bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Upaya Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar Matematika melalui Model Pembelajaran Kooperatif Jigzaw di kelas IX-A SMP Negeri 3 Kesugihan
Authors: Suprapti Suprapti
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study is to improve the learning outcomes of students in mathematics subjects on the material of building curved side space through the Jigzaw cooperative learning model in grade IX SMP Negeri 3 Kesugihan Cilacap Regency. One of the efforts to improve learning outcomes is through the learning process using the Jigzaw cooperative learning model. The method used is the Kemmis and Mc Taggart model Classroom Action Research methods which consist of two cycles. This research was conducted from September 2020 to October 2020 in class IX-A SMP Negeri 3 Kesugihn Kab. Cilacap. The indicators of learning outcomes achieved in siculus I are the completeness of student learning reaching 71.8% with an average value of 71.8 and in cycle II the completeness of student learning reaches 100% with an average value of 96.61. This is supported by the average value of student activity which always increases in each cycle, namely in cycle I it reaches 71.8% and cycle II reaches 100%. Thus, it can be concluded that Jigzaw's cooperative learning model can improve student learning outcomes on the material to build curved side spaces.
EFEKTIVITAS PERTEMUAN DARING MENGGUNAKAN ZOOM, GOOGLE MEET DAN MICROSOFT TEAMS UNTUK MENINGKATKAN KINERJA KARYAWAN
Authors: Prameswary Hanalia , Safuan Safuan , Alkadhim Alhabshy Musa
Published: February 2024

Perkembangan teknologi memudahkan manusia dalam menjalankan beragam aktivitasnya, salah satu hasil nyatanya yaitu aplikasi atau web yang memungkinkan untuk melaksanakan pertemuan dalam jaringan diantaranya yakni Zoom, Google Meet, dan Microsoft Teams. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui efektivitas pertemuan dalam jaringan menggunakan Zoom, Google Meet, dan Microsoft Teams untuk meningkatkan kinerja karyawan. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian kualitatif dengan pendekatan deskriptif. Teknik pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan mengeksplorasi jurnal, buku dan informasi lain yang relevan dengan kajian. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa Zoom, Google Meet, dan Microsoft Teams dinilai efektif untuk meningkatkan kinerja karyawan karena fleksibel, efisien, memudahkan koordinasi, pemantauan dan evaluasi kerja yang dinilai dari kualitas kerja, kuantitas, ketepatan waktu, efektifitas, kemandirian karyawan
Strategi Marketing dalam Bisnis Recovery Batik Komar di Era New Normal
Authors: Tetra Arrahmansah , Zalfiana Effy
Published: February 2024

Krisis pandemi COVID-19 secara mendasar berdampak pada siklus perekonomian dunia usaha, khususnya bagi UMKM. Sebagai sebuah usaha bisnis, UMKM harus mempunyai strategi khusus untuk pemulihan usahanya. Metode penelitian yang digunakan penulis dalam penelitian ini adalah menggunakan metode penelitian kualitatif. Dengan menggunakan Studi Kasus Batik Komar, penelitian ini bertujuan untuk membahas strategi pemasaran UMKM Batik Komar dalam pemulihan usaha di era new normal. Penelitian ini menggunakan wawancara mendalam, dokumentasi, dan observasi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa strategi yang digunakan Batik Komar sangat kompleks. Ini berfokus pada inovasi, personal branding, dan konten digital. Batik Komar berhasil meningkatkan omzetnya di era new normal. Terdapat delapan (8) strategi yang dilakukan yaitu identifikasi segmentasi pasar, positioning produk, riset pasar, bauran pemasaran, IMC, pemasaran berbasis nilai (inovasi), pemasaran berbasis hubungan (personal branding), dan pemasaran digital.
Antara Keadilan dan Etika Politik: Mahkamah Konstitusi dan Batas Usia Calon Presiden dalam Perspektif Aksiolog
Authors: Viedini Alya Ghina , Rahmasari Cikita Alodia , Kurniawan Sarah Shafira
Published: February 2024

Almas TsaqibBirru, seorang lulusan S1 Fakultas Hukum dari Universitas Surakarta, mengajukan gugatan ke Mahkamah Konstitusi (MK) untuk menantang validitas konstitusional Pasal 169 huruf q yang menetapkan batas minimal usia calon presiden dan wakil presiden. Setelah beberapa peristiwa, MK akhirnya mengabulkan permohonan Almas TsaqibBirru dan membatalkan Pasal 169 huruf q. Namun, keputusan ini menuai kontroversi dan pertanyaan dari masyarakat terkait konsistensi dan transparansi MK. Beberapa pihak juga mencurigai adanya hubungan kekeluargaan antara ketua MK dan salah satu calon wakil presiden yang saat ini menjabat sebagai Walikota Kota Solo. Keputusan MK ini memunculkan pertanyaan etis mengenai pembatasan usia dan inklusivitas dalam partisipasi politik. Meskipun keputusan MK membuka peluang bagi kepala daerah di bawah usia 40 tahun untuk mencalonkan diri sebagai presiden atau wakil presiden, tetapi keputusan ini juga menimbulkan keraguan di masyarakat terhadap independensi dan kredibilitas MK. Artikel ini membahas tentang peran Mahkamah Konstitusi dalam menentukan batas usia calon presiden dalam perspektif aksiologi. Penulis menyatakan bahwa keputusan MK terkait batas usia calon presiden mencerminkan perenungan mendalam terhadap nilai-nilai keadilan dalam partisipasi politik. Artikel juga membahas kontroversi seputar batas usia calon presiden dan keputusan MK terkait hal tersebut
Peningkatan Peran Sultan Dalam Politik Lokal: Studi Kasus Peran Sultan Tidore dalam Proses Pengambilan Kebijakan Kawasan Khusus Ibukota Sofifi di Provinsi Maluku Utara
Authors: Fikri Samson M Sahrul , Hidayat Syahrul
Published: February 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis dan mengidentifikasi mengenai peningkatan peran sultan di era demokrasi dalam konteks membangun peran dalam masyarakat serta peranya seabagai pemimpin informal dalam memengaruhi institusi formal. Pendekatan yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah pendekatan kualitatif. Pendekatan kualitatif dipilih dalam penelitian ini karena mampu mengeksplorasi secara mendalam dan detail mengenai sebuah fenomena sosial dan masalah manusia. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukan bahwa dalam meningkatkan perannya Sultan Husain Syah lebih menekan pada peran simbolik untuk membangun citra positif dalam masyarakat. Peningkatan peran tersebut yang kemudian membutnya dapat memengaruhi peran institusi formal dengan dominasi peran dan gagasannya dalam sebuah proses pengeambilan kebijakan. Dalam hal ini adalah proses pengambilan kebijakan Kawasan Khusus Ibukota Sofifi di Provinsi Maluku Utara
PEMBERDAYAAN TOGA DESA GUNUNG SARI PAMIJAHAN: PENCEGAHAN STUNTING MENUJU GENERASI EMAS 2045 INDONESIA
Authors: Finotory Swandiy Greesty , Syamsudin Syamsudin , Qodriah Rahmatul
Published: February 2024

Fokus kegiatan Pemberdayaan Berbasis Masyarakat (PBM) ini sesuai dengan rencana induk penelitian dan pengabdian masyarakat Universitas Pancasila (UP) sebagai pusat pendidikan, riset dan inovasi yang mendukung pengembangan IPTEKS, daya saing UKM serta masyarakat dengan fokus penelitian unggulan UP di bidang kesehatan: obat-obatan dan produk kesehatan dari bahan alam. Kegiatan ini menghasilkan luaran yang bisa berkontribusi pada penyelesaian kemandirian nasional bahan baku obat alam asli Indonesia dalam rangka mendukung pencegahan stunting menuju generasi emas 2045 di Indonesia. Dalam hal ini membantu masyarakat di lingkungan Desa Gunung Sari, Kec. Pamijahan, Kab. Bogor yang mayoritas pekerjaan utama adalah petani dan buruh tani, masih perlu pengembangan kegiatan bermanfaat sehingga dapat membantu perekonomian secara mandiri dengan mengelola Tanaman Obat Keluarga (TOGA) yang sudah lebih dahulu dilakukan pada tingkat Universitas Pancasila dengan adanya edukasi mengenai pembuatan jamu yang dapat dijadikan produk mandiri unggulan. Kegiatan lanjutan yang dapat dilaksanakan adalah dalam hal menurunkan dan mencegah stunting secara dini yang dapat dimulai dari tingkat desa, kelompok masyarakat dapat mengolah olahan berbahan dasar alam lokal yang berkhasiat membantu meningkatkan nilai gizi. Letak desa cukup potensi tinggi meningkatkan nilai ekonomi karena merupakan kawasan wisata alam yang dapat membantu perekonomian masyarakat apabila memiliki pengelolaan TOGA mandiri dan produk jamu atau olahan berbahan dasar alam yang dapat dijual di sekitar kawasan wisata. Kegiatan PBM membantu kelompok tani untuk dapat mengelola TOGA mandiri dengan melakukan pemberdayaan dalam memanfaatkan lahan pekarangan sebagai basis ekonomi yang dapat dikembangkan baik skala lokal, regional maupun nasional ke depannya. Tahapan berikutnya adalah upaya pembuatan jamu serta olahan lain yang dapat diproduksi sehingga dapat membentuk unit usaha kecil masyarakat. a) Luaran wajib : Terbentuknya kelompok tani yang mengelola TOGA, terciptanya lahan pekarangan yang dimanfaatkan untuk menanam tanaman berkhasiat obat khususnya pencegahan stunting, satu artikel ilmiah yang dipublikasikan melalui jurnal ber-ISSN, satu artikel publikasi pada media massa elektronik, dan video kegiatan. b) Luaran tambahan : Buku ber-ISBN
EXPLORING THE ATTRIBUTES OF HIGH-PERFORMANCE OF A TEAM LEADER IN BUSINESS PROCESS OUTSOURCING
Authors: Villarba Lyneth , Moyon Christian Paul
Published: February 2024

The purpose of the study was to develop the best-fit model for exploring the attributes of a high-performing inbound team leader in Business Process Outsourcing in Davao City. The study utilized the exploratory mixed method approach following a two-phase study design. The first phase of the study was to identify dimensions using exploratory factor analysis, which items were based on the in-depth interview before item identification. The identified dimensions were established call calibration mechanism, value-driven, sense of accountability and trust, sense of recognition, innovation, and quality-directed leader. Data results were subjected to principal component analysis to determine factor structure that excludes 22 out of 50 items that did not pass the standard factor loadings of +/- 0.40. The second phase employed confirmatory factor analysis by purposively selecting 450 inbound call center representatives. Furthermore, the study tested three confirmatory configurations. Model number 4, recognized as the best-fit model that illuminates all identified factors, was significantly correlated and explained 68.40 percent of the variation of a high-performing inbound team leader.
 

 Article visualizations:
Patterns of changes in the yield and quality of sugar beet roots under the application of measures increasing tolerance to water deficit in the Right Bank Forest Steppe of Ukraine
Authors: Prysiazhniuk O. I. , Zaryshniak A. S. , Kostyna T. P. , Sinchenko V. M. , Muzyka O. V. , Svystunova I. V. , Slobodianiuk V. V. , Borysenko B. M. , Lukianchuk O. V. , Kalatur K. A.
Published: February 2024

Purpose. To establish the yield and quality patterns of sugar beet under the application of measures to increase plant tolerance to water deficit in the conditions of unstable soil water content in the Right Bank Forest Steppe of Ukraine.
Methods. Field experiment was carried out in the zone of unstable soil water content in the Right Bank Forest Steppe of Ukraine at the experimental field of the Institute of Bioenergy Crops and Sugar Beet of the National Academy of Agrarian Sciences of Ukraine (50.023194, 30.173895) in 2014–2018.
Results. Weather conditions during the years of research varied, and the greatest need of sugar beet plants for water was observed in the period from the closing of the leaves in the row to the closing of the leaves between rows. At the stage of canopy closure (BBCH 30), the lowest soil water content was in the 0–50 cm soil layer in 2017, and the highest in 2014. The rest of the years had close to average indicators of the water content in soil. The use of moisture-retaining polymer provided additional 5 mm soil water accumulation the upper soil layers.
Conclusions. The most effective agronomic measure was the use of Aquasorb moisture-retaining polymer, which contributed to an increase in the root yield by 12.47%. In general, the highest indicators of the root yield and sugar yield at factory were obtained with the combined application of moisture-retaining polymers Aquasorb (300 kg/ha), concentrate of soil bacteria Mirazonit (20 l/ha), growth regulator Kelpak SC (2 l/ha BBCH14 + 4 l/ha BBCH 18) and microfertiliser Alpha-Grow-Extra Beetroot (3 l/ha BBCH 18) – 79.0 t/ha and 15.95%, respectively. With the application of micro-fertiliser Micro-Mineralis (Beets) (1.5 l/ha BBCH 18), these indicators were 78.9 t/ha and 15.96%, respectively. This indicates that the mineral nutrition of sugar beets remained at the optimal level, ensuring obtaining of high-quality roots.
Bruno Latour et la théologie
Authors: Kraege Jean-Denis
Published: February 2024

La théologie a de tous temps eu des problèmes avec l’anthropologie au sens de la définition de ce qu’il faut entendre par « être humain ». Bruno Latour a tenté de développer une « anthropologie des modernes ». Il se pourrait donc que Latour apporte quelques lumières à la théologie, d’autant qu’il s’affichait chrétien et n’a pas rechigné à intégrer à son anthropologie le « mode d’existence religieux ». L’anthropologie de Latour juxtapose 15 modes d’existence qui se croisent selon des modalités qui excluent la possibilité pour l’un d’eux de devenir dominant sous peine de sombrer dans ce qu’il appelle le « fondamentalisme ». Cette exigence pose problème au théologien. Celui-ci affirme, en effet, que notre relation à Dieu représente un fondement pour toute authentique compréhension de soi. L’anthropologie empiriste de Latour est-elle donc compatible avec la théologie et donc informative pour elle ? Et à quelles conditions ?
POTENSI PASAR MODAL SYARIAH DI INDONESIA
Authors: Irawan Heri , Wahid St. Hadijah , Sani Chaerul , Muhaemin Nabir Abd.
Published: February 2024

Pembahasan dalam ilmu fiqih, yaitu hubungan diantara sesama manusia terkait perniagaan semua bentuk muamalah boleh dilakukan kecuali ada dalil yang mengharamkannya. Konsep inilah yang menjadi prinsip pasar modal syariah di Indonesia Artikel ini membahas mengenai perkembangan dan  Potensi Pasar Modal Syariah di Indonesia. Dengan rumusan masalah bagaimana potensi dan perkembangan pasar modal syariah Sebagaimana yang diketahui pasar modal syariah adalah pasar modal yang seluruh mekanisme kegiatannya terutama mengenai emiten, jenis efek yang diperdagangkan dan mekanisme perdagangannya telah sesuai dengan prinsip-prinsip syariah. Efek syariah yang dimaksud adalah efek sebagaimana dimaksud dalam peraturan perundang-undangan di bidang pasar modal yang akad, pengelolaan perusahaan, maupun cara penerbitannya memenuhi prinsip-prinsip syariah. Sedangkan prinsip-prinsip syariah adalah prinsip yang didasarkan oleh syariah ajaran Islam yang penetapanya dilakukan oleh DSN-MUI melalui fatwa.  Potensi pasar modal syariah di Indonesia cukup menjanjikan sebagai wadah dalam investasi dan pasar modal syariah relatif lebih memiliki ketahanan terhadap krisis.
Pengaruh Kepercayaan Merek pada Loyalitas yang Dimediasi oleh Keyakinan pada Atribut Produk Donat
Authors: Nurul Aini Widiyastuti  , Anton Agus Setyawan
Published: February 2024

This research aims to determine the influence of consumer trust and product attributes on loyalty which is mediated by trust in donut consumers. Consumers' assessment of the extent to which their needs and desires are met by the product. Donuts are easy to find in cake shops, malls, restaurants or even the donut shop itself. This phenomenon is characterized by the increasing number of donut brands available, so that consumers are faced with a variety of brand choices such as Dunkin' Donuts, J.CO Donut, Abata Donut, and Donut Boys. In this research, consumer trust, brand attributes (x), brand loyalty (y), and brand trust (z) are used. The sample size consisted of 200 respondents from the public who had purchased one of the Dunkin' Donuts brands, J.Co Donuts, Abata Donuts, or Boys Donuts. This research applies quantitative methods by distributing Google Forms which are distributed via platforms on social media. The findings from this SmartPLS analysis show that brand attributes have a positive impact on increasing brand trust, consumer trust has a positive impact on brand trust, and brand trust has a positive impact on brand loyalty.
The Nexus between Supplier Selection Practices and Procurement Function Performance: A Kenyan Public Universities Perspective
Authors: Musyoka Festus , Namusonge Gregory , Musau Enock
Published: February 2024

Purpose: This study aimed to unveil how supplier assessment and governance influenced procurement function performance.

Methodology: The study employed a post-positivist research philosophy and a causal-comparative design. The study used multi-stage sampling to arrive at the sample of respondents of 93 procurement officers. Quantitative data was collected through self-designed structured questionnaires and analyzed using Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS version 27). Demographically, the study included predominantly experienced, educated male and female professionals.

Findings: The findings of the study revealed that supplier selection significantly and positively impacted procurement function performance. Specifically, supplier assessment exhibited a noteworthy positive effect on procurement function performance (β = .517, p < .001), underlining the critical role of due diligence, evaluations, and appraisals among suppliers. Similarly, supplier governance demonstrated a substantial positive effect on procurement function performance (β = .310, p = .001), highlighting the significant roles of supplier selection transparency and conflict resolution mechanisms in procurement processes.

Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: This study unveiled how supplier assessment and governance influenced procurement function performance anchored in the Resource Dependence Theory (RDT), The study's results confirmed that robust supplier selection practices, grounded in supplier assessment and governance, significantly improved procurement function performance in Kenyan public universities. Strengthening supplier assessment protocols and governance mechanisms emerged as imperative for optimizing outcomes in procurement functions.
Application of CRISPR-Cas9 for the Prevention and Treatment of HIV-1 Prevention
Authors: Kim Isaac , Elliote
Published: February 2024

Human immunodeficiency virus, also known as HIV, is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system. As of today, the virus is prevalent, particularly across the United States and Sub-Saharan Africa [23]. There are treatments in place for the prevention of HIV, however, for those who are HIV/AIDS positive there’s still a long way to go in terms of developing treatments to cure the disease entirely. In this review, we will cover how CRISPR-Cas9 can be used to treat HIV-1 thereby overcoming limitations of existing treatments. For example, while highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) is used to suppress HIV’s replication process, it cannot cure HIV as it cannot target inactive HIV-1. CRISPR-Cas9 could treat latent HIV-1 infection by editing out the viral DNA in the host’s genome, removing the co-receptors of the host cell, genetically modifying HSC cells, and combining the use of CRISPR-Cas9 with “Shock and Kill.” However, while these methods of preventing and treating HIV-1 do show promise, they will need to be further developed with biological limitations in mind which will be covered in this review. In addition to biological limitations, moral and ethical concerns are present as CRISPR-Cas9 introduces designer babies with somatically edited genes, super-humans, and malignant mutations, these considerations will be covered in the discussion.
The Effect of the Underemployment of Female Filmmakers in the Industry on Aspiring Female Filmmakers ages 14-19 in South Florida
Authors: Goldfarb Sophie
Published: February 2024

The paper explores the impact of underemployment among female filmmakers on aspiring young women aged 14-19 in South Florida. By delving into the historical background of female participation in the film industry, this study highlights the persistent gender imbalance in this male-dominated field. The study aims to assess the effects of this underrepresentation on aspiring female filmmakers and determine whether it has a positive or negative impact.
A Case Study Of Perceptions Of Treatment For Breast Surgery-Induced Keloids
Authors: De Young Ella , Borger-Germann Alina
Published: February 2024

A review of the existing body of knowledge on the topic of keloids reveals that although there are numerous keloid treatments available globally, no treatment presently is specifically designed for breast surgery-induced keloids or deemed effective for keloids in general. Therefore, this research focuses on the perception of the abilities of various current keloid treatments in treating breast surgery-induced keloids. It does this by implementing a case study method containing semi-structured interviews with nine women who have breast surgery-induced keloids in North America and then a qualitative thematic analysis. All of the interviewees reported that the treatments they used resulted in no improvement for their breast surgery-induced keloids. More experimental research is needed to find if there is an effective breast surgery-induced keloid treatment already in North America, and if not, how a new treatment can be created that addresses issues with treatments available currently.
Exploring the Use of Vagal Nerve Stimulation as an Alternative to Commonly Prescribed Migraine Medicine
Authors: Veda Dhruv
Published: February 2024

Scholars often define migraine as a headache of varying intensity, often accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to light, and sound (Pescador et al., 2022; Yeh et al., 2018; Weatherall et al., 2015). Migraine is a debilitating disease that affects a sizable portion of humans. Currently, the most common method of treatment for migraines is mediation from drugs such as Ergotamines and Triptans. Although medication is a very common treatment, many alternative treatments exist. Although such medications have varying degrees of effectiveness, they  are becoming increasingly common, in part, due to their cost effectiveness and simplicity of use. The purpose of the current work is to summarize the research done on one particularly promising alternative method, namely vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) and propose avenues for further research. VNS comes in multiple forms (auricular, cervical, inserted), each of which are associated with differential levels of effectiveness in reducing migraine symptomatology. Importantly, each form of VNS is also associated with distinct drawbacks as well. The current work suggests that more research is still needed to robustly understand the optimal method of VNS for migraine treatment and how VNS interacts with other treatments  (e.g., medication). In addressing these topics, the current work seeks to construct a more robust understanding of the promise and future applications of VNS.
Progressive Supranuclear Palsy: A Review
Authors: Misra Rishima
Published: February 2024

Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) is a rare neurodegenerative disease which is caused by 4 repeat tau proteins.  PSP has a low diagnosis rate because it is underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed as other common diseases such as Parkinson’s Disease (PD). A systematic and comprehensive literature review has been conducted with evidence from various sources in the databases of PubMed, Google Scholar, and JSTOR.  A synthesis was conducted based on “Progressive Supranuclear Palsy” in etiology and differential diagnosis was conducted based on “‘Parkinson’s disease’ on the way to progressive supranuclear palsy: a review on PSP-parkinsonism.”  From the results we can see that there is a lack of research overall for PSP and it is greatly understudied. One area that needs to be focused on is the treatment for disease-modifying symptoms of PSP as mostly only PD medications are used even though both the diseases are vastly different.  A systematic literature review has been done on the topic of PSP regarding the current advances. In general, the diagnosis of PSP is lacking as there is misdiagnosis between one of the PSP subtypes, PSP-Parkinsonism (PSP-P), and PD while there is also underdiagnosis as they symptoms of PSP-Richardson’s Syndrome is seen as natural aging. The lack of early diagnosis and validated biomarkers makes it difficult to find a treatment for PSP.  With the lack of information about PSP it is imperative that systematic research needs to be done so that patients have a favorable course and better standard of living.
Maintaining High Integrity and Ethical Practices as an Investment Adviser
Authors: Mathiason Andrew , Park Dr. Soo
Published: February 2024

In finance, unethical behavior is a regular occurrence. Across History, and most notably the 2008 financial crisis, the age of risk-taking and profit maximization has been at the forefront of financial firms' and institutions' minds beyond the prioritization of integrity. Through the literature review, I researched this conversation to reveal the leading unethical practices that have arisen in the investment advisory industry. The main ethical problems include but are not limited to compensation, corporate culture, and risk-taking. In the scholarly conversation, articles bypass coming to a standard narrative that helps present a solution to these problems. Establishing my research question, “How can Investment Advisers in the United States most effectively promote ethical behavior beyond having good intentions alone?” Semi-structured interviews with six investment advisers were used to accomplish this best. Then a thematic analysis was used, with the most common themes being acting voluntarily, establishing a moral framework, and fostering knowledge through mentorship and experience. After the conversation of these themes, I present a standard narrative. From establishing the themes such as ethical obligation and knowledge, virtue ethics, an ancient philosophy coined by Aristotle in his book “The Nicomachean Ethics,” which encompasses moral and intellectual virtues, will most effectively bridge the absence of ethics in the industry. It is an advanced moral perspective young advisers usually do not have; therefore, researchers must study the role of virtue ethics in the industry and its implications.
Cartoons, Parasocial Relationships, and Social Development in Children
Authors: Adhikari Darshana
Published: February 2024

Pre-existing research on children's parasocial interactions with cartoon characters has already explored the relationship between the screen and the mind, but it has not properly explored the extent of this topic. The pandemic has opened a new view of research for many interested in exploring how likely media characters are able to influence the development of social ability within children. The present study’s aim is to identify the extent to which parasocial relationships formed with cartoon characters impact the social development of children aged 3 to 5. This paper uses a combination of surveys and interviews to accurately detail the impact of parasocial interactions on children’s behavior. Participants of this research consisted of 64 parents of varying ages who answered the questionnaire on the behalf of their young children (3-12). An additional participant was a child specialist interviewee. Results of this paper signify that younger children are more prone to forming relationships with cartoon characters, consequently adopting their behaviors more firmly. The results were partitioned into two categories, positive social development, and negative social development. It was thus concluded from this paper that parasocial relationships can facilitate both positive and negative social development with its intensity depending on how often a child interacts with their favorite character. Findings of this paper can be further used to broaden research on personality development as well as urge the education system to adopt positive cartoons to facilitate positive social development.
The Influence of Age on the Frequency of the McGurk Effect
Authors: Tina Shujin , LaLiiberty Maren , Ray Mindy
Published: February 2024

Generally, people use more than one sense simultaneously to receive information from the environment. This information is organized in the brain by a process called multisensory integration. The McGurk Effect (ME), which happens when the information received from the eyes does not correspond to the information received from the ears, is considered to be a classic example of multisensory integration. When this conflict happens, the eye dominates the brain. There are several factors that influence whether or not the ME is observed; this research examined how age affects the frequency of displaying the ME. Participants between the ages of 15 to 71 watched 10 videos containing auditory and visual stimuli. One video contained congruent stimuli and the other nine contained incongruent stimuli. After each video, participants were asked what syllable they heard.  There was a positive correlation between age and the frequency of displaying the ME (P = 0.0008). This may be due to an age-related decrease in hearing acuity, which makes older people rely more on visual stimuli.
Parental Mental Health Impacts a Child’s Well-being: Parent-focused Interventions Can Help
Authors: Michals Sienna , Reeder Kendal
Published: February 2024

Parent mental health is a crucial factor in shaping a child's overall mental health and well-being. A growing body of research suggests that parental mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety, can have a significant impact on children's mental health. Children of parents with mental health problems are more likely to experience emotional, behavioral, and developmental difficulties, which can persist into adulthood. To address this issue, parent-focused interventions have been developed to improve both the parents and the child's mental health. These interventions aim to provide support and education to parents, helping them to cope with their mental health problems and develop better parenting practices. The interventions may also provide children with a safe and supportive environment, improving their overall mental health and well-being. The literature review summarizes the current state of knowledge on the relationship between parents’ mental health and children's mental health, and the impact of parent-focused interventions. The review highlights the need for further research to fully understand the complex relationships between parents’ mental health and children's mental health, and to determine the most effective parent-focused interventions for improving both parent and child outcomes.
Media Coverage of Macular Degeneration in Countries of Different Developmental Stages
Authors: Chang Miriam
Published: February 2024

Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a chronic degenerative eye disorder that may not be well reported to the public. Current literature regarding media coverage of eye conditions tends to examine general visual impairment (ex. Tillery, 2017) instead of specific disorders such as AMD. The current research aims to examine how news media cover and frame information regarding AMD. Therefore, the researcher conducted an inductive content analysis on newspaper articles with the keyword AMD in the most circulated newspaper in three countries: The United States, Singapore, and Bangladesh. The three countries were chosen based on their varying socioeconomic status as the are categorized as developed, developing, and underdeveloped countries respectively. Results showed that the developed country reported more on treatments while the developing and developed countries reported mostly on the prevention of AMD. Writing strategies examined from all three news sites indicate episodic framing as the most prominent among all news sites and there is no difference in that aspect. Results are further analyzed, discussed, and implications were made as well.
Examining the Efficacy of Economic Sanctions in Pressuring China on Xinjiang Human Rights Violations
Authors: Zhou Sarah , Mani Kristina
Published: February 2024

This paper assesses the effectiveness of employing economic sanctions to address human rights violations in China’s Xinjiang region against the Uyghur population. By drawing from historical cases in Iraq and South Africa where economic sanctions were previously enforced to combat human rights violations, this paper will identify specific factors that contribute to the success and failure of sanctions and their implications for the Xinjiang case. For this purpose, an extensive literature review of past research and studies relating to these cases and economic sanctions as a whole was conducted to analyze the impact of various complexing factors. The findings of this paper underscore the multitude of factors that influence each case, including aspects such as the reasonability of a sanction’s goal and the level of economic interdependence between sanctioning countries. Ultimately, this paper argues that in China’s case, economic sanctions would likely do more harm than good due to a lack of transparency surrounding the status of human rights in the Xinjiang region and the country’s formidable economic influence.
Rice Fields as Mosquito Density Indicators for Malaria Prediction in Nigeria: An Anthropological View
Authors: Wong Gabrielle , Cooke Heidi
Published: February 2024

The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies high-risk areas for disease outbreaks in African countries (WHO, 2019a). Sub-Saharan Africa, including Kebbi state in Nigeria, is particularly susceptible to vector-borne diseases (WHO, 2019a). Malaria is a significant health concern in Kebbi state, where rice fields serve as breeding sites for mosquitoes (CDC, 2020). This paper proposes an early warning system that utilizes satellite imagery and household data to predict mosquito populations in Kebbi State. Integrating machine learning and satellite imagery can inform disease control strategies and public health interventions. Additionally, this approach presents opportunities for anthropological research into the political aspects of malaria and rice farming in Kebbi state, Nigeria. Anthropologists can analyse the socio-political and economic factors influencing malaria persistence while considering the perspectives of local communities. Understanding the intricate relationships between farmers, mosquitoes, and public health officials can contribute to the development of more effective and equitable malaria control strategies. The poverty rate of approximately 72.0% in Kebbi state further complicates healthcare accessibility (Nigeria Health Watch, 2021). By focusing on this region and employing a multidisciplinary approach, this paper aims to address the urgent health challenges and support sustainable solutions for malaria prevention in Kebbi state, Nigeria.
Designing Machine Learning Algorithm for Autonomous Driving in the Snow
Authors: Agarwal Divyansh
Published: February 2024

Autonomous vehicles have evolved to make decisions with great confidence and accuracy. Systems like the Waymo self-driving clearly have the ability to control a vehicle with level 4 autonomy under good conditions where lane markings and other driving guides like road signs are clearly visible [2]. Elon Musk has announced that Tesla autopilot should reach level 4 in 2023 [3]. However, many such systems fail to perform at a similar level in non-perfect weather conditions. The most difficult such weather appears to be a snowy climate as the vehicle significantly underperforms and the autonomous functionality is often not applicable [1]. This paper aims to train a model capable of navigating snowy weather by collecting data pertaining specifically to this weather, including unorthodox visual cues to stand in place of road markings. Such cues include tire tread marks and surrounding snow piles. These serve as a viable substitute for lane markings, allowing the vehicle to operate safely while mimicking human driving tendencies. Such a model is able to effectively drive in both clear and snowy weather when tested in simulation software. We consider a model effective for the purposes of this study in the snow when it is able to execute a full turn before failure.
General Form Equation for the Most Energy-Efficient Basketball Shot
Authors: Zhang Jeffery , Jones Trevor
Published: February 2024

Although ball shooting is one of the fundamental skills of basketball, it is energy intensive and exhausts players quickly. Because of this, effective shooters will have less time to play on the court, which can be the difference between winning and losing for basketball teams. In the National Basketball League (NBA), pride, expectations, and millions of dollars in investments are at stake, making winning all the more critical. Improving basketball shooting accuracy may provide the most robust path forward to increasing team-specific wins. So, to boost shooter performance, we derived an equation that calculates the optimal velocity to shoot a basketball from every position on the court. This ‘optimal’ velocity minimizes a shooter’s energy expenditure so players can conserve their energy and stay effective in the game longer, boosting their team’s chances of winning. We used Newton’s second law and kinematics, vector algebra, and calculus to derive the optimal velocity equation and ultimately implemented it in Python for public use. We concluded that the optimal angle for mid-range shots (3 to 5 meters) is 55 to 51 degrees and 49 to 47 for three-point shots.
The Relationship Between College Experiences and Middle-Aged Entrepreneurs’ Success
Authors: Slater Alexander , Park Soo
Published: February 2024

This study aims to explore the relationship between success in the world of entrepreneurship and the college experience. Colleges have been growing in cost in recent years and it becomes even more imperative to explore the value of a college education when pursuing a career in entrepreneurship. This study collected data using semi-structured interviews with questions revolving around various characteristics learned during college. The data was analyzed with a thematic analysis that was meant to identify the overarching characteristics that entrepreneurs felt were the most important factors for their success. The study concluded that the most important factors for success as an entrepreneur were interpersonal skills, diversification of perspectives, and critical thinking skills. These results demonstrate that college is valuable for the development of well-rounded entrepreneurs and potentially informs future curricula.
Bias in Law
Authors: Melamed Abigail
Published: February 2024

Crime rates in America have been increasing over recent years and, in turn, so has the number of criminal cases that pass through the court system. If a criminal defendant cannot afford one for themself, a public defender will be provided for them. However, the public defender does not get to dictate which cases or clients they take on. This paper explores the level in which implicit bias may affect these attorneys in the court room. This is conducted through a series of surveys and correlational research which is then analyzed to determine the true extent to which one can suppress their implicit bias. Participants are deemed to be successful at suppressing their biases if they score a zero on the implicit bias test, which indicates little to no automatic preference for one subject matter over the other. It is proven that no matter how hard one tries, implicit bias is difficult and almost impossible to fully suppress, even for the trained attorney participants. Looking in future directions, this knowledge can be used to spark conversation and new research regarding biases in the judicial system.
The Impact of Robinhood's Retail Investing App on Investor Psychology and Financial Markets
Authors: Li Zheyu , Bhatia Sujata
Published: February 2024

The pandemic has seen a dramatic rise in retail investing, with millions of individuals worldwide downloading trading apps such as Robinhood.  Such trading apps have provided unprecedented access to commission-free investing for all, regardless of investing experience and financial literacy.  This creates an ethical dilemma: while a moral society should provide universal access to opportunities for wealth accumulation, easy access to investing has the potential to do great harm to novice investors.  The GameStop frenzy of 2021 is a prime example of the damaging effects of risky investing decisions, both on individual novice investors and on financial markets overall.  In its November 2021 Financial Stability Report, the U.S. Federal Reserve specifically called out the dangers of social media-driven investing and speculation by retail investors, citing the hazards of market volatility for financial stability.  This research will examine the history of retail investing, the societal factors and existing inequities that have led to the rise of retail investing, and the impact of retail investing on investor psychology and decision-making. The research finds that retail investing encourages herd behavior and impulsive decision-making, and leads to more attention-induced trading and negative returns.  Retail investing also amplifies both positive and negative market movements. This research will then describe possible solutions to these challenges, to ensure stable and secure financial markets, wise financial decision-making on the part of individual investors, socially responsible and responsive trading apps, and ethical access to trading for all investors.
Expert Opinions: Reform to the National School Meal Programs Regarding Dietary Saturated Fats
Authors: Cordonnier Claire , Newman Constance
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study is to determine whether the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs in the US should be revised to have more relaxed regulations on saturated dietary fat consumption. Controversy over the validity of the diet-heart hypothesis—examined in a review of literature —prompted this inquiry. Qualitative data was collected through eighteen expert interviews. Trends in expert responses were identified using qualitative data coding. Participating experts were of diverse perspectives and came from across the United States. Experts answered in ways that were mostly consistent with the current Dietary Guidelines for Americans. However, most seemed to agree that it would be beneficial to relax regulations on saturated fat in order to allow for some flexibility. There was a widespread and overwhelming concern about ultra processed foods among experts.
The Effects of Nitrate Pollution on Cellular Regeneration and Survivability in Planarian Flatworms
Authors: Dong Zihan , Anthony Jennifer
Published: February 2024

Increased nitrogen runoff from commercial fertilizer use has raised issues regarding hypoxia in freshwater habitats. One species noted as a water indicator is planarians, known for their pluripotent stem cell regeneration. This study tested the effects of various nitrate concentrations on planarian specimens with ablated heads, to ascertain the effects of the nitrate on regeneration and survivability. The tests found that there is a negative correlation between nitrate concentration and planarian survival rates, proving that nitrogen runoff can indeed adversely affect similar organisms in a freshwater habitat.
Adolescent Perception of Female Representation in Television and its Impact on Adolescent Views on Female Gender Roles
Authors: Lalukota Siri
Published: February 2024

With recent increases in the number of women represented in television, changes have occurred in the way women are depicted on screen. The changes in representation provoke the question of the accuracy and stereotypes the women contain. Research has found that though women are beginning to be found more frequently in the workplace or school-life, they are mostly found to be depicted in a traditionally stereotypical manner with their storylines revolving around family, romance, home-life, and physical appearance. As adolescents are at an age where their gender identities are being formed, it is pertinent to investigate how humans at the adolescent stage of life are influenced by television, especially due to the increased access to technology with recent generations. Studies in the field have used the theories of Social Cognitive Theory and Cultivation Theory in order to assert that the more individuals consume television, the more their thoughts, behaviors, and actions are impacted by these representations. However, in contrast, researchers have also found that viewers are able to resist messaging in television to prefer their own values, rejecting the influence of television. The following paper will look into how adolescents specifically perceive female gender roles. Through an analysis of three focus groups, a qualitative study was conducted to collect data on how or if adolescents are impacted by the female representation they see on screen and what they believe the current state of representation for women on television is.
Keeping up with the Immortal Jellyfish: Biological Immortality in Animals and Humans
Authors: Nguyen Lily , Malekahmadi Saam
Published: February 2024

Biological immortality is the state in which organisms do not die of intrinsic aging or the natural breakdown of cells over time. Although biological immortality is not currently the reality in humans, as our rate of mortality increases as we age, interestingly enough, biological immortality has been observed throughout the animal kingdom in organisms including the Hydra flatworm, Turritopsis dohrnii jellyfish, lobsters, and tardigrades. To achieve the shared goal of biological immortality, however, the aforementioned organisms employ various different mechanisms ranging from controlling FoxO gene expression to reversibly halting metabolism. The following paper overviews this variety of mechanisms to evaluate the question: “Is it possible for humans to become biologically immortal?”
Awareness and Advertisement of Red Meat Carcinogens in Low Income Grocery Stores
Authors: Mahesh Maanasa
Published: February 2024

Previous studies regarding the association between increased cancer rates and socioeconomically challenged locations have not pinpointed specific products that contribute the most toward the risk of cancer. This study aimed to find a few of the most highly advertised carcinogenic products in one area, and how they may be generalized to a larger scale. In this project, multiple methods of data collection were performed; a census map of the counties in central Texas was used and a rural, socioeconomically impoverished was chosen as the site for this study. Personal perceptions of products and product placement in a few randomly selected stores as well as interviews with store employees were some of the research methods used to collect data. Overall, the three most advertised products were beef jerky ( coming in assorted flavors and sizes), instant noodles, and sausages/meat sticks. Other products were also found to be advertised, however, not to the extent of these products, and not to the rate of successful purchase as well. With elevated cancer levels around the world, it is important to increase awareness of the risks that certain common foods may pose, but go unnoticed due to the details involving long, unknown chemical names and terms. The results of this study might shine light upon some of the most commonly advertised products containing carcinogens so that customers can be more aware of what they are purchasing before consuming them.