bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Fire on Reinforced Concrete Beams with FRP and Conventional Steel at Limited Time of Fire
Authors: Ghobashy Mohamed Atef , Hilal Amr Mohamed , Ibrahim Mohamed Abdel Razik
Published: May 2023

The aim of this study is to investigate the behavior of RC concrete beams reinforced with basalt, carbon, glass fiber reinforced polymer bars and conventional steel. A comparison between the results has been performed to investigate and study the effect of fire on reinforced concrete beams considering the following items: (flexural capacity, deflection behavior and crack pattern). It is noticeable that the use of FRP bars significantly increased the ultimate load of the specimens, where the percentage of increase ranged between 34 - 73 % of the ultimate load of the specimen C-S under static load. The greatest ultimate load was reached the beam that was reinforced with carbon bars (CFRP). It was also noticed able that the use of FRP rods significantly increases the deflection of the beams. The percentage of increase was between 45 - 170 % of the final deflection of the C-S specimen under static load. It was noted that the effect of the fire on the beams reinforced with fiber bars (FRP), where the efficiency of bearing capacity of beams after fire decreases by 11 to 18 % of the actual efficiency of bearing capacity of beams control. As for the beam reinforced with conventional steel bars, its efficiency was reduced by 15 % from the actual capacity.
Hot and cold drying of edible flowers affect metabolite patterns of extracts and decoctions
Authors: Demasi Sonia , Caser Matteo , Scariot Valentina
Published: May 2023

Edible flowers are rich in bioactive compounds and pigments that are on increasing demand in nutraceutical, medicinal, food, cosmetic and dyeing industries. This study evaluated the anthocyanins, phenolics and antioxidant activity of eight edible flowers (Bellis perennis L., Centaurea cyanus L., Dianthus
carthusianorum L., Lavandula angustifolia Mill., Primula vulgaris Huds., Rosa canina L., Rosa pendulina L. and Viola odorata L.) after 24 h of hot drying (50 °C; natural convection stove) or cold drying (CD) (22 °C; heat-pump drying system). The hot-dried and cold-dried materials were then used to prepare ultrasound-assisted extracts, which are used as food additives or as a source of natural colourants, or decoctions (DECs), which are used for herbal teas. The edible flower UAEs and DECs had high amounts of anthocyanins (up to 3,284.6 mg C3G · 100 g-1), phenolics (up to 9,034 mg · 100 g-1) and antioxidant activity (866 μmol TE · g-1, 4,901 mmol Fe2+ · kg-1), with roses having the highest amount. The anthocyanin content and phenolic profile (flavonols, benzoic acids, cinnamic acids and flavanols) of edible flowers are found to be affected by drying and extraction methods. For decoctions, CD was found to be the most efficient drying method for all the parameters. For UAEs, CD resulted in a higher anthocyanin content, while hot drying resulted in a higher phenolic content, particularly flavanols. Overall, the studied edible flower extracts and decoctions can contribute to healthy and coloured substances, which can be used for designing innovative natural products. Rosa pendulina and R. canina are the most promising sources.
Agronomic responses of four garlic genotypes in two different locations
Authors: Aswani Nazly , Azmi Chotimatul , Cartika Ika , Basuki Rofik Sinung , Harmanto
Published: May 2023

Agronomic performance of garlic is speculated strongly affected by genotype ´ environment interaction, however, interaction evaluation is rarely studied in Indonesia. This research aimed to study the agronomic response of four garlic varieties in two different locations. The research was conducted from April to December 2021 using Lumbu Putih, Lumbu Hijau, Lumbu Kuning, and Tawangmangu Baru genotypes grown in two locations, i.e., Lembang (1250 m asl) and Ciwidey (1200 m asl), Bandung, West Java using randomized complete block design with three replications. Results showed that genotypes ´ locations interaction was found for traits: plant height, pseudo-stem stem diameter, number of stomata, weight, and diameter of fresh and dried bulbs. Chlorophyll content (SPAD value) depends on genotype, height of fresh bulbs and percentage of weight loss depending on location, while number of leaves was independently affected by genotype and location. Lumbu Kuning produced the highest average fresh weight with considerable differences in both locations (Lembang: 52.01 g, Ciwidey: 31.87 g) and also had the highest weight of dry bulb when planted in Lembang (24.65 g). Pearson's correlation showed that the strongest positive correlation (r=0.91) was found between the weight of the fresh bulb and pseudo-stem diameter when garlic genotypes were planted in Ciwidey. The present study implies the importance to select suitable genotypes for a particular location.

Keywords: genotype, environment, interaction, SPAD value, stomata, weight loss
MENYOAL PEMENUHAN PARTISIPASI MASYARAKAT YANG BERMAKNA DALAM PEMBENTUKAN UNDANG-UNDANG TENTANG IBU KOTA NEGARA
Authors: Paputungan Merdiansa , Bakhri Syaiful
Published: May 2023

AbstrakPembentukan undang-undang Ibu Kota Negara yang hanya dibahas dalam waktu 42 hari, melahirkan pertanyaan mendasar tentang pemenuhan partisipasi masyarakat dalam pengertian yang sungguh-sungguh atau bermakna. Penelitian ini secara khusus hendak menelitian pemenuhan partisipasi masyarakat dalam pembentukan undang-undang Ibu Kota Negara dengan menggunakan metode penelitian yuridis normatif. Dari hasil penelitian ditemukan bahwa pembentukan Undang-Undang Ibu Kota Negara tidak memenuhi aspek partisipasi masyarakat yang bermakna atau sungguh-sungguh, karena partisipasi hanya dilakukan secara formalitas, yakni sebatas memenuhi hak untuk didengar dan mengenyampingkan hak untuk dipertimbangkan dan hak untuk diberi penjelasan.Kata Kunci: Pembentukan, Undang-Undang, Partisipasi Yang Bermakna, Ibu Kota Negara AbstractThe formation of the National Capital Law, which was only discussed within 42 days, raises fundamental questions about the fulfillment of public participation in a real or meaningful sense. This research specifically aims to examine the fulfillment of public participation in the formation of the National Capital Law by using normative juridical research methods. From the results of the research, it is found that the formation of the National Capital City Law does not fulfill the aspects of meaningful or serious public participation, because participation is only carried out in a formality, which is limited to fulfilling the right to be heard and excluding the right to be considered and the right to be given an explanation.Keywords: Formation, Law, Meaningful Participation, National Capital City
Protective Effect of Combination Black Seed Oil (Nigella sativa) and Honey on the Duodenum of Rats Exposed to Cisplatin
Authors: Wasilah Khusnul , Ilmiawan Muhammad In’am , Handini Mitra
Published: May 2023

Background: Cisplatin (CP) is an anticancer agent with various side effects, including duodenal mucosal damage. It is well known that black seed oil (BSO) and honey (H) are rich in antioxidants and have a mucosal protective effect. Purposes: To determine the protective effect of the BSO and H combination on the histopathology of duodenal rats given CP exposure. Methods: Randomized post-test-only control group design was used in this study. A total of 30 rats were divided into ten groups, namely the control group (K), treatment groups (P1-P8), and cisplatin group (C). The treatment groups were given BSO and H orally for 21 days, and CP was given intraperitoneally on day 18 to the treatment and cisplatin groups. On day 22, the duodenal tissue was taken for preparation and histopathological assessment. Data analysis using IBM SPSS v.24 and Compusyn program. Result: There were significant differences in the duodenal mucosa damage scores of the P1-P8 group compared to the C group (p<0.05). The combination index of P7 exerted a synergism effect (CI < 1). Conclusion: The combination of BSO and H exerted a protective effect on the histopathological of rats’ duodenal tissue induced with CP, and the combination of BSO 2 mL/KgBW and H 3.7 mL/KgBW exerted a synergism effect.
Plato: The Philosopher as Prenate
Authors:   JOSEPH CAMPBELL FOUNDATION, USA, Bonaduce John
Published: May 2023

Two formerly unrelated academic fields, prenatal science and mythological studies, are quietly merging under the heading of a new theory: mythobiogenesis. One need not be a philologist to tease out the meaning of the word: Myth has a biological genesis. According to this conceptual model, much of what we call mythology, fairy tales, and sacred scripture derives from a fundamental impulse to retell in culturally specific ways the universal intrauterine experience of life before birth. Plato himself has provided an example of such a narrative. His written record of his intrauterine experience is contained in one of his later dialogues, the Critias (1), a text which includes the famous story of Atlantis. The Atlantis myth, I shall argue, is pure embryology, recounting in symbolic language Plato’s development from ovulation through fertilization, implantation, differentiation, organogenesis, and gestation. The idea that consciousness could be present at the level of a single cell is a stumbling block to the western science tradition which typically describes consciousness as no more than an emergent property of matter. And yet, many eastern spiritual traditions take non-local consciousness (a state of awareness independent of the body) for granted. The Yoga-Sūtra of Patañjali (2), a fourth century Sanskrit text, describes pure awareness as independent from the fundamental qualities of nature. Similarly, the Bardo Thodol (or Tibetan Book of the Dead) (3) follows the path of human psyche as it survives physical death reemerging with a new social identity attached to a reincarnated human being. East and West are not easily reconciled but there is movement in this direction. Some one hundred years ago, Otto Rank (4) faced outright hostility (particularly from his mentor, Freud) for suggesting that consciousness is very much present at birth with lifelong consequences arising from that primal trauma. Psychiatrists and psychologists who regress patients to birth and pre-birth times often report experiences that appear to go back even as far as conception lending credibility to S. Cosier’s theoretical model in which consciousness resides in the cell nucleus (5). And researchers such as Jon RG and Troya GN Turner-Groot (6) direct us to look for prebirth memories arising before conception when an individual’s consciousness is energetically attracted to that of the Mother-to-be. With this in mind, consider: Atlantis may not be a place at all, so best to stop looking for it. Instead, look to Plato who, though unaware of the theory of mythobiogenesis, is profoundly under its influence.
Investigating the Influence of Hydroperoxide Treatment on the Bagasse Fiber Reinforced Composite Properties
Authors: Liem Nguyen Thanh , Linh Nguyen Pham Duy , Tung Nguyen Huy , Phuc Bach Trong
Published: May 2023

This study has investigated the effect of hydroperoxide treatment on the properties of bagasse fibers in order to get the value added material using by-products from sugar production such as reinforcement for composite materials. The results of processing bagasse fibers with hydroperoxide at different concentration, temperature and treatement time showed that treatment condition had a great influence on the properties of the obtained fibers. With the suitable treatement conditions of 10% peroxide concentration, treatment time of 40 minutes, treatment temperature at 60 0C, the treated fiber has a more homogeneous surface than the untreated. The composite using hybrid bagasse/glass fiber has higher flexural and impact resistance than when using glass fiber and reaches 162.6 MPa and 38.9 KJ/m2 (16.7% and 213% respectively compared to composite using glass fiber only). This can be explained that the treated bagasse fiber has better wetting ability with the matrix resin and together with the energy absorption capacity of the fiber bundle, it leads to an increase in flexural strength and impact strength of composite material.
Application of Principal Component Analysis to advancing digital phenotyping of plant disease in the context of limited memory for training data storage
Authors: Albert Enow Takang Achuo , Bille Ngalle Hermine , Leonard Ngonkeu Mangaptche Eddy
Published: May 2023

Despite its widespread employment as a highly efficient dimensionality reduction technique, limited research has been carried out on the advantage of Principal Component Analysis (PCA)–based compression/reconstruction of image data to machine learning-based image classification performance and storage space optimization. To address this limitation, we designed a study in which we compared the performances of two Convolutional Neural Network-Random Forest Algorithm (CNN-RF) guava leaf image classification models developed using training data from a number of original guava leaf images contained in a predefined amount of storage space (on the one hand), and a number of PCA compressed/reconstructed guava leaf images contained in the same amount of storage space (on the other hand), on the basis of four criteria – Accuracy, F1-Score, Phi Coefficient and the Fowlkes–Mallows index. Our approach achieved a 1:100 image compression ratio (99.00% image compression) which was comparatively much better than previous results achieved using other algorithms like arithmetic coding (1:1.50), wavelet transform (90.00% image compression), and a combination of three transform-based techniques – Discrete Fourier (DFT), Discrete Wavelet (DWT) and Discrete Cosine (DCT) (1:22.50). From a subjective visual quality perspective, the PCA compressed/reconstructed guava leaf images presented almost no loss of image detail. Finally, the CNN-RF model developed using PCA compressed/reconstructed guava leaf images outperformed the CNN-RF model developed using original guava leaf images by 0.10% accuracy increase, 0.10 F1-Score increase, 0.18 Phi Coefficient increase and 0.09 Fowlkes–Mallows increase.
Modelamiento mecánico-térmico orientado al diseño de una cámara de compactación para densificación de biomasa residual
Authors: Arzola Nelson , Cabrales Contreras Huber
Published: May 2023

La transición energética requiere de esfuerzos orientados en múltiples direcciones para explotación sostenible de la mayor cantidad de fuentes renovables disponibles. De particular interés para los países situados en regiones cálidas y con condiciones de suelos favorables resulta el aprovechamiento de la biomasa residual proveniente de cultivos agrícolas. Esta fuente renovable de energía presenta el inconveniente de su baja densidad aparente cuando sale de los sistemas de procesamiento de postcosecha, siendo necesaria su densificación para lograr una densidad energética que sea atractiva en términos económicos. En este artículo se presenta el modelamiento mecánico-térmico de una camisa de compactación de briqueteadora con fines de diseño de prototipo experimental. Se plantea como variables independientes los diámetros, interno y externo, de la camisa y como respuesta del tiempo de calentamiento para lograr una temperatura en la biomasa que produzca la activación de la lignina. Lo anterior manteniendo constante la potencia eléctrica instalada en la camisa, longitud de trabajo, presión de compactación, materiales, entre otros factores de tipo geométrico. Por último, se realiza optimización geométrica para la camisa de compactación sujeto a una condición de resistencia mecánica y de potencia eléctrica de calentamiento fija. Como resultado del estudio se obtiene la mejor geometría de la camisa de compactación para lograr el mínimo uso de material, garantizando el menor tiempo de calentamiento y cumpliendo con la meta de esfuerzos permisibles de diseño. Este trabajo puede ser útil como guía para la actividad de diseño óptimo de camisas de compactación en equipos de densificación de biomasa.
Espectroscopia óptica de fluorescencia usando luz tipo LED en tejidos ex-vivo del cuello uterino.
Authors: Cifuentes Rodriguez Nidia Alejandra , Benavides Cuestas Edinson Rubian , Chacon Chamorro Sofia Geovana , Segura Giraldo Belarmino
Published: May 2023

Realizar estudios de tejidos biológicos como el del cérvix con técnicas alternativas permiten dirigirse a un soporte al diagnóstico médico del cáncer de cuello uterino (CCU), el cuarto más común a nivel mundial y la primera causa de muerte en mujeres de 30-59 años en Colombia. En el tejido del cuello uterino se encuentran presentes diferentes fluoróforos como: NADH, flavina, elastina y colágeno; moléculas que generan fluorescencia gracias a su capacidad para absorber energía electromagnética, esto les permite emitir fotones de menor energía a una longitud de onda determinada. En las etapas iniciales de la displasia, las células cambian sus velocidades metabólicas, características físicas y estructurales; con esto se altera la respuesta espectral de las moléculas presentes en el tejido cervical.  En la investigación se realizó el análisis de los espectros de fluorescencia utilizando luz LED ultravioleta en el rango de 335 a 340 nm cómo fuente de radiación electromagnética y se verificó que al interactuar en el tejido biológico de las biopsias del cuello uterino proporcionadas por el instituto caldense de patología de la ciudad de Manizales-Colombia, se generan espectros con respuestas activas en los rangos de las longitudes de onda de los fluoróforos evidenciando la interacción y excitación de los mismos. Dichos espectros son similares a los obtenidos con la espectroscopia óptica de fluorescencia tradicional aplicada con fuente de luz láser.  Lo anterior permite concluir que utilizar la tecnología LED de más bajo costo que los láseres utilizados convencionalmente es viable para continuar con el procesamiento de los espectros del tejido del cuello uterino y generar una clasificación según su patología.
Apps para estimar dosis de radiación en radiología médica y dental: una revisión descriptiva
Authors: Wilches-Visbal Jorge Homero , Castillo-Pedraza Mirian Clara , Hernández-Marulanda Andrés Felipe
Published: May 2023

Las aplicaciones (Apps) web o móviles han cobrado progresiva importancia como método de enseñanza-aprendizaje en educación médica, desde la masificación del internet y los teléfonos inteligentes. El objetivo de esta revisión es describir tres Apps, referenciadas en artículos científicos, que pueden utilizarse para estimar a priori la dosis de radiación y/o el riesgo de cáncer en estudios médico-dentales. Para tanto, se hizo una búsqueda bibliográfica en PubMed y Scielo, usando como palabras clave en español e inglés: radiación, dosis, efectos biológicos, educación médica, App, odontología, medicina. Se seleccionaron 60 artículos por ser de interés para la temática propuesta, con al el 50% de ellos, publicados en 2017 – 2022. Los resultados muestran que el uso de Apps en entornos educativos de la salud mejora los conocimientos de estudiantes y ayuda a los profesionales como herramientas de consulta rápida. De las 3 Apps revisadas (Passport Radiation, CALDose_X y Dental_Dose), la primera es la más antigua y actualmente indisponible. Todas ofrecen datos, en distintos órganos y tipos de exámenes, de dosis equivalente humanos, dosis efectiva y, a excepción de Dental_Dose, una estimación del riesgo de cáncer. CALDose_X es la única que puede configurarse en dos idiomas (inglés y portugués). Asimismo, ambas Apps muestran visualizaciones de las estructuras orgánicas y del campo de radiación. A diferencia de Dental_Dose, debe ser instalada CALDose_X. CALDose_X y Dental_Dose han sido referenciada por al menos 3 trabajos científicos, demostrando, con ello, aceptación en la comunidad académica. Dental_Dose está dedicada al área odontológica, mientras CALDose_X al ámbito médico. Se concluye que CALDose_X y Dental_Dose son herramientas valiosas y fiables para estimar con precisión la dosis equivalente y efectiva  en distintos órganos del cuerpo
Incidencia de las receptoras bovinas sobre los costos de un programa de transferencia de embriones en el triángulo del café de Colombia
Authors: Beltran Daniel , Gómez German , Marulanda Carlos
Published: May 2023

El objetivo del presente artículo es presentar el análisis de costos de producción de un embrión por la técnica de aspiración folicular de oocitos, fertilización in vitro y transferencia del embrión, considerando la medición de tiempos de las actividades que comprenden los procesos del programa de transferencia de embriones, en la región del Eje Cafetero de Colombia. Partiendo de una investigación cualitativa, con un enfoque descriptivo exploratorio y correlacional; se aspiraron 16 donadoras de la raza Gyr, sin tratamiento hormonal, se transfirieron 47 receptoras y se midieron los tiempos empleados en las actividades del proceso de transferencia del embrión, además los costos de producción se calcularon con un promedio de 4,8 embriones transferibles por donadora y con 2 sesiones de aspiración folicular por mes. El costo de producción del embrión transferido y confirmado se da a 90 días de preñez de la receptora. Para el productor, el mayor costo del programa es el mantenimiento de las receptoras hasta lograr su preñez; lo cual es el factor económico más importante, contrario a lo que sucede en los esquemas de superovulación, en los cuales el mayor costo lo representa la donadora.
PERAN SIG DALAM PENERAPAN SMART CITY DI INDONESIA
Authors: Taki Herika
Published: May 2023

GIS is developing rapidly in responding to the challenges of the times related to spatial or spatial solutions, in Indonesia itself the development of GIS is very fast, especially in life applications and one of the benefits of GIS is in the application of smart cities where technological advances are combined with spatial analysis, but in its development, there are still deficiencies in the application of GIS in this smart city include limited funds, technology updates, and others. For this reason, this article examines the application of GIS in smart cities in Indonesia along with examples of its application and to what extent this implementation can be carried out successfully, and how much benefit can be obtained related to time effectiveness and cost efficiency. The research method used in this paper is a qualitative approach by multiplying secondary data collection based on reference sources from books, journals, and other scientific publications and supported by digital information sources such as websites. The data analysis method used is to study GIS and smart city in theory and then display examples of its application to cities in Indonesia so that the result is that the smart city concept through this sig has succeeded in helping the city improve its general service quality and increase the moderation of the city as a whole technology. The conclusion from this study is that the role of GIS is very large in assisting the application of sig, especially in providing spatial data and making decisions based on spatially analyzed spatial data by combining various binding factors.
ANALISIS CLUSTER CURAH HUJAN TAHUNAN DI INDONESIA
Authors: Yanidar Ramadhani , Fatimah Endrawati
Published: May 2023

Water is critical for long-term socioeconomic growth. Rainfall is one of the water sources.. Many factors contribute to disparities of rainfall patterns in Indonesia. The study aims to detect and map the implication of clustering annual rainfall patterns in each province in Indonesia using the annual provincial rainfall data 2011 to 2015. K Means Clustering using an unsupervised learning technique was applied for rainfall events by employing rainfall measurement data from one of Indonesia's rain stations in each province.  The clustering results indicate that the two provinces in cluster I have very low water availability, cluster II has moderate rainfall with rainy days under 200 days, i.e. wet months of seven months, and cluster III has a very wide variation in maximum and minimal rainfall. The results demonstrate the trend of locations vulnerable to water availability in the provinces of Central and West Sulawesi. Rainfall should be managed as a potential water source in face of the extreme dry season, particularly in three provinces in cluster III: South Sumatra, Papua, and Maluku. Rainfall clustering in Indonesia is expected to be used as a dataframe, as well as a preliminary analysis to reinforce local rainfall, as well as basis for managing and exploiting rainfall, as well as planning mitigation and adaptation to climate change in Indonesia.
IDENTIFIKASI FAKTOR PENAWARAN WISATA DI DESA KETE KESU’ DAN PALAWA’ , TORAJA UTARA, SULAWESI SELATAN
Authors: Rumengan Saemo Kamoyaki , Wartaman Anita Sitawati , Luru Marselinus Nirwan
Published: May 2023

The cultural wealth of Toraja is a gift for the people of Indonesia because it is one of the cultural treasures of the Indonesian people. For this reason, the presence of traditional villages can preserve the form of buildings and the lifestyle of indigenous peoples. Examples of traditional villages that still exist today are the Kete Kesu’ Traditional Village and the Palawa’ Traditional Village. However, there is a huge disparity in the number of tourists, even though these two tourist villages have great tourism potential. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to find out the factors of tourism offerings in the development of Kete Kesu' tourist village and Palawa' tourist village. The targets in this study are to analyze the tourism supply factors and analyze the comparison of the differences in the availability of tourism offering factors in the tourist village of Kete Kesu’ and the tourist village of Palawa'. The method used in this research is descriptive analysis. The result is that there are many differences in the conditions of the tourism offering factors at the two research locations. The supporting facilities for the Palawa’ Traditional Village tourism are also not as many as the Kete Kesu' traditional village support facilities. In its management, many problems are faced, namely the tourism management institution of the Palawa’ Traditional Village which tends to be more traditional in nature, so that the management system applied is also not well established and not optimal
Evidence of Sasol Limited’s Contribution to Skills Development in Democratic South Africa
Authors: Mathekga Jerry , Mahlaela Audrey , Maciko Loyiso
Published: May 2023

There has been a renewed call nationally for the private sector to contribute to knowledge and skills development (i.e., capacity building) in South Africa. Yet, only a handful of writers have acknowledged the recent progress of Sasol Limited’s (hereafter Sasol or the company) contribution to knowledge and skills development in South Africa. Skills development is placed centrally as a means of empowering people to participate in the South African economy; to pursue alternative career opportunities; and to become self-employed. This article assesses a study that researched Sasol’s contribution to knowledge and skills development in South Africa. Sasol is a global integrated chemicals and energy company. The company was established in 1950 in Sasolburg, in the former Orange Free State (now Free State) province of South Africa, as a state-owned entity. The company was partially privatised in 1979 and wholly privatised in the early 2000s. The study aimed to explore Sasol’s skills development programmes. The information in the article was obtained from the company’s annual reports, as well as an interview with the company’s senior manager responsible for learning and development. The interview was conducted on 11 October 2021. The findings indicated that Sasol’s skills development is linked to the development agenda of the South African government and its key policies, notably, the National Development Plan 2030 (NDP); the Medium-Term Strategic Framework 2019–2024 (MTSF); the White Paper on Science, Technology and Innovation (WPSTI); and the Industrial Policy Action Plan 2018/19–2020/21 (IPAP). Further, Sasol contributes to women’s empowerment in South Africa through its skills development programme.
Customer Service Improvement through Engagement: A Study of the Semi-skilled, Frontline Workforce in the Retail Industry in South Africa
Authors: Lynch Daniella , Hofmeyr Karl , Price Gavin
Published: May 2023

In economically challenging times, business needs to focus on all elements of operation to improve profitability. Engagement has been identified as an emerging theme that is successful in increasing profitability by creating a workforce that is more dedicated and actively present. Within the service and retail industries, engagement levers can be used as a mechanism for enhancing levels of customer service, their primary communication channel with customers. The question of how to maximise engagement within this core frontline, often semi-skilled, workforce is therefore crucial, and it cannot necessarily be approached in the same way as a white-collar, highly educated workforce. A qualitative, inductive and exploratory approach was taken to understand what impacted on and influenced engagement in this setting. Nominal group interviews were held within a South African retail environment, and the responses of 54 participants were captured. Qualitative and quantitative metrics were extrapolated and analysed to add to the understanding of the topic. The key findings revealed that the role the customer played in generating staff engagement was a key lever in a frontline environment, a link not made by existing literature on engagement. The study proposes a Frontline Service Engagement model that provides insight into the complexities of engagement in an African context, and, compared to an international context, helps understand the difference in approach required. Through understanding the complexity of the influences that contribute to this new lever, a strategy to address engagement can be improved to equip managers to increase profitability even in difficult economic times.
Employees' Perceptions of the Effects of Retrenchment on Job Stress and Organisational Commitment in a Mining Company
Authors: Seteni Landiswa , Joubert Pierre , Dhurup Manilall
Published: May 2023

Over the past decade, South African organisations have had to cope with an ever-increasing rate of local and global changes. There have been considerable and ongoing socio-political changes, resulting from new government regulations. Most organisations have experienced some type of downturn, whether due to external business factors or poor internal performance. A typical response to organisational decline is retrenchment. Our study sought to explore employees’ perceptions of the effects of retrenchment on job stress and organisational commitment in a mining company. The study was located within a quantitative research paradigm. Four research hypotheses were posited and data was collected in one region from a sample of 400 surface mining employees, including management, administrators, engineers and artisans. The results showed that the effects of retrenchment did not have a negative impact on job stress (time stress and anxiety). This may be due to the fact that the mining company in question had a planning and consultation process in place for the employees prior to the retrenchment process. The results also showed that job stress (time stress and anxiety) was negatively associated with organisational commitment. To conclude this article we discuss the implications of our findings, outline the limitations of our study and make recommendations for future research.
A Generic Competency Framework for Labour Relations Practitioners in the South African Public Service
Authors: Botha Christian Thomas , Schultz Cecile , Bezuidenhout Adéle
Published: May 2023

This article reports on the findings of a qualitative content analysis study that explored the generic competencies required of labour relations practitioners in the South African public service with a view to developing a generic competency framework for these practitioners. Data were gathered through conducting semi-structured interviews with 17 labour relations experts from different institutions. The data were coded and categorised, and themes were identified that characterised the participantsâ€™ experiences, perceptions and views, providing evidence about the competencies of labour relations practitioners. From the data, 44 competencies were identified that could be regarded as essential to labour relations practitionersâ€™ successful and efficient fulfilment of their role, and these competencies were grouped into nine themes. A generic competency framework for labour relations practitioners was developed based on the results obtained. The findings of this study could potentially form the foundation of new theory for the advancement, training and development of labour relations practitioners.
Labour market transition and experiences of unemployed graduates: An exploratory study
Authors: Tinashe Harry , Chinyamurindi Willie Tafadzwa
Published: May 2023

Young people in countries such as South Africa are finding it difficult to make a successful school-to-work transition. This is exacerbated by high unemployment and uncertainty in the labour market. The South African government appears to be trying to implement a range of strategies and approaches to try and assist unemployed graduates. However, the onus is also on the graduate to look for ways in dealing with the uncertain labour market. The purpose of this research was to investigate the labour market transition and experiences of unemployed graduates within the context of high unemployment in South Africa. The research utilised an interpretivist philosophy hinging on the qualitative approach, and it used an exploratory research design. Further, a longitudinal technique was employed, tracing over a period of two years the labour market experiences and transitions of a sample of 30 graduates who had been enrolled at a historically disadvantaged higher education institution in South Africa. Data was collected from focus group discussions and unstructured individual interviews over this two-year period. The findings obtained through structural narrative analysis revealed that the labour market transition and experiences of the unemployed graduates were not negative only; some of the graduates had used their own resourceful techniques to deal with challenges. Based on the findings of the research and in view of the uncertain labour market, suggestions were made that would have resonance for not only individuals but also policymakers, career counsellors and institutions of higher learning.
The Contribution of Employment Relations Practices to the Amelioration of Society
Authors: Linde Bennie
Published: May 2023

Not applicable
Perceptual Differences of the Multidimensional Value of a Relationship with Agribusiness in South Mozambique: A Multi-group Confirmatory Factor Analysis
Authors: Joaquim Joana , Sampaio Ana , Mosca João
Published: May 2023

In developing countries, the integration of family farmers and wage earners (WEs) into petty commodity producers (PCPs) in global value chains linked to international agribusiness is evident. These forms of production were driven by colonial governments and were associated with the plantation sector. Currently, these forms of integration are encouraged by the state, development agencies, and agribusiness. This study investigated the invariance in the perceived value (PV) between WEs and PCPs about their relationship with Xinavane Sugarcane (ADX), a foreign multinational capital agribusiness in Maputo Province, Mozambique. The reduced 12-item PERVAL scale related to four first order latent constructs of PV underlying the concept was explored: functional value (FV), emotional value (EV), social value (SV), and monetary value (MV). The perceptual differences between the groups were assessed using multi-group confirmatory factor analysis (MCFA). The results indicated no statistically significant differences regarding the groups’ perceptions of MV, while the remaining perceptual differences can be partly explained by the PCPs’ characteristics. Future research should compare both groups’ PV, according to the modalities of integration, functions and the type of partnership agreement established with ADX. The study highlighted cognitive-economic judgment as a crucial factor in relational value creation in the agricultural context, and the dependence of the affective and social aspects on cognitive-utilitarian aspects of the relationship. The study also served to gauge the benefits and sacrifices perceived by the PCPs’ and WEs’ decision whether or not to continue their relationship with ADX. The PV was applied in the context of a relationship in the provision of agricultural services. The study captured the PV from a multidimensional perspective which encompassed cognitive-utilitarian and hedonic aspects in emotional terms as well as social consequences derived from the relationship, in a comparative approach of groups with distinct characteristics evaluated simultaneously.
The Entrepreneurial Propensity: A Study on The Adivasi Entrepreneurs In Assam
Authors: Topno Binita , Syngkon R. A. J.
Published: May 2023

Several social scientists have extended entrepreneurship to be the key variable that links the sociocultural milieu with economic development. Entrepreneurship development is seen as a way to solve the imbalances, particularly in a rural society. Realising the significance of entrepreneurship in economic development, the process would not stand strong if it is not taken up by individuals from backward communities (tribes). Adivasis have been undergoing many changes whose consequences and implications have been seriously misunderstood. Against all odds, a change is being observed where the Adivasi society is enhancing its acceptability towards the creation of an enterprise. With this observation, the study aims to determine the degree of inclination towards entrepreneurship (entrepreneurial propensity) among the Adivasis of Assam, and in the process examines the socio -economic profile that motivates them to plunge into the field of entrepreneurship. The study is based on a semi-structured interview with 120 Adivasi entrepreneurs spread across the tea estates, villages and towns of Dibrugarh, Sonitpur, Tinsukia and Udalguri districts of Assam. The results suggest that the entrepreneurs possess minimum qualifications which limit their employment opportunities. Despite a few opportunities, they willingly took up entrepreneurship with a strong pull motivation. Further, the entrepreneurs display high entrepreneurial propensity with a strong disposition of personal resourcefulness.
QBism, phenomenology, and contextual quantum realism
Authors: Pris I. E.
Published: May 2023

A critique of phenomenological interpretation of quantum Bayesianism (QBism) is offered, in particular, the position of M. Bitbol and L. de La Tremblay, which removes remnants of scientific realism from QBism and adopts a radically phenomenological first person point of view. It is shown that phenomenological view of quantum mechanics cannot explain cognition of quantum reality and behavior of real quantum systems, because the ultimate reality for phenomenology is autonomous phenomena, which, in fact, do not exist. Our proposed contextual quantum realism (CQR) does not invert, as the mentioned authors do, but rejects, the traditional relation between experience and reality. By reinterpreting QBism, our CQR removes remnants of phenomenology from it, but in such a way as not to fall into the other extreme – metaphysical realism.
Kinds of knowledge and epistemic reduction
Authors: Shevchenko A. A.
Published: May 2023

The article provides a brief analysis of the current debate on the two types of knowledge – knowledge-how and knowledge-that and discusses the possibility of reduction of the former to the latter. Two promising anti-reductionist strategies are highlighted. The first strategy uses the notion of “epistemic luck” to demonstrate that the epistemic characteristics of these two kinds of knowledge differ. The second strategy can be based on M. Dewitt’s treatment of linguistic knowledge, which, if accepted, at least deprives the proponents of epistemic reductionism of claims to the universality of their position.
Reliable Companion to the Faculty: the 20th Anniversary of the Siberian Journal of Philosophy
Authors: Diev V. S.
Published: May 2023

The paper gives an overview of the main stages of the development of «The Siberian Journal of Philosophy». It is shown how the journal is permanently linked with the history of the Philosophy Faculty of Novosibirsk State University. The role of Academician Yu. L. Ershov in the development of professional philosophical education at NSU is revealed and explained. The Summer Philosophical Schools held by the Faculty and the Siberian Philosophical Seminar’s are noted as a main factors that formed the philosophical community around the NSU. Today, the journal acts as an organizer of interaction within the professional community and represents the face of the university in the media space of Russian philosophy. The author believes that for twenty years the journal has earned authority and has become a notable phenomenon in the life of the philosophical community not only in Siberia, but throughout the country.
Uma abordagem geral da obesidade e seu tratamento
Authors: Leite Fabiane Roberto , Queiroz Aline Trovão , Sousa Marianna Ramalho de , Maia Lucineide Martins de Oliveira
Published: May 2023

Objetivo: Analisar as características da obesidade e o seu tratamento farmacológico e cirúrgico. Revisão bibliográfica: A obesidade é um dos principais problemas de saúde global da atualidade, sendo considerados obesos indivíduos com índice de massa corporal ≥ 30 kg/m 2. Os dados disponíveis sugerem que a carga global de obesidade mais do que triplicou desde 1975, correspondendo a 650 milhões de pessoas mundialmente. A obesidade está associada a várias comorbidades, como doenças cardiovasculares, síndrome metabólica, diabetes mellitus tipo 2(DM2), hiperlipidemia e hipertensão arterial (HAS). Considerações finais: A obesidade é um problema mundial de saúde pública que agravado pelas comorbidades que a acompanham. Seu tratamento é feito primeiramente com intervenções no estilo de vida baseadas em dieta, atividade física e intervenções comportamentais. Além disso, existem inúmeras opções farmacológicas que podem ser associadas dependendo das indicações do paciente. A cirurgia metabólica e bariátrica é recomendada para indivíduos com IMC > 34,9 kg/m 2 com comorbidades como HAS e DM2, sendo considerada como principal opção para IMC maior ou igual a 40 kg/m 2.
Temporomandibular joint and skeletal changes in response to Twin block and Advansync appliance therapy – A three dimensional study
Authors: Arumugam ShanthiniPriya , Sathyanarayana Haritha Pottipalli , Padmanabhan Sridevi
Published: May 2023

Objectives:

This study aimed to analyze and compare the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and skeletal changes three dimensionally in growing patients with Class II malocclusion treated with the Twin block (TB) and Advansync appliance.

Material and Methods:

This prospective study included 20 patients with Class II Division 1 malocclusion of which ten patients comprised the TB group and ten patients the Advansync group. Cone-beam computed tomographs were taken before treatment, and at the end of the functional phase (6–8 months). The condyle, glenoid fossa, and skeletal changes were assessed in all the three planes and the measurements were made using CARESTREAM software.

Results:

The TB group demonstrated a significant increase in the condylar dimensions, superior joint space, mandibular length (P = 0.005), and decrease in anterior joint space (P = 0.001) in response to treatment and the Advansync group showed a significant increase in the condylar dimensions, mandibular length, and a significant restriction in the maxillary length. Comparison between the two groups showed a significant increase in the fossa depth in the TB group and restriction in the maxillary growth in the Advansync group.

Conclusion:

TB and Advansync group showed TMJ and skeletal changes. However, the Advansync showed more headgear effect but less glenoid fossa changes compared to the TB group.
Management of an adult patient with severe crowding using lingual appliances and mini-screw anchorage: A case report
Authors: Son Tong Minh , Ngoc Vo Truong Nhu , Anh Nguyen Viet
Published: May 2023

At present, more adult patients seek orthodontic treatment so orthodontists are more likely to face periodontal patients and esthetic appliance demand increases. This case report presents the management of an adult patient with mild periodontitis and severe crowding using lingual appliances and mini-screw anchorage. Interproximal stripping was performed to create space and correct the triangular tooth shape and gingival black triangles. Four mini-screws were implanted in the palatal alveolar bone and mandibular buccal shelf to distalize the entire upper and lower arch. According to the case report, interproximal stripping in combination with mini-screw-assisted entire arch distalization and lingual appliances may be an effective space-creation approach in patients treated with non-extraction way.
Closure of first molar extraction spaces and correction of Class II malocclusion using anterior bite turbo and Class II elastics: A case report
Authors: Anh Nguyen Viet , Ngoc Vo Truong Nhu , Son Tong Minh
Published: May 2023

At present, orthodontists are treating more adult patients with missing or hopeless first molars as these teeth have the highest incidence of decay in permanent dentition. This case report presented the closure of extraction spaces of four first molars in a patient with Class II malocclusion. High torque self-ligating brackets were used combined with anterior bite turbo and Class II elastics. According to the case report, the combination of anterior bite turbo and Class II elastics may have the possibility to correct bite deepening during space closure and allow further upper incisor retraction and Class II correction.
The efficacy of postoperative middle meningeal artery embolization on chronic subdural hematoma – A multicentered randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lam Alexander , Selvarajah Denesh , Htike Soe San , Chan Sophia , Lalloo Shivendra , Lock Gregory , Redmond Kendal , Leggett David , Mews Peter
Published: May 2023

Background:

Middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization has recently emerged as a potential treatment for chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH). Numerous retrospective studies have suggested that it can potentially reduce the risk of hematoma recurrence following surgical evacuation. We have conducted a randomized controlled trial to investigate the effectiveness of postoperative MMA embolization in reducing recurrence rate, residual hematoma thickness as well as improving functional outcome.

Methods:

Patients aged 18 or above were recruited. Following evacuation through burr hole or craniotomy, patients were randomly allocated to undergo either MMA embolization or standard care (monitoring). The primary outcome was symptomatic recurrence requiring redo evacuation. Secondary outcomes include residual hematoma thickness and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at 6 weeks and 3 months.

Results:

Thirty-six patients (41 cSDHs) were recruited between April 2021 and September 2022. Seventeen patients (19 cSDHs) were allocated to the embolization group and 19 patients (22 cSDHs) were in the control group. No symptomatic recurrence was observed in the treatment group while 3 control patients (15.8%) underwent repeat surgery for symptomatic recurrence, however, it was not statistically significant (P = 0.234). Furthermore, there was no significant difference in residual hematoma thickness at 6 weeks or 3 months between the two groups. All patients in the embolization group had a good functional outcome (mRS 0–1) at 3 months, which was significantly higher than the 53% observed in the control group. No complications related to MMA embolization were reported.

Conclusion:

Further study with larger sample size is required to evaluate the efficacy of MMA embolization.