bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IMPROVING MATHEMATICAL PROBLEM SOLVING ABILITIES OF THE STUDENT WITH THE PROBLEM-BASED LEARNING APPROACH
Authors: Putra Lisa Virdinarti , Suryani Ela , Kinasih Ontya Sekar , Utami Wahyu Tyas
Published: May 2021

This study aimed to determine the application of the problem-based learning approach to improve the mathematics problem solving skills of the fifth grade students of SDN Susukan 04. The research was conducted at SDN Susukan 04. The method used in this study was the Plomp development model which consisted of three stages: (1) Preliminary Research; (2) Prototyping Phase; (3) Assessment Phase. The subjects in this study were students of class V SDN Susukan 04. The type of data in this study was quantitative. This quantitative data was obtained from the validation result score, the score of 10 students on the observation sheet and the learning material mastery test (TPBA) score. The validation phase of teaching materials developed with the Problem-based Learning approach and validation of the problem-solving ability test. Seeing what happened to students, it was necessary to strive the development of the teaching materials to improve problem-solving abilities in learning Mathematics with the Problem-based Learning approach, as the importance of solving abilities learning problems in teaching success. The test for the difference in the problem-solving ability test of the experimental  class and the control class could be seen from the mean of the experimental class = 78.70> the mean of the control class = 64.76. So it can be concluded that the average problem-solving ability of the experimental class students were higher than the problem solving ability of control class students .
The Role Of Literature As Vocabulary Teaching Instrument Of A Foreign Language In Middle School
Authors: Torkos Henrietta , Torkos Antonela
Published: May 2021

Nowadays, most of the time teaching and learning a foreign language is limited to mastering some grammar rules. Both teachers and students prefer this approach to a foreign language because it involves only the application of "rules", of pre-established "schemes" without the need for creativity and skill in communication. Vocabulary intensifies our ability to function in a complex world, helping us to express ourselves clearly and concisely. Without assimilating enough vocabulary, students cannot have relevant communication, cannot express their ideas and cannot understand each other. On the other way, literature unites the past with the present and makes us aware of our value. It not only provides information but also provides a closer look at things. It reflects the state of a society, its values, strengths and weaknesses. literature is an authentic material that exposes the student to everyday vocabulary. The reader comes into contact with the thoughts, feelings and traditions of the characters being thus exposed to a varied lexical field. Literature is a useful tool in the learning process and due to the impact it has on the reader. The aim of this brief study is to investigate the efficiency of using literary works in teaching vocabulary. There was a number of 72 5th and 6th graders that participated in the research, from a midlle school within Arad county. The preliminary results, after the intervention, show that pupils from the experimental group became more passionate about reading, have become more creative and have enriched their cultural baggage.
Building Visual Intertextuality and Territorial Identities for the Romanian Danubian Settlements during Socialism
Authors: ILOVAN Oana-Ramona , MERCIU Florentina-Cristina
Published: May 2021

The politics of symbolic representation is uncovered by our examining the represented cultural landscape. In this process, semiotics and discourse analysis were the methods complementing each other and enabling us to underline how Romanians’ understanding of power relations, of past and present events and ultimately of reality was shaped by signs, symbols, and stories in official visual materials. This research aims to discuss the geography of Romania’s southern border during the socialist period (1948-1989). This geography is made of the Danube and of the Danubian settlements as represented in images within Geography of Romania school textbooks and picture postcards. Thus, the aim of our article is to decode the visual construction of territorial identity of the Danubian settlements in Romania. To reach this aim, we considered the following research questions: Is the Danube the main subject in these representations or a secondary one? How is the Danube represented? What are the key-themes of its representation? How is the past of the settlements on the Danube integrated into the visual discourse during the socialist period? What was the role played by the Danube in the history of these settlements according to these representations (i.e. textbooks and picture postcards)? Results show that the Danube is a liminal space, changing functions depending on historical, political, economic, and social circumstances. The Danube is represented as landscape, defined through its economic (i.e. transport, commerce) or historical functions (i.e. border to the south or communication route with the west). Due to its representations, also the other elements seem truthful and “natural”. The presence of people and activities in the displayed places inform and educate visitors and inhabitants how to use space (contemplative, for entertainment, for relaxation, to learn, etc.). We provide an informed understanding of Romania through visual imagery: representations are singling out its uniqueness and achievements, fitting into the metanarrative of socialist propaganda.
Alternative Food Networks in Romania – Effective Instrument for Rural Development?
Authors: HAVADI-NAGY Kinga Xénia
Published: May 2021

"Recent public policies in the European Union foster a new multifunctional agricultural model, which, besides the food production function of farms, address the ecological, cultural, and social services they deliver, so that agriculture may contribute to an overall rural development. These benefits are produced mainly by small-scale farmers, which are less intensive and focusing on diversification. Alternative food networks (AFN) are the result of an amalgam of socio-cultural and economic phenomena, one main aim of these initiatives being the support of smallholders. This study reflects upon the chances and challenges of AFNs in the Romanian context, based on the existing initiatives emerging under the current socio-political and economic circumstances. The objective of the survey is to reveal the growth possibilities of AFNs and their potential contribution to the appreciation of small-scale agriculture and a sustainable, liveable rural area. The survey relies on data from previous research, the up-to-date websites and social network platforms of the investigated initiatives, informal discussions with AFN stakeholders, and the observations conducted by the author as a consumer of AFNs based in Cluj-Napoca. For the applied policies and policy recommendations, we consulted the main national policy documents and rural development strategies. We can conclude that Romania holds significant resources for the implementation of alternative food networks due to numerous favourable circumstances. However, to become an efficient tool of rural development, we see a need of improvement in accessibility, institutional and policy support, as well as in the education of producers and consumers in the spirit of sustainable consumption.

"
Cuentos populares y mass media. Estudio a partir de la serie televisiva El cuentacuentos (1987-1988)
Authors: Díez Villameriel Paula
Published: May 2021

Los cuentos populares han llegado hasta nuestros días gracias a la oralidad y a las versiones escritas, peor también forma parte de la tradición la capacidad de aprovechar nuevos lenguajes. Son muy numerosas las adaptaciones cinematográficas y televisivas de estas historias, que cuentan con la ventaja de que el espectador conoce previamente los temas y motivos y aprecia las variaciones y soluciones audiovisuales que las nuevas versiones ofrecen. De entre las muchas adaptaciones realizadas, hemos elegido la serie televisiva El Cuentacuentos (1987-1988) a fin de elaborar un análisis que determine si los mass media están o no a la altura cuando se trata de adecuar las grandes historias de los pueblos a los tiempos que corren.
Quality Deterioration of Postharvest Fruits and Vegetables in Developing Country Pakistan: A Mini Overview
Authors: Ahmad Khurshid , Afridi Mahideen , Khan Nasir Ali , Sarwar Azeem
Published: May 2021

Post-harvest losses relate to the degradation in the quantity and quality of the crop’s products from harvesting to consumer usage. In many developing countries, like Pakistan, the post-harvest loss is a problem of food security and is of concern to everyone. Inappropriate handling of agricultural products after harvest may cause quality and quantity losses. It also accounts for the increasing prices of agricultural products in Pakistan. The total production of vegetables and fruits in Pakistan is nearly 13.764 million tons, and it is estimated that 35% to 40% of vegetables and fruits were wasted after harvesting. Severe losses and deterioration of vegetables and fruits occurred mainly during harvesting, along with distribution, transportation, and storage. The important reasons for post-harvest losses include mechanical damage, poor handling, microorganisms (bacteria, fungi), unawareness and lack of modern technologies, time management, insects, and mites. Reduction of post-harvest losses is the main goal of the agricultural sector. Training and educational initiatives could be one of the best strategies for minimizing post-harvest losses. The main objective of this review is, to explain the major production, quality deteriorations of vegetables and fruits, and the causes of post-harvest losses in Pakistan. It can be applied as a positive indication because all bodies involved will strive to implement efficient and effective approaches and policies to address the existing problems.
Influence of Different Herbal-Mix Feed Additives on Serological Parameters, Tibia Bone Characteristics and Gut Morphology of Growing Pigs
Authors: Njoku C. P. , Sogunle O. M. , Adeyemi O. A. , Irekhore O. T. , Mobolaji O. O. , Ayano O. R.
Published: May 2021

A sixteen-week study was carried out in order to investigate the effects of different herbal-mix feed additives (Moringa, Basil and Neem) on serological parameters, tibia bone characteristics and gut morphology of growing pigs. Eighty-one Large White breed of pigs with a mean weight of 15.35 ± 1.07 were grouped on weight equalization basis into three treatments with 9 replicates per treatment and 3 pigs per replicate in a completely randomized design. Pigs on treatment 1 were fed a ration without integration of herbal-mix feed additives, those in treatments 2 and 3 were offered a diet that contained moringa-basil leaf meal and neem-basil leaf meal respectively. Blood samples were collected from the experimental pigs on the 12th week of the study for the determination of serum levels, while 1 pig from each replicate group whose weight was close to the mean replicate weight was chosen at the end of the study, fasted for 12 hours, sacrificed and the small intestine and left tibia bone were harvested and used for gut and bone morphology evaluation. These data generated from the study were subjected to a 1-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results indicated that herbal-mix feed additives influenced some of the serological parameters, i.e., globulin, glucose, total cholesterol, high- and low-density lipoproteins, and aspartate aminotransferase. These parameters decreased with integration of different herbal-mix in the pigs’ diets except high density lipoprotein that increased statistically. The tibia characteristics such as tibia breaking strength, medial thickness and lateral thickness were also positively impacted by the dietary inclusion of the herbal-mix. Likewise, the villus height of the jejunum was positively enhanced by dietary inclusion of the herbal-mix feed additives. This study concluded that herbal-mix feed additives can be utilized in pigs’ nutrition in enhancing some serological parameters, tibia bone and gut characteristics of growing pigs.
Monitoring of Stress in Police Horses
Authors: Lelláková M. , Pavľak A. , Florián M. , Lešková L. , Takáčová D. , Kottferová J.
Published: May 2021

Every year, police horses undergo police training focused on passing difficult obstacles, during which their physical and mental abilities are tested. Using a method of eye movement monitoring, specifically eye blinking and eyelid twitching, we estimated if the training of horses was stressful. The results we found suggested that the training itself, per se does not affect the welfare of police horses; as it is not stressful for them because the gradual training allows the horses to adapt to different types of work or physical activity.
The Influence of Spent Mushroom Substrate Fertilization on The Selected Properties of Arable Soil
Authors: Majchrowska-Safaryan Anna , Pakuła Krzysztof , Becher Marcin
Published: May 2021

In the last decades, Poland has become the leader in mushroom Agaricus bisporus production in Europe. Mushroom production generates large amounts of spent substrate, which as a waste material must be recycled. Significant in this macronutrient content, inducing nitrogen, encourages the use of this organic waste material to fertilize, especially light soils. The aim of the study was to assess the effect of spent mushroom substrate fertilization on the properties of A horizon of the Stagnic Luvisol, especially for the variation in the nitrogen fraction, in the two-year cultivation period. The following laboratory analyses were performed: soil pH, organic carbon content, total content of nitrogen and sorption properties. The sequential extraction of nitrogen compounds was performed with a 0.25 M KCl solution (for the extraction of mineral nitrogen forms and the most labile organic nitrogen compounds) and with 0.25 and 2.5 M H2SO4 (hot hydrolysis for sequencing of organic nitrogen compounds that are easily hydrolysing and difficult to hydrolyse). The application of spent mushroom substrate to the A horizons of the experimental objects had an effect on differentiation of soil properties and increased their value (pH, Corg, N-tot, Hh, CEC) in comparison to the control object to a greater degree after the first, then after the second year of cultivation. As the content of nitrogen mineral forms was differentiated, more nitrogen was found in an ammonium form (N-NH4) than in a nitrate form (N-NOx). The organic nitrogen content formed the following series of increasing amounts: soluble organic nitrogen NOS < NOEH < NODH < NONH.
Qualitative Analysis of Students’ Evaluations – The Case of the South East European University (SEEU) in North Macedonia
Authors: Gjerasimovska Irena , Bexheti Abdylmenaf , Kareva Veronika , Rexhepi Gadaf
Published: May 2021

The use of student evaluations of teaching (SET) has become a widespread practice in higher education despite inconclusive evidence reported in the literature around its validity. Not surprisingly, the question of the validity of SET continues to be a current debate in higher education, pointing to the need for more research in this area. This paper is a part of a larger scale study, which aims to contribute to broadening the knowledge and understanding of SET validity by analysing the process within the South East European University (SEEU) in North Macedonia in order to determine whether student evaluations are objective and critical. A likert scale questionnaire, containing 9 questions, was designed for the purpose of the analysis. The questionnaire was sent to all students from the five (5) Faculties: Business and Economics, Law, Contemporary Sciences and Technologies, Contemporary Social Sciences and Faculty of Languages, Cultures and Communications, in both campuses, Tetovo and Skopje. Three hundred and thirty three (333) students participated in the survey. Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) was used for analysing the results. Findings revealed that the information students received about the reputation, experience and qualifications of the professors had the highest influence on their perceptions, which in turn influenced the evaluations. As an addition, the present paper also compares two methods on a data set of actual SET. For illustrative purposes, only data from one faculty have been analysed. It is shown that the traditional method of considering the average values can misrepresent a teacher’s performance as it can be highly sensitive to any extreme grades, being either very positive or very negative.
Steroid Hormones of Follicular Fluid and the Outcome of in Vitro Fertilization
Authors: Gavrilovic Aleksandra , Cekovic Jelena , Parandilovic Aida , Nikolov Aleksandar , Sazdanovic Predrag , Velickovic Aleksandra , Andjelkovic Marija , Sorak Marija
Published: May 2021

One of the succes factors of biomedically assisted fertilization is the regular maturation of one or more oocytes. The quality of the oocytes is significantly influenced by the environment in which it is located, the so-called „microenvironment” that includes cumulus cells, follicular fluid in which hormones and growth factors involved in its growth and development are secreted. The main aim was to examine whether the concentration of steroid hormones in the follicular fluid affects the rate of fertilization and the outcome of the in vitro fertilization process itself. The study included 31 patients who were included in vitro fertilization procedure at the Department for Biomedically Assisted Fertilization, Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics, Clinical Center Kragujevac. We used follicular fluid as biological material for analysis. Examination of the obtained follicular fluid and collection of oocytes under a stereomicroscope was done in the embryological laboratory at the Department. Biochemical parameters of follicular fluid were analyzed in the Department for Laboratory Diagnostics, Clinical Center Kragujevac. In vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) methods were used as the fertilization method. The criteria of the Istanbul Consensus of Clinical Embryologists were used as a reference framework for embryo quality assessment. Pregnancy was confirmed by a positive serum level of the hormone β-hCG 14 days after embryo transfer. A software package SPSS 20 was used for statistical data processing. The results of the analysis of follicular fluid samples show that there was no statistically significant difference in the concentration of estradiol, progesterone and testosterone in follicular fluid in relation to fertilization rate and the outcome of in vitro fertilization. Based on our results, it can be concluded that the concentration of steroid hormones did not affect fertilization rate and the outcome of in vitro fertilization.
NEW CHROMOSOME COUNTS OF ASIAN COSTACEAE AND INITIAL INSIGHTS INTO THE GENOME EVOLUTION OF THE FAMILY
Authors: Van Caspel Pim H , Poulsen Axel Dalberg , Möller Michael
Published: May 2021

Chromosome counts were obtained from six species of Costaceae from Asia. Our count of 2n = 18 for Cheilocostus speciosus confirms previous counts, and the other five counts have been made for the first time (Cheilocostus borneensis, Cheilocostus globosus, Cheilocostus sopuensis, Costus muluensis and Paracostus sp.). These chromosome counts reveal two somatic numbers, 2n = 18 and 2n = 36, of which the former is a new diploid number for the genus Paracostus. A comprehensive review of existing counts was conducted through literature and database searches. Mapping of these on a published comprehensive phylogenetic tree suggests that the diploid count of 2n = 18 is probably ancestral in the Costaceae, with repeated parallel evolution of tetraploidy and one case of octoploidy. The existence of triploid counts in several lineages harbouring polyploids suggests that diploids and tetraploids may exist in close proximity, and that crosses or meioticirregularities may lead to triploid genotypes occurring frequently.
POLYGALA PETRICOLA (POLYGALACEAE), A NEW SPECIES FROM BRAZIL
Authors: Pastore J. F. B. , Flaviano S. S. , Pivari M. O. D. , Anastacio A. C. S. A. , Amano E.
Published: May 2021

Polygala petricola, a new species from Brazil, is described. It belongs to the subgenus Polygala, sect. Timutua, ser. Eriocoideae. The diagnostic characters distinguishing it from its closest relatives are described and discussed. Its conservation status is assessed, and a distribution map and illustrations are provided.
Research and forecasting of the stability of the structure of linen suit and dress fabrics
Authors: Lapshin Valery , Smirnova Nadezda , Zamyshlyaeva Veronika , Sheromova Irina
Published: May 2021

В статье приводятся результаты исследований и прогнозирования устойчивости структуры костюмно-платьевых льняных тканей. Объектом исследования выступают костюмно-платьевые льняные ткани, предметом – устойчивость их структуры к сдвигу нитей, определяемая авторским методом посредством разработанной автоматизированной системы. В работе использованы элементы теории искусственных нейронных сетей (ИНС), при экспериментальном исследовании применялись стандартные методы измерения структурных параметров материалов. Основные исследования выполнены методом сдвига нитей в ткани, реализуемым автоматизированной системой. Отличительная особенность измерительной системы состоит в получении числовых характеристик и графической записи процесса сдвига нитей и восстановления после сдвига посредством специально разработанного программного обеспечения. Прогнозирование устойчивости структуры льняных тканей выполнено с использованием компьютерной программы «Neuro-Prognosis». В результате проведенных исследований в контексте обеспечения цифровизации конфекционирования материалов в пакет изделия доказана эффективность прогнозирования устойчивости структуры тканей при сдвиге с использованием интеллектуальной системы на базе разработанной компьютерной программы при отсутствии экспериментальной базы. Как результат исследования представлены справочные сведения по характеристикам устойчивости структуры льняных тканей при сдвиге, необходимые для проектирования одежды с требуемой формоустойчивостью и повышения качества выпускаемых швейных изделий. Ключевые слова и словосочетания: льняные костюмные ткани, деформация сдвига, устойчивость структуры, прогнозирование.
Neuroprobability of events in the system of problems of behavioral economics
Authors: Fersht Viktor , Latkin Aleksandr , Manho Ching
Published: May 2021

На рубеже XX–XXI столетий многочисленные исследования учёных посвящаются феномену поведенческой экономики на фоне накопления данных о существенных отклонениях человечества от рациональной модели поведения. Уже можно считать доказанным, что в настоящее время и в будущем настроение людей больше определяет иррациональное поведение, которое ведёт к принятию неэффективных решений в политике и экономике. В статье рассматривается новый подход к вычислению вероятности успеха событий или проектов на основе сочетания математического расчёта вероятности с последними достижениями психологии в области практического использования подсознания и иррациональности. Авторы предлагают для расчётов новый тест на индекс нейровероятности успеха события и методику повышения его вероятности, основу которой составил тест на коэффициент иррациональных возможностей для достижения желаемого результата события по толерантности к неопределённости и распределённому вниманию. Представленные в статье результаты открывают новую возможность более точного вычисления вероятности с помощью иррационального сознания, дополняющего компьютерные расчёты и позволяющего прогнозировать будущие события, что имеет большое практическое значение для использования поведенческой экономики. Ключевые слова и словосочетания: поведенческая экономика, иррациональное сознание, нейровероятность, толерантность к неопределённости, распределённое внимание, сетевые модели формирования имплицитных (бессознательных) отношений, аллостаз, психоматематика.
Die Sprache Gottes - George Berkeleys Auffassung des Naturgeschehens
Authors: Fasko Manuel
Published: May 2021

Was ist George Berkeleys Auffassung des sinnlich wahrnehmbaren Naturgeschehens? Sie zu erklären und nachzuvollziehen ist Ziel des Bandes. Er zeigt, dass Berkeley das Naturgeschehen als einen göttlichen Diskurs sieht; das visuell Wahrgenommene ist dabei die Sprache. Berkeley beharrt darauf, diese These der göttlichen Sprache wörtlich auszulegen, da sie Grundlage eines seiner Ansicht nach einzigartigen Gottesbeweises ist. Um Berkeleys Argumentation zu verstehen, muss man sich auch mit den (historischen) Umständen beschäftigen, in welchen er diese These entwickelt und verteidigt. Deshalb wird sie im ersten Teil in ihren diachronen und synchronen historischen Kontext eingebettet. Die zweite Hälfte ist dann einer kritischen Rekonstruktion von Berkeleys These gewidmet.
Е-ПОРТФОЛІО ВЧИТЕЛЯ СЕРЕДНЬОЇ ШКОЛИ ЯК ТЕХНОЛОГІЯ ПРОФЕСІЙНОГО ЗРОСТАННЯ
Authors: Ісаєва Оксана , Алексєєва Роксолана
Published: May 2021

У статті обґрунтовано особливості укладання електронного портфоліо для вчителів загальноосвітніх навчальних закладів. Доведено, що технологія е-портфоліо сприяє моніторингу професійного зростання вчителя та передбачає не лише фіксацію його старання чи успіхів у визначених видах педагогічної діяльності (виховна робота, викладання, організаторська, позашкільна чи суспільна робота, методична чи науково-дослідницька робота), але й активізацію аналітичних здібностей через самостійне зіставлення підсумків своєї діяльності з встановленими стандартними критеріями.

Укладання е-портфоліо дозволяє вирішувати значущі педагогічні завдання: стимулювати мотивацію до педагогічної діяльності і професійного самовиховання, розвивати рефлексивно-оцінні навички вчителів та бажання до самоосвіти. Укладання і використання вчителями технології е-портфоліо у практичній діяльності закладів середньої освіти сприятиме організаційній, розвивальній, мобілізаційній та інформаційній функціях.
Integrating resource-based view and performance improvement theory in developing maintenance management continuous improvement model: A conceptual framework
Authors: Mong Sylvia Gala , Mohamed Sarajul Fikri , Misnan Mohd Saidin , Palis Prescilla
Published: May 2021

The local authority in Malaysia is the giant holder of public assets and they are obligated in performing better management to ensure the assets are of prominent quality to serve the needs of the local people. The local authority should take initiatives in having the right systems in managing and maintaining their assets. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to explore the maintenance management practices and performance improvement techniques to be integrated into developing the continuous improvement model towards achieving a sustainable performance of public assets. The resource-based view (RBV) and performance improvement (PI) theory are integrated as the reference to develop the maintenance management framework. The RBV emphasizing the resources and capabilities to achieve the value of strategic management. While the PI provides a suitable tool which is the maturity model for improving the current practices. Nine key elements of maintenance management were identified which demonstrating the maintenance capabilities and resources. Grounded on the theory of RBV and PI, the conceptual framework was established as the foundation towards developing strategic maintenance practices for sustainable performance of public assets and continuous improvement in maintenance management by the local authority in Malaysia.
COVID-19 Outbreak: An Analysis of Malaysian Household Income Class During Movement Control Order (MCO)
Authors: Ismail Mohd Khairi , Kumaran Vikniswari Vija , Munawwarah Siti Nurul , Muhamad Muhamad Zahid , Sarifuddin Syamsulang
Published: May 2021

The outbreak of COVID-19 has caused the Malaysian Government to take several steps towards the implementation of Movement Control Order (MCO). According to Bank Negara Malaysia, the implementation of MCO affects the national income with the estimated economic growth of Malaysia in 2020 which is expected to be around -2% to 0.5%. The effects of MCO due to COVID-19 not only affects the macro level but at micro level as well, especially those group of households. The group of households were expected to face high economic risk and directly affect their consumption patterns during the implementation of MCO. This study will analyze the pattern of households’ consumption in Malaysia based on different income groups which is B40 and M40 during the implementation of MCO due to the spread of COVID-19 pandemic. The findings show that the groups of household experienced changes in daily consumption patterns after the implementation of MCO. In addition, due to insufficient savings, this has caused the households stay anxious of their consumption especially if the MCO is further extended for longer period.
ACCEPTANCE OF PUBLIC TOWARDS CROWDFUNDING FOR MAINTENANCE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY
Authors: ABDULLAH MUHAMMAD RIDZWAN YAP , Bakri Mohammed Hariri
Published: May 2021

Hence, this research focused on determining the factors that could influence the prospective investors’ intention to donate in this crowd-funding project. The research selected the UTAUT model to determine the prospective investor’s intention toward donating money to the crowd-funding project. There were five independent variables, namely performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, and with the addition of trustworthiness as the fifth variable. The intention of the prospective investor was selected as the dependent variable. With respect to the literature review, five hypotheses were developed in this study. To test the developed hypotheses in this study, descriptive research was adopted by applying a self-administered questionnaire distributed to respondents. For this study, convenience sampling was selected, whereby 384 respondents responded and answered the questions. All the independent variables have shown that they were positively significant to the intention of the prospective investor. Hence, the intention of prospective investors is influenced by performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, and trustworthiness. This research successfully contributed to the knowledge in this field by applying the UTAUT factor in the context of crowd-funding for the maintenance of public schools in Malaysia.
Woman's Business Empowerment Through Micro-Financing: does Family Cohesion Play a Role?
Authors: Arshad Salman , Imtiaz Aisha , Gillani Muhammad Ahmad Hassan , Osman Sharina
Published: May 2021

Given that development initiatives could at from time to time be a “zero-sum game”, this study looks at the unforeseen effects of microfinance in Pakistan for females' “empowerment”. So as to discover the complexities of the microfinance impact on females in societies with various disadvantages in Pakistan, the research uses a participation-based methodology involving household “questionnaires surveys, focus group discussions and major interviews.” The effects of multiple regressions, median closure, and themes studies indicate that the financial effects of microfinance for women are often closely connected to disputes between spouses, child labour, heterosexual monogamy and the lack of supposed traditional women's duty due to their entrepreneurship. With limitations on scientific findings regarding the possible negative effects of females' “empowerment” in Pakistan, the study evaluated a crucial research gaps which will allow non-governmental organisations, policymakers and other stakeholders to design and execute better initiatives that minimize the adverse concerns
Does people’s wellbeing get impacted by COVID-19 pandemic measure in Indonesia?
Authors: TJAHJANA DAVID , DWIDIENAWATI DIENA , MANURUNG ADLER HAYMANS , GANDASARI DYAH
Published: May 2021

The impact of COVID-19 pandemic is not only to human health but also to other aspects of human life.  The most common action taken by the government in order to prevent the spread of the infection is mobility restriction.  The implication of this mobility restriction is limitation of social activities which can be done.  Mobility restriction was implemented in Jakarta and its surrounding cities and impacted more than 20 million people.  Is this mobility restriction impacting people’s wellbeing? The objective of this study is to see whether there is an impact on wellbeing- in terms of happiness and life satisfaction- in Indonesia due to mobility restriction.  A survey was conducted in April 2020. Happiness and satisfaction with life were measured by using the Subjective Happiness Scale (SHS) and Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWL).  The reliability and validity of measures were analyzed with SPSS, and the differences between groups were analyzed with Two-Sample T-Test. The study finds that the respondents’ happiness level was only slightly happy, and the level of satisfaction was only slightly satisfied.  The respondents claimed that their happiness was deteriorated during mobility restriction (41%). Thirty-four percent felt their satisfaction was deteriorated.  Student group is shown as the most impacted group in its scale of wellbeing. The finding of this study can give insight for policymakers in implementing restrictive measures.  The result of this study gives an insight into which groups to be prioritized for support or helped to cope with the restriction.
The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and South Africans with Albinism: A Commentary
Authors: Nkrumah Bright Kojo
Published: May 2021

The year 2021 marks the fifteenth anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). The enactment of the instrument has been lauded as ground-breaking, as it contains provisions that seek to safeguard the world’s largest minority group, persons with disabilities (PwDs). The instrument is perceived as having triggered normative and institutional safeguards at the national, regional, and international levels with the aim of empowering this population. Despite this progress, it is apparent that a sub-group, namely persons with albinism (PwAs), are yet to reap the befits of the instrument. Among the mythologies of South African communities is the superstition that the body parts of these individuals possess magical powers which could be a source of fortune, lead to a bumper harvest, or cure complicated illnesses. Though these perceptions are erroneous, they lead some people to rape PwAs or to harvest their organs for rituals. As the international community celebrates the birth of the CRPD, this article argues that it is high time the state formulated a comprehensive intervention to avert further attacks on this vulnerable population.
An Analysis of the Execution of Judgments and Follow-up Mechanism Under the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights: Lessons from the European Human Rights System
Authors: Sibanda Elijah
Published: May 2021

The African Court is a critical forum under the African human rights system. Under the Protocol which establishes the African Court, member states have an obligation to comply with the court’s judgments and must guarantee their execution. However, states rarely comply with the judgments of this court. In contrast, judgments under the European human rights system are largely complied with. This article analyses and evaluates the monitoring and supervision of the execution of judgments of the African Court and the European Court. It analyses the supervision mechanisms employed by the African Union’s organs such as the Assembly of Heads of State and Government, the Executive Council and the African Court. These monitoring and enforcement mechanisms are compared to the European mechanisms employed by the Committee of Ministers, the European Court, and other bodies like the Parliamentary Assembly. The article contends that the monitoring and supervision mechanisms under the European human rights system are detailed, coherent, well established, specialised and effective as compared to the mechanisms in Africa. In that regard, the article proposes lessons that can be adopted to strengthen the African human rights system.
The Role of Endocannabinoid System in Menopause and Its Related-Diseases
Authors:   Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialist Surgery, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Italy, M Torella , C Tortora ,   Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialist Surgery, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Italy, M Argenziano ,   Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialist Surgery, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Italy, G Riemma ,   Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialist Surgery, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Italy, C Di Leva ,   Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialist Surgery, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Italy, M La Verde ,   Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialist Surgery, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Italy, F Rossi ,   Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialist Surgery, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Italy, A Di Paola ,   Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Italy
Published: May 2021

Menopause is a crucial event in women’s health, characterized by the cessation of ovarian function. The estrogens deficiency exposes women to several diseases, including obesity, osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Menopause-related diseases deeply impact on women’s quality of life and represent a serious public and economic health burden. The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) includes Cannabinoid Type 1 (CB1) and Cannabinoid Type 2 (CB2) receptors, endocannabinoids and all the enzymes involved in their biosynthesis and degradation. It plays a significant role in energy balance, bone metabolism, muscular contractility, vascular tone and cancer progression. CB1 activation is responsible for increasing food intake and body weight, stimulating osteoclast activity, inhibiting oxidative stress and preventing cancer progression. Conversely, the stimulation of CB2 induces a reduction in food intake and in body weight, inhibits osteoclast activity, prevents vascular risk and reduces cancer cells proliferation. Moreover, several polymorphic variants of cannabinoid receptors genes are involved into obesity and osteoporosis. In menopause, the alteration of cannabinoid receptors expression and endocannabinoids levels as well as their role in hormone-related pathways could act a leading role in different pathologies (obesity, osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases and cancer). Therefore, ECS could be considered a possible prognostic marker and a therapeutic target to oppose the harmful effects of these menopause-related diseases. In this review we aimed to summarize the current state-of-knowledge concerning the impact of ECS on major health issues of postmenopausal women.
Stability and Presence of Pesticide Residue Sample Extracts of Soil and Vegetable: Eloor & Edayar Region, Kerala, Industrial Hub Nearer to Arabian Sea
Authors:   Department of Chemical Oceanography, Cochin University of Science and Technology, India, KR Divya , TR Midhun ,   Department of Applied Chemistry, Cochin University of Science and Technology, India, KS Moushmi ,   Department of Chemical Oceanography, Cochin University of Science and Technology, India, AS Cheriyan ,   Department of Chemical Oceanography, Cochin University of Science and Technology, India, AR Nisari ,   Department of Chemical Oceanography, Cochin University of Science and Technology, India, CS Ratheeshkumar ,   School of Environmental studies, Cochin University of Science and Technology, India, P Shaiju ,   Department of Chemical Oceanography, Cochin University of Science and Technology, India, GD Martin ,   Department of Chemical Oceanography, Cochin University of Science and Technology, India, N Chandramohanakumar ,   Department of Chemical Oceanography, Cochin University of Science and Technology, India
Published: May 2021

Eloor-Edayar, (latitude 9° 3´N and 10° 6´N and longitudes 76° 18´E and 76° 30´ and an area of 14.21km2) the landmass situated on the banks of River Periyar, is known as the industrial backbone of Kerala. The previous reports reveal this region is highly contaminated by heavy metal from industrial effluents. The present study focuses on pesticides in vegetables (Ladies finger, Papaya, Kachil- yam, Guava, Tapioca, Ginger) and related soil extracts when kept in cold conditions and their presence after a long period. The samples collected in May 2008 pre-monsoon, the environment when the soil and vegetables were free from volatile organic components, accelerates the adsorption of pesticides and high temperature. The samples shoot vegetable ladies finger, edible root vegetables Kachil-Yum, Tapioca and Ginger, fruits like Papaya and Guava and the sediments nearer land. The sample extracts analyzed in 2019 after keeping in the cold as well as the usual conditions. The Analysis report shows the pesticides present in the vegetables and soil are a, β, γ BHC Aldrin, Dicofol, a, β, Endosulfan, Dieldrin, OPDDT and PPDDT. Aldrin, Dicofol and BHC are the related forms in ladies Finger contains γ BHC, a, β, Endosulfan, Dieldrin, Aldrin, PPDDT. Ginger added a, β, γ BHC Aldrin, Dicofol, a, β, Endosulfan, OPDDT and PPDDT. Tapioca carried a, β, γ BHC, Dicofol and PPDDT. Kachil-Yum absorbed a, β, γ BHC Aldrin, Dicofol, a, β, Endosulfan, OPDDT and PPDDT. Papaya contains a and γ BHC. Guava captivated a, γ BHC Aldrin, Dicofol, a Dieldrin OPDDT and PPDDT.
Radiotherapy after Breast-Preserving Surgery for Early Breast Cancer-Basic Principles and Our Experience
Authors:   Department of Radiotherapy, Oncology Hospital, Bulgaria, L Marinova , K Petrova ,   Department of Radiotherapy, Oncology Hospital, Bulgaria, N Evgeniev ,   Department of Medical Oncology, Oncology Hospital, Bulgaria
Published: May 2021

Breast cancer is the second most common malignant tumor worldwide and the most common oncological disease among women. This article presents our experience in postoperative Radiotherapy (RT) in 341 patients with Early Breast Cancer (EBC) after Breast-Preserving Surgery (BPS). Emphasis is placed on the indications and Clinical Target Volumes (CTV) for radiotherapy. The significant effect of postoperative RT in terms of Local Tumor Control (LTC), long-term recurrence-free survival and overall survival is reported. The main goal of this article is to establish high-tech radiotherapy after BPS in early BC as the main local method, optimizing the treatment and cosmetic results.
Amplification of the Hazelnut-Induced Epigenetic Modulation of LDLR Gene Expression in THLE-2 Human Primary Hepatocytes Compared to HepG2 Hepatocarcinoma Cells
Authors:   Division of Health Protection Technologies, ENEAItalian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, Italy, B Benassi , S Santangeli ,   Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Italy, L Bacchetta ,   Division of Biotechnologies and Agroindustry, ENEAItalian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, Italy, F Pacchierotti ,   Division of Health Protection Technologies, ENEAItalian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, Italy
Published: May 2021

Dietary supplementation with tree nuts, including hazelnuts, has been associated with reduced cardiovascular disease risk factors, due to improved blood lipid profile. In the attempt to identify the molecular mechanism(s) underlying such beneficial effect, we here characterized the response of the human primary hepatocytes (THLE-2 cells) to the administration of an ethanolic extract of hazelnut (Corylus avellana L., cultivar Tonda Gentile Romana) in terms of regulation of the Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor (LDLR), a major blood cholesterol carrier that positively correlates with improved blood lipids level. We demonstrated that hazelnut (0.004-0.4 mg/ml) does not alter viability and growth of primary liver cells, but significantly stimulates (P<0.05) the LDLR mRNA and membrane protein expression. We also proved that LDLR increase is driven by an epigenetic-based mechanism, as hazelnut treatments trigger a strong DNA hypo-methylation of two CpG-rich regions in the LDLR gene promoter, mapping at -739/-548 and -221/+174 position. The hazelnutmediated hypo-methylation is much stronger and extensive in THLE-2 than in HepG2 human hepatocarcinoma cells, supporting the significance of the liver context for performing studies on dietary supplementation. As overall, our findings demonstrate that hazelnut triggers an epigenetic-dependent regulation of LDLR expression in human primary liver cells in vitro, thus identifying in the LDLR stimulation a molecular mechanism contributing to the health promoting functions of hazelnuts.
Elucidating Post-COVID-19 Manifestations in India
Authors:   Department of Personalized Medicine, Era’s Lucknow Medical College and Hospital, Lucknow, India, G Fatima
Published: May 2021

Background: In India, a large number of patients with Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19), presented with common symptoms including fever, dyspnea, cough, musculoskeletal symptoms (fatigue, myalgia, joint pain) and gastrointestinal symptoms. However, information is lacking on symptoms that persist after recovery from COVID-19. In this study we assessed symptoms that persisted in patients even after their recovery and discharged from the hospital after one month from COVID-19. Methods: This study is an observational cohort study. Participants in this study were enrolled between 30 to 40 days after recovery from COVID-19 of ≥18 years of age, who were hospitalized with laboratory-confirmed RT-PCR COVID-19 disease. Outcomes from post COVID-19 participants were elicited through questionnaire that consisted of three main parts beginning from subject’s demographical data, depicting about the status of COVID-19 and other co-morbidities of the subject, and about post-COVID-19 symptoms and manifestations. Results: All subjects have reported some manifestation after recovery from COVID-19 whereas numerous symptoms and diseases were experienced by a great percentage of participants. Fatigue (56.25%), dyspnea (74.3%) and disturbed sleep (64.3%) were among the most common symptoms. However, more critical manifestations like renal failure and pulmonary fibrosis were reported by only a few percent of the subjects. Rating of worse physical and mental health after post-COVID recovery was also reported by subjects. There was a strong relationship found in between the presence of other co-morbidities before infection like diabetes, hypertension and in disease severity after infection. A total of 280 patients were enrolled and 160 completed the survey. Conclusions: Post COVID-19 sufferers often experience symptoms that cause a disturbance in their physical health, mental health and their respiratory status for several weeks even after recovery from COVID-19. Therefore, all subjects after recovering from COVID-19 should undergo long-term monitoring programme for their symptoms and condition improvement.