bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hogares con Pobreza Multidimensional en Bogotá. Aspectos de su distribución espacial a escala de manzana
Authors: Salinas González Judith , Batista Zamora Ana Ester
Published: October 2024

El objetivo de la investigación es indagar acerca de los niveles de segregación y homogeneidad de la distribución espacial que experimentan los hogares afectados por Pobreza Multidimensional en Bogotá, a diferentes escalas: por un lado, el conjunto del aglomerado capitalino, por otro, las 19 localidades que lo conforman. Además, y para aquellas localidades en las que los niveles de segregación son mayores, identificaremos la presencia de agrupamientos estadísticamente significativos con altas y bajas concentraciones de hogares pobres. Se trata de una investigación netamente cuantitativa, y la información necesaria para llevarla a cabo ha sido obtenida del Censo de Población de 2018, a escala de manzana, y las cifras han sido tratadas con una variedad de instrumentos estadísticos orientados a dar cuenta de diferentes aspectos de la segregación: Índices de Theil y de Segregación, Cociente de Localización, y autocorrelación espacial (I de Moran y clústeres LISA). Los resultados obtenidos indican, por un lado, que los niveles de homogeneidad de las distribuciones espaciales de los hogares con Pobreza Multidimensional difieren entre las localidades que conforman el aglomerado capital; por otro, que en aquellas en las que la homogeneidad es mayor, los hogares pobres están afectados por niveles mayores de segregación residencial, con distribuciones espaciales no aleatorias que muestran una clara separación espacial entre los agrupamientos estadísticamente significativos alto-alto y bajo-bajo.
Análise da experiência de aprendizagem de um modelo híbrido em Ortodontia no contexto da pandemia da COVID-19
Authors: Moutinho Marian Vilardo , Rodrigues Vandilson Pinheiro , Berry Maria Cardoso de Castro , Quintão Cátia Cardoso Abdo
Published: October 2024

O objetivo desse estudo foi analisar a experiência de aprendizagem dos alunos frente a um modelo de ensino híbrido desenvolvido e aplicado ao longo dos períodos letivos de 2020.2 (antes da vacinação), 2021.1 (durante a vacinação) e 2021.2 (pós-vacinação) durante a pandemia da COVID-19. Para a análise foram coletados dados qualitativos e quantitativos ao longo dos semestres, utilizando um questionário com questões sociodemográficas, tecnologia/educação, pandemia e percepção da disciplina. Também foram coletados dados somativos a partir das notas de atividades, prova teórica e média final. Os resultados foram analisados a partir do instrumento RE-AIM, avaliando as esferas de alcance, efetividade, adoção, implementação e manutenção. Participaram desse estudo 102 alunos, sendo 74 do sexo feminino e 28 do sexo masculino, com média de idade de 23,4 anos (±2,3). A maioria dos estudantes tinham conexão via WiFi (95,1%) e acessavam as aulas por notebook (69,6%). De acordo com os domínios do RE-AIM os alunos consideraram a disciplina eficaz (97%) e se sentiram preparados para o futuro profissional (70,6%). Não houve diferença na média dos escores das notas das turmas, todas com média acima de 80% (p>0,05). Quanto aos diferentes momentos da pandemia, mesmo com aumento da ansiedade durante a vacinação, não houve uma mudança no desempenho e percepção sobre o formato da disciplina. O método de ensino aplicado mostrou-se efetivo e foi percebido positivamente pelos estudantes no momento da pandemia da COVID-19, independentemente da fase em que se encontravam, podendo ser uma alternativa para disciplinas que desejem integrar tecnologias educacionais no currículo.
Effect of Perceived Technology Acceptance on Online Stock Trading Behavior: An Empirical Analysis
Authors:   School of Economics and Commerce, CMR University, Bangalore, India, Jayalakshmi K. U. , Chidananda H L ,   School of Economics and Commerce, CMR University, Bangalore, India, Harshitha K ,   Department of Commerce, Multidisciplinary Constituent College for Women, Malleshwaram, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560003, India
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the influence of perceived technology acceptance on the online stock trading behavior of retail investors. The objective of this research is to examine the predictors of online stock trading behavior and their impact. Using a regression model, the findings reveal that perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and perceived benefit significantly contribute to and promote online stock trading behavior. The standardized coefficients indicate a strong positive relationship between perceived usefulness (β = 0.838), perceived ease of use (β = 0.727), and perceived benefit (β = 0.783) with online stock trading behavior. The results suggest that retail investors are more inclined to engage in online stock trading when they perceive technology as useful, easy to use, and beneficial. This study underscores the pivotal role of technological applications in shaping the behavior of retail investors in the online stock trading environment, shedding light on the factors that drive participation in this increasingly digitized investment landscape.
A longitudinal study of multidimensional prosocial behavior during adolescence
Authors: Sweijen Sophie , Brinke Lysanne te , van de Groep Suzanne , Crone Eveline
Published: October 2024

This study examines the distinct developmental trajectories of prosocial and rebellious behaviors in adolescence. Using data from an accelerated three-wave project among adolescents aged 9-22-yrs (N = 142, 63% female, middle to high SES), trajectories of prosocial actions towards friends and peers, prosocial tendencies across multiple situations, giving to charities, and general social value orientation were examined. By examining age-, puberty-, and hormonal-related trajectories, the study demonstrates mostly increases in prosocial behaviors, which were more strongly explained by pubertal maturation than age, but decreases in public prosocial behavior. The results confirm the multidimensionality of prosocial behavior, demonstrate correlations with rebelliousness, and show that prosocial behavior is context-dependent.
The divide between us: internet access among people with and without disabilities in the post-pandemic era
Authors: Pacheco Edgar , Burgess Hannah
Published: October 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of internet access across various aspects of life, from remote work and online education to healthcare services and social connections. As we transition to a post-pandemic era, a pressing need arises to update our understanding of the multifaceted nature of internet access. This study is one of the first attempts to do so. Using survey data from New Zealand adult internet users (n = 960), it compares internet connection types, frequency of internet use at home, social media use, and concerns about online risk between people with and without disabilities. Results show people with disabilities have restricted fibre access and higher wireless broadband (a much slower connection type). People with disabilities use social media platforms less and are more concerned about certain online risks. The findings highlight persistent disparities in internet access for people with disabilities in the post-pandemic era. Implications of the study are discussed.
Surveying the Job Market for Early-Career Civil Engineers in Cairo
Authors: Talaat Abdalla , Gadallah Omar Mohyi
Published: October 2024

“How I wish you could reshape this reality”1 was one of the messages left to us in the open-ended comments. Our engineering community is desperate for both acknowledgement of their struggles, and action against them. This study investigates the wages and working conditions of early-career civil engineers working in Cairo, hoping to assess their compensation and ascertain its fairness. An online questionnaire was delivered to 366 early-career civil engineers through non-probabilistic sampling. Engineers had an average monthly salary of 8,712 – 9,584 EGP (180 – 198 USD) and a median of 8,000 EGP (166 USD), with certain demographic factors having a more pronounced effect than others on salary, satisfaction, and social mobility. More alarming results indicate that less than 4% of the surveyed engineers have reported their satisfaction living in Egypt. Furthermore, 13% of the reported salaries fell below the 6,000 EGP national minimum wage limit, and only 8% reported a salary higher than the socially advocated 15,000 EGP limit. The results of this study have multiple implications on both the Egyptian engineering industry and engineers themselves.
Shaping the Future Counsellor: Perspectives of Australian Educators on Training and the Counselling Profession
Authors: Beel Nathan , Taylor Sharyn , Chinchen Christine
Published: October 2024

This qualitative study explores the views and perceptions of Australian counselling educators regarding the counselling profession's values, identity, and educational practices. This qualitative study utilised interviews of eight counselling educators with diverse professional backgrounds and applied thematic analysis to develop themes. Three primary themes were developed including: the emphasis on the person of the therapist, the importance of quality counselling education, and the distinctiveness and credibility of the counselling profession. The counselling educators were able to elicit core values in alignment with contemporary Australian counselling scholarship, while also noting what may be some threats to counsellor education and downstream, the reputation of the profession.
Causal analysis with observational data
Authors: Schuessler Julian
Published: October 2024

Causal inference plays a central role in the social sciences. This chapter discusses key questions in causal inquiry: What distinguishes causal questions from descriptive or predictive ones? How can we reason about the assumptions required for causal analysis, and how can we test these assumptions? Using structural causal models and directed acyclic graphs, the chapter explores how to define causal estimands, assess the feasibility of learning from data about them (identification), and evaluate sensitivity to assumption violations. It discusses concrete problems and phenomena such as choosing control variables, post-treatment bias, causal interaction, effect heterogeneity, and mediation. Central issues are exemplified by an analysis of the relationship between exposure to violence and attitudes towards piece among survey respondents in Darfur.
Improving an Integrative Framework of Health System Resilience and Climate Change: Lessons from Bangladesh and Haiti
Authors: Ridde Valery , Barua Mrittika , Bonnet Emmanuel , Casseus Alain , Clech Lucie , De Allegri Manuela , Kabir Mollah M. Shamsul , Goudet Jean-Marc , Henrys Daniel , Islam Muhammed Nazmul , L’Heureux Yunona , Masselot Camille , Mathon Dominique , Meistre Sofia , Sarker Malabika
Published: October 2024

The analysis of health system resilience has progressed significantly, yet there remains a wide diversity in the conceptual frameworks used. The ClimHB conceptual framework, developed in 2019, integrates two influential models: the Levesque model of healthcare access and DFID's resilience framework. Designed to study health system resilience in response to climate-induced events, the ClimHB framework uniquely positions the population as an active participant on the demand side, complementing the supply side of health services and providers. Characterised by three core dimensions – exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity – this dual focus on demand and supply, and their interactions emphasises the dynamic interplay between both sides in shaping health system resilience. A workshop utilising framework analysis, and the World Café method refined the ClimHB framework by integrating empirical evidence from Haiti and Bangladesh, alongside insights from a literature review. The revised framework presents a dynamic understanding of interrelated resilience, aimed at informing decision-making across all levels of healthcare. It emphasises the importance of contextual factors, strengthens outcome linkages, and incorporates socio-economic and ecological considerations. Governance, professional awareness, and supply-side feedback loops were also emphasised. Site studies demonstrated the framework’s adaptability and ability to foster synergy between theory and implementation. However, challenges persist in operationalising the framework, particularly for policymakers, emphasising the need for validation, standardised measures, and a deeper understanding of resilience interplays. Future research should explore the framework’s implications for structural management, training, and resource allocation, addressing critical gaps in resilience research.
Implementing Cognitive Component Constraints in the Development and Validation of Short-Form Raven’s Advanced Progressive Matrices Based on Item Response Theory
Authors: Zhan Peida , chen qipeng , Man Kaiwen , Hao Ning
Published: October 2024

Raven’s Advanced Progressive Matrices (APM) is a widely recognized tool for assessing intelligence. However, it often faces challenges related to lengthy administration times, which can diminish its practicality and increase resource costs. Although several short-form APMs have been developed, they typically overlook the differences in cognitive components assessed by various items, potentially compromising the instrument's content validity. To enhance the consistency of the proportion of cognitive components measured in the short-form instruments compared to the complete APM, this study employed an automated item selection algorithm with cognitive component constraints within the item response theory framework—the revised maximum priority index—to develop a series of short-form APMs with varying item counts. By comparing them with existing short-form APMs, the newly developed instruments demonstrated good reliability while maintaining a nearly consistent proportion of cognitive components measured as in the complete APM. Finally, we recommend two short-form APMs containing 12 and 18 items, respectively, for subsequent use, based on the customary lengths of existing short-form APMs.
Pendekatan Solution Focused Brief Counseling (SFBC) untuk Mereduksi Prokrastinasi Akademik Siswa di SMA Negeri 14 Jakarta.
Authors: Mufidah Hana , Fitri Lailathul , Adirama Dio Rizky , Pedhu Yoseph , Rundupadang Geminia Grace Alloranu
Published: October 2024

Tingginya tingkat prokrastinasi akademik di SMA Negeri 14 Jakarta sekaligus dampak yang ditimbulkan atas perilaku penundaan, tentunya menjadi tantangan tersendiri bagi para guru maupun sekolah. Oleh karena itu, penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pendekatan Solution Focused Brief Counseling (SFBC) dalam layanan konseling kelompok sebagai upaya mereduksi prokrastinasi akademik siswa. Penelitian ini menggunakan jenis penelitian kuantitatif dengan metode penelitian eksperimen desain Quasi Eksperimental. Bentuk Quasi Experimental yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah Pretest Posttest One Group Design. Analisis terhadap hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa konseling kelompok dengan pendekatan SFBC terbukti efektif dalam mengurangi tingkat prokrastinasi akademik pada siswa.
Cultivating a Mindful Workforce: Is Mindfulness Training Enough?
Authors: Meaden James
Published: October 2024

A growing number of organizations are implementing training programs to increase employee mindfulness. However, to effectively achieve this goal, it is important that organizations also understand the broader set of antecedents that have an influence on this construct. This study finds that individual differences and work context are important predictors of trait mindfulness in employees.
Evidence for Distance Dependence and Out-Group Differences in Emotion Recognition
Authors: Stier Andrew , Berman Marc
Published: October 2024

How do we navigate the sea of unfamiliar faces in a busy city? In this study,we investigated variation in ”reading the mind in the eyes” performance acrossin-group versus out-group faces at various distances involved in everyday socialinteractions. Across 2,830 participants from the U.S., we found that people havelower accuracy and greater negativity biases (a bias towards negative emotionssuch as angry or threatening) at greater distances. We also found that accuracyand negativity biases differed for in-group versus out-group faces, though theseassociations varied across participants from different racial groups. Though ourresults suggest that these effects are small for individuals, they may still influ-ence large-scale social outcomes. Specifically, when compounded across the manyinteractions that occur in cities each day, these effects could significantly influencecities’ social fabric and the quality of inhabitants’ social interactions.
Associations between Premenstrual Symptoms and (Traumatic) Stress: A Systematic Review and Three Multilevel Meta-Analyses
Authors: Bencker Celine , Tran Ulrich S. , Roth Leopold Helmut Otto , Nayman Sibel , Nater Urs
Published: October 2024

BackgroundCore Premenstrual Disorders (PMDs), including Premenstrual Syndrome and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, can cause significant impairment. Despite evidence of associations between stress and premenstrual symptoms, a systematic synthesis is lacking.AimsTo systematically review the literature and meta-analyse evidence on the relationship between premenstrual symptoms and stress. MethodFour databases were searched for studies indexed before 27.8.2024 (no language or year restrictions) to identify studies assessing the relationship between stress and premenstrual symptoms in regularly menstruating individuals (PROSPERO: CRD42021244503). Three multilevel meta-analyses were performed to estimate (1) the correlation between stress and premenstrual symptom severity, (2) stress differences between individuals with and without core PMD across the menstrual cycle, (3) the impact of traumatic experiences on developing premenstrual symptoms. Study quality and publication bias were assessed.Results188 effect sizes from 67 studies (N = 38,494) were synthesised. Results showed (1) a positive correlation between symptom severity and stress (r = .29, 95% CI .23–.36), (2) higher stress levels in subjects with core PMD (d = 0.79, 95% CI 0.35–1.22), particularly during the luteal phase (d = 1.07, 95% CI 0.54–1.60), (3) more than twofold higher odds (OR = 2.45, 95% CI 1.89–3.18) of PMS in individuals with a history of trauma. Heterogeneity was high (I2 84.64–91.38%); two analyses showed evidence of publication bias.ConclusionsThe results indicate an association between stress and premenstrual symptoms, an effect of cycle phase, and trauma as a risk factor for premenstrual symptoms. Future research should investigate the biopsychological dynamics across the menstrual cycle.
How the General Benefit Reform Emerged in Finland: A Critical Analysis Using Large Language Models in Policy Research
Authors: Moisio Pasi , Mesiäislehto Merita , Peltoniemi Johanna , Pihlajamäki Mika , Hiilamo Heikki
Published: October 2024

Utilizing Large Language Models (LLM), this study investigates the evolution of an innovative social security policy idea, the General Benefit concept into a policy reform proposal in Fin-land from 2007 to 2023. Drawing from the ideational analysis we hypothesize that political parties struggled over social security conditionality during the 2010s and that social security simplification was manipulated differently in relation to conditionality. Our primary data is elec-tion manifestos and governmental programs from 2007-2023. We employed LLMs, mainly a customized ChatGPT, for the text analysis of policy documents. Additionally, we conduct a critical human evaluation of the LLMs analysis and publish our model in the GPT store for the open replication of analyses. Findings indicate that the weakening of the tripartite industrial relations system and the break-ing of “status quo of three big parties” allowed new parties to influence social policy in 2010s. The General Benefit emerged as a response to calls for social security simplification and for countering (unconditional) basic income proposals. Adopted in 2023, the General Benefit concept aims to merge Finnish universal / residence-based social insurance benefits for the working-aged while preserving core principles like social risk categories and conditionality. Despite increased nativism from the rising True Finns party, and the adoption of universal / unconditional basic income by several parties, Finnish social policy trends from 2007 to 2023 continued to emphasize employment and public finance sustainability.Our study also contributes to methodological discussions on using LLMs in policy analysis. The “human evaluation”, performed by the authors, confirms that the LLM analysis accurately summarises the main features of the policy evolution. However, we also found that the LLM lacks ability to recognise the nuances of “multidimensional” political language and is not very helpful in cross-sectional evaluation, which leaves the analysis partly shallow. Thus, we con-clude that in qualitative policy analysis, LLMs in their current form are suitable for comple-menting rather than substituting human evaluation.
UJI BEBERAPA JENIS DAN DOSIS BAHAN ORGANIK TERHADAP PERTUMBUHAN BIBIT KAKAO (Theobroma cacao L.)
Authors: Santosa Budi
Published: October 2024

Pembibitan kakao membutuhkan unsur hara yang cukup untuk pertumbuhannya, dimana salah satu upaya yang dapat dilakukan melalui pemberian bahan organik. Teknik pembibitan kakao yang baik ini merupakan salah satu aspek yang penting dalam budidaya kakao, dengan tujuan untuk dapat menghasilkan bibit siap tanam yang baik dan berkualitas, yang nantinya dapat berproduksi secara maksimal. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk medapatkan interaksi antara beberapa jenis dan dosis bahan organik terhadap pertumbuhan bibit kakao (Theobroma cacao L.). Penelitian dilaksanakan di lahan petani Jorong Subarang Nagari Koto Baru Kecamatan Kubung Kabupaten Solok, dengan ketinggian tempat 388 m diatas permukaan laut (dpl) pada bulan Agustus s/d Desember 2021. Penelitian menggunakan Rancangan Acak Kelompok (RAK) Faktorial dengan faktor pertama jenis bahan organik dan faktor kedua dosis bahan organik, dengan rincian sebagai berikut : Faktor I. Jenis bahan organik terdiri dari : A1 = Kompos Jerami, A2 = Pupuk Kandang Sapi dan A3 = Kompos Rumputan; Faktor II. Dosis bahan organik terdiri dari : B1 =  50 g / polybag, B2 = 100 g / polybag dan B3 = 150 g / polybag. Data hasil pengamatan dianalisis sidik ragamnya, jika terdapat perbedaan yang nyata dimana F hitung P lebih besar dari F tabel 5%, dilanjutkan dengan uji lanjut Duncan’s New Multiple Range Test (DNMRT) pada taraf nyata 5 %. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian yang telah dilakukan dapat disimpulkan bahwa tidak terjadi interaksi antara perlakuan jenis bahan organik dan dosis bahan organik. Jenis bahan organik kompos rumputan memberikan pengaruh rata-rata tinggi tanaman paling tinggi yaitu 19,16 cm. Dosis bahan organik 150 g/polybag memberikan pengaruh rata-rata tertinggi pada seluruh parameter pengamatan, yaitu : tinggi tanaman, jumlah daun, lebar daun, panjang daun, diameter batang dan panjang akar.
S5. Comunicación orientada por la problemática social compleja: San Pedro y Mezcala comunicantes
Authors: Muñoz Acosta Hernán
Published: October 2024

La estrategia de comunicación se puso en marcha desde el inicio del proyecto hasta la presentación de resultados, lo cual implicó una ruptura con formas convencionales de realizar comunicación pública de proyectos de investigación. Las estrategias de divulgación tradicionales, en las que primero se realiza el trabajo estrictamente investigativo y posteriormente se dan a conocer los hallazgos a una población determinada, se dejan de lado en favor de una estrategia que acompaña a diversos destinatarios de la producción de conocimiento durante diferentes fases del proyecto. Esto es resultado de la adopción de una perspectiva de que considera el papel del comunicador como mediador cultural (Herrera–Lima, 2020), en la que tanto el grupo de trabajo de académicos como las organizaciones aliadas y los colaboradores emprenden un proceso de construcción conjunto de conocimiento, se parte de la premisa de que no se puede elaborar una estrategia de comunicación sin que todos los grupos que participan estén activamente involucrados en definir los objetivos y participen de la creación de contenidos, al mismo tiempo que conozcan y retroalimenten los productos que resulten de este proceso.
S3.C1 Las complejidades del Lago Chapala: características, importancia, gobernanza y retos futuros
Authors: Juárez Aguilar Alejandro , López Gómez Liliana
Published: October 2024

El Lago Chapala es el más grande de México y uno de los mayores de América Latina. En la cuenca Lerma–Chapala, de la que forma parte, habitan más de 20 millones de personas y se concentra una parte sustantiva de las actividades agrícolas e industriales del país, lo que, aunado a que dos de las más grandes ciudades de México son usuarias del agua de esta cuenca (la Ciudad de México y Guadalajara) ha generado una fuerte presión sobre sus ecosistemas, principalmente sobre el agua disponible.
S3.C4 El contexto de las comunidades. Demografía, pobreza multidimensional, abastecimiento y cuidado del agua
Authors: Peralta Varela Carlos Armando , Verduzco Espinosa Agustín
Published: October 2024

Con la finalidad de dar cuenta de la situación socioeconómica de las comunidades estudiadas y del municipio donde se encuentran ubicadas, se presentan datos sobre la composición de la población y tres indicadores de carencias sociales que componen el grado de pobreza multidimensional en el que se encuentran. Los indicadores que se tomaron en cuenta son rezago educativo, vivienda y acceso a la salud, que se consideran los más relevantes para el objetivo de la presente investigación.
Eco-morphological notes on the sarmatian rat snake, Elaphe sauromates (Pallas, 1814) (Reptilia Serpentes Colubridae), from Greek Thrace
Authors: Cattaneo Augusto
Published: October 2024

This paper aims to provide original information on the eco-morphology of Sarmatian rat snake, Elaphe sauromates (Pallas, 1814) (Reptilia Serpentes Colubridae), which inhabits Greek Thrace. To this end, research was conducted in May, from 2013 to 2017, along the coastline of north-eastern Greece. Regarding morphology, numerous data on size (of both juveniles and adults), pholidosis (head, trunk and tail) and color development are provided. The absence of E. sauromates on the arid Aegean Islands underscores its reliance on high humidity conditions for survival, a trait further evident in the various environments it frequents on the continent. The trophic spectrum of E. sauromates primarily consists of birds (mostly nestlings) and their eggs, as also evidenced by the structure of its cervical tract; similar dietary tendencies appear to be present in its sister species, E. quatuorlineata. As for its reproductive cycle, three females were followed from copulation to oviposition; four of the offspring (2 males, 2 females) were reared until sexual maturity, and variations in length, weight and habitus were recorded annually. Information is also provided on behavior, predators, parasites and conservation problems. Finally, the three species of the group E. sauromates (s.l.), E. sauromates, E. urartica, E. druzei are compared, with comments on cryptic species.
Presence of Caretta caretta (Linnaeus, 1758) (Reptilia Cheloniidae) on Lampedusa island (Pelagie Islands, Sicily Channel): update on the 2022 and 2023 nesting seasons and on conservation measures
Authors: Prazzi Elena , Billeci Vincenzo , Maraventano Giuseppe , Sorrentino Gerry , Dimarca Angelo , Casamento Giulia
Published: October 2024

During 2022 and 2023 a total of 22 nests of Caretta caretta (Linnaeus, 1758) (Reptilia Cheloniidae) were laid on Lampedusa island. Ovipositions interested 5 different beaches of the island, with the discovery of two new oviposition sites (Cala Spugne and Portu Ntoni). The 16 nests monitored in 2023 represent the highest number of oviposition ever recorded in Lampedusa. For the first time on Lampedusa, nests laid in Cala Spugne and at high risk of inundation have been relocated to Conigli beach, within the Nature Reserve “Isola di Lampedusa”. This practice, together with other conservation measures implemented on the beaches outside the protected area, permitted to protect nests and newborns in sites also affected by pressures connected with mass tourism. Otherwise, the strengthening of the use regulation on Conigli beach, with the introduction of a limit on number of visitors, has further increased the level of environmental protection, thus representing a model to be proposed on the other beaches of Lampedusa outside the Nature Reserve.
On two fossils bivalve (Mollusca Bivalvia) from Lower Piacenzian of Spain with description of a new species
Authors: Brunetti Mauro M. , Della Bella Giano
Published: October 2024

The study of fossil molluscs from the Lower Piacenzian of Spain has allowed us to discover a new species of bivalve belonging to the family Limidae: Acesta (s.l.) plioiberica n. sp. which is here illustrated and discussed. Another taxon, found both in the Spanish and Italian Pliocene and previously described as Saxicava arctica var. crassomagna Sacco, 1901, is here considered as a valid species with the name of Hiatella crassomagna.
New taxa of the genus Carabus Linnaeus, 1758 of Southern Sichuan Province, China
Authors: Rapuzzi Ivan
Published: October 2024

In this paper, four new subspecies of Carabus Linnaeus, 1758 (Coleoptera Carabidae) from South Sichuan province (China) are described and figured: C. (Acoptopterus) rautenstrauchi alberti n. subsp., C. (Pseudocoptolabrus) taliensis shanlenggang n. subsp., C. (Pseudocoptolabrus) taliensis butuoensis n. subsp., and C. (Coptolabrus) gemmifer rectipustulatus n. subsp.
The Brown Rat Rattus norvegicus Berkenhout, 1769 (Mammalia Rodentia) in Fourni Island (North Aegean, Greece)
Authors: Grano Mauro
Published: October 2024

The presence of the brown rat Rattus norvegicus Berkenhout, 1769 (Mammalia Rodentia) in the North Aegean island of Fourni is reported here for the first time.
NFTs at the Nexus of Innovation and Sustainability: A Framework Aligning NFT Affordances with the Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Yuthas Kristi
Published: October 2024

The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are goals associated with the most significant global issues, which include climate, health, security, and poverty. The goals are part of an agenda for making progress on environmental, social, and economic issues while ensuring peace and leaving no one behind. Meeting these goals requires effort and innovation on all fronts, including technology. Information and communication technologies have long contributed to these efforts, and more recently, blockchain for good projects have begun to bear fruit. Non-fungible tokens (NFTs), which are, in essence, certificates of ownership stored on a blockchain, can also contribute to sustainable development. However, to this point, they have been underutilised. NFTs have inherent capabilities that can make them ideally suited to contribute towards the SDGs. Their unique capacity to validate ownership, identity, claims, and history of events makes them valuable for a variety of purposes. To date, NFTs have been employed primarily for trading digital assets such as collectibles, in-game items, digital art, and event tickets. However, their affordances—the actionable properties NFTs offer to users—make them suitable for use in ways that can significantly affect the health and well-being of humans and the planet. This article provides a framework for linking NFT affordances with the SDGs and examples of how NFT use cases are addressing, or could address, these urgent global needs.
Investigación desde la experiencia de maestros en educación infantil
Authors: Acuña Gil Maritza , Leal Leal Gisela Alexandra
Published: October 2024

Introducción: La investigación es esencial en la práctica pedagógica para desarrollar currículos que respondan a las necesidades formativas en la educación infantil. Este estudio subraya la importancia de que los educadores infantiles reflexionen sobre sus acciones en el proceso educativo, considerando dinámicas como migración y necesidades educativas en contextos de diversidad. Metodología: Utilizando el método de Investigación Acción Participativa, se realizaron entrevistas y análisis documentales en dos establecimientos educativos públicos de Norte de Santander, con un total de participación de 36 docentes de educación infantil. Resultados: se revela la necesidad de competencias específicas en investigación educativa. Además, emerge la importancia de estrategias innovadoras en la enseñanza de la lectura y la sistematización de prácticas pedagógicas para su evaluación continua. Discusión: las habilidades emocionales y disciplinares son cruciales para la motivación en investigación y aprendizaje, el currículo debe ser dinámico, promoviendo un enfoque investigativo en la educación. Conclusiones: estos hallazgos resaltan la necesidad de una formación docente crítica que supere los enfoques tradicionales, y que se fundamente en perspectivas socioculturales, territoriales y contextualizadas.
Emerging small modular nuclear power reactors
Authors:   Department of Electrical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Damayanthi T.
Published: October 2024

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are advanced nuclear reactors with a typical electrical output up to 300 MWe per unit and can produce 7.2 GWh per day, which is about one-third of the capacity of traditional nuclear power reactors. There is an emerging interest on SMRs and their applications among many nuclear power member countries as a potentially viable nuclear option since it is an environmentally friendly carbon free solution to contribute in mitigating the climate change. SMR reactors are designed as a single or multimodule plant incorporating advanced safety features to minimize potential accident risks. They are under deployment for all principal reactor technology types such as water-cooled reactors, high temperature gas-cooled reactors, liquid metal-cooled fast neutron spectrum reactors, molten salt reactors, and microreactors (capacity <10 MWe). The main factors driving the development of SMRs include the demand for flexible power generation for diverse users and applications, the need to replace ageing fossil-fuel units, upgrading the safety performance, and enhanced economic affordability.
Nurturing academic excellence: a comprehensive perspective on my PhD journey at the university of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka
Authors:   Department of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Agha Shah A
Published: October 2024

I am an architect by profession and an academic involved in teaching at the University of Bahrain, a small island in the Arabian Gulf. Originally from Pakistan and living in Bahrain, flying over Sri Lanka for a decade has pushed me to land on Sri Lankan soil to pursue the most significant academic journey I have ever undertaken. This is even though I did my Masters in the UK and I have travelled to many places across the world. Embarking on a PhD in Heritage and Architecture at the University of Moratuwa was not on my life’s agenda until recently. However, it has so happened that I have made the right choice in arriving here. Dr. Ranjith Dayaratne’s guidance, my mentor at the University of Bahrain, under whose supervision I also investigated various research methodologies, was perhaps instrumental in my decision to study at the University of Moratuwa and shaped my educational path.
A THERAPIST-DENTIST PERSPECTIVE ON THE ROLE OF CYTOKINE CHANGES IN THE PATHOGENESIS OF PERIODONTAL DISEASE IN YOUNG PERSONS
Authors: Hasiuk N.V. , Misterman I.P. , Radchuk V.B. , Bozhik S.S.
Published: October 2024

The issue of expanding the understanding of the aetiology and pathogenesis of periodontal diseases is a pertinent one, and one that is frequently requested by the dental community, comprising professionals with a range of specialisations. A significant number of works from this direction show that in the etiology and pathogenesis of pathological processes of the periodontium, a significant role belongs to the microbial factor, in particular to representatives of the saprophytic and conditionally pathogenic microflora. In response to bacterial peptidoglycans, epithelial cells of the oral cavity synthesize a number of cytokines, which are a component of natural immunity.
The purpose of the study is to analyze modern perspectives on the etiology and pathogenesis of periodontal diseases in young people and to highlight the role of cytokine changes.
Materials and methods. Review and analysis of scientific and medical literature is based on databases Scopus, Web of Science, MedLine, PubMed, NCBI, the study of which does not exceed 5-7 years, including literature reviews and results of clinical studies.
Research results. According to the results of the monitoring, it was found that the majority of works in the literature is devoted to the polymorphism of IL-1 family genes, since this pro-inflammatory cytokine plays a major role in the initiation and maintenance of the inflammatory response, the implementation of the entire complex of protective reactions of the body. At the same time, the issue of cytokine parallels between the level of the latter in peripheral and oral fluid remains relevant. Determining these parallels will make it possible to develop and justify high-quality preventive measures and complexes of early diagnosis of periodontal diseases in young patients, which will complement the range of preventive and diagnostic measures.
CURRENT PRINCIPLES OF NON-INVASIVE TREATMENT OF DENTIN HYPERSENSITIVITY (PART 1)
Authors: Hurzhii O.V. , Skrypnikova T.P. , Kulai O.O. , Khmil T.A. , Pysarenko O.A. , Tymoshenko Yu.V. , Prykhodchenko S.V.
Published: October 2024

Dentin hypersensitivity (DH) is prevalent among the global population, affecting between 8% and 57%, with an average of 33.5%, thereby reducing the quality of life due to discomfort and pain. Despite DH being a widespread issue, there are no universally accepted guidelines for choosing reliable treatment methods. As the number of products designed to reduce dentin sensitivity increases, it becomes more challenging for dentists to make the informed choice. This literature review aims to explain the mechanisms of action and the sequence of use of contemporary dentin desensitization agents available on the market.
Purpose. To provide the overview and discuss current principles and technical approaches to the treatment of DH in dental practice, with particular emphasis on hygiene products aimed at reducing nerve ending sensitivity and occluding dentin tubules.
Materials and Methods. The literature search on DH treatment was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar databases. Keywords used in the search included “dentin hypersensitivity”, “dentin hypersensitivity treatment” and “dentin hypersensitivity prevention”. The articles included in this review were published between 2019 and 2024, with full-text availability in English. Some references published earlier were also cited based on their relevance to DH treatment.
Conclusions. There are various potential causes of DH and available treatment options. Each patient should be provided with an individualized plan, beginning with non-invasive treatment options. Therefore, communication between the doctor and the patient regarding rational hygiene practices, behavior modification, and the effectiveness of individual hygiene products is crucial for the successful treatment of this condition.
Prospects for further research. The clinical significance of this review lies in the necessity of uncovering the dental and medical history of the patient, as well as identifying active etiological factors of DH, if possible, at the beginning of treatment. The results obtained will contribute to the correct choice of individual hygiene products and the provision of quality dental care to patients.
CURRENT PRINCIPLES OF NON-INVASIVE TREATMENT OF DENTIN HYPERSENSITIVITY (PART 2)
Authors: Hurzhii O.V. , Skrypnikova T.P. , Kulai O.O. , Khmil T.A. , Tymoshenko Yu.V. , Prykhodchenko S.V. , Dubyna V.O.
Published: October 2024

The study of dental status has shown that over the past 20 years, visits related to dentin hypersensitivity (DH) in Western European countries have increased by 35%, and in the USA by 42%. The prevalence of DH varies widely across the world, from 20.6% in India to 41.9% in China, affecting more women than men, and more young people than the elderly. Among patients with periodontal diseases, dentin sensitivity occurs in 61–98% of cases. Research conducted in the United Kingdom and Jordan confirmed that the prevalence of DH is particularly high in patients with periodontal diseases, and is facilitated by excessive tooth brushing, tartar removal, root planing and wear due to parafunctional habits. Studies in Germany emphasized that the treatment of DH should not be underestimated, as the pain caused by DH significantly reduces patients’ quality of life.
Purpose: to review and discuss the current principles and technical approaches to reducing dentin hypersensitivity in dental practice, with particular attention to hygiene products for occluding dentinal tubules.
Conclusions. The use of toothpaste is considered the most economical method of desensitizing hypersensitive dentin. Numerous products have been developed for this condition, but currently, there is no single ideal product that can fully resolve the problem. The analysis of the reviewed publications can provide information and suggest solutions for a better understanding of the action mechanisms and the selection of hygiene products for desensitization in DH.
Prospects for further research. The analysis of conducted studies indicates the effectiveness of desensitizing toothpastes in the treatment of DH. However, this issue also has another direction influenced by the age of patients, comorbidities, the condition of oral tissues, environmental factors (fluoride content in drinking water), the presence of industrial enterprises and others. Numerous accompanying factors contribute to the necessity of choosing personalized hygiene products.
STUDY OF THE INTENSITY OF THE LIGHT FLOW OF DENTAL PHOTOPOLYMERIZERS
Authors: Udod O.A. , Alihadzhyieva H.M. , Talanov V.M.
Published: October 2024

Relevance. During the direct restoration of teeth with light-curing composites, it is important to irradiate them from the minimum distance to ensure a sufficient amount of light energy for curing, but this is not always achievable.
Objective. To study the dynamics of light intensity from light-curing units with different light sources at varying distances from the photoreceptor under laboratory conditions.
Materials and Methods. Using a laboratory setup, the dynamics of the light output intensity of two halogen and three LED light-curing units were studied at varying distances from the photoreceptor. The results were presented as a percentage of the initial intensity.
Results. The initial light intensity of the first halogen light-curing unit was 510.5±7.8 mW/cm², and the second was 842.7±11.2 mW/cm². As the distance to the photoreceptor increased to 2.0 mm, the light intensity of the first device was 87.3±1.3% of the initial value, and the second was 91.5±1.6%. At a distance of 5.0 mm, the values were 72.8±1.4% and 79.3±1.8%, and at 10.0 mm, they were 53.5±1.1% and 62.6±1.3%, respectively. The initial intensity of the first LED light-curing unit was 1023.4±12.7 mW/cm², the second was 1239.8±14.3 mW/cm², and the third was 1415.7±13.9 mW/cm². At a distance of 2.0 mm from the photoreceptor, the light intensity of the first device was 95.8±1.9%, the second was 97.4±1.4%, and the third was 98.1±1.4%. At a distance of 5.0 mm, the values were 88.3±1.3%, 91.7±1.5%, and 95.2±1.4%, and at 10.0 mm, they were 81.3±1.1%, 84.2±1.2%, and 89.1±1.4%, respectively. The high performance of the LED devices is attributed to the use of a constant intensity light output, but in clinical practice, a "soft start" mode with lower initial values is often used, meaning that the amount of light energy may approach a critical level for initiating complete curing.
Conclusions. To maintain a sufficient amount of light energy in each clinical situation, an analytical assessment is necessary to ensure optimal irradiation conditions for light-curing materials using light-curing units with different intensities and modes.
EVALUATION OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF DRY NEEDLING IN REDUCING MYOFASCIAL PAIN ASSOCIATED WITH TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT DISORDERS
Authors: Davydenko V.V.
Published: October 2024

Background. The high prevalence of temporomandibular joint disorders, which, according to various sources, ranges from 7% to 30%, necessitates to develop and implement effective minimally invasive treatment methods. Myofascial pain often accompanies temporomandibular joint disorders. In dental practice, myofascial pain primarily arises from hypertonicity of the masticatory and facial muscles, often linked to bite pathology, a history of bruxism, and other related factors.
According to sociological studies, myofascial pain is one of the most common reasons patients seek medical care, placing a significant burden on the healthcare system. The primary goal of treating this condition is to eliminate or reduce clinical symptoms, with pain being the most prominent. Today, a promising method for treating myofascial syndrome caused by temporomandibular joint disorders is dry needling. This technique involves inserting a needle into myofascial trigger points, which are areas of muscle fibers in a state of hypertonicity.
Aim. To evaluate the effectiveness of the dry needling method on reducing myofascial pain in patients with temporomandibular joint disorders.
Materials and methods. 44 patients participated in the study. Patients were randomly divided equally
into control and experimental groups. The experimental group received the technique of deep puncture of trigger points. The control group underwent a simulated intervention. The parameters for assessing the effectiveness of treatment were VAS scores and quantification of trigger points. Treatment effectiveness was assessed before treatment and 14 days after the puncture.
Results. The study showed a decrease in VAS scores in the experimental group by 63.51% and in the control group by 25.71% compared to the pre-treatment level. The number of trigger points in the experimental group decreased by 57.09%, while in the control group by 1.31% compared to the data before the treatment.
Conclusions. The dry needling method has shown clinical efficacy in reducing pain and the number of trigger points in the short term for patients with temporomandibular joint disorders.