bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An R-based tool for identifying sex-linked markers from Restriction site-Associated DNA sequencing with applications to elasmobranch conservation
Authors: Devloo-Delva Floriaan , Gosselin Thierry , Butcher Paul A. , Grewe Peter M. , Huverneers Charlie , Thomson Robin B. , Werry Jonathan M. , Feutry Pierre
Published: July 2022

Identifying sex-linked markers from genomic data has both theoretical and applied importance, especially in conservation. Yet, few methods and tools exist to detect such markers from Restriction-site-Associated DNA sequencing reads and even fewer tools can identify sex-linked markers from existing genotyped data. Here, we describe a new R function that can identify sex-linked markers in species with morphologically distinct sex chromosomes. We test the accuracy and speed of our function with an example dataset from a species of conservation concern, the White Shark, Carcharodon carcharias. We further compare our method against other approaches and find that our method detects more sex-linked markers that can be reliably mapped to reference genomes. Overall, we provide a conservation and fisheries-relevant tool that can reliably and efficiently assign sex from genetic data in species with a heterogametic sex and we demonstrate its utility by developing a sex-identification PCR test for White Sharks.
Prevalence, patterns of multimorbidity and associations with health care utilization among middle-aged and older people in China
Authors: Zhong Yaqin , Qin Gang , Xi Hanqing , Cai Duanying , Wang Yanan , Wang Tiantian , Gao Yuexia
Published: July 2022

Background: Multimorbidity has become one of the main challenges in health care system. The association between prevalence, patterns of multimorbidity and health care utilization is less often discussed in China. The purpose of this study is to examine this association among Chinese middle-aged and older adults and take in account several sociodemographic characteristics.Methods: This study consists of 19559 individuals aged 45 and older from the wave 4 of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) in 2018. Multimorbidity was defined as the co-occurrence of two or more chronic medical condition of a list of fourteen chronic diseases in one person. Health care utilization include whether the individuals received outpatient service last month and inpatient service in the past year. LCA (Latent Class Analysis) was conducted to identify the clustering pattern of chronic diseases. Logistic regressions were employed to explore the association between prevalence, patterns of multimorbidity and health care utilization. Analyses were weighted using individual sample weights, adjusted for non-response of individual and household.Results: Among all participants, 23.10% were aged above 70 years and 52.42% were female. The mean number of chronic disease was 2.17 and the prevalence of multimorbidity was 56.73%. Four patterns were identified: relatively healthy class, respiratory class, stomach-arthritis class and vascular class. Multimorbid individuals used more outpatient services (OR=1.87, 95%CI=1.63-2.14) and more inpatient services (OR=2.50, 95%CI=2.20-2.83) compared to their no-multimorbid counterparts. The individuals classified into respiratory class, stomach-arthritis class and vascular class used more health service.Conclusions: Our study provided evidence that multimorbidity is high among Chinese older adults and is associated substantially higher health care utilization in China. Policy should prioritize improving the management of individuals with multimorbidity to increase healthcare efficiency. Further research is necessary with special emphasis on the trajectory of multimorbidity and the role of health system in satisfying needs of multimorbid individuals.
Depth of Anisotropy beneath the western extremity of the Himalayan- Karakoram-Tibetan Orogeny and its tectonic implication
Authors: Paul Arpita , Hazarika Devajit
Published: July 2022

Estimation of the depth of anisotropy for source localization beneath the western extremity of the Himalaya-Karakoram-Tibet (HKT) orogeny is a key issue for interpreting the geodynamics of the region. The present study investigated the central depth of mantle anisotropy through the well-established spatial coherency method. The study reveals that the central depth of anisotropy in the Trans-Himalaya and western part of the Tibetan plateau is ~ 130 km coinciding with the lithospheric mantle. The lithospheric scale Karakoram strike-slip fault largely influences anisotropy direction parallel or subparallel to the strike of the fault and also helps in the eastward extrusion of the Indian plate. The estimated central depth of anisotropy is ~ 230 km in the western Himalayan collision zone that coincides with the asthenospheric mantle. The shearing of Indian lithosphere over asthenosphere causes lattice preferred orientation of the mantle anisotropic minerals causing the anisotropic direction to roughly parallel to the absolute plate motion direction. This study also supports the underplating of the Indian lithospheric mantle beneath the Tibetan plateau.
Antimicrobial therapy as a risk factor of multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter infection in COVID-19 patients admitted to the intensive care unit
Authors: Mihalov Peter , Koščálová Alena , Hodosy Július , Čaprnda Martin , Bendžala Matej , Kachlíková Mária , Jurenka Ján , Sabaka Peter
Published: July 2022

Background
Multidrug resistant Acinetobacter (MDR-Ab) is one of the most important pathogens causing superinfections in COVID-19 patients hospitalised in the intensive care unit (ICU). The occurrence of MDR-Ab superinfection significantly impairs the prognosis of patients in the ICU. Overuse of antibiotics in COVID-19 patients might contribute to the risk of developing MDR-Ab infection.
Objective
The objective was to assess the role of prior antibiotic exposure as an independent predictor of MDR-Ab infection in COVID-19 patients admitted to the ICU.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective case-control study in 90 patients admitted to the ICU of the Department of Infectology and Geographical Medicine, University Hospital in Bratislava, for respiratory failure due to COVID-19 between 1 September 2021 and 31 January 2022 (delta variant predominance). All admitted patients underwent regular microbial screening and superinfection was defined as infection occurring ≥ 48 h after admission. Using a multivariate logistic regression model, we explored the role of prior antibiotic intake and other factors as independent predictors of MDR-Ab isolation.
Results
Fifty-eight male and 32 female patients were included in the analysis. Multidrug resistant bacteria were cultured in 43 patients (47.8%) and MDR-Ab was isolated in 37 patients. Thirty-three (36.7%) patients had superinfection caused by MDR-Ab. Fifty-four (60%) patients were exposed to antibiotics prior to MDR-Ab isolation; of those, 35 (64.8%) patients received ceftriaxone. Prior exposure to ceftriaxone (odds ratio [OR] 4.1, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.4–11.9, P < 0.05), tocilizumab therapy (OR 4.7, 95% CI 1.3–15.0, P < 0.05) and ICU length of stay exceeding 11 days (OR 3.7, 95% CI 1.3–10.3, P< 0.05) were independent predictors of MDR-Ab infection.
Conclusions
Prior exposure to ceftriaxone increases the risk of MDR-Ab infection in COVID-19 patients admitted to the ICU. Our findings suggest that antibiotic use in COVID-19 patients admitted to the ICU should be restricted to patients with documented bacterial superinfection.
Clinical phenotypes and outcomes associated with SARS-CoV-2 variant Omicron, sublineages BA.1, BA.1.1, BA.2 and impact of mutational patterns in critically ill French patients with COVID-19
Authors: de Prost Nicolas , Audureau Etienne , Heming Nicholas , Gault Elyanne , Pham Tai , Chaghouri Amal , de Montmollin Nina , Voiriot Guillaume , Morand-Joubert Laurence , Joseph Adrien , Chaix Marie-Laure , Préau Sébastien , Favory Raphaël , Guigon Aurélie , Luyt Charles-Edouard , Burrel Sonia , Mayaux Julien , Marot Stéphane , Roux Damien , Descamps Diane , Meireles Sylvie , Pène Frédéric , Rozenberg Flore , Contou Damien , Henry Amandine , Gaudry Stephane , Brichler Segolene , Timsit Jean-François , Kimmoun Antoine , Hartard Cédric , Louise-Marie Jandeaux , Fafi-Kremer Samira , Gabarre Paul , Emery Malo , Garcia-Sanchez Claudio , Jochmans Sébastien , Pitsch Aurélia , Rodriguez Christophe , Annane Djillali , Azoulay Elie , Mekontso-Dessap Armand , Pawlotsky Jean-Michel , Fourati Slim
Published: July 2022

Infection with SARS-CoV-2 variant Omicron is considered to be less severe than infection with variant Delta, with a rarer occurrence of severe disease requiring intensive care. However, a substantial number of patients infected with variant Omicron still experienced severe COVID-19. Little information is available on comorbid factors, clinical conditions and specific viral mutational patterns associated with the severity of variant Omicron infection. In this multicenter prospective cohort study, patients consecutively admitted for severe COVID-19 in 20 participating intensive care units in France between December 7th 2021 and May 1st 2022 were included. Among 259 patients for whom SARS-CoV-2 variant lineage was determined, we show that the clinical phenotype of patients infected with variant Omicron (n = 148) was different from that in those infected with variant Delta (n = 111). We observed no significant relationship between Delta and Omicron variant lineages/sublineages and 28-day mortality (adjusted odds ratio [95% confidence interval] = 0.68 [0.35–1.32]; p = 0.253). Among Omicron-infected patients, 43.2% were immunocompromised, most of whom had received two doses of vaccine or more (85.9%) but displayed a poor humoral response to vaccination (mean difference in serum anti-spike IgG antibody titers between vaccinated and non-vaccinated immunocompromised patients: 1078 BAU/mL [-319.4; 2475.0]; p = 0.160). The mortality rate of immunocompromised patients infected with variant Omicron was significantly higher than that of non-immunocompromised patients (46.9% vs 26.2%; p = 0.009). In patients infected with variant Omicron, there was no association between specific sublineages (BA.1/BA.1.1 (n = 109) and BA.2 (n = 21)) or any viral genome polymorphisms or mutational profile and the 28-day mortality.
WITHDRAWN: Mathematical modeling of homogeneous combustion processes in small spaces
Authors: Chen Junjie
Published: July 2022

While flame propagation at the micro-scale is feasible, the interplay of kinetics and transport in flame stability and combustion characteristics is poorly understood. The inability of conducting spatially resolved measurements, inherent to the micro-scale, underscores the need for detailed mathematical modeling. This study relates to the mathematical modeling of homogeneous combustion processes in small spaces. Computational fluid dynamics simulations are conducted to gain insights into burner performance such as temperatures, reaction rates, and flames. The factors affecting combustion characteristics are determined for the cavity-stabilized burner. A dimensionless number analysis is performed to better understand the heat transfer characteristics of the burner. Particular focus is placed on determining essential factors that affect the performance of the cavity-stabilized burner. The results indicate that the near-entrance heat loss and radical quenching at the wall are key issues in controlling flame propagation in microchannels. In very small spaces, radial gradients and temperature discontinuity at the wall are negligible but become significant as the length scale is increased. Large transverse and axial gradients are observed even at these small scales under certain conditions. It is necessary to overcome both thermal quenching and chemical quenching of the flame. Thermal quenching is the loss of energy generated by combustion through heat transfer out of the combustion region. Chemical quenching is a barrier to combustion at millimetric dimensions. Chemical quenching occurs when the reactive species is removed by reaction with the material forming the wall surfaces. The wall thermal conductivity and inlet velocity are vital in determining the flame stability of the burner. Further improvement in flame stability can be achieved by using anisotropic walls. Fast flows can cause blowout and slow flows can cause extinction. There exists an optimum inlet velocity for greatest flame stability.
Experimentally realized memristive memory augmented neural network
Authors: Mao Ruibin , Wen Bo , Kazemi Arman , Zhao Yahui , Laguna Ann Franchesca , Lin Rui , Wong Ngai , Niemier Michael , Hu Xiaobo , Sheng Xia , Graves Catherine , Strachan John Paul , Li Can
Published: July 2022

Lifelong on-device learning is a key challenge for machine intelligence, and this requires learning from few, often single, samples. Memory augmented neural network has been proposed to achieve the goal, but the memory module has to be stored in an off-chip memory due to its size. Therefore its practical use has been heavily limited. Previous works on emerging memory-based implementation had difficulties in scaling up because different modules with various structures were difficult to integrate on the same chip and the small sense margin of the content addressable memory for the memory module heavily limited the degree of mismatch calculation. In this work, we experimentally validated that all those different structures in the memory augmented neural network architecture can be implemented in a fully integrated memristive crossbar platform and achieve an accuracy that closely matches standard software on digital hardware for the Omniglot dataset. The successful demonstration is supported by implementing new functions in crossbars in addition to widely reported matrix multiplications. For example, the locality-sensitive hashing operation is implemented in crossbar arrays by exploiting the intrinsic stochasticity of memristor devices. Besides, the content-addressable memory module is realized in crossbars, which also supports the degree of mismatches. Simulations based on experimentally validated models show such an implementation can be efficiently scaled up for one-shot learning on the Mini-ImageNet dataset. The successful demonstration paves the way for practical on-device lifelong learning and opens possibilities for novel attention-based algorithms not possible in conventional hardware.
WITHDRAWN: Atomistic study of the effects of different structure factors on the heat conduction properties of nanostructured carbon materials
Authors: Chen Junjie
Published: July 2022

Computational simulations were carried out using non-equilibrium molecular dynamics to investigate the effects of grain dimensions and edge states on the thermal properties of graphene ribbons so as to understand the heat transport phenomena occurring within nanostructured carbon materials. Particular focus was placed on the physical factors limiting heat conduction in nanostructured carbon materials. The mechanism of phonon transport in nanostructured carbon materials was discussed. The results indicated that low-dimensional nanostructures, such as graphene ribbons, are predicted to have novel transport properties. The structure factors are very important as they determine the heat conduction properties of nanostructured carbon materials. Rough edges can lead to thermal performance degradation due to the increased probability of phonon scattering from grain boundaries. Nanoscale porosity decreases the permittivity of amorphous dielectrics but porosity also strongly decreases the thermal conductivity. Nanostructured carbon materials must be of sufficient size to reduce the probability of phonon-boundary scattering and enhance their phonon transport properties. Hydrogen termination will lead to a significant decrease in the thermal conductivity of nanostructured carbon materials. The results are of significance in the applied physics of thermal transport at the nanoscale.
Detection of Cracks in Solar Panel Images Using Complex Wavelet Transform and ANFIS Classification Method
Authors: M Perarasi , Ramadas N.Geetha
Published: July 2022

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Improved Single-Channel Blind Source Separation Algorithm based on Variational Mode Decomposition
Authors: Zhou Yufei , Fu Weihong , Shi Fan , Zhang Xuecheng , Zheng Xin
Published: July 2022

In this paper, we propose an improved single-channel blind source separation (SCBSS) algorithm based on variational modal decomposition (VMD). VMD algorithm is a classical algorithm in SCBSS. The algorithm effectively avoids the end effect and mode mixing, and makes the decomposition more stable. However, the algorithm can not adaptively determine the number of decomposition layers. To solve this problem, we propose an improved adaptive VMD algorithm, which determines the decomposition layer of different signals by setting different spectral correlation coefficient thresholds. Combined with the improved source number estimation algorithm, signal preprocessing algorithm and JADE algorithm, SCBSS of the received mixed signal can be realized. Simulation results show that the algorithm can accurately separate source signals without bit error under different SNR and degrees of spectrum aliasing. The algorithm is effective and feasible.
AUDIO BRANDING BENEFITS AND ITS APPLICATION IN UKRAINE
Authors: Nazarenko A. , Saher L.
Published: July 2022

The article reflects the main theoretical aspects of audio branding as part of audio marketing. The analysis was carried out using ScopusTools and electronic resources research tools. The research analyzed related to different fields of application of the tool, mainly: influence on increase of profitability of investments, introduction of brands in modern practice with the help of audio logos, studying prospects of development of the chosen direction. The work describes the main stages of research prior to the formation of sound identity, in particular, the collection of data by marketers before the formation of the brand's audio DNA. The constituent parts of the sound brand, which are included in the audio brand book, are also highlighted: sound identity, audio DNA, audiologo, jingles, background music, corporate anthem and arrangement, and the areas of their application are indicated. An important part was to highlight the benefits of audio branding directly, taking into account examples of the results of implementation in the activities of various campaigns and its effectiveness in terms of the research conducted. It is necessary to take into account the licensing rules and constantly measure performance indicators, define metrics for each company in order not to get the opposite effect. Thus, the main ways of measuring the effectiveness of the sensor marketing tool and possible ways of licensing an audio product were added. Despite the limited budget for financing such marketing campaigns of most Ukrainian enterprises, the country already has huge potential to develop sound branding. That is why the authoritative audio agencies leading successful cooperation with both domestic and foreign customers are actively developing in Ukraine. Most large companies realize the benefits of adding sound elements to the brand. Successful domestic projects in this area confirm the effectiveness of such activities. As a result, the successful example of introduction of audio branding to the Mastercard brand in Ukraine was analyzed and prospects of application of this activity for Ukrainian brands were proved.
Competitiveness and Innovations in Foreign Trade: a Case of Apples from Slovakia to Czechia
Authors: Brodnanova Rebecca , Rovny Patrik , Moroz Serhiy
Published: July 2022

Competitiveness and innovation are critical elements for enhancing and developing successful and mutually beneficial foreign trade. This paper deals with the concept of competitiveness at the sectoral level, narrowing it down to agriculture and food production. It focuses on the apple market and compares the competitiveness in this sector from 2004 to 2020. Specifically, the research concentrates on the case of apple trading between Czechia and Slovakia just after both countries joined the EU in 2004. It becomes clear that the ability to compete in international and domestic markets depends on comparative advantages. Therefore, the business data is used to better understand comparative advantages by using business-based measures of competitiveness for the agri-food sector in Slovakia. The data used in this article originate from the Statistical Office of the European Communities (Eurostat). This research aims to identify changes in the foreign trade of apples (080810) in Slovakia and Czechia for the last sixteen years. The agricultural trade development after the accession of Slovakia and Czechia to the EU could show positive and negative trends. Both for Slovakia and Czechia, the production of apples does not cover consumption. Therefore, importing this commodity to both countries is necessary, and the benefits from foreign trade are desirable. The study findings showed that both countries do not achieve a comparative advantage in the apple trade. Therefore, more innovations might be required to enhance competitiveness and saturate both countries' markets with apples. Relevant stakeholders and policy-makers should take the required steps to improve the situation and enhance competitiveness in this market to increase the outcomes and benefits for both countries.
The COVID-19 Pandemic Impact on the TV Commercials Content in European Countries
Authors: Grebosz-Krawczyk Magdalena , Siuda Dagna
Published: July 2022

The outbreak of the COVID-19 global pandemic has strongly affected different issues of everyday life. The pandemic has changed consumer attitudes and behavior. Consequently, during COVID-19, businesses had to decide how to organize the advertising campaigns and what content should be addressed to consumers. Considering the limited number of articles concerning these issues, it seems important to evaluate the impact of the global health crisis on advertising messages in different countries. The main objective of this paper is to assess TV commercial campaigns implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the specific epidemic situation in the selected countries. The research methodology was based on the observation, a qualitative method of collecting data obtained through monitoring the content of TV commercials aired during the afternoon, before or after the main news service. The research was conducted in May 2020 and in May 2021 in five selected European countries affected to varying degrees by the coronavirus pandemic. The research results allowed evaluation of the advertising messages in terms of their content and values exposed. The findings indicate that the number of COVID-related TV commercials is not correlated with the number of patients and deaths from COVID-19. The themes appearing the most often in the TV commercials in the studied period were the #StayAtHome idea, family and friends, the aspect of safety during the crisis, and brands' special offers. The tone of the advertisements was usually uplifting and hopeful, trying to cheer the stressed societies. From a theoretical perspective, the research results show the advertising strategy issues in specific conditions in different European countries. These findings concerning TV commercial strategy during a pandemic crisis could provide references for other countries, especially in Europe. The research results could be useful for marketing managers in developing strategies concerning the successful planning of TV commercials in crisis periods in European countries.
Review of phytochemical and some biological activity of Leptopyrum fumarioides (L.) Reichenb.
Authors: Solongo A. , Doncheva T. , Delgerbat B. , Selenge D.
Published: July 2022

The phytochemical study of Leptopyrum fumarioides started in 2011 and since then 14 volatile compounds have been identified by GC-MS. 7 flavonoids and 4 alkaloids have been isolated and 2 of them have been recognized as new natural compounds. The structures of the natural products have been determined and ascertained by MS, as well as IR, 1D NMR and 2D NMR spectroscopic methods. The antioxidant, antimutagenic, antiproliferative, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, and anticancer activity of Leptopyrum fumarioides extracts and some isolated pure compounds were examined. The new alkaloids leptopyrine (3) and leptofumarine (4) were identified. Leptopyrine (3) is a new type of dimer alkaloid of benzylisoquinoline and simple isoquinoline with imine nitrogen. Leptofumarine (4) is the first example of aporphine and benzylisoquinoline alkaloid with two ether bridges which have head-to-head and tail-to-tail coupling. This review clearly shows that the phytochemical study of plant species is just beginning and requires more detailed and comprehensive study.
Antimicrobial substances of natural origin: a review of properties and prospects
Authors: Chervotkina D. R. , Borisova A. V.
Published: July 2022

This article reviews data on antimicrobial additives used in the food industry for preserving the quality of food products. The use of conventional antimicrobial additives, including artificial preservatives (benzoic and sorbic acids and their salts), causes a negative response among consumers. As a result, such products are gradually disappearing from the market. At the same time, antimicrobial additives of natural origin are gaining in popularity, increasingly attracting the attention of both Russian and foreign researchers. In this article, the main antimicrobial additives of animal, vegetable and microbial origin are considered. Antimicrobial additives of animal origin are represented by lysozyme and lactoperoxidase enzymes, lactoferrin and pleurocidin peptides, as well as by chitosan, a derivative of chitin. Plant substances that exhibit antimicrobial and antioxidant properties include herbs and spices, both in native and dried form, as well as separately extracted plant components, such as essential oils, phenolic compounds and organic acids. Substances of microbial origin, in particular bacteriocins, comprise another promising class of antimicrobial additives. These forms represent smaller polypeptide molecules synthesized on ribosomes, which exhibit antagonistic activity against closely related groups of bacteria. Bacteriocins, such as nisin, natamycin, pediocin, enterocin and plantaricin, may exhibit bactericidal properties, at the same time as having little therapeutic value and no negative effect on the human intestinal microflora. This makes them different from antibiotic preparations. The conducted review confirms the prospects of using the considered additives in the composition of both food products and active packaging systems.
Effect of low concentrations of caffeine and colchicine on microbial growth and biofilm formation
Authors: Maksimova L. A. , Markova Ju. A. , Turskaya A. L. , Bybin V. A.
Published: July 2022

A study into the effect of low concentrations of caffeine and colchicine alkaloids on the growth and biofilm formation of rhizospheric microorganisms – Gram-positive Rhodococcus qingshengii and Gramnegative Rhizobium radiobacter – is presented. Alkaloids present in plants effectively protect them from being eaten by animals of various taxa, as well as from fungal and bacterial infections. Forming part of a complex, evolutionary system of plant-microbial interactions, they occur naturally in the medium at low concentrations. One of the decisive factors in the spread of microorganisms is the formation of biofilms. In the study, alkaloids were added to the bacterial suspension at time intervals corresponding to distinct phases of biofilm formation. In order to determine the level of biofilm formation, bacterial cells were stained with crystal violet. The optical density of the suspension was used to assess the effect of alkaloids on bacterial growth and biofilm formation. The effect of caffeine and colchicine in concentrations of 10-5 g/L on the growth and biofilm formation of microorganisms is revealed for the first time. Although alkaloids did not affect the growth of the suspension of Gram-positive Rhodococcus qingshengii, they effectively suppressed the suspension of Gram-negative Rhizobium radiobacter. While Rhodococcus qingshengii showed greater sensitivity to alkaloids at the stage of biofilm formation, Rhizobium radiobacter was more sensitive at the stage of "mature" biofilms. The effect of alkaloids could be expressed both in terms of suppression and enhancement of biofilm growth. It can be assumed that the mechanism of action of plant alkaloids at the level of signaling systems and bacterial quorum sensing allows the protective function to be maintained even with a significant decrease in the number of alkaloids under conditions of permanent antagonism in which they are constantly being destroyed by phytopathogens.
The Strategy of State Cultural Policy 2030 and Its Achievability
Authors: Glushakova Olga
Published: July 2022

The article considers the Strategy of State Cultural Policy 2030 and the way it complies with the principles established by Federal Law No. 172-FZ On the State Strategic Planning (June 28, 2014). The principles include transparency, realism, resource availability, measurability of goals, multichannel financing, etc. The research featured the quality of strategic management in the sphere of culture in the context of the abovementioned Strategy. The research was based on the institutional approach and assessed the availability of monitoring tools for its implementation. The study revealed some shortcomings in the content of the Strategy of State Cultural Policy 2030. For instance, the strategic management is only at the second stage in the evolution of approaches to the development and implementation of strategies, i.e., strategic planning. The third and fourth stages of evolution are to adjust the strategic capabilities of the public administration system to the real-time management, and they still remain a matter for the distant future. The elements of multichannel financing of culture include a system of tax preferences, marked taxes, sponsorship and patronage, the institution of budget allocations, endowment funds, etc. However, these measures have certain limitations and contradict the current norms of budgetary and tax legislation. The state remains the main sponsor of culture, despite the expansion of the list of state cultural policy subjects and the roles of the state, e.g., the state as an investor, a philanthropist, a co-investor, etc. As a result, new development challenges may lead to underfunding. The financial mechanism for strategy implementation presupposes no transparent bond between the strategy and budgetary spending.
Customer Evaluation in IT Business as a Way to Improve Project Activities
Authors: Sapozhnikov Pavel , Kolozhvari Yuliya
Published: July 2022

The article introduces a new strategic and operational method to organize customer relationships in an outsourcing IT company. Customers are classified into long-term active clients, long-term passive clients, and short-term clients, i.e., according to their project involvement and interaction scope. Such components as Communication and Business serve as strategic characteristics, while Communication, Project, and Initial Data are operational characteristics. These components have the greatest impact on the way companies plan their relationships with customers in operational and strategic aspects. Based on their empirical experience in the field of IT outsourcing, the authors propose a priority of metrics that characterize these components. The new methodology allows IT companies to increase the efficiency of their project activities of by monitoring the maximal coefficients, as well as to plan their optimization. This method is especially efficient for projects that last longer than one year. It can be applied together with other project assessments and relevant metrics.
Prospects for Neo-Industrialization of a Partly-Recognized State's Economy
Authors: Kotov Evgeniy
Published: July 2022

The article shows the prospects of neo-industrial development in the Donetsk People's Republic with its long industrial history. Neo-industrialization as a concept of modern economic development is also relevant for the socio-economic systems of unrecognized or partly-recognized states. The industrial sector of the Donetsk People's Republic is a foundation for its modern socio-economic development and provides a good potential for neo-industrialization. The prospects depend on the development of the industrial base and qualified workers. The author analyzed some sectors of the socio-economic system and qualified personnel resources. The analysis showed a low level of information security in the sphere of socio-economic activity, including the completeness and reliability of the statistical data. The author also performed a comparative cross-country analysis of the socio-economic development of unrecognized or partly-recognized states, which shared some economic patterns, regardless of the starting conditions. The article introduces prospective directions of socio-economic development for such states with an emphasis on their neo-industrial economy.
The Effects of Moringa oleifera Leaves on Complete Blood Count, Renal and Liver Functions as Potential Therapy for Malnutrition
Authors: Kodi Gamar Musa , Mustafa Howeida Abdullah , Idris Alkhair Abd Almahmoud
Published: July 2022

Background: Moringa oleifera which is available in many areas all over the world including Sudan is low-cost and traditionally used in the treatment of many disorders, including malnutrition. This study aimed to determine the effect of aqueous extract of M. oleifera leaves in renal, liver functions and complete blood count (CBC) parameters, and its potential as therapy for malnutrition.Materials and methods: This was an experimental case control study using twenty-five Wistar albino rats. Rats were divided into three groups: normal protein diet group, low protein diet with or without M. oleifera extract groups. We determined rats' weight, CBC parameters, blood mineral concentrations, as well as liver and renal functions at day 0, 7, and 14.Results: Our findings showed that rats' weight were significantly different between the three groups at day 0, 7, and 14. Rats' weight, blood sodium, potassium, calcium, and urea concentration, as well as Hb concentration, TWBCs count, total platelets count, and %lymphocyte showed significant differences between three groups at day 0, 7, and 14.Conclusion: M. oleifera leaves can be used as potential therapy for malnutrition because they have some effects on weight, blood mineral concentrations, renal and liver function, as well as CBC parameters.Keywords: ALP, AST, ALT, creatinine, Moringa oleifera
Programa de monitoria como estratégia de permanência e êxito para estudantes com deficiência visual no Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Piauí
Authors: Ribeiro Natércia , Alvarenga Elenice , Galasso Bruno
Published: July 2022

O programa de monitoria pode ser caracterizado como uma estratégia institucional para melhorar o processo de ensino e aprendizagem, por meio de uma atividade discente que favoreça a integração curricular em seus diferentes aspectos. Dessa forma, a pesquisa objetivou analisar o desenvolvimento do programa de monitoria implementado em um campus do Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Piauí (IFPI) como estratégia de permanência para estudantes com deficiência visual. Trata-se de um relato de experiência do tipo qualitativo, envolvendo a pesquisa documental. Inicialmente, foram analisados os Editais de monitoria elaborados pelo Núcleo de Atendimento às Pessoas com Necessidades Específicas (NAPNE) desse campus, durante o período de 2017 a 2019, bem como as políticas e regulamentos que nortearam sua elaboração. Em seguida, verificou-se a relevância do programa de monitoria para a formação de estudantes com deficiência visual, a partir dos relatórios de atividade preenchidos por monitores e estudantes auxiliados. Os resultados da pesquisa apontam que os editais que regulamentam o programa foram aperfeiçoados ao longo dos anos e que os monitores são essenciais no plano estratégico de acessibilidade para os estudantes com deficiência visual. Além disso, outros ganhos na formação dos estudantes foram observados com a realização do programa de monitoria, como a melhoria do rendimento acadêmico, o acesso a experiências de ensino e aprendizagem, o diálogo, a socialização e o desenvolvimento humano.
Interdisciplinaridade e práticas pedagógicas
Authors: Souza Mariana Aranha de , Salgado Priscila Aparecida Dias , Chamon Edna Maria Querido de Oliveira , Fazenda Ivani Catarina Arantes
Published: July 2022

Este estudo tem como objetivo investigar o que professores do Ensino Fundamental, de uma escola com currículo organizado por projetos, pensam sobre interdisciplinaridade e como organizam suas práticas. De natureza qualitativa, utilizou-se como instrumentos de pesquisa a entrevista semiestruturada, realizada de forma individual com oito professores da escola, indicados pela diretora da escola como referência para um trabalho interdisciplinar, a observação e a análise do Projeto Político-Pedagógico. Os dados obtidos nas entrevistas foram tratados inicialmente pelo software IRaMuTeQ e os resultados foram analisados por meio da análise de conteúdo. A análise desses resultados demonstrou que: (i) a interdisciplinaridade é compreendida como a possibilidade de um ensino que faça sentido para o aluno; (ii) é fundamental um processo de constante formação docente, de reorganização da escola e de ressignificação da relação professor-aluno; e (iii) o trabalho com projetos e o desenvolvimento de níveis de autonomia são elementos importantes para a efetivação de práticas interdisciplinares.
Modifikasi Perilaku Anak Usia Dini untuk Mengatasi Temper Tantrum pada Anak
Authors: Imtikhani Nurfadilah Miftakhul Falaah
Published: July 2022

Anak usia dini merupakan anak yang baru belajar mengenal dirinya sendiri, termasuk sosial emosionalnya. Pada masa ini pula mereka baru mengenal perasaan senang, sedih, marah, kecewa dan sebagainya. Kebanyakan anak usia dini masih belum mampu mengelola dan mengekspresikan emosinya secara wajar. Anak usia 15 bulan sampai dengan 5 tahun sering mengalami temper tantrum pada kondisi atau keadaan tertentu. Temper tantrum yang tidak segera ditangani oleh orang tua maupun pendidik akan berakibat anak mengalami perilaku menyimpang lainnya, seperti agresif, self harm maupun menyakiti orang lain. Kondisi ini disebabkan oleh banyak faktor seperti komunikasi anak, pola asuh orang tua maupun lingkungan anak. Untuk itu, modifikasi perilaku digunakan sebagai strategi untuk mengatasi temper tantrum pada anak. Terdapat banyak metode, pendekatan, konsep maupun teknik yang dapat digunakan dalam modifikasi perilaku untuk menangani anak dengan temper tantrum. Metode yang digunakan adalah studi literatur atau studi kepustakaan dengan melakukan studi pada jurnal, skripsi dan buku. Hasil analisis studi teoritis menunjukkan bahwa modifikasi perilaku dapat menurunkan perilaku temper tantrum pada anak usia dini. Hal ini dikarenakan, penerapan modifikasi perilaku dengan pendekatan, teknik maupun metode tertentu sesuai dengan kebutuhan anak yang membuat anak merasa aman, nyaman dan mampu meredam emosinya sehingga perilaku temper tantrum pada anak dapat diatasi. Dengan modifikasi perilaku, anak dengan temper tantrum dapat tumbuh dan berkembang, mampu memahami, mengelola dan mengekspresikan emosinya dengan baik sehingga anak mampu bersosialisasi, berkomunikasi dan bereksplorasi terhadap lingkungannya.
Needs assessment Pengembangan Model Pelatihan dalam Meningkatkan Kompetensi Pedagogik di TPA Yoga Santi Yogyakarta
Authors: Fatimaningrum Arumi Savitri , Fauziah Puji Yanti , Christianti Martha , Muthmainah Muthmainah
Published: July 2022

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menggali fokus permasalahan dan skala kebutuhan untuk mengembangkan model pelatihan dalam meningkatkan kompetensi pedagogik para pendidik di TPA Dharma Yoga Santi Yogyakarta. Penelitian ini merupakan bagian dari metode Research and Development dari Borg Gall yang difokuskan pada tahap penelusuran Subjek penelitian adalah satu (1) orang kepala sekolah dan empat (4) orang pendidik. Teknik pengumpulan data yang digunakan pada tahap penelusuran ini adalah observasi, wawancara, dan dokumentasi terkait dengan 8 Standar PAUD. Teknik analisis data dilakukan dengan analisis interaktif. Hasil penelusuran menghasilkan fokus permasalahan dan skala kebutuhan dari model pelatihan untuk para pendidik di TPA Dharma Yoga Santi. Hasil needs assessment selanjutnya digunakan untuk membuat rancangan model pelatihan, kemudian diajukan untuk pengujian ahli (expert judgement) dan uji lapangan sehingga dapat diketahui efektivitas dari pengembangan model pelatihan ini.
Hearing aid solutions for children with autism
Authors:   Department of Special Education, Faculty of Education, Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Saigh Budor H.
Published: July 2022

Children with the autistic spectral disorder (ASD) have difficulty processing sensory inputs, especially auditory inputs. There have been a number of technological solutions that have developed based on different approaches in the form of hearing devices, however, limitations include the inability to successfully allow, through whitelisting, important sounds such as fire alarms and the sounds of cars and car horns. This paper proposes a hearing device supported by an application as a solution for children with ASD, the device is based on blacklisting and whitelisting features that allow for a reduction in auditory input through a selective process and contributes to selectivity through whitelisting for safety purposes. The proposed device will reduce distraction associated with hyper-responsiveness to certain auditory inputs, such as those from teachers or working group members, and increase concentration in the child by having fewer distractions.
A Scoping Review on Kindness in the Work Environment
Authors: Hashim Gy Rugayah , Zainuddin Ahmad Zuhairi , Mohd Aminuddin Zaidi , Ghazali Ayu Rohaidah , Wardono Prabu
Published: July 2022

The paper aims to provide new, theoretical insights on kindness at work to counter bullying on the job. Studies have shown that a range of kindness acts and activities will boost happiness and job satisfaction at work and spillover to the home. Based on the research objectives, the findings identified elements of kindness and unkindness and the built environment's effects on work happiness. The scoping review method and PRISMA analysis revealed that kindness in the work environment depends on the organizational culture, leadership, and organization size. Organizational leaders' exemplary behavior sets the kindness culture towards kindness and happiness at work. The study limitation was the timeframe. Thus, a survey is recommended for empirical evidence to support the theoretical and conceptual frameworks.
Keywords: Kindness; Civility; Bullying; Built Environment
eISSN: 2398-4287 © 2022. The Authors. Published for AMER ABRA CE-Bs by E-International Publishing House, Ltd., UK. This is an open-access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/). Peer-review under responsibility of AMER (Association of Malaysian Environment-Behaviour Researchers), ABRA (Association of Behavioural Researchers on Asians/Africans/Arabians) and cE-Bs (Centre for Environment-Behaviour Studies), Faculty of Architecture, Planning & Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21834/ebpj.v7i20.3304
Pattern of Psychosocial Challenges among Oil and Gas Workers: A systematic review
Authors: Mohd Rani Nur Dalilah , Kamarunzaman Nur Zafifa , Liu Jia
Published: July 2022

This paper highlights the patterns of psychosocial challenges confronting O&G workers that result in mental health issues worldwide through a systematic review of notable academic databases. This study integrated multiple research designs, and the review was based on the publication standard, namely RepOrting standards for Systematic Evidence Syntheses (ROSES). Thematic analysis was undertaken, and four emerging themes were identified: 1) demographic factors, 2) personality, 3) psychosocial risks, and 4) health conditions. The findings contributed to several theoretical and practical implications, which are essential for researchers in the O&G field and policymakers.
Keywords: psychosocial risks; personality; well-being; oil &gas
eISSN: 2398-4287 © 2022. The Authors. Published for AMER ABRA cE-Bs by e-International Publishing House, Ltd., UK. This is an open access article under the CC BYNC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/). Peer–review under responsibility of AMER (Association of Malaysian Environment-Behaviour Researchers), ABRA (Association of Behavioural Researchers on Asians/Africans/Arabians) and cE-Bs (Centre for Environment-Behaviour Studies), Faculty of Architecture, Planning & Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21834/ebpj.v7i20.3491
SDG17 in Environmental Conservation Activities at Malaysian Local Government
Authors: Mohd Yusof Mohd Idham , Ab Rahman Farah Adilla , Tuan Ismail Tuan Nooriani , Abdul Rahman Normaira , Sulikah Asmorowati
Published: July 2022

he local governments in Malaysia have been tasked with conserving the environment and addressing ecological deficiencies. This paper explores three distinct Malaysian local governments’ commitment to the environment and their partnership strategies. This qualitative study has discovered that the selected local governments have similar environmental-related programmes, and the stakeholders’ engagement is evident in their localities. This study is essential to SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) to foster the community-based efforts to increase environmental stewardship. Future research may include exploratory studies on the environmental commitments of local governments in Sabah and Sarawak.
Keywords: Environmental Conservation ; Local Government ; Malaysia ; SDG17
eISSN: 2398-4287 © 2022. The Authors. Published for AMER ABRA cE-Bs by e-International Publishing House, Ltd., UK. This is an open access article under the CC BYNC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/). Peer–review under responsibility of AMER (Association of Malaysian Environment-Behaviour Researchers), ABRA (Association of Behavioural Researchers on Asians/Africans/Arabians) and cE-Bs (Centre for Environment-Behaviour Studies), Faculty of Architecture, Planning & Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21834/ebpj.v7i20.3494
Graduates Dilemma: To Be or Not To Be a Chef
Authors: Manshoor Amir , Mohamad Norhaya Hanum , Idris Nur Amanina , Sari Lenggogeni
Published: July 2022

This study seeks an understanding of the decisions made by culinary graduates whether to work as a chef. This qualitative study involving twelve culinary graduate respondents using semi-structured interviews. Data collected analyzed using thematic analysis. This study found a couple of themes for each motivational and psychological factor. The small number of participants from each group might not represent majority of culinary graduates. Future research can be conducted in different workplace setting and include a larger sample size. Culinary institutions and stakeholders should use the result as to explore the problem thus grasp a solution to said problem.
Keywords: Culinary Graduates, Chef, Motivatinal factor, Psychological Factor
eISSN: 2398-4287 © 2022. The Authors. Published for AMER ABRA cE-Bs by e-International Publishing House, Ltd., UK. This is an open access article under the CC BYNC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/). Peer–review under responsibility of AMER (Association of Malaysian Environment-Behaviour Researchers), ABRA (Association of Behavioural Researchers on Asians/Africans/Arabians) and cE-Bs (Centre for Environment-Behaviour Studies), Faculty of Architecture, Planning & Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21834/ebpj.v7i20.3510