significant to the acquisition of English vocabulary. The data shows that there are 14 (28%) students who are visual learners, 13 (26%) students with an auditory style and 23 (46%) as kinesthetic students. From the results of the hypothesis test it was found that the calculated value obtained was 0.694 and compared with the alpha table value of 0.05, the calculated value was greater than the table value. It states that there is a very strong influence between learning styles and English vocabulary. In other words, learning styles affect students' grades, especially English. Keywords: visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and vocabulary achievement.
SCATS (Sydney Coordinated Adaptive Traffic System) As A Solution To Overcome Traffic Congestion in Big Cities
Authors:   Departemen Pendidikan Teknik Elektro, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, Bandung, Indonesia, Kustija Jaja
Published: July 2023

The development of an urban area should be followed by the arrangement of adequate infrastructure. One of the important needs in an urban area is transportation. An increase in the number of means of transport often creates congestion, especially at intersections. The timing of cycles that do not lead tothe number of vehicles lining up but only based on a balanced division of time is one of the causes of congestion. Based on this background, a system of setting the flame cycle of the lamp u basedon the length of the queue is needed. This study aims to implement the Sydney Coordinat Adaptive Traffic System (SCATS) application as a solution to overcome traffic congestion in DKI Jakarta. The method used is to use quantitative methods with the 1997 Indonesian Road Capacity Manual (MKJI) approach. The results obtained include, the SCATS application can adaptively adjust the cycle time of sensor-based traffic lights. Traffictraffic settings can be manually controlled by the operator remotely using an internet communication network and can be conditioned with special cases or emergencies. Based on the results of the study, the SCATS application is expected to be implemented in all major cities in Indonesia.
Food Challenge: Serving Up 4-H to Non-Traditional Audiences
Authors: Dodd Sara , Reece Holly , Ritchey Erin , Reyna Roxanna
Published: July 2023

This article describes a novel approach for introducing 4-H to non-traditional/diverse audiences using 4-H Food Challenge. Set in a low SES and minority-serving rural school, Food Challenge was presented during the school day to all 7th grade students, with almost half voluntarily participating in an after-school club component. Program design supported school-level STEM enrichment and career development priorities. Topics addressed ranged from food handling/safety to nutrition and cost analysis. Conclusions include a summary of student outcomes and recommendations for school and adult partnerships. Implications for reaching non-traditional 4-H audiences through non-competition formats are discussed.
4-H Southern Swines Feral Hog Challenge
Authors: Gioeli Kenneth , Munyan Susan , Adams Lindsay , Huffman Joanna , Russakis Elizabeth , Vachon Edna
Published: July 2023

Estimates indicate that the population of feral hogs may exceed 500,000 in Florida. They have proven difficult to manage. Land managers in Florida reported that feral hogs were a significant problem that needed to be addressed. The UF/IFAS St. Lucie County Cooperative Extension conducted the 4-H Southern Swines Feral Hog Challenge to help land managers reduce feral hog populations in a cost-effective manner. This activity was conducted in 2013 and 2014 and resulted in the removal of one hundred and twenty three feral hogs weighing 18, 393 lbs. from the Florida environment.
Civic Engagement and Advocacy in Rural Wisconsin: Youth Development Through Legislative Forums
Authors: Liphart Doug , Klemme Neil , Meeker Ian
Published: July 2023

Youth Development programming that engages youth to work side by side with local leaders creates an environment where youth develop civic skills. These skills include a greater understanding of the legislative process, their role in our democracy, and increased engagement in the democratic process. Through their participation in the Superior Days Legislative Forum, youth increase their civic skills, are inspired to create change in their communities, ask questions and respond to challenges by bringing legislative issues of concern unique to their community to the entire representative body at the state capitol. Youth delegates also gain experience partnering with adults from their communities, establish healthy developmental relationships, and expand their social networks. This article draws from research related to civic engagement, youth in decision-making roles, and programming intended to raise youth voice to make community change. This paper uses focus group interviews as well as post-then-preprogram surveys to understand the impact of the Superior Days Legislative Forum on youth participants.
Challenges, Opportunities, and Adaptations of a College Preparatory 4-H Youth Development Program during COVID-19
Authors: Davis Emily , Sansing Ann , Speight Jasmine , Robertson Mary , Buys David
Published: July 2023

SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) has proliferated across the United States, and in the process, it has disrupted all sense of normalcy. Because adolescents are in a critical period for growth and development, youth are particularly susceptible to negative impacts of disruption from COVID-19. Therefore, sustaining youth development programs is essential to ensuring positive youth development occurs despite significant challenges. Unfortunately, the implementation of programs that maintain safety precautions can be challenging. Many programs have been forced to either cancel all activities or to transition program elements to a virtual format. Rural Medical and Science Scholars (RMSS) program administrative staff made the decision to transition to a virtual delivery. Despite only having a few weeks to reshape the program, RMSS administrative staff were able to innovatively adapt to new challenges in order to deliver a successful program. The success of the program extends beyond its participants. By understanding potential program barriers and successful adaptation methods, other youth development programs will be better equipped to sustain program activities and youth outreach during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Importance of the Access, Equity, and Opportunity Competencies Among 4-H Professionals
Authors: Benge Matt , Howard Jeff
Published: July 2023

The 4-H Professional Research, Knowledge and Competencies (PRKC) is a professional development framework that can be used to identify competency gaps and training needs of 4-H professionals. The PRKC consists of 6 competency domains, 1 being access, equity, and opportunity (AEO). A tailored design method was used to gather data and sort the respondents between rural and urban community type. 4-H Extension agents serving urban communities perceived 12 out of the 14 AEO domain components as more important than agents serving rural communities did. The 2 AEO domain components that were not significantly different in perceived importance were values, norms, and practices and active listening. An essential element of the 4-H experience must include creating an environment where children and youth feel safe, included, and that they belong. The differences among 4-H youth development professionals’ perceptions of the importance of the AEO domain components, based on their work location, warrants further review. Implications of this information could influence the competencies that Extension systems look for in hiring. Furthermore, educational workshops and trainings around AEO for existing youth workers may need to be evolved.
Youth Science Learning as/for Community Participation: Examples from Youth Participatory Action Research
Authors: Worker Steven , Neas Sally , Espinoza Dorina , Kok Car , Smith Martin
Published: July 2023

Youth development programs often provide young people with science learning experiences. We argue for reframing youth science learning from a focus on individual scientific literacy to an emphasis on collective scientific literacy—community science—to support young people in using science to address issues in their lives and communities. We provide examples from youth participatory action research (YPAR), one community science pedagogical approach. The YPAR model supports youth in deciding upon an environmental, economic, or social issue; designing and implementing research; and using their research findings to improve their community. We implemented YPAR with eight cohorts of youth over three years at five schools in Northern California. Using data generated from educator interviews and youth focus groups and analyzed with inductive thematic analysis, we explored what youth and educators reported about science engagement and learning. While YPAR projects offered opportunities for youth to strengthen scientific literacy, youth did not join a YPAR program because it was science education. Instead, as youth selected a personally meaningful topic, they began to see how they might affect community change. Engaging learners in relevant educational experiences situated in authentic community issues may improve motivation for deeper and sustained participation in science learning. Our YPAR example demonstrated an approach to learning STEM in youth development programs by ensuring relevancy and connection to community.