bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Levels of TGF- Serum Positively Correlated with Levels of IgM Anti PGL-1 In Household Contacts of Multibacillary Leprosy Patients
Authors: Primasari Putu Yunita , Rusyati Luh Made Mas , Karmila I Gusti Ayu Agung Dwi , Winaya Ketut Kwartantaya , Suryawati Nyoman , Karna Ni Luh Putu Ratih Vibriyanti
Published: March 2024

Background Leprosy is a chronic progressive infectious disease. Phenolic glycolipid-1 (PGL-1) is an antigen of Mycobacterium leprae, which can trigger the host’s antibody response. Transforming growth factorβ (TGF-β) plays an immunosuppressive role when the host is exposed to PGL-1 antigen or other M. leprae antigens. This study aims to determine the correlation of TGF-β levels with IgM anti-PGL-1 levels in patients with multibacillary leprosy household contacts. Methods Observational analytical study with a cross-sectional approach. The study subjects consisted of 48 household contact subjects and 24 non-household contact subjects aged 15-65 years old who were selected by consecutive sampling based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. 3 mL of venous blood samples were taken and then examined for IgM anti-PGL-1 and TGF-β with the ELISA kit. Data analysis was carried out using SPSS version 23, and a p-value <0.05 was significant. Results The mean level of IgM anti-PGL-1 in the household contact group was 685.46 ± 290.79 u/mL, while in the non-household contact group was 345.50 ± 206.58 u/mL. The mean TGF-β level in household contact groups was 256.69 ± 127.41 pg/mL, while in the non-household contact group was 144.85 ± 36.73 pg/mL (p<0.001). This study found a moderate positive relationship (r=0.450, p<0.001) between levels of TGF-β and IgM anti-PGL-1 household contacts and non-household contacts group. Conclusions The mean level of IgM anti-PGL-1 and TGF-β in household contacts is higher than in non-household contacts, with a significant difference. There is a moderate positive significant relationship between levels of TGF-β and IgM anti-PGL-1 household contacts and non-household contacts group.
CARACTERIZAÇÃO DOS CASOS DE COVID-19 EM CRIANÇAS DE 0 A 9 ANOS NO ESTADO DE MATO GROSSO DO SUL, 2020 A 2021
Authors: Guimarães Nara Moraes , Bertati Leticia Martins , Barbosa Karine Ferreira , Maziero Livia de Mello Almeida , Romera Grazielli Rocha de Rezende , Oliveira Roselene Lopes de , Frias Danila Fernanda Rodrigues
Published: March 2024

Was aimed to characterize COVID-19 cases in children residing in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, and analyze their outcomes. A cross-sectional, descriptive, retrospective, qualitative-quantitative study, limited to March 2020 to December 2021, and data were collected from the Health Information Support Monitor (Painel Mais Saúde), Sivep-Flu (Sivep-Gripe), and the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), being year, month, municipality, number of cases, age group, gender, lethality rate, and deaths. During the study period, 14,616 cases of COVID-19 were reported among children aged 0 to 9 years. Notably, the peak occurrence was in May 2021, followed by a sharp decline until December of the same year. The most reported symptoms among the affected children were fever (44.4%), cough (43%), sore throat (25.2%), and difficulty breathing (4.1%). A total of 1.9% of influenza-like illness cases associated with COVID-19 progressed to SARS, particularly in those under one year of age. Among the children who developed SARS due to COVID-19, 43.3% had comorbidities, and the lethality rate was 5%. In conclusion, COVID-19 occurrence in children in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul had a moderate prevalence, with a low number of cases progressing to SARS. However, the 5% lethality rate in this population emphasizes the significance of the disease for this age group
Formulation and Antioxidant Activity Analysis of Jotang Herb (Acmella paniculata) Extract Mask Cream
Authors: Kholifah Eva , Fitriani Via , Shobah Afifah Nur
Published: March 2024

Pollution in the environment can increase the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can reduce the amount of antioxidants in the skin. Antioxidants are compounds that can inhibit oxidation reactions by binding to free radicals and reactive molecules. Herbaceous plant jotang (Acmella paniculata) has secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, and saponins, which can protect the internal and external organs of the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals on the skin. One of the treatment preparations used for the skin is a cream mask, as the use or application at the final level of skin care can improve cleanliness and health and stimulate and repair skin cells. This study aims to determine a formula that has a good antioxidant value using the DPPH method (2,2-diphenyl-1-pikrilhidrazyl). In this study, preparations were made with 3 formulas, namely Formula I (1% w/w), Formula II (10%w/w), and Formula 0 (Control). Evaluation of physical properties included organoleptic tests, homogeneity tests, spreadability tests, pH tests, viscosity tests, cream-type tests, and antioxidant tests. The result showed that the organoleptic test had a cream mask dosage in the form of semi-solid, distinctive jotang odor, light and dark green, had a homogeneous dosage form, spreadability around 5.1-5.7 with an average pH value of 6, had a good viscosity value and had a type of cream M/A and a high antioxidant value in formula II (10% w/w ) with an IC50 value of 21.959 μg/ml. Based on statistical tests, significant results were obtained of 0.000p (0.05) so that it can be interpreted that there was a significant difference in each concentration of jotang herb extract to the resulting IC50 value.
Formulation and Evaluation of Natural Pigmented Lipstick from Roselle Flower and Secang Wood Extracts
Authors: Monica Eva , Yoedhistira Chresiani Destianita , Wulandari Cindy Dwi
Published: March 2024

Lipstick is a cosmetic product for the lips consisting of pigments, oils, waxes, and moisturizers. Natural lipstick is safe to use and contains natural nutrients to maintain lip health. The use of synthetic dyes in lipstick can have adverse effects on the skin and health; hence, the use of natural dyes from various natural sources needs to be considered. Secang wood and Rosella flowers are plants with important compound contents that have antioxidant properties. Secang wood contains brazilin, alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, phenylpropane, and terpenoids. Meanwhile, Rosella flowers that grow in tropical areas have anthocyanin pigments as part of flavonoids that function as antioxidants. This research aims to determine the formulation of lipstick containing extracts of Secang wood and Rosella flowers and to test the antioxidant activity of the preparation. Extraction was carried out by maceration using 70% ethanol solvent. Then, a phytochemical analysis was conducted to determine the extract content, and a lipstick formula was made by comparing the ratio of Rosella and Secang extracts. The optimal formula selection was performed using the Simplex Lattice Design method with quality testing parameters, including pH, melting point, hardness, and antioxidant activity of the preparation. The data analysis showed that the optimal ratio of the two extracts was 2.5% and 7.5% for Rosella and Secang extracts, respectively. At this composition, the optimum pH value was 5, the melting point was 57˚C, the hardness was 1.87 seconds, and the antioxidant activity was classified as strong.
Desarrollo profesional de una estudiante del profesorado en Ciencias Biológicas
Authors: Martinez Mara Yanina , Florencia Di Mauro María
Published: March 2024

En los procesos de formación de las carreras de profesorados, es fundamental analizar la forma como se construye el conocimiento profesional docente, promoviendo los procesos reflexivos. El elevado nivel de complejidad de la enseñanza de la biodiversidad, en el marco interdisciplinario de la educación ambiental integral, la vuelve una oportunidad para promover la construcción del conocimiento profesional. En este trabajo se propone identificar y caracterizar el desarrollo de los componentes emergentes del conocimiento didáctico del contenido sobre biodiversidad de una estudiante del Profesorado en Ciencias Biológicas durante el trayecto de la residencia realizada en contexto de aislamiento social preventivo obligatorio del año 2020. En primera instancia, se analizaron reflexiones escritas elaboradas durante la residencia, y se interpretaron a partir del modelo interconectado de desarrollo profesional docente. Se evidenció el desarrollo del conocimiento de las estrategias de enseñanza de las ciencias; se identificaron cambios en la forma de plantear consignas, los tipos de actividades a utilizar en el aula y la gestión de la clase. En una segunda instancia, durante la entrevista, la estudiante mencionó también cambios en el componente conocimiento del currículum de ciencias, mencionando la particularidad del contenido de biodiversidad respecto de sus dimensiones sociales, culturales, políticas, entre otros.
Fortalecimiento de la física en grado 11 con una aplicación móvil
Authors: Rengifo Walter A. , Escobar Jorge L. , Anaya Kevin A. , Téllez-Lugo Rudis
Published: March 2024

La física permite explicar diversos fenómenos del universo, pero en general es considerada como una asignatura difícil por parte de los estudiantes de secundaria, situación que lleva a la desmotivación y al bajo rendimiento académico. Este trabajo pretende fortalecer el proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje de la física en estudiantes del grado 11, mediante el uso de una app. Se utilizó un enfoque investigativo mixto, aplicado a una muestra de 25 estudiantes a quienes se les aplicó una encuesta y una prueba diagnóstica para identificar el acceso a los medios tecnológicos, motivación por el área y el desempeño académico en las temáticas específicas de cinemática y ondas. Se determinó que había un desempeño académico bajo, y se estableció que los dispositivos móviles eran atractivos para los estudiantes, por lo que se desarrolló una propuesta pedagógica con 4 unidades temáticas apoyadas en una aplicación móvil educativa, con el fin de fortalecer la motivación y el aprendizaje de la física. Se concluyó la pertinencia de la propuesta comparando la prueba diagnóstica, que arrojó un acierto promedio del 39,28 %, con la prueba de validación después de implementar la estrategia, con un acierto del 74,28; se pasó de un nivel bajo (1,96) a un nivel medio (3,71), en una escala de 1 a 5, por lo que se establece que los contenidos y actividades didácticas e interactivas planteadas fueron adecuadas para alcanzar el objetivo propuesto al inicio de la investigación.
TRIBOLOGY OF DRILL BITS IN THE GEOTHERMAL INDUSTRY: A LITERATURE REVIEW
Authors: Guerrero-Martin Camilo Andrés , Garzón Rojas Laura Estefanía , Romero Barrera Ivan Alfredo , Guerrero-Martin Laura Estefanía , Camacho-Galindo Stefanny , Salinas-Silva Raúl , Freitas Pedro
Published: March 2024

Energy from the earth’s heat is critical to the energy supply of countries with this resource. This literature review highlights the tribology applied to drill bits in the geothermal industry. Facing a diverse geological environment, drill bits are critical to energy efficiency, with significant friction, wear and lubrication challenges. This paper addresses the complexity of drill bit interaction with diverse geothermal formations, highlighting the importance of understanding tribological phenomena. Advances in materials and coatings, such as composites, heat-resistant alloys and ceramic coatings, are explored, along with innovative geometric design strategies. Attention on lubrication, cooling and continuous monitoring systems highlights the quest for efficiency and extended drill bit life. This review provides a comprehensive overview of advances in bit tribological research in the geothermal industry, identifying emerging trends and critical challenges for the sustainable development of this form of renewable energy.
Feminist Affective Autoetnographies
Authors: GLOSOWITZ MONIKA
Published: March 2024

Artykuł stanowi próbę przemyślenia kategorii autoetnografii w kontekście feministycznych i afektywnych
epistemologii. Autorka proponuje uzupełnienie dotychczas budowanych typologii autoetnografii
jako paradygmatu, metody i techniki badań, i sytuuje ją jako prymarny etap procesu
badawczego będący metaanalizą ucieleśnionych uwarunkowań badającego podmiotu. Tę ramę
konceptualną uzupełnia wreszcie feministyczną dyrektywą, która jako pole badawcze wytycza
przestrzeń gospodarstwa domowego.
Tune in to the terrain: between kairotic and ognostic storytelling
Authors: TOMCZOK MARTA
Published: March 2024

Artykuł jest wstępnym rozpoznaniem założeń humanistyki terenowej, opartym na analizie dwu
autoetnografii Olgi Tokarczuk: Ognozji (z tomu esejów Czuły narrator) i Kairosa (z powieści Bieguni).
Rozpoznawanie humanistycznej potrzeby „bycia w terenie” jako komplementarnych procesów
poznawczych, kairotycznego i ognostycznego, autorka próbuje przeciwstawić innym zastosowaniom
tych pojęć – do opisu katastrofy klimatycznej. Dotyczące wypraw na krańce świata
z jednej strony i ku źródłom ludzkości z drugiej opowieści kairotyczne i ognostyczne okazują się
dwiema fundamentalnymi czynnościami, jakie humanistyka podejmuje w terenie – nagłego rozpoznawania
intuicyjnego i rozpoznawania długiego, opartego na doświadczeniu, czasochłonnego.
Ponieważ w obu przypadkach jest to rozpoznawanie służące osiągnięciu pewnego poziomu
emocji, a nie podjęciu konkretnych czynności badawczych (jak napisanie tekstu), w artykule jest
mowa o „nastrajaniu się na teren”. Współczesne procesy rozpoznawcze są w nim tłumaczone za
pomocą nieużywanego dziś terminu „geognozja”, który stosowano w geologii XVIII i XIX wieku.
Reading the body, reading the river. About Małgorzata Lebda’s autoethnographic writing practices
Authors: GRZEMSKA ALEKSANDRA
Published: March 2024

W artykule podjęto analizę autoetnograficznej praktyki pisarskiej Małgorzaty Lebdy w ramach
teorii posthumanistycznej i feminizmu nowomaterialistycznego. Autorka zbadała zagadnienie
tworzenia i doświadczania relacji wspólnotowych między podmiotami nie-tylko-ludzkimi na przykładzie
poezji, prozy i praktyki aktywistycznej Lebdy, opierając się m.in. na koncepcjach dziedzictwa
rzeki, gatunków stowarzyszonych, ciałokrewieństwa, założeń etnografii transrelacyjnej, etyki
troski i odpowiedzialności wobec podmiotów słabych. Interpretacji poddano zwłaszcza strategię
konstruowania akwatycznych opowieści jako przykład remedium na doświadczenia kryzysowe.
“Writing is a political act and a gift.” The evolution of Annie Ernaux’s autosociobiographical project
Authors: LANGE-HENSZKE MAGDALENA
Published: March 2024

Annie Ernaux postrzega pisanie jako strategiczną możliwość interweniowania w społeczną tkankę.
Jej projekt autosocjobiograficzny nigdy nie skupia się zbyt długo na „ja”, ewoluuje w kierunku
odwzajemnionego daru, który pisarka pragmatycznie wykorzystuje. Celnie identyfikuje społeczne,
klasowe i genderowe ramy kształtujące życie jednostki. Literatura, jej zdaniem, nigdy
nie pozostaje neutralna, pisanie o jednostkowym, intymnym jest dla niej polityczne. Pytanie
o możliwość rewindykacji doświadczonych nierówności stanowi pierwotną oś pisarskiego namysłu
Ernaux. Formalne poszukiwania ewoluują, dzieląc twórczość pisarki na kilka etapów – od
świadomie politycznej i konfrontacyjnej powieści Les armoires vides pisanej przeciwko dominacji
kulturowej i ekonomicznej poprzez écriture plate (dziś woli określenie écriture factuelle
lub écriture transparente), które nie zatrzymuje się na uczuciach narratora, znosi „ekran” między
nim a przedstawioną rzeczywistością, po pisanie teraźniejszości – etnotekst. Wkład Ernaux
w uchwycenie ducha czasu jest oryginalny, przede wszystkim ze względu na fakt, iż pisarka przyjmuje
niepewność i złożoność teraźniejszości bez pesymizmu. Rozdarta między pozycją etnologa
a pisarki zdaje sobie sprawę z ograniczeń i niewystarczalności każdego z tych dyskursów. Jednak postawa etnologa wydaje się przeważać, ponieważ, zdaniem Ernaux, oddaje z większą precyzją
ulotność oraz siłę codzienności, odpowiada na potrzeby szybkiego zapisu, relacji z miejsca
wydarzeń. Pisanie staje się dla Ernaux transsubstantiation, przekształceniem własnych przeżyć
w coś istniejącego poza podmiotem, niematerialnego, lecz zrozumiałego i przydatnego dla innych,
pewną prawdą, która jest ważniejsza niż „ja”.
Family Anthropology. "Ksiądz Kaingba, mój dziadek" by Ewa Kraskowska as an Autoethnography Not Only Literary
Authors: ZATORA ANNA , PŁUCIENNIK JAROSŁAW
Published: March 2024

W artykule badamy sposoby budowania opowieści i odkrywania prywatnej historii w (auto)biografii
rodzinnej Ksiądz Kaingba, mój dziadek Ewy Kraskowskiej (2021) oraz w towarzyszącym jej badaniom
blogu „Kaingba” (2015–2021). Stawiamy tezę, że analizowany materiał stanowi formę
autoetnografii, praktyki badawczo-pisarskiej, łącząc w sobie cechy twórczości literackiej, warsztatu
reporterskiego, pracy z archiwaliami, badań antropologicznych i autoanalizy. Opowieść
o księdzu Kaingbie i jego rodzinie wpisuje się w widoczny dziś w humanistyce powrót opowieści
rodzinnych, nierzadko mieszczących się na pograniczu literatury dokumentu osobistego i literatury
fikcjonalnej. Zastosowane przez nas narzędzia należą przede wszystkim do metodologii
badań kulturowych – antropologii kulturowej i genologii kulturowej. Zarówno badanie materiału
literackiego, jak i prześledzenie procesu pracy Ewy Kraskowskiej nad książką pozwalają włączyć
Księdza Kaingbę… w obręb tekstów autoetnograficznych w kilku wymiarach: strategii literackiej,
praktyki twórczej i autokreacji, osobistej antropologii i (auto)etnografii rodzinnej oraz formy
autoterapii. W utworze Kraskowskiej mikrohistoria rodzinna łączy się z tzw. Wielką Historią
i osobistym doświadczeniem autorki – badaczki, akademiczki, pisarki, kobiety, córki i wnuczki. Ewa Kraskowska w swojej rodzinnej historii stwarza amalgamat autoetnografii, autobiografii,
wyznania, sagi rodzinnej i internetowego bloga genealogicznego.
Extraction. The Image of the Pre- and Post- War reality produced on the Film of Family Memories, Archival Documents and Field Visits
Authors: SZOSTAK NATALIA W.
Published: March 2024

Przestrzenią analizy zdarzeń z okresu II wojny światowej jest tekst – spisane wspomnienia ciotecznej
babki, zachowane dokumenty archiwalne oraz wizje lokalne odbyte śladami krewnych
repatriowanych z Litwy przez Podlasie, Warmię, Mazury i Pomorze. Zestawienie tych elementów
służy uwydatnieniu skomplikowanej zależności pomiędzy historią, pamięcią, tożsamością, językiem
i ziemią – jako źródło wiedzy o przeszłości i złożona tkanka jej obrazu.
An Analysis of the Impact of Social Media and Search Engines on Decision-Making
Authors: Petrone Angela
Published: March 2024

With the constant advancement of technology and the advent of a global pandemic, as of 2023 it is safe to say our lives are as affected by our physical surroundings as they are by the virtual spaces we inhabit.

Social media and search engines constitute a big part of how people use technology to aid in their decision-making processes. The current state of social media and search engines regulation in the United States is one of stall: while public discourse continues and concerns among experts keep raising at each iteration of existing platforms or introduction of new tools, policymakers have not made as much progress in regulating the actions of the companies owning these platforms, in spite of their awareness of the impact these tools have on the public’s decision-making abilities. In this context, the spread of dis- and mis- information is a particularly dangerous phenomenon that can only be tackled with a radical change in the way platform owners are held accountable for the content they allow the circulation of.

This study aims to serve as a much needed reminder of the effects of social media and search engines usage on the public’s agency, decision-making processes, and ultimately the real-life consequences of the exposure to and interaction with online misinformation and disinformation.

A specific focus on how Covid-19 disinformation (false information which is deliberately intended to mislead) and misinformation (false or inaccurate information) spreading on two specific platforms (Reddit, and Google) was handled by said platforms will serve as a magnifying glass on the aforementioned issues. Analyzing the prominent design and ethics concerns in this landscape, I intend to propose heuristics to inform policy-oriented solutions to a set of issues that has been largely misunderstood and underestimated at the policy level in the United States. I argue that these concerns will only increase in complexity if left untackled, and the introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to the public might have already exponentially complicated the position of the United States’ governmental entities; while explicitly clarifying their intention to insure people’s well-being, governmental bodies are struggling with either understanding the policy/regulatory options available to them or getting them passed. The influence of the lobbying power of tech companies and governments' conflicts of interests in the matter will be discussed.
The antiapoptotic effects of conditioned medium from bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal stem cells on cyclophosphamide-induced testicular damage in rat: An experimental study
Authors: Esmailpour Zeynab , Madadi Soheila , Baazm Maryam
Published: March 2024

Background: Cyclophosphamide (CP) has some negative effects on the reproductive system. Stem cells and their metabolites are being utilized to enhance fertility after chemotherapy.
Objective: This study aimed to investigate the impact of conditioned medium (CM) derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stromal stem cells (BM-MSCs) on the toxic effects of CP on testicles.
Materials and Methods: BM-MSCs were isolated, a CM was collected and 25-fold concentrated. 24 male Wistar rats (8 wk, 200–250 gr) were randomly divided into following groups: control, CP, CP+DMEM, CP+CM. CP was given at a single dose of 100 mg/kg. 2 wk after the CP administration, CM was injected into the testicular efferent duct. Sperm parameters, testicular histopathology, and the level of testosterone were analyzed 2 months after treatment. The expression of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl2) and Bcl2-associated X protein (Bax) genes were evaluated by real-time polymerase chain reaction.
Results: CP had a negative effect on testis histology (p < 0.001) and sperm quality (p < 0.001). It changed the expression of genes associated with apoptosis (p < 0.001). Treatment with CM reduced the expression of Bax (p < 0.001), while significantly increasing the expression of Bcl2 (p = 0.01). It improved sperm count (p = 0.03), viability (p < 0.001), motility (p < 0.001), spermatogonial count (p < 0.001), and epithelial thickness of testicular tubules (p = 0.02).
Conclusion: These findings suggest that CM produced from BM-MSCs may be valuable for therapeutic approaches in reproductive medicine and may lessen the side effects of CP.
Key words: Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, Cyclophosphamide, Conditioned medium, Apoptosis, Spermatogenesis.
Selección de socios y resultado de los equipos emprendedores: ¿Debería quedar todo en familia?
Authors: Aparicio Sebastián , Montero Javier
Published: March 2024

La visión del emprendedor como un héroe solitario es común en la sociedad. Sin embargo, muchos negocios nuevos son creados por equipos. De hecho, los negocios emprendidos en equipo tienen mayores probabilidades de obtener beneficios, sobrevivir en el mercado y crecer rápidamente que los emprendidos en solitario. Pero para lograr un mejor resultado a la hora de emprender, no basta con decidir formar un equipo, sino que es necesario también decidir con quién asociarse. Además, siendo la familia un contexto en el cual buscar socios potenciales para formar equipos emprendedores, resulta clave tener en cuenta cómo influye la composición del equipo emprendedor en el caso de nuevos negocios familiares. Este artículo pretende responder a estas cuestiones a partir de lo que dicen la teoría y los datos con el fin de ofrecer orientaciones prácticas para quienes se encuentran iniciando nuevos negocios. En este sentido, hacer una selección cuidadosa del equipo es fundamental, teniendo en cuenta los equipos emprendedores familiares pueden tener algunas limitaciones que hay que considerar.

Recibido: 14 de junio de 2023Aceptado: 28 de agosto de 2023
Welsh productivity performance: lost cause or still waiting for a miracle?
Authors: Henley Andrew
Published: March 2024

Wales has a chronic and severe problem of low productivity, and shares with the wider UK two decades of stagnant productivity. Significantly, Wales has a severe and persistent productivity gap with other UK nations and regions, and with other international competitors. The aim of this paper is to give an overview of the issues together with some analysis of both the Welsh productivity gap and the intra-Wales dispersion of productivity. The paper describes potential macro and micro productivity drivers and argues that there is an urgent need to (re-) promote productivity within Wales as a policy objective.
5G Wales Unlocked.
Authors: Henderson Dylan
Published: March 2024

This paper examines Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and Welsh Government support for 5G deployment in rural areas of Wales. This project introduced several use cases based on 5G-enabled digital applications in Monmouthshire and Blaenau Gwent. The findings highlight the ongoing challenges associated with 5G deployment in rural Wales, and the current lack of a business model for 5G deployment by Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in such areas. The report illustrates how the public sector may collaborate with private actors to develop an experimental approach to 5G deployment challenges faced in rural areas. This approach is based on an iterative learning process, in which small-scale experimental actions aimed at identifying sources of demand and understanding the potential impacts of new technology solutions are established. The report suggests that policy action is required at multiple levels of governance in such experimentation to address the challenge of deploying new 5G, and to ensure that firms and public service provision in rural parts of Wales are not disadvantaged.
Supporting circular economy innovation: An analysis of a circular economy intervention in Wales.
Authors: Walpole Gary , Treadwell Peter , Steffes Laura , Bacon Emily , Clifton Nick
Published: March 2024

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) recently advised that “climate change is a grave and mounting threat to our wellbeing and a healthy planet” (2023, p.6). This threat underlines the importance of developing businesses innovation capabilities and implementing Circular Economy (CE) principles. Organisations that have developed innovation capabilities are most likely to implement CE principles within their organisations. However, the UK has suffered a ‘long tail of productivity’ largely due to the UK’s relatively low levels of innovation across the firm population. In Wales, the location of this study, output per hour worked was almost 16% below the UK average in 2021, suggesting that the levels of innovation capability might hinder CE implementation. Therefore, evidence on programmes that support organisations to develop their innovation capabilities and their CE understanding should be of interest to policymakers, academics, and practitioners. This paper presents data collected from a university designed CE innovation programme, the Cardiff Circular Economy Network, and suggests that the novel approach adopted enhanced the innovation capabilities and CE knowledge of participants.
Anxiety and Depressive Disorders in Adolescents. Contemporary Psycho-spiritual and Therapeutic Values
Authors: Neagu Oana-Andreea
Published: March 2024

This work is a continuation of a study on `Depressive and anxiety disorders in adolescents. A psycho-spiritual approach and statistical contextualization` and highlights from a theoretical perspective the interdependent relationship between the spiritual and mental health, which should be seriously contemplated when creating a therapy plan for adolescents with depressive and anxiety disorders. It also deals with the connection between health and the temptations of the current world, which theology and spirituality distinguish in the multitude of emotional and psychological disorders. Additionally, this study showcases the psychotherapies in a synthetic manner: cognitive-behavioral, existential, logotherapy and interpersonal psychotherapy and highlights the inherent value of their interconnection with religious acts such as fasting, prayer, confession, which support the medical-psychological therapeutics, providing adolescents with discipline in the process of healing these contemporary pathologies.
Gender Difference in Nutritional Knowledge, Dietary Pattern and Nutritional Status of Undergraduates in Tartous University, Syria
Authors: Younes Samer
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Poor nutritional knowledge at early stage of life suggests developing poor dietary habits that later leads to obesity and attendant complications of non-communicable diseases. This study examined gender differences in nutritional knowledge, dietary pattern and the prevalence of overweight/obesity among students of a private tertiary institution in Tartous University, Syria. Materials and Method: A total of 214 students were used for this study and were selected from the six colleges of the university. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect information on personal and lifestyle characteristics, feeding pattern and physical activity. Weight and height measures were used to calculate Body Mass Index (BMI). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi square test at 5% level of significance. Results: The mean age of the students was 20.89±3.89years. Monthly allowance of ≥500, 000.00 Syrian pound was received by 64% of the students; 79.9% and 78% of them had fathers and mothers respectively with university degree. Physical body exercise was not done by 40.2% of the students. More than two thirds (69.2%) of the students took < 3meals/day and 59.8% of them skipped breakfast. Dietary diversity of the students showed 71.0% and 20.6% of average and high score respectively. The mean BMI was 24.60±3.70. The students had BMI <25 (63.6%) and ≥25 (36.4%). Nutritional knowledge of the students reflected 10.7% (low), 72.9% (average) and 16.4% (high). There was no gender difference BMI, knowledge and dietary diversity. Conclusion: The study reveals inadequate nutritional knowledge, poor feeding habits and dietary diversity and high prevalence of overweight/obesity. Great emphasis needs to be given to nutrition education and promotion among university students.
Investigation of the change in the characteristic properties of epoxy and silane coated natural stone surfaces
Authors: Sayın Zehra Ebru , Çiftçi Hakan , Gürsoy Mustafa
Published: March 2024

Travertine is a natural stone with macro and micropores; these pores are connected by capillary means. Their visual appearance and porous structure add a different style and diversify their usage areas. However, the large pore structure of travertine brings some limitations in determining the usage areas. In the study, protective solutions called silane and epoxy, which provide protection against water, were used to prevent and/or minimize decomposition in areas of use, depending on the porosity of the travertine, and their effects on travertine were compared. Treatment of both chemicals separately on the travertine surface was carried out by spraying, applying with a brush, and dipping into chemicals. With the findings obtained from the physical examinations after curing, the work continued using the applying and dipping method. The dipping method was evaluated with the chemical's 10, 20, and 40-minute waiting times. The study found that the best application conditions were chemical immersion for 10 minutes. However, in SO2 wear experiments, it was understood that surfaces treated with epoxy were more durable due to the high viscosity of the chemical. As a result, it has been determined that silane application provides more effective surface protection results than epoxy.
Robotized technologies for enhanced shipyard operations: challenges and solutions
Authors: Masood Jawad , Vidal Felix , Castro David , Pertusa Afra M. , Feijoo Abel
Published: March 2024

Large component manufacturing relies heavily on manual operations and human workers. Human-centric solutions can preserve industry-specific knowledge, extend capabilities, and improve job performance. Three robotized technologies were developed for shipyard operations: ABB™ and KUKA™ robot hand-guiding systems (HGS), a lightweight collaborative system for plasma cutting, and a cost-effective 3D projection system for retrofitting. These technologies were developed at the open didactic factory, which served as platforms for rapid technological advancement. The HGS was integrated with ABB™ and KUKA™, and the 3D projection technology and lightweight collaborative system offered a cost-effective solution for small and medium shipyards. However, transitioning to non-flat surfaces presents challenges due to geometric variations and discrepancies between the computer-aided design model and the actual component.
Hypogonadism: cardiometabolism and gonadal function in men
Authors: Noble Matthew , Cahill David
Published: March 2024

Hypogonadism is a relatively rare condition in men, which increases in frequency as men age, but also as they become less active and gain weight. In the past 20 years, developing knowledge on the relationship between hypogonadism and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health and on aspects of metabolic health has become clearer. The relationship between hypogonadism and specific endocrine abnormalities of spermatogenesis is much longer established. Long- and short-term testosterone replacement therapies have well-recognised effects on cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health and on aspects of metabolic health. This leads to a sense of safety when it comes to considering these options as ways of managing the recognised symptoms of hypogonadism and the hidden adverse findings. That confidence has yet to be proven by long-term randomised controlled studies. The use of exogenous gonadotrophins to raise endogenous testosterone levels is a cost-efficient method of achieving spermatogenesis but is not suitable for long-term testosterone maintenance therapy.
COVID-19 Pandemic: Economic and Political Implications
Authors: Zavriev S. , Borisova O.
Published: March 2024

In March 2020 the World Health Organization (WHO) announced that the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus has reached the stage of a pandemic. With over 700 million cases of the disease and close to 7 million deaths recorded through May 2023 it turned out to have become the most disastrous pandemic after the Spanish flu of 1918–1919. It had a severe impact on all spheres of human life. In addition to having caused a huge stress of the public health care systems, it affected the functioning of the political and economic systems of all countries. This paper provides an analysis of economic and political consequences of the pandemic, gives an overview of its human toll, and discusses the unresolved issue of SARS-CoV-2 origin. The economic consequences of the pandemic, including reduction in Gross Domestic Product (GDP), trade and travel, growth in unemployment rate, etc. were quite significant. Political aspects included the ability of the countries’ leadership to provide a justified, solid and well-coordinated response to the threat as well as trust in the activities of a government on behalf of citizens. Not all politicians were able to meet the high standards of performance in the emergency situation. Unwillingness of western countries to acknowledge the efficacy of the Russian Sputnik V vaccine is an example of political and economic controversies between states. The probability of the occurrence of similar pandemics in the future is rather high. Utilizing the lessons learned from the COVID-19, scaling up the investments in the diseases surveillance and response systems, in hospital preparedness as well as in scientific research and vaccines development along with international cooperation, transparency and information sharing between countries on the above issues is crucial for facilitating the pandemic response in the future and avoiding the challenges encountered during the COVID-19 crisis of 2020–2023.
Bretton Woods 2.0: Towards a New Global Financial Architecture
Authors: Balyuk I. , Balyuk M.
Published: March 2024

The unipolar global monetary and financial system (GMFS), formed after the collapse of the USSR, contrary to the expectations of the collective West, was unable to ensure financial stability and crisis-free development, since it does not consider the multipolar nature of the modern world economy and the strengthening of the positions of developing countries as regional monetary and financial centers. Intensifying confrontation between developed and developing countries is a real threat to continued existence of the current world order. The article proposes a gradual transformation and describes the future configuration of the existing GMFS, in which, along with traditional institutions, new ones will function, established on the initiative of the currently most influential group of countries represented by the G20, the composition of which should be expanded with new participants. The new configuration of the GMFS can be considered as a transitional structure that will allow participants in the world community to coordinate their positions, redistribute roles and master new tools of interaction. The world has entered an era of irreversible transformation, which should ultimately move it to a qualitatively new stage of development. There is an urgent need to formulate general rules for a new world order, which will be based on the principles of justice and multipolarity. However, humanity has a difficult road ahead until relevant agreements are reached. The sooner members of the world community accept the new reality, learn to listen and hear each other and begin a constructive dialogue, the faster and less painful this transition will be.
Separatism in Modern Europe: Spatial Effects of Political Changes
Authors: Turov N.
Published: March 2024

According to Ryan Griffiths, we’re in the “Age of Secession”. The characteristics of spatial effects typical of European separatism are consistently examined in this paper. The effects of diffusion, proximity, fragmentation, and scale are given special consideration. The space is not homogeneous; separatism erupts with the most vulnerable territories, takes different forms, and has different pace. Since the diffusion effect undoubtedly contributes to the fragmentation of the political space, it takes on distinct forms depending on the historical period. It would be incorrect to claim that separatist movements arise in response to geographic distance only. Social proximity determines spatial influence. Instead, the degree to which separatist actors interact with one another is determined by their territorial proximity. With scale of political activity changing, the correspondent extent, to which political actors influence them, varies as well. As a result, regionalist parties that are not well-known at the federal level play a significant role in local politics. Due to the fragmentation effect, the number of these parties is increasing at the regional level, yet not nationwide. Given the scale effect, regional actors in the EU can interact with supranational structures themselves and gain more power without having to go through national ones. There are more parties with a territorial profile as a result of spatial effects in politics. Political leaders and parties at the national level are compelled to consider their stances, incorporate the regional agenda into their plans, and frequently pursue partnerships with them.
A STRESS MANAGEMENT INTERVENTION FOR SECONDARY TEACHERS
Authors: Ugwuanyi Christian Sunday
Published: March 2024

Several studies have reported the prevalence of stressors and work- related conditions among educators in Nigerian school environments, but there are limited reports on the coping mechanisms of physics teachers. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effect of rational-emotive behavior therapy (REBT) on stress management among secondary school physics teachers. A randomized controlled group trial design was used, and the sample population comprised 64 physics teachers who served as participants. Pretest, posttest, and follow-up data were collected using the Job Stress Questionnaire (α=.73). The results showed that participants undergoing REBT experienced a significantly greater reduction in work- related stress compared to those in the control group. The findings of this study were expected to contribute to the knowledge base in measurement, counseling, and physics education. In addition, the incorporation of REBT programs was recommended to assist physics teachers in effectively managing their work-related stress.
PELATIHAN STRATEGI SELF-REGULATED LEARNING FASE FORETHOUGHT UNTUK STUDENT ENGAGEMENT SISWA SMP
Authors: Aripin Natania Alfega , Savitri Jane , Megarini Maria Yuni
Published: March 2024

Student engagement issues are commonly found in schools, particularly among junior high school students. One of the internal factors that can enhance student engagement is students' proficiency in utilizing self-regulated learning strategies during the forethought phase. SRL forethought was provided in the form of experiential training, where students learned through their own experiences. Participants in this research were 12 students in the control group and 11 students in the experimental group. The results of the difference test indicate that SRL forethought training is effective in improving student engagement in seventh-grade students (p=0.018; z=-2.358). The control group also demonstrated significant differences between pre and post-test conditions (p=0.40; z=-2.051). In conclusion, SRL forethought training is essential for students to prevent a decline in engagement in seventh-grade students. Subsequent researchers may conduct subject randomization based on student engagement categories to achieve a more balanced initial condition.
Social and economic impacts of increasing early marriages during the Covid-19 pandemic: A study in Mandailing Natal and South Tapanuli districts
Authors: Lubis Muhlisah , Jureid Jureid , Defriza Rita , Kholijah Siti , Saniah Nur
Published: March 2024

IntroductionSince the Covid-19 outbreak, underage marriages have become increasingly widespread with all its impact to the society. There are very limited studies on its impact from social and economic aspect, especially among Muslim society in Indonesia.ObjectivesThe purpose of this study was to analyse the social and economic impacts of increasing underage marriage during the Covid-19 pandemic. By doing so, the study also aims to provide solution to solve the impacts for the affected communities.MethodThis study uses a qualitative method with a sociological approach that focuses on experiences and socio-cultural phenomena that occur in the midst of society.ResultsThere are several social impacts that occur as a result of early marriage, conflict in the family, regret and heavy pressure, loss of opportunity to continue education, not being able to socialize, domestic violence, divorce. The economic impacts that occur due to early marriage, among others, are limited opportunities to get work opportunities, unable to bear the family's economic burden, structural poverty.ImplicationsEfforts were made to reduce the number of early marriages, among others, holding meetings several times a month, formally coordinating community leaders, village officials, and KUA, through outreach programs to Majlis Taklim, marriage advice, through marriage sermons, coordinating with sub-districts, youth activities related to early marriage.Originality/NoveltyThe findings of this study contribute to efforts to overcome social and economic problems among Muslim society impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Intersectional Development: How Seaweed Farming in Kwale County, Kenya Can Foster Inclusive and Transformational Development
Authors: Ashurst Jasmine , Onyango Joel , Achieng Gillian Faith , Ouma Monroe Dikiny
Published: March 2024

Seaweed farming has been growing in prominence in the coastal region of Kwale County, Kenya, as a livelihood led by women since the turn of the century, however the sector remains far below its full productive capacity. As such, this study explores the factors that influence women’s ability to access seaweed farming through engagements with the theories of intersectionality. The Blue Empowerment Project is seeking to upscale seaweed farming in this region to promote women’s empowerment and this study questions the extent to which men should be included in such an endeavour. It finds that several factors may intersect with gender to create varying levels of (dis)advantage amongst women in this region, and that we may need to reframe the conceptualisation of women’s empowerment to be inclusive of men. This study therefore makes a range of recommendations for the BEP, development practitioners in general, and researchers to inform them of how women’s empowerment initiatives may be made more inclusive and transformational.
The Zoning Rule and Forming Mechanism of Tectonite-Mineralized Alteration Lithofacies of “Black/Fracture Zone” of the Daliangzi Pb-Zn Deposit in Southwest Sichuan of China
Authors: Li Lingjie , Han Runsheng , Wu Jianbiao , Feng Zhixing
Published: March 2024

As one of the typical deposits in Sichuan-Yunnan-Guizhou Pb-Zn metallogenic province, the Daliangzi Pb-Zn deposit has a close genetic relation with the structural system of “black/fracture zone” formed under the action of NWW-approx. EW strike-slip structures in the metallogenic province, but the mechanism of rock and ore-controlling action of the structural system remains unclear. Based on detailed analysis of tectonite-mineralized alteration lithofacies of R1 “black/fracture zone”, the tectonite-mineralized alteration lithofacies zones can be divided into 4 types in succession outward from the Pb-Zn mineralization center, i.e., ① brecciated and stockwork-like Pb-Zn mineralization-complex breccia facies zone, ② stockwork-like Pb-Zn mineralization-simple breccia and cataclasite facies zone, ③ veined pyrite-sulfide-dolomitic cataclasite facies zone, and ④ fine-veined calcite-black carbonized dolomite facies zone; Cl- and SO42--rich high-temperature oxidizing ore-bearing fluid mixes with reducing fluid in Zone ① while migration and precipitation occur in Zone ④. With the evolution of ore-forming fluid, the homogenization temperature decreases from Zone ① to Zone ④, the salinity increases from Zone ① to Zone ② and then decreases to Zones ③ and ④, and the fluid density has little change on the whole; the contents of Zn, Pb, Cu, Ga, Ge, Cd, Ag, and other metallogenic elements, the Zn/Pb ratio, and the CaO/MgO mole ratio decrease gradually from Zone ① to Zone ④; and REE fractionation, calcilization, silicification, and pyritization enhance gradually from Zone ① to Zone ④. This series of changes are the product of diapirism (cryptoexplosion) of strike-slip structures and “black/fracture zone”, among which the second-order structures (F5, F100, and other faults) derived from NWW-approx. EW striking dextral shear-tension faults F1 and F15 control the brecciated and stockwork-like Pb-Zn mineralized complex breccia facies zones and the stockwork-like Pb-Zn mineralized simple breccia and cataclasite facies zones. Therefore, this paper establishes the zoning mode of tectonite-mineralized alteration lithofacies of “black/fracture zone” and proposes that Zones ① and ② are important prospecting criteria. conclusions.