bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dark academia: La estetización del conocimiento
Authors: Masís-González Tadeo
Published: December 2023

Recientemente se han popularizado las llamadas aesthetics en redes como TikTok e Instagram y más específicamente aquellas que evocan estilos de vida del pasado. El presente artículo trata sobre la estética Dark academia como un caso relevante de este fenómeno, cuya particularidad es ser una tendencia que ofrece una representación estética del conocimiento. El foco de esta investigación es la relación entre esta tendencia y otros fenómenos de la sociedad contemporánea. De esta manera, se establece un vínculo entre la Dark academia y la cultura retrospectiva, la hipermodernidad y la persistencia del eurocentrismo en el pensamiento occidental, de modo que sea posible realizar una comprensión detallada sobre la forma en que se estetiza el conocimiento.
Evaluation of Students’ Measuring Capability in the Dimensional Control Laboratory Using R&R Procedure by Variables
Authors: Simion Carmen
Published: December 2023

The curriculum of technical bachelor programs often focuses on various theories in order to emphase understanding but there is also an actual need to provide the students with specific technical skills. This paper presents an effective means to evaluate the students’ capability to measure geometrical product specifications namely the procedure of Repeatability and Reproducibility by variables. The measurement results were processed using MINITAB statistical software with its module called Gage R&R Study. The conclusion was that the analyzed measurement system is excellent.
Calibrating DC01 Material Properties for Finite Element Analysis with Abaqus and Isight
Authors: Popp Ilie-Octavian , Popp Mihai-Octavian , Oleksik Mihaela , Rusu Gabriela-Petruța , Chicea Anca Lucia
Published: December 2023

This article explores the process of calibrating the properties of DC01 materials for finite element analysis using ABAQUS and Isight. Precise calibration of yield strength and tensile strength is crucial for accurately modeling material behavior under various loading conditions. The article details the sample preparation process, deformation measurements, and tensile tests to obtain experimental data. These data are then used to calibrate the DC01 material model in ABAQUS with the assistance of Isight, ensuring that the simulations accurately reflect real-world behavior. The results indicate the success of the calibration, facilitating the design and testing of products in a predictive virtual environment. Precise calibration is essential for predicting material behavior in real-world conditions and minimizing the risk of implementation failures.
Effect of DGs on Power Quality of Distribution System: An Analytical Review
Authors: Iqbal Javed , Rashid Zeeshan
Published: December 2023

This article offers an overview of distributed generation (DG) in distribution systems (DS). The primary goal of this study is to assess the performance of DGs in DS. Due to the rise in electrical energy consumption, it is anticipated that DG sources would be essential to DS. Future power generating networks have a bright outlook on consideration of DG’s potential for utilising alternative energy sources. The quality of power systems is a crucial concern for energy providers and consumers. In order to decrease reliance on fossil fuels for the production of electricity, distributed generations are gaining importance in the energy supply networks in many countries. Distributed generators are small units that generate electricity close to customer sites. These DGs use renewable energy methods such as wind energy, solar energy and geothermal energy. The incorporation of DGs into a conventional power supply system evolves in a number of side effects, including an increase in the number of short circuits, higher power losses, a decrease in the quality of the energy produced, voltage transients, problems with voltage stability, coordination issues regarding voltage regulation and protection, the possibility that system protection will not function correctly, and the fact that there is less residual current input as a result of the DG bidirectional power flows. This review paper discusses the impacts of the penetration of DG into DS and provides various strategies to mitigate these effects.
Integrating IoT Technology for Improved Distribution Transformer Monitoring and Protection
Authors: Rehman Sadiq Ur , Khan Adeel
Published: December 2023

This research study focuses on developing and implementing an IoT-based distribution transformer monitoring and protection system. The traditional methods of transformer protection and monitoring have proven to be inefficient and time-consuming, leading to the need for a more modern and effective solution. In this study, a low-cost prototype system is proposed to handle and control the main functions and problems of the distribution transformer through the internet. The proposed system allows for easy monitoring and protection of the transformer, enabling electric companies to improve efficiency and reduce labour and tool costs. The system is validated using Proteus software to simulate and obtain results from the hardware. The system results are displayed in multiple ways, including LCD, system bar, and internet, making it easier for electric companies and consumers in developing countries like Pakistan to monitor and control distribution transformers efficiently. This research study aims to provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of IoT-based distribution transformer monitoring and protection systems and their potential benefits in enhancing transformer performance and efficiency.
Optimized Centroid-Based Clustering of Dense Nearly-square Point Clouds by the Hexagonal Pattern
Authors: Romanuke Vadim , Merinova Svitlana , Yehoshyna Hanna
Published: December 2023

An approach to optimize centroid-based clustering of flat objects is suggested, which is practically important for efficiently solving metric facility location problems. In such problems, the task is to find the best warehouse locations to optimally service a given set of consumers. An example is assigning mobiles to base stations of a wireless communication network. We suggest a hexagonal-pattern-based approach to partition flat nodes into clusters quicker than the k-means algorithm and its modifications do. First, a hexagonal cell lattice is applied to nodes to approximately determine centroids of the clusters. Then the centroids are used as initial centroids to start the k-means algorithm. The suggested method is efficient for centroid-based clustering of dense nearly-square point clouds of 0.1 million points and greater by using no fewer than 6 lattice cells along an axis. Compared to k-means, our method is at least 10 % faster and it is about 0.01 to 0.07 % more accurate in regular Euclidean distances. In squared Euclidean distances, the accuracy gain is 0.14 to 0.21 %. Applying a hexagonal cell lattice determines an upper bound of the clustering quality gap.
Impact of Human Energy Expenditure on Order Picking Productivity: A Monte Carlo Simulation Study in a Zone Picking System
Authors: Al Theeb Nader A. , Al-Araidah Omar , Al-Ali Malik M. , Khudair Adnan I.
Published: December 2023

This article aims to investigate the impact of allowable human energy expenditure (HEE) of order pickers on the throughput of workers in manual order zone picking systems MOP. The method used in this research is the Monte Carlo simulation, used while considering many human and job factors. The results showed that a worker’s gender and an item’s weight have little effect on the HEE. On the other hand, body weight, walking speed, distance travelled, and the targeted zone significantly impacted the HEE, rest allowance, and throughput. For example, male pickers at a weight of 75 kg can move up to speed to 1 m/s and pick up items weighing up to 5 kg without reaching the allowable HEE rate, equal to 4.3 kcal/min, and, thus, no rest is needed. Female pickers at a weight of 75 kg reach the allowable HEE rate, equal to 2.6 kcal/min, at a very low speed of approximately 0.1 m/s when picking up items up to 5 kg, and, thus, frequent rest is needed, which leads to low throughput. To increase the throughput of female pickers, they can be assigned to pick up lighter items. Utilising Monte Carlo simulation to evaluate the HEE in MOP while considering many factors.
Reshoring and Friendshoring as Factors in Changing the Geography of International Supply Chains
Authors: Banaszyk Piotr
Published: December 2023

The text covers the projection of the potential impact of the currently observed processes in the world economy on the international supply chains’ geography. The economic effects of the pandemic, the modern trade war and Russia’s aggression towards Ukraine are considered key factors in changing this geography. When examining the importance of these factors, the matrix of three components of global supply chains is adopted: production centres, transport corridors and consumption centres. The reasoning allowed for rejecting both the scenario of maintaining the so-called hyper-globalisation and forming a bilateral system of two isolated and hostile economic systems. The presented arguments lead to the expectation of a mixed solution in the form of the simultaneous existence of a system of high globalisation and concentrated regional systems. The primary objective of this study is to identify and assess emerging trends in the configuration of international supply chains. On this basis, it is also intended to identify the most likely scenario for the future formation of the geography of international supply chains. The research used the literature study methodology and deductive inference of the consequences of the identified processes taken as premises for reasoning. The above-presented arguments lead to the assumption that the so-called hyper-globalisation is probably unsustainable. Various economic, political, technological and social factors make it impossible to sustain, let alone further develop, the current logic of shaping the global economic system. A world economy system with a hybrid structure is expected to emerge. The model of full globalisation will coexist with the model of a multilateral structure with a regional character centred around the main consumption and production centres. The factors determining the evolution of economic globalisation have been systematised. Their potential impact is described, and a likely scenario for change is presented. The achieved results can contribute to the design of economic policy at the level of individual countries and their groupings.
Towards Integration of Business Process Management and Knowledge Management. IT Systems’ Perspective
Authors: Bitkowska Agnieszka , Detyna Beata , Detyna Jerzy
Published: December 2023

The processes of globalisation, the ongoing threat of the COVID-19 epidemic, the continuing war in Ukraine, and constantly emerging new technological solutions require organisations to adapt to changes constantly. Meanwhile, implemented business process management (BPM) often fails to integrate processes and knowledge resources. The awareness of the IT systems’ role in management processes is still lacking. These premises influenced the implementation of the main research goal to identify the approach of Polish private and public enterprises and various industries to the BPM integration with knowledge management (MK) in the context of using new information technologies. The presented research results justify the usefulness of building relationships between the process and knowledge resources under dynamically changing conditions using IT systems. The diagnostic survey results confirmed the key importance of developing such BPM and MK elements as evidence-based decisions, strategic goals, measurement systems, databases, digital innovations, and IT use for data processing. The presented material can support managers of various organisation types in decision-making processes by fully understanding the IT systems’ role and potential in process and knowledge management. Also, the article’s implications are a source of guidelines, helping organisations to implement management systems based on modern technologies. The value of the publication is a wide range of respondents: 107 large, medium, small, and micro-enterprises operating in Poland. The article’s research results also concern economic activities such as production, logistics, transport, banking, insurance, IT, telecommunications/ media, public administration, healthcare/pharmaceuticals, consulting, energy, and construction.
Generative AI in the Manufacturing Process: Theoretical Considerations
Authors: Doanh Doung Cong , Dufek Zdenek , Ejdys Joanna , Ginevičius Romualdas , Korzynski Pawel , Mazurek Grzegorz , Paliszkiewicz Joanna , Wach Krzysztof , Ziemba Ewa
Published: December 2023

The paper aims to identify how digital transformation and Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI), in particular, affect the manufacturing processes. Several dimensions of the Industry 4.0 field have been considered, such as the design of new products, workforce and skill optimisation, enhancing quality control, predictive maintenance, demand forecasting, and marketing strategy. The paper adopts qualitative research based on a critical review approach. It provides evidence of the GAI technology support in the mentioned areas. Appropriate use of emerging technology allows managers to transform manufacturing by optimising processes, improving product design, enhancing quality control, and contributing to overall efficiency and innovation in the industry. Simultaneously, GAI technologies facilitate predictive analytics to forecast and anticipate future demand, quality issues, and potential risks, improve a marketing strategy and identify market trends.
Investigation into the Key Barriers to Achieving UK “Construction 2025” Strategy Targets
Authors: Dziekonski Krzysztof , Mascarenhas Francis , Mahamadu Abdul Majeed , Manu Patrick
Published: December 2023

The “Construction 2025” is a United Kingdom (UK) Government Strategy introduced in 2013 to improve the construction industry in the United Kingdom by meeting outlined performance targets by 2025. However, with only a few years left to reach the targets, it is unclear how much industry is advancing to meet them. This paper reviews the progress to achieve the Strategy targets. The data collected from 96 UK construction professionals was utilised to assess the key barriers to achieving the UK “Construction 2025” Strategy targets. Results indicate that industry professionals are uncertain about reaching the reduction in overall cost and time targets by 2025. However, they are more positive about reducing greenhouse gas emissions and the trade gap. In terms of the key barriers, the results revealed a reluctance to adopt change, lack of implementation of new technology, fragmentation in the industry, and failure to adopt modern construction methods as the key barriers to the Strategy targets. The research is the first attempt at a comprehensive assessment of the progress and barriers to the UK “Construction 2025” Strategy. The results reinforce the call for government initiatives to transform the industry.
Smart Fruit Growing Through Digital Twin Paradigm: Systematic Review and Technology Gap Analysis
Authors: Apeinans Ilmars , Litavniece Lienite , Kodors Sergejs , Zarembo Imants , Lacis Gunars , Deksne Juta
Published: December 2023

This article provides a systematic review of innovations in smart fruit-growing. The research aims to highlight the technological gap and define the optimal studies in the near future moving toward smart fruit-growing based on a systematic review of literature for the period 2021–2022. The research object is the technological gap until the smart fruit-growing. The research question of the systematic review was related to understanding the current application of vehicles, IoT, satellites, artificial intelligence, and digital twins, as well as active studies in these directions. The authors used the PRISMA 2020 approach to select and synthesise the relevant literature. The Scopus database was applied as an information source for the systematic review, completed from 10 May to 14 August 2022. Forty-three scientific articles were included in the study. As a result, the technology gap analysis was completed to highlight the current studies and the research trends in the near future moving toward smart fruit-growing. The proposed material will be useful background information for leaders and researchers working in smart agriculture and horticulture to make their strategic decisions considering future challenges and to optimise orchard management or study directions. Considering the current challenges, authors advise paying attention to decision-making, expert, and recommendation systems through the digital twin paradigm. This study will help the scientific community plan future studies optimising research to accelerate the transfer to new smart fruit-growing technologies as it is not sufficient to develop an innovation, but it must be done at the appropriate time.
The Potential of Informal Institutions in Promoting Green Enterpreneurship (Ge) and Sustainable Socio-Economic Development
Authors: Prasetyo P Eko , Azwardi  , Kistanti Nurjannah Rahayu
Published: December 2023

The continuity of the green environment, economy, and entrepreneur-ship is essential for sustainable development. Therefore, this research aims to explored the potential of informal institutions in promoting Green Enterpreneurship (GE) and sustainable socio-economic development. The method employed used microeconomic data rooted in local wisdom, social norms, and localized moral commitments from various regions of Indonesia. Data collection comprised surveys and structured interviews relevant to the research objectives. Quantitative data material was obtained by conducting a field survey of 150 household samples of green entrepreneurship respondents taken representatively in various regions using simple random sampling techniques. The design employed a two-stage mixed-method approach, including exploratory and explanatory designs. The result showed the significance of Green Enterpreneurship (GE) in mitigating the impacts of global climate change and economic crises, thereby contributing to the attainment of sustainable development goals. However, the main results of the research confirm that the capacity of formal institutions has not been able to navigate the complexity of these problems isssues is limited. Conversely, informal institutions, though capable of mitigating global climate change and advancing sustainable development, remained localized and lacked national and global integration and collaboration. Green Enterpreneurship (GE), as a form of social innovation, gave rise to new models of socio-economic solidarity within unique local communities. The research also underscored the pivotal role of informal institutions in facilitating these endeavors, thereby filling a void in high-quality new institutional economic theory
Demographics’ Impact on Economic Growth in Central Europe and the Baltic States
Authors: Khachatrian Valentyna , Nepytaliuk Anton , Pasichnyi Mykola , Nasibova Olha , Tabenska Julia
Published: December 2023

To ensure sustainable development and public welfare, the complex impact of demographic factors on macroeconomic dynamics should be investigated properly. Moreover, a few of the Sustainable Development Goals are interconnected robustly with demographic issues. There are some trends (e.g., substantial increase in longevity, rapidly lowered fertility, etc.) common for most advanced and emerging market economies. We examined the impact of selected socio-demographic factors on the real GDP per capita growth rates in a sample of the Baltic states and the Central European countries that have experienced economic transformations in the 1990s and either entered or declared their intentions to join the European Union in the future. We investigated general demographic dynamics in the region from 1960 to 2021. Due to the data availability, our special attention was focused primarily on the highlighted countries’ socio-demographic and macroeconomic variables from 2000 to 2021. We suggested that there was a certain interdependence between the working age population stratum specific weight, the elderly demographic dependency ratio, public healthcare spending, gross capital formation, and the real GDP per capita growth rates. In addition, we propose the main priorities for social and demographic policy in the field of well-being improvement. The potential ways to enhance the model – regarding healthcare, education, and the general profile of fiscal policy – have been disclosed as well.
How principals identify low-performing teachers in public schools? Evidence from Chile
Authors: Aravena Felipe
Published: December 2023

This research aims to explore how school principals determine whether they have low-performing teachers among their staff. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 24 principals in Chilean public schools. The qualitative research entailed an inductive approach, along with an interview methodology and content analysis to investigate the research questions. Principals rely on three main sources of information to identify low performing teachers: classroom observations carried out by principals and senior leaders, parents’ complaints and students’ comments. However, there is no single common approach for identifying low-performing teachers, even within the same school district. This study is the first to report on low-performing teachers in Chile from the perspective of school principals.
Beyond Methods: Theoretical Underpinnings of Triangulation in Qualitative and Multi-Method Studies”
Authors: Vivek Ramakrishnan , Nanthagopan Yogarajah , Piriyatharshan Sarmatha
Published: December 2023

This paper explores the “triangulation approach” in social science research methods. Triangulation is an emerging method specifically in qualitative and multi-method studies. Researchers in the social sciences have increased their use of the triangulation approach recently due to the merits of this approach, especially to conduct in-depth studies through multiple inquiries. Simultaneously, this method has criticism and misconceptions among social researchers in terms of what it is, how it can be used, and the credibility of the findings when used. Therefore, this paper analyses in depth what triangulation is, the types of triangulations and how they can be applied in the social sciences.

The study basically adopted systematic literature review and used 30 articles published in scientific journals. The paper critically reviewed journal articles related to triangulation, revealed how different types of triangulation methods have been applied in the social sciences and highlighted the merits and cautions of applying this method.

The paper theoretically contributes to understanding the phenomenon of the triangulation approach and how it connects with qualitative and multi-method studies. In addition, it revealed that the following data collection techniques from multiple sources can be exploited: in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, literature, documents, and surveys on the triangulation method to improve the credibility and reliability of the research. Furthermore, the study empirically contributes to social science researchers applying this approach with proper understanding.
Resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging: an analysis of the connectivity of brain large-scale networks
Authors: Abdulaev Shamil K. , Tarumov Dmitriy A. , Bogdanovskaya Anna S.
Published: December 2023

Objective: To assess the possibilities of various methods for analyzing the functional integration of large-scale brain neural networks in healthy subjects according to functional MRI resting state.

Material and methods. Functional MRI at rest was performed on 28 healthy male subjects aged 27.4 ± 5.1 years, without bad habits and craniocerebral injuries. A functional evaluation of large-scale neural networks included in the triple network model was carried out: default mode network, salience network, executive control network.

Results. The analysis of independent components made it possible to fully identify the default mode network and the salience network, however, the executive control network were partially identified, and this mainly concerned structures with a bilateral location. Graph analysis has identified structures of greatest value for neurofunctional research. Almost all structures that have the highest graph indicators are related to the executive control network. The results of the Roi-analysis showed the interaction between all large-scale networks, which indicates their joint work in providing important brain functions. It was also determined that in healthy people, all structures within large-scale networks are functionally interconnected.

Conclusion. Different methods of resting functional MRI data analysis reveal different aspects of connectivity in the brain, completely different principles are involved in the processing of each method, and the final quantification parameters also vary depending on the preferred method. Currently, there is no single method that in itself would be considered the standard of analysis. Applying multiple methods to the same dataset can produce more informative results.
Musculoskeletal ultrasound in gout.
Authors: Polukhina E. V.
Published: December 2023

The article presents a pictorial literature review on musculoskeletal ultrasound in gout, which is the most common cause of inflammatory arthropathy in adults. Nowadays, among imaging modalities, ultrasound provides the best capabilities for gout diagnosing and monitoring by revealing of monosodium urate deposits in various joint structures, assessing the presence and severity of synovial inflammation, including for dynamical evaluation on urate-lowering therapy. The main ultrasound features of gout (double contour sign, tophi, aggregates and erosions) are described according to the current clinical guidelines. Knowing of these features provides the correct interpretation of ultrasound findings for timely diagnosis and differential diagnosis of gouty arthropathy, and dynamical assessment on therapy.
Multiple use of Shrubble-Arboreaal Species of a Cerrado Fragment, Northern Region of the Legal Amazon
Authors: Da Silva Renata Carvalho , Amorim Marcos Vinicius  de Melo , Aguiar Bruno Aurélio Campos , Sousa Hygor Gomes de Almeida , Vasconcelos Weuler Alves , Epifânio Maristela Lima Figueiredo Guimarães , Fonseca Ana Clara Carneiro , De Souza Priscila Bezerra
Published: December 2023

Objective: This research aimed to evaluate the floristic composition and the potential of shrub-tree species in a fragment of cerrado sensu stricto, in the northern region of the Legal Amazon.
 
Method: In an area of ​​Cerrado sensu stricto, the inventory was carried out using the fixed area sampling method. With this, all shrub-tree species with a diameter ≥ 10 cm were measured and phytosociological analyses, dyspesion syndrome and diameter distribution were determined.
 
Result and Conclusion: According to the variables analyzed, it was possible to observe the establishment of new individuals in the diameter classes of 1 to 8.1 cm and 8.2 to 16.3 cm, therefore it can be seen that the species are part of the same ecological groups, that is, early and late, thus indicating high regenerative value due to the high entry of individuals, which allows a favorable ascension to mature successional stages.
 
Researchimplications: Research related to phytosociological studies, dispersion syndrome and diametric distribution of shrub-arboreal species is of utmost importance to assess the diversity of Cerrado areas, mainly given the fact that it is the biome that is most currently being suppressed.
 
Originality/value: The potential for using the Cerrado's phytodiversity is extremely important and due to agricultural development, species may disappear, in this way, the aim is to increase the level of knowledge of Cerrado species. With this, determine the timber and non-timber potential, in addition to relating dispersal syndromes and diameter distribution, in order to characterize the regenerative potential of these species.
The antibiotic susceptibilities and microorganisms isolated from urinary tract infections of dogs
Authors: SEYHAN Enes , ÖZTÜRK Dilek
Published: December 2023

In this study, we aimed to isolate microorganisms from urine samples taken from dogs with urinary system infection and to determine an antibiotic susceptibility. For this purpose, urine samples taken from 30 dogs by cystocentesis were inoculated on Blood Agar, MacConkey Agar and Sabourraud’s Dextrose Agar. The isolated microorganisms were identified by conventional microbiological methods. In this study, while 19 bacteria were isolated from 15 dogs (63.33%), no isolation was detected within the mycological culture. The most isolated bacteria were Escherichia coli (26.32%) and coagulase negative Staphylococci (26.32%). The isolates were susceptible 84.2% to ceftriaxone, 78.9% to enrofloxacine, 73.7% to ciprofloxacin, gentamicin and trimethoprim + sulfamethoxazole, 73.7% to amoxicillin-clavulanic acid and cefixime, 57.9% to cephalexin, 52.6% to oxytetracycline and 47.4% to ceftiofur. We concluded that Escherichia coli and coagulase negative Staphylococci were the most common reason for urinary tract infections in dogs and due to the differences to antibiotic of the bacterial isolates that antibiotic susceptibility tests is necessary for treatment.
Morphological investigation of arcus aortae and branches in badger (Meles meles)
Authors: HALIGÜR Ayşe , ÖZKADİF Sema
Published: December 2023

The branches originating from the arcus aortae formed by the aortae after exiting the heart differ between animals. In this study, it was aimed to examine the morphology of the arcus aortae in the badger (Meles meles). Two adult badgers, which died as a result of a traffic accident at different times and were brought to the Anatomy laboratory, were used as material. Thorax was dissected and the heart and aortae were exposed. It was observed the heart was located between 3rd-7th costae and was connected to the diaphragma with the ligamentum sternophericardiacum. It was determined that truncus brachiocephalicus and arteria subclavia sinistra was originated from the arcus aortae at the level of 4th costa. It was determined that the first branch of truncus brachiocephalicus was arteria carotis communis sinistra and then divided into arteria subclavia dextra and arteria carotis communis dextra, respectively. It was seen that arteria vertebralis, truncus costocervicalis, arteria cervicalis superficialis and arteria thoracica interna originated from arteria subclavia sinistra. Branches of arteria subclavia dextra were found to be similar to arteria subclavia sinistra. It was determined that the branches originating from the arcus aortae were similar to those in cats and dogs. It is thought that this study will contribute to the anatomical knowledge of the endangered badger, which is under protection.
Unusual Eosinophilic Gastritis with Endoscopic Examination in a Cat
Authors: BOZKURT Mehmet Fatih , TÜFEKCİ Erkan Yunus
Published: December 2023

Eosinophilic gastritis etiology is among the rare gastritis cases seen in cats and dogs and it is still not completely understood. The patient was an 8-year-old Persian presenting increasingly chronic vomiting. An endoscopic visualization of the stomach was performed after a physical examination, blood tests and imaging. In the endoscopic examination, nodular pseudo-polyps in the antrum region, which were diffusely distributed and protruding towards the lumen, were macroscopically observed. After examining the biopsy samples taken from these structures, the patient was diagnosed with eosinophilic gastritis.
Investigation of the immunomodulatory effect of inactive parapoxvirus (iPPVO) on infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR) vaccine in cattle
Authors: ERBASAN Süleyman , MAMAK Nuri
Published: December 2023

In the study, alterations in antibody titers, proinflammatory and antiinflammatory cytokine levels were determined in serum samples collected at various periods before and after administration of inactive IBR and iPPVO to cattle. It was aimed to investigate the immunomodulatory effects of inactivated parapoxvirus ovis (iPPVO) in cattle vaccinated with inactivated-IBR vaccine. In the study, 40 unvaccinated, clinically healthy cattle of different breeds aged older then 3 months were used. Three groups of cattle were formed as control group 1 (n=10), control group 2 (n=10) and experimental group (n=20). iPPVO was applied to the cattle in the control group 1 and experimental groups on the 0, 2nd, and 4th days. Blood samples were colleted from all the animals after 6th hours of the injections applied on 0th and 4th days of the study. Commercially available ELISA kits were used to determine serum levels of of IL-2, IL-6, IL-12 and IFN-γ. Furthermore, virus neutralization test was also performed to detect virus neutralizing antibody titres. In the present study, serum levels of IL-2, IL-6 IL-12, and IFN-γ levels were found to be significantly higher in the experimental group compared to that of the control group 1 and control group 2 (p<0,05). The differences between control group 1 and control group 2 groups were not statistically significant.
In conclusion, iPPVO increased the levels of cytokines in IBR vaccinated cattle due to its immunomodulatory effects. In addition, virüs neutralizing antibody titers were found to be significantly higher in cattle that received vaccine and iPPVO.
Multipliers based on EBITDA and DACF as an indicator of the investment attractiveness of domestic vertically integrated oil and gas companies
Authors: SHIMKO Oleg V.
Published: December 2023

Subject. This article focuses on ratios of enterprise value to EBITDA and enterprise value to DACF of the twenty five leading publicly traded oil and gas companies within 2008 through 2018.
Objectives. The article aims to trace key trends in ratios of enterprise value to EBITDA and enterprise value to DACF of corporations in the oil and gas industry, as well as identify key trends in their change within the studied period and identify the factors that caused those changes.
Methods. For the study, I used the methods of comparative, financial and economic analyses, summarizing financial reporting data.
Results. The article finds that EV/EBITDA and EV/DACF multiples are acceptable for valuing oil and gas companies. The EV level depends on profitability, proved reserves and a country factor. It is required to adjust EBITDA for information on impairment, revaluation and write-off for assets that are reported separately from depreciation, depletion and amortization costs, as well as for income or expenses arising after the sale of fixed assets and as a result of effective court decisions or settlement agreements. It is advisable to adjust DACF for income, expenses and changes in assets and liabilities, which are caused by events that are unusual for oil and gas companies. Adjustment for interest payments can come to the fore in the DACF when the adjustment factor is significantly outside the standard range, and then it is better to limit to the EV/CF multiple.
Conclusions and Relevance. The application of EV/EBITDA and EV/DACF multiples requires a detailed analysis and if necessary, adjustments of their constituent components. However, they are quite relevant in the context of declining profitability and growing debt burden in the stock market sector of the global oil and gas industry. The findings can help appraise the value of oil and gas assets as part of a comparative approach and decide on actions for raising the market capitalization of publicly traded oil and gas corporations.
Higher education in Russia: Facts and figures
Authors: ZHIL'TSOVA Yuliya V.
Published: December 2023

Subject. This article focuses on the issues of development of human capital, which is the most valuable resource for any modern State. These issues are directly related to personnel sovereignty, Russia's innovative development and ensuring its national security.
Objectives. The article aims to identify the trends in the development of the national institution of higher education in Russia.
Methods. For the study, I used general scientific methods of analysis, synthesis, comparison, and forecasting.
Results. Based on the study of changes in macroeconomic indicators, the article identifies a trend towards a decrease in interest in higher education due to a number of objective economic reasons that determine the choice of young people in favor of specialized secondary education.
Conclusions and Relevance. In the light of the trend of increasing government spending, the analysis of the changes in financial indicators made it possible to draw a conclusion about the general social orientation of national projects and programmes, despite the most difficult conditions for the formation of the federal budget of Russia at present. But a difficult priority problem is a steep increase in the budgetary provision of the quantity and quality of higher education in Russia in the situation of the need to modernize it and maintain a high level of the human development index. The figures, facts, opinions and conclusions presented in the work can be used in the scientific and practical activities of specialists in the field of public finance and demography, as well as in the educational process of higher education.
Investigating the results of environmental impact on flexible development of the enterprise
Authors: DRONOV Evgenii A. , SAMOCHKIN Vladimir N. , BARAKHOV Vladimir I.
Published: December 2023

Subject. The article considers enterprise’s flexible development based on constant development of new products demanded by the market, under the influence of environmental factors.
Objectives. The aim is to design an algorithm for determining the number of products in development at the enterprise, under the influence of environmental factors, based on the number of products in development, according to the theory of its flexible development, to identify stages of new product’s life cycle that are at the highest risk, using the Tulamashzavod case.
Methods. We determined the required number of products in development, using the theory of enterprise flexible development, where it is equal to the product of the range of manufactured products and the coefficient of renewal. All products are divided into groups. External effects on enterprise flexible development increases the required number of products in development. We modeled the change in the coefficient of renewal over time, using Markov processes.
Results. Enterprises have the opportunity to predict the number of products in development over time, taking into account external influences, to determine the increment in the number of products in development at subsidiaries with an increase in the product range at the parent company, to rank enterprises of the association by degree of external influence on their ability to upgrade, and identify the most vulnerable of them.
Conclusions. Consideration of external impacts on enterprise flexible development enables quick respond. The study offers one of possible options for flexible development of the enterprise with an increase in the number of products in development due to external influence.
Cosmetics use, purchasing behaviors, and risks among women in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Almousa Ahmad , AlKhamees Saleh , Aldusaymani Saba , Zakzouk Raghad , Marium Ishama , Badira Seba , Kurdi Raghada , Aloudi Noora , Hezam Norah , Alsanea Roaa
Published: December 2023

Background : Cosmetics are preparations intended to be applied to the human body to cleanse, beautify, promote attractiveness, and change appearance. Cosmetics enjoy widespread use among women, who often have little awareness of the associated side effects.

Methodology : A cross-sectional university-based study was conducted at AlMaarefa University. The study involved all women on campus: a total sample size of 336 teaching staff, administrative staff, security personnel, and students. Data were obtained through a self-administered online questionnaire.

Results : Based on convenience sampling, a total of 336 members of the teaching staff, office staff, security officers, and students were included in the sample. Regardless of their nationality or line of work, most participants in our study, across all age categories, reported using cosmetics. They also demonstrated a favorable attitude and moderate to outstanding understanding of the items they use. The majority of users stated that they behaved positively when buying high-quality, name-brand cosmetics. Users of cosmetics had a favorable view about the use of cosmetics (51%), but only 20% were aware of the potential adverse effects of using them. The majority of participants (73%) said that using makeup boosts and maintains their sense of self-worth.

Conclusion: Most participants had poor knowledge of cosmetics' side effects. Despite their age, most young participants had poor attitudes toward and lacked experience with cosmetics, and most participants used lip products more than eye products. Overall, there is a positive cosmetics usage pattern among AlMaarefa students.
Assessing the level of satisfaction with anesthesia among patients who underwent ophthalmology surgery at ambulatory surgical centers; a cross-sectional observational survey-based study
Authors: Nooh Samah , Aljuaid Waleed , Alfaqih Mohammed , Alfaqih Eyad , Alalyani Osama
Published: December 2023

Objective:
This study aimed to assess the level of satisfaction towards anesthesia and its related factors among patients who underwent ophthalmology surgery at ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs).
Methods:
A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in Western Saudi Arabia in October 2023. A validated questionnaire comprised of socio-demographic characteristics and level of satisfaction with anesthesia was used.
Results:
The study included 686 participants who underwent ophthalmology surgery. Majority were aged 18-40 years (61.4%), Saudi (94.2%), married (47.4%), unemployed (52.9%), and with a university degree (70.1%). Of them, 31% underwent laser vision correction surgery, 14% underwent cataract surgery, 61.4% underwent surgery with local anesthesia, and 38.6% underwent total anesthesia. The total satisfaction score for all the study participants ranged from 15 to 39 out of 39, with a median (IQR) of 34 (24). Being married (p=0.005), not feeling pain during or after the surgery (p
“It Was Beautiful Here, and Then the Pollution Came”:
Authors: Nandyal Neela
Published: December 2023

In this reflection I share findings from researching youth climate hope and future outlooks in a fishing community in coastal Ecuador. I discuss how teens in this community experience both climate despair and climate hope and look to nearby nature to inform their thoughts on climate change.
Estimation of Plastic Waste Leakage to Environment in Ha Tinh Province, Vietnam
Authors: Quynh Hoa Duong Thi , Viet Dung Luu , Tue Nguyen Tai , Quy Tran Dang , Hieu Pham Van , Nhuan Mai Trong
Published: December 2023

In recent years, the high demand for plastic products in Vietnam has led to an increase in plastic waste leakage into the environment, causing negative impacts on the environment and the ecosystems. In this study, the plastic leakage to the environment from the domestic solid waste in 13 districts of Ha Tinh province was estimated by a Waste Flow Model from 2018-2021 and forecasting to the 2025-2030 period. Results showed that the total plastic waste generated in Ha Tinh province increased from 20,983 tons/year to 23,483 tons/year during the 2018-2021 period. However, the plastic waste released into the environment and leakage into the aquatic environment decreased from 3,022 tons/year to 2,001 tons/year and from 490 tons/year to 361 tons/year in the same period, respectively. Forecasting for the 2025-2030 period, the high collection rate of domestic waste scenario (95%) resulted in 14,664 tons and 1,496 tons, respectively, of total plastic waste released into the environment and aquatic environment. With the low collection rate of domestic solid waste scenario (90%), the total plastic waste leakage into the environment and aquatic environment were 19,068 tons and 1,788 tons, respectively. This result showed that increasing collection and recycling rates of plastic waste may reduce plastic leakage to the environment. It is necessary to monitor and evaluate the impact of plastic waste leakage on the environment and the ecosystems.
The development of green finance in the EAEU countries based on the assessment of the liquidity of green bonds
Authors: Kovalev Vladislav Alekseevich
Published: December 2023

The subject of the study is the liquidity of green bonds in the countries of the Eurasian Economic Union as an important investment characteristic of a financial instrument for non-institutional investors and the development of green finance in the EAEU countries. The author analyzes the liquidity of green bonds traded on the Moscow Stock Exchange in the context of groups of liquidity indicators: urgency (time), volume and transaction costs proposed by domestic and foreign authors and whose application has been experimentally tested in the scientific literature. The factors influencing the liquidity of green bonds, the interrelation of liquidity indicators are considered, the main tools for stimulating supply and demand for green bonds in the EAEU countries and their applicability in the Russian Federation are highlighted. The paper provides grouping and rating of green bonds by liquidity levels. To calculate the liquidity levels, data is collected using the methods of the Moscow Exchange Information and Statistical Server on the specification of financial instruments, the history of transactions on it for the date interval and for the last trading day. The main conclusions of the study are as follows: the Russian green bond market has a cluster of illiquid bonds, the feature of which is the placement of bonds on the market until 2020. Stimulating demand for green bonds is possible by expanding the practice of sub-federal green loans, including through development institutions, together with an active policy of informing about the issue of green bonds. The imbalance in the volume of transactions and their frequency can be offset, among other things, by increasing the participation of non-institutional investors in debt green financing. Potentially successful is the placement of federal green bond loans in the Russian Federation based on the experience of issuing green government bonds in the Republic of Belarus and the exemption of individuals from taxation on personal income from the sale and repayment of green bonds in order to increase demand for green bonds. Increasing the liquidity of green bonds and the growth of their market volume through the implementation of the proposed measures will allow for positive effects on the socio-economic development of the EAEU countries: on the environmental situation, the sector of collective investments and the welfare of citizens.