bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of vital stress on the bioelectric activity of the brain and the behavior of female rats
Authors: Avaliani Tatyana V. , Apraksina Nataliya K. , Tsikunov Sergey  G.
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND: Identification of possible biomarkers that assess the severity of post-traumatic stress symptoms is an urgent task for the early diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorders. The manifestation of emotional states, both human and animal, is reflected in altered behavior and in the violation of the ratio of basic rhythms and cross-correlation connections in the brain electroencephalogram, which indicates the development of pathological processes.
AIM: The aim of the study was to analyze the behavior and electrocorticogram indicators of rats in the delayed period (on day 7) after life-threatening stress, as a way to predict the formation of post-traumatic stress disorder.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was performed on mature female Wistar rats weighing 180200 g (n = 40). Mental trauma was modeled by the circumstances of experiencing the situation of the death of a partner from the action of a predator and the threat to their own life when placing rats in a terrarium with a tiger python. In rats, the behavior in the Open Field test and the bioelectric activity of the brain in the frontal and occipital regions on the left and right were analyzed before and on the 7th day after stress exposure.
RESULTS: It is shown that in the delayed period after vital stress in female rats, there is a decrease in motor and research activity and altered emotional behavior in the Open Field test. Reduction of interhemispheric asymmetry in the index of theta and delta activity and changes in cross-correlation connections in the right hemisphere, as well as changes in the ratio of the main rhythms and cross-correlation connections of the electroencephalography. The revealed changes in the delayed period indicate a pronounced aversive nature of the psychotraumatic effect.
CONCLUSIONS: Life-threatening stress is caused by changes in electrophysiological and behavioral parameters in experimental animals not only at the time of exposure, but also in the long-term period.
Monetization of a Cultural Product in the Information Society
Authors:   Russian State Social University, Leskova Irina V. , Poletaeva Anna A. ,   Russian State Social University, Zemlyanskaya Kristina A. ,   Russian State Social University
Published: July 2022

The scientific article includes an overview of popular studies aimed at studying the cultural product in general and its monetization in particular. The research idea is aimed at determining the indicators that determine the development of a cultural product, as well as the risks that have formed in the field of art and complicated by the process of widespread digitalization. The factors influencing the monetization of a cultural product are considered, a sociological analysis of the phenomenon under study is carried out. Attention is focused on the fundamental issues of the raised issues, a study of the risks that have manifested themselves in the cultural space and pose a threat to the profiles in the field of art. The main ways of studying a cultural product from the perspective of its potential development and production, as an identity to creative clusters, are analyzed. Special attention is paid to the factors influencing the monetization of a cultural product in the era of global informatization. In conclusion, taking into account the conducted research, conclusions are drawn about the importance of the sociological methods used in subsequent scientific research regarding the declared field of knowledge. Due to the rapid progress in the production and absorption of art products, taking into account the ubiquitous digital transformation, the authors point to the prospects of research in various subject fields of art. The growth of changes occurring with the cultural product and its production allows us to believe about the increasing popularization of research in the field of the declared direction of science.
Volunteering As a Tool for Developing the Tourist Attractiveness of Municipalities of the Russian Federation
Authors:   Russian State Social University, Rogach Olga V. , Frolova Elena V. ,   Russian State Social University
Published: July 2022

The purpose of the article is to analyze the readiness and involvement of the local population in volunteer practices in the field of tourism. The key research method was determined by a questionnaire survey of the population (N = 768 people) conducted in 2021. It is concluded that local residents are aware of the importance of their role in attracting tourists and shaping their positive impressions of visiting their urban / rural settlements. However, in general, the activity of local residents in this area is very low. The key areas of work of volunteers in order to develop the tourist attractiveness of the territory: participation in the restoration of monuments and objects of cultural and historical heritage, in mass holidays and folk festivals, as well as participation in the organization of creative teams and clusters. The conclusion is made about the need to expand the directions and forms of volunteer work, to ensure the integration of volunteer projects into the creation of a competitive tourist product. For a part of the population, volunteering as a form of public participation in resolving issues of territorial development is perceived with a negative connotation, which requires targeted work of the authorities with public opinion, rebranding of volunteering practices. This conclusion is confirmed by the fact that the key information channels for volunteering projects in the field of tourism today are not government structures, but social networks.
The Importance of Work As a Value in the Minds of Russians
Authors:   Russian State Social University, Fomicheva Tatyana V.
Published: July 2022

The publication is devoted to the analysis of the perception of work as a value in the value consciousness of modern Russians. The purpose of this publication: to analyze the value of work in the minds of Russians and to determine its importance in different age groups. Subject of publication: work as a value in the structure of the value consciousness of Russians. Subject: the importance of the value of work in different age groups of Russians; factors influencing the importance of work. The method of obtaining empirical data is a secondary analysis of information, including thematic normative documents (legislative acts of the Russian Federation), sociological research, the results of cross-cultural research, etc. Practical significance of the work: identifying factors that influence the importance of the value of work in the minds of Russians. The scientific novelty of the publication is the use of the results of cross-cultural studies to form conclusions. Scope of the results: the main findings of the study can be applied to innovate training courses in the sociology of social groups, sociology of professions, axiology.
The Problem of the Formation of Models of Divination (Historical and Socio-Philosophical Analysis)
Authors:   Russian State Social University, Kuznetsova-Fetisova Larisa E.
Published: July 2022

The divination reflected in a special form the expediency of human activity, which presupposes a forecast. However, in modern studies there is a limitation in understanding the essence of divination, due to its perception within the framework of the subject of specific sciences. As a result, the impossibility of explaining the divination patterns that arise in the course of its development. A partial solution to this problem can be the historical and socio-philosophical analysis of this phenomenon at the early stages of its development. This analysis shows that the pantheistic paradigm of tradition, implying the existence of an objective spiritual principle, which is primary in relation to the material world, had a decisive influence on the formation of the fortune-telling complex. This led to the idea of a person’s involvement in absolute truth, including in the form of a magical prediction. Analysis of the conditions for the formation of models of divination allows you to raise the quality of profile research in specific sciences.
Regional Disparities in Tourism Development in the Russian Federation
Authors:   Russian University of Cooperation, Kolbas Ksenia Yu. , Kryukova Elena M. ,   Russian State Social University
Published: July 2022

As a result of the closure of international flights due to the pandemic COVID-19 on the territory of the Russian Federation, there was a sharp jump in the interest of tourists in domestic destinations for recreation. But, unfortunately, many regions were not ready for such a large flow of tourists, and the accommodation facilities and tourist facilities of the resorts of the Krasnodar Territory and the Republic of Crimea were overcrowded. The relevance of the research topic is to identify tools that would help to evenly distribute the flow of tourists across the regions so that this does not lead to the deterioration of tourist facilities, and also does not lead to the emergence of such a phenomenon as overturism–oversaturation of a tourist destination by tourists.
Improvement of the Mechanism for the Provision of State and Municipal Services in the Russian Federation on the Basis of Advanced World Experience
Authors:   Russian State Social University, Taranova Irina V. , Solodukha Peter V. ,   Russian State Social University, Yanchenko Elena A. ,   A.K. Kortunov Novocherkassk Engineering and Reclamation Institute–branch of the Don State Agrarian University
Published: July 2022

The aim of the work is to substantiate proposals for improving the mechanism of production and provision of state (municipal) services in the Russian Federation. The research method consists in a critical rethinking of the world experience in organizing production and providing consumers with state and municipal services. The practice of public services is analyzed, the ranking of countries by the level of development of the e-government and the assessment of the quality of state (municipal) administration for the period 2016–2019 are presented. The analysis of world experience made it possible to substantiate the main directions of improving the system of providing state (municipal) services in the Russian Federation. The research results can be used by federal, regional, municipal authorities, public organizations. The novelty of the research is made up of institutional, administrative-legal and organizational-economic proposals for improving the mechanism for the provision of state (municipal) services in the Russian Federation. In modern conditions, the drivers of the intensification of the mechanism of public services in the Russian Federation are the development of electronic services by expanding the range of municipal services, as well as expanding the outsourcing of public (municipal) services.
Gastronomic Tourism As a Tool for Modernizing the Development of the Regional Economy
Authors:   Russian University of Cooperation, Bobkov Nikita E. , Kryukova Elena M. ,   Russian State Social University
Published: July 2022

The objectives of the presented research are to identify the possibilities of gastronomic tourism as a promising tool for the modernization of the regional economy, as well as to develop practical proposals for the development of gastronomic tourism in the regions of the Russian Federation. To achieve these goals, the following aspects were analyzed: the impact of gastronomic tourism on the development of the tourism economy as a component of the regional economy, the impact of the formation of gastrotours on the development of interregional ties, the development of regional infrastructure, the development of intercultural relations, the definition of state and regional authenticity.
Awareness of the Population About Autism Spectrum Disorders: Results of a Sociological Study
Authors:   Russian State Social University, Karpuninа Anastasia V. , Sizikova Valeria V. ,   Russian State Social University, Anikeeva Olga A. ,   Russian State Social University
Published: July 2022

The purpose of the article is to determine the level and factors of public awareness of autism spectrum disorders. The article offers an analysis of publications on ASD and the results of empirical research. When collecting data, the method of an online questionnaire survey was used (N = 218). Using this method, the main factors of awareness, the main social barriers were identified and ways to overcome them were proposed. Particular attention is paid to finding the relationship between the level of awareness with age, gender, education and the presence of persons with ASD in the social environment of the respondents.
Hating on Social Networks
Authors:   Russian State Social University, Leskova Irina V. , Besfamilnyj Danila V. ,   Russian State Social University, Kozhanova Anastasia A. ,   Russian State Social University
Published: July 2022

The purpose of the scientific article is to study a relatively new phenomenon in our society–hating in social networks. The definition of hating is formulated, the social portrait of hater is considered, the characteristic signs of the behavior of the desired character are outlined. To achieve the stated goal, the method of content analysis of posts was used, dialogues were selected in which a vivid manifestation of negative emotional pressure on users of social networks was recorded. Examples of the behavior of haters on the Internet are given, comments of the relevant content are quoted and interpreted. It is revealed that hate can be expressed not only in the form of envy and hatred, but also in general can be perceived as a set of negative emotions–fear, cynicism, distrust. It is emphasized that the phenomenon under study can be classified as a special kind of skepticism, but in its more active and aggressive form. It is established that the external data of people is the first sign that haters pay attention to on social networks. In summary, hating, as a purposeful multiple action of a particular person, aims to hurt the feelings of the victim and provoke her to react. Therefore, the brighter the person’s response irritability is, the more satisfaction the aggressor who launched the attack gets. The authors recommend not to let Hater get the reaction he needs, and also give advice to users on how to most effectively prevent toxic and obscene behavior in the vastness of social networks. In conclusion, ways of dealing with offenders are proposed, constructive conclusions are formulated.
Contribution of the Features and Structure of Temperament to the Development of Aggressive Behavior of Football Fans at Sports Events
Authors:   Russian State Social University, Fefelov Mikhail B.
Published: July 2022

The article is devoted to the problem of aggressiveness of football fans during sporting events. The article considers the history of the use of the concept of «aggressiveness» in psychology and sociology and the definition of aggressiveness of representatives of the subculture of football fans. Football subculture is a youth movement with its own system of values, language of communication, manner of behavior, clothing and other attributes characteristic of other youth subcultures, but at the same time it has its own distinctive features. The football subculture is imbued with the spirit of competition and struggle, the atmosphere of aggression and confrontation. It is necessary to take into account these features in order to maintain law and order and increase the security of mass sports events.
Украинский кризис и стратегическая стабильность
Authors: Арбатов Алексей
Published: July 2022

Начало специальной операции России на Украине в конце февраля 2022 г. ознаменовало окончание исторического периода более полувека длиной. Отношения СССР/России и Запада завершили полный круг и вернулись к холодной войне, вновь приблизив державы к роковой черте, едва не перейденной в дни Карибского кризиса октября 1962 г. Влияние украинского конфликта на стратегическую стабильность проявляется, во-первых, в новых взглядах на ядерное сдерживание. Видимо, теперь в качестве причин рассмотрения вопроса применения российских ядерных сил подразумевается не только нападение на Россию и ее союзников с использованием ядерного или обычного оружия, но и прямое вовлечение НАТО в локальные военные действия на территории Украины, оказание ей помощи поставками вооружений, экономические санкции и даже агрессивные высказывания против России. На Западе эта тема широко обсуждается, в том числе на правительственном уровне, несмотря на официальные заявления Москвы об отсутствии таких ядерных планов. Во-вторых, воздействие украинской трагедии на стратегическую стабильность в том, что она непосредственно отразилась на переговорах России и США по стратегическим вооружениям, которые опять оказались “заморожены” после успешного дебюта в июле 2021 г. в Женеве. В-третьих, текущий конфликт пагубно отразился на общем климате политических отношений государств в Европе и за ее пределами, что всегда было важным фоном переговоров по контролю над вооружениями. Если удастся избежать наихудшего сценария, то рано или поздно украинская проблема будет разрешена мирным путем, каким бы трудным и далеким ни казался сейчас такой итог. После этого, или даже в процессе продвижения к миру, возможно возобновление диалога России и США по контролю над вооружениями. Так бывало и в прошлом, начиная с ослабления напряженности после Карибского кризиса и подписания договора 1963 г. о частичном запрещении ядерных испытаний. Затем, разрешая периодические кризисы, ответственные державы заключили десятки договоров по ядерному оружию и другим смертоносным средствам, что позволило к концу 1980-х годов завершить холодную войну, свернуть гонку вооружений и на три десятилетия избавить мир от призрака ядерного Армагеддона.
Агент-структурные отношения: методология конструктивизма
Authors: Алексеева Татьяна
Published: July 2022

Агент-структурные отношения – ключевая тема для конструктивистской парадигмы. Конструктивизму как методологическому подходу посвящена большая научная литература, причем как за рубежом, так и в России. Однако сами по себе конструктивистские методы анализа обычно не раскрываются, авторы ограничиваются отсылкой к общенаучным методам социальных наук. Вместе с тем сам выбор методов и их аспектов имеет свои особенности именно в конструктивизме. Структуры исследуются главным образом посредством обращения к метаистории и генеалогии. Важным является также учет мировоззрения наблюдателя, зачастую существенно искажающего научный анализ и его результаты. Деятельность агентов рассматривается через нарративы, дискурсы и фрейминг. Благодаря этому возникает возможность не просто описания, а анализа и изучения ключевых конструктивистских тем, в том числе проблемы идентичности как одной из наиболее важных для исследователей этого течения. Плюралистичность конструктивизма не просто допускает, но предполагает его взаимодействие с другими теориями международных отношений, благодаря чему возникает множество смешанных эклектичных форм, например, культурный конструктивизм, культурный реализм, либеральный конструктивизм, конструктивизм как критическая теория и т.д. Тем не менее для ученых важно представлять некую общую схему конструктивистского исследования, допускающую существенные отклонения в зависимости от интересов исследователя, поставленных задач и принятой парадигмы.
Влияние групповой лояльности на демократический транзит в незападных обществах
Authors: Графов Дмитрий
Published: July 2022

В статье рассматриваются индигенные практики реализации индивидуальных интересов через групповую и диадическую лояльность (гуаньси в Китае, дзиммяку в Японии, васта (или васита) – на арабском Востоке и др.) как факторы, тормозящие демократический транзит. Методология исследования опирается на теории транзита, социального обмена и структурный анализ баланса интересов индивидов. Цель неформальных отношений, основанных на патерналистском лидерстве и коллективной лояльности – перераспределение ресурсов, выгод, благ, влияния. Подчиненный в обмен на лояльность руководителю и группе получает больше ресурсов или иных выгод, а игнорирование подобных связей лишает положения и перспектив. В статье концептуализируется культурно-универсальная взаимосвязь между компонентами неформальных связей и механизмом принятия решения о вступлении в клиент-патронажные связи. Автором делается вывод, что в обществах с клановыми, коллективистскими обычаями и традиционно высокой концентрацией власти индивидуальная активность с трудом фокусируется на общественных и гражданских целях. Патримониальные отношения не исчезают при смене власти, они восстанавливаются и даже после перехода власти к демократическим институтам стимулируют возврат к традиционному, рационально-харизматическому господству с опорой на силу.
Treason by Bilingualism? Xenophobia, Clique, and the Impeachment of Yu Jing
Authors: Yue Isaac
Published: July 2022

A gifted linguist, diplomat, and negotiator, Yu Jing (1000-1064) is uniquely qualified among Northern Song officials in his extensive knowledge of Khitan language and culture. At a time when Liao-Song relationship was at its most contentious, the advantage of having an official who could communicate fluently in both languages cannot be overstated. However, according to official history, not only did his bilingualism not endear him to the court, it aroused constant suspicion and led to his eventual impeachment, which occurred after he composed a poem in the Khitan language and presented it to the Emperor of the Liao State as a token of gratitude. The purpose of this paper is to reexamine the cause of Yu Jing’s indictment in the context of political machination. By contextualizing his compositionof the Poem in the Language of the Barbarianand subsequent impeachment within the politicsof the court, my goal is to supplement, evenchallenge, our above conventional acceptance ofxenophobia as the sole cause of Yu’s downfall. Indoing so, I hope to point out the potential flawof our current understanding of Song diplomacyas guilelessly dictated by its inferiority complexand0xenophobic sentiments.
The “classifier” Category in Mandarin Chinese and Other Languages
Authors: Martínez Consuelo Marco
Published: July 2022

This paper contextualizes Mandarin Chinese within the general framework of the “classifier languages” of the world: Asian, Oceanic, Amerindian and African languages. It demonstrates that there are indeed many similarities among them, despite being geographically separated and not having any type of relationship. It continues analyzing the concept of "classifier" and the various types of classifiers in Chinese (individual, collective, partitive, temporary and standard or measure words), and comparing them with lexical and grammatical resources used in the Spanish language to express sense (recategorization) it resorts to some sort of "classifier". This paper demonstrates how “gender”in European languages is a grammar concept, semantically empty, so it should never be confused witha “classifier”. It recognizes how sometimes the overuse of classifier turns them into mere morphemesdevoid of meaning, and other times keeps alive their semantic strength and continue denoting someperceived or imputed feature of the referent. This paper concludes by rejecting two widespread ideas:1. The “primitivism” of classifier languages (against greater mental, logical and abstract developmentof the Indo-European languages). 2. The determinism in the categorization of the world and creationof a world view, as classifiers are conventional, with a strictly semantic role, but not cognitive nordeterministic.
A multi-level system for planning compensatory habitats as a new tool to prevent biodiversity loss in protected areas due to development plans
Authors: Rozman Renata
Published: July 2022

Background In Slovenia, compensatory habitats (CH) are currently determined on the basis of a subjective expert judgement and without using any clearly defined methodology, due to which the success rates of CH implementation are low. The aim of this research is to fill in a methodological gap and propose a new multi-level system for planning CH. The system assures a transparent and more objective determination of the size of a CH in the processes of appropriate assessments (AA). Materials and methods: The system was developed by using a multi criteria decision analysis, a multi-attribute decision support model and the DEXi modelling tool. It was tested on a study case the Škofljica bypass road with its impact to a Whinchat (Saxicola rubetra) at Natura 2000 site Ljubljansko barje. Results: The system with three modules and a possibility of what-if analysis was developed to assess the species endangerment and the size of the CH. The system identified that the case study has significant impacts to the Whinchat, therefore the CH of a slightly larger size than the habitat lost was proposed. In addition, the system indicated that only one of the three potential locations of the CH is suitable for implementing the CH. Conclusions: The system allows a transparent and more objective assessment of the spatial plan. It is a new, easy-to-use, adjustable, cost- and time-efficient method that can be used to make reliable and transparent decisions during the assessment processes.
A Study on Impact of Credit Risk Management on the Profitability of Indian Banks
Authors: Butola Punyata , Dube Praveen , Jain Vijay Kumar
Published: July 2022

The main aim of this study is to find a statistical association between credit risk management (CRM) and profitability within Indian banks. Secondary data from 38 Indian scheduled commercial banks was collected, for the time period from 2005-2019 and examined using a panel data regression. For the purpose of this study, return on assets (ROA) is considered a dependent variable and an indicator of profitability, while the credit to deposit ratio (CDR), net interest margin (NIM), operating profits to total assets (OPA), capital adequacy ratio (CAR), provision coverage ratio (PCR) and net non- performing assets to net advances (NNPA) are considered the determinants of CRM and classified as independent variables. The statistical finding indicates that the CDR, OPA and CAR are all positively related to the profit rate (ROA) while NIM, NNPA and PCR all found to be negatively related to the profit rate (ROA) and statistically show a significant association except PCR.
Analysis of cereal production in Algeria
Authors:   University of Sciences and Technologies Houari Boumediene, Bouchafaa A , Djeddour-Djaballah K
Published: July 2022

Analysis of cereal production allows one to make decisions about the importance of certain products and the water resources. Improving cereal production is crucial in developing the standard of living in Algeria. Actually, it should be part of any future strategy for the country. Most of the arable land in Algeria is in a Mediterranean climate, where droughts are common and rainfall is distributed unevenly throughout the year. Research on the impact of climate variability and irrigation on cereal production is necessary due to the effects on the uneven performance of crops in Algeria. The study considered here is based on statistical methods to model the production of durum wheat, bread wheat, barley and oats. The first method used is principal component analysis. It was applied to classify the data in order to determine the relative importance of the various regions for the evaluation of cereal production. The results exhibit an increasing trend in the cereal production on the period from 2009 to 2012. The 2012 cereal harvest in Algeria proved to be the second highest ever recorded, after that of 2009, despite an unusual period of snow in February. It appears that durum wheat production was explained jointly by precipitation and irrigation. However, the variations in the production of the common wheat, oat and barley can only be explained by precipitation. Agriculture currently depends mainly on precipitation rather than irrigation. Modern irrigation systems could increase production. Therefore, if agricultural production is to be improved, important agricultural irrigation methods are needed to mitigate the impact of climate variability in each agricultural area, mainly in the southern regions of the country. Key words: cereal, irrigation, rainfall, regression, production, wheat, oat, barley
Challenges and opportunities in common bean production and marketing in Botswana: Prospects and farmer’s perspectives
Authors:   National Agricultural Research and Development Institute, Mangole G , Ithuteng M ,   Ministry of Agricultural Development and Food Security, Radikgomo M , Molosiwa OO
Published: July 2022

Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) is the most consumed legume crop in the world, and one of the most consumed legume crops in Botswana. This study aims to identify constraints and opportunities in common beans production in order to enhance common bean production in the country. A survey was conducted among 287 farmers in two districts of Southern and Chobe with farmers selected by multi-stage sampling technique. The majority of farmers were female (66.1%), a few farmers planted common bean (11.5%). Slightly more than a quarter (27.8%) of farmers were above the age of 65 years. Constraints to production included pests and diseases, damage by animals, lack of labour, drought, and lack of seeds. Seven percent of farmers assumed that common bean was a drought tolerant crop and 33% of farmers said common bean taste better than other pulses. However, only 21% preferred to grow it. More farmers (13.2%) grew common bean in the Southern district than farmers in the Chobe district (7.0%). Farmers who grew common bean bought their seeds from Agro dealers (76%) with an average amount of 6kg of seed purchased at a time at an average price of $1.11 kg-1. Common bean was planted on 7% of the arable land that was planted. Most of the farmers (87%) were not trained in common bean production and received little or no assistance from extension officers resulting in little knowledge by farmers about the production of common beans. Strategies to create awareness are needed to facilitate access and mobilise farmers to adopt common beans to improve their livelihoods. This is particularly encouraged in agro-ecological zones such as Chobe with high yield producing potential. Development of seed systems and release of varieties tested in Botswana agro-ecological zones, would increase the production of common bean to improve food security and nutrition, and reduce import bill in Botswana. Key words: Common bean, Cropping systems, Marketing, Production, Phaseolus vulgaris, Agro-ecology, Multi-stage, Pulses, Drought
The nutritional status of young children 0-24 months attending clinics in Tshwane health sub-district 1, Gauteng province, South Africa
Authors:   Tshwane District Health Services, Enwelu (Omeh) CM , Veldman FJ ,   Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ncube LJ
Published: July 2022

Children between the ages 0 - 24 months are at high nutritional risk, which affects their growth and development, cognitive capacity, and productivity in adulthood. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the nutritional status of young children 0 - 24 months attending clinics in Tshwane Health Sub-District 1, Gauteng province, South Africa. A clinic-based cross-sectional quantitative descriptive study design was applied in this study. Anthropometric data were collected from 270 young children (107 aged 0 – 6 months, 91 aged 6.1 – 12 months, 47 aged 12.1 – 18 months, and 25 aged 18.1 – 24 months) in 10 clinics in Tshwane Health Sub-District 1 using a questionnaire. Data was captured on a Microsoft Excel 2016 spreadsheet and analysed using SAS (SAS Institute Inc, Carey, NC, USA), Release 9.4. A Pearson chi-square test was used to test for correlation between the socio-economic, demographic and the nutritional status of young children, where a P-value ≤0.05 was considered significant. The results of the study showed that 160 (59.3%) had normal weight for length, 18 (6.7%) were wasted, 22 (8.2%) were severely wasted, 24 (8.9%) were overweight and 46 (17.0%) were obese. One hundred and fifty-six (57.8%) had normal weight for age, 47 (17.4%) were underweight, 17 (6.3%) were severely underweight, 39(14.4%) had weight for age >+2SD and 11(4.1%) had weight for age >+3SD. 204 (75.6%) had normal length for age, 26 (9.6%) were stunted, 40 (14.8%) were severely stunted. For overweight young children, there was a significant association between weight and the number of people in the households, at P<0.038 and mothers weekly spend on food, at P<0.027. There was a significant association between length and the number of persons in the households at P<0.047, mothers' income at P<0.047, and mothers weekly spend on food at P<0.051. For underweight young children, there was a significant association between weight and weekly spend on food at P<0.037. There was a significant association between length and mothers' education at P<0.007. Although, the majority of young children had normal weight for length, normal weight for age and normal length for age. In this study, a significant number of young children were malnourished. The young child’s weight for length and weight for age were influenced by the mother’s weekly expenditure on food. Since the mother’s employment status influences the child's weight and length, the implementation of alternative nutrition intervention strategies to monitor and improve the nutritional status of young children is necessary. Key words: Underweight, wasting, stunting, undernutrition, overweight, obesity, malnutrition, nutritional status, young children, mothers
Factors affecting the fermentation process of Vietnamese traditional wine ("men la" wine) using "ba nang" wine starter
Authors:   Hue University, Hue NV , Chung ND , Hang VTT , Be PT , Nga TTP
Published: July 2022

“Men la” wine is a traditional wine product of the upland people in Vietnam. The wine is of the cultural essence of the nation, reflecting the current trend of one village one product (OCOP). The "Ba Nang" wine starters are usually made from sticky rice and local herbs. In fact, the use of herbs in traditional wine production has become popular. However, the traditional methods used by the local producers are not standardized. The quality of the wines produced is therefore not stable and wine producers resort to laborious trials and personal experience. The aim of this study was to examine the factors affecting the fermentation process in the production of “Men la” wine using the wine starters of the Van Kieu people in Da Ban, Ba Nang commune, Dakrong district, Quang Tri province, Vietnam. The ratio of yeast to rice, solid fermentation time, temperature, and time of liquid fermentation, as well as some biochemical criteria, were investigated to determine the best parameters for "Men la" wine production. The results showed that the optimal parameters for obtaining the highest quality of wine were: a mixture ratio of wine starter and whole rice of 8g: 1000g; solid fermentation for 4 days at 30 – 32oC; and fermentation for 7 days at 25oC with a ratio of rice ingredients and water of 1:2. The final product contained 4.952% of total sugar, 0.08% of reducing sugar, 0.315% acid, 0.104 g/L amino acid, and 10.61g/100mL of ethanol. The analysis did not detect methanol in the distilled wine products. The finished wine produced on a laboratory scale had a sweet taste equivalent to that of wine, with a flavor that was thought to be superior to the local wine. The alcoholic fermentation time was shortened by 2 days compared with local wine. The resultant "Men la" wine met the National Technical Regulations for alcoholic beverage products (QCVN 6-3:2010/BYT). Key words: Fermentation starter, wine starters, ‘’men la” wine, Vietnam traditional
Contribution of local agrobiodiversity to complementary foods for 6 to 23 months old children in southern rural Benin
Authors:   Université d’Abomey-Calavi, Koukou E , Amoussa-Hounkpatin W , Savy M , Ntandou-Bouzitou GD , Mitchodigni MI , Bodjrènou FSU , Tovissode CF , Termote C ,   Alliance Bioversity International-CIAT
Published: July 2022

In rural Benin, malnutrition, especially micronutrient deficiencies, contrasts with a rich agrobiodiversity that abounds in cultivated or wild foods that are potential sources of micronutrients. This paradox leads us to examine the role of local agrobiodiversity in the diet of children living in two agroecological zones of southern Benin. This study involved 1,263 children aged 6-23 months from 17 randomly selected villages in Southern Benin. A multiple-pass 24-h recall method on two non-consecutive days with the estimation of the consumed portions was used to collect dietary intake data. Semi-structured questionnaires were used to collect socioeconomic and demographic data to explore factors driving agrobiodiversity food consumption, especially wild foods. Non-parametric analyses based on gamma distribution were performed to establish the effect of wild food consumption on vitamin A, calcium, iron, and zinc intakes. Conditional inference tree-classification models were performed to identify factors driving wild food consumption. Among a total of 48 local foods that were reported as consumed by children, 11 were from wild species. The contributions of total local agrobiodiversity to nutrient intake of complementary foods was between 49% (calcium) and 98% (vitamin A). Cultivated species contributed to local agrobiodiversity foods for 57% (calcium) and 96 % (zinc). The semi-domesticated species have a contribution of between 2% (zinc) and 35% (calcium) to nutrient intake. Wild species contribution to nutrient intake was between 1% (zinc) and 9% for vitamin C. Wild foods consumption correlated significantly and positively with calcium and vitamin A intakes among children. Socio-linguistic factors such as ethnicity and religion of the household head were determinants of wild food consumption. These findings suggest that sensitization on the nutritional importance of the wild foods including socio-linguistic factors may be necessary to promote wild foods’ consumption. This could be a good strategy to promote healthy diets in local communities. Key words: agroecological zone, micronutrients, local biodiversity, wild food, healthy diets, Benin
Determinants of acceptability of cricket consumption and adoption for improved food security among riparian communities of the Victoria basin, Kenya
Authors:   Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, Oyaro HO , Gor CO , Ocaido M ,   Makerere University, Okul EO ,   University of Nairobi, Okuto E
Published: July 2022

The dynamics of weather variation have overstretched animal protein from already overburdened environment; malnutrition is likely to be on the rise with human population growth projected at 9.7 billion by 2050. This has seen cricket consumption for household food security increasing in the past decade. Cricket (acheta domesticus) farming can contribute positively to solving malnutrition problems being experienced among the riparian communities in the Kenyan Lake Victoria Basin. Cricket farming presents a livelihood diversification strategy that can help buffer rural households against food insecurity and provide an alternative source of income. However, its adoption as an alternative source of protein for improved household food security has remained low among smallholder farmers. The study investigated determinants of acceptability of cricket consumption and its influence on adoption for farming as an alternative source of food. The study employed a mixed methods research approach to collect quantitative and qualitative data from 120 trained cricket farmers from selected riparian counties including Siaya, Kisumu and Homa Bay in Kenyan Victoria basin. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression model were used to summarize quantitative data while content analysis was used to analyze qualitative data by thematic arrangements and similarities across different investigation areas. Based on data analyzed, the results indicated that cultural beliefs, perception and attitude such as cultural value attached to cricket consumption (p = 0.021), crickets are sweet and tender than poultry (p = 0.037) as well as age with a p<0.028, had statistical significance on acceptability to cricket consumption. On the other hand, regression β coefficient of awareness, access and availability were found to have no association with the adoption of cricket farming. The study recommended that: first, the government formulates a policy on farming edible insects as mini-livestock and improved food security. Secondly, further study is needed to determine possible strategies for changing attitude towards cricket consumption for increased adoption by smallholder farmers. Key words: Food security, malnutrition, cricket, acceptability, consumption, culture, attitude, communities, adoption
Effect of cooking on the proximate composition and minerals content of wild edible macro fungi from Lore Lindu National Park, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors:   Tadulako University, Yusran Y , Erniwati E , Maksum H , Khumaidi A , Setiarto RHB ,   National Research and Innovation Agency
Published: July 2022

Lore Lindu National Park was the most important flora and fauna protected area in Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. This area has high biodiversity, one of which is edible macro fungi. Macro fungi have attracted worldwide attention and reputation because of their diverse functions including beauty and aesthetics, medicinal effects (anticancer, antidiabetic, immunoenhancing and antioxidant), cosmetic ingredients, high nutritional value as food, economic value and ecosystem services. Macro fungi were rich in essential minerals, micro elements, vitamins, protein, carbohydrates and fiber. Indigenous peoples around this area have long been using edible macro fungi that grow wild in the forest both as a source of food and medicine. This study aimed to analyze the effect of cooking on the proximate composition and mineral content of several edible macro fungi originating from the Lore Lindu National Park area (Auricularia sp, Auricularia auricula-judae, Termitomyces sp, Lentinus sp, Pleurotus ostreatus, Schizophyllum commune, Agaricus sp, Boletus sp). Determination of the nutritional composition of edible macro fungi was carried out by mineral analysis using the AAS (Atomic absorption spectrophotometry) method and proximate analysis. Differences in proximate and mineral composition between cooked and uncooked edible macro fungi samples were analyzed by T-test. The results showed that all tested samples contained substantial amounts of nutrients and essential proteins. Cooked and uncooked edible macro fungi contain significant macro and micro minerals (Ca, Mg, P, K, S, Cu, Mn, Fe and Zn). The amount of protein and dietary fiber in edible macro fungi was also significantly affected by the cooking process. The fiber content in edible macro fungi increases when cooked, while the composition of carbohydrates, protein, fat, ash content and some mineral elements decreases due to cooking. This research shows that cooked and uncooked edible macro fungi have potential nutritional principles. The evaluation of the nutritional components (protein, fiber, carbohydrates, minerals, amino acids, unsaturated fatty acids and IVPD (in-vitro protein digestibility) and the calorific value of edible macro fungi indicated a low-fat and low-calorie diet, which was lower than legumes and meat. Key words: Macro fungi, nutrition, proximat, minerals, Lore Lindu National Park
Performance indicators of sheep fed rice straw supplemented with browse leaves
Authors:   Evangelical Presbyterian University College, Adogla-Bessa T , Sarkwa FO ,   University of Ghana, Adjorlolo LK , Timpong-Jones EC , Idan F ,   Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Nyarko Gyimah A , Tudeka CK
Published: July 2022

The use of browse leaves as a protein source can help ruminants cope with adverse nutritional stress under unpredictable climatic conditions. The objective of this study was to determine feed intake, digestibility, metabolisable energy intake, weight gain and feed conversion efficiency of sheep fed untreated rice straw supplemented with browse leaves. Four forest type rams with an average weight of 27.75± 0.89 kg (2 years old) and in a replicated 4 x 4 Latin square design were used in the digestibility study. Twelve ram lambs of average weight 13.2 kg ± 0.05 kg were assigned to the experimental diets randomly for 12 weeks in the growth study in a completely randomized design. Animals were fed four diets namely: Untreated rice straw (URS) + Albizzia lebbek (AL) (Control), URS + Moringa oleifera (MO), URS + Ficus exasperata (FE) and URS + Spondias mombin (SM). The dietary treatment influenced (p<0.05) the digestible organic matter in dry matter (DOMD), maintenance energy requirement (MEm), metabolisable energy intake (MEI) and ratio of metabolisable energy intake to maintenance energy requirement (MEI: MEm). The DOMD, MEm, MEI and MEI: MEm were in the range of 965-983 g/kgDM, 3.61-5.36 MJ/d, 9.51-15.8 MJ/d and 2.63-3.38 respectively. The total intake of browse and straw ranged from 428.71 to 487.14 g/d. The average daily gain ranged from 7.14 to 20.24 g/d. The animals fed URS+FE recorded the highest average daily gain (p<0.05) while the animals fed URS+AL recorded the lowest average daily gain (p<0.05). Feed conversion efficiency ranged from 25.97 to 71.45 kg feed/ kg gain. The sheep fed URS+FE were the most efficient (p<0.05) and those fed URS+AL, the least efficient (p<0.05). Supplementation of browse leaves to sheep using untreated rice straw as a basal diet improved digestibility with moderate weight gains. These browse leaves (AL, FE, MO and SM) can be used to supplement poor quality ruminant diets for improved performance particularly during periods of feed scarcity. Key words: Digestible organic matter in dry matter, metabolisable energy, weight gain