bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
History of Taekwondo Federation in Korea: Korea Junior Taekwondo Federation
Authors:   The World Society of Taekwondo Culture, Lee Chung-Young
Published: February 2024

This study examines the history related to the development of the Korea Junior Taekwondo Federation, organizes the historical background and facts of Taekwondo-related organizations that have not been organized so far, and sets the direction for future development through this. The purpose was to provide basic data that could serve as a basis for Through the study, the following results were confirmed.
First, it can be seen that the creation of the Korea Junior Taekwondo Federation was founded by gathering the opinions of physical education teachers working in middle and high schools at the time, and based on this, through smooth communication without much friction between the Korea Taekwondo Association and each provincial and provincial association.
Second, the Korea Junior Taekwondo Federation was the first to form a nationwide referee department. In the history of Korean Taekwondo referees, excluding official referees from the Korea Taekwondo Association, it was the first national-level Taekwondo Association or Taekwondo Federation organization to be approved and constituted as a national referee, and this also had an impact on other organizations.
Empowered Worldviews: Assessing the Persistence of Psychosocial Intervention Effects in Zambia
Authors: Diwakar Vidya , Tumusiime Emmanuel , Eichsteller Marta , Simbaya Joseph , Oranga Beryl
Published: February 2024

Evidence on the persistence of psychosocial outcomes of interventions over the medium and long term, and in the face of shocks and stressors, is limited. We examined the extent to which empowerment associated with a psychosocial, faith-based approach, Empowered Worldview (EWV) persisted 3–5 years post-delivery of the intervention in Zambia among smallholder farmers. The EWV intervention in Zambia was delivered as part of THRIVE, an integrated livelihoods programme. We followed a previous study to disaggregate individual-level empowerment associated with EWV into three domains: internal (which relates to ‘power within’), localised (typically participation and access), and structural (e.g. institutional, environmental, and social structures). To explore the persistence of EWV effects on empowerment, we used mixed methods and longitudinal data collected in 2020 and 2023, which were the midline and endline points of the THRIVE programme. Empirically, we used descriptive and regression analysis to compare internal and localised empowerment levels between the survey rounds (2020 and 2023) across study groups – including groups that received EWV before and after 2020 – and to the control group. We also re- interviewed a subset of EWV participants interviewed in 2020 to understand how empowerment has changed at the individual level over time . The results show levels of internal empowerment associated with the EWV intervention persisted between the midline and endline surveys, especially when combined with THRIVE livelihood interventions. At the midline, 80.0 per cent of THRIVE with EWV participants were empowered, compared to 82.3 per cent at the endline. In contrast, 72.6 per cent and 73.07 per cent of the control sample participants were empowered at the midline and the endline, respectively. Quantitative results further show that localised empowerment significantly improved between survey rounds among participants who received EWV training and is positively associated with internal empowerment, consistent with literature that suggests localised enablers (supporting social environments) are crucial to sustaining internal empowerment. The qualitative data shows that persistent internal and localised empowerment was observed mostly among households in the non- poor wellbeing category, suggesting that additional interventions are needed to reach the poorest participants. Results also show internal and localised empowerment are positively associated with indicators of household resilience. We conclude the paper with recommendations for programming.
Cluster Analysis: K-Means Cluster In Entertainment Media Use Based On User Profile
Authors: Ilela Jean Evelyn
Published: February 2024

Entertainment media is no longer just for watching movies and hearing news, but more than that it is a bridge to access broader information and even a business. The purpose of this study is to classify the use of entertainment media using the Cluster Analysis approach in terms of user profiles. Cluster analysis is a statistical technique that functions in grouping data into certain groups with the understanding that certain data have similarities or certain characteristics that are close together. This study took directly with the number of respondents 70 people. In collecting data, the length of use of mobile phones in accessing entertainment media was taken, the most frequently accessed entertainment media, and the reasons for using access to entertainment media. The results obtained are three clusters, namely Cluster 1: contains respondents who have an age less than the population average, has an average job as a student and private sector, Cluster 2: contains respondents who have an age less than the population average, has an average job of the average student, Cluster 3: contains respondents who are older than the population average, have an average job as a civil servant and are not yet working. the use of entertainment media by respondents in the three existing clusters is very different from one cluster to another. Overall all variables have differences in the three clusters because the significance level is not more than 0.05.
Analisis Semiotika Interaksi Sosial Narapidana Dalam Film 2037 Karya Mo Hong Jin
Authors: Sari Mega , Hamidah Hamidah , Jufrizal Jufrizal
Published: February 2024

Penelitian ini dilatar belakangi dengan hubungan sosial yang dinamis, yaitu hubungan antara individu, kelompok, ataupun kelompok dengan kelompok, dimana hubungan tersebut memiliki hubungan timbal balik. Film 2037 dipilih karena memiliki aspek interaksi sosial yang terjadi dalam satu lingkungan, yaitu para narapidana yang berada di dalam sel tahanan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan interaksi sosial dan juga bentuk-bentuk interaksi sosial yang terjadi dalam film 2037 sutradara Mo Hong Jin. Hasil dari penelitian ini menemukan bentuk interaksi sosial asosiatif dan disosiatif. Hasil tersebut disajikan dalam bentuk gambar, dialog per-scene dan gesture di setiap scene yang dianalisis tanda denotasi dan konotasinya dalam film 2037. Tanda ditampilkan melalui beberapa aspek seperti latar dan setting film, teknik pengambilan gambar, adegan yang dilakukan pemain karakter dan dialog antar tokoh. Aspek-aspek tersebut lah yang kemudian turut membangun alur cerita film yang menghasilkan sebuah bentuk interaksi sosial.

Kata kunci : Film; Interaksi Sosial; Semiotika;
The Application Of The Nine Elements Of Journalism In The Korean Drama H.U.S.H Episodes 11 And 12 (Semiotic Analysis Of Roland Barthes)
Authors: Budaya Annisa Dwilya
Published: February 2024

Penelitian ini membahas mengenai penerapan sembilan elemen jurnalisme oleh Bill Kovach dan Tom Rosenstiel yang terkandung dalam drama Korea H.U.S.H episode 11 dan 12. Drama Korea tersebut merupakan serial yang mengisahkan seorang jurnalis yang bekerja di suatu media di Korea Selatan; Harian Korea bernama, Lee Ji Soo. Lee Ji Soo merupakan pegawai baru dalam perusahaannya yang masih dibimbing oleh para seniornya. Series ini juga menunjukkan kerja sama tim yang dilakukan para jurnalis Harian Korea dalam memecahkan suatu isu. Pada episode yang dipilih itu, penulis menganalisis kasus dugaan pengusaha resto menodongkan pisau kepada pekerja paruh waktu, yang diulik oleh pemeran utama wanita, Lee Ji Soo. Jenis penelitian ini merupakan deskriptif kualitatif yang menggunakan teori semiotika Roland Barthes. Maka dari itu, dalam penelitian ini penulis menggunakan teknik pengumpulan data yang dilakukan dengan dokumentasi, yaitu mengumpulkan scene-scene dalam Drama Korea H.U.S.H episode 11 dan 12 yang terdapat adanya penerapan sembilan elemen jurnalisme, selanjutnya studi pustaka, yaitu data atau informasi yang didapatkan penulis dengan diperoleh melalui jurnal, skripsi, buku, artikel dan lain sebagainya yang dapat mendukung penelitian ini. Dari penelitian ini maka didapatkan hasil, Drama Korea H.U.S.H episode 11 dan 12 menerapkan tujuh dari sembilan elemen jurnalisme oleh Bill Kovach dan Tom Rosenstiel.
Bayesian Estimation of the Odd Lindley Exponentiated Exponential Distribution : Applications in-Reliability
Authors: Djemoui Nour El houda , Chadli Assia , Merah Ilhem
Published: February 2024

In this work, we investigate the estimation of the unknown parameters and the reliability characteristics ofthe Odd Lindley Exponentiated Exponential distribution. The Bayes estimators and corresponding risks are derived usingvarious loss functions with complete data and a gamma prior distribution. A simulation study was carried out to calculate allthe results. We used Pitman’s closeness criterion and the integrated mean squared error to compare the performance of theBayesian and maximum likelihood estimators. Finally, we illustrate our techniques by analysing a real-life data set.
Antibacterial Test of Kedondong Hutan Leaf (Spondias pinnata) Against Salmonella typhi
Authors: Rangga Febby Alvanda , Amarantini Charis , Budiarso Tri Yahya
Published: February 2024

Kedondong hutan (Spondias pinnata) is a plant belonging to the Anacardiaceae family, plant that grows a lot in the Sulawesi area, one of which is in the Poso area, Central Sulawesi. The surrounding community uses this plant as a traditional food preparation which is often called the "Arogo Onco" by the community. Kedondong hutan contains active compounds that have the potential as antibacterial, namely flavonoids, saponins and tannins. The purpose of this study was to determine the potential of forest kedondong leaves in inhibiting the growth of Salmonella typhi bacteria. The extraction process was done the decoctation method using aquadest and while the antibacterial test was done using the diffusion method against three bacterial strains namely Salmonella typhi BPE 127.1 MC, BPE 122.4 CCA and NCTC 786. The results showed that the leaf extract of kedondong hutan (Spondias pinnata) contained flavonoids, saponins and tannins with the results of the analysis of total flavonoids 1514,9 mgQE/g, saponins 0.613% and tannins 8,94 mgTA/g. The results of the antibacterial test showed the greatest inhibitory power at a concentration of 100%. Salmonella typhi BPE 127.1 MC, BPE 122.4 CCA, NCTC 786, was the inhibition zone 17.67±0.58 mm, 15.67±0.58 mm and 20.33±0.58 mm were included in the category of strong inhibition zone.
Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Properties of Extract from Soil Bacteria Isolated from Muna Island, Southeast Sulawesi
Authors: Priyanto Jepri Agung , Hening Egiyanti Nur Widhia , Permatasari Vera , Prastya Muhammad Eka , Hasidu La Ode Abdul Fajar , Primahana Gian
Published: February 2024

Soil bacteria could be the promising source of secondary metabolites with diverse pharmacological activities. Bacteria coded as P1 and M7 were isolated from soil obtained from Muna Island, Southeast Sulawesi. This research aimed to evaluate the antioxidant activity, cytotoxic property, and identify the chemical profile of the extract derived from soil bacteria P1 and M7. Based on 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, extract derived from P1 isolate was moderately active against ABTS free radical with IC50 of 126.22±10.82 µg/mL, and less active on DPPH (IC50: 721.95±16.59 µg/mL), while M7 extract was less active towards DPPH and ABTS. Interestingly, these extracts in the concentration of 100 µg/mL were cytotoxic to breast cancer cell (MCF-7), as tested by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. MCF-7 viability was decreased up to 69.83±1.46 % and 61.49±0.76 % after treated with P1 and M7 extract, respectively. The extracts were also induced membrane disruption and apoptosis of MCF-7 cells. The extracts contained phenol (9.52±0.22 and 10.41±0.09 mg EAG/g extract, for P1 and M7, respectively) and flavonoids (9.16±0.16 and 9.29±0.24 mg EQ/g extract, for P1 and M7, respectively). According to Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis, Pyrrolo[1,2-a] pyrazine-1,4-dione, hexahydro-3-(2-methylpropyl) that previously well known as antioxidant and cytotoxic compounds, were found in the M7 and P1 extract. This compound may play a vital role in the radical scavenging and cytotoxic properties of P1 and M7 extracts. The results of this study indicate that P1 and M7 extracts could be the potential source of antioxidant and cytotoxic compounds and need to be further developed for pharmaceutical use.
The art of groupwork practice with manualized curricula
Authors: Galinsky Maeda J. , Terzian Mary A. , Fraser Mark W.
Published: February 2024

There is a growing trend in social work toward the use of group-based manuals. Occasionally considered to be opposing approaches, practice based on manualized curricula and practice based on group processes are – in our view – complementary to each other. In this paper, we examine the advantages and disadvantages of manuals as a basis for practice. We offer a series of design and practice principles intended to assist designers and users of manuals. We illustrate the application of these principles with a manualized program, Making Choices, whose aim is to decrease aggression and improve peer relationships in elementary school children.
‘No, you don’t know how we feel’
Authors: Chowns Gillian
Published: February 2024

Groupwork with bereaved children has become increasingly common, with closed and open groups, day and residential programmes, and even online chat rooms offering different approaches and purposes. However, working with children anticipating potential bereavement has received much less attention. Similarly, research within this area in palliative care has been notable for two things - its paucity and its failure to address the perspective of the children themselves.As a palliative care social worker, whose remit was to support children whose parents were receiving palliative care, I searched unsuccessfully for research that was child-centred and child-friendly, and which would enable children to articulate their beliefs and experiences effectively. Thus, for my doctoral thesis, I turned to the action research paradigm for an approach that would more effectively engage with and illuminate these children’s experiences, and undertook a collaborative inquiry- where the research is conducted with rather than for, on, or about the participants – with nine children aged from seven to fifteen.Collaborative inquiry raises - and challenges - many key issues in both research and groupwork, such as voice, power and identity, ethics and competence. This article addresses a number of these issues, with a particular focus on identity.
Problematic behaviour at work
Authors: Henchman David , Walton Sue
Published: February 2024

This article sets out to describe a model that, in our role of practice facilitators, we have found to be effective in helping team group leaders to reduce problematic behaviour at work. We illustrate the application of the tools and structures comprising the model with examples and consider the underpinning theory. Our methods, which are informed by cognitive behavioural and groupwork theory, have been developed from working as practitioners with individuals and service users in groups over a 15 year period. These methods form the basis for our current work with team group leaders. The article demonstrates how application of the model empowers team group leaders to use their existing managerial skills, knowledge and experience with confidence. It enables them to address problematic behaviour routinely and proactively rather than going down the costly procedural route. As a consequence, this reduces the amount of their time spent on stressful policy and procedure and enables them and their team groups to work towards achieving the aims of the organisation. The tools and structures are equally relevant to anyone involved in running or participating in groups.
The Resident Athletic League
Authors: Boutin Todd J. Marquis
Published: February 2024

In this paper, I discuss the Resident Athletic League [RAL], a sports-based ‘interpersonal effectiveness’ group for adolescent males in residential treatment (Linehan, 1993b, p. 115). I introduce the groupwork theories that underlie the RAL. I explain how I implemented these theories through group planning and facilitation, and I explore two examples of residents’ group experience. In conclusion, I consider the emergent or synergistic quality of groups, suggesting a relationship between effective groupwork and House culture (Halperin, 2002; Forte, 2007).
Use of Alzheimer family support group by community-residing caregivers
Authors: LaMore Katherine Wood
Published: February 2024

This paper describes the author’s experience as a new co-facilitator for an Alzheimer’s Disease Family Support Group and reviews the preliminary phase of group practice and the dynamics of the beginning phase of co-facilitating the Alzheimer’s Family Support Group. The paper reviews the needs that Alzheimer Support Group would meet, purpose of the group, agency and sponsorship support for Alzheimer Support Group, recruitment, group composition, group timing and structure, leadership of group, orientation of group members, content of group meetings, group sessions, and anticipated obstacles, and concludes with the importance of empowerment-oriented social workers who share the message that change is possible with others who are struggling, while working side-by-side with them to achieve changes and provide a new beginning – a new path for caregivers – a path of self discovery. As Alzheimer’s disease progresses caregivers and loved ones of people with the disease are often challenged on a daily basis – emotionally, mentally, and physically. Being with other people in similar situations encourages group members to share information, exchange coping skills, give and receive mutual support, vent their frustrations and share their success stories. Caregiving for a person with cognitive impairments can be a very difficult task, but knowing that you are ‘all in the same boat’ provides the life preserver to the caregiver – giving nourishment to the soul.
Groupwork with children from a disadvantaged community
Authors: Deasy Margaret
Published: February 2024

Groupwork has proved to be a key choice in methods of intervention with children and young people in recent years and it is greatly implemented by the social workers in the agency where I have been placed for my work experience. This paper will examine the use of groupwork as a method of intervention for the children from a disadvantaged community, focusing on the a number of theories that are incorporated to assist and inform the social workers in their endeavour to alleviate the many problems faced by the children who attend this agency.This paper will furthermore acknowledge my role and observations in the group setting and discuss how groupwork participation has provided me with the opportunity to engage with children in a formal and informal structure in the workplace.
Teaching sustainability through service learning and groupwork
Authors: Wachholz Sandra , Merrill Samuel B.
Published: February 2024

In this article we describe three examples of service-learning projects carried out by faculty who have attended the Maine Watershed Project, a ‘greening the curriculum’ workshop that is designed to encourage faculty in all disciplines to address environmental sustainability issues in their teaching. Drawing on in-depth interviews conducted with these faculty members, we highlight how they understand and teach sustainability through service learning carried out in groups and we examine challenges tied to using this pedagogical approach. We also explore how faculty and student’ experiences with service learning and groupwork increased their sense of connection to local communities, fostered innovation in the classroom, and developed hope-based learning – that is, educational experiences designed to leave students feeling inspired, motivated, and hopeful.
Psychosocial groupwork for older adults having substance use and mental health issues
Authors: White-Campbell Marilyn , Luketic Lea , MacDonald Stephanie
Published: February 2024

Community Outreach Programs in Addictions (COPA) is a Canadian organization that assists older adults who live with substance misuse and mental health issues. COPA College, a psycho educational mutual aide support group consists of weekly group sessions. The program uses a Solution Focussed approach (De Jong, Insoo Kimberg, 2008) which provides support to socially disadvantaged older adults with substance and mental health issues through a group format.This article sets out to evaluate participant reactions and determine if participants decrease substance use following completion of the group. One-on-one semi-structured interviews with ten participants were conducted. Participants were asked to rate the importance of different aspects of the program and discuss alcohol intake following involvement in the group. Aspects of the program rated highly by all the participants included learning new information, the breadth of topics discussed and the harm reduction approach taken by the program. Finally, the general atmosphere of the group was considered very important, especially being comfortable in the group and combining humour with learning, and an opportunity for reflective, sharing peer support.
Editorial to Groupwork 24 issue 3
Authors: Fleming Jennie
Published: February 2024

Editorial
A standards-based inventory of foundation competencies in social work with groups: An empirical test in Scotland
Authors: Macgowan Mark J
Published: February 2024

Abstract: This paper describes the application and testing in Scotland of a measure of foundation competencies in groupwork, derived from standards for social work practice with groups. Developed by the International Association for the Advancement of Social Work with Groups (IASWG), the IASWG Standards have not been widely used outside of Canada or the U.S.A. A 70-item inventory based on the Standards was developed to measure two domains, how important each item is for successful groupwork, and how confident the respondent is about demonstrating the skill in practice. The first study, with a mostly North American sample, reported excellent reliability and good validity. This paper reports new findings on the reliability and validity of the inventory from data collected from students and practitioners across Scotland (N = 161), and includes qualitative impressions from participants. The results indicated excellent internal consistency for both the importance and confidence subscales, with low standard errors of measurement. An item analysis revealed high respondent ratings, supporting content validity. Significant correlations between the subscales and validators supported the measure’s concurrent, construct-convergent, and criterion known-groups validity. The findings suggest the cross-national applicability of the inventory (and the Standards represented by the inventory), while also illuminating areas for refinement.
The advantages and benefits of a student mutual-aid group in developing groupwork skills
Authors: Molina Olga , Jacinto George A
Published: February 2024

There is a growing consensus in the literature that there is a crisis in groupwork education due to the limited internships that offer students the opportunity to practise with groups. In response to this crisis, the authors developed a model for teaching groupwork skills in the classroom using mutual-aid groups. This paper presents a study (n= 192) of social work graduate students who participated in the mutual-aid groups. The findings demonstrate that the majority of the students (90%) rated the mutual-aid groups as an excellent to good method of teaching groupwork skills and group dynamics.
Reviews
Authors: Doel Mark , Ward Dave
Published: February 2024

Book reviews of a-z of Groupwork and The Book of Games and Warm Ups for Group Leaders
Editorial: Groupwork in Education
Authors: Fleming Jennie , Kelly Tim , Taylor Amanda
Published: February 2024

Editorial to special issue
Implementação de ferramentas digitais na gestão dos Laboratórios de Ensino: modernização, desburocratização e agilidade nos processos
Authors:   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Steola Luiz Renato , Missano Thalita Mydori ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Lehmann Eraldo Luiz ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Sousa Mirian Cristina de ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Arimathea Micheli de Oliveira Marques ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Epifanio Marcelo Geovani ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Madureira Luciano Lustosa ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Benedito Rinaldo ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Santos Michelle Candida dos ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Martins Daniel Nunes ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Justo Ana Paula ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Pereira Elizabeth dos Santos ,   Universidade Estadual Paulista
Published: February 2024

Introdução: Os Laboratórios de Ensino do IQ são constituídos por oito laboratórios estruturados para atender mais de 2000 alunos ao ano. Devido a isso, os laboratórios necessitam da elaboração e execução de diversos processos, que foram otimizados e agilizados, desburocratizando e modernizando-os. Para isso, foram criados formulários automatizados, acessados via QR code, permitindo: 1-Controle de empréstimos de jalecos para alunos 2-Empréstimos de reagentes e vidrarias; 3-Registro de sugestões e/ou críticas; 4-Procedimento para reposição de vidrarias; 5-POPs dos equipamentos. Objetivo: Aperfeiçoar processos já existentes empregando ferramentas do ecossistema Google e programação em JavaScript, tornando-os mais eficientes e menos burocráticos. Metodologia: Mapeou-se previamente os processos escolhidos utilizando BPMN (Business Process Model and Notation) e, após isso, optou-se pela melhor ferramenta que mais impactaria positivamente o processo. Procurou-se escolher ferramentas que geram dados que podem ser utilizados em processos decisórios. Resultados: Os processos foram otimizados eliminando-se custos com impressão e papel, reduzindo tempo e processos desnecessários e quantidade de arquivos físicos gerando um banco de dados eletrônicos. Conclusão: O projeto impactou positivamente diversos aspectos, principalmente financeiro, contribuindo para um aumento na quantidade de reposições de vidrarias quebradas e diminuindo os gastos para manter as disciplinas que são ministradas no setor. Também conseguiu-se melhorar o atendimento à comunidade acadêmica sem investimento de recursos financeiros e ainda criou uma base de dados que auxilia nas tomadas de decisões do setor.
How does innovation performance feedback influence the diversity of the technological alliance portfolio?
Authors: Martínez-Noya Andrea , García-Canal Esteban
Published: February 2024

Survival in technology-intensive industries require firms to maintain alliances with different types of technological partners. However, the decision to increase partner diversity also entails risks. Based on the fact that firm performance relative to aspirations is key to understand how firms assess risky changes, this study focuses on addressing how innovation performance feedback, both positive and negative, influence a firm's decision to adjust the diversity of its alliance portfolio. Our results show that this effect is highly dependent on firms’ R&D intensity levels, as these efforts shape their ability to assess gains and costs associated with new collaborations.
Using artificial intelligence for English language learning: Saudi EFL learners' opinions, attitudes and challenges
Authors: Jamshed Mohammad , Alam Iftikhar , Sultan Sultan Al , Banu Sameena
Published: February 2024

The study investigates EFL (English as a Foreign Language) learners' opinions, attitudes and the challenges of incorporating AI-powered teaching and learning. It also examines how their ideas and attitudes are affected by demographic variables.  258 students were selected using a random sampling method from a population comprising students studying in different levels of programs at the College of Science and College of Business Administration, Prince Sattam bin Abdul-Aziz University, KSA. A questionnaire was self-developed using some modified items from prior studies as the study looks at how certain independent variables (e.g., study level, residential background and parents' educational level) affect the dependent variable (e.g., learners' opinions, attitudes and challenges for AI-powered learning and teaching).  The quantitative approach (descriptive quantitative design) revealed that Saudi EFL students held a high level of positive opinions and attitudes towards AI-powered learning. However, the analysis found that many students thought implementing AI-powered learning was challenging. A one-way ANOVA showed no significant difference based on respondents' residential background and parental education. However, respondents differed significantly based on their level or year of study. The study findings will assist administrators and course teachers in using AI-powered technologies to overcome challenges and prepare students for achievement in the English language.
Development of a geographic information system for monitoring work with customers for the supply, maintenance and automation of elevator equipment for LLC «Expert-Agro»
Authors: Alekseev M. V. , Kudryashov V. S. , Ivanov A. V. , Kozenko I. A. , Ovsenev M. O.
Published: February 2024

As part of the production practice in LLC «Expert-Agro» developed a geographic information system (GIS) for the supply and maintenance of the produced elevator equipment. In the MS Access system, a database of customers has been formed that contains the names of enterprises, addresses and coordinates of their location, contact information, information on orders (purchase, delivery and installation of equipment, maintenance of existing equipment, repair work, etc.). At the same time, a message is automatically generated when the day of completion of the order approaches, which allows you to control the efficiency of working with customers and, if necessary, extend the lead time of the order. In the MS Visual Studio integrated environment, using the gmap.Net library, geolocation was implemented to display customers on the map, which makes it possible to assess the geography of LLC «Expert-Agro» and plan further expansion of interaction. Controlling the location of customers also provides a solution to logistical problems for the supply of equipment. The system additionally provides for the selection of process parameters sensors, actuators, control controllers with input / output modules and other devices for automating the supplied equipment. At present, the GIS database is being filled with information on manufactured equipment and devices that are used in standard automation projects.
Obtaining phosphate fertilizer with additional nutrients
Authors: Samedov M. M. , Mustafa J. M. , Mammadova G. M. , Javadova S. G.
Published: February 2024

In order to obtain phosphorus fertilizer enriched with additional nutrients, the decomposition process of apatite concentrate with sulfuric acid was carried out with an additive, in the first variant – ammonium hydrophosphate, and in the second variant - ammonium and potassium hydrophosphates. Experimental studies have studied the effect of additives on the interaction of sulfuric acid with fluorapatite, as well as X-ray phase and IR spectroscopic analyses have studied the structural composition of the resulting product. It was found that with the use of additives, the resulting phosphorus fertilizer contains, along with calcium dihydrophosphate, also ammonium dihydrophosphate. A distinctive feature is the decomposition of sulfuric acid phosphates, resulting in a poorly soluble calcium sulfate that passes into the solid phase, which has traces of its presence in the resulting fertilizer, and may also not be part of the solution. The process of decomposition of fluorapatite with sulfuric acid using an additional part (NH4)2HPO4, the optimal amount of the additional part should be considered 12-18% (by weight of sulfuric acid) additive, while the highest degree of decomposition of apatite concentrate is achieved, which is 95-97%. The conducted studies have established that the introduction of an additive - ammonium and potassium hydrophosphates - into the process of sulfuric acid decomposition of apatite concentrate also has a positive effect on the duration of the superphosphate maturation period. To clarify the structural composition of the finished product, X–ray phase studies and IR spectrometric analysis of the powdered product were carried out. Thus, mineral fertilizers obtained with the use of additives having an additional nutrient element in their composition, namely nitrogen - in the first variant, and nitrogen and potassium - in the second variant.
Overview: Biodegradable Packaging Film Materials
Authors: Alexandrova L. V. , Uspenskaya M. V. , Ishevsky A. L.
Published: February 2024

Currently, bioplastics, which are bio-based (biodegradable/non-biodegradable) plastics, account for about 1% of the approximately 390 million tons of plastic produced annually. But as demand is rising, and with more new materials demerging, the market is already growing very dynamically. Europe ranks the 1st place in the field of research and development of bioplastics. About a fifth part of the world’s volume of such materials, produce here. The development of such technologies in Russia goes slowly. Biodegradable plastics are mainly produced from starch, polylactic acid and cellulose. Moreover, all of components are biodegradable. So-called biocomposites are also available, which are a mixture of a polymer with a filler introduced in order to reduce the cost of materials and/or to improve the chemical-mechanical properties of the product. The obtaining of biodegradable packaging materials by fermentation process is very expensive. Traditional synthetic plastics with biodegradable additives introduced into them need special composting conditions. In this article, there is the market’s analysis of the packaging biodegradable products. It also contains the ways to obtain such products from natural raw materials. A large number of studies are devoted to the chemical modification of such polymers, which makes it possible to obtain flexible packaging materials with improved physical and mechanical characteristics compared to the original and not inferior to traditional synthetic plastics.
Multi-criteria optimization of technological parameters of microwave baking of whipped yeast-free bread without crust
Authors: Taratukhin A. S. , Magomedov G. О. , Khvostov A. А. , Magomedov M. G. , Zhuravlev A. А. , Plotnikova I. V.
Published: February 2024

In order to reduce energy consumption and baking time of churned yeast-free bakery products, to improve their quality, it is relevant to use effective sources of energy supply to test blanks. For uniform heating of test blanks throughout the entire volume, their ultra-high-frequency heating during baking is of the greatest interest, which makes it possible to increase the efficiency of production. One of the well-known methods of studying the baking process of whipped, yeast-free, unskilled bread was the method of mathematical modeling based on the formalization of a mathematical model. Experiment planning is the most effective in obtaining maximum information about the modeling object with a minimum amount of experimental research. In this paper, the modeling and optimization of the technological parameters of microwave baking of whipped yeast-free bread with the use of experimental statistical methods is considered. The mass of the dough piece and the power of microwave baking were chosen as the main factors. The output parameters were the duration of baking until ready, the package and the height of the bread. Based on the results of the central compositional rotatable planning of the experiment, mathematical models in the form of regression equations are constructed that adequately describe the processes under study. Statistical processing of experimental data was performed according to the criteria of Student, Kohren and Fisher (with a confidence probability of 0.95). The mathematical interpretation of regression equations is given. Optimization of the parameters of microwave baking of churned yeast-free bakery products was carried out by the method of indeterminate Lagrange multipliers. The optimal values of the main factors of the experiment were determined: the mass of the test piece – 465 g; the power of microwave baking - 865 W, which ensures the smallest bread roll – 1.2% and the maximum bread height - 78.5 mm with a minimum duration of baking bread – 3.4 min.
Study of technological processes of extractive substances extraction from osmo-dehydrated berry products
Authors: Gribova N. A.
Published: February 2024

The process of extraction from vegetable raw materials is an important technological solution in the food industry for obtaining extractive substances that contain minerals, organic acids, phenolic substances, pectin’s, sugars and vitamins. The extraction process is influenced by the main factors - the size of the plant material, its duration and temperature conditions. Segmentation is essential for extraction. The correct choice of size allows you to better preserve the cellular structure of the berries, the diffusion processes proceed optimally efficiently, the extraction slows down, and the resulting extract contains less mechanical impurities and is easier to clean. The traditional method for extracting vegetable raw materials is water-alcohol solutions, but the extraction of water-soluble substances occurs partially, and as is known, vitamins, sugars, and phenolic substances predominate in berry raw materials. The most accessible and economical means for extraction is water. When extracted with water, the final product contains water-soluble substances and no fat-soluble substances. Extraction of osmo-dried berries was carried out with an aqueous solution at different temperature conditions with ranges of 30–40 °C, 50–60 °C and 70–80 °C. To determine the duration of extraction of osmo-dried berries, the yield of dry matter was used. It has been established that the highest yield of dry matter from osmo-dried strawberries (10,17 %), raspberries (8,74 %) and black currants (11,43 %) is observed at an extraction temperature of 50–60 °C and 70–80 °C. With a duration of 8 – 12 hours. The extraction time is described by polynomial regression equations of the 2nd degree. It was revealed that the highest content of vitamin C is observed at a temperature in the range of 50–60 °C, extraction of 36,7 mg/100 g of extract, and at a temperature in the range of 60–70 °C, the content of ascorbic acid decreased by 40 %.
Food packaging Bio-based plastics: Properties, Renewable Biomass resources, Synthesis, and Applications
Authors: Melesse E. Y. , Filinskaya Y. A. , Kirsh I. A. , Alkhair Ali Y. , Bannikova O. A.
Published: February 2024

The current trend in food packaging technology necessitates the development of novel packaging materials in order to extend the shelf life of food and reduce spoliation. To preserve the food product, the construction material of the packaging played a key role.In the emerging field of food packaging technology, using biobased plastics for food packaging shown a comparative advantage.At this moment, bioplastics have shown measurable benefits and are receiving more and more attention from business organizations, political figures, scientific communities, and in the whole public. This was as a result of looking for new plastic profiles brands. Besides, the environmental impact(ecological concerns) of convective materials, the depletion of natural resources specifically the petrochemical, and consumer concerns have necessitated alternative bio-based food packaging items. Therefore, the aim of this study was to review the properties of food packaging materials such as thermal, mechanical, barrier, surface, antimicrobial, optical, and environmental, as well as their synthesis type and applications. The cellulose and starch components of the common agricultural wastes for the synthesis of biopolymers were elaborated. In addition to that, different microalgae species were justified in the manufacturing of bio-based plastics.This review article also included examples of sustainable filler and reinforcement materials used in the food packaging industry. Therefore, this review work contributes to opening up the entire body of scientific knowledge on bio-based plastics used for food packaging and helps to develop important results for further investigation.
Radiomics Machine Learning Analysis of Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma for Tumour Grade Prediction based on Intra-Tumoural Subregion Heterogeneity
Authors: Alhussaini Abeer J. , Steele J. Douglas , Jawli Adel , Nabi Ghulam
Published: February 2024

Background: Renal cancers are among the top ten causes of cancer specific mortality; of which the ccRCC subtype is responsible for most of the cases. Grading of ccRCC is important in determining the tumour aggressiveness and clinical management. Objectives: To predict the WHO/ISUP grade of ccRCC pre-operatively and characterise the heterogeneity of tumour subregions using radiomics and ML models including comparison with pre-operative biopsy determined grading in a subgroup. Methods: Data was obtained from multiple institutions across two countries from 391 patients with pathologically proven ccRCC. For analysis, the data were separated into 4 cohorts. Cohort 1 and 2 were data from the respective institutions from the two countries, cohort 3 was the combined data and cohort 4 data was a subset of cohort 1 where both biopsy and subsequent histology from resection (partial or total nephrectomy) was available. 3D image segmentation was done to derive a voxel of interest (VOI) mask. Radiomic features were then extracted from the contrast enhanced images and the data normalised. Correlation coefficients and XGBoost model were used to reduce the dimensionality of the features. Thereafter, 11 ML algorithms were implemented for the purpose of predicting the grade of ccRCC and characterising heterogeneity of subregions in the tumours; Results: For cohort 1, 50% tumor core and 25% tumor periphery exhibited best performance with an average AUC of 77.91% and 78.64% respectively. 50% tumor core had the highest performance in cohort 2 and cohort 3 with an average AUC of 87.64% and 76.91% respectively. Cohort 4 with 25% periphery showed an AUC of 95% and 80% for grade prediction using internal and external validation respectively while biopsy histology had an AUC of 31% for the prediction with final grade of resection histology as a reference standard; Conclusion: Radiomic signatures combined with ML have the potential to predict the WHO/ISUP grade of ccRCC with superior performance compared to pre-operative biopsy. Moreover, tumour subregions contain useful information that should be analysed independently when determining tumour grade. It is therefore possible to distinguish the grade of ccRCC pre-operatively to improve patient care and management.
Development and Characterization of a Value-Added Product Suitable for Food Applications from Agaricus bisporus and Pleurotus ostreatus Stems: Evaluation of Particle Size Influence and In Vitro Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Bermúdez-Gómez Patricia , Fernández-López Juana , Pérez-Clavijo Margarita , Viuda-Martos Manuel
Published: February 2024

The mushroom industry generates large amounts of stems, a co-product with valuable sensory and health characteristics. This work aimed to study the influence of particle size (L — >0.510 mm; LI — 0.510-0.315 mm; SI—0.315-0.180 mm; S — <0.180 mm) and species in the characterization and antioxidant activity of flours from stems of Agaricus bisporus (ABSF) and Pleurotus ostreatus (POSF). ABSF was rich in protein (14 g/100 g), calcium (428.23-700.77 mg/100 g), and sorbitol (22.57-26.60 g/100 g), while POSF in β-glucans (36.62-40.34 g/100 g) and linoleic acid (20.57-39.86 g/100 g of lipid). Both species were flush in amino acids with umami flavor. The highest hydration properties and oil holding capacity were exhibited in the S size of both species. ABSF showed elevated values for emulsifying activity than POSF. ABSF-S recorded the heightened antioxidant capacity in vitro, in consonance with the total phenolic compounds (0.91 mg/g). However, this antioxidant assays in POSF presented a positive correlation with β-glucans content. According to these results, there could be several food applications for these co-products, such as emulsifier stabilizer, sweetener or fortifier in the development of functional food.
Exploring the Connection between Prime Numbers, Trigonometric Functions, and the Riemann Hypothesis through ln(sec(π.nlog(n)))
Authors: U Zaman Budee
Published: February 2024

One of the most important unresolved mysteries in mathematics is the Riemann Hypothesis, which suggests a fundamental connection between the non-trivial zeros of the Riemann zeta function and the distribution of prime numbers. Here, we explore the fascinating union of trigonometric functions, prime numbers, and the Riemann zeta function through an examination of the zeros in the statement ln(sec(π·n log(n))). We demonstrate a strong mathematical connection between these components, providing information on the mysterious properties of prime numbers and their complex relationships to basic mathematical operations. Our thorough investigation adds to the current discussion of the Riemann Hypothesis by offering possible solutions and deepening our comprehension of the intricate relationship between number theory and analytic functions.
Exploring Diagnostic Methods for Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis: A Comprehensive Overview
Authors: Sanchini Andrea , Lanni Alessio , Giannoni Federico , Mustazzolu Alessandro
Published: February 2024

Despite available global efforts and funding, Tuberculosis (TB) continues to affect a considerable number of patients worldwide. Policy makers and stakeholders set clear goals to reduce TB incidence and mortality, but the emergence of multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) and extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB) complicate the reach of these goals. Drug-resistance TB needs to be diagnosed rapidly and accurately to effectively treat patients, prevent the transmission of MDR-TB, minimise mortality, reduce treatment costs and avoid unnecessary hospitalisations. In this narrative review, we provide a comprehensive overview of laboratory methods for detecting drug resistance in MTB, focusing on phenotypic, molecular and other drug susceptibility testing (DST) techniques. We found a large variety of methods used, with the BACTEC MGIT 960 being the most common phenotypic DST and the Xpert MTB/RIF being the most common molecular DST. We emphasise the importance of integrating phenotypic and molecular DST to address issues like resistance to new drugs, heteroresistance, mixed infections and low-level resistance mutations. Notably, most of the analysed studies adhered to the outdated definition of XDR-TB and did not consider the pre-XDR definition, thus posing challenges in aligning diagnostic methods with the current landscape of TB resistance.