bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Localizing sustainable development goals (SDGs) through decentralized governance: Insights from Kerala, India
Authors: Nair Manju S. , Abhirami A.
Published: December 2024

Localization is globally accepted as the strategy towards attaining the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In this article, we put forth the South Indian state of Kerala as a true executor of the localization of SDGs owing to her foundational framework of decentralized governance. We attempt to understand how the course of decentralization acts as a development trajectory and how it has paved the way for the effective assimilation of localization principles post-2015 by reviewing the state documents based on the framework propounded by the United Nations. We theorize that the well-established decentralization mechanism, with delegated institutions and functions thereof, encompasses overlapping mandates with the SDGs. Further, through the tools of development plan formulation, good governance, and community participation at decentralized levels, Kerala could easily adapt to localization, concocting output through innovative measures of convergence, monitoring, and incentivization carried out through the pre-existing platforms and processes. The article proves that constant and concerted efforts undertaken by Kerala through her meticulous and action-oriented decentralized system aided the localization of SDGs and provides an answer to the remarkable feat that the state has achieved through the consecutive four times achievements in the state scores of SDG India Index.
The frontiers of ecological art research: A multidimensional analysis based on bibliometrics and machine learning predictions
Authors: Liu Zexi , Im Jin Ho , Chen Yujia , Qiao Xiaoyang , Ye Wenliang
Published: December 2024

With the advancement of technology, human impact on the natural world has progressively intensified, leading to an increased frequency and expanded scope of environmental issues. Ecological art integrates natural and human environments, aiming to restore damaged ecosystems through artistic expression while reflecting artists’ understanding and concerns about nature. As an emerging interdisciplinary art form, ecological art has garnered significant attention; however, systematic research in this field remains insufficient. This study combines bibliometric analysis with machine learning techniques to examine ecological art literature indexed in the WOS Core Collection between 2004 and 2024, uncovering research trends, core themes, and future directions. In the bibliometric analysis, tools such as VOSviewer, CiteSpace, Bibliometrix, Pajek, and HistCite were utilized to systematically analyze co-occurrence networks, research hotspots, and their evolutionary pathways. For machine learning analysis, comparative experiments were conducted using Random Forest, Support Vector Machines (SVM), k-Nearest Neighbors (k-NN), Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), and LightGBM models. Ultimately, Random Forest was selected for predicting citation rates and interpreting influential factors. The findings indicate that machine learning techniques quantitatively reveal the centrality of “Ecological Design” and “Sustainability” as core themes in ecological art while highlighting the emergence of new topics such as “Urban Greenspace” and “Eco-Art Education” in recent years. The publication year was identified as the most critical factor influencing citation rates, followed by the number of authors and keywords. The first author’s affiliation country also significantly impacted citation performance. This study, through the integration of bibliometric and machine learning approaches, provides a novel methodological perspective for identifying research frontiers in ecological art, predicting academic influence, and guiding future scholarly and practical applications.
Body composition and nutritional status in nursing home residents during the COVID-19 lockdown: a 15-month follow-up
Authors: Cvijetić Selma , Keser Irena , Ilich Jasminka Z.
Published: December 2024

Since the beginning of the corona virus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, nursing home residents had been under strict quarantine, which greatly affected their lifestyle and health. In this follow-up study, we analysed whether lifestyle changes during the lockdown had an impact on their body composition and nutritional status. For this purpose we determined body composition, nutritional status, and osteosarcopenic adiposity (OSA) prevalence in 24 volunteer nursing home residents just before the February 2020 COVID-19 lockdown and about 15 months into the lockdown. Body composition (total bone mass, lean and fat tissue components) was assessed with bioelectrical impedance. OSA was established if the participants had sarcopenia, osteopenia, and adiposity. Information on dietary habits, weight loss, and selfperception of health were obtained with the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) form, while nutritional status was assessed with the MNA-Short Form (SF). At baseline, OSA was determined in 14 participants and at the follow-up in 16 participants. The results show an overall decrease in bone and lean tissues and increase in fat tissue. There were significantly more participants with a normal nutritional status than those at risk of malnutrition or malnourished (p=0.045). Our findings suggest that negative changes in body composition during the pandemic are owed to age rather than to changes in lifestyle caused by the pandemic. Regular monitoring of body composition in nursing homes may help to preserve the health of older people in general and particularly in cases of possible future lockdowns.
An in vitro evaluation of the cytotoxic potential of medicinal mushrooms against human breast cancer cell lines
Authors: Topalović Dijana , Živković Lada , Borozan Sunčica , Santibanez Juan F. , Spremo-Potparević Biljana
Published: December 2024

Medicinal mushroom extracts, i.e. their dried biomass, have long been known as sources of bioactive compounds with positive effects on the human health. The antioxidant, antigenotoxic, antiviral, and immunomodulatory properties of the commercially available extracts Agaricus blazei auct. non Murrill (AB), Cordyceps sinensis (Berk.) Sacc. (CS), and Immune Assist (IA) have already been documented. This study, studied the influence of these three mushrooms on the viability of cell lines MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, and HS-5. The cytotoxicity of AB, CS, and IA at different concentrations (25, 50, 100, 200, 400 and 800 μg/mL) was evaluated using the MTT assay. The results showed that AB was the most effective and induced cytotoxicity in both cancer cell lines, with IC50 values of 96.7 μg/mL for MCF-7 and 368.4 μg/mL for MDA-MB-231. After treatment with CS and IA, the half-maximal inhibitory concentration was reached only in MDA- MB-231 cells (IC50=613 μg/mL for CS and 343.3 μg/mL for IA). We have shown here that AB, CS and IA can suppress the growth of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines, while affecting the survival of healthy HS-5 cells to a much lesser extent. Our in vitro results suggested that AB, CS and IA are promising natural sources with potential anticancer activity.
What is more common in fatal caffeine intoxication – suicide or unintentional overdose?
Authors: Lušić Dražen , Bezak Sara , Karačonji Irena Brčić
Published: December 2024

Caffeine is a natural stimulant of plant origin found in many products such as coffee, tea, chocolate, and energy drinks. It is also often used as an active substance in over-the-counter drugs such as painkillers and preparations for the treatment of colds and allergies. While caffeine is generally considered safe when moderately consumed, excessive intake in a single dose or through repeated small doses over time can lead to caffeine intoxication. Symptoms of caffeine intoxication can vary depending on the amount of caffeine consumed and can include restlessness, rapid heart rate, muscle tremors, nausea, vomiting, and confusion. In severe cases, caffeine intoxication can lead to convulsions, coma, and even death. This mini-review presents an overview of caffeine’s characteristics and intoxication including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment. It addresses risk factors associated with caffeine intoxication and presents current recommendations for safe caffeine consumption. The studies we have reviewed suggest that in cases of fatal caffeine intoxications, intentional intoxication is more common than unintentional.
Comparison of different disinfection protocols against contamination of ceramic surfaces with Klebsiella pneumoniae biofilm
Authors: Piletić Kaća , Mežnarić Silvestar , Keržić Eli , Oder Martina , Gobin Ivana
Published: December 2024

Environmental contamination with Klebsiella pneumoniae biofilm can be a source of healthcare-associated infections. Disinfection with various biocidal active substances is usually the method of choice to remove contamination with biofilm. In this study we tested 13 different disinfection protocols using gaseous ozone, citric acid, and three working concentrations of benzalkonium chloride-based professional disinfecting products on 24-hour-old biofilms formed by two K. pneumoniae strains on ceramic tiles. All tested protocols significantly reduced total bacterial counts compared to control, varying from a log10 CFU reduction factor of 1.4 to 5.6. Disinfection combining two or more biocidal active substances resulted in significantly better anti-biofilm efficacy than disinfection with single substances, and the most effective combination for both strains was that of citric acid, gaseous ozone, and benzalkonium chloride. This follow up study is limited to K. pneumoniae alone, and to overcome this limitation, future studies should include more bacterial species, both Gram-positive and Gramnegative, and more samples for us to find optimal disinfection protocols, applicable in real hospital settings.
Tattooing: immediate and long-term adverse reactions and complications
Authors: Dodig Slavica , Čepelak-Dodig Daniela , Gretić Davor , Čepelak Ivana
Published: December 2024

Tattooing has become a popular global trend in industrialised countries, with the highest prevalence rates of up to 30–40 % in the adult population younger than 40 years. Common tattoo inks may contain heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and primary aromatic amines, toxic if exceeding permissible limits. It is estimated that about 14.36 mg of ink is injected per cm2 of skin, at a depth of 1–3 mm. The injected pigment is internalised by neutrophils, fibroblasts, and macrophages or dendritic cells. About 60–90 % of the pigment is then transported to the lymph nodes via the lymphatic system and to other organs, such as the liver, spleen, and lung, through blood. Adverse reactions can be immediate (irritation, infection, inflammation of the skin), delayed (hypersensitivity reactions), and can result in long-term complications (fibrosis, granulomatous changes, systemic inflammation, and sometimes malignant diseases such as lymphoma). Pigments in tattooed skin can be identified by skin biopsy, chemical imaging, and histochemical and immunohistochemical analyses. Harmful effects of tattoo inks have been investigated ex vivo, in vitro, in vivo, and recently in silico. Studies in humans mainly refer to case reports, but there are no epidemiological studies that would evaluate the potential links between tattoos and cancer or other disorders. As the safety of people getting tattoos primarily depends on the quality of tattooing products, it is necessary to create a general regulatory framework.
Bio efficacy of methanol leaf extracts of Cissampelos pareira Linn., Lantana camara Linn. and Ocimum gratissimum Linn. against fever in Wistar rats
Authors: Kimuni Susan Nyawira , Gitahi Stephen Maina , Ngugi Mathew Piero , Njagi Eliud Mwaniki
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study evaluated antipyretic potency of methanol extracts of Cissampelos pareira, Lantana camara and Ocimum gratissimum in Wistar rats.

Methods

The leaves samples were obtained from Embu County, Kenya. Quantitative phytochemical analysis of the extracts was conducted using LC-MS and GC-MS methods. The study was performed in eight sets each with 5 Wistar rats (n = 5): positive control, normal control, negative control as well as experimental. Group I (normal control) rats were injected intraperitoneally with a solution of Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) only. Group II (negative control) constituted rats initiated with fever using turpentine alongside DMSO. Group III, (positive control) rats were induced with pyrexia and then administered with aspirin. Groups IV, V, VI, VII, and VIII composed of turpentine-induced pyretic rats that were intraperitoneally injected with various extracts dosages. The data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (v25) software.

Results

The plant extracts possess antipyretic activities that are comparable to the standard therapy, aspirin. Quantitative phytochemistry showed that the extracts contained bioactive principles such as terpenoids, flavonoids, and alkaloids which exert antipyretic activity.

Conclusion

The studied plants are rich in secondary metabolites that have antipyretic efficacies in rats. Hence, this study validates the folkloric use of the tested plants to manage fever among the Mbeere community in Kenya.
Utilization of lipoxins and other specialised pro-resolving mediators in the prevention and treatment of diabetic nephropathy and diabetic cardiovascular disease
Authors: Bergo Ivan , Pastorello Ylenia
Published: December 2024

Diabetes mellitus type 2 is a chronic disease caused by insulin resistance. Whilst first originating in the adipose tissue, this pathophysiological process later affects the muscles and the liver as well. This induces high plasma levels of glucose and fatty acids, leading to the inflammatory-related chronic complications of diabetes, such as diabetic nephropathy and diabetic cardiovascular disease. Specialized pro-resolving mediators are lipid mediators responsible for resolving inflammation and could therefore be beneficial in the management of chronic diabetes complications. The aim of this review is to assess if specialised pro-resolving mediators have the potential to attenuate the chronic complications of diabetes. Specialised pro-resolving mediators, especially lipoxins, can modulate both diabetic nephropathy and diabetic cardiovascular disease. In mice it was demonstrated that, at the glomerular level, lipoxins reduced collagen deposition and expression of pro-inflammatory markers. In human saphenous vein smooth muscle cells instead, lipoxins were able to reduce collagen deposition and vascular smooth muscle cells proliferation and chemotaxis. Aspirin is a medication that could be used to modulate specialised pro-resolving mediator levels, as aspirin triggered-specialised pro-resolving mediators exist. Aspirin triggered-specialised pro-resolving mediators are pro-resolving substances with similar effects, but synthetised in a different way, requiring the partial blockage of the cyclooxygenase 2 enzyme. These results demonstrate how such substances could be useful in the treatment of diabetic patients and why further research is needed to create efficient and economical medications.
Ecological study of cynipidae galls on cork oak (Quercus suber) and zeen oak (Quercus faginea) in the Edough forest massif, Eastern Algeria
Authors: Gouri Maroua , Adjami Yasmine , Boumaza Mounir , Kihel Ines , Kermiche Khamsa , Houhamdi Moussa , Ouakid Mohamed laid
Published: December 2024

An investigation into the biodiversity of Cynipidae galls (Hymenoptera) residing within the oak forests of the Edough massif in Annaba (northeast Algeria) spanned from October 2016 to September 2019, aimed to update the faunal list of galls, assess their specialization and organ preferences, and evaluate the impact of seasonal fluctuations on their abundance. A total of 19783 galls were collected, belonging to 13 different species on both Q. faginea and Q. suber. All the oak Cynipidae galls collected belonged to eight genera: Andricus, Synophrus, Callirhytis, Cynips, Cerroneuroterus, Neuroterus, Plagiotrochus and Pseudoneuroterus. Abundance peaked during winter, contrasting with significantly lower levels in summer. The gall population exhibited a diverse and balanced distribution during spring (H=2.35; E=0.74). However, it was very low in summer (H=0.51; E=0.26). The results obtained thus are added to the available data concerning Cynipidae galls on oak trees (Q. suber and Q. faginea) in Algeria. This emphasizes the need for further research aimed at enhancing our comprehension of this specific population.
Long-term population dynamics of the European Rabbit Oryctolagus cunniculus in SW Poland during the years 1980-2020
Authors: Kopij Grzegorz
Published: December 2024

Using the hunting bags data, spatial and temporal changes in population densities of the European Rabbit during the years 1981–2020 in SW Poland (29 358 km2, including 8411 km2 forests) have been analyzed. During the years 1999-2003, a rapid increase in the numbers of the rabbit took place, reaching a maximum of c. 900 individuals in 2003-2004. However, in the two consecutive years (2005-2006), the numbers rapidly decreased to c. 600, and then levelled off at around 600-700 individuals until 2020. In 1981-1990, rabbits occurred mostly in Sudety foothills. Larger concentrations were recorded in SE Legnica hunting region (HR), SW Wrocław HR, SW Opole HR. The main reason for the decline over the last three decades is the rabbit haemorrhagic disease.
National Gastronomy and Gastronomic Tourism of Montenegro on its Way to the European Union
Authors: Vujačić Vesna , Kukanja Marko , Janinović Jovana
Published: December 2024

Montenegro, a Mediterranean gem, boasts abundant natural and cultural treasures, forming the bedrock of its thriving tourism industry. Among its various tourism branches – cultural, nautical, health, and MICE – gastronomy stands out as a potent driver. The indigenous gastronomic landscape not only entices foreign tourists but also fuels increased consumption. This paper endeavours to elucidate the justification and potential of Montenegro’s gastronomic tourism by spotlighting its national gastronomy. Gastronomy, intricately linked with destination identity, plays a pivotal role in shaping the destination’s image. Drawing inspiration from the Republic of Slovenia’s successful declaration as a European gastronomic region in 2021, this paper advocates for a similar trajectory for Montenegro to enhance its tourism brand recognition.
The Impact of the EU Common Agricultural Policy on the Legal Framework for Financing Agricultural Activities in Poland and Operation of the Agency for the Restructuring and Modernisation of Agriculture
Authors: Suchoń Aneta
Published: December 2024

The aim of the article is, firstly, to present and evaluate the legal model of financing agricultural activities in Poland following Poland’s accession to the EU in the face of current challenges, and secondly, to attempt to determine the tasks that the Agency for the Restructuring and Modernisation of Agriculture performs in financing agricultural activities from EU funds. The article presents the System of Direct Payments as a basic element of Pillar I of the Common Agricultural Policy, Pillar II of the Common Agricultural Policy, Extraordinary Financial Support, the Agency for the Restructuring and Modernisation of Agriculture in Poland as an accredited entity implementing instruments co-financed from the European Union budget, de mininis aid, notified and ratified programmes. In conclusion, the author states that the current financial support through differentiated programmes under CAP 2023–2027 is aimed at meeting the current challenges. However, it is necessary to increase financial assistance to agricultural producers. The basic institution for financing agricultural activities in Poland is the Agency for the Restructuring and Modernisation of Agriculture, established as early as 1994 to support the development of agriculture and rural areas. Poland’s membership in the EU has significantly expanded the tasks of the ARMA. The ARMA uses new technologies, such as implementing the Area Monitoring System defined in Article 66(1) of Regulation (EU) 2021/2116 of the European Parliament and the Council.
Family as a Value in the Lives of Six-year-old Children
Authors: Laskowska Agnieszka Dominika
Published: December 2024

abstract

Values play a key role in people’s lives, influencing their choices, goals and objectives, shaping their identity. Values are also responsible for the durability of relationships. The period of middle childhood is the time when the formation of morality begins, and intense changes in the social and emotional areas take place. Therefore, learning more about what is close to the children at this stage of development is worthwhile. In order to find out which values are important to six-year-old children, a study was conducted with the participation of 105 children attending selected Białystok preschools and preschool units at primary schools. The method used in the study consisted in the analysis of work products, and the tool was analysis of drawings. The obtained data made it possible to answer the posed research problem: Do the six-year-old children under study consider the family an important value in their lives? and Are there differences between girls and boys in their perception of the family as an important value in their lives? The study shows that the most important value for the participating children is family. Drawings of family, parents, grandmother, grandparents, siblings accounted for more than ¾ of the works made by the children taking part in the study. In contrast, perceptions of the family as an important value in children’s lives differ by gender. Girls were more likely than boys to point to the family as the most important value for them. Finding out what is important for six-year-old children makes it possible to adjust the process of education and upbringing in such a way that it supports the development of the child, according to the child’s sphere of immediate development.
Brain Drain in Kosovo: Policy Recommendations for Talent Retention and Sustainable Development
Authors: Nimani Mentor , Nimani Arbenita Sylejmani
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the factors influencing emigration intentions among Kosovo's educated youth, with a particular focus on addressing the growing issue of brain drain. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research explores economic, political, and social factors contributing to migration intentions. A survey of 150 respondents aged 18–35 reveals a significant disconnect between educational attainment and local employment opportunities, with high unemployment and underemployment driving dissatisfaction. The findings align with established migration theories, including Push-Pull Theory and Human Capital Theory, illustrating how push factors like political instability and poor job prospects in Kosovo contrast with the pull factors of better salaries and career opportunities abroad. Policy recommendations include increasing wages, improving job opportunities, fostering political stability, and supporting entrepreneurship to mitigate brain drain and promote a sustainable future for educated youth in Kosovo.
Integrating Handcrafted Features with Machine Learning for Hate Speech Detection in Albanian Social Media
Authors: Fetahi Endrit , Hamiti Mentor , Susuri Arsim , Zenuni Xhemal , Ajdari Jaumin
Published: December 2024

Online social media has seen a significant increase in usage over the last decade, enabling people to communicate more easily. The vast amount of data generated by these platforms is mostly uncontrolled and unmanageable. This has also provided opportunities for individuals to engage in hate speech and offensive language on these platforms. To address this issue, this research aims to conduct extensive experiments using machine learning models and handcrafted feature extraction in the low-resource language Albanian. We utilized several machine-learning algorithms, including Support Vector Machine (SVM), Naive Bayes (NB), Random Forest (RF), and Logistic Regression (LR), and extracted a considerable number of handcrafted features. To improve accuracy, we carefully performed feature selection to identify the most relevant features for detecting hate speech in the Albanian language. The results show that LR performed best in terms of accuracy, with an F1 score of 76.77. Using Random Forest feature ranking and SHAP analysis revealed that many comments on Albanian social media exhibit unique characteristics, resulting in a large feature set. This suggests that there is no clear pattern for the machine learning models to accurately flag the comments, indicating that Albanian is linguistically challenging to analyze.
Representation as an Important Institution of Civil Law
Authors: Zogiani Ermonda
Published: December 2024

Representation is a fundamental institution within civil law, playing a crucial role in the resolution of legal affairs. Subjects of law during the establishment of legal affairs or undertaking various procedural actions in civil litigation procedures may engage representatives who act on behalf and for the benefit of their interests. This paper explores the significance of representation as a legal mechanism including its impact on the efficacy of legal proceedings and the protection of parties' interests.

The necessity to act through representation arises as a result of the intensification of social relations and finds wide application due to the lack of time and the impossibility of parties to personally carry out their actions every time. Additionally, it is due to the complexity of the legal affairs and the risks that may be encountered in the absence of professional knowledge, whether they are physical or legal persons.

This paper aims to discuss difficulties faced by individuals who do not engage such representatives, like lawyers, to resolve their legal matters and examines the impact of such representation on court proceedings. It also addresses the challenges and limitations associated with representation, such as issues related to the quality and competence of representatives, and the potential disparities faced by those unable to afford legal services.

This research employs various methods, including historical and theoretical analysis, examination of judicial practices, and comparative aspects. The historical method highlights the evolving nature of representation in civil law over time. While the comparative method is used to investigate how the right to representation is regulated across different jurisdictions, revealing similarities and differences in their legal frameworks. The findings underscore the importance of effective representation in ensuring fair and equitable outcomes in civil legal processes.
Новые материалы по черной металлургии и металлообработке города Джукетау
Authors: Семыкин Юрий Анатольевич , Набиуллин Наиль Гатиатуллович
Published: December 2024

Статья посвящена общей характеристике черной металлургии и металлообработке города Джукетау. Технология кузнечного производства Джукетау исследовалась на основе метода археометаллографии, разработанного Б.А. Колчиным, и дополненного работами его учеников. Металлографические анализы были выполнены в археологической лаборатории Ульяновского государственного педагогического университета им. И.Н. Ульянова с использованием металлографического микроскопа МИМ-7, микротвердомера ПМТ-3. В результате были установлены характер и качество кузнечного сырья, номенклатура кузнечной продукции, набор технологических приемов ковки различных изделий и качество выполнения кузнечных операций. В пределах исследованной выборки (55 ед., 54 предмета) было выделено две технологические группы, в их пределах – 11 технологических схем. Технологическая группа I (36 ед., около двух третей в выборке): ковка из простого кричного железа; ковка из сырцовой неравномерно науглероженной стали; цементация поверхности; ковка из цельностальных заготовок; ковка из заготовок пакетного металла. Технологическая группа II (20 ед., более одной трети в выборке): ковка из заготовок трехслойного пакета; вварка стальной лезы в основное тело, откованное из кричного железа, сырцовой неравномерно науглероженной стали или из пакетованной заготовки; торцовая наварка; ковка из двухполосных заготовок; ковка из трехполосных заготовок; V-образная наварка. Также в процессе исследования был проведен сравнительный анализ по технологическим группам синхронных памятников.
Археологические исследования на Царевском городище Волгоградской области в 2023 г.
Authors: Ситдиков Айрат Габитович , Пигарёв Евгений Михайлович
Published: December 2024

В статье представлены материалы раскопок гончарной мастерской Царевского городища по производству поливных изразцов из кашина и глины, обнаруженной в 2021 г. в ходе проведения геофизических исследований памятника. Дан комплексный анализ предметам печного припаса, с объяснением функционального предназначения каждого их типов. Приведено подробное описание конструкции горна и его технологических особенностей. Определен тип горна и вариант его применения. Показаны конструктивные отличия горнов Царевского городища от горнов Селитренного городища. Приводится информация о химическом красителе для глазурей, впервые встреченном на нижневолжских золотоордынских памятниках. На основании нумизматического материала, обнаруженного на раскопе, дана хронологическая характеристика производственного участка Царевского городища.
Археозоологические материалы поселения Потаповы Лужки III (Томское Приобье): по результатам работ 2020–2021 годов
Authors: Девяшин Михаил Михайлович , Кисагулов Антон Владимирович , Богайчук Елена Андреевна , Идимешев Асап Алексеевич
Published: December 2024

Проанализированы остеологические остатки с поселения самусьской культуры Потаповы Лужки III, расположенного в черте г. Томска на правобережной надпойменной террасе р. Томи. Всего остеологическая коллекция насчитывает 1674 кости, подавляющее большинство которых принадлежит млекопитающим и рыбам. Кости птиц единичны. Показано, что основу хозяйства жителей поселения составляла охота и рыбная ловля. Вылов рыбы производился орудиями массового лова, в которые попадается добыча разной видовой принадлежности и размера. Охота осуществлялась в основном на бобра и в несколько меньшей степени – лося. Добыча остальных видов не была основной. Домашние животные представлены в основном собакой. Кости крупного рогатого скота и лошади единичны и могут представлять из себя позднее загрязнение. Эта картина отличается от описанной ранее на поселении той же культуры Крохалевка 1, где кости домашнего скота по своему количеству были сопоставимы с костями диких видов, а среди последних преобладал лось. Однако, поселение Крохалевка 1 находится значительно южнее и отражает более поздний этап развития самусьской культуры.
Комплексное изучение археозоологических материалов поселения срубной культуры «Старочутинская Стоянка»
Authors: Рослякова Наталья Валерьевна , Бачура Ольга Петровна , Жемков Алексей Игоревич , Аськеев Игорь Васильевич , Шаймуратова Диляра Наилевна
Published: December 2024

В статье представлены результаты археозоологического изучения костей животных на поселении срубной культуры «Старочутинская стоянка» на реке Ик. На памятнике собрана представительная остеологическая коллекция, включающая более 3 тысяч экземпляров. Выделены разные по своему происхождению категории костных остатков: кухонные отбросы, остатки ремесленных и ритуальных комплексов. В коллекции присутствуют кости всех видов домашних копытных, собаки, лисицы, бобра, птиц, рыб, а также раковины моллюсков. В кухонных остатках существенно преобладают кости крупного рогатого скота, чье мясо составляло большую часть мясного рациона жителей поселения. Конина, баранина, козлятина и свинина съедались в гораздо меньших объемах. Установлено наличие различных форм эксплуатации для крупных домашних копытных и мелкого рогатого скота. Забой скота на поселении производился круглогодично. Избирательность в забое того или иного вида в определенный сезон года отсутствует. Охота на диких млекопитающих и птиц и рыбная ловля занимали незначительную роль в хозяйственной деятельности. Детальное изучение комплексов костей животных из заполнения и со дна колодцев позволило предположить их принадлежность к жертвенным комплексам. Основные параметры изучаемой коллекции схожи с параметрами коллекций синхронных поселенческих памятников Восточной Европы, для которых реконструирована подвижная форма скотоводства.
Материалы тюркских дастанов как исторический источник: опыт кросс-культурного анализа
Authors: Исхаков Дамир Мавлявеевич
Published: December 2024

В статье анализируются понятия «Алтын Урда», «Ак Урда» и «Буз (Бöз) Урда», присутствующие в исторической литературе, а также в тюркском дастане «Идегей». Основное внимание уделено происхождению данных терминов. Установлено, что более ранним является понятие «Ак Урда», использовавшееся, скорее всего, с XIII в., для обозначения правого крыла Улуса Джучи. В основе этого наименования лежит название ханской ставки (юрты, шатра), в XIII в. действительно бывшей белого цвета. В то же время следует помнить, что в тюркской маркировке сторон света «белая сторона/ак як» – это запад. Термин же «Алтын Урда» закрепился не ранее первых десятилетий XIV в., восходя также к обозначению политического центра Улуса Джучи, известном как «Золотой шатер» (в китайских источниках – «Золотая юрта»). Такому определению ханской ставки были две причины: а) широкое использование во внутреннем оформлении названной ставки золота; б) существование идущей еще со времен Чингисхана традиции именовать имперский центр как «Большая Золотая ставка» («Урду-и заррин-и-бузург»). В то же время в конце XIV в. применительно к Улусу Джучи известно и наименование «Олуг Улус», связанное внутренне с рассматриваемыми понятиями. Термин «Буз (Бöз) Урда» явно поздний, возникший в ходе деконсолидации Улуса Джучи начиная со второй половины XIV в., когда в результате проникновения из Кок Орды – левого крыла Улуса Джучи, в его правое крыло – Ак Орду, значительных групп населения и усиления значения династии Шибанидов, произошло частичное закрепление в исторических источниках и в дастане «Идегей» понятия «Бöз Урда», фактически заместившее термин «Кöк Урда». Внутренняя связь между понятиями «Ак Урда» и «Алтын Урда» объясняется существованием у них общего содержания, восходящего к обозначению этими терминами не только владений, но и их политических центров – ханских ставок.
Рецензия на монографию Астафьев А.Е., Богданов Е.С. Погребально-поминальный комплекс Алтынказган (III –первая половина VI в.). Алматы, 2023. 384 с.
Authors: Боталов Сергей Геннадьевич , Любчанский Илья Эдуардович
Published: December 2024

В 2023 году вышла монография «Погребально-поминальный комплекс Алтынказган (III – первая половина VI в.)», подготовленная научным сотрудником Института археологии имени А.Х. Маргулана А.Е. Астафьевым и старшим научным сотрудником Института археологии и этнографии СО РАН Е.С. Богдановым. Представленная книга относится к разряду работ, которые означают приход некоего эпохального явления и проявления исторических образцов, ранее являющихся белыми пятнами на исторической карте Евразии. Итог почти десятилетних полевых работ в экстремальных природно-климатических условиях привел к открытиям нового цивилизационного масштаба. Период поздней древности и раннего средневековья в урало-казахстанских степях, как известно, являлся, образно говоря, своеобразным «смутным» непонятным – непознанным временем. С выходом настоящего издания раскрывается впечатляющая картина историко-культурных коммуникаций и культово-религиозных представлений кочевого и полукочевого населения гигантского региона Западного Казахстана, Хорезма и среднеазитского Междуречья.
Emotional Intelligence and Employee Retention in the Food, Beverage and Tobacco Industry in South-western Nigeria
Authors: Dr. Tejumade O. Siyanbola  , Raphael O. Ajimotokin
Published: December 2024

This paper examined the connection between Emotional Intelligence (EI) and retention of employees in the Food, Beverage and Tobacco industry located in Southwestern Nigeria with the specific objectives of assessing the level of emotional intelligence present within the industry and the extent to which EI influences the businesses' ability to retain their employees. Quantitative data was collected through a survey questionnaire from 297 employees of five of the top listed companies in the sampled industry based on their net worth. The data collected through the stratified sampling technique was analysed using both descriptive (percentages, arithmetic mean, correlation, etc.) and inferential (linear and multiple regression) statistical analyses. Results showed that EI explained approximately 58% of the level of retention in the Food, Beverage and Tobacco industry with Adjusted R2 = .577. In addition, Emotional Intelligence is measured by self-motivation (e.g. ability to prioritise activities), self-control (e.g. ability to suppress emotions), self-awareness (e.g. being able to quickly manage anger), social skills (e.g. capability to reconcile differences with colleagues), and empathy (e.g. understanding other persons' viewpoints) are all commonplace in the industry. With regards to the influence Emotional Intelligence has on employee retention in the Food, Beverages and Tobacco industry, all measures were significant, either positively or negatively, in the following descending order: self-control (t = 10.79, p < 0.05), ability to read emotions (t = 9.17, p < 0.05), self-motivation (t = 7.55, p < 0.05), social skills (t = -4.44, p < 0.05), and self-awareness (t = 3.83, p < 0.05). To conclude, the study found that when employees in the food, beverage, and tobacco industries are emotionally intelligent, the retention rate among them is higher than otherwise.
Ethnicity and Democratic Consolidation in Nigeria
Authors: Oladepo Kazeem Adebowale  , Aremu Atinuke Bukola
Published: December 2024

Nigeria, like many other multi-ethnic societies, has always been characterized by a wave of democratization in which there have been attempts at transforming from her "stone age" authoritarian political system to a universally prevailing system of modern governance (democracy). Regrettably, throughout Nigeria's sixty-three years of independence, its experience with democracy has been paradoxical. Though many attempts have been made by the country to govern itself under a liberal democratic constitution, the Nigerian pluralistic nature always serves as a great impediment to democratic practices and consolidation. Significantly, ethnicity has become one of the most politically potent forces in the democratic history of Nigerian society, and it is identified on the basis of distinctive languages and dialectics (Osaghae, 2003). In effect, Nigeria has always experienced democratic convulsion when political entrepreneurs whip up ethnic symbols as a means of winning electoral contests rather than campaigning on the basis of issues and ideologies. In essence, the voting behavior of Nigerians is more often than not tended to be influenced by the sentiments of kinship and ethnicity as asset to be exploited by high status seeker when canvassing for votes. To this end, any meaningful discussion on Nigeria's post-independence democratic practice and consolidation needs to grapple with the challenges and dilemma of ethnic-based politics and tension. Given the foregone, this study will examine the influence of ethnicity on democratic practice and consolidation in Nigeria.
Advancing Sustainability: A Systematic Review of Supply Chain Management Practices
Authors: Ismael Barugahare  , Benjamin Ombok
Published: December 2024

Organizations are increasingly reevaluating their supply chain practices to minimize environmental harm, economic downturns, and social discomfort to enhance sustainability. The escalation in greenhouse gas emissions, environmental pollution, and resource depletion has underscored the urgency for such transformations. Consequently, studies have increasingly focused on sustainable supply chain management (SSCM). This review synthesizes existing literature on SSCM practices, drawing from research outputs from various industries and geographical regions. The synthesis relies on the Systematic Literature Review Methodology in gathering and analyzing relevant articles published between 2014 and 2024. A total of 29 articles were reviewed, and they met the inclusion criteria for detailed content examination. The review identifies three main dimensions of SSCM: environmental, economic, and social. Environmental considerations feature prominently in the literature, with studies addressing issues such as waste management, carbon footprint reduction, and resource conservation. Economic performance, including cost management and market competitiveness, is also a significant focus, particularly in studies conducted in emerging economies. Additionally, the review highlights the growing and critical position of social sustainability within supply chain management, although it remains relatively understudied compared to environmental and economic dimensions. Overall, the findings underscore the multifaceted nature of SSCM practices and their imperative attributes for organizations in adopting holistic approaches that integrate environmental, economic, and social considerations. The review contributes to a deeper understanding of current research trends and emphasizes the need for further investigation into social sustainability within SSCM, particularly in the context of emerging economies.
A Literature Review on the Effect of Strategic Orientation on Skilled Births in Public Health Facilities in Western Kenya
Authors: Osiemo Chrisanthus Titus Auma  , Dr. Beatrice E. Abong’o  , Dr. Fredrick O. Aila
Published: December 2024

Strategic orientation is the strategic direction a firm executes to create proper behaviours for continuous superior business performance, leading to a competitive edge. Porter's strategic orientation is a very useful tool in streamlining businesses in such cases. Public health facilities provide free maternal services, while faith-based and private health facilities charge fees for these services in Kenya. Therefore, public health facilities seem to face no competitors in providing free maternal services, thus promoting skilled births. However, an important research question is, does strategic orientation influence organisational performance in such health facilities? We used a narrative literature review by searching Google's search engine to find journal articles related to strategic orientation, competitive advantage, differentiation strategy, low-cost strategy, and focus strategy. We find that Porter's generic strategies are unsuitable in public health facilities as they have no competition in providing free maternal services. Strategic orientation variables: entrepreneurial orientation, learning orientation and technology orientation support performance, while market orientation and interaction orientation do not support performance. This feedback can be grounded in contingency theory, which stresses that decisions should be flexible in nature and present adaptations to current situations as they arise. We recommend that further studies be conducted to establish why Porter's strategic orientation does not support public health facilities' performance in terms of skilled births in Western Kenya.
Assessing the Impact of Non-Formal Tax Education on Payment Compliance: The Mediating Role of Procedural Tax Knowledge within the Informal Sector of Ghana
Authors: Fatimah Jibril Bawa
Published: December 2024

The study assessed the impact of non-formal tax education on payment compliance, mediated by procedural tax knowledge. The study employed Social Learning Theory (SLT) as the guidance in its investigation. It utilized a quantitative method and descriptive cross-sectional survey design. Data was sourced from informal sector registered SMEs within the Ghana Enterprises Agency located in the Greater Accra region of Ghana using a 14-item questionnaire developed through literature. A sample size of 1,152 was used in the study. The study employed the multistage sampling technique made up of simple random sampling and snowball sampling. Data was analyzed using partial least squares (PLS) through SMART-PLUS software. The study found that non-formal tax education influences payment compliance significantly. In addition, non-formal tax education influences procedural tax knowledge significantly. Further, procedural tax knowledge influences payment compliance significantly. Moreover, it was found that procedural tax knowledge mediates the impact of non-formal tax education and payment compliance significantly. In conclusion, the findings show that enhancing procedural tax knowledge through important or vital educational interventions not only propels compliance but also strengthens the association between tax education and tax compliance.
Enactment of Gender Roles and Their Implications on Viral Load (VL) Testing Appointments and Drug Adherence among Adolescent Boys on Anti-Retro-Viral Therapy (ART) in Siaya County of Kenya
Authors: Simon Peter  , Erick Otieno Nyambedha  , Charles Omondi Olang’o
Published: December 2024

There has been a significant decline in HIV-related deaths by 51%, down from between 970 000 and 1.8 million in 2010 to approximately 630 000 in 2022 except for the adolescent boys. Viral Load testing and drug adherence are recommended to monitor ART failure and reduce HIV-related mortalities. Whereas gender norms ascribe specific roles to men, which have been documented to have negative outcomes on their health, whether this has also extended to adolescent boys and affected their VL testing appointments and drug adherence remains underexplored. This insight is significant in high HIV prevalence areas that have recorded differentials in HIV-related deaths among this population, such as Siaya County of Western Kenya. This paper used a cross-sectional survey to investigate the implications of gender role enactment on VL testing and drug adherence among adolescent boys on ART in Siaya County, Kenya. A sample of 263 boys on ART was interviewed, and two focus group discussions and in-depth interviews were held with the boys, while three key informant interviews were conducted with healthcare practitioners and government officers. Enactment of gender roles has been found to interfere with the uptake of VL testing and drug adherence since the boys often take up tough manual jobs to fend for the family as a priority over medication. It is concluded that the breadwinner role being played by the boys seriously affects the honouring of VL testing and taking of ART drugs; hence, interventions aimed at cushioning the families housing the boys should be initiated.
A Structural Description of the Language of Social Networks in Morocco
Authors: Jihane Farissi  , Abdeljalil Tounsi
Published: December 2024

The great outburst in the use of Internet all over the world has led to the emergence of a number of social changes in connection with communication between people, its efficiency, its extent and its channels. Social networking, the use of online social media platforms to connect with people, provides channels which make communication possible everywhere. One of the major social changes that emerged with the advent of social networks is reflected in the language people use to communicate through these networks. This paper is an attempt to describe certain aspects of this language as they appear in the written exchanges between a group of young social media users in the city of Marrakech. Excerpts of this language are analyzed with the objective of identifying its structural features and its impact on the linguistic behaviour of its users. The findings have shown that this form of language exhibits specific linguistic characteristics, which make it a full-fledged variety.