bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelling agricultural innovations as a social-ecological phenomenon
Authors: Sanga Udita , Berrío-Martínez Jineth , Schlüter‬ Maja
Published: November 2023

Agricultural innovations involve both social and social-ecological dynamics where outcomes emerge from interactions of innovation actors embedded within their ecological environments. Neglecting the interconnected nature of social-ecological innovations can lead to a flawed understanding and assessment of innovations. In this paper, we present an empirically informed, stylized agent-based model of agricultural innovation systems in Mali, West Africa. The study aimed to understand the emergence of food security and income inequality outcomes through two distinct model structures: top-down, aid-driven (exogenous) innovation and bottom-up, community-driven (endogenous) innovation. Our research questions were: i) How does the inclusion of social-ecological interactions in the model affect food security and income inequality outcomes? ii) How do exogenous and endogenous mechanisms influence food insecurity and income inequality? iii) What are the conditions under which exogenous and endogenous mechanisms would improve food security? The structural design of the model was based on a combination of theory, empirics, and mapping of social-ecological dynamics within innovation systems. Using the Social-Ecological Action Situation framework, we mapped the social, social-ecological, and ecological interactions that jointly produce food security outcomes. The exploratory model analysis reveals three key insights: i) Incorporation of social-ecological interactions influences model outcomes. Scenarios with social-ecological interactions showed a stronger relationship between income inequality and food security, lower levels of food security, and higher levels of income inequality than scenarios with social interactions. ii) Endogenous mechanism leads to higher food security and income inequality than the exogenous mechanism. iii) Bidirectional outreach is more effective than unidirectional outreach in improving food security. Inclusion of social-ecological dynamics and interactions such as the role of climate risk perception, social learning and formation of innovation beliefs and desires is key for modelling and analysis of agricultural innovations.
Determinants of cord care practices among caregivers in a level 5 facility in Kenya
Authors: Mulwa Penina Muia , Mbugua Ruth Gathoni , Karonjo Jane
Published: November 2023

Background: Globally, in the year 2020, 2.4 million children died with the likelihood of a child in Sub-Saharan Africa to die in their first month after birth being ten times higher compared to that in developed countries. Infection is a leading cause of mortality among infants with a significant number being attributed to umbilical cord infections. The aim of the study was to assess cord care practices and the associated factors among mothers and care givers at the Mombasa County referral hospital in Kenya.
Methods: This was a facility-based descriptive cross-sectional study conducted in the maternal child health/family planning clinic at a level 5 public health facility in Mombasa County, Kenya. Systematic random sampling was employed to select study respondents. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS version 21. The association of the dependent and independent variables was assessed using Pearson Chi-square statistics. A p<0.05 was considered significant at 95% CI.
Results: Slightly below half (43.6%) of the respondents had practiced inappropriate cord care. Inappropriate cord care practices reported included the use of breast milk (24.3%), herbal substances (17.8%), warm salty water (16.4%), saliva (15.1%), soot (11.2%), black soil (7.9%) and coconut oil (7.2%). Socio-cultural beliefs regarding cord care were prevalent among the respondents. Socio-demographic characteristics, facility-related factors, and socio-cultural factors were associated with cord care practices (p<0.05).
Conclusions: There is a need to enhance health education regarding cord care among women in the health facilities and community. Strategies to enhance scale- up of chlorhexidine use should be explored.
Evidências sobre políticas de mercado de trabalho e implicações para o Brasil: qualificação profissional
Authors: Cavalcanti Filipe , Ratcher Laísa , Gouvea Livia , Fontes Luiz Felipe
Published: November 2023

Qualificação profissional é um elemento importante para que trabalhadores alcancem empregos de qualidade. No entanto, no Brasil, assim como em outros países da América Latina e Caribe (ALC), muitas pessoas carecem de formação adequada e não desenvolvem habilidades requeridas pelo mundo do trabalho. Embora programas de qualificação profissional tenham sido geralmente bem sucedidos em promover novas habilidades a trabalhadoras e trabalhadores que estão em busca de emprego, eles costumam ter resultados mistos sobre o emprego e a renda. Os resultados mistos e os altos custos de implementação denotam a importância de identificar quais são as características mais promissoras desses programas, para que possam ser utilizadas no desenho de futuras intervenções. Esta publicação produzida em co-autoria entre a JOI Brasil, uma iniciativa J-PAL LAC, e o Banco Interamericano de Desenvolvimento analisa as evidências disponíveis sobre programas de qualificação profissional e discute suas implicações para a formulação de políticas públicas no Brasil.
Acceso a remediación y resolución de disputas: aportes a la conversación desde la experiencia del MICI
Authors: Packmann Martín
Published: November 2023

La temática de remediación ha ido creciendo en importancia y se ha consolidado como un tema central en la agenda del desarrollo, a pesar de que existen numerosas críticas a la efectividad de los mecanismos de rendición de cuentas y a las instituciones financieras en términos de la capacidad de proveer remediación efectiva para las comunidades que dicen ser afectadas por los proyectos de desarrollo. El objetivo de esta nota es explorar los aportes de la resolución alternativa de conflictos en el acceso a remediación, e indagar puntualmente sobre los aportes que la Fase de Consulta del MICI ha realizado para proveer soluciones a comunidades que se perciben impactadas por proyectos de desarrollo financiados por el Grupo BID entre los años 2017 y 2022.
Sustaining Positive Change in the Teaching Scholars’ Online Community of Practice
Authors: Mardjetko Andrew , Jacobsen Michele , Archer-Kuhn Beth , Din Cari , Donszelmann Darlene , Nowell Lorelli , Jamniczky Heather
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we emphasize the value of an online community of practice (OCoP) for bringing together faculty from across disciplines to share and leverage their diverse expertise and perspectives. We examine the transition of an interdisciplinary community of practice through the pivot into an online environment for engagement, communication, and collaboration. Through this paper we describe our individual Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) projects and how we have navigated these projects within the Teaching Scholars OCoP, as well as our reflections and key learnings that have resulted from this sustained collaboration. We contribute key learnings and online strategies which can inform and be tailored by other academics and institutions who are developing online communities of practice as an approach to sustaining educational leadership and change in SoTL research and practice in diverse and distributed contexts.
Analysis of differential expression of genes of structural and regulatory proteins of connective tissue as factors associated with the vaginal prolapse
Authors: Proshchenko O.M. , Govseev T.O. , Ventskivska I.B.
Published: November 2023

The article presents data on the differential expression of genes of structural and regulatory proteins of connective tissue (COLIA1, fibronectin, elastin, TGF-β1, LOX) in women with pelvic organ prolapse and stigmas of undifferentiated connective tissue dysplasia (UCTD) compared to patients with prolapse but without UCTD stigmas.

Research objectives: analysis of the prognostic significance of differential expression of structural and regulatory genes of connective tissue proteins COLIA1, fibronectin, elastin, TGF-β1, LOX as factors associated with the vaginal prolapse among Ukrainian women.

Materials and methods. Vaginal tissue samples were taken from 18 patients at the menopausal age with vaginal prolapse III, IV degree, which required surgical correction during vaginal hysterectomy and/or plastic surgery of vaginal walls. The main group included 11 patients with clinical and anamnestic UCTD stigmas, the comparison group included 7 women without it. Gene expression analysis of structural and regulatory proteins of the extracellular matrix of connective tissue was performed using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The relative number of transcripts of the studied genes was normalized by the expression level of the GAPDH gene. The data were calculated using the 2–ΔΔCt method.

Results. There was decrease in gene expression of the main structural proteins of the extracellular matrix of the connective tissue: COLIA1 (t=-1.7; p=0.044), fibronectin (t=1.66; p=0.047), elastin (t=-1.75, p=0,04), gene of the regulatory protein LOX (t=-1.8, p=0.035) and no statistically significant difference in the TGF-β1 gene in patients with pelvic organ prolapse and clinical and anamnestic UCTD stigmas.

Conclusions. Statistically significant lower expression of the genes of the main structural proteins of the extracellular matrix of the connective tissue and the gene of the regulatory protein LOX in patients with pelvic organ prolapse and clinical and anamnestic UCTD stigmas is evidence of the importance of genetically determined pathological remodeling of the connective tissue in the etiology of genital prolapse.
THE POST-INDUSTRIAL CONTEXT OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE PRINCIPLES OF MANAGERIAL CONSTITUTIONALISM
Authors: Kuznietsov E. A. , Kuznietsova Z. V.
Published: November 2023

The article examines the problems of formation and development of the principles of managerial constitutionalism. The position on the need for research and practical implementation of the principles of managerial constitutionalism is presented. A list of principles of managerial (management) constitutionalism is offered. Features and strategic directions of development of this process are determined. The key parameters of each principle are analyzed with the definition of the main feature and features of their further practical implementation. The rationale for the necessity of the term "managerial constitutionalism" is presented. Special attention is paid to the consideration of the semantic dynamics of the process of formation and practical use of the ten basic principles of managerial constitutionalism. Attention is drawn to the need for systemic changes in the training of management personnel in the conditions of postmodern development of an innovative society. The importance of innovative dynamics in the personnel policy system in relation to each principle of managerial constitutionalism is shown. The objective necessity of fundamental and innovative training of managers is determined as a basis for their orientation towards the systematic development of the managerial profession. Approaches to the implementation of the principles of managerial constitutionalism in Ukraine are considered. The need to transform the professional qualities of management personnel with an emphasis on each principle of managerial constitutionalism is proven. Attention is focused on the need to develop socio-cultural indicators of management professionalization. The need to create conditions for the formation of the integral quality of the professional management system is proved. The position on the role of the managerial elite in the development of an innovative society is presented.
THEORETICAL ASPECTS OF MANAGEMENT EFFICIENCY
Authors: Maslennikov Ye. I. , Kirtokа R. G. , Muzychenko T. O.
Published: November 2023

The article examines the theoretical aspects of the effectiveness of management activities. It is argued that the concept of efficiency is important and relevant for management activities in any field, whether it be industry, finance, education, healthcare, or public administration. In today's environment of increasing competition and limited resources, management efficiency becomes a decisive factor in the success of an organization.
Studying the concept of management efficiency is important for understanding how to evaluate and improve the performance of an organization. There are known cases when companies focus too much on increasing sales or production volumes, ignoring cost-effectiveness, which can lead to reduced profitability and the risk of bankruptcy. Therefore, understanding the concept of efficiency is necessary for making informed decisions in management.
It has been proven that studying the concept of efficiency can also help identify best management practices and develop strategies to improve organizational efficiency. This is particularly relevant in the field of public administration, where ensuring the efficiency of government agencies is a key factor in the success of reforms and the country's development.
Territorialização da atividade pecuária no sudeste paraense (Amazônia brasileira)
Authors: Lopes Cláudio Henrique Sampaio , Soares Daniel Araújo Sombra , Lobato Mateus Monteiro , Maneschy Rosana Quaresma
Published: November 2023

O presente artigo estreita o debate acerca das relações socioeconômicas que se materializam na paisagem da Amazônia Paraense em sua periodização de interesses, ações, relações e conflitos entre as instituições e os diferentes territórios, utilizando como lócus de análise o Sudeste Paraense. A produção cartográfica contou com elaborações a partir do software ArcMap (ArcGis) versão 10.4.1, juntamente à pesquisa bibliográfica. A implementação de infraestrutura e políticas públicas de incremento regional na Amazônia Legal consiste em mapear os seguimentos políticos que fomentaram a atuação capitalista, com a concentração da terra (empreendimentos agropecuários) e valorização da terra, marcada pela dinâmica socioeconômica. O Sudeste Paraense possui um processo histórico no qual se manifestam a violência e o fortalecimento de estruturas locais de poder, baseados na propriedade da terra. Esse contexto de disputa pela terra não afetou somente a situação fundiária regional, mas também foi decisivo para a consolidação de um padrão de exploração do meio natural baseado na transformação das áreas de florestas em pastagens cultivadas (pecuária). Houve uma queda significativa nas taxas de desmatamento no ano de 2009 com menor taxa em 2012, nos estados da Amazônia Legal, que retoma seu crescimento 2016, rompendo com a regressão dessa supressão florestal. Os dados mostram um pico elevado em 2019, tendência continuada em 2020, 2021. Essa continuidade é abarcada de alterações do território que gira em torno das atividades pioneiras que especulam a terra em consonância ao mercado consumidos externo e as políticas do avanço e desenvolvimento capitalistas.
Docência no século XXI: aspectos pessoais e sociais na construção do bem-estar docente
Authors: Boicko Giovana , Poli Odilon Luiz , Marques Circe Mara
Published: November 2023

A pesquisa que embasou este trabalho teve como objetivo compreender os fatores pessoais e sociais que podem contribuir com o desenvolvimento do bem-estar docente, em professoras que atuam ou atuaram por mais de vinte anos no Ensino Fundamental. A pesquisa, de abordagem qualitativa, baseou-se nas histórias de vida de cinco professoras da rede pública estadual de Santa Catarina, indicadas por gestores escolares, a partir de critérios definidos por meio do método Delphi. Os resultados indicam que um conjunto de fatores pode influenciar o desenvolvimento do mal-estar ou do bem-estar docente. Tais fatores podem ser tanto de ordem externa (contexto), referente às condições do exercício da docência, quanto de ordem interna, referente ao modo como cada sujeito reage diante dos problemas e situações que enfrenta. Dentre os fatores externos, destacam-se as condições de acolhimento existentes na escola e o apoio de outras esferas sociais. Já entre os fatores internos, destacam-se a capacidade de resiliência, a utilização de estratégias de coping e as orientações referentes ao Locus de Controle (interno ou externo). Conclui-se, assim, que o trabalho docente pode ser, sim, uma fonte de realização, prazer e alegria. No entanto, os professores, em vista da complexidade e da importância do seu trabalho, além do apoio da escola e de outras esferas sociais, precisam de disposição e capacidade de enfrentar os desafios cotidianos por meio do eustrés e da utilização de estratégias de coping na busca de soluções para os desafios inerentes à profissão docente.
Current state of knowledge of the gold mineralization at Imonga-Saramabila, Maniema (DR Congo): a petrographic and mineralogical study of the mineralized vein system
Authors: DE GROOTE Julie , COOLS Inge , WOUTERS Sander , MUCHEZ Philippe , DEWAELE Stijn
Published: November 2023

The Great Lakes area in Central Africa forms a large metallogenic province that hosts important deposits of gold mineralization. We present a petrographic, mineralogical and geochemical study of unique borehole samples from the Imonga-Saramabila gold deposit, a historical mine site located in the Maniema Province (DR Congo) in the Karagwe-Ankole belt (KAB) in the Great Lakes area and one of the only places in the Maniema province with accessible boreholes allowing to study the mineralization. The samples are metasedimentary rocks belonging to the Mesoproterozoic Kivu Supergroup, with bedding-parallel meta-igneous rocks. These rocks have undergone upper greenschist to lower amphibolite facies metamorphism, based on the presence of andalusite and chiastolite porphyroblasts, and are affected by hydrothermal alteration. The porphyroblasts formed during peak metamorphism and posterior to a first vein generation. Three additional vein generations were identified at Imonga based on crosscutting relationships, with the second and third events overprinting the porphyroblasts by intense chloritization, and associated with sulfide mineralization. The fourth vein generation is again barren. The first veining event formed pre-folding and the three subsequent generations postdate folding, as concluded based on the relationship of the veins with the cleavage. Only one important folding event is proposed based on the development of only one cleavage. Gold occurs as free gold or is included in pyrite in the second (and maybe third) vein generation. Based on the paragenesis, structural characteristics, and the link between veining and metamorphic minerals, the gold mineralization at Imonga is interpreted to be linked to the early Neoproterozoic (~980 Ma) compressional deformation event, associated with the amalgamation of the Rodinia supercontinent.
FLASHCARD-BASED ONLINE EDUCATIONAL GAME FOR IMPROVING HIV-AIDS KNOWLEDGE AND STIGMA
Authors: Yasmin Intan Farida , Djannatun Titiek , Widiyanti Dian
Published: November 2023

Introduction: The burden of HIV-AIDS cases in Indonesia remains high, while HIV-AIDS promotion programs targeting students remain low. Game-based learning has not been investigated as an alternative method for improving HIV-AIDS awareness among students. Aims: this study quantifies the impact of the flashcard-based educational game invented by YARSI HIV-AIDS Care on high school students in Jakarta. Method: A simple randomized controlled study was conducted among 112 SMA 27 Jakarta students (intervention, n=56; control, n= 56). The HIV-AIDS knowledge and attitude scores before and after the educational game were evaluated using a validated questionnaire. An intervention using a flashcard-based game is conducted online. Univariate and Bivariate analyses of the pre-and post-scores for both groups were performed. Result: Following the game, there was a considerable improvement in the HIV-AIDS comprehensive knowledge scores (pre-test vs. post-test, 65 vs. 90, p<0.01), while the control score remained unchanged.  The intervention group also had higher knowledge and attitude scores than did the control group (p<0.01). Conclusion: Flashcard-based education games significantly increased comprehensive HIV-AIDS knowledge and positive attitudes toward HIV-AIDS. Thus, this method could be implemented in HIV-AIDS promotion programs that target students
THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN INDIVIDUAL, PHYSICAL, AND PSYCHOSOCIAL RISK FACTORS AND OCCUPATIONAL FATIGUE AMONG COMMUTER LINE TRAIN WORKERS
Authors: Nasution Ulfha Aulia , Widanarko Baiduri
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Occupational fatigue affects workers in various industries including transportation. Commuter train drivers and office workers are subjected to high levels of physical and psychosocial stress, which can lead to occupational fatigue. Aims: to examine the relationship between individual, physical, and psychosocial risk factors and occupational fatigue in commuter train workers in Jakarta, Bogor, Tangerang, and Bekasi. Methods: Individual (i.e., age, gender, marital status, type of work, duration of work, and smoking status), psychosocial (i.e., effort, reward, overcommitment, monotonous work, social support, job satisfaction, and work stress) factors, and occupational fatigue were investigated in 78 commuter line train workers (both drivers and officers). Observing workers' activities yielded physical factors (awkward posture, repetitive work, prolonged work, and material manual handling activities). The association between each risk factor and occupational fatigue was investigated using a logistic regression model. Results: Commuter line officers (OR 4.96, 95% CI 1.77 – 13.85), those with high overcommitment (OR 3.16, 95% CI 1.25 – 8.00), and those with high work stress (OR 1.54, 95% CI 1.19 – 2.00) were more likely to report occupational fatigue than train drivers, who reported low overcommitment and low work stress, respectively. When compared to those who reported low job satisfaction, those who reported high job satisfaction were less likely to report occupational fatigue (OR 0.19, 95% CI 0.07 – 0.52). Conclusion: Job position, overcommitment, and work stress were associated with occupational fatigue.
THE EFFECT OF SHORT COURSE INTERVENTIONS TO IMPROVE KNOWLEDGE OF POSYANDU (INTEGRATED SERVICE POST) CADRES IN EARLY DETECTION OF STUNTING
Authors: Weningtyas Anditri , Lina Ma'rufa Puja , Fauziah Dina
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Stunting is a cumulative growth and development disorder caused by inadequate nutritional intake, recurrent infectious diseases, or both. RISKESDAS data for 2018 recorded a national stunting prevalence of 30.8%, and Dilem Village, Malang Regency, is one of the loci for stunting in Indonesia in 2020. Anthropometry is a growth monitoring method for assessing children's nutritional status and one of the activities at Posyandu, is organized and led by cadres. Hence, it is important to increase the knowledge of Posyandu cadres to achieve the accuracy of children's nutritional status. Aim: The goal of this study was to determine the effect of short course intervention in the knowledge levels of Posyandu cadres in Dilem Village on early detection of stunting and anthropometric measurements of child. Method: The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of short course intervention in the knowledge levels of Posyandu cadres in Dilem Village on early detection of stunting before and after course This study was a pre-experimental study using one group of pre-posttest designs to assess the knowledge of 20 Dilem village cadres for early detection of stunting and correct anthropometric measurements before and after the intervention. Result: The results showed an increase of pre and posttest increase in score 16.5 points (p<0.001). Conclusion: So, it can be concluded that short course intervention can improve cadre’s knowledge on early detection of stunting.
A PILOT STUDY ON DIABETIC PATIENTS AT MALANG COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER REGARDING THE APPLICATION OF THE T-PLATE MODEL CONCEPT
Authors: Dwipajati
Published: November 2023

Introduction:  Diabetes mellitus is a comorbidity that is often found in Covid-19 patients with a 3.9-fold risk of death. Data from the Malang City Health Office shows an increase in the number of diabetes patients by 1.2% each year. In Indonesia, 3J (right amount, type, and eating time) has become the principle of diabetes diet therapy, but in practice, it is still challenging to apply independently. Aims: Investigating the T-Plate Model as a simple eating guide for people with diabetes mellitus. Methods: This pilot study included 18 diabetic patients at some Primary Health Care who were 50–70 years old and had a BMI more than 23 kg/m2. The participant was split into two groups, with nine people in the (C) group eating according to the T-Plate Model, and others in the (T) group eating according to the T-Plate Model after eating fruit. After a 3-month treatment period, BMI, blood pressure, carbohydrate, and fiber consumption were assessed. Mean BMI and blood pressure were examined using paired sample t-tests (p 0.05). Results: Both groups' BMIs fell into the category of obesity level 1 before to treatment periods: C group (26.09+3.13 kg/m2) and T group (27.15+ 4.15). We discovered significant blood pressure and BMI variations in the T group at the end of intervention periods (p 0.05). Nevertheless, systolic blood pressure was different in the C group (p 0.05).  Conclusions: It may be inferred that using the T-Plate Model with the addition of fruit initially can lower blood pressure and BMI.
TRANSACTIVE LOCAL ELECTRICAL ENERGY SYSTEMS: FUNCTIONING FEATURES AND DEVELOPMENT PROSPECTS
Authors: Bielokha Halyna , Taraba Maxim
Published: November 2023

Due to global concerns about climate change, the deployment of distributed energy resources and electrical and thermal energy storage systems has been accelerated to minimize CO2 emissions. In addition, the need for optimal energy management of these energy resources was emphasized in order to reduce the need for new energy resources. The concept of transactional energy and, accordingly, transactional systems was introduced for modern energy systems as a system of economic and control mechanisms that allow for dynamic balancing of supply and demand in the entire electrical infrastructure using cost as a key indicator. This ensures cost-effective integration of renewable energy sources and creates incentives for investment and innovative renewal of local energy systems, allowing for management of both supply and demand for electricity. The article discusses the architecture of transactional systems and its components. The main objective function of transactional systems is to minimize the total annual costs of the local system, which supports the continuity of energy supply. To estimate the current cost of electricity, it is necessary to have information on the distribution of investments invested in the project before the start of its implementation, between the periods of project implementation. Considered optimization criteria, the use of which depends on specific goals. It is important to use multi-criteria optimization and control methods to determine the structure of the system and the optimal distribution of energy obtained from different sources in order to maximize the efficiency of the entire system, while contributing to the maximum reduction of emissions to the environment, while minimizing the cost of energy production.
RESEARCH OF THE SIDE VENTILATION SYSTEM IN THE POULTRY HOUSE USING CFD
Authors: Trokhaniak Viktor , Shelimanova Olena , Tarasenko Svitlana , Balitsky Artur
Published: November 2023

Maintaining a standardized microclimate in the poultry house is one of the main factors. The quality of the output ultimately depends on the quality indicators of the air parameters. Keeping a bird requires great efforts and technological solutions. In connection with this study, there is an improvement of the microclimate system in the air environment of the poultry house due to the inclusion of exhaust fans on the rear end wall in an unconventional way. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) using ANSYS Fluent is a powerful tool for predicting the microclimate system in the poultry house as an alternative to experimental studies. The CFD model was performed on the Navier-Stokes equations for convective flows. The calculations use the Discrete Ordinates radiation model and the Spalart-Allmaras turbulence model.

The calculations were made with an air consumption of 21.5 kg/s. The temperature of the outside air is assumed equal to +3 ºС and the thermal radiation parameter is entered. For air removal, Munters EM50 1.5 HP exhaust fans are used in a total number of 4 pcs. Inflow valves Wlotpowietrza 3000-VFG with a total number of 80 pcs., which are placed at a height of 0.21 m from the ceiling (1-8 valves) and 0.81 m for 9-40 valves.

According to the results of CFD modeling of hydrodynamics and heat and mass exchange processes, it was concluded that changing the angle of the spoiler by 73o allows air to be supplied to the center of the poultry house. The upper air layers near the ceiling and near the side wall have a slightly higher temperature. This is accompanied by radiation from the sun and ranges from +21.5 to +24.5 ℃. Since the bird is a source of heat, and in combination with radiation, the air in the room is partially heated. In the center of the room along the entire height, the temperature reaches +15-16 ℃. At the same time, the pressure drop of the inlet valves is 70 Pa, which allows the exhaust fan to be fully supplied. The air velocity at the inlet of the inflow valves is 11.54 m/s. The average air speed at a height of 0.7 m from the floor level is 0.5 m/s, the temperature is 16.55 ℃.

Thus, the presented scientific research can be used in the future to develop new ventilation systems for poultry houses.
Russia-China Partnership in the Context of US-China Rivalry: Search of Starting Point and Assessment of Prospects
Authors: Zuenko I.
Published: November 2023

The article is dedicated to the analysis of Russia-China strategic partnership in the context of decoupling and rivalry of USA and China. The author revises popular amongst Western experts idea that Russia-China contingence started after decline in relations between Russia and the West in the XXI century. Instead, the author argues that Russia (Soviet Union) –China partnership is a result of long-term and systematic contingence that started in the 1980s. Trigger for that was US-China Rapprochement in the 1970s – a process, which took Soviet leadership over a rough road at the final stage of the cold war and stimulated it to the search of normalization of relations with China, its neighbor with a vast land border. However, later Russia-China relations had been developing regardless of the American factor – a fact that proves mutual interest of both Russia and China in cooperation. Russia-China relations level reached its peak in the period when both Russia and China benefited from relations with the USA and so-called “Global West”, so it can not be concluded that their partnership is the result of worsening relations with the West only. Nevertheless, it’s obvious that currently geopolitical and sanctions pressure of the USA towards both Russia and China brings them even closer to each other but it is still not the prime cause of Russia-China partnership. Assessing the prospects of Russia-China partnership one should take into the consideration that even in the case of the US-China new rapprochement Russia and China would continue to be the key economic partners for each other (especially in the context of energy trade, technology transfer and cargo transportation via Eurasia and Northern Sea Route) so that their partnership would develop regardless of situational changes in their relations with the West.
Azerbaijan’s Economy in the New International Realities
Authors: Fedorovskaya I.
Published: November 2023

The economy of Azerbaijan in 2022 faced multidirectional vectors of its development. On the one hand, the dynamic development of the country's economy, primarily the energy industries, continued. On the other – double-digit inflation, threatening negative consequences. The year 2022 has shown that in the conditions of new international realities, Azerbaijan has managed to take advantage of the opportunities presented. This has been reflected in a significant increase in oil exports, and especially gas, as well as in the increasing role of Azerbaijan as an important global transport hub. The development of innovative industries remains an urgent task.
The Republic of Abkhazia and the Special Military Operation in Ukraine
Authors: Mukhanov V. , Novikov V.
Published: November 2023

The article examines the impact of the special military operation (SVO) in Ukraine on the foreign and domestic policies of the Republic of Abkhazia. The authors point to the factors that determine the positioning of Abkhazia in relation to SVO in a broad historical context. In particular, the Georgian-Ukrainian alliance is shown during the Georgian-Abkhaz war of 1992-1993, within the framework of post-Soviet supranational entities (GUUAM bloc), as well as during the “color revolutions” of 2003-2004. In addition, the issue of Abkhazia’s relationship to the people’s republics of Donbass before the SVO was considered. Particular attention is paid to the analysis of the reaction of the Abkhaz leadership and society to the Russian-Georgian “warming” and the possibility of opening a “second front” against Abkhazia. The phenomenon of the Abkhaz volunteer movement (the international brigade “Pyatnashka”) and its influence on Abkhaz political life are examined separately.
Export of Belarus in the Conditions of External Restrictions
Authors: Prikhodko A.
Published: November 2023

The article presents data on changes in Belarusian exports during the period of economic restrictions by the Euro-Atlantic countries. The volume of Belarusian trade losses and the main efforts of the republican authorities to stop them are considered. The author also analyzes the trends of foreign trade in goods under the conditions of “export maneuver”. The article assesses the success of measures to change the export of the Belarusian economy’s main sectors. Key incentives for these changes in the face of a growing number of external challenges are also examined.
International Transport Corridors as a Factor in the Formation of the Greater Eurasian Partnership
Authors: Martynova E.
Published: November 2023

In 2015 a Greater Eurasian Partnership initiative was announced, but disputes regarding its conceptual content and institutional design are still ongoing. According to the author the Greater Eurasian Partnership should be formed in two key areas. Firstly, through the establishment of permanent links between key multilateral organizations in the Greater Eurasia (EAEU, SCO, ASEAN) which can synchronize their agenda and achieve a synergistic effect. Secondly, through the practical implementation of global projects in which several participants will be interested. One of the most promising areas of such cooperation is the creation and development of international transport corridors (ITCs). Following the creation of the ITC the accompanying infrastructure, industrial production in the neighboring areas, customs regulation begin to develop – such corridors are a powerful impetus for the development of a number of industries. In addition, effective and mutually beneficial joint infrastructure projects are a significant guarantee for maintaining friendly relations among the participants implementing these projects. The goal of almost all trans-regional integration projects announced since the 2010s is the formation of optimal transport corridors, the creation of sustainable and cost-effective supply chains and the development of related infrastructure. And the Greater Eurasian Partnership is no exception. It is the launch and uninterrupted operation of international transport corridors that can become a driver for expanding cooperation in the format of the Greater Eurasian Partnership and deepening cooperation of all interested participants in priority sectors of the economy.
Oscillating Universe with a Quantized Black Hole
Authors: Kulas Sascha
Published: November 2023

In cosmology dark energy and dark matter are included in the ΛCDM model, but they are still completely unknown. Because in black holes Lorentz invariance seems not to be applicable for curved space-time, we introduce a model for a reduced speed of light in black holes due to quantum gravity effects and the Heisenberg uncertainty relation. Then black holes are a source for a scalar field with dark energy characteristics. This model has no information paradox for black holes because particles / radiation entering the black hole are redshifted in their wavelength that far that the wavelength has the size of the Schwarzschild radius and thus they are in some way "frozen" in the black hole. We show that the scalar field also has characteristics of dark matter shortly after Planck time, when we use a Big Bounce model. This model also presents an alternative to cosmological inflation with the possibility to solve the flatness and horizon problem and the problem of density fluctuations.
A Case Series of Potential Pediatric Cyanotoxin Exposures Associated with Harmful Algal Blooms in Northwest Ohio
Authors: French Benjamin W. , Kaul Rajat , George Jerrin , Haller Steven T. , Kennedy David J. , Mukundan Deepa
Published: November 2023

Cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (CyanoHABs) are increasing in prevalence and severity globally and locally in the Great Lakes region. CyanoHABs have the potential to produce serious adverse human health effects due to the production of cyanotoxins from cyanobacteria. Common routes of exposure include recreational exposure (swimming, skiing, and boating), ingestion, and aerosolization of contaminated water sources. Cyanotoxins have been shown to adversely affect several major organ systems contributing to hepatotoxicity, gastrointestinal distress, and pulmonary inflammation. We present three pediatric case-reports that coincided with CyanoHABs exposure with a focus on presentation of illness, diagnostic work-up, and treatment of CyanoHAB-related illnesses. Potential cyanotoxin exposure occurred while swimming in the Maumee River and Maumee State Park in Northwest OH during the Summer months which coincide with peak CyanoHAB activity. Primary symptoms included generalized macular rash, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and severe respiratory distress. Significant labs included leukocytosis and elevated C-reactive protein. All patients ultimately recovered with supportive care. Symptoms following potential cyanotoxin exposure coincide with multiple disease states representing an urgent need to develop specific diagnostic tests of exposure.
Design and Development of Novel Compounds Aimed at Optimizing the Function of Microtubules and Tubulin in the Immune System and the Brain
Authors: Ruggiero Marco
Published: November 2023

This study describes the design and development of novel compounds aimed at optimizing the function of microtubules and tubulin in the immune system and the brain as they relate to the Orch OR theory of consciousness. These compounds are defined by the following molecular formulas:C65H100CoN15O22P(C6H12O5);C65H100CoN15O22P(C5H10NO4);(C65H100CoN15O22P)(C6H12N2O)n;(C65H100CoN15O22P)(C6H12O5)(C6H12N2O)n;(C6H12N2O)n(C6H12O5)m;Zn(C6H12O5)2;These molecules, formulated under the form of drugs, health functional foods, or food supplements, have the potential to positively affect a number of areas ranging from prevention and therapy of neurological diseases to supporting the immune system.
Transforming Student Learning into Sustainable Undergraduate Education: A Case Study of First-Year Writing Programs
Authors: Chang Angel , Emanuel Smith Amanda
Published: November 2023

Undergraduate learning is a multifaceted concept that many researchers have investigated to promote student engagement, academic performance, etc. Exploring factors promoting learning among undergraduates in FYW programs, which are required for undergraduates might potentially contribute to sustainable, cross-disciplinary undergraduate education. This study used the 10-year longitudinal grade and survey data at San José State University (SJSU) and the data was collected from Academic Years (AYs) 2015 to 2020, and five student surveys constituted the sample size of 18,101 students. In 2016, SJSU changed the remedial writing course to college writing courses. Since then, students need to complete an online module course before placing themselves into a one-semester or two-semester writing course. The previous study showed that students with higher writing comfort and confidence tend to place themselves into a semester-long class. Regression analysis was applied to examine the relationships among factors promoting learning among those students. University admitted students from various diversity and backgrounds, the results of this study suggested that what students chose and persisted in were more important in advancing their academic success rather than prior learning experience or psychological factors before the class.
First Report of Diplodia quercivora and Neofusicoccum vitifusiforme Associated with Cankers and Necrosis of Holm Oak (Quercus ilex) in Declining Stands in Southern Italy
Authors: Del Grosso Carmine , Palmieri Davide , Marchese Lucia , Melissano Luigi , Giuseppe Lima
Published: November 2023

The emergence of new plant diseases is an increasingly important concern. Climate change is likely to be among the factors causing most of the emerging diseases endangering forest and tree heritage around the world. Such diseases may be caused by latent pathogens or microorganisms cryptically associated with plants. The shift from a non-pathogenic to a pathogenic stage may depend on physiological alterations of the host, environmental changes and/or stress factors. In some woods of the Salento peninsula (Apulia region, Italy) sudden declines of holm oak plants (Quercus ilex L.) have been observed since 2016. The morphological and molecular characterization of representative fungal isolates associated with canker and necrosis in declining plants indicated that these isolates belong to the Botryosphaeriaceae family, and the most frequent species were Diplodia corticola and Diplodia quercivora, followed by Neofusicoccum vitifusiforme. In artificially inoculated young holm oak plants, both D. corticola and D. quercivora species produced intense and severe subcortical and leaf margin necrosis. N. vitifusiforme, although less aggressive, induced the same symptoms. Our research in addition to confirm the involvement of D. corticola in olm oak decline, represents the first report of D. quercivora as a new pathogen on Quercus ilex in Italy. Furthermore, to the best of our knowledge, we also found N. vitifusiforme as a new pathogen on Q. ilex for the first time.
Innovative Electrospun Nanofiber Mats Based on Polylactic Acid Composited with Silver Nanoparticles for Medical Applications
Authors: Jamnongkan Tongsai , Sirichaicharoenkol Kawisara , Kongsomboon Vanida , Srinuan Janitsata , Srisawat Natee , Pangon Autchara , Mongkholrattanasit Rattanaphol , Tammasakchai Achiraya , Huang Chih-Feng
Published: November 2023

Nanofibers are one of the most attractive materials that can modify functionalities for developing new kinds of specific applications, mainly used as a biomedical material. Herein, we designed and prepared the antibacterial nonwoven fiber mats of PLA and PLA composited with Ag nanoparticles by electrospinning. The effects of varying filler contents on their chemical, surface morphology, thermal, water absorbency, and antibacterial properties were investigated using FTIR, SEM/EDS, DSC, swelling ratio, and qualitative and quantitative antibacterial tests. FTIR and EDS spectra indicated that Ag nanoparticles were incorporated in the PLA without chemical bonding. SEM revealed that the average diameter of the PLA nanofibers containing the Ag nanoparticles was more significant than those without those particles. Besides, fiber diameters are proportionally the amount of Ag nanoparticle contents. DSC indicated that the Ag nanoparticles can be incorporated within the PLA-matrix without strongly affecting their thermal properties. Moreover, the crystallinity of the composite nonwoven fiber mats was higher than those of fiber mats in the neat PLA. Accordingly, the antibacterial activities revealed that all the composite nanofiber mats exhibited excellent against S. aureus and E. coli bacterial strains. In addition, in the cell toxicity study, all produced hybrids nonwoven fiber mats induced a reduction in cell viability for the L929 fibroblast cells. Our results suggest that the designed and prepared nonwoven fiber mats may have good potential for use in the biomedical field, particularly in wound dressing applications
Using Remote Sensing Vegetation Indices for the Discrimination and Monitoring of Agricultural Crops: A Critical Review
Authors: Vidican Roxana , Mălinaș Anamaria , Ranta Ovidiu , Moldovan Cristina , Marian Ovidiu , Ghețe Alexandru , Ghișe Ciprian Radu , Popovici Flavia , Cătunescu Giorgiana M.
Published: November 2023

The agricultural sector is currently confronting multifaceted challenges such as an increased food demand, a slow adoption of sustainable farming, a need for climate-resilient food systems, resource inequity, and protection of the small-scale farmers’ practices, all issues integral to food security and environmental health. Remote sensing technologies can assist precision agriculture to effectively address these complex problems, by providing farmers with a high-resolution lens. The use of vegetation indices (VIs) is an essential component of remote sensing, which combine the variability of spectral reflectance value (derived from remote sensing data) with the growth stage of crops. Currently a wide array of VIs is available that could be used to provide a classification and an evaluation of the state and health of crops. However precisely this high number leads to difficulties in selecting the best VI and combination of VIs for a specific objective. Without a thorough documentation and analysis of appropriate VIs, users might be confronted with difficulties in using remote sensing data or even with a very low accuracy of the results. Thus, the objective of this review is to conduct a critical analysis of the existing state of the art on the most important features related to the effective use of VIs for the discrimination and monitoring of the most important agricultural crops (wheat, corn, sunflower, soybean, rape, potatoes, and forage crops), grasslands and meadows. This data could be highly useful for all the stakeholders involved in agricultural activities (from farmers, researchers up to institutions dealing with the centralization and monitoring of agricultural crops).